Ko Samui, Administrative region in Surat Thani Province, Thailand.
Ko Samui is an island in Surat Thani Province, Thailand, with sandy beaches, dense forests, and hilly interior regions. The area includes several towns and villages connected by roads that circle and cross the island.
The island appeared on Chinese maps in 1687 as a trading port, marking its early importance as a maritime commerce hub. Its role in regional trade networks helped establish its presence in the region.
Local communities maintain deep ties to the sea, and fishing and coconut cultivation remain visible parts of everyday life. These activities shape how people relate to their environment and what the landscape looks like.
The island is accessible by regular ferry and air connections, with an extensive road network for getting around. Accommodations and food options are widely available throughout the area and generally easy to find.
Each property operates its own water management systems, with separate septic tanks and rainwater collection rather than shared municipal systems. This decentralized approach reflects how development has spread across the island.
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