World’s Best Island

Day 648-649: July 10-11, 2026 – Koh Samui Island, Thailand

Travel & Leisure magazine recently released their list of World’s Best Islands for 2026, and Koh Samui, the island we are on, is at the head of the list. Much of its attraction is best seen behind the gates of high-end resorts scattered throughout the island. Michelle and I had signed up to do a jeep tour of the island which started earlier than our tenders were available (which take us from Odyssey to shore), so we decided to spend the previous night on shore so we could get an early start. Amazingly, I found a 5-star resort that accepted my Marriott Reward points and we spent a day luxuriating there.

Where the pool meets the ocean
Pina coladas at sunset

On the beach was an opportunity to try a flyboard, which uses jet propulsion technology for a hydroflying experience. I was too chicken to try it (too much dunking into the water), but Michelle gave it a shot and was a quick learner.

More photos from our jeep tour coming up in the next post.

8 responses to “World’s Best Island”
  1. Ah, the lives of the “rich” and famous! The beauty you encounter and share never ceases. What a beautiful world you share!

    1. Thanks Mary, happy to know you are still among my blog readers.

  2. Beverly Kerber c/o Villa Vie Residence Avatar
    Beverly Kerber c/o Villa Vie Residence

    Yes!

  3. Joel Greiff Avatar
    Joel Greiff

    I have been to Koh Samui in the 90’s. Loved it. Glad you got to experience that

    Is this island also at the top of your world’s best places? Knowing you have been to Hundreds of exotic destinations, I value your opinion more than a travel writer for magazine.

    Flyboarding looks fun.

    1. I would not consider this to be the #1 island. It was nice enough, but not spectacular. Definitely ranks lower for me than for example Maldives or Seychelles or Bonaire. I think part of its appeal is that many of the services (spas, massages) are geared around tourists and are plentiful around the island.

  4. Joel Greiff Avatar
    Joel Greiff

    I have been to Koh Samui in the 90’s. Loved it.

    Is this island also at the top of your world’s best places? Knowing you have been to Hundreds of exotic destinations, I value your opinion more than a travel writer for magazine.

    Flyboarding looks fun.

  5. Kate Hickman Avatar
    Kate Hickman

    Changes in attitudes
    Changes in latitudes…
    One beautiful island,
    So much MORE to see!

    Basia is living the “Life of Riley!”
    All the best! Kate Hickman

    1. Thanks Kate!

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