Whenever we dream about scenic beach getaways, Koh Samui and Phuket instantly come to mind. Surrounded by gorgeous islands and turquoise waters, these are some of the destinations we hope to visit once the borders reopen and we’re glad to share that this dream is closer to becoming a reality! 

Koh Samui and Phuket reopen to vaccinated travellers starting from July 2021

Credit: Yavor Punchev on Unsplash For anyone who loves travelling to Koh Samui for their stunning beaches, this one's for you! As part of Thailand’s ‘Samui Plus’ programme, Koh Samui reopens to vaccinated travellers without quarantine requirements from 15 July 2021 alongside Surat Thani’s other island provinces like Ko Pha-ngan and Ko Tao.  Before travelling to Koh Samui, travellers need to prepare a negative COVID-19 test result; proof of vaccination with vaccines approved by Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) or the World Health Organisation (WHO); paid accommodation in a SHA Plus-certified hotel; and more. For more information, visit the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Newsroom. If you’re planning to travel to Phuket, read this article to find out more about Phuket Sandbox that reopened on 1 July 2021, and whether Malaysians can travel there for their future holidays! 

Where to stay in Koh Samui and Phuket

When planning a beach getaway in Koh Samui and Phuket, stay in SHA Plus-certified hotels and resorts, a certification by Thailand’s Safety and Health Administration (SHA).  It guarantees that the accommodation adheres to public health measures and more than 70% of their staff have been vaccinated. To inspire your next holiday, here are some beautiful SHA Plus-certified resorts in Koh Samui and Phuket to stay at!

1. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui

Credit: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Immerse yourself in the laid-back vibes of Koh Samui when you spend a few nights at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Perfect for a family trip, this luxury resort has spacious accommodations complete with a private infinity pool, sea-facing view, and more. To keep your little ones entertained, this resort offers kid-friendly activities like a family cooking class, muay thai for kids, and spa experiences too.  Address: 219, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand Contact: +66 77 243 000 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Krua Muslim Halal Restaurant Halal status: Muslim-owned Address: Chonwithi Rd, Ang Thong, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand  Opening hours : Open daily; 9AM-7PM

2. Miskawaan Beachfront Villas Koh Samui

Credit: Miskawaan Beachfront Villas Koh Samui Miskawaan Beachfront Villas is a slice of paradise. Overlooking the pristine Maenam beach, this full-service beachfront rehabilitation and medical center has spacious pool villas complete with its own manager, maid and private chef! Craving for Southern Thai cuisine? Get their consultant chef to prepare hard-to-find yet delicious Samui delicacies using locally sourced ingredients and halal-certified meats. There are many experiences to sign up for including a guided hike to the waterfall and a visit to the Samui Elephant Sanctuary.  #HHWT Tip: Masjid Nurul Hidayah Bangruk is just a 5-minute drive from Miskawaan.  Address: 67/28 Moo 1 Maenam Koh Samui, Suratthani 84330 Thailand Contact: +66 77 420048 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food BonKhai Halal Kitchen Halal status: Muslim-owned Address: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand Opening hours: Open daily; 10AM-9PM

3. Kamalaya Koh Samui

Credit: Kamalaya Koh Samui on Facebook  Make your way to Kamalaya Koh Samui for a sunny vacation unlike any other! Combining the best of a wellness sanctuary and holistic spa retreat, this resort is brimming with sea-view rooms as well as beachfront and pool villas for a relaxing time away from home. What’s amazing about Kamalaya is that it has programs catering to different wellness goals including sleep enhancement, yoga synergy or optimal fitness, so make sure to carve out more time for yourself!  Address: Moo 3 102/9 Laem-Set Rd, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84140, Thailand Contact: +66 77 429 800 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Malayu Samui Seafood Halal status: Muslim-owned Address: Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand Opening hours: Open daily; 10AM-10PM

4. Nora Buri Resort & Spa

Credit: Nora Buri Resort & Spa on Facebook Just a short drive from the Samui Airport, Nora Buri Resort & Spa is ideal for family vacations and romantic honeymoons. Sprawled with hillside and beach villas, you’re going to love waking up to stunning views every morning! Besides indulging in a well-deserved spa treatment, it has a swimming pool and fitness centre to maximise your holiday. Perfect for beach lovers, this resort also provides a complimentary daily shuttle to Chaweng Beach, so you can experience the bustling beach and shopping scene in Koh Samui.  Address : 111, Moo 5, Chaweng Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui, Kohsamui, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand Contact: +66 77 913 555 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Lake View Halal Food Halal status: Uses halal meats and ingredients Address: 14/93 Moo2 Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand Opening hours: Open daily; 7AM-12AM

5. SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort Koh Samui

Credit: SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort on Facebook Minimalists would appreciate their stay at SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort. Decorated with all-white interior and wooden touches, it’ll make you feel calm and relaxed before stepping into the private pool for some warm sunshine. It’s tempting to sleep in your beautiful room all day, but there are daily yoga classes, kayaking and paddle boarding to enjoy. Don’t forget to join a tour to learn more about Koh Samui and why it is called ‘Coconut Island’ by the locals.  Address: 99/10 Moo 2, Chaweng Beach, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84320, Thailand Contact: +66 77 905 888 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Reep Halal Thai Food Halal status: Muslim-owned Address: 99/10 Moo 2, Bo Phut,  Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84340, Thailand Opening hours : Open daily; 12PM-12AM 

6. Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort

Credit: Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort on Facebook Let the calming sea breeze of Koh Samui overwhelm you at Pavilion Samui Villas & Resort. Circled by a tropical jungle and stunning beach front, each room and villa guarantees an amazing view worthy of an Instagram snapshot. After taking a nap on their king-size bed, book an appointment for their Aromatic Oil Massage or join the resort’s off-road jungle tour that’ll take you to the Tree Bridge, Hin Ta Hin Yai, and Na Muang waterfall.  Address: 124/24 Moo 3, Lamai,  Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand Contact: +66 77 424 030 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Roti Otin & Halal Restaurant Halal status: Uses halal meats and ingredients Address: Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani 84310, Thailand Opening hours: Open daily; 11AM-10.30PM

7. Amanpuri

Credit: Amanpuri  Planning a beach getaway to Phuket is a must and Amanpuri is where you should spend the night. A luxury resort that overlooks the gorgeous Andaman Sea, admire the white sandy beach and lush greenery that are just right outside your door. When you stay in their villa, you’ll be welcomed by amenities such as a private swimming pool, a personal chef, a spacious outdoor area, and more - so it’ll feel like a luxurious home away from home!  Address: 118 Srisoonthorn Rd, Cherngtalay, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand Contact: +66 76 324 333 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Jasmine Halal Food Halal status: Uses halal meats and ingredients Address: 256/8 Moo 5, Choeng Thale, Thalang District, Phuket 83110, Thailand Opening hours: Fri-Wed; 9AM-5PM, Thu; 10AM-4PM

8. Sri Panwa Phuket

Credit: Sri Panwa Phuket Perched atop Cape Panwa, guests will be guaranteed with one of the most stunning views of Phuket. A beautiful luxury resort complete with private pool villas, each room has its infinity swimming pool, jet stream jacuzzi, steam room, or outdoor bathing area, but that’s not all that Sri Panwa has to offer! Go beach hopping, snorkelling, scuba diving or learn Thai boxing, so you’ll return home with amazing memories from your Phuket getaway.  Address: 88 Phuket Rd, Wichit, Muang Phuket 83000, Thailand Contact: +66 76 371 000 Website | Facebook | Instagram Nearby halal food Panwa Halal Food Halal status : Uses halal meats and ingredients Address: Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand Opening hours: Open daily; 10.30AM-10PM We’re definitely saving these stunning resorts in Koh Samui and Phuket for our future getaways! For the latest updates on the reopening of Koh Samui and Phuket, visit the official website of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Newsroom and follow TAT’s social media for more information about Thailand and participate in fun activities to win amazing prizes! This article was brought to you by Tourism Authority of Thailand, Malaysia

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