There was an ad nailed to a coconut tree somewhere between Baan Hua Thanon and Lamai that read like this:  “Will you go back home for nothing? No way, move you’re a_ _ and give us your measurement,” then followed the telephone number of the tailor shop. It didn’t stay there long so you can’t find it anymore, but however rude it was said, it must have invited many, especially those who’ve been hunting valuable souvenirs.

Buy anything you want – from trinkets, exquisite images in different sizes, Chiangmai indigenous items such as colorful pouches, silk accessories, etc. You may even buy woodcarvings the size of pachyderms, but never forget the most valued suits, which are a real bargain in Samui.

They may just be a copy of the branded ones, but the craftsmanship and quality of the fabrics are equally excellent, and you wouldn’t be paying out as much as you pay back home. Believe itor not, some even offer as low as US$69 for a pair of men’s suit with one extra pants, shirtsand ties.

Like Bangkok, Samui’s shopping venues are strewn with the bests of this stuff, which make it easy for shoppers to find, most of them are found in Chaweng Beach Road, the island’s most metropolitan village. It is quite easy to find nice silk, cotton and wool. They offer any type of clothing from Thai-style shirts, pants and suits to Western-style suits that could even be mistaken for Gucci, Ralph Lauren and others. Learning to navigate through the maze of shops and deciding which one is right for you are your part of the story.

First, determine what it is you would like to buy. Is it a silk Thai shirt or a silk upper

trouser?  Secondly, you must try to determine what style you would like. The majority of tailor shops will have stacks and stacks of fashion magazines and books, which you can thumb through to determine your favorite style.

Then look at the samples that the shop has to show you. They will always come up with an actual sample. You need to check the stitching, is it well built and sturdy? Does it look petty well like the original that when you put it on your friend assumes you’re sporting a Hugo Boss? Once you have decided that the shop is one you wish to work with, you can discuss price and a fitting schedule.

Also, make it very clear about the time you have to leave. Even though most tailoring shops offer a 24-hour rush job, it is recommended that you get a maximum number of fittings to ensure that the article is tailored to prefect fit.

Remember that the beauty of any clothing put on is that it fits perfectly. So treat yourself to a new wardrobe and leave your co-workers wishing they had gone on that trip with you.