Moving to Koh Samui? 5 Things to Consider

Are you moving to Thailand and considering living in Samui? This could be the next exciting chapter in your life. Moving to Samui or relocating to a new city or country can be mind-boggling, thrilling, nerve-racking, and overwhelming.

There are many things to evaluate when considering living in Thailand. Having the correct Visa type depends on your circumstances. Expats living in Thailand acquire visas relating to retirement, education, employment, digital nomads' work, volunteering, and more. 

Other factors in moving to require investigation include healthcare, education, recreation, transportation, and cost of living. This article aims to help you settle into your new lifestyle more easily by reviewing these considerations before moving.

Healthcare
A broad range of medical facilities is available on Samui, including medical clinics, dental services, optometrists, pharmacies, physios, and so forth. Often much less expensive compared to Western countries. Expats are often pleasantly surprised at the high standard of advice and service.

Five hospitals are located in the northeast of the island, including Bandon International Hospital, Thai International Hospital, Bangkok Samui Hospital and the newly opened Wattanapat Hospital Samui. Most healthcare workers in private hospitals speak English. 

On the west coast, Nathon is home to the government-operated Koh Samui Hospital and the first choice for most Thais and those on a tight budget. 

Health insurance from a nominated insurer is necessary for some Visas. That aside, strong consideration should be given to holding insurance, at least for hospital cover. Although healthcare may be more affordable in Thailand, an accident, hospital stay, serious illness, or repatriation can rapidly escalate medical bills.

Education
Samui is home to six top-quality international schools ensuring children can access the best education possible. Most schools are located on the eastern side of the island. Here is a brief overview.

• Windfield International School offers a French education from kindergarten to the end of secondary school, along with the Cambridge International program and the OxfordAQA from Key Stage 1 to Stage 5. 
• PBISS International School caters for children aged 2 to 17 years and uses the Cambridge program.
• Greenacre International School follows the UK Curriculum for students aged 3 to 16.
• Lamai International School, for Foundation to Year 6, uses a blended Cambridge and UK Curriculum.
• Oonrak Koh Samui School provides a bilingual program using the Thai National Curriculum combined with the British National Curriculum and the Cambridge International Curriculum. 

Recreation 
Samui is a playground for adults and kids, making it an attractive getaway for couples, singles and families. All the fun things you do here on holidays are available 365 days a year. 

Water sports include swimming, sailing, kayaking, island hopping, exploring Ang Thong National Marine Park, diving and snorkelling. Discover the island's interior and mountains by hiking, cycling, motorbiking, or visiting the temples. 

However, many people seek out sporting facilities and team activities. Excellent fitness centres, some with group classes and personal trainers, are well-equipped and relatively inexpensive. Muay Thai boxing is also fantastic for fitness for all ages. Team sports like volleyball, basketball, football, beach cricket, and the fastest-growing sport, pickleball, are accessible. 

Transportation
The island' ring road', route 4169, is approximately 50km, with roads branching off. There isn't an interior road crossing from east to west. Consider how to get around when deciding where to live, work, and play.

Public transportation includes inexpensive public buses or songtaews, mainly between tourist areas and on the main roads. Taxis and motorbike taxis are available. However, most expats living on Samui find it less than convenient.

Motorbike rentals start from around 150THB (4.50USD) a day. Monthly rentals of motorbikes and cars can be negotiated. Motorbike helmets are required by law for the driver, but really for safety, passengers should wear one too. 

Another alternative is to purchase your own vehicle. Getting a Thai license is relatively easy, especially if you have a current license from your own country.

Cost of Living
Samui is affordable compared to many Western countries. According to livingcost.org, the cost for a family of four would be about a quarter of that of a family living in London or New York. 

Rental prices, restaurants, most foods, entertainment, recreational activities, and transport will generally be less expensive on Samui. If you are considering investing in Samui or buying property to live in, it will most likely be more economical.

For example, the rental for this one-bedroom 50 sqm Condo in Bophut is listed at 14,000 THB (400USD) a month. Utilities, electricity and water can cost from 1,500 THB (43 USD) a month.

Items costing more include imported goods like groceries, white goods, electronic gear, and alcohol. Another cost consideration is air travel. The vehicular ferry to the mainland is inexpensive and takes around two hours.

Of course, individuals must evaluate their income and expenses to make an accurate assessment. Overall, you can live very comfortably in Samui on a modest budget.

Many foreigners buy property in Thailand as an investment, leasing long-term to tenants or letting for holiday rentals. Lazudi, one of the fast-growing tech-enabled companies, can assist if you are investing in Thailand, buying or selling property, or seeking a rental opportunity. 

Lazudi Samui, our latest office, is ready to offer services for selling and renting real estate in Samui and the neighbouring island of Koh Pha-Ngan. The Samui team are ready to assist you!