Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 3^rd August – 9^th August 2020

Here we are with the new Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 3rd August – 9th August 2020. You guessed right, it's Sunday morning.

My long run is done. 18km this morning. Slowly increasing my weekly mileage again.

It's cloudy this morning, although the sun tries very hard to break through. Current temperature at 9am is 31C.

Last week saw plenty of days with overcast and regular showers. Yesterday morning and early afternoon it was very though. During the late afternoon, it all cooled down again with a nice shower.

The maximum temperatures last week reached 32C during most days. However, Monday and yesterday we say a 33C temperature. On the other hand, the minimum dipped down to 21C. Almost freezing! 😎

All in all, a fairly typical August week. Maybe a bit more cloudy weather than average. I enjoyed it though, since it wasn't too hot and the occasional rain cooled things down a bit.

Koh Samui and the province of Surat Thani are now 120 days without new Covid19 cases! That's a great achievement. However, almost on a daily base people are still leaving Koh Samui to go home. They pack their pick up trucks and go to places on the mainland, where they don't need to pay rent and food is cheaper.

There are plenty of cheap living or rental places empty an up for rent.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 3^rd August – 9^th August 2020

North Chaweng; within two weeks of the 7-11 closing here, the Family Mart also closed down. Now only a Mini Big C is left in this hotel rich area. Very unusual views on Koh Samui. It does show however, what impact Covid19 has on the island.

Next week will most likely see a similar week as last week. Plenty of cloud coverage and towards the middle and end of next week, also plenty of showers. Mostly tropical showers though. There will also be a nice breeze. Perfect weather in my book, as a runner. Cool and a little bit wet.

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

Welcome to August 2020

First day of a new month and it's warm welcome to August 2020. This month still deals with a bit of a rainy season for or around Koh Samui. Nonetheless, we also have plenty of sunny days during this month. Beware, we have a rocky start scheduled for this month. Plenty of strong wind and a few showers until mid next week!

No big events are schedule during this month. It's still all under Covid19 pandemic rules. The Thai borders are still closed. No tourists are arriving and it's felt pretty hard around Koh Samui. No wonder considering that Koh Samui is pretty much depending on tourism. Domestic tourism is the 'new normal' now and is heavily promoted. This goes hand in hand with tremendous discounts on hotel fees and also air travel prices.

Welcome to August 2020

Sweets or ขนม (Khanom) at Laem Din market in Chaweng. It's business as usual at this and many other markets around Samui. It's fairly busy each day, considering the Covid19 circumstances.

Where ever you are, stay safe and we're looking forward to be able to welcome you again as soon as possible.

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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Goodbye to July 2020

Here we are at the end of this month and it's a Goodbye to July 2020. It's partially cloudy and 31C at 10.30am.

First off all, this July was rather nice. Slightly above an average July on Koh Samui I would say. Secondly, we also had plenty of hot and humid days. Partially clouded or blue skies during many days. Thirdly, we also had our share of showers. However, not as much as a typical July can have around our archipelago. In conclusion, a nice July we had.

We had two very long weekends this month. Firstly at the start of the month. Secondly at the end of the month. Both weekends saw an influx in local tourism. The hotels that are actually open, seem to have done good business over these two weekends. It's not replacing the typical July or August busy period. However, given the circumstances, it's a start. For most shops, bars, restaurants, hotels and the like, 2020 is most likely a write off. Let's hope that around December the borders will open up again. This will hopefully allow for a recovery of the local and Thai economy. 

Goodbye to July 2020

Many times I already mentioned on this blog, that plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and the like had to close down. Due to Covid19 and the lack of tourists. Now we can also see the 'unthinkable' happen. Some of the 7-11 franchisees are starting to close down. This 7-11 is located in northern Chaweng. There are a few hotels nearby. However, there's also a Family Mart and a Mini Big C next to it. With the lack of tourists, this particular outlet is not able to survive and closed it's doors. Permanently it seems.

Covid19 still has a grip on the island though. The best we can do is to look forward for better times at the horizon.

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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 8^th June – 14^th June 2020

Welcome to the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 8th June – 14th June 2020.

It's fairly cloudy outside and a bleak sun is trying to break through the clouds. The current temperature at 10am is 31C

Two days ago I started a PADI IDC. That in itself is not so special. However, it is special because I'm currently allowed by PADI to teach the theory part online. Due to the current Covid19 pandemic. The live part of this PADI IDC will be during the last week of June. On Koh Samui! For the first time in five years, I teach an IDC on Koh Samui again. The PADI IE will be on 2+3 July. Also on Koh Samui.

Last week saw a few very hot days, due to the humidity. We also had had a few showers though. Some fairly hard. This in turn caused a few flash floods at the usual locations. Yesterday the quicksilver hit 35C during the afternoon. During the rest of the week, it regularly hit 34C. The minimum temperature last week reached 22C. Just during one night. Mostly it was 23-25C. Yesterday evening we had a strong storm blowing over. Hard rain and strong wind.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 8^th June – 14^th June 2020

Last week I visited Central Festival for the time after it opened again. All shops seem to be open but it was very quiet. Hardly any customers walking around. I visited to change money at a bank. To my big surprise, exchange services are not available due to Covid19. This makes me really wonder why money can not be exchanged in order to beat Covid19? Inquiring minds wonder.

For next week, the prediction shows us partially cloudy skies with a few showers. This Sunday afternoon and tomorrow can be fairly wet!

On the Covid19 front, firstly the curfew will be lifted tomorrow. Secondly, restaurants can serve alcohol again. However, on the other hand, the emergency decree will remain in place and all borders remain shut. There's a bit of controversy going on, for many things are closed to foreigners. Wat Pho in Bangkok but also bus travel is prohibited for foreigners. To fight Covid. All nice and dandy, but all foreigners in the country have had the same exposure to Covid as Thai people. No tourists are allowed to enter. Many people talk about blatant racism. I leave it up to you how you see this.

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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Goodbye to May 2020

Hello hello, it's time to say goodbye to May 2020. It's the last day of this month and we have a look back.

For the weather, it was a good, average May month. We started out with lots of sunshine. Towards the middle of the month, we had a few showers, nothing too serious. Typical for May, tropical showers. Most of them short and hard.Beware of the flash flooding though! No storms this month, so all good. A typical May, Hot, humid and towards the end of the month some showers.

The big difference of course, is the lack of tourists. Covid 19 took care of that. Things are changing though in Thailand. Tomorrow, 1st June, the third step of lifting lock down measures is in place. Come 1st July, there's talk of a complete lifting of all measures. This will include the emergency decree and international flight arrivals. Let's cross our fingers and hope the tourist economy can start up again. Without another outbreak of the virus!

Goodbye to May 2020

Chaweng lake this month. Mid May group gatherings for running sports were lifted. Immediately the area around Chaweng lake was busy every day. During the morning and afternoons hundreds of people come here to jog, run, play badminton etc. The ring around the lake is now completed and is a good 5km. A lovely place to work on your aerobic endurance.

Due to Covid19, not many events were held on Koh Samui. In fact, none at all! For next month, things aren't looking that much better or rather, different. Let's hope that after July everything changes and we can move forward. Let's see what the new normal for Koh Samui and Thailand will mean.

Please 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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11^th May – 17^th May 2020

Here we are back with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11th May – 17th May 2020. It's Sunday morning. The long slow distance run is done and dusted.

This morning has a thinly clouded sky. Plenty of overcast but it doesn't look like rain. The current temperature at 9.30am is 32C but it feels a lot warmer. Humidity is high!

Two days ago Bangkok Airways started with two flights per day on the Koh Samui-Bangkok route. Today shopping malls are about to open again. Slowly, step by step, lock down restrictions are being eased. However, on the other hand, international flight arrivals have been extended until 30th June.

More and more people are having financial problems. Still no tourists, so no jobs for about 10 million or more people depending on the tourism industry. Many Thai and foreign, low paid workers, are depending on food hand outs. Especially in tourism related parts of Thailand. It's hard times at the moment. Feel free to donate directly to me as well. Every little bit helps. 

On a different note. tomorrow the schools start again. Physically going to school, not until 1st July, so now the schools start with online tuition.

Last week it was hot. The high humidity didn't help. It made it worse! Maximum temperatures on the quicksilver reached 34C twice. Mostly it maxed out at 33C. On the other hand, the minimum temperature dropped down to 24C late in the week. 

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11^th May – 17^th May 2020

More physical distancing measures are in place at Makro in Chaweng. Realistically, it seems nobody really bothers. At least not too much or too strict.

The prediction for next week is looking good. More clouds are predicted and hopefully a few showers. It will be good and nice to get some cooler air in. Towards next weekend the wind is supposed to pick up  little bit.

Please 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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th May – 10th May 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4^th May – 10^th May 2020

Welcome to this Sunday morning and the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th May – 10th May 2020.

The Sunday morning lsd, long slow distance run, is in the can, with a 25km tag on it. 

It's partially clouded to clouded this morning and already 32C at 10.20am. It feels a lot warmer. The heat is currently beating you down, due to the high humidity. Around and after noon it's hot! Very hot! 

Last week saw some very hot days indeed. Lots of blue and partially clouded skies, with virtually no rain. Maximum temperature went up to a whooping 35C. The feel factor is well in the 4-tees! The minimum temperature dropped to 24C, but mostly around 25 to 26C at night. Not exactly what I call cool!

On the Covid19 front, some good news. Official provincial sources have now for 30 days in a row no new Covid cases in Surat Thani province. Consequently that counts as well for Koh Samui, since we're part of Surat Thani province. After 28 days, a province receive the 'green zone' status. Which is very good.

Slowly Thailand is opening up again. As of 15th May, Bangkok air will have two scheduled flights per week to Samui. Restaurants are allowed to host guests or patrons again, with physical distancing guidelines in place. Step. by step this is happening. If no new cases detected,, 17th May, next Sunday may see more restrictions being lifted.
International travel is still not an option until the end of the month. No inbound flights are allowed. Domestic flights have started again. 

The alcohol ban has also been lifted. This made for some interesting observations last Sunday at Makro!

Interestingly enough, more and more evidence is popping up that Covid was already making it's rounds in Thailand and neighboring countries like Indonesia since December 2019 and January 2020. More and more people report of having had high fevers, dry cough and/or respiratory problems during that time frame. Some who had this 'fever' or 'flu' whilst in Thailand during that time frame, have been retrospectively been confirmed as Covid cases, a few months after the event. A Dutch friend had this happen to him. He was tested and checked in the Netherlands a month or 2 ago. Some people report friends having passed away due to respiratory virus or issues. The doctors had no clue what it could be, at that moment. Dengue fever tests came back negative.

I wonder what the doctors who have been dealing with these cases are thinking right now?

Considering this to be true, that the virus went around in December and January, we did very well. Without a lock down. Food for thought!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th May – 10th May 2020

This is what the current 'new normal' looks like. Physical distancing. All big shops on Koh Samui, like Makro (pictured here), Tesco Lotus and Big C all have dividers on the floors. In real life, not much attention is paid to the physical distancing.

Back to the weather, the forecast for next week predicts partially cloudy skies. Hopefully we get a few scattered showers as well. The temperature is allowed to drop a bit and the ground water levels can be upped a bit as well.

Please 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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners, Westerners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Goodbye to April 2020

Goodbye to April 2020

Here we are, a the end of this month and it's a goodbye to April 2020. It comes as no surprise that this month is remembered as a Songkran free April. A very rare and unique situation for Thailand.  Not celebrating the Thai New Year doesn't happen that often. However, due to the Covid19 situation, no surprise there either. It was a good decision

This morning at 10.30am it's cloudy and a cool 27C. Very enjoyable indeed!

On this wet Thursday morning, let's have a look at the weather this month. April is usually one of the or the hottest month of the year. However, it's also the start most years, of a mild wet season. This year has been no different. The first two weeks of the year were nice and hot. Very hot at times! However, the second part of the month saw a lot of showers and cloudy days. That's a good thing. Koh Samui's ground water levels and dams need to be filled up again. It's also nice that it's cool with the rain and not so very hot. Most certainly it helps to reduce my heat rashes I usually get in April!

It most certainly looks like we had a little bit more rain this year compared to other years. As I already mentioned, no big deal. No tourists around and it makes for a comfortable and agreeable second part of the month.

Goodbye to April 2020

Central Samui in Chaweng has a big sign stating that food is only take away. Like all restaurants on Koh Samui and around Thailand. Only take away is allowed. We started to sell BBQ fish in front of our house, during the later afternoon and early evening. Pla pow. It helps to cover our daily costs for food. Take away only!

The big news this months was that there was no Songkran, nationwide! Other news is that after Koh Samui had 7 cases of Covid19, they now all have been released from hospital. Since 18 days running, the province of Surat Thani and Koh Samui did not have any new cases.

Tomorrow more about May. Many things are bound to happen next month, in relation with Covid19. Stay tuned and come back tomorrow for an update and a welcome to May 2020.

Please 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.

As already mentioned in my Facebook page, there are many initiatives around the island for helping Thai and Burmese people with food and other donations.
There are however also plenty of foreigners or farangs who have a hard time dealing with no income and bills to pay. If you like this blog, this is a good time to help out and make a donation. If you can, much appreciated! There's a donation button on top of this page.

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th April – 26th April 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th April – 26th April 2020

Here we are, another Sunday morning and time to get this going, the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th April – 26th April 2020.

The long slow distance run is in the can. Today's emphasis was on slow!

Regarding the Covid 19 situation on Koh Samui, it's looking good. All 7 infected persons have been released from Hospital. Right now, Koh Samui is corona free. According to the local government.

This morning there's a light rain. Nonetheless, it's 32C at 11.15am. More rain is expected today. On and off.

Last week was lovely and very hot! Until Thursday night. Thursday to Friday night I woke up from very hard rain. During the morning there was more rain. The afternoon saw a few sunbeams again. Yesterday morning saw some saw again some hard rain with a dry afternoon. The mild rainy season seems to have landed. Maximum temperatures last week reached 33C. The minimum temperature dropped down to 23C at night over the last two nights.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th April – 26th April 2020

Tesco Lotus in Chaweng, earlier this month. The food court is more or less closed. One or maybe two shops are open. Just for take away, sitting is a 'no no' right now. Eerie.

The forecast predicts some more rain for next week. Especially tomorrow can be very wet. Wednesday will most likely also see a bit more than average rain.There will be some dry periods, but it's mostly rain for the next week.

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort. Once the travel restrictions are back to 'normal, come and see us. Get some well deserved rest and a break. If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 6th April – 12th April 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 6^th April – 12^th April 2020

Another Sunday morning and time to welcome the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 6th April – 12th April 2020.
My Sunday morning lsd, long slow distance run is in the can. The training program is stopped and it's all about maintenance now. Continue to eat healthy and keep exercising. In my case, running. Working on my immune system, the best defense you have for this current corona virus, Covid19.

Covid19 has a massive impact on a tourist destination like Koh Samui and it's surrounding islands. All hotels have now been ordered to close down and not take any bookings for the immediate time being. Guests already at the hotel or resort are allowed to stay and the resort can remain open in this case. No new guests are allowed to book in though.

Koh Samui has 7 officially confirmed Covid19 cases. It makes it the highest ranking amphur in the province of Surat Thani with confirmed cases.

The Songkran 2020 Festival has been officially cancelled and it's not considered a holiday this year.

The Seatran Discovery ferry has stopped all service between the islands for the time being. The ferries to the mainland are still running though, in a reduced schedule.
Flights to Bangkok can currently only be done with Nok Air from Surat Thani airport.

On to the weather. At 9,30am this morning it's 31C. Hardly any clouds in the sky and bound to heat up again, very soon.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 6^th April – 12^th April 2020

Tesco Lotus in Chaweng, early April 2020. The Covid10 crisis has most of the mall closed down. It gives for a strange sight and eerie feeling. Not many people around and with so many shops being closed down, it's very strange indeed. 

It has been splendid last week. Lots of sunshine. Very few clouds. No rain whatsoever. Maximum temperature reached 33C. It feels a lot warmer / hotter though. The heat actually beats you down. It seeps all your energy during the day time.

The minimum temperature last week dropped to 23C on Monday. The rest of the week it was more like 25C with a few times a drop to 24C.

Very typical April weather.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 6^th April – 12^th April 2020

Don't forget, that despite the current Covid19 crisis, Koh Samui still has it's natural beauty. Here's another glorious sunset in the making near Big Buddha last week. Not so many as usual, but people still hang out and enjoy the sunsets on the road to Big Buddha. This time of the year is perfect for enjoying a good sunset.

The forecast for next week looks interesting. A bit more cloud cover and from Monday onward, possibly a bit more rain. It's a partial rainy season after all. 

Looking forward seeing you back on Koh Samui soon. As soon as it;'s possible again and we can travel around again. Until that time, be safe!

Please 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. Once the world has come to it senses again and Covid 19 is in the past!

Camille

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

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

Another Sunday morning with a brand new Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd – 29th March 2020.

It's an update from a changed world. Covid 19 is going around the world and manifesting itself. With a lot of consequences and previously unheard rules. Different rules in different countries, all over the world.

Koh Samui is no exception. Tourists have more or less gone. Many local Thai people who lost their jobs have gone back home. Back to their southern provinces, like Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani, Chumpon, all the way up to the northern and Isaan provinces.

It's very quiet on Koh Samui. Many shops have been closed down, either by government decree. Like massage parlors, bars and the like. Other shops closed down because of lack of customers.

We can be in for a long haul. Tough and hard times are coming for many us. The first Covid 19 cases have been detected on Koh Samui. There are bound to be more. Be safe out there!

As for the weather, it's partially cloudy and the current temperature at 8.45 am is 31C.

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

Queue in Makro for buying face masks. One pack per person, per day, 4 masks for 10.-THB. This picture was taken yesterday, now there are also social distance markers. 300 packs pr day, until stock lasts.

Last week it was a nice, sunny and warm week. Maximum temperatures reached up to 33-34C. Minimum temperatures didn't drop lower than 23C

For next week, it's more of the same, sunny to partially clouded skies. Maybe a bit of a breeze to coll things down a bit. No rain in sight. The weather has been great this month on Koh Samui and it's surrounding islands. 

Be safe folks. Practice social distancing and wash your hands regularly. If possible, try to stay at home as much as you can.

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course.

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned, once we're back to 'normal'. 

Camille

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

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

It's Sunday morning an a call for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9th March – 15th March 2020 is due.

The long run is in the can, 21.44km in 1:59.07 or a 5'33 pace. A slow and easy long distance run.

It's partially cloudy and warming up. Current temperature at 10am is 29C but it sure feels a lot warmer already. Might as well get ready for another hot and sunny day.

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

Early this month, the two Makro shops on the island started to have fever tests. Upon entering the shop, a staff member will electronically check if your have a raised temperature or fever. So far there are no known Covid-19 cases on Koh Samui and it's archipelago. All shops, hotels, resorts and restaurants are suffering though due to the absence of many tourists. Hard times are ahead for many people around the world.

Last week was very hot. It was sunshine galore. Mostly blue skies and a blaring hot sun. 'De koperen ploert' as we call that in the Netherlands. Maximum temperatures reached around 34C. The minimum temperature got stuck around 24C. During my early morning runs, between 5am and 6am, I can feel the temperature is rising. A very warm week and it takes some getting used to. Especially considering that we just come out of our rainy and cool season.

For next week, the wind picks up again. which is nice and it will hopefully cool things down a bit. No rain is predicted, but a bit more cloud cover compared to last week. Hopefully it will be a bit cooler. 

The Covid-19 situation in Thailand is chaotic, to say the least. The government keeps back tracking an almost all decisions it makes. There's clearly no clear policy in place and it shows incompetence at the highest levels. The health minister had a racist rant against 'dirty' Europeans who spread the Covid-19 virus. Which he now denies. I

New measures are put in place each day, mostly to be overruled the next day. Not many are being tested which explains the low number of people of infected people. Stay wary, wash your hands and avoid busy places. Start you social distancing. 

Hard economical and financial times are ahead for many people around the world. Stay safe and healthy! Eat healthy food and get lots of sleep. Boast your immune system!

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Goodbye to February 2020

Goodbye to February 2020

We have arrived at the last day of this month, hence, time to say Goodbye to February 2020. It's also a Leap Day. A fairly rare occurrence that only happens every four years.

This February was nice but not as good weather wise as previous years. Especially the third week of this month saw almost one week long, rain showers each day. The last week was a mix of partially to fully clouded skies, laced with sunshine as well. However, last week there was no rain.

A good February, not an outstanding February in the Samui archipelago.

I was happy to be at home this month. Except for a short trip to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Our first ever visit to this sparkling city. We enjoyed it a lot and are looking forward to be able to visit again. 

Goodbye to February 2020

Empty shop space in Chaweng for rent. All around the island more and more empty shopping places, restaurants or other real estate is up for sale or rent. Tourism numbers were already dropping due to the high Thai Baht exchange rate, before January this year. With the Covid-19 virus, things have gotten a lot worse. Everybody in Thailand working in the tourism industry feels the impact. Even outside the tourism industry people start to feel it. Many shops, restaurants etc can't make enough money to pay the rent anymore. February is usually one of the busiest months in the year. This year it has been below average.

It's time to start looking forward, to March 2020. If you're on the island, enjoy all things Koh Samui has to offer. You have all of the island almost to yourself!

I'm off to visit my Mum and my sister and her family, who will be here for a week! Eight people who decided to continue their holidays and we will make the most out of it!

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 17th February – 23rd February 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 17^th February – 23^rd February 2020

A day later than usual but here we are with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 17th February – 23rd February 2020. It's Monday morning and I had a sever cold over the last couple of days. Nope. no reason to worry, no coronavirus for this blogger. Koh Samui is coronavirus free.

Having said that, there was no long slow distance run yesterday, instead, I spent a lot of time in bed over the weekend.

Nonetheless, we have a blue sky over Koh Samui, with a few clouds in it. Current temperature at 10.30am is 28C

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 17^th February – 23^rd February 2020

Road construction is going on at Chaweng beach road. This one year project aims to put all cables underground. A great project and hopefully it will improve the scenery along the beach road. On this picture, cables are being laid underground. I still wonder if the project will be completed within the one year prediction, but I hope the result will look good! This is at the corner of Timmy's Tailor and the Mercure Chaweng Tana hotel.

Last week saw a few showers on almost every day. There was still plenty of sunshine as well. Most showers were short but some were harder and lasted a bit longer. During my service as a wedding celebrant, we had one wedding last week that had a bit of rain during the ceremony.

Maximum temperatures reached 31C but it was mostly a bit cooler. Due to the clouds and occasional rain, most of the time it was around 29C.

The minimum temperature was mostly 23C with a drop to 22C occasionally two nights ago.

The forecast for next week is looking better. A nice breeze all week long. There is no rain predicted but a tropical showers, fast and hard can always happen.

Enjoy the island, it's quiet and relaxd at the moment. Be careful if you drive a car or motorbike and do go out and about and explore.

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January – 2nd February 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January – 02nd February 2020

Another Sunday morning, another long slow distance run done and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January – 02nd February 2020.

There's light cloud cover over Koh Samui. At 8am it's already 28C. Get ready for a nice and warm day.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January – 2nd February 2020

Chaweng lake is having some construction work done. Around the whole lake the Tessaban, or island government, is making a jogging road. Great initiative and this is a very popular place for local and foreign visitors who like to jog. 

Maximum temperatures last week remained solid at 31C. The minimum was at 22C. Only yesterday, Saturday saw some rain. A nice week around the Samui archipelago.

Next week is supposed to have a nice breeze, partial cloud coverage and no rain.

Enjoy your stay on the island!

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience.

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Goodbye to October 2019

Goodbye to October 2019

It's the last day of this month and time to say Goodbye to October 2019! We do this with a cloudy but dry sky at 7.30am. Come 8.45am it started to rain though. 

This month of October has been a a fairly good month. Yes, we had rain almost every week. Some weeks more, other weeks less. On the other hand, we also had our share of sunshine. So, all in all, not a bad October at all. The rainy season hasn't started yet although a few times it alerted us that's it not far way anymore.

We had a good time with the family, the children had most of this month off from school. This allowed us to make some short trips on the mainland. We visited Surat Thani, Hua Hin, Samut Songkhram and Ratchaburi province. Last weekend we had a repeat visit to Surat Thani and had a look at the city of Chaiya. Here we found an lovely restaurant named Baan Pakwaan. Check it out for a great lunch.

Goodbye to October 2019

A new resort under construction between Choengmon and Chaweng. Although the occupancy rate of the Samui hotels has been very low this year, new resorts are still being build.

Hope you had a good time and enjoyed Koh Samui during your visit. Keep checking in here and don't hesitate to contact me, for questions, inquiries or to book some tours.

Now it's on to the next month, November! This month usually brings lots of rain. More on that in tomorrow's blog about welcoming November 2019!

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

You can also enjoy some of the trips I recommend, like a half day gourmet lunch and snorkeling trip at the Southern part of Koh Samui or a photography trip where you get to see the most photo genetic spots on the island or go for a drinks tasting tour if you like a tipple or two. 

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience. 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th October – 13th October 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th October – 13th October 2019

Here awe are again, Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th October – 13th October 2019.

The Sunday run is in the bag and the sun is out!

It was cloudy to partially clouded earlier this morning. However, the sun is taking over control. It's getting more blue by the minute almost. Current temperature at 11am is 30C and rising. It feels a lot hotter outside, once you're in the sun.

Last week saw plenty of nice sunny to partially clouded days. However, towards the end of the week we saw some showers. Starting Thursday afternoon. Yesterday it was dry and sunny at Plai Laem all day long. However, our oldest daughter had to go to the Navy camp in Lipa Noi. The King's daughter was visiting and releasing turtles. Once she got back she mentioned that it rained there.

Maximum temperatures last week ranged from 35C in the beginning of the week to 23C a few times during the night time.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th October – 13th October 2019

New signage at Central Festival in Chaweng. A great and popular photo opportunity.

The forecast for next week is not looking that great. We're getting to the half way mark of this month and that can lead us to some foretastes of the rainy season. The current typhoon, Hagidis, that is or was battering Japan, is rubbing off on Thailand now. That includes Samui. Tomorrow we get a very short but harsh storm spot between 10am and 1pm. Lots of rain during that period as well. Let's see how accurate this prediction will be.

The rest of the week will see some hard rain as well. Not on all days, mostly towards the end of the week. Possibly including next weekend.

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

You can also enjoy some of the trips I recommend, like a half day gourmet lunch and snorkeling trip at the Southern part of Koh Samui or a photography trip where you get to see the most photo genetic spots on the island or go for a drinks tasting tour if you like a tipple or two. 

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience. 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Goodbye to May 2019

Goodbye to May 2019

The month is coming to an end and it's time to say goodbye to May 2019.

It's been a fairly good but also a rather typical May for the weather around Koh Samui this month. In general it was still fairly hot. Maximum temperatures hitting the mid thirties on a regular base. On the other hand, we also had a few showers. Mostly tropical showers, hard but short. I really enjoy them, they cool things down and balance out the water levels of the ground water on the island.

June should see a few more (tropical) showers next month.

Half of the month I spent on Phuket but I'm glad to be back on Koh Samui for at least a couple of months. 

Goodbye to May 2019

Part of SRU; Surat Thani Rajabath University. The International school of tourism in Chaweng.

Right now it's time to look forward to month of June. Always an enjoyable month on Koh Samui. Although June has is part of a smaller rainy season, it's a nice month to be on the island. The temperatures aren't as high anymore but there should still be enough sunshine to keep you happy.

It's also going to be an excellent month for running on the island(s). Starting with this weekend and the Bangkok Airways Koh Samui Half marathon, 10km and 5km races. Hope to see you in Nathon come Sunday morning.

If you were on the island this month, i do hope you had a good time and enjoyed your stay. Let us here about!

Now on to June, there are some races that need to be run!

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

You can also enjoy some of the trips I recommend, like a half day gourmet lunch and snorkeling trip at the Southern part of Koh Samui or a photography trip where you get to see the most photo genetic spots on the island or go for a drinks tasting tour if you like a tipple or two. 

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience. 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th May 2019 – 26th May 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20^th May 2019 – 26^th May 2019

It's Sunday morning once more and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th May 2019 – 26th May 2019. First of all, it's nice to be back on Koh Samui again. Secondly, the long slow distance run for Sunday has been taken care of. Not so long, only 18km but very slow. I hope to be in shape to run a good time next weekend in the Bangkok Airways series Koh Samui half marathon. See you in Nathon next Sunday!

This morning it started out very cloudy. However, by now, 10.30am it is nice and sunny with a lovely blue sky. Current temperature is 31C and expect it to go up a few degrees. It's another hot one in the making today.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th May 2019 – 26th May 2019

The new school of our youngest daughter. For one more year she will be visiting this school in Chaweng, opposite the University of Tourism. Now all 3 of our children have been to this school.

Last week saw a few showers. Always nice this time of the year to have a shower to cool things down a bit. As long as it remains a tropical shower, that is! Short, fast and furious! Most of the week we had sunshine and hot fays though. Maximum temperature reached 35C and the minimum got suck at 27C. Not bad for a week in May around Koh Samui. Fairly average at the weather side of things for this month.

For next week, going into June 2019, it looks good. The wind is about to drop down. Expect the occasional tropical shower and partially clouded skies. There should be plenty of sunshine until the end of this month and the start of the new month, next weekend.

Enjoy your stay on the island(s) and go out and about. I have some options listed for you below or do a search on the blog here.

Please 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. 

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

You can also enjoy some of the trips I recommend, like a half day gourmet lunch and snorkeling trip at the Southern part of Koh Samui or a photography trip where you get to see the most photo genetic spots on the island or go for a drinks tasting tour if you like a tipple or two. 

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience. 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. 

Camille

Goodbye to April 2019

Goodbye to April 2019

We're on the last day of this month and that brings us to the 'Goodbye to April 2019'.

First of all the weather. It was steaming hot. The middle and end part of the month were scorching. Although the quicksilver didn't reach 40C on Koh Samui, it most certainly felt that way. There were maybe two and a half showers all month long. It's not until today, the last day of the month, that it's cloudy.

Goodbye to April 2019

Songkran or Thai New Year in Chaweng. Always a fun celebration.

It was a busy month with plenty of activities. Especially the start of the month was busy! The first weekend saw two running events. The 7th Koh Samui Midnight run and the next morning immediately followed by the Samui Cross trail run.

Goodbye to April 2019

At the start of this year's 7th Samui Midnight Run. At last I managed to get first spot in my age group, 50+. This was at the 5km race/ The picture above shows the start of the race. Early next morning it was off to Maenam for a 10KM trail race

The weekend after that it was time for Songkran or Thai New Year. This was fun and the whole family always enjoy celebrating this event. 

It was slight;y strange though. In Chaweng, the beach road was at times closed to cars. which somehow felt like the energy and excitement levels were dropped. 

Goodbye to April 2019

The 10km trail race as part of the 'Samui Cross' event. The morning after the Samui Midnight run. For me a bit too much to chew on. First of all I lost the trail and added 1.5km to the overall distance. Secondly, I was still very tired from the previous night's Midnight run, during which I ran my fastest time/pace to date. Still managed a 4th place in my age group.

All in all a good month. Busy and fun. The second half of the month saw me on Koh Lanta. I taught a PADI IDC there. All this, just to come back home to the island shortly before the end of the month.

With April in the bag, it's now time to start looking at May. Tomorrow we will welcome the new month here. Stay tuned!

Please 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.

If you're done resting or need something else to do, there's plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui, you can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course.

You can also enjoy some of the trips I recommend, like a half day gourmet lunch and snorkeling trip at the Southern part of Koh Samui or a photography trip where you get to see the most photo genetic spots on the island or go for a drinks tasting tour if you like a tipple or two.

You may also opt for a very special dinner experience at The Thai Experience. Behind closed doors, reservation only and a very enjoyable and well worthwhile way of spending an evening on Samui. Authentic Thai food and a great atmosphere. Can highly recommend this experience.

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned.

Camille