Yes, just a request. No confirmation unitil you confirm. They won't send a car to the airport unless you request and you confirm the booking.
The website for the hotel looks good and it is in a good location. Very close to the beach and only 5 minutes or so from Bangla road, which is where alot of the fun is
Easy to find other hotels ... especially in Patong, just walk around as they are everyhwere. Karon and Kata are a 15 minute or so drive from Patong. It might be good to rent a motorbike for the day and go exploring and find a place that you like. Once again, they are everywhere (just a bit further than Patong).
If you're going by yourself, stop by the Mai Thai bar on Soi Eric and introduce yourself. There should be plenty of other BM's (board members) around to give you tips ... and to have a beer with. I'll also be there in late January to early Feb.
Once again, good luck.
Matt