How to Spend a Hassle-free Island Vacation in Koh Samui - Best Travel Tips for Enjoying a Drama-Free Beach Holiday in Koh Samui

As one of the most popular beach holiday hubs in not only Thailand but Asia, at large, Koh Samui offers travellers a getaway in paradise the likes of which they have never encountered. Lined with stunning beaches and water sports Mecca for the masses, enjoying your time in this paradise isle will require planning and forethought. Here are some tips on how to experience a seamless and memorable getaway in Koh Samui.

Image via Avani+ Samui Resort

1. Time the Visit

Nothing can put a damper on one's plans when it comes to enjoying a hassle-free vacation anywhere on the planet than visiting a location during inclement weather conditions. This is especially true with regards to beach holiday hubs as even the most pristine paradise can turn into a nightmare during the monsoon season. This is why those who are visiting Koh Samui must visit the island between December and April as this is when the best weather conditions and water sports activities are available. Avoid travelling to Koh Samui in October and November as these are the wettest months of the year.

2. Pack Light

Another aspect of travelling that can become a stressor is ensuring the safety of your belonging and carrying several pieces of luggage through international flights, domestic flights and airport transfer vehicles. Those who are heading to Koh Samui have the luxury of packing light as a getaway in the sun-kissed island does not require much in the way of clothing, accessories and footwear. Some cotton shorts and t-shirts and a bathing suit will more than suffice for even a week-long stay while sandals and flip-flops are the only footwear options you will need. Don't forget to pack mosquito repellent and sunscreen as sunburn and insect bites are a real nuisance. 

3. Money Matters

Travel insurance is a must for all travellers heading to Koh Samui, especially if one hopes to take part in water sports activities and other outbound excursions.  If you wish to use cash to make payments during your holiday it is important to carry either US dollars or Thai Bahts. Those with credit cards and ATM cards can pay with the same or extract Thai Bahts for their daily use. Traveller's cheques are also a feasible mode of payment in Thailand and Koh Samui although they may be a hassle to exchange. Keep in mind that a small service fee is also charged whenever you pay for goods and services abroad.

4. Tackling Local Transport

The best way to get from Point A to Point B in Koh Samui is to hop on board a Songthaew, which are pickup trucks that make short-haul transfers around town at an affordable rate.  Taxis are also super convenient but are quite costly in Koh Samui although renting a car or a bike may seem a more practical option for those with the means to do so. It is wiser to find rental vehicles through your accommodation provider than to share your driving license number with local rental companies.

5. Find a Convenient Base

The quality of your stay in Koh Samui is also dependent upon the hotel or hotels you select for the duration of your holiday. Whether it's the Avani+ Samui Resort or any other venue, it is important to consider its proximity to the beach and other creature comforts. Hotels that are also close to attractions where you can take part in some of the best things to do in Samui are also excellent choices as these properties afford easy access to recreational activities. The area in which you stay can also make or break your vacation as different regions of the island are more laid back than others. Lamai Beach, for example, is perfect for backpackers and young holidaymakers while Chaweng is home to the most expensive resorts.