Muay Thai or Thai kickboxing is Thailand’s national sport and passionately supported by locals, who gather around TVs to cheer their favourites on. The stadiums are also well supported, and Ko Samui is no different; tourists are welcomed to watch fights at the commercial stadiums in Chaweng and Lamai. The Rocky theme tune is one … read the full post

Some people like to go on holiday to relax or explore and discover a new place. Others prefer more purpose-orientated holidays: volunteering or perhaps improving a skill such as cooking or writing. One skill that can be honed while holidaying is Thailand is muay Thai – to seriously train for the sport in its land of … read the full post

ควาย or khwai is the Thai word for water buffalo. The water buffalo plays a big part in Thai culture and daily life, and they are a common sight here on Ko Samui. See an open patch of land with grass, and you are sure to find a buffalo tethered to a coconut tree, quietly … read the full post

One of the first things travellers to Thailand may notice about their surrounds are the colourful and ornate spirit houses resembling miniature temples that are strategically positioned outside every home, business, school and in public areas. Other than making great photo opportunities for tourists, what is behind these impressive little structures? Spirits abound everywhere in … read the full post

Bang Rak is located on the northern coast of Ko Samui, with Bophut to its west and Plai Laem to its east. The beach area of Bang Rak is also referred to as Big Buddha beach, because of the huge golden statue at the eastern end of the beach, just before Plai Laem. The beach … read the full post

Although not far from the main tourist drags, Plai Laem just past Big Buddha is often devoid of tourists who seem oblivious to its existence and quaint charm. Slightly better known is Choeng Mon, which consists of a main beach as well as several intimate coves often only accessible via resorts, or dirt paths that … read the full post

In Ko Samui’s Fisherman’s Village, you’ll find old Chinese shophouses that are well preserved, interspersed with tasteful modern buildings to create a real ‘Mediterranean meets the East’ vibe. With some good accommodation choices, delicious food and a range of shopping on offer, it’s a good little destination in its own right. Here’s a roundup of … read the full post

Those in search of a spiritual experience on Ko Samui will not be disappointed, as the island offers many temples and religious sites to explore. Each temple offers a unique experience, but all have a sense of serenity. Here we’ve done the legwork for you, and rounded up the most impressive. Big Buddha (Wat Phra … read the full post

Although Ko Samui does not have much to offer in the way of true ‘wildlife’ experiences, a few activities will keep animal-loving kids entertained. Samui doesn’t have any wildlife sanctuaries or national parks — somewhere like Laos would be the place to really get back to nature, where you can visit gibbons in their natural … read the full post

Besides the obvious choice of endless perfect beaches to visit on Ko Samui, the island offers a slew of daytime activities for families. Here’s a selection. Mini golf Although there is a mini golf course in Choeng Mon, the cost is quite pricey at about 400B per person. We discovered a bargain just around the … read the full post