When choosing a holiday destination, a number of things are taken into consideration: the amount of money you’re ready to spend, the free time you have and the time of the year when this trip will take place. These are, as it always turns out the night before departure, the easy questions – it’s the hard ones that make you crazy: how much clothes and sunscreen to take with you, do you need another pair of shoes, should you buy another bathing suit. But, when it comes to picking which exotic island you wish to visit, pay attention to its history, geographic location, climate, local customs and activities to enjoy. Here are some details concerning the very beautiful and exciting island of Koh Samui.

Location

Over the course of the past several years, this island has gained much popularity and has been attracting a constantly rising number of tourists every year. It doesn’t come as much of a surprise knowing how exotic and cared for it really is, but also bearing in mind that its unique location has a lot to do with this rise of attraction. Being on the eastern coast of Thailand’s Malay Peninsula, Koh Samui is this country’s second biggest island, but its population of about 63 thousand is drastically outnumbered by the annual arrival of tourists which surpasses one and a half million every year. What most of them find extremely interesting are not just the sandy beaches, corals, coconut and palm trees, but also the island’s central part – this tropical jungle hasn’t been fully explored yet and therefore attracts those of more adventurous spirit who aren’t satisfied with being on the beach the whole time.

History and Climate

Even though it has been inhabited for over a thousand years and present on world maps since the 17^th century, Koh Samui hasn’t gained international notice until quite recently. Only in the past several decades has it been connected to the aforementioned peninsula and, due to established roads, can it see economic prosperity, positive changes in the cultural and environment spheres. Much of the island’s fame within international tourism today is owed to the warm climate that is present all year long. With only one dry month, Koh Samui is, despite being in a predominantly tropical monsoon climate region, relatively dry and much more pleasant than the rest of the country. Moreover, the temperatures are always between 29 and 33°C, so it’s actually possible for those who rent a place in paradise to spend the entire day on the beach.

Activities

Speaking of the beach, here is the fun part about Koh Samui – the activities you can enjoy on this beautiful island. First of all, there is the standard offer present in all similar places worldwide – swimming, diving, snorkeling, deep sea exploration around the coral reefs, jet skiing, etc. – but have in mind that it’s the environment and surroundings that separate this place from all the others. It’s not too hot nor is it too humid, so the conditions for a full day in the sea are quite perfect. However, for those who are into something else, there is the already mentioned exploration of the jungle in the central region of the island, with hiking, climbing and mountaineering. Finally, if you are in the festive mood and want a bigger celebration, there are several festivals held in Koh Samui and they cover different ranges of activities, from buffalo fighting and parading, to sailing and triathlon and even cultural and art activities.

Finally

Thailand has been in the top ten tourist destinations for the past several years on the global level and actually a runner-up in the Asia and Pacific region, right after China. Many of its visitors spend time in Koh Samui and have a strong tendency to return to this “paradise island” soon after leaving and relive the days of fun and games in a great climate.

Tahiti is a heaven on earth located in the South Pacific and it is the largest island of 118 others that make up French Polynesia. Tahiti and the islands in its vicinity are referred to as the Society Islands which include Tahiti, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Huahine and Moorea. French Polynesia also goes by the name of Tahiti and its black and white sand beaches are the closest you will ever be to paradise, at least in this life. Apart from the pure enjoment of the nature and culture of the archipelago, the Society Islands offer a number of activities you can take part in.

Tahiti

The capital of Tahiti is Papeete and it is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful beaches. The main beach in Papeete is the Bain Lot Beach. The waves of this area are an interesting phenomenon, as they break in both directions due to steep shores and underwater currents. This is why it is also called the ‘ins and outs’ beach. Here you can enjoy golfing right next to the shoreline and a variety of water sports too, such as swimming, sail boarding, snorkeling and more.

Bora Bora

The island of Bora Bora is located 230 miles northwest of Papeete and is famous for its incredibly wonderful white sand beaches. One of them is Matira Beach, which is about 1.5 miles long and it is the best public beach in Bora Bora. It is excellent for swimming or just enjoying the vivid colors of your surroundings. Some of the other heavenly beaches on the island are locations for luxurious Bora Bora resorts, which offer glorious holiday experiences such as staying in magical overwater bungalows.

Huanine Nui and Huahine Iti

These islands may have the most beautiful beaches and beach resorts in all of Tahiti. They are connected by a small bridge and surrounded by a coral reef. Avea Beach is one of the most extraordinary resort beaches in Huanine. Imagine yourself swimming in a lagoon with trees hanging above you as you float carelessly all day long. It is suitable for swimming at any tide and stretches to the coral reef which is a perfectly safe location for snorkeling.

Raiatea

The name of this island literally translates into bright sky. Its beach resorts and spas are also worthy of a visit, especially if you want to vacation in style. There are not many long stretches of sand on Raiatea, but you could explore its nature and find perfect little spots under the bright sky for yourself and your loved ones. Raitea is also believed to be the birthplace of Polynesia, which can be seen by the remains of many temples and holy places. You can explore its jungles or its shoreline and one thing is certain, you will not be disappointed.

Moorea

Moorea is located 11 miles northwest of Tahiti and  that is why it is very convenient to visit it from Papeete. It is considered to be the most beautiful island in the whole world and an attractive destination for young newlywed couples as well. Its stunning nature and the fact that it is shaped like a heart are pretty strong reasons to spend your honeymoon on Moorea, wouldn’t you agree? One of its lovely beaches is called Temae Plage Publique and it is a continuous stretch of white sand with a stunning view overlooking Tahiti and the lagoon. Other than swimming, you can also enjoy various other activities such as surfing, diving or snorkeling. If you don’t enjoy water sports, you can always go hiking or horseback riding.

Tahiti is definitely a paradise on earth and it is waiting for you to discover and experience its amazing scenery, beaches and people. See you in heaven!

But Why the Red Sea?

The Red Sea has for long been a favourite diving destination for many divers across the world. Join any conversation about great diving and the Red Sea just comes up automatically. Most UK divers have visited one of the six different diving regions at some point in their diving careers, returning year after year, and for a very good reason. They have accustomed themselves to such great diving that when attempting to visit a different destination they tend to compare it with their old time favourite.

But why the Red Sea? What is so good about it that divers just keep raving about its diving over and over?

Well, for a very good reason as you are about to find out when reading the next paragraphs about diving the different regions the Red Sea has to offer.

Taba

Still a developing tourist area, the diving in Taba is virtually unspoilt with pristine coral reefs very close to shore which is a massive bonus. This means you do not have to travel very far spending precious time on boats to experience the best dive sites.

What’s even greater about Taba is that the region is sometimes visited by one of the most amazing sea creatures, whale sharks. Yes that right, whale sharks! From around April through to May and again September and October divers have been privileged to spot, swim and interact with whale sharks as long as 12 metres.

Dahab

Dahab is just an old time favourite for divers with great shore diving available as its underwater topography is a continuation from Dahab’s jagged mountains forming seascape valleys, beautiful reefs, canyons and caves.

The beautiful “Blue Hole” is one of Dahab’s most famous dive sites with great colours ideal for photographers.  “The Canyon” is a narrow and beautiful canyon created by volcanic activity home to hard and soft corals as well as rich fauna. The region has something for everyone with a long promenade offering a full range of water-front restaurants and a carefree atmosphere complimenting its superb diving.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a fully developed resort visited by many divers. The atmosphere here is the total opposite of Dahab’s, the resort is more commercialised and ideal for those looking to combine great diving with very good nightlife. The diving in this area is very famous for the array of dive sites in the Ras Mohammed National Park including Shark of Yolanda, a cargo ship that sank in less than 18 meters of water with a load of toilets.

The Straits of Tiran, 4 underwater islands with around 15 different dive sites is also very famous among divers as the currents in this area are responsible for the healthy corals and resident marine life.

Hurghada

Less developed than Sharm El Sheikh but at a growing stage to become more commercialised, this coastal area is the perfect base to catch a liveaboard and ideal for wreck divers. The huge variety of wrecks laying on the bottom sea, some with very interesting history will keep you busy for a few days during your visit.

With the main wreck location nearby, Abu Nuhas is a shipwreck graveyard and its four wrecks among which are the famous Ghiannis D and the Carnatic will offer great diving opportunities. But is not all about wrecks, Hurghada is also home to diverse marine life ranging from the tiniest nudibraches to the amazing whales hark encounters.

Marsa Alam

Are you looking for an exciting diving location with a myriad of pristine reefs home to stunning hard and soft corals and an astonishing abundance of marine life? Then look no further and book your next trip to Marsa Alam as you will get to experience the best reefs the Red Sea has to offer and if you are on one of your lucky days get a glimpse of the resident Dugong that feeds on the sea grass.

But that’s not all! Marsa Alam is also famous for an absolute must dive site. “Dolphin House”, a large, horseshoe-shaped reef is home to dozens of spinner dolphins, hiding eels, leopard groupers and much more.

Hamata

Last but by no means least; Hamata’s crystal clear water located to the south of the Red Sea is the ideal get away from it all.  Fury Shoals and St. Johns are some of the most southerly reef systems with a number of dive sites accessible only by liveaboard which just like Marsa Alam means you get to experience great reef dives.

If you are new to diving in the Red Sea I hope this article has given you a good insight to this diving destination and encouraged you to think about booking your next diving trip to one of the six regions in the Red Sea.

Author Bio

Keith Barrett is a keen diver and is able to mix business with pleasure: he works with UltimateDiving.co.uk and takes the opportunity to visit many great locations around the world. He also writes extensively about diving experiences.

If you are thinking of going on holiday to the Red Sea, there are more than enough beautiful locations to choose from. Whether it is the tourist diving paradise of Sharm el Sheikh or the lively Hurghada resort, you will definitely enjoy your stay.

Sharm el Sheikh

Full of world class restaurants, good shopping facilities, and luxurious accommodation, the well-developed city resort of Sharm el Sheikh is quite literally a paradise for divers. After you have worn yourself out scuba diving and sunbathing, you can visit Naama Bay, where there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars with neon lighting. Also, why not take a walk along the Sultan Qaboos Street and take in the wonderful evening atmosphere.

It is, however, the diving which attracts the many visitors from every corner of the globe. Just a short drive from this city, you can get to some fantastically varied diving sites, many of which are equipped to offer guidance to those new to diving.

Taba Heights

Located on a truly beautiful spot on the Sinai Peninsula, Taba Heights is a resort in a wonderfully natural setting. Alongside the 4 and 5 star hotels, there are swimming pools, beautiful views, gourmet cuisine, massage, and much more.

For those who like to have lots of exciting things to do while in luxuriously attractive surroundings, Taba Heights has sports such as windsurfing, wakeboarding, waterskiing and golf, as well as a whole range of night time entertainment options for both adults and children.

Hurghada

The sun shines all year round in Hurghada, and the scenery is truly stunning. Whether you plan to explore underwater or stay above it, this is a fantastic retreat for families. With such a dramatic landscape, long natural beaches, beautiful clear waters, and many fun activities to take part in such as snorkelling and scuba diving, there is certainly a lot to keep you entertained here.

El Gouna

Built on a beach 10 kilometres long, El Gouna is a beautiful, self-contained town with more than 20,000 residents. The town is spread across various island and lagoons, and due to careful planning and intelligent management, it is unique in its completeness and harmony.

For the family, there are many activities to amuse the children, such as the aquarium, museum, and the golf and diving lessons designed specifically for youngsters. For the parents who want a little time to themselves away from their children, Little Gounies and Les Petites Nurseries will look after your little ones while you go off and enjoy yourselves.

For couples without children, El Gouna is the perfect lovers’ paradise in the Red Sea, with long beaches, uninhabited islands, top class dining and hotels, and many entertainments to choose from.

Makadi Bay

About 25 kilometres south of Hurghada airport, Makadi Bay is a great family destination. It is particularly suitable for those wanting something more peaceful and relaxing than some of the more full-on holiday destinations. A self-contained village, it is set in a natural bay between the Red Sea Mountains and tranquil desert dunes.