Koh Samui Tips – How to Get Around Koh Samui by Looking at a Map of Koh Samui

Firstly, you may want to take a look at some Koh Samui maps. I have found two good sites that have maps or point you to where you can find good Koh Samui maps. You can find two links for this in the last paragraph.

As you look at your Koh Samui map, you will notice the two major places where visitors arrive are on opposite sides of the island. If you come by a Koh Samui ferry, you will most likely arrive at Nathon pier, which you can see is on the west coast of the island. Or, if you fly you can see the airport is on the other side of the island on the northeastern peninsula. Chaweng and Lamai beaches are the west coast and the most populous and popular areas. The central part of the island has some beautiful jungle but some of it is off limits as it is military land. To get to Koh Phangan, you can take a ferry from Nathon or from the northern beaches of Bophut and Maenam.

Now that you have an idea of the layout by looking at a map of Koh Samui, you will need to know how to get around. Anyone who has been there has his or her own Koh Samui tips, but there are a few constants. If you are someone who likes a comfortable trip and doesn’t mind paying for it, you can take a taxi. There have been some wars of words between the local government and the taxi drivers because they have a bad reputation. Anyway, they will always try to charge you high rates, even 200 to 300 baht. They have negotiated to start rates around 100 baht now but they hate to use the meter. Whatever they quote, just try to negotiate nicely and with a smile. If you want a cheaper ride, take the songthaews (pickup trucks with benches in the back). You should not have to negotiate. Just pay 50 or 60 baht after you get off every time. If they try to charge more, tell them nicely that you know you do not have to pay more, give the money, and leave.

As you can see, there are not that many options for transportation. If you hate to negotiate and can afford it, I recommend renting a vehicle. There are many places on the island to rent a vehicle for around 1000 baht per day and up. There is even an Avis Rent-a-Car at the airport. Drive carefully (on the left side of the road, not the right) and cautiously. Also, I recommend not renting a motorbike as it is the number one killer for tourists as you will not be used to the roads and rules of the road. Best to avoid this accident waiting to happen.

Now you know the basics of how to get around the beautiful island of Koh Samui. Remember, if you have any trouble, the best thing to do in Thailand is to just smile and walk away.

You can find a great list of maps here: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Important-Faqs-Islands-samui-Pha-t98300.html

Also, if you want to look at just one map of Koh Samui check this one out: http://www.on-samui.com/samuimap.html