A Guide to Samui Travel

Samui is a rare gem of islands that can claim to preserve the tranquil simplicity of tropical hideaway. Its major characteristics are crystal clear seas and powdery white sandy beaches. It is the third largest island of Thailand and measures at 21 by 25 km. in width and length. It is one of the 80 tropical islands and one of the few that have been inhabited by people. A ridge of mountains runs from each to west. A large part of the hinterland includes hills and forests. The emerald paddy fields and coconut palms create a pretty picture.

Getting There: Samui is located around 80 km away from Surat Thani and 560 km from Bangkok. The visitors can reach the island via air from Bangkok or via ferry services from the town of Surat Thani. Major access is still through sea and there are many car ferry services that run continuously to west coast from Don Sak and passenger crafts between Na Thon and Surat Thani. The timings for the ferry change frequently. Boats are also there to connect Samui to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. It is easy to get a ferry from this island and most of the travel agents have updated fares and schedules with them.

Major tourist attractions: The major attractions that any tourist must visit include the following:

• Angthong National Marine Park: This Park comprises of 42 islands that has tropical rainforests, limestone massifs, secluded beaches and remarkable wildlife.

• Wat Khunaram Ko Samui: This is a temple, which displays the island's mummified monk who was a revered abbot of this temple.

• Samui Aquarium: This aquarium has an astounding collection of tropical fishes and vibrant aquatic creatures like colorful coral and turtles.

• Tiger Zoo Ko Samui: This zoo is home for leopards and Bengal tigers. The adventurers are also allowed to click photographs with some of these awesome animals.

• Laem Sor Pagoda Ko Samui: This is one of the most significant shrines of Samui Island.

• Big Buddha statue: It is a 12m high Buddha statue, which lies at Wat Phra Yai.

• Grandfather and Grandmother stone: These rocks are situated on the southern end of the Lamai beach and resemble male and female genital organs.

The wildlife of this island including monkey theatre, crocodile farm, snake farm, elephant trekking, butterfly garden and an aquarium.

Getting Around: The main road loops around the coconut covered interior and lush green forest of the island, connecting the beaches. The island has an excellent network of public transport, especially the converted trucks with the bench seats. You can travel in private taxis after dark on the beaches. There are yellow air conditioned taxis and motorbike taxis to travel around the island. Jeep and motorbike rentals are readily available here. While traveling through the island, you must remember that the roads are steep and sandy and thus you need to drive carefully. Nouvos operate automatically and are very easy to ride. Bicycles are commonly available for hire though they are not safe at night for long trips.