Time:
GMT +7; one hour behind Singapore time (SST -1).
Population:
The population of Koh Samui is approximately 45,000.
Weather and Climate:
Koh Samui is generally hot and dry throughout the year except for the monsoon months from September to November. Average temperature is 23 to 32 degrees Celsius.
Language:
Thai is the main language of communication among locals. Little English is understood, and usually only in larger establishments.
Currency:
The unit of currency is the Thai Baht (THB) which is divided into 100 satangs. Currency notes are issued in denominations of THB 1000, 500, 100, 50 and 20. Coins are issued in 1, 5 and 10 baht, 25 and 50 satangs.
Drinking water:
Drink only bottled or boiled water.
Banking hours:
Monday to Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm.
IDD code:
Country code +66. Samui area code: 76. SingTel ICC: 001-999-65-0000
Credit/Charge Cards:
Major cards are widely accepted by hotels and larger establishments throughout Thailand, with the exception of small grocery stores and stalls.
Travellers cheques:
Most banks handle travellers' cheques and change foreign currencies. The Plus system allows international travellers to withdraw cash from ATMS.
Electricity:
The electrical current is 240/250V AC 50Hz.
Getting Around:
The most popular way to see Koh Samui is by taxis, motorcycle taxis and converted pick-up trucks (songthaew).
Religion:
Like the rest of Thailand, most of the locals on Koh Samui are Buddhists.
Shopping tips:
Prices in departmental stores are fixed. However, at most other places, buyers may bargain over prices. Generally, expect to obtain a final figure of between 10-40% lower than the original asking price. But remember, Thais appreciate good manners and a sense of humour. With patience and a broad smile, you will not only get a better price, you'll also enjoy shopping as an art.
Most bargains can be found at street vendors and beach stalls.
Taxes:
Value Added Tax (VAT) of 7% is added to your purchases in most larger businesses, shops and departmental stores. Visitors spending in excess of THB 5000 at participating outlets may claim a refund when they leave the Kingdom. Visit the website of the Revenue Department of Thailand for details.
Respect:
The Thais have a deep traditional respect and reverence for the Royal Family and religious places. Visitors are requested to show similar respect. Thais don't normally shake hands when they greet one another, but instead press the palms together in a prayer-like gesture called wai.
Travel Information
Travel from Singapore:
Direct flights from Singapore, one hour forty minutes.
Airport:
Samui Airport (USM) is located 5km from Chaweng Beach. Taxis are available from the arrival hall.
Passports and Visas:
Passports must be valid for a minimum of six months from date of entry. Tourists who do not require entry visas are given up to 30-day visa-free social visit passes upon arrival. However, they should have valid passports and tickets for onward or return connections and sufficient funds for their stay. If a longer stay is required, please contact the Royal Thai Embassy or consultate to apply for a 60-day Tourist Visa. Extensions may be applied for at the Immigration Department in Bangkok. If in doubt, please contact your local travel agency.
Customs and Currency Regulations:
Visitors are permitted to bring in duty-free 200 cigarettes and one litre of wine or spirits. Strict restrictions apply against the import of weapons, narcotics, pornography etc. Any amount of foreign exchange in travellers cheques or drafts may be imported, but cash in excess of USD 10,000 must be declared on arrival. It is not permitted to import more than THB 2,000 per person, nor export more than THB 50,000 per person in cash. Antiques and Buddha images require export licences.
More tourist information:
Please contact your local tourism commission or travel agent. Singapore residents may visit the offices of:
Royal Thai Embassy
370 Orchard Road
Singapore 238870
Tel: (65) 6737-2644 • Fax: (65) 6732-0778
Useful Information
Places to Visit
- Angthong National Marine Park
- Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)
- Grandmother and Grandfather Rocks
- Laem Sor Pagoda
- Na Muang Waterfall
- Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo
- Samui Butterfly Garden
- Secret Buddha Garden
- Wat Khunaram
