Hotel review · Koh Samui
Vana Belle Koh Samui, in pictures
By Mads Nordsveen
Rose water and petals over our hands, the first welcome at Vana Belle.
The gold elephant at the pool edge, with nothing but sea behind it.
An orchid in the middle of the lobby, with the sea framed by the arch beyond.
A bronze elephant keeps watch over the still water of the mirror pool.
The buggies wait in the shade, ready whenever you call.
Bubbles and fruit were waiting in the suite when we arrived.
From the shower, the view runs all the way to the sea.
A deep tub by the glass doors, made for long soaks with a view.
Byredo Le Chemin by the sink, with the resort amenities in a teak tray.
A calm spot to work behind the bed, with the sea in the window.
The covered terrace, the room we used most.
A Vana Belle beach towel, folded and waiting on the daybed.
Soft sand and calm water at Chaweng Noi, with the green headland behind.
Curtained cabanas stand right in the water of the main pool.
Gluten free treats under glass, and Thai sweets like thong yip below.
The Kiree terrace at night, with the jungle lit up around it.
Dinner at Kiree begins with warm bread and grissini.
The Tagliata di Manzo, our dish of the trip.
Evening at Panali, when the lamps in the old tree come on.
Crisp spring rolls to begin our Southern Thai dinner.
Khao Niew Mamuang, with that blue rice once again.
The bronze Vana Spa plaque on its stone pillar.
Towel swans and rose petals waiting in our treatment room.
A towel doll and two dogs with red noses, one of On’s afternoon surprises.
A drawn bath with rose petals waiting after dinner.
White orchids and candlelight at the heart of the lobby.
The lobby pavilion, lit up as evening settles over the resort.
One last photo at Samui Airport before the flight home.
Two loungers, two striped towels, one very good view.
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