Getting around Koh Samui, and why we recommend not riding a motorbike

There is one piece of advice we give everyone who arrives, free and without selling anything: do not ride a motorbike.

Aviram Savir, A.B Capital · Koh Samui

What the brochures don't tell you

There are accidents here every day, and fatalities every week. It is not talked about much, but anyone who lives here sees it. Narrow roads, sudden rain, sand on the road and drivers who are not always predictable.

"It'll be fine"

When we hear those words, we know trouble is on the way. People riding without a helmet, without the right licence, shirtless with a beer in hand, sure it won't happen to them. Until it does.

When something happens, it's not only about your health

A foreigner injured in an accident without the right licence and without insurance that covers it can end up paying very large sums, for medical treatment and for damage to the other side. More than once we have helped people who got into exactly this situation, with broken arms and legs, only to discover their insurance did not cover it.

So how do you get around?

Rent a car, ideally long-term. If you live here, buy one. Drive with the right licence, real insurance cover, and care. Fuel costs about half of Israeli or European prices, so a car is not a luxury.

The bottom line

Koh Samui is a wonderful place to live. Just do it on four wheels.