Newlyweds with a beach break in mind should head for the clear warm waters of Koh Samui, one of the biggest islands in the Gulf of Thailand. Famed for palm fringed beaches and mountains wrapped in rainforest, the island is home to some seriously luxe resorts, incredible spas and a 12m-tall gleaming Big Buddha in the Wat Phra Yai temple.
Chaweng is the thriving heart of the island – this is where you’ll find bars, restaurants, spas and traditional Thai boxing matches. Nestle up to nature with an elephant trek or hop aboard a speedboat to the Angthong Marine National Park, a place so perfect it's like living in a screensaver.
Understandably, all these treasures mean Koh Samui is a hugely popular destination for tourists. But if you want to avoid camera-clutching crowds, you’ll find peace and paradise in The Tongsai Bay. Lying off the beaten track but just a short drive from the action of Chaweng, the five-star resort successfully unites eco-style with world-class luxury to create a haven that cares about its environment just as much as its guests.
The Resort
Set in 25 acres of lush greenery, The Tongsai Bay enjoys tranquil seclusion from the rest of the island, creating the perfect honeymoon bubble.
The five-star hotel flies the flag for chic eco-luxe; gourmet meals are made with strictly local ingredients and the entire resort was built without cutting down a single tree.
The Tongsai Bay seems made with honeymoons in mind. There are two pools with spectacular views over the bay, decadent dining on the private beach under the stars and a tranquil spa offering world-class treatments.
The Spa
Head to the stylish Prana Spa for rest and relaxation. The treatment rooms, or ‘Spa Cottages’, feature private steam rooms as well as open-air tubs for floral baths.
Caught a little too much sun? Try the Samui Dream, which uses nourishing coconut oil and local herbs to soothe sun scorched limbs.
The Cottages
For a holiday as special as a honeymoon, we recommend the cottages or villas.Each offers a living room and a terrace or balcony from which to gaze at the tropical views.
The best part? The open-air tubs on the terrace – perfect for a romantic late-night soak with your other half.
Thai the knot
“Koh Samui’s Most Romantic Hotel” is the perfect venue for an intimate wedding or Thai Blessing style ceremony.
Leisure
If you manage to venture away from your villa, there’s plenty to occupy your time. Catch an movie on the beach, or add a new string to your culinary bow with a cooking class. Senior Executive Sous Chef, Thanawut Chaiwanwut, ‘Chef Aek’, and his team will help you master the art of signature Thai dishes.
WHERE: Koh Samui, Thailand
FlLIGHT TIME FROM UK: 13h 35min
CURRENCY: Thai Baht (THB)
HOTEL: www.tongsaibay.co.th