Am hoping to stay in the Panivan Resort, Koh Phangan in Feb. I've read lots of positive reviews, so looking forward to it. But just a few questions - can you hire mopeds/motorbikes anywhere near the resort and can you get a boat from the ferry pier in Koh Phangan (and if so which pier) or do you get a boat direct from Ko Samui?

I haven't stayed at Panviman but it is between two beautiful beaches, Thong Nai Pan Noi and Thong Nai Pan Yai - up on the headland. You can definitely get boats from both Haad Rin and Thong Sala round to there. I think though there is a direct boat that runs from either Big Buddha and Bophut - or at least there used to be. From memory, it used to run in peak season only. Are you staying on Ko Samui beforehand - you will be able to arrange it easily from there, travel agencies are every other shop.

Sorry - Big Buddha and Bophut are both on north coast of Samui

yes, I stayed at Panivan resort once for a few days but it was some years ago and I couldn't honestly tell you how it is these days in regard to condition or service. But the situation is absolutely lovely with beautiful sweeping views of the sea & beaches. By the way the beach just below, Thong Nai Pan noi is one of the prettiest in Thailand. It was the favorite beach of one of the Thai kings, I forget which one.

I stayed there many years ago and thought it was fantastic. It has to be one of the most beautiful beach locations I've ever seen. I don't know how it is these days, but hope it has stayed the same. It was pristine and quiet when I was there and required taking a very long, dusty, and bumpy ride from the main port on the island. Hope you can post a trip report when you get back. Have a great time.