Temporarily closing down of the blog

As the title says, I'm in the process of Temporarily closing down the blog. Due to Covid I can't find the time or motivation to continue this blog. My main social media activities will be on my Koh Samui blog Facebook page. I may start using Twitter more as well. You can find me @CamilleLemmens. 

Temporarily closing down of the blog

This Family Mart has also closed down last week. The nearest Family Mart outlet to our house. Things are not looking good for Thailand and Koh Samui's tourist industry. The Thai government has very clearly chosen not to invest in or save the tourist industry. Besides domestic impulses, which seem to be nothing more than a water drop on a hot plate. Nothing is being done to help the Thai tourist industry.

So long for now from this blog. In the meantime, hope to see you back at my Facebook page.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23^rd November – 29^th November 2020

Monday evening and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd November – 29th November 2020. Let's have a look at what was going on last week.

It's also the last day of November 2020 today. I posted yesterday already about my goodbyes to November 2020.

Today was pretty much rain all day. There were dry periods but especially during the morning, it was wet! Showers from strong to drizzle passed along all day long. The quicksilver didn't make it over 28C today!

Last week we saw a nice start of the week. Mostly sunny or at least partially clouded. Nonetheless, there were a few showers as well. However, towards the end of last week, it got a lot more wet. The weekend was rather rainy.

Maximum temperatures last week got up to 33C at the beginning of the week. The minimum on the other hand got in the very low twenties. 

Covid keeps taking it's toll. The borders won't open until all Thais are vaccinated. That could be at the very earliest during mid 2021. Don't bet on it though! First orders are for 13 million people to be vaccinated, on a population of 65 million.

Last week there were also 2 new Covid cases within Thailand. One in Chiang Mai and one in Chiang Rai. Apparently they had been to Myanmar and entered Thailand again without the required quarantine.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23^rd November – 29^th November 2020

Come 20th December, elections for a new provincial government of Surat Thani are due. These elections may have been delayed from March, due to Covid19. Although I'm not 100% sure on this. When you drive around the island, you can hardly miss the election posters, placed all over the island, along the roads. This picture is taken at the Amphur in Nathon. It's a list of candidates and a list of registered voters. If you are listed as a Thai national in a blue book or 'Tabian Baan', you should be able to find your name back in these lists. They are organized by districts or 'Moo's'

Next Saturday there's a 5km and 10km group run. Starting point is opposite the Seatran pier in Nathon at 5.30am. Slow pace! It's for Father's day, so if you plan to attend and join, please wear a yellow shirt.

This coming week looks like it will be a wet week. Plenty of showers and all kinds of rain. Come next weekend, it should dry up again.

Whilst you are here, please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Goodbye to November 2020

Hello there, it's about time to say goodbye to November 2020! Yes, we're a day early and yes, last month I forgot to write a 'Goodbye to October blog'! 

The month of November usually means rainy season on Koh Samui and it's archipelago. Not so much this year though. Sure, we had a few very hard rain showers. Some accompanied by very strong winds. However, they never lasted very long. During a classic Samui rainy season, we can have days on an end with rain. Varying from hard to a drizzle and back to hard again. Nothing of that so far this year. Maybe some of that may be in the making for the first December week.

However, back at the farm, this year's November had plenty of sunny days and partially clouded skies. Actually a very nice November in my book. Much better than your average rainy season November.

On the other hand, Covid is still taking it's toll on the island. Basically, the longer tourist areas like Koh Samui have to wait before the borders open, the harder it gets. The current Thai government stated last week that borders for tourism as we knew it, won't open until Thailand is vaccinated. This won't be until mid 2021 at the earliest! The hardest times are still to come I'm afraid. Sadly, more desperate times are most likely still ahead of us. If you want to help, please feel free to make a donation. It's much appreciated given the current circumstances.

Goodbye to November 2020

This is how November also can look on Koh Samui. Not your typical rainy days! However, a beautiful, partially cloudy sky at Laem Sor. This picture is taken at Laem Sor Pagoda. The pagoda is directly behind me. This November has been fairly mild and enjoyable. Despite having a few very hard rain showers and windy moments!

November also saw a few events around Koh Samui. What stood out for me personally were the two races. Mid November the first ever Monkeys Trail. This Sunday the Nathon hospital run. 

There was a also a body building event at Central Festival among others.

Goodbye to November 2020

This morning the yearly Nathon Hospital run was held. Instead of running or jogging around the island, as in the two previous years, there was a 5k and 15k race. I participate in the 15k race and came in 5th overall in a new personal best on this distance. There were no free t-shirts, medals or trophies but it was fun nonetheless. Needless to say that I'm happy with my result.

Stay safe everybody. There will come an end to all this madness. Until that moment in time, see you next month!

Whilst you are here, please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

Welcome to another Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020. It's Monday morning around 10am. We have sunny skies and a current temperature of 29C. Very much unlike an average Samui November!

Las week we had plenty of sunny days and moments. We also had a few showers. Sometimes when it rained, it was real rainy season rain as well. Hard and relentless. Most of the time it was just normal showers. But so far, not for days or weeks on an end. For a Koh Samui November, it has been mild.

The maximum temperature reached 32C. The minimum temperature dropped to to the lower twenties Celsius.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

The gold shop in Big C has closed now as well. In 2008 I wrote a very popular blog post about Thai gold. The pictures in this blog are from this gold shop. Covid is still raging in our island. Not the disease itself. More the side effects. More and more shops are still closing down. Each day, each week. The shopping malls like Bog C and Tesco Lotus, let alone Central Festival, are at times very quiet. Almost deserted. Makro seems to be doing well, but even there, they don't get the same turn over as before Covid. The island, just like the whole tourist industry related location in Thailand, are struggling big time. It doesn't look like the borders are about to open soon neither. If you want to visit Koh Samui or Thailand, you need to hang in there a little bit longer.

The forecast for next week looks very similar as last week. A couple of days may be nice and have plenty of sunshine. Combined with a few showers! However, come next weekend, the wind may pick up and rain may intensify. Saturday may be very wet and the night from Sunday to Monday plus all of next Monday may be watery as well. Still, nothing like how a November can be on Samui. 

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

November rain on Koh Samui. At times we have the typical November, relentless rain showers. For minutes to half an hour it rains like crazy. Creating flash floods all over the place, just to return to 'normal' within moment after the rain stops. It is however a very enjoyable November considering it's rainy season. Other years we have hard rain for days on an end. Having said that, the last week of November and the first two weeks of December can still wreak havoc! We're not there yet!

This coming Sunday there's a run at Nathon hospital. Entrance is free. Registration starts at 5am and the race is supposed to start at 6am. I believe that when I see it with just one hour of registration time. Nonetheless, come and join the fun for a 5km or 15km race, run or walk. No medals, no trophies, all open category. 

Whilst you are here, please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9^th November – 15^th November 2020

Tuesday morning already, so high time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9th November – 15th November 2020.

It's been an interesting week. Most of the week was sunny but windy. Except for Thursday and Friday when we had a taste of the rainy season. Rain all day long pretty much. Saturday and Sunday however, the sun broke out again. This November start was a bit of an unusual November. Much more sunshine than in previous years.

On Sunday I also ran the Monkeys Trail 26km route. A hard and touch race through the Maenam mountains and jungle. More on that later.

On this Tuesday morning, we have a few clouds, but it's also fairly sunny. At 11.30am it's 31C.

The two rainy days caused quite some flash floods at the usual locations in the Bophud area, along the ring road. Over the weekends all water disappeared however.

Maximum temperature hit 32C. The lowest reached 21C!

On to Covid and Samui. It's still not good. Samui is now Covid free again, but more and more people are still leaving the island. A small and good restaurant within 200 meters of our house has now also closed it's doors. Too many shop houses and houses for living are empty. Even in our residential area of the island. This coming weekend will be another, government ordered, long weekend. However, this will be good and beneficial to about 10 hotels, restaurants or bars around the island. The 10 that are popular with the Bangkok crowd. The rest of the island that still operates a business will barely notice and increase in turn over.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9^th November – 15^th November 2020

Sunset in Nathon last week

The forecast for next week looks fairly good for this time of the year. Partially cloudy and a few showers. Which for a November on Koh Samui is not too shabby! However, having said that, next weekends may see some prolonged showers and another peek into the rainy season.

Still nothing to get too worried about. Plenty of rain breaks possibly with a few sun beams on top as well.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9^th November – 15^th November 2020

An action picture of me at last Sunday's Monkeys Trail, 26km race. There were also 5km, 38-, 60 and 100km races on. The 60km and 100km races started on Saturday. My 26km race was the most popular, after the 5k run with some 700 or such participants. From the 300 registered participants, only around 50% made it within the 7 hours cut off time. There were 1080 meters ascent to manage as well. I did well, all over I came in at 7th place and in the gender ranking I was 6th. A bit above expectation, but I gladly take it any day! During the las, very technical kilometer, I managed to pick up 3 runners from my race. Very happy with that! All in all, a well organized race. Dates for 2021 are 26th and 27th June. Plenty of time to start practicing!

Whilst you are here, please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2nd November – 8th November 2020

Welcome to another Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2nd November – 8th November 2020. It's a cloudy Monday morning. At 11.30am it's 29C and we already had a few showers this morning.

Due to a cold, I missed my long Sunday run. Just one week before the Monkey Trail event is being held here on Koh Samui. Today I feel already better and could manage a short and easy 7km run.

Most of last week was actually very nice. Not like you would expect during a November. Only yesterday, Sunday, we had some afternoon rain. Other parts of the island may have had short and/or small showers though. The rest of the week was dry and partially sunny and a bit cloudy.

The maximum temperature hit 34C. The minimum temperature got stuck at 23C during the night time.

Regarding Covid19. The French woman who tested positive two weeks ago, has now been released from the government hospital in Nathon. Most likely she got infected in her quarantine hotel. This specific hotel in Bangkok lost it's quarantine status because of not being able to uphold hygiene standards. Koh Samui however, is Covid free again.

Other than that, it's still pretty desperate on Koh Samui. It's quiet and too many houses, rooms and shops are empty. Up for rent of sale.

In Thailand now occasionally people get tested positive. Last week one person in Krabi. It still seems very much under control though. However, the tourism industry keeps suffering. More and more shops and business will have to close forever very soon. Simply because they can't sustain such long periods of no or limited income. As a result, still people keep going or rather moving back to the mainland. On the upside. there are no traffic jams anymore around the ring road!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2nd November – 8th November 2020

View from Plai Laem towards the Bang Rak Seatran ferry pier. Do you notice the sunken long tail boat? One fisherman must be very unhappy, seeing his engine being messed up by the salt water. It will take some effort to get the boat out of the water and clean the engine.

Next week's forecast is slightly getting in line with your usual rainy season November. In the beginning and middle of the week, the wind will pick up. Today and tomorrow some showers. Towards the weekend a few more showers, with a very wet Friday and Saturday being predicted. That will make the Monkey Trail race around the Maenam hills and jungle more challenging.

Whilst you are here, please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 26th October – 1st November 2020

Monday afternoon and time to check the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 26th October – 1st November 2020.

It's 2pm and sunny with a current temperature of 32C

Last week was a mixed bag. We had plenty of sunny mornings. The afternoons on the other hand, were mostly cloudy. The late afternoons or early evenings had a few times rain. Fairly typical for late October. The maximum temperature went up to 32C. Except during Saturday it went up to 33C. The minimum temperature dropped to 23C during the nights.

The big news today is that the prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is today on Koh Samui, He's supposed to also pay visits to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao later this week or today.

The Covid situation remains the same on the island. The Thai-French woman that tested positive last week doesn't seem to have infected anybody else on the island. All tests of people who were at risk came back negative. More and more people start to become lax with wearing masks. Except in big shopping malls and Makro. However, people are still leaving the island on a daily base to move back to the mainland. More and more shops and houses are empty and up for sale or rent.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 26th October – 1st November 2020

Kathin at Wat Plai Laem. A big ceremony held at each temple around the island. Saturday morning it was Plai Laem's turn. People go early to the temple to listen to the monks sermons. After that, they walk three times around the 'Boot', the most important part of the temple. Whilst they walk in procession, they carry 'money trees' or 'money umbrellas' to donate to the temple. I saw plenty of buckets filled with lottery tickets as well. All in all, just short of one million Thai Baht came together this way. I've hardly ever seen it this busy at the temple! Guess, many people did more 'tambun' than usual. On Koh Samui, most people need more luck compared to previous years, due to Covid. On the other hand, social distancing was not an issue during the whole ceremony.

Next week should be an unlikely November week. A week of which you wished you would be here. Mostly sunny with an occasional shower. Come next weekend, we may see some more rain though. Enjoy it whilst it lasts, Samui's rainy season will be knocking on the door very soon.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page.

There are still plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19^th October – 25^th October 2020

Welcome to this new week and the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19th October – 25th October 2020.

After a few sunny days, this morning it's cloudy again and we had already a few raindrops. Current temperature at 10am is 28C

Last week saw a wet start and a sunny ending. The maximum temperature reached 33C The minimum temperature dropped one night shortly to 23C. In general it was a 24C during most days though. Last weekend was nice and sunny!

Covid19 keeps putting it's mark on Koh Samui, The biggest news last week was that a 57 year old French woman tested positive after her 14 days quarantine. Possibly she got infected at the gym in her ASQ hotel. She tested positive just a few days after her quarantine ended. Thus ending a stretch of well over 230 days that Koh Samui and Surat Thani were Covid free.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19^th October – 25^th October 2020

Another one bites the dust. One of the many restaurants/shops on the island that is up for sale. You can find this place in Bang Po. This morning, during my early morning run, another pick up truck, loaded with household items, was making it's way to the ferry. Still, on a daily base, many people decide to leave Koh Samui. Back to their home towns and provinces. The amount of empty shops and houses increases each day. 

The forecast for next week predicts mostly cloudy skies and daily showers. Pretty standard weather, this far in to the month.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. The financial situation is getting worse and worse by the week for many people. Including myself and my family. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 12^th October – 18^th October 2020

A day late, but nonetheless, here's the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 12th October – 18th October 2020.

My excuse for being late, I was too tired yesterday. After I completed the first episode of the Samui Trail, I was beat and spent for the rest of the day. It was 'only' 14km but with some of the most difficult and technical courses I ever ran on. Well, running is maybe too much said. It was hardcore trail, slipping and sliding through the jungle. Fun, but hard. Below you can find a picture of me in action during the trail.

Today we actually had a nice and rather sunny day. It was warm for a change! It's already 8.30pm and it's still 29C. The maximum temperature today reached 33C

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 12^th October – 18^th October 2020

Some or many of you may remember this place in Chaweng. It's opposite the lake, behind the big building that holds a McDonalds. There used to be a food market here. A thriving food market, each night filled with tourists. Now it has been torn down, because there are no tourists anymore.

During most days of last week we had cloud cover and showers. The maximum temperature reached 31C. The minimum got stuck at 22C during one night, mid week. The rest of the week it dropped to around 23C.

In the meantime, Covid keeps making it's impact around the island. Not with infections! Mind you, the Thai government seems to be protecting the 80% of the Thai population that are not working in the tourist industry. That seems to work. However, having said that, the 20% that are relying on the tourist industry are being hit very hard. Most people are really running out of financial means. Businesses all around the island are closing down and/or are up for sale. More and more people are leaving Koh Samui to go back to their home provinces. Live is cheaper there, no rent, maybe they can grow some own food.

Even out neighborhood, Plai Laem, which is a residential area, experiences the impact of people leaving. The amount of empty houses, rooms, and the like, is staggering. Rows and rows of empty shop houses can be found all over the island. Really sad to see, how many of these business that did really well, have to shut down and go out of business.

December and January are the months that things will really get tight in Thailand. 

In the meantime, keep following the news about the demonstrations in Bangkok. Many people are out on the street. Let's hope this will all find a good and peaceful ending.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 12^th October – 18^th October 2020

Myself in action during the Samui Trail #1 in Lipa Noi yesterday. I'm wading, climbing my way through and out of a waterfall. It was a fun race, but with the most technical route I've ever participated on. My pace was at 11'04 per minute. Most of the route you could only walk, going through the jungle, up hill. Slipping and sliding. Mountain high, river waterfall deep.

For this week, we may experience some rain, starting from Wednesday. From Thursday onward we may have some strong showers each day. We're getting closer to November, our rainy season. The weather forecasts are stating this as well.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! Ask me what options are available. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to do so! Much appreciated!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 5^th October – 11^th October 2020

It's Sunday evening and here are with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 5th October – 11th October 2020. A bit later than usual. This morning I did a 5 hours and 45 minutes hike in the Maenam hills. A recce hike for the 26km trail run I'm planning on running come 15th November, The Monkey Trail. As a result, I didn't get back home until around noon. Showered, ate and slept! Nonetheless, I just reminded myself about the weekly update.

We were actually planning to visit Nathon this evening. However, it started to rain and we decided to stay home and go tomorrow or Tuesday. The yearly Rua Phra or floating cars are roaming the Koh Samui roads and streets. Each night they gather in Nathon. There's a bit of a fair going on and our youngest really wants to go!

In the meantime, here we are, in Plai Laem, at home. Current temperature at 7.30pm is 26C Nice and cool. It's raining.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 5^th October – 11^th October 2020

At the moment I don't visit the Tesco Lotus or Big C outlets that much anymore. However, last week I was in Tesco Lotus in Chaweng. Interestingly I noticed that the children play parks in the shopping malls opened up again. They have been closed for months!

Last week saw quite a bit of rainy days. Especially Sunday to Monday night saw some torrential rain. Most of the other days last week had some showers at some stage. Nonetheless, we also had a few sunnier moments. The maximum temperature barely reached 32C early on during the week. The minimum temperature dropped to 22C on Tuesday night. Besides that one drop, it settled in between 23 and 24C during most nights.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 5th October – 11th October 2020

Another Rua Phra that passed out house last week. Hopefully we can make it to Nathon later this week and check out all the cars/boats/floats.

For next week, plenty of cloud cover is predicted. More rain is to follow as well. After next weekend is when it may start to clear up again.

Next Sunday is the 1st Samui Trail run, in Lipa Noi. A 5k and 15k trail run Rain is predicted. My 15k race might become a challenge indeed. I'm looking forward to it though. Only my thrid race this year. Covid has put a hold on my racing this year.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to do so! Everything counts!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 28th September – 4th October 2020

It's Sunday morning with a brand new  Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 28th September – 4th October 2020 for you.

The lsd is in the can. Well, no, not exactly the hallucinogenic version, but rather the long slow distance run. It's done and dusted this early morning. 26.5km in a good pace. In two weeks time the 15km trail run/race in Nathon is on. I think I'm ready for it. Tapering slowly starts next week.

It's rather sunny at the moment. At 11.15am it's 33C already. It's going to be a good and sunny Sunday, so enjoy if you're here.

Last week we saw a bit of rain. Especially Monday morning was very wet. A few showers where here and there during the rest of the week. The maximum temperature reached 34 on Tuesday. Mostly 33C for the rest of the week. Except Monday with 29C as a max. The minimum temperature dropped to 21C and 22C from Monday to Tuesday but the rest of the week it settled around 23/24C. I enjoyed the weather last week, not too hot for my running!

Covid is still raging on Koh Samui. 

Not as an actual infection, but the results of the border closure are hard and harsh on our island. Every day and week, new shops close down. It's heart breaking to see all the small and bigger shops having to close their doors. Simply due to a lack of customers. Koh Samui is feeling it's dependence on tourism. Very few ships/ hotels/restaurants fare well at the moment.

It turns out that during the long weekends, just around 10 places on Koh Samui really profit from the influx of Thai visitors. Those are the 10 hotels, restaurants or bars that are popular with the Thai holiday makers. Almost nobody else has any significant impact on their turn over during the long weekends. Later this month and next month long weekends  are scheduled again. It's merely a drop on a hot stone. 

There are also a few hotels now going through the process of being inspected for qualifying as  Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) hotels. This is the process of quarantine at government-approved hotels in Thailand at the traveler's own expense. 

Later this month 300 tourists per month are allowed into Thailand under stringent conditions . Including a 14 day quarantine. Firstly for a period og 90 days. Secondly, this period can be extended twice, each time for another 90 days. Totaling 270 as a maximum.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 28th September – 4th October 2020

Ok Pansa or the end of the Buddhist Lent has finished. This means that the 'Rua Phra' or รัวพระ can be seen all around the island. They collect gifts or 'thambun'. Each temple on the island has Their very own Rua Phra. Eventually, they will all meet in Nathon for a big display. Always well worth a visit. You just wish you were here! If you live here, don't get agitated by the slowing down of traffic! Maybe stop and give some money instead. It's part of living in Thailand.

The forecast for next week looks interesting. As of Tuesday we should have a bit of rain. Increasingly so over the weekend. This goes hand in hand with some stronger wind. For me it looks good, it cools things down a bit. 

Don't forget about the Asajan festival next week in Chaweng. The Art Club vegan restaurant will be present which is a great moment to check their tasty menu! At CoCo Chaweng from 12.00 or noon.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to do so! Everything counts!

Camille

Welcome to October 2020

The beginning of a new month and welcome to October 2020. Another month in Covid! Let's hope things will be about to change. Rather sooner than later!

This month can swing many ways. It can be a very wet month, since it's the last month before we should see the start of our rainy season. On the other hand, it can, with a bit of luck, also be a sunny month. Changes of that are more likely in the beginning of the month. As a sample yesterday, first day of the month. It started out all nice and sunny. Halfway through the day, it turned cloudy and we had a shower or two.

Welcome to October 2020

As alreeady posted last week, there's a Big C mini about to open in Plai Laem. Yesterday that day came knocking on the door. With lots of ado the Big C mini opened. The usual balloons, tamboon and minor festivities happened. What I found more interested and funnier was what was happening at the other side of the road. Have a look at the next picture, below.

There some activities this month. Firstly, come 10th October there's a food and activity festival in Chaweng. It goes by the name of Asajan. A boutique festival. One of the participants is the Art Club in Nathon, about who I wrote recently. Maybe a good time and place to check them out!

“Asajan อัศจรรย์” meaning “miraculous” is a boutique festival in Koh Samui that brings together a group of musicians, craftsmen, and culinary artists to catalyze positive change and to celebrate the spectacle of life. Embrace the world of “Asajan อัศจรรย์”, an experience at the edge of miraculous curated by the people of our community.

Secondly, Samui will have it's first official running event. Sunday 18th October there will be a 5km and 15km trail race with start and finish at the Hin Lad waterfall. However, both races are already sold out. The original race was scheduled for 29th March. I'm looking forward to my 15km race. Just a bit more than two weeks to go.

Welcome to October 2020

Here we are, across the road. The local 7-11 decided that they also will celebrate. Probably as the only 7-11 outlet on the island. I couldn't help but smile at this in my eyes funny reaction to the opening of their competition across the road. This is Thailand!

Hang in there folks. These are tough times for many of us out there. Thailand has slowly opened a tiny bit or was of it's border. However, under stringent conditions and only for people with deep pockets. 300 tourists per week are allowed, with a hunch of leaning towards Chinese people it seems. A drop on a hot plate, but it's a start. Let's see how this develops. A 14 or 7 day quarantine is required. Hopefully no issues happen during this period!

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to do so!

Camille

Goodbye to September 2020

Today is the last day of this month and it's time to say goodbye to September 2020. This month will be remembered by it's rainy character. Much more than a typical September should have, in my opinion.

Looking back at the last four years, only 2018 was the nice and sunny September I expect. 2019, 2017 and 2016 all have been fairly wet.

Currently it's partially clouded with a 32C temperature at 11.30am. Most of this month we had cloudy to partially cloudy weather. Plenty of showers and even a day or two with light stormy weather.

Goodbye to September 2020

Empty shops in the residential Plai Laem area. This used to be small shops where could make a living. Barbers, tattoo artist, food sellers. All kind of small businesses that are gone now. No customers means no income and no money to pay rent. Too many people have left the island for the mainland, back home where there's no rent due.

October can be an interesting month. In the worst case scenario, we have an early start of the rainy season with plenty of rain. In the best case scenario, we may have plenty of sunny days. Most of the times the answer and reality are somewhere in the middle. Interestingly, with extremes at both sides of this weather spectrum.

Next month has a running event scheduled on 18th October. A 5k and 15k trail are set to start and finish at the Hin Lad waterfall in Nathon. The race has been postponed from late March, earlier this year. No more space is available, This race has been sold out for quite a while now. Lookin g forward to racing again, despite that it's a trail run, not my most favored running activity!

Goodbye to September 2020

About two weeks ago, I posted about some of our neighbors leaving for the mainland. This was accompanied with a picture of their rental land in this post. The picture above shows their land right now. They took literally everything from the rented land plot. All the walls, roof and anything that isn't bolted to the ground. Can't blame them, they probably se the stones and roof to build their home again on the mainland. If they leave it behind, it all belongs to the landlord. Strange times indeed.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to do so!

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21^st September – 27^th September 2020

Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st September – 27th September 2020. 

It's partially cloudy outside with a current temperature of 31C. A nice and lazy Sunday! It's just 10am.

The long distance run is in the sack. This morning I ran a 10 mile or 16km simulated race. Firstly, here was a strong headwind on the way out. Secondly, I had no power. I still ran with a fairly good pace, however not what I planned for. Only three more weeks before my first post Covid race. A 15km trail run in Nathon. With start and finish at Hin Lad waterfall.

Last week we had a few days of rain towards the end of this week around the Plai Laem area. The wind picked up a bit again by the end of the week but we had partially cloudy skies. The maximum temperature hit 33C. The minimum temperature was mostly between 23C and 24C with one short period of 22C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st September – 27th September 2020

After the posts of 7-11 and Family Market shops closing down. Today a different story. A brand new Big C Mini outlet is about to open near our house. There has been a steady stream of similar outlets throughout this part and other parts of the island. They are less affected by the Covid malaise, since they are manily build and opened in residential areas. They are a lot less dependent on tourists. They also have a more extensive stock to offer compared to your average 7-11 or Family Market. Interesting to see.

For next week, plenty of tropical showers are predicted. Especially next weekend can be a very wet one. The wind is also picking up a bit. Tuesday may be a bit rough. Stay safe everybody and have a great Sunday!

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. It's getting harder each week! Please do help if you can afford to!

Camille

The Art Club, vegan restaurant in Nathon

Last week I was invited to The Art Club, vegan restaurant in Nathon. First of all, trying out some food. Secondly, I'm interested in the vegan life style. 

The Art Club is a restaurant, bar and cafe. A space for people to get restoration, meet new and old friends and to feel inspired and open minded about what food and nourishment is to them. That should and can be you!

The Art Club has mainly plant based food. Which is good and healthy! Noteworthy, it's also yummy. At least here at the Art Club. 

On a regular there will be art exhibitions as well. You can find more info on their Facebook page here.

The Art Club, vegan restaurant in Nathon

So, what does vegan actually mean? Just in case you don't know! You will be able to find a few definitions on your friend Google. However, it kind of boils down to this; Vegans are individuals who avoid animal products for ethical, health or environmental reasons. Or a combination of the three. Instead, they eat various plant foods. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and products made from these foods.

My Thai wife and our kids are not really that interested to give up their meat. On the other side, you don't have to be a vegan or vegetarian, in order to enjoy vegan food. 
Occasionally I do cook vegan or vegetarian at home. I do enjoy vegan food, although I'm more a flexitarian than a vegan or vegetarian.

The Interior at the Art Club in Nathon

Co owner and chef Ollie is from the UK. He has been a vegetarian all of his life. Although, he jumped off the wagon for a few years and ate meat. However, after that he became a vegan. He is married to Khun Rapheephan. Some of you might know her as she's one of the few gynecologists on the island. Our two youngest children where born under her care. She is the other co owner.

The restaurant is located behind her Obstetrics & Gynaecology Clinic. This is near the Nathon government hospital. Currently the restaurant is located behind the clinic.

The Art Club, vegan restaurant in Nathon

Let's talk about the food. The current menu has a nice variety of options. The menu changes occasionally. Once the current 'under construction' front part of the restaurant at the road is completed, there will be a new menu once more. This should include more options. The new room will also be air conditioned. 

Since I love spinach, I could make my choice easily. Spinach quesadilla with vegan feta cheese. My drink was the 'Gemini'. A smoothie with frozen fruit, mango, turmeric, passion fruit and banana.

The quesadilla was near perfect for me. Good texture and great taste. The presentation and service were also very good. The Gemini drink was great. Super healthy and a perfect combination. Well worth trying out and it makes me curious to check out more of their menu.

The current menu at the Art Club in Nathon

Don't be shy and go and visit. The menu is varied and not expensive. All the cheeses and meats are vegan. This means that they are plant based. It's very interesting how Ollie manages to get the tastes right, although he uses plants, bans and/or legumes as meat substitutes.

Ollie, Joel and myself in the kitchen. The masters at work!

I can highly recommend the Art Cafe. As already mentioned, you don't need to be a vegan in order to enjoy vegan food. Go and find out for yourself. 

It's good to see that the Art Club is busy and doing well in these hard times. Go and support them and enjoy their lovely food.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14^th September – 20^th September 2020

Another Sunday morning and here it is, the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th September – 20th September 2020.

The long slow distance, Sunday morning run has been completed. Long it was indeed. To be precise, 26.7km. It was good though, nice and cool and without too much effort. Well on track for my up and coming local Koh Samui trail runs. 18th October a 15k trail in Nathon. Come 15th November, the Monkey trail. For me the 26k challenge is on. Start and finish at Teeparat Pittaya school in Bophud. The school our two eldest children attend to.

However, on to the weather. It's almost 9.45am and it's cloudy. The current temperature is 29C Nice and cool. Just the way I like it!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14^th September – 20^th September 2020

Another Family Market that closed down last week on Koh Samui. This one is located at the Samui airport arrivals terminal. During my early morning run, I passed through Chaweng beach road. A few 7-11 and Family Markets outlets are closed down here as well.

Last week saw lots of rain and cool weather. Plenty of showers and a few thunderstorms in the beginning of the week. Real storm like winds at the end of the week. Throw in a few power cuts and you get the picture. The average maximum temperature barely reached 30C. A few times it did go up to 32 and 33C though.

On the other hand, the minimum temperature dropped down to 21C at the end of the week. The many showers are taking their toll.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14^th September – 20^th September 2020

Everey week, people keep leaving the island in order to go home. No rent needs to be paid there. Last week, one of our neighbors left. This is what remains of their house. Only the walls are left standing. Everything else has been packed up. This doesn't look like they're planning or are expecting to come back anytime soon. Covid19 is taking a heavy toll on tourist destinations like Koh Samui. The current government is not doing much to help the millions of unemployed Thais. The long weekends are not the solution. Domestic travel doesn't bring in any hard needed foreign currency and it stops the economy for 3-4 days. On top of that, it's only something the middle class Thais and higher up Thais can afford.

The forecast for next week is looking fairly good. The strong wind is pretty much gone. A few showers can be expected and some mid week sunny skies. Towards next weekend a bit of wind might pick up again, accompanied by some showers.

Lovely weather in my book! Also fairly typical for September, You wish you were here!

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. Another donation has been received and thanks for that! You know who your are.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7^th September – 13^th September 2020

Sunday morning and we run again with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th September – 13th September 2020.

Talking about running, the lsd (long slow distance) run is in the can this morning. 23.6km in 2 hours and 12 minutes or a 5'36 pace. Nice running this morning, starting at 5am in the dark.

Right now it's almost 11.15am and we have a cloudy sky with a few blue patches. Current temperature is 31C. I don't really expect any rain today. On the other hand, most likely it remains cloudy.

Covid is still causing havoc on the island and in Thailand in general. Firstly, there are 3 confirmed covid cases. After 100 days going without covid, it seems to be back. One dj in Bangkok was caught in prison with symptoms. Secondly, a professional Uzbek national team football player for the Buriram team has tested positive. Thirdly, a Korean man returning from Bangkok tested positive in Seoul. Currently they're trying to find out the source of the infections.

Secondly, many of the foreigners residing in Thailand are starting to panic. They will have to leave the Kingdom on 27th September if they don't have the correct visa. This date the amnesty expires.Many friends who are not married, but have Thai partners, may face an unwanted exit. It's possible to change certain visas, but it's all expensive and not necessarily easy to sort out.

One friend on Phuket 

had to throw in the towel and he's returning to Europe. leaving his Thai wife here. He will try to find work back in his home country until he can return, providing the borders are open.

It's tough out here, still every day families return to the mainland. This morning, during my long run, I saw two pick up trucks, packed to the rafters with all the respective families belongings. The motorbike, fridge, tv set and plenty of other bits and pieces from their household was crammed in the back. 

Sadly, there's no end in sight when this will finish. The Thai borders will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

On the other hand, let's go back to the weather. Last week's maximum temperature reached 35C. It was hot a few times! However, Thursday afternoon and Saturday evening saw some hard, tropical showers. The minimum temperature didn't drop below 24C at night. A fairly steady and enjoyable September week.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7^th September – 13^th September 2020

Another Family Market bites the dust. This outlet, in Choengmon has closed it's doors earlier this week. It's near the 'Melia' resort, the former Imperial Boathouse. Many 7-11 and Family outlets close overnight and don't have their big outdoor lights on. All because they try to reduce costs. Many resorts staff have been cut down to around 50%. Including salary cuts up to 50%, including the general managers. Or in some cases, actually letting go of the general managers. Chaweng is like a ghost town. Half of Chaweng's shops, bars, restaurants seem to have closed and are up for rent or sale. There's talk of closing down Central Festival shopping mall for 3 months. Big chain restaurant 'Wine connection' has closed it's doors a few months ago already.

The forecast for next week looks interesting. Shower alert all week long. From mid week on, expect stronger wind. Friday should see the 'worst'. Possibly hard rain and a fairly strong wind.

Expect the usual suspect locations to have flash floods later this week again.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. A donation has been received and thanks for that! You know who your are.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 31^st August – 6^th September 2020

Good morning and welcome to the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 31st August – 6th September 2020.

My morning run wasn't this long this morning. The training schedule subscribed a 10km race simulation. That went well in 46 minutes and 45 seconds with a total of 10.14km or a 4'36 pace. Am happy with that. In a real race I will most likely run a little bit faster. The adrenaline will be pumping on race day! This run brought me exactly to the middle of my 12 week training program.

It's almost 11am and partially sunny. The current temperature is 31C. I expect the temperature to rise a little bit more today.

Firstly, maximum temperatures reached 35C on Monday. The rest of the 34 and 33C were hit a few times though. Secondly, the minim temperature didn't drop below 24C. A few nights 25C was the minimum.

There were also a few days and/or nights with a short tropical shower. A fairly typical start of September on Koh Samui.

Covid is still wreaking havoc on the island. Still many families are leaving the island each day, to go back home on the main land.

Do you remember the pictures of closed down 7-11's and Family Marts? Well, some 7-11's and Family Marts are not open 24 hours per day. The close late in the evening and open early again. The lack of tourists is felt severely on the island. The same goes for Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. We are now in a long weekend, with Friday and Monday being compensation days for Songkran. However, besides the long weekends. it's fairly quiet!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 31^st August – 6^th September 2020

Last week Thaa yai was celebrated around Koh Samui. As usual, at our local Wat Plai Leam temple, it was busy. Lots of food was being prepared. Consequently given to the monks and shared and eaten among the various families. Each with their own foods and groups.

Last but least, the forecast for next week predicts mostly partially clouded skies. The beginning of the week may see a tropical shower. However, towards the weekend, there should be more showers coming our way.

Whilst you are here, do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. That is, once the travel restrictions have been lifted.

There are plenty Thais and foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. Unfortunately I'm no exception to this rule. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, it's much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page or ask me for other options. A donation has been received and thanks for that! You know who your are.

Camille