A step back in time at Bophut

Posted by Full mooner on January 5th, 2012 filed in Wining and dining, bars & beers

Samui’s legendary nightlife and entertainment venues have transformed some areas of Thailand’s party isle beyond all recognition. The only constants are soft sandy beaches and translucent waters. The resort of Bophut has bucked the trend and still retains lots of its original architecture and laid-back island ambience.

The heritage Fisherman’s Village is the focal point of establishments that offer unhurried gourmand’s meals and relaxing drinks. The dining choice is eclectic with the finest Thai seafood dishes as well as Italian, Indian and Mexican offerings available for delectation. Alla Baia’s pizzas and unique creations such as Fifty-Six Fusion’s mango burgers are highly recommended. My Friend is a little out of town, but serves up excellent seafood at prices only leaving a tiny dent in the wallet.

In keeping with the local council’s desire to keep Bophut low-key, there are few rowdy or late-night drinking venues here. Visitors are encouraged to head over to nearby Chaweng for disco and club entertainment. One Bophut bar, the Frog & Gecko, epitomises Bophut’s drinking establishments with a soothing place to sit down and a terrace cooled by gentle breezes. The bar is only really busy on Wednesdays when the weekly pub quiz is held.

The beach at Phoput is rarely crowded and even the ubiquitous Thai jet-skis have been banished to one part of it. Sunbathers and swimmers are rarely disturbed by the whine of a jet-ski engine.