By 3 a.m. I was comfortably settled in a handsome two-level beachfront suite at the Rest Detail Hotel Hua Hin, one of the property’s premier suites. A shower and some sleep did wonders to improve my jet lag and the next morning I approached the restaurant with a ravenous appetite. Although the staff spoke limited English and I spoke no Thai I perceived a warm welcome. With their help and some exploring on my part I easily discovered the property and its facilities as well as the surrounding beachfront. I spent a few hours walking around the town, visiting a silk co-op store, the shopping mall, and a Thai night market.

At the Rest Detail I found an ambiance of respite away from the hustle and bustle of the city, friendly and service oriented staff, especially Jakkaphat Sooksabai “Tar”, my pavilion attendant who was helpful, friendly and seemed to always be available. I particularly liked the quiet and luxurious seclusion afforded by my suite with a beach view, the delicious food at Rest Gastro, the pretty main pool suitable for swimming and the on site spa. It was evident the staff dedicated much effort to meals, details like turn down cookies (varied every night), amenities, decor and the overall cleanliness and appearance of the small hotel.

Although the weather was mostly overcast with light rain while I was in Hua Hin my stay was relaxing and just what I wanted. As we drove away the morning of my departure and I waived good by to Tar and some of the hotel staff I had met I smiled knowing I would miss them and thought what a great idea it had been to drive to Hua Hin. I look forward to revisiting the Rest Detail the next time I am in the area and will recommend a jet lag stop over there to friends and acquaintances.

Class Of Accommodation Five Star luxury hotel and spa

Concierge Ms. Kanlaya Chankhao, guest relations manager

Connectivity There was complimentary WiFi (6 megabit per second) in the suite and throughout the property.

General Manager Jakri Rujirat

Handicapped Access Main building rooms were designed for wheelchair access although that was not the case for Pavilion and Village accommodations.

Length Of Stay Three nights

Location The hotel is 220 kilometers southwest from Suvarnabhumi airport, the international airport serving Bangkok, Thailand.

Owned And Managed The hotel was owned by BoonKongchuen Land Co. Ltd. (Paithoon Boonkongchuen, managing director)

Pets Allowed No

Size The 2.8 acre hotel property had space for 56 guest rooms and employed 120.

Year Opened-Renovated The hotel was established April 2008

The owners entrusted Ms. Ploy Chariyaves, a columnist and travel writer, to come up with a modern concept for the design. Ploy emphasized detail: “I chose the playful three wise monkeys logo and concept because I was familiar with them since I was a child. They are a symbol of living a wise life, closing ourselves out from the noise of the busy world to relax and take time out. It’s not another chic or boutique hotel. We are a ‘detail’ hotel and I incorporated every detail as a result of my traveling experiences into the hotel’s concept, based on my personal experience and those of family, friends and colleagues who gave invaluable input.”

She meant for make the hotel very spacious, open, airy, with tropical seaside colors, a white background with splashes of color, tile mosaics, chandeliers, waterfall features and outdoor Jacuzzis and pools in the villas, double daybeds built out over the swimming pool in the Pool Village, individual letterboxes for each room and villa, and the incorporation of the three wise monkeys theme throughout the hotel.

Room My suite, the 260 square meter two level Beach Rest Pavilion, faced the beach. There were two entrances, a private courtyard and plunge pool. A handful of steps led from the beach facing lawn to the suite’s entrance of several sliding glass doors. Inside there was a sitting room with an iPod player with speakers, a flatscreen television and a DVD player. Past the sitting room on the right side of the room there was a bathroom divided into three parts, water closet, sink and shower. Glazed pretty glass walls provided privacy within the bathroom. To the left of the stairs there was a wet bar with two stools facing a full size refrigerator stocked with cold beverages and water. To the left of the wet bar there was a dining area and a second flat screen television on a table. Sliding glass doors led to a partial wrap around veranda facing the beach, the suite pool and the main pool area of the hotel. My favorite feature was the suite’s excellent beach view from the entire upstairs area.

Stairs led to a two bedroom sleeping area one level below. Straight down the stairs there was a bedroom with twin beds and an en suite bathroom with a shower. To the right of the stairs there was a master bedroom with a king bed, and en suite bathroom. The bed was flanked by identical night tables. In the rear of the bedroom there was a wall facing vanity with an armchair and an upright small wood framed mirror. On the opposite corner there was a flatscreen television and a DVD player. To the left of the bed there was a half step down to a full size plastic bathtub. Double khaki colored curtains could be closed for privacy. Across the room sliding glass doors behind identical double khaki colored curtains led to a private courtyard with patio furniture below the suite’s plunge pool which was shared by the two bedrooms.

I had dinner twice during my stay and sampled a Thai style noodle dish, seafood fondue set dinner, and rock lobster salad (a favorite). Desserts too were delicious. One night there was warm chocolate fondant with vanilla ice cream served with a berry and passion fruit coulis. The following night I chose mango sorbet from the a la carte menu. There was also tea service in the afternoons between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Mine was served in my suite with several kinds of sweet bites including cheese cake, panna cotta, chocolate cake and marble cake and three savory items including chicken wings and delicious fresh crab on bread. Room service was available 24 hours a day. When I arrived at 3 a.m. there was a welcome platter of finger foods and fruit which was just what I needed after two days of travel.

Facilities There were two on site restaurants, a bar, a swimming pool, a small gift shop and a spa.

Pool My suite pool was 2 meters wide by 5 meters long and 1.25 meters deep. The main swimming pool was 8 meters wide by 25 meters long and 1.5 meters deep.

Spa There was a 252 square meter spa housing five treatment rooms. I gladly indulged in three treatments during my stay.

Date Of Review September 2010

Reviewers Article and photographs by Elena del Valle

Service My suite was serviced twice daily. Although communication was challenging at times since I spoke no Thai and few staff understood English the staff were accommodating and friendly. Tar, who was assistant guest relations manager when he wasn’t busy with pavilion guests, checked me in when I arrived and offered to have the kitchen prepare a meal for me; I was more tired than hungry and opted for fruit instead. During my stay, he checked on me intermittently and served as my guide around the town when I went exploring one day, translating and pointing out the salient sights. His assistance enhanced my stay.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

The weather was uncharacteristically erratic during my stay, with impressive dark clouds rolling in from the sea several times a day, which I viewed as an opportunity to take a break from the beach and sample the many other pleasures of Rayavadee. The spa, in addition to its extensive range of traditional Thai healing therapies offered a variety of excellent salon treatments. Near the main lounge, the Boutique was a treasure trove of Asian crafts, jewelry, antiques and fashion. I enjoyed browsing there before stepping over to the lounge where afternoon high tea was served daily. Along with the complimentary scrumptious tea service, guests were invited to participate in a different craft demonstration each day, from flower garland making to hand massage. Adjacent to the Boutique, the library offered not only a variety of reading material and complimentary WiFi connection but also an impressive lending library of classic and recent American, European and Bollywood movies to be viewed in my pavilion. And when I didn’t consider that an imminent warm tropical shower warranted a retreat, both Phranang and Railay offered a pleasant beach-side restaurant and bar where I could enjoy a meal or a drink and a close up view of the sea’s ever changing spectacle.

Rain or shine, there was much to enjoy at Rayavadee. In addition to the beaches for sunning and swimming, complimentary wind surfing and snorkeling equipment, sea kayaks and even a Hobie Cat sailboat were available at the water sports center. Daily guided hikes explored the most spectacular viewpoints and caves around the resort. And for racket sports enthusiasts, there were tennis and squash courts. Considering the resort’s privileged location on renowned beaches, its luxurious secluded accommodations, and an ever attentive, pleasant and visibly child-friendly staff, it is small wonder that Rayavadee was a favorite of vacationing families as well as honeymooners. As property manager Veerasak Sribunreung remarked to me: “guests first come on their honeymoon, then return a few years later with their children.” I didn’t fall within either category, but I too would return, should the opportunity arise for me to explore further the natural wonders of the Krabi Marine National Park.

Class Of Accommodation Five star luxury resort

Concierge A team of customer relations staff could arrange a broad spectrum of off-resort activities.

Connectivity At the time of my visit, Internet access was only available in the library. WiFi service was reliable, with moderate speed. There were also two wired-access computers for guest use. Both services were complimentary. I was assured that WiFI was currently being implemented in all the guest pavilions and scheduled to become operational effective December 2010.

General Manager Veerasak Sribunreung

Handicapped Access No

Length Of Stay Three nights

Location On the Phranang Peninsula, 500 miles (800 kilometer) south of Bangkok. Krabi International Airport was one hour away from the property (a 30 minute drive to the pier followed by a 30 minute speedboat ride).

Owned /managed Rayavadee was owned and managed by the Premier Group of Companies.

Pets Allowed No

Size The 24 acre (9.6 hectare) property included 98 two-story pavilions and four beachfront villas. It employed a maximum staff of 400 at the height of the season.

Year Opened-Renovated The property opened in 1996. The latest renovation was ongoing. A full update of all the guest bathrooms was nearing completion at the time of my visit.

The main lounge was a vast circular hall. The outer ring was tiled in shades of green from celadon to aquamarine. Pairs of wooden armchairs separated by matching coffee tables were lined against the sliding glass exterior walls. They faced a central wooden platform raised two steps from the ground. Towering sculpted teak pillars held the soaring roof of the center platform. Cane sofas and barrel chairs with melon cotton cushions surrounded rectangular coffee tables. These groupings alternated with straight back wooden armchairs clustered around occasional tables to provide seating. Silk toss pillows in brilliant shades from lime to fuchsia added touches of color. At the rear of the room a wall-size display case held a collection of china bowls and jars.

Across the courtyard the Raya restaurant continued the decorating scheme with square wooden tables and cane directors’ chairs with bright yellow seat cushions. The library was a spacious circular room with long sofas built along curved picture windows for a window-seat feel. With their thick natural canvas cushions and mountains of toss pillows, they formed a cozy spot to catch up on e-mail. Cane barrel and fireside chairs with round coffee tables completed the sitting area. Two personal computers for guest use sat on a long desk by the front window. Built-in bookcases filled with books and DVD’s occupied the rear wall. In the center of the room a round rustic table held a large basked overflowing with tropical flowering plants.

Room My 750 square foot (70 square meter) two-story Deluxe Pavilion, Number 323, carried through the décor of the public areas, with furniture of dark polished wood and richly colored fabrics. The bottom level sitting room featured a central couch cum daybed hanging from the ceiling by wrought iron chains down to just above the terracotta floor. Brightly colored cotton toss pillows enhanced its thick saffron cushions. In front of it, set on a tan woven cotton rug, a large rectangular footstool doubled as a coffee table. The couch faced an entertainment center that held a flat panel television and DVD player. To its right against a curved picture widow covered in light-filtering bamboo shades and draped in tan cotton, a round glass-topped dining table with two caned chairs provided additional seating. On the rear wall a credenza held a tea, coffee and cold beverages service. A rectangular mirror in a bamboo frame hung above it. To the left a louvered door led to the washroom with a commode, a black ceramic washbowl set on a wooden vanity and a wall mirror. To the right of the credenza, a double doorway opened onto the staircase leading to the second floor bedroom and bath.

The focal point of the bedroom was a striking king-size platform bed covered in a bright patchwork of fuchsia and saffron cotton with an abundance of color-coordinated pillows. When I arrived, a wooden sculpture of a longtail boat holding a cluster of bright yellow marigolds was arranged across the bed (the sculpture was moved to the top of the downstairs entertainment center during turndown service, where it remained for the remainder of my stay). The headboard was a built-in ledge that doubled as bedside tables. The wall behind it was covered with a contemporary mural of stylized fan palms in matching tones of yellows and pinks. Swing-arm wall-hung lamps with natural rattan drum shades served as reading lights. At the front of the room, a floor-to-ceiling picture window formed an alcove that held a cane lounge chair and footrest with hot pink cushions and a small side table. Louvered shutters could be closed for privacy. The entire wall facing the bed was covered with a built-in floor-to-ceiling wardrobe with a flat panel television and DVD player in its center cabinet. The landing at the top of the stairs had a writing desk and chair, and a wood-framed rectangular mirror. Between the desk and the wardrobe, a pair of saloon doors led to the bathroom.

A few steps away from the swimming pool, Raitalay Terrace featured international dishes for lunch and dinner as well as full bar service, and a lovely view of Railay Beach. Meanwhile, right at the edge of Phranang Beach, the Grotto Bar was nestled under a cool limestone cliff. It served a variety of juices, smoothies and bar drinks along with light lunches and snacks. A few steps away Krua Phranang offered elegant dining by the sea. Its menu of excellent classic Thai dishes emphasized seafood and freshly caught fish.

Although the peninsula is actually connected to the mainland, it is effectively cut off from the rest of Krabi by limestone headland and steep jungle valleys. A number of commercial diesel-powered longtail boats carried day-visitors to the beaches, which could get rather busy during the day. Rayavadee’s private facilities, with charming beach-front restaurants and rows of comfortable lounge chairs shaded with canvas umbrellas were located at the edge of the public beach. Attentive beach staff was always ready to offer fresh towels, bottled of chilled water and a friendly smile, or to order a drink or snack from the bar. On the opposite side of the Peninsula, a third beach, Nam Mao, was used solely as a landing area for the resort’s motorboats.

Facilities There were four restaurants, three bars, tennis and squash courts, a library, a fitness center, a boutique, a swimming pool and a spa.

Fitness Center And Spa The glassed-in, air-conditioned fitness center featured a variety of modern exercise equipment.

The luxurious 12,300 square foot (1,140 square meter) Rayavadee Spa offered an extensive range of massages and salon treatments that combined Thai and international practices to meet individual needs. In addition to its spacious reception area and lounge, the spa featured seven treatment rooms, some with private sauna and soaking tub. The contemporary urban décor of the low, see-through building surrounded by lush jungle gardens enhanced the relaxation experience of my visit. In addition to the mandatory certification from the Ministry of Public Health, its therapists were graduates from the Lanna Thai Spa Academy.

Gift Shop The Rayavadee Boutique was a paradise for discriminating shoppers. In addition to high-quality beachwear, custom jewelry and accessories it carried original gold and silver jewelry pieces and clothing from Thai and Southeast Asian designers. The boutique also featured a good variety of textiles, ceramics and lacquer ware home accessories and a selection of antiques, all beautifully displayed in a gallery setting.

Pool The swimming pool was exceptional in design as well as size. Located at the edge of Railay Beach, the infinity pool truly seemed to go on forever into the Andaman Sea. Its huge basin was a free-form series of interwoven circles flowing into each other, with depths increasing from very shallow to satisfying for serious swimmers. The surrounding stone terrace was lined with cushioned lounge chairs under canvas umbrellas.

In the bathroom, the assortment of full-size toiletries was outstanding. All products were spa quality, made of natural ingredients and exclusive to Rayavadee. They included bath salts and shower scrub, hand-milled soaps, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, and a very effective jasmine and lavender after sun lotion. I so enjoyed these products that I carried some of them home. There was also a hair dryer, a loofah sponge, a pumice stone, shaving and dental hygiene kits and a pocket-size pump bottle of an unusual orange scented mosquito repellent. In addition to these complimentary amenities, there was a well-stocked pay-for-use mini-bar.

Date Of Review October 2010

Reviewers Article and photos by Josette King

Service My pavilion was serviced twice daily. Staff were friendly, helpful and service oriented.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

It was a pleasant 40 minute speedboat ride to Santhiya from the larger nearby island of Koh Samui. The latter part of the journey was along Phangan’s pristine coastline of rocky shores and steep hills covered with dense jungle forests. Soon we were approaching one of the most private of the island’s beaches: Thong Nai Pan. Santhiya was rising above its own sandy cove at the far end of it, a verdant hillside sprinkled with the sharply peaked roofs characteristic of traditional Thai architecture peering through thick tropical foliage. On the shore, the sound of a gong announced our arrival.

The essence of Santhiya was immediately palpable. Firstly in the gracious welcome of the staff meeting us at the pier, then in myriad details evoking the timeless elegance of the Thai heritage while harmoniously blending with decidedly 21 ^st century concerns for environmental sustainability and comfort expectations. The entire property had been conceived to take full advantage of the glorious ocean views while respecting the topography of the land and existing mature vegetation. The architecture was inspired by the soaring 19 ^th century teakwood structures of the King Rama V period, with much of the wood recycled for the construction of the property. Sometimes this repurposing was seamless as in the grand open pavilions of the common areas with their elaborate woodwork. Other times, mostly in the gardens, the previous function of the landscaping timber was still discernible. Former barn beams were now garden path railings with orchid blooms shooting from cracks in the wood. Gates were held by water buffalo yokes and planking had come from the hull of long tail boats to fence the private gardens of guest villas.

Concern for preserving traditional lifestyle arts was also much in evidence. World-renowned Thai cuisine was not only showcased on the restaurants menu, but also transmitted to interested guests in cooking classes offered by God Keawpeth, the property’s master chef. I thoroughly enjoyed my private lesson with him as he demystified some of my favorite dishes, including Tom Yam Goong (spicy prawn soup) and Phad Thai. I was equally delighted by the once-a-week Thai evening at the main restaurant, Chantara. A wide selection of classic Thai dishes was served buffet-style for an opportunity to sample lesser-known specialties. The evening also featured a performance by Santhiya’s own dance group. Staff members, who come from various provinces around the country, have been encouraged to transmit their traditional regional dances among themselves as well as to young girls from the local school, and to perform for the guests.

Then there was the Ayurvana Spa, an intimate retreat with an inviting covered terrace that boasted a panoramic view of the bay and one of the best combinations of traditional Thai and international treatments I have enjoyed anywhere. And when I wanted some personal time, my villa was just minutes away, with its large private terrace and plunge pool overlooking the entire beach.

I was so blissfully ensconced within the cosseted world of Santhiya that I almost forgot my original intent to enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Thailand. But a morning excursion was arranged for me. A long tail boat took me, along with two lovely European honeymooning couples to deserted coves known for their coral reefs, where I spent two happy hours snorkeling with schools of multicolored fish. As for the beach? I did enjoyed a few dips in the gently rolling waves, and a couple of walks at the edge of the surf. Then having satisfied myself that the beach was indeed lovely, I decided that for me, it didn’t compare to the lure of my hillside Siamese retreat.

Although I spotted a variety of guests at Santhiya, from couples enjoying romantic getaways to vacationing families with children, the accommodations were sufficiently secluded and the resort offered enough of a variety of activities that mingling was purely a matter of choice. Would I recommend Santhiya? I selfishly hesitate, for fear of spoiling what I came to regard as my personal tropical paradise. Alright, I will warmly recommend it, but only to my very best friends!

Class Of Accommodation Five star luxury resort

Concierge A team of customer relations staff could arrange a variety of off-resort activities.

Connectivity The absence of Internet access in the guest quarters was the one unfortunate omission in this otherwise outstanding property. Complimentary WiFi access was available throughout the common areas. Connectivity was reliable and speed was moderate.

General Manager Danny Sukomol

Handicapped Access No

Length Of Stay Four nights

Location In a remote bay on the island of Koh Phangan in the central Gulf of Thailand, 30 minutes by speedboat from Koh Samui and the nearest airport.

Owned And Managed The Chantaravisoot family. Komkrit Chantaravisoot was managing director.

Pets Allowed No

Size The property had 45 rooms and 54 villas scattered across an 18 acre (7.25 hectare) hillside. It employed a staff of 200.

Year Opened-Renovated The property opened in July 2006 with 50 rooms. It has gradually been expended to its current size.

At the rear, a long hall with a reception area and lounge overlooked the square. At the far end, a religious shrine was open to the gardens. The rear and right walls of the hall were covered in teak and black geometric marquetry that provided a backdrop for room-size panels of intricately carved wood and a long brick counter topped with a thick wooden slab of the reception desk. A pair of wooden chairs with white canvas cushions stood in front of each of the four reception stations. In the center of the room, two groupings of carved sofas and armchairs with white canvas upholstery were arranged around matching rectangular coffee tables. Against the rear wall, a tall ebony statue on a gilded credenza served as a focal point.

A pair of narrow pavilions that could be enclosed with a series of French doors faced each other across the central platform. The one on the right was the Sala, a library-like room with a pair of oriental daybeds with white canvas cushions and neat rows of jewel-toneed silk pillows. They were flanked by two tall display cabinets with a collection antique china jars and bowls. The opposite side of the room held a large bookcase with an assortment of reading material, board games, and a few randomly placed lounging mats. The Sala could be closed, air-conditioned and its furniture rearranged for private receptions.

The pavilion on the opposite side of the lounging platform served as buffet area for Chantara, the resort’s main restaurant. It had long wooden tables on three sides. An ancient canoe was used as a serving counter on the fourth side. Chantara was the grandest of the pavilions. Lacy wooden arches enhanced its tall entrance porticoes. The dining furniture consisted of square teak tables with turned legs and matching armchairs. Other than an elaborate circular credenza holding a tall spear-like sculpture in the very center of the room, ornamentation had been omitted so as not to detract from the panoramic ocean view. At the front of the restaurant, a terrace running the length of the pavilion provided additional seating for al fresco dining.

Room My 1,185 square foot (110 square meter) Ocean View Pool Villa, Number 313, was a cozy light-filled hideaway designed for optimum indoor-outdoor living and superb privacy. The tree-shaded deck had comfortable teak furniture, a square dining table, two armchairs and two lounge chairs with waterproof pads separated by a small tray table and a white canvas umbrella. The deck ended at the edge of a 25 foot (7.5 meter) long whirlpool plunge pool and a separate oversized bathtub, both with a sweeping view of the bay. From the deck, sliding French doors led into the teak and glass, air-conditioned suite, with thick cotton draperies that could be drawn over floor to ceiling glass panels for additional privacy. The style complemented that of the public areas. The king-size four-poster platform bed was draped in white muslin. Its square bedside chests held black and gold porcelain ginger jar reading lamps. On the white high-count cotton bedding, a tangerine silk pillow and a gold and aquamarine silk brocade bed scarf added touches of color. A writing table with a tilting mirror and a straight back chair doubled as dressing table. A floor lamp with a parchment drum shade, a built-in wardrobe, a tall wall mirror and an elaborately carved cabinet holding a flat panel television and DVD player completed the bedroom furnishings. From the sleeping area, a fully glassed-in hallway with an arched ceiling led to the sitting room where a daybed with a white canvas cushion and tangerine silk brocade pillows faced a rectangular coffee table, the plunge pool and the bay beyond.

Located at the edge of the beach, adjacent to the swimming pool, the casual By the Sea and Bar restaurant was my favorite for a light, healthy lunch. It featured a good selection of grilled fish, meat and vegetables, along with salads and delicious fruit juices and smoothies that could make me forget about dessert. I loved their take on Salade Niçoise , served with lightly seared red tuna.

Ayurvana Spa This charming little spa was built on a rocky ledge just below the common areas. At the rear of the reception foyer, a carved wooden arch led to an intimate covered terrace where three foot massage chairs and five Thai massage mats were separated by a serene stone fountain. There were also three private rooms at the rear for all other treatments, and a room for herbal steam baths. The spa employed six therapists who in addition to their mandatory certification by the Ministry of Public Health were required to have completed a minimum of 300 hours of training. Their expertise was clear in the quality of the treatments I received, as well as their understanding of my specific needs. I had just returned from a morning of snorkeling when I arrived for my appointment. I had scheduled an herbal steam, a body scrub and a signature massage. My therapist, Jeab, took one look at the back of my legs, which I had carelessly allowed to extensively sunburn during two hours of happily floating just below the surface of the water (the damage was not yet apparent to me) and immediately adjusted the program to a relaxing foot reflexology treatment and a cooling 90 minute massage with freshly extracted aloe gel, which mercifully limited my discomfort later.

Beach The private sand beach was said to be one of the most pristine on the island. While I lacked the experience to second the comparison, I found it very clean, and the water clear and pleasant for snorkeling. Complimentary equipment was available for guests interested in snorkeling, sea kayaking or sailing around the bay. Teak lounge chairs with natural canvas cushions beneath white canvas umbrellas were lined up between the beach and the pool area. Cheerful pool attendants were standing by to offer fresh towels and bottles of chilled water.

Facilities Two restaurants, two bars, two swimming pools, beach, health club, spa and gift boutique.

Fitness Center The air-conditioned fitness center featured exercise equipment.

Gift Shop Located a few steps away from the spa the gift shop carried a variety of local Thai handicrafts as well as a few Santhiya-specific items, such as logo-ed woven-straw beach bags and the resort’s signature burgundy and gold brocade bathrobe.

Pool A stunning 13,000 square foot (1,200 square meter) bi-level free-form swimming pool stood at the edge of the beach. It featured a 30 foot (10 meter) manmade rock waterfall. A second lagoon-like infinity pool was recently built high on the hillside. This pool, which featured handcrafted floating beds reminiscent of traditional Thai boats and a panoramic view of the bay, was reserved for the exclusive use of residents of the twenty rooms of the adjacent Supreme Deluxe Building.

Date Of Review October 2010

Reviewers Article and photos by Josette King

Service My villa was serviced twice daily. The staff was friendly, reliable and attentive. By the second day of my visit, the breakfast dining room server remembered my preferences, not only as to where I liked to sit (in a quiet spot of the terrace), but also exactly how and when I wanted my morning cappuccino. The guest services staff was equally friendly and thorough. As I was intrigued by one of the trees around my terrace, which simultaneously bore dainty white flowers and interesting red leathery fruit, I brought a sample fruit to the reception desk and asked the clerk for the tree’s name. Although she tried very hard she couldn’t find a suitable English translation for it. A couple of days after my departure from Santhiya, I was impressed to receive an e-mail from her manager who had been informed of my query, and along with a photograph of the tree, provided me with the English name for it.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

I was immediately seduced by the understated charm of Tamarind Village and the thoughtful welcome of its gracious staff that made me feel like a long expected friend. After ensuring that I was settled to my satisfaction, Kaksana Thanopajai, the property’s concierge and resident expert on Lanna Thai history and northern ethnic crafts, discussed my interest in this ancient culture. The Lanna Kingdom flourished in what is now Northern Thailand, from the 13 ^th to the 18 ^th centuries, with Chiang Mai as its capital. We decided on several activities, including a fascinating morning walk in the neighborhoods surrounding the hotel. With Kaksana as my guide, we stopped at Wat Duang Dee, a small temple located down the street from the property. There, we delivered the hotel’s traditional daily offering of food to the monks and received their blessings before proceeding to some of the most historic sites in the city (n.b. this complimentary tour was available daily to hotel guests by previous arrangement). Other memorable excursions included an afternoon drive high into the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai for a visit to a remote Hmong tribal village. On the way home we stopped at Wat Doi Suthep, a sprawling hilltop temple considered especially holy by many Thai people. The site also offered a panoramic view of the city below.

Tamarind Village itself offered a unique opportunity to appreciate many aspects of the rich cultural legacy of the Lanna Kingdom. The public areas and guest rooms were decorated with antique crafts and colorful textiles drawn from the various tribes of the region. At the restaurant, in addition to Thai and western fare, one-third of the menu was dedicated to typically northern cuisine. Above the restaurant, a small art gallery regularly hosts temporary expositions inspired by northern topics. At the time of my visit, the exhibit was entitled “Dreams of the North; nuance and nostalgia in contemporary jewelry.” Then there was the charm of the surroundings, especially at dusk when the entire property became imbued with a special kind of magic. I loved to settle into the deep cushions of the settee on my balcony then, and gaze through the branches of the ancient tamarind tree at the last rays of sunshine brushing the golden spear of Wat Duang Dee. Meanwhile, oil lanterns were being lit along the garden paths and around the pool where their reflection danced in the undulating water. Soft sounds of temple bells and chants drifted over the Village wall and with them the spirit of a culture dating back a millennium.

With its privileged location in the heart of the historic town, its refined ethnic atmosphere and warm and attentive staff, Tamarind Village appeared to be a favorite of a broad range of tourists from honeymooners and groups of friends to vacationing families. And it also attracted some business travelers. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there and would gladly plan a longer visit, using Tamarind Village as a base to explore the tribal areas of Northern Thailand.

Class Of Accommodation Luxury boutique hotel

Concierge Kaksana Thanopajai

Connectivity There was complimentary WiFi connectivity throughout the property. Access from my suite was reliable and fast.

General Manager Naphat Nutsati

Handicapped Access No

Length Of Stay Three nights

Location Within the walls of Chiang Mai’s historic city, a 20-minute drive from the airport.

Owned- Managed Tamarind Village was owned and managed by the Premier Group of Companies.

Pets Allowed No

Size The one-acre (4,046 square meter) property included 42 rooms and three suites in two level structures set around three private courtyards. It could accommodate up to 90 guests and employed a staff of 60.

Year Opened-Renovated Tamarind Village opened in 2001. The bathrooms were fully renovated in 2006. The spa was added in 2007.

Room The décor of my 325 square foot (30 square meter) Lanna Deluxe Room, Number 1201, continued the rustic theme of the common areas, with whitewashed rough-plastered walls and cathedral ceilings, anthracite gray polished concrete floors and dark wooden furniture with natural woven rattan inserts. It harmoniously combined the elegant simplicity of organic materials with modern comforts. A pair of French doors, curtained in shirred white cotton led into the room. A tan and dark green woven cotton throw rug outlined the foot of the king-size platform bed clad in crisp white high-count cotton. On the right of the bed, a bedside table held a tall lamp with a rattan cylinder base and a natural parchment shade. A barrel-shaped armchair with a white canvas cushion sat on the left of the bed. On the opposite wall, a writing desk with a wooden stool and desk lamp, and an armoire that held the television set stood on either side of the entrance door. A colorful display of rustic lacquered boxes and intricately embroidered tribal children’s hats in multiple shades of red stood on top of the armoire. A framed contemporary etching of classic northern Thai graphics hung above the desk. A tray with a tea and coffee service, and two lacquered cylinder boxes holding bottles of water were tucked in the corner next to the desk. Two large floor-to-ceiling closets on either side of central double doors partitioned the bedroom from the bathroom. At the front of the room, French doors opened onto an inviting roofed balcony. A loveseat was built into the railing. In front of it a low butler’s tray held a pot of white orchids. I especially enjoyed lingering there to reminisce on the day’s activities, or process my e-mail (via the room’s WiFi connection); or simply watch birds flutter about the flowering trees that bordered the courtyard.

In addition to a variety of tempting Thai and international dishes, the menu offered a selection of authentic northern Thai dishes, from original family recipes said to have been handed down through generations. While I cannot speak to the veracity of this claim, I can vouch for the success of the outcome. I ordered all my meals from the northern Thai menu, including breakfast when I eschewed the standard buffet offerings for a more traditional Thai soup. My dinner favorites were deep-fried bamboo shoot stuffed with ground pork, served with a hot but sweet peanut sauce; fish marinated in curry, then served en papillote in banana leaves over jasmine rice, and a divine coffee custard which I ordered repeatedly.

Facilities Ruen Tamarind, the restaurant, the Village Spa, a swimming pool and a gift and clothing boutique.

Gift Shop The attractive gift boutique was located next to the reception area. It offered a selection of clothing made from tribal textiles, antique crafts and art pieces, souvenirs created by local designers and some interesting custom and ethnic jewelry. At the time of my visit, it also featured a limited selection of gold and silver jewelry by the artists on display in the hotel’s art gallery.

Pool The 25 by 58 foot (7.65 by 17.60 meter) swimming pool was set in a sunny terracotta-tiled terrace filled with tropical plants and flowers. On two sides, the pool was surrounded by lounge chairs with apricot-colored cushions under matching garden umbrellas. On the third side, there were three daybeds lined along the high outer wall of the property, an ideal spot for sunbathing. The fourth side was the restaurant terrace, furnished with square dining tables and rattan armchairs for al fresco poolside meals.

Spa The Village Spa was a serene sanctuary located on the second floor of the most secluded courtyard within Tamarind Village. The public areas of the spa embraced the Lanna Thai architectural concept of open galleries under a tiled roof. Besides the large polished wood reception desk, the area was furnished with antique chests holding pottery bowls overflowing with impressive arrangements of orchids. Loveseats were built into the galleries’ railing to face the doors of the six treatment rooms; their white seat cushions effectively showed off a profusion of pillows covered with intricate tribal weavings in shades of crimson and fuchsia.

Veenarat Sumrej, spa supervisor, offered me a refreshing herbal beverage and invited me to select from an assortment of natural essential oils the scent I would prefer for my massage. She explained that the spa used only herbal products drawn from the Lanna Thai heritage of natural healing. She recommended the Village Signature Massage to restore my travel-weary body, and introduced me to my therapist, Phailin Duangkum. After a traditional foot bath and short foot massage, Phailin ushered me into my private treatment room. The 90-minute Signature Massage was a heavenly combination of deep-tissue massage and application of heated herbal pouches. It soothed every fiber of my body, left my skin velvet smooth and my psyche so contented that I couldn’t wait to return. I did the next day after a long hike in the mountains, for a foot reflexology treatment, which left not only my feet but also my entire body in such a state of wellbeing that I wished I could package the experience and bring it home with me.

Date Of Review October 2010

Reviewers Article and photos by Josette King

Service The room was serviced twice daily. Staff members were unfailingly attentive and friendly.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

Then there is the North, a vast mountainous, fertile region where the ancient Lanna Kingdom once flourished with Chiang Mai as its capital. Successive Burmese invasions caused its kings to abandon it in the 18 ^th century in favor of Bangkok, 435 miles (700 kilometers) to the south. But even stripped of its capital status, Chiang Mai traversed the centuries with its historic charm intact. Its medieval moat still surrounds the historic city, although little remains of its fortification walls. Contemporary Chiang Mai counts over 300 Wats (Thai for Buddhist temple), the oldest dating back to the 14 ^th century. Most of them are still in use, their stunning wooden structures and elaborate scalloped rooflines painstakingly maintained. The city is surrounded by steep hills covered with lush rainforests that are still home to a few isolated hill-tribes. While the city’s popularity has increased in recent years and it now welcomes close to one million visitors per year, it has retained its provincial laid back atmosphere.

Lastly, there is Southern Thailand, the long, narrow stretch of land between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, running 750 miles (1,200 kilometers) southward from Bangkok to the Malaysian border. This is the land of deserted white sand beaches lined with groves of coconut palms, made famous in the 1970’s by a generation of back-packing European students and American GIs (military visitors). Much has changed in the intervening decades. The stunning tropical paradise land and seascapes remain, from the sheer limestone cliffs of Krabi to the many coral reefs that endure in the waters off both coasts, and many areas have been declared National Marine Parks (although their status is often only casually enforced). The quaint fishing villages and back-packers bungalows have been crowded out by luxury seaside resorts. The largest of the islands, such as Phuket and Koh Samui now have convenient international airport that can receive commercial jets filled with vacationers directly from Europe and various parts of Asia. However, in spite of this influx of tourists, the Thai people I encountered have retained the serene and dignified demeanor deeply rooted in their Buddhist traditions. They remain warm and welcoming to visitors and proud to share with them their rich natural and cultural heritage. Small wonder that many consider Thailand the most popular tourist destination in the region. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit there and found it to be an ideal introduction to Southeast Asia.

Currency The baht is the currency of Thailand (THB). At the time of my visit the exchange rate was 30 THB to the U.S. dollar.

Electrical Current 220 Volts. Wall receptacles accommodated the flat prongs used in the U.S. and Japan as well as the round prongs in use in many parts of Europe.

Health And Vaccinations As is the case in most tropical countries, Thailand has its share of exotic diseases. Malaria is not a problem in any of the major tourist areas, but it is endemic in rural areas along the borders with Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. Although rare, Dengue fever could conceivably be encountered. The easiest protection was to avoid mosquito bites by wearing long pants and long sleeves and use repellent at dusk in mosquito areas. As always when traveling in far-flung areas, I made sure to use only bottled water for drinking and oral hygiene.

How To Get There Bangkok is the largest air travel hub in Southeast Asia. With most airlines that serve Asia flying there, there were many available flights, with competition keeping fares reasonable. A few international flights from Europe and parts of Asia also flew directly into Chiang Mai, Phuket, Koh Samui and Krabi.

Location At the heart of Southeast Asia. Thailand is bordered to the northeast by Laos and Cambodia, to the northwest by Republic of the Union of Myanmar (formerly Burma) and to the South by Malaysia.

Measures Metric system

Money Issues Currency could easily be exchanged at banks located at the airports and in tourist areas. In addition to a commission they charged a fee for each traveler’s check cashed. Money could also be conveniently withdrawn at ATMs. This was a good way to avoid the exchange commission, but in addition to the transaction fee for overseas withdrawals now charged by most banks to their cardholders, there was a 150 baht surcharge for use of foreign cards at all banks’ ATMs in Thailand. When shopping in the many markets and bazaars, it was best to carry small denomination notes as vendors did not carry much change.

Technology Comparable to that of western countries. Reliable and often complimentary WiFi was available wherever I visited, most often in my room as well as in public areas. Connection speed ranged from moderate to fast. My quad band cell phone consistently had clear connections.

Time GMT/UTC plus seven hours

Transportation The country’s modern infrastructure made it easy to get around Thailand. In addition to reliable and reasonably priced local airlines that served major tourist areas of the country, there was a good and inexpensive railroad network. Trains were punctual but very slow. For visitors who preferred to drive, there was a network of paved roads and highways, and a number of international car rental agencies in the main tourist centers. Traffic in Bangkok was congested and at times very slow moving.

The Southern Beaches This once quasi-deserted tropical paradise has experienced enormous changes over the past decade. With jumbo jets providing easy and affordable air-travel, these beaches are now a one non-stop flight away (albeit a lengthy one) from many European and Asian capitals. To accommodate this influx of tourists, sprawling luxury resorts have multiplied along the coastline, offering a wide range of activities to their guests, from water sports to Thai cooking lessons, spa retreats and gourmet dining. Many of these resorts have become destinations onto themselves. This development has come at an environmental cost however, starting with the impact of the resorts on the beaches. Most of the beaches are public property which means that except for the rare exceptions were resorts have private beaches, even in otherwise secluded areas guests can expect to share the sand with day-trippers, often brought there by local diesel-powered longtail boats. Therefore the most popular areas get crowded and sometimes are no longer deserving of the adjective “pristine” long used to describe them.

Chiang Mai Set in superb mountain surroundings, this easily walkable city of 400,000 people was filled with colorful wooden temples that gave an interesting insight into its heritage as the capital of the historic Kingdom of Lanna (Sanskit for “land of a million rice fields”). It was also a center of rich artisanal traditions that still produced outstanding crafts such as tribal weavings and embroideries, lacquer and celadon ceramic ware and woodcarvings. The craftspeople sold their work in stalls at the Night Bazaar and the Sunday Market, which made for a friendly and colorful shopping experience. The Bazaar and the Market had large open-air food courts with a broad variety of local delicacies, which I couldn’t always identify but sampled just the same without any noticeable side effects.

Other There was no visa requirements for tourists with passports from most western countries staying for less then 30 days, but the passport was required to have at least six months of remaining validity.

Mindful of reports by several reliable news organizations including the London Times and the BBC of a scam having been perpetrated on tourists at the Bangkok international airport duty free shops, I avoided browsing there. According to these 2009 news stories, several tourists had reported being falsely accused of shoplifting then held until they paid sizable sums to obtain their freedom. I settled instead in one of the many restaurants and coffee shops that offered complimentary WiFi Internet access to their patrons.

Reviewers Article by Josette King

Photographs by Elena del Valle and Josette King

Would You Visit Again? Yes

From my suite, a pathway through the gardens led down to the beach, an easy few minutes’ walk below. Halfway down, an adults-only half-moon infinity pool was built on a rocky ledge overlooking the ocean. The private beach was large enough as to often appear quasi deserted. In addition to the usual sunning, swimming and bodysurfing, it offered complimentary water-sports, such as snorkeling, sea kayaking and wind surfing. It also featured a pleasant beachside restaurant and a lake-sized family pool with a special children’s corner. I continued on, a couple of minutes up the other side of the hill to the spa, Prana, which seduced me on the spot for its cool seclusion. I made an appointment for the next day and continued on, back to the main building at the top of the hill.

The spa receptionist had thoughtfully called for a baki (the local name for the electric golf carts, possibly derived from “buggy,” that were always ready to ferry guests about the property), and it was already waiting for me by the time I had walked the few steps up to the road. In the main building, in addition to Chef Chom’s, the property’s principal restaurant, I found a recreation lounge with a billiard table, an entertainment center, an extensive collection of DVDs, and games of all sorts. In the reception area, the guest relations’ desk offered concierge services, including arranging a number of excursions on land and sea around the island. However, I felt no need to venture outside the luxurious grounds of the property, and rarely did during my stay.

The Tongsai Bay had achieved what many resorts often only strive for, a pleasant tropical retreat where disparate demographics of residents can harmoniously coexist. At the beachside barbecue on the night of my arrival I found the various groups happily mingling. A Scandinavian mother of pre-teens confided that she considered The Tongsai Bay the family’s vacation home, where the children were happy to return year after year. Several mature European couples declared it a casual haven to shed the stresses of their daily lives; a quartet of Japanese girlfriends concurred, and honeymooners from all over seemed to luxuriate in the seclusion of their private tropical paradise. I too thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The Tongsai Bay made my short list of places to revisit whenever I feel like going back to nature, without forsaking the convenience of 21^st century luxuries.

Class Of Accommodation Five star luxury resort

Connectivity In addition to designated Internet corners with loaner computers in the lobby and near the beach, there was complimentary WiFi connectivity in the lobby, beach and pool areas and restaurants as well as in my suite. The connection was reliable, with moderate speed.

General Manager Marc Harrison

Handicapped Access No

Length Of Stay Three nights

Location The property was a 20-minute drive from Koh Samui Airport.

Owned /Managed The Hoontrakul family. The Tongsai Bay was the brainchild of Akorn Hoontrakul, the property founder and a noted hotel senior executive. After his death in 2000, ownership and management of the property passed on to his son Thanakorn Hoontrakul, and daughter in law Saisiri. The managing director was Michael Holehouse.

Pets Allowed No

Size Built on a 25 acre (10 hectare) hillside, The Tongsai Bay consisted of 83 suites, Cottages and Villas, and extensive common areas, including a 650 foot (200 meter) private beach. The property employed a staff of 200.

Year Opened-Renovated The resort opened its doors in 1987. The latest major renovations were in 2008.

Halfway down the gallery leading to the restaurant, the recreation center featured a billiard table with overhead lighting. Four mahogany and natural rattan loveseats with lime green and tangerine pillows were arranged in a U-shape with a large coffee table in the center, facing a large screen entertainment center. The far wall was lined with floor to ceiling glassed-in bookcases that held an extensive library of American and European movies. The Chef Chom’s dining room carried on the decorating scheme of the lobby with a mix of round and square wooden tables surrounded by dark rattan armchairs and al fresco dining on the terrace

Room My 1,775 square foot (165 square meter) Grand Villa, Number 505, stood halfway up the hill on the right side of the property. It included an 870 square foot (81 square meter) deck. In addition to its four-poster king-size bed and outdoor bathtub, the deck had two lounge chairs with natural canvas cushions separated by a coffee table, a pantry bar that ran against the back wall and a dinning table with four dining chairs. To the left of the bar, a few steps led up to the indoor suite at the rear of the Villa. Its front wall was entirely glassed-in, while the rear wall had large sliding glass doors opening onto a small, tree-shaded walled garden.

The bedroom occupied the right half of the suite with the other half divided between the entrance foyer in the front and the bathroom in the rear. The suite furniture was light teak, and the floor dark polished hardwood. Interior walls were painted cream and draperies throughout were made of heavy cinnamon-colored cotton. The foyer had a credenza table with a contemporary, art nouveau-inspired armchair. A large wall-hung mirror allowed it to double as a dressing table. To the left of the foyer, the outer wall was lined with louvered clothes closets. To the right of the foyer, a bedroom featured two double beds on low platforms, separated by a shared bedside table with a square wood and parchment reading lamp. Two matching floor lamps provided additional lighting. The headboards had decorative canopies draped with long pale-yellow silk scarves. On each bed a lime green silk pillow punctuated the gleaming white, high-count cotton bedding. By the front glass wall, two natural rattan wing chairs upholstered in taupe cotton faced each other across a square glass-topped coffee table. An open-arm sofa with taupe cushions and an entertainment center with a flat panel television, a DVD player and a stack of books on Thailand and Southeast Asia related topics filled the dividing wall to the foyer and bathroom.

The suite had an electronic safe, a universal converter plug, two golf umbrellas, two bathrobes, two pairs of slippers, an English language national Thai newspaper delivered daily and mosquito repellent spray and coil. There was a large welcome fruit basket and a plate of fresh pastries. Bathroom amenities included a magnifying mirror, a hairdryer, oral hygiene, shaving and sewing kits, a shower cap and bottled water. There were pump bottles of house brand liquid soap and body lotion on the vanity and shower gel, shampoo and conditioner in the shower, along with a fresh orchid blossom. All amenities were complimentary. Additionally, there was a well-stocked pay-for-use mini-bar.

Beach The 650 foot long (200 meter) private beach (a rarity in Thailand) curved between two rock outcrops. The sand was coarse and the slope sufficiently steep that the water became somewhat deep rather quickly, which made it excellent for water sports. Complimentary equipment was available for guests interested in snorkeling, wind surfing, sailing and kayaking. Dozens of teak lounge chairs with natural canvas cushions beneath tangerine canvas umbrellas were lined up at the top of the beach. At the beach and both pools, cheerful attendants were always on hand to offer fresh towels and bottles of chilled water.

Facilities Two restaurants, two bars, one Internet lounge, two swimming pools, a tennis court, a beach, a health club, a spa and a gift boutique.

Gift Shop Located next to the main pool, the gift boutique had a selection of beach items, swimwear, hats, wraps, t-shirts, bags, books, sun creams and other basic toiletries as well as casual jewelry. It also carried a line of attractive Thai handicrafts.

Pool The huge main pool was located just beyond the beach. It included a large children-only basin. In addition to the rows of lounge chairs it shared with the beach, it was surrounded by additional ones under thatched roofs. A 100 foot (30 meter) in diameter semicircular infinity pool was located a minute’s walk up from the beach. It was a quiet adults-only enclave and a perfect place to swim laps or enjoy the glorious ocean view. It was surrounded with lounge chairs and umbrellas identical to those of the beach and main pool.

The Prana Spa was an intimate facility nestled in jungle vegetation a few minutes’ walk up from the beach. It was accessed through a rainforest garden, its walls covered with soft green moss shimmering under gentle waterfalls. The walkway leading to the reception area was made of stepping-stones within a shallow pool. The small reception area was decorated in traditional Thai style with a heavy carved desk and a glass-front armoire holding an assortment of spa products. I was efficiently introduced to my therapist, Jureephon Orawat (Cha for short) who escorted me to one of the three treatment pavilions built into the hill. After the traditional foot bath, I settled into a steam room filled with aromas of ginger, turmeric and camphor before turning myself over to Cha’s steel fingers for a modified Thai massage with emphasis on acupressure. Prana employed up to eight therapists in the height of the season. In addition to earning the mandatory certification from the Ministry of Public Health, they received further in-house training from Master Somkiet, head of the Traditional Thai Massage Revival Foundation in Southern Thailand.

When rampant development of the island at the turn of the millennium began causing a serious threat to its environmental integrity, his successors continued his legacy of staunch conservation practices. They instigated the Green Project in 2003. Under the management of environmental expert Jultamart Tongphauk, the project’s mission is to preserve the balance among humans, animals, trees and the environment. Jultamart gave me a back-of-the-house tour of the impressive, multi-pronged initiative which in addition to strict measures in the areas of energy saving, animals and plants conservation aggressively addresses chemical usage minimization and garbage management. The project also includes an extensive educational component to build environmental conscience among the staff and within the local schools. The Green Project has become a model for new resorts that also understand the need to preserve the island’s natural capital for future generations.

Date Of Review October 2010

Reviewers Article and photos by Josette King

Service The room was serviced twice daily. Service was overall prompt and friendly, with the exception of the breakfast waitstaff at Chef Chom’s restaurant who was casual at best. On the first morning of my visit, although it was clearly established that I was alone, I had to eventually request that the superfluous place settings and a child’s highchair be removed from my table. And throughout my stay, catching servers’ eye for coffee or water refills sometimes felt like a game of hide and seek, even though the breakfast dining-room was not particularly busy.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

I especially enjoyed spending time in my beach facing second floor room with a covered porch. When I wasn’t in my comfortable room I was indulging in spa treatments or exploring the village on foot and the island by car. Even though I went for walks around the village it was nice to have an on site fitness area for additional work outs and in case of inclement weather. Every morning prior to breakfast I worked out before going for a swim in the infinity edge saltwater pool, one of my favorite facilities. If I had time left over after my explorations I returned to the pool in the afternoon for a second dip.

The hotel’s location next to the Fisherman’s Village and tourist street was ideal for strolls. I particularly liked the Friday night night market that lined the already bustling narrow street. Although the souvenir merchandise, tailor shops, bars, cafes and beachfront restaurants caught my eye along the way it was the heady odor and sight of countless tempting Thai dishes that kept me enthralled as I made my way along the crowded street that seemed to go on forever. Another day I retraced my steps in the early morning and found the end of the street, a much easier, though slightly less colorful, task without the throngs of night vendors and lively visitors.

As a nature and beach lover the beach views from my room and elsewhere at the hotel were one of the characteristics I enjoyed the most about the well run hotel. Although there were many other features to highlight about the hotel, restaurant and spa what I liked most about the Koh Samui property was its friendly and service oriented staff. This more than made up for the new property glitches that popped up occasionally. Everywhere I went at the property staff were friendly, welcoming and helpful. In the dining room they would prepare chili free dishes for me, at the spa they shared body lotion, and at the front desk they organized a canopy tour and an island visit. We even found an elusive island pearl shop I had wanted to see. I look forward to a return visit to Hansar Samui whenever I am in the area again.

Class Of Accommodation Beachfront luxury hotel and spa

Concierge /front office manager Sin Samney

Connectivity There was complimentary WiFi in my room. The signal strength varied between poor and medium.

General Manager Indra Budiman

Handicapped Access The property was in the process of remodeling a ground floor room for handicapped guests. Two wheelchairs were available on request and parts of the common areas on the ground floor were wheelchair accessible.

Length Of Stay Five nights

Location The hotel is on Bo Phut Beach and up-market Bophut Bay on the north side of Koh Samui, across a small street from the beach. It is about 10 minutes from the international airport.

Managed Ativa Hospitality

Owned Som Hansar Co Ltd

Pets Allowed No

Size The 8,862 meter square property had 74 rooms and employed 82 staff.

Year Opened The property opened July 2010

The bathroom and bedroom blended together partly. As I entered the room the closet was to the right and in front of it were twin stone sinks and twin rectangular mirrors hanging from the ceiling, one in front of each sink. To the right, in the corner, there was a water closet with a rattan sliding door. Behind the sinks an eclectic curtain, mostly decorative, allowed a clear view between the two areas. Behind it there was an inviting large oval bathtub set on a bed of pebbles. To the right of it, against the wall, there was an oversize doorless walk-in shower with partial glass walls, one facing the bed and the opposite one facing the water closet. A small bead curtain was on the outer side of the glass wall that faced the bedroom. Within the shower there was a rain shower and handheld shower.

Room 3202, a second floor room of a two floor building, faced a small street and the beach. It was one of only three such rooms on the second floor and six in the first and second floors in that part of the hotel. From the covered balcony, my favorite place, I could see the beach just feet away. It was fun to sit in a rocking chair or oversize daybed to watch the light traffic of motorized vehicles and pedestrians stroll by on their way to and from the adjacent village. My room had the advantage of being quiet within. At the same time, if I sat on the balcony I could hear the sounds of people on the street and village, reminding me there were some shopping and many dining and strolling options nearby if I chose to take advantage of them. Or I could just sit and enjoy my balcony which was sometimes my preference.

The room itself had a contemporary design featuring a single doorless (there was a sliding door in the water closet) ambiance for the sleeping area and bathroom. The center of the sleeping area was taken up by a king four poster wood bed which at night was dressed up with wrap around mosquito netting. Identical drawer-less night tables framed the bed each with identical lamps. One of them also was home to a phone. Next to one of them there was a mini bar with a coffee and tea service and on the bottom a small refrigerator stocked with non alcoholic beverages (domestic and imported beer, soda water, canned juices, sodas, Evian in plastic bottles and two Hershey’s chocolate bars).

At night the staff transformed the bed into an insect free cocoon with white mosquito netting elegantly draped over the four poster bed and brought a selection of delicate bedtime bites (macarons, white chocolate ball with filling, pate de fruit, and milk chocolate filled square were some of the ones I sampled), the perfect ending to my day. Although the bed was slightly creaky it was mighty comfortable. Thanks to the extra cushioning and duvet it felt like I was was sleeping in a puffy white cloud.

In the middle of the room, next to the bed, there were two wood armchairs and a wood table in the middle (I preferred the matching wood rocking chairs on the porch because they had cushions and were comfortable to sit on). There was a low table mounted on the wall opposite from the bed that housed: service menu, fruit bowl, two flower vases, a large Teac dvd player, and stationary. Hanging on the wall above the table there was a large flat screen television.

The was teak wood flooring in the bedroom; in the bathroom it was L-Thai clay tiles made locally. Mosquito repellent burned in the room at night left behind by the staff when they did the turn down service. For the most part I only noticed mosquitoes on the balcony once in the early evening. The air temperature was controlled via a digital display mounted on the wall for the central air conditioner. Although the digital display indicated the temperature was 24 Celsius it felt warmer. Sliding glass doors behind double privacy curtains led to the balcony.

The balcony was furnished with two cushioned wood rocking chairs, a small table on wheels and a cushioned daybed set against the porch railing. From my second floor shelter I could hear the gentle surf, the frequent motorcycles and cars, passing pedestrians and beach goers as well as the occasional motorboat. The bay area was peppered with anchored vehicles including a number of sailboats.

The restaurant had 46 seats inside and 28 seats outside and was open for lunch between 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dinner was served between 6 p.m and 11 p.m. One night I ordered room service for dinner and it arrived within minutes. On Sunday I dined at H-Bistro where I ordered calamari and a crab cake followed by Australian lamb with a glass of Chilean cabernet sauvignon. For dessert, on my waiter’s advice, I had coconut ice cream. It was just the right ending to the meal. Wittawat Roongklung “Eh,” an aspiring photographer, was one of the more outgoing servers in the dining room and always provided outstanding service.

Stephen Jean Dion, the executive chef, was a native of Canada who began his career as an eighteen year old apprentice at Les Halles restaurant in Quebec, Canada. After working in Singapore, Bangkok and Malaysia he spent two years as private chef to His Majesty the King of Jordan where he catered to many high profile dignitaries and visiting Royalty. He then returned to Thailand, spending five years at the Lebua at State Tower Bangkok and working first as chef de cuisine of the Sirocco restaurant and eventually becoming executive chef.

He and his staff dedicated much effort to sourcing the best ingredients available. The foie gras, for example, was imported from the Soulard farm in France’s Perigord region. Fresh Maine lobsters and oysters were flown from Canada, Japan, and France.

I liked H-Bistro’s French Mediterranean cuisine and the opportunity the restaurant offered to sample Thai dishes.

Beach The beach, just across a narrow street from the hotel, was tranquil and pretty in a postcard sort of way. The water lapped gently on the shore regardless of the time of day. There was an area in front of the hotel with lounge chairs for Hansar Samui guests. In the calm water, an area was cordoned off for guest use. In spite of the designated area and beach chairs I seldom saw anyone from our hotel on the beach. Curious, I went for an hour long beach walk. On closer inspection I discovered that the water, although pleasantly warm, was murky. I couldn’t see the bottom. During my walk I found two jelly fish on the shore.

Facilities H-Bistro, the restaurant, Chill Lounge, Luxsa Spa, Beach Bar and Pool Deck, an internet room, the saltwater swimming pool and a nearby kiddie pool (never saw any children in it while was there), a fitness center, and a clothing boutique.

Fitness Center And Spa The hotel had a modern air-conditioned fitness center open between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. with computer controlled cardio-vascular equipment including treadmill, elliptical trainer and upright bicycle as well as multi-station free weights. I was the sole guest when I visited the fitness center in the early morning although I ran into guests leaving a couple of times. The machines were new looking and clean and worked perfectly. I also appreciated that there were free weights in my size preference. There was a large flat screen television hanging on the wall, a handheld stereo, work out towels and bottled water. Luxsa Spa, the Hansar Samui’s 670 square meter spa with three meter ceilings had four double spa treatment rooms and a Thai massage suite.

Pool One of my favorite features of the property was the 15 meter by 30 meter saltwater pool with a Baltic green lava sand stone surface. The only disappointment were the loud children (and adults) playing ball on several occasions. The pool was open between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Other Sustainable tourism practices included utilizing recycled paper for all collateral, using refillable containers for toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and mosquito repellent. The property also separated waste by type such as plastic and paper. There was a waste water recycling process that re-treated waste water for the garden by using ultraviolet light and a bio degradable system.

Date Of Review September 2010

Reviewers Article and photographs by Elena del Valle

Service There was twice daily room service. Staff were friendly, helpful and service oriented.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes

Named for the Sanskrit language word for healing and health through water the spa was newly opened when I visited the hotel. The staff explained that they seek to emphasize ancient Thai healing methods based on the four body elements of earth, water, air and fire. These elements, they explained, are regarded as the foundation of the whole body in Thai medicine and healing. The constant interaction of the four elements, according to Thai herbalism, gives rise to the processes of the human body and is the impetus behind physical life. Although it is normal for the elements go in and out of balance in life some believe the ideal is to keep the four elements balanced.

While I cannot speak to the elements or ancient Thai healing, I enjoyed my treatments and time at Luxsa Spa. The first thing I noticed and liked was the light filled reception with comfortable furniture as well as sense of quiet and calm at the spa. I was glad for the refresher towel I received before my first treatment and liked the yummy loose leaf chilled (before) and warm (after) herbal tea my treatments. The staff were friendly and helpful and the treatments worthwhile. I will keep Luxsa Spa on my short list of spas to revisit in Thailand.

Handicapped Access On request the staff were able to provide treatments in guest rooms.

Location On the ground floor of the Hansar Samui hotel on the northern coast of the island of Koh Samui.

Managed Hansar Samui

Number Of Staff There were six staff working at the spa and plans to hire three more.

Owned Som Hansar (the owner of the Hansar Samui hotel)

Size The 670 square meter spa had four double spa suites and two Thai Massage Suites.

Special Training Staff trainings were conducted internally by in house staff trainers: Kantima, the Thai spa manager with seven years of health and holistic spa experience; Ying, the Thai assistant spa manager, a graduate the from Chivasom Spa Academy; and Indra Budiman, a native of Indonesia, who had extensive experience in concept development and marketing. He had experience working with a highly rated spa in his previous post in Cambodia.

Treatment Rooms There were six treatment suites, four spacious double Spa Suites, two Thai Massage Suites and a dedicated treatment area for manicures and pedicures. There were three outdoor salas in the resort that could be used for foot massage and as relaxation terraces.

Year Opened-Renovated The spa opened July 2010

The four elements were identified as follows: The Earth substances are believe to be the solid qualities of the body like skin, muscle, tendon, bone, viscera, and fat. Imbalance of the earth element are believed to manifest as symptoms of the organs associated with the Earth element such as skin and bone ailments and tumors. The Water substances are liquid like blood, eyes, phlegm, saliva, lymph, urine, and semen. Imbalances of the water element are believed to manifest as symptoms of the organs associated with the water element such as blood disease, eye disorders, renal disease, bladder or urinary tract infection or stones, and any diseases manifesting in abnormal urine or other liquid discharges.

The Air substances are believed to be those that have movement like respiration, digestion, excretion, motion of the limbs and joints, sexuality, and aging. Imbalance of the air element may manifest as pneumonia, cough, mucous congestion, tuberculosis, bronchitis, other respiratory infections, fainting, dizziness, and arthritis. The air element is considered to be the most important element in promoting mobility, strength, longevity, and vigor. Fire substances are those with warm or hot qualities like body temperature, circulatory system, and metabolism. Imbalance of the fire element primarily may manifest as diseases of the heart and circulatory system.

Date Of Review September 2010

Number Of Treatments Five

Reviewers Article and photographs by Elena del Valle

Would You Return? Yes

Before my first treatment I spent about 30 minutes in the steam room. Once my body was warm the masseuse called me out from the steam room for 90 minutes of Eastern Blend massage, a light to medium massage with oil, palms and thumbs that “combined traditional Thai massage techniques to relieve sore and tired muscles and to improve and unblock blood circulation.” When I came out of the steam room the therapist asked me to sit for a moment. She washed my feet and calves with tepid water and a mild scrub before we moved to the massage table. At the beginning I lay face down and she used a cushion to raise my feet slightly. When I turned face up she covered my eyes. At the conclusion of the massage she escorted me downstairs, handing me a warm towel for my neck which felt wonderful and a cup of warm herbal tea. When it was time to leave I traded in my spa slippers for my shoes. After two hours of spa indulgence I certainly felt great.

The next day I returned to the spa for a 60 minute combo of The Detoxifying Wrap and scrub. After a few minutes in the steam room the therapist scrubbed freshly ground coffee over my body. Coffee was selected for its revitalizing caffeine and anti-cellulite properties as well as vitamins A and E believed to protect the skin against free radicals and harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. After I showered off the coffee scrub she applied a clay wrap and left me for a few minutes. After a second shower she gently massaged in a balm which left my skin feeling soft and silky and smelled wonderful.

For my final visit in the early evening on the third day of my stay I tried the 30-minute The Stimulator massage just because I had never had a massage like that one before. This awkward and at times painful and uncomfortable treatment was designed to aid with digestive problems and to reveal how the internal organs are functioning. The concept is based on the Chinese theory that the gut is the second brain. Therapists believe the treatment releases stored tension and works at an emotional level. Although a series of treatment is recommended since I was in excellent digestive health and only on the island for a few days I had just the one session. It was followed by a 45-minute reflexology.

Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese theory that the feet are miniature maps of a person’s entire body and so specific points on the feet correspond to all major body parts and organs. This treatment uses pressure points to systematically stimulate the nerve reflexes and potentially by extension stimulating body tissues to improve overall function and well being.

The spa was larger than I first thought when we arrived. Although it was busy (I saw guests booking appointments and ran into a couple I knew) it was quiet and there was a sense of serenity. After our brief spa tour the spa supervisor made recommendations for my treatments, a 90-minute Palm Spa Herbal Luxury Massage followed by a 55-minute Nature’s Dream Facial one day and a 55-minute Surin Massage on another day.

The staff members I met were polite and self confident. The treatments were pleasant and the spa worthwhile. I would gladly return to the spa the next time I stay at the Twinpalms Phuket.

Handicapped Access No

Location On the second floor of the two story main building of the hotel.

Number Of Staff There were 20 employees

Owned and managed Palm Spa Co Ltd

Size The Palm Spa was 400 square meters large

Special Training Staff were trained in massage techniques and beauty product application on site by a dedicated spa trainer.

Treatment Rooms There were nine treatment suites within the spa including one presidential suite with steam, Jacuzzi and double Thai and western style massage areas; two double rooms with steam and Jacuzzi; two Thai and four single treatment rooms with steam, shower and water closets.

Year Opened-Renovated The spa opened in 2004 at the same time as the Twinpalms Hotel

Other The spa was open to the public although hotel guests had priority.

Date Of Review September 2010

Number Of Treatments Three

Reviewers Article and photographs by Elena del Valle

Treatments Experienced I had the 90-minute Palm Spa Herbal Luxury massage designed to blend Swedish massage and a hot herbal compress to warm the muscles. Later that same day, on the recommendation of the spa supervisor, I had the 55-minute Nature’s Dream Facial with a natural honey, orange, milk and a fresh cucumber mask to invigorate and soften facial skin. Both were performed in the same treatment room on a flat massage table (a leg pillow would have been welcome) by Ms. Sukharada who went by the nickname Thip. I also had a Surin Massage, a 55-minute treatment mixing Swedish, Thai and sports techniques. My maseuse was Mrs. Pennipa who went by the nickname Pook.

Would You Return? Yes

The well run property had many appealing facilities including handsome common areas, a beach front restaurant and club, a well equipped air conditioned fitness center, a spa, and a hotel restaurant. The Residences building where I stayed had its own reception, concierge staff and a segregated breakfast dining room. Perhaps because it was low season the building common areas felt luxuriously serene and quiet as if I was the only guest even though I wasn’t. If I felt like company it was easy to walk over to the hotel’s main building common areas or the beach club, and if I wanted to relax all I had to do was remain in my suite.

My favorite place to spend time was in my quiet, private, elegantly decorated and comfort oriented three level Residences suite with its own rooftop pool and the cordial attention of Mam, my friendly and helpful concierge. There were many details like scented towels in the hotel vehicle during private transfers, a necklace woven of fresh scented white flowers to welcome me when I arrived, a complimentary bottle of Gosset Champagne on ice in my suite on arrival (and complimentary with breakfast in the Residences dining room), complimentary tiny Toblerone chocolates, a fruit bowl and complimentary Spanish pata negra ham for cocktail hour in the Residences private dining area that appealed to me.

Although the weather was not ideal for beach time while I was in Phuket, there were plenty of activities at Twinpalms to keep me entertained. Between working out at the fitness room, having spa treatments, dining, checking email in the comfort of my suite and going on a day long yachting excursion I barely managed to squeeze in time to swim in the rooftop pool. The Twinpalms Residences, a place to return to, will be on my short list for Phuket.

Class Of Accommodation A Five Star luxury hotel and spa

Connectivity There was complimentary WiFi in my suite, in the common areas and at Catch, the hotel beach club. The service was provided by broadband via cable and wireless with speed varying depending on the provider.

General Manager Olivier Gibaud

Handicapped Access The hotel welcomed wheelchair bound guests.

Length Of Stay Four nights

Location The resort was located on the west coast of Phuket in Surin Beach, 175 meters across a public park from the beach itself. The airport was about 25 minutes away by car.

Owned and managed Carl G. Langenskiold

Pets Allowed No

Size There were 220 employees, 97 rooms and suites and 21 suites with private pools in the property with multi-story buildings.

Year Opened-Renovated In December 2004, Twinpalms Phuket opened the first 76 rooms; in December 3, 2009 it opened 21 pool suites. According to a property spokesperson, a yearly soft renovation takes place at the property.

Past the expansive main entrance beyond a shaded walkway there was a narrow, long and inviting pool, my favorite decorative feature at the property. The Library, an air conditioned staffed room to the left, past reception but before the pool, was home to two computers for guest use, and a selection of DVDs and books. The main pool, a few steps down the walkway past the library, was surrounded by two story buildings with guest rooms. The pool bar was on the left side of the pool. Some of the rooms had direct access to side pools and others had attractive balconies looking over the pool area from the ground and first floors. As I strode by them on the way to my suite I sometimes saw guests going for a night swim or enjoying chilled wine or bubbly.

The entrance to the suite area of the resort was about to thirds of the way around the pool on the right beyond a short bridge and a walkway that snaked between the buildings. It was much quieter in the Residences building. Although I was there in low season half the suites were taken and yet I never once came across guests in the hallways or common areas of the building or heard them from within my suite. Even in the suite Residences dining area at breakfast I had the room to myself. The Residences building had a private entrance and reception desk although most of the time access was through the main entrance. The only time I used the Residence entrance was the day I left; the transfer vehicle picked me up there.

Artwork was original including paintings by Chinese sisters Ning Bin Bin and Dang Dan Dan. Argentinian Martin Palleros, owner of Tierra Design, was responsible for the architecture and architectural landscaping. The interior design for hotel guest rooms, the main lobby, the Library and the Palm Wellness and Spa was the work of Malaysian Peter Tiong from Odja Design, a Chinese company with an office in Bangkok. The Oriental Spoon restaurant, the Wine Room and boardrooms were designed by Australian Robin Lourjvani, owner of Kuppa in Bangkok.

A flight of stairs and a few steps to the right led to the entrance to my suite, one of three in that corner of the building. Access was via an electronic key card. After taking off my shoes at the entrance I walked on gleaming white tiled floors through a short entrance hallway which led to a living area with a double high ceiling. In other words, the center of the room reached up to the next level of the suite. A dark wood fixture in the middle of the large area served as a soft divider between the living and dining areas of the suite. The living area, to the left, housed a khaki cloth sofa, two wicker armchairs, and a square dark wood coffee table. Hanging on the dark wood divider there was an extra large Sony flatscreen Bravia television with separate Sony speakers on either side of the television as well as two upright speakers in the rear of the room and one on the floor. There was also a Sony DVD player.

There was a two story window on one side and a wall facing built-in desk with a two-line wireless phone, pre-programmed iPod nano, electricity and ethernet cable connections on top. I appreciated that there were two armless chairs next to the desk, making it convenient for two people to sit side by side at the desk. I especially liked that the DVD/CD player was integrated with the television. With the remote control I could adjust the television as well as music on the pre-programmed iPod Nano (or my personal Nano which I was able to dock during my stay) connected to the system while I was seated at the desk checking emails and reading the news online. These were just two of the many details I liked at Twinpalms.

On the wall behind the cloth couch an impossible-to-miss pretty 2008 oversize frameless oil painting by Ning Dan Dan and Ning Bin Bin occupied a large portion of the wall and commanded attention from anywhere in the room. Behind the fixture and to the right there was a dining area with a dark wood rectangular table in the middle and four wicker armless chairs in the center. Against the wall a rectangular table housed a fruit bowl and fresh flowers. A very large window took up most of the rear wall.

On the opposite side of the room there was a white Corian counter with two stools, fresh lilies in a vase as a welcome amenity and two mini refrigerators with complimentary beverages and snacks. Against that wall a floor-to-ceiling closet housed dinnerware and glassware while another housed a refrigerator with full size bottles of Voss bottled water, wine and Champagne. Next to the refrigerator there was a second room temperature open mini bar area with full size bottles of name brand whiskey, cognac, gin, vodka, rum, grappa, and liqueurs on display. In the same cabinet there was a Nespresso machine and four Nespresso capsules as well as a tea service (in a drawer) with three types of Ronnefeldt tea and a water heater pitcher. There was a full bathroom on this floor divided into three areas: a water closet, a sink and a shower.

The sleeping area with an en suite bathroom was one flight of stairs up and to the right. A comfortable oversize king bed with a built-in padded beige head board and identical night tables occupied the center of the space. I especially liked the light and curtain controls set on the wall next to the night table that allowed me to turn the lights on and off while in bed. A second Sony flatscreen television (smaller than the one downstairs) and a Sony DVD player were on a rectangular wood cabinet facing the bed. There were also floor-to-ceiling dark wood closets on either side of the bed one of which housed an electronic safe. A bench the width of the room, where I placed my luggage, stood next to an oversize window and a wicker bench stood at the foot of the bed. The entrance to the bathroom was across the room.

Within my suite the temperature was controlled via central air conditioning, with a digital wall display, and fans. The Contemporary Tropical design by Martin Palleros emphasized strong simple lines, minimalist features, light and space. In addition to the sunlight streaming in from the very large windows on both floors and the rooftop area of course, there were many recessed lights and lamps. The overall feel was pleasing to the contemporary decor favoring eye including mine.

A private infinity swimming pool, two loungers and an assortment of towels occupied the rooftop area, one of my favorite areas of the suite.

For breakfast the first morning in the Residences Lounge I had an a la carte breakfast of fresh squeezed watermelon juice, looseleaf jasmine tea, Chinese dim sum and Jamon Iberico pata negra with a little French bread. In the evening, I visited the Oriental Spoon for a side salad and an order of spring rolls which were delicious.

For breakfast the second day at the Residences Lounge I ordered homemade yogurt with pineapple, macadamia nut and sunflower seeds, Bonne Maman honey, and dried figs and apricots; as well as potatoes, tomatoes, ham, Canadian bacon, sausage, French bread, jasmine tea and a glass of Nicolas Feuillante Champagne.

At lunch at Catch Beach Club (smoking was permitted) I had Som Tam , a spicy papaya salad for an appetizer. The salad, made with young green papaya, cucumbers, carrots, green beans, tomatoes, tiny shrimp and peanuts and served with a sweet, spicy and tangy sauce, was delicious. For the main course my server recommended Gai Yang , a half roasted chicken served with steamed rice (usually it was served with sticky rice but they only had steamed rice that day) and two sauces, a tamarind and chili sauce and a sweet chili sauce.

Dinner at the Oriental Spoon the night before my departure was delicious. I had a mixed appetizer followed by sea bass cooked to perfection in a citrus sauce with cilantro. The manager selected a Chardonnay to accompany my meal.

Any place that has a Nespresso machine and complimentary capsules wins my husband’s heart and any place that has red tea wins mine. Twinpalms had both in addition to two mini refrigerators with complimentary beverages including house brand artesian water, two small bottles of milk, one small bottle of orange juice, two cans each of Coca-Cola and Schweppes Soda Water, five types of beer (four imported) fresh flowers and a fruit bowl. There was a Cuban Cigar Humidor.

The night of my arrival there were welcome canapes (shrimp and avocado, olives, aged ham and melon, tuna with sesame seeds), in my suite.

There was an 8 gigabyte iPod Nano in my suite for my use while at the hotel. It was set on a docking station connected to the sound system and television. It had six music playlists, 100 images of Phuket island and a video of the property (I was able to dock my personal iPod Nano to listen to music in the integrated sound system). Identical iPod Nanos were available for purchase through the Residence concierge for 12,500 bhat.

Facilities There was spa, library, hotel pool, fitness center, hotel restaurant, gift shop selling branded merchandise, clothing boutique and beach club and restaurant. The Residences building had a separate staffed lobby and a breakfast and happy hour dining room.

Fitness Center And Spa The 120 square meter fitness center was well equipped with free weights and Life Fitness treadmills, elliptical and other machines. The Palm Spa, a floor above the fitness center, was 600 squares large. I enjoyed two visits to the spa and three treatments in total: the 90-minute Palm Spa Herbal Luxury massage designed to blend Swedish massage and a hot herbal compress to warm the muscles. Later that same day, I had the 55-minute Nature’s Dream Facial. Another day I tried the Surin Massage, a 55-minute treatment mixing Swedish, Thai and sports techniques. My masseuse was Mrs. Pennipa also known as “Pook.”

Pool The hotel had 1,600 square meters of pool area open 24 hours (I saw guests and their children in the pool area in the early evening). The popular hotel pool was 50 meters long and an average of 1.50 meters deep. There was an ample supply of lounge chairs and umbrellas scattered around the pool. My suite rooftop pool was 9 meters by 3 meters and 1.70 meters deep. There were two wide and comfortable lounge chairs by my suite pool and a scented flowering tree on the edge of the pool.

After 45 minutes we reached Nok island, recommended by the staff for snorkeling. We remained there for about 90 minutes after being taken by tender in several groups. The white sand beaches and turquoise waters near the shore were tempting although the many large jelly fish kept most of us on shore. On our return to the boat we had a cold buffet lunch before heading out to Rang Yai Island, a second island with pretty beaches and a pearl farm store. After we anchored of the beach of Rang Yai Island, a handful of us went for a ride, one by one, on an inflated doughnut. Another group went to the island, walked on the beach and visited the Phuket Pearl Farm Co. Ltd. store (the pearl farm was on the island) which, according to the saleswoman, was government regulated. Some of my fellow guests thought the prices were on the high side in the air conditioned and well stocked store. The customers before me purchased necklaces which the staff were stringing and promised to deliver that afternoon to the guests’ hotel.

Other The tap water at Twin Palms was from a property well 60 meters below the surface. Although it was filtered and chlorinated it was not recommended for drinking. There were four complimentary 500 milliliter bottles of house brand artesian water in the room which were were advised to use in lieu of tap water. There were mosquitoes at night. To go out in the evening to dinner at Catch Beach Club or the Oriental Spoon it was necessary to spray mosquito repellent.

There were refresher towels in the transfer vehicle and house brand Artesian bottled water. The hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World since 2006, had received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for 2009 and 2010.

Date Of Review September 2010

Reviewers Article and photographs by Elena del Valle

Service The suite was serviced twice daily. In addition, I shared a hostess with another suite in the building. Mam, my suite hostess was cheerful, helpful and efficient. She came to pick me up the day I arrived (and the day I left went with me to the airport) and escorted me through the property, showing me the facilities and even translating when we encountered a local vendor on the beach.

Would You Stay There Again? Yes