Being on a planet that’s made of over seventy percent oceans, there’s no dearth of coastal paradises for those looking to unwind. What narrows down the choice for a discerning traveller could be the pursuit of a destination that is culturally colourful enough to accommodate their tastes and also one that’s light on the pocket. Koh Samui, Thailand’s second largest island, is one such rarity. In addition to a culturally rich populous it also houses people from across the world and throws in a blend of palm-fringed coastlines, a mountainous rainforest and a landmark 12-meter tall Big Buddha statue.
The island’s true appeal lies in its incredibly affordable hotel properties, which are strewn across to leave you spoilt for choice. Koh Samui has been a natural choice for several Indians seeking out family destinations in Thailand. It’s a great choice for destination weddings, bachelor parties or maybe just a well-deserved getaway with the family.
What really makes Koh Samui a compelling choice for many is the great connectivity it has with India, particularly Mumbai. Bangkok Airways operates a daily flight from Mumbai to Koh Samui’s Bangkok Suvaranabhumi airport and back. The airport is a property of Bangkok Airways and makes for a fine travel experience for both, leisure and business travellers. The old cliché that the journey could be as memorable as the destination holds true if it involves this well acclaimed route and airline.
Bangkok Airways operates two lounges at the Bangkok Suvaranabhumi (BKK) airport as well as Koh Samui (USM) airport. The Blue Ribbon Business Class Lounge is popular among travellers as it offers a great blend of coastal flavour through its décor and the usual creature comforts sought out by travel lounge regulars. It’s a quiet place to be as you wait to board your flight. It is located at the Domestic Terminal and can be accessed between Gates 2 and 3. The lounge is operational between 4:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. The spacious expanses overlook the beautifully landscaped gardens of the airport. You could enjoy hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages at the lounge and also snack on fresh made-to-order Thai dishes. The lounge enables tourists with free Wi-Fi connectivity, workstations, ample reading material, plush restrooms and an aquarium. It is specially built to welcome differently-abled guests. While you enjoy your reverie, a flight monitoring system will keep you well informed about the status of your flight.
The other economy lounge offers an open air setup that lets you take in the sun and enjoy a breath of fresh air. It neatly blends in the traditional coastal Thai décor with a dash of comforting luxury.
The usual return fares from Mumbai to Koh Samui in economy would begin from INR 28,990. As you tread your way between the Bophut Fisherman’s Village and take in the splendorous structures at Wat Plai Laem and reminisce the mysticism of the Secret Buddha Garden, we’re certain that the comforting luxury of the Bangkok Airways experience is one that will find its mention in your travelogue.
