|
 Songtheaws
act as the local bus service. They are red coloured converted pickup
trucks with two long bench seats facing eachother in the back. Drivers
will often squeeze in as many passengers as possible, leaving late
comers to hang onto the running board at the rear.
Songtheaws follow set routes to and from most destinations around
Samui, it's destination will be clearly marked in English on the front
or back of the vehicle. There are no official stops, so to pick one up
between destinations just flag it down and tell the driver where you
want to go. Day time rates are very reasonable with a charge of
between 20-40 baht per person depending on where you are going. After
6pm the rate increases. Normally after 9pm you will be expected to
charter a songtheaw if you want to travel between different resorts
and prices vary depending on what deal you can bargain with the
driver, sometimes it can be as high as several hundred baht
Taxi - For many reasons this is the safest and
easiest way to get from point A to B if you don't know where point B
is!
Air-conditioned yellow coloured car taxis (Taxi Meter) have been
around Samui since early 2001. There are many around the island so
finding one is fairly easy, especailly on the main ring road or the
resorts of Chaweng and Lamai. Make sure you ask the driver to use the
meter before you set off, or if not, settle on a price before you
start
Motorbike Rental
Most visitors to Koh Samui, seem to
opt for motorbikes to get around town, go to the beach and go out in
the evening; making these inexpensive rentals the most popular option
by far. Prices range from 150-180 baht a day for a 100cc bike with
semi or automatic gears, though you can bargain for a discount on a
long term rental. They are fast, fun and easy to park. Large and
off-road motorbikes can also be rented around the island, prices are
around 500 baht per day.
BEWARE. Many local drivers have not received proper instruction in
traffic safety, and tourists are often riding these bikes for the
first time in their lives. Many SERIOUS ACCIDENTS happen. People are
killed, and the statistics are alarming. However a prudent person need
not panic. These accidents are almost always due to a serious lapse in
judgement. Remember that while Samui may be a paradise you are still a
mortal.
Motorbike Rider to Beware:
Motorbike taxi drivers can be identified by their coloured, numbered
vests. For short journeys they are the fastest way to get around as
they can dodge in and out of the other traffic. They are really only
suitable for a single passenger and not the easiest mode of transport
if you are carrying luggage. They are inexpensive, fares start from 10
baht upwards depending on where you are going.
Car Rental
Car rental is available from many
family-owned agencies and some large companies whose names you will
recognize. Prices start from 800 baht per day upwards and depend on
the type and condition of the vehicle you rent. The rental of a 4
wheel drive vehicle (jeep) will allow you a lot of freedom. It will
serve as your basic transport, but you can also use it to
circumnavigate the entire main ring road of the island (about 1 hour)
and more. You can visit many natural hillside and man-made attractions
which are accessible from the ring road. You can stop at them all,
going at your own pace. If you are especially adventurous and have
experience in off-road driving, you may head up into the mountains.
(Rented dirt bikes are another option for those who want to go
off-road.)
There, if you can negotiate the ruts and sometimes seemingly
impossibly steep inclines, you will be rewarded with spectacular views
of the surrounding islands, as well as flora and fauna that is
overwhelmingly beautiful. If Samui is paradise, then the mountains are
its Shangrilah.
Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the coverage is
limited. You had better ask for the details.
Bicycles
Bicycling around Koh Samui is becoming popular, espescially
in response to the demand for sustainable, less polluting, so bicycles
are really available and they are cheap means of transport to travel
around Samui as well. Cycling is also a safe and pleasant way of
getting around the breathtaking scenery of Koh Samui , and it helps to
shed a few of those extra pounds as well. Bike-loving travellers can
rent good quality mountain bikes at many places around the island for
about 80 baht a day. They are ideal for those who want to discover
some of the many beautiful nature trails and tracks found in the
interior of the isaland.
Motorbike Taxis
If you want to travel a fairly short distance, a motorbike
taxi can be your choice. Motorbike drivers can be identified by their
coloured, numbered waistcoats / vests. This mode of transport is the
fastest way to get around as they can dodge in and out of the other
traffic. They are really only suitable for a single passenger and not
the easiest means of transport if you are carrying luggage. They are
inexpensive: fares start from 10 baht upwards depending on where you
are going.
Driving Laws
Driving
is on the left hand side. Motorcyclists are required to wear crash
helmets. The fine for not wearing one is 500 baht. Car drivers and
front seat passengers are required to wear seat belts. An
international driving licence or national licence is required to hire
any kind of vehicle, although some companies and smaller rental places
may not ask for any proof at all. 
|
|
