The Khong Chiam region is still largely unaffected by tourism and, for those willing to explore it, offers spectacular scenery and the promise of peaceful days spent well away from the noise and chaos of the urban environment. With its waterfalls, cliffs and rock paintings, Pha Taem is the kind of place you simply never tire of exploring.

The magic of Pha Taem, north of Khong Chiam

Elephant rides have become a major concern in many locations, but are still offered by a handful of so-called "sanctuaries" with the proposition to get close to the exotic and majestic animal. Elephant rides are offered on every street corner and Westerners have little knowledge about the cruel methods to succeed in training these enormous animals.

Experience Thailand without riding elephants!

Come and completely immerse yourself in the gigantic megalopolis which is Bangkok. 

Bangkok, a continental megalopolis

To set the scene for you, imagine 2,188 km² covered by 80% forest and populated with more than 800 animal species roaming completely free. Add streams, waterfalls and a mountain range amongst 2,000 plant species. Classify it all as a UNESCO world heritage site and you have the Khao Yai national park.

Khao Yai or the paradise of species

Damnoen Saduak

Kanchanaburi

Erawan

Bang Pa In

 Ko Samet is a small island forming part of a national park and located off the coast of Rayong in eastern Thailand.

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Koh Samet is easy to get around so you'll quickly feel at home. I liked that this island was so close to the capital, as well as its small size and calm atmosphere. Even if the coastline doesn't lack resorts (the big island being a favourite with the Thais at weekends), Ko Samet has amazing mangroves, idyllic white, sandy beaches and incredible plantlife. I settled down on the white sands at Hat Sai Kaeo and recharged my batteries at Ao Kiu Na Nok as well as Ao Nuan. I left Ao Phrao with the image of a perfect sunset in my head and, as I snacked on a pancake, I told myself I wouldn't miss the island's softly lit beaches once I got home...How wrong I was!

At less than three hours from Bangkok in the Gulf of Siam, the island of Koh Samet boasts stunning beaches and a calm setting for visitors wanting to enjoy a family holiday. 

Ko Samet is all length and not very much width, a bit like a pin with its head, the part a little wider, lying to the north. Though the island is small, it is still possible to hire motorbikes or, better still, mountain bikes there. It is definitely the type of island to go to for a romantic holiday as a couple ; that, in any case, was the spirit in which I went there with my wife for a break out at sea. This is also one of the closest islands to Bangkok. On Koh Samet, rest and relaxation are the order of the day ; because, and this goes without saying, there isn't much to do there. As it's a national park, its coastline is protected, which means there are few buildings. The consequence of this is that there aren't many restaurants, hotels, etc., to choose from. The options available are a walk in the forested area found in the center of the island, underwater diving, or admiring the sunset.  There are various places on the island where you can encounter statues; there is one of Aphai Mani and a mermaid at Hat Sai Kaew Beach for example.

Ko Samet is a small island forming part of a national park and located off the coast of Rayong in eastern Thailand.

Ko Samet Holidays

Ko Samet: How to get there?

Ko Samet: See when to go?

Ko Samet: For how long?

Ko Samet: What to see nearby?

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