Sonu and Eva, the duo behind the Soneva phenomenon have triggered off a lifestyle for the rich and famous in a different form altogether. The essence of Soneva is intelligent luxury, running along the lines of the Asian service philosophy – Atithi Deva Bhava, Sanskrit for “the guest is all-important!”
Spectacular Soneva Kiri is built on Thailand’s fourth largest island – Koh Kood, where the sand is pristine and unspoiled (2009). It is breathtakingly remote but totally accessible, effortlessly chic but ever so homely, inspiringly romantic but completely child friendly, encouragingly organic yet truly interesting food, and in one word – memorable.
At the Suvarnabhumi airport in Bangkok, Soneva Kiri’s personal airport representative escorted us to the first class lounge to relax and refresh ourselves. We then boarded Soneva’s very own plane (60 minute flight) to Thailand’s only private resort airport, where our Miss Friday – Marisa greeted us warmly.
Soneva Kiri is developed on 150 acres. She packed us into our very own buggy and drove us to our villa, which was one of the three that they offer (Beach, Hill or Cliff). Amazingly so, electronic buggies and cycles are the mode of transport within the resort and you get to drive your own.It’s important to know that their ‘no news no shoes’ policy actually means that you have a choice to remain barefoot throughout your holiday, simply because without shoes you feel everything. What’s more is that the clocks are actually turned to one hour earlier than Thailand time because they want to you experience more during the day!
All the 27 pool villas include large terraced areas with sun loungers, half mooned infinity edged pools, IDD telephones, espresso/tea/coffee making facilities, Wi-Fi and LAN connections, DVD players, Bose Hi-fi systems, decks with open plan sitting areas with dining tables and pool side areas. Our 403 sq ft Ocean Villa also had a huge dressing area, open-air jaccuzi and outdoor rain showers. The cherry on the cake was a secret pathway straight to the beach!
Due to our travel fatigue, we rested and then hit the View restaurant, known for its cocktails and the view, which overlooks the sea, was breathtaking. We watched from over the rocky cliff top as the sun set over the calm waters. We had just gotten the first taste of our holiday. Dinner followed at the View Laboratory where we met Chef Mark and Sommelier Vladimir. Gourmet food (a 5 course meal) that looked as good as it tasted was paired with the wine.
Our first day was blissful as we hit our pillows laced with the scents of lavender and lemon grass, which we had chosen along with our pillows earlier. The night faded as the crickets and frogs created a din, while the constant rain drizzled. We were in a tropical paradise!
The itinerary set to suit the individual offered yoga, pilates, and tai chi in the mornings. Day 2 had begun. A sumptuous breakfast buffet awaited us at the Dining Room. Snorkeling was on the cards. So a trip to Koh Rang National Park was in the offing. That’s the nice thing about tropical weather. Threatening to rain, the sun played hide and seek and we actually got to see the amazing corals and underwater life.
Lunch was set for us on the beach, followed by a Thai cooking class by the incredible Thai Chef Khun Benz. Retiring for a breather to our villa we slipped into our swimsuits, too tempted to try out the infinity pool. Rested, we took a motorboat into the forest to dine at none other than the Benz Mangrove hideaway. Eating by dim light overlooking the river, we sampled dishes like Mieng Kham, Yum Hua Plee, Gai Thord Samun Prai, Poo Phad Manao, and the traditional Thai dessert-Kanom Wan. To put an end to a busy day we stepped into the Soneva Kiri observatory to sight the awe inspiring stars in the night sky.
On our third day, a Koh Kood discovery trip was planned. A lot of water sports are encouraged like kayaking, wind surfing, water skiing, wake boarding and snorkeling. Nature experiences and guided treks are also offered. Mountain biking, tennis, gardening and astrology classes fill in the gaps as well. Out first stop was the fishing village and then the picture perfect Klong Chao waterfalls, where a picnic lunch can be arranged. Back at the hotel, we decided to try the foot massage at the award winning Six Senses Spa.
Less tired now, we ventured into the Chocolate Room, and were amazed at the selection offered (mousses, cookies, chocolates, canapés, macaroons, bon bons, truffles etc); the place was swathed in color and taste. A starlit night on the beach and good weather only called for an open-air seafood barbeque.
As our buggy swerved its way along the winding path after dinner, we realized that we had not experienced the Cinema Paradiso, known otherwise as Mother Nature’s Amphitheatre; an open air auditorium with loungers. Did we expect cocktail service and hot buttered popcorn? No. We were pleasantly surprised as we watched the classic ‘An Affair to Remember’.
Day 4 had us off to an early start. Sunbathing on the beach absolutely charged us for the day. We stepped out to try the Jungle trek with the guide. Back on the property, we experienced the famous Tree Top Dining. The tree pod is actually balanced as high as 5 feet above terra firma and feels like a cocoon suspended in the air. Food courses arrive courtesy a flying waiter, harnessed on a zip line. An ultimate in exclusive fine dining experiences offering a complete 4 course meal, with calming breeze for company.
Having experienced such excitement all morning, we were now ready to try the Six Senses Spa, which is one of the most important aspects within the resort. Run by International and Thai therapists, they take you on a sensory journey. Not to be missed is a session of Watsu – Shiatsu in the water with a trainer of course. Dusk brought us to the Wine Cellar that houses more than 500 wines. An evening with the Sommelier is always welcome.
Did we forget to mention the Den, one of the most important places for a family holidaying with children? Soneva Kiri welcomes families whole-heartedly and has actually developed facilities to make kids want to come back. In the Den, children escape into a world of their own. Built in the jungle using bamboo, it offers a music room (local Thai instruments), a library, an art room, and a Willy Wonka like chocolate factory. Professional child minders are part of the package.
Something for everybody, and experiences that can go back in suitcases filled with memories is what Soneva Kiri is all about. As our plane takes off the next day, flying over the Siam Sea, we are reminded to mark our calendar for yet another holiday, but next time filled with different experiences, the ones we probably missed due to our lack of time. Yes, Soneva offers even more!
Previously published in the Sindhian
Image Credits : Maya Lalchandani, Google
