Island Fever : Koh Samui

This summer, BBB is feeling exotic. We're thinking blue skies, palm trees, hammocks, and BEACHES! So we've decided to bring you the Island Fever series : one article per month from May to August featuring a different island we've visited and loved. In this May edition, we bring you Koh Samui, Thailand.

When you visit Thailand, you'll definitely want your itinerary to include Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the islands. But if you have a limited amount of time, like we did, you'll have to chose which islands you want to visit. They all have something unique to offer : Koh Phangan is known for its full moon party, Koh Phi Phi is known for its beaches and nature. While these islands are fantastic in their own ways, they are also flooded with tourism. And while we don't pretend that isn't the case with Koh Samui, we were pleasantly surprised by a feeling of genuine authenticity on this island. Yes, there are lots of tourists. But there are also locals who are making their livelihoods on other industries than tourism. 

How to get there : The cheapest way to get to Koh Samui from Bangkok is to "Fly'n'Ferry" with local, low-cost airline Nok Air. Fly'n'Ferry is a 3-part ticket which includes air, bus and ferry. The flight is from Bangkok's Don Mueang airport (careful, this is not the main international airport) to Surat Thani airport. From there, a bus will transfer you to the coast, where a high-speed catamaran ferry will take you to Koh Samui (Nar Ton Pier). The round-trip costs about $140 USD.

Leaving Koh Samui by ferry

Where to stay : There are many different accommodation options to fit all budgets. Thailand is packed with hostels which are ideal for young travellers, especially those travelling alone. They bring together adventure-seekers from all over world, so you're guaranteed to meet awesome people! We stayed at a great Air BnB on the side of a mountain with an infinity pool overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. Needless to say, the sunsets were breathtaking!  

Another great option, especially for larger groups, is a villa. Villa Getaways offers a variety of villas on Koh Samui which sleep up to 20 people. Depending on the villa, you could enjoy beach front accommodation complete with air conditioning, wifi, a maid service... even a personal chef or tennis court! Now that's our idea of a stress-free vacation.

Sunset view over our infinity pool

Day trip : One of the favorite parts of our stay on Koh Samui was our day trip to Angthong National Marine Park. Sometimes, excursions can feel like a cattle roundup of tourists looking to experience something off the beaten track. But that wasn't the case here. The day began bright and early with a two-hour boat ride out to the marine park. The ride was beautiful, especially as we approached the small island that were our destination. There, we hiked and swam before having a good lunch on the boat. In the afternoon, we kayaked and swam; there was also an opportunity for another hike but we preferred to seek refuge in the pristine waters from the 40 degree temperatures. The whole day cost about $40 USD, and we think it was $40 well spent! Tip : Don't make the same mistake we did... even if you don't feel yourself burning, keep on applying that sunscreen! Trust us, you'll regret it otherwise.

Angthong National Marine Park

Where to eat : Two words : street food. In Thailand, like in much of Asia, the best food you'll eat will be from street vendors. Sure, you can pay lots of money to indulge in a fancy restaurant. But let's face it, you'll be paying for the decor, not the food. Street vendors offer, for about $1 USD, some of the best pad thai you will ever have tasted. Other options are spring rolls, pad see ew, duck, and more, all for a steal. With food this delicious and this cheap, expect to gain a pound or two!

Waterfront near Nathon Pier

Where to go out : If you're looking to have a few drinks (or should we say buckets) on the beach, head to Ark Bar. Dance the night away with your toes in the sand, or lounge back as you watch the fire twirlers do their thing. It might be a bit pricier than some other options, but it won't disappoint! Once you've had a few drinks and you're ready for the real party, head over to the Green Mango Club. Located on a bustling nightlife strip in the center of Chaweng, it is known for its treehouse-like, open-air design. You really feel like you are partying it up in the tropics. While Green Mango plays your typical party tracks, it also has two sister bars : Sweet Soul (hip-hop/R&B) and Mambo (more loungey). What ever flavour you pick, you are pretty much guaranteed an awesome time.

Fire Twirlers at Ark Bar on Chaweng Beach

Nikki Beach, Koh Samui