The LibraryvsBanyan Tree Samui
Both The Library and Banyan Tree Samui are highly recommended by professional travelers. On balance, The Library scores significantly higher than Banyan Tree Samui. The Library ranks #4 in Koh Samui with approval from 12 reviews including DK Eyewitness, Condé Nast Traveler and Rough Guide.
The Library Show All Reviews
14/1 Moo 2, Chaweng, Bophut, Ko Samui 84320, Thailand
From $157/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Laundry Service
Concierge
"The bloodred-tiled pool is the dramatic centerpiece, with huge pillows and daybeds beside it. High white walls and black-lacquer floors provide museumlike backdrops for Thai antiques."
Fodor's
"This place is so fun that it's worth a visit for its amusingly hip decor—check out the white figures reading books on the lawn, inviting you to lounge as well." Full review
Jetsetter
"A high-design hideaway dotted with artwork and sculptures on one of Koh Samui's best beaches." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"In crowded Chaweng Beach, this 26-room hotel’s high style attracts a stream of beachcombers (prepare to show your key to the hotel gatekeeper)." Full review
DK Eyewitness
"The minimalist white rooms are striking and the restaurant called The Page is excellent."
Star Service
"Even from the airplane, this resort stands out on Koh Samui's crowded Chaweng Beach, thanks to its distinct and dramatic red-tile swimming pool." Full review
Rough Guide
"High-concept design hotel, based around a library of books, DVDs and CDs with computer terminals."
Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This place is too cool for school, which is ironic since it's called 'The Library'. The entire resort is a sparkling white mirage accented with black trimming and slatted curtains." Full review
Oyster
Luxury
"With its superb design and striking red-colored swimming pool, The Library is arguably the hippest luxury beachfront resort in Koh Samui." Full review
Mr & Mrs Smith
"There’s nothing like relaxing on a beautiful beach with a good book, and the luxurious, modern The Library hotel set along Koh Samui’s famous Chaweng Beach takes this notion to the next level." Full review
Banyan Tree Samui
99/9 Moo 4, Lamai Beach, Maret, Ko Samui 84310, Thailand
From $360/night
- Bar/Lounge
- Hot Tub
- Free Internet
- Room Service
- Free Breakfast
- Shuttle Bus
Jetsetter
"It’s not often that this travel writer gets picked up at the airport by a Mercedes. But it was my first indication of the impressive details that set Banyan Tree Samui apart." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler
"The party-happy sands of Chaweng are just over the ridgeline to the north of Banyan Tree’s private, palm-lined bay, part of a hidden valley on the eastern shore of Koh Samui." Full review
Star Service
"Built on a steep hill, like the superior Four Seasons, this resort sprawls its villas down the slope toward the waterfront with exceptional views along the way." Full review
i
Ask for units 1 through 4 in this category, even though the staff is shy about providing the resort map and promising certain villas.
Rough Guide
"Occupying a steep-sided, landscaped valley, with towering views of Chaweng from the lobby bar, Banyan Tree provides the height of luxury in its beautiful, stilted pool villas."
Oyster
Luxury
"The 88-villa Banyan Tree Samui is an intimate, ultra-luxury property that draws those seeking an exclusive taste of the high life." Full review
i
However, those wishing to explore the island can request free shuttle service to nearby towns.
The Telegraph
9.0
"The Banyan Tree Samui is a world of its own." Full review
Fodor's
"Surrounding the beach are the 88 stunning villas, poking discretely out of the mountains, set against lush forest, and waiting for the morning sun to hit them." Full review
Lonely Planet
"Phuket’s most prestigious address has set up a sister property along the secluded northern sands of Lamai." Full review
Michelin Guide
"This hotel occupies its coastline in style — with 78 villas nestled in the hills overlooking a private inlet, it’s a self-contained ecosystem of refinement...each spacious villa boasts a plunge pool" Full review
Travel + Leisure
"If you want a full resort experience, I like Banyan Tree Samui for its private beach and spectacular rooms.""