Aow Leuk Grand Hill Resort

I came here to snorkel, and the fish were amazing. I saw all sorts, including reef sharks. But walking on the beach was horrible: the sand and grit were full of rubbish and cigarette butts. For the love of God, they need one of those machines that siphons rubbish out.

I was lucky to find a cancelled reservation, so my four-day stay turned into seven. The room was quiet and clean, right on the beach, and the view was amazing. I never needed AC, the two fans were enough. At night, you'll need transport to get food, about a five-minute bike ride, though you can order food here until 6pm and take it away. Pham, who manages the resort, was very friendly. I'd love to stay here again if I return to KohTao.

The sea-view balcony overlooking the bay was what convinced me to book, and I overlooked the lack of air con, which was my own fault. The room was basic but suited me. After eight days, I knew the steep road and track well and felt comfortable riding it, even at night. If you're new to scooters, take it easy on Koh Tao's access roads. I also felt I'd paid over the odds through booking.com, though that's just my gut feeling. I was busy with a five-day diving course, so I didn't spend time at the restaurant or beach area. It looked lovely and inviting, but the restaurant closed at 18:00. The owner said people leave the complex to go into town, which is a shame, as it would be such a lovely place to eat. I hope more people come for meals as well as accommodation. Installing air con would've made a big difference to my rating. The staff were so lovely, and I really am sorry to give only three stars.

We only ate at the restaurant, one of just two choices on that beach. After drinking two fruit shakes, we got terribly sick and spent a week in hospital on IV medicine and antibiotics. Maybe the remote location makes clean water or ice hard to get, but I'm not sure. This could happen anywhere, though they might want to improve their sanitary standards.