How to Navigate Transport in Koh Samui - A useful guidebook!

  In Samui, getting about to see the sights and participate in activities is surprisingly simple. It's easy to do a round journey in a vehicle, which takes around one hour. To really appreciate this island, you must head out on an adventure on a bike. Let's have a look at a few of the many modes of transportation available.

Image by อดิศร กรมศรี from Pixabay 

Songthaews in Samui

At night, the pick-up truck, which is doused in vibrant red colour and dubbed Songthaews, serves as the island's public transportation system. Embroidered in English on both the front as well as the sides of the songthaew is a description of the vessel's final destination. The Songthaews will go throughout the island following a series of itineraries, but there are no fixed stops along the way. Consequently, you must stop one and inquire as to where they are going before proceeding. To indicate that you'll need to go out, press the button, if you can't then knock on the roof to indicate you want to get out. As soon as you step off the bus, check your ticket! The fare would be in the region of 20 - 60 baht per passenger.

Car rentals

Hiring a personal automobile is a great option to move about this island since it allows you to traverse various tiny roads and paths that lead into the woods or to islands with many little coves as well as sandy beaches. Rates for a day vary from 800 to 2,000 baht based on the condition and type of your automobile. Local operators often lease manual Suzuki jeeps, but larger automobile rental companies such as Avis or Budget provide both manual and auto sedans, as well as air-conditioned cars and jeeps. Smaller businesses may need you to maintain your passport as a security. Verify that 'full insurance' has been included, otherwise, you may be held responsible for any damage costs. A Koh Samui resort the likes of Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort can arrange transport for you making it a lot more convenient. You may always inquire about car rentals, motorcycle rentals, and other modes of transportation with the hotel concierge.

 Samui Motorcycle Rentals 

Tourists in Samui may rent a 100cc Honda Wave or even a CVT scooter for 150 to 250 Baht per day. Avoid getting a 'Samui tattoo', a burning sensation on your right leg from the bike's muffler as you get off. Fully automated motorcycles like the Yamaha Nuvos are more expensive (about 200 to 300 Baht), but easier to ride for beginners. Be aware that Samui has the worst number of traffic fatalities in the nation. Motorcycle riders are more at risk than other drivers. Hills are common along the shore, and local traffic is hardly ever pedestrian friendly. Driving must be done soberly and with caution. Motorcycles really aren't insured; thus, you are accountable for any accidents. 

Taxis

Samui boasts hundreds of yellow metered taxis for those who want air-conditioned luxury. They are readily recognised near the airport and on the major roadways of the islands. The disadvantage of taxis here is that the drivers seldom use the meters, resulting in exorbitant charges. Don't forget to bargain before you board! 

 Bicycles 

On this island, you may rent a good bike for 80 baht each day. It's best to avoid biking at night. You will be vulnerable as the paths become harder to explore at night. Just make sure to avoid biking at night! But during the daytime, it does not get better than this! You can transverse through alleyways and villages where taxis can’t take you! Be prepared to enjoy picaresque views you wouldn’t have otherwise witnessed!