Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is the third largest island in Thailand yet its size is only 13 miles by 9 miles across at its widest point. It is located 20 miles from Thailand’s mainland which you can reach by ferry. The back bone of their economy is coconuts and now the growing tourist industry.   I can already see how it is changing this quiet island.

There are many coconut groves all around the island which provide the islanders with  a livelihood and a wealth of materials like leaves they for thatching their roofs or to weave into hats and mats. They also use the shells of the coconut for vessels. To pick the coconuts they use monkeys. I was a little disappointed because I didn't get to see the monkeys do it, but I heard from others that it was pretty fun to watch.

Wat Plai Laem, Ko Samui, Thailand

 The small island was packed with character. We rented a taxi for the day and had him drive us around the island. We stopped at the different beaches, and temples.

Wat Plai Laem, Ko Samui, Thailand

Wat Plai Laem, Ko Samui, Thailand

The island has many beautiful white sand beaches.

 Ko Samui, Thailand

 Also, a couple of interesting Buddhist temple grounds.  One is Wat Plai Laem  featuring an 18 arm image of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion and the other is Phra Yai temple which has a very large Buddha looking down from a small temple on top of a small hill. 

 Phra Yai temple, Ko Samui, Thailand

 Phra Yai temple, Ko Samui, Thailand

 Phra Yai temple, Ko Samui, Thailand

 Phra Yai temple, Ko Samui, Thailand

 Phra Yai temple, Ko Samui, Thailand

 Ko Samui, Thailand

 Ko Samui, Thailand

                           These Shrines dotted the island in front of every house and business.

 Ko Samui, Thailand

 Ko Samui, Thailand Elephant