All infrastructure in Koh Samui is located along a 52-kilometre road around the island. The centre of the island is covered by tropical forests and mountains. There is no public transportation in Koh Samui, so it is recommended to rent a car or use taxi services for getting around.
The most popular areas for expats in Koh Samui are located in the north and east of the island, where there are many international schools, hospitals, and private clinics. This part of the island is considered the most touristic due to its numerous attractions, developed infrastructure, and luxury hotels.
The climate in Koh Samui differs significantly from other regions of Thailand, primarily because, during the rainy season, while most of the country experiences heavy rainfall, Koh Samui remains dry and warm, offering comfortable beach weather.
Koh Samui is a unique place that has preserved its natural authenticity due to its geographical isolation from mainland Thailand. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, the island has a different rainy season, allowing visitors to enjoy pleasant weather during the summer months. Koh Samui is a combination of untouched tropical forests, blue beaches, and a well-developed residential infrastructure for tourism and permanent living.
Koh Samui is known for its unique tropical nature and climate. Many tourists consider it a “paradise” of Southeast Asia. People come here in search of balance, to relax on white sandy beaches surrounded by coconut palms.
Expats living in Thailand without a long-term visa must leave the country every 60 days to renew their Thai tourist visa by visiting a neighbouring country. The main challenge for residents of Koh Samui is that the island, located in the Gulf of Thailand, is isolated from neighbouring countries by the sea.
Ferry service is one of the most affordable and scenic ways to get from Koh Samui to the mainland: to Bangkok, Phuket and other ports in Thailand. There are 4 main piers in Koh Samui: in the area of Nathon, Bang Rak, Lipa Noi, and Maenam beaches.
Wichit is an area in Phuket, situated between Chalong and Phuket Town. The boundaries of Wichit are blurred in the minds of its residents as it merges organically with its neighbouring areas to the north and south.
The Karon area, which includes Karon, Kata and Kata Noi beaches, has been a popular family holiday destination for many years. Visitors can enjoy the soft sandy beach during the day and dine at one of the many fresh seafood restaurants in the evening, all within walking distance. Although once a favourite of Scandinavian tourists, Karon has become increasingly popular with Russian tourists in recent years.
For foreign tourists, Phuket is often associated with its snow-white beaches and karst cliffs of Phang Nga Bay. However, for Thai tourists, the historical centre of Phuket Town holds greater significance. The old town is built in the Sino-Portuguese colonial style, which was brought over by the descendants of Chinese emigrants from Malacca and Singapore.
Mai Khao Beach is the longest beach in Phuket and the least affected by development. If your idea of a Phuket holiday is two weeks of peace and quiet in a villa with the sea on your doorstep, then Mai Khao is definitely worth considering.
Bang Tao is a highly popular and rapidly developing area in Phuket. Its appeal lies not only in the beauty of its namesake beach, but also in the attractive offers available from developers during the initial sales stage of new hotels and residential complexes that are being built here.
Phuket is Thailand's largest island and one of its smallest provinces. It is the country’s most important resort in the post-coronavirus era. Phuket was the first province to open to tourists in 2021. Starting from 2023, most flights from the EU and other regions arrive directly on the island, rather than in Bangkok.
Surin is situated between Bang Tao and Kamala and shares many features with its neighbours, making it an ideal destination for tourism or a comfortable winter or permanent residence in a resort-style setting, provided there is no need to transport children to school.
Nai Harn Beach is a popular attraction for tourists visiting Rawai and the southern part of Phuket. It is also a favourite destination for winter visitors and expats living in Chalong due to its proximity.