Nick Barton - The Cocoon Hostel

Nick Barton and his wife May are the co-owners of The Cocoon Hostel, Koh Samet’s highest-rated hostel. May, a local who has lived on the island for over 12 years and previously worked as a hotel manager, brings deep local knowledge and professional hospitality experience. Nick contributes over 20 years of backpacking experience across hostels worldwide, with a clear understanding of what travelers actually need on the road. Together, they create practical, up-to-date guides that combine May’s insider island perspective with Nick’s seasoned traveler insights, personally updating each guide based on real guest questions and their day-to-day life on Koh Samet.

Hostel Etiquette Guide

Hostel Etiquette Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Dorm Stay

Staying in a hostel dorm for the first time? It’s easier than you think — and most people take to it naturally. The basics come down to one simple idea: a little consideration goes a long way when you’re sharing a space with strangers. At The Cocoon, we’ve hosted thousands of guests over the years

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Ao Phai and Ao Tub Tim Guide

Ao Phai and Ao Tubtim – Koh Samet’s Best Middle Ground

This article is part of our complete Koh Samet travel guide, written by local hosts. It brings together transport tips, the best beaches, where to stay, food and nightlife, and practical local advice to help you plan your trip with confidence. 👉 Read the complete Koh Samet Travel Guide Overview These two small bays sit

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