Koh Samui

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world are in Thailand. We knew that we wanted to include a Thai beach during our trip, we were just concerned that because we were going during the summer months we might encounter some rough weather. Not just rain but it can get fairly windy and if the water and tides were too rough, we wouldn't be able to go in the water, snorkel or even take a boat trip. We had read about lots of trips that are canceled during the summer because of rough weather or seas. Probably one of the most famous beaches is in Phuket. But Phuket being located on the coast is very susceptible to bad weather. So after a bit of research we decided to go to Koh Samui . Koh means island in Thai. It is in the Gulf of Thailand and a bit more sheltered. We could possibly encounter rain and wind but if there was a chance we wouldn't, it would be here.

We had an interesting flight to Koh Samui on Bangkok Airways. It was the first time the kids had ever been on a plane with a propeller. They were a little taken aback. Kiki & I were sitting next to each other on the plane. Right after they started the engine, I asked her if she had seen the guy go out there and start the propeller with his hand? It took her a moment before she realized I was kidding. Even though the plane was pretty small, it was an uneventful hour long flight. An hour long flight that included a meal. . . wait - don't get me started on those airlines again.

Samui is beautiful. As a family, we really love beautiful beaches, decent hotel rooms and great restaurants that are within walking distance of our hotel. Samui had all of those. Our hotel was really nice, the pool area was great with little cabanas available for those who needed some relief from the 100+ degree temps or didn't necessarily want worry about sand everywhere. I loved these little elephants at the pool that shot water all day long. When we weren't at the pool we spent time at the beach. The beach is where it is at in Thailand. You can lay there and soak up the rays, drink fancy "umbrella" drinks from the bar, people and shop!! Perfect day. You don't even have to go to the stores, the vendors come right to you. Dresses, t-shirts, massages, jewelry. What's not to love. This is the view from the chaise lounge. One of the nicer things about traveling with teenagers (and quite frankly, one of the annoying things) is that they have in their mind what they would like to do and sometimes that doesn't coordinate with what you want to do. Chizz and I were really up for a snorkle trip, but Kiki & Snake were not feeling it. Kiki wanted more sun time and she has never been wild about snorkeling and Snake was a bit concerned about jelly fish. So Chizz and I went to Koh Tao, a short 1 1/2 hour boat trip away. We left them at the hotel with strict orders about how much they could order on their room tab. They are actually pretty responsible and we have never had a problem with that, which makes me proud. It was kind of nice. Since our nest is close to emptying soon, we are envisioning what our life will be like in a few years without the kids. If we use this trip as a guide, it will include daiquiris, snorkeling, beer and boat trips! Sign me up. Here are some photos from our trip.







So Koh Samui certainly hit the "beach" spot. That isn't to say we didn't have a spot of rain here and there. Like most tropical locations, Koh Samui can have short, incredibly powerful rain showers for about 45 minutes or so. Then it clears up and it is absolutely beautiful. The rain also cools it down a bit. We can heartily recommend Koh Samui. Next stop, Cambodia!!