The Local
Name: Narit Panthumetha (DJ Den)
Age: 52
Country: Thailand
Job/Profession: Radio DJ at Love Radio 104.5 FM (Weekend Show, Sat & Sun from 1-5 p.m.)
My favorite place: Pakarang Bay, Samed Island, Rayong
Bring there: Just you and you
Must-do: Dinner at the restaurant by the bay
Must-see: Sunset from the top of the hill
Must-buy: Nothing really
Eat at: Restaurant by the bay at Nimmanoradee Resort. The food is tasty and very delicious. I didn’t expect much at first since this is an island not on the mainland but every dish tastes so good to my surprise, and the price is very reasonable, not expensive.
Drink at: Restaurant by the bay at Nimmanoradee Resort. I really enjoyed sitting, drinking, and eating here while watching the beautiful Pakarang Bay view.
Sleep at: Nimmanoradee Resort — very private atmosphere since it is located at the very end of Koh Samed. One can really relax and enjoy the beauty of nature here; I will come back here again for sure.
The Expat
Name: Markland Blaiklock
Age: Doesn’t matter
Country: Canada
Job/Profession: Veteran Hotelier
My favorite place: Samui
Bring there: My family. They really love it here; they will surely miss this place when we move to Hong Kong
Must-do: Watersports on the beach
Must-see: Ang Thong National Marine Park, an amazing wonder of nature in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand
Must-buy: Thai traditional Kalamae candy and many other local products in Koh Samui. I really love this traditional handmade Thai Kalamae candy.
Eat at: The Coast Restaurant, one of Samui’s most sophisticated dining experiences, showcases grills and seafood. I love it. I totally enjoy the beachside ambience during dinner when it becomes more alluring and made more enjoyable by a sizzling collection of cocktails.
Drink at: Any of the many bars in bustling Chaweng, although honestly, I don’t go out that much anymore as I would rather spend my time with my family.
Sleep at: My personal choice is Centara Grand Beach Resort Samui. It is really an amazing place to stay, especially for families.
The Tourist
Name: Maribel Haya
Age: Doesn’t Matter
Country: Philippines
Job/Profession: Businesswoman
My favorite place: Bangkok – it is a city that can confuse you but it’s always exciting. I love the mixture of old and new in many things. It’s great for sightseeing, entertainment, culture, dining and wining, shopping — plus I have lots of friends here to help me explore and enjoy the city more.
Bring there: Lots of dough – as I love shopping.
Must-see: For a taste of the real Bangkok, one must see the nocturnal districts – such as Silom and Khaosan. I also recommend exploring the little canals and river alleys outside the main Chao Phraya River. Eat at: “Under the radar” restaurants, especially for Thai food, in the less-touristic parts of the city. There’s so much variety here.
Drink at: Red Sky at CentralWorld – the view is simply amazing, or The Rooftop of Siam@Siam – for another great view of the Bangkok skyline at night.
Sleep at: I would stay at any of the 5-star haunts if I were alone. However, if I am coming with my family or friends, I’d go for some of the budget hotels. You’d be surprised how good and of great value they are.
