The island of Koh Samui is legendary for it’s picture-perfect tropical paradise seashores with palm-fringed smooth white sand, calm turquoise waters, and luxurious resorts.
However that’s not all Thailand’s second-largest island has to supply, and what attracts many individuals right here is the huge and numerous array of issues to do in Koh Samui.
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It’s the right vacation spot to mix a seashore vacation with exploring the luxurious jungle landscapes and the fascinating Thai tradition.
If you happen to’re in search of adventurous actions, distinctive temples, jungle exploration, island hopping journeys and a few of the greatest resorts, spas, meals, and nightlife in Thailand – you’ll discover all of it in Koh Samui!
The Greatest Issues to do in Koh Samui, Thailand
I lived on this incredible Thai island for a month so I had loads of time to discover all of the totally different seashores, areas, actions and sights on Koh Samui.
So, in the event you’re questioning what to do in Koh Samui and in search of not simply the most well-liked Koh Samui sights however some lesser-known hidden gems as effectively, learn on!
I’ve divided the article into sections so you’ll be able to simply discover what you’re in search of: seashores, nature and journey, temples and tradition, purchasing and meals, and even island hopping from Koh Samui – this island has all of it!
Go Seashore Hopping
No journey to Koh Samui can be full with having fun with the wonderful seashores! The island has over 40 idyllic seashores so going seashore hopping and testing some totally different seashores is clearly among the finest issues to do in Koh Samui.
Because it’s a big island you in all probability received’t have time to go to all of the seashores in a single journey, however listed here are a number of of the most well-liked seashores in Koh Samui that you must try throughout your keep:
Chaweng Seashore
Chaweng seashore is Koh Samui’s greatest, greatest and busiest seashore. It’s by far the very best seashore on the island – the white sand is powder smooth, the ocean is calm, turquoise and crystal clear, and it’s fringed with coconut palms. It’s the right tropical paradise seashore but it surely’s additionally probably the most developed seashore.
There may be all the time a energetic environment at Chaweng seashore and lots to do, from water sports activities to seashore massages. There are various seashore golf equipment, eating places and bars alongside the beachfront so it’s a incredible seashore for anybody who will get bored simply sunbathing or needs to occasion on the sands. The northern finish of Chaweng seashore the place all of the seashore bars are is the busiest, however the south finish may be fairly chilled.
Lamai Seashore
If Chaweng Seashore feels too loud and crowded, head south to Lamai Seashore, which is far calmer, though not abandoned by any means. There are many low key seashore bars the place you’ll be able to loosen up with a recent coconut or mango shake.
Lamai seashore is a good spot for dawn and, as a lot of the seashore is lined by palm timber, there are normally some good shady spots right here within the afternoon. It’s also possible to do some water sports activities right here too and head down the very far finish to see some distinctive phallic formed rock formations (extra on that later!)
Crystal Seashore and Coral Cove
f you might be visiting Lamai Seashore you also needs to try Crystal Seashore (also referred to as Crystal Bay and Silver Seashore) and Coral Cove close by.
Crystal Seashore and Coral Cove are small, picturesque bays with shallow waters and silvery granite boulders (therefore the identify.) These seashores are small however are effectively value testing for the distinctive surroundings and since they really feel far more enjoyable and laid again than the larger seashores.
Bophut Seashore
Bophut seashore (or Bo Phut) is one in every of my favorite seashores in Koh Samui. The sand is just not as smooth and white as Chaweng’s but it surely’s far more relaxed so it’s widespread with {couples} and households.
You’ll be able to stroll alongside the seashore stroll from the Fisherman’s Village, there are some beautiful eating places and cafes lining the seashore, and you may hire a rise up paddle board in the event you’re feeling extra energetic. You additionally get a pleasant view over the water to Koh Phangan from Bophut seashore.
Mae Nam Seashore
If you wish to get away from the crowds (with out going to the opposite aspect of the island) head to Mae Nam seashore, one of many much less developed seashores within the north.
Mae Title seashore is a stunning 7km lengthy, peaceable, palm fringed stretch of sand that’s splendid for lengthy seashore walks at sundown and relaxed seashore days with out the noisy seashore bars you’ll discover in different components of the island.
Lipa Noi Seashore
Most of Samui’s widespread seashores are on the west aspect of the island, so if you wish to witness a shocking sundown head over to Lipa Noi seashore on the east coast.
Lipa Noi seashore feels a world away from Chaweng, this secluded seashore is the very best spot to observe the solar dip under the horizon and has only a handful of low key retreats so it’s a peaceable escape from the crowds.
Nature and Journey
Samui’s spectacular surroundings extends past its gorgeous seashores so don’t overlook to discover inland the place you’ll lush jungle, waterfalls, coconut plantations, climbing trails, viewpoints, and even a magic backyard. Listed here are a number of must-sees for nature lovers.
Go to an Moral Elephant Sanctuary
Many vacationers who come to Thailand take pleasure in visiting the elephant sanctuaries and seeing the elephants. Nevertheless, it’s essential to go to a sanctuary that’s moral; i.e. doesn’t provide any dangerous actions with the elephants like bathing or using.
One moral elephant sanctuary on the island is Samui Elephant Sanctuary, which is dwelling to 14 rescued elephants. Right here you’ll be able to feed the elephants, stroll alongside them, and observe them as they roam and bathe themselves. This Samui Elephant Sanctuary Tour consists of lodge transfers and a buffet lunch and is an unforgettable expertise for animal lovers.
See the distinctive Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks
Right here’s one of the vital shocking sights in Koh Samui – rocks formed like human genitalia!
Hin Ta and Hin Yai (that means grandfather and grandmother) are pure rocks that the wind and sea have formed for hundreds of years and, hilariously, now resemble female and male genitalia. As you’ll be able to think about, these uncommon rock formations are a highly regarded photograph spot for vacationers.
You’ll discover them on the southern level of Lamai Seashore (right here’s the map hyperlink) towards a shocking coastal backdrop of turquoise waters and crashing waves, making for glorious (and humorous) photograph alternatives!
Take a dip on the Na Muang Waterfalls
There are various waterfalls to discover in Koh Samui however Na Muang Waterfall is probably the most spectacular. The positioning really consists of two waterfalls – Na Muang 1 and Na Muang 2.
The principle waterfall (Na Muang 1) is definitely accessible from the parking so it might probably get fairly crowded within the peak season. It’s extraordinarily picturesque resulting from its 18 meter drop and mesmerizing pool on the base the place you’ll be able to take a refreshing dip. After all, it’s most spectacular throughout or simply after the wet season.
The second waterfall, Na Muang 2, requires a brief hike to achieve and is a bit of difficult to entry (put on correct footwear not flip flops!) But it surely’s effectively value it as this fall is far quieter and extra secluded with a number of small swimming pools to dip in and nice views again over the island.
What’s distinctive about these two falls is the distinctive purple coloration the rocks have when water flows over them. That is mirrored of their identify “Na Muang,” which suggests “purple face” in Thai.
One factor to concentrate on is that there are cobra exhibits and elephant using on the strategy to the waterfalls. If you happen to love animals don’t help these unethical animal sights.
Na Muang waterfalls are only a 20 minute drive from the subsequent attraction, so it’s effectively value combining the 2…
Uncover Tarnim Magic Backyard (Secret Buddha Backyard)
One hidden gem you’ll discover in the midst of the island is Tarnim Magic Backyard (also referred to as the Secret Buddha Backyard.) Positioned on one of many highest peaks on the island, this non-public sculpture park is a fascinating website that blends artwork, nature, and spirituality for a novel expertise.
The backyard accommodates quite a few statues, sculptures and carvings of Buddhist deities and mythological creatures that provide you with an fascinating perception into Thai tradition, faith and spiritualty whereas additionally being immersed in nature.
A small stream flows via the backyard, creating a very peaceable and magical ambiance that’s excellent for meditation or reflection. The steep hills and dangerous roads imply it’s not straightforward to achieve so the backyard isn’t crowded and looks like a secret therefore the nickname ‘Secret Buddha Backyard.’
Discover with a Guided Jeep Tour
As a few of these offbeat sights are situated up steep hills on dangerous roads they are often difficult to achieve by automotive or scooter so one of the simplest ways to discover this a part of the island is on a jeep tour.
On this extremely rated 4WD Wild Jungle Safari Tour you’ll go to lots of the island’s high sights in simply sooner or later. The tour consists of transport, lunch and stops at 5 of the very best issues to see in Koh Samui:
- Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks,
- Wat Khunaram (the mummified monk temple),
- Na Muang Waterfall,
- Tarnim Magic Backyard (Secret Buddha Backyard)
- And Wat Phra Yai (the Massive Buddha temple)
By touring in a 4X4 military jeep, you’ll attain extra spots than by a minivan, and it’s an extremely enjoyable expertise too!
Admire the island from a viewpoint
For a special perspective of Koh Samui and a few nice photograph alternatives, head to one of many many viewpoints scattered throughout the island.
Essentially the most simply accessible are Lad Koh Viewpoint, on the street between Chaweng and Lamai, and Wat Khao Hua Chuk the place a brief stroll takes you to a pagoda with 360 diploma panoramic views over Chaweng and the airport.
If you happen to’re feeling extra adventurous, take a enjoyable cable automotive trip or hike as much as Lamai Viewpoint for gorgeous views and nice images. Or head to the Jungle Membership or The Roof Samui the place you’ll be able to absorb the inspiring view from the consolation of a beanbag whereas having fun with scrumptious food and drinks.
Temples and Cultural Actions
Koh Samui might have developed with a heavy Western affect over time, however this doesn’t imply it lacks Thai tradition – removed from it! The island is dwelling to some spectacular and distinctive temples which might be effectively value visiting.
As with visiting any temples and sacred locations in Thailand, you’ll have to take away footwear to enter the temple and gown respectably along with your shoulders lined and keep away from carrying swimwear, or tremendous quick or see via shorts, skirts and clothes.
The perfect temples to go to in Koh Samui embrace:
Admire the enduring Massive Buddha at Wat Phra Yai
Essentially the most visited temple in Koh Samui is Wat Phra Yai, which is the house of the golden Massive Buddha statue. Whereas it’s not fairly as giant or spectacular as Phuket’s hilltop Massive Buddha, it’s nonetheless one of many high issues to see in Koh Samui.
It is because Wat Phra Yai is situated on a small rocky island (Koh Fan) that’s hooked up to the mainland by street, making a sacred environment with panoramic ocean views. It’s additionally only a few minute’s drive from this noteworthy temple …
See the Distinctive Statues at Wat Plai Laem
From an enormous Buddha to an 18-armed goddess, Wat Plai Laem is famed for its colossal statue of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.
However this isn’t the one spectacular sight you’ll discover at Wat Plai Laem, there are a lot of others together with an enormous laughing Buddha, which represents prosperity, abundance, and, in fact, happiness, and an attractive temple that appears prefer it’s sitting on a pink lotus flower floating on the lake.
Ensure you go inside to admire the gorgeous murals on the partitions of the temple, and if you wish to immerse your self within the native tradition whilst you’re right here, you’ll be able to feed the fish within the temple’s lake, which Buddhists see as an act of ‘making advantage.’
Each these well-known temples are picturesque, genuine Thai sights and are free to go to however, if you wish to perceive extra about Thai culutre and Buddhism, then it’s value taking a guided tour – a lot of the island excursions will go to these temples.
Go to Wat Ratchathammaram (The Crimson Temple)
Just under Lamai is that this distinctive crimson temple. Wat Ratchathammaram is much less well-known than the earlier two temples, but it surely’s simply as stunning with it’s terracotta coloration, sea views, and complex sculptures. It’s a small however distinctive temple that’s effectively value a fast cease if you end up in your technique to the subsequent sights.
Take a look at the Guan Yu Shrine
Keep it up driving south and also you received’t miss the Guan Yu shrine with it’s large 16 meter excessive statue of Guan Yu, a legendary warrior/ god of conflict in historic China.
This distinctive sight is value a fast cease to see the gorgeous Chinese language shrine inside and to get an perception into Chinese language tradition on Koh Samui. There’s additionally some genuine Chinese language eating places outdoors if you’re feeling peckish.
See the Mummified Monk at Wat Khunaram
If you happen to like distinctive sights, head subsequent to go to the intriguing mummified monk at Wat Khunaram.
Sure, it is a actual mummy! The monk, Luang Pho Daeng, handed away in 1973 whereas in a meditative seated place, and remarkably, his physique has been naturally preserved ever since!
The mummified monk is displayed in a glass case on the temple, carrying his orange robes and sun shades, as a reminder of the transience of human existence – a big instructing in Buddhism. If you happen to’re considering spirituality and Buddhism, it is a excellent place to go to whereas in Samui.
As Wat Khunaram is near Na Muang Waterfall, many individuals mix these two vacationer sights. If you happen to don’t need to drive there your self or are touring solo and want photograph buddies, I like to recommend becoming a member of the Koh Samui Waterfall And Mummified Monk Temple Tour.
On this tour, you’ll have loads of time on the waterfalls and at Khunaram temple and can study many fascinating information and tales about these two websites!
Island Hopping Day Journeys from Koh Samui
A few of the greatest issues to do in Koh Samui prolong past the island itself. Samui’s prime location within the Gulf of Thailand means there are a lot of close by islands to discover, together with a world-famous marine park, and a few nice snorkeling and scuba diving spots with gorgeous coral reefs and numerous marine life.
No Koh Samui journey is full with out a little bit of island hopping, so listed here are my favourite Koh Samui island hopping journeys:
Uncover the Ang Thong Marine Park
Ang Thong Marine Park is an attractive archipelago of 42 islands northwest of Koh Samui. It’s arguably THE smartest thing to do in Koh Samui as a result of it’s an attractive tropical paradise and a very unforgettable expertise!
The marine park is a protected space the place solely two islands are inhabited. On Wua Ta, the principle island, there are some primary lodging choices however due to its proximity to Samui, a day journey to the island is lengthy sufficient.
Upon arriving on the marine park, you’ll be greeted by towering limestone cliffs, lush tropical forests, and welcoming turquoise waters stuffed with aquatic life. One of the vital widespread issues to do in Ang Thong Marine Park is climbing to the Koh Wua Ta Lap viewpoint, which provides breath taking views over the archipelago.
The Emerald Lake is one other must-visit attraction. It’s a hidden saltwater lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs, and there’s a viewpoint you’ll be able to climb as much as see the surreal inexperienced waters.
Most individuals be a part of a gaggle tour to go to the marine park, but it surely’s additionally doable to constitution a personal long-tail boat (however this can be dearer.)
This Angthong Nationwide Marine Park Day Journey is a well-liked group tour as you journey by speedboat, that means you have got extra time on the park. The tour consists of snorkeling, guided kayaking, and a buffet lunch.
Spend a day (or evening) on Koh Phangan
No journey to Samui is full with out a go to the neighboring island of Koh Phangan – it has a completely totally different vibe from Samui – it’s smaller, much less developed, and extra laid-back.
Koh Phangan is most well-known for it’s well-known Full Moon Occasion held each month on Haad Rin Seashore. If you wish to be a part of within the enjoyable you will get packages like this that switch you over from Koh Samui to the well-known occasion.
However there’s many totally different sides to Koh Phangan so it’s additionally effectively value a go to at different occasions of the month as there are gorgeous seashores, epic events on on a regular basis (not simply in the course of the full moon interval) and lots extra issues to do on Koh Phangan to maintain you busy.
If you happen to’re into yoga and spirituality, head to Srithanu, the island’s yoga hub. Take a yoga class or be a part of an ecstatic dance workshop or just head to Zen Seashore which has a really hippie vibe, particularly at sundown when it’s stuffed with free spirits singing, enjoying music and doing acro yoga.
You’ll be able to take a speedboat from Bangrak Pier on Samui, which can get you to Phangan in simply 20 minutes or get the ferry from Na Thon which takes about 1 hour. You’ll be able to guide ferry tickets on 12GoAsia.
If you wish to see the extra unique sights of Phangan, I like to recommend this Koh Phangan Island Full-Day Cruise. You journey by a conventional sailboat (which has a sunbathing deck) and go to many secluded seashores and hidden coves across the island, comparable to Thong Nai Pan – one in every of my favourite seashores in Phangan.
Snorkel or Dive at Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan
Visiting Koh Tao is one other one of the vital widespread issues to do in Thailand and you may take a day journey there from Koh Samui!
Koh Tao is far smaller than Samui and Phangan and has a really chilled island vibe. It’s famend as one of many world’s greatest scuba diving locations as a result of it’s surrounded by vibrant coral reefs teeming with vibrant fish and marine life together with turtles, sting rays, and whale sharks!
You’ll be able to discover the underwater world by snorkelling or strive scuba diving on Koh Tao. The island is among the greatest and most reasonably priced locations on the earth to do a PADI Open Water course and get licensed however word that almost all programs take 3 – 4 days to finish so it’s not a day journey exercise.
If you happen to’re simply visiting on a day journey from Koh Samui you’ll be able to take a ferry, which takes 90 minutes, or a ship tour by speedboat which takes 45 minutes, relying on the ocean situations.
If you wish to snorkel in Koh Tao, it’s value happening an organized boat journey, such because the Koh Tao and Nang Yuan Snorkeling Tour, to take advantage of out of your day. On this full day journey, you go to numerous swimming and snorkeling stops round Koh Tao and the close by Nangyuan island which can also be dwelling to one of the vital iconic viewpoints in Thailand.
Take a Boat Journey to Pig Island (Koh Madsum)
One other glorious snorkeling spot and distinctive island to go to close to Koh Samui is Koh Madsum. It’s also referred to as ‘Pig Island’ as it’s dwelling to wild pigs, lots of which can greet you on the seashore!
If you happen to’re questioning how pigs ended up on the island, the story goes {that a} handful have been recused by an area villager and dropped at the island, the place they’ve bred and tailored to island life.
You’ll be able to discover this distinctive attraction on the Pig Island Snorkeling Tour. On today journey, you’ll go to Koh Madsum (Pig Island) and the neighboring island, Koh Tan. Right here, you’ll have loads of snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing alternatives, and, in fact, a lot of time with the pigs!
Buying and Foodie Experiences
There’s no scarcity of outlets and eateries in Koh Samui. For worldwide manufacturers head to Central Samui shopping center which additionally has an air-conditioned meals court docket. If you happen to favor to search for bargains, genuine Thai meals and avenue eats, head to the energetic strolling streets and evening markets.
Stroll via Bophut Fisherman’s Village
The Fisherman’s Village in Bophut was as soon as a thriving fishing group however has now remodeled right into a energetic vacationer space stuffed with eating places, retailers, and bars.
What’s cool concerning the Fisherman’s Village is that the unique rustic wood shophouses and a conventional fishing boat are nonetheless there, however they’ve been transformed into stylish eateries, mixing conventional with fashionable.
The perfect time to go to is undoubtedly Friday night when the complete Strolling Avenue market is on. You’ll discover numerous Thai and Western meals and lots of distinctive souvenirs and items. It’s a spot you shouldn’t miss when visiting Koh Samui.
Take pleasure in Buying and Nightlife in Chaweng
Chaweng has a number of energetic evening markets and strolling streets which might be open 6 days per week. Chaweng evening market is conveniently situated on the lakeside by Central Samui Mall whereas Chaweng strolling avenue is discovered behind the Avani Resort.
Being in central Chaweng you’ll be able to anticipate a energetic environment at these markets. Browse a formidable variety of meals stalls serving up Thai delights like Pad Thai, papaya salad, mango sticky rice, and coconut ice cream in addition to stalls the place you should purchase low-cost garments, equipment and souvenirs. There may be all the time heaps to see right here, so it’s effectively value a go to if you’re on this a part of the island.
And Chaweng’s nightlife is fairly epic, try energetic seashore golf equipment like Ark Seashore Membership the place you’ll be able to occasion by the water or head to close by Soi Mango the place you’ll discover loads of energetic bars and nightclubs like The Inexperienced Mango and the distinctive Barcade the place you’ll be able to play previous arcade video games to a energetic soundtrack.
Study To Prepare dinner Thai Meals
Cooking courses are a well-liked vacationer exercise throughout Thailand, and there are some incredible ones in Samui so it’s an important place to learn to prepare dinner all of your favourite Thai dishes at dwelling.
This Thai Cooking Class begins with a go to to an area market the place you’ll uncover the unimaginable array of unique Thai herbs, greens, and spices. You’ll then put together and prepare dinner a Thai menu, consisting of three basic dishes like Pad Thai or Inexperienced Curry, earlier than tucking into your creations!
Different Actions in Koh Samui
Go Zip Lining!
That is by far one of the vital thrilling adventures that Koh Samui presents. The 1,200-meter zip line takes you excessive into the tree tops, providing you with a panoramic view of the jungle beneath you, together with the hidden Tan Rua waterfall. This Zip Line Expertise will choose you up out of your lodge, and it features a drink at a mountain-top cafe afterward.
Take an exhilarating Quad Bike Tour
Right here’s one other exercise for the adrenaline seekers! On this ATV Quad Bike Safari Tour, you’ll discover the island by way of a quad bike, navigating via the luxurious jungles and filth roads. You’ll be able to select between a one or 2-hour tour. I like to recommend staying for two hours as you’ll go to secret waterfalls and an epic mountain viewpoint.
Watch a Dwell Muay Thai Combat
Muay Thai boxing, Thailand’s nationwide sport, is famend for its depth and strategic strategies, and also you don’t have to journey to Bangkok to witness the motion.
Samui Worldwide Stadium has reside combat playing cards thrice per week (Tuesday, Friday, & Sunday). Right here you’ll be able to watch each Thai and worldwide skilled Muay Thai fighters in motion, which is an adrenaline-packed and unforgettable expertise.
There’s additionally quite a few Muay Thai courses the place you’ll be able to study the game your self for a enjoyable technique to preserve match on vacation – in the event you favor one thing extra enjoyable there’s yoga courses on the island too.
Chill out with a Thai Therapeutic massage
One other should do in Koh Samui is to loosen up with a therapeutic massage. Getting a therapeutic massage in Thailand is much more reasonably priced than it’s again dwelling so it’s an important likelihood to deal with your self.
A lot of the luxurious resorts have glorious spas, or you could possibly indulge at a luxurious day spa like Tamarind Springs or take pleasure in an affordable therapeutic massage on the seashore or in a funds pleasant therapeutic massage parlour.
In addition to the standard Thai therapeutic massage many spas additionally provide different therapies like foot massages, oil massages, facials, physique wraps and scrubs.
Methods to get to and round Koh Samui
As you’ll be able to see there is no such thing as a scarcity of issues to do in Koh Samui, however how do you get to them?
Nicely, there’s loads of choices. Not like most different Thai islands, Koh Samui has an airport so the best and quickest technique to get there’s to fly, however you too can take a ferry in the event you’re on a funds.
Koh Samui Airport (USM) is gorgeous however flights are restricted to Bangkok Airways and are sometimes dearer than the mainland airports. A less expensive, however longer, technique to attain Samui is to fly to Surat Thani Airport (URT) on the mainland after which take a bus and ferry combo to Koh Samui which takes roughly 4 hours. You’ll be able to guide this simply on 12Go Asia.
As soon as on the island there are a lot of methods to get round. The most affordable possibility is to hop in one of many shared songthaews that run between the favored areas and seashores. If you wish to get off the overwhelmed monitor then take a taxi, you should use on-line apps like Seize or hail a taxi however agree on a worth earlier than setting off.
One of the best ways to discover is to take a day away from the seashore and both hire a scooter, motorcycle or automotive to discover the island at your individual tempo, or be a part of a tour that may take you across the highlights. To discover the neighbouring islands you will get a ferry. take boat journey, or be a part of an island hopping tour.
You will discover each group excursions and personal excursions on Get your Information and Viatorthe place you’ll be able to learn opinions to be sure you have the very best expertise. The highest 3 greatest day excursions in Koh Samui are:
So now what to do in Koh Samui
As you’ll be able to see, there are limitless issues to do on Koh Samui, which is why this island is such a well-liked vacation vacation spot for every kind of vacationers and vacationers.
Whether or not you’re trying to occasion, discover the tropical nature and Thai tradition, or just loosen up on stunning seashores, Koh Samui is a best choice for a tropical island trip.
Every seashore and space of the island is suited to several types of travellers, so in the event you haven’t already booked your lodging, learn my detailed information on the place to remain in Koh Samui, the place I break down every space and share my favourite motels and resorts.
And in the event you can’t determine between Thailand’s two hottest island locations – learn my Phuket vs Koh Samui submit which compares and weighs up the professionals and cons of every island that can assist you select the very best one for you.
And if Koh Samui is only one cease on an prolonged Thailand journey, you should definitely try different blogs and guides. You may discover these helpful for planning your journey: