tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80726277310778451542024-03-12T22:39:19.224-07:00Samui in ThailandSamui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-25579005055527177042009-08-17T21:48:00.001-07:002009-08-17T21:49:45.559-07:00Koh Samui event<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3EJK4jkF98GWsUw-4fjOLu4_ZKEaI-LZVLmegWmz0K2uFbxe34kkihG0USIjzA5iN7P8i1BWmHC6kEqiXvFP7Hr84Y-jx-wq68dSxN2v50qARr2Twbzrlyoyl_ia6LOL39Cc5SsBaZha/s1600-h/gkarma.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3EJK4jkF98GWsUw-4fjOLu4_ZKEaI-LZVLmegWmz0K2uFbxe34kkihG0USIjzA5iN7P8i1BWmHC6kEqiXvFP7Hr84Y-jx-wq68dSxN2v50qARr2Twbzrlyoyl_ia6LOL39Cc5SsBaZha/s400/gkarma.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371161308910533698" border="0" /></a><br /><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" align="center"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/golf.jpg" /></td></tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" class="body3"><div style="margin-left: 30px;"><div style="margin-right: 30px;"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Queen's Cup Preview - August 13-16</b></span><br />This golf tournament is presented by Sports Authority of Thailand and Bangkok Airways, and it is held in honor of her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Many world top players will attend.<br /><br />The tournament will be held at the Santiburi Samui Country Club, August 13-16. </div></div></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/stepup.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Events from Step Up Dance Studio</b></span><br /> polynesian FIRE night @ KANDABURI RESORT&SPA CHAWENG BEACH ROAD EVERY MONDAY<br /><br /> AND NIKKI BEACH EUROPAIN PARTY 8 AUGUST WITH BEAUTIFUL DANCER BY STEP UP DANCE STUDIO </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/outback.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>BBQ Every Saturday at The Outback Sports Bar & Restaurant - Lamai Beach</b></span><br /> Enjoy an Excellent BBQ (thai and western) and eat all you can for <b>100 Baht</b>.<br /> The feast starts every saturday at 5 pm. until food is gone...!<br /><br /> For directions: <a href="http://www.outbackbar-samui.com/" target="_blank">outbackbar-samui.com</a> </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" align="center" width="600"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/trophy.jpg" /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td valign="top" width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/ibis.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>The Ibis Koh Samui Trophy 2009 Adventure Race and Fun Run</b></span><br /> Racing for a greener Koh Samui<br /><br />Saturday September 19, 2009 - Bophut, Koh Samui Island<br />Organized with the support of the Tourism Authority of Thailand and part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series, the race is scheduled on September 19, 2009.<br /><br />The Koh Samui Trophy will offer 4 disciplines: Running, Cycling, Kayaking and Swimming. The competitors will hike and run through unspoiled jungle, paddle and swim on the turquoise waters of the gulf of Thailand and cycle over the hills with spectacular views on the ocean.<br /><br />The Race offers 2 divisions:<br /> Adventure (Short course for newcomers and W.E. warriors)<br /> Extreme (Long course for confirmed athletes and experienced Racers)<br /><br />The winners of the extreme division are expected to complete the course in approximately 4:30.<br />The fastest team in the Adventure division is planned to finish in around 3:30h.<br /><br />Disciplines: Running, Kayaking, Biking, Swimming and other mystery tests<br /><br />Teams of 2 racers<br />Categories will be: Men, Women, Mixed, Masters Men (over 80 years combined) and Seniors Men (over 100 years combined)<br /><br />As AMA strives to promote the sports for youngsters in Thailand, we have decided to offer a mini race for children in parallel to the main event. Schools and sports clubs will actively be involved in the project.<br /><br />In order to make it a festive event and to involve the Samui residents, a 10k fun run will be organized prior to the Adventure Race. This run will raise participant's numbers and create a festive and friendly atmosphere throughout the day.<br /><br />"The Koh Samui Trophy 2009" consists of 3 days of activities including:<br />. An expo for sponsors to promote their products/services<br />. Parties and VIP hospitality<br />. A spectacular Sprint Adventure Race<br />. A 10k fun run through coconut plantations and Bophut village<br />. A kids mini adventure race on the beach<br />. Trophy presentation<br />. Children corner and games<br /><br />For more information and registration: <a href="http://www.kohsamuitrophy.com/" target="_blank">www.kohsamuitrophy.com</a> or <a href="mailto:info@active-asia.com">info@active-asia.com</a> <br /><br /> </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/pb.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Thai Boxing at PETCH BUNCHA STADIUM</b></span><br />Every Monday-Wednesday & Saturday, 8-10 fight's, exciting Muay Thai bout’s with champion boxer’s from Thailand and all around the world. Organized by professional promoters in Samui. Starting 09.00 PM.<br /><a href="http://samuilink.com/business_directory/company_info/petchbuncha.php">More Info</a> </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/bmpar.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Escape House Party & Black Moon Party</b></span><br /> The Black Moon Party at Chaweng Lake View - Several parties held every month. </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/babylon.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Live @ Babylon Every sunday</b></span><br />The fun center comes alive every Sunday from 2pm to 9 p.m. with family activities, bouncy Castle, Thai and western food, a full bar, and great music. Samui Island residents said Babylon was a great way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon. Babylon is open everyday and can be seen from the Ring Road before going up the hill towards the Four Seasons Resort on the way to Nathon. </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/tropicalm.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Event calender for Tropical Murphys in Chaweng</b></span><br /> <b>Monday:</b> Pub Quiz at 8pm followed by Live music @ 10pm with Climax.Both upstairs. <b>Tuesday:</b> Live music @ 10 with Rocket. <b>Wednesday:</b> Live music @ 10 with Climax. <b>Thursday:</b> Live Music with Ovada 2@ 10. <b>Friday:</b> Live music at 10 with Climax. <b>Saturday:</b> Live music with Ovada. <b>Sunday:</b> live music (downstairs 1-4) with Irish Joe. <b>Sunday roast 395.</b> Live music upstairs @ 10 with Rocket. All bands upstairs unless stated. </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/monkeybay.jpg" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Beach Party Every Saturday</b></span><br />Monkey Bar Beach Bar is arranging a Beach party every Saturday starting 2pm. until Late. The Style is Chill Out Music, Chill House Music, House Music and Prograssive House. The Music is provided by DJ Tony (full Moon) - DJ AON (full moon) and DJ FUSION CLUB (fusion club) plus visiting DJ's. The Monkey Bay Beach Bar is located on Chaweng Beach Road next to Silver Sand Beach Resort (on the beach). </td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr></tbody></table> <!------------spacer--------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td colspan="3" background="images/spacer.jpg" height="8" width="600"><br /></td> <td width="6"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td colspan="3" height="2"><br /></td> </tr> </tbody></table> <!------------event --------------> <table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr> <td colspan="2" height="2"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td width="6"><br /></td> <td width="150"><img src="http://www.samuilink.com/news/images/event2.gif" /></td> <td class="body3" width="450"> <span style="font-size:85%;color:#da0a93;"><b>Weekly Events at Dr. Frogs </b></span><br />'Wicked Wednesdays' - Live and Direct at Dr Frogs @ 8pm 'Groovalicious Sundays' - Eclectic Excursions at Dr Frogs @ 6pm] 'Thank Frogs its Friday' - DJ Steve Bray mixing it up with soul, funk & house - Happy Hour - 6 - 9pm - 50% off drinks!!! Free Food!! </td></tr></tbody></table>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-526023854361734282009-08-04T19:00:00.000-07:002009-08-04T19:02:12.552-07:00Samui crash kills pilot<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2mvE9csNZdJs_9rWTySMWnatDuc9r-W3xQPXtsC-4VvEiLZJ-mdMvH9P6Gpxv65GqQAG1Kmzf1sT3_KDY_NYahlEL6wfU2JrkQc6fU1-O9VWZhd20M3Dky8WotSAvL5kmcayK9oNGp5V/s1600-h/c1_21459_090805051714.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy2mvE9csNZdJs_9rWTySMWnatDuc9r-W3xQPXtsC-4VvEiLZJ-mdMvH9P6Gpxv65GqQAG1Kmzf1sT3_KDY_NYahlEL6wfU2JrkQc6fU1-O9VWZhd20M3Dky8WotSAvL5kmcayK9oNGp5V/s400/c1_21459_090805051714.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366294024519731010" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="preParagraph">Aviation officials have rushed to Koh Samui to begin investigating the crash of the Bangkok Airways plane which killed the pilot and injured 12 people, four of them seriously.</p> <p>Those injured include the co-pilot, the two crew members and nine passengers.</p> <p>The accident yesterday forced the closure of the one-runway airport and it will remain out of action until the Civil Aviation Department officials order the debris to be cleared.</p> <p>Witnesses to the accident, including airport staff, have suggested a heavy rainstorm at the time was likely to have disrupted the landing of PG 226 from Krabi which had 68 passengers, two pilots and two crew members on board, the CAD said.</p> <p>The accident occurred at 2.30pm. The French-manufactured 70-seat ATR 72-500 aircraft skidded off the runway as it was touching down in heavy rains and strong winds.</p> <p>It crashed into an old air traffic control tower. Bangkok Airways president Puttipong Prasarttong-osoth said the pilot apparently died on impact.</p> <p>Mr Puttipong and CAD director-general Kannika Khemawuthanont said civil aviation officials were dispatched to the resort island to investigate the accident along with Bangkok Airways staff.</p> <p>As the airport was closed, the officials had to take a flight to Surat Thani and continue to the resort island by ferry.</p> <p>Deputy chief of the department Wutthichai Singmanee said the investigators needed to examine the flight recorder first.</p> <p>The front part of the plane hit the old air traffic control tower which had been transformed into a fire station. The front section was severely damaged.</p> <p>Mr Puttipong said chief pilot Chartchai Pansuwan, 58, who died in the crash, was an experienced operator and had piloted ATR72-500 aircraft for 14 years. The aircraft was commissioned in 2001 and had flown more than 19,000 flights.</p> <p>The aircraft, including accident coverage, was insured for US$250 million (8.5 billion baht) with Bangkok Insurance Co.</p> <p>The four passengers seriously injured were two Britons, one Swiss and one Italian. Most of the injured suffered broken legs or leg wounds.</p> <p>Mr Puttipong said most of the passengers were foreign tourists including nationals of Germany, the Netherlands, Israel, Spain and France.</p> <p>Somchai Baimuang of the Meteorological Department yesterday said strong winds reaching 30 knots were recorded at the time of the crash.</p> <p>An official at the airport who asked not to be named said there were heavy rains and strong winds before the landing. "During the landing there was a strong wind. What happened is similar to the crash of the One-Two-Go plane in Phuket," he said.</p> <p>On Sept 16, 2007, a One-Two-Go plane crashed while landing in bad weather in Phuket, killing 88 people.</p> <p>Health officials said nine people remained hospitalised including the co-pilot who was among the last to be evacuated from the aircraft.</p> <p>Following the crash, calls for donations of blood Type B were made through television and radio stations.</p> <p>The airport closure forced Thai Airways International to cancel two flights, TG 288 and TG 287, between Bangkok and Samui.</p> <p>According to THAI, the cancellation affected 292 passengers and accommodation would be arranged for them.</p> <p>Bangkok Airways has set up an emergency call centre number - 02 265 8777.</p> <p>Samui airport currently handles 16 flights a day. That figures increases to 24 during the high season.</p>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-52447724387601351772009-07-29T00:49:00.000-07:002009-07-29T01:00:40.436-07:00Bhundhari Spa Resort & Villas Samui<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbxqnGS5OqDnWtJN0ESQ5SZSDJjAI87gQHOvhxgTgMWlfolh92i4-mxf9Pd6ZGRdlTIKLToLRsi0bUK0g9GAabmExaK-aX7ChxIfofu_X6u3YtI_Mct_5sAC18gBWuRhhlQB8FYzFMRT-/s1600-h/200971184027.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisbxqnGS5OqDnWtJN0ESQ5SZSDJjAI87gQHOvhxgTgMWlfolh92i4-mxf9Pd6ZGRdlTIKLToLRsi0bUK0g9GAabmExaK-aX7ChxIfofu_X6u3YtI_Mct_5sAC18gBWuRhhlQB8FYzFMRT-/s400/200971184027.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363786443649464082" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" class="textnormal12" ><p align="justify"><strong>Bhundhari Spa Resort & Villas Samui, A Centara Resort (formerly Bhundhari, Koh Samui):</strong> A sloping elevation leading down to the famous beaches of Chaweng is the idyllic setting for Bhundhari Spa Resort & Villas Samui, the latest Centara resort on the tropical island of Samui.</p> <p align="justify">The Southern Thai house style design of the resort lends itself to a comfortable and natural resort feel, the contemporary interior to sheer indulgence.</p> <p align="justify">The majority of the guest accommodations afford spectacular views of the ocean and whether lazing around your own sparkling pool or availing yourself of the myriad of facilities and services, Bhundhari Spa Resort & Villas Samui is sure to become a holiday spot worthy of return year after year.</p></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgniTlfyLsNF49xrLNbnUWiB_OO4P6rdI2QcPuCg0ZSUAh8ehYAC67pGeQpoiCVvtMPr4axXgO3vfRye3xAK8hFq0j9ivrScNOBJkrvf_BCaWIE_2iym1CJvITsdwiuhixERDkOXKaDah/s1600-h/200971184016.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNgniTlfyLsNF49xrLNbnUWiB_OO4P6rdI2QcPuCg0ZSUAh8ehYAC67pGeQpoiCVvtMPr4axXgO3vfRye3xAK8hFq0j9ivrScNOBJkrvf_BCaWIE_2iym1CJvITsdwiuhixERDkOXKaDah/s400/200971184016.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363786441299814914" border="0" /></a></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQH5A7y18z-6ghRngIr9NDOZRzAnyLeJaw_j5nGGW0ol-WIFE8ndtPQvgEvS_fZGM0ZcoJm0hBRdaZgoQ5EaWU9gYMCjNscX6Plw6HNNRV4gMi96HkwVYpfaU50HTwHtoXONGgbaZ5TM9O/s1600-h/20097118406.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQH5A7y18z-6ghRngIr9NDOZRzAnyLeJaw_j5nGGW0ol-WIFE8ndtPQvgEvS_fZGM0ZcoJm0hBRdaZgoQ5EaWU9gYMCjNscX6Plw6HNNRV4gMi96HkwVYpfaU50HTwHtoXONGgbaZ5TM9O/s400/20097118406.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363786435937288402" border="0" /></a><strong style="font-family: arial;">Bhundhari Spa Resort and Villas</strong></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><strong style="font-family: arial;">111/1-2 Moo 5, Chaweng Beach </strong></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><strong style="font-family: arial;">Koh Samui, Surathani 84320</strong></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><strong style="font-family: arial;"></strong></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><strong style="font-family: arial;"></strong><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Centara Hotels & Resorts</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 999/99 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Bangkok 10330, Thailand</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Tel: +66 (0) 2 769 1234</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Fax: +66 (0) 2 769 1235</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;" id="lblStory"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> Email: centara@chr.co.th</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 12px; font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:130%;color:#ffffff;" ><strong>Bhundhari Spa ort </strong></span><br /></div>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-73502753873509124682009-06-18T20:57:00.000-07:002009-06-18T21:11:19.860-07:00Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Samui Gives Away Free Accommodations<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWtTFD-bdOldCqWF0J0eVisgUz9sqT0DNnJ3jkf5kWRv6uHyWGsIdBnQT5A2LWMg7V3CkkkqlzlOikxKl5bwdiNjrm9qis5bj920k_bvzeIvCw41zrnd9r2kSkGPi_wfAbjJLyGqH6nbQ/s1600-h/IMG_0053.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoWtTFD-bdOldCqWF0J0eVisgUz9sqT0DNnJ3jkf5kWRv6uHyWGsIdBnQT5A2LWMg7V3CkkkqlzlOikxKl5bwdiNjrm9qis5bj920k_bvzeIvCw41zrnd9r2kSkGPi_wfAbjJLyGqH6nbQ/s400/IMG_0053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884112218538642" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisrSPzm3pptVuS-UxYox0K6U6w4dVjBsGiBGuEqNYltgFpgrxhOI8R10syHh52KZ-ABsdhTBvwZ4xJlnj_d1M2Klq6IS8VGYvyk01F5QtKdgGVJxUyOZdBtreVDtChYHEDNJ5OMH50Zs6/s1600-h/IMG_0044.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisrSPzm3pptVuS-UxYox0K6U6w4dVjBsGiBGuEqNYltgFpgrxhOI8R10syHh52KZ-ABsdhTBvwZ4xJlnj_d1M2Klq6IS8VGYvyk01F5QtKdgGVJxUyOZdBtreVDtChYHEDNJ5OMH50Zs6/s400/IMG_0044.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884108155039650" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFyJoQfEXEQFm-ur_LLV25VslYZEoF96h6nRmpbgPkyUQ9bByeGg9BpiGeuyK_ti2oUFySw0r6v6VNx5clVKckH5q-QsPjk9xJpHdNCJB1hPle6Pg0LCWPLaVFgUHuvvT-dsQWmfs6cFE/s1600-h/IMG_0039.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbFyJoQfEXEQFm-ur_LLV25VslYZEoF96h6nRmpbgPkyUQ9bByeGg9BpiGeuyK_ti2oUFySw0r6v6VNx5clVKckH5q-QsPjk9xJpHdNCJB1hPle6Pg0LCWPLaVFgUHuvvT-dsQWmfs6cFE/s400/IMG_0039.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884103292158946" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Samui Fair proposes a special package that will offer free accommodation, in hopes of stimulating tourism during the low season.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Head of the Thai Hotels Association in the Southeastern Seaboard in Surathani Province, Ruengnam Jaikwang, recently disclosed that the association has collaborated with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Samui's tourism business board to organise the first 'Amazing Thailand Grand Sale Samui Fair', in order to stimulate tourism during the low season.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The project is also intended to alleviate problems stemming from the decline in the world economy and the spread of 2009 influenza which has caused the nation to face a loss of 80 percent of the regular tourism revenue.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This project will be held for three months, from June 1st to the end of September, 2009.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Participating merchants will offer discounts for accommodations and food, a 10 to 70 percent discount for plane tickets, and 10,000 free rooms, to attract tourists.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHv9j8uBno7yrcRcOgG-b2RCdtuvJvU_NaqAX4Xf1lNSfelwTRLm4uYWfsCP909eSywbqy2ijYuCWi7OOrGEb50asjtW2iKzau1HQ2loueqIxiwyO0wUxibU7ztbvfQeJXP9duL4MCFY-v/s1600-h/IMG_0041.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHv9j8uBno7yrcRcOgG-b2RCdtuvJvU_NaqAX4Xf1lNSfelwTRLm4uYWfsCP909eSywbqy2ijYuCWi7OOrGEb50asjtW2iKzau1HQ2loueqIxiwyO0wUxibU7ztbvfQeJXP9duL4MCFY-v/s400/IMG_0041.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884096430060466" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:arial;">They believe this year's low season will be more bustling than last year because the discounted flights from Bangkok to Samui now cost only 2,250 baht. Further details will be available through the Tourism Authority of Thailand branch in Surathani and the Tourism Coordination Centre in Samui.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AVnOK19LjyVs4jzfuS9vVp6c7WqmlG-kjUwv7lig0JsmS64mW5djMA2e_JUi99EAXcHBTl7YqQcML1ji7sKwwpH2XdAcKMLartucTU38rJoOHIyzhHO5ODD2TmimwDwyypTdxLba41tO/s1600-h/IMG_0043.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_AVnOK19LjyVs4jzfuS9vVp6c7WqmlG-kjUwv7lig0JsmS64mW5djMA2e_JUi99EAXcHBTl7YqQcML1ji7sKwwpH2XdAcKMLartucTU38rJoOHIyzhHO5ODD2TmimwDwyypTdxLba41tO/s400/IMG_0043.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884965266667890" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwVWV9tRFwWa8uWYWffNm88ubb9GeYSyu_2b5o5OgPtqianuSa8uB_Cd3mkc8Ny5ggn39OjajGkAqVxxFouWIJcK2g57aCSSVHbaA-egErOI8N7ppsLpxxpkYGbuU_0QxTrTV7Bf7sj0B/s1600-h/IMG_0037.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlwVWV9tRFwWa8uWYWffNm88ubb9GeYSyu_2b5o5OgPtqianuSa8uB_Cd3mkc8Ny5ggn39OjajGkAqVxxFouWIJcK2g57aCSSVHbaA-egErOI8N7ppsLpxxpkYGbuU_0QxTrTV7Bf7sj0B/s400/IMG_0037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884960024249810" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:arial;">Amazing Thailand Grand Sale 2009</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Date : 1 June to 31 August 2009</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Venue : Department stores, hotels, restaurants, and tourist attraction nationwide</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Thailand’s annual “Amazing Thailand Grand Sale” got underway this month and continues to offer visitors great bargains right through to 31 August.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">This year, as fuel prices escalate, both visitors and residents are looking for more value and bigger discounts when they are shopping. Thailand never disappoints.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Most mega stores and shopping malls are offering discounts of between 10 to 70%, so there are bargains galore for the shopper prepared to browse around the stores.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Fortunately, most of Bangkok’s major shopping malls and stores are located close to the city’s skytrain or metro transport systems, making it very convenient to hop from one store to the next.</span><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gejfCNjzD-A&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gejfCNjzD-A&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbYePiBMvCt2PpoWbfna6PCFkQj2aNlR99PKC8xwokELTqyy_90Vz3UZ8jq400k_qp9cckq8hyGHOij9lFh086FA3oFR5U25enAGhxSFROMo4wjvK7nqxj1ZffiVtwJXMy1TOtLr5MQeK/s1600-h/IMG_0018.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfbYePiBMvCt2PpoWbfna6PCFkQj2aNlR99PKC8xwokELTqyy_90Vz3UZ8jq400k_qp9cckq8hyGHOij9lFh086FA3oFR5U25enAGhxSFROMo4wjvK7nqxj1ZffiVtwJXMy1TOtLr5MQeK/s400/IMG_0018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884961835700674" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbZaIbf3NqK7Dz2v99hf3DXYztk_nxwCn6-6TcVVZAaM0VRGWsc2x1EQs6kvLSGnGlViV-ozXGErXkdEaMvFLWuDXv4_9-BkKqURXeY7JP8CSIFK4W3o0mJlbmyldnIzE7V_5zT70Ef1V/s1600-h/IMG_0017.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbZaIbf3NqK7Dz2v99hf3DXYztk_nxwCn6-6TcVVZAaM0VRGWsc2x1EQs6kvLSGnGlViV-ozXGErXkdEaMvFLWuDXv4_9-BkKqURXeY7JP8CSIFK4W3o0mJlbmyldnIzE7V_5zT70Ef1V/s400/IMG_0017.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884956816407154" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgub5wgSlKoLb0blNPqnAkCKt3rSdjMskKOBTJW5mQ7JpjcMBKe9LfoYZspDqL98af2I63IHaugu4WjxxXnyINm8V3VHnQf-9GfZ9Ogi1oBQfKuWHfTqyXpWnNhHFcW8mJNprIi9tkTJJW4/s1600-h/IMG_0014.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgub5wgSlKoLb0blNPqnAkCKt3rSdjMskKOBTJW5mQ7JpjcMBKe9LfoYZspDqL98af2I63IHaugu4WjxxXnyINm8V3VHnQf-9GfZ9Ogi1oBQfKuWHfTqyXpWnNhHFcW8mJNprIi9tkTJJW4/s400/IMG_0014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5348884949237939746" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Both the Skytrain and the Metro, offer day use stored-value cards for visitors to make it even more convenient to use the two systems.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Bangkok’s main shopping districts and streets are to be found along Ploenchit and Sukhumvit roads.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Many of the department stores have direct bridge linking them to Skytrain stations. Just a short walk from the Skytrain stations and visitors discover some pretty impressive department stores and shopping plazas namely Siam Discovery Centre, Siam Centre, Central World Plaza, Erawan Bangkok, Amarin Plaza, Gaysorn, Central Chidlom, Home Pro Plus, Robinson Department Store, The Emporium and The Mall Department Store.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Discounts are also available in King Power duty free shops, both at Suvarnabhumi Airport and downtown locations. There are even discount deals on luxury treatments at spas, a round of golf at a selection of courses at all major tourist destinations, travel packages and even medical check-ups at world-class hospitals.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The three-month campaign also embraces a variety of destinations beyond Bangkok such as Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Cha-am, Pattaya, Nakhon Ratchasima, Udorn Thani, Phuket, Krabi, Hat Yai and Samui Island.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Grand Sale prizes are offered in conjunction with the campaign sponsor, Visa Card, and include bargain holiday packages to premier destinations such as Phuket and Samui.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Contact : Tourism Investment Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Tel : 66 (0) 2250 5500 ext. 2951</span><br /><br /><br /></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-81510937693938668082009-06-15T22:29:00.000-07:002009-06-15T22:36:23.975-07:008th Koh Samui Regatta The Tropical Island Regatta<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXEBQOmfoBEQPWTB4J4PmoTzLt1CbYLEtH_68MbG3KHyipES5VgPnwzPaCUOuYEzkkTjnSKhjPjohqthNI0_cmj1sjDqtUi6FCqeAQq5VGimGlwl9pV0qYrIEGW4iqrwbRbzSUNKq_wpO/s1600-h/SamuiRegatta040.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXEBQOmfoBEQPWTB4J4PmoTzLt1CbYLEtH_68MbG3KHyipES5VgPnwzPaCUOuYEzkkTjnSKhjPjohqthNI0_cmj1sjDqtUi6FCqeAQq5VGimGlwl9pV0qYrIEGW4iqrwbRbzSUNKq_wpO/s400/SamuiRegatta040.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347794647039288194" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">Now in its seventh year, the Koh Samui Regatta is set to maintain its strong reputation as one of the highlights of the Asian sailing circuit.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOWnHtThBAGMNtS-NfpphhyaGYF0X5SnNAOOURAZxK3rKnmN7BjoFAGAo9gudjP6nkMDkpVuSTukrDwU6dL9TyvRvmLkfVKtgkujsUgLYopJ-fQeeg0SUX7cB9Ssjgkj-wLmXvGcxBP0T/s1600-h/1888_1.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIOWnHtThBAGMNtS-NfpphhyaGYF0X5SnNAOOURAZxK3rKnmN7BjoFAGAo9gudjP6nkMDkpVuSTukrDwU6dL9TyvRvmLkfVKtgkujsUgLYopJ-fQeeg0SUX7cB9Ssjgkj-wLmXvGcxBP0T/s400/1888_1.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347794635255562690" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The week long sailing extravaganza, now officially recognised by the International Sailing Federation, brings together many of the world’s top sailors guaranteeing a week of fun filled racing action and passionate partying.</span></span> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The Regatta is organised under the auspices of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand. Racing takes place over five days comprising of a mixture of coastal passages and around the cans.</span></div><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEM5z_S6IOgZokUFPS4Z5XfV3HfUDNmLAXFo9UJ7bUgGw-6p3VFOXU83tDwdKKBHnI12UV8P6EPhFYmwOiM7dJYVjQhhPRk6YeCk09quzCVA7FNRMkRhQrf6s2mfytr4QQVKuOTTwGQfx/s1600-h/Samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEM5z_S6IOgZokUFPS4Z5XfV3HfUDNmLAXFo9UJ7bUgGw-6p3VFOXU83tDwdKKBHnI12UV8P6EPhFYmwOiM7dJYVjQhhPRk6YeCk09quzCVA7FNRMkRhQrf6s2mfytr4QQVKuOTTwGQfx/s400/Samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347794634572273426" border="0" /></a><br /></span><div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The event culminates in a VIP gala dinner and awards ceremony at the Central Samui Beach Resort. Evening cocktail parties are held at various locations throughout the Regatta.</span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>RACING</strong><br />The Koh Samui Regatta includes five days of racing over a mixture of coastal passages and around the cans courses just off the East and North coast of one of Thailand's most beautiful islands. Most of the action will take place within site of the Eastern and Northern Coasts of Koh Samui.</span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>There are five Race Classes:</strong><br />Racing; Cruising; Sports Boats; Multihulls; Beach Cats</span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The Koh Samui Regatta, widely regarded as one of the best in the region, offers a truly international event with participants from Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, The United States, the United Kingdom, Italy and France. In past years, the event has attracted between 30 to 40 boat entries with an even mixture of keelboats and multihulls. </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PkuwnWhZKo7GluYTS_zAkdxiVh09LWapFHeG3xcCyCMfEeq-T6xh3fmk-tU6ea8byIP5Su9HgFm4JQWnCCtFCJYHYde5SobdWgb322_J2FNvRcCaGmAGKUGWhyphenhyphen0CSHyuazoevaZ0FroT/s1600-h/samuiregatta-1024x685.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PkuwnWhZKo7GluYTS_zAkdxiVh09LWapFHeG3xcCyCMfEeq-T6xh3fmk-tU6ea8byIP5Su9HgFm4JQWnCCtFCJYHYde5SobdWgb322_J2FNvRcCaGmAGKUGWhyphenhyphen0CSHyuazoevaZ0FroT/s400/samuiregatta-1024x685.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347794631844415570" border="0" /></a><br /></span><div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><strong>Koh Samui</strong><br />At 247 square kilometres, Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. During the last decade the island has become one of South East Asia’s top five most visited tourist destinations. </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">The neighbouring islands of Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and the breathtaking Ang Thong National Marine Park offer visitors a wide range of activities such as sailing, scuba diving, snorkelling and adventure excursions.</span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Along with the island’s established infrastructure including international educational and medical facilities, a wide choice of high street shopping brands, exquisite dining venues, and beautiful white sandy beaches, Koh Samui stands out as one of the jewels in Thailand’s illustrious crown. </span></div> <div style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> </span></div> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><strong style="font-family: arial;">Contact</strong><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> Thailand representative and event organizer</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> MobyElite</span><br /><strong style="font-family: arial;">E-mail:</strong></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="mailto:ksr@mobyelite.com">ksr@mobyelite.com</a></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /><strong style="font-family: arial;">Web site:</strong></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><a style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank" href="http://www.mobyelite.com/">www.mobyelite.com</a></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-27076598744890499152009-05-05T23:31:00.000-07:002009-05-05T23:40:00.692-07:00Samui Airport<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluqd96-wgT0TEXffjTk1FfO41apfQBwYDtr6VaUAGo_Fy6AzXpV6_0WAySddRvHcOrtOf_jOpO9XtBrGNjufA8uq3XStEGAFuIU4KTiMY5N0FacbNG-bZBk4CkBbH3KOuAtvLxRi1Wi8Q/s1600-h/1601617-Koh_Samui_Airport-Ko_Samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 289px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgluqd96-wgT0TEXffjTk1FfO41apfQBwYDtr6VaUAGo_Fy6AzXpV6_0WAySddRvHcOrtOf_jOpO9XtBrGNjufA8uq3XStEGAFuIU4KTiMY5N0FacbNG-bZBk4CkBbH3KOuAtvLxRi1Wi8Q/s400/1601617-Koh_Samui_Airport-Ko_Samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332596571040347954" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">Welcome to Samui Airport. There are many airports in picturesque exotic locations around the world, but Samui airport holds the crown as the most beautiful and the best designed in tune with its gorgeous natural surroundings.</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPbdSe_8EDafiV4-lRKKESe1Fn1Qs8Jb5JFvyDAkzGMS2cqckpzUNMq7TCnVLzeJQHT8yahI43Zaun6iiXYPBERMqy8i3QPOQjmH5rfGKfufOR94vvSKuPBEd6ye4Ks8aUOmu1S1DLWlA/s1600-h/picAirportKohSamui.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdPbdSe_8EDafiV4-lRKKESe1Fn1Qs8Jb5JFvyDAkzGMS2cqckpzUNMq7TCnVLzeJQHT8yahI43Zaun6iiXYPBERMqy8i3QPOQjmH5rfGKfufOR94vvSKuPBEd6ye4Ks8aUOmu1S1DLWlA/s400/picAirportKohSamui.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332596565469050946" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Samui Airport is privately owned and operated by Bangkok Airways. Most flights from the island are operated by Bangkok Airways. Thai Airways international began flights to Samui in February 2008.</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0u3BLnfepmdXDa6AfhFmYe0Hr4V4kaVc-IDKIYyeA7-0preEyyLtIzQc9Bn83Z7emhM64ubNENuO8SQYfWoyxX_nuuteELUpSJYWSWAWRvJtM8AAn6iwd790Mgbz2Z8ilZHwhBKOXwslD/s1600-h/Samui+Airport_2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0u3BLnfepmdXDa6AfhFmYe0Hr4V4kaVc-IDKIYyeA7-0preEyyLtIzQc9Bn83Z7emhM64ubNENuO8SQYfWoyxX_nuuteELUpSJYWSWAWRvJtM8AAn6iwd790Mgbz2Z8ilZHwhBKOXwslD/s400/Samui+Airport_2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332596565324081298" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Samui Airport, located at the northern part of the island near Bo Phut Beach, began construction 1982 and was officially opened in April 1989.</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxn9FZG4gfv_Fog7r45N0uGP8xBtPV6SK_pP-6YBW-Ev-_XAYXkhvg9lDTsU0uJwSLOvHhYzor889sjJ7iipdBxX202GcOHFX9l-mFBbJ2qbkTOAbeGRvNcA6ItyQn_Pxgs1_45dY78eQ/s1600-h/samui-airport-5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxn9FZG4gfv_Fog7r45N0uGP8xBtPV6SK_pP-6YBW-Ev-_XAYXkhvg9lDTsU0uJwSLOvHhYzor889sjJ7iipdBxX202GcOHFX9l-mFBbJ2qbkTOAbeGRvNcA6ItyQn_Pxgs1_45dY78eQ/s400/samui-airport-5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332596561742865650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Thai Airways International (THAI) launched twice-daily flights between Bangkok and Samui Island, targeting European tourists making stopovers in the capital. The daily flights began on February 14th, 2008 using Boeing 737-400 airplanes with a capacity of 149 passengers.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2J8ZRY2EgTidBQKoglqsxcfB_k9FSPEofZYuIUKPYv1WwUH-wwF6LgZsAMoJgJC2joq06edPH4maQQ2PeIMZuv9vi-HJ0aZFcj7apXyNwJonizTlKL8m-Wom55YA_7VLvL5vM29Db4Z3/s1600-h/samuiairportmap.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 356px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2J8ZRY2EgTidBQKoglqsxcfB_k9FSPEofZYuIUKPYv1WwUH-wwF6LgZsAMoJgJC2joq06edPH4maQQ2PeIMZuv9vi-HJ0aZFcj7apXyNwJonizTlKL8m-Wom55YA_7VLvL5vM29Db4Z3/s400/samuiairportmap.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332596557230135426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Bangkok Airways, the country's largest privately owned carrier, plans to turn Samui Airport into a second international air hub after Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport in the next one or two years.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 153, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">The airline would launch more direct international flights for medium-haul routes through the small resort airport. The plan falls under Bangkok Airways' growth plan and the mandate of the Samui Property Fund. Also in the pipeline are plans to offer direct flights from Samui to Dubai, Shanghai, Bali, and Kuala Lumpur. The airline already has scheduled flights to Hong Kong and Singapore.</span></span><br /></div>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-5365712706500932062009-04-29T00:18:00.001-07:002009-04-29T00:26:23.097-07:00Travel in samui island Thailand<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnNHcAo8G1gsFAH5PvAGvPYUioiZ4LPpTZzq_QkuZmwo5KvhXIGKdS5sYajwdelMly9LzHOQWIl12b2pUfj4J5KvNt75BM2gmdYvhlLdLylTBfJttCye117IjgvFY0yQ3Zrf-Tfvb7_Jq/s1600-h/1111.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYnNHcAo8G1gsFAH5PvAGvPYUioiZ4LPpTZzq_QkuZmwo5KvhXIGKdS5sYajwdelMly9LzHOQWIl12b2pUfj4J5KvNt75BM2gmdYvhlLdLylTBfJttCye117IjgvFY0yQ3Zrf-Tfvb7_Jq/s400/1111.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330010335516846146" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">If you are looking for long, white sand beaches, majestic green coconut palms everywhere, warm, azure blue crystal clear water - in short, a place that matches everybody`s concept of a tropical paradise, then Koh Samui is ideal for you. The beautiful little island in the gulf of Thailand</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJhPuUN24x3hf_FVDrWh3mAejVAu4ZZhj5z0Eo0Df8Kp2lMxv8eR6scNJsotRkTrWt6I2umCmbIceUZp6d0qGtYIKPxn3aNoUMzBzAvX67iSDngFe7GP4nZ9WIuHO8zi5f3dqqtlHNmZW/s1600-h/23.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSJhPuUN24x3hf_FVDrWh3mAejVAu4ZZhj5z0Eo0Df8Kp2lMxv8eR6scNJsotRkTrWt6I2umCmbIceUZp6d0qGtYIKPxn3aNoUMzBzAvX67iSDngFe7GP4nZ9WIuHO8zi5f3dqqtlHNmZW/s400/23.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330010333246550466" border="0" /></a></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6puLf9MdGBAkZwtLX8q-Ocw9Eo3eMCEGsmE6YYlvHqbnh7v0sr3Nabt-oiFDuDyfmATWFc2_L9OjkMURiWgsUaPTZHewlmRfSh_V2ItJpX48U6R58IhKMMNpsoWaPYnSQUVGJzE5-QJF/s1600-h/big-buddha-koh-samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 381px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_6puLf9MdGBAkZwtLX8q-Ocw9Eo3eMCEGsmE6YYlvHqbnh7v0sr3Nabt-oiFDuDyfmATWFc2_L9OjkMURiWgsUaPTZHewlmRfSh_V2ItJpX48U6R58IhKMMNpsoWaPYnSQUVGJzE5-QJF/s400/big-buddha-koh-samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330010326580659298" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">until some years ago an insider spot - is becoming more and more popular among travellers, and big tour operators and large hotel chains have established themselves there, but even mass tourism has not managed to spoil the island`s idyllic charm. The pace of life here is still very calm and relaxed. </span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzxVYWHUAO0ZZlt7AMhnU6foEV6lbsm1hcNAcUdDjEFx-CAktEIBhH8UWRGqJaoIuRWCsVBtAVKYe5ZcmWT4VYMxmYUxEL7K9cSISKy2jwhh-xVpFM9Ad7fPK7-SniFC6nO-cCbCDoeDg/s1600-h/DSCN0739.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzxVYWHUAO0ZZlt7AMhnU6foEV6lbsm1hcNAcUdDjEFx-CAktEIBhH8UWRGqJaoIuRWCsVBtAVKYe5ZcmWT4VYMxmYUxEL7K9cSISKy2jwhh-xVpFM9Ad7fPK7-SniFC6nO-cCbCDoeDg/s400/DSCN0739.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330010327453998642" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The beautiful island is located in the deep south of Thailand, about 100 kilometers north of Koh Phuket, but on the other side of the Isthmus of Kra, the narrow mountainous strip of land that connects Thailand and Malaysia. Koh Samui ("Koh" means "island") is only the most well known of a veritable archipelago of 80 islands in the south of the Gulf of Thailand (or Gulf of Siam, as it is still sometimes called). Among the other inhabitated island of the archipelago are Koh Phangan, which has approximately the same size as Samui and is located north of it (you can see it from Maenem Beach) and Koh Tao, also north of Samui island.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kn2E8UztfkLp8zHMQiV1AS0ik0Gq0qCuxE1-JLCwVshO2eq1orZdp0fmkOf8t6QBR2-tqw78gETaCEgPrAdLkbYA2X7H2kEkrshiUS93pc0V1psiLYJnwxnnYXizC43vV34ugaVIDsYI/s1600-h/IMG_1834.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1kn2E8UztfkLp8zHMQiV1AS0ik0Gq0qCuxE1-JLCwVshO2eq1orZdp0fmkOf8t6QBR2-tqw78gETaCEgPrAdLkbYA2X7H2kEkrshiUS93pc0V1psiLYJnwxnnYXizC43vV34ugaVIDsYI/s400/IMG_1834.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330010322750085714" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Most of the visitors to Samui Island come for swimming, sunbathing, or just doing nothing. The coral reefs around the island are, however, very good for snorkeling and scuba diving, and boating and fishing are also available (Samui is less suitable for wind surfing; the only two good beaches for it are Chaweng and Lamai). If you are not into marine sports then a little sightseeing may be interesting; Samui Island does not offer spectacular architecture or immortal monuments of art, but there are mountains, waterfalls, charming half-forgotten forest Wats (buddhist monasteries), and lovely little islands and islets around Koh Samui.</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdw0C8xkRUyYgz2c73yMM1iBMG0hqNGJphFjdOmrE8eMMy0bTg5MpFeQGf4Szm22qmW6RQqZiJk4gnG12PXIwWy1H42fzKA749XYdn7uFtIpGqkjRL44sPhjFGonuhLIqmuqqED70gvIb3/s1600-h/Koh_Samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdw0C8xkRUyYgz2c73yMM1iBMG0hqNGJphFjdOmrE8eMMy0bTg5MpFeQGf4Szm22qmW6RQqZiJk4gnG12PXIwWy1H42fzKA749XYdn7uFtIpGqkjRL44sPhjFGonuhLIqmuqqED70gvIb3/s400/Koh_Samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330009839347489346" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Hotels and Accomodation</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">It does not matter whether you are mainly interested in budget accomodation or looking for an international luxury hotel with all the frills - you can find both on the island. All over the island, in every little cove and on every little beach you can still find simple, very inexpensive bungalows. Most of the international hotels are located either on Chaweng Beach (a very long, extremely beautiful beach with powdery white sand and clean, crystal-clear water) or on Maenam Beach (yellow sand, but also nice, hotels: e.g. the Paradise Beach). For instance, in Chaweng you find the Imperial and the Central Samui (both of them are first-class, the Central is the newest and has a very large landscaped hotel garden). Also noteworthy is the Princess Village on Chaweng which consists of twelve beautiful ancient Thai teakwood houses that were transported from Ayutthaya (the old capital of Thailand) to Samui and rebuilt here. (Inside, the bungalows are modern and offer all the necessary amenities like bathroom, air condition, etc.)</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxTnrqFSRsuUT3vETjp02XVt2wQpmrnBUEW2H7tYAOFoxkMIx0tK76dajiGfJk0Cid-MyhEnKNg0DvUp2XqfWiNAoASL5Zg3VgDotKiu1YoOMQzI-oElVRox9polciXHGDT06ugzwigjs/s1600-h/kohsamui_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 360px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrxTnrqFSRsuUT3vETjp02XVt2wQpmrnBUEW2H7tYAOFoxkMIx0tK76dajiGfJk0Cid-MyhEnKNg0DvUp2XqfWiNAoASL5Zg3VgDotKiu1YoOMQzI-oElVRox9polciXHGDT06ugzwigjs/s400/kohsamui_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330009836023054786" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The best (and also most expensive) hotel on the island is the Meridien Royal Palm on the west coast. It has been built on cliff and offers spectacular views of the blue sea and the rocky little islets of the Ang Thong Marine Park.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr46H9HIyCQW4TQd3IYjKUU2rPyl_djsqFMjWb2E-7dTQdjY9QS56MSJvHnUC8GAshyphenhyphenI4WRcUnqos6NXI6iHoWVKihp6br6k8KdeuNAHYQmsm3SZ2-wub_FKT0eb6MJfjRkeyssP1tMO9/s1600-h/KohSamuiAlamy4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFr46H9HIyCQW4TQd3IYjKUU2rPyl_djsqFMjWb2E-7dTQdjY9QS56MSJvHnUC8GAshyphenhyphenI4WRcUnqos6NXI6iHoWVKihp6br6k8KdeuNAHYQmsm3SZ2-wub_FKT0eb6MJfjRkeyssP1tMO9/s400/KohSamuiAlamy4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330009833288701154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Life on the island is still very quiet, much more so than for instance on Phuket. There are schools on Samui but the more well-to-do families prefer to send their children to the colleges and universities on the Thai mainland. </span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1af6D9ZxoK7g_S-5mDsmHkmYSD4a8FTegrAzXiz6tPYeSaG3SJnmL-pXn4yonI79jnr9yY3nvBfKK8HtzaGM7IoTg40Au3oSw6WL-c5SWq3EMHVobge1lGPA7BLaBgwgyKzGWqAF1Lgl/s1600-h/scary-crocodile-show-koh-samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC1af6D9ZxoK7g_S-5mDsmHkmYSD4a8FTegrAzXiz6tPYeSaG3SJnmL-pXn4yonI79jnr9yY3nvBfKK8HtzaGM7IoTg40Au3oSw6WL-c5SWq3EMHVobge1lGPA7BLaBgwgyKzGWqAF1Lgl/s400/scary-crocodile-show-koh-samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330009831215628098" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The main produce of the island are coconuts (which are processed for copra production), tropical fruit, and bamboo. Fishing is of course also a major source of income and recently the tourism industry (most of the accomodation offered on Samui is still owned by locals, not by large hotel chains) has become more and more popular.</span></span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCC7fhVKn5JTnoFro0gcQNs7861xwpWuOXvXad1QGIbgMdMUiMivm9EqZkMbjPAvB8AbEBLMwBzsYKSYYjy25eivRD0DRxNlfNM6DIgEiaBM7wsddX4y1RVTgE5Re6fT7FNzFpi2BHlKzD/s1600-h/suratthani_koh_samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCC7fhVKn5JTnoFro0gcQNs7861xwpWuOXvXad1QGIbgMdMUiMivm9EqZkMbjPAvB8AbEBLMwBzsYKSYYjy25eivRD0DRxNlfNM6DIgEiaBM7wsddX4y1RVTgE5Re6fT7FNzFpi2BHlKzD/s400/suratthani_koh_samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330009829009386306" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-78575234964057557862009-03-23T03:29:00.000-07:002009-03-23T03:37:51.411-07:00Songkran festival in Samui island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmD7iTSqecqB8cKQe6ZZt4h8Zq59oSTqNHrCbnTt0ruC9RyHgMCx9MKqYJnk6rsvTOMn8QrPjHFiRcIyoCfb7NsJJpS6-7ZixlQmcjJXh1JDU4ANmwLJwbiLcJFZyj9WkdTy7YT8DAo2u/s1600-h/Samui-2008-047.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRmD7iTSqecqB8cKQe6ZZt4h8Zq59oSTqNHrCbnTt0ruC9RyHgMCx9MKqYJnk6rsvTOMn8QrPjHFiRcIyoCfb7NsJJpS6-7ZixlQmcjJXh1JDU4ANmwLJwbiLcJFZyj9WkdTy7YT8DAo2u/s400/Samui-2008-047.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316330203904743570" border="0" /></a>The best place to celebrate new years is nowhere but Samui island. This is because Samui island is a place which offers no less than three opportunities to ring in the new year. Locals of Samui island harbor in new year with their European friends on January 1st, with their Chinese friends on early February and on April 13th, they harbor in the first day of their traditional Thai solar calendar.<br />Songkran of Samui is celebrated on the first day of the Thai calendar<br /><br />This celebration of the first day of the Thai solar calendar is called Songkran, which is a joyous occasion in Samui island. The word Songkran stems from the Sanskrit word 'New Year', which shows that major aspects of Indian culture was imported to Thailand over 2,500 years ago.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYAyrDh811agp8hWnrScTmJyrFLxmzdUO5oTAJcFtqMedXkEP35vcflDkMaeM35GjATlkfBDxvwcIAq8zhNDWu2pHwv1neY_0jxd2VYKbyNI4_2ynDn-3sS5-Dw8uUcNfMk2ehWsdifWL/s1600-h/Samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYAyrDh811agp8hWnrScTmJyrFLxmzdUO5oTAJcFtqMedXkEP35vcflDkMaeM35GjATlkfBDxvwcIAq8zhNDWu2pHwv1neY_0jxd2VYKbyNI4_2ynDn-3sS5-Dw8uUcNfMk2ehWsdifWL/s400/Samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316330200803478498" border="0" /></a>Songkran is a holiday for the family in Samui Island; this is why on this day, you find less of staff in restaurants and hotels as practically everyone vies to spend time with their families on this festival. On this day, all the houses in Samui Island are cleaned, sacred alters and images washed and huge meals prepared at home. It is on Songkran that family members scattered here and there come together to renew bonds and exchange gossip.<br />Visit Samui to experience the beauty of Songkran<br /><br />The most interesting rite of Songkran is Wai Khon Gaa ceremony where people from all neighborhoods gather together to pour water on the two oldest members of the community and exchange blessings for the New Year. Another popular event of Songkran in Samui Island is the practice of Sat Nam where people gather large quantities of water that is chilled below freezing temperature to drench innocent passing pedestrians.<br />Teenagers of Samui love Songkran<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweABSeZARX639SJr00fPORAqQAuJJAV0ip-x3BYcD9fVgy6Gyi6INVTNmxZGNj0BKaqoBDPa2Ayd8us9Blo82y_69V0DmNbjZVI0kxTGSvMDj8yObOmUnIBeAj1jPKCkybw4UdgisHGEl/s1600-h/2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweABSeZARX639SJr00fPORAqQAuJJAV0ip-x3BYcD9fVgy6Gyi6INVTNmxZGNj0BKaqoBDPa2Ayd8us9Blo82y_69V0DmNbjZVI0kxTGSvMDj8yObOmUnIBeAj1jPKCkybw4UdgisHGEl/s400/2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316330182954036722" border="0" /></a>On Songkran, teenagers across Samui Island arm themselves with dippers, barrels, buckets, water guns, hoses and delivery vehicles to launch their icy-cold liquid missiles. During Songkran, policemen in Samui Island are immune to any attack; however everyone else has to take this with good humor. Don't be surprised to be met with people wearing sopping clothes wherever you go in Samui Island during Songkran.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WtU4OIKyI6U&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WtU4OIKyI6U&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-23427248474357218452009-03-01T22:39:00.000-08:002009-03-01T22:47:04.476-08:00Koh Phangan Island<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSx53DrzOYdPvwWBf-mMJ6I7Lgs1CFfabggloWfsbq7aEsbXL9VuZDXx_y9oTJTSnwmaD1siGnDhZVIDi5K8MGlXk3bDuVtdpyRAkyaf2071sySaiAHKeP8deaKoG0M8DjDOOXXk91efbk/s1600-h/97588-Full-Moon-Party-0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSx53DrzOYdPvwWBf-mMJ6I7Lgs1CFfabggloWfsbq7aEsbXL9VuZDXx_y9oTJTSnwmaD1siGnDhZVIDi5K8MGlXk3bDuVtdpyRAkyaf2071sySaiAHKeP8deaKoG0M8DjDOOXXk91efbk/s400/97588-Full-Moon-Party-0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477750372990210" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">From Bangkok</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">By bus or rail to Suratthani province, and a ferry from one of the piers (Donsak: Seatran and Raja ferry lines) You can buy a joint ticket in Bangkok, for example on Khao San Road. You can also get here with the Lomprayah catamaran from Chumphon via Koh Tao. Lomprayah also has comfortable buses from Bangkok to Chumphon. (more information is found in the Samui information) If you are going from Samui you have a lot of alternatives; Catch a express boat, catamaran or a small ferry from Nathon, Maenam, Big Buddha, Bangrak or Bo Phut. Or, if your in a hurry, a speed boat from Maenam or Bo Phut is perfect. Please check with any travel agency or just go to the piers and buy the ticket there.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Koh Phangan is located in the Gulf of Siam a little North of Koh Samui. About 75 % of the island is mountains covered by tropical jungle. The coconuts are still produced and exported here and an important income, together with the growing tourist industry and fishing. There are several coconut fields here. In the south end of Ban Tai there is a big coconut storage.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Koh Phangan was for about twenty years somehow a hideaway for backpackers in Asia. Today you will find all kind of "farangs" or tourists from all over the world on this tropical island; Party peoples (going to the Fullmoon Party), young (and old) "love birds", globetrotters, families, divers or just people looking for a place where they can enjoy total relaxation . But Koh Phangan is still "less exploited" than its larger sister island Koh Samui and the and some beaches are almost "empty" in low season. This is still a place where you can find a peaceful holiday with a book in a hammock in a very easy going bamboo resort.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2p-A3BqFbChkFJ4Rl703xR-KP16vOrf2kuVhdjPt9Gnt0BpfMMGeORikCntadsYeHCaOBCZbE8XE6ca6RYGHS_x9Hc9lanPrHzZgWBPzdI55hJj8iH-I9iimkqihyPC1hdhsUZ1n6H_pm/s1600-h/2062_2_rasananda_fsa-g.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2p-A3BqFbChkFJ4Rl703xR-KP16vOrf2kuVhdjPt9Gnt0BpfMMGeORikCntadsYeHCaOBCZbE8XE6ca6RYGHS_x9Hc9lanPrHzZgWBPzdI55hJj8iH-I9iimkqihyPC1hdhsUZ1n6H_pm/s400/2062_2_rasananda_fsa-g.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477747592454018" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The Full Moon Party</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">This party is one of the most famous and visited beach parties in the world. It is held monthly at Haad Rin Beach in Southern Phangan.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Had Rin Nok and Had Rin Nai</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">The most popular beach on Pha Ngan. Here you will find the famous Full Moon Party. Had Rin is actually two beaches (Had Rin Nok and Had Rin Nai) and the East side is often considered as the most beautiful beach, but also the more crowded one.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintUA6qMeCr6nGRjfFz1fAWlbnu5bOB12qb2e2OCTF_jsat52vckdOcD4QV-7MLsBU3RQuvBbDTlS95L7accjJN0W0tbuxw1JvR_ZG5lMkrn2TbBPCXBVLY5urn6rDe_8JpFkqBH55LhHM/s1600-h/Aussicht.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 260px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEintUA6qMeCr6nGRjfFz1fAWlbnu5bOB12qb2e2OCTF_jsat52vckdOcD4QV-7MLsBU3RQuvBbDTlS95L7accjJN0W0tbuxw1JvR_ZG5lMkrn2TbBPCXBVLY5urn6rDe_8JpFkqBH55LhHM/s400/Aussicht.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477741642625554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Ban Khai, Ban Tai and Ao Nai Wok</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">These beaches are located in the South East of the island, East of Thongsala. You will find cheap accommodation and some beach bars here. Stunning sunsets can be seen over Koh Samui.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfhLj0bhhNew-nmZ-q7MfmKd45LXyaM1Dr18ZB2TyiEl9Pou5_Q3jk54m5pw0b2OTtlRvna2Ko2G6nmJgqcUjdenVSWXhvg-ZoTcnmb7B1AQjdNG6oZCWP_l3b6IVCp9lI5B5MLBqhBg3/s1600-h/intro.jpeg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQfhLj0bhhNew-nmZ-q7MfmKd45LXyaM1Dr18ZB2TyiEl9Pou5_Q3jk54m5pw0b2OTtlRvna2Ko2G6nmJgqcUjdenVSWXhvg-ZoTcnmb7B1AQjdNG6oZCWP_l3b6IVCp9lI5B5MLBqhBg3/s400/intro.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477432607361618" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Had Yuan, Had Thien and (Eastern) Had Yao</span><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">These three beaches are located North of Had Rin Nok. Relaxed places only accessible by foot or by a taxi boat etc.</span><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMomLqFBWbmruoJ1ro0XhLplxQOS7Unr9n-ex8Lyn9pPk81ttP2vrHdKdBptuD3QfJ-T-zDXr7DaeezdGehsEbh0r1O3rHq13l7-Q3-AHoc-krkIngNASVdcJeVOfv3O41UTlZwTpokNoU/s1600-h/phuket-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMomLqFBWbmruoJ1ro0XhLplxQOS7Unr9n-ex8Lyn9pPk81ttP2vrHdKdBptuD3QfJ-T-zDXr7DaeezdGehsEbh0r1O3rHq13l7-Q3-AHoc-krkIngNASVdcJeVOfv3O41UTlZwTpokNoU/s400/phuket-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477426143853986" border="0" /></a><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurFq-orER5OQMQcpW6Lfgz7mxVhF7oSZznlk9nTm17T4C-W1N8kV_bGzlV5RH_dKDGcHffEkljM1pSAk7hT2pJW5VVEi_GsJa_hOVhCbZenIQAD1KiA4b8-OxY_xBCWbH1uP88khIuTVP/s1600-h/tommy_resort_06.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurFq-orER5OQMQcpW6Lfgz7mxVhF7oSZznlk9nTm17T4C-W1N8kV_bGzlV5RH_dKDGcHffEkljM1pSAk7hT2pJW5VVEi_GsJa_hOVhCbZenIQAD1KiA4b8-OxY_xBCWbH1uP88khIuTVP/s400/tommy_resort_06.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477413612239154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Other beaches in the South are: Had Yang, Had Khontee and Had Leela.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5s5r6koiDOaH056kcUrqKMvt2yMKsZT0PzNvuPmmQZTTCnkLidsH5aXLHiUUx_slaSDznlPzXbBLAj1geAtlqRWJTlGhFCVruGWtziGBpRCNmc0sbLZ8LGVNJ8C98Dg8-zwPSTeV-6YW/s1600-h/tommy_resort_01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP5s5r6koiDOaH056kcUrqKMvt2yMKsZT0PzNvuPmmQZTTCnkLidsH5aXLHiUUx_slaSDznlPzXbBLAj1geAtlqRWJTlGhFCVruGWtziGBpRCNmc0sbLZ8LGVNJ8C98Dg8-zwPSTeV-6YW/s400/tommy_resort_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308477416337947666" border="0" /></a><br /></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-61915645090681556412009-01-05T21:19:00.000-08:002009-01-05T21:21:36.711-08:00Koh samui clip<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fZoPKStZ2ZQ&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fZoPKStZ2ZQ&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-20583545739926649192009-01-05T20:38:00.000-08:002009-01-05T21:11:54.810-08:00Koh Samui<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GEcWWQMq0A5fGbIrNE1mVLxDGR8brUzfilYX8CUzIfoXI2Y7ZRIhjHWX0gWwr-ke9RyJ2_yFa_voUCODcjG8mlvJNYFJBAezFShYnJc0Ve3d9f_68TLHpVgIJ6S1YBnLIiyOeurn5Zze/s1600-h/IMG_2714.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3GEcWWQMq0A5fGbIrNE1mVLxDGR8brUzfilYX8CUzIfoXI2Y7ZRIhjHWX0gWwr-ke9RyJ2_yFa_voUCODcjG8mlvJNYFJBAezFShYnJc0Ve3d9f_68TLHpVgIJ6S1YBnLIiyOeurn5Zze/s400/IMG_2714.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288042926803521410" border="0" /></a>Koh Samui <p>Back in the halcyon days of the 1960's, there were no Lonely Planets to guide the trickle of adventurers travelling overland between Europe and Asia. Unlike today's pampered and ubiquitous backpackers, yesterday's intrepid young explorers had to rely on word of mouth advice about the route lying ahead. Amongst other essentials, this included "approved" lodgings, where kindred spirits globe-trotting in opposite directions congregated, and exchanged information about rutted roads already endured. </p> <p>One such hostelry was the legendary <i>Thai Song Greet Hotel,</i> (alas, gone forever) near Bangkok's central Hualumpong railway station. At 20 baht (then worth US$1) a night, it was still considered "expensive" for it had grimy rooms, and guests shared a small, smelly toilet-cum-bathroom at the end of each cluttered and humid corridor. Those who could not afford the hotel's dubious luxury nevertheless came here to obtain that precious intelligence essential for their onward journey.</p> <p>If Koh Samui is well known today, the first reverent mention of the name was most likely heard in the packed downstairs restaurant of that dirty but charismatic tryst. Amongst the pungent smoke billowing from the cook's wok, word frequently passed around about an idyllic island in the south east of Thailand, very difficult to reach, a place with only walking tracks, and as close to being paradise as Mother Earth can possibly provide. Furthermore, this was no tiny islet, but a large and mountainous tropical haven with rushing streams, thick forests, and dozens of deserted pristine palm-fringed beaches, the stuff of dreams and fantasy.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhA2YmCcRy0zJ3tw2T0Q2zff7u031UAi-xBZorV0XSQj0OQ1ghJg6Pu5UNXK5GIoTLzza-TWNspijnI-Tk6al7e-wKbWzbg_CXFcJ1_yQ76kB6dc3-sIEAWWAh9oAdvisjMtLE-zQulcqm/s1600-h/IMG_2707.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhA2YmCcRy0zJ3tw2T0Q2zff7u031UAi-xBZorV0XSQj0OQ1ghJg6Pu5UNXK5GIoTLzza-TWNspijnI-Tk6al7e-wKbWzbg_CXFcJ1_yQ76kB6dc3-sIEAWWAh9oAdvisjMtLE-zQulcqm/s400/IMG_2707.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288042919714161362" border="0" /></a><p>Born therefore - like so many other resorts - of backpackers' private discoveries, Samui forty years on boasts a network of roads, an entire tourism infrastructure, and almost-hourly flights landing at the picturesque airport. If purists might lament this transformation, the island nonetheless retains much of its magic, and international tourism has done little so far to mar the intrinsic tropical beauty. Development has affected mostly the coastal areas, and much of the mountainous interior remains untouched. Up here, the friendly inhabitants carry on their lives cultivating coconuts, banana, durian and paddy just as before, accepting sun-lotioned foreigners as an inevitable result of progress, like telephones and television. </p> <p>Today, plump middle-aged codgers, who, as slim pimply-faced youths might have lounged under Samui's swaying palms in 1962, can still relive that lost island feeling today, albeit with luxury hotels and the conveniences of the 21<sup>st</sup> century all around, and the sense of real adventure long since gone.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSgoiAdB8ssOCYKb5okB3sMbbhBAGm6AF71L-9eJte6gV1oZnae1FreghsnI2O0FRXknjGcrA66aXi1sBnMrPB1QFPIxczl9zPKT3fAwhgR1Kxa73djtHws0Hz1gfm1_jHsyAa7C51lZS/s1600-h/IMG_2667.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZSgoiAdB8ssOCYKb5okB3sMbbhBAGm6AF71L-9eJte6gV1oZnae1FreghsnI2O0FRXknjGcrA66aXi1sBnMrPB1QFPIxczl9zPKT3fAwhgR1Kxa73djtHws0Hz1gfm1_jHsyAa7C51lZS/s400/IMG_2667.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288042919986471314" border="0" /></a><p> Roughly 250 square kilometres in size, and rising to a height of 635 metres, this rugged granite island is almost the size of Penang, and Thailand's third largest after Phuket and Ko Chang. ("Koh"is Thai for island) Settled originally by Malaysian and Chinese fishermen, it is thought that the name Samui derives from the Chinese word <i>Saboey</i>, meaning safe harbour. Less developed than Phuket, it boasts its own distinct personality, and the proud native population of around 50,000 speaks its own distinctive southern dialect. </p> <p>It has an enjoyable but often unpredictable mix of tropical weather conditions, the sunniest months falling between January and August, with occasional refreshing downpours. More frequent rainstorms arrive in September/October, lasting through to December. The hottest months are from March to June. The sea temperature averages 29 degrees Celsius year round. </p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-Djzy2pzzhsZH1Enzq_GLw3X-ppnbl3gbAR8Im2VTz_MglufxzqctyxsggvmaSksqFUnXrwg-JJnE6HxqJB0QcnzaEE0v5TsccehAWScGJ3FyCFCJWUkuGnNreRwFlKAWbC-juUhCx2n/s1600-h/IMG_2660.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5-Djzy2pzzhsZH1Enzq_GLw3X-ppnbl3gbAR8Im2VTz_MglufxzqctyxsggvmaSksqFUnXrwg-JJnE6HxqJB0QcnzaEE0v5TsccehAWScGJ3FyCFCJWUkuGnNreRwFlKAWbC-juUhCx2n/s400/IMG_2660.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288042913755510626" border="0" /></a><h3>What to Do?</h3> <p>As hedonists gleefully point out, this exotic corner of Asia is a beach lover's dream, for it has no historical or cultural "must sees". If you do nothing for your entire stay than eat, sunbathe, swim and sleep, you are not likely to feel that your indulgence has caused you to miss seeing some once-in-a-lifetime attraction. At worst, you will deny yourself the pleasure of seeing some stunning natural scenery, a few interesting temples, and probably add a few unwelcome kilos to your mortal frame. If you decide to go sightseeing, a couple of excursions and a hire car for a day or two will do nicely. There are also pleasant boat trips to the Ang Thong Marine National Park, or to smaller neighbouring islands such as Koh Tao, or the larger island of Pha-Ngan, the latter a trendy full-moon place of pilgrimage for the modern-day counterparts of the Thai Song Greet Hotel. Numerous SCUBA schools cater for beginners as well as conducting deep dives for skilled aficionados in waters rich in marine life off deserted uninhabited islands. </p> <p>The profound beauty of the area has attracted a number of artists, writers and retirees, living happily ever after in secluded island corners. Drawn also by the idyllic environment, purveyors of alternative medicine and whole-body practices enthusiastically offer their services, as do others teaching metaphysical and martial arts. In contrast to the all night swinging discos with their less-than-healthy associations, Samui is becoming a Mecca for followers of physical and spiritual disciplines.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgliXfGGxqvGY-_vzc9SRa195e2no2SY-1WE3Jv0uu331rxe03CqUT1BYSiNZo52w9QzRh_v7vjsSkCeiIW9F8fyMCi0GDZaXa2CVl4LdWNo99Z6K8YM3wxp2ZsQ8SeZ4r-xnkQojxml4-y/s1600-h/IMG_2704.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgliXfGGxqvGY-_vzc9SRa195e2no2SY-1WE3Jv0uu331rxe03CqUT1BYSiNZo52w9QzRh_v7vjsSkCeiIW9F8fyMCi0GDZaXa2CVl4LdWNo99Z6K8YM3wxp2ZsQ8SeZ4r-xnkQojxml4-y/s400/IMG_2704.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288042922995352514" border="0" /></a><p>Several establishments on the island offer supervised "detoxification" and fasting programmes<b>, </b>often coupled with yoga, meditation, or other mind-body regimes. Other possibilities include a broad spectrum of treatments or instruction, including Thai Massage, Shiatsu, Craniosacral Therapy, Acupuncture, Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Colonic Lavage, Ayurveda, Acupressure, Hydrotherapy, Qi Kung, Reiki, Vortex Astrology, Taoist Health, Tarot studies, and others. </p> <p>Although many of these might be both bona-fide and beneficial, the line between holistic hype and medical fact is often blurred, as is that between the spurious and the spiritual. It is prudent therefore to check credibility and credentials carefully before going ahead.</p> <h3><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRiA0_mPCEz1YVW7Y6xw7KWWavzr1guxzRSjPhE69FpzF3I-oz0svLt_8Vj7l2AV72WvRdR-vavG8JBS-gcsIBFwHvL-1q603VsjEe39a_8TtmOApWGasDFmw8qXlp9ea9awheaQrLDm_/s1600-h/IMG_2627.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRiA0_mPCEz1YVW7Y6xw7KWWavzr1guxzRSjPhE69FpzF3I-oz0svLt_8Vj7l2AV72WvRdR-vavG8JBS-gcsIBFwHvL-1q603VsjEe39a_8TtmOApWGasDFmw8qXlp9ea9awheaQrLDm_/s400/IMG_2627.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288037893162942050" border="0" /></a>On Land</h3> <p> Apart from organised tours, the simplest, easiest, and arguably the most enjoyable sightseeing option is a circumnavigation of the island with a hire car on the 52 kilometres of paved road, which for the most part, follows the coast. It is best conducted at a leisurely pace over two or three days, rather than a round-the-island-rush, which can be "done" in just 2-3 hours. Taking your time enables the exploration of smaller side roads, encourages local encounters, and opens a whole new window on the island's amazing appeal. Since the road completes a full circle, the best way to appreciate the different perspectives is to travel in both a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction on different days, and at different times of day. Although not a tempting thought on a relaxing holiday, some of the loveliest images happen only at dawn, when most tourists are fast asleep, and setting out just before sunrise can provide unforgettable combinations of natural beauty, human activities, and stunning blends of illumination. Since distances are relatively short, you can always return to your hotel and resume the magical tour after a hearty breakfast born of a healthy appetite - a great way to start the day.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUW5J_UeO7tngJLRaOYzvV9WqEu-AjChY92arOc4pjjbG7Fu7W1PLjKHkvgAbeeX2-Fil3KtYD_YE6OcduJyO2sJKtxS9yrgV2rjin5xi42CSzGSjzUYFoeCsJIuJ2pm3P1-3u5OSkOhAz/s1600-h/IMG_2658.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUW5J_UeO7tngJLRaOYzvV9WqEu-AjChY92arOc4pjjbG7Fu7W1PLjKHkvgAbeeX2-Fil3KtYD_YE6OcduJyO2sJKtxS9yrgV2rjin5xi42CSzGSjzUYFoeCsJIuJ2pm3P1-3u5OSkOhAz/s400/IMG_2658.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288037896899539314" border="0" /></a><p>Mountains dominate almost two thirds of the island. The lower slopes comprise mainly coconut plantations, an extension of the thousands of palms growing on the coastal plains - two million coconuts, they say, are exported to Bangkok every month. The higher altitudes are clothed in tropical forest, studded with impressive granite boulders. Many of the dirt roads and tracks are accessible by 4WD vehicles or trail bikes, but it is wise to take local advice before attempting to explore the hinterland unaccompanied. Trekking and mountain bike tours can be arranged through some local travel companies, and for the energetic, the scenic rewards are well worth the loss of perspiration. Also available on organised tours are an <b>Elephant Trek, </b>and a full day <b>Jeep Safari</b> to the less well-known spots in the interior.<br /></p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIUiQ6A1tfgsFOe2j973c71hm2bQJO0QkECaOIyJzThzfn2QqGE51-Q01V7m16C6fFW4eOTNDGAmYGkXPFIpzfwEkv3QSJWV6Cd-yWZW8gkKB3nDCFb1R-v0DlpDgko2Ap4gn7HvLLx9W/s1600-h/IMG_2657.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIUiQ6A1tfgsFOe2j973c71hm2bQJO0QkECaOIyJzThzfn2QqGE51-Q01V7m16C6fFW4eOTNDGAmYGkXPFIpzfwEkv3QSJWV6Cd-yWZW8gkKB3nDCFb1R-v0DlpDgko2Ap4gn7HvLLx9W/s400/IMG_2657.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288037889822162274" border="0" /></a></p><b> </b><p><b>The West Coast </b>contains the island's main town of <b>Nathon, </b>which offers little in the way of sightseeing, but has a reasonable selection of shops and restaurants. The back streets still hide some old houses echoing a very different past, and a glimpse of island life before tourism arrived. Nathon is also one of the island's passenger ferry ports, the vehicle ferry port located further south, at <strong>Thong Yang. </strong>The south-western corner of the island is quiet and picturesque, with smaller roads and villages which are appealing, and most pleasant to explore. There are a number of small beaches here, but they do not compare with those on the East Coast.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAJ2DowyTAfjCV7t9tKNHcSUDYNpYt_x1YCyMgNSFnuRxcztVBJzq47Q9EEFxqZJ9agV1coPA9bnt46WGMpu0Cam74PmOSSdPZnz7l1RYMqvKeNQKrR07aOgOhRrghXyjuLfoe1z2_IT3/s1600-h/IMG_2527.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkAJ2DowyTAfjCV7t9tKNHcSUDYNpYt_x1YCyMgNSFnuRxcztVBJzq47Q9EEFxqZJ9agV1coPA9bnt46WGMpu0Cam74PmOSSdPZnz7l1RYMqvKeNQKrR07aOgOhRrghXyjuLfoe1z2_IT3/s400/IMG_2527.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288037884231793634" border="0" /></a><b></b><p><b>The North Coast</b> has a series of smaller beaches, some of which are good for swimming, snorkelling, and windsurfing when the northeast breezes blow from December to February. <strong>Hat Phra Yai</strong> at Bangrak is best known as the <strong>"Big Buddha Beach" </strong>- named after the tall gold- tiled sitting Buddha on a small island connected to the beach by a causeway, and constituting one of the island's best known landmarks.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVZXAb1w2ZMIYP0hyphenhyphenJbzIzLO6M_9X9H3kVmZH21I1D-zp4w54F7UkAbuQO1U-GOcWf49zJm-C4oQ0AZOcf23CyV1dF5EL_8QM9DfvPE4zOB-KXOB0gbUgHj574Zj48miXpyRLoc3ZbG4n/s1600-h/IMG_2659.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVZXAb1w2ZMIYP0hyphenhyphenJbzIzLO6M_9X9H3kVmZH21I1D-zp4w54F7UkAbuQO1U-GOcWf49zJm-C4oQ0AZOcf23CyV1dF5EL_8QM9DfvPE4zOB-KXOB0gbUgHj574Zj48miXpyRLoc3ZbG4n/s400/IMG_2659.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288037905735668402" border="0" /></a><p>The <b>North East Coast </b>provides a series of smaller capes and picturesque coves, some difficult to reach by road. From here there are excellent views over to Koh Pha-Ngan. </p><b> </b><p><b>The East Coast: </b>Samui's longest and most beautiful beach of <b>Chaweng</b> is located on this stretch. Fringed with swaying picture postcard palms, it extends for 5 kilometres, and makes for wonderful walks, particularly at dawn or sunset. Chaweng also has the largest variety of water sports, and a good selection of shops and entertainment.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMH1gsdtDR23eboAt2GuoZSTQ7EooEEFMRcwvRlMo_ny8iWHSighHL0elhVbnCUWHLOF82n34wGsfdV7QT_8CvtUF6C9eA70ULKX4oxun3-zzmhZoLvEAelyEDRtFOdh__oa8fZ8Wo9JN/s1600-h/IMG_2509.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMH1gsdtDR23eboAt2GuoZSTQ7EooEEFMRcwvRlMo_ny8iWHSighHL0elhVbnCUWHLOF82n34wGsfdV7QT_8CvtUF6C9eA70ULKX4oxun3-zzmhZoLvEAelyEDRtFOdh__oa8fZ8Wo9JN/s400/IMG_2509.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288036847973708530" border="0" /></a><b></b><p><b>The South East Coast: </b>Samui's second longest beach of <b>Lamai</b> is here, again offering good tourism infrastructure, but with less sand and generally lacking the tropical beauty and exotic feel of Chaweng. Near Lamai there are two curious rock formations called <b>Hinyai</b> and <b>Hinta</b>, carved by the elements over centuries to resemble the male and female genital organs, and resultedly a popular tourist attraction. In Lamai itself there is an old monastery, which includes a small museum.<br /></p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE06RToDWmi1qILYpfIpB8lVLhyWBnBRUhB4P0alQUtNua1c3B_75hZY6a4mpb-193a5xZH0RJxYmzTlkeX7dIZ__67NlKliiEMME3Y0K0KjDN1GljlW6LMYuIj10j7El5H3Ktem6lJF8T/s1600-h/IMG_2501.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE06RToDWmi1qILYpfIpB8lVLhyWBnBRUhB4P0alQUtNua1c3B_75hZY6a4mpb-193a5xZH0RJxYmzTlkeX7dIZ__67NlKliiEMME3Y0K0KjDN1GljlW6LMYuIj10j7El5H3Ktem6lJF8T/s400/IMG_2501.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288036848063638194" border="0" /></a><p>Some island sightseeing options include: The <b>Butterfly Farm </b>built into a hillside in the southeast corner, and the nearby <b>Samui Aquarium </b>which<b> </b>features live specimens of local marine life. The <b>Samui Snake Farm </b>located in the south west on the 4170 ring road, houses several<b> </b>species of venomous snakes, including a King Cobra (reputedly the largest captive specimen in Thailand) plus scorpions and centipedes, and has a daily show.</p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Y7yroRwgMVOQH__jfJfgKojaMLkW5WKzWcxpk6xZnMpv5xSjON7z-RKhDqTmYXRkJ-oEwOVWtkNQ4JC7VotA-3aPTJ9NCied74aO8ZgLxruWxAUR_05xmrbRLNdiz96X7OOai6T5bKro/s1600-h/IMG_2499.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Y7yroRwgMVOQH__jfJfgKojaMLkW5WKzWcxpk6xZnMpv5xSjON7z-RKhDqTmYXRkJ-oEwOVWtkNQ4JC7VotA-3aPTJ9NCied74aO8ZgLxruWxAUR_05xmrbRLNdiz96X7OOai6T5bKro/s400/IMG_2499.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288036841914080338" border="0" /></a><p> The <b>Samui Crocodile Farm,</b> near the airport, also has daily shows. There is an interesting 150 year old <b>Ancient House</b> made of teakwood without using nails at Ban Thale, said to be the oldest house on the island and home to some impressive woodcarvings. <b>Heaven's Garden </b>is an open-air art gallery in the central highlands, the creation of a dedicated local man who sculpted dozens of figures inspired by Buddhist scriptures.<strong> </strong>Various <strong>Monkey Shows</strong> demonstrate the useful ability of monkeys to pick ripe nuts, as well as performing other tricks. For more aesthetic pursuits, you may wish to see the island's two mummified monks at <b>Wat Kiri Wongkaram </b>and <b>Wat Khunaram </b>in the south. Another revered site is the <b>Coral Buddha, </b>a small statue visited by Buddhist devotees. Although in disrepair, it is a major place of worship for the monks from nearby <b>Wat Sumret</b>, on the 4169 ring-road. This temple houses numerous Buddha images, the tallest three meters high and originally brought from India. <b>Wat Sila Ngu also </b>on the 4169 ring-road, one kilometer South of Hinta and Hinyai (mentioned above) is said<b> </b>to contain a relic of the Lord Buddha, and the temple is often used for travelling shows. <b>Thai boxing</b> performances can be seen most days at the Samui stadium. </p><p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPFgWzh3C2eAxfJzmM9bXGYYn1UDIyqbRrcdH3wudRRkmSrtdFYA-HkOD31CWHMabzaWQH3uEnV1BlO-YoAWn7dLjx2mqTevTTG8-VbR_achJyYzlL_R2E0DWfir54qDo-a3mtFNHpVMN/s1600-h/IMG_2516.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrPFgWzh3C2eAxfJzmM9bXGYYn1UDIyqbRrcdH3wudRRkmSrtdFYA-HkOD31CWHMabzaWQH3uEnV1BlO-YoAWn7dLjx2mqTevTTG8-VbR_achJyYzlL_R2E0DWfir54qDo-a3mtFNHpVMN/s400/IMG_2516.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288036852486702562" border="0" /></a></p><p>At <b>Living Thailand</b> in the south of the island there is a show reflecting traditional island lifestyles and customs, plus a buffalo theatre and a Thai farming museum. Samui's<b> </b>delightful <b>Airport </b>opened in 1989, and its 2,100 metre runway, handles more than 40 flights a day on services to Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya (U-Tapao), Krabi and Singapore. More like a botanic garden than an airport, it has won a number of well-deserved awards for design and environmental compatibility. It is worth a visit just to admire the care and artistry that went into its creation. </p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXfXlhxkERA8lP4uwruxrk6oxTRgixuW5zmTn3isNAAT4CKcvK1GpBxrMMWXBjK7GBoYGDP3EfTbegJUTbKt5UCR5Xmtb1h_CqZjtDgH5B7Uy9He6h5r68ZkIsxGKpjzjhBM6KtpzwPZn/s1600-h/IMG_2448.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixXfXlhxkERA8lP4uwruxrk6oxTRgixuW5zmTn3isNAAT4CKcvK1GpBxrMMWXBjK7GBoYGDP3EfTbegJUTbKt5UCR5Xmtb1h_CqZjtDgH5B7Uy9He6h5r68ZkIsxGKpjzjhBM6KtpzwPZn/s400/IMG_2448.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288036836924782450" border="0" /></a>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-81781054072888984512008-12-04T01:31:00.000-08:002008-12-04T01:49:27.955-08:00Ang Thong Marine National Park,Samui Thailand<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_SwcnjVwAY8IRISUCX84zpMNDR_DdCoIxpn5fsrml_O58yi8e_Y7uFJE_nWR7lqW0MNrA1ZbaGj0OYw-2Z3iD9pRkAWN_1wJBTesKvQJA8pDU1ua_4SQ9XgDmix40HM_Mn17IzgYpYlV/s1600-h/p149949-Koh_Samui-Ang_Thong_Marine_National_Park.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG_SwcnjVwAY8IRISUCX84zpMNDR_DdCoIxpn5fsrml_O58yi8e_Y7uFJE_nWR7lqW0MNrA1ZbaGj0OYw-2Z3iD9pRkAWN_1wJBTesKvQJA8pDU1ua_4SQ9XgDmix40HM_Mn17IzgYpYlV/s400/p149949-Koh_Samui-Ang_Thong_Marine_National_Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868643027491714" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park consists of 42 islands. Its main islands are Phaluai Island, Wua Chio Island, Wua Talap Island, Mae Ko Island, Samsao Island, Phai Luak Island, Kha Island, Hindap Island, Phi Island, Wua Kantang Island, Mae Yat Island, Wua Te Island, Naiphut Island, Changsom Island, Hanuman Island, Thaiphlao Island, Huaklong Island, and Kho Ban Island.</span></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbu_ffHoss4ULWMi0afgNUO8Lc34Upbs9wJG5e8obNc8ECfWVVIF0UKckLdXU3LXeW0ySISXPe0Qa7CAzekoJSbEvuvYHFZybj9fyEhgzPwb-SoUMmdlcZbZaGT87GlAV4UcNHqtCzDWzX/s1600-h/6686.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbu_ffHoss4ULWMi0afgNUO8Lc34Upbs9wJG5e8obNc8ECfWVVIF0UKckLdXU3LXeW0ySISXPe0Qa7CAzekoJSbEvuvYHFZybj9fyEhgzPwb-SoUMmdlcZbZaGT87GlAV4UcNHqtCzDWzX/s400/6686.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275867882861257634" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The park covers a total area of 102 sq.km of which about only 18 sq.km is land. The National park does not encompass the entire island chain, its jurisdiction covers about 82% of the total area.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxroTUusw7Ur-AFThS-1xQthAtBkC_5gBiAsJ_bw75bjFQYNyxBoIMQakDr-WLhDhs5YK5n3R99mrJTxNkz5VNEa1ZoIXwiKeRrDsIG02NC1-vONaZnhEm0QzottxJkQnqQPkZFrbipVN/s1600-h/61.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBxroTUusw7Ur-AFThS-1xQthAtBkC_5gBiAsJ_bw75bjFQYNyxBoIMQakDr-WLhDhs5YK5n3R99mrJTxNkz5VNEa1ZoIXwiKeRrDsIG02NC1-vONaZnhEm0QzottxJkQnqQPkZFrbipVN/s400/61.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275867875685908722" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The park was established on 12th November 1980.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Most of the islands consists of limestone mountains about 10-400 meters above sea level.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf5_J9EY6DY6L4pSf9Ph85E3Ula4NZdJ29NkNdGiQ83sNVUBFJbp_vKkMl27DbUkJN4bBzzgwreVdVfd2mVn6NOAp6-STbjfuHzEkoqx1iqKfk_q_eDrde_DuFmSv4sjZ1vM1A8fuLAlw/s1600-h/25.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLf5_J9EY6DY6L4pSf9Ph85E3Ula4NZdJ29NkNdGiQ83sNVUBFJbp_vKkMl27DbUkJN4bBzzgwreVdVfd2mVn6NOAp6-STbjfuHzEkoqx1iqKfk_q_eDrde_DuFmSv4sjZ1vM1A8fuLAlw/s400/25.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275867875526032354" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Because the limestone can change its structure easily by both chemical condition and weather, so that makes the islands have many, strange-looking caves and cliffs, and some islands are looked like ancient Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Prasart Hin Pimai.</span></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfeiojyYe70-At_c-kG3JRJubWbqOnphYyYCoImZ7i-d-0K-to9IeCy4qehm4YvGXhaLQcwQvLkxjb7P-nmbFp4jRxyUM1vvHz1zeCSc-ucanrFXRsLm09-93IBTyHsu90IGwU6wUbL5C/s1600-h/AngThong-MarinePark-Cave.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 277px; height: 364px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyfeiojyYe70-At_c-kG3JRJubWbqOnphYyYCoImZ7i-d-0K-to9IeCy4qehm4YvGXhaLQcwQvLkxjb7P-nmbFp4jRxyUM1vvHz1zeCSc-ucanrFXRsLm09-93IBTyHsu90IGwU6wUbL5C/s400/AngThong-MarinePark-Cave.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868405364710146" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Climate</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park has been influenced by monsoon that causes big waves and heavy rain, approximately 2,000 mm. of rain all the year round, and the temperature is approximately 23 oC. The appropriate time for visiting the islands is between February and April, although the temperature is quite hot but the sea is calm suitable for sailing.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcrhlz48zrdsW5ijGZw_geiPGNo3Rt6kqPCrj2QVkUjaLRhPwk5lvpnxD-YrjfhFcFomp4MX4tB0ZQeETRWf7_RnC5aqu43DPclZtbhDkxaG4_XiZ3C_6oE1So5-aJV1uFFICo6hH_Yk0/s1600-h/underwatercoralcliff.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 258px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJcrhlz48zrdsW5ijGZw_geiPGNo3Rt6kqPCrj2QVkUjaLRhPwk5lvpnxD-YrjfhFcFomp4MX4tB0ZQeETRWf7_RnC5aqu43DPclZtbhDkxaG4_XiZ3C_6oE1So5-aJV1uFFICo6hH_Yk0/s400/underwatercoralcliff.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868645568417490" border="0" /></a> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">During monsoon (November and December) in the Gulf of Thailand always have big waves and windy. Traveling to Ang Thong National Park, Surat Thani Province is not safe. Thus, National Park office announced for temporary closing during November and December every year</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Flora & Fauna</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The islands of the park are covered in forest of four types<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAemmaI_fFhgr82ovofDwdTN-Qst3BR-YEreW66BdQzxGCgbJnGtx8h9S0pprB2hJbMhRUCZ9FhLzJM5KXAu61GLECy4U7moc4D-2f3DpulLjK6dNB0Bk_7Trl_q48ob5ywdrEDD6PTQb/s1600-h/The-Horng-or-Hidden-Lagoon.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAemmaI_fFhgr82ovofDwdTN-Qst3BR-YEreW66BdQzxGCgbJnGtx8h9S0pprB2hJbMhRUCZ9FhLzJM5KXAu61GLECy4U7moc4D-2f3DpulLjK6dNB0Bk_7Trl_q48ob5ywdrEDD6PTQb/s400/The-Horng-or-Hidden-Lagoon.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868638921503090" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">;</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Dry Evergreen Forest, occurs on the larger islands with significant patches on Wua Ta Lap,Phaluai and Sam Sao. The principle tree species are; Memecylon sp., Barringtonia fusiformis, Semecarpus curtisii, Cinnamomum sp., Caryota spp., Calamus spp. and Paphio- pedilum niveum "Ang Thong" Pfitz.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Beach Forest, occurs in a narrow strip around most of the larger islands, especially in the area above high water mark on beaches.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjSQ8Yo7QFL3t5tqPFvbdi7CLhnBu4I1p8ErP9W1Xai0-rASQzA_VidXrb443ugse9rcWlYxh7r8rzy9Gg9sW7eZJodcZVVOKfgaEFaXlAasVI-CzTOBbKnChOHGDQnWc1i8s7qhuOnHd/s1600-h/Chaiya_Wat_Kaew.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsjSQ8Yo7QFL3t5tqPFvbdi7CLhnBu4I1p8ErP9W1Xai0-rASQzA_VidXrb443ugse9rcWlYxh7r8rzy9Gg9sW7eZJodcZVVOKfgaEFaXlAasVI-CzTOBbKnChOHGDQnWc1i8s7qhuOnHd/s400/Chaiya_Wat_Kaew.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868637920558498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"> Species occuring include; Terrminalia catappa, Thespesia populnea, Carophyllum inophyllum, Scaevola taccada, Erythrina fusea, Pandanus monotheca and Crinum sp.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Limestone forest, occurs on the exposed cliff faces and in the very shallow soils on top of the limestone hills. Most of the plants found here are small and highly adapted to survive in the severe environment, species recorded include; Dracaena loureiri, Euphorbia antiquorum and Morinda sp.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">Mangrove forest, occurs in the very sheltered spots where sandbars and mudflats have developed.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnPg_ijmlmxSzSAqNMgBCJDTvJep7Ko6eHG4IGvAttrl8mSz0CPUHR-Jr302K6IIjJAUpMGeE5KFzi_LGDHiPfXEjEHwuZq7cxUifpkr5lG6vhj63C5oZwD-e3U9fkgBmKgw_eY3nWxxW/s1600-h/Ang+Thong+Marine+National+Park.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 228px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnPg_ijmlmxSzSAqNMgBCJDTvJep7Ko6eHG4IGvAttrl8mSz0CPUHR-Jr302K6IIjJAUpMGeE5KFzi_LGDHiPfXEjEHwuZq7cxUifpkr5lG6vhj63C5oZwD-e3U9fkgBmKgw_eY3nWxxW/s400/Ang+Thong+Marine+National+Park.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868394090697106" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">This forest type is best represented around Mae Ko island and on the eastern side of Phaluai island. These forest areas are well structured with many trees, both large and small, the dominant species is Rhizophora apiculata.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">On the larger islands with areas of undisturbed forest many species of animals are present. Occasionally seen are Spectacled langurs, Hairy-nosed otters, bats, Pacific reef-egret, Brahminy kite, White-bellied seaeagle, Common sandpiper, Edible nest swiflet, Oriental pied hornbill, Southern pied hornbill, Ashy drongo, Collared kingfisher, Monitor lizards, Tortoises, Sea Turtles and Pythons.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qb836TYNMZrfgeBvt3vIZSZHnO61jgW1Bu4IfP0H8nTuUVWJ8B8csN3tTimIVINLfpBpHp1pcSqmw1_AsYQtJ0eA7VwM2M9OVnQXGahu_UoSiS7nu9Qk4ckpQuY6kXQ6kze33CFW9Sdy/s1600-h/2250397628_ff84dc2ed0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2qb836TYNMZrfgeBvt3vIZSZHnO61jgW1Bu4IfP0H8nTuUVWJ8B8csN3tTimIVINLfpBpHp1pcSqmw1_AsYQtJ0eA7VwM2M9OVnQXGahu_UoSiS7nu9Qk4ckpQuY6kXQ6kze33CFW9Sdy/s400/2250397628_ff84dc2ed0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868391274497314" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The area of the Gulf of Thailand in which the islands are situated is at a maximum 10 meters deep. The islands rise up out of the water and are thus surrounded by water which is relatively shallow. This means that the water is greatly influenced by turbid river water from the mainland, the river water does not encounter deep water which will reduce its velocity and thus allow carried sediment to settle out.<br /></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUmHJe_IDTVW2VetpLwDU9Iq1aGgnpg33mrcdZB4g0lARO7N09m0cgI06bDtw3ZQwB83AkoVaqeSf6EPbZcAgJ2M9k7sPG127nHDTqxbGnf2AEAeicQYO4wCCFM65iWszrBQ9Srs4IWtM/s1600-h/03.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUmHJe_IDTVW2VetpLwDU9Iq1aGgnpg33mrcdZB4g0lARO7N09m0cgI06bDtw3ZQwB83AkoVaqeSf6EPbZcAgJ2M9k7sPG127nHDTqxbGnf2AEAeicQYO4wCCFM65iWszrBQ9Srs4IWtM/s400/03.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275867873948295426" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The water around the islands is thus fairly turbid all year round. The coral development on the islands is not extensive and is restricted to a narrow band encircling each island close to the shore, especially on the southwestern and northeastern sides. Although the Northwestern side of the islands is the area most influenced by the monsoon, in sheltered spots good corals develop especially; elephants tusk coral, brain coral, stagshorn coral and in deeper water plate corals of the genus Pavona and flower corals of the genus Goniopora. Animals found inhabiting these reefs include; Butterflyfish, Angelfish, Parrotfish, Stingray, Black tip shark, Grouper and Cowrie shells.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">In areas where the water is not so clear or is subjected to strong currents the species diversity is poor and is dominated by Seaworms, Crabs and brown seaweeds, of the genus Sargassum and Turbinaria.</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">In places with steep rocky shorelines or where the water is very turbid coral cannot survive. In these areas sedentary marine life is prevalent including; Sea fans, Oysters, Clams and Mussels, which can be seen covering the exposed rock surfaces.</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lV8q23w8CYelTHp-qB4LkvT6V37j7rC8HA78HRyqU82kEQoUx5p_XOyg2P2U5RtuVcZkEcMAmls1unX0tZ3g3qzlMJ7-J7jNGBoKfFwkE-rDkBaq5lt2sJhfS5sqahnJQ4iMf-PHj8e9/s1600-h/1200574439.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3lV8q23w8CYelTHp-qB4LkvT6V37j7rC8HA78HRyqU82kEQoUx5p_XOyg2P2U5RtuVcZkEcMAmls1unX0tZ3g3qzlMJ7-J7jNGBoKfFwkE-rDkBaq5lt2sJhfS5sqahnJQ4iMf-PHj8e9/s400/1200574439.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275868387922872514" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family:arial;">The water of the gulf of Thailand is very rich and provides a valuable resource upon which a rich diversity of animals and plants are able to thrive. This richness is long established and thus the seas around Ang Thong are plentiful. Species commercially collected are Softcorals, Penshells, Sponges, Seaweeds and Barnacles, important fish species caught include; Mackerel, Anchovy and Squid.</span></span> </div>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-55731065297424600182008-11-06T23:43:00.000-08:002008-11-06T23:52:00.462-08:00Full Moon Party<div style="text-align: center;"><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Full Moon Party is not just a normal party but monthly Haad Rin's dance music festival which is famous worldwide, with everything from drum and bass to full-on psy-trance. Paradise Bungalows, the site of the original Full Moon Party, consistently puts on the biggest show with inspired decor and a combination of superb resident and international guest DJs.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Koh phangan, Thailand</span></span></span><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_DlslzCi2G0&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_DlslzCi2G0&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Worth looking out for is DJ A, who also holds residency at the Backyard, possibly the most famous after party venue in the world, starting at 11am as Haad Rin's beach shuts shop, licks its wounds and counts the casualties. The Backyard also puts on three cracking nights per week, each catering for the full spectrum of dance music heads in a totally refurbished, two-floor club with mind bending fluoro sculptures.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">There are about 10,000 to 20,000 people attending every month at this Koh Phangan beach party. It is of course known as the Full Moon Party. International and Thai DJ's are entertaining the party until the crowd go wild. Paint yourself in UV colours and let your body lose control. The DJ's play all kinds of music; techno, trance, goa, drum n' bass, dub, reggae, commercial hits, house etc. on about 15 sound systems along Haad Rin beach. There are also many small tables on the beach where you can sit down with your friends or meet new friends from all corners of the globe. You can order drinks and food from the restaurants and bars next to the Haad Rin Nok beach.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Schedule 2008 - 2009</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">IMPORTANT! We are not the organizers of the event.drinks Some of the dates below might be incorrect. Dates might change if there is a Buddhist holiday at Full Moon Parties.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Wednesday 12 November, 2008</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Friday 12 December, 2008</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Saturday 10 January, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Tuesday 10 February, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Tuesday 10 March, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Thursday 9 April, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Saturday 9 May, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sunday 7 June, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Thursday 9 July, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Thursday 6 August, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Friday 4 September, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Sunday 4 October, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Monday 2 November, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Wednesday 2 December, 2009</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Thursday 31 December, 2009</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Location</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">at the south-eastern part of the island at Haad Rin Beach, Koh Phangan, Suratthani, Thailand.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Getting Thereferry</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The regular boats are running 4 times per night from Bophut and Big Buddha Beach, Koh Samui (70 Baht). Speedboats are operating all night long. They can be booked at nearly every travel agency for 300-400 Baht per roundtrip.</span></span></span><br /><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Don't waste your time at the Full Moon Party if you don't like to meet people from all over the world. There are thousands of them. Dance to pumping beats on a "paradise" beach in the moonlight. Or sit in the sand at small tables with some friends and cheer a Thai whiskey-set or a Thai beer. (Singha, Chang, Kloster etc)</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Please remember to keep this lovely island, the beach and the sea clean! Some people use Haad Rin as a trash can. Other people get very upset by this. If nothing can change this behaviour and nobody keep the environment clean, we can actually assure you that the authorities will finally stop this party! Act now and let the party live on forever!</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Don't bring any valuables to the party...take only the money you will need for the night.</span></span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Don't take any drugs or drinks from strangers.</span></span></span><br /><span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Wear shoes to be protected from broken glass and hot cigarette butts</span></span></span><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-5117484766059485472008-10-28T08:56:00.000-07:002008-10-28T09:02:40.136-07:00Koh Samui guide<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqP-nuHPNmk8A5RnOGS0m5PzTK7I-jIY7lm9KQsWZrkiMV3ZjTX_mLCF3W2P-qc3OiW3lpsRtulD6rMERWRLPUY3AQYM8L8sGNIoSeXYgwE8R8sTBdmLiXO1_52er4iUwL6vQ_0vDBCbq/s1600-h/2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqP-nuHPNmk8A5RnOGS0m5PzTK7I-jIY7lm9KQsWZrkiMV3ZjTX_mLCF3W2P-qc3OiW3lpsRtulD6rMERWRLPUY3AQYM8L8sGNIoSeXYgwE8R8sTBdmLiXO1_52er4iUwL6vQ_0vDBCbq/s400/2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262235001047548210" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-NQFzNQSY9j97Mx2M9vT2M43qwb1ju_SPd84ETo_hM6ZfJh2kSfSIOVQpoxmH23tq7f45el4iE5roJddsj1B4Vcvlyk9uTOznVf8XleLFYMkkQuNdMKN0iD5EIDFwzPQkZExxx6dLSBs/s1600-h/8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-NQFzNQSY9j97Mx2M9vT2M43qwb1ju_SPd84ETo_hM6ZfJh2kSfSIOVQpoxmH23tq7f45el4iE5roJddsj1B4Vcvlyk9uTOznVf8XleLFYMkkQuNdMKN0iD5EIDFwzPQkZExxx6dLSBs/s400/8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234696355928082" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZk6TXCMt3qwHTrH1GxI-0Yyt85eU5cU3Nmk925cQ_Kh7eN9tIX0hYFmDhIrZ36UwuqUO4oalsAYZXDjVrkYwsz2h38QWY2vaMUUjI5HeORlv4WN8WT1wd0T067KIY4gtBv63hxEcemdS/s1600-h/12.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZk6TXCMt3qwHTrH1GxI-0Yyt85eU5cU3Nmk925cQ_Kh7eN9tIX0hYFmDhIrZ36UwuqUO4oalsAYZXDjVrkYwsz2h38QWY2vaMUUjI5HeORlv4WN8WT1wd0T067KIY4gtBv63hxEcemdS/s400/12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234671750968290" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 204, 0);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">There’s quite a bit more to Samui than sun, sea and sand. Admittedly the beach life is the best part of Samui and the focus of any Samui guide. Each of the beach areas of the island have their own character and attractions, however there is also the lush hilly inland and several fantastic islands nearby. Samui also has an excellent selection of entertainment options to keep you amused.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2c8akjSvADc9GUEtSPzDqv2KuNSVcxMigucUTnJfmj5-RhbrciCdmu8pOGcrQeEcqRXPK-ok2xg-NLpY8vnhPqXPy4koGmIl2ysSNAtT95xczWqXPta0zZkbsnWRpWf6tAEKgfscLcus/s1600-h/7.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2c8akjSvADc9GUEtSPzDqv2KuNSVcxMigucUTnJfmj5-RhbrciCdmu8pOGcrQeEcqRXPK-ok2xg-NLpY8vnhPqXPy4koGmIl2ysSNAtT95xczWqXPta0zZkbsnWRpWf6tAEKgfscLcus/s400/7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234992446539026" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yqzOCdolWWghEoe-gNH7uvFSX3ol7chDxTXhsv2FBRTKcZ-s9DbESQ7DmCjfMEDR73FmivANkvm3y_0cZVj12zEKEcOaoit2A15yMyBzNhDqJaWDUXEVC6m1wxxopm8BzmK1Zu_75XIm/s1600-h/11.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4yqzOCdolWWghEoe-gNH7uvFSX3ol7chDxTXhsv2FBRTKcZ-s9DbESQ7DmCjfMEDR73FmivANkvm3y_0cZVj12zEKEcOaoit2A15yMyBzNhDqJaWDUXEVC6m1wxxopm8BzmK1Zu_75XIm/s400/11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234679837897138" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">As a guide, Samui is essentially a leisure island, and apart from the southern part of the island which has retained its original character, most of the island’s coastal areas have now been developed for commercial tourism. Some are packed with hotels and resorts while other pockets are quieter and reserved for boutique resorts, but the beaches are all public and open to anyone wishing to stroll along the peaceful white sands. You can hire a bike yourself (being careful of the reckless driving) and circumnavigate the island, exploring and discovering pristine beaches or relaxing beachfront restaurants. Alternatively you can hire a local Samui guide to show you around.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMda80NAjZ44JjwyXOQIRc2HoJH9zfI5jTbJ6_ImjYNkHvHQDw1wLGHfdFHuL_imIILR5D-XQY8cLfzWFu3qV86L0AViDhl7RzqzN8PyVwCTCAwkU97BguvjfXyNYiVJPvnlLtUqh36fL/s1600-h/3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPMda80NAjZ44JjwyXOQIRc2HoJH9zfI5jTbJ6_ImjYNkHvHQDw1wLGHfdFHuL_imIILR5D-XQY8cLfzWFu3qV86L0AViDhl7RzqzN8PyVwCTCAwkU97BguvjfXyNYiVJPvnlLtUqh36fL/s400/3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262235002623267042" border="0" /></a><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRA1vrBgVigJuYGrL0K7U76mGt2l_6-Z-LKqRPBTjNj6HNKPWrcxJ1JuibffDvJHnIHsBrOnFe4UFw6Qm2dKEHb1ftu8Wn6RRJb6GrxYjfCRUPKu_4JGpe3HEOUwAc-FyeIRgB1uHehGHE/s1600-h/10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRA1vrBgVigJuYGrL0K7U76mGt2l_6-Z-LKqRPBTjNj6HNKPWrcxJ1JuibffDvJHnIHsBrOnFe4UFw6Qm2dKEHb1ftu8Wn6RRJb6GrxYjfCRUPKu_4JGpe3HEOUwAc-FyeIRgB1uHehGHE/s400/10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234684751031746" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">The Big Buddha, located on the north of the island is in all the guide books of Samui, but there are several other temples and chedis worth seeking out. Most of the free maps that are widely distributed can indicate where the best lookouts are and which waterfalls are notable. Then there are the famous, erotically shaped, Hin Ta and Hin Ya rocks at the southern end of Lamai.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GponL89rN8Im_aikpweMsyPdLUOb6wi1StZPSPL3TQMviKofvE5BxB8rNhk0RVG68DFT8QpJaUx81pM0UTIjCLkJntG1Y4vigps9zs8X2VLJvSsTEtkV8GVoSgrfrsWWrmS3qSzzWSyy/s1600-h/5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GponL89rN8Im_aikpweMsyPdLUOb6wi1StZPSPL3TQMviKofvE5BxB8rNhk0RVG68DFT8QpJaUx81pM0UTIjCLkJntG1Y4vigps9zs8X2VLJvSsTEtkV8GVoSgrfrsWWrmS3qSzzWSyy/s400/5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234998329307554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">As a basic guide to beaches on Samui, Chaweng is the busiest and most developed but pleasant, especially for sundowners. The shops on the main street are also handy for stocking up. Lamai, further south, is a bit more down to earth and has a lively night scene. The beaches of the North; Big Buddha bay, Bophut and Mae Nam are more relaxed and quieter, though not as nice for swimming. Nathon, on the west of the island, is the commercial centre, Thai in character and hardly a tropical vacation paradise, but if you’re more interested in the original atmosphere of the island then head to the coconut plantations of the south.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYGO_oHbALlNrHRKQLLTluh7pyB9o6bjBpp5HrFHPInM3DdS-kJFdUE_3c4YXxNZZHGDVS0TZYwc1lWVsHvzjUG79SDFxnwWyrc5LJA1EPNugIxLPdG8JIFHV2ZNAhg4h-bj8ulTa3L9s/s1600-h/6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOYGO_oHbALlNrHRKQLLTluh7pyB9o6bjBpp5HrFHPInM3DdS-kJFdUE_3c4YXxNZZHGDVS0TZYwc1lWVsHvzjUG79SDFxnwWyrc5LJA1EPNugIxLPdG8JIFHV2ZNAhg4h-bj8ulTa3L9s/s400/6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234996800746578" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">There are three main islands near Samui which are popular and worth visiting. Koh Pha Ngan is the backpacker island, down to earth, under-developed, bohemian and famous for its monthly full moon parties. The lush natural interior and pristine beaches are a perfect escape. Diving enthusiasts head to Koh Tao, further north, with its excellent dive infrastructure, fantastic reefs and clear water. But for a real paradise take a day trip to the gorgeous Ang Thong National Park which is the least spoilt of all and accessible from Samui with a guide.</span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVuI1pP67u7js29QF8C-_ZckNioOlsObplrlHcEMT1RXLyySahP0ZQ7jcki7T7WwNkkev0A2rS0xPZWbbnjUA2qskJgM5KlvnyOowi2RX7_8eYLzQGsJImK6GKVDVcjop3OnhFKVuKTHz/s1600-h/9.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOVuI1pP67u7js29QF8C-_ZckNioOlsObplrlHcEMT1RXLyySahP0ZQ7jcki7T7WwNkkev0A2rS0xPZWbbnjUA2qskJgM5KlvnyOowi2RX7_8eYLzQGsJImK6GKVDVcjop3OnhFKVuKTHz/s400/9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262234691373340402" border="0" /></a></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-51240040017161006682008-10-28T08:37:00.001-07:002008-10-28T08:37:45.002-07:00The Best Full Moon Party<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/11-qFMLMc6c&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/11-qFMLMc6c&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-84239954417887963632008-10-28T08:35:00.000-07:002008-10-28T08:36:11.445-07:00Full Moon Party Koh Phangan, Thailand<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/j9jMGPvgNxk&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/j9jMGPvgNxk&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-43006587002193789172008-10-28T08:34:00.000-07:002008-10-28T08:35:13.672-07:00Full moon party, Thailand, Ko Phangan<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lFJntdREoHg&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lFJntdREoHg&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-58944500757698586762008-10-28T08:33:00.001-07:002008-10-28T08:41:54.943-07:00Chaweng beach<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/F0v4VrBXFjA&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/F0v4VrBXFjA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-74065512892363361662008-10-28T08:32:00.001-07:002008-10-28T08:32:34.661-07:00Chaweng noi Beach koh samui<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/x7T5SpukahA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/x7T5SpukahA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-35090038136853034002008-10-28T08:26:00.000-07:002008-10-28T08:30:29.139-07:00Samui mountain biking adventure<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdH7gd9RT81Xt2YZFxYUgn0uoDNdmbEMkvgdWIC1M-0n3yhkXkDflw-xNEJkTKCR4NLy5q2o1fgK_JMPubaU1wD23vahLI_fXdlV7QDlzHInTHw8a-xPHMrCn0OYssTqz6qzhOXXS6ITN/s1600-h/biking_01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdH7gd9RT81Xt2YZFxYUgn0uoDNdmbEMkvgdWIC1M-0n3yhkXkDflw-xNEJkTKCR4NLy5q2o1fgK_JMPubaU1wD23vahLI_fXdlV7QDlzHInTHw8a-xPHMrCn0OYssTqz6qzhOXXS6ITN/s400/biking_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262227221935223554" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-family: arial;">Samui may be a small island, which can be circumnavigated in a couple hours on a bike, but that doesn’t mean it lacks good biking. Most visitors come for the diving and beach life but mountain bike fans will be pleased to discover Red Bicycle near Lamai beach.</span></span> <p style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:130%;">With a modest hilly interior and plenty of old trails among the coconut trails the riding on Samui can be great, as I found out on a day out with the ‘Red crew’. Never have I felt so satisfied with being away from the beach. </span></p> <p style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:130%;">Set up a few years back by ex-San Francisco couple Mike and Debra Yantis, Red Bicycle is Samui’s only mountain bike experience, and they’ve built up a great selection of high end bikes and trails to ride them on. And when you get bored with these, they’ll take you over to Koh Pha Ngan which is, in many ways, even better.</span></p><p style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:130%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkmB7KBdrsAaxBciUvDQCaMwXDoasQDj-7knCwhT80y5NEJ9GSXwfB4gYJNRS-G0M7W1U8U4c7BCPjbzV9GuGHPFDcI6MkSlMCFalrDlVCcf4YmMu8Mjbn0vz3zmTL6jtEE1WCBRyfkhx/s1600-h/biking_02.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkmB7KBdrsAaxBciUvDQCaMwXDoasQDj-7knCwhT80y5NEJ9GSXwfB4gYJNRS-G0M7W1U8U4c7BCPjbzV9GuGHPFDcI6MkSlMCFalrDlVCcf4YmMu8Mjbn0vz3zmTL6jtEE1WCBRyfkhx/s400/biking_02.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262227207966592258" border="0" /></a></span></p><p style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:130%;">Well, real mountain bikers don’t stand around talking about their bikes, so we were soon on our saddles and off into the wilderness of the Southern Part of the island. Since I’m usually spoilt in my home town with excellent downhill, I opted for the route through the coconut trees. The undulating and windy farmer trails that led us to Hin Lat falls were perfect for testing out the Canondale Jekyll I had had my eye on in their shop. The small group also made it feel like I was back home riding with my mates, rather than joining a large group of novices.</span></p><p style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 102, 255);"><span style="font-size:130%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MtSggZUQ9tc3ZqDRgz-DmUV4P3G102h09HGv6L3140F08D8Wzxb57YtjL1VoztUzCVmU_7r6UhG6JobMWHXfzHHEwQZjpXe-8BMmbOyKNLlx7ykEWt6VhCp5nZI3FcCUbbuCvBQpNX3r/s1600-h/biking_03.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3MtSggZUQ9tc3ZqDRgz-DmUV4P3G102h09HGv6L3140F08D8Wzxb57YtjL1VoztUzCVmU_7r6UhG6JobMWHXfzHHEwQZjpXe-8BMmbOyKNLlx7ykEWt6VhCp5nZI3FcCUbbuCvBQpNX3r/s400/biking_03.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262227185797896834" border="0" /></a></span></p>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8072627731077845154.post-48770803927571568082008-10-20T05:45:00.000-07:002008-10-20T07:01:46.144-07:00Koh Samui Information<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjGgv2SD4gnOHIrAuASXjw3IFWjHktAgQAYyzBoUnXNBuueZWTGKAUCglZuiW4tVurzMfCjv8HlZ1-feiRFuj8qIeRJ-1g7nXRXVCMwJvcEFPC4XHBKXwZLns2VoBAXlKo70yTrguUgg6/s1600-h/kohsamuiorggraphic11.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPjGgv2SD4gnOHIrAuASXjw3IFWjHktAgQAYyzBoUnXNBuueZWTGKAUCglZuiW4tVurzMfCjv8HlZ1-feiRFuj8qIeRJ-1g7nXRXVCMwJvcEFPC4XHBKXwZLns2VoBAXlKo70yTrguUgg6/s400/kohsamuiorggraphic11.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259218543040396642" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;"><div style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51); text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui facts</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Koh means: Island in Thai language</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Island size: About 247 km²</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Location: Gulf of Thailand, on the South-East coast of Thailand</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Province: Changwat Suratthani</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Distance from Bangkok: About 700 km</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Number of Tambon or sub districts: 7</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Population: About 50,000 (officially)</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 255, 51);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Main town: Nathon</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm7CKYDQ6VS1_w60bgbSF51qzot56fw4KCrm44YQM7ckzGZvqEPSIhNa2b3HELePIbMsjTtok0PBSAWUFSQ-39NxUs_CPsh-vw3AjTIMMIGw8SguUDMaKMssitmCrNNbViS0RcmOF8ioL/s1600-h/kohsamuimap02.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbm7CKYDQ6VS1_w60bgbSF51qzot56fw4KCrm44YQM7ckzGZvqEPSIhNa2b3HELePIbMsjTtok0PBSAWUFSQ-39NxUs_CPsh-vw3AjTIMMIGw8SguUDMaKMssitmCrNNbViS0RcmOF8ioL/s400/kohsamuimap02.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259227105268244322" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Important numbers</span></span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Police emergency: 191</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Tourist Police: 0 7742 1281</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Tourist Police - Emergency: 1155</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Fire Department: 106</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Bangkok Hospital: 0 7742 9500</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Samui Hospital: 0 7742 1232</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Immigration: 0 7742 1069</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Short history</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvPogWEEqBUckqgua1aaYjPKzKgP3BYTGcT41wBVdQjuTm0fInDR0E2-cuWwzJ9n-oJ-Z9LomfmSg8_NiP4Kzl0CvaJjs2ePLu6lfnxYYgWghG8cJW0bj2qwjIJBaSyY-ano-2aZYQK9B/s1600-h/kohsamuiorggraphic60.png"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvPogWEEqBUckqgua1aaYjPKzKgP3BYTGcT41wBVdQjuTm0fInDR0E2-cuWwzJ9n-oJ-Z9LomfmSg8_NiP4Kzl0CvaJjs2ePLu6lfnxYYgWghG8cJW0bj2qwjIJBaSyY-ano-2aZYQK9B/s400/kohsamuiorggraphic60.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259223376776648978" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui has been settled for about 1500 years. The first arrivals here were fishermen. The island is to be found on 500 years old maps from Chinese Ming dynasty. Fishing and later coconuts has been the major source of income on Koh Samui island. Today, tourism is the main income for the inhabitants of the island.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Samui island</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYvPGZLQsv6UJM9Uf9zx25UM3yHEZIpdTga-DRVUe0LmxFrfjtiAmKhsn0dSBlHgyWwitqwASI_WsDlAiuDDvkEW6d-QiY1H21qS7LaL_3vqD8zWubi1jkkEGQUGugh0f61RxnBmAP-5Q/s1600-h/pic_samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxYvPGZLQsv6UJM9Uf9zx25UM3yHEZIpdTga-DRVUe0LmxFrfjtiAmKhsn0dSBlHgyWwitqwASI_WsDlAiuDDvkEW6d-QiY1H21qS7LaL_3vqD8zWubi1jkkEGQUGugh0f61RxnBmAP-5Q/s400/pic_samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259227114095464706" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand (bordering the South China Sea in the Pacific Ocean). The island is a "Amphoe" or district in the Surat Thani Changwat or province. Samui is divided into seven "Tambon" or sub districts (administrative regions): Maenam, Bophut, Maret, Taling Ngam, Namuang, Lipa Noi and Angthong. Koh Samui has been a backpackers destination since late 70's. Today, tourist from the whole world go to this easygoing paradise. It´s located in the Gulf of Siam and surrounded by more than sixty other islands, some small and inhabited, some bigger as Koh Phangan, Koh Tao (divers island) Koh Nang Yuan and Angthong Islands, the National Marine Park.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);font-size:130%;" class="normaltext01" ><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Going here from Bangkok</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">There are a couple of good options to choose from:</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Flight</span><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXBlxEcfPgFkATB1rhE-9HgHBLhGIM-rFw01PWmuxsAOJuO5PCpKjdK-NYTN20qekRzyxFrKOOs_gWIWupNuYPruMJSj5lUefVZle6CnfRcbZftHeQ1RATIPMeHFmDIfErlfaiZmDeyOB/s1600-h/305581.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXBlxEcfPgFkATB1rhE-9HgHBLhGIM-rFw01PWmuxsAOJuO5PCpKjdK-NYTN20qekRzyxFrKOOs_gWIWupNuYPruMJSj5lUefVZle6CnfRcbZftHeQ1RATIPMeHFmDIfErlfaiZmDeyOB/s400/305581.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259222280590286450" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">There are many daily flights from the International and domestic Airport in Bangkok; Suvarnabhumi Airport (opened in September 2006). Bangkok Air flies direct to Samui Airport. A flight schedule with Bangkok Airways is found here. Thai Airways and Air Asia flies to Suratthani. From there, just catch the bus or taxi to the ferry in Donsak.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Bus</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k2WZZc6AC0ecsus_NQMy2POs8cj49ihuhl5g7eakUbR4oZuppcM5HZ4LQTVTeF6qZomB97FHjOSFi5rA30BbimiHFJ4QxPsyn5glWfrNGwJm9tjfT4NJ0bua1e1zkOX-o8fpOPqhtf7d/s1600-h/arton495.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3k2WZZc6AC0ecsus_NQMy2POs8cj49ihuhl5g7eakUbR4oZuppcM5HZ4LQTVTeF6qZomB97FHjOSFi5rA30BbimiHFJ4QxPsyn5glWfrNGwJm9tjfT4NJ0bua1e1zkOX-o8fpOPqhtf7d/s400/arton495.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259222297949777010" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">If you want a more economical way to travel, take the VIP bus from the well-known Khao San Road or from the Southern bus terminal at Boromrat Chonnani Road. The VIP buses are more comfortable than the so called A/C bus. You can buy a ticket in almost every travel agency in Bangkok. Ferry is often included in the price.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Train</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ccerou9oJ7lsl9XFbbkbt8YPL0TB5Wh1mBGa5H1Ht-sEVpN4T0OLmNFpwuk4Z5QU6kEmJo4e6eMKqguwVQjBsu7G8M-U6hCUoclAPLClK7aVy0Fv7AApwePHKe0-ctPwlnv65Dv7wV1p/s1600-h/spd_20080611152907_b.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6ccerou9oJ7lsl9XFbbkbt8YPL0TB5Wh1mBGa5H1Ht-sEVpN4T0OLmNFpwuk4Z5QU6kEmJo4e6eMKqguwVQjBsu7G8M-U6hCUoclAPLClK7aVy0Fv7AApwePHKe0-ctPwlnv65Dv7wV1p/s400/spd_20080611152907_b.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259223880866391458" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Another great way to travel is the night train from Hualamphong, the Bangkok railway station, to Suratthani. The sleeping cars are comfortable. It is a little more expensive than the bus, but you will get a good sleep. Upper beds are less expensive than the lower ones. A private "first class" cabin for two persons, is also available.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Ferry</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXt3tObsBySTMJWggbdoET64Qbo3s-FKF4vWA7IbxtRfofG89Vuttav5JQrYc_pXW_ci4i6jruCVYrnenqNjgMKYiy8tl8lJQ-1N0VYT8m8xFEyXoPyPclfNrBgUHWBcs763qA29FS95g/s1600-h/2567618186_687bebd9a6.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXt3tObsBySTMJWggbdoET64Qbo3s-FKF4vWA7IbxtRfofG89Vuttav5JQrYc_pXW_ci4i6jruCVYrnenqNjgMKYiy8tl8lJQ-1N0VYT8m8xFEyXoPyPclfNrBgUHWBcs763qA29FS95g/s400/2567618186_687bebd9a6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259222291355957234" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">The fastest ferry leaves from the two main piers in Donsak on the main land with operators like Seatran, and Raja Ferry. The price is about 110 baht. You will see many of the small surrounding islands if you don't fall asleep. You might also take the Lomprayah ferry from Chumphon. On smaller ferries (like the Songserm ones) from other piers, you might be contacted by Thai-guys to convince you that "their" resort on Samui is great. It can be a blank or a prize in that "lottery". You can easily book a room or bungalow here 24 hours a day and all year round.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Money and ATM's</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKdacHOfX_25XqjuKhxK7Kh36Ctjxx-UlrvOsgB_mNkX3piORIGG363k_9NgIYhqpD0RrULB2-udnJdqp8DUn07Qp3ORaGjC4ZvKCdByTFFUZU-qsf0are9weBTIDq6CqI_cSGNO67ZWI/s1600-h/atm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsKdacHOfX_25XqjuKhxK7Kh36Ctjxx-UlrvOsgB_mNkX3piORIGG363k_9NgIYhqpD0RrULB2-udnJdqp8DUn07Qp3ORaGjC4ZvKCdByTFFUZU-qsf0are9weBTIDq6CqI_cSGNO67ZWI/s400/atm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259227096919737586" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Nowadays there are many exchange offices (mini banks) and especially ATM machines on the island which accepts all major credit, electron and debit cards such as VISA, MasterCard, Amex etc. You will also find many banks on the major beaches and in Nathon.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">To do on Samui</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Thai Boxing stadiums</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1egRyB1kR977G8M3480FWqm5iUkcoAOsCMmybgzZBMhdQVYSpKuhYhSEj_612uBLja-4Smty1z9s_6tcZb1FZuemH1CaDiuhUevgSqoQRuMBiWss7vcYm8MfXD972ApV1kayux6kwnbV/s1600-h/2242852666_20e41ceca3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM1egRyB1kR977G8M3480FWqm5iUkcoAOsCMmybgzZBMhdQVYSpKuhYhSEj_612uBLja-4Smty1z9s_6tcZb1FZuemH1CaDiuhUevgSqoQRuMBiWss7vcYm8MfXD972ApV1kayux6kwnbV/s400/2242852666_20e41ceca3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259222290292204034" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNleSE_TfsScMIykCHleM-pJLb9F2lCxPdH9-aplOG_jrOTTusr4IMg88YPF17ra_tZSC4RcBukqm2NFOYnjHBVBupkUAcug71SRWheJwgJ55U2S6MBGRXI4gSkkHLEfLAc89e3_O-bU4/s1600-h/SitPooYiNow_1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNleSE_TfsScMIykCHleM-pJLb9F2lCxPdH9-aplOG_jrOTTusr4IMg88YPF17ra_tZSC4RcBukqm2NFOYnjHBVBupkUAcug71SRWheJwgJ55U2S6MBGRXI4gSkkHLEfLAc89e3_O-bU4/s400/SitPooYiNow_1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259223892382357826" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">The Lamai Stadium is located in South Lamai, between Ring Road and Lamai Beach Road. Another ring is found in a bar area in the middle of the Beach Road. (so called lady boxing and free to watch) The Chaweng Stadium is the main arena on the island and located rather close to Reggae Pub. Action several times a week. Sometimes you can see "farangs" (westerners) vs Thai guys in the ring. We also recommend Ratchadamnoern and Lumpini stadiums in Bangkok if you want to see "the real thing" even if there might be good fights on Koh Samui too.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Samui Shooting Range</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe4DY-gR0DPStLy6G3eRUuMW72rSynuUb3xp3aJoOQumELa5JgpfwBNBR31jWHJqFohU-nCVgtIpq2xPOqabWehn__zCd9EmiYD3TOI_Q9ZFAmtlbcjwi5jsfOIrJ2Eb5jmxxtaIIB3UJ/s1600-h/88550188_c2b888ea5e_m.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpe4DY-gR0DPStLy6G3eRUuMW72rSynuUb3xp3aJoOQumELa5JgpfwBNBR31jWHJqFohU-nCVgtIpq2xPOqabWehn__zCd9EmiYD3TOI_Q9ZFAmtlbcjwi5jsfOIrJ2Eb5jmxxtaIIB3UJ/s400/88550188_c2b888ea5e_m.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259222282303199490" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Pistols and machine guns! Location: Main Road. Close to Chaweng.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Go Kart</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOZyu3Ddijj_LAG2xyOWQalL8FYCmUoc5q_kUchQoCDj3ob70R0DWWkTadntiIKQodyANkwpneJTLg5HHUT0aNNVFXM8KhO_OSwkXEzD9pXvE1iYdeDvmzuk3qVMxr5cuccU1QKNLAL-y/s1600-h/bombadier-rotax-rm1-go-kart.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOZyu3Ddijj_LAG2xyOWQalL8FYCmUoc5q_kUchQoCDj3ob70R0DWWkTadntiIKQodyANkwpneJTLg5HHUT0aNNVFXM8KhO_OSwkXEzD9pXvE1iYdeDvmzuk3qVMxr5cuccU1QKNLAL-y/s400/bombadier-rotax-rm1-go-kart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259223347853250034" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Three types of go karts to choose from. Found at Bo Phut Main Road. Lots of fun!</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Bungy Jump</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglD6eEPnz9rV0Zws3JdfEdm7ca0Wj4PwvBexo5oqKxUM-5hspwaIzYz6QATFRPa9TXB7VVCpjUUXHP_PKLF8KUXbvTkr1rTEs8aXOomau2Tnd03UV8DbphmYxCvph3xffUVwRIXcbPK_PP/s1600-h/bungee-jumping-down-under.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglD6eEPnz9rV0Zws3JdfEdm7ca0Wj4PwvBexo5oqKxUM-5hspwaIzYz6QATFRPa9TXB7VVCpjUUXHP_PKLF8KUXbvTkr1rTEs8aXOomau2Tnd03UV8DbphmYxCvph3xffUVwRIXcbPK_PP/s400/bungee-jumping-down-under.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259227105028977618" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">This adrenaline pumping activity is found at Chaweng, rather close to Reggae Pub and the Chaweng Lake.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Buffalo fighting</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2i9WfR71Nn3ZYfrxJTu0IIwcK3Zbaoyct3UWX6ivoGoE0mUHKtiObxvpj-Cu8fCXI1HyF7J-WfYDLbG48s3g1SLUQjJYNJoBALMqUp7T9-QxU8q8CUwgYVMPsctCZF4yw9e8w_FwQD4r/s1600-h/1005_B28.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga2i9WfR71Nn3ZYfrxJTu0IIwcK3Zbaoyct3UWX6ivoGoE0mUHKtiObxvpj-Cu8fCXI1HyF7J-WfYDLbG48s3g1SLUQjJYNJoBALMqUp7T9-QxU8q8CUwgYVMPsctCZF4yw9e8w_FwQD4r/s400/1005_B28.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259226055528387282" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">A couple of arenas is located around the island. This is a Thai and local tradition with a long history.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Butterfly garden</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTPXGU3n661Y5hap7a9nuVTDFHyHzPiDK_leWTf6bVURCgxSL2BzNvl_1ckENSW18va-K8UiIhuZZWbThdPhuxhDeTsS3EWOgA_S-zIjx7og8SSJqe9VNOIWVdBgFc0ATjHmbh9lUVGBB/s1600-h/9.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihTPXGU3n661Y5hap7a9nuVTDFHyHzPiDK_leWTf6bVURCgxSL2BzNvl_1ckENSW18va-K8UiIhuZZWbThdPhuxhDeTsS3EWOgA_S-zIjx7og8SSJqe9VNOIWVdBgFc0ATjHmbh9lUVGBB/s400/9.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259226056476134786" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Here you will see amazing butterflies and other tropical insects. It is located in the South-East at Leam Set.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Magic Garden</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xg2IWF0KYAeDyaO9euM9vWUcdueZMhtCN3o1EdJAzZTl9jgwC3k28Od2EjNbehKBp_167eq8J7PH22Lqs9-paYEQez1fNgsydsNK6jGsCftTDvugYLhf10hg2JTgP0apZsHe9KV6zxJ9/s1600-h/8.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xg2IWF0KYAeDyaO9euM9vWUcdueZMhtCN3o1EdJAzZTl9jgwC3k28Od2EjNbehKBp_167eq8J7PH22Lqs9-paYEQez1fNgsydsNK6jGsCftTDvugYLhf10hg2JTgP0apZsHe9KV6zxJ9/s400/8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259226052417308210" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">It is located in the center of Samui. Many interesting sculptures made of cement, by the hands of a fruit farmer.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Further activities and sports are found here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Nathon</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoYGAV0uEQ1LeUwQphB_ZKkkdzy6_OB57tZ7nvYrqoUPbtQ2Tr0H1IPAPnPp3XpMNP-O8Et6uzRScJlS7CNnmWnCX9v3mrNtoxazjV48eat7og05vWjM572CEzGm1jEnBUI2TnYb5Rz-9/s1600-h/a0053.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIoYGAV0uEQ1LeUwQphB_ZKkkdzy6_OB57tZ7nvYrqoUPbtQ2Tr0H1IPAPnPp3XpMNP-O8Et6uzRScJlS7CNnmWnCX9v3mrNtoxazjV48eat7og05vWjM572CEzGm1jEnBUI2TnYb5Rz-9/s400/a0053.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259226060564159602" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">The harbor town on Samui is named Nathon. You will find banks, post offices, restaurants, stores and shops here, but it's is not a place where so many people choose to stay at. Nathon also has a rather long pier where boats arrives from mainland.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Things change</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Some tourists started to come here in early 70s, when the only business here were coconuts and fishing. I went to Samui first time in 1989-90. Electrical power cuts were then so common, you didn't even notice them. Of course prices were lower (Khao phed gai; fried rice with chicken was 10 bath) But as Samui has become a very popular tourist destination, prices is of course higher today, even if they still can be considered as very reasonable. Many hope that Samui stay at least a little more relaxed then Phuket and Pattaya but time will show.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Samui Attractions</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC5-2baO8Y8Z6DOQaIModi-jBPSvK-r3ROHfUgdeMInO1ASbyox9tB9RCvb0b6NLjYceNVnyb2YEgACmVUN1TLCT5LQYlOfMGbG0iVHZEz5xKwp3Jk7okLCZkGxOYkAhdLUPPjuJENUMy/s1600-h/koh-samui.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCC5-2baO8Y8Z6DOQaIModi-jBPSvK-r3ROHfUgdeMInO1ASbyox9tB9RCvb0b6NLjYceNVnyb2YEgACmVUN1TLCT5LQYlOfMGbG0iVHZEz5xKwp3Jk7okLCZkGxOYkAhdLUPPjuJENUMy/s400/koh-samui.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259223354152140562" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui is not a place where you will find the "most famous" Buddhist wats (temples) or statues etc. I would suggest cities such as Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Chaing Mai, Sukhothai or Ayutthaya. And if you are looking for really big hotels and a busy nightlife, I would recommenced Patong beach in Phuket or maybe Pattaya. But Koh Samui is perfect if you want a place without really big hotels, resorts and discotheques or clubs, but where you still can find great beaches, places to eat, bars and even a couple of nightclubs. Most people who has visit Koh Samui chooses to go back and some returns again and again... You can easily book your Koh Samui tours and activities online here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Waterfalls</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0b0783_9rnBWqVSlohu0wh14dQL2B86k-_Xy0RgYpSxds__RUKl7jxl3W0BmPFXQOOrSNSvfuH7UMWnDJTU7HzFOqxsgnWu3xxPEU2K0yf7K9u3-DtbYVopsxSvZ0RxlnRNSnyroFzQcs/s1600-h/8616.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0b0783_9rnBWqVSlohu0wh14dQL2B86k-_Xy0RgYpSxds__RUKl7jxl3W0BmPFXQOOrSNSvfuH7UMWnDJTU7HzFOqxsgnWu3xxPEU2K0yf7K9u3-DtbYVopsxSvZ0RxlnRNSnyroFzQcs/s400/8616.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259226057393834722" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">To be honest, you will not find a "Niagara looking" waterfall on Samui, but it can be a nice experience anyway.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Na Muang waterfall</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8cy1CRpHFt4UphTBBAz_SeLYnFm6pNzEQq3mwCsvqHcF3cexuyQ2AvJXpudiClYZPd0Gu0DJzz2ZvVRrc-IPc395Rn6NiOTqWOSZU6gDy10ZRP_A-3xgmVe07lGd8bqs7Wz3MeCnvhBW/s1600-h/hinlad.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8cy1CRpHFt4UphTBBAz_SeLYnFm6pNzEQq3mwCsvqHcF3cexuyQ2AvJXpudiClYZPd0Gu0DJzz2ZvVRrc-IPc395Rn6NiOTqWOSZU6gDy10ZRP_A-3xgmVe07lGd8bqs7Wz3MeCnvhBW/s400/hinlad.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259230624924723762" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Located about 10 km south of Nathon. It is about 80 meters high. You have to walk for a while to get here.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Hin Lad waterfall</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjGF7Ki_Kx5eFaRybhhiGY_E8Klphpr_Of3d8CGmM6C3DuN-VklubfWQm4L-Te05Ij-vO11EAx2lbjB4Zv1EgbDOFNKnAlKsOeYWXc2r6rvqqmTMJ84Av8EiyVFoO7Tgc7EO3ERrYeLeT/s1600-h/20061215144391.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjGF7Ki_Kx5eFaRybhhiGY_E8Klphpr_Of3d8CGmM6C3DuN-VklubfWQm4L-Te05Ij-vO11EAx2lbjB4Zv1EgbDOFNKnAlKsOeYWXc2r6rvqqmTMJ84Av8EiyVFoO7Tgc7EO3ERrYeLeT/s400/20061215144391.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259230619432730274" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Located 2 km south of Nathon Town. Take a walk in the forest and enjoy a soft drink or why not a refreshing Thai beer such as Singha, Beer Chang or Leo afterwards.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Big Buddha</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY8KTVg_jhDTzaL06HAtMCy1P2l6_AG-18CAcEs0QMOi9ZvDgXTUgTduKNgKXBf6kfTWBM3laSVGwK3NBn8gMJHVUhIGkrg4ZJm6AHDKJ8VPyLTJWkyo7SJ5xPNE_0nwa3VAg-UI2GwjR/s1600-h/P1020033.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCY8KTVg_jhDTzaL06HAtMCy1P2l6_AG-18CAcEs0QMOi9ZvDgXTUgTduKNgKXBf6kfTWBM3laSVGwK3NBn8gMJHVUhIGkrg4ZJm6AHDKJ8VPyLTJWkyo7SJ5xPNE_0nwa3VAg-UI2GwjR/s400/P1020033.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259230627587703314" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Wat Phra Yai is a more than 12 meter tall Buddha statue, first built in 1972. It is located on a small island but today connected with main land with a bridge. Please show respect and wear proper clothes and shoes while visiting. This is not just a tourist attraction, but also an important Buddhist symbol for the local Thai people here. In 2005 and 2006, Big Buddha has been extended with a Dharma wheel and a traditional Suphannahong boat.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Hin Ta Hin Yai</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOtMy_4Y_9yjAxTwOcRzMb3CyuSi2hNK8g-HESOaklOWLlzqMKtBNwJ7pD6viYCyq-bGPbXY0veSR_-ONMf-6cRfojHPK5yiQswXs4gO1AaXx9FOLwx4dZvO5RdrCBi64ry9dtn2EJlfw/s1600-h/untitled-231.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLOtMy_4Y_9yjAxTwOcRzMb3CyuSi2hNK8g-HESOaklOWLlzqMKtBNwJ7pD6viYCyq-bGPbXY0veSR_-ONMf-6cRfojHPK5yiQswXs4gO1AaXx9FOLwx4dZvO5RdrCBi64ry9dtn2EJlfw/s400/untitled-231.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259231729144634050" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">The grandfather and grandmother rocks located on South Lamai beach.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Nightlife and bars</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSmWrsK8zsdl7061905jOUqo_vISS8Qc8YC8V0F2UGBr5II59OwMz4EUParTU2n8U5HyAdxDWfipDMYrLK34F0LHYeYcxbks2rWIaDAnOCtzAGz7799boVjVLEnaTvOARWeC7_T6QP_l8/s1600-h/samuinightlife2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJSmWrsK8zsdl7061905jOUqo_vISS8Qc8YC8V0F2UGBr5II59OwMz4EUParTU2n8U5HyAdxDWfipDMYrLK34F0LHYeYcxbks2rWIaDAnOCtzAGz7799boVjVLEnaTvOARWeC7_T6QP_l8/s400/samuinightlife2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259232018289404018" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">On Samui you'll find a few nightclubs and discotheques if you like that kind of entertainment. We can recommend; Green Mango (on Soi Green Mango next to Chaweng Bach Road), Reggae Pub (on Chaweng beach) and Bauhaus, Super Sub (on Lamai beach) There are also smaller pubs and bars all over the island. Enjoy! So called girlie bars are rather common and often a little more expensive. If you are a man, do not be to surprised if one of the girls wants to follow you to your room. Normally she is not too serious if she say that she is in love with you though. She is doing it as a work to support herself and often also her family.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Be aware</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Messing with drugs is not only bad for your health. Thai prisons ain' t hotel rooms. You will end up in a hot room with no beds and no privacy. Remember that HIV/AIDS exists even on Samui. It is a serious matter in whole Thailand, even though campaigns by the government and authorities has slow down the number of infected people each year.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Around the island</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Walk</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Nice, but use a lot of sun screen and be careful in the traffic.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Bicycle</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Just rent it. It's cheap. But be very careful if the traffic is intense.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Motorbike</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Most common for transportation here. From 100 cc (smaller bikes such as; Honda Click, Honda Wave, Honda Dream, Yamaha Nouvo, Yamaha Mio etc), to Harley Davidson. Prices from 120 baht per day and up. Please, for your own safety, use a helmet and do never drive drunk!</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Pickup taxi (Songtaew)</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nxh6MJ9Xu43iPK5iHGcUtTjmoGPyzonf4Qg_zks42dk6FUUBwhFc5qeuPOQrQYNyboKOVvE9QKji49rB27AsSEj0Na_2ABFmWwij26FGIsLRzAjOzeG1BgdNjJ6t7LqQcd7dVoq5I8nD/s1600-h/Phuket-Samui_042.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-nxh6MJ9Xu43iPK5iHGcUtTjmoGPyzonf4Qg_zks42dk6FUUBwhFc5qeuPOQrQYNyboKOVvE9QKji49rB27AsSEj0Na_2ABFmWwij26FGIsLRzAjOzeG1BgdNjJ6t7LqQcd7dVoq5I8nD/s400/Phuket-Samui_042.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259230632257343874" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">From early morning to 7 pm. Price: 20-50 Baht, but it's more expensive at night after 6 PM. After this time you will have to negotiate about the price.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Car</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">You can rent a jeep or a car. Prices starts from about 700 Baht a day.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Taxi</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Convenient! But most of them do not use the taximeter. Ask for the price in advance. The prices usually start from about 100 baht and up.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Your safety</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Many people dies every year in Samui traffic! The roads can be very dangerous at nighttime. It is stupid and like playing Russian roulette to drink and drive here. IMPORTANT! Please, do always bring your insurance with you! Some hospitals require it if you end up in an accident. Please, be careful in the Samui traffic - Always!</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Also, try not to leave your precious belongings in your room when you go out. Burglaries are not common but can occur.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Especially between 5pm and 8pm there might be some mosquitoes outside. Please protect yourself with cloths or repellents as cases of dengue fever are reported occasionally.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui photos</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> Photos from Samui and Thailand taken by us is found here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"> You'll find photos from Samui and Thailand sent to us here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Beaches</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Most beaches has white sand and are fringed with coconut palms. Many resorts and hotels are located just a couple of meters from the beach. The most popular are:</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Chaweng</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKQDotVINBj1Jy22dYBP8ktRCkSIiRhlsYyni5u1j5oNXA6SNf_qbVOiYTHG3Ogkg5BFVJSmJTheWQjc8aj45SFEzUdxBbaC5ZmKCzEysPuwP1iySUcR-JtL0YSlbAergWmDjfZWv2RB_/s1600-h/a010080-chaweng-beach-1995.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKQDotVINBj1Jy22dYBP8ktRCkSIiRhlsYyni5u1j5oNXA6SNf_qbVOiYTHG3Ogkg5BFVJSmJTheWQjc8aj45SFEzUdxBbaC5ZmKCzEysPuwP1iySUcR-JtL0YSlbAergWmDjfZWv2RB_/s400/a010080-chaweng-beach-1995.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259232882021908674" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">A 7 km long beach in the North-East of Samui. The most well-known and developed, but also one of the best. You can rent anything from a simple bungalows to a five star hotel room here. There are plenty of high standard resorts here. The sand is invitingly white, but it can be a lot of people here, especially at high season.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Lamai</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAd57OSx0jLm8jOn7menqwjRnKN4AVEv4YGwzikNXjEqGjUKoZdTwJiCr8Um75fmyjtpnyWWvFYOXMo5vwme9AKbBOHwBYN2TWKqmvuTIwE-9ZqGd9IEhtpf3l3FyiSkXcTVJHB-L1rzUd/s1600-h/Beach+Lamai01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAd57OSx0jLm8jOn7menqwjRnKN4AVEv4YGwzikNXjEqGjUKoZdTwJiCr8Um75fmyjtpnyWWvFYOXMo5vwme9AKbBOHwBYN2TWKqmvuTIwE-9ZqGd9IEhtpf3l3FyiSkXcTVJHB-L1rzUd/s400/Beach+Lamai01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259232893548277778" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Not far as long as Chaweng but more quite and some people would say charming. The Southern part of the beach is somehow more inviting than the Northern, because there are not so much stones and corals there. Lamai is located in South-East of Samui, about 10 kilometers South of Chaweng. A little North of Lamai you will find Ao Tong Takian beach. It has became rather popular, and a few resorts are located there. Photos of Lamai beach is found here.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Maenam, Big Buddha and Bo Phut</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5gDn5OCukelfEs_L3ctdOOoLBMHd6RtqFkV1TlOT5T90NTMWXGYFywkkc9611U48fQdN6kJpmiSFLpKfwr5FN9to4AUuTa0WjUgrYqUXVEquiQjSFbcogXI4aEW9bkzhX4ugVwhwPUYo/s1600-h/kobophut.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5gDn5OCukelfEs_L3ctdOOoLBMHd6RtqFkV1TlOT5T90NTMWXGYFywkkc9611U48fQdN6kJpmiSFLpKfwr5FN9to4AUuTa0WjUgrYqUXVEquiQjSFbcogXI4aEW9bkzhX4ugVwhwPUYo/s400/kobophut.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259232893431264850" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">In the North of Samui you will find these fine beaches. You will also find the small but very beautiful Chong Mon beach in the North-East and Bang Por beach in the North-West. They are not as crowded as Chaweng and Lamai. A large range of hotels and bungalows are found here and it is close to the Airport, Pier(s) and Big Buddha too.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">On Samui you can stay in anything from a rather spartan bungalow to a luxury hotel. You can easily find and also book a hotel, bungalow or resort from here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Diving</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JiMgzSyZ3VaA7mStVes6EI-6V05XOVg8ylJbk9w8IOTi_xZSEZV7AFb3MKX8uv-_HsYD5UfuZdOKEQtI77DH7Za6WAcAGdJRHsMF9KW9201YFUhNuO7PhtchGkmaTbQVgNWZngvmvEYU/s1600-h/aboutu2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JiMgzSyZ3VaA7mStVes6EI-6V05XOVg8ylJbk9w8IOTi_xZSEZV7AFb3MKX8uv-_HsYD5UfuZdOKEQtI77DH7Za6WAcAGdJRHsMF9KW9201YFUhNuO7PhtchGkmaTbQVgNWZngvmvEYU/s400/aboutu2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259234399620297442" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Koh Samui, Koh Tan and Koh Tao has many excellent diving sites. There are many schools who provide professional education. Snorkeling and wave diving is also fun. You can buy equipment in many diving shops on Koh Samui and Koh Tao. The diving section is found here</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Maps and guidebooks</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGNRP_VfbVsD9_2mjNHlmIti7rGgUYdRvVxzBImJns6peVZz7tlWH5xdvFcBNb0LBmdgqexn2JM-pkx_WL4_X0qO2zu987583QAUfjYwR7AMr9wevjK9iBZ0yM2gQ68FuYCRT5AcPAeh1/s1600-h/map_samui_rental.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGNRP_VfbVsD9_2mjNHlmIti7rGgUYdRvVxzBImJns6peVZz7tlWH5xdvFcBNb0LBmdgqexn2JM-pkx_WL4_X0qO2zu987583QAUfjYwR7AMr9wevjK9iBZ0yM2gQ68FuYCRT5AcPAeh1/s400/map_samui_rental.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259234398245810370" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">There is much more to do on Samui. You can get a free map and guide in every travel agency there. We recommend Lonely Planet guide books. They provides the best travel guides we have seen.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Respecting Thai culture</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Thai people are normally very friendly and has high tolerance. Just remember that if you come from another country; Thai people are very proud of the monarchy and the King and also of course their religion (About 95% are Buddhists). Also remember that Buddha images, temples etc are considered as holy. Please enter a temple with respect and wear appropriate clothes. (no shorts) Don't point your feet to someone while sitting and don't touch people's head. At Koh Samui and other "tourist places" the inhabitants are normally used to "western lifestyle", so there are no problems as long as you just show the same "respect" as people show you.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Keep Samui clean</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Please throw finished bottles and other waste in a garbage can. Let coming generations be able to explore Koh Samui as well. If everyone respect the nature and wildlife on Samui it will remain a small "paradise" on earth for a long time!</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Dogs and cats</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixX6xrHbzM75PUwdtQ9wGmF1_uUBVmJp_1GB8HD4ZkJ9PCwqCsk7gnJmI8X2Tq0CLq38JeWVZtuHJXXrSVeH46eZsEya55hWiIYm9-4WPJ1s4cXvBm6xjvOONq1ZW1eYuXB0Eg7DBElxFx/s1600-h/2747091436_5cc033e82f.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixX6xrHbzM75PUwdtQ9wGmF1_uUBVmJp_1GB8HD4ZkJ9PCwqCsk7gnJmI8X2Tq0CLq38JeWVZtuHJXXrSVeH46eZsEya55hWiIYm9-4WPJ1s4cXvBm6xjvOONq1ZW1eYuXB0Eg7DBElxFx/s400/2747091436_5cc033e82f.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259234396957078850" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Most of the stray dogs and cats are "friendly and harmless" in Thailand, but of course there are always a few exceptions. There are still some stray dogs and cats at Samui beaches and villages. Do you want to help to make their life's better? Please visit and/or support the Dog Rescue Center</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Where to stay?</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHEl7dwQWHWXqx6nU5xzATMtVGkFnHDCkZdWIFH-DaHOsV-dAWQ8HpvVQMHdUzv_ngo72NI1MKHjP0cft4xdHeQ-L6Ikv-kthull6aEa_Ny6T545DXzI2Zt0QUoMk7q15sUtaXN83VXVT/s1600-h/Places+to+Relax_resize.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLHEl7dwQWHWXqx6nU5xzATMtVGkFnHDCkZdWIFH-DaHOsV-dAWQ8HpvVQMHdUzv_ngo72NI1MKHjP0cft4xdHeQ-L6Ikv-kthull6aEa_Ny6T545DXzI2Zt0QUoMk7q15sUtaXN83VXVT/s400/Places+to+Relax_resize.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259234404530254082" border="0" /></a><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">There are many hundreds of different accommodations alternatives available on the Samui island. Hotels, resorts, apartments and villas. Prices starts from a few hundred baht and up. Koh Samui today, has many resorts with international high class standards. Many of those "boutique resorts" has facilities as restaurants, spas, fitness rooms, jacuzzis and pools. You will find a lot of accommodation options with a wide price range in our Hotel section</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">Extending your visa</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span class="normaltext01" style="font-size:130%;"><span class="normaltext01"><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);">To extend a visa on Koh Samui, just go to the Koh Samui Immigration Office. It is located 2 km South of Nathon town on Thaweeratphakdee Road. If you need to go for a visa run, there are buses, minibuses to Malaysia and Myanmar (Burma) via Ranong. Nowadays there are also flights to Malaysia. Berjaya Air flies to Kuala Lumpur and Fire Fly flies to Penang. You can easily book tickets from the travel agencies on the island.</span></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span></div><span class="normaltext01"><span class="normaltext01"><br /></span></span><span class="normaltext01"><span class="heading05"></span></span>Samui in Thailandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12505620160744741449noreply@blogger.com0