Finest Luxury Villa Destinations in the World: #1 Samui Island
When searching for the world's finest in luxury holiday destinations, it would be impossible not to include Ko Samui. It is a small island of around 50,000 inhabitants off the east coast of Thailand, and although it is small enough to drive around the entire island in about two hours, there are so many different areas to explore that it feels much bigger. Coconut groves and rice paddies cover much of the area, broken up by areas of stunning tropical forest. The warm and calm seas inhabit a wealth of marine life, including areas of coral reef.
Wherever you are on Ko Samui you'll be able to see stunning views either inland of the incredible natural beauty of the forests and the central mountain of the island, Khao Pom, which towers above the towns and beaches to provide a backdrop wherever you are on the island. Another must-see spot would be Coral Cove, an entirely unspoilt and peaceful beach at some distance from the more tourist hotspots. This beach is ideal for hiding away from other areas of the island or swimming in the warm, calm waters, but it is also home to some great snorkelling and scuba diving spots.
But Ko Samui island's main attractions would probably include Bophut, a tiny and charming village consisting of a single street made up by a row of old Chinese shop houses which have now been converted into high class restaurants, shops and relaxing bars with gorgeous views of the water's edge. Samui Island is also home to a vast array of accommodation options, but for the ultimate in comfort and luxuriance it is best to stay with a company renowned for providing the very best in luxury accommodation, such as Samui Island Villas.
Spending your time in Ko Samui would probably include such pastimes as swimming in the warm waters, watching the sun set, and visiting the twin Na Muang waterfalls - for adventurous types, there is even the opportunity to go elephant trekking here. There are endless tropical forests to explore and discover hidden pools and more waterfalls tucked away from the main paths.
For such a secluded and exclusive destination, the travel links are surprisingly good. Samui Airport has incoming flights from many south-east Asian destinations, and it is possible to avoid mainland Thailand altogether if you want to travel directly to Ko Samui. If you are travelling from mainland Thailand, it is also possible to catch a ferry.
Wherever you are on Ko Samui you'll be able to see stunning views either inland of the incredible natural beauty of the forests and the central mountain of the island, Khao Pom, which towers above the towns and beaches to provide a backdrop wherever you are on the island. Another must-see spot would be Coral Cove, an entirely unspoilt and peaceful beach at some distance from the more tourist hotspots. This beach is ideal for hiding away from other areas of the island or swimming in the warm, calm waters, but it is also home to some great snorkelling and scuba diving spots.
But Ko Samui island's main attractions would probably include Bophut, a tiny and charming village consisting of a single street made up by a row of old Chinese shop houses which have now been converted into high class restaurants, shops and relaxing bars with gorgeous views of the water's edge. Samui Island is also home to a vast array of accommodation options, but for the ultimate in comfort and luxuriance it is best to stay with a company renowned for providing the very best in luxury accommodation, such as Samui Island Villas.
Spending your time in Ko Samui would probably include such pastimes as swimming in the warm waters, watching the sun set, and visiting the twin Na Muang waterfalls - for adventurous types, there is even the opportunity to go elephant trekking here. There are endless tropical forests to explore and discover hidden pools and more waterfalls tucked away from the main paths.
For such a secluded and exclusive destination, the travel links are surprisingly good. Samui Airport has incoming flights from many south-east Asian destinations, and it is possible to avoid mainland Thailand altogether if you want to travel directly to Ko Samui. If you are travelling from mainland Thailand, it is also possible to catch a ferry.