A taste of island life: inside Ritz-Carlton’s newest resort

Built on the site of a former coconut plantation, this new island resort on Koh Samui is the summer escape you’ve been waiting for

The summer sun might be working over time here in England, but head East and you’ll find that Thais are rather better equipped to handle the heat in comfort and style. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to get your vitamin D fix (from beyond the confines of your inner city office), look no further than the Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui resort.

Resting beneath the shade of swaying coconut trees, within a private sun-kissed bay, the Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui stretches from the hilltop to the beach, and is made up of 175 exquisite suites and pool villas. Here, guests can enjoy the traditional spirit of Thai hospitality and a taste of island life.

For some underwater exploration, the resort features a one-of-a-kind temperate Swim Reef, which teems with over 50 species of fish. This feature is the largest of its kind in South East Asia, and offers unique snorkelling and fish-feeding experiences for visitors.

Alternatively, if you prefer to enjoy the local sealife on your plate, the resort has plenty to offer — with gastronomic experiences and restaurants to cater for every taste and a superb selection of wines on offer. Ingredients for the Pak Tai restaurant are sourced from local markets daily, and food here can be enjoyed alongside a view over the swim reef from the private dining alcoves. A special mention should also be given to Baan Talat, a weekly outdoor dining experience which takes place at the resort every Saturday. Here, guests can experience an authentic array of Thai street food dishes cooked at street food stalls amongst traditional Thai dancers and local craft stalls.

And, for something completely different — take advantage of the resort’s immersive experiences into local culture. If you’re feeling brave, take a class in Muay Thai (The Art of Eight Limbs), an ancient sport designed to hone agility and speed. Alternatively, try your hand at traditional Thai cooking using locally sourced seasonal produce at one of the resort’s culinary classes.

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