Our journey begins with the impressive Luang Phor Thuada statue, also known as หลวงปู่ทวด. This monumental structure, located in the Bo Put district, catches the eye from afar with its majestic stature. The statue depicts a revered Thai monk whose life is shrouded in legends of miraculous powers. Although tourist evaluations indicate some neglect of the site's upkeep (average rating of 4.4), the place still exudes an unusual atmosphere of spirituality.

Many visitors remark on the magical nature of the place, despite visible signs of neglect. It is worth remembering that admission is free, making this place accessible to all interested parties. Families with children can find interesting interactive elements here, such as the ability to ring bells or write wishes on pieces of paper. This is a great opportunity to introduce the little ones to the world of Thai spirituality and tradition.

Another highlight of our trip is Buddha's Footprint, located in Na Mueang District. This site, although a bit more difficult to access due to the steep staircase leading to the top, offers unforgettable views of the surrounding area. The Buddha Footprint is not only an interesting religious monument, but also a vantage point that offers a beautiful panorama of the island.

Tourist ratings (average 4.0) indicate that the place has its own charm, despite some inconveniences. It is worth noting that entry is free, making it attractive for families traveling on a tight budget. Keep in mind, however, that the climb can be demanding, especially on hot days, so it is advisable to plan your visit during cooler hours and stock up on water.

Comparing the two sites, we can see that Luang Phor Thuada statue offers more on-site activities and is more easily accessible, making it a better choice for families with young children. Buddha's Footprint, on the other hand, despite being more difficult to access, rewards visitors with beautiful views and a calmer atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a moment of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle.

Continuing our spiritual journey around Ko Samui, we arrive at one of the most impressive monuments on the island - the Statue of the goddess Guanyin. This majestic statue, part of the Wat Plai Laem temple complex, represents the goddess of mercy and compassion in Buddhism. With an impressive rating of 4.7, the statue of Guanyin is a true masterpiece of sacred art, combining elements of Thai and Chinese artistic traditions.

Importantly for families planning a visit, admission to the complex is free. However, it is worth remembering to dress appropriately - bathing suits are not allowed, which emphasizes the sacred nature of the place. The Guanyin statue is not only an object of worship, but also a magnificent example of art that is sure to fascinate both adults and children. This is a great opportunity to tell the little ones about the diversity of Asian cultures and religions.

Some tourists point out that renovation work is underway (as of June 2024), which may somewhat limit access to some parts of the complex. Nevertheless, the majestic statue is still very impressive, even viewed from a distance. Also worth noting is the wealth of architectural and artistic detail throughout the temple complex, which is a true feast for the eyes and soul.

Our journey takes us further to a slightly less well-known, but equally intriguing object - the Mermaid Statue. This unusual sculpture, located near the beach, is an interesting contrast to the sacred monuments we have visited so far. With a rating of 4.1, the mermaid statue may not match the popularity of the temples, but it certainly deserves attention.

The Mermaid Statue is an interesting example of local artistry that combines elements of Thai mythology with contemporary art. Although some tourists criticize its style as deviating from classic depictions of mermaids, it is this very uniqueness that makes it worth seeing. The sculpture is part of a larger complex of sculptures that shimmer beautifully in the sunlight, creating a picturesque seaside setting.

For families with children, a visit to the Mermaid Statue can be a great opportunity to talk about local legends and myths. It's also a great place to take souvenir photos, especially at sunset, when the light gives the statues a magical appearance.

Comparing the two sites, it's worth noting that Statue of the goddess Guanyin offers a more traditional, spiritual experience, ideal for those interested in religion and history. The Mermaid Statue, on the other hand, is a lighter, more contemporary attraction that may be particularly appealing to younger tourists. Both sites are free, making them accessible to all visitors, regardless of budget.

Our tour of Ko Samui's monuments has come to an end, but the memories and impressions will certainly stay with us for a long time. Each of the monuments we visited - from the majestic Luang Phor Thuada statue, to the mysterious Buddha footprint, to the impressive statue of the goddess Guanyin, to the intriguing mermaid statue - tells a unique story and represents different aspects of Thailand's rich culture.

It is worth noting that all of these attractions offer free admission, making them accessible to families of all budgets. This is especially valuable in the context of planning a family vacation, where cost often plays an important role.

The Luang Phor Thuada statue, despite some signs of neglect, still impresses with its majesty and spiritual atmosphere. It's a place where children can learn about Thai culture in an interactive way, ringing bells or writing wishes. Buddha's Footprint, on the other hand, while requiring a bit of effort to get to, rewards visitors with beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for contemplation.

Statue of the goddess Guanyin stands out with the highest rating among visitors (4.7) and is a true architectural and artistic gem. It is a place where you can admire the artistry of Thai and Chinese artists, while feeling the atmosphere of spirituality. In contrast, Mermaid Statue offers a more contemporary and lighthearted approach to art, fitting perfectly into Ko Samui's coastal landscape.

When planning a visit to these places, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind:

1. appropriate attire - especially for temples and religious statues, make sure to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
2. Time of day - early morning or late afternoon hours are best due to milder temperatures, especially if you plan to climb to Buddha's Footprint.
3. Water and snacks - especially important if you are visiting places that are higher up or require a longer walk.
4. Camera - all of these places offer great opportunities for souvenir photos.

In summary, Ko Samui's monuments offer a fascinating journey through Thailand's history, culture and spirituality. Each of these sites has its own unique character and atmosphere, so even the youngest tourists will not be bored. From impressive religious statues to intriguing contemporary sculptures, Ko Samui offers a variety that will satisfy any lover of culture and art.

Visiting these places, one not only learns about Thailand's history and traditions, but also learns respect for other cultures and religions. This is an invaluable lesson for children that will stay with them long after the vacation is over. Ko Samui's monuments are not just tourist attractions - they are living testimony to the rich and fascinating culture that has shaped the identity of this beautiful island for centuries.