October 25, 2006

Top Romantic Destinations

by Ian McNeice

Romance can be found everywhere and anywhere, its in the air that we breathe, the smiles people give to us and in the things that make us laugh and be happy with our partner. But sometimes romance is in a special place too. We may have found love and romance at home and abroad, on vacation or just in a moment. Yet there are some places that smell of romance, that exude love and simply are romantic destinations and so here we discuss some favorite places that fit the bill.

Just what makes a place a top romantic destination is open to many factors. The first of course may be the weather, warm and sunny appears to be favored by most. Lingering on a soft white beach under swaying palms appeals to all of us who undergo annual cold winters. However, I have been to destinations that have been snowbound, only to find them gorgeously romantic. For me, winter is a great season and my top romantic destinations include some fantastic ski resorts. St Moritz at Christmas is a great example as is Valmorel after a snowfall, or Zermatt on New Year’s Eve. So clearly then it is not just the weather that feeds us romantic feelings about a place though it is a factor.

A top romantic destination has to look right. A pretty village in the Alps is romantic and appealing; a New England village in the Fall is romantic for walking, a walk on a deserted beach on the northern coast of Koh Samui is extremely romantic to hold hands. Where better perhaps that a stroll along the Seine in Paris in early spring to feel overwhelmed by love and romance as you walk hand in hand with your partner. The same may be said of Barcelona in Spring, walking through the squares before the heavy oppression of a hot Mediterranean summer sets in. And here we find more clues in my words, walking and Spring! Walking of course brings a sense of communion and togetherness in any location or destination. We remember walks together fondly in many places whilst springtime is our own regeneration after winter. Springtime is a good season to find romance in a place.

Springtime is for many of us a wake up call, an out with the old in with the new feeling. A time for Spring cleaning, for freshness, for renewal. Clean air, sunlight and flowers. The earth wakes up and so do we. So we are often drawn to romantic destinations that obviate these sensory factors. For example, I have never been so alive as on visiting Amsterdam one spring when the small lanes were alive with the rich color of tulip flower markets. I was overjoyed with a sense of the ability to find romance there.

Romance in a place can be found from its history and architectural properties, which is why so many of the ancient and great cities of the world are poplar romantic destinations for lovers. From the Great Wall of China, to Paris, Rome, Florence, Milan, Amsterdam, Sydney, New York and Vienna, all have a magnificent historical heritage that pervades all and leads us into a sense of historical romance that requires us to take someone’s hand as we breathe in all around us.

So I think that the key elements of top romantic destinations are:

• Weather
• Beauty
• History
• Company
• Location

So whilst we live to find romance in the Caribbean and the South Seas, dreaming of white deserted beaches and swaying palms, trade winds and butterfly kisses at dawn or sunset, languid afternoons by the lagoon pools and tropical mischief on a languid evening, let us not forget that there are many destinations across the world that are not only romantic in themselves, but can emphasize the romance that already exists within each of us.

Here are ten of my personal top romantic destinations and romantic places for myself.

Amsterdam in deepest winter
There are fewer places on earth more romantic than Amsterdam in deepest winter in my opinion. Ancient churches, frozen waterways, snow-heavy skies, shimmering shops all nestle along walkways through beautifully old streets in this most pleasant of cultural cities. Its a cultural melting pot where you can find romance on every corner. Combine ancient cobbled streets of lilting Dutch town houses, set against frozen canals, people scuttling along on cycles, starlit book shops crowding in sulky corners, fabulous food stores, eateries and restaurants, bars that are heaven-sent and the relaxed nature of the Dutch and it is a vibrant and exciting city ideal for a first break away with a loved-one. With bells tolling from churches at dawn, the shimmering waters of canals everywhere, ancient beautiful architecture, flowers on street corners, this city is most certainly picturesque. The winter and snows certainly add the topping to a place that already exudes history and you can imagine yourself with your loved on starring in your very own European cinematic romance set against a beautiful and vivid backdrop. Firmly recommended.

Hong Kong at Sunset
To many the romance of Hong Kong can be easily missed. A bustling metropolis acting as a gateway to a throng a different Asian cultures, Hong Kong certainly doesn’t stand still. But amongst it all are two of the most amazing sights on earth that should only be witnessed with your loved one. The first is sitting in the Peninsula hotel top floor bar on the Kowloon side watching sunset and darkness fall upon Honk Kong itself. As day turns to night you can take the hand of your loved on and watch as neon begins to light up probably one of the seven most wondrous views in the modern world. All taken with a Gin and Tonic. If this is how we find romance , then it's the best.

The other is to repeat the exercise of sunset but this time by taking the cable car to the top of the Peak. Go behind the peak café and restaurant to the viewing platform where you can watch sunset over Kowloon, but this time make sure that you kiss you partner for a long time. Because you will remember it forever.

Niagra Falls in Late Spring
Until you have seen the horseshoes falls from the Canadian side in late Spring, you haven’t lived. Spectacular this place is, beyond belief. Take your partner, book into the hotel at its side and spend the most romantic weekend of your life. Love and romance your partner here until they melt. I can’t add any more to this because you just have to take your loved one and go there – today. Why late spring? Well at this time of year the warm sun gives the entire falls a golden glow that makes it such a romantic place. Take a glass of champagne in one had and the hand of your loved one in the other ands find romance here for yourselves.

Anchorage Alaska on the longest day
Romantic destinations take many forms but I found the experience of Anchorage, a beautiful place in the summer, awe inspiringly beautiful. For me it is a place of love and romance as much as of breathtaking scenery. You may be surprised that I list it as one of my favorite romantic places but you just have to visit and relax in this beautiful place. There are so many things to do with your partner in this area that you will lose count, but I think that around June 21st when it remains light for most of the night is so much of an experience that it’s a time and place for something special. It is a top romantic destination for sure. It’s a place to feel alive and share something emotional and help that feeling of togetherness. A special place.


Bali in October
As far as romantic places go, this is perfect. This has to be one of the world's top romantic destinations, especially for couples. As it’s a tropical isle it doesn’t become romantic because of its climate, though it does reek of paradise after getting away from the airport. I’d point you and your chose partner straight towards the Bali Cliff resort at the southern tip of the island or Lovina Beach on the northern coast. Either places at this time of the year are quiet whilst the weather remains perfect. If I was to choose the perfect place for a date, to embody the love and romance of my relationship, or even maybe to propose, I’d choose Lovina beach at dawn in an outrigger canoe as the dolphins race past chasing tuna and the sun breaks the horizon. It doesn’t get any more romantic or special than this. Just save it to say 'I do'.


Paris in early Spring
As far as romantic places go, Paris has to be a prime choice in my book. Traditional it may be, but romantic, it most certainly is. Spring time has to be the perfect season too. Culture, history, gastronomic delights, superb wine and walks beyond all walks. Take your partner to the top of the Eiffel tower, over to the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa and then shoot about the metro visiting Montmartre and the Left bank then take a long walk together along the many tree lined boulevards. The essence of Paris is the simple act of being together walking, visiting and seeing and finding romance in private. Its special, it is one of my favorite romantic places at any time of year but I loved Paris in early spring and I think you both will too.


The English Lake District in early Winter
The English Lakes in north-western England is loved by many during the summer months but the things that brings it romance is the solace that winter brings. But I believe it is a top romantic destination at this time of year. I find romance here when the ancient villages are quiet, the restaurants available and we can walk where we please. There are a plethora of well-hidden Lakeland hotels nestling in trees ready to cater as a lovers paradise. If you are looking for log fires, thick rugs, four poser beds and romantic walks round local lakes then go in November or January and I’d go as far as saying that it’s the perfect place to fall in love.


New York in February
What hasn’t been written about New York may not be worth writing. But for me New York in February is the epitome of classic romance and one of the top romantic destinations for anyone. How many romantic movies have been made in this city – lots, and this is for a reason. Why is it romantic? Easy, combine cold, snow, superb shopping and ice skating in central park and you have everything that is perfect about close times together. Sightseeing is unlimited, restaurants with tables for two are everywhere and I believe there is something special about wrapping up warm and getting outdoors with the person you love. If you are going to find love and romance in a city, its possible it will be New York. Walking in Central park in the snow has got to be a life long memory of how love really should be.

Cyprus before Summer
It’s the birthplace of Venus, what more needs to be said about finding love and romance. Stick to the west side of this island around Paphos for perfect sunsets, sun for 360 days a year, remote bays and fresh seafood. Top quality hotels abound and this is essential for many romantic destinations. But the single thing that makes this island romantic for me are the lonely drives by car up into the fresh alpine interior. Seemingly unexplored valleys, high passes and the sweet scent of pine everywhere, this is a beautiful place. Open the door and breathe, then kiss each other. Deeply. Definitely one of my top romantic destinations of all to find romance in a sunset.


Koh Samui in November
Why not round the year off with one of my favorite romantic places on earth. The island of Koh Samui in the Thai gulf is more famous for its near-neighbor which is the inspiration for the book and movie, The Beach. But the reason I list this as a top romantic destination isn’t the quaint airport with wooden huts in a jungle clearing, or the Golden Buddha on the northern coast, it’s the simple delight at this time of year of taking a small beach bungalow with your loved one and walking bare footed on white sand beaches and treading the first footsteps of the day. Or using a fallen coconut as a drinking vessel and play ball. Watch endless sunsets and find romance in the moment, eat perfect food in quiet surroundings and imagine you are both lost at sea. It’s a place to be with someone, to be quiet, to be solitary and to feel very much the love and romance of the place.

Credit:www.topdatingtips.com/

October 22, 2006

Five Most Costly Mistakes on Trip to Thailand Islands and How to avoid them

The Five Most Costly Mistakes You Can Make on Your Trip to theThailand Islands and How to avoid them

Author: Ella Evans

Article: Southern Thailand islands also known as the "Paradise" Islands
are among the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
More than 12,000,000 tourists have visited Thailand in 2005, and
the majority of them had left the Bangkok International Airport
immediately after their arrival and headed straight to the
Southern Islands. Some of the visitors were fascinated by the
stories of people who were caught in the charms of the
unforgettable ambience of the islands, some of them were taken
by images they saw on the web, while others were convinced as
per the words of their travel agent that the Thai Islands were
indeed the ultimate tourist destination that fits every taste,
age, budget and personality type. This can partly explain the
massive flow of honeymooners, backpackers, families-on-vacation,
partygoers, divers and many others to the Thai Islands every
year.

However, the inexperienced Thailand traveler may be unconscious
to the fact that a satisfying vacation is not a surefire thing
even in a place nick named Island Paradise. In order to be
successful, enjoyable and fulfilling, your vacation must be
thoroughly planned. Unfamiliar destinations often hide little
unknown secrets, which hold the enormous potential to make the
desired positive change in your vacation.

This article will discuss the biggest mistakes you can make
prior and during your visit to the Thai Islands. Adhering to or
ignoring the five amendments below can literally make or break
your vacation in the Southern Thailand Islands.

1.
Mistake 1: choosing your vacation island spontaneously.
Web pictures of tropical islands often make them look almost
identical. The inexperienced traveler is likely to assume that
no matter where you go in Southern Thailand Islands - you will
bump into the same picturesque beach with white sands, turquoise
water and a single coconut tree. Falling into the illusion of
images while choosing your vacation island out of pure impulse
can be a very disappointing experience in case the final
destination island does not meet your needs, your personality or
expectations at all. To avoid this mistake, define your
preferences before hand, make a dedicated research prior to
choosing your destination by gathering the relevant information
using guidebooks in addition to using the Internet. As you
choose the island that fits your needs, pay close attention to
the following points:

a. The level of tourist development. Some travelers like their
islands loaded with tourist facilities (i. e. Phuket, Koh
Samui), whereas others prefer the classic touch "old school"
isolated touch (i. e. Koh Phangan, Khao Lak).

b. Nightlife - Phuket, Koh Samui and at lesser extent Krabi
offer a thriving nightlife, whereas Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao are
quiet and drowsy.

c. Diving sites - Koh Phi Phi and Koh Tao offer the best diving
sites in Southern Thailand.

d. The prevalent level of accommodation. Phuket and Koh Phi Phi
offer a immense variety of luxury hotels, while Koh Phangan and
Koh Tao offer mostly basic (not necessary low standard)
accommodation.

2.
Mistake 2: Assuming that a great vacation can be carried
out at a very low budget.
Some travelers tend to wrongly
assume, that Thailand being a country with developing economy
will provide everything including a high standard
hospitalization in ridiculously cheap prices. This is partially
right, since the local tourism industry suggests an inexpensive
travel opportunities to backpackers. However, the spoiled
tourist who is used to savor on luxury westernized accommodation
will find out the hard way that in order to meet his or her
traveling expectations the expenses are appropriate to what is
offered. To avoid this mistake and eliminate serious deviations
from the planned budget - make your research to learn about
price gaps in Southern Thailand Islands. For instance, one
should know that staying in some islands (i. e. Koh Phi Phi) is
expected to be more expensive, while staying in other islands
(i. e. Koh Phangan, Koh Tao) can be significantly cheaper. To
avoid any disappointments related to over expenses, I recommend
adhering to the following guidelines:

a. Avoid planning a budget on the basis of someone else's
estimations, especially if that person visited the Thai Islands
many years ago; spent the vacation in another island than the
one you chose; much younger than yourself/ or prefers a
different life standard.

b. Make an informed decision regarding the desired level of
accommodation. The basic accommodation that includes a clean
air-conditioned room and western style bathroom can be booked on
relatively low, albeit not ridiculous, price. Contrary to that,
a luxury accommodation (that kind of accommodation is quite
common in Phuket and Koh Samui) may be almost as expensive as
the hotels in your neighboring country.

c. Although checking the room rates is possible using the
Internet - the prices of meals should be carefully checked as
well. Don't assume that no matter where you eat - the meal will
be cheap. During my first visit to Thailand, I was very
surprised to receive a check of the same value as in my home
country. Now I know, that the Southern Thailand Islands offer a
myriad of western style restaurants with western style prices.
Therefore, before you enter a well-designed restaurant - check
the menu and make clear budget estimation.

3.
Mistake 3: choosing your vacation beach spontaneously.
This is similar to mistake number one - but probably easier
to correct, because checking other beaches on the destination is
easier logistically and cheaper than checking other islands.
However, the "wrong" beach choice can make you feel that you
haven't exploited the full potential of your vacation, or that
you have wasted significant part of it. For instance, during my
first visit in Koh Phangan I found out two days before the end
of my vacation, that my "perfect" beach is located on the other
side of the island. The following tips can help you avoid a
similar situation:

a. The most developed and crowdie beaches on most islands are
located in proximity to the airport (in case there is an airport
in your island) or to one of the main seaports.

b. In case you prefer the above type of beaches - be aware of
the fact that some of them, especially in Koh Samui and Phuket,
are not family friendly.

c. The old school quiet and picturesque beaches are always on
the other side of the island. If the "old school" beach is what
you are looking for - don't give up even if the way to Thailand
was long and exhausting, and try to make a small effort to cross
the island on your way to the opposite side; it will be well
worth your while.

4. Mistake 4: insisting on Westernized food. Some of
us tend to worry about experimenting with an unfamiliar food.
The Thai tourist industry is aware of this fact; therefore the
supply of Western style restaurants in Southern Thailand Islands
is huge. Having said that, limiting yourself to these
restaurants could be a huge mistake, since the prices for
western cuisine are much higher compared to the ones in
authentic local restaurants; and even worse- you miss out on one
of the most important experiences of the Thai culture - the
superior Thai cuisine, probably one of the best in the world. To
avoid this mistake, don't hesitate entering small restaurants
with ridiculously neglected interior design, plastic maps and
un-plastered walls. These restaurants' owners are probably the
worst marketers - but usually are superior cooks. Your meal in
one of these restaurants will often be unbelievably cheap, tasty
and mostly made of fresh sizzling ingredients. You will
fantasize about these meals long after you have left the island.

5.
Mistake 5: To take your big business suitcase to an
island that could be only accessed by sea.
A big suitcase is
of course very convenient [in Europe]: using it, you can pack
everything you need; it can be carried easily thanks to those
little wheels; and it makes you look very representative.
However, taking a big suitcase to Koh Phangan or Koh Tao is not
something I would recommend. The platforms in the piers are
extremely narrow and occasionally unstable. So if you're really
lucky - your big suitcase will be safe. If you're a little bit
less lucky - it can fall into the water. If you ran out of luck
- you can fall into the water together with your suitcase. I
seriously think a back bag would be your best bet. Just for the
record, the huge suitcase that was taken by yours truly to her
first trip to Koh Phangan was left somewhere in the jungle to
frighten local monkeys.

So, on the next time the idea of heading the Thailand Islands
crosses your mind, as tempting as it may be, try not to succumb
to rumors and fascinating imagery. A thorough research and
planning ahead may take some time and effort on your side, but
it will be more than worth your while.

Koh Phangan
Guide, Thailand Islands


About the author:
Independent researcher, MA in anthropology, and travel
enthusiast Ella Evans has spend more than a decade exploring
Thailand focusing on the Southern Islands. The fruits of her
labor can be found in the Koh Phangan Experience Website: a
comprehensive travel guide to Koh Phangan, Thailand, which
includes information articles, tips, advice and a message board.
Koh Phangan
Guide, Thailand Islands

October 19, 2006

:: Getting To Know Ko Samui


Ko Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 84 kilometers east of Surat Thani Province, or approximately 700 kilometers south of Bangkok. Known as the Coconut Island, Ko Samui is one of the most famous and popular attractions of Thailand. With an area of 247 square kilometers, Ko Samui is the third largest island of Thailand after Phuket and Ko Chang (of Trat Province). The topography of the island is that of a plain with a mountain range in the middle and 7 important streams. In addition, there is a 50-kilometer paved road that encircles the island. Moreover, the area of the island stretches to a group of 48 surrounding islets.

Despite the fast pace of development, Ko Samui has been able to maintain its charm its classical image of a tropical beach resort fringed by coconut trees. Travelers to the island can enjoy a mixed blessing of vibrant day and nightlife along side with tranquility which can easily be found across different parts of Ko Samui as the archipelago is a peaceful home for fishermen and a natural den for seagulls and other rare birds.

Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai are Ko Samuis most beautiful and most popular beaches. Both have a huge selection of accommodations suitable for every budget. Please note that room rates increase during the high season, from December to July, when Samui sparkles. The nightlife of each beach is different: Hat Chaweng is better for couples, women and families, while single men are drawn to the beer bar culture of Hat Lamai. These resorts, as well as Na Thon (Samui's main town), have communications, exchange and car/motorcycle hire facilities. Other beaches include Hat Choeng Mon, Hat Mae Nam in the north and Hat Na Thon, the island's major seafront settlement where shops, restaurants and tour agencies are concentrated.

Apart from its many lovely beaches and tranquil bays, Ko Samui is also noted for its high quality coconuts that grow densely everywhere. The best time to visit Ko Samui is from February to April when the sea is calm. The Southern dialect and the standard Thai language are spoken while English is widely understood in tourist areas.


Credit:
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- www.pantip.com
- Photo by Phanuvat Eurchananon

:: How To Go To Ko Samui

By air
Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Ko Samui 13 times daily. The flight takes about one hour and 10 minutes. It also offers daily flights between Phuket and Samui. For more information, call its Bangkok office, 0 2229 3456, 0 2229 3434, Samui office, 0 7742 2512 - 9 or Samui Airport Office 0 7724 5601-8.

By bus
Air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses leave Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal for Surat Thani several times daily. The trip takes about 11 hours. For further information, call 0 2435 1199, 0 2435 1200 (air-con), 0 2434 5557 - 8 (non-air-con).

By car
From Bangkok, take Highway 4 (Buddha Monthon Road) through Phetchaburi and Chumphon Provinces and then drive on to Highways 41 and 401 to Surat Thani Province. From Surat Thani, visitors can take their cars to Ko Samui through a vehicle ferry at Donsak Pier. The trip takes 1.30 hours.

By rail
Several trains leave Bangkok's Hualamphong Station for Surat Thani daily. The trip takes about 12 hours. Train / bus / ferry combination tickets are also available. For more information, call Hualamphong Railway Station, 0 2223 7010, 0 2223 7020.

From Surat Thani to Ko Samui
1.Express boat
1.1 An express ferry boat of Songserm Travel departs from Tha Thong Pier in Surat Thani at 8.00 a.m. and arrives at Na Thon Pier in Samui at 10.30 a.m. every day. For the return trip, the boat leaves Na Thon Pier at 2.00 p.m. and reaches Tha Thong at 4.30 p.m.

1.2 Express boats of Seatran Express operate three times a day between Ban Don and Ko Samui. Departure times are 7.00 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes two hours.

2.Ferry Boats of Seatran
Seatran Ferry, which can accommodate 60 cars and 400 passengers, operates several trips per day between Don Sak (Surat Thani) and Ko Samui, from 5.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. The trip takes about 1.30 hours.

3. Night ferry
A slow night ferry leaves Ban Don Pier nightly at 11 p.m. and reaches Na Thon Pier at Samui around 5 a.m. (6 hours). For the return trip, the boat leaves Na Thon Pier at 9.00 p.m. and arrives at Ban Don Pier at 4.00 a.m. (7 hours).

Getting around Ko Samui
Samui is an explorer's dream to discover something new. Offering a wealth of diversity of landscape, vistas, flora and fauna, and yet small enough to seek adventure in its many out-of-the-way places, Samui is best seen by taking songthaews (red local bus) which operate around the island. The fare starts at 20 baht, depending on the distance of the destination.

By Taxi
For many reasons, the least suitable for exploring, but the safest and easiest way to get to the destination is to go by taxi. The official taxi service time is until 9.00 p.m. Visitors are recommended to negotiate strongly for the fare and keep in mind that negotiation should always be dome before boarding. Note that the fare at night will be escalated.

By a rented Jeep
Rented Jeep, 4WD, is available from many family-owned agencies and some well known large companies. The vehicle will serve as the basic means of transportation taking visitors around many hillside natural and man-made attractions which are easily accessible from the ring road. Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the coverage is limited. Always ask for details first. The minimum price is from 800 baht.

By Motorcycle
A more flexible way to get around the island, rented motorcycle costs approximately 200 baht / day. Beware, as roads other than the main roads on Ko Samui are quite rough in some parts.

Credit:
- Tourism Authority of Thailand

:: Map of Ko Samui

Google Earth
Samui Placemark by Chanaphai Dechawong

Note: You have to install google earth program to see this map.

Ko Samui Tourist Map
































Credit:
- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- www.thaigoogleearth.com

:: Attractions of Samui

Hat Chaweng (Chaweng Beach)
The longest, most popular and developed beach on the east coast of Ko Samui, this 7 kilometer beach has clean white sand and sparkling water.

In addition to numerous accommodations, this charming beach is packed with restaurants, spas, souvenir shops, bars and discos catering to all the needs of visitors. In addition, there are a number of dive shops on the beach, some of which also organize night dives.

Hat Na Thon (Na Thon Beach)
This is the island's major settlement on the west coast offering a wide selection of souvenirs and handicrafts, silks and jewelry. In addition to being the shopping center of the island Na Thon Bay also provides visitors with the necessary facilities - a post office, banks, a police station, telephone services, and a hospital. Moreover, this is where express and night ferries from the piers in Surat Thani dock.

Hin Lat Waterfall
Located at the end of Route 4172, 3 kilometers south of Na Thon Bay, the waterfall is encircled by palms, ferns and creeping plants. Hin Lat Waterfall also provides a few natural pools for bathing. An enjoyable 2-kilometer walk to the top allows visitors to get a panoramic view of the waterfall.

Hin Ta - Hin Yai
Strangely shaped rocks south of Lamai Beach are locally dubbed Hin Ta Hin Yai. According to legend, an old couple were shipwrecked in the bay and died and their bodies washed ashore creating the rocks.












Jungle tours
Adventure lovers will enjoy the virgin forest on a mountain on the island. Please contact only certified guides and tour agencies.

Ban Lamai Cultural Hall
Serving as a folk museum, the Hall houses many local ancient objects. Interesting objects on display include earthenware, household utensils, hunting weapons and equipment used in coconut planting.

Ban Thale
This is the oldest house on the island which was built approximately 150 years ago of teakwood without any nails. In addition, there the house displays elaborative wood carvings.




Bungy Jumping
For adrenaline lovers who seek the thrill of facing their own fears, this is definitely a challenge. The site is located behind the Reggae Pub and the operation is under professional control of British Jumpmasters. This activity is guaranteed as safe.

Canopy Adventures
For those interested in gliding from tree houses, Ko Samui provides visitors with this unique chance. No experienced required. Visitors just glide from tree house to tree house above the magnificent jungle canopy.

Animal Farms and Shows
Phang Ka Snake Farm
at Tambon Taling Ngam, has daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-3247.

Samui Buffalo Village
At Tambon Na Mueang, has daily shows at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., 350 baht per person, Tel: 0-7741-8680.

Butterfly Garden and Honey Farm
In the south of the island, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., 120 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4020-21.






Monkey Training Center
At Tambon Bo Phut, has daily shows at 10.30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., 150 baht per person, Tel: 0-7724 -5140.

Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo
At Ao Laem Set, opens daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 250 baht per person, Tel: 0-7742-4017-8.

Crocodile Farm
Near Na Mueang Waterfall, daily shows at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 250 baht per person.

Buffalo fighting
This is an exciting bout that attracts a huge crowd, both local residents and tourists. Held monthly, it serves as a traditional festival on the island.

Monkey & Elephant Shows
At the show, it is actually possible to see how monkeys collect coconuts and present their other exceptional abilities. In addition, visitors will be impressed by the intelligence and loveliness of elephants that can perform many lovely tricks, or even play football.

On Ko Samui, the coconut island, the monkey is considered man's best friend. Local people have used monkeys to climb up and pick the ripe coconuts for centuries. At present, monkeys are not just good at picking coconuts, they are also good at entertaining.

Snake show
A stunning show that is not suitable for a people with heart diseases. The show offers a thrilling experience especially when the poisonous reptiles are skillfully caught by a handler with bare hands. Shows feature snakes indigenous to Ko Samui as well as centipedes, scorpion and cock fighting shows.




Samui Crocodile Farm
Siam crocodiles, Caimans, Saltwater crocodiles, snakes, lizards, monkeys and many others are gathered here for entertainment.

Credit:

- Tourism Authority of Thailand
- memberthai.net
- www.thailand-hotel.net
- www.samui.org

:: Hotels in Ko Samui by Price Range

Note:If you are interested in any hotel, please copy name,paste it in google search box on the top or middle of this page and press enter (search button does not work in blog). Google will provide you with useful links.

At US$ 100 Range
Amari Palm Reef Resort
Anantara Resort & Spa Koh Samui
Bandara Resort & Spa
Bo Phut Resort & Spa
Buri Rasa Village
Central Samui Beach Resort Hotel
Chaba Cabana Beach Resort
Chaweng Regent Beach Resort
Coco Private Villa
Imperial Boat House Hotel
Ingsila Retreat Hotel
Kamalaya
Kandaburi Resort & Spa
Kanok Buri Resort
Lamai Villas
Le Royal Meridien Baan Taling Ngam
Muang Samui Spa Resort
Napasai Samui Pansea Orient-Express Hotel
Poppies Samui
Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa
Rummana Boutique Resort
Sala Samui Resort & Spa
Samui Buri Beach Resort & Spa
Samui Peninsula Spa & Resort
Santiburi Dusit Resort
Sila Evason Hideaway Samui
The Briza Beach Resort & Spa
The White House
Tongsai Bay Cottages & Hotel

At US$ 80 Range
Baan Haad Ngam Boutique Resort
Ban Sabai Spa
Imperial Samui Hotel
Lawana Resort
Muang Kulaypan Hotel
Nora Beach Resort & Spa
Paradise Beach Resort
Punn Pree Da Hip Resort
Saboey Resort and Villas
Samui Cliff View Resort & Spa
Samui Palm Beach Resort
Siam Residence Deluxe

At US$ 60 Range
Amanda Resort Samui
Baan Chaweng Beach Resort & Spa
Baan Samui Resort
Baan Talay Resort
Banana Fan Sea Samui
Banburee Resort & Spa
Cabana Grand View
Chaba Samui Resort
Chaweng Beachcomber Hotel
Chaweng Blue Lagoon Hotel
Chaweng Buri Resort
Chaweng Cove Resotel
Coral Bay Resort
First Bungalow Beach Resort
Impiana Resort Samui
Iyara Beach Hotel & Plaza
Laem Set Inn
Natural Wing Resort
Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort
Rajapruek Samui Resort
Samui Amanda Resort & Spa
Samui Jasmine Resort
Samui Natien Resort
Seafan Beach Resort
Thai House Beach Resort
Thai - Ayodhya Villas & Spa

Note:If you are interested in any hotel, please copy name,paste it in google search box on the top or middle of this page and press enter (search button does not work in blog). Google will provide you with useful links.

At US$ 40 Range
Aloha Resort
Al's Resort
Amarin Victoria Resort
Arayaburi Boutique Resort
Beach House Samui Hotel
Best Western Samui Bayview Resort
Central Samui Village
Chaweng Bay View Resort
Chaweng Cabana Resort
The Fair House Beach Resort
Malibu Chaweng Beach Samui
Nara Garden Beach Resort
Nathalie's Art Palace
Nova Samui Resort
Papillon Resort
Pinnacle Resort Samui
Rocky Resort
Samui Honey cottages
Samui Resotel
Samui Yacht Club

At US$ 30 Range
Akwa Guest House
Al's Hut
Big John Beach
Bill Resort
Chaweng Resort
Chaweng Villa Beach Resort
Choengmon Buri Hotel
Coral Cove Chalet
Crystal Bay Resort
Ever Green Resort
Golden Sand Beach Resort
Hirunburi Resort
International Bungalows
Jungle Park Resort
Lakeside Residence
Orchid Suites Resort
Samui Beach Apartments
Samui First House
Samui Laguna Resort
Samui Park Resort
Sand Sea Resort & Spa
Sandy Resort
Seascape Beach Resort
Serene Hill Resort & Spa
Smile House
Samui Island Beach Resort & Hotel
Smui Orchid Resort
The Island Resort & Spa
Wiesenthal Resort
World Resort
Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

Note:If you are interested in any hotel, please copy name,paste it in google search box on the top or middle of this page and press enter (search button does not work in blog). Google will provide you with useful links.

Credit:
- www.hotelthailand.com
- www.samui-hotels.com