Discover the stunning Thai Isle of Ko Samui + win a holiday for you and a friend!



1 Koh Samui© Photo: Getty Images
Harriet Charnock-BatesContributing Travel Editor
March 20, 2017

Ko Samui is home to jungly, palm-fringed beaches, a smattering of world-class spas and temples galore. Here’s where to stay and what to see on this paradisiacal Thai isle…

Stay:

Two lounge chairs with umbrellas and wine glasses on a deck overlooking the ocean.

Dotted along the cliffs on the island’s west coast, InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort is a tropical retreat with tonnes of personality. The smart interiors are enlivened with artful Oriental touches (think dark wooden screens, elephant-adorned lamps and cushions in bold, zingy colours), and the sun-dappled terraces make an afternoon snooze all too tempting. Thanks to the pinch-yourself-perfect setting and easy-going vibe, it’s safe to say you’ll find it hard to leave.

RELATED: Discover more travel inspiration here

Taste:

Outdoor dining area with umbrellas, set tables, and ocean view at sunset.

Dine al fresco at Amber, a contemporary gem at the InterContinental Samui Resort dishing out Thai classics like Gaeng Phed Ped Yang (roasted duck in red curry with lychees and basil). Mediterranean flavours meet Asian flair at Ocean 11 on Big Buddha Beach and for sundowners, head to Air Bar where expert mixologists craft potent peach negronis with views out across the Gulf of Thailand.

Indulge:

Two massage tables with ocean view, no people present.

Escape the baking heat of the day at Six Senses Spa Samui on the northern tip of the island. Try the hour-long Zen Na Tai, a therapeutic massage inspired by ancient healing methods that rids the body of toxins and lulls you into deep state of relaxation.

Explore:

Aerial view of a tropical island with a boat moving in the blue ocean.

The island's verdant hills are fantastic for walking. Seek out the majestic Na Muang falls where cool spray rushes down over craggy russet-hued rocks, or take to the aquamarine waters in a powerboat. For a spiritual awakening, the vipassana meditation sessions at Wat Hin Lat temple are wonderful.

MORE: See more of our Mother's Day giveaways here

What to wear:

A white, lace, kimono-style cardigan with decorative patterns and gold buttons is displayed.

Cindy lace cover up, £250, Melissa Odabash; visit odabash.com

Two containers of eos lip balm, one open showing the balm.

Lip balm in cucumber melon, £12.50 (for a pack of two), EOS from boots.com

Woven tote bag with red and pink tassels and a decorative pom-pom.

Juli bag, £300, YOSUZI; visit yosuzi.com

WIN! ISLAND GETAWAY

Destinology, the experts in luxury travel (tel: 01204 824619), and IHG have joined together to offer a fabulous prize for one lucky Hello! reader and their guest to Koh Samui, Thailand. The prize includes two return flights with Destinology and five nights InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort. To enter visit hellomagazine.com/giveaway.

More Travel
See more