Viking holidays resort

Breakfast was a real plus, with plenty to choose from and different options each day. The resort has been fully renovated and sits right by a lovely beach with clear water. Staff were always helpful when we needed something. The restaurant shuts at 17:00, but there are three other places nearby for coffee, juice, or dinner.

The night before we were due to arrive, the hotel texted to say our booking was cancelled because I hadn't paid a deposit and the owner's friend needed the room. I'd booked directly and had been told no deposit was needed, only that we should arrive by midday. When I later offered to pay for peace of mind, they said no and told me to come before 2pm. This was around New Year, so there were no other island hotels available and we had to change our plans overnight. Really poor behaviour from a place that calls itself a hospitality venue.

The beach was well looked after, the food was decent, and the staff were very sweet. Our hosts were nice in a friendly-auntie sort of way, though not in a polished, hospitality-trained way. We expected a separate bungalow, but instead got a small room right behind the kitchen, with no privacy, no soundproofing, and ants everywhere. There was no room service either. Pick your room carefully and you should be fine.

By our last day we just wanted to stay on the beach in front of the villa and take in the view. The water there was the bluest we saw on Koh Samet, even after visiting every beach. The setting felt natural, quiet, and relaxing, better than we expected, and we were very happy with our three-day stay. The room was small but spotless, and breakfast was simple, tasty, and had what we needed. Great value for the price. We'd happily come back.