Getting Around
 Getting around is relatively easy - all roads seem to lead back to the same
place. You won't find any highways on Samui.Instead, there is one main
road which goes around the island. Approximately 50 Kms long this road connects the main
beaches to the town center, airport and vehicular ferry. Side roads feed off the main road
to towns and villages.
Most travelers who have
enough time can appreciate exploring the many interesting sites. The best mode of
transport, although somewhat dangerous, is moped.
 If the weather
is nice, a moped allows you can see a lot more. Renting one is cheap about Bth. 250-300
and fuel is inexpensive. A tour around the island will take you approximately 3 - 4 hours
(or more) depending on how many stops you make along the way.
Samui is an explorer's dream.
It is just big enough to offer a wealth of diversity of landscape, vistas, flora and
fauna, and yet small enough to seek adventure in its many out-of-the-way places, while
hardly ever losing sight of sea. Below are some ways in which you can do this.
By Taxi 
For many reasons, the least suitable for exploring, but the safest and easiest way to get
from point A to B if you don't know where B is! Drivers of public (red) taxis have
operated uncontrolled for years. Regrettably they have been the source of many complaints.
These have included rudeness, overcharging, and occasionally worse. Efforts are now being
made to address all these problems. In the meantime however: obtain a copy of our TAKS
"Getting the Most from Samui" guide booklet when you arrive. Use the
instructions and the chart inside to ensure that you pay fair rates and avoid
confrontation.
If you rent a Jeep
Available from many family-owned agencies and some large companies whose names you will
recognize, the rental of a 4 wheel drive vehicle will allow you a lot of freedom. It will
serve as your basic transport, but you can also use it to circumnavigate the entire main
ring road of the island (about 1 hour) and more. You can visit many hillside natural and
man-made attractions which are easily accessible from the ring road. You can stop at them
all, going at your own pace. If you are especially adventurous and have experience in
off-road driving, you may head up unto the mountains. (Rented dirt bikes are another
option for those who want to go off-road.)
There, if you can negotiate the ruts and sometimes seemingly impossibly steep inclines,
you will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding islands, as well as flora
and fauna that is overwhelmingly beautiful. If Samui is paradise, its mountains are its
Shangrilah.
Some of these vehicles come with insurance, but the coverage is limited. You had better
ask for the details.
By Motorbike
Many of those who remain down on earth, seem to opt for motor bikes to get around town, go
to the beach and go out for the evening; making these inexpensive rentals the most popular
option by far. They are fast, fun and easy to park. But BEWARE. Many local drivers have
not received proper instruction in traffic safety, and tourists are often riding these
bikes for the first times in their lives. Many SERIOUS ACCIDENTS happen.
People are killed, and the
statistics are alarming. However a prudent person need not panic. These accidents are
almost always due to a serious lapse in judgement. Remember that while Samui may be a
paradise you are still a mortal. Upon your arrival, see the TAKS Guide Booket for the safe
driving tips you will need.
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