Amanpuri's car is fairly reasonably priced. I don't recommend taxis in Phuket - they are a pain due to how they operate, and costs really add up if you start to use them for a few hours. Fine for getting from airport > hotel.

I've got a local driver I use who is absolutely fantastic - young, cheerful, funny and knowledgeable guy. Always on time. Has a good fleet of cars and keeps them in great condition.

Re: SS Samui - didn't comment on it because its' been years since I've been (I think I went in around 2012/3) and they have since renovated extensively. It's not known to be one of the better Six Senses though.

Re: Amanpuri and Surin are on the same stretch of beach, but Amanpuri also has its own beach that's off to the side. There's no doubting Amanpuri's rooms/pavilions are extremely pricey though - and if that's a key concern (having a pool and/or ocean view), then you may want to consider elsewhere (Trisara - which has some of the best entry level rooms ever). I'd be looking to check if you can get a good upgrade to at least an ocean view pavilion if you do stay at Amanpuri - shouldn't be a problem during low season.

In terms of beach, there's no comparison between Amanpuri and Trisara.

Amanpuri room video: