Escape to Sheraton Samui Resort for stunning views, scrumptious cuisine and spectacular service.

By Ashima Sethi

As someone who has grown tired of Bangkok’s hustle and bustle, I highly value my trips to the various coastal towns and tropical isles for rest and recuperation. When planning for my much-needed breaks, I desire destinations that promise beauty and tranquility with the added comforts of a home-away-from-home experience. So when I first arrived at Sheraton Samui Resort, nestled on the picturesque Chaweng Noi Beach, I had an inkling that I had found just what I was looking for.

After a comfortable private pick up from Samui Airport, situated only 15 minutes away, we ascended the resort’s grand wooden staircase into the high-ceilinged, openair lobby, tastefully decorated in a contrasting blue and brown colour scheme. While taking in serene views of the glittering Andaman Sea and lush gardens that frame the property, a friendly receptionist beckoned us for check-in. As the Sheraton brand is known for personalised service, the experience was efficient, and everything we required was provided in a tailored guest pamphlet.

Home to 141 modern guestrooms and suites, I was excited to see what our weekend sanctuary had in store. We were soon escorted to our Superior Room on the fourth floor by an experienced porter who attended to the last minute details of our stay, giving us time to enjoy the beauty of our temporary abode. The 43sqm room offers a stylish blend of modern décor and colonial furnishings, complete with a 42-inch LCD TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. There is also a spacious bathroom with a separate bath and shower, and the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed to ensure a restful night’s sleep. As an ode to Samui’s tropical setting, there were plenty of ocean-inspired motifs, including an abstract carpet of swirling blue tones and a daybed adorned with vibrant turquoise cushions. However, it was when I stepped past the glass double doors that I discovered my favourite feature – a verandah furnished with white-wicker sun loungers, a perfect place to enjoy the majestic sunset.

Guests can also opt for the slightly smaller 34sqm Standard Room, which similarly provides all the luxuries for an enjoyable stay. For a more elaborate accommodation, the 49sqm Deluxe Room offers direct access to the beach and a private, expansive terrace area. When travelling as a couple, definitely stay at the 55sqm Studio, replete with an outdoor bathtub on a shaded terrace for utmost privacy. Apartment-style options are available as well, including the 77sqm One Bedroom Suite with a separate living area, and the 102sqm Two Bedroom Suite with plenty of space to relax and entertain over two floors.

Glow Up!

Glow Spa is a peaceful destination where guests can pick from an array of traditional treatments and modern therapies. We opted for the Signature Massage, which comprised of a long soothing steam before a traditional massage using a hot compress, and finally an indulgent hot oil head massage that sent us into a state of total bliss. Afterwards, we were treated to homemade yoghurt, dried fruits and herbal tea.

Food plays a major part in any vacation, and the resort’s four restaurants and bars will please even the most discerning diners. Begin the day at Coco Spice’s breakfast buffet, covering Asian varieties like dim sum, sushi and broth noodles, as well as continental favourites, such as eggs prepared at a live station, crispy bacon, juicy sausages and handmade pastries. Add a glass of fresh juice, or some tea or coffee for a refreshing
pick-me-up.

There is a lot to see during a walk around the resort’s verdant grounds. As we leave breakfast, we come across a mid-size free-form pool, ideal for guests who desire some quiet time. A little ahead of us are the tennis courts and the 24-hour Fitness Centre. As we continue towards the far end, we are met with the main pool that extends towards the beach, creating an illusion of both bodies of water merging into one.

Adjacent to the pool is Long Talay, a modern eatery with floor-to-ceiling glass windows showcasing breathtaking ocean views. There is also an open kitchen, so guests can delight in the flavours that are being prepared. While dining here, we indulged in a delectable array of international dishes including Gnocchi pesto with sundried tomatoes and Andaman seafood risotto, all of which are guaranteed to leave you wanting more. Fans of Thai fare will have a hard time choosing between dishes like Khao soi ghai and Hor mok talay, as well as the island’s signature item, Seafood pad thai.

For drinks, Blue Monkey is an open-air beachfront lounge with a modern deck area. Here, talented mixologists are happy to serve your cocktails tableside for an interactive experience. For Pan-Asian snacks and a large selection of premium wines, beers and more, head up to the Lobby Lounge.

In addition to traditional drinking and dining options, holidaymakers can also partake in Cooking Classes for a fun, local-inspired experience. With the help of an onsite chef, guests are taught how to cook a three-course meal, after which they are awarded certificates and recipes to take home.

Fun for all Ages!

The StarKid Kids Club is one of the largest on the island, complete with a sweeping outdoor sandbox, pirate themed jungle gym and indoor play area. A weekly rotation of activities are also available, ranging from Batik painting to Origami.

Intimate Get-Togethers

The resort boasts a versatile 103sqm Meeting Room, which can accommodate up to 90 people. This combined with sprawling open spaces and direct beachfront access, makes the resort an ideal destination for birthday celebrations, anniversary parties and small-scale MICE events.

Go Beyond

Hotel Manager, Michael Grimmer provides insight on what sets Sheraton Samui Resort apart from the rest.

“Our belief is to ‘go beyond’ in terms of our expectations and service. People are constantly travelling, and staying at hotel after hotel can be very clinical, so we personalise our services to make our guests feel at home. We cater to families, couples and single travellers looking for a retreat. We are flexible about specialised events, making the resort suited for team-building and get-togethers. As for the property, we’re situated on the best beach on the island, and we’re close to the airport. However, our staff is really our selling point. Oftentimes you visit a hotel and it’s just bricks and mortar, so it’s really the people who make the experience.”

SHERATON SAMUI RESORT
86 Moo 3, Chaweng Noi Beach,
Bophut, Koh Samui
Surat Thani, Thailand
Tel: 07 742 2020
www.sheraton.com/samui