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Tokoriki Island Resort, Mamanuca Islands, Fiji – Romance, Luxury & Unlimited Spa Experience

Fiji, Fiji, Honeymoon, South Sea, Spa, Videos, Wedding 15. May 2020 0 Comments

“Arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend”

Fiji is the ultimate place of yearning in the South Seas! It is one of the happiest places with the most charming people in the world. The Award Winning Tokoriki Island Resort is one of the most romantic, adults-only resorts we have ever visited. The warm Fijian hospitality of the kind staff touches you deeply, and the design of the 5-star luxury boutique resort is truly impressive. Visiting Tokoriki was an unforgettable experience that can only be described in one word – bliss!

More than 20 years ago, Andrew Turnbull, a successful lollipop importer, decided to buy Tokoriki Island and fulfilled his dream of owning his own resort. With his love for Fiji and the locals, he has created a luxury resort that today is among the top 1% in the world.

“Everyone said I didn’t have a clue about running a resort but my wife and I had travelled around the world and we knew what we liked in a hotel.” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Fiji is an island state in the South Pacific, north of New Zealand and east of Australia. Tokoriki, located in the Mamanuca Islands, can be reached from the main island Viti Levu in style by helicopter in 15 minutes or by catamaran in an hour.

Both the welcome and farewell in Fiji is unique and exceptional indeed. We were picked up by boat and warmly welcomed by Vincent.

Upon arrival at Tokoriki, we were welcomed with a welcome song, a beautiful necklace, a refreshing drink and a foot ritual, which can be redeemed at the spa.

The extraordinary design of the resort, the garden, and the Bures was created by Yvonne, the wife of owner Andrew Turnbull. With great attention to detail, she has selected every single piece of furniture and decorative element to create a unique ambiance. What an incredible eye for design!

“There isn’t a light switch or a coat of paint my wife hasn’t chosen,” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Everything looks incredibly stylish, yet with the warm earthy tones and natural materials, it exudes a comfortable and cosy atmosphere inviting you to feel at home and relax!

At the bar, besides beaming smiles, you can also get an ice-cold Fijian beer or a fancy cocktail.

Beach, please!

You can swim in the crystal clear water of the spectacular lagoon at low and high tide. By the way, Tokoriki is also a member of the Mamanuca Environment Society that helps to protect turtles, corals and monitor the water quality.

Pool Time

At the 25 m long freshwater infinity pool, you can relax, enjoy the peace and quiet and the sea view. With a maximum of 72 guests on the island, you will always find a free sunbed.

The spectacular lighting of the torches at the pool by the typical Fiji Warriors at sunset is not to be missed!

Beachfront Bures & Villas

The unique 36 detached Bures and villas are all located on the beach and embody a blend of contemporary style and Fijian design. They are at least 60 square meters, air-conditioned and have beautiful tropical indoor and outdoor showers. All have a large terrace with mesmerizing views of the azure sea and 28 of them also have a private pool.

Beachfront Pool Bure

To get away from it all, relax and unwind, and just enjoy nature, there are no televisions, telephones or internet.

The warm colours, the natural materials, the stunning works of art and the typical Fijian decorative elements, create a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

We could use this beautiful Bure, number 1, on the last day until our departure.

Taste of the Islands

On Tokoriki, there are many possibilities to enjoy the delicious Fijian food. You can enjoy the delicious dishes with local and imported products in your own villa, on the jetty, in the restaurant or by the sea. Daily changing menus with South Pacific and Asian influences and a modern international touch are served.

If you book half-board, a sumptuous breakfast with sparkling wine, afternoon tea and a 3-course menu is included. There is no extra charge for breakfast or dinner by the sea or the teppanyaki experience. With full-board, a 2-course lunch is also included.

Breakfast by the sea

Breakfast with this stunning ocean view is simply mesmerizing!

Lunch

What is extraordinary about lunch, is not only the delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere, but also the live music provided by talented singers, like Vili.

“Vili has a voice of an angel. If you hear him sing “Hallelujah” you will cry!!” – Andrew Turnbull, Owner

Halleluja – sung by Vili:

Oishii Teppanyaki

The Teppanyaki experience is an intimate, social dining experience in the tropical garden surrounded by water lily ponds for a maximum of four couples. The À-la-carte menu, served by the entertaining chef, is tasty and a lot of fun!

Dinner

Sunset Dining

It does not get more romantic than dinner by the sea at sunset! This really is the perfect spot to celebrate special occasions.

We celebrated Marcus’ birthday here. Being serenaded by the warm-hearted employees, the surprise birthday cake and then Vili and Tom, who sang for us, ensured that this was an unforgettable experience!

Unlimited ’60 Minute Massage’ Retreat

The spa at Tokoriki is beautifully embedded in nature and has lovely open and uniquely designed treatment rooms. Usually, treatments in such a luxury resort are expensive. But with the “Unlimited Spa” offer, Andrew and his wife wanted to provide an affordable package so that everyone could enjoy the massages. Magnificient!

When you book the spa package, once you arrive at the resort, you can arrange spa appointments for the next few days. Where else can you get a 60 Minute massage twice a day? Absolutely brilliant!

Unlimited 60-minute massage retreat

3 days FJ$450 per person or FJ$790 per couple
4 days FJ$550 per person or FJ$990 per couple
5 days FJ$650 per person or FJ$1190 per couple

The massages are performed by loving and professionally certified therapists and are an incredibly relaxing spa experience amidst volcanic rock walls, gentle falling water and birdsong.

Only Nama products are used. The ingredients come from the pristine waters of the Yasawa region of Fiji, an unspoiled region without any pollution. The Nama Collection is free from synthetic fragrances, chemicals, parabens, synthetic colours or flavours and is created to provide lasting hydration.

Thanks to the beautiful ambiance and the lovely therapists we enjoyed this special spa experience tremendously!

Honeymoon & Wedding

Tokoriki is one of the most beautiful and romantic places on earth, with the most charming people. This not just a throwaway remark; the people in Fiji and especially the singers here in Tokoriki really touched our hearts. And that’s why it is one of the most magical places to propose, celebrate a honeymoon, host a beach wedding or any other special occasion.

Honeymoon gift (from 3 nights)

Couples Experience
FJ$2375 (approximately 975 EUR per night)
Including all meals, daily 60-minute massage, island beach picnic plus three tours per couple (visiting a local village, guided snorkel trip and Monuriki visit). A minimum stay of 5 nights applies.

Renewal of Vows
from FJ$ 1915
(free of charge with a stay of 7 nights or more)

Ceremony by the Minister
Floral welcome in your Bure / Villa on arrival and at turndown
Chapel
Table flower arrangement
Bottle of Moet & Chandon

Paradise Wedding
from FJ$ 4425

Choice of location – beach, Bure or Villa
Marriage Licence fee
Ceremony by Minister
Tokoriki wedding certificate cylinder
Floral welcome in your Bure or Villa on arrival and turndown on wedding night
Table flower arrangement
Bridal bouquet
Traditional flower leis
Traditional Fijian warrior escort for the bride
Serenaders during ceremony
Decorated wedding cake for two
Toast – a bottle of Moet & Chandon (or similar)
Wedding Dinner – oceanfront candlelit dinner including a bottle of Moet & Chandon (or similar)

Traditional Wedding
from FJ$5615

as above plus

Chapel
Fijian choir
Flower girl in traditional Fijian dress
Tokoriki gift “memory” – marked with name and date of the wedding
Room service – Breakfast with a bottle of Moet & Chandon

Wedding Brochure >>

Sand, Sea & Land

Activities

Unlimited massage retreat
Picnics on the private island beach
Lounging by the pool
Padi Gold Palm 5 * Diving, snorkeling, tennis
Free cocktail tasting on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 17:30 to 18:00
Kava ceremony on Wednesday and Sunday evening
Happy Hour daily from 17:30 to 19:00

The Kava Ceremony is a nice social experience where you can get to know the Fijian culture a little better.

Transfer

Helicopter: FJ$682 p.p. one way, FJ$1202 p.P. return, 15 minutes
Speedboat: FJ$1180 per couple one way, 20 minutes
SSC Ferry:FJ$160 p.p. one way, departure daily from Port Denarau at 9:15 & 15:00 – arrival at Tokoriki Island Resort at 10:15 & 16:15

Conclusion

Honestly, Tokoriki touches your heart and guarantees unforgettable memories! The people here in Fiji are truly unique! We could not have chosen a more beautiful place for Marcus’ birthday. Tokoriki is romance pure and exudes a joy for life! The unique design of the resort, the extraordinary spa experience, the variety of gourmet experiences, and the friendly and attentive staff make this resort a highly recommended spot to celebrate life’s special moments. And if you get the chance to hear Vili sing, it is unforgettable indeed!

Rooms: 36 Bures & Villas (28 with pools)
Flight duration: 11 hours to Singapore and from there another 10 and a half hours to Nadi
Transfer: helicopter, seaplane, speedboat or SSC ferry
Vaccinations: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Pertussis, Measles, and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended
Air Temperature: 20 – 34 degrees Celsius
Water Temperature: 25 – 28 degrees Celsius
Time difference: CET +11 hours
Best time to travel: May to October has pleasant temperatures; November to April is the time with the highest humidity and the heaviest precipitation and possibly cyclones and hurricanes. It is also cheaper and not so crowded during this period. In the west of the Fiji Islands, there is less rain than on the eastern islands.
Price: FJ$1430 per night for 2 adults (16 years and older, minimum stay 2 nights), half board incl. full breakfast, afternoon tea and a 3-course menu – FJ$210 per person per day (no extra charge for dinner by the sea, breakfast by the sea or a teppanyaki experience)
Specials: a bottle of French champagne from Moet & Chandon for the honeymoon, birthday or wedding anniversary (6 nights or more), FJ$ 250 resort credit for 5 nights, FJ $ 1000 resort credit for 7 nights stays, free helicopter transfer for 7 nights
Vale VIP Programme: VIP check-in, welcome cocktail, refreshing fragrant towels, Tokoriki Lei (garland), footbath, early check-in before 2pm, free upgrade (subject to availability) on arrival, free Bure to shower if late check-out is not possible (if booked directly with the resort)
Activities: Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Hobie Cat Sailing, Snorkeling Equipment, Kayak, Spa, Traditional Basket Weaving, Board Games, Garden Chess, Library, Coconut Tree of Life Story, Fresh Water and Saltwater Swimming Pools, Glass Bottom Boating, Herbal Medicine Walk, Hiking, Jogging, Table Tennis, Petanque, Chapel Service, Soccer, Cultural Entertainment, Volleyball and TRX Fitness Platform
Special features: unique ambiance, magnificent tropical garden, delicious cuisine, ingenious spa experience, excellent staff, stunning design
Perfect for: couples, romantics, friends, honeymooners, people seeking peace and quiet, wellness

Tokoriki Island Resort
Mamanucas, Fiji Islands
Telephone: +679 666 1999
Reservation: +679 672 5926, +679 672 5927
reservations@tokoriki.com
www.tokoriki.com

Condé Nast Traveller UK – ‘Top 100’ list
Luxury Travel Magazine’s – ‘Best Overseas Luxury Romantic & Boutique Property’
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel in Fiji – 2019 – 2014
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel for Romance in Fiji
TripAdvisor Awards – #1 Top Hotel for Service in Fiji 2019
TripAdvisor – The Best of Mamanuca Islands
TripAdvisor – Top Ten Hotels in Fiji
TripAdvisor – #1 Best Restaurant in the Mamanucas for “Oishii’ Teppanyaki

Do you like this article? Then make our day, and share it!
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Please note: We financed our stay at Tokoriki Island Resort ourselves.

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Couples Swept Away, Negril, Jamaica – Adults-Only Paradise for Honeymooners & Romantics

Caribbean, Honeymoon, Jamaica, Spa, Videos, Wedding 7. January 2020 0 Comments

Five-star Luxury and Premium All-Inclusive Service at the Romantic Couples Resort

When you think of Jamaica, the first thing you think of is reggae. And in fact, it can be found everywhere on the island. But Jamaica has so much more to offer. The tropical surroundings are breath-taking, the people are lovely, and the hotels are fantastic.

With the Couples Resort, the all-inclusive concept was virtually invented on the island. In 1978, Abe Issa, the father of all-inclusive resorts, built his first hotel, the Tower Isle, in Ocho Rios. He transformed the hotel, popular with many Hollywood stars, into the world’s first all-inclusive resort for couples only. His vision of the perfect romantic getaway for couples is now being continued by his son Lee, other members of the Issa family, and the dedicated managers and staff.

Today there are four couples hotels, which as Jamaica’s most popular all-inclusive luxury resorts with their adults-only concept, promise relaxing, romantic, and luxurious holidays. And this promise is kept – the wonderfully chilled atmosphere, the stunning long sandy beach, the friendly staff, the personal service, the delicious food, the cocktails and activities without end – here you will be spoiled from head to toe.

Situated on the world-famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril, the elegant Couples Swept Away is the perfect place for romantics, sun worshippers, and sports enthusiasts.

“TRUE LOVE IS A TRIP OF A LIFETIME.”

On 19 hectares, there are 39 bungalows with 312 suites in the Caribbean style, six restaurants, eight bars, three swimming pools, five jacuzzis, and a 4,000 square meter sports complex, hidden in the palm trees and surrounded by tropical nature. The love and respect for the natural scenery are evident everywhere here. No roof is higher than the palm trees around it.

At the heart of the Couples Resorts, are the friendly and dedicated staff. Initially, many foreigners were working at the hotels, but now the local employees have been trained and equipped with the necessary skills to such an extent, that all employees, except for three, are Jamaican. Terrific!

ALL THE FUN, ALWAYS INCLUDED

With the All-Inclusive Unlimited concept, more is included in the room rate than you would expect. Not only are you spoiled from morning to night with delicious food and drinks, but there are also plenty of (water) sports and excursions. And even the wedding ceremony is already included.

Transfer from and to Montego Bay Airport
24-hour gourmet dining
Room service (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Premium branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, also at the pool or in the minibar
Excursions, for example, to Margaritaville
Water sports, such as stand-up paddling, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking, plus diving and PADI diving courses at the resort, and unlimited water skiing with an instructor
Catamaran cruise
Unlimited golf including transfers and green fees on two championship courses, the Negril Hills Golf Course and Upton Golf and Country Club
Tennis, with playing times and lessons
Cooking, handicraft and dance courses
Fully equipped gym with various classes, such as aerobics, yoga, and aquacise gymnastics
Evening entertainment (steel and reggae bands, bonfires on the beach, barbecues, and open-air cinema)
Wi-Fi
Free wedding ceremony applies with stays of 3 nights or longer
Renewal of marriage vows; no additional fees apply with a 3 nights stay or longer
Honeymoon Package: a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and a 25-minute couple massage; a minimum of 6 nights applies

PURE WHITE SAND BEACH

Crystal clear warm water and an endless beach for relaxing and swimming, the palm-fringed Seven Mile Beach is simply gorgeous!

Here you can relax and enjoy tasty cocktails and snacks with a view of the ocean under wafting palm leaves.

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NO KIDS – NO SINGLES – NO HASSLES

Those who don’t want to swim in the sea can also refresh themselves in one of the three pools or enjoy a cocktail at the Swim Up Bar and marvel at the sound of silence. Well, there is the twittering of birds, the roaring of the ocean, and a few laughing and cheerful guests that can be heard, but otherwise, it is wonderfully quiet!

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ISLAND CHIC STYLE

The 312 suites are distributed in the tropical garden in bungalow-style buildings. Some offer sea views, and others have views into the tropical garden. They are stylish and elegantly furnished in Caribbean style.

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Premier Beachfront Suite
The most popular suites in the resort are perfect for your honeymoon. They are located directly on the beach, are furnished with comfortable seating, floor-to-ceiling cedar shutters and French doors in classic Caribbean style furnishings and have no televisions.

Great House Ocean Suite
These spacious suites offer a great sea view – even from the bathtub.

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Garden Verandah Suite
The Garden Verandah Suites have a private balcony, terracotta tiled floors, and French doors with cedar shutters.

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GOURMET DINING

Patois Patio

This open and caribbean style restaurant was our favorite. It offers an ingenious a-la-carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes in bistro-style with Caribbean and Latin American flavors and wood-fired oven pizzas. Really delicious!

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The Palms

The open-plan main restaurant offers a huge selection of fresh fruit, freshly baked bread, and omelets in the morning. Lunch and dinner consist of salads and fresh seafood and are served with live music in the background.

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Really enchanting are the staff and also these little feathered friends.

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Lemon Grass
This cozy restaurant serves Asian-style dishes under the starry sky with a view of the main pool. It is best to book in advance.

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Feathers
The Fine Dining Restaurant serves continental cuisine with a distinctly Caribbean flair. Reservation in advance is advisable.

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Reggea Beach Dinner
This beach barbecue party with live reggae music and a fire show was an absolute highlight. A great party with delicious food – right by the ocean.

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OASIS SPA

The award-winning spa features eight private treatment rooms, a long Buddha plunge pool, and a eucalyptus steam bath. Massages, facials, body wraps, and body scrubs are offered using local ingredients such as ginger, lemongrass, and sugar cane.

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HONEYMOON & WEDDING BY THE SEA

Honeymoon Special
A complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and a 25-minute couple massage in the spa (from 6 nights)

Free wedding package: One Love Package
With beautiful settings for the wedding on the beach or in the tropical garden and dedicated wedding planners, your wedding will be a heavenly experience.

From 3 nights is the ceremony included:

Personal wedding planner
Your choice of spectacular wedding locations on the beach or in the tropical gardens
Sparkling wine for up to 6 people
Wedding cake for up to 6 people
Bridal bouquet and groom boutonniere with purple or white Dendrobium orchids
Professional photoshoot: A wedding portrait in 8 x 10 format
Exclusive use of the resort’s sound system for MP3 players / iPods
Automated online wedding calendar
On-site wedding coordinator
Wedding Officer
Marriage certificate
Celebratory T-shirts for bride and groom

Only the license and administration fee of $ 350 (Europe) needs to be paid.

More wedding packages >>

Renewal of Marriage Vows
Services as above for the bridal couple and 4 guests, $ 350 fees (Europe)

Couples Swept Away offers endless possibilities as an ideal destination for the perfect marriage proposal or a romantic getaway.

RECREATION MEETS ROMANCE

Fitness
For sports enthusiasts, the vast fitness complex offers 10 tennis courts, squash and racquetball facilities, a fully-equipped fitness center, and much more.

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Water sports
Kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, and diving – all included. Whoever wants to can also do the PADI certificate here at an additional fee.

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Snorkeling tour

Catamaran Cruise

The Sunset Catamaran Cruise is a cool party tour with cocktails and reggae music with fun guaranteed. The tour ends at a small cave where you can jump off the boat and swim in the ocean.

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Are they not gorgeous!

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Margaritaville
There is a shuttle from the hotel to the popular Margaritaville Bar.

Ricks Café
Rick’s Café is a famous bar, especially at sunset. It is located directly on the cliffs and attracts many people who want to jump off the cliffs. So cool to watch!

Other excursions:

Black River/Y.S Falls
Chukka Canopy Zipline Tour
Chukka Horseback Tour

SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT

ISSA TRUST FOUNDATION
With this foundation, Couples Resorts has been supporting the improvement of the health of the population and the education of children since 2005. Excursions to the Oracabessa Elementary School, Ocho Rios, or the Happy Hearts Early Childhood Institution in Negril can help you to get to know the culture of the Jamaicans and Jamaica’s education system even better.

This is a list of urgently needed school supplies that you can bring along and donate during your vacation.

www.couples.com/about-us/issa-trust-foundation

ROMANCE REWARDS

The number of returning guests to the popular Couples Resorts is impressive. Those who sign up for the “Romance Rewards” program can get free nights and other benefits. There are even special dinners for returning guests.

As a family-owned resort, we take pride in providing a delightful experience that reflects our cherished island traditions. Our sadness to see you leave is only tempered by the excitement that one day soon, we will open our arms and “welcome you home” again. – Lee Issa, Chairman

FEELING IRIE

Everywhere in the romantic Couples Swept Away, you can see happy faces! And we also felt really comfortable here – “Irie”! The enchanting people, employees, and even guests, and the unique concept make a holiday here particularly relaxing and unforgettable! There is so much to experience that a few days are hardly enough. Due to the Adults-Only concept, it is also wonderfully quiet and perfect for a honeymoon or romantic break. Each of the four Couples Resorts has its own charm! We liked the endless beach, the a-la-carte breakfast at Patois Patio and the catamaran cruise the most. Jamaica and Couples Resorts are definitely worth a trip and highly recommended! Our stay at Couples Swept Away felt much too short!

Rooms: 312 (rooms with beach or garden views, suites)
Flight duration: approximately 10 to 11 hours non-stop from Frankfurt, Germany to Montego Bay
Transfer: about one and a half hours with group transfer (included)
Airport: 75 km
Vaccinations: recommended are Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Pertussis, Measles, and Hepatitis A
Air Temperature: 19 – 33 degrees Celsius
Water Temperature: 27 degrees Celsius
Time difference: CET +6 hours
Best travel time: December to March, as well as April and July; warm all year round: the months outside the hurricane season, August – November, are optimal
Price: from 600 per night including Unlimited All-Inclusive
Activities: Water sports, ball sports, golf, pilates, yoga, diving, a catamaran cruise, Dunns River Falls hike, shopping tours, night club, and a casino
Special features: beautiful beach, great relaxed atmosphere, loving and caring staff, and excellent personal service
Perfect for: beach weddings, honeymoons, couples, beach lovers, and water sports enthusiasts

Couples Swept Away
Norman Manley Blvd, Negril, Jamaika
Nordamerika 1.800.COUPLES
UK/Europe +44 1582794420
www.couples.com

TOP RESORTS IN THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS – Condé Nast Traveler 2018
TRIPADVISOR’S TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARDS
EARTHCHECK CERTIFIED
ORBITZ BEST IN STAY AWARD
GOLDEN APPLES – 2018
DELTA VACATION QUALITY ASSURANCE AWARD – 2017

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!
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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by the Couples Resorts. Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in the article are our own – 100%!

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Kings Camp Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Nature Reserve, South Africa – Big 5, Romance & Luxury

Africa, animal welfare, Honeymoon, social commitment, South Africa, Videos 6. May 2019 0 Comments

A luxurious, stylish safari lodge with spectacular wildlife encounters

We love the African bush: watching leopards with their cubs, early morning coffee in the bushveld, nyala antelope walking past the pool, sundowners, romantic campfire dinners and relaxing by the pool. What more could you wish for? And it’s especially beautiful here at Kings Camp!

Experience the charm and romance of a bygone era, spectacular wildlife sightings and marvel at the beautiful views of the African grasslands at this luxurious safari lodge with nine stylish safari-colonial suites.

The 60,000 hectare Timbavati Reserve, with its shady acacia and mopane trees, small lakes and the Nhlaralumi River, is breathtakingly beautiful – a piece of pristine Africa on the western border of the Kruger National Park. The reserve was established in the 1950s by a group of landowners who wanted to conserve the area, the fences adjacent to the Kruger National Park were removed in 1993, and now guests have the opportunity to experience wildlife at its best on an area of 2.2 million hectares. The Timbavati Nature Reserve is home to 40 mammal and 282 bird species. The animals can even walk through the camp so you cannot walk around alone at night.

You can splash around in the pool overlooking a busy waterhole, sip a cocktail in the open lounge or bar and enjoy the excellent food in a romantic setting in the restaurant. Thanks to the kind and dedicated staff you will be spoiled all around.

Joof Alberts bought, renovated and opened this eco-lodge for discerning clients in 1995. Since 1998, it has been managed by husband and wife team, Warren and Lisha Moore, as if it was their own. Thanks to them and their dedicated staff, many of whom have been there from the very beginning, they manage to create an atmosphere, where one really feels welcome and at home.

“The magic of the Timbavati bush is waiting…”

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High up in a tree-house style lounge you can enjoy the silence of nature.

Honeymoon Suite

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The large honeymoon suite has a huge verandah with sun loungers, seating area, and private pool, a large king-sized four-poster bed, an open plan lounge with a comfortable seating area and a stylish open-plan bathroom with free-standing bathtub, double basins, and indoor and outdoor showers. You have plenty of space to relax, switch off and let nature work its magic thanks to the two large double doors framing the majestic landscape.

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Wild animals visited the small waterhole in front of our suite. We saw some beautiful nyalas that are also depicted in the paintings in the suite, hornbills, and squirrels.

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The wonderful Patricia: such a kind-hearted soul and just one of the many wonderful staff members at the lodge. Almost everyone addresses you by your first name, a very personal and warm gesture that really makes you feel at home.

“Kings Camp cordially invites you to join the spirit of mandleve and to walk with us into an eden of the past in this pristine corner of unspoiled Africa.”

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The dark wood, the warm colors, the beautiful paintings, the golden picture frames, the massive chandeliers, and many striking design elements give the suite a palatial and at the same time intimate feel.

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There is a Nespresso coffee machine, delicious sherry and a generously filled mini-bar in the suite.

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Waterbuck Private Camp

The Waterbuck Camp overlooks a dry riverbed, has four bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people. It has a pool and a vast garden. This private villa offers privacy and pure luxury!

The camp has its own private game vehicle, ranger, tracker, chef, and housekeeper.

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Sunrise Safari

You have to get up early for the morning game drive. After a wake-up call, a fresh cup of coffee and a small snack in the library we left the lodge just before sunrise at 5:00 am (5:30 am in the winter). Actually, we were just hoping to see a few Impala antelope – but once again the safari gods smiled upon us, and we saw so much more!

Sunrise in the African bush is a fantastic experience and worth getting up early for. The animals are more active in the morning, so the chances of some rare animal sightings are better. Just remember to dress warmly, especially in winter.

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How sweet and perfect are these young nyalas!

After listening to all sorts of beautiful birds, zebras, nyalas and loads of interesting information and stories from our ranger Neil, we made our first Big 5 sighting.

We found Ntumbi, a beautiful leopard lady, busy feasting on her freshly caught prey in a small embankment. Neil drove down the slope, and we had a fantastic view of the leopardess. The leopards here are used to the jeeps and therefore simply cannot be bothered by their presence.

Ntumbi even brought her prey up into a big mopane tree right next to us.

Just when we thought it could not get any better, Ntumbi’s 9-month-old boy appeared and lay down on the ground next to the jeep, watching us. What a breathtaking experience to be able to look such a magnificent creature directly in the eyes. Unforgettable!

In awe, we spent a small eternity watching the leopards. Luckily, there were not many jeeps driving around, so we had time to take in the moment. Brilliant!

Lazy and full, Ntumbi was just hanging in the beautiful mopane tree.

After this amazing experience, we had a small breakfast with fresh coffee and hot chocolate in a dry riverbed in the middle of the African bush.

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Freshly brewed bush coffee with Amarula – there is hardly anything better!

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On the way back to the camp we even discovered some rhinos – great that they are protected here!

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At around 9:00 we happily returned to camp, having experienced a wealth of wildlife sightings and ready to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the restaurant. If you want to, you can go on a guided bush walk afterwards.

Restaurant

The spacious restaurant serves delicious, tasty meals by the log fire or on the large terrace overlooking the waterhole.

Breakfast

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Breakfast is served buffet style. Scrumptious, warm egg dishes are made to order.

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Lunch

After relaxing for a while in your exquisite villa or enjoying a spa treatment, lunch is served between 13:30 and 15:00 with a beautiful view of the bush and the possibility of seeing some wildlife.

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Sunset Safari

After a cup of afternoon coffee or tea in the library, we went on our next safari in the afternoon at 16:00 (15:30 in the winter).

The excitement when leaving is always tangible; you never know what you might see this time round.

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We saw many animals on our afternoon game drive: impalas, kudu, giraffes, buffalos, wildebeests, rhinos, leopards and elephants.

These little elephant bulls gave us quite a show – so sweet. Annoyed, they ran towards the vehicle, angrily threw branches around, then tried to hide and even struck an impressive pose – incredibly cute!

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But when the elephant mom got impatient, our ranger wisely decided it was time to move on.

We also saw Ntumbi and her cub again in the same spot as earlier the morning, still nibbling on their prey.

With a little luck, you can also see lions, cheetahs, hyenas and larger antelope like roan, eland, and tsessebe.

Lady luck was on our side, as we spotted yet another leopard. In the beautiful light of the sunset, we watched Marula and her 4-month-old cub.

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Nothing is more amazing than having sundowners in the bush. With a gin & tonic in hand and some South African snacks like Biltong, nuts and dried fruit, we enjoyed the sunset.

At about 7 pm we went back to the camp. There we were warmly welcomed with a small aperitif.

Bar

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After a refreshing drink at the bar, once you have had the opportunity to freshen up in your villa, it was dinner time.

Dinner

In the private dining room with its stunning chandelier and romantic fireplace, sumptuous meals are served matched with iconic South African wines.

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Dinner served by the open fire under the starry African sky is especially romantic.

This is how you imagine Africa! Heavenly!

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Social commitment & animal conservation

Apart from animal conservation, Kings Camp also strives to help the surrounding communities in cultural, environmental and economic terms. The Timbavati Foundation supports local sustainability programs that involve 29 high schools and an ever-growing number of primary schools in the area.

Honeymoon & Wedding

Kings Camp offers a perfect and stylish bush setting for proposing, hosting a wedding with a colonial charm or enjoying a romantic honeymoon. Wedding ceremonies take place in the middle of the African wilderness in a dry riverbed.

Wedding Package from 1550 EUR (further information >>)

Wedding ceremony in a dry riverbed in the heart of the bushveld
Local flowers of your choice for the bridal bouquet and the bridal table
Sparkling wine for the bridal couple
Single layer wedding cake with a topping of your choice
Local Shangaan dancers to perform at the ceremony or reception
Wedding turndown for the bridal couple
Gift for the bridal couple, courtesy of Kings Camp

Spa

In addition to a fitness room, there is also a beautiful spa. You can treat yourself to a relaxing massage or a regenerating beauty treatment at the spa or for ultimate privacy, in the comfort of your suite.

Conclusion

From the warm welcome to the farewell, we felt very much at home at Kings Camp. The suites are exquisite and offer loads of privacy. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and the staff incredibly kind. Thanks to our excellent guide Neil and his tracker Donald, we had amazing and unforgettable safaris and wildlife sightings. The lodge is truly a haven where you can experience the African bush in refined luxury. The ambiance is wonderfully relaxing! If you would like to enjoy a unique, extraordinary African bush experience, we highly recommend this lodge!

Room: Six Luxury Suites, one Family Suite and two Honeymoon Suites with Pool
Flight: Flight nonstop from Frankfurt to Johannesburg in 10 and a half hours with South African Airways; the flight to Hoedspruit with SA Express takes about 50 minutes
Transfer: from Hoedspruit about 1 hour drive to the lodge
Air Temperature: 25 – 40 degrees Celsius in summer, 5 – 25 degrees Celsius in winter
Time difference: none
Best travel time: Summer is from September to April: it is very hot with high rainfall. Winter is from May to August: it does not rain, but it is considerably colder at night.
Vaccinations: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Poliomyelitis, Hepatitis A, rabies and hepatitis B (for long-term stays), adequate malaria precautions are advisable
Price: From 620 EUR per person per night in a Luxury Suite. This fee includes all meals, tea & coffee, mini bar, game drives, all beverages (excluding premier wines), laundry service, wireless Internet access
Note: Only children above the age of six are allowed
Special offers: 8-Night Luxury Bush Trilogy from 6700 EUR per person including flights (3 Nights Madikwe Hills | 3 Nights Leopard Hills | 2 Nights Kings Camp)
Specialties: Exciting safaris with great rangers, wonderful wildlife experiences also at the lodge, super-friendly staff, luxurious suites, delicious cuisine, extremely relaxing atmosphere
Perfect for: Couples, adventurers, peace seekers, romantics, nature lovers, animal lovers, and families

KINGS CAMP
Private Game Reserve
+27 (0)13 751 1621
+27 (0)82 675 6539
book@kingscamp.com
www.kingscamp.com

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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by Kings Camp. Thank you so much!
Nevertheless, the opinions voiced in this article are 100% our own!

Nihi Sumba Island, Indonesia – Wild Romance in the Tropical Luxury Hideaway

Asia, Asien, Honeymoon, Indonesia, Indonesien, Interviews, LHW, social commitment, Spa, Sumba Island, Sumba Island, Video, Wedding 31. January 2018 0 Comments

Luxury Tourism & Social Engagement in an Exotic Jungle Paradise

Nihi Sumba Island by Christopher Burch – wild, romantic and perfect for anyone that would like to escape to paradise. This exotic luxury hideaway can be found secluded in a beautiful bay in the middle of the tropical jungle on Sumba Island. In true Sumbanese style, it offers luxury and relaxation to romantics, adventurers and surfers with a private beach and a view to die for.

After the American entrepreneur, Christopher Burch, fell in love with Sumba himself after visiting several times, he decided to buy the small surfer retreat from fellow American couple, Claude and Petra Graves in 2012. Together with the hotelier James McBride, he completely transformed it into the luxurious and romantic hideaway with a charismatic profile – Nihi Sumba Island, formerly known as Nihiwatu. Chris strives to preserve the innocence of the island and in spite of all its luxury, keep its carbon footprint as low possible. He, for example, bought an additional 230 hectares of land for nature conservation, of which only a maximum of 26 hectares should ever be built on.

The travel world is ready for change. The idea of a traditional five-star resort, in which we bring all our expectations of glamour and home with us, then sequester ourselves in a gated property that tries to deliver them, is fading. Instead, we increasingly want basic humble things and meaningful connections. And of course, people want authenticity.”
-Chris Burch

Luxury holiday with Purpose
Sumba Island is twice as big as Bali, but with only 750,000 inhabitants sparsely populated. To date, the island has preserved its original beauty and Sumbanese culture – wildly romantic, like Bali 30 years ago. However, many people are still impoverished on this remote and untouched island. Nihi Resort now offers employment to some of them and thus the prospect of a better life.

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With almost 400 employees (mostly locals) for the 32 villas, Nihi has an impressive staff-guest ratio. And thanks to the Sumba Foundation, the core of Nihi Sumba, it also makes an essential contribution to the local people as far as malaria control is concerned. In many places employees can now also build new houses for themselves and their families.

“The Edge of Wildness”

Already at Denpasar airport in Bali you will be picked up by one of the friendly Nihi staff members and escorted to the gate or the lounge. After a short 50-minute flight with Garuda Indonesia, offering daily flights to Sumba, you will reach the small airport, Tambolaka.

From here your journey continues with a safari jeep to the resort. With fresh coconuts in hand and exciting views of the island, you then reach the resort after an hour and a half’s drive.

The luxury resort offers the following: 32 individual and spectacular pool villas, a unique spa, NihiOka, an open-air restaurant with ocean views, the Nio Beach Club, a Boat House with a bar, a yoga pavilion, a chocolate factory, horse stables and a fantastic infinity pool directly by the sea.

Since the beach belongs to the hotel, it is as deserted as these pictures show. You will only encounter a few riders on horseback and if you are lucky, a Buffalo herd that the Sumbanese farmers bring out to the beach every day.

The Perfect Place for Romance
After we got married on the dreamy beach, Anse Source d’Argent in the Seychelles in 2012, the extraordinary Nihi Sumba Resort would be the romantic and special place where we would renew our vows in October 2017 on our the 5th wedding anniversary.

©Jason Childs

Villas

All the villas in this resort have exotic Sumbanese names and are entirely different and unique in their design. The villas have one to five bedrooms, signature canopy beds, carefully selected furniture, are decorated with attention to detail, have chic mini-bars with liquor and handmade chocolates, pools and often dramatic views of the Indian Ocean.

Mendaka

This beautiful one bedroom duplex villa was our home for our vow renewal ceremony. Together with five other villas, it is the crown jewel of Nihi Sumba Island and is part of the estate owned by Chris Burch.

The villa has a covered terrace, a semi-open living room, an outdoor lounge, a quaint open bathroom, a metal bathtub on the terrace on the first floor and a pool with breathtaking views – all in all strikingly beautiful!

The bathtub from which you can watch the stars at night and have incredible views to enjoy during the day is a dream!

In the mini-bar, you will find everything your heart could desire!

You also have panoramic ocean views from the open bath and outdoor shower.

Lulu

This villa offers spacious rooms, great stylish design with a lot of natural stone, one to two bedrooms, a fabulous outdoor patio with a Bale, an infinity pool and a chic outdoor shower.

Lamba

The Villa Lamba 1 is situated directly next to the Boat House. It has a massive terrace with infinity pool and sitting area, a stunning semi-open bathroom with a gigantic bathtub, an outdoor shower and signature Nihi canopy bed.

The other villas with melodic names such as Haweri, Puncak, Santoro, Wamoro, Kasambi, Marangga, Kanatar and the Mamole Tree House, also offer exceptional luxury in their own unique way. The Mamole Tree House was just chosen as the “Most Beautiful Treehouse in the World” by the Telegraph.

Restaurant & Bar

Ombak Restaurant | Breakfast

Breakfast is served in this open-air restaurant with magnificent sea views. While watching the surfers riding the waves, you can enjoy some delicious egg dishes, freshly squeezed juices and fresh fruit.

Nio Beach Club | Lunch

The Nio Beach Club is located directly next to the pool and in the afternoon grilled dishes, burgers and freshly prepared pizzas baked in a wood-fired clay oven are served. Lunch and snacks are also served by the pool…

… but you can also enjoy lunch on the terrace of your villa if you prefer to do so.

Boat House und Bar | Sunset Cocktail

The quaint Boat House is the meeting place for surfers and water sports enthusiasts and in the evening a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset from with an exotic cocktail in hand.

Ombak Restaurant | Dinner

In the evening, the Ombak restaurant is the hub of social activity and it has a very romantic ambiance. If you would like to, you can even dine with your feet in the sand. Fresh produce from the organic garden and local fresh fish are served.

For special events, there are many romantic spots – also directly on the beach.

Barbecues
On select evenings a scrumptious Barbecue buffet is served.

Chef Clinton stems from South Africa. He and his team serve mouthwatering local and international dishes.

The overall mood at the resort is very relaxed with a feel-good atmosphere.

Wedding & Honeymoon

For our 5th wedding anniversary, we renewed our wedding vows at Nihi Sumba. The vow renewal ceremony took place on this fabulous beach with Sumbanese priests. An extraordinary experience – report to follow!

Renewal of Vow Package from USD 981++

NihiOka Spa Safari, including a visit to a nearby Sumbanese village, breakfast and lunch on the cliffs, as well as a range of spa treatments, from massages and reflexology to salt scrubs and mud wraps
Traditional Sumbanese vow renewal performed by Sumbanese high priests
Romantic dinner in a restaurant of your choice

In the evening we had a very romantic dinner in the Nio Beach Club complete with wedding cake, serenade and stunning fireworks on the beach.

Experiences

Water Sports

With this cool crew, you can surf, fish, paddle or go snorkeling.

The waves in the bay are perfect for surfers. Surfers from all over the world come here to surf “Occy’s Left.” To ensure that everybody gets a turn a maximum of only ten surfers are allowed at the resort.

Spa & Wellness
At the NihiOka Spa, approximately a half hour drive away, you will be spoiled all day long with unlimited spa treatments at this genuinely unique Spa. Our report >>

Horse riding
The resort has its own stables on the beach. If this is your thing, I can’t imagine anything more beautiful than a horse ride on this beach!

Chris & Charly´s Chocolate Factory

In the chocolate factory, you can learn how to make chocolate. The mini-bars in the villas are also stocked with these delicious chocolates.

Yoga, Yoga Retreats, Waterfall Hikes and visits to a nearby Sumbanese village are also on offer.

Sumba Foundation

While we stayed at the resort, there was a touching presentation on the Sumba Foundation that took place during a Barbecue evening. It is a private, non-profit aid organization that the former owner of Nihi, Claude Graves, founded in 2001 and that has since then provided humanitarian aid.

“Its not about perfect, its about beautiful” -Chris Burch

On this evening, the owner of Nihi and supporter of the Sumba Foundation, Christopher Burch, even attended the presentation. He supports the local Sumbanese population with a lot of heart and has expanded the work of the foundation considerably.

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With education and through the construction of seven malaria clinics, Malaria has already been reduced by 75% on the island and around the Nihi resort by 93%! Over the past 14 years, the foundation has established more than 11 elementary schools and has also equipped a mobile ultrasound for pregnant women, built 48 wells and provided clean water to 172 villages. (More info)

Every day the children in the schools get a free lunch. On tour, Nihi resort guests can also help to hand out the meals, if they would like to.

You can either have a look on the website at “Pack for a Purpose” or ask Nihi Resort before your trip what the children’s needs are at that moment. We brought along coloring books, pencils, erasers, crayons and footballs – they just loved it!

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You should definitely join the Sumba Foundation’s Project Trips and visit a malaria clinic and a school. It is fascinating and absolutely impressive to see what they have already achieved here. The passionate Rainy accompanied us on our trip.

Sumba Foundation
Kenny Knickerbocker, +62 (0) 813 3956 6103, Kenny@sumbafoundation.org
www.sumbafoundation.org

Conclusion

The resort, the natural surroundings and the villas are a dream. The view from the pool at Villa Mendaka is spectacular! The local staff is lovely and warm-hearted! We had an idyllic vow renewal. Unfortunately, some things went wrong during the organization and planning, so not everything was perfect. So what? As Christopher Burch said – it’s not about being perfect, it is about being beautiful. And it indeed is beautiful here! This almost untouched island has such flair. With a heart for its employees, an extraordinary concept, tasteful and unusual design, its nonchalance and social commitment, it is no wonder that the NIHI resort has been chosen as the “# 1 Hotel in the World” for the second time in a row.

Room: 32 spectacular villas (1 to 5 bedrooms)
Flight duration: About 50 minutes from Denpasar Airport, Bali
Transfer: About a 90-minute drive from Tambolaka Airport. Shuttle service from the airport to the resort in a Nihi Jeep is an additional USD 250 -per person
Air Temperature: 20 – 32 degrees Celsius
Best Time to go: Dry season: May – October; Rainy season – 3 months in the East and up to 5 months in the West: November – April; Best Time to go: April – July and from October to mid-December in the Southwest; Surfing season: May – September
Time difference: CET +8 hours
Price: From USD 750- per night per double room. Fully inclusive of the following: Full board and Soft drinks, Butler-Service, Minibar (stocked up once daily, including beer and spirits), Laundry, Sumba Foundation Project Trips, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Snorkeling, Group Yoga and Meditation Courses at the Yoga Pavilion. A minimum stay of three nights applies. Rates >>
Specials: Stay 4 & Pay 3; Stay 7 & Pay 5
Special features: Unique location in a beautiful bay, magnificent deserted beach, exceptional villas, incredible spa safari, easy going atmosphere, travel and making a difference
Perfect for: Surfers, couples, nature lovers, romantics, honeymooners and adventurers

NIHI SUMBA ISLAND
Front Office: (+62) 811 3978 550
fo@nihi.com
www.nihi.com

Leading Hotels of the World – Elite member
The World’s Most Romantic Hotels – Travel+Leisure 2018
#1 Hotel in the World – Travel+Leisure 2016, 2017
Destination Resort of the Year – AsiaSpa Awards 2015

More interesting articles:
Travel+Leisure – The Rebirth of Indonesia’s Sumba Island
The Points Guy – Video Interview With Chris Burch and James McBride

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Please note: Nihi Sumba Resort partially sponsored our stay. Thank you so much! The opinions expressed in this article are nevertheless 100% our own!

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MerkenMerken

Our Tips for a Romantic Holiday in South Africa – Cape Town, Winelands, Garden Route & Kruger Park

Africa, Honeymoon, Hotels, Restaurants, South Africa, Videos 25. May 2016 0 Comments

A Gourmet & Adventure Road Trip in Pictures with hotel, restaurant, adventure and travel tips

Stunning sunsets, gourmet food at its finest, the best wines, beautiful scenery, incredible starry skies, romantic candlelight and fireplaces – to us, this is pure romance and Africa! We fell in love with Africa on our Namibia trip last year and could finally visit the continent again this year. This time we went on a gourmet tour to South Africa. And South Africa is an insanely amazing country!

You can find some of the world’s best restaurants and wineries here as well as beautiful luxury hotels and lodges. There are so many good and inexpensive restaurants (see tips below) that you are spoiled for choice. To get as a good a meal in Germany, you have to go a star-rated restaurant and will then easily pay three times as much.

The South African Rand is currently at a record low. Of course that is bad for the locals! For us, as travelers, that however also means, a luxury holiday at competitive prices. And with so much romance, this country is of course perfect for your honeymoon or even a marriage proposal! Furthermore, South Africa is one of the most family-friendly and secure long haul destinations.

South Africa has beautiful beaches, rugged coastlines, deserts, endless dry savannahs, scrublands, rainforests, lagoons, wetlands, high plateaus, low and extremely high mountain ranges. As they say, the whole world in one country. And yes, this country in southern Africa is so incredibly diverse, that even after our trip, we still feel we have missed out on so much. One simply can experience and do so much here, that one holiday is hardly enough.

The climate on the Atlantic coast in the west is sometimes rough and not necessarily suitable for a beach holiday, as the water is just too cold. Nonetheless there are still a few hardy surfers and swimmers. To the east on the Indian Ocean the weather is mild with a Mediterranean climate and in the northeast it is tropical and hot.

The combination of modern big city life, European comfort and the originality of black continent Africa with its friendly people and unique flora and fauna is something really special.

If you want to enjoy the best gourmet food and delicious wines, exciting entertainment and great trips, the Western and Eastern Cape is the place to be! Those looking for wild Africa and even more romance, should definitely visit the Kruger Park. A combination of both, is of course, perfect!

We would like to give you some tips for your dream holiday or maybe even your honeymoon in South Africa. Apart from the hotels and restaurants where we were, we have even more tips from travelers we met along on the way!

21 days, 1120 km, 2 flights, 5 Hotels, 3 Lodges and 10 Safaris

We traveled to South Africa from mid-April to early May 2016. We experienced this time, it is autumn in South Africa, as very pleasant. Sure, there were a couple of rainy days, but otherwise the weather was nice and warm. It was also not that crowded in Cape Town. Where on usually waits three hours in line at Table Mountain during peak season, we simply walked through.

We started our trip in Camps Bay, Cape Town. From there we went to Paarl and Robertson, you should also not miss Franschhoek, in the Cape Winelands and then to De Kelders on the rough (whale) coast. After that, we drove to Plettenberg Bay and Port Elizabeth on the Garden Route. From Port Elizabeth we took a domestic flight to Hoedspruit and from there we went to the Kruger Park.

We visited beautiful hidden gems – great hotels, guest houses and lodges with lots of charm and that special something. And they all were unique in their own way.

Be inspired by our pictures and tips!

Cape Town/Camps Bay

Cape Town is definitely worth a visit or even better, several visits! We stayed 4 nights and feel that we have only seen a very small fraction of the city. In the absolute peak season, between Christmas and New Year, it is teeming with tourists. Even in the green season, from June to August, Cape Town is worth a visit. Then it is quiet, windless, mosquito and tourist free.

Exploring one of the most beautiful cities in the world, also called “Mother City”, stays with you forever. The view of the 1086 m high Table Mountain on one side and the amazing view of the ocean on the other, is impressive. The city is an exciting mix of Africa, Europe, the Caribbean, Florida and California.

Cool video from a local (Andrew Brauteseth): 10 Reasons why Cape Town is the Best City in the World

Sea Five Boutique Hotel /Camps Bay
This luxury beach house with 7 suites, priced from 169 EUR per night, is centrally located on a quiet hillside of Camps Bay, one of South Africa’s most famous beaches. From here it is just 300 meters to the beach. The tasteful design, relaxing atmosphere and the great pool guarantees that holiday feeling from the first moment on. The rooms are very spacious and beautifully decorated. And such a fully stocked minibar inclusive in the price, is seldom seen! Our report>

5 Central Drive, Camps Bay 8005, Kapstadt, South Africa, www.seafive.co.za

Sea Star Rocks /Camps Bay
The very stylish Sea Star Collection hotel has 3 suites, priced from 182 EUR per night, and an overwhelming view of the ocean. The huge glass doors offer a wonderful panoramic view of Lion’s Head, Bakoven and Camps Bay beach. To have such a view is really pure luxury! But besides this, the hotel, with the huge paintings on the walls and bright yellow armchairs, is stylishly furnished. You can take a dip in the 18-meter infinity pool or relax in the hot tub. The very likeable managers Thekla and Clarissa takes great care of their guests. Our report>

26 Theresa Avenue, Camps Bay, Cape Town, South Africa, www.seastarrocks.co.za

More hotel tips

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat /Cederberg Mountains
(Beautiful Lodge in the wilderness, No. 2 of the Top 25 Hotels in Africa , 140 miles north of Cape Town)
Agert Pakhuis Pass, Cederberg Mountains, Clanwilliam, 8135, South Africa, www.bushmanskloof.co.za

Restaurants
We went to these restaurants ourselves, or they were highly recommended to us.

Codfathers /Camps Bay (visited by us)
(best seafood & sushi)
37 The Dr, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa, www.codfather.co.za

The Best Sushi Restaurants in Cape Town >>

The Hussar Grill /Camps Bay (visited by us)
(Delicious steak & great atmosphere)
108 Camps Bay Dr, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa, www.hussargrill.co.za

Paranga /Camps Bay
(Trendy cuisine on the beach front)
Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa, www.paranga.co.za

The Round House /Camps Bay
(Fine dining with seasonal cuisine)
The Glen, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa
www.theroundhouserestaurant.com

Umi Fusion /Camps Bay
(Modern Japanese cuisine with great views)
201 The Promenade, Victoria Rd, Camps Bay, Cape Town, 8040, South Africa
www.umirestaurant.co.za

The Bungalow /Clifton
(International cuisine with spectacular views)
Glen Country Club, 3 Victoria Road (Old LA Med), Clifton, South Africa, www.thebungalow.co.za

Willoughby & Co /V&A Waterfront
(Very fine Japanese cuisine, sushi is the house specialty)
Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, Breakwater Blvd, V & A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa, www.willoughbyandco.co.za

The Test Kitchen /Woodstock
(Africa’s best restaurant – 2016 World’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards)
The Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915, South Africa, www.thetestkitchen.co.za

The Potluck Club /Woodstock
(Modern and world-renowned, many small plates to share)
Silo Top Floor, The Old Biscuit Mill, 373-375 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town, 7915, South Africa, www.thepotluckclub.co.za

Myoga /Newlands
(Brilliant 7-course meal for only R365 per person)
60 Colinton Road, At the Vineyard Hotel and Spa, Newlands, 7700, South Africa, www.myoga.co.za

Adventure

The Best Secret Beaches in Cape Town >>

Wine Tasting – Eagle´s Nest /Constantia (visited by us)
(Award-winning wines with a delicious cheese platter in a warm atmosphere, separate white wine only tasting also available)
Constantia Main Rd, Constantia, Cape Town, 7806, South Africa
http://eaglesnestwines.com

Wine Tasting – Beau Constantia /Constantia
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, www.beauconstantia.com

Tip: Both wineries are accessible on the City Sightseeing Bus (Wine Tour). Personally, we found Groot Constantia too big and a bit too touristy.

Table Mountain / Cape Town
(brilliant view from this city’s landmark, easily accessible by cable car or with rock climbing) www.tablemountain.net

Sundowners on Signal Hill / Cape Town
Locals gather here for a drink and to watch the beautiful sunset.
(Parking at the top of Kloof Nek Road or use the red City Sightseeing bus)

City Sightseeing Bus /Cape Town (used by us)
(Explore the city in a convenient and interesting way, also goes directly to Table Mountain) www.citysightseeing.co.za

Cape Peninsula Route /Cape Peninsula (visited by us)
(250 km long route via Camps Bay, Constantia and Kirstenbosch, Hout Bay, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Muizenberg, Simon’s Town, Cape Point to Chapman’s Peak Drive.)

Boulders Beach /Simon´s Town (visited by us)
(Home to a Jackass penguin colony – a bit touristy, but very cute)
Kleintuin Road, Sea Forth, Simon’s Town, South Africa, more info: www.capetown.travel

moniquedecaro-south-africa-sea-star-lodge

Cape Winelands

South Africa is famous for its fine wines. The vineyards in the Western Cape belong to UNESCO and include the 6 wine regions Constantia, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl, Robertson and Wellington. You can enjoy great wine tastings, wine tours and tasty food is also served at the countless wineries. The beautiful landscape is best explored during the South African winter, since everything is wonderfully green then. However, it can also rain every now and then.

Palmiet Valley Wine Estate /Paarl
This 300-year-old wine farm is located in the Paarl Valley, between countless vineyards and the Drakenstein mountains, a mere 40 minutes from Cape Town International Airport. The historic manor in the Cape Dutch style has a swimming pool and 13 rooms in 6 categories, priced from 75 EUR per night. Every room has a romantic four-poster bed and a great bathroom. The stylish and peaceful estate is especially popular with bridal couples. Weddings can take place in the cellar, the small chapel or in the open air. Up to 80 people can celebrate at a wedding to their heart’s content. The gourmet breakfast and the 3-course dinner are a real treat. (Our report follows)

Sonstraal Rd, Paarl, 7628, South Africa, www.palmietvalleyestate.co.za

Rosendal Winery and Wellness Retreat /Robertson
The romantic guest house with 8 rooms, priced from 64 EUR per night, can be reached from Cape Town via Route 62 in about 2 hours. Five of the bedrooms, the Spa Suites, are in the main house and have a great view of the infinity pool. Three rooms are located in the farm house and overlook the vineyards. The restaurant has a really gifted chef who conjures up very delicious gourmet food in the cozy restaurant. The Spa is also highly recommended, for example, for a Signature African Wood Massage. (Our report follows)

Klaas Voogds West, GEDULD, Robertson, 6707, South Africa, www.rosendalwinery.com

More hotel tips

Akademie Street Boutique Hotel and Guest House /Franschhoek
(Nice guest house with 6 rooms) www.aka.co.za

Majeka House /Stellenbosch
(Luxury hotel with 20 extravagant rooms and spa) www.majekahouse.co.za

Restaurants

La Petite Ferme /Franschhoek
(Top 15, “Best Value” in the world by Condé Nast Traveller, very idyllic)
Lambrechts Rd, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa, www.lapetiteferme.co.za

Bread & Wine at Moreson /Franschhoek
(For that special lunch at the top winery “Môreson”)
Moreson Farm, Happy Valley Road, Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
www.moreson.co.za

The Tasting Room /Franschhoek
(Internationally acclaimed and highly creative cuisine at Le Quartier Français)
Wilhelmina St, Franschhoek, 7690, Südafrika, www.lqf.co.za/restaurants

Adventure

You can find great tips for Robertson on Melissa’s Food Blog: What to do in Robertson Wine Valley

Olive Tasting – Marbrin Farm /Robertson (visited by us)
(Very entertaining olive oil tasting on a fine, isolated farm, top quality)
Klaasvoogds East, Robertson, 6707, South Africa, www.marbrin.co.za

De Kelders | Gansbaai | Hermanus

These three cities are located about 170 kilometers southeast of Cape Town on the Walker Bay coast. Those who would like to dive with white sharks, is exactly in the right place when in Gansbaai. The waters around Dyer Island, about 12 km off the coast, are swarming with white sharks (8 m) like hardly any other place on earth, due to a large seal colony. Shark cage diving is just not our thing!

The coast between De Kelders and Hermanus is a whale watcher’s paradise from June to November every year, with the best time being in October and November. Then there are up to 80 Southern Right Whales (15-20 m) giving birth in the bay. Both towns have received Best Whale Watching Site awards from UNESCO.

Sea Star Lodge /De Kelders
This modern 5-star guest house is located in De Kelders on the coast of Walker Bay. You have a magnificent view of the Atlantic coast from the lounge and the 6 suites, priced from 91 EUR per night. We stayed in the Master Suite – which is almost as big as an apartment – and the Tree Top Room with a great bathroom and a terrace with uninterrupted ocean views! Manager Candice takes good care of the guests. Whoever feels like it, can go on a very interesting township tour with Vuyi, one of the staff members. Tip: If you stay here, you can occasionally go out for dinner to the private restaurant of interior designer Niel Stemmet or to the Sea Star Cliff. Very delicious! (Our report follows)

19 Ingang St, Gansbaai, 7220, South Africa, www.seastar.co.za

More hotel tips

Sea Star Cliff /De Kelders (visited by us)
(Very stylish guest house directly on the Cape Whale Coast) www.seastarcliff.co.za/

De Kelders Private Retreat /De Kelders (visited by us)
(Guest rooms in the private house of the cool interior designer and chef Neil Stemmet
www.dekeldersprivateretreat.com

Harbour House Hotel /Hermanus
(Beautiful rooms in a prominent position right on the coast)
www.harbourhousehotel.co.za

Restaurants

Blue Goose Restaurant /Gansbaai (visited by us)
(Chic superb fish and grill restaurant)
12 Franken St, Gansbaai, 7220, South Africa, www.facebook.com/Blue-Goose

Coffee on the Rocks /De Kelders
(Cozy cafe and AirBnB accommodation, right on the coast and perfect for whale watching)
81 Cliff St, Gansbaai, 7220, South Africa, www.coffee-on-the-rocks.com

moniquedecaro-south-africa-coffee-on-the-rocks

Adventure

Horse Riding mit Bertie /Gansbaai (visited by us)
(Beautiful rides on the beach or in the mountains for beginners and advanced riders, 1 hour from R350) Telephone: 079 1958463

Township Tour with Vuyi /Sea Star Lodge, De Kelders (visited by us)
(Interesting tour to get to know the lives of the local people a bit better)

Great White Shark Cage Diving /Gansbaai
(For the brave – should be great)
9 Kus Drive, Kleinbaai, Gansbaai, South Africa, 7220, www.sharkcagediving.co.za

Shopping

Lembu Gallery and Studio /Hermanus (visited by us)
(Handmade art, decorative items & fabrics – can also be ordered online)
167a Main Road, Hermanus, 7200, South Africa, www.lembu.net

Anza Curtains /Hermanus (visited by us)
(Nice shop for interior design & decoration)
151C Main Road, Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa, Facebook: Anza Curtains

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a very popular and fertile region along the Indian Ocean and the N2. It is situated between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth. It is greener here than in the deserts landscapes to the north. There are numerous great beaches, beautiful lagoons, rugged cliffs, deep forests (Knysna), the Tsitsikamma National Park with the Storms River Mouth and many small, beautiful towns such as George, Wilderness and Oudtshoorn. For the more active, there is plenty to do: swimming, surfing, fishing, hiking, biking, golfing, canoeing, abseiling or bungee jumping.

Hog Hollow Country Lodge & Villa /Plettenberg Bay
This cozy and romantic lodge, surrounded by nature and overlooking the Tsitsikamma mountains, is located 18 km from Plettenberg Bay. The 16 suites, priced from 190 EUR per night, all have a fireplace, a large bathroom with a corner bath, a minibar, a terrace with a wonderful view of the countryside and no TV. Highlight: the large glass doors in our room and in the bathroom can open completely. The fireplace was also another highlight! You can enjoy a good meal in the cozy restaurant or go for a swim in the pool. The Villa and the new Country House with pool can comfortable accommodate large families or up to 3 couples travelling. For animal encounters, you can visit Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, the Elephant Sanctuary and the Knysna Elephant Park. Or you can explore the countryside on horseback with Hog Hollow Horse Trails. (Our report follows)

Restaurant

Askop Road, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, 6602, South Africa, www.hog-hollow.com

The Fat Fish /Plettenberg Bay (visited by us)
(Brilliant seafood & sushi)
Milkwood Centre, Hopwood St, Plettenberg Bay, 6600, South Africa
www.thefatfish.co.za

HillsNek Safari Camp /Port Elizabeth
This family run safari lodge with full board and 4 tents, priced from 430 EUR per night, is located in a quiet corner of the Amakala Game Reserve. The tents are all connected by wooden walkways to the main lodge and they each have a great safari-style bathroom, a romantic outdoor shower, no TV (we always find this great!), a minibar and spectacular panoramic views over the landscape. With a little luck, you get to see wild animals on the game drives at 06:00 or at 16:00. The lodge is perfect for families, friends and couples. It is also very popular for marriage proposals. A romantic dinner at sunset on your own private terrace or in your tent offers the perfect setting for it. (Our report follows)

Amakhala Game Reserve, Sidbury, South Africa, www.hillsneksafaris.com

More hotel tips

Plett Game Reserve /Plettenberg Bay
(Colonial style lodge with 10 rooms, safari on horseback included)
www.plett-game-reserve.co.za

The Fernery Lodge & Chalets /Tsitsikamma
(6 suites & 11 chalets in the beautiful countryside with ocean views and a great restaurant) www.forestferns.co.za

Tsala Treetop Lodge /Plettenberg Bay
(Romantic luxury treehouse suites and villas + great restaurant “Zinzi”)
www.tsala.com

Gorah Elephant Camp /Addo Elephant Park, nahe Port Elizabeth
(The only camp in the Addo Elephant Park with 11 tents in the chic colonial style)
www.gorah.hunterhotels.com

Adventure

Tsitsikamma National Park /Garden Route National Park (visited by us)
(Hike to Storm’s River Bridge)
Garden Route National Park, 6308, South Africa, www.sanparks.org

Addo Elephant Nationalpark /Port Elizabeth
(Safari in your own car)
R335, Addo, 6105, South Africa, www.sanparks.org/parks/addo

Kruger National Park

The absolute highlight of our trip – the famous Kruger National Park. It is the largest wildlife sanctuary and the most exciting safari destination in South Africa. In summer, from November to April, it is hot with higher rainfall, but warm and dry in winter. Game drives and encounters with African wildlife are spectacular and unforgettable!

Makumu Game Lodge /Kruger Park
This exceptional luxury lodge is located in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (60,000 hectares) – one of the largest private reserves in the country and part of the Kruger National Park. It offers total privacy, all-inclusive luxury and nature in abundance. Even the furnishings of the main house and 3 suites, priced from 454 EUR per night, is luxurious and individualistic. The Zulu, Ndebele and Bushman Suites are inspired by these South African tribes. Every detail was selected with great care. To create the perfect bush feeling, there is no power in the suites, but only candlelight. If you are lucky, a few elephants might even pass by the pool. The warm-hearted manager couple, Chris (ranger) and Janet, the ingenious cook Nelly and the whole team will make your stay unforgettable. The food is top notch and the safaris are absolutely spectacular! With luck (we are in the bush after all) we encountered the Big Five and of course lots of other wild animals. (Our report follows)

Kruger Park, South Africa, www.makumu.com

More hotel tips

Garonga Safari Camp / Makalali Private Game Reserve
(Romantic camp with 12 tents, west of the Kruger Park) www.garonga.com

Further information

Best time

Spring and autumn are recommended in particular. When it is winter in the northern hemisphere, it is summer in South Africa. Therefore Christmas and New Year are especially popular. During peak season, from November to February, Cape Town is very hot, windy, crowded, expensive and the roads are full. September and October are more ideal, the plants bloom, temperatures are bearable, it is the best time for whale watching, but it could be windy. Mid-January to mid-March is warm with lower rainfall. From the middle of May to early September it is cool with short, but heavy rain showers. There are also warmer days during this time period and the prices are lower.

Flights

You can fly nonstop with Condor from Frankfurt to Cape Town overnight in about 12 hours. Very comfortable! We can highly recommend the Premium Class. Obviously, it is more expensive, but so worthwhile! The 15 cm extra legroom are already really worth it – this way you will survive the night on the plane well. On top of that there is also a wellness set: extra-wide pillows, additional baggage allowance and a really good Premium menu! If you have the necessary small change, business class is of course, even more comfortable.

Pretty cool: Condor donates 0.60 EUR of each flight to the Reiner Meutsch Foundation FLY & HELP. Among others, a school to the value of 40,000 EUR has already been financed in Omuhonga, in the north of Namibia.

There is a great honeymoon special with South African Airways: 50% discount for the 2nd person, valid up until 6 months after the wedding date.

Rental Car

Just like in Namibia, we can again highly recommend Avis for South Africa. We arrived in De Kelders with a flat tire. And instead of just changing the tyre, they brought us a new car from Cape Town. And an even better one. This is what I call service!

We hope you have found a few cool tips here! Have a great trip!
What are your tips for South Africa?

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!
____________________________________________________________

Note: During our stay we were partially supported by all 8 hotels, guest houses and lodges. Thank you so much! Thanks to Condor for the upgrade! The opinions expressed in this article are as always 100% our own!

Our visit to the 8 hotels, guest houses and lodges was part of the “Favourite Gourmet Self-Drive Journey”. Planned and organized by Silke Marshall Marketing Solutions. A heartfelt thank you!!!

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MerkenMerken

Pimalai Resort & Spa, Thailand – the luxurious Boutique Hotel on the island Koh Lanta

Asia, Honeymoon, Koh Lanta, SLH, Thailand, Videos 22. March 2014 0 Comments

The perfect hotel for couples, a romantic beach wedding or heavenly honeymoons

Koh Lanta – one of the hidden treasures of Thailand and one of the most beautiful honeymoon spots of the country. We visited in February the breath-taking tropical island off the coast of Krabi in the Andaman Sea.

After a flight of one hour and a half from Bangkok, another 50 minutes by taxi and another 45 minutes by speedboat southbound you arrive at the remote Ba Kan Tiang Bay. It is seen from afar the beautiful villas that are embedded in the rain forest and spread over the rolling hills. Welcome to Paradise!

The five star Hotel Pimalai Resort & Spa was built in 2001 and it belongs to the „Small Luxury Hotels of the World”. It is the most luxurious resort of the island and it is located at a nearly 900m long brightly white sandy beach with turquoise waters. The old Sanskrit words Pimon and Alai, that make up the hotel’s name mean: place of purity, on a little place in heaven. Here you can enjoy the life under coco palms and in lush tropical vegetation on a nearly untouched island.

Rooms

The resort has 121 rooms, suites and villas and is separated into two parts by a rarely trafficked street. The Deluxe rooms, the suites and the beach villas are located on the lower part. The upper part (comfortably accessible by buggy) is reserved for the pool villas.

We stayed in a spacious 48sq Deluxe room with balcony. The rooms are furnished in Thai style with a lot of teak and bamboo and they are spread into two-storied units. From the balcony we had a good ocean view including the sunset.

The 70sq Bayfront Deluxe Rooms near the beach offer a great view from the balcony and the bathroom over the bay. The Pavilion Suites (110sq) with their living room and bedroom have a terrace and a private garden with open air shower.

Perfect for the honeymoon: The spacious One-Bedroom-Pool-Villas (204 sq) with gorgeous sea view which are located further up the hills. They have a separate living room, kitchen unit, outdoor Thai Sala and a terrace. The highlight is the 22sq swimming pool. By their sloping site (60m over sea level) they offer a spectacular view over the Andaman Sea.

Pools

Next to the nearly unspoiled beach the hotel has two spectacular infinity pool and a whirl pool. We loved the infinity pool high up near the Seven Seas Restaurant! You can have yourself brought there by buggy and then you can stay the whole day and relax. The view is just breath-taking. With a cocktail in your hand you can admire the sunset in a very romantic way.

Restaurants

You can have yourself culinarily got spoiled in five restaurants and four bars. Each restaurant has its own style and an incomparable ambience. The main restaurant „Baan Pimalai“ serves Thai and international specialties. In the „Spice´n Rice“ restaurant you can have breakfast and in the evening you can get everything from Pad Thai to Fried Rice in a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Far up over the bay in „The Seven Seas Restaurant & Wine Lounge“ with spectacular view you can have international cuisine and noble wines. In the „Rak Talay Beach Bar“, the beach restaurant you can sit snuggly with your feet in the sand. The food is delicious!

Wedding

Nearly every day you can see a wedding at the beach. Everything is being lovingly and individually prepared for the couple according their wishes. From fresh and casual to exclusive and elegant with an own banquet table on the beach. Of course there are some hotel guests and tourists at the beach, but the area is being spaciously enclosed so that you have your own private atmosphere. The marriage ceremony at the beach (Buddhist or Christian) takes place in the evening at sunset. If we had not married on the Seychelles, this hotel would have probably been our alternative choice for Thailand. The isle and the hotel are just perfect for marriages. A nearly deserted beach, wonderful nature and a lot of privacy. And in the Seven Seas Restaurant high up the hills with great bay view you can spend a wonderful evening with your guests.

Spa

You can spend relaxing moments in the rewarded Pimalai Spa, which is located in the middle of an exotic garden in the jungle. In the pretty thatched roofed pavilions made of teak, bamboo and boulder you can have aroma therapies and other relaxing wellness applications. We had the Pimalai Signature Massage, which is a picture-perfect dream, rally wonderfully relaxing! Besides there is a fitness center, tennis courts, beach volley, wind surfing, sail boats, canoe, bike rentals and a PADI dive school (from November to April).

Tipps

Shopping and Thai-Food
In the main village Saladan, in the north of the island, there are Thai restaurants and numerous shops that invite you to stay.

Bar
At the beach you can walk to some relaxing restaurants and bars. The “Why Not Bar” directly at the beach offers delicious cocktails, fire shows and live music. The employees are good humored, cool guys. This is already worth the fun! And who can sing, can rock the bar together with the band.

And when you go the other direction you can have a cosy evening in the “Same same but different”.

Nature
In the Ease of the island there are vast mangrove forests which can be visited by kayak, by longtail boat or in a tour. Take some bananas and feed the monkeys. They come and get them in your boat. But you’d better stay away from the restaurant “Thung Yen Pheng Sea Food”. It is great with its fresh fish but we have had an upset stomach. But by this we could experience the exquisite medical service at the hotel. The nurse (24h service) has taken good care of us and did a perfect job. We received medicine and the next day we felt a lot better.

Snorkeling and diving
The offshore islands offer perfect snorkeling and diving areals. Some day trips are being offered, so that you can discover the islands around Koh Lanta.

Transfer
If you stay for at least three night the transfer from the airport is included.

Recommendation
It is better you stay 5-7 nights so that you can better discover the island. Once you setteled down, you do not want to leave any more!

Koh Lanta Pocket Guide

Air temperature: 25 – 35 degrees, at night 20 – 25 degrees
Water temperature: 28 degrees
Best travel period: Beginning of December to mid of April
Price: from 149 EUR/night
Honeymoon offer: Flower decoration on the bed, wedding cake and a bottle of wine (at least 3 nights)
Transfer: from the airport (70 km distance) to Baan Huahin Pier 50 min, from the pier to the resort ca. 45 min with the speed boat, from May to October overland transport with two ferry trips.
Total ranking: *****
Specialties: Enjoying the sunset over the bay in your own pool or in the Seven Seas Infinity pool | unique location | great beach at low and high tide | the most beautiful hotel of the island Insel | luxury, elegance and friendly service
Perfect for: Couples, wedding, honeymoon, diving and beach holidays

Pimalai Resort & Spa
99 Moo 5, Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Koh Lanta, Krabi 81150, Thailand
Tel: +66 (0) 75 607 999
Fax: +66 (0) 75 607 998
Email: reservation@pimalai.com
www.pimalai.com

50 best wedding destination by Independent (UK)
Small Luxury Hotels of the World
Best scenic view (Pool Villa) Luxury Hotel Awards 2010

It’s the location that makes this resort special… Conde Nast Traveller (UK)

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