Koh Samui island in Thailand. Photo, beaches, attractions, map, hotels, rest
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If a hotel transfer is not available, it is most convenient to get to the destination by taxi from the airport or marinas. The minimum cost of the trip is 100 THB, this amount includes a boarding fee and a fee for 2 km - then you will have to pay 12 THB for each km.
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Areas of Koh Samui
The most popular beaches are located in the east of the island - respectively, the east coast boasts a developed infrastructure with hotels for every taste and budget, a variety of food outlets and an active nightlife.
Fans of family vacations have chosen the northern coast: the prices of local hotels are on average lower than in the east of the island, and the vegetation in those places rises close to the beaches, making it possible to relax in the shade without losing sight of the child.
On the west coast is Nathon, the administrative center of the island. The main pier and bus station are also located here, and the largest local food market on the island is located nearby. Swimming in the sea is difficult during the summer months due to the low tide, but the west coast is a paradise for lovers of beautiful sunsets.
Locals consider the southern coast to be a wilderness. There is almost no civilization here, but there is pristine nature and wild beaches. For a wide selection of inexpensive houses for rent, the south of the island was chosen by "winterers" - tourists living in Thailand for several months. The desertion of these places at one time also fell in love with the Buddhist monks - the famous Laem Sor temple pagoda is located here.
Transport
There are no regular buses on Koh Samui, so travelers actually have a choice of only two modes of transportation - taxi or songteo.
The first option is chosen by those who value the relative comfort of the trip (all taxis on Koh Samui are equipped with air conditioning) and the ability to carry luggage. However, it should be taken into account that taxi drivers may refuse to carry passengers over the counter and prefer to negotiate directly.
The cost of a taxi ride starts from 200-300 THB and depends on the ability of tourists to persistently, but with a mandatory smile in Thailand, to bargain. You can calculate it at the office. the SamuiTaxi website (in English).
The most common transport on Koh Samui is songteo (both locals and tourists often call it simply tuk-tuk). With some stretch it can be considered an analogue of our minibuses. The classic songteo is an ancient Japanese pickup truck with a pair of benches in its tiny body. The structure is crowned with a more or less durable canopy that protects from rain, but not from wind. During rush hour and busy holiday months, the tailgate is used as a footboard for additional passengers.
Despite its unusual appearance, it is a completely reliable and safe mode of transport. In addition, the most budget one on the island: travel within one beach will cost only 20 THB, and from the starting point of the route to the final one - three times more. Regular songthaew lines run along the entire coastline, with a ring of routes closing at Nathon. Unfortunately, you won't be able to go around the whole island on one tuk-tuk - a full circle consists of three route lines passing one into the other.
When boarding a tuk-tuk, you should never ask for a price - it immediately betrays an inexperienced tourist, and the fare can immediately increase several times.
From early morning until 6:00 pm, tuk-tuk drivers work at fixed rates, and in the evenings songteos switch to taxi mode - the fare will depend only on the greed of the driver and the ability of the night reveler to negotiate. It is useless to argue and insist on the official daily price: such a night job in Thailand is quite legal.
Samui Maps
Rent a car, scooter and bicycle
The easiest way to get a car is right at the airport - there are counters of most international car rental companies. If you don't want to freeze about 30,000 THB on the deposit, it makes sense to look for a car in local rental offices - they are less demanding on documents and often agree to pay in cash. If the lease term is a month or more, small offices are much more profitable than world-renowned firms. Renting a middle class car will cost about 1200 THB per day. The price of fuel on Koh Samui is on average 1-2 THB higher than on the mainland, but most likely you will not have to spend money on paid parking - they are very rare on the island (like police ambushes). The roads are in good condition, the mood of a motorist can be spoiled only by left-hand traffic and numerous scooters scurrying along the dividing lanes - and tourist riders are often much more dangerous than locals.
The most economical and at the same time the most popular way to get transport on Koh Samui is to rent a scooter (from 200 THB per day). Many hotels offer this service to their guests, moreover, there are dozens of offices on the island specializing in this type of rental. Bicycle rental is not very popular here - there are only a few small firms in Lamai and Chaweng. Although the rental is large and costs half the price of a scooter, there are few customers: due to the year-round heat, humidity and numerous changes in altitude, the island is not very comfortable for European cyclists.
Connectivity and Wi-Fi
In general, the situation with communication in Koh Samui is not bad: almost every hotel has its own Wi-Fi network, access points are located in most public places. The main problem with Wi-Fi on Koh Samui is not related to the number of wireless networks, but to their quality: the speed of 10 Mbit / s is considered the norm in hotels, and it is not easy to get it - the Internet is divided between the guests. Local networks are also notorious for frequent disconnections, so many tourists prefer to use mobile Internet.
The island is covered with dense 3G and 4G networks, even on the most remote beach it is difficult to remain without communication. SIM cards of any of the three leading mobile operators in Thailand - AIS, DTAC and True Move - can be bought on the spot without any problems, and the DTAC operator even offers an order on the Russian-language page of its official website.
Koh Samui beaches
5 things to do on Koh Samui
- At least once to meet the sun on the eastern beaches and spend on the western ones.
- Plunge into the hectic nightlife of Chaweng and Lamai.
- Enjoy the unspoiled nature of the southern coast.
- Meditate in the peaceful silence of local Buddhist temples.
- Appreciate all the gastronomic nuances of the local cuisine.
Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine Park
35 km west of Koh Samui is the Mu-Ko-Ang Thong National Marine Park - an archipelago of 42 islands with huge limestone cliffs covered with virgin rainforest that rise from the greenish-blue water. It offers fantastic views of Ko Wua Talap. Excursions around the park include a visit to a secluded lagoon on Ko Mae Ko, as well as the opportunity to go sea kayaking around the quaint limestone formations.
Night life
The vibrant nightlife is concentrated in the two main resorts, Chaweng and Lamai. All the famous shops, restaurants and entertainment venues of the island are located in the Chaweng Beach area on the main street. The Green Mango disco is popular among young tourists, while older vacationers have chosen the Reggae Pub and the main Irish pub of the island, Tropical Murphy. On an especially hot evening it is worth stopping by the Ice Bar - it is much larger here than in Pattaya.
Lamai is inferior to Chaweng in terms of the number of entertainment venues, but he has his own trump cards: the night Muay Thai fights on a small Lamai site have a reputation for real and uncompromising - unlike the performances for tourists at the main Chaweng stadium. Fans of a more peaceful pastime will love the night market and the bars with reasonable prices (from 200 THB per cocktail).
Koh Samui for children
The island has long and firmly won a reputation as an ideal place for a quiet family vacation - there is practically no noisy nightlife on the beaches of the northern coast, many hotels are equipped with special pools and playgrounds, and 4-5 star hotels offer animation services.
On the island, you can easily get the usual yoghurts, kefir and even cottage cheese - an important moment for mothers whose children cannot adapt to the local cuisine. If the child falls ill, there are well-equipped clinics for the guests of the island, where you can receive full medical care with travel insurance.
In addition to the warm sea and luxurious beaches, gentle sun and tropical fruits, Koh Samui also offers many entertainment for children of all ages - from the exotic Paradise Park August
september
october
november
december
It is hot on Koh Samui for 12 months a year. The most uncomfortable month for a European is April, when the daytime temperature can easily exceed + 40 ° С. The coolest months are December and January, but even at this time you should not hope for coolness. It is believed that the rainy season begins in May and lasts until the end of autumn, although the bulk of the annual rainfall occurs in September-November. Tropical showers this season can last for several days without interruption, and the sea becomes muddy and unsuitable for swimming. Sometimes rains cause short-term floods, but they are rarely dangerous - the water quickly goes into the sea.
- Should you go to Koh Samui in July
Ko Samui, an island in the province of Surat Thani, or simply Samui as the locals call it, is an island on the eastern bank of the isthmus in Thailand, located near the city of Surat Thani. It is the third largest island in Thailand with an area of \u200b\u200b228.7 km 2 and a population of over 62,500 inhabitants. It is rich in natural resources, white sand beaches, coral reefs and coconut trees.
Flight time:
from Moscow - from 11 hours (1-4 transfers)
from St. Petersburg - from 14 hours 35 minutes. (2-3 transfers)
from Kazan - from 15 hours 5 minutes. (2-3 transfers)
from Yekaterinburg - from 15 hours 40 minutes. (1-4 transfers)
from Novosibirsk - from 11 hours 5 minutes. (1-3 transfers)
The current time in Bo Phut:
(UTC +7)
The island became famous as one of the best places for families with children. The northern coast guarantees a quiet pastime and a hearty family vacation. Nightlife entertainment places are present here in small numbers. Most of the hotels are focused on young guests, so everyone considers it their duty to equip a playground with a swimming pool on the territory. In decent hotels, there is always an animator on the staff.
How to get there
There are several ways to get to Koh Samui, depending on where the journey starts from. Basically, people travel to the island from Bangkok and Surat Thani (by plane or by bus and ferry). Fares vary from fairly high fares to inexpensive ferries between Surat Thani and Koh Samui.
Airplane
The best and most convenient option is a direct flight to Koh Samui. The airport of the island is very unusual, there are no usual premises, so immediately upon arrival it becomes clear that you are on a paradise island. A significant drawback of such a flight is the price. The airport is owned by a private company of Bangkok airlines, because of this, a certain tariff was formed, and monopolization does not give access to this airport for cheaper air carriers. Several more representatives of other airlines land at the airport, but the price is not much different. Representatives of low-cost low-cost air carriers simply do not have an agreement to operate flights to this island. For comparison, let's take the cost of one plane ticket from the capital of Thailand to Koh Samui, and so, for the same price, but by sea, a family of several people can get to the island. It is of course economical, but it differs from the one-hour flight and the sea crossing with less comfort.
There is an option for a cheaper flight. The closest major city on the mainland to Samui is Surat Thani. It is located close enough to the island that it can be reached from Bangkok by low cost airlines. It will be cheaper, more convenient and faster. A plane ticket is slightly more expensive than a train ticket, and the time savings are enormous. You can also buy a complex ticket, this option may be even a little cheaper than purchasing each ticket separately. The kit will include: a plane ticket, a bus ticket to the port and a ferry crossing to the island itself. As usual, in such cases a separate fee will be charged for baggage.
Ferry
The crossing from Surattakhani to the cherished Samui does not cause any particular difficulties. Directly upon arrival at the airport, at the corresponding ticket office, purchase a ticket for bus transportation and ferry crossing. Take a bus to the Donsak pier. The ferry's departure schedule is once an hour, so you won't have to wait long for the departure. The journey takes about an hour and a half, this time you can spend both on an open deck and on a closed one with air conditioning, as you like.
If an hour and a half is a waste of time for you, then there is another option, but we warn you right away that it is not suitable for everyone. Catamarans, which reach Koh Samui in about half an hour, compete with ferries and therefore depart from another pier - Chumphon. The disadvantage of this trip option is that even with a little roughness at sea, the catamaran begins to rock so hard that seasickness is not long in coming. Because of this, passengers are handed a bag for hygiene purposes free of charge even before departure.
Bus
From Bangkok by bus you can get directly to the ferry. The travel time is almost 10 hours, so it is worth taking first class tickets to make the trip more comfortable. It will be a little faster to get there by bus than by train, but if you compare the conditions for comfort, then the bus is inferior to railway transportation.
The Lompraya company gives you the opportunity to purchase a bus ticket along with the fast ferry crossing. For about 1,500 baht, you get a transfer to Chumphon and departure to Koh Samui in a total time of just over 14 hours.
Train
Due to inaccurate timetables and local trains, the journey from the capital to Surat Thani can take up to 13 hours. But since the very great comfort in the wagons of Thailand disposes to rest after a long flight, many travelers choose this particular option of transportation. The carriages have air conditioning and comfortable sleeping places. From the station to the pier, there is nothing to take on a special shuttle, and then you can take a ferry. The train journey is several hundred baht cheaper than the plane.
Auto
For those who like to drive, the ideal option would be to rent a car at Bangkok airport. There are quite a few rental companies there, but it is recommended to choose and book a car in advance. In case of booking a couple of months in advance, the price is significantly lower. The road from Bangkok to Surat Thani is excellent, the travel time is a maximum of ten hours, including stops for a snack. To transport the car by ferry will not be so expensive, up to 500 baht. The only difficulty is left-hand traffic. If you doubt that you will be able to orient yourself on the road, then you should not choose this option.
Climate and weather on Koh Samui
Samui has a hot climate. The average temperature throughout the year is + 30 ° С.
There are two seasons on Koh Samui - dry and wet.
The dry season is accompanied by clear, warm, even hot weather; it rarely rains. The season runs from January to February.
The rainy season starts in November and lasts until December. The rainy season on Koh Samui does not mean that there are tropical rains all the time, it just happens that there are fewer sunny days.
From March to June it is very hot, save only short torrential rains. The best time to travel to the island is between December and April.
Koh Samui Monthly Weather
According to Yandex.Weather service
| Day temperature, ° C | Temperature at night, ° C | Water temperature, ° C | Precipitation, mm | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weather on Koh Samui in January | 32 | 20 | 26 | 30 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in February | 33 | 23 | 27 | 0 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in March | 34 | 24 | 27 | 10 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in April | 35 | 26 | 28 | 60 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in May | 34 | 25 | 28 | 180 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in June | 33 | 25 | 28 | 110 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in July | 32 | 25 | 28 | 140 |
| Weather in Koh Samui in August | 32 | 24 | 28 | 120 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in September | 32 | 24 | 28 | 200 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in October | 31 | 24 | 27 | 250 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in November | 31 | 23 | 27 | 300 |
| Weather on Koh Samui in December | 31 | 20 | 27 | 90 |
Weather on Koh Samui for 10 and 14 days
Reviews by month
| January 12 February 6 March 8 | April 5 May 4 | July 7 August 9 September 2 | October 1 December 2 |
Photos of Koh Samui
Transport
Songteo
Public transport on Koh Samui is represented by the so-called songteos, although it is better known to all as tuk-tuk. If we draw an analogy, then this is something like our route taxis, although the comparison is not the most accurate. To make it clearer, imagine an old Japanese pickup truck. Several benches are fixed in its small body, and a canopy practically flutters in the wind above the passengers' heads, which serves as protection from rain. During the busiest times, the tailgate is folded back to accommodate additional passengers.
Despite the creepy description and extremely unpresentable appearance, there is absolutely nothing to be afraid of. The transport is very reliable and quite safe to travel. And the cheapest one. Songteo run along the coast around the entire island, quite regularly, and Nathon is considered the ring point. But on one and the same tuk-tuk it is impossible to drive the whole island in a circle. In total, the tuk-tuk has three routes, they periodically turn one into another.
Newbie tip: Don't ask for a price when getting on board. So they will immediately understand that you are an inexperienced tourist and can break such a price that it is indecent to even say. Within one beach, the trip will cost 20 baht. From one beach to another - 60 baht.
The fact is that a fixed price applies to transportation from morning to 6 pm. And then songteo chauffeurs turn into taxi drivers. So how much the trip will cost in the evening and at night will depend on your bargaining ability and the driver's degree of greed. It will not work to prove that the price is completely different during the day. The Thai authorities officially allow drivers to earn extra money at night.
Taxi
Taxis on Koh Samui are called TAXI METER. The taxi fleet consists mainly of Korean and Japanese cars in yellow-red color. They, however, do not have a meter, and the average cost of a trip is 200-300 baht. In this case, you can bargain with the driver.
Rental on Koh Samui
The first place where you can rent a car is the airport. Representatives of many international firms work there. But if there is no desire to leave a large amount on the deposit, then it is quite possible to use the services of local firms. Such offices have fewer requirements and have the opportunity to pay in cash, and if you are going to stay on Koh Samui for a month or more, then renting from local small distributors will also be much cheaper than from recognized international representatives. Decent car rental starts at THB 1,500 per day. The price of gasoline is slightly more expensive than on the mainland, but the lack of paid parking, there are only a few of them on the island, compensates for this fact.
On Koh Samui, the most popular rental is a scooter or bike. This is much more economical, a scooter will cost from a couple of hundred baht per day. Most hotels offer rent to their residents, and even so there are many points around the island where you can get a two-wheeled friend for a while. A bike can be rented for a month, but it will cost about 3 thousand, maybe a little more. But you can always bargain.
Renting a bike is difficult, but few people want to. The island's humidity, heat and elevation changes will not appeal to even the biggest cyclists in Europe. If you wish, bicycles can be rented in Lamai and Chaweng, there are several bike rental points there. The cost will be less than renting a scooter.
Transfers from Koh Samui
Koh Samui city → Samui AirportShow transfers in Koh Samui
| Micro. |
RUB 3,116 | |
| Economy. |
RUB 2,921 | |
| Comfort. |
RUB 3,765 | |
| Minivan, 4 seats. |
RUB 3 310 | |
| Minibus, 7 seats. |
RUB 3,505 | |
| Minibus 10pax |
RUB 4,414 |
| Micro. Inexpensive transfer for a couple or a family with a child. VW Polo, Opel Corsa, Renault Clio, Skoda Fabia, etc. |
RUB 3,116 | |
| Economy. An economical option for a company of up to 3-4 people. VW Golf, Ford Focus, Opel Astra, Audi A3, BMW 3, etc. |
RUB 2,921 | |
| Comfort. For long-distance travel in comfort. VW Passat, Toyota Camry, Toyota Fortuner, Chevrolet Suburban, etc. |
RUB 3,765 | |
| Minivan, 4 seats. A compromise between spaciousness and comfort. VW Touran, Ford Galaxy, Opel Zefira, Peugeot 807, etc. |
RUB 3 310 | |
| Minibus, 7 seats. For a group of 4-7 people or large luggage. VW Multivan, Toyota Hiace, Opel Vivaro, Hyundai H-1, etc. |
RUB 3,505 | |
| Minibus 10pax A universal option for a group of up to 10 people. Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Toyota Coaster, etc. |
RUB 4,414 |
Areas
Koh Samui until 2008 was a region of Surat Thani province. In June 2008, Samui gains independence. The island is subdivided into 7 districts (tambon). The island includes the Ang Thong archipelago and some other small islands nearby.
The east of the island is the most popular. There is a developed infrastructure, a lot of hotels of all price categories, entertainment nightlife and many options for cafes and restaurants. The nightlife, accordingly, is in full swing.
The north of the island is traditionally a family area. Rental prices are slightly lower than on the east coast. The beaches are great for families with children, and the shade of the vegetation that grows right next to the beaches makes it possible not to overheat in the sun.
Between the north and east of the island there is a huge statue of Buddha, which is the main attraction of the area.
The administrative center is Nathon in the west of the island. There are all the main and necessary points for tourists: the bus station, the main pier of the island, a huge market with a variety of local food and delicacies. The west coast has stunningly beautiful sunsets, but swimming in the summertime is difficult when the tide is low.
The south is considered a wild place for locals. There is really nothing of a civilized infrastructure here. But this is for the best, because nature has remained here in all its natural beauty. Here you can rent a house and wild beaches at a very low cost, so this is often the place chosen by those tourists who choose to live in Thailand for a few winter months. Solitude and the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in nature attracted Buddhist monks at one time. On the south coast is the Laem Sor Temple Pagoda.
What to see
To explore the local fauna, you can go to the aquarium and admire the fantastic collection of fish, and watch wild cats at the tiger zoo. Popular excursions are considered to be the "turtle island", crocodile, snake, coconut, pearl farms, the Secret Buddha Garden, islands Khangan and Ko-Tao.
Not only for children, but also for adults, funny attractions in the Coco Splash water park are suitable, in case you are a little tired of the warm sea with the gentle sun. There are many more entertainment complexes, for example, Paradise Park, where you can watch animals in their natural habitat.
The main attractions of Koh Samui
- Samui temples (about 30 temples of the island on the link)
Where to go on Koh Samui
sights
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Parks and recreation areas
Transport
Wellness holiday
Private guides in Koh Samui
Russian private guides will help you to learn more about Samui.
Registered on the project Experts.Tourister.Ru.
Things to do
Nightlife on Koh Samui
For a full night out, head to the island's two main resorts - Lamai and Chaweng. The central street of the Chaweng District contains all the most famous places on the island from shops to bars. The majority of young people like to dance at the Green Mango disco, while older tourists prefer to visit Reggae Pub and the real Irish pub Tropical Murphy. You can while away a stuffy and hot evening in the Ice Bar, which is even larger on Koh Samui than in Pattaya.
The Lamai area cannot boast that many bars, but it does have the most interesting virtue - Muay Thai fights. The night battles here are real and unyielding, not the ones that are shown at Chaweng Stadium for the entertainment of tourists. For those who are not interested in fighting, a stroll through the night market and gatherings in bars with affordable prices for cocktails are suitable.
Diving on Koh Samui
There is no doubt that southern Thailand is home to some of the finest and most beautiful beaches and islands in the world, surrounded by crystal clear waters and magnificent coral. And this is the main reason why the number of divers coming to Thailand has increased over the past ten years. Although the best time of the year to dive on Koh Samui is between June and August, you can still dive there almost all year long. The waters in Thailand are considered the safest in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling, and are ideal for beginners looking to try the fun for the first time.
The necessary equipment is available and there are many scuba diving schools, but most of the diving takes place either in the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park or on Koh Tao, as visibility around Samui's sandy beaches is often poor. You can sign up for day trips at the diving schools, most of which are located in Chaweng. Boats with such tours most often leave from the pier at Bophut and Bang Rak.
Underwater visibility in some places around Koh Samui is almost perfect (up to 10-30 meters). You can enjoy incredible views of seamounts, coral gardens, underwater rock formations, hard and soft corals and whale sharks. Here are a couple of dive sites:
- Samran Pinnacles: As the current is often very strong in this area, it is recommended to visit this area for experienced divers. Due to this current, this place is a refuge for such large marine life as barracuda. There are three underwater cliffs near Sail Rock.
- Ko Kra and Koh Losin: These two small islands are located in the southeast of Koh Samui and due to their remoteness are not often visited by divers.Here you can see blacktip sharks, electric rays and rarely seen blunt-headed turtles.
Festivals and events in Koh Samui
Bullfighting festival
One of the most famous festivals taking place in Koh Samui is the Bullfighting Festival, which is held on special occasions such as New Years and Songkran. Unlike Spanish bullfights, where bulls are killed while fighting a man armed with swords, the Koh Samui Bullfighting Festival is fairly harmless. The season of battle differs due to some ancient customs and ceremonies. The bulls are beautifully decorated with ribbons and gilded leaves. Before the competition, which lasts no longer than two rounds, the monks spray them with holy water
Fisherman's Village Festival
This five-day festival is celebrated with lots of fun, loud music and loads of food. Music is usually performed by renowned artists and the amount of food served (and quality) is amazing. Lots of stalls from many local hotels selling a variety of inexpensive and delicious food from different countries
Koh Samui beaches
The best option for a beach holiday is to stay on the east coast. The beaches here are considered the best. The only disadvantage of the coast is drought, which can occur during low tide. But this phenomenon happens quite rarely.
Those who go to Koh Samui for the first time should know that only the hotel in which they live will provide a sun lounger for free. If you are not renting a hotel room right by the sea, be prepared to shell out money to rent a sun lounger on the beach. Or be content with a towel or beach mat.
The best beaches for a long stay are:Maenam, Lamai ... It's pretty quiet there and has everything you need for life. The main stream of tourists chooses the northern and eastern coasts, because the combination of all factors (beaches, infrastructure) is ideal. There are large hypermarkets in Chaweng and Lamai districts. In order to fully immerse yourself in the nightlife and fun, choose the central part of Chaweng.
Beaches in the east of Koh Samui
Of the eastern beaches, Chaweng undoubtedly stands out, which is famous throughout the island. The sandy beach is soft due to fine sand, the water is amazingly clear. It is very convenient to enter the water, the slope is quite easy. The beach is about six kilometers long. This whole strip is a continuous scenic view, consisting of bays and beautiful landscapes. There are absolutely no problems with accommodation on the beach, you can pick up both an elite hotel and a simple bungalow. During the day, fans of water sports gather on the beach, and at night party-goers gather for incendiary parties and discos.
Beaches in the north of Koh Samui
The north of the island is quite colorful. The western part of the north coast is Bophut. There is a special atmosphere there, because tourists manage to live with local residents as with good neighbors. A little further in a cozy bay there is Maenam beach, where the contrasting combination of rich villas with the neighboring hippie settlement does not prevent people from having a good rest. If we talk about the beaches themselves, then they are not as rich in entertainment and landscapes as the eastern ones, and the sand is more yellow and not fine.
Beaches in the south and west of Koh Samui
In the south and west of the island, there is an atmosphere of seclusion on the coasts. Although the ring road that encircles the island does not connect the beaches, getting here will not be a problem. Laem Set Beach is simply irresistible. This stunning beach is a must-see for everyone with its coconut palms that curl intricately over the sandy beach with its large smooth boulders. But the water is too shallow for swimming, although this does not interfere with just having a good time there. Taling Ngam beach
There is also a large selection of cosmetics and souvenirs in Nathon. Do not miss the opportunity to bargain with sellers, they themselves are not against this case. They are also very friendly, so shopping will be done in a pleasant atmosphere.
Food and drink
The island allows its guests to eat for every taste. It all depends on the desire and capabilities of the vacationers. To services of tourists and expensive restaurants with European cuisine, and small Thai eateries, where you can very cheaply have a bite of local dishes. You should definitely try local delicacies and spicy soups, for example, with an unusual combination of shrimp and pork. It's all about the broth, which is boiled with the addition of coconut milk. For those who do not like such combinations - rice dishes. In Khao Pat, rice is supplemented with vegetable additives in a wide variety of combinations. For soups, don't miss the traditional Thai Tom Yam, every visitor should feel its sour-spicy taste. Well, where on the island without seafood. On the Bophut beach, there are especially many establishments where you can taste oysters, crabs and more.
Thai cuisine is very spicy, few can master all the dishes they want. In case you need to "extinguish the fire" inside you, do not drink water, but rather ask to bring milk or lime. It is in them that there are substances that can neutralize hot chili peppers. Although you can always say the magic "no spicy".
If Thai cuisine has conquered you so much that you want to continue pampering yourself and your loved ones with traditional Thai dishes on arrival, you can take a short culinary course. You can sign up for this on the east coast, but it will be very expensive.
Due to the fact that Russians more and more often come to the island for the winter, the traditions of local cuisine have changed. On all major beaches you can find a cafe that specializes exclusively in traditional Russian cuisine. Those who are tired of trying Thai spicy dishes can always dine on the usual borscht, dumplings, cabbage rolls, even salads such as "Herring under a fur coat" and "Mimosa". There is also an Uzbek restaurant. So if you want kebabs, pilaf or manti, it will not be difficult to find such establishments. Of course, there is also Italian cuisine on the island.
If you need yoghurt, kefir or cottage cheese, you can easily find them in supermarkets on the island. This is an important point for tourists with children who cannot always accept local food. If your child gets sick, don't worry, travel insurance will ensure proper examination and treatment at a good local hospital like Bangkok Hospital.
Communication
Koh Samui is one of those islands where the connection is hard to complain about compared to the rest of the region. Probably all hotels and inns already have their own Wi-Fi network, as well as in all public places. Unfortunately, quantity does not guarantee quality. Wireless communication on Koh Samui remains the main problem, because a very low speed of 10 Mbps for a person who is used to being always in touch can seem like a disaster. It also happens that in a hotel it is difficult even to connect to the network due to the activity of all guests. Plus, frequent breakdowns and unforeseen breakdowns regularly deprive tourists of the Internet. Many have found a way out in using the mobile Internet.
In terms of 3G and 4G networks, the island is surprisingly well developed, and the entire area is covered by high-speed access. Even on a wild beach at a distant point, you will not be left without communication. There are three main mobile operators in Thailand, whose SIM card you can easily purchase. One of the operators - DTAC - took care of Russian-speaking tourists, and on their official website you can place an order for the great and mighty.
Security
Tap water is usually not drinkable. Bottled beverages are sold almost everywhere and should be used constantly. Be careful in restaurants. Many may use unsafe running water. Running water in many hotels should not be used for drinking or brushing your teeth unless there is a specific sign that it is safe.
Motorcycles are quite dangerous, but jeeps, trucks, and other vehicles are readily available, reasonably priced, and relatively safe. If you need to use a motorcycle, always wear a helmet and never drive while drunk, as the roads are dangerous and bumpy. After a good party at the Chaweng, Bophut and Lamai parties, taxis are always ready to take you home. Be careful, taxi drivers usually cheat. It is not uncommon for tuk-tuk drivers to charge you 50 baht for a kilometer ride in the evening (for example, along the main Chaweng market).
The recent expansion has introduced ATVs for road travel. They do not need to be registered, so you need to be careful, as there is no insurance either.
Be careful at night on the beaches, as there are cases of crime.
You need to know:
Forbidden:
- Do not rent a boat if it does not have life jackets
- Don't go to the jungle alone
- Don't mess with any drugs
- Do not go to the beach at night for walking or swimming
- Women do not want to sunbathe topless
- It is undesirable for men to walk without pants or shorts anywhere except the beach
Where to stay on Koh Samui
You can choose housing on Koh Samui based on your own requests and ability to pay. The island has long had a variety of options, from luxury rooms in respectable hotels to very budget hotels.
The most expensive hotels, as a rule, stand right on the shore, offer their guests a private beach and an additional range of services. The rooms there are all equipped with air conditioning and are very spacious, or even completely stand alone villas on the territory of the hotel complex.
Hotels in "three stars" are the best option and the most popular. Even though there are no spa salons in similar ones, and perhaps there will not even be a pool and a cafe, the quality of the accommodation itself is decent, and you can eat at the nearest restaurant, since it is not as expensive in Samui as in Europe.
There is a segment of very cheap hotels, but they are chosen only by those who do not need the most common comfort, such as hot water.
Booking.com offers over 2,240 Koh Samui hotels for booking. You can select a hotel using various filters: hotel star rating, hotel type (hotel, apartment, villa, hostel, etc.), cost, hotel location, ratings of people who visited the hotel, Wi-Fi availability and much more. ...
But by mistake we got to Koh Samui. In recent years, even the Chinese have appeared on Koh Samui, but there are not so many of them as in other parts of Thailand.
Why do such different people go to Koh Samui?
1. Competent PR
2. Developed infrastructure
3. Pleasant climate and good beaches, especially for families with children
4. The island is big, everything is really there: calm and moving beaches, several clubs, supermarkets with markets, schools and kindergartens, mountains, waterfalls, temples - you can find something to do.
Here everyone will find something to do
Koh Samui is a big village... There are no skyscrapers like Pattaya. If you settle in an area where Thais live, you risk waking up from the cries of someone else's rooster.
Chickens, cats, huge geckos constantly came to my porch, buffaloes grazed in the field near the house, and in the evenings I could hear the howling of dogs. I love animals, so this aspect of life on Koh Samui was a plus for me, but some may not like it.
Even if you live in a closed area in a modern apartment, there will still be a village outside of it. If you are going to Koh Samui expecting to be in Dubai, the island will disappoint you. You need to go here for relaxation and houses on two floors.
Hi, neighbor! Season on Koh Samui
December 15-March — High season. Lots of people, prices are going up. Heavy rains can fall until mid-January, and it is often cloudy. From February, the sun is mainly, from March to September only thin streams remain from the large waterfalls, there may be no rain for a month. The northern beaches (Mae Nam) and Lamai may have waves in winter. Most of the houses are occupied or rented out at inflated prices.
April May — Heat... Dry and very hot. Really very hot. It sometimes rains in the west of the island, in the east the permanent sun shines. A house of any quality can be found without problems.
Lamai in May - almost no waves June August — Low season, because the winterers and tourists went home. The weather is sunny, the sea without waves on all beaches, you can find absolutely any accommodation with a discount - everything is free.
September-mid-December — Rain season... This means that it rains one or more times a day, sometimes flooding the streets. Overcast, gray, sometimes the sun appears before lunchtime. The sea can be stormy. In October-November it is quite possible to find a house or hotel at an affordable price, in December there are few good cheap options.
Maenam Beach (north of Koh Samui) in December. The sea is dirty, on the shore of seaweed How much money to take on Koh Samui
Let's estimate how much it will cost vacation on Koh Samui and how much money to take with you. For example, you are flying to Koh Samui together for 10 days.
Flights
360$-400$ - The minimum cost of the round trip to Koh Samui from Moscow for 1 person ( 300$-340$ tickets Moscow-Bangkok-Msk + 60$ bus + ferry to Koh Samui from Bangkok).
This is provided that you have not missed a single sale, bought tickets to Bangkok in advance and are ready to spend the night on the bus.
The more likely alignment is from 500-650$ and more in two directions per person
Housing
7$ - room in the hostel
13-20$ - modest bungalow
17-20$ - a modest but clean hotel or house
20-30$ - condo
30-50$+ - good hotel
Total plus or minus 250-400 $ for two for 10 days and higher
During the peak season, prices can be much higher, it is better to check the current prices for housing of the desired class on the roomguru and booking.
Examples of housing prices on Koh Samui
Insurance
From 1100 rubles or 17$ per person for 10 days. For two - 34$
Most of the insurance companies have increased insurance rates for Thailand due to frequent inquiries. This is where the largest number of insurance claims occurs.
I bought my insurance through a website where you can compare prices and conditions of popular insurance companies, I chose Liberty. I didn't regret it at all, because the insurance paid off after the first visit to the doctor.
I usually do not get sick, but in Thailand, due to air conditioners and a local virus, I suffered for two months with a cold (I could not speak). The treatment was worth 400$ , all expenses were paid by the insurance company. ☞
One of the hospital bills paid by the insurance policy Prices in a cafe on Koh Samui
2$ /50-70 baht - food at makashnits (pad thai, tom yam, rice with chicken)
3-7$ / 100-250 baht - main course (soup, meat) in a cafe
2-4$ / 70-120 baht - salad
2-3$ / 50-100 baht - fruit shake
15-30$ / 500-1000 baht - dinner at a first-class fish restaurant on the beach
On average, lunch for two in a cafe (two dishes and two drinks) - 12-15$ /400-500 baht
If you plan available only in the cafe, count on the fact that a day for food will go away from 15$ /500 baht per person. Plus water, fruits, snacks
Total $ 20-25 for food per person per day or 400-500 $ for two for 10 days.
You can keep within 200-300$ for two if you eat at local eateries or in the evening markets. Food costs are too individual to predict.
Fish in garlic for 500 baht Alcohol
This cost item is different for everyone. A bottle of beer in a store on average 50-70 baht
Transport
If you rent a bike, then 200 * 10 \u003d 2000 baht + gasoline somewhere around 1000 baht
Total 90$ for 10 days for two.
If you actively ride around the island by public transport, it will be more expensive, if you only go to the neighboring beaches a couple of times, and not wander around the island, it will be cheaper.
Entertainment
7-12$ /250-400 baht - massage session
2$ / 50-100 baht - entrance to observation decks
Temples - free
20$ / 700 baht adults / 400 baht children - elephant safari at the waterfall Na Muang-2
If you drive around the island on a rented bike to natural attractions, it will be cheap.
You can climb on the back of an elephant for 700 baht How much does a vacation on Koh Samui cost?
Minimum tickets 300-340$ , more often from 500-650$ per person, for two from 600 $ to 1300 $
Housing plus or minus 250-400 $ for two
Food and alcohol - from 400 to 1000 $ for two or more
Transport (bike + gasoline) - 90$
Entertainment - from 0 to infinity
TOTAL: Minimum - 1400$ , average - 2000-2600$ and more on two in 10 days
If suddenly you find a tour on Koh Samui for 1000-1500 $ for two, then most likely it is more profitable to buy a tour and fly on a voucher, where the air ticket, hotel and transfer are already included in the price.
How much does wintering cost?
The expenses of the wintering man will be much lower if he lives on the island for a long time, rents a house, knows all inexpensive places, purchases in markets and supermarkets, and prepares food at home.
During my life on Koh Samui, I spent 700-800 $ per month (visa, rental of a house and a scooter, food, fruits). This is with rather modest requests.
For less modest requests, the costs will be significantly higher. For example, if you rent a comfortable modern apartment or house with air conditioning in season, eat fruits, seafood, have lunch and dinner in a café for tourists, rent a car, then the amount of expenses will be from 80-100 $ per day for two.
Winter is warm and fun on Koh Samui! Koh Samui beaches
There are many beaches on Koh Samui, but not all of them are equally suitable for swimming, although this cannot be said from the pictures on the Internet.
Chaweng
Chaweng is the center of nightlife and resort life, where the main bars, discos and restaurants are located. Young people settle here.
In winter, the beach is not as good as in summer, there are noticeable ebb and flow, there are reverse currents and waves. When there are no waves, the water is clear and clean, at the bottom there is white sand, the entrance to the sea is shallow, the coast is shallow.
Can be noisy if living on a main street. If you want to buzz until the morning every night, then on Koh Samui this is not very good. Most of Chaweng's establishments close at 3 am, dancing until the morning is arranged only during the season on Saturdays and Wednesdays.
Near Chaweng there is a small Festival Shopping Center, Tesco Lotus supermarket, Big C and Makro supermarkets are also relatively close.
Evening on Chaweng Chaweng Noi
Lamai
The second most popular beach south of Chaweng. Length of Lamai Beach - 5 km.
Lamai is a fairly large beach with a developed infrastructure. It is mainly for couples and euro-pensioners to rest, there are young people. There are enough Russians, as well as Italians, French and Germans.
There are a lot of cafes and restaurants, including near the sea, there is a market (they sell fruits, vegetables and fish), Tesco Lotus and Makro supermarkets, McDonald's.
A sun lounger can be rented by the sea. For swimming, I usually went to the stones at the southern end of Lamai - there are fewer people there during the peak season.
Lamai beach on Koh Samui There is coarser yellow sand on the shore.
In winter and spring, there can be strong waves on Lamai - this is perhaps the only disadvantage of this beach, if waves are a problem for you.
Because of the waves, the water becomes cloudy and opaque, and algae can float.
Waves in April on Lamai Bang Tai
North of the island, beach in the area of \u200b\u200bMimosa Resort & Spa. I was just wintering in this area. It makes no sense to settle here without a bike.
From the infrastructure there are two massage parlors, several cafes on the beach and on the way to the beach, 7/11 and two shops where you can buy nuts, fruits, necks. To the market 7 minutes by bike. You need to go to the supermarket for about 20 minutes to the beaches of Chaweng or Lamai.
Ban Tai and Mimosa beach on Koh Samui But on Ban Tai there is a very clean sea, there are no waves, the ebb and flow are not very noticeable, the entrance to the sea is gentle, the coast is shallow. You need to go 10 meters to the depth. Families with children come here too.
White sand, palm trees stand right by the sea (it is better not to sit under them, because coconuts fall regularly). Ban Tai is paradise in every sense of the word. Suitable only for lovers of a very relaxing holiday.
Ban Tai Beach in March Which beach to choose?
Choosing a beach on Koh Samui is a top priority, especially if you are going on vacation for a week or two and do not know how to drive a scooter.
For my vacation, I would choose:
Lamai - there is a market, supermarkets, cafe-bars, shops with clothes, attractions nearby, there are foreigners, minus - there may be waves and muddy water during the season
Chaweng - supermarkets, parties, discos, youth recreation, minus - noisy during the season
Chaweng Noi or some small beach between Chaweng and Lamai. For example, Tongtakian (white sand, clear water, beautiful views) or romantic Coral Cove
For kitesurfing
Ko na Thiam in the southeast and the beach of the Orchid Resort.
For families with children
Ban Tai - cool and quiet, just for children, but without a bike there is nothing to do there. Just a few cafes, two massage parlors, a couple 7/11
Mae Nam - there is a market, a cafe, many houses for rent. The downside is that there are no supermarkets. It's inconvenient without a bike. Personally, I don't really like the Maenam (the sea is cloudy and opaque there), but many choose this particular area.
Chaweng Noi - there is infrastructure, a beautiful sea, there are a lot of people in the season
Some people choose the refined Bophut and the Big Buddha area for recreation, but I would not go there (the beaches and the sea are so-so during the season).
There are also beaches of the west and southwest: for example, Taling Ngam (Hotel Imperial), but there is also tight infrastructure. If you go there, then sit in a hotel or be sure to take a bike.
Suitable for wintering Lamai or Mae Nam... I spent the winter in the area Ban Tai and Mimosa Spa & Resort... I love that area, but that doesn't mean it's the best.
How to get to Koh Samui
There are no direct flights from Russia to Samui yet, so Samui is not the most convenient and cheap place in terms of getting here. The matter is complicated by the fact that Thai low-cost airlines and the Asian low-cost airline AirAsia do not fly to Koh Samui.
IN samui airport only flies Bangkok airways Is a decent Thai airline with obscenely high ticket prices for Asia. One way ticket from Bangkok to Samui will cost 90-100$ .
Cheap flights to Bangkok can be found using the search engines Aviasales.com and Skyscanner.com (☞).
You can catch air ticket sales to Bangkok or Phuket on the websites of Emirates, Qatar, Etihad, Shrilancan airlines, China Southern, Aeroflot, or subscribe to the corresponding groups in the social. networks that publish news about sales.
Direct flight Moscow-Bangkok lasts 9 o'clock... A flight with a stopover can last between 11 and 18 hours.
Tickets Moscow-Bangkok-Moscow on sale sold by 300-350$ per flight there and back again... Non-sale tickets cost 400-500$ in two sides.
Bangkok-Samui how to get
1. Bus + ferry or train + bus + ferry, $ 40
Bangkok-Samui bus + ferry ticket costs 30-40$ one way, travel time - from 12 to 16 hours.
From Bangkok or Phuket, you can buy a bus + ferry package to Koh Samui with the help of local modes of transport (railway, ferry, bus).
Of course, if the funds allow, it is better to buy a plane ticket to Koh Samui and not suffer. If you get there and back from Bangkok to Koh Samui by land, and not by plane, it turns out save more than $ 100 per person, so many choose this method.
The distance from Bangkok to Koh Samui is as much as 762 km! 2. Plane to Surat Thani + bus + ferry, from $ 30
This option is faster than the first. You can fly from Bangkok to the city of Surat Thani ( $ 19, 1 hour), from there get to the ferry crossing and take the ferry to Koh Samui. Flights from Bangkok to Surat Thani can be searched all on Skyscanner.com.
The problem with this method is that a plane from Russia arrives at the airport. Bangkok Suvarnabhumiand all local flights are operated from the airport Bangkok Don Mung.
From Surat Thani we go by bus to the ferry crossing, after which we sail to Koh Samui. A single ticket costs 10-17$ , on the way from 3 to 5 hours.
This ferry will bring you to Koh Samui Visa for Thailand
For Russians. You do not need a visa if your stay in Thailand is no more than 30 days... There is a free stamp at the airport.
If you plan to fly to Thailand without a visa with a one-way ticket, be sure to book a return ticket or buy a ticket from Thailand with a flight to a third country no later than 30 days.
Most often, booking a ticket without payment is rolled, and sometimes at the airport they ask to present a paid ticket. In order not to risk it, you can visit the website airasia buy a cheap ticket to Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia - anywhere, just to show that you will fly out of Thailand.
Visa conditions for winterers are getting worse every year. It is no longer possible to make a visa, as before, 6 times a winter. Look for up-to-date information on this topic. If you plan to spend several months in Thailand, it is better to get a Thai visa in Russia in advance.
For Belarusians. A visa is needed, it is issued at the consulate in Moscow or through intermediaries in Minsk for 80-150$ ... Give a single entry visa for 60 days, you can extend it without leaving Koh Samui for another 30 days per 1900 baht (60$ ).
If you do not want to apply for a visa in Moscow, you can do it in any country neighboring Thailand. For example, I received Thai visas in Malaysia and Vietnam.
If you are flying with a visa in your passport, then a return ticket home can be in 60 days or even in 90 days (the main thing is not more than 90).
Rental housing on Koh Samui
Hotel or vacation bungalow
If you are going on vacation for a couple of weeks, especially in high season, it is better to read in advance about the beaches and areas of the island (below in the text it is described about all the beaches of Samui), choose a hotel for yourself on the desired beach, book it via the Internet in order to come and relax rather than wasting time looking for a bungalow or hotel.
Housing for daily rent on the spot costs the same as on the Internet at a roomguru or at a booking.
Examples of prices for bungalows and hotels
I heard that it is cheaper on site!
It is cheaper on the spot if you rent a house for several months. When renting a normal apartment on the spot, the price is the same as on the Internet.
The coastline of popular beaches is built up with housing for tourists (bungalows, hotels, villas, several condo complexes). Why would Thais rent out such housing cheaply when it can be expensive?
On unpopular beaches, you yourself are unlikely to want to live, because it is dirty and there is no sea (in the southeast and west of the island there may be strong low tides).
There are exceptions when complexes of modest houses, built a kilometer or two from the sea, are rented for daily rent for 8-15$ , and you can remove them only on the spot, if you know exactly where these houses are. Not knowing where they are located, it is almost impossible to find them (I found such places only with the help of friends who live on the island and know the housing stock).
Such a simple room with air conditioning and a bathroom can be rented on the spot for $ 10-12 if you know where to look House on Koh Samui for a long time
During wintering, they usually rent a house or apartment for several months. If this is your case, then there are two options.
Path 1 - all by yourself
1. Preparation
Find articles on the Internet about houses in Thailand, websites of real estate agencies, which have examples of houses with addresses or with reference to a map, make notes on your map in maps.me or on a google map.
2. Hotel for 2-3 days
Prices for renting a house on Koh Samui
5000-7000 baht - Thai style houses in the south of the island, in Nathon or on Maenam, far from the sea
My Thai-style house on Koh Samui for 8000 baht 12-14,000 baht - modern single bedroom houses with air conditioning, kitchen, refrigerator, in the low season you can rent a house for such a price near the sea, in the high season 2-4 km from the sea in the side streets
15-18000 baht - a modest beach bungalow or a decent house with two bedrooms and living room away from the sea
20-30,000 baht and higher - a good house in the season near the sea
25-30,000 baht - modern spacious studio or apartment with European-quality renovation, swimming pool, sea views next to the beach
30-40,000 baht - modern house with 3 bedrooms, its own territory and a swimming pool near the sea
60,000 baht - villa on Lamai or Chaweng near the sea
House on Koh Samui for 50,000 baht per month per season Utilities
The Internet - 500-600 baht per month (depending on the house, maybe free)
Electricity and water are usually charged separately. If the state. rates, then 4 baht per kW, but prices can be 5-10 baht per kW... You need to check with the owner and see that the price for electricity is indicated in the contract.
I paid for electricity 600 baht a month in a house where only a refrigerator and a fan worked, and my friends living in a house with air conditioning and a swimming pool 5000 THB per month.
Car and bike rental
It's sad without a bike on Koh Samui. With a bike, it can also become sad if you constantly fall off it, but without a bike it is generally sad.
Prices for renting a bike on Koh Samui
5-9$ /150-300 baht per day depending on the bike model (Honda Click, Scoopy) and the impudence of the lessor
12-30$ / 400-1000 baht for a Kawasaki or Yamaha motorcycle
90-130$ / 3000-4500 baht per month depending on the bike model
Car rental prices on Koh Samui
23-30$ / 800-1000 baht per day for a small car
30-35$ / 1000-1200 baht per day for pickup
30-40$ / 1000-1400 baht per day for a sedan
45-60$ / 1600-2000 bahtper day for a jeep
350-600$ / 12-20,000 baht per month depending on the class of car
Daily rentals can be made through international car rental companies by comparing rentalcars prices. If you need a car for a month, it is better to look for local small rentals.
Thais drive pickups Public transport
From public transport on Koh Samui, there are songteos and taxis. There are no tuk-tuk, buses or motorcycle taxis on Koh Samui.
Travel to Songteo is worth 1.5-2$ / 50-60 baht, but the drivers ask tourists and 3$ / 100 and 6$ / 200 baht (depends on the impudence of the driver).
Take small money with you. From 100 baht they don't give change. They pretend to have forgotten. Specify the fare in advance.
You can get from the airport by taxi. From 10$ / 350 baht to nearby beaches to 25$ / 800 baht to distant beaches. The transfer can be ordered directly at the Samui airport or in advance on the Internet at.
Songteo looks something like this, only with a roof, and instead of cells there are benches for passengers The pros of living and relaxing on Koh Samui in Thailand
1. Good transport links with Russia. There are no direct flights from Russia to Koh Samui yet, but you can fly directly to the island from Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and other cities in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Cheap flights can be found using search engines and.
2. Developed infrastructure. The presence of several large supermarkets (Tesco Lotus, Big C, Makro), massage parlors, restaurants and cafes for every budget. Many catering establishments have a menu in Russian.
3. Delicious food
4. There are many markets where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, inexpensive fish. If you wish, seafood will be cut up and fried on a wire rack right in the market or in the supermarket.
Market in Thailand 5. There are raw food and vegetarian cafes and restaurants (if this is important for someone), and absolutely every cafe and every market has vegetarian dishes.
6. Service in Russian and English. The Russian-speaking community on Koh Samui is quite large, and, naturally, there are many companies and specialists offering services in Russian. For example, a motorbike will be brought to you directly to the ferry, you can order in advance. On Koh Samui, the organization of weddings, photo shoots and other events is on stream.
7. A lot of attractions, there will be a separate post about each attraction of Samui:
- stunning nature: tropical jungle, mountains, palm groves, long beaches
Jungle of Koh Samui - Na Muang waterfall and a few more smaller waterfalls:
Waterfall 2 - Safari park Na Muang, where you can ride elephants
I put 20 baht in the trunk of an elephant for the pleasure of standing side by side in Na Muang Safari park and riding elephants - many observation decks and pools overlooking the sea
Pool with sea view 
Observation deck on Koh Samui - Nathon is the main city of the island, where you can see how Thais live.
Thais drink a meter of beer at the bazaar in Nathon - all kinds of tours to other islands or other parts of the country, and the trip can be organized independently or you can buy an excursion at one of the travel agencies
8. The proximity of two other islands - Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Phangan has gorgeous beaches, wildlife, etc. On Koh Tao - diving and snorkeling on the coral reef
Koh Phangan Island in Thailand 9. Medicine is well developed. There are pharmacies on every corner, there are several hospitals: Samui International Hospital, Bangkok Samui Hospital and Thai International Hospital in the Chaweng Beach area, Bandon International Hospital in the Bophut area near the Big C supermarket, Samui Government Hospital in Nathon (it is the cheapest, mostly local residents are treated there). In addition to hospitals, on the island of Koh Samui there are many private offices and clinics, where all the same doctors who work in hospitals at other times are accepted.
10. Automobile and motorcycle salons, where you can buy or rent a car or motorcycle, both daily and for a long time.
11. Centers for the sale of Apple products and other gadgets, and the prices are 20 percent lower than Russian ones, and VAT can also be returned later.
Apple salon on Koh Samui 12. Kitesurfing. There are several schools on Koh Samui where you can learn to kitesurf, and Hua Thanon Beach, where the branch of Thailand's largest kiting school KiteBoarding Asia is located in the Samui Orchid Resort area in the southeast of the island, is an ideal place to study. The beach is very wide, covered with soft sand without stones, it is convenient to start from it, and the depth of the sea for 500 meters from the coast hardly reaches the waist. The cost of one lesson is 4000 baht, 3 lessons - 11000 baht. There is a Russian-speaking instructor. There will also be a separate article with a video about kiting on Koh Samui.
Hua Thanon Beach, where kitesurfing is taught 
Kitesurfing on Koh Samui 13. I don’t know if it’s a plus or a minus, but there are just a huge number of Russians on Samui. For a month I have never spoken English to anyone (after all, Thais hardly understand English).
14. Affordable prices for housing and food. Of course, higher than in Bangkok or in the north of Thailand, but in comparison with Russia, it is quite good. A house on Koh Samui can be found for any budget, especially if you take care of the search in advance and do not wait for the high season (November to February). Housing prices on Koh Samui start from 8000 and up. You can rent a villa for 40,000 - 60,000 baht per month with a pool and all the amenities. A hotel on Koh Samui can be booked in advance, but a house for rent for a long time will have to be looked for on the spot.
15. There is Internet almost everywhere, and the speed of 3g in some places reaches 50 megabits, so Samui is suitable for long-term living and wintering if you need high-speed Internet access to work.
16. Koh Samui beaches - this is perhaps the main plus. Here everyone will find for themselves both a calm sea and a wave, as peace is grace, so a party and movement. There are a great many beaches on Koh Samui, here I will list only the main areas and beaches:
Chaweng
East of the island. The center of nightlife and resort life, where the main bars, discos and restaurants are located, young people settle here. The beach is not as good as in other areas, there are noticeable ebb and flow, there are reverse currents and waves. Can be noisy if living on a main street. If you want to buzz until the morning every night, then on Koh Samui this is not very good. Most of Chaweng's establishments close already at 3 am, the main buzz until the morning occurs on Saturdays and Wednesdays.
Chaweng beach on Koh Samui 
Chaweng Beach Party 
Nightlife in Chaweng, Koh Samui Bang Rak (Bang Rak)
Northeast. Beaches starting from the Big Buddha.
Big Buddha statue Bophut
Northeast. There is a central street with cafes and restaurants, a sufficient number of hotels. Personally, I don't really like the beaches of Bophut, because the water in the sea is muddy.
Sea on Bophut Mae Nam
North. This is one of my favorite areas. The water on the beaches of Maenam is clear, the ebb and flow are not particularly noticeable here. This area is suitable for families with children. There are no clubs as such, but there are bars, restaurants and cafes.
Waves and algae in Maenam in January. Bang Po
Northwest. Clean beaches with white sand, calm sea.
We have fun with friends on the beaches of Koh Samui. In the photo with me Igor Dzyuba is a friend and neighbor. Taling Ngam (Taling Ngam)
Southwest. There are mainly hotels and villas of a higher price category. The Intercontinental area has some of the best sunsets on Koh Samui.
Taling Ngam beach (Taling Ngam) on the island of Koh Samui in Thailand 
Hua Thanon (Hua Thanon)
Southeast. The beach is only suitable for swimming with children. There is a kitesurf school, many hotels, a Muslim village and a few overpriced cafes.
Muslim village 
Kitesurfing on Koh Samui Cons of Koh Samui in Thailand
* Naturally, all these disadvantages are very conditional and, perhaps, for someone else, on the contrary, will seem like advantages.
1. Prices are slightly higher than in other parts of Thailand, but lower than in Phuket and Pattaya
2. Many Russians, there is no feeling that you are abroad
3. Too civilized. Relatively many cars and bikes, traffic jams in the evenings in the Chaweng and Lamai areas. You can get stuck on the road for 20-30 minutes if you are driving a car.
4. Many people (depending on what to compare, of course). Compared to Koh Phangan, there are many, but compared to the beaches of Odessa, there are no people on Koh Samui at all.
5. There is no public transport. There are only taxis, the so-called songteos, which are expensive and inconvenient to travel by. The way out is to rent a scooter.
6. Samui is an island, so you can get out of it only by plane or by ferry (they run on schedule from different piers several times a day), or rent a boat. That is, it is impossible at any time to break off and go wherever you look, you have to take into account the ferry schedule.
7. Autumn is the rainy season, but then how lucky.
8. Most of the vegetables and fruits are imported. On the island itself, only coconuts, durians, mangosteen, bananas and pineapples grow. The island is directly dependent on supplies from the continent, so fruit prices are higher than in other parts of the country.
9. As in all of Thailand, there are practically no dairy products on Koh Samui, and prices for any cheese are unreasonably high. Moreover, cheese that is positioned as expensive (for example, Brie) costs a lot of money, but at the same time it is an ordinary salted melted cheese, painted with paint.
Output: Thus, the island of Koh Samui in Thailand is ideal for both short-term vacations and long-term stays, no matter how old you are, whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with the whole family with children, or hanging out with a company. You can find both a quiet place and movement, provide yourself with comfortable food and living conditions, and also not get bored by visiting a variety of excursions and natural attractions.
Paradise islands for you! Yours faithfully,
Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand in Thailand. You can often hear Ko Samui (Koh Samui island) or Koh Samui - this is the name of the same island, but the prefix "Koh" from the Thai language means the Russian word "island", hence the name, Ko Samui.
Koh Samui is a popular holiday destination among foreign tourists, people come here when it is cold winter at home. Among tourists you can meet anyone: parents with children, vacationers, retirees and young people.
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The size of the island is not so large when compared to Phuket. It is 25 km long and only 21 km wide, surrounded by very small islands of the Ang Thong nature reserve. This island is located 700 km south of the capital.
The total population of the island is 35 thousand people. The pride of every inhabitant of this island is that they have a rather specific culture and mentality.
Tourism on the island began to develop only in the 80s of the 20th century, when large-scale road construction began here. Today, tourism has become the island's main source of income.
See also about another island in Thailand.
How to get to Koh Samui
It is not difficult to get to it from Bangkok, such a trip will take no more than an hour by plane, if you get from Pattaya, then U-Topao airport is no more than 40 minutes. However, it is necessary to fully take into account all the natural features that are directly related to this region.
What is the island like?
The relief of the island cannot be called flat, there are mainly mountain heights and dense jungle, low-lying areas are built up with residential areas even along the sea coast. There are many classic beaches on Koh Samui, which have white sand and lagoons, the usual urban infrastructure is well developed, and the most amazing thing is coconut groves.
It is no coincidence that Samui is called the Island of coconut trees, there are more than 3.5 million species of them here. The coconuts of this island are the best in the world. Local buildings are bungalows, villas are located on the beach and among the palm trees.
Popular places are Lamai and Chaweng beaches. The sunrise on this island is considered to be the most unforgettable sight. Two cliffs, Hinta and Hanai, rise at the southern end of Lamai Beach.
Not only tourists love these places, they are of interest to local residents as well. The surrounding nature is insanely beautiful, but the sand is not very good - large and not so white on the beaches of Big Buddha, Me Nam and Bo Phut.
Koh Samui on the map
Why are people so fond of Koh Samui holidays?
- All kinds of infrastructure are well developed on the island;
- There are nice, clean, quiet and comfortable beaches here;
- Samui's mild climate is great for families and even with small children;
- The island of Koh Samui is actually large, so there really is everything here: both calm and more active beaches, nightclubs, markets, shops and supermarkets, kindergartens and schools, waterfalls and mountains, temples and other attractions - everyone will find something to your liking.
When the season comes
From mid-December to the very end of March on Koh Samui. This is the time when prices rise relentlessly, and people come to rest all the time. It rains from December to February, and when there is no precipitation, the sky is still cloudy. But from February only bright, pleasant sun awaits you.
In the period from April to May, Koh Samui experiences unbearable heat and drought, and only in the western part of the island can you sometimes get caught in rain. But finding cheap housing during this period will not be difficult.
A trip from October to December is undesirable, because in this area the northeastern monsoons are the owners and therefore it rains and there is a small storm at sea.
Attractions of the island
In addition to coconut trees, sandy beaches and quirky, exotic cuisine, this small island has many interesting places to visit.
- Wat Kunaram is a Buddhist temple where you can see firsthand the mummy of the great monk. Of course, you won't be able to touch it, but the sight will not leave you indifferent. By making a small donation to the temple, you can receive a bracelet from local Buddhist sages as a gift. They say that it protects its owner from evil spirits and even grants wishes.
- The monument to the Big Buddha, although it bears the same name as its counterpart from Phuket, however, its height is several times lower: "only" 12 meters.
- Magic Garden - this place evokes various emotions in visitors - from interest to horror. The garden features sculptures of Buddha, as well as various animals, idols and demons. The picture is completed by the huge ubiquitous vines that literally envelop everything around.
- Paradise Park, which includes an excellent swimming pool, a zoo (including a petting one), a children's playground and the largest collection of various outlandish plants on the island.
- Safari Park - thrill-seekers will be able to ride an elephant, and for those who prefer a spectacular vacation, there are personal show programs with animals.
The island is famous for a huge number of temples, most of which are Buddhist. To visit all the temples in one vacation is not a feasible task, since their number is actually large. Most popular temples:
- Monk's Mummy;
- Wat Ratchathammaram (red temple);
- Laem sor;
- Buddha footprint;
Khun Aram temple 
Plai Laem Temple 
Red Temple - Wat Ratchathammaram Entertainment on Koh Samui
The main types of recreation on Koh Samui are boat trips to the nearest islands, diving, beach holidays, visiting temples of real Buddhists, excursions to relics and the most popular among tourists - jungle trekking.
A lot of institutions on this island close at 22.00 and therefore the fading of life occurs very early, of course, there are many restaurants on the island with round-the-clock service.
It may be difficult to lie down and sunbathe, but try yourself in some water sports, this is where a lot of entertainment is offered. Coral reefs are quite a fascinating sight located on the islands of Nang Yunan, Tao.
You can watch the life of beautiful fish diving.
Two holidays that take place on Koh Samui are the holiday and celebration of Chak Phra.
Where to live on the island?
Finding accommodation on the island was a problem only until the 20th century. Now, travelers love Thailand, and it, in turn, creates all the necessary conditions for a comfortable stay.
Any visitor to the island will be able to find accommodation for themselves and their budget - from a modest hotel for a nominal fee to luxury five-star hotels.
The bungalows are comfortable enough to live in, although they are not air conditioned. The island's restaurants offer seafood, European dishes and of course tropical fruits.
Samui hotels are usually located on the first line, and besides the fact that almost every hotel has its own beach, it also strives to provide a host of other services - from spas and swimming pools to tennis courts and golf courses. Rooms in such hotels are necessarily equipped with free internet access and air conditioning.
- Most hotels do not recommend drinking tap water, moreover, buying bottled water even to brush your teeth with a ray;
- There are a lot of swindlers on the island, so if you are carrying valuable things with you, do not leave them even in the luggage of the bus;
- Shopping on the island is not very developed, however, this does not apply to purchases of T-shirts, souvenirs or glasses. The main trade on the island is in the market, as well as in the Chaweng, Nathon and Lamai beach areas;
- Feel free to bargain no matter what you buy. All goods in Koh Samui are significantly overpriced, but sellers are condescendingly inferior on almost everything;
- Do you like cashew nuts? On Koh Samui, you can meet them right in the middle of the street growing on trees. But in no case do not pluck them - without proper heat treatment, nut juice can be poisonous to the human body.
- If necessary, you can extend your visa at the immigration office located right on the island, just do not delay until late - it works until 16.30
Prices
The pricing policy of Koh Samui is slightly higher when compared with the mainland cities of Thailand. However, during the high season of tourists, the difference in prices can be significant. Vegetables such as potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes are not grown on Koh Samui, so they are imported and are more expensive than on the mainland.
Who is the rest for?
It should be noted that Koh Samui is most suitable for people who prefer a relaxing holiday, unity with nature and love good beaches. Fans of more active recreation will not get bored either, because in the local variety of excursions, everyone will find something for themselves.
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In addition to Phuket, Koh Samui is another well-known Thai resort. Its territorial length is only 25 km long and 21 km wide, but this does not prevent many of our compatriots from annually ordering last minute deals to Koh Samui and having a full rest there. Samui is located only 700 km from the capital of Thailand, so tourists get there very quickly. You can fly there both from Bangkok (spend about an hour on the way), and from Pattaya (the route will take no more than 40 minutes). If you are determined to go on vacation in Koh Samui, then you definitely need to make allowances for the climatic features of this region. For example, in the period from October to December it is not recommended to go to this island, because it often rains heavily, and the sea storms from time to time. The most optimal time to visit this resort is considered to be the period from January to February, as well as from the second half of July to August.The history of the resort
For the first time (about 1500 years ago) the island was discovered by local sailors and founded their settlement on it, but the official confirmation of the existence of Samui appeared only 1000 years later - the representatives of the Chinese Ming dynasty entered it on their navigation maps. It should be noted that Samui was actively used by China and Thailand as a trading port. This is evidenced by many historical facts, as well as the abundance of sunken Chinese ships with various loads of ceramics on board. During World War II, the city survived the occupation by Japanese troops. Now the population of the island is 35,000 people. Many people book tours to Koh Samui in order not only to relax, but also to get acquainted with the traditions and culture of the Chao Samui people - this is how the indigenous people of this island call themselves.
Beaches
The most prone to relaxation is the eastern part of the island. This is where the best hotels in Koh Samui are located. Of course, in the West of the island there are also good beaches with a developed infrastructure, but there are noticeably fewer of them, because the coast there is more rocky. If you are visiting the island for the first time, then be sure to visit Lamai and Chaweng beach complexes. Here you can see the sunrise in all its glory and capture it with your camera or photo camera. The southern part of Lamai beach meets tourists with two cliffs Hanai and Hinta (Grandmother and Grandfather). It is here that you can meet not only vacationers from all over the world, but also local residents who also like to spend their leisure time here. No less famous beaches on the island are Me Nam, Bo Phut, and Big Buddha Beach.
Hotel complexes
Hotels in Koh Samui have only three floors. Why? - you ask. It's very simple - this island is home to over 3.5 million palms that are considered a local treasure. Absolutely everything points to this. For example, Samui laws do not allow builders to erect a building taller than a palm tree. That is why you will not find skyscrapers and large hotel complexes on the island. All hotels, bungalows and villas on the island are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay of tourists. Absolutely every hotel complex has a restaurant or cafe offering national cuisine, so you definitely won't have to go hungry. It is worth noting that most restaurants are open until 10 pm (these are the rules on the island), but if you wish, you can find establishments with round-the-clock service.
Entertainment and leisure
Resorts and prices in Koh Samui are ideal for 110% fun and relaxation. Tourists have access to both regular rest, which involves lying on the beach, and active pastime provided by various types of water transport. For example, diving enthusiasts will definitely like this resort complex, because the underwater world of Samui is very multifaceted and diverse. Here you will find virgin coral reefs, cliffs, grottoes, etc.
