Located
in the southern part of The Gulf of Thailand, Koh Samui is Thailand's
third-largest island, measuring 280 square kilometers and part of
a
large group of islands known as the Angthong Islands.
Koh
in the Thai language means island and there are around eighty islands
neighbouring Samui: Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao and Koh Tan are the closest
and also are inhabited. Samui is covered with a tropical jungle with
hills up to 600 metres high. Around the island runs a 50 kilometer
main-road,connecting the popular beaches of Chaweng, Lamai,
Bophut and Maenam.
Extensive Coconut plantations complete the image of a tropical postcard
paradise.
From
the minute you arrive, whether by airplane, to the modern international
airport of the island, or by ferry boat, the beauty of Koh Samui will
enchant you. Although Koh Samui's allure for tourists began well over
15 years back, triggered by the arrival of the 'backpackers' or 'travellers',
Koh Samui has preserved its charm as a tropical paradise.
There
are around eighty islands neighboring Samui, all well-known for their beauty
and diving opportunities: Koh Pha Ngan, Koh Tao and Koh Tan are the closest
and easily reachable by boat.