Hashtag Life sent writer Danielle Willett, author of Aussie Around The World to luxury resort, Santiburi, Koh Samui, Thailand
If you are considering a resort to stay in which will give you everything that the word “luxury” entails, look no further than Santiburi. Stretched along a 300m beachfront, you will never tire of the tropical palms swaying in the warm breeze, and the refreshing views overlooking the ocean.
The beach resort and spa is located on the beautiful Northern point of Koh Samui island, by Mae Nam Beach. It consists of 77 suites and villas, with a variety of options – from the Deluxe Garden Villa’s with a private balcony and en-suite bathroom, to the Grand Deluxe Beachfront Villa, which features a private swimming pool and dining area. The rooms all have a beautiful authentic Thai touch, and will make you never want to leave.
I was lucky enough to stay in a Deluxe Beachfront Villa, and can say that it was extremely difficult to leave my King-sized bed and gorgeous round bathtub every day! No to mention my own walk-in wardrobe, two vanities, separate lounging area and two private balconies. Leaving the room however, is a damn good idea, once you understand how many activities and facilities the resort can offer. Santiburi has something for everyone! The Swimming Pool located at the top of the resort, is like no other I have seen, and with it’s beautiful design and pool lounges, you’ll want to spend a little bit of time relaxing here.
Further than that, the resort boasts plenty of physical activities for all ages, such as tennis, a 1.2km jogging track, Thai boxing, a children’s playground, and volleyball. You can also take some time for Yoga and Pilates, kick back and do some fishing, or try your skills with a Thai Cooking class. If there’s something you want to have a go at while on holiday, the bet is that Santiburi can offer it to you!
On the beach front, you will have access to surf equipment, kayaks and sailing, with lifejackets at the ready for your family. If you’d prefer to hang back on the sand, you will find a number of beach beds, numerous hammocks hanging from the palm trees, and waiters at the ready to serve you refreshing cocktails. If you book yourself into a Deluxe Beachfront Villa, you will be no more than 10 metres walk away from the beachfront. There are also gorgeous egg chairs placed around the beach and garden edge, to enjoy some afternoon reading in the shade. As a sneaky tip, if you hang around the beach in the afternoons, you might also find a delivery of some free ice-cream coming your way, compliments of Santiburi!
During my stay, I decided to soak up complete relaxation, and enjoy a world-class massage at Santiburi Spa – another of the resort’s incredible facilities. The staff will make this a lovely experience, from the moment you arrive and sit back with your cold drink or tea. You will be given the opportunity to select the scent of oil for your massage and will leave the spa feeling mentally and physically refreshed.
The continental breakfast buffet at Vimarnmek is one of the most extensive I’ve seen, and with such a wide variety of foods and drinks to choose from, you’ll never get bored. The option to order breakfast in your room is available, however I would suggest taking the time to venture up to the main building and drool over the countless pastries, meats, cold fruit, fresh juices, and hot food choices. Daily afternoon High Tea is also served in the main foyer of the resort, and will add a little something extra to your overall experience. It’s a nice way to break up your day, and treat yourself to a few delicious cakes, some tea or coffee and some savoury snacks.
To finish off any day, you will have numerous dining options to choose from. I opted for The Beach House, which overlooks the sea and has stunning indoor and outdoor seating arrangements, dependent on weather. There are many different meal options, however if you’re a seafood fan, do yourself a favour and have a go at the Fish of the Day or ask the staff for a recommendation. Alongside your meal, and with the beautiful warm sun setting around you, be sure to enjoy a cocktail or two. The Tom Yam cocktail is probably the most interesting drink I’ve ever tried, and highly recommended!
If you feel like you may have snacked on a few too many treats at your High Tea, or enjoyed a few too many cocktails through the day, you can always visit the Fitness Centre to rid yourself of any guilt! It’s air-conditioned, loaded with cold water and fresh towels, and is equipped with an outdoor training area as well. At least a visit here once or twice during your stay, might allow you to indulge just a little bit more..
Amongst all the activities and beautiful spots to relax and enjoy the sunshine, the gardens are also very much worth a mention, and I highly suggest that you take a long stroll around them during your stay. You can tell that a lot of pride stands in the presentation of the resort, and the staff take extra care looking after its gardens, and surrounding beaches. The level of service you will receive from the moment you arrive, from restaurant, housekeeping, maintenance, and general staff, is beyond words. There is always somebody ready to assist you. The beautiful goodbye song that I received before I was transferred back to the airport, made me want to extend my stay and never leave!
Santiburi is welcoming, it is warm, it is well-kept and it is where I will be returning, for any stay on Koh Samui in the future. It will not disappoint.
Contact: Santiburi, rsvn@santiburi-samui-resort.com
Follow: Danielle Willett
