Island Hopping – The second Time around

Returning to Thailand for my second island-hopping adventure felt like slipping back into a dream. This time we began in Koh Samui before making our way to Koh Tao. More than just a repeat visit, we wanted to really explore each island and we had more time this trip. In Koh Samui, we stayed in different corners of the island, from the serene Mae Nam beachfront to the lush, quiet interior of Koh Pom nestled in the mountains. Slow mornings wandering between cozy cafes, and peaceful evenings dining at the beach while watching the sunsets. I took another Thai cooking class in Koh Samui and Alberto in between taking photos made a few dishes! The days stretch into a rhythm of pure relaxation. There’s something about these islands; no rush, no pressure — just the freedom to wander, taste, and truly unwind.

Koh Samui – Where we Explored and What we did

Getting around Koh Samui was easy and endlessly fun! We rented a scooter, (best way to get around ), the sun on our backs, (sometimes the rain !) and no set agenda. Driving the winding coastal roads, against the backdrop of the tallest palm trees into hidden neighborhoods, stopping wherever the mood (or hunger) struck us. One of the highlights was a visit to a charming outdoor restaurant where the owner didn’t just cook for us — she invited us along for the experience.

 We took a tour of the local wet market, a vibrant maze of stalls brimming with fresh herbs, exotic fruits, seafood still wriggling on ice, the heady scent of curry pastes and dried spices. Locals bartered while street food sizzled nearby — it was chaotic, colorful, and completely captivating. After gathering ingredients, she led us back for an intimate Thai cooking class where Alberto and I made ; Tom Yum Goong (Hot and sour shrimp soup) – Yum Nua ( Classic beef salad ) – and Mee Krob (crispy Sweet /sour noodles) . Chaweng Beach is a lively hub filled with bars, beachey shops, and night markets. It’s a bit loud and chaotic but fun and there’s so much to eat and do!

Lamai – slightly quieter than Chaweng, with its own nightlife and beach. we stayed here 

This “outdoor gym ” behind our place didn’t look like much BUT we found the most beautiful sunsets , friendly -yummy – cozy cafes – an amazing nail salon and strong but relaxing Thai massages all in this beachfront neighborhood.  Like what else does a lady need ..

Fisherman’s Village (Bophut) – trendy, more upscale vibe with boutiques, seaside dining, and the famous Friday night market. We came here after staying in Lamai and we love  This place  

Mae Nam – more laid-back, with a peaceful beach and local feel. We scootered (is that even a word) here EVERYDAY to swim (this is the cleanest and best beach on the island in my opinion ) and there’s some fantastic cafes I’ll link below for fueling up for an early breakfast or lunch . 

 More to do and see in Koh Samui 

Obviously the best way to find cool and fun things to (besides this blog!) is to ask right? On our travels we meet so many like minded and friendly people. Of course people love to share their cool experiences especially locals . 

We had an amazing experience and Island day trip with abdmkohtan

Koh Tan 

À Bout Du Monde in Koh Tan felt like discovering a secret hideaway above the world. In its own little pocket of nature, everything feel peaceful and grounding.You arrive around 10 am , have a nice lunch , wine and cocktails if you want then spend the day in the clearest , warmest water . Around 4 pm everyone heads back to Koh Samui and  watching the sky shift from blue to fire-orange as the sun set behind the island’s silhouette was simple, soulful, and exactly what we needed. The  chance to really unplug and feel part of the island.

Before leaving to Koh Tao I BEGGED Alberto to let me see the capybara’s at the Capybara Cafe 

I enjoyed the experience and will do it again ! They were really sweet , looked well cared for and overall it was so fun .

 

We came upon this serene looking spot and I’m not sure where exactly this is but it was so lovely .  Buddha’s Footprint I believe my Mom translated for me ? One of the many spots we’d find just exploring the island . 

  Koh Tao: Snorkeling & Island Life

In Koh Tao the adventure began beneath the waves , snorkeling in crystal clear waters that revealed a dazzling underwater world. We explored reefs around Shark Bay, Sai Daeng, and Ao Leuk, spotting gentle green and hawksbill turtles, (Alberto actually sat on one !!) and schools of vibrant reef fish darting through colorful coral gardens that seemed alive with movement and light. This is our second time booking an Island tour with Oxygen Tours

They are the NICEST group of guides and their tour gives you plenty of time to enjoy each reef .They serve a great Thai  lunch and gave us so many tips about what to do on the island like The Gold Bar and The View Bar

The Gold Bar we wanted to have dinner but were leaving back to Bangkok so we enjoyed a bottle of wine from a Thai winery we like and had appetizers (incredible!!) and enjoyed the view . If we get back to Koh Tao we are having dinner here..

The View Bar .. Wow . I really have no words . I guess this is the part of the journey where I get personal and reflect on why going to Thailand just feels like home for me. I mean it was my mother’s home so yes it’s a part of me. Alberto and I arrived after snorkeling about 5 pm so pretty early (only two people plus a staff of 4 women were there ) and as they sat at the table preparing spring rolls for appetizers they welcomed us in with warm smiles  This is the kindness Thai people exude and it’s always a reminder of how grateful I feel to have this experience and to really cherish and be present in these moments . As I stared out into the sea reflecting on my own life I realized my mother did the exact same thing in the exact same spot almost 50 years earlier and she took a leap of faith and left in search of something “better ” for herself. 

Here I was thinking “what’s better than this !? It’s a testament to how little we understand the struggles our parent faced . Thailand was paradise for ME but my mother wasn’t afforded the same privileges I was growing up. Nor did she have the support and resources to pursue HER dreams and the life she wanted . The Vietnam war was raging and my parents’ paths crossed because of the Vietnam War — a conflict that, in a strange way, brought them together. I do hope my mother will return to Thailand with me one day but I have a deeper understanding  through our conversations and my own life journey as to why so far she hasn’t.

Chiang Mai Then Home 

You know how they say there’s the one who plans , packs , and books everything a month out , and the one who does it mere minutes before you leave to the airport ? I’m the first one and yes my husband is the second , HOWEVER ! I made the rookie mistake of not booking a departing flight back to Bangkok so we could fly home to Italy from Koh Samui. I thought there would be heaps of flights .. but no , not one direct flight so it was fly to Chiang mai for the night , problem solved! It was lovely to be in Chiang Mai again . We stayed here Here

In the Rice Farmers home . Such a kind family and beautiful home . 

I couldn’t put this book down Sightseeing

I can’t wait to be back in Thailand soon! If your trip to Thailand includes Koh Samui and Koh Tao leave me a comment and tell me what you enjoyed!! XO Tera