Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a more polished island than its neighbour Koh Phangan, with an airport of its own, international hospitals, large supermarkets and a choice of quiet and busy beaches. It appeals to nomads who want island life without too many compromises, couples and families, and people who prefer good restaurants and a gym over parties and retreats.

Bophut, including Fisherman's Village, is the most popular base: central, close to the airport and well supplied with cafés. Desk+Chair, on the main road near Bophut, has 24-hour access and private desks, and Chill Inn Co Working is also in Bophut. Lamai, on the east coast, is quieter and a little cheaper, with Be Productive and Koh Working both well regarded by long-stayers. Maenam on the north coast is the calmest option, while Chaweng is lively and best kept for evenings out.

Fibre of 300 to 500 Mbps is available in most condos and houses for under 1,000 baht a month, and a 5G SIM makes a reasonable backup when storms cause drops. A one-bedroom in Lamai or Maenam costs about 15,000 to 20,000 baht a month on a longer deal, with Bophut and Chaweng more expensive, and a comfortable month overall is around 1,700 to 1,800 US dollars. A scooter or car is close to essential. The Gulf weather differs from the Andaman coast: January to August is mostly dry and sunny, and the heaviest rain falls between October and December.

Samui is not cheap, and flights into its privately run airport cost noticeably more than those to Phuket or Surat Thani. The nomad community is smaller and more scattered than on Phangan, so making friends takes effort. Traffic on the ring road has grown, and parts of Chaweng feel built-up and tired. Peak season also pushes short-term rents up sharply.