we're just home after a most enjoyable stay. here are our comments

a) its a completely blissful place with a level of friendly service comparable to the oriental in bangkok so smile and enjoy it

b) breakfast is superb, especially the thai selection eg the noodles are great, there is a changing selection of curries and salads. There is also a wonderful selection of juices and smoothies (avocado being my favourite)

c) there is actually quite a range of activities ranging from yoga to thai boxing, firming up your butt & abs, stretching etc for those so inclined - my wife told me that hardly anybody attends so you have the full attention of the nice young staff

d) we did the boat trip to a beach - as the pier is dismantled until the "sea level rises", you have to take a shuttle out first - which was an exciting speed boat ride for the kids and koh mat sum was lovely.

e) but the beach in front of the hotel has its charms - we took the kayak out and also snorkeled (the hotel provided fins, masks, reef shoes and life jackets)

f) we hired a car for trips out for dinner (seafood at sabienglae, takhoe bangpo; the night market at nathon and a really terrific cafe nearby called Sweet Sisters) as well as some sightseeing (there is a nearby temple on a hill with great views called the rattanakosin chedi - above the laem sor beach; we also enjoyed a dip in the namuang 1 waterfall) but i would agree that its perfectly fine not to leave the conrad at all since the views are fabulous and there is excellent dining at a price

g) jahn was superb - fabulous views, very attentive and intelligent service, great food and an excellent wine list with interesting and clever choices.

h) we took a trip to the ang thong marine park - i enjoyed the climb up to the viewpoint on the main island but would not recommend this to the faint hearted as its really steep and a fall could have very nasty consequences; the emerald lagoon is an easier climb but make sure you descend to the lagoon itself; kayaking along the coast and into caves etc was fun but the snorkeling was sad - my wife blamed the guide and our rather gormless group who looked as if they would rather be shopping.

i) we were on level 3 and had a steep climb up after breakfast or from he pool - eventually we gave up and took the buggy uphill. Never used the games box but the bose sound system was good (did not appreciate having to use the mac mini to listen to my ipod tho') and the ipad was popular with my kids

j) we reckoned that the view was good from any level and probably from any room - even those with trees in front benefited from the shade in the afternoons

k) our 2 kids slept on the couch and an extra bed which was fine as the room was very large

l) they enjoyed the patio and the private pool but to me this was best in the early morning and at night as otherwise the direct sun was too hot

l) they also were thrilled by the buggy rides, especially at night - we preferred to walk down in the evening from reception as the views were lovely and it was delightful to listen to the crickets and then the waves crashing far below

would love to return soon!