Welcome to Life on Koh Samui – The Real Story

Thinking about moving to Koh Samui? Wondering what it’s really like to live here — or invest in a slice of tropical paradise?

This blog is for anyone curious about island life:


🌴 The lifestyle (yes, it’s as good as it looks)
💰 The investments (10%+ returns are possible)
🥂 The little things — can I drink the water, is that ice in my cocktail safe?

After we moved here in early 2023, my husband David, began writing a book — part personal memoir, part no-nonsense guide to relocating, living, and investing in Thailand. Think real-world advice, not just the glossy stuff.

To keep things fresh and useful, we’ve also created a Facebook group called Moving to Koh Samui where we share regular updates, tips, and stories — all in one place.

So if you’re dreaming of changing your life - or just changing your view - you’re in the right spot.

david rycroft david rycroft

Buying Property on Koh Samui – Investment, Lifestyle, or Both?

Thinking of buying property on Koh Samui? Whether you're chasing strong returns, a lifestyle upgrade, or both — this guide breaks down what foreigners can own, how leasehold and freehold work, and why owning a villa here might just be the smartest decision you make.

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Getting around Koh Samui - An Intro to Transport on the Island.

Thinking of renting a scooter or car in Koh Samui? This honest, no-fluff guide covers everything you need to know — from rental scams and police checkpoints to safety tips and local road rules (or lack thereof). A must-read before you hit the road in paradise.

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🐾 Bringing Pets to Thailand (and Getting Them Home Again)

Thinking of bringing your cat or dog to Thailand? It’s easier than you might think — but getting them back home, especially to New Zealand or Australia, is a much bigger challenge. In this post, we share the real-life experience of moving pets to Koh Samui, what to expect with airlines and local landlords, and why rabies regulations might keep you here longer than planned.

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Things that Bite In Samui - and no - I don’t mean the locals!

Things That Bite in Samui – and No, Not the Locals!
From harmless green snakes to dengue-carrying mozzies and the rare but deadly jellyfish, here’s a light-hearted but practical guide to the bitey side of Koh Samui. What’s really out there, what’s just hype, and how to stay safe (and sane) in paradise.

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Internet and Connectivity in Thailand

Think Thailand’s tech is behind the times? Think again. With free Wi-Fi nearly everywhere and cheap mobile data that actually works, Thailand’s internet setup leaves most Western countries in the dust. Here's what we learned — the hard way — about staying connected.

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Health, Hospitals and Dentists

Thinking of moving to Koh Samui and wondering what the healthcare’s like? From top-tier private hospitals to affordable dental care, this guide shares our first-hand experiences with doctors, dentists, and even an MRI scare — all in true island style. It’s not dirt cheap, but it’s fast, professional, and better than you might expect.

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Koh Samui - The Jewel of the Gulf

Thinking of relocating to paradise? This is the no-fluff, mildly cheeky guide to Samui, its neighbours, and why the ice in your cocktail probably won’t kill you. (But the airfare might. hurt a bit)!

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Is Koh Samui A Safe Place to Visit and Live?

Safety is one of the first things people ask about when considering a move to Koh Samui. While the island is generally safe and friendly, there are a few key risks worth knowing — from road accidents to dodgy property deals. Here’s a local’s honest take on what to watch for and how to stay smart.

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