Famous as being the setting for the movie The Beach, Koh Samui is located on Thailand's east coast. It is the country's third largest island, a hip and trendy place with good nightlife, beautiful beaches and isolated areas. White sand and bath-warm seas, a mix of partying and relaxation, affordable luxury.
Koh Samui: firmly on the must-see list of every backpacker visiting Thailand, this paradise island provides an escape from the gap-year scene. With idyllic beaches, stunning snorkelling and waterfalls that'll make your jaw drop, it is the place for an A-list holiday, minus the hefty price tag.
Facebrag about the incredible #nofilter beach views and the delicious contents of every cocktail. Check in a luxury spa, and post badass photos of yourself having a Thai-boxing lesson.
Eat at Full Moon at the Anantara Hotel, for breathtaking views of a palm-tree-bordered sunset. Or for more purse-friendly options, Bophut beach is lined with bars and restaurants serving tasty cheap eats.
Pack it:
- a good, long book. The Anantara's pool area overlooks the beach, and its rows of squashy beanbags are begging to be lounged in all day
- sensible shoes. There's a lot to do in Koh Samui, from jungle treks to underwater adventures, you'll want to channel your inner Bear Grylls
- an extra case. Brush up on your haggling skills bag some serious bargains at Koh Samui's many markets
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| a busy floating market at Damnoensaduak |
