| The second largest island off the east coast of | | | | over the place selling cheap cuisine provided by |
| Thailand, Koh Samui has more than 50,000 | | | | the many hotels on the island. |
| inhabitants yet retains a peaceful laidback charm, | | | | For those with an interest in art, there are |
| perfect for a relaxing holiday. | | | | bi-monthly events held in many of the 4/5 star |
| Encompassed in white sandy beaches, Koh Samui | | | | resorts. If sailing floats your boat, then the Koh |
| is a slice of heaven for those with a penchant for | | | | Samui Regatta is perfect. This year it is to be |
| sunbathing, long walks or sculpting sandcastles. | | | | held between 31 May and 5 June and should |
| Within these beaches lies some truly stunning | | | | feature boats from all over the world. |
| natural beauty, the gentle rumbling of a | | | | Many have heard of the Full Moon Party, a |
| picturesque waterfall can be heard from within the | | | | gathering on nearby Koh Phangan, which is great |
| swaying coconut palms and when found are a | | | | for those wanting to get together, drink, dance |
| true delight to behold. | | | | and be merry. If that's a little too busy then the |
| As one of the quieter islands, your perfect | | | | Black Moon Party on Koh Samui is a smaller affair |
| picturesque island won’t turn into something | | | | with the same kind of atmosphere held at |
| resembling Ibiza come sundown. With only a few | | | | Samrong or Chaweng beach. |
| bars and attractions, it really is about enjoying | | | | As a word of warning, drugs are not tolerated in |
| peace and quiet in a heavenly setting. | | | | Thailand and visitors get no leniency. Also avoid |
| However, at certain times of year certain | | | | taking anything from a stranger and make sure |
| festivities may interrupt your idyll. Taking place | | | | you wear strong sandals as sometimes bottles |
| during New Year's Day, the Buffalo Fighting | | | | and glasses get broken and mix with the sand. |
| Festival is one of the island's most popular and is | | | | A laidback and intimate environment swathes the |
| far less harmful than its Spanish counterpart. The | | | | island most of the year with the only real |
| buffalos are decorated before the proceedings | | | | excitement coming from the festivals and parties |
| and sprayed with holy water. | | | | throughout the year. Avoid festival days and your |
| The Fisherman’s Village Festival lasts five | | | | Koh Samui holiday will be effortless or pick a |
| days and is all about celebrating with music, food | | | | festival and enjoy the livelier side of Koh Samui |
| and a bucket load of fun. Food tents pop up all | | | | holidays. |