9 Reasons to Live on Samui Island

9 Reasons to Live on Samui Island
By Johny K

Shopping

Samui can be a shopping paradise for tourists, but in the past it was less so for residents. However this has now changed. We now have Tesco Lotus and the smaller Tops supermarkets, which stock not only everything to meet your everyday requirements but an increasing number of imported products, things that you may miss from home. The recent opening of Homepro means that all your DIY needs are taken care of too.

Nightlife

Offering everything from chilled out beach bars to full on beach parties and quiet little drinking holes to thumping discotheques, Samui's nightlife has something for everyone. With the opening of Q-Bar of Bangkok fame, the island is now starting to attract more exclusive nightlife options. If you are not a night-owl then don't worry - if you want it it's there, and if you don't then it won't keep you awake at night.

Accessibility

It may be an island but Koh Samui remains within easy reach of the rest of Thailand and Asia with Bangkok Airways ever widening network. You can be in Bangkok in an hour, and connect to flights around the world. It is also only a short flight to both Singapore and Hong Kong, both equally important travel hubs. So while it still retains the feel of a true tropical island the rest of the world is not too far away.

Restaurants

The quality and range of restaurants on the island seems to be continually improving. You can now find everything from Thai food stalls and western fast food all the way up to the finest French cuisine, and everything in between. In fact it is now easier to list the types of food that you can't find here now than those that you can.

Climate

What better way to escape from the cold of Europe than to spend the winter months on Samui. With temperatures rarely dropping below the low 20's Celsius even during the coolest season the sun is almost always shining. Even the rain is warm!

Environment

Despite the teething problems that so often affect places which experience a huge increase in popularity, Samui still remains a beautiful island. The beaches, forests, waterfalls and mountains all contribute towards the feeling of living in a tropical paradise, and with proper planning this will remain for future generations to enjoy.

People

What would Thailand or indeed Samui be without the Thai people? It is after all one of the reasons that so many people return to this country. Their friendly smiles and generally easy going nature make them a pleasure to deal with (even if the 'mai pen rai' factor can become a little frustrating at times when you need something done quickly!)

Services

The island now has almost every service you may require. Your health needs are well taken care of with a number of International standard hospitals.

Investment Potential

It is estimated that the growth in property prices in the last five years is over 100%, and it is showing no sign of slowing in the foreseeable future.

If you are not planning to stay year round it is equally good news. The demand for rental property is high, with many return visitors preferring to stay in villa type accommodation rather than hotels or resorts. Therefore even as the value of your property is rising there is also the potential to realise more immediate returns on your investment.

Johny is currently living on Samui Thailand and is working on a number of travel websites. If you are looking for a great Samui hotel then do visit http://www.mysamuiholiday.com. Read more about Koh Samui in his Samui Guide.

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Where to Eat on Koh Samui

Where to Eat on Koh Samui
By Johny K

When you first imagine Koh Samui you would be forgiven for thinking that a tropical island in Thailand would be somewhat limited in terms of the dining options on offer. Sure there will be some decent traditional Thai food and not much else, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Samui now boasts a multitude of top class restaurants featuring cuisine from across the globe as well as more than just "decent" Thai food. While the majority of restaurants tend to be in and around Chaweng Beach it would be a mistake not to make the effort to explore farther afield as there are some fantastic restaurants spread all across the island. The following are just a selection of what Samui has to offer, and you would be well advised to try at least one of them during your stay - you certainly won't regret it!

Time for Romance

On The Rocks at Sila Evason Hideaway

Dining on the Rocks, the signature restaurant of the Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa, boasts uninterrupted 270 degree views of the surrounding sea and outlying islands. With tables for two spread over no less than eight different areas, there are never more than a handful of tables in any one section. The most romantic spot however must be the single table which sits alone on its own private deck which is so popular with couples it is often booked days in advance. The menu is innovative and not only reflects a fusion of Asian and Western styles, but also offers some unusual contrasts which can best be described as "New Asian Cuisine" with a wine selection especially chosen to accompany every dish. Try the "Experiences" 10 course set dinner to get a real taste of what this restaurant it all about.

Tempting Thai

Chef Chom's at Tongsai Bay Cottages

This is one restaurant that can truly claim to offer "Royal Thai Cuisine", as Chef Chom herself comes from a family who used to cook in the palace of the late Princess Vibhavadee Rangsit. Equally delicious is the more home style Thai cooking, which features the award winning "Tongsai Thai Salad with Seafood".

The restaurant itself sits on a low hill and is extremely spacious and airy, with seating both inside and out, and naturally offers some great views of the bay below. Despite being somewhat off the beaten track at Choeng Mon Beach, it is well worth the effort to make the trip at least once during your stay.

Gourmet Dining

Betelnut

Betelnut has now been around long enough to be classed as a Samui institution, offering casual yet elegant dining in an intimate setting. Operations are overseen by experienced chef Jeffrey Lord, who's innovative, creative and spontaneous dishes are a unique fusion of Thai, Californian, European and Japanese styles. Although the menu is small, it offers a wide range of flavours and textures. For serious food lovers, Jeffrey can design special tasting menus with advance notice. Among the dishes on offer are Blackened Wahoo with Samui Salsa and the intriguingly named Buddha Jumped Over the Wall (if you want to know what it is you will just have to go and try it for yourself!)

Mouth-Watering Organic

Zazen Restaurant at Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa

This uniquely designed restaurant sits right on the waters edge between Maenam and Bophut. The menu could best be described as "Contemporary East to West cuisine", with a strong emphasis on the use of healthy organic ingredients wherever possible, something which surprisingly is not always easy to achieve on the island. There are a number of set menus on offer such as the "Asian Tropical Menu" featuring Oriental Cuisine from six different countries or the four course lobster menu for two, as well as an extensive a la carte menu. The wine cellar selection more than equals the food selection, boasting more than 75 different varieties of wine.

Johny is currently living on Samui Thailand and is working on a number of travel websites. If you are looking for a great Samui hotel then do visiting http://www.mysamuiholiday.com. Read more about Koh Samui in his Samui Guide.

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Koh Samui - One of the Fasting Growing Tourist Destination

Koh Samui - One of the Fasting Growing Tourist Destination
By Suchi Thomson

What does Hollywood flicks "Platform", "The Beach", "Meet the Parents" and video game "Burnout 3" has common? A hint, can you remember the long beaches, enticing coral reefs, beautiful plantation of coconut trees and magnificent Buddhist status. Yes, you guessed it right it's Koh Samui, one of the fast growing tourist destinations of the world. Be it the honeymooners paradise in "Meet the Parents " , the channel that links to paradise for the protagonist in "The Beach" or those huge Buddha towers in the racing game "Burn out 3"-all of these are realities in Koh Samui and none of these facts has been exaggerated.

Koh Samui is Thailand's third largest island. Its journey to become a hot tourist destination was nothing more than an exception. In the early 1970s it was just an agricultural state. Growing economy and space crunch in bigger cities over the years led to people looking for holidaying in more serene environment of the nature, away from the chaos of the city life. Grand villas, fairway, hill side resorts, hotels and other holiday gateways make it one of the hottest tourist destinations of the world. Today there is a long queue for reservation in resorts of Koh Samui. Tourists from all over the world visit this place. With rocking nightlife and great shopping plazas, it has become a must visit place.

So before planning to holiday in Koh Samui you can go through all the information you need from the internet. Be it booking a hotel room or a flight ticket or a scheduling your visit to the world famous Buddha statues, everything is possible to with the help of internet. So without much wait take the first flight out to and enjoy nature at its fullest.

Suchi is a freelance writer for travel magazines and websites on the topics like favorite tourist destinations, Resorts, Koh Samui Luxury Villas etc.

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Do's And Don'ts In Koh Samui

Do's And Don'ts In Koh Samui
By Louise J Taylor

If you're planning a vacation to Koh Samui, make sure you're familiar with their specific cultural etiquette and body language gestures before venturing in, especially if you're from a Western country. Asian countries have far different customs and understanding of body languages and as visitors, it is your duty to adjust to this etiquette and customs.

1. The Thai people adore and respect the royal family. Saying anything negative about them, even in jest, is frowned upon. Avoid talking about the royal family, if not in praise. Do not even attempt to say anything negative or you might get into big trouble with the locals.

2. Be mindful of your outfits. If you're going to be visiting a Buddhist temple or other areas where you have to show respect, make sure that you wear the appropriate attire. This means no sleeveless tops and short shorts.

3. In entering or leaving a building, check to see if other people take off their shoes or sandals first before getting inside. Some establishments require people to take off their foot wear before entering. Temples and private houses typically do not allow footwear.

4. The head is considered to be a sacred part of the body. Don't ever touch a local's head, even as an act of affection on children.

5. On the other hand, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body. Avoid pointing your feet on a person or a Buddhist monument. Especially when in front of a Buddha statue, make sure your feet are tucked between your legs when seated. Never ever place your feet on a table to rest. Also, avoid exposing the soles of your feet in plain view.

6. Always ask first before taking a picture of a monument or a statue. Some Buddhist statues are very sacred such that even taking their pictures is forbidden.

7. Give high regard for monks. If you're a woman, avoid physical contact with a monk as they are not allowed to touch a woman. If you want to offer a gift to a monk, pass it to a man or wrap it in cloth. In public vehicles, there are seats reserved exclusively for monks. Make sure to avoid sitting on those. If all seats are taken and a monk enters the vehicle, offer your seat.

8. It is considered rude and uncouth to shout, raise your voice, or express anger in Thailand, regardless of the situation. Never do it! No matter how apt you think it is, if you don't want to look like an uncultured swine.

9. Excessive public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially among elders. Although holding hands already seem acceptable in some areas, it is advised to just avoid displaying so much affection to avoid discomfort from the locals.

10. When eating or drinking out with locals, always make sure to have a clear agreement as to who pays. When locals invite a foreigner, they would usually pay and many would find it rude if the foreigner offers to pay or to go Dutch (American Share, in their lingo). The oldest or most superior member of the group is typically expected to foot the bill and offering to pay is the same as saying, "I am your superior".

To avoid awkward situations when you are invited for food or a drink, you can say something like, "No thanks, I can't afford it unless we have American share." This allows them to reveal whether they expect you to pay or they want to treat you.

I have listed a few websites that should help with your trip to Koh Samui:

- Koh Samui Hotels
- Flights to Koh Samui

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Koh Samui, Thailand - Opportunities in Real Estate Investment

Koh Samui, Thailand - Opportunities in Real Estate Investment
By John Smalls

Koh Samui, Thailand continues to yield interesting options for would be property investors. With the majority of Thailand real estate being purchased with cash, as bank finance being almost impossible to obtain, the underlying valuation of property and land is being maintained, although due to most investors being foreign investors with a portfolio of assets, there are now some nice prospects for those with investment capital who are ready to consider increasing their property portfolio.

For the medium term this Island and top 10 holiday destination continues to be a favorite investment centre for major branded hotels and spa resorts. Conrad Hotel and the recently opened Ibis are amongst several being built as this tropical Island continues to grow in popularity. There are also several luxury villa resorts being planned by major property companies, seeing a bright future in the luxury destination market. Popular destinations such as Chaweng, Cheong Mon and Bophut continue to attract vacationers from around the globe, despite the recent political troubles in Thailand.

The current world financial crisis in late 2008 has gives property buyers opportunities as several sellers are forced to reduce price to make a sale in these difficult conditions. There are several options available, both new off-plan and resale properties that now are providing buyers with significant cost advantages. The market now coming up to the high season is quite flat, with bargain properties appearing as sellers discount in order to stimulate interest.

We are seeing discounts by as much as 40% off some resale units where the owner is seeking to quickly release the cash in a property. One specific example of this is a four bedroom newly completed villa in Bang Makham, originally for sale for 25mThai Baht (715k US$), this has been discounted for quick sale at a little over 15m Thai Baht (429k US$).

Developers are realizing that to maintain and promote sales they must offer special discounted prices to offset the strong advances of the Thai Baht against a host of currencies (example: The GBP has fallen from 63 to 51 Thai Baht since September 2008, a drop of almost 20%). Developers and creative marketers are also promoting by adding in some creative financing plans, including sometimes extended payment terms over 3 years. Others are giving longer terms of up to 10 year private finance deals with down payments of 40% - 50% of the full purchase price.

Examples of one specific special promotions is new pricing being introduced by Samui Emerald Condominium at Plai Laem, Koh Samui, where they are actively promoting their first class product through sale of leasehold units, a 44sqm fully furnished unit can be bought for a little over 50,000 GBP (2,640,000 Thai Baht) at the time of writing this article. The foreign buyer in this case would need to set up a Thai company, in order to purchase one of these special units.

Take a look at Koh Samui, Thailand, whilst the market has some interesting opportunities available for the savy investor.

Samui Real Estate Locators Co., Ltd - Real Estate Agent and Property Finder. Koh Samui, Thailand

From our specially selected list of quality Koh samui Villas, search for you perfect Samui home in Thailand. Our goal is to find each and every client, dream Samui homes. Based in Bophut, we broker exclusive property and luxury homes for sale.

John Smalls
http://www.samui-real-estate-locators.com

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Some Reasons For Renting a Car While in Kho Samui Thailand

Some Reasons For Renting a Car While in Kho Samui Thailand
By Eamonn Turley

Koh Samui is a small Island, the many resorts are spread out over this valuable coast line. Samui town itself is the central evening attraction with a host of bars, nightclubs and restaurants. Given that your resort may be miles from the town center and that Samui offers many other attractions such as day spas or healing centers you really do need a hire car. Whilst your resort may have a first class restaurant Samui town offers a wide selection of seafood restaurants all of equal quality, the seafood is displayed on ice in the front of the restaurants to entice you in.

Tip Budget and Thai Rent A Car have depots at the open air tropical airport , both offer first class cars and good insurance cover. Cars can be rented direct from our resort but quality and age will be an issue.

Koh Samui at one time was very cheap and catered mainly to the backpacker that is no longer the case with 5 star hotels in abundance, however some resorts do still cater for the budget traveler. Samui is also popular for the healing or spa type holiday with many first class spa resorts situated along the coastline. They offer all forms of alternative medicine including colon cleansing . If you are on a traditional holiday it is still possible to go along and experience a day of spa treatments.

A rental car is not expensive to run as petrol is cheap in Thailand and parking is free. Do book your car hire in advance with a reputable company to avoid ending up possibly with a car with worn brake pads, no power steering and possibly no or limited insurance cover.

If you decide not to rent a car the you can avail of the local taxi service which comprise of open back pickups with 2 rows of seats ( no seat belts ). These can be flagged down just like a taxi and will bring you back to your resort, do agree a price upfront to save on any misunderstanding, a copy of hotel name card will also help.

Tip : Samui Island is full of local and tourist on motorbikes, do give them the right of way and a wide berth as most will not be wearing safety helmets and some may have been drinking.

Article was compiled by Eamonn Turley who writes for http://www.fastcarhire.co.uk specialized in car rental in Malaysia, Thailand and Australia.

If you are thinking of visiting Thailand for that once in a lifetime trip then http://www.fastcarhire.co.uk/thailand_car_hire.asp for more information on car rental options available

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Koh Samui Hotel Reservation Made Easy

Koh Samui Hotel Reservation Made Easy
By Rob Noobert

There are lots ways to make a Koh Samui Hotel Reservation. If you are going to Koh Samui for the first time you will probably buy your complete holiday as a "package", this is what most people do and they normally regret it after the first couple of days. Why? Because it is very rare for Travel Agents or Holiday Sellers to actually check out the Hotels and Resorts they are sending you to, add to that the fact that the prices WILL be ridiculously high compared to what you will see displayed on arrival. I'm sure you're starting to get the picture.

So, what can you do to make Koh Samui Hotel Reservation a nice and easy experience? Well here are a couple of ways...

1. If you have the time and you arrive early enough in the day the absolute best way to ensure you are going to be happy with where you stay for the duration of your holiday is to have a look around the island to see what is available. There are many hotels, resorts and bungalows on Koh Samui and they all vary in price and quality. Only you know what you will be happy with and where, for this reason, I'd say, as long as you have the time, this is the way to go.

2. The other way is to do some research and then make your Koh Samui Hotel Reservation on the Internet. This is becoming common practice all over the World, you could actually book everything (flights, accommodation, transport and tours) on the internet and, within an hour, You WILL have Saved Money and Won't have to worry about anything once you get to Koh Samui apart from relaxing and enjoying yourself.

For a Reliable Koh Samui Hotel Reservation System and loads more information on Koh Samui you should visit The Koh Samui Visitor Guide Website Today.

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A Koh Samui Spa Resort Guide

A Koh Samui Spa Resort Guide
By Rob Noobert

Koh Samui Spa Resort type establishments have been growing in popularity over the recent years. Lots of people who visit Koh Samui are in search of a place to stay where they can relax and recharge their batteries. There are many new age centres that were established for years before Spas turned more main stream. These "old school" establishments are being complemented by an ever increasing number of new up market Spa Resorts. Many of these are located within The Hotels and Resorts of Koh Samui.

Here is a short outline for just two of the many Koh Samui Spa Resorts.

Baan Sabai is has a wonderful location in a Beautiful Resort of Thai Teak Ayutthaya Styled Houses and Salas, on the Beach near Big Buddha. The houses and the well looked after Tropical Gardens are dotted with Relaxing Buddha images and amazing antiques. All the treatments offered at Baan Sabai are given with the wonderful relaxing sound of the waves lapping nearby. This exaggerates an already very relaxing experience.

Samui Dharma Healing Centre is an intense fasting spa which is run according to very Strict Buddhist principles. They offer 7, 10, 14 and 21 day courses. During your selected programme you will complete a remove all fast this will include drinking various nourishing mineral drinks, taking a Chinese Herbal Cleansing formula, Colonic Irrigation and many other wonderful body cleansing treatments.

South East Asian Beauty Secrets, Traditional Thai Massage, Body De Stressing Treatments and so much more. You will find them all at your very own Koh Samui Spa Resort.

If you are thinking of a Koh Samui Spa Resort for your next holiday or if you would just like more information about Koh Samui including checking availability and booking your accommodation you should visit the Koh Samui Visitor Guide Today.

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Koh Samui - Thailand Information 101

Koh Samui - Thailand Information 101
By Terry Bytheway

The thirst largest of Thailand's Islands in the South, Koh Samui offers everything you could want... and more! Popular with westerns and locals alike, many come and wish never to have to return to their mundane life back home, in fact some don't return and relocate to this tropical paradise! Not only highly affordable, Koh Samui offers high quality and assures relaxation as well as partying!

Perfect climate, stunning scenery, crystal water, amazing cuisine and partying until the early hours for those who so wish, Koh Samui really does have it all!

Superb health care and international schools, mean that living long term in this stunning location really can be a reality, and it has everything older couples could desire for retirement to the Island...

The list of potential fun activities is endless; caving, scuba dicing, kayaking, snorkeling, island hopping, cycling, dancing, partying, sunbathing, spa and relaxations treatments, why not?

Surrounding islands Koh Tao, Koh Wua Talap or Koh Mae Koh are a boat ride away and have more of the same stunning scenery. But if this sound too energetic, stay put in your hammock or sun lounger and watch the world pass you by! Or check into one of the spa resorts and truly escape the hustle and bustle of your life back home. Hit the shops and grab a bargain or two, then sit on the beach over candlelight and sample the fantastic local delicacies. You can exert as much or a little energy as you wish in Koh sanui!

There are an abundance of new residential areas for those of you who cant bear to prise yourself away and wish to make Koh Samui you're permanent residence! Think about it- what more could you ask for?!

Read more information on luxury koh samui rental villas and thailand villas for much more than luxury living.

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Koh Samui Thailand - Travel Destination

Koh Samui Thailand - Travel Destination
By Ferd Herbsen

Koh Samui is easily reached from Bangkok, Thailand's main transport hub, by plane or bus / ferry combination. Other domestic destinations and even Malaysia can be reached from here as well. Should you travel by land, Surat thani Town, Don Sak or Chumporn are the ferry ports to reach the island.

Even due to all the development going on in recent years, the island still has its green stretches and also exports around seventy tons of coconuts per month, mostly to Bangkok.

Having started off as backpacker destination in the early 80's, Samui offers now something for everybody. From a beach bungalow to a high tech villa. A speed garage spring break in stylish bars and venues, one made completely from ice, or a chilled family holiday with some yoga recreation. The size of Samui, and its countless bays make it possible.

Or you are even thinking about renting a house. Should you stay more than one month it can save you a great deal of money. You can rent any style of house between 80 $ and 8000 $ a month. Most of them will have air conditioning included and feature some furniture or a kitchen. Huge Retailers like Makro™, BigC™ or TESCO™ make your daily shopping easier.

Getting around is easy as regular bus and taxi services connect all major towns and beaches. Private air conditioned and metered taxis can be hired for a slightly higher share. For single travelers a motorbike taxi will be the cheapest way to get around.

Samui offers a lot of spare time activities. Mountain trails, waterfalls or tours to the Ang Thong National Marine Park for the nature lovers. Golf & Shooting Ranches, Water parks and Go karts for the holiday junkie. And Fine Dining Restaurants, Tennis Tournaments and sailing cruises for high flyers. A lot of western managed diving schools will happily take care of your water sports needs. And a trip around the island may discover some fun activities such as football golf or guppy fishing. There is plenty to do for everybody.

Speedboat transfers to the world famous Full Moon Party on the sister island of Koh Phangan are easily available at every travel agency.

Please note that Koh Samui is part of the Surt thani province. One of fifteen provinces in Thailand where the wearing of a helmet whilst operating a motorcycle is required. The legal fine for offenders varies between 300 and 500 Thai Baht (7-12$). If you never have driven a motorcycle before, then Koh Samui is not the place to learn it.

Have a nice holiday and enjoy the land of smile.

Ferd Herbsen

(Manager "Herbs & Spices - Jumunjy" - Koh Phangan)

http://www.jumunjy.com - Jumunjy Club Koh Phangan / DJ Promotions for Asia

(Webmaster - databass.asia)

http://www.databass.asia - Your Resource for music in Asia

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