The island of Koh Samui has transformed from a
simple island of fishing, coconut farming, rice farming and durian farming into
a paradise escape for vacationers and travelers word wide. It is the third
larges island in Thailand, but only covers and area of 247
kilometers.
The population is approximately 40,000 and is
located mainly in and around the 6 main towns and beaches being Chaweng, Lamai,
Taling Ngam, Nathon, Mae Nam and Bo Phut.
Although developing and growing rapidly over the
last 10 years, Samui has kept is personal charm through the ever smiling and
friendly Chao Samui (Samui Folk) and from a government controlled development
plan.
All buildings within 50 meters of the beach can
only be one story high, while buildings outside 50 meters of the beach can be no
higher than the coconut trees ( generally three stories).
Thus Samui is without the incredible eye sore of
sky scraper buildings and maintains a tropical beach atmosphere fringed by a
variety of coconut palms.
The tropical climate, white sandy beaches,
heavily forested mountainous terrain, deep blue ocean, deserted coves, coconut
trees, rice fields and surrounding islands, combined with a full range of dining
possibilities and pulsating nightlife ensures a relaxing and magical place to live
or paradise getaway.
Getting around Samui is simple and inexpensive. The most common method is by truck taxis called
Songtaos and the fares range from 20 baht and up depending on your destination.
The fares increase at night, especially after midnight, so always agree to a
price before getting in.
There are plenty of motorbikes to rent around the
island for about 150 baht per day, while jeeps and cars can be rented from 800
baht and higher, depending on the make and model. You can also get very good
monthly and yearly rates if you plan to stay in Samui for longer
term.
There are many motorbike accidents on the island
so if you are inexperienced, do not drive one.!!! If you are experienced,
please be very careful.
Tipping is not expected in Thailand, but leaving
a small amount is a nice gesture if you received good service.
Bargaining is not practiced in Restaurants, Bars,
Supermarkets, Department Stores, Pharmacies and Public Transport (except taxis
and tuk tuks).
Most independent business owners from Jewelry
stores to street vendors are open to bargaining and generally start prices very
high.
Always remember to bargain in a friendly manner
and have fun as you will get better prices in the end.
Koh Samui is well known for it vibrant and
exciting nightlife, centered on Chaweng Beach.
The open air bars, pubs, cabaret shows and discos
are the most popular night stops for tourists and include great discos like
Green Mango, Reggae Pub and Full Cycle (Thai Disco). They are in turn
surrounded by many good smaller pubs, beer bars and dance clubs. But the most popular, most fun and
a guaranteed great time is definatately The Sweet Soul Cafe. Do not forget to
check to check it out!!
Walk anywhere on Chaweng Beach Road and a
plethora of wonderful Thai, Asian, and Western Restaurants can be found.
For great food, full bodied imported draft beers, and Sports Bar atmosphere, try
the Islander or Tropical Murphy's.
Lamai Beach is a lot smaller and more quaint, but
not without hot spots for a good time. The largest and most popular disco is the
Bauhaus Pub, while a new Thai Disco just opened called Super Sup. All other pubs
and bars are within walking distance including the very popular Siam Bar and
Grill with great food and live entertainment, Smooth Pub (live band) and Fusion
Club.
Finally for a much slower pace you can frequent
Fisherman's village in Bo Phut. There are some quality pubs run by Englishmen
offering a relaxed fishing village atmosphere (The Crows Nest, The Frog and
Gecko, Tropicana and the Pub).
Not only does Samui have some of the best beaches
in the world, but also offers many exciting, unique and enjoyable things to do
and visit. These include:-
Day
boat trip snorkeling and kayaking
thru Anthong National
Marine Park
Oriental
Gallery
Sailing
Safaris
Health
Spas
Eco
Adventures-jungle trekking
Thai
Cooking Classes
Big
Buddha and temples
Bungee
jump
Samui
Snake Farm
Tennis
Samui
Butterfly Garden
Squash
Majestic
Naumang Waterfall
Mini
Golf
Grandfather
& Grandmother Rock
Golf
Driving Range
Monkey
Shows
Beach
Volleyball
Scuba
diving and snorkeling around
Koh Tao & Koh Tan Islands
Santiburi
Samui Golf Course
(To be completed later in 2003)
KOH SAMUI INFO &
MAPS
