Ko Samui

This beautiful island off south-eastern Thailand is covered with coconut plantations and circled by (call us clichéd but it's true) palm-fringed beaches. It was once an 'untouched' backpackers' mecca, but is now well on its way to becoming a fully-fledged tourist resort. Coconuts are still the mainstay of the local economy, however, and up to two million of them are shipped to Bangkok each month. 

The most popular beaches are Hat Chaweng and Hat Lamai: both have good swimming and snorkeling but are getting a little crowded. For more peace and quiet, try Mae Nam, Bo Phut and Big Buddha on the northern coast. The main town on the island is Na Thon. 

Most of the beaches have plenty of rustic, thatched-roofed bungalows but accommodation can still be hard to secure in the high seasons between December and February and July and August. The best time to visit is during the hot and dry season between February and June. There are flights from Bangkok to the island's Don Sak Airport. Several ferry and jetboat companies operate from Surat Thani: express boats take two and a half hours and jet boats take one and a half hours. Local transport comprises songthaews (trucks with two rows of seats in the back), though several places hire motorcycles. 

Attaction
Either on your outward or return journey, it is worthwhile to spend a little time in Surat Thani, the mainland hopping-off point for Ko Samui. this bustling fishing and shipbuilding centre is picturesquely located and has a distinct charm. A casual stroll around town or a canal tour on the Tapi river are rewarding for the glimpses they give of southern culture. Surat Thani is also a famous for its oyster farms, harvesting a giant species of the mollusk. 

More specifically for the serious sightseer, Chaiya , about a 45-minutes drive north of the town, is a major historical site. Its importance stems from the fact that some scholars contend that it was here that the ancient Srivijayakingdom had its capital. 

Whatever the merits of the claim and despite the fact that little remains to attest to the glories of Srivijaya, Chaiya does boast some ancient temples of note. Wat Phra Boromathat Chaiya, a highly revered temple, has a Chedi believed to be more than 1,300 years old, while Wat Wiang, Wat Long and Wat Kaeo are also worth visiting. 

A few kilometers west of Chaiya is Wat Suan Mok, "Monastery of Flowing Water" which is a tranquil meditation centre for both Thais and foreigners set amid a peaceful natural park. 

The picturesque Khao Sok National Park , about 100 kilometers west of Surat Thani, is another notable attraction. The are is rich in flora and fauna and basic bungalow accommodation is available. Alternatively, there is a "tree-top" guesthouse near by. 

Ko Samui's northern neighbour, Ko Pha-Ngan , is more tranquil, and has equally good beaches and fine snorkelling. Its renowned beach parties at Hat Rin are popular with backpackers, though not with the local police. The island is a half-hour boat ride from Ko Samui.