The world’s happiest travel destination is once more welcoming visitors
Thailand’s picture-perfect east coast island of Koh Samui has long been popular with travelers and is leading the way for the broader reopening of “The Land of Smiles” for visitors from overseas.
The last 18 months have been a testing time for everyone, but the Thailand government has used the time wisely to work with health authorities and local tourism providers at one of country’s most stunning destinations to make sure our visitors can completely relax.
Visitors can enjoy its unforgettable sights, share its world-renown cuisine, take part in countless outdoor activities and rub shoulders with the friendly locals safe in the knowledge that exacting health protocols have been put in place to ensure tourist well-being.
The “pause” in arrivals to Koh Samui has also had a beneficial impact on the natural splendors that grace this island, from the lush, jungle-clad interior to the flawless beaches and crystal-clear waters that are home to a dazzling array of sea life. And with fewer visitors – for the moment – now might be the very best time to visit.
Whether you are travelling as a couple or a family, a group of friends or going solo in search of adventure, Koh Samui has something for everyone – but better if visitors tap into the unique local knowledge of the people who call this island home and want to share it with you. Local communities are committed to sustainable, environment-friendly travel experiences, and here are some favorites.
Elephant sanctuary – The Samui Elephant Sanctuary has been recognized with the Responsible Thailand award for animal welfare, thanks to its work to rescue and rehabilitate gentle giants that have been put to work elsewhere in the country. The sanctuary opened at Bophut in 2018 and has been so popular that a second location has since opened in Chaweng Noi. Both venues are set amid forests, creating a safe retirement home for elephants that have served in the logging and tourism industries. Visitors are able to feed and walk with the elephants – or simply watch them enjoy their freedom as they socialize or romp in the mud or river pools.
Help keep our oceans clean – Samui Dive Tribe is a PADI dive center and conservation organization that is committed to protecting the world’s oceans, habitats and species. Headquartered in Bophut, the center offers training courses for beginners and more experienced divers looking to upgrade their skills, but also works with volunteers to carry out regular underwater and beach clean-up missions.
Traditional Thai boxing – Muay Thai is famous around the world and anyone who wants to get in the ring and learn some of the boxers’ skills can do it in Koh Samui. A combat sport known as “the art of eight limbs,” as fighters combine the use of fists, elbows, knees and shins, Muay Thai can be traced back to the 16th century. Today, there are several gyms on the island offering instruction and individual work-out regimes. Many can also arrange accommodation.
Be bendy with yoga – Blessed with dramatic mountains and peaceful beaches, there can be few better places in the world to practice yoga. A number of studios and hotels around the island offer courses for all skill levels. Don’t forget to breathe in the view as you hold that position.
Crab banks – The EcoThailand Foundation is active on several of the islands of the Thai Gulf, which has historically provided the ingredients for much of the nation’s cuisine. On the nearby island of Koh Phangan, the foundation has created “crab banks,” which serve as nurseries for the young crustaceans until they can be released into the ocean. Visitors can see the crab nurseries at Baan Kai, Baan Tai and Wok Tum on Koh Phangan, a short ferry ride from Koh Samui.
Buy local – Purchasing locally made products from shops that are owned by residents of Koh Samui is the most effective way of investing back into the community. Artisans on the island are skilled in the making of fine jewelry, carved works of art, toys, leather products and other attractive local souvenirs.
For anyone planning to relax, there are perfect silver-sand beaches at Hat Chaweng, Hat Na Tian and Hat Lamai, with rental facilities on the beach providing equipment for snorkeling, windsurfing and a wide selection of other water sports. Elsewhere, spas deliver rejuvenating mineral water showers or baths, along with massage therapies or botanical therapies using natural aromatics.
The island also has some unmissable cultural sights, including a 12-meter statue of the Buddha at Wat Phra Yai Temple, close to Bang Rak Beach, and Wat Khunaram, a temple that is the last resting place of Loung Pordaeng, a monk whose mummified remains are on display.
With concerns over the pandemic waning, Koh Samui is ready to serve up an unforgettable vacation, with all the warmth that our friends from overseas look forward to. We have implemented tough new health measures so all you have to do is enjoy yourselves. What are you waiting for? (Reuters/ Amazing Thailand)