Getting Around
There are several 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.
TAXI
Samui’s taxi make it easy to move around, though, it might be challenging to find a taxi down the street in Taling Ngam, but you can always ask your villa manager to arrange a taxi for you. Take into account that notwithstanding the fact that Samui taxis are equipped with meters, local drivers rarely use them, so always negotiate the price before getting into the vehicle.
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 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 so always ask the driver where he is going right now, as their routes are not set in stone, and can be randomly changed.
RENTAL SCOOTER
Travelling around the area or exploring further afield on a motorbike is a great way to travel at your own pace. Though, there aren’t too many rental shops in Taling Ngam, so if you need a rented motorbike, head to the nearby Nathon, where numerous rental shops offer a larger selection of vehicles. 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. And, of course, make sure you wear a helmet.
RENTAL CAR
Car travel in Taling Ngam is a perfect way to explore the island with a comfort. Though it is recommended to opt a 4×4 wheel drive car, as Samui’s landscape is rather hilly, and it can be challenging to get to your clifftop villa or other tourist locations. Also, take into account, that the lower rental price implies the absence of insurance and a poor condition of the vehicle so choose the international brands, if possible, when renting a car, such as Hertz, Avis and Budget Car Rentals, which are more trustworthy than the local rental shops.