Chapter V: A Relaxing Escape to Koh Samed
Recently, a trip to Koh Samed in Thailand offered the perfect escape. The journey began from Chengdu Tianfu Airport on a Wednesday evening, with a plane scheduled to depart at 23:55. After finishing work at 18:30, I hurried home, packed my luggage, grabbed a quick burger, and set off. The airport, an hour and a half away from the city center, felt like the first step in a grand adventure. However, a delayed flight meant we landed in Bangkok around 4 AM, feeling slightly groggy but excited.
Navigating Bangkok’s early morning roads in a rental car proved to be a bit of a challenge, especially since they drive on the left side in Thailand. Despite our initial nervousness, we decided to drive a bit further from the airport to rest. This led us to Ban Phe, the ferry port where we would board a ferry to Koh Samed. The calm ferry ride set a serene tone for the days ahead. Arriving at the resort, nestled in lush greenery and just steps away from the beach, felt like stepping into a tranquil haven.
Takeaway
- Thai people seem to love tuning their vehicles, with many cars, trucks, and buses adorned with LED lights that lit up the wet asphalt en route to the port.
- Driving on the left side of the road was a new and slightly scary experience, especially with the “free left turn” rule.
Easygoing Days
Most days unfolded leisurely on the beach, with hours spent reading, napping, and listening to the soothing sound of the waves. Waking up to the gentle sound of waves was a new and delightful experience. Unlike previous trips where my accommodations were farther from the sea, this proximity added a special touch.
Embracing Laziness
Typically, my vacations are frenetic, filled with city tours and sightseeing. However, this time, I purposefully booked a vacation to avoid crowds and busy schedules. I soon mastered the art of doing nothing, with hours spent lounging by the pool, sipping fresh coconut water, and soaking in the quiet surroundings. No rush, no schedule—just pure relaxation.
Simple Pleasures
Dining on the island was a highlight. One evening, we enjoyed a seafood dinner right on the beach. Grilled prawns, spicy salad, and mango sticky rice tasted even better with the sea breeze and the sound of waves in the background. The resort's restaurant, where we took our breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, was consistently delightful.
A Bit of Exploration
We did indulge in some light exploration. A short hike through quiet trails led to a small waterfall, a refreshing spot that felt like a hidden gem. The tranquil trail and the cool waters provided a pleasant adventure away from the beach.
Scooter rides around the island added a bit of excitement. Getting lost a couple of times turned out to be part of the fun, and the friendly locals were always ready to help with directions. Their smiles and warmth made the experience even more enjoyable. Most locals spoke excellent English, making navigation easy.
Takeaway:
- Book a moped once arrived on the island. It’s very cheap and it is quick to navigate everywhere with it.
- The locals are incredibly nice and relaxed, contributing to an atmosphere where there is no rush, allowing visitors to get swept up in the laid-back vibe.
- Friendly street dogs roam everywhere, seemingly well-treated by the locals.
Simple Relaxation
The best part of Koh Samed was the ease of relaxation. There was no pressure to do anything specific, and the absence of crowds made it even better. It was all about enjoying simple pleasures and taking it easy. This trip to Koh Samed was a much-needed break, focusing on unwinding and appreciating the quiet moments. It was the perfect getaway, offering a blend of relaxation and minimal adventure. Sunscreen and a good book were my best companions for this tranquil escape.
I’m writing this from the seaside, even though it's raining today. The sun will be back soon. Tomorrow, we head back to Chengdu. I would have never imagined to miss a place, it rarely happened during my trips. I'm incredibly happy for this experience and hope to return soon.
Thanks Thailand.