The sunny side of Samui

The resort is certainly eco-friendly, with much of the contemporary furnishing made from the coconut palm.

Planted in a quiet bay on Koh Samui's southern coast, 40 kilometres from the airport and a 20minute drive from Lamai beach, Coconut Villa Resort & Spa is surrounded by natural beauty.

The resort, which features 48 sea and poolview rooms in two recently constructed twostorey buildings along with seven renovated villas, offers the visitor spectacular sunrises and sunsets in addition to an amazing view of nearby islands Koh Tan and Koh Matsum.

On the first morning, I force myself out of a comfortable bed at 5am and walk through the darkness towards Thong Tanote beach where I sit on the sand and take photos as the sun rises slowly from the sea and lights up the morning sky.

That evening, just before 6, I'm driven to nearby Pang Ka Bay for the sunset. The tide is out so I can walk along the beach and watch the locals digging up the shellfish before finding the best place to perch. This time, my camera catches the golden sun as it sets slowly in a deep red sky. It's a truly amazing sight.

"You could also take a longtail boat to Laem Hin Khom," managing director Thida Meesang tells me later. "Pangka fishing village is still relatively virgin. There are very few resorts and hotels."

Thida's parents ran Coconut Villa for 28 years. When she inherited the business, she opted to switch from 42 simple bungalows to a modern tropical resort, adding the seven seaview villas last year.

"Today, we have lots of facilities," she says proudly. "Our outstanding points are nature, serenity, cleanliness and, most importantly, excellent service. We make our customers feel like they're at home."

The resort is certainly eco-friendly, with much of the contemporary furnishing made from the coconut palm. Not surprisingly, the spa, which features two private rooms, an outdoor Jacuzzi and steam sauna, uses coconut oil in addition to shower gel and soap.

"My hotel is decorated in tones of green, white and brown," smiles Thida, "and my new logo shows a coconut in full growth."

AT A GLANCE

High point: The resort is quiet and secluded so ideal for honeymooners and loving couples.

Low point: It's a long way from Chaweng and Lamai and their lively entertainment venues.

Find it: 114/1 Moo 4, Tambon Taling Ngam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84140

Pay for it: In low season, rates start at Bt3,600 for a deluxe sea view and Bt4,500 for a seaview villa.

Phone it: (077) 334 06971

Browse it: www.CoconutVillaResort.com