"Ko Samui - Island of Coconuts" Ko Samui by MikeAtSea

Thailand’s third largest island Ko Samui, lies 420 miles south of Bangkok in the Gulf of Thailand. The first settlers were islanders from Hainan Island (now part of China) who took up coconut farming some 150 years ago. Today, in addition to tourism, coconut palms still provide a major source of income to the islanders. In fact, up to two million coconuts are shipped to Bangkok every month.
Most of Ko Samui’s population lives in the port town of Na Thon. Located on the western side of the island, it is also the oldest town. While originally all travel was by boat or foot, a main road started in the late 1960s encircles now the island, with several offshoots into the interior. Building the road was first by manual labour since no heavy equipment existed on the island. In 1973, the road was finally finished with the use of dynamite to lower the mountain passes and building machinery brought in along with cement.
Beaches and temples scattered around the island are the main attractions. Na Thon is now a busy tourist town with hotels, seafood restaurants and a number of shops. With the opening of the airport in the late 1980s, tourism on Ko Samui has grown considerably.
Yet, the island has retained a casual, do-as-you-please atmosphere, and it is the simplicity which many visitors find so attractive.

SHOPPING
Local handicrafts along with cassettes and CDs of Western and Asian artists are popular buys. The local currency is the baht.
CUISINE
The island cuisine is based heavily on coconuts. Seafood is another good choice. Some of the best restaurants are located along the coastal road.
OTHER SIGHTS
Kunaram Temple
The mummified body of Ko Samui’s best known monk, Loung Pordang, is on display in this specially built temple. At the time of his death 20 years ago, he was in a meditating pose, which is the same sitting position he can be seen in the temple today.
Secret Buddha Garden
Established by one man over the last 20 years, the site includes Buddha statues, temples and waterfalls.