23 Mar 10 Koh Samui, A Heavenly Hideaway

The second largest island off the east coast of Thailand, Koh Samui has more than 50,000 inhabitants yet retains a peaceful laidback charm, perfect for a relaxing holiday.

Encompassed in white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is a slice of heaven for those with a penchant for sunbathing, long walks or sculpting sandcastles. Within these beaches lies some truly stunning natural beauty, the gentle rumbling of a picturesque waterfall can be heard from within the swaying coconut palms and when found are a true delight to behold.

As one of the quieter islands, your perfect picturesque island won't turn into something resembling Ibiza come sundown. With only a few bars and attractions, it really is about enjoying peace and quiet in a heavenly setting.

However, at certain times of year certain festivities may interrupt your idyll. Taking place during New Year's Day, the Buffalo Fighting Festival is one of the island's most popular and is far less harmful than its Spanish counterpart. The buffalos are decorated before the proceedings and sprayed with holy water.

The Fisherman's Village Festival lasts five days and is all about celebrating with music, food and a bucket load of fun. Food tents pop up all over the place selling cheap cuisine provided by the many hotels on the island.

For those with an interest in art, there are bi-monthly events held in many of the 4/5 star resorts. If sailing floats your boat, then the Koh Samui Regatta is perfect. This year it is to be held between 31 May and 5 June and should feature boats from all over the world.

Many have heard of the Full Moon Party, a gathering on nearby Koh Phangan, which is great for those wanting to get together, drink, dance and be merry. If that's a little too busy then the Black Moon Party on Koh Samui is a smaller affair with the same kind of atmosphere held at Samrong or Chaweng beach.

As a word of warning, drugs are not tolerated in Thailand and visitors get no leniency. Also avoid taking anything from a stranger and make sure you wear strong sandals as sometimes bottles and glasses get broken and mix with the sand.

A laidback and intimate environment swathes the island most of the year with the only real excitement coming from the festivals and parties throughout the year. Avoid festival days and your Koh Samui holiday will be effortless or pick a festival and enjoy the livelier side of