| FOR proof that not every slice of paradise in Thailand is currently being bulldozed and built on in the name of progress, take a trip to this pair of large islands in Phang Nga Bay (a one-hour boat journey from Bang Rong Pier on the east coast of Phuket). With a landscape comprising rubber plantations and quaint fishing villages – and only one 7/11! – life on the islands plays out pretty much like it did 20 years ago, and the locals and businesses are keen to keep it that way – think eco-friendly homestays and five-star resorts specially built to blend in with their surroundings, as well as lovingly operated agricultural tours that provide fascinating insight into the history, culture and trade of the islands. Adventurous types can fill their days with hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and swimming. Gourmands can enjoy everything from spicy local delicacies at street side stalls to international fare at swanky hotel restaurants. And, of course, anyone seeking unadulterated relaxation has plenty of tranquil, pristine beaches to choose from. Bliss. |  |
SLEEP
Six Senses Yao Noi
Gorgeous, open-fronted villas (all made using natural materials, no less), breathtaking views, and top-drawer service are just three of the highlights of this luxurious resort on Ko Yao Noi. Packages start from B36,850 for three nights inclusive of daily breakfast, daily food and beverage credits, Six Senses Spa couples massage and a longtail boat excursion.
sixsenses.com/SixSensesYaoNoi
Gorgeous, open-fronted villas (all made using natural materials, no less), breathtaking views, and top-drawer service are just three of the highlights of this luxurious resort on Ko Yao Noi. Packages start from B36,850 for three nights inclusive of daily breakfast, daily food and beverage credits, Six Senses Spa couples massage and a longtail boat excursion.
sixsenses.com/SixSensesYaoNoi
The Paradise Ko Yao
This boutique resort is located in the corner of a small bay on the northern tip of Ko Yao Noi. Recently refreshed with a new look that blends shabby chic design with natural materials, the resort provides privacy and seclusion without compromising comfort and convenience. Stay in the special pool villa and you’ll only be three steps away from the impressive swimming pool.
theparadise.biz
This boutique resort is located in the corner of a small bay on the northern tip of Ko Yao Noi. Recently refreshed with a new look that blends shabby chic design with natural materials, the resort provides privacy and seclusion without compromising comfort and convenience. Stay in the special pool villa and you’ll only be three steps away from the impressive swimming pool.
theparadise.biz
Koyao Island Resort
Set within a lush tropical garden, and with each villa providing stunning views over the bay, KIR takes its inspiration from ‘glamping’ (glamorous camping) and as such offers an outdoorsy experience with maximum comfort. Book direct via the hotel’s website and you’ll find plenty of deals on offer, including: Book three nights or more to receive a free one-hour aroma massage for two persons; Book 45 days prior to your arrival for 15 percent discount on best available rates; and more.
koyao.com
Set within a lush tropical garden, and with each villa providing stunning views over the bay, KIR takes its inspiration from ‘glamping’ (glamorous camping) and as such offers an outdoorsy experience with maximum comfort. Book direct via the hotel’s website and you’ll find plenty of deals on offer, including: Book three nights or more to receive a free one-hour aroma massage for two persons; Book 45 days prior to your arrival for 15 percent discount on best available rates; and more.
koyao.com
Koh Yao Yai Village
This lovely, eco-friendly resort on Ko Yao offers accommodation in southern-style Thai villas decorated with bamboo, handcrafted cushions, and unique woven cloths. A long list of fun activities designed for the young and young at heart make it a great choice for families.
kohyaoyaivillage.com
This lovely, eco-friendly resort on Ko Yao offers accommodation in southern-style Thai villas decorated with bamboo, handcrafted cushions, and unique woven cloths. A long list of fun activities designed for the young and young at heart make it a great choice for families.
kohyaoyaivillage.com
DINE
The Dining Room
For a cozy, intimate dining experience head straight to The Dining Room at Six Senses Yao Noi. Accessed via an impressive glass walkway above a stunning well-landscaped garden, the restaurant specialises in gourmet Italian cuisine.
sixsenses.com/SixSensesYaoNoi
For a cozy, intimate dining experience head straight to The Dining Room at Six Senses Yao Noi. Accessed via an impressive glass walkway above a stunning well-landscaped garden, the restaurant specialises in gourmet Italian cuisine.
sixsenses.com/SixSensesYaoNoi
Seafood Terrace
This open-air restaurant spills seamlessly onto the sands where you can feast on delicious fresh seafood and a wide range of Thai and international delicacies. Various themed buffets are regularly arranged to complement the tasty à la carte menu.
theparadise.biz
This open-air restaurant spills seamlessly onto the sands where you can feast on delicious fresh seafood and a wide range of Thai and international delicacies. Various themed buffets are regularly arranged to complement the tasty à la carte menu.
theparadise.biz
Pum Pui Restaurant
Ko Yao Island Resort’s signature restaurant cooks up a mouthwatering array of southern-style Thai dishes with ingredients sourced from local markets and all served in portions designed for sharing. Try the Gai pad king (Slices of chicken stir fired with ginger and vegetables from the market); Laab pla yang (Salad of grilled fish cubes seasoned with mint leaves, shallots and chillies; and Goong phad nam prik pao (Fried white prawns from Phang Nga Bay with mild chili sauce).
koyao.com
Ko Yao Island Resort’s signature restaurant cooks up a mouthwatering array of southern-style Thai dishes with ingredients sourced from local markets and all served in portions designed for sharing. Try the Gai pad king (Slices of chicken stir fired with ginger and vegetables from the market); Laab pla yang (Salad of grilled fish cubes seasoned with mint leaves, shallots and chillies; and Goong phad nam prik pao (Fried white prawns from Phang Nga Bay with mild chili sauce).
koyao.com
Kayee Restaurant
The spacious Kayee Restaurant is the main dining venue of Ko Yao Yai Village resort and overlooks the infinity pool and picturesque bay. Choose from Thai cuisine from the four regions of the kingdom or tasty Western delights such as pastas, burgers, soups and salads.
kohyaoyaivillage.com
The spacious Kayee Restaurant is the main dining venue of Ko Yao Yai Village resort and overlooks the infinity pool and picturesque bay. Choose from Thai cuisine from the four regions of the kingdom or tasty Western delights such as pastas, burgers, soups and salads.
kohyaoyaivillage.com
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