Travel : Koh Samui, A Place Closer To Nature

Rahul Jalan is a commerce graduate from Delhi University who has a vision of making www.indiaonline. in a one-stop destination for all the basic services and facilities one needs in India.

With the India Online Network, he is planning to create a vibrant network of 500+ franchises and more than 5,000 business associates for Pan India in the next two years. Besides, he is determined to achieve a turnover of Rs.100 crore and foresee a client-base of more than 5 lakh small businesses five years down the line.

Here he talks about his favourite destination, Koh Samui in Thailand

Your favourite holiday destination ?

I prefer any good beach destination like Mauritius, Koh Samui in Thailand, etc. Beach destinations serve as a good getaway from the hustle and bustle of a busy city life. I feel closer to nature at such places.

Koh Samui is my favourite place for this reason. The lush greenery, fresh air, amazing resorts and, of course, the pristine water is what keeps taking me back. Last time I visited Thailand in March. And now I am planning for my next trip. This time, I might explore a new beach destination.

What do you like about the place?

What attracts me the most about beach destinations like Koh Samui is the relaxed and easy going atmosphere. It’s just a different feeling to see so many trees and greenery, and the beautiful ocean from the window of the resort. Only a person living in urban cities will understand what it would like to be in such a place. A three to four days break and a quiet walk every evening on the beach with my better half is the best feeling that rejuvenates me for the next 12 months. That’s why I try to visit at least once a year such beach destination.

Your take on the Koh Samui?

Koh Samui is a quiet and serene beach destination. Until two-three years back, it was quite unexplored and new destination known only to a few. It’s not a very big town but offers quite a lot in terms of beautiful memories. The water sports on the beaches are must-do for every traveller. One should not miss the Koh Tao that offers the best scuba diving in the Thailand and is just two hours away from Koh Samui via ferry. Even non-divers will also love this outstandingly miraculous island, with its eye-catching long sandy beaches that are nearly isolated during the day as divers head to sea. Koh Samui is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, which offers superbly amazing sights to explore. There are so many islands, breathtaking lush jungles, amazing beaches, safari parks and restaurants. Each island of this place has its own unique quirks and customs, but the thing that mesmerised me was the incredible snorkeling and scuba environments it offers. This is the place where you can watch abundance of beautiful and brightly coloured fish, starfish and coral reefs surrounding its coastlines. From markets to malls, Koh Samui has everything for die hard shopaholics. Those who want to take a break from the bustle of the city would definitely love to be in this place.

You may choose any resort as almost all of them are located on the beach. Even for the party seekers, there is a lively night life, restaurants, bars, clubs, etc. You can also book the daytours offered by almost all the hotels through their travel counter which is an excellent way to see the entire island. And yes, do not miss the chance to take a scooter available on rent and explore the island on your own.

On restaurants...

The food offered in all resorts is great but if you miss Indian food in particular, Noori India Restaurant on the Chaweng beach is simply fantastic.

On hotels one would love to stay...

I stayed in the Imperial Boat House Hotel located on the Choeng Mon Beach which is a little far from the main Chaweng beach. I choose to stay from the crowded areas. The Choeng Mon Beach is much cleaner and quieter. The Amari Resort is also another great choice.

Tips to fellow travellers before starting their trip
  • Carry an umbrella whenever you step out of your hotel as it can rain any time.
  • Spend at least three days in Koh Samui to get a complete feel of the place (trust me after three days, you would not want to come back easily).
  • Take the local Bangkok Airways flight from Bangkok to Koh Samui as they have smaller aircrafts and is a phenomenal once-in-a-lifetime experience to travel in that aircraft.

Koh Samui is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, which offers superbly amazing sights to explore. Breathtaking lush jungles, amazing beaches. You can watch abundance of beautiful and brightly coloured fish, starfish and coral reefs surrounding its coastlines

What can other destinations learn from Koh Samui?

Just the hospitality of the people of Koh Samui is something everyplace in the world can learn. People here come forward in helping anyone who approaches them. Which makes this place different from other tourist places.

Can you share with our readers the most memorial incident...

There are many, but the vist to zoo was something that was amazing. Squatted on top of the jeep and zooming to zoo was something which is not done in tourist places likes this one. This feel good factor makes you feel at home and giving a visitor ample space to make the most of it.

Tells us about as a traveler, planning well or more impulsive?

I like to plan well for my trip.

What is on top of your mind while travelling, sightseeing, food, shopping or anything else?

Getting back my share of sleep and exploring the place casually. I like to be more of a traveler than a tourist.

By Sharmila Chand

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