Koh Samui hotels - General
Information
Koh Samui:
The island of Samui is situated in the Gulf
of Thailand. It is approximate 80 Kms off the coast of Surat
Thani and about 560 Kms south of Bangkok (1 hour approx.
by Air).
Samui has a land area of 280 sq. Km. and a
local population of a mere 34,000. The island is a tropical
paradise of coconut palms rolling mountains, and white sandy
beaches. Not long ago - the primary industry was coconut
plantations which can be seen everywhere.
Best know for its carefree exotic appeal Samui
was only accessible by boat to the more intrepid backpacker.
Fortunately this isolation has kept Samui out of the guidebookes
and mainstream tourism. Because of the lack of a major airport
and limited ferry services the island is still a sleepy
paradise and is unlike Bali or even Phuket.
Into the Twentith Century
!!
In the last five years, Samui has witnessed
substantial modernization including roads, hotels and infrastructure
projects that include: telecommunication, sewerage and lately
even an 18 hole golf course.
Thankfully, the pockets of development that
have occurred are only in concentrated areas. Today much
of the island, especially the southern coastline and the
mountains. The retain their original beauty.
You can discover much of this magic exploring
the island on a moped (motor bike) or open top jeep.
Getting Around:
Getting around is easy. - All roads lead back
to the same place. You won't find big 2 lane highway on
Samui.
Instead, there is one main road which circles the island.
Approximately 50 Kms in length the road connects the main
beaches, town center, airport and vehicular ferry.
Most travelers who have enough time can appreciate
exploring the many interesting sites by car. The best mode
of transport, though, is moped. If the
weather is nice, a moped allows you can see
a lot more because you go at slower speeds. Renting one
is cheap about Bth. 150-300 and fuel is inexpensive.
A tour around the island will take you approximately
3 - 4 hours (or more) depending on how many stops you make
along the way
The Weather:
Climate:
You don't need a meteorologist to tell you
that Thailand's climate is normally hot and humid, after
all its a tropical country with a typical tropical climate.
Understanding the seasonal variations can help plan your
visit.
The best time to visit Samui is between February
and June, although this is the busiest and often the most
expensive period. During these months water visibility is
at its best due to the reduced rainfall, though downpours
can still occur. Between July and September there's a bigger
chance of rain, though the seas are usually calm and the
lack of crowds can more than compensate for any rainy days.
The northeast monsoon brings strong winds
between October through January, with heavy rain in October
and November. During the latter two months you;ll find better
weather on the west coast resorts of Phuket and Krabi.
Cloths:
Pack light clothing when you come to Thailand.
Not only because of the hot climent but because the low
prices and selection of clothing available will happily
surprise you and tempt you into shopping for more. Even
the tourist on the most modest budget will return home with
some clothing purchased in Thailand. Additionally, laundry
service is available in the hotels and resorts. The service
is inexpensive although the turn around time in many cases
will depend upon the weather. No sun means it takes longer
for the clothing to dry.
Shoes should be comfortable and good for walking.
Remember when entering someone's house, a temple and some
places of business removing your shoes outside is required.
High top boots with many laces are great for trekking through
the jungle, but after having to remove them for entrance,
you will quickly consider footwear which is easier to remove.
Take care to wear modest clothing when visiting temples
and palaces. If you are dressed inappropriately you will
be told about it and not allowed entrance. Casual clothing
is acceptable for tourists, but when visiting special places
do not wear short shorts, halter-tops or muscle shirts.
Transportation to Samui:
There is a multitude of transport options
to Koh Samui from Bangkok and elsewhere in South East Asia
as well from Singapore.
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