Chaweng Beach Koh Samui Island, Thailand

Chaweng Beach remains the most beautiful on the island. Wandering down from your coconut palm-shaded hut to the white-dust sand to the crystal clear water is an unforgettable experience. It's just a shame that today you have such a short window of opportunity to enjoy it - between sunrise and 7am, at the most. After that the deckchairs, vendors, masseurs, jet-skis and other noisy stuff begin their parade and within a few hours, it's a mess. Of course, if you like all that hustle and bustle, you'll love Chaweng.

Chaweng has something for everyone, but the bulk of accommodation is aimed at package tours and mid-range travellers looking to spend around 1,500 to 4,000B a night. A few places are priced at under 500B but they are few and far between, and grotty. It's also easy to spend more than 4,000B.

Be aware that theft is on the rise, especially at the cheaper places. When going out for the day, make sure that all your windows and doors are closed and locked. At night, if your windows are not screened - rare now - keep your bags under your bed as crafty thieves have been known to use hooked poles to drag items out while you sleep. Also beware if you check into a room with an open-air bathroom, which have become the latest rage. Make sure that the bathroom door can be locked - and keep it locked - as it's easy for thieves to jump walls and get in. If at night you wake up while being robbed, stay where you are and do not make eye contact with the thief. Do not struggle, as robberies do turn violent.

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