Koh Samui: Thailand's Island Paradise

• Helloสวัสดี
  [sawasdee]
• Goodbyeลาก่อน
  [laa kon]
• Yesใช่
  [chai]
• Noไม่
  [mai]
• Please/You're welcomeโปรด/ยินดีต้อนรับ
  [proht/yin dee dton rap]
• Thank youขอบคุณ
  [kop kun]
• Excuse me/Sorryขอโทษ
  [kor toht]
• How are you?สุขสันต์ไหม
  [suk san mai]
• Fine. And you?สบายดีครับ/ค่ะ คุณล่ะ
  [sabai dee khrap/kha khun la]
• Do you speak English?คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม
  [khun poot pha saa ang-grit dai mai]
• I don't understandฉันไม่เข้าใจ
  [chan mai khao jai]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseขอดูเมนูหน่อย
  [kor doo menu noi]
• I don't eat meatฉันไม่กินเนื้อ
  [chan mai gin neuua]
• Cheers!ชน
  [chon]
• I would like to pay, pleaseขอจ่ายเงินหน่อย
  [kor jai ngern noi]

• Help!ช่วยด้วย
  [chuay duay]
• Go away!ไปทางอื่น
  [bpai taang euun]
• Call the Police!โทรตำรวจ
  [tor tamruat]
• Call a doctor!โทรหมอ
  [tor mor]
• I'm lostฉันหลงทาง
  [chan long taang]
• I'm illฉันไม่สบาย
  [chan mai sabai]

• I'd like to buy...ฉันต้องการซื้อ...
  [chan tong gaan seuu...]
• I'm just lookingฉันแค่ดูอยู่
  [chan khae duu yuu]
• How much is it?ราคาเท่าไหร่
  [raa kha tao rai]
• That's too expensiveแพงเกินไป
  [paeng geern bpai]
• Can you lower the price?ลดราคาได้ไหม
  [lot raa kha dai mai]

• What time is it?ตอนนี้กี่โมง
  [dton nee kee mong]
• It's one o'clockเป็นโมง
  [pen mong]
• Half past (10)สามครึ่ง
  [saam khrung]
• Morningเช้า
  [chao]
• Afternoonบ่าย
  [bai]
• Eveningเย็น
  [yen]
• Yesterdayเมื่อวาน
  [meua waan]
• Todayวันนี้
  [wan nee]
• Tomorrowพรุ่งนี้
  [proong nee]
• 1หนึ่ง
  [neung]
• 2สอง
  [song]
• 3สาม
  [saam]
• 4สี่
  [see]
• 5ห้า
  [ha]
• 6หก
  [hok]
• 7เจ็ด
  [jet]
• 8แปด
  [bpaeht]
• 9เก้า
  [gao]
• 10สิบ
  [sip]

• Where's a/the...?...อยู่ที่ไหน
  [...yuu tee nai]
• What's the address?ที่อยู่อยู่ที่ไหน
  [tee yuu yuu tee nai]
• Can you show me (on the map)?ช่วยชี้ให้หน่อยได้ไหม
  [chuay chee hai noi dai mai]
• When's the next (bus)?รถเมล์ต่อไปเวลาเท่าไหร่
  [roht mel tor bpai way laa tao rai]
• A ticket (to ....)ตั๋วไป...
  [dtua bpai...]

Koh Samui, the third-largest island in Thailand, has a history that stretches back 1,500 years. The island was originally settled by Malay and Chinese traders. Evidence of early habitation includes artifacts and ancient inscriptions that suggest the island was an important waypoint for maritime trade routes.

The introduction of Buddhism to Koh Samui occurred around the 13th century, with the establishment of several temples. Wat Phra Yai, commonly known as the Big Buddha Temple, is one of the most significant, featuring a 12-meter high golden Buddha statue. These religious sites became focal points for the local community.

For much of its history, Koh Samui's economy was driven by agriculture, particularly coconut farming. The island was known for its coconut plantations, and coconuts were a major export to mainland Thailand. The phrase 'Samui coconut' became synonymous with high quality.

Koh Samui remained relatively isolated until the late 20th century. The construction of an airport in 1989 marked a turning point, facilitating an influx of tourists. This led to rapid development of infrastructure, including resorts, restaurants, and other amenities, transforming the island into a major tourist destination.

Koh Samui hosts several cultural festivals that highlight its rich heritage. The Samui Regatta, an annual sailing event, attracts international participants. The island also celebrates Songkran, the Thai New Year, with traditional water fights, and Loy Krathong, which involves floating lanterns on water.

In response to the pressures of tourism, efforts have been made to preserve Koh Samui's natural beauty. Marine reserves have been established to protect coral reefs and marine life. Local organizations and businesses have also promoted eco-friendly practices to ensure sustainable tourism.

Koh Samui is accessible by air and sea. The Samui International Airport (USM) has direct flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and several international destinations. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Surat Thani or Nakhon Si Thammarat on the mainland and then transfer by bus and ferry to Koh Samui. Ferries operate from Donsak Pier, and the journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Getting around Koh Samui is easy with several options available. Songthaews (shared taxis) are a popular and affordable mode of transport. Private taxis and motorbike taxis are also widely available, but make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand. Renting a motorbike or car is another convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Be cautious while driving, as traffic can be hectic.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful across the island, and currency exchange services are also available.

Koh Samui is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and nightlife spots in Chaweng and Lamai. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas. Ensure your accommodation has adequate security measures.

In case of an emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 1669 for medical emergencies. Koh Samui has several hospitals, including Samui International Hospital and Bangkok Hospital Samui, offering comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in most tourist areas.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Avoid swimwear outside of beach areas. Religion: Do show respect at religious sites by removing your shoes and covering your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be polite and avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a 'wai,' a slight bow with hands pressed together. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and street food. Don't point your feet at people or religious objects, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Koh Samui like a local, visit the Fisherman's Village in Bophut for its charming streets and local markets. Engage with locals at the night markets and try local street food. For a serene experience, explore the lesser-known beaches like Lipa Noi or Taling Ngam. Attend a Muay Thai match for a taste of local sports culture and visit local temples like Wat Plai Laem for a glimpse into local religious practices.