STEPHANIE CHAI
The CEO and Chief Nomad of The Luxe Nomad on Koh Samui, Thailand
What’s to love
Samui is home to some of Thailand’s most beautiful beaches. I love that it still feels ‘like an island’. For instance, the airport is designed to have an island feel to it: The roofs are thatched and there’s a designated tuk-tuk to pick you up when you disembark.
Best place to stay at
My company manages 50 luxury villas in Samui, so I might be biased to suggest one of our villas! We have some beautiful beachfront villas such as Sangsuri, Akatsuki and Baan Kilee. For an affordable family getaway, Baan Chang is an Ayutthaya-inspired beachfront villa that has some cool features like a 1.5m round rain shower!
A favourite restaurant
MyCafe for Thai and Art Café for something healthy.
An unforgettable view
The ocean view villa of The View Samui looks out to the famous Five Islands and has the most amazing sunsets. Plus, it has floor to ceiling windows so you literally wake up to panoramic views.
Best tip for relaxation
An in-villa Thai massage! It’s so much cheaper than in Singapore of course, so spoil yourself with one every day.
Go for an adventure
Spend a day sailing to Ang Thong National Marine Park, where you can snorkel and kayak through lagoons.
What to pack
Sun hat, sunnies, Thai baht (Thailand is not cashless like Singapore), an island clutch, sundress, swimsuit and a kaftan.
Beauty essentials
I love NZ brand Emma Lewisham. The products are natural and backed by green science and innovation.
It’s also the first fully circular beauty brand where you can buy refills and send back your bottles for recycling.
Favourite holiday soundtrack
Anything bossa nova.
Don’t leave without…
… spending a day out on a boat.