Joanna James
Tipped to be Thailand's favourite beach holiday destination, Koh Samui welcomes travellers from around the world. Here are five travel tips every visitor must know before heading down to the sun-kissed island.
Although one may think that getting around in Koh Samui won't be that expensive via public transportation, nothing could be farther from the truth. The easiest and most efficient way to get from Point A to Point B when in Koh Samui is by renting one's own vehicle, whether that's a car, van, motorbike, or bicycle. Car rental fees are not only affordable on the island but the entire process of renting a vehicle has also been streamlined for the convenience of tourists. Petrol and other fuel is also available in glass bottles and sold by street-side vendors so one can rent a motorcycle or a car from a local rental company and cruise around the island for less. Note that those who intend to drive a motor vehicle in Koh Samui must possess an international driving license.
Never underestimate the benefits of a strategically situated hotel or a resort base in a beach hub the likes of Koh Samui. Whether one secures a room at the Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort or any other Chaweng villa resort, the convenience of the location of the property must be considered. This is especially relevant for those who are holidaying in Koh Samui for a limited number of days as travelling to the various sightseeing hubs and beaches around the island will be that much easier if one's base location is well-placed.
Forget the Central Festival Mall and other shopping complexes and stick to the sprawling night markets across Bophut's Fisherman's Village for your Koh Samui shopping sprees. Taking place at Bophut every Friday night, the night market in Fisherman's Village is a one-stop-shop for everything under the sun. not only is the night market one of the best street food hubs on the island but the large number of bars at the thoroughfare also makes it a hit among party-goers. Retailing everything from sarongs, shoes, and swimsuits to local treats and speciality items made in Thailand, the night market in Bophut is not the only gig in town either as the Lamai Beach night market on Sundays is equally enticing for tourists.
Most travellers based in Koh Samui explore the island's stunning beaches and water parks before calling it a day on their island getaway. Home to some of Thailand's finest Buddhist and Hindu temples, no trip to the area would be complete without a tour of the Wat Phra Yai Temple or a pit stop at the Wat Plae Laem compound.
Koh Samui is lined with convenience stores that are open around the clock and tourists can take advantage of these venues that retail everything from toilet paper, SIM cards, and face masks to ready-to-eat food items during a holiday.
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