Taling Ngam, Thailand Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Why Taling Ngam, Thailand?

  • Taling Ngam is located on the western side of Koh Samui, Thailand.
  • Taling Ngam Beach is a popular spot for watching stunning sunsets.
  • Taling Ngam is home to luxury resorts such as the InterContinental Samui, Four Seasons Resort and Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort.
  • The area is known for its traditional Thai temples, including Wat Plai Laem and Wat Sila Ngu.
  • The area also offers a wide range of water sports, including sailing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Transportation on Taling Ngam, Thailand

Getting to Taling Ngam, Thailand and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for stay.
  • A tourist visa (if required by nationality).
  • Proof of return or onward travel.

Departure Tax

A departure tax of 700 Thai Baht (~$20) is included in most airline tickets. Confirm with your airline.

Driving

  • Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid for short stays; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
  • Driving Side: Left.
  • Roads: Generally well-maintained, though some are narrow and winding, especially in rural areas.
  • Speed Limits: Typically 50-80 km/h (31-50 mph) on main roads.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of scooters and motorcycles, which are common on the island. Parking may be limited near beaches and tourist hotspots.

Know Before You Go...® - Taling Ngam, Thailand Travel Tips

Before making their way to Taling Ngam, Thailand , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Taling Ngam, Thailand even more relaxing.

Capital: Not applicable
Population: 70,000 (estimated)
Size: 88 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 220
Official Language: Thai is the official language spoken on Koh Samui. English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, catering to the island’s international visitors.
Currency:
  • The official currency is the Thai Baht (THB).
  • ATMs are widely available on the island, especially near tourist hotspots.
  • Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, though small vendors often prefer cash.
  • Carrying cash is advisable for local markets and smaller establishments.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up the bill or leaving small amounts (10-20 Baht) is common.
  • Upscale restaurants may include a 10% service charge. VAT (Value Added Tax) of 7% is usually included in displayed prices.
Dress Code: Koh Samui has a relaxed tropical dress code. Lightweight, casual clothing is ideal for the warm climate, with swimwear appropriate for beaches and resorts. Modest attire is recommended when visiting temples or cultural sites.
Topography: Koh Samui boasts a diverse landscape, including palm-fringed beaches, lush rainforests, and rolling hills. The island is surrounded by clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, making it a paradise for beachgoers and nature enthusiasts.
Telephone: * Country code: +66 * Area code: 77 (for Koh Samui and surrounding areas).

Taling Ngam, Thailand Weddings and Honeymoons

In Koh Samui, Thailand, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Application: Register the marriage at a district office (Amphur) on Koh Samui or any nearby district in Thailand.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports.
  • Arrival cards.
  • Affidavits of freedom to marry from your embassy (translated into Thai and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs).
  • A divorce decree or death certificate from a previous marriage (if applicable).

Translation: Non-Thai documents must be translated into Thai and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Waiting Period: No official waiting period, but the process may take several days for document certification and scheduling.

Ceremony: The civil registration at the Amphur is the legally binding part of the marriage.

Costs: Marriage registration fees are minimal, typically under $10. Additional costs apply for translations, embassy affidavits, and certification.

Optional Religious Ceremony: Can be conducted after the civil registration but is not legally binding. Many couples opt for beachfront or resort ceremonies.