Thailand (Lonely Planet, 13th Edition) - China Williams [486]
Top End
Samui Jasmine Resort ( Map; 0 7723 2446; www.samuijasmineresort.com; r & bungalows 3800-5000B; as) Pleasant Samui Jasmine is a great deal along Lamai’s sun-bleached sands. Go for the lower-priced rooms – most have excellent views of the ocean and the crystal-coloured lap pool. The design scheme features plenty of varnished teak and frilly accessories such as lavender pillows.
Tamarind Retreat ( Map; 0 7723 0571; www.tamarindretreat.com; villas 3500-11,600B; as) Tucked far away from the beach within a silent coconut palm plantation, Tamarind’s small collection of villas are each elaborated with a different design schema. Some have granite boulders built into walls and floors; others offer private ponds or creative outdoor baths. There’s a seven-night minimum stay (three nights in low season) and free pick-up at the airport is included. Advance reservations are a must.
Rocky Resort ( Map; 0 7741 8367; www.rockyresort.com; Hua Thanon; r 4200-14000B; as) Our favourite spot in Lamai (well, actually just south of Lamai), Rocky finds the right balance between an upmarket ambience and an unpretentious, sociable atmosphere. During the quieter months the prices are a steal, since ocean views abound, and each room has been furnished with beautiful Thai-inspired furniture that seamlessly incorporates a modern twist. The pool has been carved in between a collection of boulders mimicking the rocky beach nearby (hence the name).
Villa Nalinnadda (off Map; 0 7723 3131; www.nalinnadda.com; Hua Thanon; bungalows 6000-6500B; as) Villa Nalinnadda’s exterior walls are swathed in undulating waves of white adobe that mimic the bubbling water in the rectangular plunge pool. Seven suites of various shapes and sizes face out towards the swaying ocean offering a blend of romantic solitude while also fostering a convivial atmosphere amongst guests.
NORTHERN BEACHES
Ko Samui’s northern beaches have the largest range of accommodation. Choeng Mon has some of the most opulent resorts in the world, while Mae Nam and Bang Po cling to their backpacker roots. Bo Phut, in the middle, is the shining star in Samui’s constellation of beaches.
Choeng Mon
While technically known as Plai Lam, this rugged outcropping is often called Choeng Mon after the largest beach in the area. If you happen to be the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, Choeng Mon is where you’ll stay. These resorts are locked in an unwavering battle to out-posh one another.
Imperial Boat House Hotel (0 7742 5041-52; www.imperialhotels.com; Hat Choeng Mon; r 4000-5500B, boat ste 6000-6700B; as) This sophisticated retreat has a three-storey hotel and several free-standing bungalows made from imported-teak rice barges whose bows have been transformed into stunning patios. Oxidised copper cannons blast streams of water into the boat-shaped swimming pool.
White House (0 7724 7921, 0 7724 5318; www.hotelthewhitehouse.com; r 5000-6600B; as) You can check Angkor Wat off your ‘to do’ list – The White House feels like the seat of an ancient empire hidden deep within the thickest jungle. Sandstone temples bleed luscious tropical ferns from every crevice, and praying deity statues hide amongst the twisting jungle foliage.
Sala Samui (0 7724 5888; www.salasamui.com; bungalows US$360-1100; ais) Look out folks, these guys quote their room rates in US dollars instead of baht. Is the hefty price tag worth it? Probably. The design scheme is undeniably exquisite – regal whites and lacquered teaks are generously lavished throughout, while subtle turquoise accents draw on the colour of each villa’s private plunge pool.
Tongsai Bay (0 7724 5480-5500; www.tongsaibay.co.th; Hat Choeng Mon; ste 11,000-30,000B; as) Expansive and impeccably maintained, the hilly grounds make the cluster of bungalows look more like a small village. Golf carts whiz around the vast landscape transporting guests to various activities like massages or dinner. All the