Koh Samui vs Koh Lanta – One We Hated, One We Loved

Koh Samui vs Koh Lanta – One We Hated, One We Loved
We travelled to Koh Samui and Koh Lanta expecting two tropical paradise islands — but what we experienced could not have been more different. In this honest and unfiltered travel video, we share why Koh Samui completely disappointed us, while Koh Lanta exceeded every expectation.

Koh Samui has changed dramatically over the last decade. What once felt like a relaxed island escape now feels overcrowded, overdeveloped, and overwhelmed by heavy traffic, peak-season tourism, busy roads, and mass-market resorts. Visiting Koh Samui during peak holiday season was stressful, noisy, and far removed from the peaceful island lifestyle many retirees and expats dream of in Thailand.

After leaving Samui, we travelled south to Koh Lanta, and the difference was instant. Koh Lanta felt authentic, relaxed, and truly island-like, with quiet beaches, friendly locals, minimal traffic, and a slower pace of life. It reminded us why so many people fall in love with Thailand in the first place. For anyone considering retiring in Thailand, living in Thailand long-term, or escaping mass tourism, Koh Lanta offers a completely different experience.

In this video, we honestly compare:

Koh Samui vs Koh Lanta

Tourist crowds vs peaceful island living

Traffic, development, and noise

Cost of travel and overall vibe

Which island suits retirees, expats, and slow travelers

Why peak season can ruin certain destinations

If you are planning a Thailand island holiday, thinking about moving to Thailand, or researching the best Thai islands for retirement or expat life, this real-world comparison could save you time, money, and disappointment.

This is not a sponsored video — just our honest experience of two famous Thai islands and why one felt completely wrong for us, while the other felt like home.
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