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; 13th May 2019 – 19th May 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th May 2019 – 19^th May 2019

It's Sunday morning and the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13th May 2019 – 19th May 2019 is calling.

It's nice and sunny around Koh Samui with just a few scattered clouds. Current temperature at 9.20am is 31C. Get ready for another nice and warm day. Oh yeah, and dry! Perfect weather for May on the islands!

My time on Phuket is coming to an end after two weeks. The Sunday morning long slow distance run is in the can. I'm on track for the full marathon come 15th September at Samui Festival. First running stop will be the Bangkok Airways Samui half marathon come 2nd Jun. Just two weeks away. First of all though, tomorrow I will be back on the road to Koh Samui.

On Phuket we have this Sunday morning a partially clouded sky and also 31C with the temperature rising.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th May 2019 – 19^th May 2019

Maenam beach with a view on the Lomprayah pier

Last week saw some rain early in the week. Nothing unusual for a typical May month around our archipelago. Maximum temperatures reached 35C and the minimum temperature got stuck at 24C last week.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th May 2019 – 19^th May 2019

View on the road towards Phuket town from Central Phuket. This is taken at the bridge connecting the two Central shopping malls

The forecast for next week is looking good. Possibly more cloud coverage through the week compared to today. However, it will remain dry besides a possible tropical shower. Towards the end of the week, the wind will pick up a bit. Well above a May average!
Enjoy your time on the island. It's not too busy but the beaches are still bright and shining.

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

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1st April 2019 – 7th April 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1^st April 2019 – 7^th April 2019

Sunday morning time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1st April 2019 – 7th April 2019. Plenty of running has been done over the weekend on Samui! First of all last night the 7th Samui Midnight run, which I won in my age group 50+. Secondly, this morning, a 10km trail in Soi 1 in Maenam. After being in second spot, I took a wrong turn at around 7km and run 700 meters too far. As a result I had to turn around and get back on route. Lost my second spot and ended fourth in my age group 50-59. Did I ever feel last night's run and lack of sleep. Just one hour and a half I got clocked on the sleep-o-meter.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1^st April 2019 – 7^th April 2019

Wat Bophud last month during the temple party. A very nice and colorful decorated alley made out of umbrellas.

 Nonetheless, it's a sunny day out here on Koh Samui. At almost 11am it's already 32C and the temperature is rising. In Maenam, the trail runners of the 30km race are about to get to the finish. After a 5am start. Not my cup of cake but respect is due!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1^st April 2019 – 7^th April 2019

The first time I take first spot in my age group on Koh Samui. Last night at the 7th Koh Samui Midnight run. 5.2km in 22'23 minutes and a 4'18 pace. My fastest race to date.

Last week the maximum temperature has risen to 34C. On the other hand, the minimum temperature still had a whooping 27C.
Plenty of sunshine and hardly any rain at all. A typical April on Koh Samui start of the month.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update;1^st April 2019 – 7^th April 2019

Last week I was in Khao Lak for a PADI IDC and PADI IE. This is a beautiful stretch of beach, at the start of Khao Lak. It's taken from a big hill. On Youtube one can find videos of the 2004 tsunami, when on this beach people are swept away by the first wave. Never can shake that video when I pass this hill and look on the beautiful beach. As a matter of fact, I need to learn to take my fingers away from the new mobile camera!

For next week, the forecast is looking good. No rain predicted but plenty of partially clouded skies should be around. Enjoy your time on Koh Samui. The family and me will be off to Ao Nang in Krabi for a few days. Don't worry, we will be back for Songkran or the Thai New Year. You don't want to miss out on this celebration!

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; 25th February 2019 – 3rd March 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25^th February 2019 – 3^rd March 2019

A day late but here we are with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25th February 2019 – 3rd March 2019. The delay is due to a very busy Sunday yesterday on the mainland. It started out with a very early rise, so I could be at the start line for a half marathon in Surat Thani at 5am.

After that it was family time, we visited a nice market in Surat and Central Plaza and before you know it, it is time to get back to the ferry.

In case you wonder, the half marathon went well, I ended up as third in my age group. That was a good result, running 21km in 1 hour and 41 minutes.

Let's move to last week's weather though. It was splendid. The end of February was as good as the start of March. Sunny skies, sometimes with a few clouds and no rain. The temperatures are still very agreeable, although the afternoons slowly start to become warm.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25th February 2019 – 3rd March 2019

The main entrance to Wat Phra Nha Lan in Maenam, on the ring road

Today, Monday morning 4th March, a thin cloud layer is hanging over Samui. The sun is working hard to break through though and the current temperature at noon is 30C but it feels a lot warmer already.

Last week temperatures ranged between 31C and 27C. Although these are the values that have been officially measured, most days it felt a lot warmer.

The forecast for next week is sunny with mostly blue skies, an occasional cloud and no rain. Hard work on the beach is called for!

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 February 2019

Goodbye to February 2019

The second month of this year is already coming to an end, hence it's time to say Goodbye to February 2019. And what a February it was. Hardly any rain, lots of sunshine and partially cloudy to blue skies. As good as a February can get around Koh Samui.

This morning saw blue skies with a few scattered clouds and by 11am it's 30C. Don't get fooled though, it feels a lot warmer.

Goodbye to February 2019 

Maenam beach near Wat Phra Nha Lan and the Lomprayah ferry pier. Not Koh Samui nicest beach, the sand is rather grainy, but a nice and quiet beach.

February is about the best month to visit our island. The temperatures are nice without being too hot. Especially the last couple of days there has been a fair bit of wind which brings a cool breeze.

Goodbye to February 2019 

Bounty beach on Malapascua in the Philippines. The main beach stretch on Malapascua island. Here you can find most restaurants, dive shops and the like.

Most of this month I have spent in the Philippines. Specifically on Malapascua island, teaching a PADI IDC there. Good times were had but it's also good to be back home and enjoy the last bits of this fab month.

Hope you all had a good time on Samui during your stay and I'm looking forward to March coming on! The forecast for the first March week is looking good. Very similar weather were February ended, blue skies to partially clouded skies and no rain in sight.

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; 11th February 2019 – 17th February 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11^th February 2019 – 17^th February 2019

Sunday morning, long run in the bag and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11th February 2019 – 17th February 2019.

On Koh Samui we have light cloud cover with plenty of blue spots over the ocean. The clouds are slowly disintegrating though, the heat of the sun is too much! At 10.40am it's 29C and climbing.

On Malapascua in the Philippines we have completed the February PADI IDC and the PADI Instructor Specialty training. Tomorrow the PADI IE or exams start. 

It's already 11.40am here under a blue sky and the current temperature is around 30C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11th February 2019 – 17th February 2019; Wat Pra Nha Lan in Maenam. Dragon on the lookout! 

Last week was a nice week with plenty of sunshine around Koh Samui. Maximum temperatures reached 31C and minimum 27C. Not too hot, but nice and sunny at the same time. Perfect February weather around Koh Samui.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11th February 2019 – 17th February 2019; New day rising on Malapascua. The early morning thresher shark dive at Monad shoal. The sun is rising and the tanks are ready. Early rise though, the boat leaves at 4.45am.

Next week expect lovely weather conditions around our island. Plenty of blue skies and no rain is the prediction. Enjoy your time 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; 4th February 2019 – 10th February 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th February 2019 – 10th February 2019

It's Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th February 2019 – 10th February 2019.

It's just a quarter past nine in the morning on Koh Samui and we have a lovely blue sky pretty much all over the island. Current temperature is 29C and rising.

Back in the Philippines on Malapascua it's a quarter past ten and we also have a nice blue sky with a current temperature of 28C and rising. 

The PADI IDC here on Malapascua is in full swing. We have already passed the half way mark.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th February 2019 – 10th February 2019; Lovely scene in Wat Pra Nah Lan in Maenam.

Last week was a nice week with lots of sunshine and just a rare shower. Maximum temperature reached 31C and the minimum hit 25C. A very good and also very typical week for February on Koh Samui.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 4th February 2019 – 10th February 2019; One of the main roads on the small island of Malapascua in the Philippines. Small and sandy roads can be found all over the island, from South to North and from East to West. The longest road is not even 1km long, before it breaks off or goes over a trail road over a steep hill. Cars are not allowed on the island, only bicycles and motorbikes.

The forecast for next week is looking good. Monday through Thursday sees a little bit of increase in wind. On the other hand, it should be plenty of sunny skies again. Maybe a tropical shower on Tuesday. 

Enjoy the week to come!

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; 27th January 2019 – 3rd February 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27^th January 2019 – 3^rd February 2019

Early Sunday morning in Cebu city in the Philippines and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January 2019 – 3rd February 2019.

On Koh Samui it's still dark at 6am. It's partially cloudy and the current temperature is 28C. Get ready for a sunny day!

In Cebu city it's already 7am and it's partially cloudy with a current temperature of 24C

I participated in a half marathon earlier this night and did well with a 7th place all over. 21.53km in 1:44'04 or a 4'50 pace. 

In an hour or two it's off to Malapascua where I will start a PADI IDC tomorrow.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January 2019 – 3rd February 2019; The temple entrance at Wat Pra Nha Lan in Maenam, earlier this week. Next to the Lompraya pier. 

Last week was pretty much as predicted. Plenty of sunny moments throughout the week. There was the occasional shower as well but all in all it was a steady nice week.

Maximum temperatures reached 32C and the minimum temperature dropped to 25C. Fairly typical for this time of the year!

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 27th January 2019 – 3rd February 2019; View over Cebu city in the Philippines when coming from Mactan airport. Mactan or Lapu Lapu and Cebu city are divided by a river and you need to cross over by bridges.

Next week is looking good. The prediction tells us that it will be very sunny and just the slightest chance of a very tropical shower. If there's rain at all, it will almost be over before you realized it started.

Looks like February 2019 is kicking off in style. Enjoy your stay on the island and go out and about!

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; 03rd September – 09th September 2018

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 03^rd September – 09^th September 2018 

Sunday morning, it's time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 03rd September – 09th September 2018.

No long slow distance run, am just coming back from injury right now, but I'm keeping myself fit with very regular indoor cycling and weight training. On top of that I also manage around 10 minutes of planking per day.

On to the weather though, it's nice and sunny this morning under an almost completely blue sky. At 10am it's 29C but it feels already warmer and expect more heat later during the day.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 03rd September – 09th September 2018; Spectacular view over Maenam beach and Koh Phangan. We're fairly high up in the mountains at the very end of Soi 5 in Maenam. There's a zip line place and a big tree with a platform around it. So you sit and relax on top and amidst the jungle canopy. Well worth a visit. Keep following Soi 5 in Maenam to the very end, park your car or motorbike, just follow the signs. After a short walk you will reach the tree platform. Have a drink and/or a small bite and enjoy the view and the zip line rides.

Last week saw a good week. We had plenty of sun last week. Plenty of sticky and hot afternoons and just a few rain drops. Two days we had overcast, the rest was partially cloudy to blue! Nice! Maximum temperatures ranged from 25C to 34C.

The forecast for next looks good, not too much rain, just a few showers. The wind is about to pick up, that should be nice and cooling. Expect plenty of sunshine as well! 

Go out and about and enjoy your time on 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. 

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

4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018

4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018

The 4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018 is in the making. Check your agenda and mark the Sunday 20th may. Once more the event will take place and is settling itslef on the yearly event agenda for Koh Samui.

Last year I was not on Koh Samui when the 3rd edition took place and there was some running involved as well. If you follow my blog regularly, you may know that running specifically peeks my interest.

At this moment I don't know yet if I will be on Koh Samui come 20th May, but if I am, I will be definitely looking into running a distance.
The running distances will be 2.5km, 5km and 10km. They will be tough, trail and in the heat when the sun is out!

4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018; Running on the trails last year. It looks inviting and exciting to me!

The main event however will be for the mountain bikers. Mountain biking and road racing for bicycles are even more popular compared to running in Thailand. 

Each year has seen large amounts of participants in the biking event and it seems it's popularity is only growing.

4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018; Last year's biking event on the mountain bikes

What I find very challenging is that the races are being held throughout the day. In contrast to running, where most races start early to actually avoid the heat, these mountain bike races can not be held in the dark. Racing with mountain bikes in the dark is too dangerous, hence they have to compete in the heat during the day time.

4th Samui cross country event, 20th May 2018; Trail running close up

It's going to be a great day, if you're on Koh Samui, sign up and participate. Once more information is available in English, I will try to update this blog.

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; 9th October – 15th October, 2017

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9^th October – 15^th October, 2017 

It's Sunday morning, 9.30am, the long Sunday morning run is done and it's time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9th October – 15th October, 2017.

It's cloudy over Koh Samui and occasionally a drizzle can be observed. Current temp at 9.30am is a nice and fairly cool 27.7C

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 9th October – 15th October, 2017; Every day this week and last week there are ceremonies in different temples around the island, following up on the recent Ok Pansa celebration. Money is donated to the temples as part of making merit or 'tambhun' as they say in Thai.Here you can see a money tree or umbrella at Wat Na Phra Lan in Maenam, near the Lomprayah ferry. Today's ceremony is at the Laem Sor Pagoda. Each temple will also have a car or 'float' that will travel around the neighborhood, collecting donations. All these cars or 'floats' will gather in nathon later this week. Well worth a visit to Nathon and check it out, especially during the early evening.

Last week was a fairly good week for October, with a couple of days with sunshine, especially during the morning but there were also a couple of days with tropical showers. Maximum temperatures ranged between 30C and 33C

The forecast for next week predicts slightly cooler weather with a bit more rain in the form of tropical showers and a couple of thunderstorms. The sun might be out and about come mid next week. 

Another typical October week in the making, enjoyable, with sunshine here and there although not too warm and most likely a few showers 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. 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; 2nd October – 8th October, 2017

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2^nd October – 8^th October, 2017 

It's Sunday morning, the clock just passed 10am, my Sunday morning long run is done ( half marathon distance) and it's time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2nd October – 8th October, 2017.

This morning it's very cloudy with a fairly strong wind blowing in and it looks like there may be some rain later today. It doesn't look like the sun is going to be out to play today! Current temp at 10.20am is 27.2C 

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 2nd October – 8th October, 2017; The wheel of life at Wat Maenam or Wat Phu Khao Thong. We visited this temple last week during the funeral of a neighbor

Last week many days with some tropical thunder storms with short but heavy rain. The sun was out and about a few times last week and once the sun made an appearance, it quickly became very hot with a high humidity, so it was very 'sticky hot'. Max temperature reached 29C although a lot of times it felt much warmer.

For the next seven days, it looks same same but different. The difference being that I expect even some more rain of the tropical shower kind, culminating in a weekend with possibly some very strong wind.

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

Welcome to August 2017

Welcome to August 2017

The beginning of a new month and hence it's a well meant Welcome to August 2017. Typically a very nice month around Koh Samui with plenty of sunshine and just an occasional, although sometimes intense, tropical shower. 

A good and busy month on the Samui archipelago, also known as high season. 

Plenty of visitors or Europe during their summer holidays join us on Samui shores, to enjoy the sun, good food and warm weather and everything else that Koh Samui has to offer.

Last year saw a not so great August though, with the first three weeks of August 2016 being rather wet and windy. Hopefully this year will be off to a better start and today is proofing just that. It's sunny and we have blue skies all during the morning. It's noon now, almost 1pm and the current temp is 32C.
Has internet problems all day long and it's 6.30pm now and finally I can manage to finish this post. The afternoon was cloudy, like yesterday but it was very hot today!Current temp at 6pm is 29C

Welcome to August 2017; Have you seen this before. The sure sign that you're about to enter a Temple party event. This one was earlier this year at Wat Na Phra Lan in Maenam, a temple that once used to play an important role on the island. Nowadays it's slowly has become less important over time. The Lomprayah pier is located at or rather next to the temple premises, but you have to enter and leave partly over temple grounds. The Lomprayah boats offer various daily trips to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.

This month will have the 4th Samui Tattoo convention at Central Festival Samui, something I am still planning to blog about. The tattoo convention is supposed to be held 16-18 August.

Enjoy your time on the island and I hope to hear from you with any remarks or questions.

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 July 2017

Goodbye to July 2017

It's the last day of the month and consequently it's time to say Goodbye to July 2017. It has been a very typical July, with rain or rather tropical showers during 18 out of the 31 days this month. There was also a few days with hard wind, just like the previous four years during July.

It seems to be the fifth consecutive year with a very similar weather pattern for July around Koh Samui, Max temperatures ranged between 30C and 34C this month.

This despite the fact that today is a glorious day with sunny, blue skies and a max temp at 10am of already 32C. It has all the makings of becoming a very hot day today.

Goodbye to July 2017; All construction at Wat Maenam or  Wat Phu Khao Thong has been completed, this is just after the entrance gate. A few months ago this was still under construction

The first half of the month I spend on Phuket teaching the July PADI IDC there but it sure was good being back home on Koh Samui for the second part of the month.

Hope you enjoyed Koh Samui this month nonetheless and we can look forward to August, in general a very pleasant month on Koh Samui, starting tomorrow.

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

Welcome to July 2017 and goodbye to June 2017

Welcome to July 2017 and goodbye to June 2017

A new month has started and it's time to say Welcome to July 2017 and goodbye to June 2017.

July is not known for it's blue skies and sunny weather, like it is today. July is rather a mixed bag kind of month, with occasionally some nice and sunny days but mostly overcloud days with a few showers thrown in for good measure! Oh, don't forget the days with some hard wind. The last four years have been mostly just like that, as you can see in my posts over recent years.

The start of the month has been very good, hot and sunny, and the forecast for the first week is good, without much or any rain at all. Let's see how long this July version of 2017 can hold on to this promising start.

Welcome to July 2017 and goodbye to June 2017; Current and old style buildings at Thipparat school in Maenam, the current school of our oldest daughter

Last month, June 2017 was a tad bit under an average June for Koh Samui weather expectations. It seems there was a tad bit more rain than usual during June. There were a bunch of sunny days but there was also plenty of rain. This can be expected during an average June on Koh Samui so it was not a big surprise. The rain was mostly of short duration however and were sometimes accompanied by an occasional thunderstorm. Max temperatures ranged from 28C, just this one single day was below 30C and most days were around 32-33C.

Welcome to July 2017 and goodbye to June 2017; All schools around the northern part of Koh Samui seem to have been adding buildings to their schools, to meet the demand and increase of new students. So also the school of our oldest daughter, the Theeparatpittaya School, or mostly just named Thipparat. This is a new building, constructed behind the current buildings, with plenty of more space to expand if needed.

I spend the first two weeks of June on Phuket, just like I will with the first two weeks of July. Highlight in June was the Koh Samui marathon for me, during which I ran the half marathon and placed second in my age category 50-59. The previous weekend I ran a 10km trail on Phuket, which was a also a great experience, coming in third in my age group of 40+!

Tomorrow it's off again to Phuket and  the second part of the month I should be back on Koh Samui again.

But first let's visit the Green market this afternoon!

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 May and welcome to June 2017

Goodbye to May and welcome to June 2017

It's a combined Goodbye to May and welcome to June 2017, so let's first look at what May brought us.

There was plenty of rain during this May and it was probably a little below average of what to expect during May. However, the times that we had sun it was immediately very warm with temperatures getting as high as 36C (imagine that combined with some rain, humidity just goes through the roof!) and lows of 31C

Today, the first day of June 2017, we have a cloudy sky although it's still dry with the sun occasionally trying to peek out from behind the clouds. Current temp at almost 2pm is 31C

Goodbye to May and welcome to June 2017; The Chinese Temple in Maenam, this morning, just having completed a fixing it up job and looking splendid again

June is typically a fairly nice month on Koh Samui with plenty of sunshine but also with possibly some rain, as can be expected during this small monsoon period for our island. The West coast is typically more affected by this monsoon period. It's a good time to be on Koh Samui and enjoy the attractions the island has to offer; beaches, sun and some areas well worth checking out during a sight seeing trip.

Last month I spent two weeks on Phuket and this month I will be off to Phuket again, come Monday. It almost feels as if the rainy season on Phuket hasn't stopped this year! Plenty of rain and strong winds seemingly all year through with more in the pipeline for both coasts after this 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. 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

Welcome to May 2017

Welcome to May 2017

It's Mayday and a good opportunity to say Welcome to May 2017. The month of May usually carries over part of the nice and sunny April weather, without the heat of April though.

Last year we had a rough ending of the month of May with strong winds but the previous three year were lovely.

May can also bring plenty of rain, which cools things down a little bit, something we can use after the last three scorching hot April weeks. Rain is mostly in the form of tropical showers, short but hard, but can also be a bit longer in some rare cases.

The forecast for the first May week this year is looking good though. Towards next weekend expect plenty of cloud cover though.

Welcome to May 2017; A suspended bridge at the end of Soi 5 in Maenam, near a nice and big waterfall, the Tan Rua waterfall. There's a platform and a restaurant for some snacks and cold drinks. Zip lines are also available for some added excitement

There are also a few events to look forward to this month. The Samui bike weekend is this coming weekend at Chaweng lake, the Samui Regatta will be held between 20th and 27th May and 28th May will see the mini marathon or 10km race in Nathon.

I do hope you will enjoy this May month on Koh Samui and do keep checking in for updates on weather and things to do around our lovely 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 April 2017

Goodbye to April 2017

Just as this is also the last day of the week, it's also the last day of the month and that means that it's time to say Goodbye to April 2017.

The start of the month was very strange and very unusual for April. There were thunderstorms and floods a plenty during that first April week of 2017! The second time this year and the third time within five months. In all fairness, it wasn't as bad as during the December 2016 or January 2017 floods, but they did attract attention. Plus, as already mentioned, they were rather unusual floods for this time of the year!

After that first week, the weather turned nice quickly though and it was back to normal almost overnight. Especially last week the heat was turned up with max temps reaching 35C

Goodbye to April 2017; Temple party at Wat Na Phra Lan in Maenam, next to the Lompraya pier. A small and quiet party of what once used to be one of the more influential temples on the island

The big event this month was Songkran or the Thai New Year celebrations. A good time was had in Chaweng with the family and it was busy.

For food we visited the usual suspects, Kobori, excellent Japanese food in Maenam and Nathon. Juzza Pizza was also on the list in Fisherman's Village and some awesome pork sateh and 'rad na' at Dcheed 2 at the ring road in Chaweng.

Here's to Goodbye to April 2017 and bring May 2017 on, as of tomorrow! See you all next month.

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

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April

As we all know by now, there are Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April. The last couple of days saw unusual hard rain and this caused floods at the usual 'hot spots' around the island. Affected areas were in Chaweng; where the one way system starts, near the Centara Grand Beach resort and the market on the way to the ring road. Maenam had some flooding and other parts of the island to minor degrees.

This morning at 7am it is 27C and although dry, heavy clouds loom over Koh Samui and more rain is expected. Tomorrow morning and afternoon should see some rain again and come Saturday the weather should change and it should stop raining and the sun might be making a come back.

Hang in there, just a few more days.

If you like the blog and find it useful, don't hesitate to make a donation! I have set up a new PayPal link here; PayPal.Me/CamilleLemmens. 

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April; Flooded road near the Clock Tower square in Chaweng, where the one way system starts, two days ago.

Picture by Nick Whiting

This time around it wasn't as bad as the floods during December and January, but it's very unusual for this time of the year, which is supposed the driest and hottest time of the year, to have such hard and prolonged rain.

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April; Flooded roads in Maenam two days ago.

Picture by Kelli Vowels

The only time I can think of that it rained so hard in April was back in 2011, before the current drainage system was installed and the water stayed on the roads for around two weeks after it stopped raining.

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April; Near the start of the one way system in Chaweng, yesterday afternoon. Lots of the floods had receded already by that time

Picture by Noriego Darwin

After 2011 a new drainage system was installed and now the flash floods still take place but once the rain stops or slows down, the water disappears quickly.

The majority of the floods occur because the water has no direct natural run off route. Most run off routes to the ocean are blocked nowadays by buildings, mostly resorts and hotels. The price of progress?

Unusual hard rain and floods around Koh Samui for April; The damaged road in Choengmon was temporarily fixed and with the first signs of heavy rain immediately collapsed again. What's next, the second temporarily fix?

Picture by Mark Stevenson

Thanks for following the blog and I hope that you still had an enjoyable time on our island! Everybody suffers in these conditions, the locals as well as the people that planned a holiday to a sunny destination that turns out to be not sunny at all. Despite what the weather statistics tell you!

Like i said before, hang int here for just a few more days and hopefully the sun will return. 

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