Though familiar with the tropics, this was our first time in Thailand. We went with extended family, for our son's wedding.
The small villa complex included a range of accommodation from a single en suite room to a 3 bedroom villa. Most have plunge pools. Various members of our family occupied most of the villas. Everyone was impressed by their accommodation, which was well thought out and comfortable.
My husband and I and a grown-up son had a 2 bedroom (both en suite) villa with large sitting room, kitchen area and all facilities. Whatever we needed, we just had to ask. Our wardrobe was a bit small, so I asked for extra hanging space, and a double rail on wheels was provided immediately. The kitchen area was well equipped and convenient, and there was a utility room with an excellent washing machine. The daily maid service was fairly unobtrusive, and everyone was very pleasant and helpful.
For meals there was an excellent chef service which we used every day, all eating together in one or other of the villas. There were several cafes nearby if needed, and restaurants in nearby towns, accessible by taxi.
The back of the complex opens directly on to the beach, which looks beautiful – though I did have reservations about the many dogs, which seem to be a feature of Thailand. There is no rabies on Koh Samui, but I did wonder about the hygiene aspects, particularly for those with small children on the beach. The sea is shallow for a long way out, but with quite a lot of rocks and coral which can be a bit near the surface at low tide. The beach is quite well used, but not at all crowded. Within our complex, a very good swimming pool made swimming and pool-side lounging easy and pleasurable. Sunscreen is essential. There are a few mosquitoes, but not many, and they are easily kept at bay.
A number of small local shops and a 7-11 are within easy walking distance. For more serious shopping, several towns are easily accessible by taxi – bookable by phone from Lotus Terraces. I wouldn't class Koh Samui as a shopping destination, and the places I saw seemed rather aimed at tourists (I didn't buy much). But you can find whatever you need. There are a couple of luxury hotels on the island, for extra swish lunches or evenings out, and lots of clubs and bars in the towns if you like that sort of thing.
This holiday was not cheap, but Lotus Terraces are very comfortable and convenient, with helpful staff.