Hello everyone, Mang Noi is here to report on a new trip that I went on by chance. My brother and sister were kind enough to give me their accommodation voucher to go instead. Whatever the reason, it was a memorable experience after spending 3 days and 2 nights living on an island. I would like to thank the sponsors for this trip.



This is the second time Mang Noi has been to Koh Samui. She first visited four years ago, which was a long time ago. At that time, she didn't know how to write reviews or search for information on the Internet. However, this trip to Koh Samui was quite different from the previous one. Koh Samui has changed a lot and has become much more developed. The cost of living has also increased. It's safe to say that "traveling to Koh Samui is easy" with a variety of routes available. However, the travel expenses are quite high.


You can find information on how to get there on the following websites:



http://www.paiduaykan.com/76_province/south/suratthani/kohsamui.html
http://samui.sadoodta.com/content/Koh Samui

Today, Mang Noi has tried to make a simple comparison of travel expenses in the style of Mang Noi for everyone to see roughly from the past two experiences, just in case it is information for decision-making.


To fully enjoy this review of Koh Samui, you should play this popular song in the background.
(P.S. Will anyone be able to write a new song about Koh Samui that's as spicy as this one?)


First, let's get to know the map of Koh Samui. The island is about 50 kilometers long.
As for choosing accommodation, I, Mang Noi, have used my experience from two trips to analyze the information to help you make a decision.


-If you like beautiful sandy beaches, clear water, suitable for swimming, peaceful and not crowded, you should stay --> in the Lamai Beach area.

- If you like art, enjoy handmade art, and live like a fishing village, you should stay --> near Bophut Beach.

- If you like convenience, socializing, parties, and all-round entertainment like Pattaya, you should stay --> in the Chaweng Beach area.

**The other beaches are not as outstanding, but if you are mainly interested in accommodation, you don't have to worry. We can rent a car and drive around the island.

Last time, I went to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan for 3 days and 2 nights as well. But I went on a tour with Lomprayah (the service was excellent, I bought a voucher from the Thai Travel Fair). Now I see that there is a new service from the Facebook page of Sawasdee Samui Pantip.com. They seem to have good service and communication. I once asked them for information about the Ang Thong Islands.



This time, the weather is quite hot, so I don't want to tour the island. Instead, I want to live on the island and travel around Koh Samui. Therefore, Mang Noi still has a tour of the Ang Thong Islands, which I haven't been to yet.



Note: If you want to fully experience Koh Samui in one trip, you should plan to stay for at least 5 days and 4 nights (2 days for travel / 1 day for Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan / 1 day for Ang Thong National Marine Park / 1 day for enjoying the island).



I used this song when I went on a tour of the island and played in the water.


The little ant would like to start telling the story of this trip from Bangkok. The AirAsia flight had to take off from Don Mueang Airport, even though my house is near Suvarnabhumi Airport. The plane took off at 7:00 am. I woke up at 3:30 am and left the house while it was still under curfew. I was so sleepy, but I chose an early flight so I would have more time to travel. I arrived at the airport feeling drowsy.


I met Singto Numchok (we parked next to each other by chance)

Aaaaah!!! Woke up with a smile on my face (P.S. Nothing much, just wanted to share that I met my favorite artist. 555)

Departure time: 7:00 AM.

The sky is clear today, and the sun is shining brightly.


Approximately 50 minutes to Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport. View from the plane before landing.



(Note: I chose to land in Surat Thani last time, but this time the tickets to Nakhon Si Thammarat are cheaper, which allows me to land at either airport. This is because Don Sak Pier is located in the middle, and the distance to the pier is about the same.)

After getting off the plane, Mang Noi didn't book a bus/boat ticket with the airline (she didn't know they were available for booking). This meant she had to find one at the front, which was 50 baht more expensive per person than booking with the airline. Therefore, booking a package is the best option, and it's also more reliable. This time, she was charged 250 baht per person for the bus from Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport to Don Sak Pier (a 1.30-hour journey).



This bus from the airport will take you to Donsak Pier, operated by Raja Ferry, to cross to Koh Samui (takes 1.30 - 2 hours), 150 baht per person.

The atmosphere on the boat is great.

When I experienced this pier, it was very different from the Seatran pier I had been to before. There was no air conditioning on some boats, because on the way back I found one with an air-conditioned room.


The older boat, with only fans, made us sweat profusely.

On the bus, they sell tickets for the van that will take you to the resort. They said that there is no bus, no taxi (it seems like they control the transportation there). They sell it at a cheaper price than usual, 200 baht per person (there is no car to take you back either, the taxi fare is too expensive, no one to share. Call them to pick you up, it costs 300 baht per person from the resort to Raja Port). Before even reaching the island, I already spent 1,200 baht.


Note: When booking accommodation, also inquire about the shuttle service from the pier. Whether it is included in the package or not. As for the hotel, it charges a lot.

The staff welcomed us with drums.


Despite the disappointment of not having enough tickets and missing out on accommodation, I decided to give it a try anyway. After all, you never know until you try, right? Luckily, the restaurant I wanted to visit was located near Anantara Bo Phut, so I was able to stop by for lunch. "Cafe' 69" is a mini-sized restaurant that serves fusion cuisine. At first, I didn't see the prices, but when I did, I was a little surprised. However, it's not every day that I get to try something new, so I went for it.

Here are some photos of the restaurant's atmosphere:

Menu 69 Passion Mango and Watermelon Juice


Golden Bag (Duck Red Curry Dumpling 189.-)


Pad Thai Spring Rolls (129.-)


Tom Yum Fried Rice 189.-


After being full, I started thinking about how to get there. So I decided to rent a motorcycle because it was economical at 250.-/night. I inquired, and they wouldn't let me rent it across the district. But they offered to deliver the car for 300.-, which was definitely cheaper than a taxi. So I had to give in because it was my fault. I arrived at the accommodation at 2:30 p.m., just in time for check-in.


The front is convenient with restaurants, pharmacies, minimarts, and motorbike rentals.


The entrance is full of trees, very shady. 🌳

The resort has a contemporary Chinese style. The reception staff are dressed in Chinese attire. I understand that it was not previously part of the Anantara group, but was a resort called Lavana, which was then co-managed by the Anantara brand. As a result, the design style is not like other Anantaras, which tend to be Thai-inspired. However, I was very impressed with the staff. The service was excellent from the moment we entered until we were shown to our room.


Welcome drink Round 2


The resort is quite large, so much so that a map layout is required.

After staying for 3 days, I was very tired from walking because the resort is located on a hill. Walking to the beach and the restaurant may involve steep slopes and stairs in several places.


Room number issued

The room I stayed in was a Suite with Plungepool, which is a level two room located on the ground floor. The difference is that it has a jacuzzi, while the starting room is on the second floor and has a balcony instead. The amenities are also complete, including a minibar, hairdryer, toiletries, and mosquito repellent. You can see it in the pictures.


Bathroom zone

The bathrooms here are all about experiencing nature to the fullest. They're completely outdoors.

Let's take a look at the swimming pool and lounge area, which allows you to open the door from the bathroom to the jacuzzi pool.

Other parts of the room.

I had a little rest. In the evening, I planned to go to the Bo Phut Walking Street, which is only open on Friday evenings. However, a storm came in and it rained heavily, so I couldn't go anywhere. I ended up changing my plans again and just ate something in front of the resort. I ate at Anong Restaurant, which was delicious and not expensive. I was impressed with both the taste of the food and the service. Phone number 081-4089761 (P.S. I didn't take my camera because I was afraid it would get wet). After that, I had some free time, so I went to the resort's fitness center and large swimming pool.


Upon returning from outside, the staff came in to clean and make the bed again.

The first day was a washout, no sightseeing at all. If it doesn't rain tomorrow, I'll take you on a motorbike tour around the island. Let's start the new day with breakfast at the beachfront restaurant. The sky is clear and the sun is shining, a good omen. The picture shows the surroundings of the restaurant and the swimming pool. I will combine the food from both days in one post.


After that, I walked around the restaurant and the swimming pool. The sun was strong and the light was beautiful. The red and blue colors were especially vibrant.

Scenic view beverage service point.

On the way back to the room, you will pass the Top Room, a Seaview Pool Villa with a breathtaking view.


Walk past the Tree Tops restaurant for a beautiful dinner view of the sea, which also serves outside customers.

Some parts of the walkway back to the room offer stunning sea views.

This morning, I planned to visit many places, mostly cute shops. Each place is quite far apart, so I rented a motorbike for 250 baht and filled it with 100 baht of gas. I rode around the island and got really tan. My first stop was…


Fisherman's Village in Bo Phut


The coolest fishing village. It's a pity that I missed the walking street because of the rain. They said that there will be local food, snacks that are hard to find, cheap prices, handmade items, art, paintings, souvenir shops, so many cute things. If you come here and don't walk around, it's like you haven't arrived. There you go! Little Mang couldn't make it. So I've collected the morning atmosphere for you to see.

Besides the shops mentioned, there are also restaurants, pubs, and bars all along the alley. They say that the seafood restaurants in this area are delicious too.

At Fisherman's Village pier, the villagers told me that some boats had sailed from Bangkok for months, stopping along the way to eat, sleep, and sightsee.

And in the Fisherman's Village itself, there is a shop that Mang Noi is looking for.
"Blue Vanilla"
When I arrived at the shop, it was closed. It opens at 12.30 pm. So I had to go back again. When I came back, I was not disappointed, but the items were very expensive.
I didn't dare to buy them for my friends. 555

Before continuing our journey, let's pay our respects at the temple for good luck.
"Wat Phra Yai - Ko Fan" at Hat Bo Phut
This temple is said to be located in the middle of the sea (Ko Fan). It is difficult to get there to pay respects. You have to take a boat or wait for the water to recede. So the villagers built a stone dam to connect to the temple. They built a Buddha statue on top of the mountain, offering panoramic views. They say that if you come here at sunset, the temple will be very beautiful because the temple will reflect on the sea.
Plus, there are souvenirs for sale around the temple. (P.S. There are also bikinis for sale in the temple area.)

The airport is near the temple.


Our next stop is to head to the page to find another store in the plan. Along the way, it's very hot, but you'll see beautiful sea views all the way.

Khao Yai Viewpoint

From Thanon to Bang Pok Beach, I found the shop I was looking for. It was a long way, and my skin was burnt from the sun, but when I arrived, I felt all the tiredness disappear. Even though the tide was low, it was still so beautiful. I can't imagine how beautiful it would be if the tide was high or during sunset.


"Sailor" (กะลาสี)

The interior of the shop is adorable, filled with all sorts of cute trinkets. The owner's ideas are so cool, they've really paid attention to every detail. I love it so much!

No matter which angle you shoot from, it's beautiful. The little spider walks around and takes random pictures. I don't know where to start first. Every spot is beautiful when you look through the camera.

There are many unique souvenirs available at affordable prices.

Their food is creative and affordable, and it's delicious too. When you want to order food, just ring the bell to call the waiter.

Tissues, please.



After that, we headed to our next destination, Ya Kung Wua Kalla, near Lamai Beach.

[Spoil] Click to see hidden text

I'm borrowing your picture, Khun Deebook, to confirm the deliciousness.

But it was too late. It took a long time to travel. When I arrived, the shop was closed. The famous cheap coconut shell noodles, plus many other delicious menus. This shop closes before noon. It's a pity. So I changed my plan to eat at the legendary restaurant that I used to eat 4 years ago.



"The Supply Store" Lamai Beach

The shop has changed a lot. It has been renovated and is more beautiful than before. The staff told me that James Ji came to eat at the shop yesterday. Smile.

Authentic Southern Thai cuisine with a bold and spicy flavor. Just as delicious as it was 4 years ago, the taste remains unchanged.

We recommend the signature dish of "Yam Sebiang Le", a spicy and flavorful seafood salad.


Steamed Shrimp with Glass Noodles


Sour curry with mackerel, the fish meat is very firm, the sour curry is very rich.


The Provision Shop is located near the tourist attraction "Hin Ta Hin Yai". This is the best place to buy souvenirs such as coconut candy because it is fresh every day. Oh! I couldn't find Hin Yai, it was too hot to walk around.

The little bug is about to go back to its nest. It has been wandering around all day and is very tired. On the way from Lamai Beach to Chaweng Beach, it also encountered beautiful views.

At the Lad Koh viewpoint, there is a shrine because it is a dangerous curve with frequent accidents. You will actually hear every car passing by honking.


Passing through Chaweng Beach is like Pattaya, but it looks much more attractive. Central Samui in Chaweng is also a villa style, not a building like other places. I didn't take a good picture, I just rode and took it.



I met this very fit foreign guy who was running shirtless in the blazing sun. He was also handsome. Wow!


Note: Actually, in the morning there was a marathon on the island. When I returned to the accommodation, I was exhausted. I went out to play in the large pool and took some pictures in the evening. At the resort, the sun will rise and set on the side of the Big Buddha Temple instead. I will wake up tomorrow morning to take pictures of the sunrise. For now, let's look at the evening atmosphere instead.


There is a projector to show movies.


Every table has a service call button.


Upon returning to the room, I was greeted by the usual excellent service from the staff. They even left a message wishing me a safe journey home, as it was my last night. They are truly lovely.

This morning I woke up early to capture the sunrise, but I was disappointed because it was too cloudy. The sun was white, not the color of an egg yolk. I'm so sad.


After finishing breakfast this morning, I had to check out. I was really impressed with the service of the staff at the resort throughout the time I was stranded here. If possible, I would definitely use Anantara's services again.


Regarding the return trip, the flight is at 4:20 p.m., but we have to leave the resort at 9:30 a.m. We waited for the port's van to pick us up and take us to the Raja Ferry Port, but we missed the 10:30 a.m. round. We waited for the 11:00 a.m. round, which took 2 hours. We then took a van to the airport for another 1.30 hours, arriving around 3:00 p.m. We had to wait for the plane to take off, which really ate into our travel time.

The atmosphere on the ferry is much better this time around. I'm so glad they have air conditioning now.

These days, Thai politics seem chaotic and tense. I wish that Thai people would love each other more.

While on the plane, Mang Noi saw a rainbow. It was only for a moment, and then it disappeared. I wish good things would happen in this world, just like seeing the rainbow this time.

See you again on the next trip to Hua Hin. Today, Mang Noi would like to thank everyone who followed. I hope this review will be helpful to my friends.


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