Koh Samet, a must visit island in Thailand
A relaxing pose at the beautiful island of Koh Samet, towards the eastern part of Thailand.
Getting to Koh Samet
Koh Samet is about 30 minutes by boat from the ferry terminal (50-75baht) in Ban Phe. Ban Phe is also about 30 minutes by "songtew" from the industrial city of Rayong, Thailand.
Below. The ferry boats taking tourists to Koh Samet, Thailand. (Koh means island)
Tourists can also hire a speedboat to reach Koh Samet in 15 minutes. That would be about 300 baht per person.
Arriving Rayong, Thailand
Transportation
Air
A new airport is already operating near Rayong, Thailand. Air Asia is also serving flights to Rayong from Bangkok.
Bus
There are buses from Bangkok (3-4hours) to Rayong. One can purchase his ticket at the Ekamai Bus Station (For buses heading east of Thailand). Fare is about 160 baht.
If you are coming from Pattaya, Thailand, buses and minivan can also be stopped along Sukhumvit Road, maybe at the North Pattaya Road, the Central Road, or the South Road. There is also a bus station along the North Road near the intersection of Sukhumvit Road. Fare at 100 baht.
Songtew (a pick up truck developed into a passenger vehicle), is the common mode of transport around Pattaya, Rayong, and Ban Phe.
A photo of a "songtew" (spelled as it is pronounced in Thailand)
Beach Area
There are several areas you can choose to stay in Koh Samet, Thailand. Upon arrival at the port, you will see the map showing the designated areas tourists can enjoy.
Accomodation
Hotels are plentiful in Koh Samet, Thailand. Mid-range to high-end resorts can be booked online or on the day of your arrival. For peak seasons, you better book your hotel ahead of time to make sure you can stay in your favorite hotel.
Food
Restaurants are available lined up along the coastline. Some vendors are also passing back and forth to offer anything that you might find appetizing. Chicken and other Thai food are made available for you.
Activities
Tourists can also enjoy the different activities available while in the island. This includes parasailing, banana boat, jetski, and more.
Tour operators are easy to spot along the coastline.
Below. The port in Koh Samet, Thailand. Tourists will have to pay 200 baht for an entrance fee.
Credits: C. Asares & Friends (Special thanks to all the teachers I met in Thailand)
