Cross-border travel within Europe bounced back hard after the pandemic. Tourist numbers in the major cities sit above their pre-2020 highs. London still tops the visitor charts. Paris and Istanbul follow close behind. A shared currency across most of the European Union and a tight rail network make hopping between any two cities easier than ever. The fifteen below pull in the bulk of the continent’s international arrivals.

London, United Kingdom

London leads the continent, pulling in roughly 20.7 million international visitors a year. The United Kingdom sits across the English Channel from the mainland and is no longer part of the EU after the 2016 Brexit vote, but the Eurostar trains keep running between London and Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam in a few hours flat. The city itself runs on contrast. Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and the Thames bridges anchor the postcard view, while the West End theaters, the British Museum, and free entry at the National Gallery and Tate Modern do the cultural heavy lifting.

A few practical things to know: Heathrow remains one of the busiest and most strictly screened airports on the continent, and the Tube can get you almost anywhere for less than the price of a cab. Skip the chains and stick to the pubs, curry houses on Brick Lane, and the food halls at Borough Market. London is expensive, but the museums are free and the parks are vast.

Paris, France

Paris draws around 16.8 million international visitors a year, and the post-2024 Olympics infrastructure upgrades have lasted. The Seine is cleaner than it was a decade ago, the riverside expressways have been turned into pedestrian promenades, and most of the city’s headline museums are open again after their pre-Games renovations. The Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the freshly reopened Notre-Dame all sit within walking distance of each other, and the Eiffel Tower still does what it has always done.

Paris is not cheap, but it is not all gold-trimmed either. Plenty of decent hostels cluster around the Gare du Nord. The boulangerie on the corner makes a better baguette than any restaurant. A long walk along the Seine costs nothing, and the views from Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre are free at sunset. The French capital rewards travelers who slow down rather than tick boxes.

Istanbul, Türkiye

Istanbul takes the bronze with about 12.1 million visitors a year, and it is the only major city on the planet that straddles two continents. The Bosphorus splits the European and Asian sides, and a quick ferry ride across counts as crossing continents. It is the largest city in Türkiye, though Ankara holds the capital title. For travelers coming out of Western Europe, prices feel pleasantly low, and the food alone is reason enough to visit.

Once known as Constantinople, the city was for centuries one of the most powerful cities in the world. The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapı Palace all sit within a short walk of each other in Sultanahmet. The Grand Bazaar covers 60-plus alleys and 4,000 shops, and the Spice Bazaar is the better one for actually eating things. The Bosphorus dinner cruise is a tourist staple worth doing once.

Antalya, Türkiye

Antalya sees roughly 10.7 million visitors a year, most of them headed for the beaches along the Turquoise Coast. The Mediterranean climate is long and dry, the resorts are stacked one after another along the coast, and the dental-tourism scene has turned this city into an unlikely medical hub for European patients. Hadrian’s Gate, a Roman triumphal arch in white marble at the old-town entrance, has carried carved reliefs honoring the Roman emperor Hadrian since 130 AD, the year of his visit to the city then known as Attaleia.

The beaches along the Mediterranean are the main pull. Lara Beach is the family-friendly long sandy stretch east of town. Konyaaltı is closer to the center with cliffs at one end. Damlataş Beach in Alanya, a couple of hours east, has a 15,000-year-old cave full of stalactites right next to the sand. Drinks and food run about a quarter of London prices, which is a major part of the appeal.

Rome, Italy

Rome pulls in around 9.7 million visitors a year, and 2025 was a Jubilee Year, which means the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica was open and millions of pilgrims came through. The Colosseum, Pantheon, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain do not need much introduction. The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel sit inside the independent state of Vatican City, walkable from central Rome with no border check.

Food is the other main reason to come. Roman cuisine is built on five or six core pasta dishes (carbonara, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, gricia, pasta alla checca), and the best versions are not the ones with English menus out front. Stick to the Testaccio and Trastevere neighborhoods for the better trattorias. Gelato at Giolitti is the tourist favorite, but the smaller artigianale spots out toward Monti or San Lorenzo are usually better.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech capital welcomes around 9 million travelers a year, and the cheap-beer reputation is well earned. Pilsner-style lagers run about half what they cost in Berlin, and the medieval Old Town is small enough to walk in an afternoon. The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square still does its hourly puppet show. The Charles Bridge is best crossed before 9 in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Prague is one of the more architecturally layered cities in Central Europe, with Gothic, Baroque, Art Nouveau, and Cubist buildings standing on the same block. The “City of a Hundred Spires” looks especially good viewed across the Vltava on a tram ride. The Jewish Quarter, Prague Castle, and the Strahov Monastery library are the next layer beyond the Old Town set pieces.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam draws about 8.5 million visitors a year, and the city has been actively trying to dial back the rowdier end of that traffic. The “stay away” advertising campaign aimed at British stag parties launched in 2023, several of the coffeeshops in the red-light district have closed, and cruise ships are being phased out of the central harbor by 2026. None of which makes the city less worth visiting; the museums, canals, and bike culture are still all here.

The Anne Frank House requires advance booking and sells out weeks ahead. The Rijksmuseum holds Rembrandt’s Night Watch, while the Van Gogh Museum next door is its own day. Rent a bike and use it the way locals do. Amsterdam-Schiphol is one of the better-connected airports in Europe and a common Atlantic-crossing layover.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona logs roughly 6.7 million international arrivals a year. The relationship between the city and its tourists is openly tense; the 2024 “tourists go home” protests with water guns made global news, and the city government has pledged to phase out all short-term tourist apartment rentals by 2028. Visiting is still completely fine. Just rent through hotels rather than apartments, and lean into the parts of the city locals actually use.

The Sagrada Família reached its architectural completion on February 20, 2026, when the upper arm of the cross was installed atop the 172.5-metre Tower of Jesus Christ; the basilica is now the world’s tallest church, surpassing Ulm Minster in Germany. Interior work and the Glory Façade are still expected to continue through the late 2020s and beyond. Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà fill the rest of the Gaudí circuit. The Gothic Quarter and El Born are the older medieval core. The Camp Nou stadium is in the middle of a multi-year rebuild, but FC Barcelona is playing matches at the Olympic Stadium on Montjuïc in the meantime.

Milan, Italy

Milan pulls in about 6.5 million visitors a year. The city co-hosted the 2026 Winter Olympics with Cortina d’Ampezzo in February. The Olympic preparations meant new rail links to the Alps and an aggressive push on pedestrian zones, both of which have outlasted the Games themselves. Half a millennium after the Italian Wars, Milan has settled into its role as the country’s fashion and finance capital, with a skyline that mixes Renaissance churches and skyscrapers in roughly equal measure.

The Duomo, with its 135 spires, is the headline architecture. Da Vinci’s Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie requires booking three months in advance. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, opened in 1877, is one of the world’s oldest active shopping arcades and the place to be photographed pretending you can afford the boutiques. For dinner, Milanese cuisine leans on osso buco, risotto alla milanese, and cotoletta.

Vienna, Austria

The Austrian capital sees roughly 6.3 million visitors a year. Vienna has topped the Economist Intelligence Unit’s most livable city rankings for several of the past years running, and the orderliness shows. The streets are clean, the public transport runs on time, and the coffeehouses still serve melange in china cups with a small glass of water on the side. Habsburg-era buildings line nearly every block in the central First District.

The Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Palace are the imperial pair. The Belvedere holds Klimt’s The Kiss. The Vienna State Opera runs nearly every night and sells standing-room tickets for a few euros. Mozart wrote much of his major work here, and Freud kept his consulting room a short tram ride away on Berggasse 19, now a museum.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin draws about 5.8 million visitors a year, and the clubbing reputation is real. Berghain remains the temple of techno, Sisyphos and About Blank pull crowds every weekend, and even the smaller bars stay open well past sunrise. The city is also where 20th-century European history compresses into a single walkable map: the Berlin Wall remnants at the East Side Gallery, Checkpoint Charlie, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, and the Reichstag all sit within a few stops of each other.

Museum Island holds five major museums on a single small island in the Spree, including the Pergamon (under partial reconstruction through 2027) and the Neues Museum. The food scene has shifted in a major way over the past decade, with Vietnamese, Turkish, and Levantine cooking now anchoring the city as firmly as currywurst. Berlin is still one of the cheaper major European capitals, though prices have climbed steadily since 2020.

Madrid, Spain

The Spanish capital pulls in around 5.5 million international visitors a year, and the city has been the surprise European story of the past few years. While Barcelona pushes back against tourism, Madrid has been actively courting it, with a wave of new hotel openings and a rising profile as a financial alternative to London since Brexit. The Baroque Palacio Real, the former home of the Spanish royal family, anchors the western edge of the historic core. The Puerta del Sol, the symbolic center of the country, sits a few blocks east.

The Golden Triangle of museums (Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza) sits within a 10-minute walk. The Prado holds Velázquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s late “black paintings.” Reina Sofía holds Picasso’s Guernica. Retiro Park covers 350 acres in the middle of the city. Eat late, drink late, and embrace the siesta.

Venice, Italy

Venice sees about 5.4 million visitors a year. As of April 2024, day-trippers now pay a five-euro access fee to enter the historic center on busier days, an attempt to manage the crushing weight of tourism on a city that is literally sinking under it. The city was traditionally founded in the 5th century as a refuge from Barbarian invasions and rose by the 12th century into one of Europe’s great maritime powers.

The Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace are the headline trio. The Rialto Bridge is the famous crossing, but the Accademia and Scalzi bridges are quieter. Take a Vaporetto (the public ferry) instead of a private gondola if you want to actually get somewhere; gondolas are for the photo, ferries are for transport. Visit in winter for half the crowds and the eerie fog through the canals.

Moscow, Russia

The Russian capital held around 5.4 million international visitors a year before 2022, though the picture has shifted dramatically since the invasion of Ukraine. Western airlines have suspended flights, the visa process for most Europeans and Americans has become considerably more difficult, and Western credit cards no longer work inside the country. International visitor numbers have dropped substantially, and most current tourism comes from China, the Middle East, and other non-Western markets.

For the cultural record: St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its candy-cane spires, anchors the southern end of Red Square. The Kremlin walls run along the western side, with the Lenin Mausoleum at the base. The Tsar Cannon, the Tsar Bell, and the Kremlin Armory all sit inside the Kremlin grounds. Napoleon and Stalin both wanted St. Basil’s destroyed; it survives anyway. The Bolshoi Theatre, opened in 1825, still runs the Bolshoi Ballet at its six-tier auditorium.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin rounds out the list with around 5.2 million visitors a year. Ryanair, headquartered just outside the city, runs cheap flights to nearly every airport in Europe, and Dublin is a common stopover on transatlantic crossings between North America and the continent. The city is small enough to walk in a couple of days, with Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and Temple Bar all within a short stretch of each other.

Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed urban park in Europe, runs twice the size of New York’s Central Park and is home to a wild herd of fallow deer. The Guinness Storehouse at St. James’s Gate is the most-visited tourist attraction in the country, with a pint included on the rooftop Gravity Bar. Get off the headline streets for the better pubs (Grogan’s, The Long Hall, Mulligan’s), and head out to the Wicklow Mountains, Howth, or Glendalough for day trips into the rest of the island.

Las Coloradas in Mexico has become an Instagram favourite for good reason.

Nature has a way of surprising us, but few sights are as magical as a pink lake. From bubblegum shades to soft rose hues, these extraordinary bodies of water have fascinated travellers, photographers and scientists alike. Their unusual colour is usually caused by salt-loving algae, bacteria, minerals or high salinity levels that interact with sunlight and temperature.

Here are 8 pink lakes around the world that deserve a spot on every traveller’s bucket list.

Sambhar Lake

India’s largest inland salt lake, Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan, occasionally turns pink due to the presence of algae and high salinity levels. The lake becomes especially scenic during certain seasons when the sunlight reflects off the salt flats, creating dreamy pink shades. It is also a major hotspot for migratory birds like flamingos, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Lake Hillier

Perhaps the most famous pink lake in the world, Lake Hillier, sits on Middle Island off the coast of Western Australia. What makes it truly fascinating is its vivid bubblegum-pink colour, which remains striking even when viewed from above. Scientists believe the colour comes from microorganisms and algae that thrive in the lake’s extremely salty conditions.

Lake Retba

Located near Dakar in Senegal, Lake Retba, also known as Lac Rose, became globally famous for its dramatic pink hue. During the dry season, the lake turns a deep rosy shade because of Dunaliella salina algae, which produce a reddish pigment in highly saline water.

Hutt Lagoon

Another Australian wonder, Hutt Lagoon changes colours throughout the year, ranging from pink and lilac to bright red depending on sunlight and weather conditions.

Stretching alongside the Indian Ocean coast near Port Gregory, this lake owes its vibrant tones to algae that produce carotenoid pigments. The aerial view is especially spectacular, with pink water meeting turquoise sea.

Las Coloradas

Las Coloradas in Mexico has become an Instagram favourite for good reason. These shallow salt ponds display brilliant shades of pink thanks to microorganisms, plankton and red algae living in salty water. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the area is also home to flamingos, which only add to the dreamlike scenery.

Masazir Lake

Just outside Baku lies Masazir Lake, a saline lake known for its pinkish-purple hues and salt production. The lake’s colour changes with seasons and mineral concentration, creating an almost alien-like landscape.

The surrounding salt flats and reflective surfaces make the destination particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset. It is one of Azerbaijan’s lesser-known natural marvels that is slowly gaining attention among travellers.

Dusty Rose Lake

Tucked away in the remote wilderness of British Columbia, Dusty Rose Lake is one of Canada’s most unusual sights. Unlike many other pink lakes caused by algae, scientists are still debating what exactly creates its distinctive rosy appearance.

Accessible mainly through trekking or helicopter rides, the lake remains relatively untouched and mysterious. Its muted pink shade against rugged mountain terrain creates a breathtaking visual contrast.

Torrevieja Pink Lake

Spain’s Torrevieja Pink Lake is not just beautiful but also associated with wellness tourism. Rich in salt and minerals, the lake is often compared to the Dead Sea because of its buoyancy.

The pink colour comes from algae and microorganisms that thrive in salty environments. Flamingos are frequently spotted here too, as their diet is rich in carotenoids, which enhances their pink feathers. During sunset, the lake glows in shades of rose and coral, creating one of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes.

Travel in 2026 is shaping up to be more dynamic, meaningful, and experience-driven than ever before. Travelers are no longer focused only on popular landmarks. They are seeking deeper cultural engagement, safer journeys, and environmentally responsible tourism.

Across continents, destinations are upgrading infrastructure and improving visitor services. Governments and tourism authorities are investing in better connectivity, digital travel systems, and sustainable tourism policies. This shift is redefining what the best places to travel in 2026 truly mean for global explorers.

How Travel Trends Are Changing in 2026

Modern travel trends are strongly influenced by sustainability, technology, and accessibility. Countries are prioritizing eco-friendly tourism practices to preserve natural and cultural heritage. Many national tourism boards are encouraging responsible travel behavior among visitors.

At the same time, digital transformation is improving the overall travel experience. From online visa systems to smart tourism apps, travelers now enjoy smoother planning and navigation. These changes are making international travel more convenient and inclusive.

Another key trend is the rise of experience-based travel. Instead of rushing through destinations, travelers are spending more time engaging with local traditions, food culture, and community-based tourism activities.

Emerging Destinations Gaining Global Attention

Several destinations around the world are expected to gain significant popularity in 2026. These locations are investing heavily in tourism development while maintaining cultural authenticity.

Many countries in Asia are expanding their tourism offerings with improved transport systems and enhanced visitor facilities. Coastal regions, mountain towns, and heritage cities are attracting increasing attention due to their balanced mix of nature and culture.

In Europe, smaller towns and less-explored regions are becoming more appealing. Travelers are shifting away from overcrowded cities and exploring quieter destinations that offer authentic local experiences.

Meanwhile, parts of Africa and South America are seeing growing interest due to their unique landscapes, wildlife tourism, and cultural richness. Governments in these regions are actively promoting tourism through national development programs.

Sustainable Tourism Leading the Way

Sustainability is one of the most important factors shaping the best places to travel in 2026. Many countries are adopting green tourism policies that focus on protecting natural ecosystems and reducing environmental impact.

Protected areas such as national parks, wildlife reserves, and coastal zones are being carefully managed. Governments are also promoting eco-lodges, renewable energy use in tourism zones, and waste reduction initiatives.

Travelers are increasingly encouraged to choose destinations that support conservation efforts. This includes using public transportation, respecting local cultures, and minimizing plastic usage while traveling.
Sustainable tourism is not just a trend anymore; it is becoming a global standard for responsible travel planning.

Technology Enhancing the Travel Experience

Technology is playing a major role in shaping global tourism in 2026. Digital platforms now allow travelers to book flights, accommodations, and experiences more efficiently than ever before.

Many destinations have introduced smart tourism systems. These systems provide real-time updates on weather conditions, transport options, and local attractions. Mobile apps also help travelers navigate cities with ease.

Airports and transportation networks are becoming more automated and efficient. This reduces waiting times and improves overall travel comfort. Governments are also investing in digital safety systems to enhance tourist security.

As a result, international travel is becoming faster, safer, and more user-friendly.

Safety and Accessibility Improvements Worldwide

Safety remains a top priority for global travelers. Governments are strengthening tourism safety frameworks, improving emergency response systems, and providing clear travel advisories through official channels.

Visa processes have also become more streamlined in many regions. E-visas and simplified entry procedures are making it easier for tourists to visit new destinations.

Accessibility is improving as well. More destinations are focusing on inclusive tourism, ensuring that facilities are available for travelers of all ages and abilities.

These improvements are helping make the best places to travel in 2026 more open and welcoming to international visitors.

Cultural Tourism and Authentic Experiences

Cultural tourism continues to grow as travelers seek meaningful experiences. Visitors are increasingly interested in local traditions, heritage sites, and community interactions.

Many destinations are offering guided cultural tours, traditional cooking experiences, and local craft workshops. These activities allow travelers to connect more deeply with the places they visit.

Government tourism departments are actively supporting cultural preservation projects. This ensures that tourism growth does not harm historical and cultural identity.

As a result, travelers can expect richer and more immersive experiences in 2026.

Nature-Based Travel on the Rise

Nature tourism is expected to remain a strong trend in 2026. Travelers are exploring mountains, forests, beaches, and remote landscapes more than ever before.

National parks and protected reserves are becoming key attractions. Governments are investing in eco-friendly infrastructure to support responsible nature tourism.

Activities such as hiking, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventure travel are gaining popularity. These experiences allow travelers to disconnect from busy urban life and reconnect with nature.

Top Destinations to Explore in 2026

Travelers looking ahead to 2026 can explore a wide range of globally trending destinations that are expected to attract strong interest. Popular and emerging locations include Japan for its blend of tradition and technology, Italy for its timeless cultural heritage, and Spain for vibrant city life and coastal escapes. Greece continues to draw visitors with its islands and historical landmarks, while Portugal is gaining attention for its scenic coastlines and relaxed atmosphere. In Asia, Thailand and Vietnam remain favorites for affordable travel, rich culture, and natural beauty. Indonesia, especially Bali, stands out for wellness tourism and tropical landscapes. In the Americas, Peru is admired for Machu Picchu and adventure travel, while Mexico offers beaches, heritage cities, and diverse cuisine. Meanwhile, South Africa is increasingly popular for wildlife safaris, and New Zealand remains a top choice for nature-driven, scenic exploration.

Conclusion: A Promising Year for Global Travelers

The best places to travel in 2026 reflect a world that is evolving toward smarter, safer, and more sustainable tourism. Destinations are not only focusing on attracting visitors but also on improving the quality of travel experiences.

With better infrastructure, stronger safety systems, and a growing focus on sustainability, 2026 is set to be an exciting year for global exploration. Travelers who plan wisely and rely on official government tourism sources will enjoy smoother and more meaningful journeys.

The future of travel is not just about where you go, but how responsibly and deeply you experience the world.

Thailand offers a mix of beaches, mountains, historic ruins, nightlife and cultural landmarks across its regions. Travellers can explore Buddhist temples in Bangkok, food markets in Chiang Mai, island beaches in the south and UNESCO-listed heritage parks in the north and central provinces. The country’s tourism appeal also lies in its affordability, transport connectivity and year-round travel options. From luxury resorts to backpacker towns, Thailand caters to different budgets and travel styles, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist destinations.

Bangkok

Thailand’s capital blends modern city life with historic temples and royal landmarks. Key attractions include the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew, Wat Arun and Wat Pho, home to the reclining Buddha. Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and metro systems make travel easier across shopping districts, riverside attractions and markets. The city is also known for street food, rooftop dining, nightlife and medical tourism. Areas such as Siam, Sukhumvit and Thong Lor remain popular with visitors. Bangkok also serves as the main international gateway for travellers entering Thailand.

Chiang Mai

Located in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is known for its slower pace, mountain scenery and temple-filled old city. Attractions include Wat Chedi Luang, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. The city is also famous for its food culture, especially khao soi curry noodles and local cooking classes. Nearby experiences include trekking, elephant sanctuaries and waterfalls. The Nimman neighbourhood has emerged as a hub for cafes, digital nomads and boutique hotels, while the old city continues to attract culture-focused travellers.

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and among its biggest tourism centres. The island offers beach resorts, nightlife, island-hopping tours and luxury stays. Patong Beach is known for entertainment and nightlife, while Kata, Karon and Kamala attract travellers looking for quieter beach experiences. Phuket Town features Sino-Portuguese architecture, local markets and cafes. The island also serves as a major transport hub for ferries to nearby islands such as Phi Phi and the Similan Islands. International flights and resort infrastructure make Phuket one of Thailand’s most accessible destinations.

Krabi & Railay Beach

Krabi province is known for limestone cliffs, clear waters and island landscapes along Thailand’s Andaman coast. Railay Beach, accessible only by boat, is one of the region’s most visited spots due to its dramatic cliffs and white sand beaches. Ao Nang serves as the main tourist centre with hotels, restaurants and ferry connections. Travellers also use Krabi as a base for island tours, kayaking and rock climbing. Nearby islands and beaches continue to attract visitors looking for both adventure and quieter coastal experiences.

Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is known for rainforest landscapes, limestone cliffs and Cheow Lan Lake. The park contains some of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests and is home to wildlife including hornbills, elephants and gibbons. Travellers visit for jungle treks, cave tours, kayaking and overnight stays in floating raft houses on the lake. The destination is often combined with trips to Phuket, Krabi or Khao Lak. Its natural scenery and quieter atmosphere make it one of Thailand’s most distinctive inland travel destinations.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is home to one of Thailand’s most important historical parks and was the first capital of Siam in the 13th century. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features ancient Buddhist temples, stone Buddhas and royal ruins spread across landscaped grounds. Visitors often explore the park by bicycle due to its flat terrain and open layout. Compared to busier heritage sites like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai offers a quieter experience. The destination attracts travellers interested in Thai history, architecture and archaeology.

Ko Tao

Ko Tao is one of Thailand’s top diving destinations and attracts visitors looking for marine activities and island scenery. The island is known for coral reefs, snorkelling spots and affordable scuba diving certifications. Beaches such as Sairee Beach remain popular for sunsets, cafes and nightlife. Viewpoints like John-Suwan and nearby Koh Nang Yuan also draw tourists. Despite growing tourism, Ko Tao continues to maintain a more relaxed atmosphere compared to larger Thai islands. Ferries connect the island with Ko Samui and Ko Pha-Ngan.