An island-hopping adventure through the Gulf of Thailand

22 July 2026

Thailand has long been a favourite for island escapes, but rather than choosing just one destination, why not experience several? Island hopping through the Gulf of Thailand allows you to discover a different side of the country, where each island has its own personality, from lively beach towns and world-class diving to hidden bays and peaceful luxury retreats. With reliable ferry connections making travel between the islands straightforward, it's never been easier to combine multiple destinations into one unforgettable holiday. Start with a few days in Bangkok before heading south to Koh Samui, then continue your adventure to Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, creating a trip that balances culture, relaxation, and adventure.

An island-hopping adventure through the Gulf of Thailand

Koh Samui: the perfect first stop

Often called 'the gateway' to the Gulf of Thailand islands, Koh Samui offers something for almost every traveller. You'll find lively beach clubs and restaurants alongside peaceful resorts tucked away on quieter stretches of coastline. Days can be spent relaxing on soft sandy beaches, visiting colourful Buddhist temples such as the famous Big Buddha, or discovering waterfalls and local markets hidden away from the main tourist areas. Koh Samui also makes an excellent base for the first few days of your trip. With plenty of accommodation choices, fantastic dining, and easy ferry connections, it's the ideal place to settle into island life before exploring further.

Travel Counsellor tip: If you're travelling between April and October, the Gulf of Thailand often enjoys more settled weather than Thailand's Andaman Coast, making it an excellent choice for a summer holiday.

Koh Tao: underwater adventures and laid-back island life

A short ferry journey brings you to Koh Tao, one of Thailand's most celebrated diving destinations.

Known as Turtle Island, Koh Tao has earned a worldwide reputation for its colourful coral reefs and clear waters. It's one of the most affordable places in the world to complete a PADI Open Water diving qualification, but you don't need to be a diver to enjoy the island. Snorkelling trips reveal vibrant marine life just offshore, while quieter beaches and scenic viewpoints provide plenty of opportunities to simply relax. Although Koh Tao has a lively social scene in the evenings, it never loses its laid-back atmosphere.

Travel Counsellor tip: Even if diving isn't on your wish list, book a snorkelling excursion. The waters around Koh Tao are some of the clearest in Thailand and offer an incredible introduction to the island's marine life.

Koh Phangan: more than just the Full Moon Party

For many travellers, Koh Phangan is best known for its famous Full Moon Party, but there's so much more to discover beyond Haad Rin. Move away from the island's south coast and you'll find a completely different atmosphere. The quieter northeast is home to peaceful beaches, boutique resorts, and hidden bays where life moves at a much gentler pace. In recent years, Koh Phangan has also become increasingly popular with travellers seeking wellness retreats, yoga, and luxury beachfront stays.

Why island hopping works so well

One of the biggest advantages of travelling through the Gulf of Thailand is how easily the islands complement one another. Koh Samui offers variety and convenience, Koh Tao delivers unforgettable marine experiences, and Koh Phangan combines lively energy with peaceful escapes. Together, they create a holiday that feels varied without ever feeling rushed. Thanks to frequent ferry connections, travelling between the islands is straightforward, allowing you to experience three very different destinations without complicated logistics.

To book your Thailand island-hopping escape, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Two sides of the Maldives: which Six Senses island is right for you?

22 July 2026

The Maldives has no shortage of exceptional resorts, but Six Senses has carved out a reputation for doing things a little differently. Here, luxury goes hand in hand with sustainability, wellness is woven into every stay, and experiences are designed to help guests reconnect with nature rather than simply admire it. Two of the brand's most remarkable island escapes are Six Senses Laamu and Six Senses Kanuhura. While both deliver the barefoot luxury that Six Senses is known for, each offers its own distinct personality. Whether you're dreaming of pristine reefs, laid-back island living, or some of the Maldives' finest beaches, here's how these two extraordinary resorts compare.

Island-hopping in Japan: discover the country's best-kept tropical secret

22 July 2026

When most people picture Japan, they think of cherry blossom, ancient temples, neon-lit cities, and snow-capped Mount Fuji. But venture a little further south and you'll discover a completely different side of the country. Welcome to Okinawa and the Yaeyama Islands, a chain of subtropical islands where white-sand beaches, coral reefs, lush mangroves, and crystal-clear seas replace bustling city streets. It feels worlds away from Tokyo and Kyoto, yet it's still unmistakably Japan, with the same warm hospitality, exceptional food, and effortless way of travelling. If you're looking to add something unexpected to a Japan itinerary, or simply want to experience a side of the country that many international visitors miss, island-hopping through Okinawa is one of Japan's most rewarding adventures.

Why Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas is the ultimate family cruise

22 July 2026

When Royal Caribbean launched Legend of the Seas in July 2026, it is the latest addition to the revolutionary Icon Class, a collection of ships designed to completely rethink what a family holiday at sea can be. Sailing Caribbean itineraries throughout 2026 and 2027, Legend of the Seas combines the excitement of a world-class resort with the adventure of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. For families looking for a holiday where there's as much to enjoy on board as there is ashore, this is one launch that's attracting plenty of attention.