Sometimes, I think about taking a break from camping and instead going to exotic places. Many people believe that more far-flung locations like Thailand, and specifically the island of Koh Samui, are only really suitable for lone backpackers and couples. This would make a great backpacking trip. However, you can’t always leave the kids behind. In fact, it’s entirely possible to have a wonderful family trip to Koh Samui with the kids in tow. Read on to find out how.
Accommodation in Koh Samui
One of the most important things to get sorted on a family trip to Koh Samui is your accommodation. Happily, there is a range of options that are suitable for parents travelling with their children. The first option you may like to consider is a luxury hotel like you will find at https://samui.intercontinental.com/, a place where you will find kid-friendly villas as well as a kids club. There are also plenty of things for the grown-up to do, including private pools and private beaches, and an excellent spa.
However, if you are looking for something more budget-friendly, then the Bandara Resort & Spa in Bophut is also a great choice. It’s right by the fisherman’s village, giving you easy access to all their restaurants and the night market. They also have multiple swimming pools and splash areas so everyone can keep cool in the heat.
Activities in Koh Samui
You’ll be pleased to note that there are plenty of family-friendly hiking trails in Koh Samui, including Na Muenang Waterfalls, that include rivers, forests, scrambling over rocks, and even some great opportunities for bird watching. Then there is the Samui Elephant Sanctuary, which is an ethical establishment focused on preservation and education. The whole family can meet the elephants here, but there is no riding.
Lastly, one activity that the whole family will love is visiting a smaller island off the coast of Koh Samui known as Koh Madsum. This is where you’ll find native pigs that live on the beach and swim in the water too!
Food in Koh Samui
Letting the kids stay up late to visit the Fisherman’s night market in Bohut can be a great treat. Don’t worry, it’s not just fish on sale at the stalls there, but also lots of yummy street food, including Mango sticky rice, BBQ meat skewers, and of course, delicious pad thai. You may even be able to convince some of the stall owners to be gentle with the chilli, making dishes more suitable for younger ones.
Then there is the central Samui mall, which is an air-conditioned space with plenty of good-value restaurants. This also includes a great food court, which means everyone can have what they like to eat without any arguments.
The Beach in Koh Samui
Last of all, Koh Samui has some beaches where the entire family, no matter what the age, will enjoy. Choeng Mon Beach is always a good bet as it has the softest sand and shallow, calm water, making it safer for small children. Then there is Bophut Beach, which is an expansive space perfect for walks, and for visiting the village for local culinary flights once you are done.
For low cost, higher enjoyment fun, try building sandcastles, watching the sunset at Nathon Pier, or even barbecuing up some fresh ingredients caught directly from the ocean, beachside.
What are some of your favorite exotic places to visit? If you could pick some other vacation other than camping, what and where would it be?
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