KOH SAMUI

Introduction

Koh Samui like other idyllic seaside sanctuaries with white sand beaches was first discovered by backpackers in the early 1970’s when a thatched hut without running water and electricity was regarded as heaven-on-earth. Samui’s archipelago is rapidly becoming the Caribbean of Asia With the advent of regular passenger and vehicle ferry service from Suratthani and the opening of an airport with frequent flights from Bangkok, Phuket and Singapore. The island is gifted with such an incredibly rich variety of beaches and bays, capes and coves, that it seems like several islands rolled into one.

Climate

The climate of Samui is tropical and therefore warm throughout the whole year. At the same time it is dominated by the monsoon winds that bring about the seasonal changes from dry to wet. There are two very hot periods of weather on Samui, the first between March to June when the average temperatures range from 32 to 38 degrees Celsius and only the occasional tropical thunderstorm brings relief from the heat. This is the least crowded time of year and good bargains on bungalows can be made during this off-season period. It is also very hot between July to September with the temperature rising to highs about 35 degrees celsius. There are occasional showers but these hardly last more than a few hours. The months from November to February are generally cool enough to spend more time enjoying outdoor activities. Although this is officially the rainy season, you will probably nonetheless see a good deal of sun and clear skies, as tropical rain showers tend to last not for long.

People And Lifestyle

Official Samui records reflect a local population of around 40,000 inhabitants who are known as chao Samui (”Samui folks”) rather than Chao Thai, indicating their pride in their local culture and ethnic identity. The residents of Samui are Thais who migrated from the mainland including Muslims from Pattani who are settled in the fishing village of Hua Thanon and brought with them the bright colorful boats. About one third ofthe Thai’s living on Samui are Muslims. Concentrated mostly around Nathon and Hua Thanon. Life in Samui is as easy-going and relaxed as can be, and the Samui residents are notably tolerant of even the oddest characteristics. Shoes should be taken off when entering a private home. Thais are of cool nature and therefore remain patient even under hard times and visitors who wish to get along with the people here should do the same. A smile for which Thai people are known for, would get you a lot further than a frown, even when you are annoyed.