Koh Samui
Southeast Asia · Thailand · Asia
Glossy resort island — coconut groves, beach clubs, and easy sunsets.
Koh Samui is the most developed of Thailand's gulf islands, with an airport, international hospitals, and beach resorts that make it the comfortable choice for island living. It's more expensive than the mainland but offers real infrastructure, a growing nomad scene, and easy beach-and-jungle access. The downsides are a touristy, resort-heavy feel in parts, seasonal rains, and prices that creep up with the convenience. Best for remote workers and couples who want tropical island life without roughing it.
comfortable monthly budget
1-bed rent, good area
Best for
Not for
A mix of resort tourists, expat families, and a growing remote-work community; more settled and slightly older than Phangan. Friendly and comfortable, with enough cafes and co-workings to connect, but less of a backpacker buzz.
Where to land
The scorecard
Tax in Thailand
Special regime: LTR visa with foreign-income exemption; remittance rule eased for income brought in within the year earned or the next
Since 2024 foreign income remitted to Thailand is taxable, though a proposed rule exempts it if brought in the year earned or the following year.
Representative estimate — not tax advice. · source
Make the move to Koh Samui
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Find my placePhoto via Wikimedia Commons · source