The Credentials:
Located on the crescent-shaped Hanuman Bay, Aleenta’s, and Akyra’s younger sister is the resort for understated romantics. Every spacious villa (there are 52) comes with its own plunge pool and terrace to ensure guests get plenty of privacy; interiors are all soothing white, taupe and wood; and the simple four-poster is dressed in 430 thread-count sheets.
The laid-back luxurious resort also offers three pools, a gym, regular complimentary yoga classes and a day spa offering Linda Meredith products and therapies. I booked in for their deeply relaxing signature massage twice.
Dine:
An indulgent start to the day takes place on decking overlooking the sea. A daily changing tea stand offering a tier of fruits; a tier of goodies from the in-house bakery; and one for cheese and meat is brought to your table while you peruse the full breakfast menu – the idea is to reduce the waste that accompanies the usual hotel buffets. However, there’s also a small buffet of cereals, breads and fresh juices.
The hotel boasts three restaurants: The Edge, which offers an all-day Thai and Western menu (the pizzas, straight from the wood fire oven, were a hit); OCHOS Steakhouse (think Chateau Haut-Brione, Wagyu striploin and ginger mustard); and The Legends, which showcases the classic flavours of Siam (I’m ashamed to say I didn’t get round to trying one of their hot pots).
Sleep:
Our king-size bed was just right: firm yet super soft. Our all-natural locally sourced bathroom goodies contained essential oils including lemongrass (good for repelling the mosquitos) and there were all the other mod cons you’d expect from a Small Luxury Hotel (flat-screen TV, iPod and iDock, fully stocked mini bar, plus inclusive wi-fi, bottles of water and cookies).
There were a few minor gripes: the air conditioning unit could have done with an upgrade; there wasn’t a full-length mirror or shaving mirror; and the turn-down service was a bit hit and miss. I also missed a bathtub (that usually come as standard at a five-star hotel), but I guess this resort is eco-friendly and we were staying in a pool suite rather than a more luxurious pool villa. Importantly, the staff were incredibly helpful and arrived within minutes of our demands.
Who Goes There?
International couples. The resort hosts an average of two weddings per month; 10 guests celebrated the nuptials between an American and a Korean during my stay.
Out & About:
Located just 10 minutes from the airport yet out of reach from the flight path, Akaryn is on the eastern side of the little peninsula between (but far enough out of) the two main nightlife spots, the slightly more upmarket Bo Phut and assault-on-the-senses Chaweng (make sure you have a drink at Mor’s shack, On Street Bar).
The best way to explore the island is to hire a scooter. We had a refreshing cold Thai tea (apparently made in a bong!) in a Bob Marley-themed bar among the rocks by Hin Ta and Hi Yai Rocks; and went zip lining among the treetops with Canopy Adventures (the staff kindly took loads of photos using our iPhones). And, of course, a visit to Samui isn’t complete without a snorkeling/diving trip.
The Worst Thing:
The downside to the beach being secluded (all beaches are public in Koh Samui but this one is book-ended with rocks) is that the sea isn’t the most inviting for a swim although beach shoes (for the rocks) and extra towels are provided.
The Best Thing:
The attentive staff. It’s also reassuring to stay in an eco-friendly resort. Ask manager, Matthias, about the resort’s marine sustainability projects when you arrive (www.purebluefoundation.com).
