Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th October – 20th October 2019

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th October – 20th October 2019

It's Sunday afternoon and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th October – 20th October 2019.

The long slow distance run is in the bag and the weather is interesting! It's sunny at the moment at around 2.30pm with a current temperature of 27C. Not too hot, actually very nice.

Last week we went on a short holiday trip with the family, via Surat Thani and Hua Hin all the way up the to the Maeklong railway market in Samut Songkhram and the floating market at Damnoen Saduak in Ratchaburi province. Just 70km south of Bangkok! Via Chumpon we came back to Koh Samui.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th October – 20th October 2019

The Rua Chakra or floating boats were scheduled last week all around Thailand. This picture is taken in Plai Laem and is the floating boat from the local temple.

Last week saw lots of rain on Koh Samui. Heavy rain with thunder, drizzle and light rain. A nice prelude to the rainy season. Maximum temperatures reached 32C and the minimum temperature dropped once to 22C.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 14th October – 20th October 2019

During last week's trip we visitied a freind in Hua Hin. We took the opportunity to visit the Rajabhakti park. It's a historically themed park honouring past Thai kings from the Sukhothai period to the current royal house of Chakri. Seven Thai Kings in total.

The forecast for next week looks a lot better. Tomorrow, Monday, night still be fairly wet! Be warned. However, from Tuesday onward it should clear up and partially to sunny skies may prevail. The rain should be gone for the time being.

Enjoy next week on the island. It's fairly quiet, you can feel as if the island is all yours alone!

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

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

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

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

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd October – 29th October, 2017

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23^rd October – 29^th October, 2017 

Yesterday was Sunday and time for the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd October – 29th October, 2017. Today is already Monday, late in the evening and finally I found time to update the blog with last weeks weather report!

At almost 10pm it's dark now and 27.5C and today saw plenty of sunshine in a partially cloudy sky.

In Khao Lak we saw most days a nice sunny morning with clouds moving in during the daytime and often short rain showers during the late afternoon. Current temp at 10pm here is 25C

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd October – 29th October, 2017; Inside Wat Plai Laem last week, during the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej's cremation ceremony. Paying respect by the local Samui people and residents. It was very busy and waiting time for up to eight hours was no exception.

Last week was fairly good for this time of the year, with three days being partially cloudy but with sunshine and four days with tropical showers. Maximum temperatures ranged between 32 and 33C, so very steady, despite some showers.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 23rd October – 29th October, 2017; In Thap Lamu, near Khao Lak, one of the Royal Thai Navy ships of the navy bass in Thap Lamu, went out to the ocean the day after the latte King's cremation to offer the burned sandalwood, offered by the local people, into the ocean. All around the country you had the opportunity to offer sandalwood in honor to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. 19 million people apparently did! The sandal wood was burned and all around the country this sandal wood was then a day later offered to a body of water. Near Khao Lak that was the ocean. We saw the ship just come back into port after it had completed this honorable task. With the current PADI IDC in Khao Lak we had our day of open water training dives on the same day.

The forecast for next week was very interesting. At some stage, Saturday 28th October, it looked like a massive storm would hit Koh Samui on the Thursday 2nd November. That same day, the forecasts showed that the storm would pass north of Samui. Only to drop down again a day later when Samui was threatened again. Today it looks like the power behind the storm has fizzled out and we will be spared from seriously heavy storms with accompanying rain and wind, which would have caused floods, power cuts and the likes!

The forecast are still predicting lots of rain from Wednesday through Friday and a flood or two may or will occur but it's not nearly as bad as it was originally predicted.

The monsoon is knocking at the door though and it looks like the start of November will be very wet!

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

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui

Yesterday the Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui was held at Wat Plai Laem.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Mourning yesterday. Picture by Nattawut Khuanprasert

People from all over the island came up to Wat Plai Laem throughout the day to pay their respects. Many mini buses and taxi's offered their services for free to bring mourners to or from the temple.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Wat Plai Laem before it became busy

At many places around the island and near the temple, small shops and fruit sellers offered water and food for free to mourners.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; It was very busy yesterday and waiting times for paying respect were up to eight hours. Picture by Nattawut Khuanprasert

Mywife and our kids went to the temple during the morning hours but still had to wait for eight hours before they could eventually pay their respects, All parking psaces around the temple filled up quickly!

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Long lines fo waiting people were all around the temple, all day long. Picture by Suchat Prammano

In Bangkok the main ceremony was televised live all day long. An impressive ceremony could be followed on TV or Youtube. 

The ending was somehow confusing though when the anticpated actual cremation at 10pm wasn't televised. It turned out that the late King didn't want the actual cremation to be televised and to be a private event.

At last, around 11.30pm, smoke could be seen emerging from the ceremonial gound in Sanam Luang.

This morning, 27th October, right now, the ceremony for the Royal Relics of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej is being held, during which the ashes will be collected and be brought over to the Grand Place.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Water and food were being provided all day long to mourners. Picture by Tassanee Lemmens

Now within a few days, all signs of mourning will need to be taken down arouind Thailand and Koh Samui and the country will move on into a new area.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Obtained a seat!

It was an impressive event and a 'once in a life time' event as well. Many Thai people only knew one King and he was revered all through the country.

Cremation ceremony of H.M. the late King Bhumibol Adulyedej on Koh Samui; Long rows of people all day long. Picture by Nattawut Khuanprasert

Hope you had a cance to follow the events yesterday, in person or on tv or Youtube. Now it's time to move and look forward. A year of mourning has come almost to an end.

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 will be respecting the Royal Cremation Ceremony of His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol Adulyedej

Koh Samui will be respecting the Royal Cremation Ceremony of His Majesty the Late King  Bhumibol Adulyedej

On 26th October around the country and including Koh Samui will be respecting the Royal Cremation Ceremony of His Majesty the Late King  Bhumibol Adulyedej.

The accompanying ceremony on Koh Samui will beheld at Wat Plai Laem on 26th October and will start at 9am. If you like to attend, please do check the dress explained below. 

This dress code was released by the Bureau of the Royal Household for people participating in the Royal Cremation ceremony on 26th October 2017. The dress code is also applicable to people who are going to place funeral wood flowers at royal crematorium replicas, and at other locations where they will be able to offer the wood flowers in Bangkok and other provinces.

This will include Wat Plai Laem or any other official location around Koh Samui in case you plan to pay your respect.

Koh Samui will be respecting the Royal Cremation Ceremony of His Majesty the Late King  Bhumibol Adulyedej; A big sign at the entrance gate of Wat PLai Laem has been erected, informing about the time of ceremony on Koh Samui. 26th October 2017 at 9am 

At this moment it looks like the whole nation will come to a grinding halt on 26th October, please act accordingly and show respect to the Thai people. This is a one in a lifetime event, not only for the Thai nation and it's people, but also for anybody visiting or living in Thailand at that moment. Act accordingly.

During the whole month of October, many Thai people will be wearing black or dark colored clothes as a tribute and to show respect for the Late King Bhumibol Adulyedej. 

On most days tourists are not expected to wear dark clothes but on the 26th October it is advisable to wear black or dark clothes and nothing too vibrant.

Most tourist attractions will be closed and the days surrounding the 26th October, most entertainment venues will have toned and tuned down their activities.

Koh Samui will be respecting the Royal Cremation Ceremony of His Majesty the Late King  Bhumibol Adulyedej; The expected dress code if you plan to attend a ceremony; Men must wear a black shirt, long black pants and black dress shoes. Denim pants will not be allowed. Women must wear a black blouse that is not tight, a black skirt that extends below the knees and black dress shoes. Wearing a sleeveless blouse or a spaghetti top or similar will not be allowed.

At this moment, on the evening of 29th October, all signs of mourning, including black & white cloth banners and black and white portraits of King Buhimbol should be removed. On 30th October, government officials and members of the public can wear normal attire again.

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 October 2017

Welcome to October 2017

Already the second day into this new month and a good moment to say 'Welcome to October 2017'. 

What this month mostly will be about all around Thailand will be the final goodbye or funeral and cremation of King Bhumibol, scheduled to be on 26th October in Bangkok.

After one year of mourning the cremation will be the end of an era. Keep your eyes and ears open during this month for changes and even cancellations of planned events all around the country. I will keep my Facebook page updated on this topic.

Welcome to October 2017; King Bhumibol Adulyadej

On to the weather during October on Koh Samui though. October can be a tricky month, the last month before we typically have the monsoon or rainy season around Koh Samui. Most years the start of the month is fairly nice, just like this year looks like.

However, during the second part of the month and especially towards the end of the month, the rainy season may start and leave this month drenched in rain and possibly worse, floods! Two years ago was not a good month with lots of rain and last year the last October week was not good, with lots of rain.

For the time being, the beginning of October does look good but be prepared for possibly more rain towards the end of the 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

King Bhumibol's first birthday remembrance

King Bhumibol's first birthday remembrance 

Today is Father's Day around Thailand, in coordination with the late King Bhumibol's birthday and today is the King Bhumibol's first birthday remembrance after he passed away.

It's a national holiday today, meaning that all banks, schools and local government buildings are closed.

King Bhumibol during his only visit to Koh Samui in 1962

Today is also the first official act of the new King Rama X to audit over the ceremonies for his Father and there will be ceremonies all over Thailand to commemorate the late King.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 14th November, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 14^th November, 2016

Today's weather;

It's abit hazy this morning but overall there's a blue sky ruling over Koh Samui and no rain is expected today. Current temp at 7am is 26C and a warm day seems to be in the making.

Koh Samui's tribute to King Bhumibol, yesterday at Phru Chaweng or Chaweng lake, during the super full moon. Similar tributes are being held throughout Thailand and Koh Samui couldn't and shouldn't be left behind. The logo you see is the Thai numeral '9' and below it is written 'Samui'. All day long practice and setting up this choreography proceeded this picture!

Besides some early rain in a short shower, it was warm and sunny yesterday with fairly blue skies and a max temp of 32C

The forecast is looking surprisingly good for a November, when the monsoon is supposed to visit Koh Samui. For the next ten days expect blue skies accompanied by a very rare shower. Not exactly monsoon weather conditions.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 1st November, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 1st November, 2016

Today's weather;

It's raining on Koh Samui this monring and the morning should remain wet with the rain possibly ceasing during the afternoon. Current temp at 7am is 26C

Picture by อิ๊คคิวซัง สมุย‎

Flooding in Chaweng eysterday, after a full, almost non-stop day of rain. This part of Chaweng is notorious for flooding, since the water doesn't have a way to escape, because there's no access to the beach, everything is blocked by walls. There's a new drainage system in place, so these flash floods usually don't last longer than an hour to a few hours at most nowadays, in contrast to several days up to a week or more before that drainage system was in place

At Kata on Phuket it's very cloudy and very grey with also rain coming down this early in the morning. Most people thought the rainy season was gone after a couple of sunny days about a week ago but it seems it has come back with a vengeance and (flash) floods! Current temp at 7am is 25C

The main road leading in and out of Phuket, the Thepkassatri road had some flash flooding yesterday after some hard rain

Yesterday saw a lot of rain around Koh Samui almost all day long which caused flash floods and a few minor lasndslides on the road between Maenam and Nathon, just before the hill. Max temp reached just 28C

Excellent running weather conditions and temperatures!

There was also rain in Bangkok yesterday and this picture shows a woman trying to protect an image of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej from getting wet, in front of the Grand Palace

The forecast for the next ten days shows some supposed easing up on the rain and cloud cover around Koh Samui but there will still be showers, although they're not supposed to last all day long. Welcome to November and the rainy or monsoon season on our island.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Goodbye to October 2016

Goodbye to October 2016

It's time to say Goodbye to October 2016 and the big news this month was of course the passing away of King Bhumibol Adulyadej at the age of 89 years. He was the ninth monarch of Thailand from the Chakri Dynasty as Rama IX and he has reigned since 9 June 1946, a total of 70 years and 126 days which at the time of his death, made him the world's longest-serving head of state.

The whole country went into morning and a one month period of mourning has been declared during which all events around Thailand were cancelled and/or postponed. There will also be a one year mourning period, during which Thai people will wear either black or white clothes and although tourists aren't expected to wear similar clothes during this one year mourning period, it will be appreciated if they still will wear sombre or dark colored clothing.

Goodbye to October 2016; A quote by the late King Bhumbol Adulyadej

From a weather point of view, the first two weeks of October were very nice with plenty of sunshine and nice all around conditions. The third week has already a bit more rain leading into the last week of this month which showed signs of the approaching monsoon or rainy season with lots of rain. In general not a bad month for the weather and it looks like next month we will see the start of the monsoon season.

All the races I had scheduled for this month were either postponed, like the Run to Give or Mad Hatter run and will now take place Sunday 27th November and I will try to run this race now on Phuket, where I should be and unfotunately the Koh Phangan full moon marathon was cancelled alltogeher.

My sister visited as well, but I only managed to see her and her husband towards the end of her stay and we had a great dinner at Kobori, the Japanese restaurant in Maenam, almost every month we go out for dinner there.

Although November is supposed to be the rainy season, I am looking forward to this month, since it allows for great running conditions. The start of a few months with not so hot temperatures, ideal to run faster compared to the warmer or hotter months. 

The other part to look forward to is actually the rain! Koh Samui needs rain since the ground water levels are dropping and need some filling up!

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 30th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 30^th October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's raining over Koh Samui this morning and there's supposed to be lots more of rain during the rest of the day. Today is likely to be a typical monsoon day with rain all day long. Current temp at 7am is 25C

A view over Koh Samui from up in the mountains. Great nature to be found there with spectacular views

At Kata on Phuket we have heavy cloud cover and I wouldn't be surprised if at some stage today we will have rain again. Current temp at 7am is 26.1C

The current October PADI IDC on Phuket has reached it's half way mark here and we're in the thickst of it! Going strong and keeping at it!

Yesterday the flooding and aftermath was a lot worse in Patong and Phuket Town on Phuket, than I initially thought. The night before last night, at 4am it was total mayhem after torrential rains for hours on an end and there were massive floods around Patong, especially the Bangla Road area with water run off rom th surrounding mountains. When I made my way from Kata to Patong yesterday morning, all roads were mud flooded and there were a few minor landslides along the way as well. It was absolute mayhem and more rain is predicted for the next couple of days

Yesterday saw thunderstorms and rain around Koh Samui with plenty of rain although not nearly as bad as compared to Phuket yesterday. Max temp reached 28C

Yesterday the Grand Palace in Bangkok was opened to mourners to pay respect and say farewell to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Last night there was also rain and thunder above Bangkok which resulted in this beautiful picture of the Grand Palace by Charlinee Thirasupa

The forecast predicts plenty and hard rain today and plenty for tomorrow as well but not as hard as compared to today. The clouds may ease up for a few days although tropical showers are still likely and towards next weekend more rain is expected. It seems that the monsoon is about to start.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 26th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 26^th October, 2016

Today's weather;

This morning looks nice over Koh Samui with a partially cloudy sky but some parts of the island may have some rain this morning or later on today. Current temp at 8am is 28C

The PADI IDC that I'm team teaching on Phuket started yesterday and on Phuket we have a slightly clouded sky this morning with a few blue spots but it looks like things are clearing up again here after a few days of hard wind and lots of rain. Current temp at 8am is 27.2C

King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Koh Samui in 1962, the only visit to Koh Samui that he ever made, to the best of my knowledge

Yesterday saw a nice and fairly warm and dry day around Koh Samui with a max temp of 33C

King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Rawai beach on Phuket back in 1959. A time during his reign when he travelled a lot and visited many cities and villages around the country.

The forecast remained stable for the next ten days on our island, which translates into partially clouded skies on most of the days with some tropical showers thrown in, especially come this Sunday and Monday it may get wet,

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 23rd October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 23^rd October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's mostly cloudy this morning over Koh Samui with an occasional crack in the cloud cover for a small slice of blue to be spotted. There's also a very strong wind blowing but it's dry and expect it to remain dry today. Current temp at 7am is 27C

In a moment we're off for the day to Surat Thani and tomorrow I will continue my travels to Phuket, to assist a friend and fellow PADI Course Director in a big PADI IDC Course. 

A stunning site yesterday at Sanam Luang in Bangkok, where well over a hundred and thousand people, plus a symphonic orchestra played and sang the Thai national anthem in honor of the late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej who passed away ten days ago today. Transportation to Thailand's capitol in order to pay respect to the King is a major undertaking at the moment and hundreds of buses and minibuses are being mobilized to bring people to Bangkok and in the city itself they have taken museum buses out of the museums so they're able to deal with the masses that need transportation inside the city

Yesterday saw a very strong wind blowing all day long around Koh Samui under a cloud covered sky but it remained dry all day long and max temp reached 30C

The forecast for the next ten days will see the strong winds fizzle out by Tuesday and for a few days we may see some sunnier skies again. Around next weekend there should be plenty of rain starting to come down and maybe, just maybe this could be the monsoon season starting to knock on Koh Samui's door.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 21st October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 21^st October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's partially cloudy this morning over Koh Samui this morning with plenty of smaller blue spots. There's still a fairly strong wind blowing and although it may get fairly sunny today, during the afternoon or evening it looks like there may be more rain again. Current temp at 7am is 27C

HM King Bhumibol in a speedboat on his way to Koh Samui in 1962, the only time he visited our island, as far as am aware of. His various children visited Koh Samui on various occasions. The eldest daughter (formerly HRH) Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya was in the Chaweng Swensens about ten years or more back and his son Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn was here various times. The other two daughters may have visited Koh Samui, but I'm not aware of it.

Yesterday saw a cloudy day all day long with at times clouds, heavy with rain. The rain didn't start however until around 4.30pm when there was about half an hour of hard rain and some drizzle for a while afterwards. Max temp reached 32C

The forecast for the next ten days remains stable and is looking good. Over the weekend heavy clouds are expected with possibly a storm tomorrow, on Saturday and some rain. Come Wednesday, the clouds, wind and rain should have gone and it may get warm, nice and sunny for a few days. The monsoon season still seems to be relatively far away and so far this October has been rather nice.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 19th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 19th October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's mostly cloudy over Koh Samui but there are also some blue spots and it should clear u during the remainder of the day and more sunshine could be ours today. The wind should have slowed down a bit today but is out in a fairly strong power and no rain is expected. Current temp at 7am is 28C

The late King Bhumibol Adulyadej during the only recorded visit to Koh Samui in 1962 or 2505. Greeting people on one of Koh Samui's beaches

Yesterday saw a warm but cloudy day with some hard rain, at last, around 7pm yesterday evening. Max temp reached 31C

Royal urn Mourners will be allowed to pay their respects to the royal urn in the Grand Palace in Bangkok from Friday 28 October The body of King Bhumibol is in a coffin nearby. This will be another occasion when many Thai people will want to take the opportunity to pay their respect to the late King Bhumibil Adulyadej

The weather forecast for the next ten days has changed a bit, a lot less is now predicted and come next Tuesday the wind should have pretty much gone. During this ten day period it's supposed to be partially cloudy and besides some tropical showers, no real rain is expected. The island's drought is continuing. 

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 18th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 18th October, 2016

Today's weather;

This morning the sky over Koh Samui is cloudy and it looks like there may be some hard rain during the afternoon. There's a fairly strong wind blowing at the Western and Northern side of the island. Current temp at 7am is 27C 

If you plan on visiting Big Buddha today, the whole Koh Farn island on which Big Buddha is located, will be all day without electricity.

This mourning set up is what I saw yesterday at the Makro outlet at the Chaweng ring road. Many organizations will have similar displays and you can also sign a condolence register, hence the chair, so you can sit down and sign the register. 

Yesterday saw a nice day, with the clouds at some times during the day time breaking open for short periods of time, allowing the sun to shine through. However, some parts of the island experienced thunderstorms, although the Plai Laem area where we live stayed dry. There was a nice wind blowing all day long and max temp reached 33C

More and more practical tips on how to behave, what to do and now how to dress come out and about. This is a good chart on how to dress during the mourning period and my be helpful to many people who aren't sure of what is or isn't acceptable or good form to wear. This chart is also available in Thai language.

Other Government guidelines now mentioned that it's fine to open bars and nightlife venues again, but without music and it also stated that sporting events can go ahead again.

The forecast for the next ten days around Koh Samui changed slightly. The storm like winds seem to have disappeared, but there are still strong winds to be expected until next week Monday to Tuesday night, with occasionally some hard rain. The last week of the month might be a lot nicer and sunnier again.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 17th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 17th October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's very cloudy over Koh Samui this morning and it looks like rain is in the air, although the prediction is that the rain will not reach us before the late afternoon. We can use rain, lots of rain, since Koh Samui is having a drought period. We also have a light breeze which should turn up a lot during the evening. Current temp at 7am is 27C

The late King Bhumibol Adulyadej visiting Koh Samui back in 1962 or 2505 with Queen Sirikit at his side. This is the only time I know of that the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej visited Koh Samui

Yesterday saw a very warm day in a partially cloudy sky with a light breeze and it stayed dry. Max temp reached 33C

The swimming pool near the beach at the Tongsai Bay Hotel, where my sister and her husband just stayed for two weeks and where her son is completing an internship as part of his studies. One of the longest standing high end resorts on Koh Samui. Currently they are having construction which leads to reduced room rates, maybe the one time chance to be able to stay here?

The weather forecast for the next ten days over Koh Samui predicts an increase in wind, at times even storm like conditions until next Monday with some heavy but relatively short showers. Come Tuesday next week it all should slow down and the wind should pretty much disappear and we may have the sun coming back again.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Recommendations regarding Mourning Period for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Recommendations regarding Mourning Period for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

Here are some very good Recommendations regarding Mourning Period for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, partially advised by the TAT or Tourist Authority of Thailand.

In a very short version, be respectful of and towards the Thai people and the whole nation dealing with their loss and their mourning, during the one year mourning period that has been announced including a one month period during which all entertainment events have been postponed or cancelled.

Right now, it's first of all very important to point out that everything is happening very peaceful although if there are things that are inconveniencing you, maybe that no alcohol is served for a few days and that entertainment venues, disco's and bars are closed, keep in mind that's it's temporarily.

Recommendations regarding Mourning Period for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej

The following link is well worth reading, it is the official version of the TAT or Tourist Authority of Thailand, check it out here. Please read up, inform yourself and act accordingly.

Here is the full text;

Thailand is now in an official period of mourning following the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

In this regard, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) would like all visitors to Thailand to continue with their travel plans as normal. Furthermore, kindly be advised of the following:
• Many Thai people will be wearing black or white clothing as a sign of mourning. This is not required of visitors but if possible, they should wear sombre and respectful clothing when in public.
• Visitors should refrain from conducting any inappropriate or disrespectful behaviour.
• Tourist attractions will be open as usual with the exception of Wat Phra Kaeo (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) and the Grand Palace, as they will be the venue of the Royal Funeral Rites.
• The Government has asked for the cooperation from the entertainment venues; such as, bars and nightclubs to consider the opening of their business operations during this time. The decision will be made by the individual owners.
• Most of the traditional and cultural events will be taking place as usual, although the celebrations may be changed for appropriateness as a mark of respect, or the events may be dedicated to the memory of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.
• All transport, banks, hospitals and other public services will be operating as usual.
• The related authorities have stepped up safety and security measures for all Thais and visitors to facilitate their travelling around the country.
• For any enquiries, please contact our TAT domestic offices or Tel.: 1672.

TAT would like to thank all visitors for their understanding and supporting Thailand during this period of time.

Tourism Authority of Thailand
14 October 2016 at 16.00 hrs.

Here's a link by TAT, with the latest updates on cancelled, postponed events and status of popular tourist attractions, please check here.

Here's a link that explains how the Funeral Rites for King Bhumibol Adulyadej are expected to proceed, check the link here. It has been 70 years ago that Thailand had to say goodbye to a King, so it's a rather unique event, just as this mourning period is.

Hope this helps for now, keep an eye out for any updates, through my blog and many other social media outlets that deal with this issue and topic. Thanks.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 16th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 16^th October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's a very nice day around Koh Samui, a slightly hazy sky with plenty of blue in it and not too many clouds with a nice breeze. I expect to remain dry today. Current temp at 10am is already 32C

A very late update today since I started with a half marathon distance training run, 1:57'24.4 over 21.41km or a 5'28 pace, just in case you're interested (or not) and than after I took a shower it was straight off to Fisherman's Wharf for a breakfast goodbye meeting with one of the Samui runners, who is leaving back to Russia for six to nine months.

Today should also have seen the 3rd Mad Hatters run which is postponed and new dates are still to be announced and the Full Moon Marathon on Koh Phangan, which has been cancelled, just like today's Full Moon Party. This should have been the first time that I would have run two races on one day, but it's not to be, for the time being.

These are just a few of the cancelled or postponed events, due to the one month mourning period, announced in Thailand.

The late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Koh Samui back in 1962 or 2505, visiting local monks. This is the only visit the late King made to Koh Samui, that I know of. Recently a set of pictures was posted on Facebook and they fit perfectly in the current mourning period for the late King

Yesterday saw a nice, partially sunny and partially cloudy day with a good breeze and a max temp of 33C and it stayed dry around the island. The drought is not getting better!

The beach at Fisherman's Village in Bophud this morning, Nice and sunny with a very calm ocean

The forecast for Koh Samui's next ten days keeps changing slightly at the moment. Some afternoon rain is expected tomorrow and Tuesday and from Wednesday to next weekend a very strong wind is due, possibly with storm like conditions at times and light rain just before and during the weekend.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 15th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 15^th October, 2016

Today's weather;

It's partially cloudy around Koh Samui with some bigger and smaller blue patches in the sky and there's a fair bit of wind but it should stay dry. Current temp at 8am is 29C

The late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej visited Koh Samui back in 1962 or 2505 according to the Thai calendar. Yesterday I found a whole set of pictures from his visit online, from which I knew only one or two pictures.

Yesterday saw a cloudy but dry day with a fair amount of wind. Although it stayed dry in our part of the island, other parts had some rain during the afternoon or evening. Max temp reached 32C

Yesterday thousands of people came out to pay respect to his late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej when his body was transported from Siriraj hospital to the Grand Palace in Bangkok. The streets were packed with grieving Thai people, all dressed in black or white clothes.

Mourning is going to last for a one year period and all 'entertainment' events for the next month have been cancelled or postponed throughout the country

The forecast for the next ten days around Koh Samui and it's surrounding islands has just changed slightly. It should stay mostly cloudy until next weekend, with the wind picking up as of Tuesday afternoon, accompanied by an occasional tropical shower. Next weekend should see a very strong wind blowing around the island but the cloud cover should be easing up.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 14th October, 2016

Koh Samui, Thailand daily weather update; 14^th October, 2016

Today's weather;

There's a thin cloud layer over Koh Samui this morning with plenty of blue spots peeking through, It looks like a nice warm and dry day is in the making. Current temp at 7am is 28C

It's good to be back home again.

In front of Siriraj hospital in Bangkok, yesterday evening, where HM King Bhumibol was treated for several months where he passed away yesterday, thousand of Thai people pay respect to HM King Bhumibol, after having reigned Thailand for 70 years and 126 days.

“The government will inform the National Legislative Assembly that His Majesty the King, who is now residing in his royal coffin, has already designated an Heir Apparent in accordance with the Succession Law,” junta chairman Prayuth Chan-och said.

There will be an official mourning period of one year and Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, has asked for time to mourn with the rest of the country, meaning there's currently no set date when he will be crowned as King Rama X.
In the meantime caretaker will be Prem Tinsulanonda who already was Prime Minister in 1979

Yesterday saw a nice and warm day with plenty of sunshine although there was also a thin cloud layer. Late in the evening, around 9.30pm there was some short, hard rain followed by drizzle for a while. Max temp reached 32C

The forecast for the next ten days on Koh Samui has changed, until next Tuesday it's supposed to be cloudy to partially cloudy and I expect a few sunny days with an occasional shower but come next week Wednesday the wind is supposed to pick up, with at times storm like force. Strangely enough not too much rain is predicted though during that period.

Do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and don't forget to use my Camille's Samui hotel recommendation blog and my Camille's Thailand hotel recommendation blog for all your hotel bookings on Koh Samui and around Thailand. By doing so, you will support my blog. Thanks folks! 

Camille