Shambala

Read Shambala reviews

Rated 4 out of 5

Based on 5 ratings and 5 reviews

• Shambala

  There is only one place to stay in Koh Samui and it’s a little place called Shambala. Not just because, quite frankly, it’s the only affordable place on the island, but because it’s LOVELY. Owned by the sweetest Franag couple and the Kitchen by a soulful Thai family. They will point you in the direction of mopeds, scuba, elephant treks, yoga…. There is even an immigration office to too far away if you want to extend your stay. (I did). Let’s talk food for a moment. You can have a killer egg sald, toasty or French fries when it’s sunny but I recommend the Pad Thai and/or fresh coconut. Drinks under their little straw huts is blissful and chilled out Thai cushions a bonus. There are also plenty of movies, books, board games and other such treats geared towards any homesick traveler. Be careful though because the time will fly by. But for 500 Baht a night (800 Hot shower) WHY NOT? Oh- don’t do your laundry across the street. Trust me on that one. P.S I saw a guy walking his Water Buffalo on the beach from my ocean view the morning I left. If you can get it, Grab #6. Best Bungalow in the house.

  • Cleanliness
  • Facilities
  • Location
  • Romance
  • Rooms
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  • Value
  • Vibe

  Shambala reviewed by AmbreIris (Total reviews: 1) on 12th October, 2009
  Rated 5 out of 5. after a stay here in 9/2009

• Good Location

  This was a great place to stay for a short time to wind down after a flight from Bangkok if you plan to move on to Koh Phangan after 1 or 2 days - walking distance to the ferry. If you're after a really quiet relaxing holiday, move on after 1 night. The food was not too bad, though there are other nicer restaurants along the beach, and the gardens were interesting. The bungalow was comfortable, clean and airy and the staff easy enough to deal with. The setting was quiet enough at night for a decent sleep.

  Shambala reviewed by RuthStephenson (Total reviews: 5) on 19th August, 2007
  Rated 4 out of 5. after a stay here in 8/2007

• Mixed feelings

  We only stayed for two nights because we were told that the place was full afterwards. However, we overheard a telephone call later during which new reservations were taken. Please note that different prices are demanded from different travellers. We were charged 1000 Baht/night, whereas as other people only paid 800 Baht/night for the same bungalow. When Shambala arranged a taxi to another resort, they initially suggested it would cost 300-400 Baht, after calling a taxi,they wanted us to pay 500 Baht for the ride. After we argued that we only wanted to pay 400 Baht, they and the taxi agreed on this price (we should have argued for a cheaper room price as well!). The bungalows are a bit dirty, the towels provided very old and generally the place is a bit run down. Nevertheless, the food is okay, the beach is quite nice (however, mind the dog ****) and the water is not very clear. Great cocktail bar is nearby which is called Elemental (they provide accomodation as well) which we unfortunately only discovered on our last day).

  Shambala reviewed by sonjaundmicha (Total reviews: 4) on 11th March, 2007
  Rated 2 out of 5. after a stay here in 3/2007

• shabby shambala

  We stayed almost a week and liked it more after a few days but our initial reaction was one of disappointment. It felt a little run down, the gardens were scruffy and there was rubbish around the broken steps and road. The bar on the beach is no longer in use. Their website led us to believe we would have a sea view and sea breeze when we had niether despite paying for the more expensive bungalows. However, having breakfast on the deck was great (the restaurant has no sea view either) and it does feel relaxed and laid back but we were expecting more. The water is not that clear but the beach is nice and quiet.

  Shambala reviewed by gecko (Total reviews: 8) on 30th November, 1999
  Rated 3 out of 5. after a stay here in 7/2006

• Just lovely

  I highly highly recommend this place. The setting, the bungalows, the food and the staff are all fantastic. Spent my Xmas here and it was bliss. The beach is also lovely and quiet -- and if you want a bit of life then you can quickly get to Bo Phut and Chaweng

  Shambala reviewed by nicolaculican (Total reviews: 3) on 7th March, 2005
  Rated 5 out of 5. after a stay here in 12/2004