This quiet boutique hotel is owned and run by a French couple. There's a relaxed vibe about the place, as the owners go the extra mile to really give their guests a home-away-from-home atmosphere. They are always on hand to offer advice about the local area too, and many previous guests have commented on how invaluable their guidance has been. Guests enter the property through some decorative white gates underneath a small archway. This leads to a stone staircase flanked by Thai stone lions and beautifully manicured trees and shrubs. The small open-air lobby has some traditional wooden sofas and chairs, plus some more contemporary bar stools. A coffee table has a selection of travel magazines which guests are welcome to borrow. The property mainly attracts couples, including honeymooners, plus some families looking for a peaceful, secluded retreat. 

Sallamai Resort is situated up a small hill from the sea in a forested area outside of town. It's a quiet spot with not much surrounding it other than a few other hotels, so it has an isolated feel. It's actually not far off the main road, though, and is around a 10-minute walk to a few restaurants and shops. The center of Lamai and the beach are a bit too far to be walked in Samui's heat -- it's at least a 20-minute trek -- and guests are better off renting scooters to get around. Lamai is Koh Samui's second most popular beach and is a lot quieter and calmer than the party vibe of Chaweng, which is farther north. Those wanting to check out what Chaweng has to offer can get there in around 25-minutes by car, though Lamai has its own nightlife, restaurants, and shops in the center of town. It's a 30-minute drive to Koh Samui Airport.

The 10 guest rooms at the Sallamai Resort are all individually decorated. Guests can expect to see plain white walls with an injection of two colors such as orange and green or black and mauve. The hand-painted details, like vines and leaves -- give them a bit of bespoke charm. Rooms are spacious and light, with traditional Thai touches such as carved wooden ornaments and bamboo wardrobes. The six rooms on the ground floor of the property are surrounded by lush green gardens and are a short stroll from the hotel’s outdoor swimming pool. On the second floor there are two rooms with views over the jungle, and the other two have far-reaching sea views and a private hot tub each. Every room has a balcony, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safe, minibar, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee making facilities. The bathrooms are spacious and have a wet-room style shower with a rainfall shower head, and contemporary fixtures and fittings. 

The hotel has a small rectangular outdoor pool that's surrounded by coconut trees. It has some sun loungers and cafe tables nearby as well. A daily breakfast is served at the resort's dining area, which is included in the room rate. It’s an excellent spread of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, orange juice, croissants, eggs, fresh bread, fresh fruits, and homemade jams and yogurts. Guests are also welcome to eat breakfast around the pool if they wish. The property also has a small bar with a good selection of drinks. Free canapes are served at the bar in the early evening, but no proper lunch or dinner are served. Other facilities at the property include car and scooter rentals, airport transfers (for a fee), free car parking, and free Wi-Fi.