Samui says it all for worn-out refugees from the big city
Need a break from the big city? There are the usual suspects, but they�e often blighted by Friday-dusk traffic jams, like Hua Hin, or overrun with English teachers on weekend benders, like Koh Samet.
If the Bangkok jet set needs to find another playground, they can jet to the sassy southern island of Koh Samui.
No longer just a backpacker haven, Samui has transformed into one of the country� most luxurious destinations.
Bangkok sophisticates needing a little lavish R&R can unwind in breathtaking boutique resorts, enjoy some relaxed island hopping during the day and dine at one of many outstanding restaurants.
All of this makes for some great boasting around the water cooler on a Monday morning.
With flight time from the capital to the island just under an hour, a weekend in Samui is the ultimate indulgence for those with cash to splash.
STAY
One of the newer boutique resorts, Langham Place Samui, overlooks the tranquil bay beyond Lamai Beach on the southeast coast.
The 77 villas and suites are spacious with high ceilings and decorated in a modern interpretation of classic Asian design, incorporating Thai, Chinese and Balinese architecture.
Each night after sunset, the lights are dimmed and music filters through air heavily scented with frangipani. Phosphorous adorns the water display in the lobby and, outside, paper lanterns are released into the night sky.
This is the perfect place to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail. You can even arrange to dine �bove�the bay, on a dock that reaches out 200 metres.
Visit www.KohSamui.LanghamPlaceHotels.com or call (07) 796 0888.
PLAY
Take a boat trip for a day� snorkelling in Koh Tao� Mango Bay or off idyllic Koh Nangyuan. You�e unlikely to see some of the more coveted inhabitants of the sea, but both places are resplendent in colourful tropical fish.
Set sail at 7am and you�l be back on land by 5pm.
Lomprayah operates daily snorkelling tours for Bt1,700 with a buffet lunch included. Find out more at www.Lomprayah.com.
EAT
A high point of any visit to Samui is the abundance of first-class restaurants offering fusion cuisine.
The long-established restaurant Eat Sense on Chaweng Beach is flawless. It looks good with big Chinese lanterns, and overflowing fountains add a dash of romance, while the varied dining areas allow for intimate dinners.
It feels good, just how you� imagine a tropical beachside restaurant. As well as the large openair restaurant, there are air-conditioned dining areas.
And everything certainly tastes good. Using only organic vegetables, fresh seafood and indigenous tropical fruit, the restaurant shuns preservatives.
Make a reservation at www.EatSenseSamui.com or (07) 741 4242.
Another popular Chaweng resident is The Page at the Library, billed as a �ulinary journey as dramatic as an epic novel�
The �tory�begins with local favourites and authentic flavours and continues through to international cuisine with a twist.
Open-air dining overlooks the sea and, of course, the Library� unforgettable red swimming pool.
For all its proclamations, The Page is far from a bookish affair �" it� the ultimate hang out for artistic-chic crowd. Enjoy the informal beach bar with cocktails and signature tapas designed by Chef Nokveedz.
Visit www.TheLibrary.co.th or call (07) 742 27678.
BOX
IF YOU GO
Until July 30 the Bangkok Travel Club and Bangkok Airways�Bin Khum (�elightful deal� package features return fares starting at Bt8,700.
That includes a two-night stay with breakfast at the hotel of your choice and airport transfers.
Get the details at www.BangkokTravelClub.com or (02) 270 6699.