Trade in that screensaver for the real thing — these totally secluded, completely blissful islands are the stuff of honeymoon dreams.
By: Pam GroutKoh Samui, Thailand
A dreamy island in the Gulf of Thailand with a ridge of thick mountain jungle strutting across its belly, Koh Samui has everything you could ever want in a honeymoon should colorful drinks with umbrellas grow tiring: endless miles of sugar sand beaches, a balmy climate and some culture to experience (think four-story gold statues of Buddha and Thai cooking classes). Once a guarded secret of the backpacking set, this hypnotic island has become a magnet for luxury.
Photos courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
What to Do:
There’s very little on this pineapple-studded island that’s not picture-worthy. But the two of you would look good in front of Watt Phra Yai, the 40-foot gold Buddha, the legendary Grandmother and Grandfather rocks at Lamai Beach (ask the locals about the folklore) or on any one of the neighboring 42 deserted islands in Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Photo courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
For an adventure, ask your hotel concierge about a waterfall excursion that includes riding atop an elephant. You’ll also want to indulge in a massage or two (Thailand’s first university was a massage school after all). Snorkeling is wildly popular as is shopping. Night markets are a maze of local hawkers selling spices, clothing and traditional art pieces.
Koh Samui is well known for its all-night, full-moon parties. The DJ fueled fests hosted on a neighboring island last until dawn.
Where to Stay:
For a lively atmosphere, stay at Chaweng Beach, which is lined with hotels like the all-white, chic The Library (room rates start at about $306 a night and include breakfast and some activities; thelibrary.co.th).
If you seek more tranquility, consider booking into the sleek W Retreat Koh Samui. Set between the village of Bout and Maename Beach, the oceanfront retreat has all the modern amenities of its sister properties and isn’t too far from the local sites (room rates start at about $402 a night; starwoodhotels.com/whotels).
Photo courtesy of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
