Koh Samui is one of Thailand's most popular island getaways and is famous for its beautiful white sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere and incredible natural surroundings. First time visitors to the island will marvel at the wonderful natural beauty and dramatic hilly landscapes of this enchanting holiday destination, which really does have something for everyone.

You can be sure that you will not run out of things to do during you stay, from lazy days spent on some of South East Asia's most picturesque beaches to fun filled adventure holidays and just about everything in between, Koh Samui really does have it all.

Most of Samui, and especially in the main areas such as Chaweng, Lamai, Maenam, Bophut and Nathon, you will find countless numbers of ATMs dotted along the streets and even inside shopping centers. There are several different banks including Siam Commercial Bank, Kasikorn Bank, Bangkok Bank and Bank of Ayudhya.

ATM machines offer several language options for your convenience. Please be aware, unlike in some countries, once you select what you require the money will come out FIRST and your ATM card will come out LAST.

If you need to go into the bank, there are always English speaking Bank Tellers available who can help you with more complex transactions.

Visa, Mastercard (Bangkok) 02-299 1990

American Express (Bangkok) 02-273 0020

Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut and Maenam you will find money changing booths that are open generally until 11pm at night. You may be asked to show your passport and you must sign a slip that confirms how much you are transferring and receiving in Thai Baht or other currencies. Please check this thoroughly before signing.

Please note that coins cannot be exchanged.

7/11, family Mart and other 24 hour convenience stores are readily available in Koh Samui – in fact there are hundreds. These stores sell drinks, snacks, sunscreen, toiletries and other commonly purchased items. You can also purchase alcohol. Please be aware that as a law of Thailand you may only purchase alcohol between certain hours. You cannot purchase alcohol between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Shopping Centers and Supermarkets

The biggest shopping center on the island is Central Festival. Located on the Chaweng Beach Road, Central Festival is home to a cinema, countless restaurants, a department store with big name brands, bars, cafes and an international supermarket called Tops where you can find almost anything you need.

There are four other 4 major shopping centers on the island. Tesco Lotus is located in both Chaweng and Lamai, whilst there is also Makro and Big C located in Chaweng. Tesco offers a supermarket for food and other goods as well as other smaller shops, fast food and banks within the complex (Tesco Chaweng is also home to a Cinema and Bowling). Big C is very similar to Tesco whilst Makro is a wholesale store selling more bulk items for the restaurants and hotels on the island.

You can also purchase alcohol at any of these shopping centers. Please be aware that as a law of Thailand you may only purchase alcohol between certain hours. You cannot purchase alcohol between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Tesco and Big C are open from 10am to 9pm daily while Makro is open from 7am until 10pm. Central Festival is open from 10am through until late night.

Purchasing alcohol on Samui is easy and most spirits and beers from home are available.

It is advisable to note that Thai law states you may only purchase alcohol between certain hours. You cannot purchase alcohol between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm unless you are buying in bulk (several liters or more).

It is important to understand that whilst spirits and beer and other pre-mixed drinks are quite inexpensive to purchase wine, sparkling wine and Champagne are far more expensive. Within Thailand, a 'luxury tax' is imposed on wine and even the cheapest of bottles that you find at home may seem strangely expensive here.

Makro and Tesco are good places to purchase alcohol in bulk (such as cartons of beer), but you will find most supermarkets and convenience stores also sell a wide range. If you are after more high-end wine and a wider range of products – there are several wine purveyors such as Wine Connection located in Chaweng.

We cannot stress enough that you should not drink and drive and to be safe at all times whilst consuming alcohol.

Phones / Calling and Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available all throughout Samui at most venues and you simply need to request the password from the place you are staying/eating or drinking at.

If you would like to purchase a SIM card and credit to use whilst in Thailand, you can purchase at any phone store (located within the Shopping Centers, see above) or from any 7/11 or Family Mart Convenience store (see above).

There are several carriers including 1-2-Call and D-Tac. Simply ask at the convenience store for a SIM card and for credit and they will help load your phone with the credit and the SIM card. When you run out of credit, simply go to the convenience store and ask for the amount of credit/ top-up you would like eg. 100 baht, 200 baht and so on.

Dialing code to call from/to Thailand - Thailand country code 066

001 + country code + regional area code WITHOUT the 0 + number

00 + 66 + regional area code WITHOUT the 0 + number

Calling a mobile phone - Dialing codes 01 or 06 or 07 or 09

01 or 06 or 07 or 09 + your correspondent's number

00 + 66 + 1 or 6 or 7 or 9 + your correspondent's number

Our essential guide to top detox treatments and best spas on Koh Samui, which is fast becoming Thailand's go to island for those wanting to get purified, refreshed and rejuvenated on their holiday.

With the beautiful food and easy living, why not take some time out to upgrade your vacation with a personalised holistic program tailored specifically for you? Allow a qualified professional to put together a program of specialised yoga and meditation, detox and cleansing or targeted weight loss – all to suit you and your personal needs and requirements.

Traditional Thai massage can be enjoyed cheaply on the beach or in smaller shops in the main areas of the island whilst more complex treatments and alternative therapies can be enjoyed in most major hotels, some spa-only facilities and of course within the privacy of your villa.

Thailand is one of the world's leading spa destinations. There is a wide variety of budget options, but also many 5-star world-class spas. Let us guide you in your choices in this, the most indulgent of all leisure activities! But if you would prefer a massage or treatment in the comfort of your room or villa, we can arrange for a highly-trained professional to come and visit you.

Traditional Thai massage can be enjoyed cheaply on the beach or in smaller shops in the main areas of the island whilst more complex treatments and alternative therapies can be enjoyed in most major hotels, some spa-only facilities and of course within the privacy of your villa.

Some spas we can recommend are –

Anantara Lawana Hotel Spa – Chaweng

Beach Republic Hotel Spa – Lamai

Sala Samui Hotel Spa – Choeng Mon

Whilst on the island you may decide you want your hair cut or dyed, perhaps your legs waxed, you nails done, eyelash extensions and more.

We have a list of preferred suppliers that are both reliableand are available to either come to you in your villa or you can visit them at their shop.

Please simply let us know your requirements and we will assist you.

When staying on the islands, the variety of beaches are simply impressive. Popular choices of long white sandy coastlines to rocky coasts and even shallow stretches full of marine life and when you are after utter solitude, there are many beaches off the beaten track where you can discover for yourself the unspoiled and isolated beaches of days gone by.

In-Villa / Private Entertainment and Services

Apart from the bars and nightlife on the island, it is possible to organise your own entertainment for birthdays, celebrations, events or just because! If you are staying in a villa, these options can be both cost effective and a fantastic way to enjoy both your villa and the island in complete privacy.

We can offer you many services such as; –

Catering – including buffet, canapés, sit-down dinners, BBQs, brunches, picnics and more

Birthday or other event cakes made to order

Lighting and sound equipment

We can even help plan your future wedding!

Please simply let us know your requirements and we can organise everything for you!

A cinema is located within Tesco Lotus in Chaweng. Generally only one or two English movies are shown, whilst the rest are Thai. Check their website for movie times "www.majorcineplex.com

If you are going out for dinner or perhaps heading out for some shopping around the island and you require our driver service, your villa should provide such a service for your convenience. Please see your in-villa guide or speak with your Villa Manager.

Motorbike or Car hire is a great way to discover the island of Samui. If you would like some time to explore, we can organize any vehicle for you.

We can arrange delivery of the vehicle you require to your villa. When you have finished with the ehicle we will be happy to collect from you – making your stay as relaxing as possible!

We do not encourage motorbike or scooter hire (although we do hire them upon request) due to the significant number of accidents on Samui roads involving these vehicles and recommend car hire at all times.

In Samui, we drive on the left and some road rules may differ to those at home. Please ensure you have a valid license in case of accidents and that your insurance policy covers road accidents as hospital stays can be costly.

When driving around the island, please drive safely and obey all road rules and wear a helmet or seatbelts at all times.

We have a selection of recommended professional photographers who work with us and are on hand for any event, be it big or small. From intimate birthday celebrations to larger than life weddings – photography services are perfect if you're looking to capture the memories of your holiday in a spectacular way.

If you are looking to have an item made or simply have something fixed, hemmed or rebuttoned – we have several trusted tailors we can recommend who will provide you with quality service.

Should you require the laundry service during your stay your villa should supply.

Otherwise, there are hundreds of laundries located around the island who are generally reliable and very cheap and charge by weight, with additional charge for ironing - most will do same day service or next day for your convenience. For items that are very valuable we recommend you wash yourself or when you return home.

Babysitting / Child-minding

Thai people adore children and there are many reputable Thai/English Speaking babysitting /child minding services available.

We only recommend babysitters who have experience with children of all ages and will keep your children entertained or watch over their night-time sleep to ensure your peace of mind.

The beaches on Samui all vary depending on which side of the island they are located with different types of sand, tides and facilities etc. Below we explore the main ones for you;

Samui's most popular, loud and lively beach, you'll find the perfect swimming waters here along with many bars and restaurants that stay open until the wee hours. With various watersports available and plenty of people and hawkers, Chaweng beach has an electric vibe like no other.

Some will argue that the swimming in Lamai is even better than on Chaweng beach. The long perfect white sand crescent of the beach is also considered to be the finest on the island. Dotted with relaxed beach-style bars, it's easy to sit back and soak in the island.

An ideal place to chill out, Bophut boasts 2 kilometers of white sandy shoreline fringed by leaning coconut palms. A quiet beach void of hawkers, Bophut beach gives you the relaxation you are looking for.

The tranquillity of Maenam still continues to draw those in search of peace and quiet, retaining its old Samui character. Home to windsurfing and several restaurants and bars, this widestretch of beach is popular with all.

The long sweeping beach hosts a number of ferries and a view to Koh Phangan as well as the giant golden Big Buddha statue. Fairly quiet and generally uninhabited, this beach is rather narrow with only a few restaurants and bar.

Choeng Mon is made up of a series of bays and while many people just like to totally relax here, there are plenty of water sport options available. With a number of restaurants, Choeng Mon's wide stretch of beach is dotted with sunbeds for your enjoyment.

Set on the west coast, Taling Ngam beach is known for it's absolute tranquillity. With very few tourists, this beach remains quite untouched and is a reflection of the Koh Samui of old.

Like Taling Ngam, Lipa Noi is one of the quieter stretches of beach that allow you to completely immerse yourself in the surroundings whilst listening to the lapping waves. A number of hotel restaurants offer up thirst-quenching and stomach sating dishes to enjoy.

If you're looking for a relaxing day out, adventure, a romantic afternoon for two, family activities, or a specifically Thai experience, you´ll find something on the island to suit everyone. Please see below for some fun stuff for the whole family!

KOH TAO & KOH NANGYUAN SNORKELING TRIP

Air-con minivan pick up from your villa to Lomprayah Pier. Light meal served for breakfast at the pier

Board a high speed catamaran, the most comfortable way to get there, within 1.5 hours

Arrive in Koh Tao, board a snorkeling boat and begin your underwater exploration

Buffet lunch will be served at Koh Nangyuan restaurant, with further snorkeling in Koh Nangyuan, as well as fun activities such as the 10 minute hike to the view point on top of the mountain.

Catamaran journey back to Samui

Souvenir shopping and transfer back to your villa

Kalara has teamed up with only the very best of scuba diving companies to offer you the finest diving experience available on the island. Regardless of ability, there is an option for you – with PADI courses for beginners, advanced divers, divemasters, and kids too. Whatever course you go for you will receive an unrivalled level of care and attention.

For those of you wanting to see the world-famous marine life of Thailand, there are some fantastic snorkelling charters that are great fun for all the family. The tours restrict the numbers on board to a maximum of 12 people, in order to ensure a personal service.

Koh Tao is arguably one of Thailand´s best kept secrets. Known as a snorkeler and scuba divers paradise, visitors are encouraged to explore the crystal clear shallow waters, coral reefs filled with colorful marine life, feed the fish, wander the white sandy beaches or just sun bake amongst within stunning landscape.

Koh Nangyuan is a tiny island attached to Koh Tao and is also known for its magnificent snorkeling and beautiful beaches. It also holds a large mountain and two smaller mountains for short hikes and spectacular views.

ANGTHONG NATIONAL MARINE PARK

Explore the exotic island of Angthong National Marine Park. Walk on pristine white beaches, swim in emerald green water, discover the island and various caves by kayak, snorkel the tropical underwater world and climb the mountain ranges.

Transfer for your villa to Nathon Pier

Depart from Koh Samui to Angthong National Marine Park, with breakfast served on board

Arrive at Angthong National Marine Park "Koh Wau Ta Lap". Kayak to explore the various caves, climb to the panoramic view points, discover -Bua Boke- volcanic cave and snorkeling around the beach

Catamaran journey back to Samui

Arrive "Koh Mae Koh", climb the pathway to view the famous inner sea, and more snorkeling

Journey back to Koh Samui, with afternoon snack on board

Arrive in Koh Samui and transfer back to your villa

ANGTHONG NATIONAL MARINE PARK

Want to get more out of your day? This tour to the National Marine Park allows more activities to be compacted into one day, as you travel by speed boat, getting you to and from Ang Thong faster. This tour also gives you the option of elephant trekking or riding an ATV quad bike at the end of the day.

Departure with high speedboat - with light breakfast served on board

Arrive at "Wao Island" for the best snorkeling in the area

Reach "Tai Phow Island" and cruise through the magnificent beauty of Ang Thong National Marine Park, exploring the ancient limestone cave by sea canoe

Board a luxury boat for buffet lunch

Speed boat again to Mae Koh Island. Relax on the beach or climb through dense rain-forest, for the spectacular view of the Emerald Lake

Depart the National Marine Park, head back to the elephant camp on Samui

Meet and feed the baby elephants

Choose between elephant trekking or ATV quad bike ride

Transfer back to your hotel

Interested in chasing the catch of the day? Board a genuine Thai fishing boat which offers plenty of shade, with all equipment supplied including your rod, lines, trawling gear, bait and lures,

Fresh cold drinks supplied all day as well as a Thai boat lunch and fresh tropical fruits. Not to mention the bragging rights if you snag the fish of a lifetime!

Types of fish to expect include Barracuda, Cobia, Shark, Mackerel, Sailfish, Snapper, Grouper, Trevally, to name a few! BBQ your catch on board or take it home!

Boat departs for open water

Boat re t u rns and transfer back to villa

Full Day Tour (09.00 - 17.30)

Grandfather Grandmother rocks

Elephant trekking 30 minutes (optional)

Viewpoint 650 meters above sea level

Pass Maenam / Bophut Villages

Tasting Thai fruit in season

Lunch at Woodland Restaurant

Half Day Tour (09.00 - 15.00)

Elephant trekking 3o minutes (optional)

Tasting Thai fruit in season

Have you ever imagined soaring through the air at speeds of 40 MPH, suspended above a tropical rain forest? Or wondered what it's like to be a bird flying from branch to branch? If the answer's YES then this is about as close as you'll ever get! If you've ever longed to fly, then this is for you.

We can arrange for you to be picked up from your hotel or villa and shuttled off to the base camp via a safari ride in a 4×4 vehicle . . . which is an adventure all by itself…before you get deep into the unspoiled jungle, where your epic rides begin.

You'll be greeted by friendly and highly-trained staff and also provided with the delicious natural refreshment that only the fresh bounty of the rainforest can provide. Plus canned soft drinks.

4x4 safari to the location

6 cable rides for over 500 meters

Highly trained staff on every platform

World´s best equipment - PETZL

Complimentary fresh fruit and snacks

2 to 3 hours per tour, but you are welcome to spend the whole day

This 4WD All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) trip sends you off on a stimulating cross-country trip that takes in secret waterfalls and streams, coconut groves, water buffalos, and fruit and rubber plantations. Refreshments are available along the way. Even if you are a beginner there's need for concern, as the experienced and pleasant staff will instruct you and have you up and running in no time!

Whether you have ridden a quad motorbike before, or a beginner, this fun day out suits everyone. Training is provided and guides are there on hand to assist throughout the trip.

The tour includes transfer to and from your villa, all equipment, assistance, fuel and insurance, plus refreshments are available from the viewpoint restaurant.

Want to try something different, something you´ve never done before, something that will make your heart race and adrenalin pump? Samui Shooting Range offers such an opportunity! With a number of various firearms on offer, this is your chance to take aim and shoot in a safe environment with skillful instruction..

Offering a unique speed boating experience, Dolphin Tour Samui operate small half day and full day group tours, exploring Koh Samui´s coastline, visiting hidden caves, island hopping, shopping, snorkeling and most importantly pink dolphin watching.

What also makes this tour operator special is they are actively involved in the Wild Dolphin Protection Team Co Ltd.

Villa pickup and scenic drive through the beautiful south of Samui

Speedboat ride past the Five Sister Islands

Exciting pink dolphin watching along the coast with 90% chance of spotting

River ride with long-tail boat through mangroves and jungle - passing fisherman´s village and followed by lunch

After lunch visit a beautiful beach for swimming and relaxing

Visit a deep mystic cave with huge stalactites and stalagmites

Villa pickup and scenic drive through the beautiful south of Samui

Speedboat ride past the Five Sister Islands

Exciting pink dolphin watching along the coast with 90% chance of spotting

Snorkeling or relaxing at hidden South Coral Islands

Slowly start to return home around 2pm

Cycling is becoming an increasingly more popular activity in Samui. There are cycling experts on the island who can organise trips to famous viewpoints or head off cross country or along the many beaches and coasts. The tour guides are seasoned mountain bikers who know the culture and understand the delicate ecosystem of the island, offering an experience which embodies fitness, education and enjoyment all rolled into one.

Professional courts are available for general hire, along with racquets and balls. Additionally, the venues can also provide you with professional coaching or a playing partner.

To view things in a different way, how about joining a hiking group and enjoying like-minded and genial company as you explore this paradise island! The group will take you through the old trails as used by the locals before the roads were built – revealing stunning panoramic views over the island and beyond. Choose between short hikes to the lesser-known waterfalls, or longer excursions of up to half a day or more.

Koh Samui is a water sporting paradise, with the ingredients of sea, sun and surf! If you are up for getting wet, then we can offer you a wide range of environmentally friendly water sporting activities.

There are many companies that can provide you with all the equipment you need, plus years of experience. So why don´t you give it a go, get some exercise, and jump into a kayak, try your hand at windsurfing or get on one of the very fast sailing catamarans.

Lessons, courses and assistance are provided by a professional team (Lessons given in English and German).

Kalara has teamed up with Koh Samui's No.1 scuba diving company to offer you the finest diving experience available on the island. Regardless of ability, there is an option for you – with PADI courses for beginners, advanced divers, divemasters, and kids too. They make sure that the numbers on board stay low to ensure a highly personal service. Whatever course you go for you will receive an unrivalled level of care and attention.

With one-day or extended rentals available, you have the opportunity of enjoying a relaxed cruise which includes the destinations of your choice

Elect to enjoy snorkelling, diving or relaxing in the sun, floating on the clear turquoise waters, surrounded by smaller unspoiled islands with white sandy beaches ,coconut palms and clear blue seas.

You can visit secluded beaches on uninhabited islands, the rustic Koh Pha-Ngan and the hip Koh Tao, or explore the Anthong National Marine Park, a beautiful archipelago of 42 tropical islands.

Kalara is pleased to offer a wide range of world-class yachts and motor cruisers for your pleasure, all with a full range of amenities.

Highly-trained staff come as standard, and full concierge packages are available for your ultimate enjoyment.

Koh Samui ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Koh Samui is an ideal family destination – kids are welcome everywhere & there's all sorts to keep them entertained. Thais love children and have a "more the merrier, all ages" attitude – as long as they're well-behaved! If you're looking for some family-friendly things to do and see for the kids, then there are plenty of choices available.

Located in Lamai, Coco Splash is a water park with slides, trampolines and other fun things for kids to enjoy.

Constructed out of inflatables, this fun for all ages aqua park floats on the water at Chaweng beach with obstacle courses and just fun to jump up and down on!

Located near the airport, Fairways is a great place for the young ones. With an entire room kitted out with slides, ball pit and made all out of rubber for safety, kids can have a great time with other children playing games. There is also an outdoor pool and a restaurant with a bar for the parents!

10 pin bowling is something the whole family can enjoy. Located in Tesco on the Chaweng Ring Road, you can enjoy your own private karaoke rooms or hre a lane or two, enjoy some games and snacks (alcohol is served for the parents!)

Much like golf, but with Frisbees! Set amongst the tropical landscape, aim for the baskets and get your Frisbee in. You can organize a tournament or just a fun day out for the family.

Again, just like golf, but you use your feet and a football to navigate the course and get as many goals as you can!

If you are looking for a place on Samui to relax, close to nature, Paradise Park Farm is it. It is on Samui's highest mountain, Khao Pom, within a tropical rainforest surrounded by waterfalls, small rivers, exotic birds and wildlifeanimals.

Located in Hua Thanon on the south of the island, with a ballet school and delicious chocolate to enjoy, you can't go wrong!

If you fancy a bit of time to yourself, there is a creche located at the very southern end of the Chaweng beach road. The staff team is trustworthy, all experienced child minders and there are lots of toys and DVDs to keep kids amused.

Spectacular & Serene Destinations

With over 1,000 miles of coastline, Thailand offers such a profusion of sandy beaches, sheltered bays, quiet coves and idyllic islands, that the choices for a holiday in the sun are near limitless. Each location has its own distinct character, so whether the choice is for an action-packed vacation, a fun-filled party scene, or a lazy escape into a serene tropical paradise, all dreams of the perfect beach are wonderfully fulfilled. What remains constant is the year-round sunshine!