Originally Posted by
flyr16
We are also asking a similar question: where best in koh samui? Assuming not the 4S, are there other top properties? And, while I know we want to be on the east side of the island, we will be there in the summer, do we want one particular area? Frankly, we would prefer to have access to a town, or towns, for restaurants and such. Thanks.
At some point, high-end travellers are going to have to accept that Koh Samui, as an island, is not in the same league as Phuket. The indigenous flora is palm trees, palm trees and palm trees, which is a big contrast to the richly landscaped Phuket. Also, because Koh Samui was traditionally a back-packer's destination, the shops and villages are frankly tacky.
Four Seasons is a hit and miss affair. It missed for me - not the best FS resort I have ever encountered, although the spa is quite good. The topography of the place, though, is a disaster, and even if you are fit and like walking, you still have to negotiate a 400 foot drop from the arrivals to the beach. The buggies do arrive on time, but unless you are a terminal couch-potato, you miss walking (and believe me, we tried).
The other options include Karma Samui, which is a really pleasant small property with big villas (up to 4-beds), a good restaurant and very caring, if not 100% professional, service. Lovely private cove, too.
If you want to be in town, then Anantara Koh Samui is a really pleasant surprise, as long as you opt for one of their Royal Suites (which are ridiculously cheap). The food here is probably the best on the island and they have a remarkable spa and beautifully designed public areas. You are also near to Fisherman's Village (good shops), so not entirely isolated.