We selected the White House for its great beachside location and local reputation for quality, our first visit to the hotel but not to Choeng Mon, we weren't disappointed. The room, number 9, was in the older Thai style, much larger than those of more recent build, showed little sign of age and the bathroom surprisingly large, without a bath but a good strong shower. House keeping services were excellent, breakfasts sufficiently varied and it was a pleasant experience to view the beach at close range whilst eating. Hotel management was attentive to requests yet left you alone to enjoy your stay. An unusual personal touch, Bangkok Post and Nation newspapers delivered to our door daily! The pool, well suited to younger ages, really could be better maintained, simply daily cleaning up tiles and checking ph water levels did little to improve the smaller build up of debris from surrounding vegetation which was clearly visible, not that it spoilt daily usage. A good experience and one we hope to repeat on our next visit.

We have been visiting Koh Samui, and the other islands, for several years and normally split our time in between 3 different locations on different islands. Traditionally, we have always stayed next door at Choengmon "Hotel", which is great value for money but this time booked into the White House as a special treat. It was lovely to be greated with an ice-cold flannel and a fresh coconut by the lovely staff dressed in traditional Thai dress. The atmosphere is calm, the furniture in the lobby areas appears antique, it has old fashioned charm and the location is first class - right in the middle of one of the best beaches on the island.

The bathrooms are in need for refurbishment however, I quite appreciated having a bath instead of a shower (once they had found a plug for me). You are expected to sit in the bath to have a shower with the hand-held shower attachment and the water does go all over the raised wooden platform.

However, we all enjoyed our experience. The cost was not prohibitive, the pool lovely, the breakfasts delicious, the jungle walkway cool (they spray it daily for the midges) and the service on the front desk very personal. Let's hope they get those bathrooms refurbished soon!