Explore Samui TEST

● A touristy day on Thailand’s second-largest island – Koh Samui – that is abundant with its sandy beaches and trees with coconuts hanging on them, begins with a pick-up from hotel in the morning, followed by a visit to the lake-surrounded Wai Plai Laem – a stunning feat of ancient Thai-Chinese architecture – which is a temple housing giant statues of the Guanyin and the Laughing Buddha,. It is designed by Thailand’s most prominent artist, Phumdonming.

● Next is the Big Buddha temple, locally known as Wat Phra Yai, located near a beach town called the Big Buddha beach. A local temple that houses a gold-painted 12-metre-high statue of Buddha, it is a major tourist landmark attraction with free entry.

● A few kilometres away is the Chaweng Viewpoint – also known as Lat Ko viewpoint – a panoramic masterpiece located between the Lamai and Chaweng beach. The enchanting sunrise on the Chaweng bay is definitely a treat for the eye.

● The Hin Ta (Grandfather) and Hin Yai (Grandmother) rock formations are a unique set of the nature carving itself around the lives of its inhabitants. Shaped like male and female genitalia, the rocks have given birth to a local legend of tragedy and hope that attracts tourists from around the world. Additionally, the whole area is adorned with oceanside rocks perfect for a quiet little beach time.

● This is followed by the Monkey Theatre Show. A performing arena which showcases trained monkeys as they demonstrate unique tricks that have been taught to them. One of the most sought after tricks is that of the monkeys harvesting coconuts.

● One of the most-visted tourist attractions is the Mummified Monk – a mummified body of the Thai monk Luong Pordaeng, who died in 1973, sitting in a meditative position displayed in a glass case. For some it might be a little shocking, but for the Thais it is an act of reverence and reflection, an acceptance of the natural order of things