The second-largest island in Thailand, Koh Samui is quite the sight to see in the Gulf of Thailand, attracting globetrotters that seek sanctuary in the island tropics. This tourist-friendly island is a paradise of coconut groves, turquoise beaches and a rainforest worth visiting.
History
The first reported tourists that arrived in Koh Samui were hippies who visited the island as tourists in the 1960s, prior to the construction of any luxury hotels like Avani+ Samui Resort. However, prior to Koh Samui being discovered as a rare jewel worth tourism, it was off the map until the 1800s. Following the discovery of the island in the 1960s, the next decade marked a revolutionary change as news of the island began to circulate as an ideal tropical getaway. In the present day, Koh Samui resorts are brimming with tourists that seek refuge on this blissful shoreline.
Culture
An island rich in a culture of its own, Koh Samui holds the key to unique religious sites and festivals of vibrant shades. One such significant festival associated with the Thai New Year, also known as Songkran is the Buffalo Fighting Festival, which involves a clash between buffalos blessed with holy water and dressed in ribbons and gold-painted leaves.
Geography and Landscape
An island of ivory shorelines and pristine beaches, the lands of Koh Samui gradually rise as you travel to the heart of the island towards a natural stone and a rainforest. Koh Samui is located approximately 700 kilometres south of Bangkok and upholds tropical weather all year long. The wet season arrives from October to December and the dry season in April to September.
Nature and Wildlife
The island is naturally blessed with lush greenery that spreads throughout its land, giving its tropical flair a rare appeal. Visitors of Koh Samui can also pay visits to the island’s wildlife. Some of these creatures are crocodiles, elephants and monkeys, where the latter will even put on a show for the onlookers to be entertained.
