My wife and I just checked out of Le Royal Meridien Koh Samui a few days ago, and I couldn't wait to share the experience! It was a very good stay, with a few small exceptions that I was willing to overlook.

The experience started at check-in. The agents were efficient and doting. We were seated on a small couch and given drinks and small cakes while they welcomed us to the hotel. They helped us complete the check-in forms, and then at our leisure, we were ushered into golf carts and taken to our Villa. There was a beautiful welcome amenity of fruit and chocolates waiting for us, which we snacked while they gave us the quick tour around the multi-story Villa. It included a seating area, kitchen, balcony and bathroom stocked with Hermes. The view was breathtaking, especially in the lobby.

My one complaint about the Villa was the lack of maintenance of some of the facilities. While they were nice to look at, upon closer inspection you could see stains and mold in certain places. We were able to brush it off, but I'm sure they would have no problem relocating you if you want. I did see that there was some construction going on at a few parts of the resort, but I'm not sure what it affected.

The beach of the hotel was disappointing, good enough for a walk, but not much else. I didn't go in the water, neither did Karen. We ended up spending more time at the pools throughout the property, including an infinity pool.

When it came to food, I was also somewhat disappointed. After living off the Bangkok streets for less than $15/day over the last few days, I found the restaurant to be exceptionally expensive. Essentially U.S. prices for the food -- sure it was "gourmet", but I don't like feeling ripped off. We took the free shuttle into Nathong a few times and got our fill of cheap local food there and had some laundry done. Not many of the other guests at the hotel joined us... oh well, their loss.

The staff was superb throughout our stay -- always smiling and helpful. Another feature about the Thai people I wish the rest of the world would catch on to. The staff are available to shuttle you around the resort on golf carts so you can enjoy the views.

The experience did not stop at check-out, where we were ushered to a taxi with a parting gift of a shirt and bag. (One word on the airport taxis, they are somewhat pricey since the Meridien Koh Samui is distantly located -- about 45 minutes from the airport. It looked like a few of the tourists at the hotel had rented cars for their stay. I did not ask what they paid.)

It was one of my best experiences at a Starwood hotel anywhere in the world. While I probably will never go back (so much more of the world to experience!), I've already recommended it to a few friends who plan to vacation in Thailand. Karen and I came back relaxed and ready for work again... ugh.

Review by Chris S.

Posted at July 30, 2006 9:30 PM