Apart from returning to Krabi, my second trip to Thailand had to include exploring a new island. So, my fiancé and I decided to head to Koh Samui, the second biggest island in Thailand. We checked into Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui to unwind for a couple of days and let me tell you, we were spoilt since the second we checked into this picturesque resort. Here is all you need to know:
Quick Overview
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is a luxurious five star resort situated in Bophut, just a 25 minutes drive from Koh Samui airport. Coconut palm trees are scattered across the lush property and the sophisticated interior incorporates Thai touches and natural materials. All in all, a harmonious and very tasteful appearance.
We were warmly greeted the moment we exited our taxi and our luggage was promptly taken care of. Checkin is taking place at the open lobby overlooking the infinity pond, which is also a great place to watch the sunset. After a smooth checkin, we were picked up by a golf buggy to have a tour of the resort before arriving at our villa.
The Pool Villa
We stayed three nights in the gorgeous Ultimate Pool Villa at Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui. Our villa was perched on a hill just in front of the ocean with the most beautiful view of the beach on the left and the open and wide ocean just in front of us. Pure bliss!
Upon entering the villa, one will immediately notice its brightness, thanks to the floor to ceiling windows. The spacious villa is decorated in earthy tones and a neutral color palette. A sophisticated look with Thai-inspired and contemporary touches mixed with natural materials complete the look.
Our villa was well-appointed with a comfortable king bed and a TV in the bed room. A working desk, a mini bar, coffee and tea making facilities as well as a seating area with a TV are featured in the living room. A generous fruit platter, fresh coconuts and juices awaited us as a small welcome gift. Such a nice touch!
The bright and spacious bathroom offers views of the terrace and features double vanities, complimentary amenities by Asprey, a rain shower and a big closet. To complete the luxurious setting, an oval bathtub boasts a good view of the terrace – the perfect place for a relaxing bath in the evening.
Taking a step out on the private terrace, you could enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean. It features an outdoor shower, lounge chairs, a dining area and of course, the highlight of the villa, an infinity pool. We spent most of our time in the villa outside on the terrace: having breakfast, tanning or cooling off in the private pool.
What really impressed me at the Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui was the attention to detail. When returning to our villa in the evening, turndown service would always leave us treats such as dried pineapples or homemade Thai tamarind candy with a little note about the Thai culture. This is such a lovely way to incorporate Thai touches into the resort.
Dining Venues at Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui has no shortage of dining venues, so that guests can choose between numerous options for lunch and dinner. During our three day stay we tried as many venues as possible.
SHOOK!
Breakfast is being served at SHOOK! in a casual ambience. I would describe myself as a breakfast lover and the breakfast served at Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui was without exaggeration the best I’ve ever had. Fresh fruits and juices, eggs according to your preferences, Asian and Western specialities, freshly made pancakes and so much more. A must try are the homemade pastries and croissants from their own bakery.
SEA SALT
Serving lunch and dinner by the beach, Sea Salt is surrounded by palm trees with a view of the ocean. Besides Thai specialities, guests can order international favorites such as burgers or salads. My favorite item from the menu were the fish tacos. So yum!
TIDES
For lunch by the pool, guests can order freshly made ceviche (my favorite was Blue Crab Causa). Besides that the pool bar offers refreshments and snacks. The ever so attentive staff will cater to your every wish and ensure your stay is a special one.
PAK TAI
A must when staying at Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is having traditional Thai cuisine at Pak Tai. Private dining pods are the ideal setting for an intimate dinner experience while a Thai dance performance is happening across the pond. We had papaya salad (so spicy, but so good) as a starter and optioned both for the fish as the main dish, which was very generous in size. Of course, we couldn’t pass on dessert, so we ordered mango sticky rice and a chocolate lava cake.
THE VIEW DINING AT THE PEAK
On our last evening, we had a luxurious dinner experience at The View Dining at The Peak during sunset. If you‘re looking for a romantic dinner spot during your stay, then book a table there.
Service and Facilities
Being the biggest property on Koh Samui, the resort offers its guests many activities and facilities. If you’re feeling active, then start your day with yoga at Spa Village, head to the tennis court or challenge yourself with a round of mini golf. My fiancé joined a Muay Thai boxing class, while I hit the modern, all equipped gym. For water lovers, there are two private beaches, where you can try stand up paddling or kayaking. Being a family friendly hotel, the Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui also has a kids club and I’m sure that kids would enjoy feeding the fish in the hotel’s own reef.
Besides the two private beaches, we spend most of our day at the pool, which is supposedly the biggest pool on Koh Samui. Another pool can be found at Spa Village.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the resort. An additional service the resort offers is complimentary buggy service, in case you’re feeling lazy.
Over the years, we were lucky to stay in several beautiful and luxurious properties around the world. However, our stay at Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui did surely impressed. This property would be the ideal choice for a honeymoon, a romantic getaway or just to enjoy a relaxing vacation with your family. The food is outstanding, there is no shortage of activities, the ultimate pool villa will leave you speechless and the staff will go above and beyond to ensure you will make memories that you will cherish forever.
Thank you to Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui for hosting me! The opinions expressed on this blog are always my own.