Samui is catching up with Phuket in terms of popularity and quality of hotels, making it an easy switch when Phuket is rainier in the middle of the year.

While the crowded beach of Chaweng on Koh Samui draws parallel at times to the Patong of Koh Samui, like its popular cousin on the West of Thailand, there are a number of luxury beach properties in secluded bays perfect for a secluded beach holiday.

Its neighbouring Koh Phangan is a quick 40 minute speedboat away. Famous for the hallowed grounds of the Full Moon Party, quieter boutique resorts are set far away from the exuberant party-goers. Snorkelling and diving are great in the Ang Thong National Marine Park.