Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ko Samui to Railay
Going Bi-Coastal
Soak up the sun and the tropical scenery by surveying the beaches and is-
lands of Thailand's famed coasts. Flights from Bangkok to Ko Samui
shorten the journey and minibuses burn rubber across the peninsula for
travellers skipping between coasts.
Ko Samui (
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)
Arrive in
Ko Samui
by air and make a beeline for
Chaweng
, Samui's stunning
stretch of sand. Explore the quieter northern beaches, or snorkel and kayak around
Ang Thong Marine National Park
. Stressed-out professionals flock to Samui for a
dose of health and wellness in addition to the usual beach treats of rest and recre-
ation. Hire a motorcycle and cruise the southern part of the island past coconut
groves and a few napping dogs.
KO SAMUI KO TAO
One to 2½ hours
from Ko Samui's Na Thon, Mae Nam or Big Buddha piers.
Ko Tao (
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)
Once you've been tenderised on Ko Samui, head to
Ko Tao
for underwater-scout-
ing missions. This little island competes with Thailand's more stunning beaches be-
cause of its many near-shore coral gardens and dive sites. Strap on your snor-
kelling gear and do an island swimming tour with the fish, or dive to greater depths
to explore underwater landscapes.
KO TAO CHUMPHON
1½ to two hours
from Ko Tao.
Chumphon (
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)
A ho-hum southern town,
Chumphon
is the mainland way-station for beach-bound
transport, mainly to Ko Tao. Ferries trundle between Chumphon and the gulf is-
lands, while buses and minivans vacuum up the sun-soaked faces bound for the
opposite coast. You can get a minivan to just about anywhere; talk to the travel
