[Koh Samui] Island and the Neighborhood

Koh Samui is an island in the Gulf of Thailand, 25 km from the coast. It is the third largest island in Thailand, with an area of ​​228 km² a little bit larger than the island of Ré in France.

The “Pearl of the South China Sea” as it was once known is at the center of a small archipelago of 85 islands. Its beaches of white sand, beautiful corals and decor filled with coconut trees offer many natural resources to attract visitors. In addition to its strengths, the island is equipped with modern structures, benefiting from private international hospitals to ensure the health of residents and tourists.

The island is served by ferry or shuttle from the town of Surat Thani but especially enjoys an international airport which offers connections to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore or Hong Kong. Circular in shape, the island has a 51 km road which goes around, essentially following the coast to serve the main beaches, towns and tourist resorts.

The island of Koh Samui can be divided into 5 areas:

• The North of the island grouping neighborhoods Bophut, Maenam, Baan Thai and Baang Po

Located on the north side of the island, this “zone” is one of the quietest. More we head west of Bophut, the general environment becomes more savage. The dwellings, hotels and villages are scarce and swimmers are more scattered around on the beaches. This quiet place will delight tourists to seek peace with the benefits of a preserved tropical environment.

• The North East of the island grouping neighborhoods Bangrak, Plai Laem, Chongmon, Lipanoi, Samui

The extreme northeast of the island is not very large in term of area. Bangrak and Chongmon to the beach through the giant Buddha statue, this part of the island is nonetheless one of the most popular for tourists. Small but beautiful beaches and high ranges hotels are presented. Relatively isolated and quiet due to its location in one of the points of the island, Bangrak, Plai Laem, and Chongmon are easily accessible and close to all major attractions of the island, including the villages of Lamai, Chaweng, and Bophut.

• The North West of the island grouping neighborhoods Lipanoi and Nathon

The northern area of ​​the west coast of Koh Samui includes the small village of Lipanoi and the administrative center of the island of Nathon. Less touristic than the east coast, this part of the island has some surprises including the lovely little beach Lipanoi, where exist some beautiful hotels. Nathon remains, meanwhile, the main city frequenting Thai residing on Koh Samui.

• The East of Koh Samui Chaweng grouping neighborhoods and Lamai

Lamai and Chaweng cover much of the east coast of Samui island. Chaweng and Lamai have become the center of tourism in the island. The long and beautiful beaches, hotels, restaurants and bars are located in these two seaside towns. Other types of attractions and tourist activities in Lamai and Chaweng are ideal symbols for the beautiful beaches, fine hotels, nature and nightlife.

• The South and South West of the island grouping neighborhoods Tongkrut, Namuang, Bangkao, Taling Ngam

The south / south west of Samui Island area is quieter than the east coast area. Nevertheless, it is full of tourist attractions in connection with nature. Many beaches in the wild and the most famous waterfalls of the island are in this part of the island. Without real urban center that would upset the tranquility of the place, life takes place here in small villages and directly in hotels that are mostly close to the beaches. Outstanding advantage for the area, residing on the west coast of guarantees is the most beautiful sunsets of the island.