We are looking to spend a week on Koh Samui later this year and want to really spoil ourselves by staying somewhere special. Can you recommend a luxurious, unfussy hotel where we can get away from it all? Veronica Ward, Manchester

Sunday Times travel expert, Richard Green, responds: It's true that Samui town has developed almost beyond recognition over recent years, but there are still places on the island that are perfectly unspoilt and tranquil. Ticking all your boxes and tucked away in the quiet northeast corner of the island is The Tongsai Bay (00 66 7724 5480).

Set in 25 acres and facing a 600ft private beach and bay, the 83 suite-style rooms are a subtle blend of modern facilities with wooden floors, muted colours, and local craftsmanship. All rooms have terraces, and the larger villa type suites have private plunge pools, open-air bathtubs, and an outdoor four-poster bed for afternoon napping.

It's the only family run five star hotel on the island, which means that the service is attentive, yet unobtrusive and genuine. There's an excellent Thai restaurant for evening dining, an intimate international restaurant, plus a hearty beachside eatery, with great water sports and a stylish spa.

You'll be spared any corporate clutter here, and the eco friendliness goes right back to day one, in 1987, when the hotel's founder created the hotel without chopping down a single coconut palm. A Beachfront Suite is £171, or a Tongsai Pool Villa is from £389, room only.

If you haven't already booked your flights, Trailfinders (0845 050 5871) has seven nights B&B in a beachfront suite at The Tongsai Bay from £1,049pp, including flights from London to Koh Samui (via Dubai and Bangkok with Emirates and Bangkok Airways), and transfers. Or try ITC Classics (01244 355 310), or Magic of the Orient (0117 311 6050).

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