Ko Samui Travel Guide

I have been living and working on Koh Samui for over seven years now.  What many travelers don't know and find out the hard way is that if you walk into a hotel they charge sometimes two or three times as much compared with if you booked online in advance. There are many options available for booking a room online in advance, but unfortunately not all of them are accurate or reliable.  Some even lose bookings or overbook! For the most detailed and accurate information, the best photos, and the friendliest service I recommend Samui Island Hotels.  They have the widest selection of good hotels and resorts and can help you find the one that is right for you.  They will even arrange your transportation if you ask.  I have also used them to help select tours or trips to nearby islands. And the rates are really good too. 

Ko Samui is largely a party and package tourist island now. If you want something a little calmer, try Ko Phangan, especially some of the northern and western beaches.
There are plenty of things to do on Ko Samui (Snake farm, butterfly farm, elephant riding) and more things coming.
 The beaches are stunning, but getting more and more crowded.
Take great care if you rent a motorbike. I don't recommend it for anyone who has not ridden before. Getting used to driving on Thai roads takes a while and the driving culture is probably not what you are used to. Being on a motorbike, especially if in beachwear, you will come off second-best in any accident.

We rented a car and drove around the island, which took about 4-5 hours, with stops. Motorbikes of course are are cheaper, but it was really nice to have a/c as it gets quite hot and humid.