Thailand may not sound like the obvious choice for a festive getaway. But if skipping out on the snow and the endless caroling sounds your idea of holiday bliss, then look no further than this chic beachfront hideaway.
A pool villa at Conrad Koh Samui with views of the Five Islands.
This festive season, there’s good news for all you self-proclaimed Grinches out there. Regardless of whether the holidays come laden with complicated family dynamics, if you happen to be allergic to fir trees or if you, like me, simply hate the cold, help is at hand—and it comes in the form of Thailand’s most exclusive island paradise.
About Koh Samui
Koh Samui, the largest Thai island in the Gulf of Thailand, is not only among the most developed but also one of the most sought-after destinations in the country. Back in the day, a major part of Thailand’s allure was its budget-friendly beach huts, lethally spicy food, and hedonistic full-moon parties. While that is all still available for those who want it, travelers these days are uncovering a more elegant, boho-chic side to “Land of Smiles”. And it turns out Thailand not only does high-end travel, but does it with aplomb.
Angthong national marine park, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand. Asia.
What makes Koh Samui a cut above the rest is that it is home to more luxury accommodation options than you can shake a turndown service at. Along its golden shorelines you will find every manner of high-end resort, from a Four Seasons to a Ritz-Carlton, an InterContinental, a Kimpton, and a Conrad—to name drop just a few.
This is Conrad Koh Samui
Conrad Koh Samui combines an eco-conscious approach to luxury hospitality with superb service, first-class amenities and an air of tranquility that can be hard to come by in other parts of the world.
The main pool at Conrad Koh Samui.
Idyllically situated on Koh Samui’s southwestern tip, the hotel overlooks the reefs of Aow Thai Beach from its dramatic hillside setting. It is home to 81 tasteful and spacious free-standing villas, all with private balconies, private pools and show-stopping panoramic views.
From many of the villas, the jaw-dropping vistas stretch as far as the group of small nearby islands knows as the Five Islands that are inhabited mostly by indigenous Sea Gypsies (and wild pigs on Pig Island). The hotel also features three restaurants, a bar, a lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness, a private beach and infinity pool, and a blissfully serene spa, with six luxurious treatment rooms.
Iris Farm is Southeast Asia’s largest organic onsite hotel farm.
Southeast Asia’s largest organic onsite hotel farm
Sustainability is key to Conrad Koh Samui. In 2019, redevelopment began on a large piece of forested land belonging to the resort, which now operates as the regenerative Iris Farm. By converting food scraps into nutrient-rich soil products, Conrad Koh Samui is able to provide high-quality produce to its restaurants, reduce its dependence on outside suppliers and cut its costs for food and waste management. Iris Farm currently generates 3,000 kg of produce every month for guest and staff consumption, representing approximately 70% of all the ingredients served at the property.
Another sustainably-minded space, Botanikka is a coffee shop, kombucha brewery and coffee roastery, where guests can relax over an iced coffee or get involved in one of the in-house workshops that include coffee roasting and kombucha fermenting.
Festive decorations at Conrad Koh Samui.
Festive Bliss at Conrad Koh Samui
For guests who choose to spend the holidays Conrad Koh Samui, a different kind of festive retreat awaits—one that offers a fresh perspective on the most magical time of year, perfect for those looking to swap their scarves for tropical clothes and the sound of sleigh bells for that of the waves gently lapping the shore.
“During the festive season, we want to immerse our guests in an atmosphere different to the conventional ‘White Christmas’ experience,” says Conrad Koh Samui’s General Manager, Ruben Dario Gabino. “We embrace the holiday spirit in a more tropical, elegant style that harmonizes with our serene beachfront setting.
“Imagine a Christmas where the warmth of the sun replaces the cold winter, and the feel of fine sand takes the place of snow,” he continues. “Instead of a traditional pine Christmas tree, palm trees sway in the ocean breeze, while a beachside barbecue set under the star offers a cozy twist on the festive setting.”
The festive program at Conrad Koh Samui includes a barefoot Christmas beach barbecue on December 25th and a seven-course gastronomic experience at upscale JAHN restaurant, with limited seating for just 20 guests, on December 31st.
