Fah Thai Magazine May June 2019

OVERTURES
CHECKED IN: SAMUI
To Sleep and Dine
in Samui
When service is done right, return visits and a loyal
clientele are the best rewards. From a good night’s rest
to a chance to devour the best burger, these ideal spots
on Koh Samui definitely have staying power.
Words Jeremie Schatz
STAYED: CONRAD KOH SAMUI
When it comes to the diverse hotel
industry, few have a reputation matching
the Hilton group. The name is synonymous
with a high standard of quality and
service. Amongst the extensive list of
Hilton properties around the world, a
select few of the most prestigious or
exclusive have earned the Conrad label.
After navigating a lengthy jungle road,
which snakes its way up and over a rugged
mountain, you suddenly emerge from the
foliage directly into the lobby. At this point
it’s clear why this location was included in
the Conrad group of properties – and this
is before you’ve even seen any of the villas.
Spoiler alert: it’s the view. “Breath-taking
view” is often thrown around haphazardly,
but you’ll soon discover a new appreciation
for this phrase.
The elite collection of one, two, and
three bedroom villas cling to the side of a
steep mountain which flattens into azure
tropical waters fringed with reef. In the
distance across the shimmering waters lie
strong promontories on the horizon which
give depth to the surreal sunsets.
Each private villa is adorned with at
least a 10-metre infinity pool or bigger.
As the pools extend out over the hillside,
their edges blend into the ocean’s horizon
– giving the term infinity in “infinity pool” a
whole new meaning. Once you’re able to
Photos Conrad Koh Samui
pry your gaze away from the view, you
notice the unique style of the villas.
The architecture, furnishings, and art
are modern yet stylish with a hint of
traditional flare. Stylish is the operative
word here, everything just feels cool
and by association – you feel cool too.
A mysterious nagging instinct in the back
of your mind urges you to order a vodka
martini – shaken, not stirred.
The huge open-plan marble bathrooms
have luxurious oversized bathtubs, rain
showerheads, and are stocked with lavish
amenities. You’re kept connected with the
latest tech including an in-room iPad, Bose
surround sound system, Apple TV, and
more. If you want to keep it more analogue,
the walk-in closet is stocked with board
games and the mini bar is fully stocked to
keep the games interesting. And we’ve only
been talking about the entry-level villas;
they just keep piling on the opulence as you
get into the larger accommodations.
Down by the sea, you’ll find the stuff
tropical dreams are made of: super cushy
daybeds and hammocks that dip slightly
into the sea. A well-outfitted fitness
room helps you burn some calories and
a divine spa offers up a spectrum of
treatments and equipped with private
relaxation verandas overlooking the sea.
Many activity options on offer include
snorkelling trips to a nearby island.
When it comes to dining, Conrad Koh
Samui happens to be somewhat of a local
Clockwise from
Top Left
Be mesmerised by
infinite shades of
blue that stretch off
into the horizon.
Conrad Koh Samui’s
mountain-side
location ensures
all guests have
5-star views with
accommodation
to match.
Tastefully appointed
rooms highlight
simplicity without
being sparse.
An exquisite
bathroom design
offers luxurious
convenience and a
view of paradise.
legend with arguably the island’s premier
fine-dining restaurant, Jahn. You’ll likely
have to make a booking to reserve one of
the 28 seats but experiencing a meal at
this exclusive eatery should be mandatory.
The mesmerising Thai-fusion menu is
mind-blowing and with more than 3,000
wines hidden away in the private wine
cellar, you’re likely to find a label that fits
your taste.
Conrad Koh Samui clearly has a long
list of very desirable attributes for the
discerning vacationer. If it’s your first
stay at a Conrad property, you’ll soon
understand why they’ve earned such a
sparkling reputation.
49/8-9 Moo 4, Hillcrest Road,
Taling Ngam, Koh Samui
+66 (0) 77 915 888
Conrad_Koh_Samui@conradhotels.com
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