TravelBuzz! - Honeymoon in Ko Samui (Thailand)

I am planning a honeymoon to Ko Samui; probably purchase the airfare from HKG because I will be there. Any advice on whether or not to do the tour or just simple land and tour ourselves or anything else would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

I traveled there independently and had no problems at all. I don't see what a tour could do for you, except maybe get a better rate at a hotel (but I doubt it).

Bruce

My wife and I traveled independently to Ko Samui two years ago and had a wonderful time! We stayed at the Central Samui Beach Resort. The property was wonderful and the service was second to none! I highly recommend.

Thanks jtg_seattle! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif Did you guys reserve the hotel(s) in advance or picked one when you arrive? By the way, is Ko Samui a direct flight or a hop from Bangkok? Also, any advice on activities?

We just walked up and asked for a rate. We were greeted with a cool towel and a fruity type drink. The room we were assigned had a HUGE balcony with a view of the ocean. The pool is huge with many different areas. Also has a swim-up bar. Many of the guests were German (20%) but all the help spoke English. Bangkok Air is the only airline that flies to Ko Samui; they own the airport. Rent a motor scooter and take a ride around the island. Find a beach and just relax…. You’ll have a great time!

ATLGA
Concur with all comments. No need to tour, its a great place though it is very popular with Germans and they will be there in force at this time of the year. There are many new properties being developed so you will have no trouble finding good accomodation.

Originally posted by ATLGA:
I am planning a honeymoon to Ko Samui; probably purchase the airfare from HKG because I will be there. Any advice on whether or not to do the tour or just simple land and tour ourselves or anything else would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Terrific. I am planning our honeymoon for mid-March. It might be kinda hot, but from your comments, we'll have a great time. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

In Thailand you are generally better off getting a hotel once you arrive rather than prebooking a rate, unless it's a business hotel in Bangkok. I haven't been to Samui but in Phuket unless it's December there shouldn't be a problem.

I agree completely. Just look around. Find a place you like. Negotiate a rate (be reasonable). Everything will be fine.

You can get a non-stop flight from Bangkok, as noted above. Fares are set by law. No advance purchase necessary, but the flights do fill up, so you probably should reserve in advance.

Chaweng Beach is too crowded for me. Keep going to Lamai or even farther.

Bruce

Has anyone tried any of the Thai massages (and I don't mean the bad one, but rather the normal massages)? Was it at the hotel? Was it a worthwhile experience? And how about the food in Ko Samui and their beach areas?

I had a "regular" Thai massage once at a massage school. No big deal, in my opinion. Food in Thailand is pretty much universally good, but look out for preservatives injected into seafood. This happens in Bangkok but shouldn't be a problem on Ko Samui.

Bruce

Did you guys get any vaccination...just in case?

No vaccinations needed unless you are coming from an infected area..I wouldn't worry about it. The Thai food is good and the massages are are must..I got most of mine in Chiang Mai last month and Phi Phi Island off the coast of Phuket. Have a great trip..I had a blast and will be returning soon!

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MRKEY

Just got back from a wonderful two weeks in Bangkok and Koh Samui. If you're going to be there in the mid-Dec through mid-Apr timeframe you really do want to get your reservations in advance. As far as hotels, if you want quiet, out of the way, try the Imperial Samui ... it's a few minute ($2-3 US) cab ride into the main part of own and nightclubs, but has a great beach/pool/view with minimal hawkers on the beach, etc.. NO nightclub of its' own....so for that kind of activity you'll need to go "into town". If you'd rather stay more in the main part of town stay at the Central Samui Beach Resort. While there ARE cheaper places than these two, they're both a great value (compared to similar hotels elsewhere in the world). I'd recommend booking online through one of the misc booking services. Also, for the Imperial Samui look at their website for specials. AND send whichever hotel you choose an email in advance letting them know you're on your honeymoon and they're likely to provide some sort of gift (possibly even an upgrade).

Be prepared for beautiful sandy beaches, great (and cheap!) food, and lots of topless women! Not that there's anything wrong with it..... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

pmv - is it www.imperialsamui.com? (http://www.imperialsamui.com?) I will check it out. Thanks!

http://www.imperialhotels.com/index.html

This will get you the overview of ALL of the Imperial Hotels. If you're staying in Bangkok enroute to/from Samui, I can't recommend the Imperial Queen's Park highly enough! There are lots of bargains to be had on great hotels in Bangkok, but about the best one I've seen is the Imperial's combo Bangkok/Samui special! And, again, let them know you're on your honeymoon and I'm POSITIVE that they'll do something special for you (at least at the Bangkok hotel!).

ATLGA....email me if you want any more info about Bangkok, Samui, or Thailand. I'm not an expert, but have a LOT of recent experience (and think Thailand is an AWESOME place to visit!)

pmv -- unfortunately, I can't seem to find your e-mail. Basically, what kind of activities are available on Ko Samui? (beach stuff, swimming, scuba, scooters, etc). And any recommendations for restaurants? Thanks.

Although stated differently above, I'd think twice about arriving in USM without reservations, especially at the nicer hotels. I fully agree with jtg_seattle: Central has a very nice property, and on two occasions, they were turning potential customers away in the early high season. jtg_seattle also has it right about PG owning USM. They have such leverage, they charge a huge departure tax for domestic flights!

Aside: I was almost burned once when I drove down to Hua Hin and went up to the front desk at the Sofitel Central looking for a room as I do about once a year. They were booked, and I had to use my membership in their hotel chain to wangle one (for free - one night). BTW, if anyone knows of a nicer hotel with more charm, ambiance, and beachfront location in Hua Hin, or even Cha Am for that matter, please let me know. The SC is the old Railroad Hotel, built about 80 years ago, and has been used as a set on several local and major international films (e.g. Hotel Le Phnom in The Killing Fields).

ATLGA -- Sorry about the email thing, by email address should be posted now.

The MAIN activity on Koh Samui is hanging out at the beach. All forms of water sports are available (if you're interested), as well as parasailing, snorkel cruises to other small islands, etc.. There's very little sightseeing on the island itself...a few neat rock formations, a couple of temples, stuff like that. If you want to tour the island I'd recommend renting a car and driver (through your hotel) for the day rather than taking a guided tour. It's cheap and lets you do what YOU want.
Be wary of the boat trips to other islands...I've heard reports of getting stranded if there's bad weather...so common sense says get a good feel for the weather! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Beaches/pools throughout Samui (especially at the hotels) are European style....read that as about half the women will be topless. Not sure what your fiancee thinks of that, but if she hasn't done it before my wife thinks she should give it a try! (it's not like you're likely to run into your mother there!!!)

Trying to think of the names of some of the restaurants off the top of my head. A couple of the nicer ones are pair owned by the same person/company called SOMETHING like "Samui Seafood Market". They're both on the main drag in town (one at north end, one at south) and you'll tell them because they're BIG, beautifully decorated with big teak boats/towers, and one has its own Baskin Robbins attached at the front end (the one at the north end of town). Chez Andy is great for BBZQ or European food. Most of the hotels have some pretty good eats, and at night their restaurants are right on the beach.

There's an awesome day spa on Samui called Tamarind. It's CHEAP (though a massage there costs more than from a beach masseuse), classy, and professional. They have a great website at www.tamarindsprings.com (http://www.tamarindsprings.com)
There's also a great cooking school (2hrs to 5 days): www.sitca.net (http://www.sitca.net)

Finally, there's a good website about Samui: www.samui.com (http://www.samui.com) (has a good message forum)

We didn't do any nightclubbing so can't tell you about the bars, though I've heard that Green Mango is a really hopping (and loud) place.

If you want info on bangkok, too, just let me know!

pmv - you're awesome! Thanks for all the info. Will 5 days be too much in Koh Samui? Or do you recommend 3 days in Koh Samui and 2 in Bangkok?

Depends on how much beach time you want! The BEST would be five days at each!!!!

I agree, but unfortunately I need to spend 2 weeks in HK...which might be great anyway because it will be my first trip there! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Where are you staying in HKG? And how much free time will you have there? I've been there a few times, too (and will be there again in Feb), and may be able to give you a few tips. My email link SHOULD be working now, so feel free to email me. If it DOESN'T work, this forum should be fine.

I've been to Hong Kong several times and all over Thailand. I recommend that you reduce the HK time and increase the Thailand time, if you possibly can. A week in HK is all you need to see the best sights. You would need much longer in Thailand. And zero days in Bangkok is too little, even if the city is depressing in some ways!

Bruce

Likewise, I wish I could lessen my days in HK and spend more time in Thailand, but I don't think I can convince my fiance. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/frown.gif

Also, has anyone stayed at the Holiday Inn in Kowloon? Is it worth it? Especially, considering that I have quite a few Holiday Inn points to use up. Btw, has anyone stayed at the Pennisula in Kowloon? Is it as great as one of my friends claims? And, has anyone tried there afternoon tea?

I travel through Hong Kong on business quite often (flipping through my passport I see I've been there on almost 20 separate occasions last year alone), and have thus made the rounds, but still haven't been to or seen everything. While the Holiday Inn is among the places I've never stayed at, I have grabbed a quick bite there several times. My impression is that it is on a par with the three Marco Polo hotels located a few blocks away on Canton Road... sort of a middle of the road place.

bdschobel's advice is good, and I would actually recommend even less time in HK. Personally, I think that most people not there on business get saturated after 3-4 days, and that would include a day trip across the border.

Maybe you could strike a deal with your fiancée... spend your HK lodging budget for a Harbor view room at the Regent. It’s a fantastic place with outstanding service. Granted, the tariff at the Regent will reduce your time in HK, but your luxurious memories will more than compensate and... it gets you to BKK faster which is (literally) my second home.

The Peninsula is still an OK place but has become IMHO over the past 10 years overly pretentious. High tea back in the '70s was outstanding with a wonderful view of Hong Kong. Sadly, now they've built (again IMHO) that hideous spaceatorium (my name) monstrosity and related complex which kills the view from the original Pen.

UAL Traveler -- where is the Regent located? In Kowloon or the Island? How much is it a night and what's special besides the view? Also, what does IMHO stand for? Thanks.

IMHO = In My Humble Opinion... its one of the PC (politically correct) things that seem to comprise netiquette, despite the fact that my own opinion and IMHO that of others are not all that humble most of the time http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

The Regent is right at the very tip of Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui district. It sits on the Victoria Harbor waterfront, and stares across at Hong Kong Island, with unimpeded views (awesome at night). It is less than a 5-minute walk from the Kowloon Holiday Inn.

The Regent is a 5-star hotel, and is generally regarded as being among the world's top hotels due to their pampering service, attention to detail, top-notch dining and first-rate facilities. The location is quite convenient, although that can be said of many of the hotels in that area, including the Holiday Inn... just minutes from Nathan Road shopping, the Star Ferry, restaurants, etc.

Rates vary, but harbor view (I would not recommend anything less for your honeymoon) rates run about $250-300 a night... With a bit of luck and searching, you might be able to do better.

I was on Samui in November- great time!
I didn't fly in but as I recall Bangkok Airways flies there from...bangkok, for about 200US return. Went by the airport- if they had one on Gilligans Island it would look like this!

My advice is to stay away form the huge beaches- Hat Lamai and the one next to it.
Beware of booking hotels in advance as what you might end up with something lousy. Very good hotels are very easy to find. You should be able to live in the lap of luxury for 60$ US a night, which is considerably more than the going rate of about 20$us for most bungalows.

yeah- just get the flight down there and don't worry too much about planning. That part of Thailand has got to be one of the easiest places in the world to travel....

Be sure to go snorkelling- the coral is great, even better on Ko Phang Nan.... And the diving is great too I'm told.

I want to second what UAL Traveler and terminalcity said above. The Peninsula is over-rated (and I stayed there in 1992). The Regent is better, although I prefer to stay on Hong Kong Island itself. Last time, I stayed at the Marriott -- no complaints. Take a boat ride to see the Big Buddha on Lantau Island; it's a great way to spend a day.

As I said way earlier, you can just bop on down to Ko Samui and take your chances with hotels, etc. I never make arrangements in advance in Thailand -- and I've never had a problem. In fact, I've almost certainly saved money and stayed exactly where I wanted.

Bruce

I have to toss in a big YES! for the Regent suggestion, although unless they have a promotion at that time it might be a wee bit more expensive than noted. Whatever it costs, it's worth it, expecially for a honeymoon. Staring out the huge window at the activity on the harbor and the view across the water is great anytime, but seems especially fitting to other honeymoon activities. Have them pick you up, too - it's expensive compared to public transportation, but a really nice beginning to a special experience.

I agree also (maybe all these non-humble opinions will change your fiance's mind) that, although HK is fascinating, Thailand is a better (and more economical) place to relax and hang out. If you put Bangkok on your list and haven't spent all your discretionary funds for the next ten years (and like the idea of pampering hotels) consider the Oriental there. We like Shangri-la better, but Oriental certainly sets the world standard for attention to guests.

Hard to imagine any hotel or accomodations worth spending $500+ /night; but I will definitely look into the Regent. Unfortunately, we have quite a hectic schedule in HK before relaxing in Koh Samui. Lots of duties/family obligations...it might not be that bad. I will try to see if my fiancee can give up a few more days in Koh Samui and Bangkok. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

Regarding Bangkok -- do you guys recommend doing a tour or self guided tour? Thanks.

I would recommend a short series of half-day tours to the standard fare:

1. Grand Palace/Wat Phra Keo (morning or afternoon); a must.

2. City and temple tour (morning or afternoon), can be combined with 1., since one of the interesting temples (Wat Po - giant reclining Buddha and billed as the home of Thai massage) is adjacent.

3. Floating market (the real one in Darmnoensaduak, not the subsidized one in one of the side klongs in BKK), Samphran (quick and dirty elephant rides and show along with fake croc wrestling), and maybe the Rose Garden (about 3/4 day). Oh, if you do this, make sure that they drop you off several km short of the floating market so that you can go the rest of the way via longboat through the maze of klongs (settings for some James Bond action scenes).
On the way back to town there is tourist cobra show they will try to steer you towards (not recommended).

3. Chao Phraya river tour... this you can do yourself on the boats that cost just a few bath, and zigzag across the river, stopping at various markets, temples, hotels, and general venues. If you stay at one of the upscale hotels along the river (ex: Oriental, Shangri-la), they will set you up with a boat. Otherwise, don’t be shy about just jumping on and seeing where it will take you. BTW, I hope you can swim. Every year it seems, at least for the last five years or so, they’ve lost their fair share of tourists; about 10-20 or so a year by my count, but this is not publicized by the BMA (BKK Metro Authority) for obvious reasons, so the count might be a bit higher. You shouldn’t let this stop you from taking the river boats, just be careful.

4. Ride the skytrain to some unique shopping areas... such as Patpong at night; the 'other' stuff at Patpong just adds flavor along the fringes of the market; most don't find it overly offensive, just different http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif It’s very close to the Sala Daeng station on the Silom line. If you time your BKK stay to overlap the weekend, you MUST take skytrain to the northern terminus of the Sukhumvit line (Mor Chit station). There, you can exit directly into The Jatujak (sometimes spelled Chatuchak) Weekend Market where you can find *everything*. Local Thais of all classes shop there, and the prices are very reasonable. It is a dense bazaar type setup with over 5000 stalls. Don't worry if you get lost or separated there... just tell your wife you'll meet her at the clock tower which is visible throughout the market.

During the week, you can find a limited, micro version of the market in Mah Boon Krong (MBK), National Stadium station. They've got about 6 floors of shops ranging from clothes to electronics, crafts, food, etc. It’s a bit junky, but might be worth an hour.

Its easy to find upscale shopping: World Trade Center (Silom or Chidlom stations and walk 10 minutes), Central Department Store (now directly connected to Chidlom station via skybridge), and the Emporium shopping mall (Phrom Phong station).

My recommendation is that for the tours, you should consider booking a driver, car and guide for a private tour, and avoid the ultra cheap en-masse tour packages. The additional cost is worth it. However, any tour you take in Bangkok, or Asia for that matter, private or group, will involve a stop or two at a ‘special tourist shopping area.’ The prices are very inflated since there is a uniform kickback policy coupled to the straight fee paid shop keeper to the tour guides for bring in customers. Still, you will probably find the prices reasonable by western standards, but if you can resist, you will be able to find the same quality in local shops at about half the price.

Oh, before I forget, be sure to make some custom tailored clothes. The Indian tailors and a few of the Thais are quite good at copying just about any style around (and sewing in the label), so if you have a picture of an Armani suit you are dying to have, or a designer dress, or what-have-you, just take it into one of the shops and show it to them. Clothes will be ready next day; shoes and boots take about 3-4 days. Make sure you leave time for at least one fitting. The question often comes up as to whether Hong Kong or Bangkok wins the custom tailor game. It seems to me that most people who’ve been going to both areas for a number of years would vote for Bangkok by a wide (>> Florida) margin. I have to admit though, when it comes to finely tailored business shirts, I usually have them made in a selected shop in HK. Finally, beware the silk. There is some legitimate rough Thai silk in the shops, but anything else is synthetic (good synthetic, but synthetic none-the-less). Do not believe them when they swear it is silk. More often than not it is something called ‘squirrel-tail,’ a pure synthetic.

Sorry to be so long-winded… I could go on and on (didn't talk about the wonders of Thai food), but as mentioned before, Bangkok is my second home, and I just love it there (and upcountry too).

UAL traveller has got great advice!
i can only add the following-
You'll be inundated by tour operators and overpriced taxis at the big hotels. A taxi at the hotel door will cost you 2 to 5 times as much as one flagged down on the street. make sure the meter is on.

There's a great tourist map called "Nancy chandler's map of Bangkok." You can get it at asia books in the Emporium shopping centre- you'll probably end up there sooner or later.

the most memorable part of bangkok for me is a Chao Phrya river boat trip to the incredible flower market. get off at the " Tha saphan Phut" stop on the river, it's right after the memorial bridge. Unbelievable place- just like Bangkok.