Courses, classes & lessons: learning things on Samui

Jan 062012

If you hate to sit still or have a life-long dream of learning one of many skills taught in Thailand – you’ll find just about any need met. Indoor classes like Thai cooking are perfect for Koh Samui’s rainy season, while the island’s long coast means great opportunity for water sports and adventure. A few ideas for classes & courses available…

Thai cooking school – Samui Institute of Thai Culinary Arts (SITCA). Professional chefs study here, and so can you. 3-hour small classes are held twice daily (lunch or dinner). Invite a friend to join you for the meal you’ll prepare. Choose your lesson from the calendar online. 6 and 12-day intensive courses are also available. (If planning a Koh Samui Christmas, this might make a good Christmas present). Opposite Central Samui Beach Resort, check website for printable map.

Fruit and vegetable carving. SITCA also offers a basic 1-hour course and comprehensive a 3-day course. The latter includes a take-home instructional book, apron and carving tools. Book well in advance, as this course is wildly popular.

Thai language lessons – Mind Your Language Thailand. Knowing just a handful of Thai phrases will enhance your visit to Thailand a thousand-fold. Take a two-hour beginner group lesson or, on a longer stay, enroll in a 30-hour course. Head teacher Jom has perfect English and makes the experience thoroughly enjoyable. Email for rates & location.

Thai massage – Tamarind Springs Massage Academy. Beginner lessons available for both Thai massage and reflexology. 205/3 Thong Takian (near the ring road between Chaweng and Lamai).

Sailing. It’s easy as anything to arrange someone else to sail you around on a Samui boat tour. If you’re more hands-on, perhaps some sailing lessons?