TRAVEL is more than just visiting new places — it’s a way to break free from routine and discover the beauty of the world.
Whether you’re exploring the energy of a bustling city or the tranquillity of a quiet countryside, travel gives you the chance to learn, grow, and see things differently.
Start your journey by visiting iconic landmarks that define the destination. But don’t stop there — dive deeper.
Enjoy the flavours of local street food, chat with the locals, and get to know their customs and traditions.
For something truly memorable, try hands-on experiences like cooking classes, crafting workshops, or exploring scenic trails.
These moments help you connect with the heart and soul of the place, making every trip more meaningful.
Discover more with Pelago
Pelago, created by Singapore Airlines, makes your travel experience better and easier.
It’s a one-stop platform where you can find and book unique activities, from guided tours to outdoor adventures, cultural workshops, and food experiences.
Pelago makes planning stress-free with flexible bookings and expert local guides who share hidden gems and interesting stories. You can book tickets for must-visit attractions, get discounts on activities, and even pick up travel essentials like e-SIM cards and transport passes.
Everything you need is in one place!
Whether you’re travelling to one destination or exploring multiple cities, Pelago helps you plan with ease.
Its smart features recommend activities tailored to your preferences, so you can make the most of your time and enjoy the journey to the fullest.
With Pelago, you’re not just ticking items off a list, you’re creating lasting memories.
It’s more than a booking tool — it’s your trusted travel companion, helping you make every trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.
A glimpse of Thailand’s charm
During a recent media familiarisation (FAM) trip to Koh Samui, I had the opportunity to experience the island at my own pace, with a free and easy itinerary that I found to be incredibly convenient.
Upon arriving on the beautiful island, we checked into a stunning hotel — more about that in my next article.
On our first night, Scoot representative Philip guided us on a leisurely stroll through Fisherman’s Village (Bophut), a charming seaside spot offering a glimpse of local life.
Although my fellow media attendee from Indonesia, Nuri Yatul Hikmah (or Nure, as she prefers to be called), and I couldn’t join the rest of the group for dinner due to halal dietary preferences, we made the most of the situation by discovering a nearby open-air eatery just steps from the night market.
After a long journey, including a seven-hour transit in Singapore, our appetites were ready to be satisfied, and we didn’t want to waste any time being picky.
I opted for a delicious beef and cheese kebab, priced at 150 Thai Baht, while Nure went for the 100 Thai Baht basic kebab. Both dishes were absolutely delicious!
The next day, we continued our relaxed itinerary with a lunch outing near Chaweng Beach. Although halal options can be difficult to find in this small island, a quick search on Google led us to Bon-Nern Halal Food restaurant.
There, we indulged in authentic Thai dishes, including Tom Yum Goong, Pad Thai, stir-fried Chinese broccoli with salted fish, and an omelette.
Nure and I also treated ourselves to a refreshing glass of Thai milk tea (Cha Yen), while another Indonesia media attendee, Latu Ratri Mubyarsah, enjoyed an agua fría.
The meal, which cost around 40 Thai Baht each, was a great deal considering the authentic flavours and generous portions. The dishes tasted even better than what we’ve tried back home in Kuching, offering a true taste of Thailand’s bold and vibrant cuisine.
In the evening, after a relaxed day, the media crew joined us for dinner. Beforehand, we explored Samui Central, Koh Samui’s largest mall, featuring shops and a night market with local products and souvenirs.
This trip to Koh Samui marked a refreshing change from the usual tightly scheduled itineraries, allowing me to truly soak in the experience and enjoy the island at my own pace.
Discovering Koh Samui’s tranquil charm
While bustling Thai islands like Krabi and Phuket attract travellers with their vibrant nightlife and lively entertainment, Koh Samui stands apart as a haven of tranquillity.
Known for its palm-fringed beaches, luxury resorts, and a more laid-back atmosphere, this idyllic destination offers a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
On the third day of our visit, we embarked on the Koh Samui Sightseeing Tour Around The Island, an experience designed by Pelago to uncover the island’s hidden gems.
Priced from RM113.38, the five-hour journey brought together a mix of travellers, all guided by the cheerful and knowledgeable Chanowit Sondee.
Despite the monsoon season adding an extra layer of challenge as umbrellas became our constant companions, the tour promised a captivating exploration of Koh Samui’s wonders.
Our first stop was the Big Buddha Temple, the island’s most recognisable landmark. Situated on a small islet connected by a causeway, this temple is home to an impressive 12-metre-tall golden Buddha statue.
Visible from several kilometres away, it serves as a powerful symbol of peace and enlightenment for locals and visitors alike.
The temple grounds feature a grand staircase adorned with nāga (serpent) statues, leading to the statue itself. Surrounding the main Buddha are smaller images and shrines, each depicting Buddhist folklore and tradition.
A stroll through the site reveals the richness of Thai culture, from intricate carvings to the serene ambiance of prayer halls.
Adding to its charm, the temple hosts a small market where visitors can purchase souvenirs, local snacks, and religious items.
It’s a delightful opportunity to engage with the island’s culture and take home a piece of its heritage.
Visitors are reminded to dress modestly, as is customary when entering Thai temples. Shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect for the sacred space.
Our next destination was the breathtaking Wat Plai Laem, a temple celebrated for its harmonious blend of Thai and Chinese architectural influences. Nestled beside a tranquil lake, this sacred site is an artistic and spiritual masterpiece.
The centrepiece of Wat Plai Laem is the striking 18-arm statue of Guanyin, the Chinese goddess of mercy and compassion. Towering at approximately 11 metres, the statue’s numerous arms symbolise different virtues, offering a profound sense of reverence for worshippers.
Nearby, the Laughing Buddha, or Budai, takes centre stage with his cheerful demeanour and signature round belly.
According to our guide, Chanowit, “The tummy is big because he’s happy,” a humorous yet insightful remark that emphasised its symbolism of abundance, generosity, and contentment.
Adding to the temple’s spiritual richness is the statue of Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, known for its four faces representing the cardinal directions and the sacred Vedas.
This figure reflects the intertwined heritage of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
Guarding the temple’s entrance are two intricately crafted nāga (serpent) statues, their vivid colours and graceful design adding a mystical aura to the site.
Throughout the temple grounds, smaller statues of various deities enhance the atmosphere, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of faith and culture that defines Wat Plai Laem.
After immersing ourselves in the spiritual beauty of Wat Plai Laem, we continued to Lad Koh Viewpoint, also known as Zenith Viewpoint.
Perched atop a hill, this popular spot offers sweeping panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand, where the shimmering waters meet the lush, tropical coastline.
Chanowit shared that Lad Koh is especially beloved for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Despite the persistent drizzle, the sight of waves crashing against the rocks below and the rhythmic sound of the sea captivated us.
Although the rain limited our activities, the experience was no less magical.
Our next stop, despite the relentless rain, was the iconic Hin Ta and Hin Yai Rocks, famously known as the Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks.
These unique natural formations, humorously resembling male and female genitalia, have become one of Koh Samui’s most photographed attractions.
Beyond their amusing appearance, the rocks carry a heartfelt legend. Local folklore tells the tale of Ta Kreng (Grandfather) and Yai Riem (Grandmother), an elderly couple who tragically perished at sea while searching for a bride for their son.
Their devotion to family was immortalised in these formations, symbolising love and commitment.
For many visitors, the rocks are more than a photo opportunity. They are believed to bring blessings of fertility and harmony, drawing couples and families seeking good fortune.
Despite the weather, the beauty of the surrounding coastline was undeniable.
Standing against the backdrop of the stunning blue sea, the rain seemed almost poetic as I donned my waterproof jacket and soaked in the scenery. We took countless photos, captivated by the dramatic interplay of the rocks and waves.
From natural wonders, we shifted to cultural heritage with a visit to the Guan Yu Shrine, a significant landmark showcasing the island’s Chinese influence.
Towering at 16 metres, the bronze statue of Guan Yu, Thailand’s largest, is a striking sight. Depicted in traditional armour, Guan Yu symbolises loyalty, bravery, and righteousness.
Guan Yu, also known as Yun Chang, was a revered military general during China’s Three Kingdoms era, celebrated for his unwavering integrity and courage.
The shrine, established around 1872 by Chinese immigrants, originally housed a modest wooden structure. Over time, it evolved into the impressive complex it is today, with the current shrine built in 2008 to honour Guan Yu’s enduring legacy.
Our journey continued to Wat Khunaram, a temple renowned for housing the mummified remains of Luang Pho Daeng, a revered Buddhist monk.
Known simply as the Mummy Monk, Luang Pho Daeng passed away in 1973 while seated in deep meditation. Before his death, he instructed his followers that if his body resisted decomposition, it should be displayed as a spiritual reminder of life’s impermanence.
To this day, his body remains remarkably preserved with minimal signs of decay. The most notable change is the drying of his eyes, which are now concealed by sunglasses to make the display less unsettling for visitors.
What struck me most was the simplicity of the glass case housing his remains — it lacks any sophisticated preservation technology, serving only to shield the body from environmental exposure while allowing visitors a clear view.
The temple also offers engaging rituals for visitors. Monks tie good-luck thread bracelets and perform fortune-telling using bamboo sticks, adding a unique spiritual experience to the visit.
Our final stop was Na Muang 1 Waterfall, one of Koh Samui’s most famous cascades. Set amidst lush greenery, the waterfall flows into a large natural pool at its base, perfect for swimming.
On sunny days, visitors often jump off nearby rocks into the cool water, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere.
Unfortunately, the persistent rain limited our activities, but it did not dampen our appreciation for the waterfall’s serene beauty.
Nearby, we caught a glimpse of elephants, a part of the Na Muang Jungle Trip, adding to the allure of the experience.
Despite the drizzle, the sight of the waterfall surrounded by vibrant foliage and the gentle sound of rushing water left a lasting impression on us.
Let Pelago plan your next adventure
Overall, my trip to Koh Samui was a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure. From exploring tranquil beaches to discovering hidden gems, every moment offered something memorable.
Despite the unpredictable weather, the island’s charm and beauty shone through, making it an unforgettable experience.
Pelago truly enhanced this journey, offering a seamless way to book activities and experiences that helped me explore the island.
With its wide range of options and user-friendly platform, Pelago made it easy to uncover the island’s best-kept secrets, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.
