While internationally recognised hotel chains, superstores, and shopping centres have appeared and transformed the look of many parts of Samui, Lamai remains a very charming part of this tropical island. Although most traces of the island’s backpacker history have disappeared, the famed ambience and unique atmosphere have survived the developments, particularly at .Lamai Wanta Beach Resort.

This 3* resort, established 10 years ago by two medical professionals, is located right on the beach at the very center of Lamai. It is in a close proximity to all the shops, banks and restaurants but due to its somewhat sheltered position it still provides peace and exclusivity from any tourist chaos found on the busy strip.

The main accommodation block is inexpensive, faily basic yet well situated in a large tropical garden of tropical trees, with generous spaces between them for scenic paths surrounded by flower beds. The real gen of the place is its 60-meter frontage facing the beautiful ocean and white sandy beach. The ocean is warm and can easily be enjoyed pretty much all year round from this resort, plus the decent outdoor pool is a welcome addition to the beach scene.

Heralded as one of the best resorts in Lamai on Tripadviser.com, this resort does have many excellent reviews - from solo travelers, couples, and families alike. This beachfront property is located at the best spot on Lamai Beach, and the best rooms can be found right near the beach – it’s really well worth paying the extra to be in a Sea-View Villa.

This higher-level accommodation provides immediate access to the pool, and also to the resort’s ‘Coast Restaurant’. The beach-front eatery serves both Thai and Western cuisines in an open and refreshingly breezy environment, overlooking Lamai Beach. Local ingredients and products ensure the food is fresh and affordable – breakfast is worthy of a special mention as it’s actually better than some of the major hotel offerings, and comes in at less than half thier price.

It’s the friendly service at the resort's restaurant and pool café – which serves up tropical fruit juices to sip while sunbathing – which really make all the difference here. You can immediately feel the staff serve from the heart, making every encounter a real pleasure thanks to true Thai hospitality.

Maybe a footnote for most, but still worth mentioning to highlight this property’s capacities, Lamai Wanta Beach Resort also organizes 'weddings with style'. So in case you’re dreaming of enjoying your Big Day in paradise, Lamai Beach Resort would make a beautiful beach wedding venue. They offer a variety of options, from traditional Thai ceremonies to a fully Western style event including food  - perfect if you like the idea of a low-key yet very special wedding solution.

Visit Lamai Wanta Beach Resort Online: LamaiWanta.com
Tried & tested, verdict: recommended!

Getting there:
As you probably know, there are several daily air connections from Budapest to Bangkok. From there, Asia's best Regional airline, Bangkok Airways, operates several daily flights from Bangkok to Koh Samui. Flying to Samui is far more convenient, and efficient when taking time into consideration, than using a bus / train and ferry combination.

The 'boutique business lounge' at the award winning Koh Samui Airport is outstanding, therefore upgrading is worth considering to enjoy a range of relaxing and refreshing services, including a complimentary meal and drinks. The latest additional to Samui Airport is the "Soul to Sole" spa where passengers can loosen up with a traditional Thai massage before boarding their flight.

Bangkok Airways, celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2013, currently flies to over 20 destinations around Thailand and overseas. Justifiably, the airline was recently named top 20 most colorful airlines in the world by Skift, USA.