  To describe Le Royal Meridien Baan Taling Ngam as a luxury hotel, is comparable to calling Koh Samui a tropical Thailand island. To give you an idea just how renowned this hotel is, film crews come from all over the world just to make commercials with "That Pool" in the background. That pool happens to be one of 7 pools at Baan Taling Ngam, seven swimming pools shared amongst 40 rooms and 9 beach front suites and 20 hillside villas. That's a lot of swimming water for so few guests. And sure, some of those pools are reserved for the villa guests private use. But it is amazing that everyone prefers "The Pool" (the one with the "negative edge" that makes you feel as is you are swimming in the sky - really!).    Le Meridien is built onto a hillside affording spectacular views of Ang Thong Marine National Park and the distant ferries slowly making their way to and from Na Thon across the Gulf Of Siam / Thailand. In fact, it is these boats and the gentle (and very relaxing) background sound of the tiny hotels silver Chinese wind bells (a far cry from wind chimes) in the lounge area, that give the absolute impression of time slowing down.    What really helps make this hotel is it's design / layout. The main security point is on the access road, with private roads leading down to the beach / suites, and up to the reception / hotel rooms, and further up to the villas. Anywhere along these steep private lanes, you will be chauffeur driven in a golf buggy (no charge)! Not exactly the use they were intended for perhaps, but what an experience as you make your way around the hotel's most impressive grounds and facilities. The main restaurant and "The Pool" are at reception level and just below. But my personal favourite is the beach front restaurant, with it's absolutely superb seafood, and neighbouring beach front pool. But you choose your own favourite. But enjoy the rides finding out which one is "best"!    Of course, with so much unmistakable quality (including one of the best hotel environmental programs in the world), extensive range of daily activities (you could stay 2 weeks and not indulge in them all), and impeccable, yet genuinely friendly service. Baan Taling Ngam does not come at 3 star prices, to say the least. But the cost of meals and other essentials are surprisingly reasonable, dare I say "inexpensive"?! There is even a "Happy Hour" (2 for 1 with bar "snacks") that certainly would not put a hole in your pocket. And to sit in their lounge or main restaurant is going to give memories that will never, ever leave you. In addition to this, further along the beach (which is pretty much secure / private), there are a small number of European owned beach bars, restaurants and sports centres that you can easily walk to, and a pleasant walk it is too! Even the deluxe rooms here would be described as suites elsewhere. My point? This hotel is affordable by most Europeans / Americans one way or another. And one way or another, as we may only have one life, if you can only stay at Le Royal Meridien one night. For your own sake, stay. It really is that good, neigh great.    Finally, you have to decide which Le Meridien are to be congratulated most about. The highest standards befitting such a 5 star hotel, yet blending in with it's surroundings and reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of Koh Samui. The staff who great you from start to finish with sincere smiles, arrival flower bracelets for the ladies (plus fresh, chilled whole young coconuts and cold towels for all). Or the guests! Yes, them too. For unlike some other 5 star hotels where you can feel pretty ill at ease if you don't have a permanent "stiff upper lip". Le Royal Meridien, from top to bottom (figuratively and literally), exudes grace, charm and warmth. And that carries right through from the breakfasts served on your private balcony, to the small staff temple that captures everyone's gaze and admiration, to the sense that everyone here is actually enjoying themselves, and in style.          Oh yes, one last thing. Don't forget, if you use this direct booking service, we'll help you get the very best room / suite / villa - see main page for details. |
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