Author

Greg Jorgensen

Creator of the award-winning travel blog Siam Stories and host of Thai Tourism Board official podcast (2008-2024). Former Lonely Planet contributor and author of three bestselling guidebooks on Thailand. Relocated from Portland to Bangkok in 2003 and never looked back.

708 articles

Nov 25, 2025

Wreath-Laying Ceremony Honoring King Vajiravudh's Legacy on the 100th Anniversary of His Passing

Remembering King Vajiravudh's enduring legacy 100 years after his passing, a wreathlaying ceremony honored his transformative reign in Koh Samui. His modernization efforts, founding of the Wild Tiger Corps, and inspiration for Thai Scouting left an indelible mark on education and national identity.

Nov 24, 2025

Commemorative Ceremony Honoring King Vajiravudh and Princess Bejaratana

Join us in Koh Samui on November 24, 2025, for a special ceremony honoring King Vajiravudh and Princess Bejaratana, marking 100 years since their significant historical milestones. Witness traditional Buddhist rites and a powerful community tribute led by Mr. Amorn Chumchui, reflecting on their lasting national impact.

Nov 19, 2025

Azerbaijan-Thailand Diplomatic Engagement for Tourism and Economic Growth

Azerbaijan's Ambassador met with Koh Samui's Mayor to discuss boosting tourism and trade between their nations, focusing on the island's stunning appeal. Get ready for exciting new travel experiences and stronger ties as this highlevel meeting aims to bridge cultures and economies through tourism.

Nov 18, 2025

Important Notice for Residents and Tourists on Koh Samui

Koh Samui, stay safe! Be mindful of potential floods and landslides by checking weather updates and avoiding risky areas, especially during heavy rain. For emergencies, call 199. Let's keep our beautiful island secure together!

Nov 15, 2025

Cold Weather in Upper Thailand

Upper Thailand anticipates a cold snap with chilly mornings and fog from November 1723, 2025. Concurrently, southern Thailand faces heavy rains and flood risks, with rough seas in the Gulf.

Nov 14, 2025

Royal Rainmaking Day: Commemorating a Vision for Sustainable Water Management

Celebrate Royal Rainmaking Day on November 14th, honoring King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great's visionary artificial rainmaking in Thailand. His 1955 innovation continues to combat droughts, providing essential water for communities and farmers.

Nov 8, 2025

Smiling Service: Welcoming Tourists with Warmth and Order

Welcome to our island paradise, where warm smiles and orderly services ensure an unforgettable visit. With every detail handled with care, from smooth operations to your safety, get ready for a stressfree and joyful experience!

Nov 7, 2025

Weather Warning Issued for Surat Thani Province

Attention Surat Thani! A yellow alert for heavy rain is issued for November 7, 2025. Be prepared for flash floods, runoff, and landslides, especially near hilly areas, and have your emergency kit ready!

Nov 4, 2025

Luxury Cruise Ships Dock at Na Thon Bay, Koh Samui

Luxury cruise ships Viking Venus and Oceania Riviera have arrived at Na Thon Bay, Koh Samui, bringing over a thousand international tourists to our beautiful island. This exciting arrival kicks off a busy cruise season with 50+ luxury liners expected, promising vibrant energy and a significant economic boost for Koh Samui.

Nov 2, 2025

Book of Condolence for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother

Ko Samui invites you to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, by signing the public condolence book at the Ko Samui Municipality Office. Join us in expressing gratitude for her enduring legacy and contributions to Thailand, available on working days from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

Oct 27, 2025

Koh Samui City Municipality Observes Mourning for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother

Koh Samui City Municipality is observing a nationwide mourning period for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, with officials and staff wearing respectful attire. This tribute reflects Thailand's deep cultural tradition of honoring the royal family, even as municipal services continue.

Oct 26, 2025

Announcement on Public Access and Ceremonies for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother

Thailand observes a period of mourning for Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Visitors can pay respects at the Grand Palace and Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall from late October 2025 onwards, with specific timings and dress code requirements.

Oct 25, 2025

Royal Announcement Regarding the Passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother

Thailand mourns the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, with a 30day period of national respect and government officials observing a year of mourning. The nation unites in remembrance of her immense contributions and service, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Oct 23, 2025

Chulalongkorn Day: Honoring King Rama V

Today, October 23rd, Thailand celebrates Chulalongkorn Day, honoring King Rama V, who abolished slavery and modernized the nation. His legacy of preserving independence and profoundly shaping the country continues to be remembered and revered.

Oct 22, 2025

NHSO Fund Committee Evaluates Success of "Volunteers Care: Thais Away from NCDs" Project in Ang Thong

Ang Thong's "Volunteers Care: Thais Away from NCDs" project is a resounding success, with all 80 atrisk participants improving health behaviors thanks to dedicated Village Health Volunteers and Koh Samui Municipality support. This initiative, based at Ang Thong Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, is a gamechanger for noncommunicable disease prevention.

Oct 21, 2025

Princess Srinagarindra: The Princess Mother of Thailand

Celebrate Princess Srinagarindra, Thailand's admired Princess Mother, born October 21st! Her profound legacy in health, education, and rural development continues to uplift the Thai people today.

Oct 4, 2025

Road Cleaning Operation on Na Thon Beach Road, Koh Samui

Na Thon Beach Road in Koh Samui just received a fantastic makeover, with special cleaning teams ensuring a dust, dirt, and oilfree environment for everyone's safety and wellbeing. Let's all help maintain our beautiful island's pristine condition!

Oct 4, 2025

Koh Samui Communities Celebrate Receipt of Royal Mother of the Land Fund Gift Money

Koh Samui celebrated a landmark day as 14 communities received the Royal Mother of the Land Fund Gift Money for 2025, the highest allocation in Surat Thani Province! This vital fund, established by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, empowers local communities in their fight against drugrelated issues and promotes selfsufficiency for a brighter, drugfree future.

Oct 2, 2025

Mobile Phone Warning System for Disaster Preparedness

Stay safe with the new Mobile Phone Warning System from DDPM, delivering urgent alerts for floods, earthquakes, and other emergencies directly to your phone via Cell Broadcast Service (CBS). No signup needed, just crucial info to keep you and your loved ones secure. Keep your phone on and be ready to act!

Oct 2, 2025

Samui Achieves National Recognition at Smart City Solutions Awards 2025

Koh Samui secured two Smart Living awards at the Smart City Solutions Awards 2025 for its innovative projects. The 'Samui Always Safe' initiative enhances public safety with accessible CCTV, while the Senior Citizen Card provides essential discounts, both managed via LINE OA.