The Way to Getting to Koh Samui
Koh Samui, a picturesque tropical island nestled in southern Thailand, has become a sought-after destination for travelers worldwide, thanks to its mesmerizing beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural beauty. Understanding the available transportation options is crucial if you’re planning a trip to this exotic island. This article explores ways to reach Koh Samui to help you plan your journey efficiently.
Travel By Plane
Undoubtedly, the air is one of the most convenient ways to reach Koh Samui. The island boasts its airport, the Samui International Airport, located in the northern region. Numerous airlines operate flights to and from Koh Samui, including Bangkok Airways, Thai Airways, and AirAsia.
Bangkok Airways is the primary carrier operating from Samui International Airport. As of 2023, they offer domestic flights to main cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya and international flights to Singapore. Meanwhile, Thai Airways and AirAsia provide domestic flights with Bangkok as the main hub. Depending on your departure point, you might need to connect through Bangkok to catch a flight to Koh Samui.
Remember that airfares to Koh Samui can be relatively expensive, particularly during peak travel seasons. Bangkok Airways’ flights generally have higher price tags compared to Thai Airways. However, with frequent promotions and deals, you can often find cost-effective options. Booking your flights well in advance is advisable to secure your seat, avoid disappointment, and obtain the best prices.
Travel By Car
If you desire the freedom to explore the island on your terms, renting a car in Bangkok or Surat Thani and driving to Koh Samui is worth considering. The journey takes approximately 10 to 12 hours from Bangkok and 3 to 4 hours from Surat Thani. However, continuing the journey with a ferry to transport the vehicle to Koh Samui is essential.
Driving in Thailand can be challenging, especially if you’re not accustomed to driving on the left-hand side of the road. Additionally, some roads on the island can be narrow and winding, so exercising extra caution while driving is vital.
Travel By Train
An alternative mode of travel from Bangkok to Koh Samui is by train. The train journey typically takes 12 to 15 hours, depending on the train operator and the specific route. Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station and arrive at Surat Thani Station. Once you reach Surat Thani, you can conveniently transfer to a ferry that will take you to Koh Samui. For a more comfortable experience, consider booking a sleeper cabin during the train journey.
Travel By Ferry
If you’re traveling from the mainland, taking a ferry to Koh Samui is popular. Several ferry companies, such as Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran, Seatran Ferry, and Raja Ferry Port, offer services to the island. Additionally, you can transport your vehicle to Koh Samui using these ferry services. The most commonly used departure points for ferries are Surat Thani and Don Sak Pier, both on the mainland. You can board a ferry that takes approximately 1.5 to 3 hours from either of these points, depending on the ferry operator and weather conditions. The ferry journey might be rough sometimes, especially during the rainy season. If you’re prone to seasickness, taking medication before boarding the ferry is a prudent precaution. Travelers from Bangkok or other southern provinces can take a bus to Surat Thani or Don Sak and then transfer to a ferry to reach Koh Samui. Various bus companies, including Lomprayah and Phantip Travel, provide services to Surat Thani. The bus journey takes 10 to 12 hours from Bangkok and 3 to 5 hours from southern provinces. Upon arrival at Surat Thani or Don Sak, you can board a ferry to complete your journey to Koh Samui. In conclusion, reaching Koh Samui is straightforward, with several transportation options to suit your preferences and travel needs. Whether you choose to fly, take a ferry, hop on a train, or drive, the enchanting beauty of Koh Samui awaits you. Plan your trip wisely, and prepare to create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise.
