Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand, approximately 84 kilometers east of Suratthani Province, or approximately 700 kilometers south of Bangkok. Known as the Coconut Island, Samui is one of the most famous and popular islands in Thailand. With an area of 247 square kilometers, Samui is the third largest island of Thailand. The topography of the island is mountainous with a circular 50-kilometer paved road that encircles the island connecting the principal beaches.

Samui counts a population of about 40'000 Thais, mainly Buddhists.

Apart from its many lovely beaches and tranquil bays, Samui is also noted for its high quality coconuts that grow densely everywhere. The best time to visit Samui is from February to April when the sea is calm. The Southern dialect and the  standard Thai language are spoken while English is widely understood in tourist areas.

The climate is very pleasant all year round, with temperatures varying between 25 and 34 degrees Celsius. There are three seasons, warm and dry season from February till May, rainy season from the end of September till November and "cool" season which extends from October till January.
From February till October, the average temperature is from 32 to 38 degrees, but from July till September, there can be some showers, but only for a few hours. Samui remains always refreshed by a pleasant sea breeze blowing from the Gulf.

Bangkok Airways flies from Bangkok to Samui 17 times daily. The flight takes about one hour and 10 minutes. There are also non-stop flights from Samui to Phuket, Pattaya, Singapore and Hong Kong.

For more information, call its Bangkok office, 0 2229 3456, 0 2229 3434, Samui office, 0 7742 2512 - 9 or Samui Airport Office 0 7724 5601-8. For Singapore office, call (65) 6738 0063 or visit  www.bangkokair.com

Samui offers a wealth of diversity of landscape, vistas, flora and fauna, and yet is small enough to seek quiet and out-of-the-way places, beaches, water falls and hill top trails.

Rented Jeep or Chauffeured Car

Rented Jeep, car and 4WD are available from many family-owned agencies and large rental companies. Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the coverage maybe

limited. Always ask for details first. Larger companies and hotels offer chauffeured transport.

Motorcycle

A large variety and condition of rented motorcycles are available at the main beaches.Beware of conditions, other drivers and your vulnerability in the event of an accident