How can I make a reservation?

After submitting your request, we will advise you of availability. To make a reservation we require a deposit of 50% of the rental fee, with the remainder payable within 30 days prior to your arrival. For bookings of less than one week, full payment is required at the time of reservation. Bookings are subject to the terms and conditions specified at www.samuiholidayhomes.com/Terms.htm.

What methods of payment do you accept?

Payments should be made by bank transfer. Credit card payment can also be arranged for bookings of most villas, although may be subject to transaction charges.

How can I get to Koh Samui?

Koh Samui is best reached by air on Bangkok Air flights, from Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Hong Kong, or Singapore, a full schedule of which, together with online reservations, can be found at www.bangkokair.com. Thai Air also operates 2 flights a day, tickets for which can be booked directly at www.thaiair.com. 

Flights from Kuala Lumpur are available from www.fireflyz.com.my.

How can I get from the airport to my rental property?

We will arrange for you to be collected from the airport, and driven to your rental property.

Can I rent a car on Koh Samui?

We can arrange for a rental vehicle to be delivered to you at your chosen villa, or at the airport if you prefer. If you would like to rent a car during your stay, we have compiled a selection of vehicles available at competitive rates from a variety of local hire companies. Rentals are payable locally directly to the hire companies, and rates include taxes, insurance, and complimentary delivery and pick up to and from the villa. Full details of car hire options, boat tours, and yacht charters can be found at www.samuiholidayhomes.com/services.htm.

Can I drive on Koh Samui?

In order to drive on Samui, Thai law requires a valid international driving license, together with your national driving license. ASEAN driving licenses are accepted.

While motorbikes are widely available to rent on the island, we do not recommend doing so, and cannot assist in arranging rentals. We consider riding motorbikes on Koh Samui to be Russian roulette, particularly for tourists, and after witnessing so many gory accidents on the roads over the years, strongly advise resisting the temptation. Motorbikes are not insured and medical insurance policies invariably also do not cover such accidents. We consider the risk of ruining your holiday, or possibly lives, to be too great to justify the dubious pleasure of touring the island on 2 wheels. On a similar note, jet-skis, which are widely offered for hire, are not insured, and beyond being dangerous and a nuisance, are often a source of unpleasant disputes regarding claims for damages by the hirer. 

How can I access the internet on Koh Samui?

All villas include complimentary WiFi internet access.

What is the domestic electrical voltage in Thailand?

Electrical voltage on Samui is 220v, and power outlets are 2-pin shaver-type sockets. European adapters are widely available to 3-pin, although we recommend bringing your own if coming from the UK.

Should I have medical insurance for a visit to Koh Samui?

You should always take out medical insurance when traveling to areas outside your existing coverage. We strongly recommend buying comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation coverage for protection of your interests and peace of mind during your visit.

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Koh Samui?

No vaccinations are required or advised when visiting Koh Samui.

Do I need a visa to visit Koh Samui?

Citizens of the EU, ASEAN, and North America no longer require a visa to enter Thailand, and are provided with a one month visa on entry. For other nationalities, different conditions apply to visa on arrival. For longer stays, a visa may be obtained from the Thai embassy of any country. Overstaying your visa incurs a fine of 500 Baht per day, up to a maximum of 20000 Baht. The latest facts and requirements on all types of visa requirements can be found at www.thaivisa.com.

Does Koh Samui have a hospital?

Samui has five modern, well-equipped international hospitals, providing emergency and walk-in treatment. Surgery is now a major international attraction in Thailand, with excellent facilities, appealing rates, and an ideal location for recovery.

Is it safe to drink the tap water on Koh Samui?

Although much of the tap water on the island comes from deep wells, which tap underground reservoirs of mineral water, which is perfectly safe, we don’t recommend drinking tap water without boiling. Bottled mineral water and treated water is available all over the island.

Are there any social taboos I should know about?

In Thailand, shoes are never worn inside the house, but left at the front door. It is considered offensive to touch Thai people on the head, and to point or touch with the foot. Tolerance is generally extended to the cultural ignorance of visitors, although if you insist on being rude, aggressive, or abusive, you may succeed in causing offence.

Are there any unusual crimes I should know not to inadvertently commit?

The most revered figures in Thailand are Buddha and the King. There have been cases of visitors behaving inappropriately towards their images, resulting in criminal charges. Do not climb on or vandalize any Buddha figures, especially in temples. It is not advised to criticize the King, or to deface any depiction of him. Pornography and drugs are illegal in Thailand, and should be avoided.

Do I need to order local currency before coming to Thailand?

There are numerous bureaux de change or currency exchange booths around the island. A passport is required when exchanging foreign currency for Thai Baht. It is not possible to buy foreign currency with Thai Baht. ATMs accept most credit and debit cards, and offer better rates than money changers abroad. You can find ATMs in Bangkok airport, and at dozens of locations on Samui. Most shops and restaurants accept payment by credit or debit card, although often apply a surcharge.