Koh Samui is back, but honestly not recommended—I just want to keep it real!

🌴 Hey, lovelies! The dreamy island featured in *007* is here! Pristine coconut groves + crystal-clear waters + pink sunsets—this ultimate guide will help you dodge the crowds and uncover Koh Samui’s hidden gems!🌊 --- ✨ **Pre-Trip Prep** - **Documents**: Passport (6-month validity), flight/hotel bookings, Thai visa (available on arrival) - **Gear**: Sunscreen (SPF50+), sunglasses, straw bag, waterproof phone case, mosquito repellent - **Currency**: Exchange 5,000 THB in advance (rate ~1:22), cash exchange at 7-Eleven on the island - **Best Time**: November–April (avoid monsoon season) --- 📍 **Must-Visit Spots** 1️⃣ **Chaweng Beach** - **Highlights**: 2km white sand + jet skis, vibrant nightlife! - **Tips**: Catch sunset at 4 PM, party at Bar Street (try Ibiza Bar) 2️⃣ **Big Buddha Temple** - **Tips**: Climb 240 steps for sea views (but it’s touristy—go before 9 AM) 3️⃣ **Ang Thong National Marine Park** - **Must-Do**: Island hopping (snorkeling + kayaking in Blue Lagoon), ~400 THB/person 4️⃣ **Lamai Viewpoint** - **Photo Op**: Cable car + jungle zipline (800 THB), overlooking Heart-Shaped Bay --- 🍜 **Food Guide** 1️⃣ **Fisherman’s Village Night Market** - **Must-Try**: Grilled lobster (800 THB), mango sticky rice, coconut ice cream - **Hours**: 5–10:30 PM (open Mon/Wed/Fri) 2️⃣ **Coco Tam’s** - **Viral Picks**: Fireworks at 7:15 PM + sunset, don’t miss the pineapple smoothie! 3️⃣ **The Cliff** - **Michelin Vibes**: Thai lemon sea bass + seaside high tea, ~200+ THB/person --- 🏨 **Stay Recommendations** 💸 **Budget-Friendly** - **Ibis Bophut Beach**: Expat hotspot, steps to the beach, ~300+ THB/twin room - **Royal Muang Samui Villas**: Family-friendly, free airport transfer, ~800 THB/person 💰 **Luxury Escapes** - **Six Senses Samui**: Private beach + yoga retreats, secluded vibe (from 1,996 THB) - **Kimpton Kitalay**: Kid-friendly, pool + play club (from 1,950 THB) --- 🚗 **Getting Around** - **On Island**: Songthaew (50 THB/person), rent a scooter (200 THB/day—wear a helmet!) - **Island Hopping**: Pig Island + Koh Tan half-day tour (600 THB, includes snorkeling) - **Airport to Town**: Tuk-tuk for 150 THB, pre-booked transfers are cheaper --- 📸 **Instagram Hotspots** 1. **Coco Tam’s Pink Beach**: Grab front-row loungers by 5 PM for *La La Land* vibes 2. **Cliff Swing (Lamai Viewpoint)**: Wear a white maxi dress for fairy-tale shots! 3. **Zuma Rock Night Market**: Glow-in-the-dark food stalls + crafts, ultra-photogenic --- 💡 **Pro Tips** - Haggle **50% off** at seafood markets—drain water before weighing! - Wear **long pants/skirts** in temples, **don’t touch Buddha’s head** - Leave valuables behind on boat trips (waves = lost items) - **7-Eleven mosquito spray** is half the price of hotels! --- 🎒 **Packing List** ✅ Waterproof phone case (for snorkeling) ✅ Disposable raincoat (sudden downpours!) ✅ Foldable sandals (anti-slip for beaches) ✅ Universal adapter (Type C/F plugs)