Temporarily closing down of the blog

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

Temporarily closing down of the blog

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

Covid is still raging on Koh Samui. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

Welcome to October 2020

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

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

Welcome to October 2020

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

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

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

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

Welcome to October 2020

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

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

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

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

Camille

Goodbye to September 2020

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

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

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

Goodbye to September 2020

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

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

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

Goodbye to September 2020

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 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

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th July – 19^th July 2020

Here we are, another Sunday morning and the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13th July – 19th July 2020.

It's been my second week of full running again. This week I increased my weekly mileage from 44km to 55km. This morning I ran a 14km route. Slowly I'm getting back on track and it feels good.

It's just before 10am and it's already 33C. Just like yesterday it's already very hot this early in the morning. 

Last week saw a few showers but towards the end of the week the temperature rose and it was very hot.

The maximum temperature last week reached all week long 33C. That is except for Friday when it reached 35C. The minimum was all week long 24C. With another exception, Monday and Friday night it dropped to 22C,

Another nice week and not so typical for the current mild rainy season. Actually better than average i would say.

The effects of Covid are still being felt around the island. Although we now are 99 days Covid free in a row, there's still no tourists around. People are still leaving the island to live on the mainland, where it's cheaper for them. More shops are still closing down. On the other hand, hotels start to slowly open up again. Domestic tourism is heavily promoted. Thailand's most famous blogger, Richard Barrow, is currently visiting Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th July – 19^th July 2020

Behind the Plai Laem market, late in the afternoon. The sun is already going down and it is hot. This was yesterday. A beautiful sunset is in the making,

For the up and coming week, the forecast looks really good. A few mild early morning showers and hardly any wind. This should make for some great sunny and hot days. Wish you were here and you wish you were here! Looking forward to a time when it's safe to ease the travel restrictions. For the time being, hardship is on the menu with no income for many people with stakes in the tourist industry. 

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; 1st June – 7th June 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 1^st June – 7^th June 2020

Sunday morning and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 1st June – 7th June 2020. It's 11am and it's partially cloudy. Currently the sun is out, but before that it was more cloudy. Current temperature is 31C. As expected by now, it's also very humid.

Last week saw a very typical June week. A bit of rain here and there. Some hard tropical showers were part of the week. On the other hand, there was also sunshine. Combined with the humidity, it was hot and sweaty! The maximum temperature reached 35C early in the week. Most of the time it reached 33C to 34C. However, it's interesting how during a late afternoon tropical shower, the temperature dropped from the lower thirties into the mid-high twenties. On the other hand, the minimum temperature last week dropped to 23C a few nights. For very short periods though. Mostly it was 24-25C.

Some Covid19 updates. We have arrived in phase 3 of lowering restrictions. Massage parlors are allowed to open again, for instance. Cinemas can open their doors as well, but with limited capacity and no pop corn! 1st July may see opening of all borders and lifting of all restrictions. This is not confirmed yet, though. Not everybody will be allowed to enter Thailand at that moment. At the moment there's talk of 'travel bubbles'. In a nutshell, this means that tourists from countries that are good in controlling the virus, can access Thailand. Thais (and expats?) from Thailand can also visit these countries. This includes among others, China and Vietnam. It doesn't include most European countries or the USA at the time being.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 1^st June – 7^th June 2020

Despite the current Covid19 situation, there's lots of road construction going on around the island. This is in front of our house in Plai Laem. After about a year of having stopped construction. now the workers are in full construction mode and work swiftly. The idea is that a walkway is constructed. For this, most households/owners need to hand over a tiny little bit of their land to the government. Not everybody is happy with that. Near us, two households refused to donate the land. The work was rested because of this. Now they continue again. Whoever doesn't want a new road/walkway in front of their house, they just pass by. It's now apparently up to you what you want. You want it nice later on, you have to take care yourself. Many houses actually did build on public road terrain and have now the illegal buildings removed. There's no discussion there. Other parts of the island also have road construction going. It does look a lot better to be honest. Just in my humble opinion that is.

For next week the predictions are are similar to the last 2-3 weeks. Partially cloudy,. This means hot and humid sunny moments. There can and most likely will also be tropical showers.

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

Welcome to June 2020

First day of the month and welcome to June 2020 indeed. It's hot. Did I mention humid already? At 4pm it's 35C and I feel almost as if I'm being roasted. All energy is seeping out of you!

Nonetheless, we have a new normal at our hands with a lot of more shops allowed to open in Thailand. Massage shops, movie theaters and a few more things. Bangkok Air increased their flights to/from Bangkok from two per day to 4  peer day. Pattaya beach is open again! Step by step Thailand is opening up. Hopefully come 1st July, all restriction will have been lifted. Including international arrivals at the airports.

The weather is usually very nice during June. Yes, there's a rainy season, but nothing too serious. Plenty of tropical showers. However, also plenty of sunshine. You wished you were here!

Welcome to June 2020

Some funny person put a face mask on this elephants trunk at Wat Plai Laem. Just to show that Covid19 has no boundaries. Today also saw free rabid vaccines being given to dogs and cats by  government institution. Plenty of dog and cat owners came out to have their four feeted friends being injected.

All previous years, June has been a great month for running races. Not so much this year. All races have been cancelled. At the moment it's unclear when racing will be allowed again.

Stay safe and see you soon!

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

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

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25th May – 31st May 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25^th May – 31^st May 2020

Last Sunday of this month and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25th May – 31st May 2020.

No long run today/ I'm curing a inner thigh injury. Later this week I hope to be out on the road again. In the meantime I'm doing some weights and indoor cycling training.

Today it's partially cloudy during the morning. Sometimes some sunshine, sometimes clouds. It's humid and hot though! Current temperature at 14.00am is 32C and it's cloudy. Rain is in the air.

Last week the maximum temperature reached a stunning 35C. This in combination with the humidity makes for hot and very sweaty days! The minimum actually dropped for the duration of half an hour, just that once, to 23C. It was mostly 25-26C with a handful times 24C.

We had a few showers during the week as well. Much needed and enjoyed!

Tomorrow, 1st Jun, a new round of lock down easing is going to happen. Pattaya beaches are to open again. On Koh Samui, the beaches never were really closed down, as far as I know. Bangkok Air increases to 4 daily flights to/from Bangkok. Massage places are allowed to open again. Movie theaters with restriction (no pop corn!!) are also opening up.
There's talk of opening completely up on 1st July. With international flight arrivals being allowed again and lifting of all restrictions. Including the emergency decree. Let's cross our fingers.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 25th May – 31st May 2020

Beautiful view over Wat PLai Laem, the Gulf and Koh Phangan. High up on the hill on Plai Laem's Soi 8. 

Next week's predictions are similar to last week. Partially cloudy skies with occasionally some tropical showers thrown in for good measure.

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

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

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13th April – 19th April 2020

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th April – 19^th April 2020

Hello folks, it's Sunday morning and time for the good old Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13th April – 19th April 2020.

The lsd is done and dusted. Relax, that means 'long slow distance' run. Still working hard all week to stay fit. Despite the fact that there are no races at the moment.

Koh Samui has 7 confirmed Covid19 cases. Two of them have already been sent home again from the hospital. A good 90 people were suspected of having the virus and were tested accordingly. 85 were just fine and the result of 1 or 2 people is currently up in the air.

We're closing in on on noon and it's 33C already. It feels a lot warmer already. A light partial cloud cover doesn't help to cool things down! Although we occasionally have some rain in April, it's pretty hot now!

Talking about rain. Last week Tuesday we had some serious showers. It was lovely. Cool temperatures and water to slightly fill up the ground water levels. Besides Tuesday, most rain last week fell during the night. I woke up a few times from very hard showers. The maximum temperature last week reached 33C. The minimum temperature on the other hand, didn't drop below 24C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 13^th April – 19^th April 2020

There are still many people moving away from Koh Samui. No tourists means no jobs. Means no money. Can't pay the rent, can't pay for food. Hard times for many people. At home there's no rent and they can get by with little money. Many food hand outs are being organized around the island. Long queue's with people waiting for the hand outs to start or for their turn. Not only on Koh Samui. Reports come in that it's pretty much the same all over Thailand. From Chiang Mai, via Bangkok to the Southern cities.

The forecast for next week is looking good. Partially cloudy skies. Plenty of sunshine. Possibly a few showers towards Friday and next weekend. Glorious weather! You wish you were here!

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. 

Once travel restrictions have been lifted, and you're done resting or need something else to do, there are plenty of things on offer on and around Koh Samui You can go snorkeling or diving or take a dive course. 

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

Contact me for more detailed information on any of the options mentioned. All in due time!

 Camille

Welcome to April 2020

Welcome to April 2020

April's Fool day and time to say welcome to April 2020. Just so you know, in Thailand it's illegal to make jokes about you being Covid19 positive.

Other than that, it is Covid19 making the headlines. Various conspiracy theories start popping up. The US blames China. China blames the US. What world did we end up in?

First things first though. The weather! April is typically the hottest month of the year. Although, during recent years we actually had a few showers during April. Can you imagine!

The big news this month, however, is that Songkran has been cancelled or postponed. No water throwing this year, no parades. It also means no iced water down my back, that's a good thing I guess!

In the meantime, travel restrictions are being tightened up. Different provinces may each have their own rules in place. 

Bangkok Airways will be grounding their fleet from 7 to 20 April. No more flights to/from Koh Samui. The logical next step will be to halt the ferries. Although, I don't think this is an option, since we need daily food supplies from the mainland.

Welcome to April 2020

Sunset as seen from our house, a few days ago. The weather has been great and that makes for some great sunsets. My camera isn't the best though and the view is from our house, so no dramatic orange sun explosions. However, the moon can be seen as a bright star. Despite Covid 19, nature is still as beautiful as it always is and was on Koh Samui.

Are there actually any tourists left on the island. In Koh Phangan? On Koh Tao? I doubt it very much, You must be able to count them almost on the fingers of one hand.

Most hotels are closed by now. Other hotels or resorts offer resident rates, to get locals to stay at their place.

Interesting times folks! If you have booked, don't cancel but postpone your trip. I hope the hotels/resorts and airline companies are easy going with restrictions on re-booking.

Be safe, keep your distance and wash your hands!

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. 

Camille

Welcome to February 2020

Welcome to February 2020

A new month rising and Welcome to February 2020.

This is usually about the nicest month to be on Koh Samui and the surrounding islands. The weather is very stable with typically lots of sunshine and not much rain. The first week of the month should be just like that. Maybe some cloud coverage but not much rain.

It's going to be interesting to see if the corona virus is going to have an impact on Koh Samui, the surrounding island and Thailand in general. It's quite possible that tourism worldwide will be restricted, due to limited plane movements. Let's hope for the best. Despite the alarm bells that are ringing everywhere, at this moment, the mortality rate is around 2%, pretty standard for an average flu. I'm crossing my fingers that sooner than later the all clear will be given.

Welcome to February 2020

Behind the Plai Laem market, yesterday afternoon. A very nice view during sunset.

In the meantime, if you are on the island, enjoy the scenery, the hipefully good weather and everything else that Samui has to offer.

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. 

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

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

Camille

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

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

Here we are again with time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 20th January – 26th January 2020. Last Sunday of this month, January 2020 and it's sunny and hot! At 10.30am it's already 29C and the quicksilver is climbing.

We're on the road again. A family outing to Rajjaprabha dam near Surat Thani. This morning I ran my second race and second half marathon of the year. For the first time ever I ran in the 60+ age group. I nailed it with a victory in a time of 1:46'30 or a 4'52. This is on a very hilly course. I ended up 15th overall out of 275 participants. A good result, a good race and a good start to the Sunday!

It's warming up here. After a very nice cool early morning, we're now around 31C already.

Off to some shopping in Surat Thani.

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

View from Sandalwood luxury villas. Very high up on the mountain, between Chaweng and Lamai. View of Plai Laem straight ahead. 

Last week was another nice week around the Samui archipelago. The first couple of days we had early morning showers. However, plenty of sunshine each day. Maximum temperature reached 31C last week. On the other hand, the minimum temperature dropped once to 21C bit was fairly steady at 22C and 23C.

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

Rajjaprabha dam at sunset. Yesterday evening.

The Chinese New Year week is busy on Koh Samui and the surrounding islands. However, next week looks grand. Until Sunday 1st February, strong wind and some showers are in the making. 

Enjoy this busy week and let me know if you're interested in some of the options I offer.

Happy new year and welcome to the year of the rat!

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. 

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

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

Camille

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

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

]It's that time of the week again, Sunday morning and her ewe go with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 11th November – 17th November 2019.

The long run is in the bag, a ran a half marathon distance as part of my training schedule. Come 15th December the Surat Thani half marathon is on the program.

It's nice and warm with just a few clouds in the sky. At 10.30am the current temperature is already 31C. Not bad for a November!

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

Wat Plai Laem earlier this week, during the yearly Loy Kratong festival. The Meh Guan statue at night time.Well lit up and popular as ever.

Last week around Koh Samui was gorgeous. Plenty of sunshine, including a blue sky all day long on Wednesday. The rest of the week was partially cloudy. We had just the one shower in Plai Laem on Friday.

Maximum temperature last week reached just one time 34C. The minimum dropped to 22C. 

So far this has been a tremendous month of November. Hardly any rain and plenty of sunshine. Not your typical rainy season month at all. Let's see how things look like for next week.

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

Plai Laem, this morning, under a nice and sunny sky. A few clouds can be seen but it looks like another nice day.

For next week the forecast is looking good until Tuesday. We may have a little bit of rain that day. Wednesday the wind will pick up. Peaking on Thursday. This goes hand in hand with possibly some rain showers. Come the weekend, it should all have calmed down again. 

It looks like this may turn into a very gentle November indeed. let's cross our fingers.

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. 

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

 Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

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

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

Camille