This was published 1 year ago
Koh Samui, Thailand things to do: Tips from an expert expat
By Belinda Jackson
"Sabai Sabai" means relax, which pretty much sums up island life in Thailand. Credit: iStock
Gold Coaster Leah Matters moved to Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort in 2015 before making the journey to Koh Samui to take up the role of general manager at the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort two years ago.
"To sweeten the deal, I met my husband-to-be in Koh Samui at the gym," she says.
SEE
Gold Coaster Leah Matters moved to Outrigger Laguna Phuket Beach Resort in 2015 before making the journey to Koh Samui to take up the role of general manager at the Outrigger Koh Samui Beach Resort two years ago.
Visit and learn about Thailand's pride and joy, the majestic elephant. Samui Elephant Haven is one of the only fully ethical elephant parks where the emphasis is on observation and education. All 20 elephants in their care have been rescued from either the tourism industry or logging. These gentle giants have been subjected to abuse, overwork and lifetime injuries. Be sure to buy the fruit cake smash experience; guaranteed to leave you smiling ear to ear. See samuielephanthaven.org
DO
Start your day with a hike to one of the many waterfalls around the island for a dip in the cooling and pristine fresh streams; Hin Lat Waterfall is one of the most popular. Adrenaline junkie? The zip-lining tours will have you whizzing high among the trees in the middle of the jungle. The guides at Tree Bridge Cafe have a wicked sense of humour. See treebridgezipline.com
EAT
Panoramic views, breathtaking sunsets, delicious Thai and Western dishes with a wine and cocktail menu to boot, Jungle Club ticks all the boxes. Reservations are a must and be sure to include the transfer, as the hill is scary steep. The lamb spring rolls and lemongrass mules are a must. See jungleclubsamui.com
DRINK
Foxtrot Bistro is a beachfront hidden backyard with some of the island's most beautiful sunsets. While the food is delicious and perfect for sharing, the highlights are their crafted cocktails; best on the island. If you want a specifically crafted cocktail, just ask Helen and she will create one for you. See facebook.com/foxtrotsamui/
AVOID
While Thai people are very open-minded and easy going, culturally they are very conservative, especially in terms of dress. Of course, one should dress with weather in mind (it is hot and humid here) but try to dress respectfully especially at temples, restaurants, shopping centres etc. Would you go shopping in a bikini in your home country?
THRIVE
"Sabai Sabai" means relax, which pretty much sums up island life here in Thailand. Be sure to take a deep breath and go with the flow. Things may not go to plan, but will eventually happen.
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