Information about Koh Samui, Thailand

KOH SAMUI BRIEFLY

80 kilometers out from the mainland of Southern Thailand lies the beautiful tropical island of Koh Samui. Set amongst innumerable smaller islands of the Angthong Archipelago and the Angthong Marine National Park, Koh Samui is the largest and most populated of the islands in this region.

From the moment that you set foot on the ferry pier after the boat trip across or set foot on the tarmac at the Bangkok Airways Samui Airport, the charm of this enchanting island gets you.

The airport is one of the most beautiful small airports in the world today with landscaped gardens and traditional island architecture. The ferry ports at Nathon and Chon Khram are also quaint, island style points of arrival and departure worth a visit in their own right.

Samui had a local population of some 35,000 Thai people. The island folk are kind-hearted, smiling, happy people who seem to have not a worry in the world. Who would, living on such a paradise island? Their lifestyle is idyllic to say the least.

Until the advent of tourism in the late 70's, fishing and coconut farming were virtually the only sources of income on Koh Samui. Both these industries remain today, with Samui exporting thousands of tons of coconuts to the mainland each year. You still see the coconut pickers, huskers and copra burners at work today, the sweet smell of coconut woodhusk smoke permeating the air in places.

The most popular beaches on Samui are Chaweng, Lamai and Maenam. Sporting accommodation from simple thatch roof bungalows to full 5-Star luxury, these places are none-the-less never overcrowded or too busy.

In addition to the popular beaches are another 23 individual beaches, some much more removed and quieter. The choice is yours alone.

Weather on Samui is generally very, very agreeable with a temperature of around 25 degrees C. in the cool season (from November to February) to highs of 35 degrees plus in the hot dry season (from March to June). Although humid at times, the heat is never oppressive, cooled Samui is by the gentle sea breezes from The Gulf of Thailand.

My Samui weather blog has daily updates on Koh Samui's weather and many other Samui related information, like restaurant reviews and tips and first hand information about things to do and places to visit.

Accommodation on Samui ranges from simple moderately priced beach bungalows for 500 Baht per night with shower & fan up to medium priced Resorts with Air-con rooms with en suite toilet & bathroom priced 1200 - 2000 Baht per night.

We can help you find a self catering Bungalow for between 8000 - 12000 Baht per month, equipped with cooking facilities and living room. In fact most of our PADI Divemaster / IDC Candidates staying for extended periods select this option, some have even found decent rooms for less than 8000 Baht , although you would need to rent and ride a small moped (90cc) to get around which costs approximately 3500 Baht per month. For your arrival on Samui, we are pleased to provide complimentary transfer to your resort and provide information on the local area.

FREE PADI NITROX INSTRUCTOR

Camille now includes your PADI Nitrox Instructor rating for FREE in all IDC courses and internships (this offer does not include required PADI materials for becoming a PADI Nitrox diver / Instructor and PADI applications fees).