Living like a king on a shoestring budget? That's exactly what you can do on Koh Madsum, an island most have never even heard of. But where exactly is this hidden gem located in Thailand?

As backpackers, we rarely get to stay in luxurious accommodations like others. We embrace the adventurous lifestyle, sleeping, eating, and traveling wherever we can. However, this time, a generous benefactor gifted us a voucher for a free stay at this romantic resort, a place typically reserved for couples. Despite being alone again, I couldn't resist the allure of the unknown. With the voucher in hand, I packed my bags and set off on a spontaneous adventure, eager to experience the resort firsthand.

However, how do I get there? There is almost no travel information available. Most people drive their own cars. This time, it was an epic journey of many transfers, but it was also a lot of fun to travel. But when I arrived at my destination, it was really worth the trip.

Join us on a journey to a uniquely named island, where tranquility awaits on this secluded paradise. Let's escape to this peaceful haven and rejuvenate our minds and bodies.

Note: "Lady Journey" is a Facebook page.

Don't forget to check out the full set of photos on our page and join the discussion about solo travel experiences. You can find us on Facebook at "Lady Journey." We'll be happy to help you plan your next solo adventure!

The Journey to Koh Samui: A Backpacker's Tale

The journey to Koh Samui began with a lack of information and a reliance on the familiar: free train travel. This time, however, the destination was not Chumphon, but Surat Thani. The train departed Bangkok at 13:00 and arrived in Surat Thani around 03:00 or 04:00. While waiting at the station, the backpacker inquired about reaching Koh Samui, having never taken the train there before. A kind woman advised waiting at the station, as someone would arrive around 05:00 to take them to a van that would cross the sea.

We hopped on a pickup truck converted into a shared taxi with another foreigner. Communication was limited, but that's the charm of travel - daring to try. Most backpackers we met weren't Thai, so it was good language practice. We also met a solo female traveler named Guly from Switzerland. Her English was hard to understand, and our fellow passengers, a couple who also took the shared taxi from the train station, had huge backpacks. They hadn't booked their ferry tickets yet, just like us. Guly seemed excited by everything she saw in Thailand. She's been here for a month and loves it because it's beautiful. We chatted on and off, sometimes understanding each other, sometimes not. She wanted to check in using Thai and asked us to read it for her. We told her that Thai people love him very much. After a long English lesson, she finally managed to say "Bhumibol Adulyadej." We said goodbye as her ferry to Koh Lanta arrived. We had been waiting since 7 am, so we went to grab some food before our next ride.

While waiting for the car, I played with the cat like a cat lover, talked to the ticket seller. Oh, I forgot to tell you, the fare for the two-way car is 150 baht, the fare for the van and boat is 550 baht, and the breakfast cost 70 baht. I stayed for free, but I was willing to pay a little bit because I saw that the accommodation was really worth the little bit I paid. Ah… let's continue with the cat.

#Every cat has a story
The owner said that 7 years ago, someone put it in a box and left it at the shop next door, named Richy, so they named it Richy. Richy was pregnant and her kittens died in her womb, so she had to be taken to the vet. She has been raised ever since. Two years ago, she was hit by a car and broke her hip. It cost 6,000 baht. What can I do? I've already raised her. But after that, she won the lottery. #Tricolor cat brings good luck I can't go far. I'm worried. I have to hurry back. When I come back, she cries out loud. The children around here used to be naughty and cut off Richy's whiskers. #Oh, what karma, my child. Now she's fat after being neutered. Her body is soft and her fur is very beautiful.

It's time to board the ship.

07:30 AM: The van departs. 08:30 AM: Arrival at the pier. 09:00 AM: The Sea Tran ferry departs from the ferry pier.

Upon arriving in Koh Samui, the journey to Koh Matsum continued. The only way to reach the pier was by hiring a car, according to both resort staff and locals. Time was of the essence, as the resort's boat was the only option for transportation, with limited departures at 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 4:30 PM. The return trips were also restricted to 8:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 5:30 PM. A songthaew, a shared taxi, was the first option, but it only reached the entrance of the road, leaving several kilometers to cover. With no other choice, hitchhiking became the solution.

No one stopped, and some who did said they couldn't reach the destination. I decided to walk, fearing I wouldn't make the 12 pm boat. As I walked, I encountered 2-3 fierce-looking car mechanics. It was a risk to ask them for a ride, fearing they might drag me into the forest. But I was desperate, so I asked them to take me, offering to pay for the ride. Surprisingly, they agreed to take me. The entrance was kilometers away. On the way, they told me their wives used to work there, so they knew the way in. Most employees take a boat across the island to stay on the other side. When we reached the pier, they refused to take my money. I insisted and gave them 100 baht. It was really far and hot, and I couldn't find another ride. I'm glad they accepted my money. Now, how will I get back? When I arrived, the pier was huge. Wow, the pier was incredibly beautiful, so I took some pictures while waiting. There were a few Thai tourists with their families, including grandmothers and aunts, who would be traveling with me. Resort staff were waiting to greet us and carry our bags.

Along the way, we admired the birds, trees, and the sea. In the distance, we could see what seemed to be "Koh Tan," an island we had read about. It is an island where dogs are not allowed and will die if brought there. Everyone we asked on the island couldn't explain the reason. Whether it's science or superstition, no one knows. The symptoms of the dogs are that once they are let loose on the island, they run around frantically as if in pain and eventually die. Some tourists didn't believe it and tried it themselves, but their dogs all died. So, no one wants to try it again out of pity for the dogs. Strangely enough, this only happens to dogs and not other animals. Koh Tan is also a tourist destination.

Just 30 minutes from Koh Samui, it's a short trip and the wind is blowing strong.

The sea is beautiful, the water is clear, and it is very quiet and peaceful. However, the trees outside are a bit dry.

The accommodation we will be staying at was previously part of the U Hotel chain, which is known for its beautiful decor. However, it seems that there has been a change in ownership since our last visit, and it is now called The Treasure Koh Madsum. The service remains largely the same, and the staff are friendly and attentive. They are always visible but do not intrude on our privacy, allowing us to relax without feeling observed.

Finally.

The welcome drink was roselle juice mixed with basil seeds, served in two glasses. Everything was ordered in pairs, but then the server realized I was alone. "Are you here alone?" she asked. "Oh, I was going to bring someone," I replied. "This place is really perfect for a date night."

Let's skip the formalities and head straight to the room. I'm exhausted and need a shower.

Our room is a Sala Villa. While other rooms have swimming pools, either in front of the room or in the garden, our room has a spacious area with a garden-like atmosphere. There are many trees and the room is decorated with high-quality wood and materials. It also has a reading corner. Since other reviews have already covered many rooms, we will only review the room we stayed in.

The corridors leading to the rooms are all the same, making it easy to get lost.

This price was copied from The Treasure Koh Madsum's page. I'm not sure if there have been any changes, so please check with them directly.

Honestly, I've never given a special review for any place. Usually, I travel as I please, but this is special because we got to stay for free, so I have to recommend it. Let's go into the room.

A single person, but there are about 20 pillows inside and outside, enough for rolling around.

The wardrobe and the refrigerator are both empty, but I came alone. The atmosphere is incredibly honeymoon-like, with the scent of fragrant herbs wafting through the bathroom.

The welcome message in English with our name will be inserted into the glass bottle.

We brought our own laptops, not the ones provided here. The Wi-Fi is strong, so we took the opportunity to write other reviews.

The scene cuts to midnight, and the mood shifts.

The bathroom is very fragrant. I inhaled too much and now I feel dizzy.

You can shower outside on the wooden floor, but it will be hot.

After taking a shower and resting for a while, we went to explore the island. On a whim, we decided to walk to the back of the island first, where we encountered our biggest fear:

Coral!!!!

The sea and the black coral are everywhere. I want to cry. We often go to the sea, but we are afraid of coral.

The island was not a scenic spot, but rather a pile of dead coral. We only learned later from the locals on our way back that it was actually called "Pearl Island" and was used for pearl cultivation. It was usually deserted, except for a single resort that had recently started attracting tourists. However, only one person could stay at the resort at a time. Some visitors would come to dive and then return to the mainland.

The waves were terrifyingly strong, the coral was pitch black, and the sea was an ominous dark color. Dawn arrived quickly, much too soon. I forced myself to take photos, trying to find beauty in the scene. But who sent me here? Who would willingly visit such a desolate and isolated place?

A Breathtaking Escape: Tranquility and Adventure Await

Leaving behind the breathtaking beauty of the previous scene, we find ourselves drawn to the allure of a sparkling oasis. This secluded haven, nestled amidst the lush greenery, serves as our playground for the evening and the following day.

While our villa, the expansive Sala Villa, boasts impressive dimensions, it lacks the refreshing embrace of a swimming pool. Fortunately, a short stroll brings us to a private sanctuary, a pool reserved exclusively for our enjoyment. The absence of crowds, amplified by the tranquility of a weekday, creates an atmosphere of unparalleled serenity. The only company we encounter are fellow travelers from distant lands, and a Thai family who shared our earlier boat journey.

In this idyllic setting, devoid of the whirring of bicycles or the roar of motorbikes, our options for exploration are limited to leisurely walks and refreshing dips in the pool. However, the resort offers a plethora of complimentary activities to enhance our experience. From the rejuvenating touch of a spa treatment (advance notice required due to the therapist's travel from Koh Samui) to the invigorating thrill of kayaking and snorkeling, there's something for everyone.

The abundance of coral reefs, teeming with vibrant marine life, initially sparked a sense of trepidation, keeping us at a safe distance from their underwater wonders. However, we found solace in the gentle embrace of the shallows, where the cool caress of the ocean waves provided ample refreshment.

As the sun begins its descent, casting long shadows across the landscape, we find ourselves captivated by the mesmerizing spectacle of a fiery sunset. The sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting the clouds with streaks of orange, red, and purple. This breathtaking display serves as a poignant reminder of the ephemeral nature of beauty, a fleeting moment etched forever in our memories.

With the arrival of darkness, the resort transforms into a haven of tranquility. The gentle hum of crickets and the soft whisper of the wind create a soothing symphony, lulling us into a state of profound relaxation. As we drift off to sleep, the memories of the day's adventures dance in our minds, promising a night filled with peaceful slumber.

We must come and eat here, come and play in the water here. There are both children's and adult pools.

Walking on this side but returning to the front of the front is a different story. It's beautiful, quiet, peaceful, and perfect for relaxation. The fine white sand is a different story, a complete change of mood. You can lie down and listen to the music comfortably. The staff plays great music.

And then we sat down to watch the sunset on this side.

I don't want to seem stingy, but I can't afford to pay for everything. It's free to stay here, so I ordered one meal for 400 baht, which included a smoothie and a salad. I almost cried because it was so sour, but it felt like I was living like a king. As a backpacker, this is my usual concept. Normally, 400 baht would cover a round trip to a nearby province. After eating, I went swimming at midnight. The pool closes at 11:00 PM, but I played alone since no one else was there.

Upon waking up, I eagerly awaited breakfast. The menu offered an extensive selection, with unlimited orders and the option to request additional servings if needed. Typically, breakfast is served buffet-style; however, due to the low number of guests today, we were given the option to order instead. Previously, during the resort's management by U, breakfast could be enjoyed at any location within the resort, with the staff bringing the food to us. While waiting for our meal, I took some photos to capture the moment.

Hungry… only got tea.

I wanted to eat more, but they brought a whole set of bread. I haven't even ordered much yet.

After a satisfying meal, we took a leisurely stroll to aid digestion. It seemed like the spa was open today, and the thought of a massage was tempting. We wished we could stay longer, as we were thoroughly enjoying ourselves. However, the room rates were quite high, comparable to the cost of a trip to a neighboring country. We couldn't justify the expense, so we reluctantly admired the spa from afar.

Going out to play in the water, will be back in the afternoon.

This hotel allows guests to check in and out at any time. For example, if you check in at noon, you can check out at 1 pm. The staff is friendly and helpful, and they will even offer to help you with your luggage. They are also very attentive and will check on you throughout your stay to make sure you are comfortable. They are especially attentive to solo travelers, as they may be concerned about loneliness. The staff will also offer to help you with your luggage when you check in and out. They do not expect tips, and they will leave you alone after providing service. This hotel prioritizes guest privacy. When you check out, the cost of your food order will be added to your bill.

The return trip is difficult. There is a boat to take you back, but how do you get to the next vehicle?

Upon arrival, there were no available vehicles departing for the pier. Fortunately, a staff member inquired about our destination and offered to transport us to the entrance in a pickup truck used for resort deliveries. We were given a free ride in the front seat and dropped off at a crossroads. We were informed that taxis would pass by, but several individuals confirmed that they were infrequent. We had previously noticed a taxi number displayed on a roadside sign but neglected to note it down. As a result, we were unable to call for a taxi. Everyone we encountered was kind and provided directions and assistance in monitoring for vehicles, as there was a possibility of buses arriving. However, no buses appeared. Finally, a taxi passed by, charging 200 baht. With no other transportation options available, we were forced to accept the fare. Taxis on Koh Samui are quite expensive. We decided that renting a motorbike would be a better option for future visits, as they are widely available.

Sigh... Finally boarded the boat back. The fare, if I remember correctly, was only a little over a hundred baht. The boat was packed with locals, a stark contrast to the tourists who filled it on the way here.

The epic journey involved a ferry, a bus, and a 150 baht ride on a small shared taxi. Luckily, I met a friendly girl from the south on the ferry who helped me watch my bags while I bought water. We met again at the bus station at 7pm and decided to share a taxi. The driver was a great conversationalist and we talked about her architecture studies at Rangsit University and her love for traveling, especially in the north. We were so engrossed in conversation that we didn't realize we had arrived at the train station. This trip has been full of encounters with friendly locals who have made me feel like I have made many new friends. Even though I'm staying in luxurious accommodations, which is a bit of a departure from my usual backpacking style, the journey itself has brought me the same sense of camaraderie and connection. While people from the south may appear stern, many of them are incredibly kind. I can't wait to return to Koh Samui and explore it properly with my new friends.

Okay... Regarding the photos, we took them all ourselves. We set up the camera the same way we always do for self-portraits. All the photos were taken with a Samsung phone camera and edited using VSCOCAM.