Getting Around
There are plenty of options, so we’ve ranked them according to our recommendations for first-time travellers:
PRIVATE CAR
Ministry of Villas can arrange a private car and chauffeur for you. Depending on which villa you are staying in, the cost for the private car and chauffeur can vary, so it’s recommended to contact our Ministry of Villas team to get the complete information about the private transfers.
RENTAL SCOOTER
Travelling on two wheels is a great way to explore Bophut and further afield. There are numerous motorbike rental shops, where you can opt the scooter and negotiate the price. Take into account that you must always have an international drivers license on your person, otherwise, the local police can issue you a ticket with a summons to appear in court. Also, always request an insured bike, and, of course, make sure you wear a helmet.
RENTAL CAR
Car travel in Bophut is an easy and comfortable way to move around the city and explore other areas. It is recommended, though, to select a 4×4 wheel drive car as Samui’s landscape is rather hilly. Also, take into account, that the lower rental price implies the absence of insurance and a poor condition of the vehicle so opt the international brands when renting a car such as Hertz, Avis and Budget Car Rentals.
RENTAL BICYCLE
Some hotels offer bicycles for rent making it an affordable, yet, physically demanding way to explore Bophut and beyond. However, if you are planning to travel further afield it is not recommended to use bicycle due to the reasons of safety and comfort, as the surface of roads in some places is degraded, and the island’s landscape is rather hilly.
SONGTHAEWS OR PICK-UP TAXIS
Songthaews or “two-benches” are simple pick-up tracks that follow their set routes and pick up or drop off passengers at any site along the route. The trip usually costs THB20 and anyone can simply jump into the truck or require the stop by ringing a bell. Though, the route is described in English, it can be tricky to puzzle out how to get to the destination point for the first-time traveller.
TAXI
There are a plethora of taxis cruising along the streets of Bophut making it easy to get around the town. Though, it is also an expensive way to move about as there is only one operation taxi company on Samui island. Drivers of the bright red and yellow sedan-style taxis with the “Meter-Taxi” sign on top rarely use the meter so before getting to the car make sure you have agreed on price.