Originally Posted by
sk8uno
I haven't been to Koh Samui, the fiancee has. And I believe she stayed at a private residence, so no hotel review there.
All of my friends who have been loved Koh Samui, for what it's worth.
I have been to Phuket and would not recommend going there for a tropical beach destination. There are far better options in the region (in Thailand alone you have Phi Phi, Pha Ngan, Samui, Tao, etc.).
A lot of boutique hotels offer some extremely great products and services, I'm always looking to hear what people thought of their resort. Of course if its a chain that's just as good to know. Private residences are clearly an alternative; but do you get the same type of "pampering"/service?
I agree with you with Phuket. It no longer has the luster that it had 20 years ago. Now it's overrun with ppl who want to party yet be able to get away from the city environment.