Bandara Resort & Spa

The lobby of the Bandara Resort & Spa feels bright and fresh, with soaring ceilings and lots of natural light flooding in through open walls. Contemporary wood and wicker furnishings with gray cushions occupy the center of the room for guests who are checking in. Pops of bright orange, tabletop orchids, and backlit Thai-style screens are interesting accents. Outside stone paths wind through the lawns that look scraggly in spots and are lined with palm trees and other leafy plants. A wooden footbridge over a bamboo-filled pond is a charming touch, while a covered pergola has bench seating where guests can hang out in the shade. Overall it's a relaxing place to stay -- though the noise from the road reaches some rooms, it doesn't reach the grounds -- and there's plenty of space for sunbathing around four different swimming pools. But the restaurants lack atmosphere and have uninspired decor, and the resort could use some TLC -- especially the thatched pool huts and woodwork throughout the property. Most guests are couples, though a good number of families do stay here, as the spacious rooms, convenient location, and private beach tend to outweigh any minor maintenance issues. 

The Bandara Resort & Spa is in the northeast of Thailand's Ko Samui island, steps from Bophut Beach. While it's in the center of town, the property still feels quiet and peaceful. Fortunately for those who want to explore the local bars and restaurants, Fisherman's Village and its night market are within a five- to 10- minute walk. Many guests also take advantage of the 24-hour shop across the street from the resort that sells inexpensive groceries and alcohol. Chaweng, a lively area with more dining and nightlife options as well as a beach, is about a 20- to 25-minute drive. Laem Yai, a quieter beach on the northwest coast, is about 25 minutes by car. The famed golden Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Templ is a 15-minute drive. Families might enjoy the Samui Butterfly Garden/Insect Museum, about 40 to 45 minutes' drive south. Samui Airport is a 15- to 20-minute drive from the property. The hotel is in between two ferry terminals -- Bangrak Pier, a 10-minute drive in one direction, and Maenam Pier, a 15-minute drive in the other.

While some rooms benefit from pitched wooden roofs and hardwood floors, others have drab white walls and ceilings and bland tile floors. Otherwise, rooms are all similar in style, with contemporary dark-wood furniture and accents in shades of rust, burnt orange, and bright mustard. Rooms feel a little dated and tired -- furnishings can be chipped or scratched, and textiles look worn. Nonetheless, they are spacious, starting at 527 square feet, and all have simply furnished balconies or terraces. Pool Villas and Pool Villa Suites feel brighter and fresher overall, adding lighter colors and the benefit of gardens surrounding their private pools -- either plunge-style or larger pools in Villa Suites. 

All rooms have flat-screen TVs and DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and safes. Coffee/tea facilities and nicely stocked minibars are standard as well. Bathrooms have high-quality bathtubs with windows looking into the rooms, and separate stall showers with glass doors. Fresh flowers by the sink are a nice touch, and hairdryers are provided. Pool Villa Suites have two-person bathtubs. Guests have suggested requesting rooms that overlook the pool, rather than ground-level rooms that can lack privacy. Though rooms don't overlook the road, those at the front of the resort can be close enough to experience some noise. 

Pools are a highlight of the resort and there are four to choose from, including two beachfront, one for adults only, and one for kids. Sunbeds and umbrellas surround each pool and a thatched tiki bar serves up mid-swim refreshments. There are some fun touches, like frog fountains spitting water into one of the pools, though poolside drink service is reportedly pricey. Steps away from the beachfront pools, a narrow stretch of private sand has cushioned wooden loungers and canvas umbrellas for guests to use. There's also a charming spa with massages and facials, plus a garden and an outdoor shower. 

Bandara offers a few different dining options and 24-hour room service. The all-day Leelavadee Restaurant serves buffet breakfast (not included in all rates) that features a wide selection of Thai dishes as well as Western foods, such as eggs and bacon, pastries, and cereals. Chom Dao Restaurant serves more refined international cuisine for dinner, with seating near the beach. A beach bar serves cocktails and fresh juices, while Ling Lounge, just off the lobby, serves a full drinks menu and has live piano music. There's a carpeted, cramped fitness center with a few cardio and weight machines and some free weights. The resort's business center is more appealing, with two desktop computers in a bright room with comfy seating and stocked bookshelves.