Secret Cottages

Koh Samui Nature Reserve — 7.7 km · ~97 min walk

Thai Baht (THB)

Travellers can exchange currency at local banks, such as Siam Commercial Bank, or use ATMs to withdraw THB. Be cautious of poor exchange rates at airports and tourist bureaux, as they tend to be less favourable.

Credit and debit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in Ko Samui. Contactless payments are also common, especially in tourist areas. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are less common but can be used in some establishments.

Tipping is not expected but appreciated for good service. 20-50 THB for taxi drivers and hotel staff is sufficient. For restaurants, rounding up the bill to the nearest 10 THB or leaving 10-20 THB per drink is acceptable.

A typical cup of coffee costs around 60-80 THB at a local café.

A street food stall or a local market offers a meal for around 100-150 THB.

A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 200-300 THB for a main course.

The Fisherman's Village and the Chaweng Walking Street are popular areas for cheap eats.

Tesco Lotus and Big C are common supermarket chains in Ko Samui.

Night markets and local shops along Chaweng Beach Road offer affordable high-street and market shopping.

A day pass on the songthaew (red truck) costs 150 THB, and the cheapest way from the airport is to take the songthaew (around 180 THB) or a taxi (around 200 THB).

Use the local bus or songthaew instead of taxis for shorter distances.Eat at street food stalls or local markets for a more affordable and authentic experience.Avoid changing money at airports or tourist bureaux, as the exchange rates are often unfavourable.