OurSamui Magazine Jul-Sep 2026

Publisher’s Note

A Season

of Escape

There are certain moments of the year when Koh

Samui feels especially irresistible. As the July–

September season unfolds, Samui and its sister

islands reveal themselves in ways both familiar and unexpected.

This is the season when the islands feel especially

alive, welcoming travellers from around the world who come

seeking beauty, connection, and unforgettable experiences.

From beachside breakfasts and long afternoons on

the water to evenings filled with music, dining, and golden

sunsets, each day unfolds with its own sense of discovery.

Beyond the shoreline, forest trails, hidden waterfalls, wellness

sanctuaries, and local communities reveal another

side of island life — one rooted in authenticity, warmth, and

timeless charm.

High season also brings renewed energy to the people

and businesses that shape the Samui experience. We are

deeply grateful to our hospitality partners, local entrepreneurs

and readers whose continued support allows

OurSamui to grow with each issue. Together, we remain

committed to celebrating these islands in a way that is

meaningful, elegant, and true to their spirit.

What makes Samui so compelling is not simply its

natural beauty, but its ability to offer many experiences

within a single journey — vibrant yet peaceful, sophisticated

yet grounded, cosmopolitan yet deeply connected to local

culture. It is this harmony that continues to captivate travellers

year after year.

Whether you are returning to a favourite retreat or discovering

these islands for the first time, we hope the pages

ahead inspire your journey and encourage you to look beyond

the obvious. The most memorable travel experiences

are often found not on an itinerary, but in the unexpected

moments along the way.

Warm regards,

STEVEN FONG

Chookiat Pangviphas

Publisher, OurSamui

Glory

panel

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EDITORIAL

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3

Contents

8

SamuiWays

COVER: BEACHGOERS TAKING IN THE SUN,

SEA AND THE SPIRIT OF SAMUI ON LAMAI BEACH.

PHOTO: JIRAPHOL RIKSHASUTA

8 THAILAND AT A GLANCE

A tidy primer on “The Land of

Smiles”, offering essential intel for

the curious traveller—from cultural

cues to climatic quirks—so you

can navigate Thailand with poise

during your Samui sojourn.

10 SAMUI AT A GLANCE

Your breezy briefing on Koh Samui:

where to linger, what to expect

and how to make each day feel

well-considered. A compact guide

for turning a simple stay into a

standout one.

12 EVENTS

A curated calendar of Thailand’s

most spirited festivals and Samui’s

liveliest gatherings. From walking

streets to nature tours, this is your

shortcut to staying in the loop.

16 BEACH BLISS

A tour of Samui's finest stretches

of sand, a chance for visitors to

enjoy sun-kissed mornings and

lingering sunsets.

28 TRENDING

The makers, entrepreneurs and

fresh ideas bringing new energy to

island life.

36 SAMUI HERBS

Meet the plants that flavour local

kitchens and stock traditional

medicine cabinets.

40 MADE IN SAMUI

The artisans and producers

creating goods with a distinctly

local identity.

42 SAMUI'S BIG 10

Ten essential dishes

that capture the spirit of

Thailand's favourite island.

44 KHAO HOR

A southern Thai culinary tradition

where layers of ingredients tell a

story of heritage and hospitality.

24 SHORE THINGS

Beyond Samui lie sister isles with gentler

rhythms. A considered selection of excursions

that reveal the archipelago at its most unhurried.

4

Contents

48

Features

46 CRAB BANK

How local communities are

restoring marine ecosystems

through crab conservation.

50 HOUSE OF LUCIE

Inside the gallery championing

visual storytelling, contemporary

arts and photography in

the tropics.

64 HIKING TRAILS ON SAMUI

Leave the beaches behind and

discover jungle paths, viewpoints

and unexpected tranquillity.

58 DIARY OF A FISHERMAN

A glimpse into daily life at sea

through the eyes of those who

know Samui's waters best.

70 EVERY DAY IS EARTH DAY

The individuals and initiatives

working to preserve the island's

natural assets for future generations.

76 CAROUSEL

A look at the tree that has long

provided the bedrock of daily life on

Koh Samui.

82 THE LAST WORD

Reflections and observations from a

voice closely connected to the island.

84 TRADITIONAL COCONUT

SHAVER

An enduring craft and the skilled

hands keeping one of Samui's oldest

traditions alive.

6

8

Samui

Ways

THAILAND

AT A GLANCE

THE LAND OF SMILES

Few destinations balance

beauty and ease quite

like Thailand — a country

defined by warmth, colour,

and quiet confidence.

With Buddhism as its

steady pulse, life unfolds

at a measured pace:

monks move through

the morning light and

temples glint beneath

tropical skies. From

Bangkok’s creative bustle

to Chiang Mai’s misty

hills and Samui’s softedged

horizons, Thailand

offers both energy and

stillness. Its cuisine, a

deft harmony of sweet,

sour, spicy, and salty,

reflects a culture attuned

to balance. Whether it’s

adventure in Khao Sok or

a Samui sunset melting

into the sea, Thailand’s

quiet grace and effortless

hospitality make every

traveller feel at home.

Chiang Mai

Phuket

Essential Facts

Capital: Bangkok

Bangkok

Population: Approx. 70 million

Thailand

Gulf of

Thailand

Language: Thai (English widely understood in

major destinations)

Dialects: Central Thai, Northern (Lanna),

Northeastern (Isaan), and Southern Thai (Pak Tai)

Religion: About 94% Buddhism, 5% Islam,

1 % Christianity, Hinduism and others — Thailand

warmly embraces all faiths in a spirit of

harmony and respect.

Currency: Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone: GMT +7

Electricity: 220 V, 50 Hz, two-pin plugs

International Dial Code: +66

Climate & Seasons

Thailand’s tropical climate makes it a wonderful

destination year-round, with each season

offering its own charm.

From November to February, cooler

breezes and clear skies prevail, with average

daytime temperatures around 25 – 30 °C and

humidity near 70–75% — ideal for sightseeing

and outdoor adventures.

Between March and May, bright sunshine

and blue skies dominate; temperatures

often reach 30 – 36 °C, with humidity around

80 %, giving this season its vibrant, lively energy.

Mu Koh

Ang Thong

National

Marine

Park

Koh Tao

Koh Phangan

Koh Samui

From June to October, light tropical rains

refresh the air and drape the countryside in

lush green; temperatures average 26–33°C, and

humidity ranges 80–90%, creating a serene,

rejuvenating atmosphere.

No matter the month, Thailand’s warmth — in

both climate and hospitality — ensures every visit

is memorable.

Thailand by Numbers

513,120 sq km – total land area

77 provinces, including Bangkok, grouped into

five main regions — with approximate population

figures:

• Bangkok Metropolitan Region: ≈ 11 million

• Central Region (excluding Bangkok): ≈ 9 million

• Northern Region: ≈ 11 million

• Northeastern (Isaan) Region: ≈ 22 million

• Southern Region: ≈ 9 million

• Eastern & Western Regions: ≈ 8 million

2,600 km + – coastline along the

Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea

40,000 + – Buddhist temples nationwide

1,400 + – tropical islands

1,300 + – species of native orchids

Paul’s Fashion

Ladies & Gents Custom Tailor

Tripadvisor:

Paul’s Fashion Samui

Google Map:


Website:

www.paulfashionsamui.com

Paul’s Fashion Samui is Koh Samui’s

trusted name in premium custom

tailoring, known for timeless

craftsmanship, precision, and

personal service refined over many

years. Specialising in bespoke suits

for ladies and gents, along with shirts,

dresses, blazers and coats, each

garment is cut from carefully selected

premium fabrics and tailored to last.

Clients enjoy a seamless experience

with free hotel pickup, fittings and

delivery, fast turnaround with suits

ready in as little as 48 hours, and

measurements securely stored

for future orders. Trusted by clients

worldwide and highly rated on Google

and TripAdvisor, Paul's Fashion

Samui also offers effortless re-ordering

from anywhere via WhatsApp or

email, with global delivery through

DHL Express. Authentic craftsmanship,

personalised luxury, and a perfect fit —

exclusively from Paul's Fashion Samui.

WhatsApp:


Suits Shirts Dresses Blazers Coats

Mobile: +66 (0) 84 627 3812

Opposite McDonald’s

in Chaweng Beach Road

No Branch

Samui

Ways

SAMUI AT

A GLANCE

THE ISLAND OF DREAMS

Samui, a municipality in

Surat Thani and Thailand’s

second-largest island, sits

gracefully in the Gulf of

Thailand. Once a quiet fishing

community, it has grown into

one of the country’s most

sought-after island escapes,

loved for its coconut groves,

jade peaks, and powder-soft

beaches fading into turquoise

seas. Home to about 67,000

residents, the island is ringed

with coral reefs and dotted with

waterfalls and sacred temples.

Compact enough to explore in

a day, Samui still offers endless

experiences, from sunrise yoga

to lively night markets. Despite

its global fame, Samui has kept

its soul. Fishermen cast nets at

dawn, coconut farmers climb

towering palms, and locals

welcome visitors with genuine

warmth. Beyond the beaches

lie jungle trails, healing spas,

and a rich food culture shaped

by southern flavours and

coconut sweetness.

Essential Facts

Location: Gulf of Thailand, Surat Thani Province

Population: Approx. 67,000 permanent residents

(not including temporary workers and visitors)

Language: Thai (Southern dialect widely spoken;

English commonly understood)

Religion: Predominantly Buddhism, with Muslim

and Christian minorities living in harmony.

Climate & Seasons

Samui’s weather pattern differs from much of

Thailand, making it an appealing destination at

any time of year.

From December to April, bright skies and

calm seas prevail — temperatures range from

Samui by Numbers

228 sq km – total land area

Over 2 million visitors each year,

drawn by Samui’s natural beauty and

refined hospitality

50 km – length of the main ring road encircling

the island

26 – 33 °C, with humidity around 70 – 75 %, perfect

for beach days, sailing and island-hopping.

Between May and September, light showers

cool the air and nourish the island’s greenery;

average temperatures are 27 – 32 °C, and humidity

rises to 80 – 85 %, keeping the landscape lush.

From October to mid-December, gentle

tropical rains bring a slower pace and tranquil

beauty — temperatures average 26 – 31 °C,

humidity around 85 – 90 %, ideal for wellness

retreats and rejuvenation.

With its unique microclimate, Samui

promises sunshine, serenity and natural beauty

across all seasons.

1847 – year of Samui’s first recorded settlement

80 + – nearby islands including Koh Phangan,

Koh Tao and the Ang Thong archipelago

88 – Buddhist temples and shrines on

the island

1 – international airport (Samui Airport)

DISCOVER OUR ORGANIC FUSION CUISINE, BLENDING THAI AND MEDITERRANEAN

FLAVORS, IN THE HEART OF OUR ELEPHANT SANCTUARY. ENJOY A SWIM IN THE

INFINITY POOL WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS, SAVOR FRESH DISHES CRAFTED WITH

LOVE, AND SHARE A MAGICAL MOMENT FEEDING OUR ELEPHANTS

10

Samui

Ways

WHAT'S ON

July (all month)

GREEN SEASON ON SAMUI

This is a time when the island exhales. Coconut

palms gleam, the air feels freshly washed, and the

crowds thin. For those in search of space—be it in a

spa pavilion or a private villa—this is Samui at its

most restorative.

July - Sept

2026

July and August mark

Samui’s quiet advantage:

while much of Thailand

watches the skies, the Gulf

remains comparatively calm,

making it a natural refuge for

those in the know.

28

July

HM KING MAHA VAJIRALONGKORN’S BIRTHDAY

The island glows after dark. Streets and beachfronts are lit in gold

and yellow, as ceremonies unfold with quiet dignity—an occasion

that blends national pride with a gentle, celebratory mood.

29 / July

ASALAHA BUCHA DAY

As evening falls, temples flicker with

candlelight. Locals move in slow procession,

creating a moment of stillness that feels worlds

away from the shoreline’s usual rhythm.

August (full month)

MARINE & WELLNESS SEASON

ON SAMUI

While other coasts turn unpredictable,

Samui finds its balance. The sea steadies,

mornings open wide, and the island

becomes a natural stage for sailing,

diving, and slow, deliberate living.

12 / August

HM QUEEN SIRIKIT, THE QUEEN MOTHER'S BIRTHDAY /

MOTHER'S DAY

Soft blue hues ripple across the island in tribute. Floral

arrangements, candlelight ceremonies, and a palpable sense of

affection lend the day an elegance that feels both personal

and national.

30 / July

KHAO PANSA

(START OF

BUDDHIST LENT)

The tempo shifts. With monks

entering their annual retreat,

the island settles into a more

introspective pace—one that

rewards early mornings and

unhurried days.

19 / August

WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY DAY

For shutterbugs, Samui is one of the best places to

be to mark this day. Here, the light does most of the

work, from the first light over the Gulf to the long

shadows of late afternoon, Samui offers endless

compositions—best captured without hurry.

30 / August

INTERNATIONAL WHALE SHARK DAY

A quiet reminder of the life beneath the surface. For

those willing to venture further out, encounters in

nearby waters offer a rare, humbling perspective on

the region’s marine richness.

12 13

Samui

Ways

WHAT'S ON

23 / September

SEPTEMBER

EQUINOX

Balance, in its purest

sense. Days and nights

align, and the island

leans into a slower

cadence—ideal for

travellers drawn to

stillness rather

than spectacle.

25

September

MOON FESTIVAL (MID-AUTUMN FESTIVAL)

Lanterns glow softly in Thai-Chinese communities,

and mooncakes appear in careful arrangements. It’s a

celebration that feels intimate—best experienced away

from the obvious.

Bangrak Beach

The restaurant that serves

the taste of Samui

The Finest Island Cuisine and Fresh Seafood

Our Lamai branch — Sabienglae’s original home — remains deeply connected to old Samui’s

charm. Looking out over the famous Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks, this branch carries

the warmth and authenticity that has made Sabienglae a beloved island haven for decades.

เสบียงเล ละไม Sabienglae Restaurant Lamai +66 93-650-5936

Bangrak Beach

Our Bangrak Beach branch unveils the restaurant’s next chapter — stylish, contemporary,

and beautifully designed for today’s travellers. Conveniently located near Samui Airport,

it has quickly become a must-visit destination for visitors looking for authentic Southern Thai

seafood in a vibrant beachside atmosphere.

เสบียงเล หาดบางรักษ์ Sabienglae Bang Rak Beach +66 61-239-5195

RECOMMENDATIONS

Lamai Beach

27 / September

WORLD TOURISM DAY

A moment of reflection for a destination shaped by visitors.

Increasingly, the conversation turns to sustainability,

with Samui positioning itself as a place where luxury and

responsibility can coexist.

September (late)

SHOULDER SEASON TRANSITION

The island holds its breath before the high season

returns. It’s a fleeting window—quiet beaches, attentive

service, and the sense that, for a moment, Samui

belongs almost entirely to you beneath the surface.

OCTOPUS RICE

(SIGNATURE)

STIR-FRIED BLUE CRAB

WITH CURRY POWDER

(LIVE SEAFOOD)

SAMUI’S CARAMELISED

PORK BELLY

(TRADITIONAL DISH)

LOBSTER SASHIMI

(LIVE SEAFOOD)

Lamai Beach

14

Samui

Ways

BEACH

BLISS

Koh Samui doesn’t give

up all its secrets at once.

With some 40 beaches

strung like pearls

around its 50-kilometre

coastline, the island

rewards curiosity.

Each stretch of sand

carries its own mood—

glamorous, bohemian,

or blissfully bare. The joy

lies in drifting between

them, discovering one

quiet cove after another

until you find the spot

that feels entirely yours.

Chaweng Beach

Samui’s most famous strand—and its longest—is also

its most energetic. Chaweng’s six kilometres of powdersoft

sand form the island’s beating heart. Mornings bring

paddleboarders and parasails; by night, the tempo rises with

beach bars and DJs. Yet it’s not all hedonism—wander to the

Heart-Shaped Mountain Viewpoint to see the bay’s luscious

curves from above, and you’ll agree that Samui’s wild beauty

still wins out over its buzz.

Azure waters of

Chaweng Beach.

16 17

Samui

Ways

BEACH BLISS

1

3

Lamai Beach

Just south of Chaweng, Lamai has the same good

looks with a gentler pace. The water deepens faster

here, making it a draw for swimmers and surfers,

while yoga studios and coconut-oil spas hide

behind the palms. At the beach’s southern end, Hin

Ta and Hin Yai—the cheekily named “Grandfather

and Grandmother Rocks”—draw visitors for

both the views and the folklore. Stop at Lad Koh

Viewpoint en route, a quiet perch where sunrise

feels like a secret.

Bo Phut Beach

If you prefer your beaches with a side of good taste,

Bo Phut delivers. Once a sleepy fishing village, it’s

now a haven for breezy bistros and barefoot dining.

Fisherman’s Village still retains its wooden charm,

now reimagined as a stylish promenade of concept

stores and cafés.

Laem Set & Taling Ngam

On Samui’s southern and western fringes, the crowds melt away.

Laem Set is cinematic—boulders, leaning palms, and glass-clear

shallows that catch the morning light. Further west, Taling Ngam

feels like a secret whispered between travellers: an endless, often

empty sweep with views of the Five Islands. It’s the side of Samui that

reminds you isolation can be a luxury.

The sun-washed

shores of Lamai Beach.

Fisherman’s Village

turns golden — a seaside

promenade of charm, craft,

and candlelit indulgence.

Powdery white sand

on Laem Set Beach.

Green meets blue at

Taling Ngam Beach.

SCAN ME

For a bird's-eye drone

flight over Taling Ngam

beach with OurSamui.

2

4

18 19

Samui

Ways

BEACH BLISS

1

Maenam & Bangrak Beaches

Two northern favourites for those who like their

escapes unhurried. Maenam, framed by palms and

longtail boats, has an old-island grace—perfect for

quiet swims and hammock afternoons. A short

drive east, Bangrak, or Big Buddha Beach, faces the

island’s most iconic statue—a golden 12-metretall

figure glowing at dusk. Both offer understated

charm, where time slows with each turning tide.

Clear skies melt

into the horizon at

Maenam Beach.

Sundown on

Bangrak Beach.

A glorious day in

Bangrak Bay.

2 3

20

Samui

Ways

BEACH BLISS

A lazy day on

Lipa Noi Beach.

Sunset at

Nathon Beach.

Lipa Noi & Nathon

Lipa Noi is where families and

romantics exhale. Its shallow,

ripple-free waters invite lazy

swims, and the sunsets, while

luxury resorts and simple beach

cafés coexist in perfect calm. A

few kilometres north, Nathon

marks a shift from postcard to

real life. The island’s working port

and commercial centre offers

an authentic Thai vibe: market

chatter, pier views, and a frontrow

seat for the evening ferry

framed against the sinking sun.

1

2

22

Samui

Ways

SHORE THINGS

Whether you're here solo,

with a partner, or among

family and friends,

Samui and its sister

islands offer paradise all

within an easy reach.

Definition of Anodas Spa

Experience a refined level of relaxation

where spa, wellness, and healthcare

come together seamlessly. Our expert

therapies nurture beauty, health, and

inner balance—bringing harmony to body

and mind.

Experience at Anodas Spa

Enjoy a private sea-view treatment suite

designed for ultimate tranquility. With a

modern jacuzzi perfect for couples and

honeymooners, relax and rejuvenate as

you take in the soothing ocean scenery.

Confirmed dates

31 July (Friday)

28 August (Friday)

26 September (Saturday)

Full Moon, Light Touch

The Gulf’s most notorious beach party still draws thousands

to Haad Rin on neighbouring Koh Phangan — though seasoned

Samui regulars know better than to stay overnight. Ferries and

speedboats shuttle across from Koh Samui until dawn, making

a villa return far preferable to sleeping beside the speakers.

August remains the busiest. September, meanwhile,

offers a softer version of the same spectacle, with fewer

crowds and greener seas — though late-season weather

occasionally disrupts crossings.

Nora Buri Resort & Spa

www.noraburiresort.com

Tel. +66 (0) 77 913 555

111 Moo 5, Chaweng Beach Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320, Thailand Email: reservation@noraburiresort.com

Friday Evening Rituals

Green season lends Samui’s

night markets a slower, more

local rhythm. The best of them

arrive just before sunset, when

the island trades beach clubs for

grilled seafood, cocktail carts and

wandering jazz musicians.

The Friday market at

Fisherman's Village Night

Market remains the island’s

classic evening promenade:

lantern-lit lanes lined with

street food, handmade crafts

and tables set almost directly

on the sand.

Further south, Lamai Night

Market offers a more relaxed

local mood with live music

and excellent seafood, while

Nathon Night Food Market feels

refreshingly unvarnished —

ideal for food photography and

glimpses of everyday island life.

For rainy evenings, Chaweng

Night Market provides a more

casual, food-first alternative.

Experience the Charm of Thailand at Rice Barge

Rice Barge at Nora Buri Resort & Spa brings together the timeless charm of Thai

culture and the distinctive spirit of Koh Samui in an elegant and memorable way.

Discover the essence of Nora Buri through a warm and inviting atmosphere, authentic

flavors reimagined with a contemporary touch, and unique décor unlike anywhere

else on the island — all complemented by breathtaking ocean views that elevate every

dining experience into something truly special.

24

Samui

Ways

SHORE THINGS

Jungle Ruins on Koh Tao

For travellers craving something wilder than another beach club, Koh

Tao offers one of the Gulf’s more curious walks. Beginning near Sairee

Beach, a rugged trail climbs through thick jungle towards Laem Thian

on the island’s eastern edge — an hour-long ascent punctuated by

cicadas and sea views.

At the summit sits the abandoned shell of a once-ambitious

resort: vine-covered bungalows, collapsing verandas and empty

terraces facing the horizon. Equal parts tropical ruin and forgotten

utopia, it remains one of the region’s most atmospheric detours.

Koh Nang Yuan

A short longtail ride from Koh

Tao lies Koh Nang Yuan — three

tiny islands connected by bright

white sandbars and water so

clear it scarcely looks real.

Divers head for Red Rock and

Green Rock, while snorkellers

drift through the coral gardens

beside butterflyfish and electricblue

tangs. Later, a short shaded

climb leads to the island’s

celebrated viewpoint, where ivory

sand curls into turquoise sea in

one of southern Thailand’s most

recognisable panoramas.

Arrive early. Stay lightly. Leave

before the day-trippers do.

26

Samui

Ways

TRENDING

From multiple-sensory

immersive experiences

to calming spa

treatments, Koh Samui

has it all in spades to

provide visitors with a

much-needed sense

of escapism.

SPORTS RESORT

Maraleina makes a bold claim — Thailand’s

most comprehensive sports resort — and

the facilities go some way to supporting it.

The high-performance fitness centre sits

alongside squash courts, football pitches,

a PSG Academy affiliate programme, youth

gymnastics and a HYROX training hub,

making this the rare island address where

the serious athlete need not compromise.

Health, wellness and rehabilitation services

run alongside the sporting offer, and

dedicated fitness retreats are available for

those seeking structure over spontaneity.

The ‘Train, Stay, Play’ model packages

accommodation with unlimited facility

access, which, for guests who measure

a holiday by the quality of their morning

session, is a persuasive proposition.

maraleina.com

Koh Samui

ART PARK, IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Billed, with characteristic understatement, as the eighth wonder of the

world, theXperience is an open-air art and technology park that occupies

its own category entirely. Across a series of themed zones — The Playa, Luna,

AfrikaBurn, The Woods and Mystic Village among them — the park deploys

projection mapping, hyper-realistic sculpture, multisensory installations

and a sky bar to create something that resists easy description. The site’s

founding conceit is that art should respond to the person experiencing

it; advanced technology allows each installation to react in real time to

presence, movement and mood. Families, couples and solo visitors all find

their footing here, which is harder to achieve than it sounds, and the dining

offer is thoughtful enough to merit its own visit.

thexperienceworld.com

Lamai Beach

FOREST CALM AT TAMARIND SPRINGS

Hidden among lush greenery near Lamai Beach, Tamarind Springs Forest Spa is where nature and nurture meet. The setting feels

far removed from the island’s bustle—a sanctuary woven into granite boulders, forest canopies and winding trails. Treatments

draw from Thai healing traditions and modern techniques: think yoga-inspired massage, hot- and cold-stone therapy, and

lymphatic renewal sessions. The signature herbal steam, set inside a natural cave, feels both ancient and elemental. For those who

seek more than an afternoon’s respite, Tamarind Springs also offers serene forest lodgings—spaces designed for slow mornings,

gentle routines, and quiet reconnection.

tamarindsprings.com/en

Koh Samui

ARCADE EVENINGS

This large format arcade trade sticky

carpets for polish. A full-length bowling

alley anchors the space, flat by a small

edit of classic and next-gen games

that keep the tempo high without

tipping into chaos. Neon washes the

room in colour, a type playlist comes in

the background and the bar turns out

confident cocktails rather than sugary

novelty indoor outdoor seating and

courageous lingering; friendly rivalries

uninvolved over a second round. It's less

teenage hangout, more after

hours clubhouse.

pixelthailand.com

Koh Samui

SPORTS AND SOCIAL CLUB

Koh Samui’s first padel venue arrived with a

conviction that the sport deserved a proper home

rather than an afterthought — and the result is

four courts built to LTA and PTA international

standards, two of them sheltered beneath an

eleven-metre roof, set within a coconut plantation

with the kind of sunset views that make losing a

match considerably more bearable.

padelsamui.com

Chaweng Beach

MARTIAL ARTS TRAINING

Founded in 2013 and set on a hillside above Chaweng with open-air

views to the sea, Tom Muay Thai Camp makes a compelling case for

training where the air is cleaner and the distractions are fewer. Sessions

run for all levels — from the curious visitor seeking a single morning of

instruction to the dedicated athlete chasing competition fitness — and

the trainers, masters of their craft, conduct classes in both English and

Russian, reflecting the camp’s international following.

tommuaythai.com

28 29

Samui

Ways

TRENDING

Koh Samui

HAVEN SAMUI COMMUNITY MALL

Haven Samui Community Mall has quietly

become one of the island's most agreeable

places to spend an afternoon. Independent

shops, thoughtful food options and a

relaxed atmosphere set it apart from the

usual commercial strip. It feels local in

the best possible sense — shaped by the

community around it rather than imported

wholesale from somewhere else. Come for

one thing, stay for several. That tends to be

how Haven works.

havensamui.com

Koh Samui

ERANDA SPA

Perched quietly above the island’s curve, Eranda

spa offers the sort of understated, five-star calm

that Koh Samui does best. Guests arrive emptyhanded

by design–everything from crisp spa attire

to premium products is thoughtfully laid out,

removing any hint of hassle. A discreet, well-trained

team shepherds visitors through each treatment

with a mix of precision and warmth, keeping the

experience beautifully frictionless. The setting is

serene, the service measured and meticulous, and

the pace blissfully unhurried.

erandaspa.com

Choeng Mon Beach

PRIVATE CHARTER · SAILING

The 36-foot catamaran moored at Choeng Mon Beach is available

exclusively — no shared decks, no strangers — and that singularity

is precisely the point. Vickey accommodates up to ten guests

across a wide sun deck, cosy cabins and a fully-equipped galley

kitchen, making her equally suited to a sunset cruise of two-and-ahalf

hours or a full-day island-hopping circuit with lunch

prepared aboard.

vickeysamui.com

Bangrak Beach

BEACH CLUB · NIGHTLIFE

On the northern arc of Bangrak Beach, nine minutes

from the airport, 79 Beach Club has quietly become

the island’s most credible proposition for guests

who insist on doing both things well — sleeping and

celebrating. The pool, the largest of any beach club

on Samui, faces the Gulf at golden hour, while the

programme of resident DJs and visiting names keeps

the calendar serious without becoming self-important.

Breakfast runs until two in the afternoon here, which

tells you everything you need to know about the pace.

Seventy-nine suites and pool villas, each dressed for

the tropics without trying too hard.

79samui.com

30 31

Samui

Ways

TRENDING

Member Diving

Beneath the surface of Koh Samui's waters

lies a world that rewards the curious. Member

Diving offers guided dives for all levels,

from first-timers nervous about the deep

to seasoned underwater explorers chasing

the next reef. Their instructors know these

waters intimately — the best spots, the right

conditions, the hidden corners where marine

life gathers undisturbed. Whether you descend

for the first time or the hundredth, the ocean

here has something new to show you.

member-diving.com/en

Choeng Mon Beach

WELLNESS · DETOX

In collaboration with Meliá Resort on the tranquil

northern bay of Choeng Mon, Orion Retreat occupies

the intersection of five-star comfort and genuine

therapeutic intent. The founders — a Reiki Master and

an energy healer who arrived in Thailand in 2000 and

never quite left — have been curating holistic detox

programmes since 2006, drawing guests from across

the world. The programmes combine fasting and

detoxification with yoga, breathwork, Reiki sessions and

craniosacral therapy; the food, served at the beachfront

restaurant, is nutritious, inventive and plant-based.

orionhealing.com

Koh Samui

JUN MUAY THAI

A refined introduction to Thailand’s national sport, Jun Muay Thai offers visitors the chance

to train with experienced instructors in an intimate setting. Whether you're stepping

into the ring for the first time or sharpening your technique, sessions balance discipline,

fitness and cultural immersion, making for a memorable addition to any stay on Samui.

junmuaythai.com

Lamai Beach

YOGA STUDIO

Creative spaces with genuine character are rare anywhere in the

world. Black Cat & White Cat Studio is one of them — a Koh Samui

original where artistry, atmosphere and craft come together under

one roof. Whether you're browsing original works, commissioning

something personal, or simply wandering in to see what's on the

walls, the studio rewards time spent inside it. The kind of place you

mention when people ask what made the trip feel different.

Black Cat White Cat : Yoga Studio

Lamai Beach

MAGIC JET SKI

There is a particular kind of freedom that only

comes at speed on open water. Magic Jet Ski puts

that freedom within reach, offering well-maintained

machines and a stretch of sea that invites you to

make the most of both. Ideal for those who want their

island experience to come with a little adrenaline, this

is Koh Samui at its most exhilarating — salt in the air,

throttle in hand, horizon wide open ahead.

magic-jetski-lamai-kohsamui.com

32

Samui

Ways

TRENDING

Koh Samui

BOUTIQUE YACHTING

Some of the best moments on Koh Samui happen

far from the shore. Boutique Yachting takes

guests out onto the Gulf of Thailand in style,

with curated sailing experiences that balance

adventure with ease. Whether you're after a sunset

cruise, a day trip to a neighbouring island, or

simply the pleasure of the sea with good company,

their team handles everything from navigation to

provisions. All you need to bring is a willingness to

let the wind decide the pace.

boutiqueyachting.com

Koh Samui

EVOLUTION SAMUI MUAY THAI RETREAT

Part training camp, part wellness escape, Evolution

Samui combines authentic Muay Thai instruction

with island living. Guests can expect focused

coaching, restorative recovery sessions and a

supportive atmosphere that appeals as much to

curious beginners as to dedicated practitioners

seeking a reset by the sea.

evolutionsamuiretreat.com

Chaweng Beach

ARKBAR BEACH CLUB

Set on the sands of Chaweng Beach, ARKbar

remains one of Samui's most enduring social

addresses. By day, guests drift between the pool

and the shoreline; by night, the venue transforms

into a lively gathering spot with DJs, cocktails and

front-row views of the island's celebrated sunsets.

ark-bar.com

Lamai Beach

PADEL PARADISE

For guests seeking activity beyond the

shoreline, Padel Paradise has become one of

Samui's most vibrant sporting destinations.

With state-of-the-art courts, professional

instruction and a convivial atmosphere, it

offers an elegant blend of fitness, friendly

competition and social connection in the

heart of the island.

padellamai.com

AMAZING SPORT HUB

(Calm, Refresh Tired Muscles)

This highly energetic, yet relaxing treatment has

been created specifically for the more muscular

body. It’s a wonderful way to spend the day escaping

from all of lifes pressures and it will help to energize

and instil a sense of well-being.

• Herbal Steam & Jacuzzi 30 mins

• Tamarind Salt or Coffee Scrub 35 mins

• Thai Massage or Oil Massage 60 mins

• Eranda Signature Facial 60 mins

• Refreshing spa drink

Eranda Spa Villa

9/37 Moo 2 Chaweng North Road

Koh Samui Suratthani 84320 Thailand

Opening Hour

Open everyday from 9:00 am. to 9:00 pm.

Last booking at 7:00 pm.

5,700

Baht

Tel:

+66 (0) 98 329 1445

+66 (0) 62 293 2329

34

Samui

Ways

GREEN SAMUI

Roots of

Remedy

For generations, Thais have turned

to herbs, roots and leaves from

forests and gardens for healing — a

living tradition that continues to

thrive on Koh Samui today.

Words: Sky Fitzgerald

Photos: Jiraphol Rikshasuta

Walk deep enough into any village on Koh Samui

and you will find them — the aunties who know

the land by heart. They crouch beside low hedges,

break a stem, press a leaf between their fingers

and inhale. Diagnosis and pharmacy in a single

breath. For centuries, the people of this island have

maintained an intimate, unwritten contract with

its botanical world: the forest feeds, the garden

heals, and the knowledge passes mouth to ear

across every generation. Samui's warm, humid

microclimate and fertile soil have made it a cradle

for an extraordinary range of medicinal flora. What

follows is a tour of thirteen plants at the heart of

this island's living pharmacy.

CAMPHOR — GARABOON

Extracted from the wood and bark of Cinnamomum camphora,

camphor is among the oldest medicines in Southeast Asia.

Locals press small crystals into warm coconut oil to create a

liniment rubbed onto aching joints, temples during headaches,

and chests during respiratory illness. Its sharp, clarifying

vapour opens the airways and is used in steam inhalations

for bronchitis. Applied externally, it calms inflammation and

repels insects — a dual-purpose salve that never leaves a

traditional household.

LIPSTICK SEED — KHAM THAI/KHAM SAED

The brilliant red seeds of Bixa orellana have

coloured both food and bodies for millennia. In

folk medicine, a leaf infusion is taken for fever

reduction and as an expectorant for coughs.

The seeds contain bixin, a carotenoid with

documented antioxidant properties.

DAMASK ROSE – KOOLARB MON

Though originally from the Middle East, the

Damask rose has long found a home in Thai

temple gardens and apothecaries. Dried

petals are steeped into teas to calm anxiety,

aid digestion, and regulate menstruation.

Healers regard it as a flower that soothes

grief, nervous tension, and despair.

TORCH GINGER — DAALA

Etlingera elatior is impossible to

miss on Samui — its towering

crimson, white and pink flower

spikes rise from dense jungle

undergrowth like lit torches. But

this plant earns its place in the

medicine chest as much as in the

kitchen. The flower bud is chewed

raw to alleviate mouth ulcers, and a

decoction of the rhizome addresses

ear infections. Rich in antioxidants

and antimicrobial compounds, the

flowers are also added to traditional

postpartum herbal baths, helping

new mothers recover strength and

resist infection in the vulnerable

weeks after birth.

36 37

Samui

Ways

GREEN SAMUI

LEMONGRASS — TAKRAI

No herb is more omnipresent on Samui than lemongrass,

which grows in dense clumps beside almost every kitchen.

Its inner stalk, bruised and steeped in hot water, makes a

tea that is the island's first response to fever, colds, and

digestive discomfort. The essential oil is a natural antifungal

and is applied in diluted form to minor skin infections. In

larger quantities, crushed stalks are added to bathwater as

an antiseptic soak — a practice common among farmers who

work the land barefoot and are prone to cuts and abrasions.

HERBAL COMPRESS BLEND — PONG FAI

The luk pra kob — the herbal compress ball — is perhaps the most theatrical

expression of Thai botanical medicine. Pong fai is the powdered blend at

its heart: a mixture of plai ginger, kaffir lime peel, tamarind leaf, turmeric,

and aromatic salts, packed into a muslin cloth and steamed. Pressed

rhythmically against the body's muscles and joints, the compress releases

heat and volatile oils simultaneously.

BAI MEE — LITSEA GLUTINOSA

Known in cosmetics as Litsea

Glutinosa Leaf Extract, Bai Mee is a

medium-sized evergreen tree from

the Lauraceae family that grows

readily across Thailand and tropical

Asia. For generations, Thais have

treated it as a kitchen-cabinet

remedy for the hair — and modern

cosmetic science is beginning to

explain why it works so well.

The secret lies in the leaf's mucilage,

a slippery polysaccharide that,

when boiled in water, releases a gellike

liquid.

SAPPANWOOD — FAANG

Caesalpinia sappan has coloured

Thai textiles red for a thousand

years, but its heartwood is also

one of traditional medicine's most

valued blood tonics. Shaved into

water and simmered, the wood

produces a deep crimson tea that

healers prescribe for irregular

menstruation, blood disorders, and

post-illness fatigue. Modern analysis

confirms the presence of brazilin

and sappanin — compounds with

genuine anti-inflammatory and

anticoagulant activity.

WAN SAO LONG

Its name translates loosely as "the herb that makes a maiden lose her way"

— a nod to its reputation as a beautifying and rejuvenating tonic. Curcuma

aeruginosa is a wild ginger whose dark-fleshed rhizome contains sesquiterpenes

with documented antimicrobial action, and it features in several traditional

formulas addressing skin clarity and hormonal balance.

RED VINE — YA NAANG DAENG

Ventilago harmandiana, the red-stemmed vine that climbs

through Samui's secondary forest, is used principally for

diabetes and chronic inflammation. Village practitioners regard

it as one of the most trustworthy detoxifying herbs available

locally, and it features in many of the traditional multi-herb

tonic formulas passed down through island families.

SIAM TULIP — PATOOMA

Curcuma alismatifolia, the Siam tulip,

blooms in pink and purple clusters

across the island's highland areas.

A cousin of turmeric, its rhizome

carries a similar anti-inflammatory

payload. Village healers brew the root

into a medicinal tea to ease stomach

aches and reduce bloating. Applied

as a poultice, the mashed rhizome

draws heat from inflamed skin and

is said to speed the healing of minor

wounds. Monks occasionally use it in

ritual cleansing preparations — the

medicinal and the spiritual, never

fully separated.

TURMERIC - KAMIN CHAN

Curcumin, the active compound in

turmeric, is one of the most trusted

natural remedies for supporting

long-term health. Often called

a "wonder spice," turmeric has

been widely used to help manage

digestive issues, acid reflux, and

joint discomfort. One of its greatest

benefits is its powerful antiinflammatory

effect. Curcumin is

also a potent antioxidant that helps

fight harmful free radicals.

KHLU

Pluchea indica grows wild across the island's coastal

wetlands. All parts of the plant are used as a diuretic

and antidiabetic, and a decoction of the roots or

leaves is recommended for treating fever, headache,

rheumatism, and sprains. Overconsumption of the

leaves for long periods of time may cause health

problems, especially for individuals suffering from

cardiovascular disease and hypertension.

These thirteen plants represent only a fraction of the botanical intelligence

accumulated on this island. They share something beyond their healing

properties: they are relational. Each one is known not through a manual

but through a person — a grandmother, a monk, an old fisherman who

knows which leaf to crush when the sea gives you a wound. Samui is

changing fast. But walk those village paths and you will still find the

aunties crouching at the hedgerow. The pharmacy is still open.

Important: The plants described here are

used in traditional folk medicine and are

presented for cultural and educational

purposes only. Always consult a qualified

medical doctor before using any herbal

remedy. Allergic reactions and adverse

interactions with medications can occur.

38 39

Samui

Ways

MADE IN SAMUI

Samui’s

handcrafted

gifts for

all seasons

If you're in search of the ideal

gift for loved ones, why not

swap the standard souvenirs

for island-born treasures made

by Samui's local artisans?

WOODEN ELEPHANTS

Handcrafted from recycled scrap wood by local

artisans, this wooden elephant from Samui Elephant

Home celebrates Thailand's national symbol. Each

piece supports community livelihoods, reduces waste

and contributes to elephant care – transforming local

creativity into meaningful conservation.

MATCHA CUP

Embrace the

island's calm with a

handcrafted matcha

cup. Sleek, tactile and

designed to elevate your

daily ritual, it's a reminder that

the simplest pleasures often

travel best.

BANANA ROPE BAG

Woven from durable banana fibre, this bag is a

nod to conscious craftsmanship. Lightweight yet

sturdy, it's ideal for keeping your phone, glasses or

travel essentials close at hand.

COCONUT BOWLS

WITH ENAMEL

These coconut-shell bowls

lined with enamel add a

tropical touch to your table.

Perfect for serving or simply

admiring, they capture Samui's

spirit in every curve.

LUXURY LIFESTYLE

A good suit should speak

quietly. This three-piece

design, cut from 100 per cent

cashmere wool, combines a

soft drape with sharp structure

and a clean, contemporary line.

At Paul’s Fashion Samui on

Chaweng Beach Road, bespoke

tailoring is approached with

restraint and precision —

timeless craftsmanship and

understated elegance.

ALL-PURPOSE POUCHES

Designed for modern multitaskers, these

contemporary pouches and bags bring

order to the everyday. Use them to store

toiletries, chargers or small essentials –

proof that good design can be both useful

and understated.

HOMEMADE SPA PRODUCTS

Bring the island's serenity home with this line of organic balms,

massage oils and skincare crafted in small batches. Naturally

scented and soothing, they make thoughtful gifts – or welldeserved

indulgences.

COCONUT KITCHEN SET

Handcrafted from local wood, this kitchen set offers a

sustainable spin on mealtimes. Lightweight, practical

and plastic-free.

THAI FLORAL SHAMPOO

Infused with coconut, jasmine, frangipani,

lemongrass and Thai herbs, this gentle

shampoo features 99.5% aloe vera to soothe

sun-stressed hair. Enriched with vitamins B5

and E and wheat protein for lasting moisture

and protection. Free from SLS, parabens and

benzophenones.

KALAMAIR

Smooth, rich and faintly smoky, Kalamair

is Koh Samui's signature sweet – a glossy

toffee-like confection crafted from sticky

rice and palm sugar, gently simmered

to perfection.

STOCKISTS

FB: Samui Health

Shop by Lamphu

FB: Samui Health

Shop by Lamphu

NAMWA Painting Samui

Tel: 088 608 6463

FB: Namwa painting Samui

Inta coconut

enamel bowls

Tel: 086 272 0908


Tel: 084 627 3812

paulfashionsamui.com

Honey Rose Herb

Garden & Art

Tel: 081 649 6061

FB Honey Rose Herb

Garden & Art

Samui Elephant Home

samuielephanthome.com

Samui Handicraft

FB: Handicraft coconut

wood & coconut shell

Floral shampoo

Secretofsamui.com

Kalamair Mae Yin Dee

Tel: 086 277 9234

40 41

Samui

Ways

FL AVOURS

Samui’s

Big 10

From Samui’s

celebrated dining

rooms to family-run

local kitchens, the

island’s culinary

identity is shaped

by a rich variety of

flavours and traditions.

Fresh seafood,

treasured recipes

and time-honoured

techniques come

together in dishes that

reflect Samui’s deep

connection to the sea

and its way of life.

These are ten island

favourites — authentic,

memorable and utterly

worth discovering.

Words: Sua Pon Nam

Grilled Prawns with Seafood Dipping

Sauce (Goong Pao)

River or sea prawns kissed over hot charcoal

until the shells blister and the head butter

inside turns rich and custard-like. The real

game here is the naam jim seafood (seafood

sauce) — a dipping sauce of lime, fish sauce,

garlic and bird's-eye chilli. Enjoy them at a

beachfront restaurant, a refined dining setting

or a cherished local favourite — preferably

with your hands. Napkins may help, but some

experiences are best enjoyed without too

much ceremony.

Poh Taek — “Broken Pot” Seafood Soup

The name means "the pot explodes," and the soup earns

it. A thunderstorm of clams, mussels, prawns and fish

in a clear broth rampant with galangal, lemongrass,

chilli and holy basil. It is fiercer than tom yum and

considerably less polite. A bowl of steamed rice on the

side is not optional — it is a survival mechanism. Order it

at lunch when you still have the afternoon to recover.

Seafood Tom Yum

This is Thailand's most famous soup,

done properly. A clear or slightly

creamy broth that is simultaneously

sour (lime), hot (chilli), savoury (fish

sauce) and aromatic (lemongrass,

galangal, kaffir lime leaf). On Samui,

the seafood version brims

with the freshest catch of the

morning. The quality of the

lime — whether it arrived this

morning or last week — will

tell you everything you need

to know about the kitchen.

Do not add anything to it. It

does not need your help.

Seafood Hor Mok

in Young Coconut

(Hor Mok Talay Maprao On)

A southern Thai steamed curry custard

— fish, squid and prawns folded into

a thick paste of coconut cream, kaffir

lime and red curry — served inside

a young coconut that lends a faint,

grassy sweetness to every spoonful.

The texture is somewhere between a

soufflé and a flan. You will not regret

ordering two. The version worth seeking

out is custardy and quivering, not

rubbery. If it bounces when you prod it,

send it back.

Deep-Fried Sea Bass with Fish

Sauce (Pla Kapong Tod Naampla)

A whole pla kapong (sea bass) fried to

crackling bronze, flooded with a hot

glaze of fish sauce, palm sugar and fried

garlic, then scattered with shredded

green mango or chilli. The skin shatters.

The flesh stays impossibly moist. This is

what "simple" cooking looks like when

the ingredient is impeccable and the wok

temperature is not negotiable. One of the

most quietly satisfying dishes in the

Thai canon.

Steamed Sea Bass with Lime and

Chilli (Pla Kapong Neung Manao)

A whole pla kapong (sea bass) fish

steamed until just barely set, then

drenched in a broth of lime juice, fish

sauce, garlic, chilli and a suggestion of

coriander. It is bright and violent and

utterly addictive. The version worth

seeking out is the one where the lime

arrived this morning and the chilli

was chosen with intent.

Fried Squid Eggs (Kai Muek Tod)

The dish that separates the curious from

the cautious. Squid egg sacs, battered and

fried until crisp on the outside and creamy —

almost briny — within. The flavour is intensely

oceanic; the texture, once you commit, is

extraordinary. Not every restaurant has them.

Crab Fried Rice

(Khao Pad Poo)

This is the test of any Thai

kitchen: cold rice, furious heat,

a cracked egg and enough crab

meat to make the whole thing

feel quietly luxurious. On Samui

you are getting Gulf crab, and the

sweetness of it running through

every grain of rice is the reason this

dish defeats all attempts at eating

healthily while on holiday. Squeeze lime

over the top. Add a slick of fish sauce from

the condiment caddy on your table.

Baked Prawns with Glass Noodles

(Goong Ob Woonsen)

Large prawns baked on a bed of glass

noodles that have soaked up a rich,

slightly sticky sauce of oyster sauce,

sesame oil, garlic and ginger — often

finished tableside in a clay pot still

hissing from the oven. The noodles at the

bottom, caramelised and slightly stuck, are

the prize. Fight your dining companions for them

without shame. This dish belongs to the slower, more

generous end of Thai seafood — sit down for it.

Salt and Pepper Prawns (Goong Kua Prik Glua)

Whole prawns — shell on — tossed in the wok with sea salt, cracked

white pepper, garlic and a handful of chilli until the shells are dry

and fragrant and the tails curl with heat. You eat them whole: the

shell is the seasoning. It should arrive at the table immediately

and be eaten in the same spirit. One of the simplest dishes on this

list and one of the best. Do not sleep on it because

it sounds unambitious.

42 43

Samui

Ways

FL AVOURS

Khao Hor:

Samui’s Wrapped Tradition

Khao hor, Samui’s banana

leaf–wrapped meal, reflects a

tradition of simplicity, sharing,

and island life.

Byline: Bella Luna


In the past, the people of Samui mainly

worked in agriculture—farming rice,

orchards, and plantations near their

homes. They would bring food with

them to eat at midday. Likewise, when

travelling for business or visiting

relatives in distant villages—often

crossing mountains, streams, or even

travelling by rowboat or sailboat from

one bay to another—it was necessary

to prepare food for the journey. This

“packed lunch” was known as khao

hor, or rice wrapped in fragrant banana

leaves, a tradition that began as a

practical solution for daily life—yet it

endures today as something far

more meaningful.

One of the joys of

the khao hor tradition

is the pleasure of

sharing food.

On Samui, fresh

seafood runs like

tap water.

Ingredients being

prepped to prepare

khao hor.

Inside, one would find perfectly

cooked rice accompanied by humble

dishes—perhaps a dry naam prik

(chilli paste), tamarind relish, or

grilled salted fish. Occasionally, there

might be a salted egg or a simple kai

jiew Thai omelette, each chosen for

its ability to travel well.

The banana leaf, both

practical and elegant, imparted

a delicate aroma to the food. It

also reflected a way of life rooted

in sustainability—used as both

wrapping and serving vessel, then

returned to the earth once the

meal was finished. Meals were

often shared and eaten by hand.

Over time, this modest custom

evolved into a more social affair.

What began as a solitary or family

meal became an occasion for

gathering. Relatives and visitors

would come together, bringing with

them pinto (tiered containers) filled

with a wider variety of dishes—

curries, fresh fruits, and sweet

treats. Meals were enjoyed outdoors,

perhaps by the sea or beneath the

shade of trees, with woven mats laid

out to welcome all who joined.

As Samui developed—particularly

following the construction of the

island road in the late 1960s—the

tradition of khao hor gained new

recognition. During the road’s

construction, local workers were

nourished each day with these

carefully prepared meals.

Today, while tables, utensils,

and modern conveniences may

accompany the meal, the spirit of

khao hor remains unchanged. It is

not only about the food itself, but

about generosity, connection, and

the pleasure of sharing something

thoughtfully prepared.

It is often said that while

restaurant dining satisfies the palate,

a meal of khao hor offers a taste of

home and of heartfelt hospitality, a

feeling food enjoyed at a restaurant

can never match.

Preserving this tradition ensures

that its quiet beauty continues to

enrich life on Samui, just as it has

for generations.

Khao hor – a

traditional packed

lunch of rice wrapped in

banana leaves.

Sharing food is a

form of connection.

A taste of home.

Sukanya Boonchuchuay,

a local familiar with the

art of organising

khao hor meals.

44 45

Features | Crab Keepers

The

Words: Bella Luna

Photography: Jiraphol Rikshasuta

Crab Keepers

of

A quiet conservation effort on

Koh Samui is helping replenish

Thailand’s coastal waters.

Koh Samui

If you want to understand a coastal

island, skip the beach clubs and follow

the fishing boats home. A fisherman's

village is the true heart of any island

province; the place where the tides are

read as livelihood, where the sea is not

scenery but obligation. Koh Samui’s heart

beats loudest in the communities along its

quieter shores, where men like Narongsak

Wilailak have spent their lives watching the

water, and where they noticed, long before

any government report confirmed it, that

something was going quietly wrong. The

crabs were disappearing.

Six years ago, Narongsak helped found

the Samui Crab Bank — a collaborative

initiative between local fishing groups and

government agencies, born out of a single,

pressing observation that the sea was

running out. "All marine life is in shortage,"

he says simply. He lists the casualties

with the fluency of someone who has

watched them disappear: pla tu, the short

mackerel that has fed coastal families for

generations; squid — both pla muek wai and

pla muek sai; and above all, poo maa, the

flower crab, whose numbers had fallen so

sharply that fishermen were returning with

little to show for long days at sea.

The crab bank is not a commercial

enterprise. That point matters to

Narongsak, and he makes it clearly.

The operation runs on community

commitment, not profit — a distinction

that shapes everything about how it

functions.

Here, female crabs — their eggs

fertilised and visibly swollen in bright

orange masses beneath their abdomens

— are brought to the bank by fishermen

rather than taken to market. Supervised

tanks, they release their eggs in a

controlled environment. A single mother

crab carries up to one million eggs, though

reality is more modest: roughly 50 to 60 per

cent will be viable. The rest become food for

other marine creatures, swallowed quietly

back into the chain of life.

Sittiporn Tempokha,

event organiser at the

Crab Bank.

Narongsak Wilailak,

Chairman of the Crab Bank.

46 47

Features | Crab Keepers

Eggs hatch within one to three days. By day 20, they

have transformed into recognisable crabs. Three

months on, they reach harvestable size.

The people behind

the crab bank.

Crab being released

by a visitor.

Tourists take part in

the release of crabs.

Young crab ready for

a new life in the ocean.

“Eggs hatch within one to three days.

At 15 to 20 days old, the larvae become

juvenile crabs, small enough to drift on

the current, carried wherever the Gulf of

Thailand chooses to take them,” Narongsak

explains. “By day 20, they have transformed

into recognisable crabs. Three months on,

they reach harvestable size.” At six months,

a female is mature enough to become a

mother herself — potentially returning, one

imagines, to produce the next generation of

bank deposits.

Each month, at peak capacity, the bank

releases between 30 and 40 batches of

juvenile crabs into the open sea. On a good

day, there is a new mother crab ready every

24 hours. "We can release one each day,"

Narongsak says. The monsoon season,

counterintuitively, brings the best conditions:

abundant food in the water column means

higher survival rates, and the crabs breed

with particular vigour.

The evidence of impact is not found in

government reports or environmental audits

— at least not yet. It lives in the conversations

Narongsak has with fishermen. "They say

they have more," he says. "The fishermen

have more of a living." After six years, that

testimony carries weight. These are people

with no ideological stake in conservation, no

reason to report improvement unless they

feel it in their nets and in their incomes.

The bank's work is also shaped by

awareness of the legal frameworks that

govern fishing in Thailand. There are

regulations stipulating minimum net mesh

sizes — trawlers must allow openings of

at least four inches, giving juvenile crabs

the chance to slip through and survive to

maturity. But laws only work when the sea

has enough adult crabs to protect in the

first place. The bank, in this sense, is doing

the upstream work that legislation alone

cannot achieve.

Koh Samui is better known for its beach

clubs and wellness retreats than its marine

ecosystems. That contrast — the island's

polished tourist surface against the fragile,

working sea beneath it — is precisely what

makes projects like the crab bank so

important to amplify. The fishermen who bring

their female crabs to the facility instead of

selling them are making an economic sacrifice

in the short term, an act of collective trust in a

future they may not fully see.

Narongsak is not a man given to grand

rhetoric. But there is something quietly

radical in what he and his community have

built: a local answer to a global problem,

assembled without fanfare on a shoreline

most visitors never think to visit.

What the sea gives, it can just as

quietly take back, and Narongsak knows

this. So does every fisherman who has

watched a full net become an empty one,

season by season, with no explanation

beyond the obvious. The crab bank is not

a solution so much as a reckoning — a

community deciding, together, that the

bargain with the ocean is worth honouring.

That the debt is real, and that someone

has to pay it forward.

Kids get first-hand

experience about crab

conservation.

The Samui Crab Bank

is a community-led

conservation initiative

supported by local

fishing groups and

Thai government

agencies. It does not

operate commercially.

48 49

Features | House of Lucie

A House Built

on Light

Words: Bella Luna

In the south of Koh Samui, the House of Lucie and

the Samui Art Centre are redefining what a cultural

stop on a tropical holiday can be—inviting visitors

to pause, look closer, and perhaps see the island,

and themselves, a little differently.

50 51


The name “Lucie” comes from

the Latin lux, meaning light—a

fitting foundation for a space

devoted to photography. Behind the

project is Hossein Farmani, founder of

the Lucie Foundation, and his partner

Apple Farmani, a former lawyer now

shaping the gallery’s direction.

The idea grew from the couple’s

belief that great photography should

be accessible. For years, world-class

work was largely confined to exclusive

events like the Lucie Awards in cities

such as New York. The House of Lucie

set out to change that. Entry is free,

emerging artists exhibit alongside

established names, and the space

removes barriers between creator and

audience—offering an open invitation

to experience visual storytelling.

At first glance, Samui might seem

an unlikely home for an international

photography hub. Yet that was precisely

the intention. After establishing

galleries in major cultural centres, the

focus shifted to places where art is

less accessible but potentially more

impactful. Samui already had a quiet

creative pulse—local initiatives, art

camps, growing cultural interest—

but lacked a central, internationalstandard

venue.

An evening where

contemporary art,

conversation, and culture

naturally converged.

The gallery became

a meeting point for

collectors, creatives, and

curious travellers alike.

The House of Lucie,

Koh Samui at sundown.

The evening

unfolded with effortless

sophistication.

Some curated works

at the gallery. The event

drew an eclectic mix of

artists, tastemakers, and

international visitors.

Guests gathered for a

night shaped by art

and connection.

52 53


The House of Lucie

is a space designed

for reflection and

conversation.

The gallery offers a

created a sense of place,

mood, and community.

World-renowned

photographer,

James Nachtwey.

From quiet

appreciation to

animated discussion,

the gathering reflected

the gallery’s evolving

cultural energy.

, , &

Art, atmosphere, and

a well-travelled crowd

came together for an

afternoon of refined

creative exchange.

What began as a modest village

house has since evolved into one of

the largest House of Lucie locations

worldwide: a three-floor centre hosting

exhibitions, workshops, and community

events amid lush tropical surroundings.

A defining feature of the space is its

approach to curation. Without a traditional

art background, Apple selects work based

on emotional resonance rather than

reputation. The goal is connection, not

intimidation. Visitors can expect to see

exhibitions that blend photography with

ceramics, printmaking, performance,

and sound, while workshops—from

Japanese wabi-sabi ceramics to hands-on

printmaking—emphasise experience as

much as observation.

While the House of Lucie has done

exhibitions for globally renowned

photographers such as James Nachtwey

and Steve McCurry, Southeast Asian

photographers are also gaining global

recognition, and by placing regional

artists alongside international names,

the House of Lucie creates a dialogue

between perspectives. Projects like

“Faces of Samui” capture the island

through its people—fishermen, vendors,

and their families.

54 55


Guests showing off

their art work.

Activities for

participants of all

age groups.

A workshop to make

soft toys.

For travellers, this space offers a chance to

experience the island beyond the surface

of a tropical escape.

Southern Thai

Manohra dancers brought

ancient rhythms and

ritual movement

into a striking

contemporary setting.

A pottery workshop.

Guests enjoying a

painting workshop.

Behind the scenes, the balance

between structure and creativity

shapes the gallery’s vibe. Apple’s

legal background brings discipline to

timelines and planning, while artists

bring fluidity. The combination has

helped build a space that feels both

professional and personal.

In an increasingly digital world, the

value of physical galleries cannot be

denied. Scale, texture, and presence

cannot be replicated on a screen, and

the space enables shared experiences—

workshops, conversations, spontaneous

encounters—that make art something

lived rather than simply viewed.

Looking ahead, the gallery’s

founders see Samui as an emerging

cultural hub for Southeast Asia, with

plans to expand community initiatives,

establish permanent collections,

and develop projects that reflect the

island’s evolving identity.

For travellers, this space offers a

chance to experience the island beyond

the surface of a tropical escape. With

world-class art now part of Samui’s

landscape, The House of Lucie feels

as though it has always belonged on

this island, quietly redefining what the

island can be and continuing to inspire

what it can become.

56 57

Features | Diary of a Fisherman

What the

sea gives

Words: Mimi Grachangnetara

Photography: Jiraphol Rikshasuta

On the eastern

shore of Koh

Samui, a

community of

fishermen quietly

holds together a

way of life that

tourists rarely

see — and that the

world is slowly

pulling apart.

58 59


Fishing boats in

Hua Tanon.

Piyawit “Dum”

Hae-yong and the shores

he calls “home”.

Pull back any map of coastal

Thailand far enough and a pattern

emerges that no resort brochure will

ever show you. Before the hotels, before the

beach clubs, before anyone thought to put

an airport on an island, there were fishing

villages. They dotted every shore — the Gulf

coast, the Andaman side, the river mouths

and the mangrove edges — each one a

small, self-sufficient world organised

entirely around the sea. The fishermen who

built them did not think of themselves as

custodians of a tradition. They were simply

people who knew the water, who ate what

they caught, and who taught their children

the same. The village was the economy,

the pier was their town square and the tide

was their clock.

Koh Samui, now one of Thailand's most

visited islands, was shaped by exactly

this kind of community long before it was

shaped by tourism. And on its eastern

coast, in a settlement called Hua Tanon,

that original version of the island still

exists as a living, working place where

men go out before dawn and come home

smelling of the sea.

The pier at Hua Tanon is already busy

at four in the morning. Piyawit Hae-yong

— also known by his nickname “Dum” to

anyone who knows him, which is everyone

— moves through the pre-dawn dark with

the unhurried efficiency of someone

who stopped needing to think about this

routine a long time ago. Rope coiled, nets

checked, engine turned over. He has been

doing this since he was twenty. He is fiftyfive

now, and the motion is in his body the

way a language gets in, below the level of

conscious thought.

He has five children, and they have

given him grandchildren. He was born in

Hua Tanon and has built his entire life

within a few kilometres of this pier. When

you ask him how things are, he considers

the question with the seriousness it

deserves. "Enough," he says. Then: "But it

could be better."

On a good morning, Dum takes his

boat out toward Koh Si or Koh Ha — two

small islands that sit in the Gulf a short

distance from shore. He runs a triplelayer

gill net across fifty metres of water,

then waits. There is a particular quality to

the waiting that experienced fishermen

have — alert but still, reading small

changes in the surface, the current, the

light. By sunrise the net is working. The

richest hours come late in the morning,

between eleven and noon, when the

catch is at its densest. Shrimp, reef fish,

whatever the sea is offering that day.

Then back to the pier, to the markets, to

the business of turning a morning's work

into a day's income.

In the afternoon, he goes to the

workshop. It is a tin-roofed space beside

the pier, and it smells of fibreglass

resin and old engine oil and salt that

has worked its way into everything. A

half-finished trawler sits in the middle

of it, hull open, waiting. Dum repairs

boats here — fixes engines, patches

hulls, re-stitches nets. He also builds

them. This second profession arrived

by necessity, learned piece by piece as

the economics of fishing alone became

harder to sustain.

The Hua Tanon that Dum grew up

in was a different proposition entirely.

Fifteen, twenty fishermen worked these

waters when he was a boy — perhaps thirty

at most. The sea was, in his telling, almost

recklessly generous. Pla juad (croakers)

and pla tu, the mackerel species that

moved through the Gulf in vast schools,

came in such numbers that the problem

was not finding them but handling the

volume. "Too much," he says, and there is

something almost wistful in his smile.

"We couldn't get enough boats out to take

them all."

Those fish are gone now. Not scarce —

gone. Dum is honest that he cannot fully

explain it. What he can tell you is that

where there were thirty fishermen, there

are now hundreds. The pier that once had

room to breathe is crowded every morning.

The sea that once gave freely has grown

careful, or perhaps simply tired.

What does not exist yet, and what

Dum comes back to more than once in

conversation, is an association — some

formal structure through which the

Koh Samui, now one of Thailand's most visited

islands, was shaped by exactly this kind of

community long before it was shaped by tourism.

& Piyawit also

makes a living repairing

boats and fishing nets.

60 61


Locals come together

to sort out the catch of

the day.

Boats ready to go out

to sea.

fishermen of Hua Tanon could pool their

leverage, advocate for regulation, pursue

the kind of fishery management that

might actually reverse some of this. A

crab bank, for instance: a nursery system

where female crabs are set aside to breed,

restoring populations within months

rather than decades. It is not a radical

idea. It operates successfully elsewhere in

Thailand. Here, it remains a conversation

that nobody with the right authority has

sat down to finish. "We need someone

capable," Dum says — someone who could

actually make it run. The knowledge of

what's needed is present. The institutional

will is not.

Then the war arrived in the price of

diesel. It would be easy, sitting on a sunlounger

on the other side of this island,

to assume that the conflict grinding

through the Middle East is someone else's

problem in someone else's geography. At

Hua Tanon pier, that assumption does

not hold. Fuel costs — already the largest

variable expense for any small fishing

operation — climbed to levels that turned

some trips from marginal to impossible.

The arithmetic of a day at sea changed:

the distance you could afford to travel,

the hours you could afford to spend, the

viability of going out at all. Some mornings,

Dum stays ashore. Not because the sea is

rough or the season is wrong, but because

the numbers simply will not work.

"All fishermen are affected," he says.

Extremely, is the word he uses. It is not a

word he reaches for casually.

On those days, there is the workshop.

There is always something in the workshop

that needs doing — a net with a torn

section, an engine that is running rough, a

hull that someone has let go too long. Dum

moves between the two vocations with

the pragmatism of a man who understood

early that the sea alone was never going to

be a complete answer.

The Hua Tanon market, on a morning

when the catch has been good, is one of

the most honest places on Samui. Chalamet

(pomfret) — a white-fleshed fish of real

quality — commands the best price and sells

fast. Pla insee (King mackerel), squid, crab

when there is crab: the stalls hold whatever

the night produced, priced without theatre,

handled without ceremony. Visitors who find

their way to this side of the island — and not

many do — tend to go quiet when they arrive,

the way people go quiet when they stumble

into something that is clearly not meant for

them but that they are glad to have found.

Dum will be somewhere nearby. At the

market, or in the workshop, or down at the

waterline with his hands on something

that needs fixing. He is not a figure from

a vanishing world, though it would be

convenient to frame him that way. He

is a man adapting — as Thai coastal

communities have always adapted — to

conditions he did not choose and cannot

fully control, holding his family and his

trade together through a combination of

stubbornness, skill, and the kind of practical

intelligence that does not show up in any

measure of economic development but that

keeps things running regardless.

What Hua Tanon actually needs is not

visitors who find it charming. It needs an

association with the standing to negotiate,

the structure to implement a crab bank, the

voice to push back when policy ignores the

people most directly connected to the sea.

Thailand's fishing villages were never just

picturesque. They were the infrastructure of

an entire coastal civilisation — the places that

fed the country, that read the weather, that

understood the water in ways no government

agency has fully replaced. Hua Tanon is not a

remnant of that. It is its continuation, fraying

slightly at the edges, still holding.

The boat goes out at four. The net goes in

at fifty metres. The sea gives what it gives.

For now, that has to be enough.

Piyawit prepares his

fishing gear.

Seafood for sale

fresh off the boat.

Hua Tanon pier is

located on the eastern

coast of Koh Samui.

The fish market

operates from early

morning. Visitors are

welcome.

62 63

Features | Hiking Trails

Spiritual

Words: Bella Luna

Photography:

Jiraphol Rikshasutahike

Most people come to Koh Samui for the beaches. They leave

without ever knowing the island has a heartbeat — and it

pounds quietly, steadily, from somewhere up in the green.

Rising above the noise of beach clubs and longtail boats,

Khao Pom is a modest mountain in the island's interior,

offering something Samui rarely advertises: stillness. Not the

manufactured stillness of a spa or a resort pool, but the kind

that belongs to old trees, cool shadow, and trails that have

been walked by monks and farmers long before the first tourist

ever set foot on the island.

64 65


The Cultural Thread

This is where Khao Pom separates itself from a

simple nature walk. Woven into the trail are the

island's spiritual bones. Statues of gods, dancers

and animals carved by a retired durian farmer serve

as living expressions of devotion, tended by local

residents for whom this hill is not a viewpoint but a

sacred place.

Near the summit, the sense of elevation carries

a dual meaning. You are higher above sea level,

yes, but you are also stepping closer to something

quieter in yourself. The Thais understand this

instinctively — that mountains and forests are not

simply landscapes but teachers. Khao Pom teaches

patience, attentiveness, and the particular freedom

that comes from leaving your phone in your pocket.

The Climb

The trail doesn't punish you, but it asks

something of you. A steady gradient through

dense tropical canopy means you earn the

views rather than arrive at them. Rubber trees

give way to wilder growth — ferns and wild

flowers crowding the path edges, vines looping

overhead, the occasional rustle of something

unseen moving through the understory. The air

is different here. Thicker with oxygen, cooler by

several degrees, and carrying that particular

green scent that reminds you what the word

forest actually means.

Go early because this is the time you’ll

get to experience the morning light filtering

through the canopy in long, slow columns,

and the birdsong hasn't yet been swallowed

by the heat of the day. By mid-morning, mist

still clings to the upper slopes. It gives Khao

Pom a quality that is hard to name precisely

— something between ancient and alive.

66 67


Why It Matters

In a world that keeps accelerating, places like Khao Pom perform a

quiet resistance. They do not offer spectacle but offer presence.

The chance to be genuinely inside nature rather than photographing

it from a distance. The chance to feel, briefly, what the island was

before it became a destination.

The View

When the trees open up, the

reward is generous. The Gulf

of Thailand stretches in every

direction, impossibly blue against

the horizon. The coastline curves

below — bays and headlands laid

out like a map you never needed

because you already knew the

shape of this island in your chest.

From up here, the resorts look

small. The traffic on the ring road

is silent. You can see fishing boats

sitting still on water that looks

like hammered tin in the morning

light. You remember, standing

here, that Koh Samui is still an

island — still ringed by sea, still

rooted in something older than

the hotels that crowd its edges.

68 69

Features | Earth Day

An aerial view of

downtown Samui.

Every Day is

Earth Day

This World Environment Day, Samui offers a reminder

of the importance of preserving the natural beauty,

marine life and tropical landscapes that continue to

inspire travellers from around the world.

Words: Sky Fitzgerald

70 71


World Environment Day

arrives on June 5th with

urgency and ceremony.

It’s a reminder written into the global

calendar, even though it’s hard to

forget that Earth doesn’t live in dates.

It doesn’t mark time in years or

observances. It exists in cycles—of tides,

migrations, growth, decay, renewal.

And if we are to truly understand the

scale of what is at stake, we must learn

to think the same way. Not in days of

recognition, but in habits of care.

On Samui island, this truth is

impossible to ignore. For here, the

environment is not an abstract

concept but something more concrete.

It is the reef just metres offshore,

where parrotfish graze coral and

keep ecosystems in balance. It is

the rainforest canopy inland, where

hornbills glide between ancient trees

that have stood longer than any human

memory. It is the delicate seam where

land and sea meet—where mangroves

filter water, protect coastlines, and

nurture young marine life.

To walk along Samui’s beaches is

to step into a system that has taken

millennia to build and only moments to

disrupt.

And disruption is no longer a distant

threat. Across the globe, the signs are

unmistakable. Oceans are warming,

absorbing heat that alters currents

and bleaches coral reefs. Forests are

shrinking, their loss echoing not only

in the disappearance of species but in

the destabilisation of climate systems

that sustain human life. Plastic—once

a symbol of convenience—now drifts

through even the most remote waters,

breaking down into particles that enter

food chains and, eventually, our own.

A view of Koh Samui

from the mountains.

A local walking

through a lush

mangrove

forest on the quieter side

of Samui island.

To walk along Samui’s beaches is to step

into a system that has taken millennia to build

and only moments to disrupt.

One of the many

coral restoration

projects on the island.

Staghorn coral being

grown in PVC tubes.

bodies. These are not isolated crises

but interconnected threads in a single,

intricate web.

Yet there is another truth, equally

powerful: the same interconnectedness

that makes the planet fragile also

makes it resilient—if given the chance.

In Samui, signs of this resilience can

still be found. Coral restoration projects

are slowly rebuilding damaged reefs.

Local communities are rediscovering

traditional practices—fishing methods

that respect breeding seasons, farming

techniques that protect soil and water.

Around the island, small shifts are

taking place: hotels reducing single-use

plastics, travellers choosing reef-safe

sunscreens, restaurants sourcing

ingredients locally.

Individually, these actions may seem

small, but ecosystems are built on these

small things. In much the same way,

the future of the planet will be shaped

not by a single sweeping solution, but

by millions of decisions made every

day. The question, then, is not whether

one person can make a difference, but

whether enough people can make better

choices, consistently, over time.

Travel, especially, offers a unique

opportunity. To step into a place like

Samui is to witness firsthand the beauty

we stand to lose—and the responsibility

we share in protecting it. The choices

made here ripple outward. A plastic

bottle avoided is one less fragment in

the ocean. A coral reef respected is one

more chance for marine life to thrive.

72 73


Did You Know?

• Every year 19-23 million

tonnes of plastic waste

leaks into aquatic

ecosystems, polluting

lakes, rivers and seas.

Volunteers planting

forest saplings to help

restore the forest.

Youngsters take part

in an activity

to raise awareness

on environmental

conservation.

A volunteer team

collecting plastic waste

in a public area.

Local fishermen

unloading equipment and

supplies on a clear day.

A young woman walks

barefoot along a sandy beach.

Friends kayaking in Ang

Thong Marine National Park.

A forest preserved is one more reservoir of

biodiversity and climate stability.

But beyond individual actions lies

something deeper: a shift in perspective.

For too long, humanity has viewed nature

as something separate—something to visit,

to use, to admire from a distance. But the

reality is far more intimate. The oxygen in

every breath, the water in every glass, the

food on every plate—all are products of the

Earth’s systems working in delicate balance.

World Environment Day, then, is not

merely a call to action, but an invitation

to reconnect with the living world in a way

that feels immediate and personal. It is a

reminder that protecting the planet is not

about grand gestures alone, but about the

quiet accumulation of mindful choices.

On Samui, that might mean walking

instead of driving along the shore at sunset,

or choosing experiences that support

conservation rather than exploitation. It

might mean pausing, even briefly, to notice

the intricate patterns of a seashell, the

movement of fish beneath the surface, the

sound of wind moving through palm leaves.

These moments matter. Not because

they solve environmental challenges

outright, but because they change how we

see, and how we see shapes how we act.

There is a tendency, in conversations

about the environment, to focus on loss—

on what is disappearing, what is at risk,

what may soon be gone. These realities are

important. They demand attention. But they

are not the whole story, because there is

also wonder.

The same oceans that are under threat

still pulse with life, supporting ecosystems

more diverse than any on land. Forests,

even when fragmented, continue to shelter

species yet to be discovered. Nature,

even in its most fragile state, retains an

extraordinary capacity for renewal. So the

task before us is not simply to prevent

destruction, but to protect and nurture this

capacity, and to give the planet real space

to heal.

So let World Environment Day be a

starting point that extends into every

day that follows. Let it be reflected in the

way we travel, the way we consume, the

way we move through the world, because

the Earth does not need our admiration

alone. It needs our participation.

And perhaps, if we listen closely to the

tide, to the forest, to the quiet rhythms

of places like Samui—we will remember

something essential: This planet is not

just where we live. It is what we are part

of, and it is worth protecting—every

single day.

A beach-cleaning

activity to mark World

Environment Day.

74 75

Features | Carousel

Byline: Sua Pon Nam


The Tree

that Built

an Island

On an island shaped by the sea, it is the coconut

palm — not the ocean — that has long provided the

bedrock of daily life on Koh Samui. From root to frond,

nothing goes to waste.

Ask any old-timer on Samui what kept families fed,

housed, and solvent through the lean decades

before tourism arrived, and they will not hesitate.

The coconut. Not the beaches, not the fishing boats, not the

rubber trees on the hillsides — the coconut. For generations,

the island's interior was one vast, rustling plantation,

its palms standing in loose, wind-combed rows across

every slope and lowland. Families measured their wealth

not in baht but in trees. The copra trade — dried coconut

flesh pressed into oil — connected Samui to Bangkok, to

Singapore, to markets that most islanders would never see.

The palm was landlord, bank, and larder all at once.

76 77

Features | Carousel

The husk and the flesh divided up

the labour of living. Rough coir fibre,

stripped from the outer shell, was

twisted into rope and mat, patched

into fishing nets, or packed beneath

roofing. The hard inner shell made

charcoal, ladles, and bowls. Nothing

was discarded out of abundance;

everything was discarded only when

it had given everything it could.

Coconut oil lit lamps and softened

skin. The water inside young green

nuts brought down fevers and

steadied the stomach after illness.

Even the broad, arching fronds were

folded and pinned into baskets,

platters, and the temporary shelters

that appeared at every temple fair

and merit-making.

78 79

Features | Carousel

It is in the kitchen, though, that the coconut

truly came into its own — and where it remains,

stubbornly irreplaceable. Khanom krok, the small

molten-centred pancakes cooked in dimpled

iron pans over charcoal, are made from nothing

more than rice flour, palm sugar, and rich coconut

cream, yet they disappear from the vendor's

cart faster than she can pour them. Khao mao

tod — chewy rice-flour balls stuffed with shaved

coconut— appear at snack stalls and late-night

market stalls alike, eaten by grandmothers and

schoolchildren with equal enthusiasm. These are

the island eating as it always has — generously,

without fuss, and with the coconut, as ever, at the

centre of everything.

80 81

Last

Word

Getting Around

Thailand offers many ways to travel —

from tuk-tuks and trains to ferries

and long-tail boats. Knowing a few

key Thai phrases helps when drivers

don’t speak English or rely on maps.

Use these words to ask for directions,

confirm fares, or tell drivers where

to stop. They’re especially handy in

smaller towns, where English signs

are limited.

Food & Ordering

Thai dining is lively, social,

and full of flavour. Learning a few

local expressions helps you order

with confidence, adjust spice levels,

and thank cooks for their food. Try

these phrases at street stalls, cafés,

or restaurants to order politely, ask

what’s in a dish, and share your

compliments — a simple way to make

every meal more enjoyable.

Thai Quick Language Guide

Don’t speak Thai? Here’s your personal phrasebook

featuring essential Thai words and expressions to help

you explore Thailand with ease.

ENGLISH

Where is...?

Go to...

Stop here

How much?

Turn left / right

Go straight

Airport

Bus station

Train station

Boat pier

Near / Far

Left / Right side

ENGLISH

I’m hungry

Water

Rice / Noodles

Spicy / Not spicy

A little spicy

Delicious

Bill please

No sugar

No peanuts

THAI

(SCRIPT + TRANSLITERATION)

อยู่ที ่ไหน (... yuu tee nai?)

ไป... (pai...)

จอดที่นี่ (jod tee nee)

เท่าไหร่ (tao rai?)

เลี้ยวซ้าย / ขวา (liao sai / kwaa)

ตรงไป (trong pai)

สนามบิน (sanaam bin)

สถานีรถเมล์ (sataani rot mae)

สถานีรถไฟ (sataani rot fai)

ท่าเรือ (taa rua)

ใกล้ / ไกล (glai / klai)

ฝั่งซ้าย / ฝั่งขวา (fang sai / fang kwaa)

THAI


หิวข้าว (hiu khao)

น้ำา (naam)

ข้าว / ก๋วยเตี ๋ยว (khao / guay tiew)

เผ็ด / ไม่เผ็ด (pet / mai pet)

เผ็ดนิดหน่อย (pet nit noi)

อร่อย (aroy)

เช็คบิล (check bin)

ไม่ใส่น้ำาตาล (mai sai namtaan)

ไม่ใส่ถั ่ว (mai sai tua)

MEANING / NOTES

Used when asking

for directions.

Tell the driver

your destination.

Ask the driver to stop.

Ask for fare or price.

Directional instruction.

Go forward.

Useful for taxis.

Bus terminal.

Train terminal.

For ferries or

river transport.

Distance words.

Helpful for directions.

MEANING / NOTES

Say when you’re hungry.

Basic drink word.

Common meal bases.

Spice control.

Mildly spicy.

Compliment for good food.

Ask for the bill.

Useful for drinks.

Allergy note.

Shopping &

Bargaining

Markets are a big part of Thai life, and

bargaining is part of the fun — always

done with a smile. Use these phrases

to ask for prices, negotiate politely,

and praise vendors. Showing a little

effort in Thai often leads to warmer

exchanges and sometimes even

better deals.

Emergencies

& Health

Serious situations are uncommon,

but it’s wise to know a few Thai words

for emergencies. These phrases

help you ask for a doctor, describe

symptoms, or contact the police. A

little language knowledge can save

time and bring calm when you need

help quickly.

ENGLISH

How much is this?

Too expensive

Can you give a discount?

I’ll take it

I’m just looking

Small / medium / large

Other colours?

Can I try it on?

Bag please

Beautiful

Cheap

ENGLISH

Help!

Call the police

I’m sick

I have a fever

Stomachache

Need a doctor

Hospital

Pharmacy

I’m lost

I’ve been robbed

THAI


อันนี ้เท่าไหร่ (an nee tao rai?)

แพงไป (paeng pai)

ลดได้ไหม (lode dai mai?)

เอา (ao)

ดูเฉยๆ (duu choey choey)

เล็ก / กลาง / ใหญ่ (lek / klaang / yai)

มีสีอื ่นไหม (mee see eun mai?)

ลองได้ไหม (long dai mai?)

ขอถุงด้วย (kor toong duay)

สวย (suay)

ถูก (tuke)

THAI


ช่วยด้วย (chuay duay!)

เรียกตำารวจ (riak tamruat)

ไม่สบาย (mai sabai)

มีไข้ (mee kai)

ปวดท้อง (puat tong)

ต้องการหมอ (tong gaan maw)

โรงพยาบาล (rong payabaan)

ร้านขายยา (raan kai yaa)

หลงทาง (long taang)

ถูกปล้น (tuke plon)

MEANING / NOTES

Ask price.

Politely say too costly.

Ask for lower price.

Confirm purchase.

Browsing only.

Clothing sizes.

Ask colour options.

Request fitting.

Ask for bag.

Compliment item.

Say when affordable.

MEANING / NOTES

Call for help.

In emergencies.

Feeling unwell.

Health issue.

Common complaint.

Medical help.

For emergencies.

Medicine shop.

When disoriented.

Report theft.

Takeaway

เอากลับบ้าน (ao glub baan)

For takeout.

Accommodation

Whether you’re staying in a hostel or

a boutique hotel, a few Thai words

can make check-ins smoother. These

phrases help you book rooms, ask for

amenities, or sort out minor issues

politely. While larger hotels often use

English, smaller guesthouses may

not — so knowing how to say “room,”

“key,” or “hot water” keeps things easy

and respectful.

Eat here

Tastes good!

ENGLISH

Do you have a room?

I have a reservation

One night / Two nights

How much per night?

Air conditioning

Wi-Fi password

Bathroom

Hot water

Clean / Dirty

Change room

กินที ่นี่ (gin tee nee)

อร่อยมาก! (aroy mak!)

THAI


มีห้องว่างไหม (mee hong wang mai?)

จองห้องไว้แล้ว (jorng hong wai laew)

หนึ ่งคืน / สองคืน (neung kuen / song kuen)

คืนละเท่าไหร่ (kuen la tao rai?)

เครื ่องปรับอากาศ (kruang prup akaat)

รหัสไวไฟ (rahat wi-fi)

ห้องน้ำา (hong naam)

น้ำาร้อน (naam ron)

สะอาด / สกปรก (sa-aat / sokaprok)

ขอเปลี่ยนห้อง (kor plian hong)

Dine-in option.

Very tasty!

MEANING / NOTES

Ask for vacancy.

At check-in.

Length of stay.

Room rate inquiry.

Ask if available.

Wi-Fi access.

Common facility.

Ask for hot shower.

Describe cleanliness.

Request room change.

Everyday Polite

Expressions

Courtesy matters deeply in Thailand.

Simple greetings, thank-you’s, and

gentle tones go a long way. End your

sentences with krub (for men) or ka

(for women) to sound respectful and

kind. These small gestures create

goodwill and make every encounter a

bit warmer.

ENGLISH

Hello / Goodbye

Thank you

You’re welcome

Yes / No

Excuse me / Sorry

How are you?

I’m fine.

No problem.

I don’t understand.

Can you speak English?

THAI


สวัสดี (sawadee)

ขอบคุณครับ (kop khun)

ยินดีครับ/ค่ะ (yin dee)

ใช่ / ไม่ใช่ (chai / mai chai)

ขอโทษ (kor tode)

สบายดีไหม (sabai dee mai?)

สบายดี (sabai dee)

ไม่เป็นไร (mai pen rai)

ไม่เข้าใจ (mai kao jai)

พูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม

(pood pasa ungkrit dai mai?)

MEANING / NOTES

Common greeting.

To express thanks.

Reply to thanks.

Affirmation.

Polite apology.

Casual greeting.

Common reply.

Reassuring phrase.

When confused.

Ask language ability.

82 83

Current

mood

Rabbit

Run

Once a staple of Thai

kitchens, the coconutshaving

rabbit is quietly

hopping out of daily

life and into the realm

of heirloom—where

memory matters as

much as function.

Words & photos:

Mimi Grachangnetara

Coconut is as essential as rice for Thais, since it is the

source of one of the main ingredients in Thai cooking –

coconut cream and coconut milk. It is no wonder why the

humble kratai kood maprao—literally “coconut-shaving

rabbit”—once occupied a quiet but central role in the Thai

kitchen. Before stainless steel gadgets and plug-in graters

found their way onto countertops, this carved wooden

implement did the hard work of turning firm white flesh

into fine, fragrant shavings. It was a tool, certainly, but

also a small sculpture—part utility, part folklore.

The form was unmistakable. A low wooden bench

extended into the stylised body of a rabbit, its head often

gently raised, ears alert. At the front protruded a serrated

metal blade, glinting like teeth. The user would sit astride

the wooden body, steadying themselves as they pressed half

a coconut against the blade, scraping in steady arcs. The

motion required patience and a practiced hand. Applying

too much pressure and the flesh would clump, too little and

the process would drag. Over time, this skill became second

nature—scrape, turn, scrape—until a soft mound of coconut

shavings gathered below, ready to be pressed into milk for

Thai curries, desserts or ceremonial dishes.

What distinguished the traditional kratai kood maprao

was not merely its function, but its character. Each

piece bore the mark of its maker. Some rabbits were

playful, with exaggerated features and painted details;

others were pared back, almost abstract, their beauty

found in proportion and grain. In coastal provinces and

inland villages alike, artisans carved these forms from

hardwood, embedding local identity into an everyday object.

84

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OurSamui Magazine Jul-Sep 2026

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