Somkiet Buri Resort: Pictures, Reviews and Rates

Construction notice: Somkiet Buri Resort will close for renovation from 21 April 2009 until December 2009 (estimated completion date). All rooms will be refurbished and a new wing of 24 rooms will be added, doubling the resort's capacity.

Somkiet Buri is easily the most beautiful resort within short walking distance of the beach in Ao Nang. Not that you'd notice the proximity to the road, however: all accommodation is 'lost' in a gorgeous, green and fragrant tropical garden that makes you feel as though you are miles from anywhere.

Wooden walkways criss-cross the grounds, leading to the 26 attractively furnished rooms, the pool and the top-class spa. Other guests are rarely spotted, other than at the pretty restaurant, Ruen Prutsa, which also attracts an outside clientele for its excellent seafood and southern Thai cuisine. Service is discreet and efficient.

Please note that Somkiet Buri is a Muslim resort and as such no alcohol is available in the in-room minibar. They have recently started serving beer in the restaurant; guests are also welcome to bring their own drinks, and there is a 7-Eleven conveniently located just outside the resort.

The beautiful Leela Spa, located inside the resort grounds, is one of the best places to sample Thai massage in Ao Nang, as well as a range of other treatments.

At night, the resort is as charming as during the day, the garden lit with strings of lights and the noise of crickets and frogs to send you to sleep. Somkiet Buri is an ideal hideaway for couples, on their honeymoon or otherwise. It has all the right ingredients for a romantic break, while, should you wish to go out, the various pleasures of Ao Nang beach are right on the doorstep.

Rooms
There are 26 rooms in total, housed in one-storey buildings (ground floor and first floor) in blocks of 4 - 6 rooms.

All rooms are air-conditioned with minibar fridge, satellite TV, personal digital safe, telephone and large private balcony with comfortable seating, overlooking the garden. The ensuite bathrooms offer hot and cold water shower and a bathtub. The rooms are very spacious and decorated in natural hues, with good quality wood and rattan furniture and polished sandstones floors, each with a unique design.

The 16 double rooms are split into two categories: superior and poolside. They differ only in location - the 6 poolside rooms being housed in the building closest to the swimming pool - but otherwise are identical in design and facilities. Both Superior and Poolside rooms come with double (king size) beds only.

The ten deluxe triple rooms are vast, with one king size double and one large single bed. They also have a separate lounge area, with tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer.