They say that the journey is sometimes better than the destination. Even though that’s not entirely true in the case of Soneva Kiri, it can be said that getting to this absolute slice of paradise was certainly a high point too.
From the minute you arrive at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, you are ushered to the waiting twin propeller Cessna which flies over the blue seas and transports you to this magical eco resort on a secluded private island. “Please prepare for landing, we are about to land in paradise” announces the captain with a cheeky smile on his face as he eloquently lands the private plane onto the welcoming (but small) runaway below.
It is easy to believe that the island was totally an untamed jungle a few years back and her pristine beaches has been kept that way ever since. The lovely founders Eva and Sonu Shivdasani, who require very little introduction, are no strangers when it comes to amalgamating luxury with an environmentally friendly design. In this case they have also over-layed it with a quintessential Thai experience you will never forget. A truly outstanding achievement!
The property boasts a collection of 24 large resort villas and 11 private residences. Each are completely private from the other, offering completed solitude and intimacy. You can typically have your choice of a beachfront villa or the stunning slopes facing the unspoiled rainforest. Each of the villas come complete with your own infinity pool and the big ones even have a water slide for the kids (and adults!).
Each villa is also exquisitely furnished with pieces that are effortlessly chic. Your Mr/Mrs Friday private butlers are always on hand to serve up a warm smile and whatever else you may require. Service is something that the property takes very seriously and luckily being warm & comforting are traits that come very naturally to the Thai people.
The villa and her staff had their own unique & wonderful way of bringing us all together.
Dining on the island is nothing short of world class.
It’s clear that the executive chef has worked very hard to create palate options that would suit a myriad of taste buds. You are provided with multiple venues and dining choices on the island from The View restaurant to The Beach and for those looking for something truly unique, The Treepod dining experience.
Pic: Soneva Kiri
Pic: Soneva Kiri
Pic: Soneva Kiri
Our favourite (as I’m sure many before us would surely agree) is the chocolate and ice cream rooms. That’s right – a whole room dedicated to two of my favourite things. Now you might be forgiven to assume that these rooms would offer a selection of chocolates and ice cream.. and you would be right, but in true Soneva Kiri style – this concept was taken to heavenly heights as only this resort knows how to do. See the pics below:
“No Shoes, No News” … as the proud slogan says. A clear message to leave the world behind and allow yourself to enter a world of fantasy, escapism and unparalleled luxury.
If you are lucky enough to experience Soneva Kiri, then you will truly enjoy being one with nature while indulging in the best eco-luxury has to offer. Every detail has been considered and refined. Every request a guest could possible think of has has been preempted & prepared for. It’s as though your Mr/Mrs Friday know what you are going to say before you say it. Platinum level service in a diamond of a resort.
We cannot wait to return – thanks for having us!
Contact Soneva Kiri
110 Moo 4, Koh Kood Sub-District, Koh Kood District, Trat 23000, Thailand
T:+66 (0) 82 208 8888 F:+66 (0) 3961 9808 E: reservations-kiri@soneva.com