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Diary 003: Finding Paradise in Koh Samui

  • Writer: Zoë Holloway
    Zoë Holloway
  • Apr 4
  • 2 min read

When looking for a serene place to escape in Asia, I came across Koh Samui, Thailand. It's a small island off the east coast of Thailand that has access to some nightlife but is mostly chill and relaxing. It was less known to foreigners in 2022, so Americans were scarce. French colonialism has made its mark there and German visitors were also frequent. Therefore, being a Black American was often met with disbelief.


Woman in white stands on rocks by the sea, looking out. Sky is clear blue, mountains in the distance, creating a serene atmosphere.
Being by the water is my favorite thing.

Accommodation and Amenities I found an AirBnB at an excellent price point for 2 months, with a gorgeous view and an infinity pool. Martin, the maintenance/property manager, was incredibly friendly and made my solo stay exceptionally comfortable. There was plenty of space for me and my brother who visited me.


Challenges and Safety Tips The biggest drawbacks were the cost of electricity, the steep hill to reach my AirBnB with the incredible view, the native geckos that often found their way inside, and the presence of wild dogs. The hill was intense and dangerous, regardless of your driving experience. As a new moped rider, I would recommend avoiding it. Towards the end of my stay, I did have a motor accident going down that very hill.


Person on a red ATV wearing a helmet, parked on a dirt path in front of lush banana trees under a clear blue sky.
The guides were amazing! They helped you get plenty of content, photos, and videos of your experience.

Person in a red swimsuit stands under a cascading waterfall with rocky backdrop, surrounded by lush greenery, reaching upward.
 Namang Waterfalls

Local Experiences and Activities One of my favorite experiences was visiting the Namang Waterfalls. The fresh water was delightful! Be cautious near the rushing fall. The pool feels bottomless until you get to the middle to stand on a large stone. However, the rushing currents of the fall will push and test your strength as a swimmer. Don’t worry, there are wading pools further away from the falls where you can easily relax. Besides soaking up the sunshine on the beach, I enjoyed riding ATVs in the jungle, visiting an elephant sanctuary, and a day of island hopping.


Two elephants stand on grassy terrain under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds, surrounded by lush green trees.
Samui Elephant Sanctuary

A pig walks on a sandy beach with colorful boats docked nearby. The background shows turquoise water and distant mountains under a cloudy sky.
Pig Island


Food and Drink Highlights: I used the Grab app to order food and groceries. My obsession with Taro Bubble Teas was easily satisfied, as I could always pay in cash with baht. It cost less than 2 USD for both the drink and the delivery, making me feel like royalty. Mango and sticky rice is the dessert to try in Thailand. It’s normally accompanied by sweet, creamy coconut sauce. It's delicious and so refreshing on any day.


Woman in white shirt and jeans holds drinks, walking past lush greenery against a stone wall. Bright leaves in the foreground.
Self-portrait with my summer obsession - Taro Bubble Tea.


Yogurt with granola and strawberries, a latte, and a handbag on a table by a beach. Boats docked nearby; string lights overhead, serene mood.
Loved eating breakfast at Cafe K.O.B. by the Sea. There is an equally great, smaller business across the street, called Coffee Cup.

Sliced mango with black sesame seeds, sticky rice, and mint on a green plate. Fork piercing the mango, coconut sauce drizzled around.
Mango and sticky rice is so delicious.

Exploring on Foot: Walking does two things: keeps me in shape and allows me to explore. You can see so much on a 20-minute walk that you miss in a taxi ride. Plus, the photos you can take :)


Two people sit on red chairs by a beach, under a tree. A clear sky, calm water, and boats are in the background, creating a serene mood.
Witnessing daily life on the island.
Outdoor fruit stand with colorful canopy, assorted fruits like pineapples, bananas, and melons. Vendor organizing produce. Signs read "FRUIT SMOOTHIE".
Fresh fruit smoothies!
Woman in an orange bikini poses on the edge of an infinity pool, overlooking a coastal landscape. Sky is clear, creating a serene vibe.
The pool and view were breathtaking but difficult to reach.

Would you visit Koh Samui?

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