A collection of fun things to do on Koh Samui, eating, drinking, and traveling, with filming locations for the latest season of ‘The White Lotus'
Another world-class hotel tucked away on a lush hillside at the far end of Koh Samui, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui features private villas that gradually descend to a private beach. Each comes with an infinity pool and panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand.
A must-see highlight is the Secret Garden Spa, hidden amidst lush tropical gardens, offering spa treatments that combine local wisdom with luxury, using herbs and essential oils from the resort's organic garden to create personalized treatments.
There are also many exclusive activities to choose from, whether it's training in Muay Thai with a professional trainer in a quiet corner by the sea or sailing on a private yacht to see the small islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with a personal chef service who will create a special meal by the beach, creating a superior and memorable relaxation experience.
Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui
Address: 219 Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (Photo: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui)
Another luxury resort you don't want to miss, hidden away on a steep cliff on Koh Samui, Six Senses Samui offers a relaxing experience that combines luxury with sustainability. The highlight here is The Ocean Retreat, a private villa that floats above the sea with an infinity pool that stretches to the horizon, offering one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the island.
Set on a clifftop terrace, Dining on the Rocks offers award-winning cuisine highlighting organic ingredients from the resort's gardens, allowing guests to participate in picking fresh produce from the garden and learning how to cook with a professional chef. Relaxation activities include Sound Releasing, a therapy using sound therapy amidst nature to balance the body and mind, reinforcing the brand's unique wellness retreat philosophy.
Six Senses Samui Hotel
Address: 9/10 Ban Plai Laem, Cheong Mon Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above Elevated view of The Ocean Retreat room at Six Senses Koh Samui (Photo: Six Senses Samui)
Where to eat
For a taste of authentic Southern Thai cuisine, head to Kapi Sator. This family-run business prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Signature dishes not to be missed include Southern-style crab curry, fresh oysters from Kanchanadit District, Surat Thani Province, and eight-hour stewed pork. There are also daily specials made with seasonal ingredients.
Shrimp paste and stink beans
Address: 25/236 Thawi Rat Phakdi Road, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above Presenting authentic southern food at Kapi Sator Restaurant (Photo: Instagram / @kinkubnon)
A southern style Chef's Table restaurant that is a collaboration between Chef Jeremy Simien and Chef Tang Chitlada Sirachadapong, both of whom are passionate about the charm of traditional Thai food, whether it's the 'Lang Nuea Wagyu Chop Lang Ya' menu, which is grilled Wagyu beef in betel leaves, or 'Samui Tempura', which combines organic southern herbs with a sour puree from local Samui herbs, under the concept of conserving and using the ocean, sea and marine resources for sustainable development.
CHADA Chef's Table
Address: 87 Na Thon Community, Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Despite its location on Koh Samui, Chez François is a must-book destination for French food lovers. Chef François Peillard creates classic French dishes with a contemporary twist. Popular signature dishes include the Coq au vin (chicken stewed in French red wine), the Beef Wellington (tender pastry-wrapped beef), and the Beef Carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef with a special sauce), all of which are meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients. This restaurant is a must-visit for both tourists and locals looking to experience fine French dining on this paradise island.
Chez Francois
Address: 33/2 Village No. 1, Fisherman Village, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above Chez François, a French restaurant on Koh Samui that you shouldn't miss (Photo: Chez François)
Experience the authentic taste of southern food at Pensiri, a local restaurant that conveys the charm of southern food to the fullest. The must-try menu items are the spicy shrimp paste and pork chili paste with authentic southern flavors. But the signature dish is the crab curry noodles set, served with four side vegetables. The highlight is the rich curry and spicy flavor, worthy of being a famous local restaurant on Koh Samui that is known as one of the southern restaurants that you can't miss.
Phen Siri
Address: 80/30 Moo 3, Suan Uthit Road, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Read more: Ultimate Luxurious Villas: 5 of the best luxury villas in Thailand for a dream vacation
This restaurant is located in a quiet seaside setting on Koh Samui. In addition to its outstanding local cuisine that emphasizes fresh seafood and traditional curry pastes, it also has a bar area that selects a variety of wines and creative cocktails to sip in a romantic atmosphere at night. This is a popular place to celebrate special occasions, whether it's a wedding or a special Chef's Table meal in a cozy, hidden gem atmosphere that provides a friendly and relaxing feeling. And of course, at night, don't miss the special fire baton show.
Hug Samui & Ai Bar
Address: Mae Nam, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Where to drink
This romantic beach bar is a perfect blend of classic fishing village and contemporary. The bar features a variety of cocktails and a wine list. Located on the beach not far from the Big Buddha Temple on the west coast of Koh Samui, Nahm offers a beautiful view of the orange sunset sky. If you stay until late, you can watch the fireworks from squid fishing boats in the sea at night. In the evening, this bar is the perfect destination for a special meal, whether it's a fancy dinner, a proposal, or just a special moment by the sea.
Nahm
Address: 16/9 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above The atmosphere inside Nahm restaurant by the sea (Photo: Nahm)
Above Drinks inside Nahm (Photo: Nahm)
A new zone under the care of Coco Tam's Koh Samui after Coco Tam's has become one of the must-see destinations for tourists, complete with food, drinks and shows that have become Koh Samui's signature.
Make the most of your relaxing time at Easy on Tams, a speakeasy bar and social club located on top of Coco Tam's that combines seaside relaxation with the novelty of partying. The second floor serves as a secret bar, seamlessly hidden from the hustle and bustle of Cocotam's Restaurant. With a Mid Century atmosphere, warm lighting and a perfectly blended disco bar, it serves special drinks during your relaxing time.
Easy on Tams
Address: 62 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani
Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's)
Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's)
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Tatler Asia
14-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
A collection of fun things to do on Koh Samui, eating, drinking, and traveling, with filming locations for the latest season of ‘The White Lotus'
Another world-class hotel tucked away on a lush hillside at the far end of Koh Samui, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui features private villas that gradually descend to a private beach. Each comes with an infinity pool and panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. A must-see highlight is the Secret Garden Spa, hidden amidst lush tropical gardens, offering spa treatments that combine local wisdom with luxury, using herbs and essential oils from the resort's organic garden to create personalized treatments. There are also many exclusive activities to choose from, whether it's training in Muay Thai with a professional trainer in a quiet corner by the sea or sailing on a private yacht to see the small islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with a personal chef service who will create a special meal by the beach, creating a superior and memorable relaxation experience. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Address: 219 Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (Photo: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui) Another luxury resort you don't want to miss, hidden away on a steep cliff on Koh Samui, Six Senses Samui offers a relaxing experience that combines luxury with sustainability. The highlight here is The Ocean Retreat, a private villa that floats above the sea with an infinity pool that stretches to the horizon, offering one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the island. Set on a clifftop terrace, Dining on the Rocks offers award-winning cuisine highlighting organic ingredients from the resort's gardens, allowing guests to participate in picking fresh produce from the garden and learning how to cook with a professional chef. Relaxation activities include Sound Releasing, a therapy using sound therapy amidst nature to balance the body and mind, reinforcing the brand's unique wellness retreat philosophy. Six Senses Samui Hotel Address: 9/10 Ban Plai Laem, Cheong Mon Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Elevated view of The Ocean Retreat room at Six Senses Koh Samui (Photo: Six Senses Samui) Where to eat For a taste of authentic Southern Thai cuisine, head to Kapi Sator. This family-run business prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Signature dishes not to be missed include Southern-style crab curry, fresh oysters from Kanchanadit District, Surat Thani Province, and eight-hour stewed pork. There are also daily specials made with seasonal ingredients. Shrimp paste and stink beans Address: 25/236 Thawi Rat Phakdi Road, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Presenting authentic southern food at Kapi Sator Restaurant (Photo: Instagram / @kinkubnon) A southern style Chef's Table restaurant that is a collaboration between Chef Jeremy Simien and Chef Tang Chitlada Sirachadapong, both of whom are passionate about the charm of traditional Thai food, whether it's the 'Lang Nuea Wagyu Chop Lang Ya' menu, which is grilled Wagyu beef in betel leaves, or 'Samui Tempura', which combines organic southern herbs with a sour puree from local Samui herbs, under the concept of conserving and using the ocean, sea and marine resources for sustainable development. CHADA Chef's Table Address: 87 Na Thon Community, Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Despite its location on Koh Samui, Chez François is a must-book destination for French food lovers. Chef François Peillard creates classic French dishes with a contemporary twist. Popular signature dishes include the Coq au vin (chicken stewed in French red wine), the Beef Wellington (tender pastry-wrapped beef), and the Beef Carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef with a special sauce), all of which are meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients. This restaurant is a must-visit for both tourists and locals looking to experience fine French dining on this paradise island. Chez Francois Address: 33/2 Village No. 1, Fisherman Village, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Chez François, a French restaurant on Koh Samui that you shouldn't miss (Photo: Chez François) Experience the authentic taste of southern food at Pensiri, a local restaurant that conveys the charm of southern food to the fullest. The must-try menu items are the spicy shrimp paste and pork chili paste with authentic southern flavors. But the signature dish is the crab curry noodles set, served with four side vegetables. The highlight is the rich curry and spicy flavor, worthy of being a famous local restaurant on Koh Samui that is known as one of the southern restaurants that you can't miss. Phen Siri Address: 80/30 Moo 3, Suan Uthit Road, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Read more: Ultimate Luxurious Villas: 5 of the best luxury villas in Thailand for a dream vacation This restaurant is located in a quiet seaside setting on Koh Samui. In addition to its outstanding local cuisine that emphasizes fresh seafood and traditional curry pastes, it also has a bar area that selects a variety of wines and creative cocktails to sip in a romantic atmosphere at night. This is a popular place to celebrate special occasions, whether it's a wedding or a special Chef's Table meal in a cozy, hidden gem atmosphere that provides a friendly and relaxing feeling. And of course, at night, don't miss the special fire baton show. Hug Samui & Ai Bar Address: Mae Nam, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Where to drink This romantic beach bar is a perfect blend of classic fishing village and contemporary. The bar features a variety of cocktails and a wine list. Located on the beach not far from the Big Buddha Temple on the west coast of Koh Samui, Nahm offers a beautiful view of the orange sunset sky. If you stay until late, you can watch the fireworks from squid fishing boats in the sea at night. In the evening, this bar is the perfect destination for a special meal, whether it's a fancy dinner, a proposal, or just a special moment by the sea. Nahm Address: 16/9 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above The atmosphere inside Nahm restaurant by the sea (Photo: Nahm) Above Drinks inside Nahm (Photo: Nahm) A new zone under the care of Coco Tam's Koh Samui after Coco Tam's has become one of the must-see destinations for tourists, complete with food, drinks and shows that have become Koh Samui's signature. Make the most of your relaxing time at Easy on Tams, a speakeasy bar and social club located on top of Coco Tam's that combines seaside relaxation with the novelty of partying. The second floor serves as a secret bar, seamlessly hidden from the hustle and bustle of Cocotam's Restaurant. With a Mid Century atmosphere, warm lighting and a perfectly blended disco bar, it serves special drinks during your relaxing time. Easy on Tams Address: 62 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's) Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's)
Tatler Asia
09-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
Jet-set baby: The chicest baby-friendly destinations around the world
2. Kyoto, Japan With its quiet temples, spotlessly clean streets and thoughtful infrastructure, Kyoto is a dream for parents who want the 3Cs: calm, culture and convenience. Many family-friendly ryokans and hotels offer baby gear rentals (from strollers to cribs), and public family-friendly facilities are plentiful and pristine. The orderly pace of life here means minimal overstimulation for you and your baby. Why it works: Immaculate, organised and tranquil—just like you wish your nursery was Amenities to look for: Family rooms in ryokans, diaper-changing facilities at every turn and baby gear rental services Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto provides spacious baby-friendly suites, Japanese-style baths perfect for bedtime rituals and even mini yukatas for photos. Don't miss: The best things to do in Kyoto, Japan 3. Singapore Singapore is practically engineered for parents. From stroller-accessible public transport to high-tech nursing pods in malls, the city is a masterclass in urban planning for families. High chairs are everywhere, sidewalks are wide and smooth and everything is close enough to make nap schedules (almost) achievable. It's a clean, modern hub that removes the stress from urban travel. Why it works: Think air-conditioned malls with nursing rooms and parks with shaded playgrounds. Amenities to look for: Steriliser availability, nursing pods and stroller-friendly everything Where to stay: Capella Singapore on Sentosa Island offers baby cots, in-room dining with child-friendly menus and concierge-arranged babysitting. 4. Tuscany, Italy Tuscany's golden hills and warm-hearted locals create an atmosphere so relaxing, even your baby might sleep better. Agriturismos (family-run farm stays) come with kitchenettes, high chairs and ample outdoor space to roam. Locals will coo at your baby like it's their long-lost grandchild, and the slower rhythm of life is perfect for long walks and impromptu al fresco meals. Why it works: Italians adore babies, and vineyards are more charming when your baby is cooing under olive trees. Amenities to look for: Farm stays with on-site kitchens, high chairs and lots of space to roam Where to stay: Borgo Pignano, a restored estate with all the baby essentials and lavender fields to keep your Instagram stories on point 5. Vancouver, Canada Vancouver is nature's playground—with added stroller ramps. Surrounded by sea and mountains, it offers clean air, safe parks and spacious, stroller-friendly sidewalks. Baby equipment rentals are widely available, public bathrooms are equipped with changing tables and there's always a family-oriented café nearby. You get the outdoors without sacrificing urban ease. Why it works: A laid-back, nature-filled, baby-friendly city with fresh air and polite people who will happily help you with your stroller Amenities to look for: Wide sidewalks, clean public changing areas and baby gear rentals Where to stay: Fairmont Pacific Rim is a family-friendly hotel, offering cribs, childproofing kits and a knowledgeable concierge who can recommend parent-friendly spots in town. 6. Da Nang, Vietnam Tucked between lush mountains and soft beaches, Da Nang is Southeast Asia's most underrated family escape. Unlike its flashier neighbours, it offers serenity without sacrificing luxury, and the hotels here roll out the red carpet for babies. Why it works: Beachy without the bustle of Bali, and the hotels here know how to treat travelling families like royalty Amenities to look for: Poolside cabanas, kids' menus with porridge and purées and nannies on call Where to stay: InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort is a baby haven—think quiet beachfront pavilions, 24-hour room service and powder-soft sand perfect for chubby baby toes. 7. Copenhagen, Denmark Scandi-chic and stroller-smart, Copenhagen might just be Europe's baby capital. Here, babies nap outside in designer prams while parents sip coffee unbothered. Finally, a place where you can parent stress-free and stylishly. The public transport is ramp-equipped, restaurants have changing tables as standard and there's a general vibe that babies aren't a nuisance; they're part of the culture. Why it works: The baby-friendliest capital in Europe, where even the most stylish locals tote a Bugaboo Amenities to look for: Ramp-equipped public transport, changing tables in cafes and hotels with kitchenettes Where to stay: Hotel SP34, where you can borrow a stroller, warm bottles at the bar and step out into a city that practically invented design-minded parenting 8. Niseko, Japan While known for its powdery slopes, Niseko turns into a whisper-quiet wonderland during off-season—ideal for babies who thrive on peace and crisp mountain air. Scenic trails invite long stroller walks, and the gentle hum of the mountains makes this one of the rare places where you might actually get a full night's sleep. Why it works: Japan's premier ski resort is surprisingly great for babies, especially during the off-season when it's quiet and cool. Amenities to look for: Quiet chalets, heated floors and babyproof layouts Where to stay: Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono offers private onsens, baby cots and winter concierge services to make even snow-covered strollers manageable. 9. Gold Coast, Australia Sun, surf and surprisingly thoughtful design for families, Gold Coast is practically a baby beach utopia. Playgrounds spill onto the sand, and the locals will high-five your toddler instead of glaring. You might be booking an annual Gold Coast trip after your first visit. Why it works: Sunshine, surf and serious family vibes, with playgrounds by the beach and stroller paths galore Amenities to look for: Fully equipped vacation rentals, shaded pools and beach clubs with baby changing areas Where to stay: The Langham, Gold Coast has cribs, blackout drapes and a very understanding staff if your baby decides to cry mid-check-in. 10. Tagaytay, Philippines Just a car ride from Metro Manila, Tagaytay is the cool-weather escape where babies and their sleep-deprived parents can finally breathe. The vibe is laid-back, the air is pine-fresh and family-friendly cafés mean your baby and your in-laws will be fed and happy. Why it works: Just a short drive from Manila, this cool-climate getaway is breezy, green and wonderfully walkable. Amenities to look for: Airy suites, baby-friendly cafés and hotels that accommodate extended family naps Where to stay: Anya Resort Tagaytay offers spacious suites, cribs and cosy verandas where your baby can nap while you enjoy your fifth cup of barako coffee.
Tatler Asia
07-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
Inside Hong Kong's halal food scene: Best restaurants, choice of cuisines and halal categories
Bushra With its halal-certified kitchen, Bushra offers an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience. Their menu features both well-known favourites and rare gems, including marinated beef skewers, lamb chops, lamb ribs and Arabic-style braised beef with rice. Don't miss their special brunch menu showcasing classics such as hummus, baba ghanoush and falafel—perfect for a weekend gathering. Address: 66 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui Shahrazad Lebanese Dining Lounge and Bar Shahrazad boasts a fully halal menu and a halal-certified kitchen. Step inside and you'll feel transported to the Middle East with its décor: low seating arrangements, plethora of cushions and rugs, and ornate decorations that spell glorious maximalism. This indulgent approach extends to the menu, which features roasted eggplant, traditional Lebanese grill items such as lamb kofta and grilled beef skewer. Tatler tip: Get the mixed platter for a taste of everything—it's the perfect size for two to three people. Address: 2/F, Carfield Commercial Building, 77 Wyndham Street, Central Islamic Centre Canteen Above Fridays can be busy at the Islamic Centre Canteen For a halal-friendly dim sum meal, head to the Islamic Center Canteen, a fully halal-certified restaurant that is known for its pork-free dumplings. You'll also be able to enjoy beef salad, noodles with sliced chicken and other Chinese delicacies. However, as it's located next to a prayer room within a mosque, Fridays after prayer time can get very busy and the waiting times can be long. Tatler tip: Go at 10am to get dumplings served steaming hot. Otherwise, it might be a hit or miss. Address: Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, 40 Oi Kwan Road, Wan Chai Gaylord Indian Restaurant As the oldest Indian restaurant in Hong Kong, Gaylord, founded in 1972, is an institution in itself. With a halal-certified kitchen, it offers authentic Indian cuisine with high-quality ingredients and feature live Indian music every evening. Don't miss the tasting menu celebrating the restaurant's 50 years—it includes truffle butter chicken, lamb galouti kebab, and more specialities from northern India, a delicious way to experience half a century of culinary excellence.
