Koh Samui, Thailand and absolutely the last buddha (part eight)

While finishing up our wonderings through the island of Koh Samui, it was inevitable that we would arrive at not only the last Buddha of our journey, but the biggest. I've seen so many Buddha statues, drawings, painting, rugs etc.. over the past couple of months, that I could free-hand draw one in my sleep. However, culture and education are the most important aspects of this particular trip, so I will march where I'm led....except up these stairs. Yes, I see you "Big Buddha" way over there with your golden, shiny arms outstretched. You're the biggest on the island and a main draw for many tourists, but this is as far as I go. No more step climbing for me. I learned my lesson with The Great Wall of China.

Big Buddha on Koh Samui, Thailand



You have to give me credit, I've been running around this island all day with a group of energetic and enthusiastic tourists from around the world. Eight of us just exploring every corner and rock on this island. I haven't even blogged about all the many things we've done so far, just a few. These girls were so funny, as they struggled to walk barefoot out into the water to get their photo taken in front of a huge statue.

Thai girls posing for picture in front of statue on Koh Samui, Thailand



This area where the Big Buddha sits is quite nice. There is a small peninsula which comes inwards and gives these homes a bit of protection from the currents.

Koh Samui, Thailand



Given that this area is so popular, it's amazing that they don't pave the rest of this road, which is only feet from the staircase to the Buddha. At the moment of this photo, I have wet hair, wet clothes (from a combination of sweat and rain/flooding) but who can tell what's what at this point. My shoes are now muddy and who can worry about shiny Buddhas when there's a wonderful fruit cart that is just beckoning to me over to the right.

By the Big Buddha on Koh Samui, Thailand  



This kitty cat decided to come and sit at my feet for a moment. So, this is what a Thailand kitty cat looks like in case you were wondering. I want one.

Tropical Kitty on Koh Samui, Thailand



Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about my 7 other various travel mates. We're all just wondering around and laughing at each other. No one is pretty at this point, and my travel mate is incredibly incensed that the only english language that the local tour guide and his Koh Samui shop friends can muster are the words "Big Buddha", while pointing a finger from Billy to the statue. This coming after a fascinating discovery that there seems to be a similarity between Billy's bald head, over-fed stomach and the largest Buddha statue on the island. They're in hysterics. He's not. He's sooo sensitive (And no I'm not showing you a picture for reference. He reads this). Mmmmm...more fruit carts.

Fruit stand on Koh Samui Thailand



This house sat right across from the waterway. Someone needs to clean up their back yard. I'm such a Virgo that I almost swam across there to do it for them. What?? I was wet already!!

House on Koh Samui, Thailand

Some random Thai dudes just chillin' by the Buddha Thai shops. Such a great combination of "Construction Wheel Barrel and soft cotton, pink T's".

Thailand locals and some comfy chairs



Oh, and a random pink Bicycle, just because it was there (and I had a color scheme going).

Bicycle by the Big Buddah



There are many more posts about Koh Samui on my blog. You can find them with the drop-down menu on the sidebar. There are also more pictures of Koh Samui in my Flick photo album, which you can access HERE.

Koh Samui, Thailand and absolutely the last buddha (part eight)

While finishing up our wonderings through the island of Koh Samui, it was inevitable that we would arrive at not only the last Buddha of our journey, but the biggest. I've seen so many Buddha statues, drawings, painting, rugs etc.. over the past couple of months, that I could free-hand draw one in my sleep. However, culture and education are the most important aspects of this particular trip, so I will march where I'm led....except up these stairs. Yes, I see you "Big Buddha" way over there with your golden, shiny arms outstretched. You're the biggest on the island and a main draw for many tourists, but this is as far as I go. No more step climbing for me. I learned my lesson with The Great Wall of China.

Big Buddha on Koh Samui, Thailand



You have to give me credit, I've been running around this island all day with a group of energetic and enthusiastic tourists from around the world. Eight of us just exploring every corner and rock on this island. I haven't even blogged about all the many things we've done so far, just a few. These girls were so funny, as they struggled to walk barefoot out into the water to get their photo taken in front of a huge statue.

Thai girls posing for picture in front of statue on Koh Samui, Thailand



This area where the Big Buddha sits is quite nice. There is a small peninsula which comes inwards and gives these homes a bit of protection from the currents.

Koh Samui, Thailand



Given that this area is so popular, it's amazing that they don't pave the rest of this road, which is only feet from the staircase to the Buddha. At the moment of this photo, I have wet hair, wet clothes (from a combination of sweat and rain/flooding) but who can tell what's what at this point. My shoes are now muddy and who can worry about shiny Buddhas when there's a wonderful fruit cart that is just beckoning to me over to the right.

By the Big Buddha on Koh Samui, Thailand  



This kitty cat decided to come and sit at my feet for a moment. So, this is what a Thailand kitty cat looks like in case you were wondering. I want one.

Tropical Kitty on Koh Samui, Thailand



Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about my 7 other various travel mates. We're all just wondering around and laughing at each other. No one is pretty at this point, and my travel mate is incredibly incensed that the only english language that the local tour guide and his Koh Samui shop friends can muster are the words "Big Buddha", while pointing a finger from Billy to the statue. This coming after a fascinating discovery that there seems to be a similarity between Billy's bald head, over-fed stomach and the largest Buddha statue on the island. They're in hysterics. He's not. He's sooo sensitive (And no I'm not showing you a picture for reference. He reads this). Mmmmm...more fruit carts.

Fruit stand on Koh Samui Thailand



This house sat right across from the waterway. Someone needs to clean up their back yard. I'm such a Virgo that I almost swam across there to do it for them. What?? I was wet already!!

House on Koh Samui, Thailand

Some random Thai dudes just chillin' by the Buddha Thai shops. Such a great combination of "Construction Wheel Barrel and soft cotton, pink T's".

Thailand locals and some comfy chairs



Oh, and a random pink Bicycle, just because it was there (and I had a color scheme going).

Bicycle by the Big Buddah



There are many more posts about Koh Samui on my blog. You can find them with the drop-down menu on the sidebar. There are also more pictures of Koh Samui in my Flick photo album, which you can access HERE.

Koh Samui, Thailand and the technicolor temple (Part Seven)

Okay, no harm meant by the silly title, but when we arrived at these temples, the first thing that came into my mind was...is this for real? It is certainly not unusual to have lavishly decorated and designed temples throughout Asia, but these seemed to be less of a serious buddhist experience than others that I've seen. I am not a Buddhist though, so I may be completely wrong. The type of Buddhism in Thailand has elements of Hinduism in it, as you can tell from the six-armed goddess (Kali) on top of this building. Their religion is very important to them and certainly I give them respect for that. This post is not about trying to explain the religion, so it's best to click here "Theravada" if you'd like to know more.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

At the risk of sounding (but not meaning to be) inconsiderate, these temple buildings had almost a theme park flare to them. I don't know how much of this type of design is related to the religion itself, or if it's simply the vision of the architect(s) who created it. This location is called "Wat Plai Laem".

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

There were a number of tourists walking around and looking as though they were thinking the same thing that we were. Don't get me wrong, it's a joy to see so much color and such a unique structure that is not a common site for me. I have seen churches in the states that seem overdone for the sake of attracting people, rather than having spiritual significance, so that is why I am questioning this.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

There was no guide or information posted to explain anything and our own driver couldn't speak enough english to explain either. I saw a monk here and there and this one was seemingly doing some garden care.

Monk on Koh Samui, Thailand

I think the over designed element of this temple area was fun, but I'm not sure that was the intention. As with other temples that I've been to in Asia, there was a table full of roof tiles that you could donate money for, and then write your name on the back of it. This tile will supposedly get placed on the roof of the temple for ever. I decided to donate a little since there was no admission price, but I didn't bother with taking a roof tile. 

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

I did notice a number of local adults and children who were passing through the area. I thought that was strange considering it was off the main road. As usual in Thailand, people were friendly and no one asked for money or tried to sell anything.

I am sorry I can't provide more information about this stop, but it was more of a visual experience for me. However, you can click HERE to find out more about temples on Koh samui.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand





There are more pictures of Koh Samui, Thailand that can be view HERE in my Flick album.

Koh Samui, Thailand and the technicolor temple (Part Seven)

Okay, no harm meant by the silly title, but when we arrived at these temples, the first thing that came into my mind was...is this for real? It is certainly not unusual to have lavishly decorated and designed temples throughout Asia, but these seemed to be less of a serious buddhist experience than others that I've seen. I am not a Buddhist though, so I may be completely wrong. The type of Buddhism in Thailand has elements of Hinduism in it, as you can tell from the six-armed goddess (Kali) on top of this building. Their religion is very important to them and certainly I give them respect for that. This post is not about trying to explain the religion, so it's best to click here "Theravada" if you'd like to know more.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

At the risk of sounding (but not meaning to be) inconsiderate, these temple buildings had almost a theme park flare to them. I don't know how much of this type of design is related to the religion itself, or if it's simply the vision of the architect(s) who created it. This location is called "Wat Plai Laem".

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

There were a number of tourists walking around and looking as though they were thinking the same thing that we were. Don't get me wrong, it's a joy to see so much color and such a unique structure that is not a common site for me. I have seen churches in the states that seem overdone for the sake of attracting people, rather than having spiritual significance, so that is why I am questioning this.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

There was no guide or information posted to explain anything and our own driver couldn't speak enough english to explain either. I saw a monk here and there and this one was seemingly doing some garden care.

Monk on Koh Samui, Thailand

I think the over designed element of this temple area was fun, but I'm not sure that was the intention. As with other temples that I've been to in Asia, there was a table full of roof tiles that you could donate money for, and then write your name on the back of it. This tile will supposedly get placed on the roof of the temple for ever. I decided to donate a little since there was no admission price, but I didn't bother with taking a roof tile. 

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand

I did notice a number of local adults and children who were passing through the area. I thought that was strange considering it was off the main road. As usual in Thailand, people were friendly and no one asked for money or tried to sell anything.

I am sorry I can't provide more information about this stop, but it was more of a visual experience for me. However, you can click HERE to find out more about temples on Koh samui.

Wat Plai Laem on Koh Samui, Thailand





There are more pictures of Koh Samui, Thailand that can be view HERE in my Flick album.

Koh Samui, Thailand and the wonderful beach (Part Six)

One of the highlights of my visit to this island was when our driver took us to a semi-secluded beach. By this time, we were on the opposite side of the island and have driven off the beaten path a little. Our Australian friends were dying to have a swim and so our Canadian guide had talked our driver into taking us here. I don't have a lot of story for this area, but I have some pictures to share with you.

Beach on Koh Samui, Thailand

We had plenty of time to enjoy the sun and relax. I was absolutely amazed with this place. Granted, the sun is still not out much, and I can't fully explain how beautiful this area was, but trust me, I wanted to stay here for weeks. There was a wonderful quietness with just the sound of the ocean waves.

Beach on Koh Samui, Thailand

It wasn't difficult to find a hotel right on the beach. There were a few small cabanas and hotels that were lined up along the sand. As I explained in my last post, hotels on this island can be had for very little money. Since these would be considered very desirable, some were considered cheap at $60 per night for simple accommodations on the beach and some where expensive, running about $260 per night. This place was a very nice resort with private cabanas.

"Sala Samui" resort on Koh Samui, Thailand

I enjoyed watching the locals walk along the beach, along with the few tourists who happen to be staying here. Everyone seemed extremely relaxed and didn't have a worry in the world. There was a man who was selling silk sheets and beach blankets as he walked in front of the people laying out in the sun, but he never pestered anyone. Usually vendors in Thailand will simply smile gesture politely with their product and nod politely if you're not interested.

Vendor on Koh Samui, Thailand

I tried to capture a good photo of the beach to show it's size and depth and beauty, but I guess I wasn't with it that day. A photo tends to capture everything, including the bits of palm husks on the ground, along with the odd piece of trash that has blown from a nearby guest. However, it was so nice there that I never noticed these things until I looked at the photos.

A beach on Koh Samui, Thailand



Another man was selling corn on the cob and was able to butter it for you right there. People love being able to stay in their comfortable chairs and be served various foods and drinks. I can't imagine why?? Even though the hotel prices are slightly higher here, it is easy to eat by way of vender more very little.

Vendor on Koh Samui, Thailand

We walked up and down that beach several times, just taking in the environment. I  decided to chat a bit with some of the locals who worked there and took some photos of them. Very nice people. This man had an interesting look about him. I find that Thai people don't mind their photo being taken if you politely nod and smile while indicating your camera. Their society is certainly one of consideration for others, so a little kindness goes a long ways here.

Koh Samui, Thailand local

This youngster had decided to take a nap on a hammock. What a tough life!! His family members were working at the beach and were so nice to talk to. The Thai people are generally so kind and just wanted to make sure that we were having a good time.

Taking a nap on the hammock



After a dip in the ocean, the small group of us decided to sit down and have a drink at the restaurant that was open to the ocean breeze. We grabbed a table and ordered. The prices at this nice venue on beach were very reasonable. It was easy to get an entire meal for a few dollars (in Baht). One of my favorite things to do in tropical destinations is to have a fresh coconut cut open and then drink the water inside. It's very good for you and tastes great. It's especially good when you're sweating a lot, since it has a lot of potassium. Even in a nice place, it was only about $1.50, served chilled. They give you a spoon so that you can scoop out the coconut and eat it. These types of coconuts are not like what you see in the grocery store. The ones you drink from are called "Young Coconuts" and are still green on the outside and picked from the trees. The  coconut is easier to eat and doesn't have to be graded or scrapped out like the older brown ones do.

Koh Samui, Thailand locals



Grandmother and baby were happy to be enjoying the beach and the cool breeze. They were part of the family that worked in the open cabana. You can get items for the beach, as well as being able to hire the Jet Ski for an hour or more. Although the weather wasn't perfectly bright and sunny, I thought I'd upload just a small clip of the beach and the waves that day. It's a nice relaxing sound and helps you to imagine what it was like there.

On the beach in Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Samui, Thailand and the wonderful beach (Part Six)

One of the highlights of my visit to this island was when our driver took us to a semi-secluded beach. By this time, we were on the opposite side of the island and have driven off the beaten path a little. Our Australian friends were dying to have a swim and so our Canadian guide had talked our driver into taking us here. I don't have a lot of story for this area, but I have some pictures to share with you.

Beach on Koh Samui, Thailand

We had plenty of time to enjoy the sun and relax. I was absolutely amazed with this place. Granted, the sun is still not out much, and I can't fully explain how beautiful this area was, but trust me, I wanted to stay here for weeks. There was a wonderful quietness with just the sound of the ocean waves.

Beach on Koh Samui, Thailand

It wasn't difficult to find a hotel right on the beach. There were a few small cabanas and hotels that were lined up along the sand. As I explained in my last post, hotels on this island can be had for very little money. Since these would be considered very desirable, some were considered cheap at $60 per night for simple accommodations on the beach and some where expensive, running about $260 per night. This place was a very nice resort with private cabanas.

"Sala Samui" resort on Koh Samui, Thailand

I enjoyed watching the locals walk along the beach, along with the few tourists who happen to be staying here. Everyone seemed extremely relaxed and didn't have a worry in the world. There was a man who was selling silk sheets and beach blankets as he walked in front of the people laying out in the sun, but he never pestered anyone. Usually vendors in Thailand will simply smile gesture politely with their product and nod politely if you're not interested.

Vendor on Koh Samui, Thailand

I tried to capture a good photo of the beach to show it's size and depth and beauty, but I guess I wasn't with it that day. A photo tends to capture everything, including the bits of palm husks on the ground, along with the odd piece of trash that has blown from a nearby guest. However, it was so nice there that I never noticed these things until I looked at the photos.

A beach on Koh Samui, Thailand



Another man was selling corn on the cob and was able to butter it for you right there. People love being able to stay in their comfortable chairs and be served various foods and drinks. I can't imagine why?? Even though the hotel prices are slightly higher here, it is easy to eat by way of vender more very little.

Vendor on Koh Samui, Thailand

We walked up and down that beach several times, just taking in the environment. I  decided to chat a bit with some of the locals who worked there and took some photos of them. Very nice people. This man had an interesting look about him. I find that Thai people don't mind their photo being taken if you politely nod and smile while indicating your camera. Their society is certainly one of consideration for others, so a little kindness goes a long ways here.

Koh Samui, Thailand local

This youngster had decided to take a nap on a hammock. What a tough life!! His family members were working at the beach and were so nice to talk to. The Thai people are generally so kind and just wanted to make sure that we were having a good time.

Taking a nap on the hammock



After a dip in the ocean, the small group of us decided to sit down and have a drink at the restaurant that was open to the ocean breeze. We grabbed a table and ordered. The prices at this nice venue on beach were very reasonable. It was easy to get an entire meal for a few dollars (in Baht). One of my favorite things to do in tropical destinations is to have a fresh coconut cut open and then drink the water inside. It's very good for you and tastes great. It's especially good when you're sweating a lot, since it has a lot of potassium. Even in a nice place, it was only about $1.50, served chilled. They give you a spoon so that you can scoop out the coconut and eat it. These types of coconuts are not like what you see in the grocery store. The ones you drink from are called "Young Coconuts" and are still green on the outside and picked from the trees. The  coconut is easier to eat and doesn't have to be graded or scrapped out like the older brown ones do.

Koh Samui, Thailand locals



Grandmother and baby were happy to be enjoying the beach and the cool breeze. They were part of the family that worked in the open cabana. You can get items for the beach, as well as being able to hire the Jet Ski for an hour or more. Although the weather wasn't perfectly bright and sunny, I thought I'd upload just a small clip of the beach and the waves that day. It's a nice relaxing sound and helps you to imagine what it was like there.

On the beach in Koh Samui, Thailand