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.
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.
Winter sun doesn't have to mean the same destinations year after year. Whether you're dreaming of tropical islands, unforgettable wildlife encounters, bustling cities, or beaches that stretch for miles, there are plenty of destinations that come into their own during winter. If you're already thinking about your next escape, here are five winter sun destinations worth adding to your travel wish list.
When most people think of Thailand, they picture the dry, busy months - the packed beaches, the long queues at temples, the peak-season prices. But, outside of these peak months, Thailand’s green season reveals a softer, more atmospheric side of the country. The landscapes deepen in colour, the pace eases, and familiar places begin to feel more spacious, from temple courtyards and hillside trails to palm-fringed beaches.
Choosing where to stay can completely change the feel of an Algarve holiday. Beyond the region’s larger resorts, there are whitewashed villas overlooking the Atlantic, converted village houses in the countryside, intimate design hotels, and peaceful coastal retreats. From the fishing village of Salema to the quieter landscapes around Vila do Bispo and Lagos, these four stays each offer their own take on southern Portugal, whether you want the freedom of a villa, easy access to the beach, or somewhere small and characterful to come back to after a day exploring.
