Originally Posted by Spinstorm

I have just spent the last week at two hotels in Koh Samui - the W and FS and also at Phulay Bay, RC Reserve.

I have a YouTube channel and I've made extensive videos on all three resorts - not even close to being finished though but I thought I'd share my thoughts.

First of all, I think that FS KS is a stunning property, the backdrop of the villas on the hillside and lush jungle is amazing. And the pool bar and beach are the most relaxing places I have been. Period.

I just sat in that pool marveling at the sunset and enjoying the jacuzzi function at the sides.As it had been raining in the days before we arrived the water on the beach was not crystal clear, but I have never felt such warm water. It was literally like a bath. And all the way to the bouys (around 20 m) was incredibly shallow. Barely above knee depth, there is however lots of coral and so I suggest water shoes if in the water. I was told it was a warmest in May and thatthe tide comes up over night.
If you're not a confident swimmer it is fantastic and if you are you can just take yourself out past the yellow bouys into deeper water. However, you will not be swimming off that beach as it's too shallow in May.

I have many stunning shots in my video and it makes me want to go back. And I'd like to but I do have some reservations.
Those are the state of the rooms, they are old, worn out and although they look great on first glance it doesn't take long to see that they are not what you would expect for a place that costs so much. I have to give credit to the resort manager who did all he could to make up for the fact that I had lizard poo in the middle of my bed. I moved rooms and they gave me a complimentary dinner. But lizards are an issue and the new room had poop all over it as well - just not in the bed.

When I compare the FS to Phulay Bay the room quality difference is evident. Ignoring the fact the PB has villas with 20 feet high ceilings and is a totally different design - the level of cleanliness and attention to detail is next level there. And that's missing at FS. Now I have to be fair and say that I don't think this is due to the staff not doing a good job. I just think it's the climate, conditions and ages of the rooms. Only the pools are the saving grace of the rooms.

I was told they are shortly going to totally renovate all the rooms and fix all these issues and I hope they can bring it up to the level you would expect of the location. And brand.

Would I go back? Yes, but I don't think it spend any time in my room except sleeping.

https://youtu.be/o8ey7WbBCL0

(deleted duplicated photos from original post) RichardInSF, moderator, luxury hotels and travel