Koh Samui, a Tropical Paradise

Picture an island nestling in the calm, azure blue waters of the Gulf of Thailand fringed by coral reefs with beaches of powder soft white sand framed by a backdrop of coconut trees, their fronds dancing in the gentle breeze. The palms stretch upward to the central uplands, thick with lush tropical vegetation. The coast and lower slopes are awash with coconut palms making Koh Samui the ‘Coconut Capital of Thailand’. It is said the island sends 2,000.000 coconuts per month to Bangkok. This green vista is interspersed occasionally by black granite boulders. Some of these rock formations appear to defy gravity by hanging dramatically against the hillside. This tropical paradise is called Koh Samui. A 250 square kilometre rounded island which is about the same size as Penang.

Koh Samui translates from Koh, the Thai word for island, and Samui, which is probably derived from the Chinese “saboey” meaning safe harbour. The magic island first came to the attention of world travellers when it started to crop up in conversation in many of the cheap hotels that then clustered around Bangkok’s Hualamphong Railway station some 45 years ago. It was difficult to get to, requiring special negotiation with fishermen in Suratthani lying 80 kilometres across the sea on the mainland. When you reached the island, there was no road and so those intrepid voyagers hopped from beach to beach by boat. In the past forty plus years things have changed hugely.

The island is now served by an international airport that looks more like a botanical garden than the accepted tradition of functional ‘air station’. Flights leave hourly for the new Suvarnbhumi Airport in Bangkok and link the island to additional destinations such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Pattaya and Phuket. A 52-kilometre road rings Samui and links all the major towns. Nathon the capital plays host to government buildings and banks and serves as one of the ferry ports serving the Thai mainland. The road skirts the 635-metre mountain that sits centrally astride the landmass and takes in the main resorts of Lamai and Chaweng. Lamai is the smaller of the two and offers a quieter and perhaps cleaner beach. The latter caters for, perhaps, a younger and more energetic visitor. Further on lies Bangrak is better known as “Big Buddha Beach” as it takes its name from the huge Buddha statue at the eastern end of the bay. Borphut boasts a trendy fisherman’s village, much favoured by French tourists and Maenam to the north offers spectacular views across to Koh Phangan and the Ang Thong Natural Marine Park. This area is much less crowded than the bustling Chaweng and the marginally quieter Lamai. It still retains its original Thai flavour. However, to get to grips with authentic ‘Samui’ you need to rent a car or motorbike and take one of the many roads that lead up away from the coast and into the mountain. As you climb higher you come to rubber plantations and hidden away villages clustering around paddy fields, still hanging onto a traditional way of life that is far removed from the tourist dominated hotels, resorts, restaurants and bars that cluster around the coast.

Samui has over the years developed a reputation as centre of complementary medicine offering spas designed to detox inhabitants of an overstressed globe. The Health Oasis Resort located adjacent to the unspoiled Bang Po Beach to the west of Maenam offers stunning views across to Koh Phangan. Sit in the authentic vegetarian restaurant after six p.m. and turn your head to the west you will witness spectacular sunsets over the islands that comprise the Ang Thong National Park. Health Oasis is unique in that the Thai Department of Health lists it as a traditional medicine hospital. It specialises in supervised detox and fasting treatments.

Be sure of this, whatever your tastes Koh Samui will be able to provide a venue for a holiday that will linger long in your memory. So if you are planning a trip of a lifetime whether it be for tourism or health this magical island is a venue well worth considering.

Port Douglas, Australia – Discover Tropical Queensland

Australia’s idyllic Port Douglas is justly renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful places to relax, unwind and cast your worries to the sea. This unique tourist destination sits adjacent to Tropical North Queensland’s two World Heritage Sites — the fabled Great Barrier Reef, and the majestic Daintree Rainforest. As home too to Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas boasts one of Australia’s most picturesque locations for sailing, wind surfing, kite-boarding, and surfing.

The pristine surroundings of Port Douglas were originally settled thousands of years ago by the Kuku Yulanji tribe. The English first encountered its astonishing beauty when Captain James Cook was mapping the eastern coastline of Australia in 1770, during his initial voyage to the continent. In fact, Port Douglas was an unexpected stop for Cook and his crew, for they ran aground on the Great Barrier Reef, and had to delay their voyage for more than seven weeks in order to repair their ship, the Endeavour. Cook thus named this bay Cape Tribulation, because, he noted in his journal, “here began all of our Troubles”.

These days, such troubles are no more than poignant history in Port Douglas, with the Reef now well-marked and carefully conserved. Its protection allows visitors a unique and breathtaking opportunity to experience an incredible underwater world. Discovering the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system — its 35 million hectares embracing 900 islands and 3000 individual reefs — is one of the hallmark travel opportunities of a lifetime. This is an organic structure so large that it can be seen from outer space – composed of billions of coral polyps, it is home to an extensive variety of underwater wildlife including whales, sea turtles, starfish, eels, and dolphins. It is, quite possibly, the best place to go diving or snorkeling in the world.

Back on shore, the Daintree Rainforest rivals its aquatic counterpart for beauty and mystery – a fascinating, immaculate ecosystem that is home to 430 bird species, giant tree frogs, sugar gliders, bandicoots, and estuarine crocodiles. Here you will find the largest range of plants and animals in the world, all within easy access of the Port Douglas beachfront. In the mood for a swim? The forest’s cool, green Mossman Gorge, a series of freshwater swimming holes in its midst, represents the perfect photo opportunity. Explore the history and depth of the Daintree by taking a jungle tour, riding horseback, or a river cruise.

The highlights of Port Douglas, however, go well beyond natural wonders, outstanding though they are. Macrossan Street, bisecting the heart of the city, boasts a range of great restaurants, cafes and shops, as well as a fun nightlife scene. Four Mile Beach, which is conveniently just a few meters southeast, is a stunning sandy coastline — ideal for indulging in a wide range of water sports, or simply a leisurely bike ride.

The adventures and sights of Port Douglas though will no doubt take their toll, and the Rydges Sabaya Resort provides you with a tranquil haven to unwind and rejuvenate. Newly redeveloped in 2007, the resort features fresh, well-appointed guest rooms and apartments, a lagoon-style pool, tasteful new restaurant, and large banquet facilities. Offering a warmth of service that reflects both the relaxed Port Douglas lifestyle and Rydges’ sense of fun and energy, the hotel is just a stone’s throw from the southern rim of Four Mile Beach – making it all the easier to start relaxing on your Port Douglas vacation.

Beaches in Sri Lanka – Tropical Paradise

By far one of the biggest tourist attractions are the beaches of Sri Lanka. Serving several purposes than those in search for the perfect tan, beaches in this tropical paradise have always been a crowd puller. Take a pick from secluded alcoves of Arugum Bay to some of the more populace sun kissed beaches of Colombo. Curl your toes in to sand that could vary in texture and colour, watch the sunset or sunrise over waters that shade from anything between turquoise to emerald green.

The satin coastal belt of Sri Lanka stretches 1,330 kilometres. The water sports, entertainment and leisure activities are seemingly endless. Diving is also a popular activity in Sri Lanka, as part of the island is bordered by a large coral reef. Take a dive at Wellawatte beach and find an old ship wreck, in Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa is where a plethora of marine life and corals can be found. Snorkelling another popular activity will be heavenly in the east coast around Pigeon Island off Nilaveli, which is situated close to Trincomalee. Here, visitors can expect to find large fish such as whale shark, tuna, barracuda and four species of turtle.

Surf enthusiasts won’t be disappointed at one of Sri Lanka’s best and possibly one of the world’s most reputed beaches, when setting off to Arugam Bay. Hikkaduwa and Mirissa have also been popular beaches for surfing in Sri Lanka. The beautiful golden sands of Galle and the turquoise oceans that kiss its shores are more noteworthy for being safe to swim in.

Apart from the myriad of water sports to engage in, certain beaches in Sri Lanka are known to have great dining options. Seafood being bought fresh off the boat and made to a both international and local fare, from gourmet to fast food options can be found. Towards the south of the island are the popular party districts on the beach. Hikkaduwa, Arugum Bay and Unawatuna are famed for beach parties and cheaper accommodation, with a sprinkling of luxury resorts. Beaches such as Negombo located just a few miles from the International airport also favour a sprightly nightlife with a blend of dining and resort options. Sri Lanka is fast emerging to become an undiscovered paradise of Asia. With a bountiful harvest of every possible entertainment and leisure option, Sri Lanka should be on any tourist’s itinerary. For more details on what you can see and do on your Sri Lanka beach holiday , visit TrulySriLanka. This website is one of the most trusted and valuable travel portals on Sri Lanka travel Sri Lanka travel.

Koh Samui Is A Charming Tropical Island

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand in the South China Sea, about 90 km east of Surat Thani and roughly 750 km south of the capital city, Bangkok. Occupying an area of about 250 square kilometers, Koh Samui is the third largest island in Thailand, after the Ko Chang and Phuket islands.

Koh Samui is actually an Amphoe or district of Surat Thani province, and has been categorized into seven sub districts or tambon, such as, Angthong, Bophut, Lipa Noi, Maenam, Maret, Namuang, and Taling Nam. Situated in the Gulf of Siam and surrounded by more than 50 islands, Koh Samui is also sometimes referred to as the Coconut Island because its harvest of more than two million coconuts every month.

The destination is truly a tropical retreat, with beautiful white sandy beaches, azure-blue sea, lush green forested hills, unique limestone and granite formations, and picturesque coves and bays, and above all, little traffic and presence of warm as well as amicable people. Hence, it is not a wonder why people from across the world, especially westerners, flock to this tranquil destination year-round.

Much of the glory of the island lies in its magnificent shoreline, bestowed with long curve of palm fringed white sandy beaches with turquoise waters. Most prominent among the beaches in the area is Chaweng Beach, which is one of the busiest in the area. A variety of beachside cafes, disco bars, and cocktail bars, can be seen here. Another popular beach in the area is Lamai Beach, which is packed with an array of restaurants as well as entertainment centers. It is less crowded when compared to Chaweng, and hence a stroll along this beach is truly soothing and comfortable.

For those seeking tranquility and peace, then Maenam Beach would be the best, which is an ideal venue for backpackers as well as well-heeled. This beach area is home to some of the best deluxe resorts and hotels in the region. A great place to chill out, Bophut is also a great beach in the area, which is a home to a serene fishermen’s village filled with relaxed eateries, trendy boutiques, and ancient wooden homes

Other popular beaches in the area are Big Buddha Beach, Choeng Mon Beach, and Lipa Noi Beach. Each of the beaches in the area provides opportunities to enjoy an array of activities such as diving, snorkeling, swimming, and sea canoeing.

Aside beaches as well as its activities, things to see and do in Koh Samui are truly limitless. In other words, Koh Samui has something for everyone. For nature lovers, nothing would be better than a visit to Na Tian Butterfly Garden, where you can see a large array of different species of vividly colored lepidopterans. Also, found here are a bee house and an insect museum with some rare species of insects.

Likewise, for animal lovers, some best options are available in the form of Crocodile Farm, where you can see crocodile species like Caimans and saltwater crocodiles; Samui Aquarium and Zoo, featuring scores of fish varieties as well as specialties like Asian tigers, sea hawks, and parrots; and Snake Farm, which is home to some rare as well as most poisonous snakes in Asia.

If you are interested in sightseeing, then Koh Samui provides a multitude of refreshing attractions. Just few among them are Big Buddha, the most renowned landmark in the island and whose centerpiece is a 12 meters high golden image of Lord Buddha in sitting posture that can be seen from several miles away.

Hin Ta Hin Yai, stunning rocks which are also known as Grandfather and Grandmother rocks and are believed to be the origin of the Mui race; Magic Statue Garden, an incredible garden located deep in the forest and which can be reached by journeying through steep cliffs and forested rivers and hills; and Overlap Stone, which is quite challenging to reach this impressive boulders.

Not to miss attractions in Koh Samui also include temples in the area such as Hainan Temple, Hin Lad Waterfall Temple, Laem Sor Pagoda, and Pagoda Khao Chedi. In addition, things to see in Koh Samui also cover Buffalo fighting, Monkey Show, and traditional Thai Boxing.

Well-linked by water, land, and air, Koh Samui renders its visitors superb accommodation options, ranging from stunning beachside villas and bungalows to upscale resorts and hotels.

Phuket Is A Combination Of Tropical Forest And Crystal Blue Waters

For those people who likes adventurous trips and get pleasure from enjoying the beauty of a place then you ought to travel to Phuket Islands in Thailand. Phuket is a combination of tropical forest and crystal blue waters and an ideal destination for those who wish to have an exciting trip. It offers a wide range of options for you to be relaxed and serene from the tension free ambiance.

Thailand is situated in heart of Southeast Asia and is unique in its culture and traditions and among the top tourist destinations in the world. The Phuket islands are located 862 kilometers south of Thailand’s capital Bangkok. It is the largest island in Thailand and is often dubbed as the pearl of south.

The island is blessed with lush green tropical forests that have immense variety of flora and fauna. It is surrounded by crystal blue waters that lash on to the white powdery beaches and cliffs and turns out to be a real breathtaking sight and thus making it the busiest and most sought after destination among travelers around the globe.

The allure of the bronze sun, huge azure sky, the endless crystal blue oceans and the tropical forest together makes it a paradise. In Phuket you can feel the mesmerizing blue seas, stunning sunsets, and with sweet music dispersing around invites you to join the party. The island is popularly known for its white silky beaches, hospitality and the modern facilities for accommodation.

You can really have an adventurous trip around the tropical forests of Phuket which is known for its inquisitive dwellers. You can also have an exciting trip on the speedboat surrounding the islands and tropical forest of Phuket and also the Phang Nga Bay or the Patong beach. This wonderful Island is filled with everything you need and it is sure that Phuket can cater to all taste and budget. Why so late to plan a trip to Phuket? Come on and enjoy a fun-filled holiday in the amazing surroundings of one of the planet’s most beautiful island getaways.

The ideal time to visit Phuket is from the month of November to February during which the climate is excellent and the average temperature ranges from 24 to 32 degree Celsius. It gives you an opportunity to take pleasure in watching the clear blue sky, the scintillating breeze and the crystal blue waters, all add to the beauty of the occasion. Luxurious accommodations are provided with resorts offering high quality facilities that give comfort and privacy to the visitors.

The resorts in Phuket are simply the best ones with facilities like libraries, fitness centers and massaging centers. Residential villas can be found near to the Phuket Island which helps you to relax in front of the beautiful sandy beaches. You can order traditional Thai cuisines that are specially prepared for the visitors who have a special interest towards it. Mediterranean, Seafood, Scandinavian and Japanese cuisines are also available in abundance.

The Phuket Island is linked to Bangkok by road and you can travel by air. You can reach Phuket Island within 1 hour from Thailand International Airlines. Direct flight services are available to Phuket from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Japan, Sydney Taipei, Perth and other major destinations. Additional direct flight services connect Phuket to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Japan, Taipei, Perth, Sydney and other destinations. The Phuket Islands are just 15 minutes away from Phuket international airport.

The tropical forests in phuket offer you a really thrilling experience that you would cherish in your memory forever. You can also carry a camera along with you so that the glorious moments you experience in this wonderful island can be made known to your next generation.

The 4 kilometer long shallow sandy beach is ideal for swimming and other water sports such as skiing, surfing, snorkeling, sailing etc. You can have sunbath on the white sandy beaches for as long as you like and special zone is provided for the convenience of the visitors. If you haven’t visited Phuket yet, be prepared for a travel to Phuket the next time. You can say that you have visited one of the most beautiful places in the world “The Phuket Islands” after visiting Phuket.