Anantara - accommodation in Koh Samui

I chose this hotel because of its location on an amazing beach, and the fact I had read that is a more authentic and charming property than similar hotels in Chaweng. I did have minor worries about how planes flew overhead and it being right at the heard of the most lively part of Chaweng. However, as others have noted, the planes really aren't that bad, and you barely notice after a while. Also, it's a large proper and I really didn't hear any noise from any bars etc. If that's what you are after, it is right next to Ark Bar, which many people rate as the best on the island, and you only need alk a few steps along the beach to it. I got the cheapest room but it was spacious and had everything I needed. It was very close the restaurant, pool and best of all the beach. Most importantly for me, the sea is amazing for swimming. They do have red flags and warnings for jellyfish every day but I swam far out with no problems at all. There are jetskis in the sea but far out and quite far along the beach. The beach itself is gorgeous and most of the time you can get a lounger, though as ever, despite polite notices, people still 'reserve' some with a towel. The buffet breakfast is excellent and never crowded. They make your eggs, omelettes etc to order also. I've read complaints about price, value etc but I found it to be perfect. Chaweng is quite manic and as an area maybe I'd have preferred Lamia but Chaweng has the best beach and that's what I want.

Very nice experience. Super clean and beautiful pool and beachfront

I have stayed at the Chaweng Regent periodically for 15–20 years. It has an excellent location, a lovely beach and pleasant pools, within easy walking distance of central Chaweng but away from the busiest area. However, service can feel geared towards high-volume package tourism, which is frustrating when paying the full room rate. On this visit, my room was not ready at the advertised check-in time. After I complained, I was given a very comfortable replacement that appeared to have been prepared for honeymoon guests. Having just unpacked, I was then asked to move to my original room. I inspected it but declined: it was in a poor location beside the children’s pool and noticeably inferior. A few days later, the hotel generously upgraded me to an excellent beachfront bungalow, which compensated for the inconvenience. Nevertheless, this was my second stay this year, and rooms within the same category have varied considerably in location, condition and quality. Despite paying the full rate, I was concerned that my original allocation appeared to be one of the least desirable rooms. The facilities and location remain excellent, and this quieter visit was more relaxing than my stay in March. However, the inconsistency between rooms would make me nervous about booking again.