James,
The rates for the pool villa for Diamond Cliff are around $ 160-190 on precissionreservations. com. But if the hotel is not good or well located I will not go for it. We would love to indulge in luxury but not if the hotel is not good…I have still not been able to convince my husband on the Phuket gamble. If Phuket is out, I have shortlisted the following in Ko samui but don’t know which to choose. I’m aware that they are on different beaches but it’s the hotel accommodation that will help me with my final decision rather than the beach.

1. Poppies
2. Chaweng Regent
3. Whitehouse
4. Central Samui

Any feedback on the above.

this year the rainy season in bkk has been pritty rough.. it seems to rain twice a day and the rains last a couple of hours.. I've been flooded in a couple of times already.. it's not like other years where you'd see a huge black cloud comming from the west you'd take refuge at home or a mall for 30 minuts and thats it.

To my knowledge there are only a few actual pool villas at Diamond Cliff and they are very expensive, are you 'sure' that price they gave you is for a pool villa and not just a deluxe room?
Do check!
As orgy says there has been rain around certainly but then again rain was sorely needed, now I have fruit on the trees!

James,
I think I will skip the idea of a private pool. Maybe next time and later in life somewhere... Another friend also told me about the rains in Phuket. I guess I will have to drop Phuket and think of Ko Samui. I'm still confused as to the Central Samui, Chaweng Regent and the Poppies...

Just found this forum searching for this year's holiday. Highly recommend Aleenta in Pranburi, just outside of Hua Hin for complete pampering. The design is avant garde, full of personal touch and attention to details. Service is to die for, food excellent, location amazing. Been there and loved it. Just heard that they are opening a new hotel in Phuket but not completely ready yet, soft opening deal could be prove a good bargain. I saw the picture and great review on their new hotel on Vogue and Elle April issue.