Meter TaxiMeter taxis are cheap; always ask if the meter is working, and understand where you want to go, tips are expected. If the meter is not used, negotiate the price before setting off. In Koh Samui they are yellow colored. Koh Samui Local TransportSmall converted pick up trucks called songthaews serve as local buses during daylight hours. The destination is marked in English on the front and sides. Just flag the driver down, and tell him where you would like to go. The charge is 30 baht per person. Fares increase after 6.00pm so it best to agree a price before you get in. Tourist Police, Guides, etc.If you are approached by anyone, it is highly likely that he is unofficial. Thais are by nature shy and do not approach Westerners directly. Hire CarsJeeps are available from Coconut land (cheap). Always check that you are satisfied with the vehicle, indicators / handbrake / A/C etc. The international hire companies Hertz etc, have a more modern and varied fleet and hire can also be arranged through Coconut Land. Prices vary from 700 - 2,000 Baht. Some of the hire companies require you to leave your passport as collateral on the car, so plan trips to the money exchange accordingly. For the nearest petrol station, turn left out of Coconut Grove, and it is half a mile on the right hand side of the road. ToursTours can be arranged through Coconut land or directly with the operators. MoneyThe island has street ATM machines which take all major cards. Banks and ATM's are situated in the towns such as Nathon, Maenam, Chaweng, and Lami etc. The exchange rate at Bangkok airport or in the towns is competitive, but generally hotels are a more expensive option. ChemistPharmacies are all around the Island and display green cross signs. Important Numbers
NewspapersLeading publishers like The Nation and Bangkok Post publishes daily English newspapers. A monthly cable & satellite magazine ( UBC ) details all the available stations and programs. PostPost card postage to the UK is 15 Baht. The shop across the road sells stamps and postcards. A post box is located at the entrance to Coconut Grove. Eating OutThe choice of restaurants is endless and also reflects the nationality of the visitors to the island. Seafood is especially good. Some of our recommended restaurants away from Bang Po are: Islander Australian Pub / Restaurant Chez Andy Steaks & International Restaurant Drop In Thai & Seafood Restaurant Big John Seafood Seafood Restaurant Other recommended restaurants by the Samui Culinary Circle
DrinkAll the international soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits are available. Local beer ranges from European taste to Thai taste. The local spirit is called Meekong or Sang Som (Thai Whiskey), which is actually rum. Thai Whisky can be ordered from local bars as a "Sang Som set" which is a bottle of Whisky, 2 cokes and a bucket of ice - ideal for sundowners. Beers - Carlsberg / Heineken / Klosters / Singa / Chang |
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