Eight days of excitement in Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui

In June 2012, we visited Thailand, making the most of our time there with a trip between Bangkok and Koh Samui. Having arrived on the island after a lengthy train journey and checked in at the Mantra Samui Resort, we were ready to fill our time with exploration.

Now this was the first time that any of us had visited this paradise island, so in our group we wanted to experience a bit of it all – and we did. From jet skiing to massages to the full moon party in neighbouring Koh Phangan, we made it happen!

Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

Baiyoke Sky Hotel, Bangkok

Following a trip to Thailand visiting Bangkok, Koh Samui and then back to Bangkok, we chose to stay at the Baiyoke Sky Hotel in Central Bangkok. We had previously stayed at the Glow Trinity Hotel so decided to try elsewhere for comparison. Plus, the attraction of staying in Thailand’s tallest building had some appeal! Upon arrival at the hotel, we were immediately greeted with a busy reception area and a confusing concierge arrangement. This unfortunately contributed to what became a hectic and chaotic stay.

Spirit House, Koh Samui, Thailand

Fresh coconut water – delicious!

During a recent stay in Koh Samui we had the pleasure of visiting Spirit House by Chaweng Beach. Set in beautiful surroundings, this restaurant, spa and cookery school creates the perfectly idyllic experience of Thailand.We were recommended to try the restaurant by a local as we were searching for a romantic dinner setting and a memorable experience for our holiday. We were so impressed with the venue that not only did we dine there, we also booked into the spa a couple of days later and followed this up by taking part in the 1-2-1 cookery school.

On each occasion the staff were welcoming, friendly and so keen to ensure that we had a good experience which is indicative of the Thai attitude. So, I thought that I would use this post to summarise my love for all three aspects of Spirit House that we were able to enjoy.

Review of Mantra Samui Resort, Thailand

As part of our trip to Thailand, we went to Koh Samui for eight days to ensure that we were able to get a relaxing break with beach, sunshine and lots of relaxation. Whilst the island itself offered a lot of this, our resort, the relatively new Mantra Samui was a fantastic contribution.

Overland travel: Bangkok >>> Koh Samui, Thailand

As part of our trip to Thailand, we wanted to combine the city and beach for a mixed experience of the country. With just two short weeks to do so, we were keen to maximise our time in the country.

Having considered the options for travelling between our two destinations, we settled on using the train as discussed and booked here.

So, onto the actual experience. Well, it was pretty positive. We went into it as openly as possible with realistic expectations that were pleasantly met.

How to spend 48 hours in Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is an incredible city that combines religion, cultural experiences, a metropolitan city vibe and the best of both for luxury and budget travellers.

On a trip taken in 2012, I had just 48 hours in Bangkok and a jam packed itinerary of sight-seeing around the city with a mix of markets, shopping malls, massages, tuk-tuks and more.

Glow Trinity Silom Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand

As part of a group trip to Thailand, I arranged a stay for my friends and I at the Glow Trinity Silom, Bangkok, prior to our departure for the island of Koh Samui.

Thailand Train Ticket – Online booking for overland transport

When I have a good experience whilst arranging trips or actually away from home, I like to blog about it. Whilst companies have so much access to readily assist travelling customers, rarely is it used effectively. Today however, I liaised back and forth with Thailand Train Ticket (previously Travel 2000) for my upcoming trip – it was a great and reassuring experience.