The island of Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular holiday destinations. Travellers with a range of budgets, from backpackers to luxury holidaymakers, will find that there’s something for everyone. Single people, groups of friends and families can all find the perfect holiday on Koh Samui. Whether they enjoy sports, nature, parties or just lounging on the beach, there’s fun everywhere. There are plenty of things to see and do, including many that you just can’t leave the island without experiencing. Big Buddha The Big Buddha statue is possibly Koh Samui’s most famous landmark. The statue is located on a small rocky island, just off Koh Samui’s northeastern point. Far from being an ancient landmark, the 12-metre golden statue was built in 1972. Locals know it as Wat Phra Yai, and you can reach it by a causeway connecting it to the main island. If you arrive in Koh Samui by aeroplane, the Big Buddha may be one of the first things you see as you arrive. You can see it from a distance of several kilometres. The Big Buddha temple is not just an artistic attraction though. The temple is a sacred place, so be sure to dress […]
Southeast Asia is quickly becoming the most popular region for people from America and Europe to spend their vacations. While Thailand and Malaysia continue to be the popular choices, during my recent trip to Southeast Asia I discovered the ‘secret jewel of the Andaman Sea’ or more simply the island of Koh Lipe. Located about 65 kilometers south of mainland Thailand, Koh Lipe is a remotely located exotic island that has plenty to offer. Part of a series of Butang islands scattered across the Andaman Sea inside the Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe is part of the Satun province of Thailand. However, the island itself falls outside the jurisdiction of the ‘National Park’ which is not particularly a bad thing as it has led to much infrastructure development there in recent years. Transportation Most tourists pick the island of Koh Lipe as their last stop during their stay in Southeast Asia. Since, Koh Lipe can only be reached via sea route it is important to remember that Pak Barra in Thailand is the main spot from where you can catch a ferry leaving for Koh Lipe. The speedboat at Pak Barra usually leaves at 11:30 am and thankfully I […]