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A relatively obscure island before the 1970s, Ko Samui became the favorite haunt after a few backpacking adventurers discovered it in the early 1970s. Hidden behind rows of gently swaying coconut trees and marked by characteristically white, sandy beaches, Ko Samui attracts tourists by the hordes every year. In a span of only a couple of decades Ko Samui tourism has changed the face of this virgin island. Ko Samui is perhaps second only to Phuket in popularity. Ko Samui tourism has received a big boost after a healthy dose of urbanization. Ko Samui boasts of superior luxury resorts, health spas, an international airport, banks with ATMs, two international hospitals and an expansive golf course. The upward trend in Ko Samui tourism can be attributed to the fact that despite such rapid developments, Ko Samui retains the feel of a secluded retreat. Ko Samui offers the traveler the joy of kayaking through hidden lagoons and snorkeling among techni-color coral reefs. Within the 15km circumference of the island lie various tourist spots. Prominent among them are the Big Buddha Temple, the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, the Na Muang Waterfall and much more. Travelers can either fly to Ko Samui ( link to page 40. Getting to Ko Samui by Air ) from Bangkok and Phuket, or take a train to Surat Thani from ( link to page 42.Getting to Ko Samui by train ) the Hualamphong Railway Station in Bangkok. The climate of Ko Samui, too, has contributed to the rising trend in Ko Samui tourism. Its warm tropical climate is a welcome change for foreigners from much colder climates. During peak tourist season from December to August temperatures remain constant between 28 - 32º C. To visit Ko Samui, tourists favor the months of July and August. However, if you want the island to yourself alone, tour operators recommend that you visit in the months of May and June.
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