The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui

Big Buddha Koh Samui’s beautiful coastline and renowned Big Buddha sculpture will be the first thing you will notice as you approach the island from the air. This majestic 12-metre tall golden statue sits on an elevated platform, adorned with dragons and traditional decor that visually dominates the landscape. This beautiful structure was built in 1972 within the Phra Yai Temple complex, which is located on a small island located towards the northern border of Koh Samui, Thailand.

Na Muang Waterfalls, a majestic set of two cascades on Koh Samui, show that the island’s beauty is not limited to its beaches. Found about 12km inland from of Nathon Bay, the Na Muang falls are reached by taking a walking path from the entrance to the park. Namtok Na Muang, or ‘Purple Waterfalls’, are so named because of the striking purple shade of their rock faces. There are other waterfalls to visit on Koh Samui, but these are considered to be among the most scenic. The best time to visit is in the wetter months of September through November, when the waterfalls are in their full flowing glory.

Chaweng is Koh Samui's busiest and biggest town, which has sprung up around one of the island's finest beaches. The 3km ark of white sand on Samui's east coast is what attracts most people to Chaweng. The town has more accommodation options than elsewhere on the island, and it's also popular for its nightlife and dining options. From beachside institutions to sophisticated cocktail bars, Chaweng's nightlife is streets ahead of anywhere else on Samui in terms of choice. The famous Green Mango strip still forms the axis around which the rest of the town's bars revolve and is packed with revellers every night.

Ang Thong National Marine Park is a pristine archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. It features towering limestone mountains, thick jungle, white-sand beaches, waterfalls and hidden coves and lakes to explore. The protected area of more than 100 sq km of land and sea has a rich biodiversity. Snorkelling, hiking, sea kayaking, diving, and simply relaxing are the main activities to enjoy at Ang Thong. Most Ang Thong visitors arrive on a join-in day trip or by boat charter from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. For those who wish to stay overnight, there are simple bungalows and camping tents available on Koh Wua Ta Lap. The Park Headquarters also hosts a simple restaurant. Even with its increasing popularity, the islands have maintained their picture-postcard appeal.

Fisherman’s Village Samui is a historical part of Bophut, with rustic-style buildings housing boutique stores, trendy restaurants and a small selection of hotels lining the narrow Beach Road. Every Friday, the whole area becomes the site of the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street market, attracting huge numbers of shoppers from across the island for the amazing variety of wares and the lively atmosphere. This old part of Bophut Beach obviously takes its name from the fact that it was once home to a thriving fishing community. The fishermen have moved on and the main pier has collapsed, but the old wooden shophouses remain, with a warren of narrow alleys running between many of them, giving the village a charming old look and feel.

Wat Plai Laem is a Buddhist temple compound on Samui's north-east coast, which features a striking white 18-armed image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. Close to the Big Buddha temple, Wat Plai Laem offers visitors a view into Chinese-Thai beliefs as well as some elaborate Buddhist-themed art and architecture. Wat Plai Laem is a living and active temple. It's where devotees come daily to pay homage to Guanyin and the Buddha, who is also depicted in a number of statues and murals around the temple. The art techniques used in its creation are centuries old and based on ancient beliefs. Adding to its feel of tranquillity, the temple is surrounded by a lake, which is teeming with fish. Visitors who make a donation to the temple are given a bag of food to feed the fish. The giant Guanyin statue is a towering white structure in the centre of the temple grounds. It forms an imposing and serene presence. It's a showcase of Koh Samui's strong Chinese heritage and the temple's intricate designs were created by one of Thailand's foremost artists, Jarit Phumdonming. The Goddess is flanked by 2 long halls that feature colourful murals and frescoes depicting Buddhist mythological stories. Guanyin is believed to be a source of unconditional love and a protector of all beings. Her multitude of arms is seen as an illustration of her ability to reach out and provide help across the world. She is also seen as a fertility goddess and many who come here pray for her help in bearing healthy children. As well, Guanyin is believed by some to help protect sailors at sea. Other standout features at Wat Plai Laem include a large white laughing Buddha statue, beautifully carved teak entry doors, and an elaborate ubosot (ceremonial hall) set on an island in the lake.