How to Travel Around Koh Samui Like a Local – Modes of Transport That You Can Use

 If you're putting together a trip to Koh Samui, one of the things you need to do some research on is how you can get around the island once you're there. Koh Samui is a highly popular beachside destination in Thailand and sees a lot of foreign visitors each year, mainly in the form of backpackers. Read on to find out all the different ways you can travel within the island and learn which ones the locals use often.

anonymous, Songthaew 3, CC BY-SA 2.5

Step One – The Island's Alternative to Buses

That would be 'songthaews'. The island of Koh Samui does not rely on traditional buses to ferry the locals around. Instead, what you'll find are songthaews. What exactly are they? Envision a rustic yet colourful pick-up truck that has been modified to accommodate around eight to ten passengers in its bed. The seats in the converted bed face each other. And while there are railings on the sides and an overhead roof, the truck is still open to the elements on three sides for the most part. The upside to using this mode of transport is that you'll definitely be 'doing as the locals do'. It's an inexpensive way to get around the island. If you're on a budget or want to experience authentic travel within Koh Samui, you've got to go on a ride or two on a songthaew. Also, there are usually luggage racks on the roof, so even if you need to travel with all your baggage in tow, it's a viable option, albeit not the most convenient.

The interesting part is how to use this service. Although it may seem like a direct alternative to buses, it's really not when it comes time for payment. As you hop on, you'll need to disclose your desired drop off point. After this, you'll have to agree on a fare. Once the driver has reached the destination that you requested, you'll have to ring a bell to signify that you would like to get off. At this point, you can pay for your trip (do make sure that you have the exact change). Another difference between a normal bus service and the songthaew is how you can hail the latter. When it comes to buses, there are designated pick-up and drop-off points. But with songthaews, you can hail one off a busy road if you're lucky.

Step Two – Traditional Cabs

A more convenient but more expensive way to get around is by cab. You can hail one off the street or book one in advance. If you're not sure about what cab service to use when you want to book one in advance, get some help from your accommodation providers to book a reliable cab service for you.

Step Three – Scooter Cabs

If you want to travel a little more on the wild side, you can opt to flag down a scooter cab instead of a traditional cab. The fares are not that expensive, but in exchange, you'll have to hang onto the driver! It's also not a convenient option if you're travelling with a big group of people, as you'll need to wait until everyone has found a ride to flag down.

Step Four – Vehicles for Airport Runs

If you want to travel in vehicles that are of a higher standard than the usual cabs are, and which are more reliable, especially for a journey to and from the airport, consider booking a trip via your hotel. Koh Samui resorts will be able to arrange your airport transfer via private vehicles on request. For example, Avani+ Samui Resort offers guests the option of choosing between a Toyota SUV, Mercedes car, and Toyota Van for airport transfers.