|
By Sofia Rays
The buggy winds its way up the hill, going past an amazing array
of trees and tropical ferns. With each turn we take, we discover
something new. We pass houses, hidden by huge trees. To our right
in the distance we can see deck chairs covered with dark blue towels.
The buggy takes a dramatic turn and begins to climb a steep hill
stopping at a vantage point. I try to conceal the sounds of wonder
that rise spontaneously from of my mouth at the sight of Ba Kan
Tiang bay that before me. The crowd distracts me and I notice that
this area, featuring a small pool with lillies and fountains, leads
to the reception of the Pimalai Resort, on Lanta Yai Island.
Some 50 minutes earlier, at Krabi pier, I caught a cruising boat
that transports resort guests to Lanta Yai. Sitting on the top deck
on a bench behind the captain's cabin, I scoured the unfamiliar
area we cruised past with the curiosity of a first time traveller.
We passed by beaches and mangroves, patches of sand and trees amidst
waves, saw the needle-fish perform its elaborate walking on water
dance, flipping its tale excitedly, as if in welcome.
A hearty welcome awaited us at the reception of Pimalai resort.
We were offered a cold towel, a deliciously cooling lemonade and
a garland made of white jasmine flowers and orchids, before we were
showed to our rooms.
Sheer luxury awaited us in our 48-sq. metre room. The bathroom
with its sizeable tub looks through the bedroom out onto the balcony
and a protective green foliage of trees. The Superior Room, with
its teak parquet floor and contemporary Thai style furniture is
cosy, despite its size and it emanates warmth. The rattan ceiling
to floor curtains add texture to the composition.
However much I would like to linger on, I have to hurry, for I
have booked an appointment at the Spa. The treat proves to have
an extraordinary effect in reducing the stress and cares of the
modern world, easing me into the enjoyment of this little spot of
paradise. I exit the spa with my worries left behind and a new calmness
that will remain with me until I depart.
The Spa has given us a good appetite and we stroll down to Rak
Talay Beach bar & restaurant. Treading on stones shaped like
lotus leaves across the lawn, we pass the deck chairs I had seen
before and catch a glimpse of a waterfall constructed from a sequence
of pebbles. In front of it is the infinity-edge pool, which attempts
to connect itself with the Bay. I allow my eyes to enjoy the two
hues of blue and gaze to the horizon ahead. The only thing separating
the two divides of sea and sky is a small island.
|
|
 |
The restaurant looks rustic, its furniture made out of scrap wood,
thus blending well with the environment. The atmosphere however,
is utterly romantic. Sitting under a thatched roof, I can hear the
sound of the water touching the sand, feel the wind patting the
trees and smell the sea breeze. A couple quietly swims by in these
peaceful waters, while further to my left I can see a collection
of black rocks where the bay ends. A woman is lying on a deck chair
on the veranda of her Beach Villa, Pimalai Resort's more exclusive
rooms. Canoes and windsurfs are stacked on one side, while a speed
boat waits to take guests to the nearby virgin island for snorkelling
or scuba diving.
Sitting in quiet meditation, I realize that I have only seen couples
throughout the day. And young couples at that. I flash back to a
conversation I had with the General Manager, who mentioned that
this is a place for honeymooners. It makes perfect sense now. In
the evening, on the restaurant overlooking both the pool and the
bay you will see couples seated facing each other, speaking in hushed
tones, engrossed in each other's presence, uninterested and indifferent
to others around them. It seems to be a place where romance is fostered,
where privacy is supreme, where everyone can feel at ease with themselves
and their partner. The soft sound of a guitar played every evening
and the songs that are formed enhance the atmosphere, causing couples
to stand up on an impulse and dance, or simply to hum the words
to each other.
|
|
The experience of sunset in these waters is an unforgettable memory.
The orange-turned-red sun gradually melts into the ocean and washes
everything with a light that is hard to describe. Shadows and colours
alter and the resort lights, hidden among the trees and ferns, or
in hollow bamboo shades carved with flower patterns, provide subtle
and unobtrusive illumination.
It may not be difficult to create a romantic atmosphere. Candles
and soft music are all too common a way of creating mood. But here
at the Pimalai Resort & Spa, you need not put in any effort,
for romance is an inherent quality of this place and so easily transmittable,
that it catches you the moment you arrive.
For reservations: Pimalai Resort & Spa
99 Moo 5, Ban Kan Tiang Beach Lanta Yai Island
Krabi 81150,
Tel: (66) 75 629 054/7,
Fax: (66) 75 607987
E-mail: reservation@pimalai.com
Website: www.pimalai.com
|
