Koh Samui reinvented: one of Thailand’s best holiday islands evolves to cater for Gen Z and digital nomads – here’s what is new
- Samui has taken advantage of the tourism hiatus caused by Covid-19 to up its game, with more resorts and attractions, elevated food options, even a new hospital
- Cocktail workshops, swim-up bars, co-working spaces for remote workers and an art class on the beach are just some of the things visitors can expect to enjoy
Hong Kong’s favourite Thai getaway island – three-and-a-half-hours away once Bangkok Airways’ direct flights restart on July 1 – has taken advantage of the tourism hiatus caused by the Covid-19 pandemic to up its game, revamping infrastructure and reimagining its holiday attractions.
“Essentially, Samui has used the lull in tourism over the last couple of years to pivot and take a step upmarket,” says long-time resident Alex Hammond, author of TheKohSamuiGuide.com.
“The coils of electric wires which used to blight holiday central, Chaweng, have been moved underground, roads prone to flooding have been replumbed, the ring road has been largely repaved, and it’s a darn sight easier to get around with transport apps like Grab.
“Most importantly for anyone taking a break here, resorts have used the pandemic to renovate and refresh.”
Mainstream resorts have long colonised Koh Samui, but new contenders are making their presence felt.
