Koh Samui Information

The island of Koh Samui, situated South Thailand, was discovered by backpackers in the 70s, and ever since been the tropical paradise of choice, drawing travelers from around the world to enjoy the cozy relaxed natural environment. Throughout the year, the temperature varies little from perfect, inviting us daily to explore the crystal clear waters of the south sea, the miles of shimmering sand beaches, and beautiful coral reefs. In Samui, traditional Thai villages and modern town make it easy for residents and travelers alike to find an international selection of goods, services and necessities: health clinic, supermarkets and specialty shops are as familiar as coconut, friendly faces and sunshine on Koh Samui. At one time the only way to get to Koh Samui was on a coconut boat. Now it is not so difficult. The new airport, with over a dozen flights daily, has made arrival from Bangkok and abroad more convenient. Of course the airport will not make it easier to leave paradise.

Koh Samui Infos

WEATHER in Koh SAMUI

In Samui the weather is very unpredictable. We can't really say when is the best period to come. Normally in Samui the rainy season start from the end of October until middle of December. The hottest time ( between 34 and 37 degree Celsius ) start from beginning of April until middle of June. The coldest time is in January, sometimes reach 18 degree Celsius in the night. All year round the temperature varies between 18 and 37 Celsius. Short thunderstorms are very common all year round.

TRANSPORTATION

In Samui there are several kind of transportation, the cheaper way is to use the SONGTHAEW ( COLLECTIVE TAXI ).
Converted pick up trucks, serve as local bus during daylight hours. Running times are from 5:30 am to 7:00 pm. Each destination is written in English on the front of the vehicle. There are no official stops around the island, just flag down the first one you see, and tell the driver where you would like to stop. When you arrive at your destination, you will pay your fare.

Other way of transportation is by using private taxis which run around Samui 24 hours a day. In the night only private taxis are available.
If you want to be more independent is possible to rent Bike or Jeeps.

SHOPPING AREAS and BUSINESS HOUR

In Samui there are two main places where shopping is possible. The first place is Nathon ( Main town ) where all the main banks, post office, supermarkets and a vast variety of shops are open from 8.30am until 6.30pm. The second place is Chaweng ( main tourists beach ) where a vast variety of shops and supermarket are open from 9am until 11pm. The post offices around Samui are open from Monday to Friday from 9am till 4pm. On Saturday are open from 9am till midday. The bank are open from Monday to Friday from 9am till 3:30pm. Money change are open everyday including Sunday from 9am till 4pm In Chaweng beach from 9am till 11pm.

SIGHTSEEING and ACTIVITIES

There are several things to see in Samui, everyday you can visit different places. There are few waterfall around Samui where you can also swim, many interesting temples, the butterfly garden, monkey show, snake farm. Also many Samui tours are organized everyday like: Jungle tracking by jeep or elephant, boat trip to the neighbor island Koh Tan, Koh Pha-ngan, Koh Tao and to the beautiful Angthong Marine National Park. Is also possible to participate to diving courses held in several Samui schools in any language. On some beaches can be rented 2 persons sail boats, windsurf, jet-sky, para-sailing and sea kayak.

NIGHTLIFE

All the nightlife of Samui is happening mainly on Chaweng beach and Lamai beach, in Chaweng there are 2 discotheque. The Reggae Pub is open from 10pm until 2am, Green Mango is open from 10pm until 2am. Also there are several pub, bars and clubs all around. In Lamai beach there are hundred of bars and the most famous pub-discotheque is Bauhaus. On other beaches Samui can be found many night beach-side bars.

VISA AND TAXES INFORMATION

When you enter Thailand without visa you can get 30 days permission to stay, is possible to extend your staying at Samui immigration office for 15 more days ( cost 600 Baht ). With Tourist visa you have permission to stay 60 days in Thailand and you can extend it 30 day ( 1900 Baht ) + 15 days ( 200 Baht ) + 7 days ( 200 Baht ) + 7 days ( 200 Baht ). When you want to stay longer just few days you can pay at the international airport in the moment you leave the country 200 Baht each day you are out of visa. Remember when you are leaving, to keep in your pocket 400 Baht/person for Samui airport Tax and 500 Baht/person for Bangkok International airport Thailand tax.