Located off the eastern shore of Central Thailand, the island of Koh Samui draws visitors from around the world with its captivating beaches, coral filled waters and lush tropical settings.
This is no ordinary holiday destination though, as Travel Associates consultant Kellie Woodward recently found on her luxury filled holiday to the island. What really sets Koh Samui apart are its resorts, and Kellie had the opportunity to stay at one of the finest – the secluded Banyan Tree Samui located on the island’s south eastern coast. Here, she shares with us her premium Koh Samui holiday experience.
Luxury with a View
This secluded hideaway features luxury villas perched high above the picturesque waters of Lamai Bay – the perfect holiday retreat where couples can go to enjoy a romantic getaway in hidden seclusion and where families can relax in the safety and privacy of their very own tropical paradise.
Kellie and her partner enjoyed an overnight stay at the resort with their 4 kids. Upon arriving at Banyan Tree, they took just one look and immediately knew that they were in for a treat. “From the moment you enter this sanctuary” Kellie said, “you will be amazed by the views, the staff and the food.”
Home for the night was a luxury 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom villa offering dramatic, uninterrupted views of the sea below. Complete with its own outdoor plunge pool, jet spa and gloriously comfortable daybeds, it didn’t take long for Kellie and the family to settle in.
Kellie recounted, “The amazing Infinity Pool and spa with an out of this world view was certainly popular with our children. The day beds were the perfect spot to lie back, enjoy the sun and watch the kids have the time of their lives.” Banyan Tree offered many activities too. “The kids were going to try the Thai Boxing class but we all ended up having so much fun around the pool that we never made it” Kellie said with a laugh, “and it was relaxing just enjoying a cocktail out on the daybed, enjoying the beautiful view.”
Mind, Body and Spirit – Banyan Tree Style
If there’s one thing Banyan Tree is not short on, it's activities. Banyan Tree offers mountain bikes for those who want to get out and explore and Kellie found that there’s a free shuttle that will take guests to the local markets.
The real benefit of a stay at Banyan Tree Resort however is the vast array of facilities on offer within the confines of the property itself. For those who want to relax and get away from it all, this is the perfect spot to do it. From yoga classes and T’ai chi lessons to a full service day spa, the days will pass in peaceful bliss. But as Kellie described, that’s not all. “Banyan Tree Samui has its own private beach within a protected cove” she said. “This is a great hideaway from the craziness that is the island of Samui. With plenty of water sports like snorkelling, paddle boats & windsurfing there was plenty for us and the kids to do.”
Guests can take a stroll down the inviting footpath from their villa which leads straight to the beach or they can request a ride down the winding slope in the resort’s own golf cart. From here the warm, coral-filled waters are easily accessible. Explore the area with kayaks or grab some snorkelling equipment for some beautiful underwater discoveries.
Tropical Delights
As one would expect at an upscale resort of this calibre, there are wonderful dining options too. “Dining at Banyan Tree was a treat in itself” Kellie explained. “From casual poolside pizza, to in-villa barbecues to our amazing candle-lit experience that included our own private chef, waiter and table for 6 on the beach, there is always a choice to suit your individual needs.”
From the casual Sands Café which opens up to the resort’s private beach to the elevated terrace restaurant, The Edge, and the resort’s elegant signature restaurant, Saffron, there are excellent dining and menu choices no matter what your taste. And for those who would like a more intimate experience within the privacy of their villa, there is even an efficient “In-Villa” dining service complete with your own personal chef. Now that’s service!
Sad to say Goodbye
Having thoroughly enjoyed themselves during their Banyan Tree Samui stay, it was time to depart for the long journey back home. Reminiscing, Kellie said, “I can not recommend Banyan Tree more highly. From the first moment they made contact with us right through to the moment we checked out the staff were friendly, helpful and went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable. When we returned home there was an email waiting from our Villa Host, welcoming us home and sending us a photo taken on the day we checked in as ‘a little something to remember our stay’."
With that, Kellie and her family were hooked on this beautiful, peaceful retreat which she described as a place suited for everyone from families to honeymoon couples to retirees. “Do yourself a favour” Kellie wholeheartedly said, “and experience Banyan Tree Samui!”
To further discuss Kellie's amazing Koh Samui experience and to make a booking, contact Kellie directly on 1800 685 614.
