Koh SamuiTravel Tips

Typical weather seasons by month.

When the city is peak, balanced, or quieter.

Typical monthly AQI index trends.

What to know before drinking water, eating street food, or dining out.

• Drink sealed bottled water; resort tap water is not for drinking.
• Seafood is best at high-turnover restaurants in Fisherman's Village, Lamai, and Bangrak.
• Avoid raw ice in isolated beach shacks unless the place is visibly busy.
• Coconut, grilled fish, chicken rice, and vegetarian curries are reliable island orders.

Common scams and safety precautions during your stay.

• Photograph scooters and jet skis before rental; damage disputes are common.
• Use Grab or agree taxi prices before moving; meter use is rare on the island.
• Avoid night riding after beach clubs; roads are dark, steep, and sandy in places.
• Keep valuables out of beach bags during swims, especially on busier sands.

Respectful behavior for temples, neighborhoods, and restaurants.

• Dress modestly at sacred sites and remove shoes where required.
• Do not touch anyone's head; it is considered rude.
• Keep your voice low during disputes; public anger loses face fast.
• Ask before photographing local ceremonies or private family spaces.

Plugs, voltage, and electrical charging standards.

Tipping customs for dining, taxis, and services.

• Tipping is appreciated, not demanded.
• Leave 20 to 50 THB for casual service when it feels attentive.
• In refined restaurants, 5 to 10 percent is enough if service charge is absent.
• Spa therapists and private drivers value discreet cash tips.

Essential local laws and regulations to respect.

• Carry a valid driving license with motorcycle endorsement for scooter rental.
• Helmets are required and checkpoints are routine around Chaweng and Lamai.
• Do not take coral, shells, or marine life from protected areas.
• Alcohol sales are restricted during certain public voting periods and official days.

Health advice for climate, insects, and well-being.

• Use mosquito repellent at dusk, especially near gardens and inland villas.
• Reef cuts infect quickly; clean wounds and avoid seawater until sealed.
• Heat exhaustion is common in April and May; schedule hard activity before 10 a.m.
• Private hospitals are efficient but expensive, so keep travel insurance details accessible.

Simple local phrases that help with greetings and polite conversation.

Useful phrases for shopping, bills, and price negotiations.

Phrases for dietary preferences, vegetarian choices, and water.

Polite ways to decline offers, transport, or street vendors.

Directions for finding toilets, basic shopping, and asking help.

Emergency calls, hospitals, and help phrases in the local language.