Ko Samui
Island · Ko Samui
Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Highlights
Palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, Big Buddha statue
Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand Get directions
Palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, Big Buddha statue
Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand Get directions
"A tropical island option with the perks of the country’s inexpensive restaurants and lower overall living and rental costs, it’s a popular retirement choice—but prospective retirees should note national visa rules that typically require applicants to be at least 50 years old and meet specified financial and background-check criteria." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Acknowledged as the choice for affordable luxury, this destination combines pristine beaches, lush landscapes and warm hospitality, with local officials highlighting its natural beauty and readiness to welcome visitors; the recognition reflects a balance of upscale amenities, accessibility and favorable guest experiences." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"An island offering coastal resorts (several high-profile properties were used for recent television filming) alongside a lush, forested interior—making it easy to pair glamorous beachfront relaxation with hikes and exploration inland." - Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, where she edits the Discoveries section of the print magazine and develops longer stories focusing on food, wine, and spirits. She has previously worked at Food & Wine and in the writing program at NYU Abu Dhabi. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A reader favorite island that has seen increased attention after serving as the filming location for the HBO series The White Lotus; known for its resort scene and beach-oriented leisure offerings." - John Wogan John Wogan John Wogan is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure and a contributing writer at T: The New York Times Style Magazine. He was previously a senior editor at Condé Nast Traveler and a travel features editor at Goop.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Thailand is a beautiful and culturally rich country in Southeast Asia known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and friendly people. It offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, with famous temples, bustling markets, and pristine islands."
