Koh Samui vs. Phuket

Anthony, earlier that day, expounding to Mary on the advantages of buying on Koh Samui compared to Phuket, the more popular of the two islands with Hong Kong ex-pats, and the island we originally thought we should buy our villa on. We were still undecided at this stage and we had hedged our bets by also putting a deposit down on a condominium Penthouse in Phuket.

building the villas

Anthony had the plans of the site in his hand and endeavoured to explain to Mary the layout of the development. This is very difficult to grasp as it is not as simple as building the villas on the land as it stands. Anthony explained that a lot of earth would have to be moved from one part of the site to another as not all the villas will be built on the same level.

excitement

It was difficult containing our excitement as we headed back up the hill in the hot sun our thoughts racing, thinking of all the villas that one day would grace this hillside. I think what clinched it for us, apart from the position and view, was the fact we would be buying a villa, something we had always wanted, and not a condominium.

Italian restaurant

We arrived at Villa Bianca, an Italian restaurant on the waterfront in Fisherman’s Village, which has become a favourite of ours ever since our first visit.
Anthony introduced us to Guido, one of the owners, who seated us at the best table overlooking the beach and Koh Phangan, the island famous for its full moon parties.

Phuket rock lobster

Phuket rock lobster no more... I was the first to finish. The food was delicious and hit just the right spot. Guido tried to entice us with his popular tiramisu, but sadly, we had no room for dessert and settled instead for coffees and Lemoncello digestives given to us by Guido on the house.

Imagination is something

Anthony had done a great job of explaining everything to us, so we had a very good grasp on how the development was going to look. Imagination is something you definitely need when buying a villa off-plan. Afterwards, Anthony suggested lunch so we got back into his 4x4 and drove back onto the Samui ring road.

organic where possible

Guido guided us through the menu and pointed out that they use only fresh ingredients in the restaurant and buy organic where possible. The menu included such delights as tank fresh lobster. Once we had ordered our food, Phuket rock lobster for me, veal medallions for Anthony and a feta cheese salad for Mary we raised our glasses to Royal Samui Beach.

fallen in love

We had had a great time in Koh Samui and had fallen in love with the island. All it took now was another look at the brochure and we were convinced. We had no doubt in our minds that Koh Samui was the place to be and Royal Samui Beach was the development for us. Bye, bye Phuket. BUY, BUY SAMUI!