Manathai Koh Samui

MANATHAI Koh Samui's property exudes elegance and style with its colonial design and tropical color scheme. Think: White shutters, palm trees, and a yellow exterior with white wrought-iron Juliet balconies that add charm. The beachy vibe carries into the open-air reception area with lots of natural light and a color palette of blue, white, and green. Decor throughout is sophisticated and contemporary, with furnishings that look like they were pulled from a Pottery Barn catalog. Though the style of the hotel seems geared toward couples, MANATHAI Koh Samui is suitable for families and offers quite a few features for kids to enjoy. 

It's important to note that while the hotel has a private beach and outdoor pool, they're actually across the street from reception and the rooms. Guests will have to walk across a busy road to get to the sand, but crossing guards are there to safely stop traffic. 

In addition to the hotel's beach across the road, Silver Beach is an 18-minute walk away for those who want a change of scenery. From the hotel, guests are within walking distance of ample shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants. Many previous guests have recommended taking a trip to the night market, which is a 19-minute drive. Guests can rent motorbikes nearby, or catch a ride on a songthaew. Samui Airport is 26 minutes away by car, while the popular Big Buddha Temple is just over 30. 

Like the common areas, guest rooms have elegant colonial-inspired decor in a white, blue, and green color scheme, plus a bright and airy feel thanks to sliding glass doors that lead to furnished balconies or terraces. It's worth noting that some rooms have balconies that are quite small, and views are underwhelming. Rooms vary slightly and though all are comfortably sized, the suites provide the most space. The design consists of hardwood floors, white wood-paneled walls, colonial-style furniture that includes four-poster beds in some, and attractive pops of blue and green in the bedding, artwork, upholstery, and artwork. For families traveling with children, there are a couple of rooms that have bunk beds and kids' toys.

Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, lightly stocked minibars, and coffee- and tea-making facilities, as well as bathrobes and slippers. Pristine bathrooms have free toiletries, hairdryers, walk-in showers, and/or bathtubs. Some bathrooms have interior windows that overlook the bedrooms, but there are shades for privacy. Be aware that some guests have complained of noise from nearby traffic and air-conditioning units. 

Getting to the most alluring features at MANATHAI Koh Samui requires crossing the street. Most notable is the gorgeous stretch of beach that's lined with loungers, umbrellas, bean bags, and hammocks. Overlooking this is the well-sized pool surrounded by plenty of cushioned sunbeds and umbrellas. A spa is on-site for massage treatments, and there's a small gym with adequate equipment. Parents may be happy to know that the hotel has a kids' club that offers a wide variety of activities including dancing and yoga. There are multiple dining options offering a good selection of cuisine. Colours serves a buffet breakfast, while Pad Thai offers local cuisine. Waterline is the beachside eatery, plus there are a pool bar and oddly, an Irish Pub. Room service is available throughout the day and into the evening. Breakfast isn't included with the standard rate. Food mostly receives positive reviews. Wi-Fi is free but can be spotty.