This was one of our most recent adventures, as we did this whilst my sister was visiting for 3 weeks, it is an all day trip setting out at 7:30 am and returning around 5 pm travelling via boat or speed boat whichever you prefer. We went with the big boat as we thought this would be a more relaxing experience (and perfect for tanning to). Supplied with breakfast, lunch and snacks it is a really relaxing and enjoying trip to do, although still packed with enough activities to have you feeling exhausted at the end of the day.

My favourite part was hiking up the rocky mountain through the jungle to reach the viewpoint, unfortunately, 500m was no accessible the day we as it had been raining and was far too slippery to hike up to. Therefore 300m was the highest we were allowed to go, but to be fair I did not think I could go on any further anyways as 300m was not easy and the thought of having to go back the way I started was making the thought of going any higher unbearable haha. But 300 metres did not disappoint with the most beautiful view I have ever seen, and an added bonus we saw the cutest little family of monkeys sitting amongst the trees. It is such as amazing thing to see them in their natural habitat and there was a teeny tiny baby monkey to which was amazing too.

After trekking the viewpoint is was back to the boat for kayaking around rocks and through caves, then to the Green Lagoon for a pit stop and relax on the beach, with the option of a mini snorkeling session too. So it is definitely an activity filled day, the only thing that I would say is that the snorkeling is not very good, so if you are looking to do more snorkeling then I suggest the Koh Tao trip. But I'll talk more about that later down the list.

Chaweng Thai Boxing Stadium

Chaweng Muay Thai Stadium were James competed a few times (and won!! Whoop) so I have been there enough to realise it is actually a really good night out. The stadium itself is quite modern with a Dj between intervals and a bar serving drinks, it is a great place to start off your night out it. The fights start around 9 pm so you have enough time to grab some dinner beforehand, finishing around midnight (although you can choose to leave whenever you wish). Costing 1500thb which is about £30 it is not the cheapest of things to do however it is definitely a good experience and you get to see some traditional Thai Boxing with both Thai fighters and foreign fighters competing.

I mentioned in my previous island guide post that Lamai also had a free Thai boxing event every Saturday which is held outside. However, I personally enjoy Chaweng Stadium a lot more and also the level of fighters is a lot higher competing at Chaweng than in Lamai. So if you are looking to watch a good, hard fight Chaweng Stadium is your place to be.

Nuang No.2 Waterfall

One of my top favourite things to do on the island is visit the Waterfalls, Nuang waterfall being the highest on the island (although still quite small) but deep enough to get in and have a little swim. I have been here a handful of times now and have loved it every time, it is a little daunting at first as the fresh water is so cold and you cannot see a thing that lurks in there, but once you are in it is super refreshing and fun trying to swim to the fall.

Koh Phangan Full Moon Party

The full moon party reoccurs once a month and during this time Koh Samui gets very busy with travellers and party-goers awaiting the full moon to commence. A lot of people choose to camp base on Koh Samui as Koh Phangan gets very expensive around the full moon time, and all hotels and hostels require you stay a minimum of 5 nights which can be inconvenient for travellers wanting to move on. The two islands are half an hour apart via speed boat, which leave every hour from Samui and then from midnight they run every hour back to Samui from Koh Phangan till about 7 in the morning. So it is perfect really you get dropped off and you get picked up, costing only £20 or so.

Do not let the horror stories you may have seen or heard about on TV programmes because the full moon party was one of the best nights out whilst here in Thailand to date. It was such a good night, with the best atmosphere ever, everyone was so happy and friendly. I 100% recommend you go experience it, it will be a one you never forget. One thing I will say do not put down your shoes because you will lose them (or they will be stolen), James and our friend both lost theirs having put them down for about 2 seconds. Whether they got buried in the sand whilst dancing or someone lots theirs too and nabbed another pair, we do not know haha we just couldn't find them.

Visit the Chinese Temples

So I mentioned the Chinese Temples also in my Island Guide, so I won't go into much detail. But if you are looking to do some sight seeing on the island I would suggest you visit the temples, there are four to explore and they are huge. With such beautiful designs and detail, they are so fascinating to go a see.

Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan Snorkelling Trip

If your looking to do a snorkelling trip then the Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao is the one you're after, James and I did this trip whilst staying on Koh Tao however it is available from Koh Samui too. The day is filled with lots of jumping on and off the boat whilst snorkelling beautiful coral reefs where you can see thousands of different kinds of fish.

After a morning and afternoon of snorkelling you finish off on the beautiful island that is Koh Nangyuan. Koh Nangyuan is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world, situated in-between Koh Tao and Koh Samui, this stunning island is a secluded cove of heaven. With a viewpoint you can climb and more snorkelling to be done, it is the perfect end to an amazing day.

Bo Phut Fisherman's Market

Again I have mentioned Bo Phut Fisherman's Village before, but I will briefly mention it again as it is definitely the best markets on the island. If you're looking for an evening of shopping, eating and cocktails then Bo Phut is where you need to go. Fisherman's market is my favourite market and by far the biggest on the island held every Friday from 5:30 to 10:30 pm. It is a lovely evening to enjoy on the island.

Muay Thai Training

Ok so this one might not be everyone cup of tea, or thing 'to do' whilst on holiday, but when here a year and your boyfriend training almost everyday you kind of feel like you must at least try out the sport. That I did, my sister and I in fact - we pulled ourselves together and opted to take a private lesson in Muay Thai, surprising we thoroughly enjoyed it and both want to continue learning whilst back at home (whether we stick by our words, we shall see haha).

But if fitness is your thing, or you just want to try something a little different whilst holidaying then Thai boxing is your answer. It is such a fun activity and the trainers are all so lovely and extremely friendly to train with. I recommend James' gym Yodyut Muay Thai, as they are all so welcoming and the lessons are a lot of fun. Also, if you do visit don't forget to go next door and try out my favourite restaurant too, Fareeda's.

Elephant Bathing

The title for this one surely said it all really? Hands down the most amazing thing I have experienced yet and I feel even happier that I was able to share with my little sister, who's favourite animal is elephants. Just seeing the huge grin on her face the whole day she was with elephants just makes my heart well up with joy, haha I'm a soppy sod I know but it was so lovely.

We took apart on an Eco Tour excursion which included a trip to the waterfall, cooking class, elephant bathing and trekking and a crocodile show. To be honest we didn't feel that great about the show it is not very natural or human performing tricks such as sticking your hand down a crocodile's throat and also the elephant trekking is a little of a touchy subject to. But if it makes anyone feel any better each elephant has their own career whom they belong too and they get feed and treated so very well. The elephant bathing was the loveliest thing I have ever seen, the elephant was having the time of his life splashing and being brushed clean.

Ark Bar & Nightlife

So my very last thing I would say definitely go to is a night out in Chaweng town, it's nightlife is buzzing with bars, clubs and one in particular I love is Ark Bar. With fire shows, cocktails, pool tables, DJ and dancing all up on Chaweng Beach it is definitely a great place to enjoy some holiday spirit.

So there you have it the last of my trio of Koh Samui Island posts, I really hope you enjoyed reading them and I hope I maybe inspired you to go visit this amazing island. Next up England... speak soon xo

In the heart of Chaweng Ninja Crepes is waiting with a cue of 10 people lined up outside awaiting their tasty foods. With a huge menu full of different varieties of Thai food, from seafood, curries, soups and noodles Ninja Crepes is a sure favourite for all travellers visiting the island. A basic restaurant with plastic tables and chairs, and all chefs preparing the food in an open kitchen amongst the diners giving a great atmosphere. Ninja's being extremely popular and can get very busy we have experienced cues outside around 7:30pm onwards, however during lunch time and early evening around 6pm you can almost get a table straight away.

My favourite Ninja dishes are Pumpkin Curry, Deep Fried Squid, Breaded Calamari, Tom Yam Soup, Deep Fried Ice-cream (my god which is a MUST) and Chicken with Cashew Nut. The list could go on to be honest the menu is so big. 

Krua Choeng Mon

This is a restaurant James and I normally head to for lunch, as it is just a walk from our apartment. Based in Choeng Mon this little treasure is tucked away a side road (near the 7/11 past the petrol garage , if your looking). It is very popular and normally get quite busy around 1pm lunch time with people ordering their set menu options which give you lots of dishes to try.

Normally I go for 'Over Rice' option which is only 50thb (£1) can you believe, and it gives you a dish of your choice over a portion of rice. My favourites are Sweet Chili Chicken - on rice, Chicken Curry, Penang Chicken curry, Morning Glory, Kale and Pork with Oyster Sauce. This is not even including side aha favourite sides include Crab Cakes, Spring Rolls and Chicken Satay - THE BEST chicken satay I have had on the whole island can I just point out. It is just all so delicious.

Samui Paleang

We used to go to this restaurant all the time, when we lived in Chaweng as is was just a quick mo-ped journey. I probably would say this is more of one of James' favourite restaurant than mine, but only because I didn't really have a fav dish of theirs. However their Chicken Panang was really good, and I did like their Chicken n Cashew Nut. Also they did a good Spaghetti Carbonara (aha for those I miss home days), oh I almost forgot (how could I forget) DEEP FRIED BANANA for desert with chocolate sauce, do I need to say anymore… aha.

James would recommend the Spicy Chicken Salad, Deep Fried Vegetables and he also really liked the Chicken Fried Rice. This restaurant has a really good menu though and has a lot of Thai and western foods to choose from so you will definitely find something that tickles your fancy.

Food Court

The food court is a food market that is on everyday from 3pm located in heart of Chaweng, on Chaweng Walking Street. It is a great place to try a bit of everything as there is so much to offer, from fresh fish to meat, papaya salads and even pancakes. I love to eat here when I'm not sure on what I fancy for dinner as you can walk up and down all the kitchens having a nosey on whats to offer.

I would definitely recommend trying it out if planning to visit Samui as it is a great holiday ambiance and sometimes on the odd day there is quite a big market from gifts and counterfeit goods too. So you can buy all the foods and all the gifts in one place, win win!!

My food court recommendations would be BBQ Corn (yum), the BBQ meat is delicious, curried pies, shrimps, papaya salad (which is really spicy). Oh and if your not feeling Thai food or BBQ food, they have a great burritos and gyro stand.

Gringos Cantina

Ok, so my first non Thai restaurant on list is Gringos Cantina Mexican food at it's finest. This place is literally like carb heaven and such a treat when you've had enough of rice and Thai spice. James and I have been here a handful of times now and leave feeling very stuffed with happy bellies.

So what to have, well it being Mexican Fajitas are a must. James' favourite is a curried lamb burrito which comes with peanuts, chutney and a hella' amount of melted cheese SO GOOD! I have also had the pulled pork burritos (which are only on a Thursday, to my disappointment) which are delicious. Homemade chilli is a winner and also the ribs and chicken options are pretty tasty too. Told you we've been there a handful of (maybe two) times.

Scandic

Scandic is again another restaurant we spent a lot of evening at when we lived in Chaweng town. Serving both Thai and Swedish food like Swedish Meatballs and Mash, Stroganoff and Pan Beef. Even though this is classes as 'western' food here the Thai food is actually surprising really delicious, with classic dishes like Thai Green Curry and Chicken Panang.

Recommendations from Scandic's menu, Mexican Spring rolls (not very Swedish or Thai I know but they are extremely delicious), Scandic Burger, Meatballs, they also make a pretty good pizza. Ok so Thai options = all of it, especially Chicken and Cashew Nut and Chicken Panang Curry.

Sorry for the lack of images for Scandic, it has been a while since we went and never really took many food photos at the begin of this trip. However check their website out because they have lots of info and picture of their dishes on there.

Zicos

6 words; Brazilian BBQ All You Can Eat!!!! That is all there is to say to win you over really, well that is all it took for me. We have been twice to Zicos and both times have left with the biggest food baby in history, seriously this restaurant is a must.

Each table is tokened with a Zicos stop and start token (red and green), you turn to green when you want to eat and you turn to red when you need a break. Whilst green the BBQ keeps on coming form fresh fish to fresh meat skewers and skewers of deliciousness arriving at your table. With three big buffet tables serving salad, side dishes and of course deserts (James' favourite) you can wine and dine all night long. With the entertainment from two ridiculously sassy Brazilian dancers that preform for half an hour every hour from 8 to 10 it is an evening to remember and one I would definitely recommend on the island.

James and I went her for a pre Christmas celebration courtesy of my lovely Uncle who paid for us to have a extra lovely evening and dinner out, (thanks Unc). We had the best time drinking endless cocktails and eating to our hearts content.

Red Snapper

The Red Snapper restaurant was a recent discovery for my belated birthday dinner whilst my little sister was here to visit. At first we was drawn to the restaurant because it had a live band playing and had a sign for Mediterranean Tapas (which is a favourite type of food of mine). It turns out it is quite a fine dining restaurant with a gorgeous, Michelin style menu.

The food was to die for it was honestly the most delicious food I have had in a while (apart from Fareeda's Thai food of course). With a starter of Tapas buffet where you can help yourself to mini spoons of fresh fish and meat, along with salad and vegetables. To a main course that was just as amazing to look at as it was to eat, I opted for the Red Snapper with a Ravioli stuffed with crab, prawn and asparagus. It was so good I could cry. My sister went for the seafood spaghetti which looked just as delicious with the biggest muscles we have ever seen. Washed down with a generous glass on vino and serenaded by the coolest little band singing Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift what's not to love. But don't let me stop there we haven't reached dessert yet and dessert was the icing on the cake, everyone on the table opted for the same as it sounded too good to be true… After Eight Ice-cream with Mango Cheesecake. Did you not just pass out. Honestly the most delicious desert I have ever had just look at the picture above, my ice-cream came in a jar, a jar. That there is a winner in itself.

Vikasa

Ok, so last but not least Vikasa. Vikasa was where James and I celebrated our 6 year anniversary together, looking for something a little different to eat and a change of scenery we head for the mountains and came across Vikasa. Originally a yoga resort, but with a restaurant aside, offering a unique and health style of cuisine.

Probably the healthiest food I have eaten on the island with such a unique taste, it was definitely a refreshing change. It kind of made me feel like I should do some yoga too.. but I didn't get that far aha. We shared starters of Tomatoes filled with delicious Feta and Chinese style Dumplings filled with beetroot cashew mince, wrapped in soft chewy rice paper. Then for main we had Sea Bass (i think it was) or the fish of the day (that day) with a spicy rice and Thai style sauce. It was all very delicious and clean, we felt pretty good afterwards although we probably went and treated ourselves with naughty biscuits and cakes for 7/11 afterwards. It was our anniversary after all. 

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So that is all guys from me and all my favourite places to eat in Koh Samui. There are a lot of them I know, what can I say I love my food. I hope this didn't make you too hungry, and I hope you enjoyed this post. I have really enjoyed putting together all my travel and Thailand post whilst being here, and I hope it is something I can continue on doing so in the future. Only one more post to go.. before home time, I cannot believe it is almost over :(

So here it is finally, my mini Koh Samui Island guide that I have been working on for quite sometime now but I am finally happy with it enough for it to go live. Phew' and just in time too as we only have 14 days left on the island before returning back to the UK. Trying my best to keep it short and sweet but also making sure I cover all that there is to know, I have decided to do a collection of 3 or maybe two post just rounded up all ares of Samui, from location, food and things to do.. Koh Samui is Thailand's second largest island after Phuket, made up of lots of coconuts, abundant touristy wonders, coral reefs and sandy beaches it is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for that paradise getaway or stopping off for some traveller fun. Beginning with location on the island and my thoughts on where to stay and visit, continue reading if you want to find out more about Koh Samui and what to expect...