Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

Welcome to another Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020. It's Monday morning around 10am. We have sunny skies and a current temperature of 29C. Very much unlike an average Samui November!

Las week we had plenty of sunny days and moments. We also had a few showers. Sometimes when it rained, it was real rainy season rain as well. Hard and relentless. Most of the time it was just normal showers. But so far, not for days or weeks on an end. For a Koh Samui November, it has been mild.

The maximum temperature reached 32C. The minimum temperature dropped to to the lower twenties Celsius.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

The gold shop in Big C has closed now as well. In 2008 I wrote a very popular blog post about Thai gold. The pictures in this blog are from this gold shop. Covid is still raging in our island. Not the disease itself. More the side effects. More and more shops are still closing down. Each day, each week. The shopping malls like Bog C and Tesco Lotus, let alone Central Festival, are at times very quiet. Almost deserted. Makro seems to be doing well, but even there, they don't get the same turn over as before Covid. The island, just like the whole tourist industry related location in Thailand, are struggling big time. It doesn't look like the borders are about to open soon neither. If you want to visit Koh Samui or Thailand, you need to hang in there a little bit longer.

The forecast for next week looks very similar as last week. A couple of days may be nice and have plenty of sunshine. Combined with a few showers! However, come next weekend, the wind may pick up and rain may intensify. Saturday may be very wet and the night from Sunday to Monday plus all of next Monday may be watery as well. Still, nothing like how a November can be on Samui. 

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 16th November – 22nd November 2020

November rain on Koh Samui. At times we have the typical November, relentless rain showers. For minutes to half an hour it rains like crazy. Creating flash floods all over the place, just to return to 'normal' within moment after the rain stops. It is however a very enjoyable November considering it's rainy season. Other years we have hard rain for days on an end. Having said that, the last week of November and the first two weeks of December can still wreak havoc! We're not there yet!

This coming Sunday there's a run at Nathon hospital. Entrance is free. Registration starts at 5am and the race is supposed to start at 6am. I believe that when I see it with just one hour of registration time. Nonetheless, come and join the fun for a 5km or 15km race, run or walk. No medals, no trophies, all open category. 

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; 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

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; 7^th September – 13^th September 2020

Sunday morning and we run again with the Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7th September – 13th September 2020.

Talking about running, the lsd (long slow distance) run is in the can this morning. 23.6km in 2 hours and 12 minutes or a 5'36 pace. Nice running this morning, starting at 5am in the dark.

Right now it's almost 11.15am and we have a cloudy sky with a few blue patches. Current temperature is 31C. I don't really expect any rain today. On the other hand, most likely it remains cloudy.

Covid is still causing havoc on the island and in Thailand in general. Firstly, there are 3 confirmed covid cases. After 100 days going without covid, it seems to be back. One dj in Bangkok was caught in prison with symptoms. Secondly, a professional Uzbek national team football player for the Buriram team has tested positive. Thirdly, a Korean man returning from Bangkok tested positive in Seoul. Currently they're trying to find out the source of the infections.

Secondly, many of the foreigners residing in Thailand are starting to panic. They will have to leave the Kingdom on 27th September if they don't have the correct visa. This date the amnesty expires.Many friends who are not married, but have Thai partners, may face an unwanted exit. It's possible to change certain visas, but it's all expensive and not necessarily easy to sort out.

One friend on Phuket 

had to throw in the towel and he's returning to Europe. leaving his Thai wife here. He will try to find work back in his home country until he can return, providing the borders are open.

It's tough out here, still every day families return to the mainland. This morning, during my long run, I saw two pick up trucks, packed to the rafters with all the respective families belongings. The motorbike, fridge, tv set and plenty of other bits and pieces from their household was crammed in the back. 

Sadly, there's no end in sight when this will finish. The Thai borders will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

On the other hand, let's go back to the weather. Last week's maximum temperature reached 35C. It was hot a few times! However, Thursday afternoon and Saturday evening saw some hard, tropical showers. The minimum temperature didn't drop below 24C at night. A fairly steady and enjoyable September week.

Koh Samui, Thailand weekly weather update; 7^th September – 13^th September 2020

Another Family Market bites the dust. This outlet, in Choengmon has closed it's doors earlier this week. It's near the 'Melia' resort, the former Imperial Boathouse. Many 7-11 and Family outlets close overnight and don't have their big outdoor lights on. All because they try to reduce costs. Many resorts staff have been cut down to around 50%. Including salary cuts up to 50%, including the general managers. Or in some cases, actually letting go of the general managers. Chaweng is like a ghost town. Half of Chaweng's shops, bars, restaurants seem to have closed and are up for rent or sale. There's talk of closing down Central Festival shopping mall for 3 months. Big chain restaurant 'Wine connection' has closed it's doors a few months ago already.

The forecast for next week looks interesting. Shower alert all week long. From mid week on, expect stronger wind. Friday should see the 'worst'. Possibly hard rain and a fairly strong wind.

Expect the usual suspect locations to have flash floods later this week again.

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; 3^rd August – 9^th August 2020

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

Welcome to August 2020

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

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

Welcome to August 2020

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

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

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

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

Camille

Goodbye to July 2020

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

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

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

Goodbye to July 2020

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

Goodbye to April 2020

Goodbye to April 2020

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

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

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

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

Goodbye to April 2020

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Very typical April weather.

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

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

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

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

Please do 'like' my Koh Samui blog Facebook page and enjoy the beaches around the island or in front of your hotel or resort and get some well deserved rest and a break. Once the world has come to it senses again and Covid 19 is in the past!

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

Camille

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

Camille

Goodbye to February 2020

Goodbye to February 2020

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

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

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

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

Goodbye to February 2020

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

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

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

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

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

Join me in a private dive trip with yours sincerely! 

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

Camille