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Ko Samui or Koh Samui, a Thai island is located nearly 80kms off the eastern coast of Thailand. It is 700kms from Bangkok and is connected with the capital by air. The popularity of Ko Samui as an island resort took off not until recent times. However, ever since the first foreign visitor in 1972, Ko Samui has found a prominent place in the map of popular tourist destinations in Thailand. The history of Ko Samui would have been unknown to the world had it not been for the first foreign visitor who visited the island in 1972. Ever since that visit, Ko Samui has become a regular haunt for foreign tourists looking for a tropical vacation. The history of Ko Samui is that of the fishermen who were its first settlers and also, very uniquely, about its animals that are as much a part of Ko Samui culture and tradition. About 1500 years ago, Ko Samui came to be inhabited by some fishermen. Ko Samui found its way into 500-year-old maps of the Chinese Ming dynasty, suggesting that trade routes had been charted with the Chinese. Coconut production and fishing were the island's means of livelihood. The island's interactivity with neighboring Bangkok and other islands soon brought the island into the main circuit and opened it up as a major tourist attraction in Thailand. What makes the history of Ko Samui so interesting is the role played by the monkeys in coconut harvesting. Monkeys romped all the way up the coconut trees and threw down coconuts, making the collection of coconuts easier and faster. This feat is a major tourist attraction. An integral part of the Ko Samui culture is the role of buffaloes. Buffaloes, which were used both as beasts of burden and a source of meat are engaged in mock-fights. Buffalo fighting evolved into a traditional sport and has proven to be a major tourist attraction as well. Visit Ko Samui to acquaint yourself with a culture that's unique and a land that's nothing short of a paradise.
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