The airport
Samui International Airport (USM)
The flight
Thai Airways flight TG 0208 from Koh Samui to Bangkok
The arrival
I've been residing near the bustling Bophut Beach, which means my private minivan trip to the airport only takes around 15 minutes. Besides opting for either a private or shared minivan service, you might consider hiring a personal taxi or booking through Grab, Thailand’s equivalent of Uber. Numerous accommodations provide their own shuttle buses too. Another alternative is using a songthaew; these often have roomy compartments on top for storing baggage en route to the airport. For those who drove during their visit, dropping off rental cars should be straightforward due to proximity. While there isn’t dedicated public transportation available for visitors within the island, various other modes of transport remain convenient and budget-friendly choices.
The look
Saying farewell to Koh Samui isn’t easy, yet this small airport strives to keep the casual vacation atmosphere alive. Its architecture mirrors a resort with interiors crafted from native elements like palm, wood, and rattan. Open to nature, it showcases vibrant hues and an upbeat tropical twist on modern decor. Verdant gardens envelop the structures, making it feel serene, welcoming for families, and enjoyable.
Check-in
We encounter a line at the front desk, yet within about ten minutes, we're up and ready to go. Once checked in, they guide us towards part of the terminal featuring a big display, advising us to stay for roughly five minutes just in case our luggage pops up. Sure enough, my suitcase appears briefly on the screen followed swiftly by someone grabbing it from beneath. It feels as though bags are constantly slipping in and out of view much like players engaged in a round of Hokey Pokey. This leaves me utterly bewildered; unsure what exactly all of this signifies. Given how unclearly these instructions were posted, I decide to seek clarification from one of the guards stationed nearby who points me toward the area designated for inquiries regarding lost or delayed luggage. There, more waiting ensues as I find myself staring at another monitor.
Following a brief wait — as my luggage fails to show up — I'm permitted to move on to the security check. Only once I'm settled in my seat on the plane and spot my suitcase being loaded outside the window do I feel assured it’ll make it back with me. Thankfully, the Koh Samui effect leaves me puzzled yet largely unconcerned about the whole ordeal.
Security
Just a short walk from the check-in area, you'll find one baggage scanning machine with nobody waiting in line. Unfortunately, my tiny suitcase fails inspection because I neglected to take out my sunscreen. Even though this tube contains just a fraction of the allowed quantity, the security personnel insist on confiscating it. They discard the lotion into the trash, so I proceed towards the departure lounge empty-handed.
Food + drink
Despite its compact size, Koh Samui Airport boasts a surprisingly extensive selection of dining options ranging from Thai cuisine to Japanese, Indian, and Western dishes. Additionally, you can find coffee, tea, and juice bars throughout the terminal, all complemented by the airport’s distinctive indoor-outdoor layout.
Retail therapy
Maybe the airport isn’t large enough to draw major international retail chains, yet it’s invigorating to spot locally owned businesses instead. One well-known outlet is a Jim Thompson shop offering quick-purchase Thai silk garments, home decor items, and trinkets. Alongside this, you’ll find a duty-free establishment, several jewelry and apparel shops, as well as regional keepsake stands lining your path towards the domestic departure area—a stunning wooden structure with lofty ceilings reminiscent of an elevated hideaway.
Passing time
Enjoy complimentary WiFi, but rather than browsing, opt for a freshly squeezed juice or an icy cold beer. Make use of the shady outdoor bean bags and deck chairs. And remember not to miss your flight.
The verdict
Even with its peculiarities, this airport excels at keeping your vacation spirit alive. It could very well be my top pick.
Our score out of five
★★★★
The author was a guest at Anantara Bophut Koh Samui andMinor Hotels.
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