InterContinental Koh Samui Resort

The InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort is a pretty happening place, which is to be expected given its range of great facilities. Guests here had better be well-heeled, as the resort is one of Koh Samui's most expensive. But the vibe is definitely casual, with lots of folks working on their tans at the various pools, where the gray stone decks are shaded by palm trees and lined with wooden loungers. It's hard to say which area of the property is the most popular, but the main infinity pool with beachfront views gets the edge. The enormous lobby, with its pitched white ceilings, hanging wire lamps, and traditional-style wood furnishings is another beautiful spot for relaxing -- the glassed-in coves, with cushioned basket-style chairs, have incredible sea views. The Flames Restaurant on the beach is very romantic in the evening, as is the terrace Air Bar, especially for sunsets, and there are plenty of honeymooners and romantic couples shelling out for a pampering stay here. However, it is not a big party spot (being too far from Lamai and Chaweng), and most folks staying in this more remote southwest side of Samui are looking for some peace and quiet.

The InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort sits by itself along the Taling Ngam Bay, Samui's least-developed area in the southwest of the island. The setting is stunning, up on a hillside overlooking the gorgeous turquoise sea, and running down to the pristine beachfront. Guests would be hard-pressed to find a more romantic beach escape on the island, though it's a 45-minute drive from the airport. The two major beach party towns, Lamai and Chaweng, are about 25 and 40 minutes by car, respectively, and there isn't any other nightlife around. There are not too many shops or restaurants within walking distance of the hotel, but the resort does provide shuttle services and arranges taxis, and has buggies to cart guests around the expansive and steep property.

All the rooms, suites, and villas here are quite elegant and spacious, with a fresh, modern look. Decor includes dark wood furnishings with cream and teal accents; polished wood floors; and large beds with 300 thread-count linens and goose-filled down pillows. All categories have big balconies furnished with daybeds and wooden dining tables and chairs; some have wonderful sea vistas. Other standard amenities include minibars, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, large safes, kettles, and beach bags. The suites and villas have coffeemakers, while villas also have wine refrigerators; some have private plunge pools, too. Each bathroom has a large bathtub, separate rain shower, and exclusive toiletries such as scented rice soap. Wi-Fi is free.

The resort has seven stunning swimming pools: a huge infinity pool down by the beach, another dazzling one upstairs near the lobby, and five others tucked away and color-themed. As if the pools weren't enough, the beach here is also long and used only by resort guests. There are also a full Water Sports Centre on the beach, a small fitness center, free bicycles for use, and a yoga and Muay Thai boxing space with coaching available. There are several restaurants to choose from, including Amber for breakfast buffet; Flames on the beach for Thai, Italian, and seafood grill, with a bonfire area for cooler nights; and an ice cream stand on the beach. For drinks, the Serene Bar in the lobby has views out to sea. But even better is Air Bar, with views of the entire beach and oceanfront panorama from above. There is also a Poolside Bar down at the infinity pool, with bar stools right in the water. The InterContinental also has a well-equipped kids' club, and a spa with Thai massage and a soothing tea-based treatment.