Koh Samet is an island and a National Park situated in the Gulf of Thailand.
Sai Kiew Beach is the lively part of this peaceful island, and where dinner and the fire show are a top attraction.
Tables, beanbags and blankets dot the sand, neon lanterns add to the holiday atmosphere and smiling waitrons weave through the crowds with trays of Mai Tai cocktails, and Thai dishes, their scents wafting on the sea air.
Toes in the sand, warm air on the skin, arms stretch and reach as the table is piled high with a variety of local fair.
Then the music starts, pulsing, slow, with a base that reverberates through your bones.
Standing in the water on wooden platforms are three shirtless guys slowly swinging fire sticks around their heads.
The music picks up pace and they match the beat. Its mesmerizing.
The music reaches a crescendo, the fire sticks are spinning at high speed.
Slapping onto the platform they create perfect circles of fire that send sparks flying into the night sky like a million fireflies racing to the stars.
The atmosphere is electric, high energy, riveting.
And then slowly, the fires go out, the music slows and the chatter , eating and clinking of Mai Tais resumes.
The rest of the island has a variety of resorts and accommodation at all price points, offering chilled times, watersports, island hopping, markets, sunsets and island life.
The vibe on Koh Samet is laid back, peaceful and family friendly.
The Paradee Resort is like living on your own private island village.
An early morning swim in the warm waters to watch the sunrise. A two hour cooking class with the resident chef or a lazy day on the beach, briefly interrupted by a soothing spa treatment.
A perfect day on a boat island hopping, visiting a turtle rescue centre, and stopping to snorkel to see the equally beautiful world underwater.
Barefoot luxury at its best.
