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

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; 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

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

 Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22^nd June – 28^th June 2020

Good morning and welcome to the  Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22nd June – 28th June 2020. We're almost at the end of another month. 

Last week the weather was typical of the minor rainy season we have right now. Firstly, plenty of partially and cloudy days. Secondly, also plenty of tropical showers. This Sunday morning, it's cloudy but dry. However, the roads are wet from last nights rain.

The current June 2020 PADI IDC has moved to Koh Samui. This after we completed the online learning experience. Today open water dives are scheduled. We're diving again!

Current temperature at 8am is 28C. Rather cool compared to other weeks.

Maximum temperature last week reached 34C at the beginning of the week. The minimum was mainly 24C, except at the end of the week when it dropped to 23C.

Covid19 is at a very low infection rate. Firstly, Thailand didn't have a local infection since 33 days. Secondly, Koh Samui and Surat Thani province are well in the 75 days range. The only infections at the moment seem to come from people returning to Thailand.

The borders more or less remain shut though. International arrivals are now allowed as of 1st July for a limited range of people. Business people and persons with Thai spouses can now return again.

The emergency decree has been extended for another month, into July.

 Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22^nd June – 28^th June 2020

 The markets are open since a while again. The food on display is the same as always. Thai curry paste is still available in large quantities! Spicy and colorful as always! Thailand remains Thailand.

The forecast for next week looks fairly good. Today and tomorrow there's a chance of another tropical shower or two. After that, we should see some more sunshine again.

Hang in there and hopefully, very soon, we will be able to welcome you again on our lovely island

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; 15^th June – 21^st June 2020

Here we are back with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15th June – 21st June 2020. At almost noon it's 32C and partially cloudy. It's fairly humid as well.

Last week saw a few showers. Mostly during the late evening, evening or night. Especially in the morning the sun tends to be out. Maximum temperature reached 34C. During the last three days it ranged between 33C and 34C. Before that it topped at 32C. The minimum quicksilver reading was fairly steady around 24C.

Thailand is now entering phase 5 of the easing of the lock down. Apparently bars can open today or at least very soon again. Koh Samui and the province of Surat Thani did not have a covid19 case since over 70 days now.

The prospect of tourists returning to the island or Thailand in general looks bleak though. International flight arrivals may not be allowed until 1st September. It's not sure right now who will be allowed to enter. A lot of speculation but nothing concrete is available at the moment. It does look however that the emergency decree might stay a bit longer. More and more it looks like the Christmas period may be the first time we see some form of tourism being restored. It remains a guess how the government expects people in the tourism industry can make a living.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15^th June – 21^st June 2020

The Tuesday market opposite the regular market in Plai Laem. Next to the bridge to Bang Rak. It's open again and it is busy! Social distancing is not on anybody's mind! Should it be after being 70 days covid free on the island? We did buy some food for takeaway and enjoyed it at home.

The prediction for next week is similar to the last few weeks. Mostly partially cloudy. This will be laced with a few tropical showers, mainly in the afternoon or evening.

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 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; 19th August – 25th August 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19^th August – 25^th August 2019

Sunday morning in Surat Thani and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19th August – 25th August 2019.

It's cloudy but dry and the current temperature at 7.30am is 29C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19^th August – 25^th August 2019

It's durian season! We're in the midst of it. Nowadays I love durian, especially the Mong Thong variation. In my ealry days in Thailand, I thought they smelled horrible, and I barely tasted them. Nowadays, when I smell them, I want to know where they are so I can indulge in them. There's a reason they're called 'king of the fruits'! How about you, do you like durian? Or do you think they smell like rotten shoes? This picture was taken at the Maenam morning market. Well worth a visit by the way!

Last week saw a very nice week when we talk about the weather. Lots of sunshine and warm temperatures. In the north eastern corner of the island where we live, we didn't really have any rain. Other parts of the island might have had some rain yesterday.

Maximum temperatures last week got up to 35C on Wednesday. Tuesday night the minimum temperature last week dropped to 21C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 19th August – 25th August 2019

A sop in downtown Surat Thani city. It's near the Tapee river on a Sunday morning market. Plenty of 'pinto' for sale. This is how you take food on the road, to the temple, to work or you name it and it stays warm. Nice walk through the narrow sois and look at all the Chinese style shops.

For next week we're looking at lots of strong wind, especially towards next weekend. Plenty of tropical showers are also predicted. It might get fairly wet during this last August week of the year. Hopefully we will get a little bit of sunshine in as well. Nonetheless, the island needs the water to stock up ground water levels.

If you are on the Samui archipelago, enjoy your time! There is plenty of things to do 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. 

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; 22nd July – 28th July 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22^nd July – 28^th July 2019

Good morning on this Sunday during which we check the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22nd July – 28th July 2019!

It's Sunday morning, which also means my long run is done. Today 'only' 21.4km. My preparation for the Lan Saka marathon come 8th September is going fine. Fully according to schedule so far! Am crossing my fingers it stays like that!

This morning it's partially cloudy. The sun may break through in full force later today. Current temperature at 9am is 29C.

Last week still saw nice weather, most of the week. At last there were a few showers. They are badly needed. The rain that is! On the other hand, there was also still enough sunshine and mostly the afternoons were very warm. Maximum temperature last week stopped at 35C. The minimum temperature reached 21C.

July is almost coming to an end and it has been a very nice, warm and dry month so far!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 22^nd July – 28^th July 2019

Fresh seafood at the Plai Laem market. This market is well worth a visit, not too big nor too small. Lots of fresh produce to be seen and had. Each day around 5pm it's absolute chaos, due to the parking situation.

The forecast fr next week is interesting. July should end like most of this month, fairly warm and possibly, maybe a tropical shower. Come August 1st, the wind should pick up. This should come together with rain. A predication we had a couple of times during July, but the rain hardly materialized. We'll see what will happen during next week.

Either way, 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. 

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; 24th June – 30th June 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24^th June – 30^th June 2019

Here we are, another Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24th June – 30th June 2019.

The long slow distance run has been done and dusted. 25.7km this morning, making it almost 39km over the weekend. The build up for the Lan Saka marathon come 8th September is in full swing. Almost at the half way mark.

The weather on Koh Samui was surprisingly nice! Despite having had rainy and cloudy predictions for a second week in a row, it was mostly sunny. It has rained a little bit at certain parts of the island, although Plai Laem didn't get to see that much. The wind has picked up today though.

Currently at 10.30am it's 'only' 31C. The sun is however slowly creeping out from behind the clouds and it feels much warmer already.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24^th June – 30^th June 2019

The Hua Thanon market. Well knows for it's fresh fish each day. Well worth a visit. It's s small but cozy market area.

Last week saw plenty of sunshine, and plenty of partially cloudy skies. Maximum temperatures reached 34C. On the other hand, minimum temperature last week reached 22C during the night.

So, that brings us to the forecast for next week, Coincidentally, also the first July week of 2019. 

The wind should keep picking. Towards mi week and the end of the week we may see some rain. Possibly in the form of tropical showers. Short but hard!

We'll see how this pans out though. In the meantime, enjoy your stay on our island and do go out and about! It's low season and rather quiet on the island. You have the island almost to yourself!

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; 15th April 2019 – 21st April 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15th April 2019 – 21st April 2019

Another Sunday morning, another long slow distance run in the bag and another Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15th April 2019 – 21st April 2019.

In case you missed it, it's steaming hot at the moment in Thailand. This morning it's already 31C around Koh Samui but it feels like it's in the lower forties. 

Right now I'm still on Koh Lanta for at least another week. It's been very hot here as well. Even during the early mornings, which are usually rather cool here. During last week we had one tropical shower here, last Sunday evening, the day I arrived on the island.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15th April 2019 – 21st April 2019

Sweets at display during the recent temple party last month at Bophud temple. The bamboo is filled with coconuts sweetened rice.

Last week it was very hot around Koh Samui. Maximum temperatures reached 36C but it felt much hotter. There was hardly any respite, except a rare tropical thunderstorm yesterday at some parts of the island. Minimum temperatures didn't drop below 28C at night.

The islands and the South in general are however still not as hot as Central and Northern Thailand where the quicksilver reached well over 40C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 15th April 2019 – 21st April 2019

A southbound view from the most northern point in Ban Saladan on Koh Lanta. This is the main street at the end of the season. Almost like a ghost town. Many places are already closed or start closing down.

Next week more hot weather is ours to be! From Tuesday on though, it may a bit more cloudy. A tropical thunderstorm or shower is very welcome and may occasionally occur.

Enjoy your time on the island and make sure to use coral reef friendly sunscreen.

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; 24th September – 30th September 2018

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24^th September – 30^th September 2018 

Noon on a Sunday on Koh Samui and that means it's time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24th September – 30th September 2018.

This morning were the Samui marathon, 30km trail-, 10km- and 5km races as part of the Samui Festival activities. It seems that my injury has healed. After last weeks 5km race, I participated today in a 10km race. And all went well, my leg held out which is the most important thing. OI finished 4th in my age category 50-59 in a decent pace. Not my fastest but for the time being good enough.

Next race coming up is the Samui Skal 10 mile run come 21st October.

Now on to today's weather. It's sunny skies galore. The current temperature around noon is 38C! Hardly any wind in other words, it's hot!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 24th September – 30th September 2018; A view on the sunset over the Samui Festival free buffet on Chaweng beach yesterday. It was a fun event. However long queues in front of the food stalls. As one of my Facebook friends said; "Samui Festival back bigger and....300 tables, 2400 chairs, 0 bins and 1 toilet...."

The forecast for next week looks good. There should be plenty of blue and sunny skies laced with an occasional shower or thunderstorm. Fairly typical for a nice October month.

Enjoy your stay on the island and do sign up for one of the trips I offer around 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. 

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. 

If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Camille

Goodbye to August 2018

Goodbye to August 2018

It's the last day of this August month and time to say Goodbye to August 2018 on Koh Samui.

To start with the weather during this August. It wasn't that great. Plenty of rain and cloudy skies in the beginning of the month, easily holding on to the middle of this month. You can also include some stormy day in there as well.

The last week of this month was a lot better. During this last week of August the sun came out and it was immediately hot around the island.

Today it's partially cloudy with the sun peeking through and a current temperature of 31C at 11.30am.

Goodbye to August 2018; sweets on display at Laem Din market in Chaweng

All in all not your best or dream August. It looks like next month, It looks like September 2018 is shaping up a lot nicer.

Despite the weather not being on it's August best, I do hope you enjoyed your island when you visited this month

Time to move on though and embrace September 2018 into our arms..

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. 

 If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

 Camille

The Thai Experience, the second coming

The Thai Experience, the second coming

Here we are again, with a visit to The Thai Experience, the second coming in our agenda! Earlier this week I couldn't resist an invitation to visit again, after my first Thai Experience dating back to February 2015.

The concept is still the same, one dining room with a big table and everybody seats at the same table, behind closed doors, reservation only!

Over the next 3 to 4 hours, 15 dishes will come your way to be enjoyed and eaten! The Thai Experience can also cater to all kinds of dietary wishes, just let them know in advance.

The Thai Experience, the second coming; The host is the most. Joe will look after you during the Koh Samui Thai experience and will guide and talk you through the evening in an interesting and entertaining way

Everything start with a transfer from your hotel or resort to Lamai, where the dining room is located. Once inside and everyone is present, the fun starts.

Joe, your Samui guide for the evening, will take you through the evening with explanations and origins of the food you're about to eat. You will even get to prepare and have a hand in making some of your own dressings,

The Thai Experience, the second coming; Cocktails to break the ice. You can try three different cocktails and the chosen one has a free flow for the rest of the evening. Or local beer in case cocktails aren't your thing. As a non alcoholic drinker, I was served 3 different mocktails and enjoyed the same free flow option

The cocktails and the alcohol are real ice breakers and in no time a room full of potential strangers are mingling and talking to each other.

Around 2000 bamboo straws have just been ordered and every guest will take them home with them as their permanent straw. A great initiative!

The Thai Experience, the second coming; Starters for starters. Three of them. Very tasty.

The starters are fab, all three of them, the laab muu being my personal favorite. These three starters are followed by two amazing Thai street food dishes. Two separate skewers, one with pork and sticky rice and my absolute fave, a skewer variation on the chicken cashew nut dish. An absolute winner.

Just go easy though, the mains have still to make their grand entrance!

The Thai Experience, the second coming; Four meaty mains. All of them delicious! My fave was the Penang pork curry, closely followed by the prawn curry with chaploo leaves and this was closely followed by the slow cooked pork. It really was a photo finish!

The mains are served in a the so called 'phin to', 3 to 4 containers on top of each other, each container with a different dish in it. All four dishes prepared very well, tasty and presented in a very unique and authentic way. Especially the sweet pork is a dish well worth trying out, since it's a hard to get dish if you're only on the island as a tourist.

The Thai Experience, the second coming; A close up of the slow cooked pork in a black pepper sauce (moo hong)

There's even a second set of mains, white snapper prepared in three different ways. Make sure you have some room in your stomach left by now since you don't want to miss out on the papillote, the pan fired or the Singha beer battered fish balls.

Tasty, well presented and getting you there of being stuffed to the max. Oh wait, there are still three deserts coming your way as well. 

Just go with the flow and enjoy another treat of the chefs!

The Thai Experience, the second coming; Group picture after a wonderful evening.

By now, around 10.30-11.00pm the evening is coming to an end and the mini van is waiting outside to bring you back to your resort.

It's an entertaining and delicious event that is well worth your time and gives you a great and fun insight into the Thai cuisine. Hence 'The Thai Experience'. They have my thumbs up!

The whole group enjoyed the evening and pictures and social media contacts were shared by each other.

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday they're open for business but other days of the week are open to availability. For groups a shorter version is available upon request.

The current price is 2,490.-THB per person and includes around 15 dishes, free drinks and transfers.

Follow this link and book directly a place at the communal table. Just do it and enjoy!

The Thai Experience also donates money to a local Samui animal aid charity, see the qoute below;
"I have one regular sponsor, the Thai experience, which contributes every month for the past three years to help feed the dogs.
With the help from the Thai experience I am able to feed up to 30 dogs. To give you an idea one 25kg bag of food costs 25 euro/ 23 GBP. There is an area in Ban Taling nam pier where locals and expats abandon their dogs especially puppies. Most of the puppies that end up here do not survive as this area is riddled with distemper and parvovirus. With funding from the Thai Experience they have helped in the purchase of vaccinations including test kits to see if the dogs have a disease"

Please visit their Facebook page.

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. 

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

If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st May – 27th May 2018

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21^st May – 27^th May 2018 

It's Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st May – 27th May 2018.

It's nice and hot over Koh Samui with plenty of blue skies and some clouds.It's midday and already 32C and it feels a lot warmer. The temperature is still rising, get that sun lotion out and protect your selves.

This morning I ran the Hat Yai half marathon as part of the 12th Hat Yai marathon, a big event and a well organized race. I came 9th in my age category  of 55-59 out of 52 participants and 60th all over out of 1088 participants. My fastest half marathon to date.

Right now I'm on the public bus back to Koh Samui, we left an hour ago and are expected to be on Samui around 7pm. Still a few hours to go!

It was cloudy in the morning during the race, which made for cool temperatures, ideal for racing with 27.5C.

Now at midday it's 31C and partially cloudy with the sun peeking out,

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st May – 27th May 2018; Boats near Big Buddha during low tide

Last week it was nice and warm around Koh Samui but we also had some showers, thunder storms and a few very hard showers. All in all not too bad though and maximum temperatures ranged from 29C to 34C.
A good week in my opinion.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 21st May – 27th May 2018; The dim sum restaurant in Hat Yai where I had breakfast this morning. It's located near the bus station in Hat Yai. Tasty and seemingly very popular since it was very busy. Many restaurants were closed though, due to Ramadan.

The forecast for next week looks like we will have cloudy to partially cloudy days with most likely some rain on Wednesday and a few tropical showers throughout he week. 

Still plenty of sunshine to enjoy though.

Fairly typical weather for this time of the year. Enjoy your time on Koh Samui!

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. 

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

If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Camille

Goodbye to February 2018

Goodbye to February 2018

Only 28 days but they're gone and it's time to say 'Goodbye to February 2018'.

Our island enjoyed another lovely February, one of the best month in the year to actually be on Koh Samui, or to visit.

The temperatures are nice and agreeable, it doesn't get too hot and there's only a few showers throughout the month. Near to perfect!

This month was a school sample, most days were partially cloudy but with plenty of sunshine. There were only six days with some tropical showers and the maximum temperature didn't go over 33C and that was just one day. All other days the temperatures ranged between 29 and 31C Most days did feel warmer though.

Today is another great day in the making, the last day of this month, with a current temperature of 25.9C at 7am and a partially clouded sky. There a few more clouds over the ocean but over Samui it might clear up quickly once the sun starts to warm up.

Goodbye to February 2018; Anybody up for some Southern curries at the Plai Laem market? Nice and spicy?

It was a good month for me as well, I got to spend most of it at home. When I left for work, to Khao Lak, I got to run two 10 km races within 7 hours, a night run in Phuket town and the next day a run at the Siriroj Hospital, near Central Festival on Phuket. Partially running through the same Phuket town roads. 

The PADI IDC on Khao Lak just finished yesterday and I will stay a few more days during the exams for my students and for some more diving. A day trip to the Similan islands is on the menu!

Goodbye to February 2018; Shoot out at Chaweng beach between local Thai people, one person died and one is in ICU.

The biggest and most shocking news this month must have happened yesterday, with a gun shoot out on the middle of Chaweng beach. One person died, the son of a well known local family and one person, a family member of another well known family, is in ICU. 

To say that this must have been a shock to the unsuspecting tourists who were at the beach at that moment, is probably an understatement.

There will be a lot of talk about that in the coming weeks.

That's a wrap up for this month though, hope you enjoyed it when you were here. If you plan to visit, March will be another lovely month around Samui!

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. 

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

If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30th October – 5th November, 2017

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30^th October – 5^th November, 2017 

It's Sunday morning, once more and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30th October – 5th November, 2017. It's been a busy week and I've spent most of it in Khao Lak, with the PADI IDC finishing, the PADI IE being completes and PADI Instructor specialty diving done and dusted. Yesterday I arrived in Kamala, Phuket where I participated in the 1st Kamala mini marathon this morning an placed 5th in my age group.

First things first though and that's the current Sunday morning weather on Koh Samui. It's mostly cloudy with a current temp of 27.9C at 10am and a very strong wind blowing. Don't be surprised if later today there may a tropical shower or two. Fairly typical for this time of the year!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30th October – 5th November, 2017; The Plai Laem market, earlier last month. The green veggies on a string are sator, a Southern Thai veggie which I like a lot.

Last week saw plenty of clouds and a bit of wind, except for the night of 2nd to 3rd November when it rained all night long and the usual hot spots on Koh Samui had some flash flooding for a couple of hours, especially between 7am and 8am. Before noon the rain stopped though and the floods disappeared rather quickly. A fairly standard procedure this time of the year. As long as the rain doesn't last for more than a week, flash floods come and go quickly since the drainage systems aren't saturated.

Max temperatures during last week ranged from the usual 32-33C to 28C on the 2nd and 3rd.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30th October – 5th November, 2017; Police patrol boat 813 in Khao Lak is still in the same spot as the Tsunami deposited it. More and more construction is going on around the monument.

The forecast for next week shows and predicts strong wind and plenty of rain on Monday to Tuesday night with a build up and phase out before and after. From Wednesday onward the wind settles in again although the occasional tropical showers will continue. As already mentioned, nothing unusual for this time of the year.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 30th October – 5th November, 2017; After the 1st mini marathon in Kamala on Phuket, where I ran into 5th spot in my age group. 9.5km in 46'40 or a 4'54 pace. One of the hilliest race routes a ever ran so far and to top it off, the finish was a 1km stretch on the beach. All for the price of one with no extra charge! Happy with my result, since Phuket always has some strong runner at the start line!

So, here we are, November has started and luckily the very strong storm that was predicted for the 2nd and 3rd November didn't happen, it all fizzled out in the end. Luckily enough. The rainy season has roared it's head though and do expect plenty of showers during this month with the occasional flood here and there. Hopefully scenes from last will stay away from us on our beloved 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. 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. 

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

If you like to donate to this blog, use this secure link PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Camille