FOREMOST among the many allures of Koh Samui is the peace and quiet of a faraway tropical island.

While tourists flock here mostly to laze on the white, sandy beaches, bathe in the warmth of the sun, explore the depths of its emerald waters and embark on a relaxing holiday, most of them yearn to enjoy a quiet early evening when the sun goes down and the magic of a tropical night nears.

This simple longing appears to be compromised nowadays, however, as the tranquil nighttime and restful sleep the island guests look forward to are now getting difficult to get, no thanks to the loud music from bars and nightclubs and sometimes from special events.
Complaints are mounting from tourists who simply can’t stand the ear-splitting sounds these entertainment establishments, mostly located in Chaweng, make.

Many of these obtrusive sounds come at a time when most people are preparing to sleep, causing grave annoyance and anxiety to many visitors and, consequently, to a number of businesses.

One small resort, located some eight kilometers away from the source of these loud noises, reported that distressed guests had vowed that they would never return to Samui.

A long-time expat, finding such noises unbearable, decided to move to a new place.

Another affected person said the noise problem began about two years ago and that it has grown worse.

And with everything else conspiring to reduce the number of tourists to the island, this is the last thing Samui needs.
It is understandable for some bars and clubs that cater to the younger crowd of vacationers to go for the loud and noisy type of music, which they appreciate.

Those who oppose this say they do understand the business side of the matter but that they also believe the volume can be turned down to a reasonable level so that other visitors who seek quiet can get what they also rightfully deserve.
The youth patronizing the bars and clubs with loud music may outnumber those who want peace and quiet, but in a situation like this, the government must quickly address the problem.

It is clearly necessary for the local government to issue guidelines as to how loud bars and nightclubs can turn their music at certain times of day.

This way, the island remains attractive to all and tourists are not driven away because of an issue that can be resolved if only we have the will to.

Authorities, we believe, can strike a balanced chord that’s pleasing to the ears of everyone concerned.