Traveling to Phuket during this time is truly fantastic. The latest visit to Phuket revealed incredibly beautiful waters, clean beaches, not too crowded, no traffic jams, and moreover, more than 80 percent of the island’s population has already been vaccinated, with a trend towards reaching 100 percent soon. With this visit, we feel completely safe. We’ve booked our accommodation at the Holiday Inn Resort Phuket, situated in one of the best locations in Patong Beach, close to the liveliest spots of Phuket and just 500 meters away from the beach, taking only a 10-minute walk.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, there are shuttle buses available to transport you around.

Holiday Inn Resort Patong, despite being located in the bustling area of Phuket, once you step into the resort itself, you’ll feel like you’re relaxing in a tranquil oasis. It doesn’t feel like staying in a city hotel at all. Even when you step outside of the resort, you’ll find restaurants, shopping destinations, and bustling crowds nearby.

The room we’re staying in tonight is another zone that emphasizes privacy, perfect for couples. It’s a villa room that connects to a shared swimming pool with other villa rooms, but the number of pool users is limited, offering more privacy. One highlight of this room is its functional design, with the bathroom, shower, wardrobe, and washbasin area separated from the living space around the bed. There’s also a sofa bed, a coffee corner, and a cozy TV-watching area, providing a sense of comfort without feeling cramped.

The ‘Treehouse Villa’ is the epitome of romantic accommodation in the dreams of many. It is renowned for its lush natural surroundings, featuring bird’s nest-like houses, rare marine life nurseries, pristine beaches, and pure air. All of these attributes make this small but magnificent island one of the few in Thailand where visitors can truly experience untouched natural beauty.

To travel to the small but magnificent island, we take a speedboat provided by the hotel as part of the package. We board the boat at Yacht Haven Marina. For those traveling by private car, parking is available at the marina, which is very secure, so there’s no need to worry about the car. Before boarding the boat, there’s an app to download for health checks, including the Thai Chana check-in, fever screening, and most importantly, all travelers to the island must have proof of two doses of vaccination. The island has zero COVID cases, so they’re quite strict about this.

Along the way, you’ll get to see the stunning view of Phang Nga Bay, with limestone cliffs rising above the sea. The journey takes about 50 minutes. ‘Treehouse Villa, Koh Yao Noi’ is nestled on a private bay, boasting fine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Though not as extravagant as the Similan Islands, the sea here is pristine and perfect for activities.

The resort is constructed in a tropical, luxurious, and serene style, emphasizing materials such as wood and other natural elements that blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Despite its focus on natural aesthetics, the resort maintains a lavish and comfortable atmosphere, befitting a 5-star establishment. The recent villas are often referred to as Signature Villas, evoking images of the beautiful villa style synonymous with ‘Treehouse Villa, Koh Yao Noi’. Many envision these villas with a sleek design, featuring a private swimming pool below and a bedroom above, surrounded by lush gardens with a variety of plant species. The highlight of the lower floor is the plunge pool, providing ample space for lounging, enjoying drinks, listening to music, and swimming to your heart’s content.

The upper floor is truly stunning, with spacious bedrooms featuring large, plush beds and luxurious bedding, ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. Even while lying in bed, guests can enjoy breathtaking ocean views. ‘Treehouse Villa, Koh Yao Noi’ provides all the amenities needed in the room, including a bathtub, his and her sinks, a minibar, a television, and fragrant bath and skincare products.

Let’s take a look at the Beach Front Pool Villa. This villa is situated right on the beachfront, allowing guests to easily access the sea for a leisurely swim directly from their villa. It comes with a private pool and offers amenities similar to those found in the Tree House villa.

Nature here is incredibly abundant. You can often spot flocks of hornbill birds flying back and forth. Sometimes, they even come to perch on the balcony.

The main pool is located near the lobby, offering a picturesque view and making it a perfect spot for stunning photos. However, it’s not very private as it also serves as the lobby bar and restaurant area. I suggest walking a bit further down where there’s another pool area set slightly apart, with a tiered design. Here, you’ll also find a steam room. This area is inspired by natural waterfalls and rocky formations.

The evening light here is beautiful and romantic.

The restaurant serves both Thai and international cuisine in a fusion style. There are plenty of menu options to choose from, and everything is delicious. Don’t miss out on trying the recommended dish, ‘Fettuccine with Crab Sauce’. It’s incredibly tasty and rich. Other dishes on the menu also emphasize fusion cuisine.

In addition to swimming, relaxing, and strolling along the beach, the resort offers various light activities such as kayaking and beach volleyball. Another popular option is batik painting.

There’s also a spa nestled within the garden, providing a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature.

Since it’s a relaxation trip, we won’t be doing anything except sightseeing, eating, playing, and taking photos. Visiting Treehouse Villa, I’m sure I’ll gain some extra weight for sure. The orange crepe and mango pudding are everything; they’re incredibly delicious.

You should stay at least 2 days. Today we will go on a Top 5 trip together, roughly consisting of 5 activities that you must do, otherwise, you won’t truly experience the island. Here are the activities:

1. Explore Maldives Beach Point at Koh Yao: Admire the Maldives Beach Point at Koh Yao.
2. Take a long-tail boat ride to see the stunning views of small and large islands.
3. Visit the rare aquatic animal sanctuary, featuring everything from dragon shrimp, water horses, archerfish, to murray perch.
4. Take a tour of the rice fields at Koh Yao Noi.
5. Experience the heart of the Koh Yao community.

These activities will ensure you have an unforgettable experience on Koh Yao.

Chiang Mai is a timeless destination where one can never get bored, especially in the Nimman area. Whenever you visit Chiang Mai, staying there for at least one night is a must to fully immerse yourself in the charm of the city’s trendiest district. Many delicious eateries are located here, along with numerous adorable cafes. If you want to enjoy a rooftop view, this is the place that will truly captivate you. Every trip to Chiang Mai is incomplete without a visit to the Nimman area, and this time, we stayed one night at “Akyra Manor Chiangmai.”

“Akyra Manor Chiangmai” is the perfect accommodation for those who want to explore Chiang Mai’s famous cafes and restaurants. The hotel is stylish and modern, with trendy decor. We especially love the rooftop area, where there is a bar and swimming pool. We enjoyed ordering afternoon tea there and indulging in fusion cuisine or pizza from the hotel’s restaurant.

The drinks are incredibly creative and diverse, with each glass beautifully decorated for stunning photo opportunities.

After COVID, our first trip aimed straight for Hua Hin, which had the perfect combination we were looking for: seaside location, modern decor, and quirky charm for Instagram-worthy photos. Finally, we settled on Kundala Beach Resort Huahin, drawn in by its fascinating half-circle terrace overlooking Khao Takiab Beach and the serene sea, all under a theme of white and blue.

The resort is located in the prime area of Hua Hin, with a wide sandy beach perfect for swimming. You can even find ponies coming by in the mornings and evenings.

Kundala Beach Resort Huahin is a moderately sized resort that offers accommodation options in both building-style rooms and villas. Each villa has its own unique characteristics; for example, the Ocean Villa features a private pool designed like an ocean. It’s especially great for families as each villa has four units, accommodating two people per unit, making it ideal for group stays. With the privacy of the villas, it feels like having your own slice of paradise. Staying in an Ocean Villa, you can enjoy the pool privately with your group.

This room is extremely popular and often fully booked. Anyone interested in staying here should make reservations well in advance. The Upper Beachfront Pool Villa offers breathtaking views with nothing obstructing the sight – just you, your companion, and the sea. It’s a perfect spot for stunning photographs.

The room below is the Lower Beachfront with Hot Jacuzzi, featuring a cozy hot jacuzzi experience with a view of the sea. It’s a perfect blend of warmth and a stunning seaside vista.

This is the 2 Bedroom accommodation, which can accommodate up to 4 people, with an option to add an extra room, making it suitable for a party of 6, perfect for family gatherings or group outings. It consists of two bedrooms with a connecting door in the middle, creating a common area with a television and a dining table. Additionally, it is equipped with a microwave, Nespresso coffee machine, and a handwashing basin.

The upper floor features a rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi tub. You can relax in the jacuzzi while gazing at the sky, enjoying a delightful view of the sea. It’s an incredibly enjoyable experience.

The Master Bedroom Suite comes with a private bathroom and is beautifully decorated to create a cozy and relaxing ambiance. What’s particularly enjoyable is the inclusion of a massage chair, adding an extra touch of comfort to your stay.

The other room also features a private bathroom, and upon opening the glass door, you’ll find a long balcony with seating resembling a daybed. This spot is just as comfortable for sleeping as the actual bed; you might even find yourself dozing off unintentionally.

In the afternoon, I highly recommend stopping by the hotel’s restaurant for tea and enjoying the view of the sea. The pastries and desserts there are delicious, and the atmosphere is simply wonderful.

Since we’re already in such a fantastic location, there’s no need to go anywhere else for dinner. We should definitely dine here.

Since the sunrise is right by the seaside, we should wake up very early to catch the breathtaking view. If you want to offer food to the monks, you can inform the resort in advance. They provide food for this purpose.

The breakfast is beautifully presented and appetizing. I recommend “patongko” (deep-fried dough sticks) and “Gandala Signature” dishes. Additionally, there are many other options available as well.

Kundala Beach Resort Huahin is currently offering promotions, with prices that are very reasonable considering its prime location right by the resort and the style that truly embodies a seaside experience. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the fresh sea breeze, recharge, and experience pure joy through these delightful little getaways.

♥ For more information ♥
❀ Location: 122/64 Takiab Village, Nongka Subdistrict, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, 77110
❀ Tel: 032-536800, 065-1465656
❀ Line: http://nav.cx/6yPRiXE
❀ E-mail: rsvn@kundalahuahin.com
❀ Website: www.kundalabeachresort.com
❀ Facebook: Kundala Hua Hin
❀ Instagram: kundalahuahin

The gang is all set! Let’s head to Hua Hin beach for some fun in the water at ‘Golden Sea Hua Hin.’ This newly opened accommodation in the heart of Hua Hin offers a prime location near the beach. They provide a variety of accommodations, including couple rooms, family rooms, and pool villas for group parties. Plus, the prices are very attractive. Let me show you the hotel first before revealing the promotions. I guarantee the current promos are fantastic!

“Golden Sea Hua Hin” is a large hotel with ample parking space.

The accommodation is divided into two zones: the rooms zone within the main building and the pool villa zone. The pool villas feature private pools, perfect for relaxed gatherings and swimming. The villas are three stories high, modernly decorated, and consist of three bedrooms with complete amenities. They offer a homely atmosphere, ideal for group parties. Inside, there’s a kitchen counter, dining table, kitchen appliances, karaoke system, living room, relaxing balcony, and terrace for chilling by the pool.

All three bedrooms are contemporarily decorated and equipped with en-suite bathrooms.

The hotel zone within the main building features a standout feature: two swimming pools. This area is particularly picturesque, making it an ideal spot for photography. The building itself provides ample shade throughout the day, ensuring that swimming under the sun is enjoyable without the risk of sunburn.

The Pool Access rooms are designed for direct access to the swimming pool, offering modern decor and comprehensive amenities. These include a smart TV, internet access, wardrobe, shelving unit, refrigerator, and minibar, along with complimentary cookies.

The Garden View rooms are decorated in the same style as the Pool Access rooms, but they offer views of the garden. Additionally, guests have the option to choose between double and single beds.

The Standard rooms are the entry-level type of accommodation. They offer views of the swimming pool from the upper floors.

“Golden Sea Hua Hin” is quite family-friendly in our opinion, as it features a playground for children and a kids’ room.

The resort provides bicycles for guests to ride to the nearby beach. There’s also a public park close to the resort, where guests can enjoy leisurely bike rides and feel the sea breeze.

Currently, the breakfast menu is à la carte, offering delicious dishes made fresh to order. Each dish is served piping hot.

“Golden Sea Hua Hin” accommodates every type of relaxation at a very reasonable price. If you’re interested, please leave your inquiries or details below, and I’ll be happy to assist you further.

Not everyone may be the same when it comes to the sea. Every time I get the chance to go to the refreshing and exciting sea, the feeling is indescribable. It’s like this time, just knowing that I’ll get to stay at Aleenta Hua Hin – Pranburi Resort & Spa is almost unbearable. All I can think of is that this is a luxury hotel in Pranburi, just a few steps away from the beach without any barriers. Moreover, we really love the vibes here, as it’s a beachfront villa emphasizing tranquility and being in harmony with nature.

The resort is located in Pranburi district, about a 20-minute drive from Hua Hin. Aleenta Hua Hin offers a serene retreat in beachfront villas, embracing a concept that harmonizes with nature. With only a few villas, the resort focuses on providing guests with a private and tranquil staycation experience.

Looking for a 5-star accommodation in Hua Hin? Look no further than the Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort. Positioned along the renowned beach, famous for its excellent water activities, this resort guarantees luxury and impeccable service, being a renowned 5-star brand. Moreover, staying at the Intercontinental allows convenient access to Vana Nava Water Jungle, adding even more excitement to your stay.

The Intercontinental Hua Hin Resort is divided into two zones: the Beach Wing and the BluPort Wing, connected by a bridge. The BluPort Wing is situated close to the BluPort Huahin shopping center but is also not far from the beach, accessible either by shuttle or by walking across the connecting bridge. On the other hand, the Beach Wing is closer to the sea and the hotel’s various facilities.

We stayed in a Resort Classic room in the Beach Wing, which is a highly popular room type at Intercontinental. The amenities were comprehensive, including refreshing shower creams, shampoos, and lotions. The bed was luxuriously comfortable, and there were plenty of bottles of drinking water provided, ensuring we never ran out. There was also a wide selection of teas available. The high-speed internet was reliable and never dropped out, which was greatly appreciated.

The club room at Intercontinental offers a standout feature with its bathtub, allowing guests to soak while enjoying partial sea views. Although the view of the sea might not be panoramic, the room itself is spacious, equipped with a cozy sofa for lounging, a daybed for relaxation, a bathtub in the bathroom, Rainshower, and access to the hotel’s Club Lounge benefits.

The swimming pool at the Intercontinental hotel is the best. It stretches from the center of the resort to the edge of the sea, with every depth level available. It features jacuzzis and relaxing seating areas. Everyone will surely love the Intercontinental’s swimming pool.

The beachfront of the Intercontinental boasts fine white sand.

In the evening, the atmosphere becomes even more beautiful. Intercontinental has recently introduced CoCco Bar Hua Hin, a beach bar tucked away with a touch of Hua Hin’s essence depicted through wall murals by local artists. The ambiance is wonderfully chill, open-air, perfect for enjoying refreshing drinks and cool sea breezes.

You must try the drinks at CoCco Bar. They offer exclusive recipes unique to the bar. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also taste fantastic.

To experience the ultimate winter trip, you must make a stop at the northernmost part of Siam, Chiang Rai Province, which is another highly recommended destination. It offers plenty of natural and cultural attractions, along with delicious food. Enjoy the cool and fresh air of Chiang Rai during this winter. As for accommodation, we recommend a new and exceptional location, the ‘TEVA Valley Resort’, which offers a stunning view of Tham Nang Non Cave and is also close to the Mae Sai border for shopping enthusiasts. Additionally, it’s conveniently located near the tea plantations of Choui Fong for those interested in visiting.

We went to Chiang Rai together in the winter because we wanted to experience the cool weather. However, the downside was that we didn’t get to see the beautiful, lush green rice fields. But what we did get was a temperature of around ten degrees Celsius. Finding accommodation was easy, with plenty of parking spaces. The views were spectacular, with the entire Nang Non mountain range visible from wherever we were in the hotel. The lobby bar at the hotel was luxurious, making it a comfortable place to relax, almost like sitting in a fancy café.

The King Jacuzzi Suite is located on the first floor of the building. Inside the room, it spans 52 square meters, with a new, plush bed for comfortable sleep. The balcony features a jacuzzi tub and what appears to be a small garden extending from it. Each room has pine trees serving as a partition for privacy. The bathroom amenities are electric, which is not very common in hotels in Chiang Rai. Sitting in the tub during the chilly weather feels incredibly cozy and delightful.

If you want a clear view, opt for the Panorama Jacuzzi Suite located on the second floor. It is decorated similarly and equipped with amenities similar to the King Jacuzzi Suite, but it offers a higher perspective view.

For families, there’s the Penthouse Suite Jacuzzi, which accommodates up to 4 people. This room features a king-size bed, 1 double bed, and 2 single beds. It spans 130 square meters and comes with a jacuzzi tub, a spacious balcony, a walk-in closet, a kitchen counter, and a living area complete with a sofa set and a smart TV.

The swimming pool looks stunning at night with its colorful lights. It’s perfect for taking a swim while enjoying the view.

I miss Chiang Mai so much! It’s a city where people are friendly, the food is delicious, and the culture is rich and beautiful. But how can we not book a trip to Chiang Mai? At least once a year, for sure! This trip, I’m craving that million-dollar experience, so we definitely have to stay here. The unique bamboo pavilions and the centuries-old tamarind tree at the heart of the resort make “Tamarind Village” stand out, and the Lanna-style cottages are simply irresistible. Let’s dive into some reviews together!

“Tamarind Village” is located in the heart of Chiang Mai, in the pedestrian-friendly area. If you’re planning to stroll around the Sunday Walking Street, this is the best location to start from. However, once you finish exploring the bustling walking street, this area transforms into a serene neighborhood where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful culture and way of life. “Tamarind Village” is surrounded by more than 10 ancient Lanna-style temples. The hotel offers many interesting activities, and the best part is, most of them are complimentary. One such activity is the morning almsgiving walk to nearby temples, where guides share the history of the temples you visit. If you need traditional Lanna attire for the resort, they provide it for borrowing, but make sure to inform them in advance. The first temple we visited was Wat Duang Dee, and along the way, we stopped by the Three Kings Monument and paid respects at Wat Inthakin, which is at the foot of Chiang Mai City. Lanna-style temples are heavily influenced by Myanmar, so you’ll notice a significant influence from there in the architecture and even the Buddha statues themselves. They are beautifully unique and intriguing.

After that, the guide led us to Wat Luang Pho Somchok. Here, it is said that the Buddha statue can express 9 different emotions on its face. I was intrigued and wanted to see it for myself. What caught our interest the most, though, was the figure of Mom, which is believed to be the Naga staircase guardian. In central Thai temples, the staircase guardians are typically Naga serpents, right? However, in Northern Thailand, you’ll see many staircases leading to the ubosot (ordination hall) guarded by Mom figures. Mom is a mythical creature that combines features of a cat, a gecko, a monkey, a tiger, a dog, and a toad. It’s a fantastical creature from folklore believed to be a celestial being sent to aid humans.

And thus, the trip came to an end as we walked back to the resort. The pathway leading to the resort entrance was also fascinating, especially for those who enjoy historical narratives. It was arranged almost like an exhibition showcasing images that are hard to come by, along with interesting stories about the past and the Lanna culture for visitors to enjoy.

From here, let’s take a look at our accommodations. Our room is a Lanna Room, situated near the resort’s central grass field where they’ve planted a tamarind tree over two hundred years old. Inside, the atmosphere is decorated in authentic Lanna Thai style, with traditional furnishings, windows, cushions, and various decorations that truly make you feel like a Lanna noblewoman. Another impressive aspect is the bath amenities—the body cream, shampoo, and skin lotion all smell delightful. Using them feels like indulging in a spa treatment, leaving you feeling thoroughly relaxed.

After exiting the room, you can conveniently walk through the lobby to reach the swimming pool area. How about trying their signature Lanna-style Afternoon Tea set? It’s sure to be a unique experience!

Afternoon tea was so satisfying! It was full with both club sandwiches, scones, butter cakes, so fulfilling!

In the afternoon, the resort organizes different activities each day. This time, we made herbal compress balls under the shade of a large tamarind tree, enjoying the cool breeze. It was a slow and gentle process, allowing us to enjoy the aroma as we made the compress balls. The herbal compress balls we made turned out great for eliminating musty smells in our travel bags. The scent of herbs and various fragrances helped keep our noses refreshed and clear.

At Tamarind House Restaurant, they offer all-day dining and serve breakfast to guests staying at the resort. The architecture of the house is beautifully crafted in the Lanna style. On the upper floor of the house, there are intricate Lanna-style decorations with delicate woven fabrics and intricately designed furniture, which are hard to come by. It’s a perfect place to sit quietly and read a book or work in a peaceful and serene environment.

Under the shade, there’s a poolside restaurant serving authentic Thai dishes with the aroma of Lanna cuisine, all at reasonable prices. The ingredients are of high quality and the flavors are delicious. Highly recommended dishes include deep-fried tilapia with tamarind sauce, Pad Thai, and stir-fried basil. Additionally, the stir-fried bamboo shoots are also intriguing, especially for those who enjoy unique flavors. Give it a try if you’re curious!

For breakfast, they also serve here with options of both Asian and Western dishes.

“At Tamarind Village,” there are other accommodations available such as the “Lanna Deluxe Room,” which features a balcony at the front.

“The Spa Suites” are located on the second floor of the house. These rooms feature a luxurious bathtub, elegantly decorated interiors, and spacious terrace areas for relaxation. In addition to their lavish decor, these rooms offer tranquility and a serene atmosphere surrounded by various types of trees.

I recommend staying for at least 2 nights so you can fully relax. Spend one day immersing yourself in cultural tourism at the hotel, visiting temples and engaging in religious activities. On the other day, you can go shopping for handmade goods and find cute cafes to sit and enjoy. With this, you can return home feeling happy and fulfilled.

♥ For more information ♥
❀ Address: 50/1 Ratchadamnoen Road, Sri Phum Sub-district, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province, 50200
❀ Tel: 02-301-1861-3
❀ E-mail: reservation@tamarindvillage.com
❀ Website: www.tamarindvillage.com
❀ Facebook: Tamarind Village Chiang Mai
❀ Instagram: tamarindvillagechiangmai

» Reviewed by www.hotelandresortthailand.com