AVANI + Samui RESORT – a peaceful getaway
I love Avani Hotels and Resorts. It was not by accident that we chose to celebrate my 50 something birthday at the Avani Pattaya.
Their hotels are full of vitality, with a youthful vibe that is infectious. Especially when you are looking for the perfect getaway and you want to feel young at heart, but not one of those sad old birds and out of place!
Fast forward through, the most crazy six months the world has ever seen, and I walk into the Avani+ Samui. It is as bright and as fresh as the ocean breeze that greets you. Along with a warm welcome from Eve and Louise on the front desk, it immediately feels like a great place to relax and unwind.
It is on the less explored Southwestern side of Samui. They say this other side, is ideal for those hoping for peace and quiet. They have kind of lost their sales pitch here these days, as nowhere on Koh Samui is exactly busy… well, unless you are at the back of the queue for Coco Tam’s on Bophut Beach!
Here is the place to hop on a scooter and whizz around the quiet roads to explore the calmest Koh Samui that you have ever known. These days when they say calm – they mean really calm. Even I am tempted by scooter island life!
This hotel was officially opened at the end of 2018. It still maintains a fresh faced exuberance, charm and style, everything feels new and fun. There are selfie murals around the grounds for an insta moment to be had at every turn!
Will you take a wander with me?
Avani pool villa
Cheers to the best welcome drink, a coconut açaí bowl with a frangipani flower…
The hidden indulgence of this room is to lie on the bed looking straight out to your private swimming pool and outdoor terrace.
The room is presented by Nat from housekeeping, who has left her photo on a message board, together with ideas for your stay such as the SEEN Beach Club. The wooden door hanger which says “sorry about the mess” is an added bit of fun.
The room is light and bright, I like the beach painted wood style and soothing neutral colour tones, with the pop of turquoise and yellow cushions. It is a big grin all around as I set off to explore.
The spacious bathroom has two grey bathrobes hanging on the wall at the end. It is another nice design touch but also a hint to put on a robe and chill…..! There is a good sized rain shower, room for two, just saying, and his and her washbasins. Everything smells divine! It is either the patchouli/sandalwood aroma of the soap, or maybe the essential oil burner in the corner or both! Oh and I must not forget to mention, the softest whitest fluffy bathmats ever….. love the Avani.
Two perfectly tightly rolled turquoise pool towels remind me I have plenty of unwinding swimming options. Will it be the beachside pool or the infinity pool? I am tempted to stay at home and just step outside to my own private pool!
In the corner of the master bedroom, a daybed with more yellow cushions looks perfect for reading a book or a binge watching movie session.
My room has been cleaned and disinfected by Ecolab presented by Avani Shield. I like the peace of mind knowing that a hotel is serious about its hygiene.
Essence restaurant
Chef was given free rein to cook me my delicious dinner. They offer me a perfect menu of crab cakes with Asian coleslaw, panfried Tasmanian salmon, followed by chocolate brownie and ice cream. It is perhaps a safe and predictable choice but I am happy with the fresh, honest cooking from their Thai and international fusion menu. They have also maintained a strong interest in plant based food, even though their Ko Ko cafe had yet to reopen.
For those looking for romantic private beach dining this can be arranged and looked gorgeous.
The beverage pool truck
A converted VW camper van is a fun place for poolside cocktails and there is also the option to enjoy the sunset drinks at their rooftop lounge.
Breakfast
I enjoyed my breakfast, there were plenty of all the usual choices, so you will not be disappointed. Their special menu offers scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and a Thai omelette with pork.
Next time I would order a breakfast float (at extra charge) for breakfast on a large tray to enjoy in your pool. How the other half live!
Avani spa
Whilst the spa was probably designed to be chic and stylish I found it a little understated in comparison with the opulence of many, these days. However let’s face it, it is what happens when you have your eyes shut that really matters. My ‘gentle rhythms massage’ was really good and very relaxing.
Avani fit
There is a well equipped gym which offers a few machines, dumbbells, balls/bands, etc. They also offer free bikes for rent.
Avani beach
This a traditional and beautiful working Samui bay with boats moored and a low tide that disappears a long way back. The beach itself is nothing special with its coarse sand, and with much in the bay waiting to reopen. I came to the conclusion why leave a beautiful resort?
Koh Madsum island
The complimentary Avani traditional long tail boat, to the unspoilt sands of Koh Madsum island is a must! It is a lovely island for swimming in the crystal waters and meeting the island’s latest attractions and photo sensation – a family of pigs! You cannot even begin to imagine the fuss that is made of these happy pigs on a tropical island. If you decide you need a perfect cocktail for your ‘piggram‘ this can be ordered along with your lunch.
My stay at the Avani+ Samui, was just the good dose of salt sea air that I needed. Thank you to Minor Hotels and Cindy, resort manager of Avani+ Samui resort and her wonderful staff for a lovely stay. It is thoroughly recommended!
Avani+ Samui resort 077 485 299
[email protected] www.avanihotels.com/en/samui
Little Wandering Wren stayed as a guest of Avani+ Samui resort. Her Thailand staycations can be found at www.wanderingwren.com and on instagram and Twitter @littlewanderingwren
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