Ko Samui … I don't know how to describe this island -- tropical paradise, beach lovers' utopia, or scuba divers' heaven? I guess it's all that and more! Chewang (beach) was a bit too crowded for me, so after staying for a night I shifted to Lamai (beach), which is less crowded, more serene and placid for the senses. I managed to find a cottage as close as possible to the beach for less than $20 and I guess that is cheap considering the fact that I visited in February, the peak tourist season for all of Thailand. A word of caution though -- the locals tend to rip you off. I hopped in on a tuk-tuk for less than a kilometer and when I got off the driver demanded an exorbitant sum and forced me into paying up. On another occasion while visiting this waterfall I fell off my bicycle and bruised myself. The locals, realising that I couldn't ride, offered to drop me back to my cottage in their pick-up for a price! There's always a devil or two in paradise, isn't there? And yes, there…
Surat Thani … Beware of your rucksacks on the journey over to Koh Samui. They climb into the luggage compartment on the bus and steal everything whilst the bus is moving then jump out the other end.
Nid's Bungalows in Chaweng, Koh Samui … Nids bungalows is located very close to the main attractions. Nid herself is very helpful and provides visitors with water and fruit everyday. The Bungalows are roomy and aircon is available for 100baht extra -- well worth it. Rooms are cleaned and fresh linen and towels are provided every day. You cannot beat this place on the island in terms of value for money. Motobikes are available for rent for only 7$ a day. I highly recommend this accommodation for budget travelers who want to choose their own kind of holiday without wasting unnecessary money! Try Nids Bungalows, you will never be disappointed!
Phangan Beach Resort in Ko Pha Ngan … Great place to stay for the full moon party, it's close enough to get there but far enough away to relax away from the crowds. Rooms are great and have all the important things. Bar and common area is excellent with flat screen TV and great food and drinks. Staff are really helpful and friendly. The owner Andy (Scouser) is a great bloke, and help you out with any problems. His wife is really cool, and also helpful. Rent a moped and see the island from nearby. Beach is a stone throw from you room, and is a cheap ride from the nearest town Tong sala.
Phangan Rainbow Bungalows in Ko Pha Ngan … There was the best service, and friendliest and most relaxed atmosphere here! I traveled around the whole of Thailand, and Rainbow would be the only place I would come back to again! Beautiful and clean bungalows at half the price of Samui!!
Coral Grand Resort in Koh Tao … I stayed here in 2003, taking a diving course at the same time. Bungalows on the beach and an awesome Dutch diving instructor.;) Definitely come here, take a course and enjoy the great island vibe!
Amarin Victoria Resort in Ko Samui … If you are on a holiday, this is an absolutely terrible location to stay. I made a grave mistake of staying at this hotel, which was recommended by Diners. Staying at Amarin has ruined my whole holiday. It's far from places of interest and I ended up having to spend more on taxi rides, which most often ripped tourists on the island. Throughout my four days at the hotel, I didn't even see any other guest at all. The pictures that you see on the Internet are absolutely deceiving. If you don't want to be disappointed, stay somewhere else.
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