| By Leana Tao It was a night to remember. Fireworks
lit the sky in silver, gold and rainbow colours. Vibrant music and song added
to the mood, while the food tickled the palate inviting the mind to be more lenient
with itself and try some more of the feast that was laid out in elaborate decoration.
It was the grand opening of the Pansea
Napasai on the island of Samui. It was more than just a grand opening.
Firstly, it was a 'marriage', as Mr. Molinari, President of the Pansea Hotels
and Resorts put it. The beginning of a long term partnership between the Pansea
Hotels and Resorts and the Orient Express Hotels. Secondly, it not only marks
the existence of Pansea in the tourist landscape of Thailand, boosting Franco-Thai
relationships on the way, but succeeds in bringing the island of Samui to the
foreground amongst other renowned localities in which Orient Express Hotels operate. Although
the initial capital investment on behalf of Orient Express is a handsome 25%,
the group will not interfere in the management and operation of Pansea Napasai
Samui, as Orient Express Hotels' General Manager Asia Mr. Evers-Swindell explained.
On the other hand, however, this cooperation means that not only will Orient Express
Hotels be involved in the marketing of Pansea Napasai Samui, but that the former's
guests can now choose Samui as their destination after disembarking from the legendary
Eastern and Oriental Express luxury train that runs from Mandalay through to Singapore.
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| Despite the fact that Pansea Hotels and Resorts
is a relatively small group, the experience that is hidden behind the group cannot
be underestimated. Both presidents, Mr. Molinari and Mr. Rollin are crafted in
this tradition of creating hotels and, after years of work for other employers
were inspired to create the unique concept that Pansea is, in an effort to offer
distinct, high quality services to their exclusive clientele. Small properties
are thus chosen on exceptional sites around the world. Exceptional, not only in
terms of physical beauty but also cultural significance. Pansea in Yangoon and
Luang Prabang are vibrant examples of this, where one of a kind boutique hotel
properties have been created to reflect the charm and character of their locales,
while being simultaneously infused by an atmosphere of simple elegance and understated
luxury. Understated luxury is what Pansea
Napasai Samui is all about. Although this is not the first time the Pansea
is creating a little paradise in Thailand, it seems that this project is the fulfillment
of the investor's dreams. Fifty-five luxury cottages are set amidst coconut
and cashew nut trees that have been carefully preserved during construction. Whether
it is 'Beachfront', 'Sea View' or 'Family' and Garden Spa', all villas are arranged
in such a way as to make all facilities easily accessible, while ensuring the
privacy of their guests. The interior design of Pansea Napasai Samui is defined by a strong
sense of beauty in simplicity. The durable and sophisticated elegance of maka
wood has been chosen to adorn interiors, whether they be sliding doors, floors
or wall paneling. Luxury is imperceptible yet felt throughout the cottage at all
times. Spacious bathrooms with exquisitely shaped, large bathtubs overlook cascading
water add to the sense of personal luxury and pampering that the cottages exude.
Private Salas, or covered pavilions, invite the guest to a take a healing Thai
massage in the privacy of their garden. A Spa disguised as a cavern offers
traditional Thai therapies as well as a wide selection of contemporary holistic
treatments exclusively created by leading spa consultants Ytsara. Also, Ytsara
products, carefully blended with organically grown plants, fruits and herbs are
used to the satisfaction of the guests' senses, while the experienced, yet perceptive
hands of the massage therapist add to the luxury and healing effect of this experience. The
cottages are strategically placed around the two restaurants, specializing in
French and Thai cuisine. Both serve 'la cr?me de la cr?me' in both cuisines, something
that is a definite understatement, for the food of both cuisines will make even
the most difficult gourmet sigh with delight! A sunset bar adds a romantic touch
to your evening drink, as does the free-form infinity pool whose shade of blue
only imperceptibly contrasts the water of the ocean in the front, thus allowing
the eye to drift into the horizon and experience peace and tranquility. For the more active guests, a variety of sea sports,
such as diving, can be enjoyed here, while tennis lovers have two full size tennis
courts to refine their serves. The Santiburi Samui Golf and Country Club is only
minutes away, which means that golf enthusiasts' wishes are not left unattended,
either. The proximity to the famous Chaweng and Lamai beaches make Pansea
Napasai Samui an excellent choice for travellers to unwind and rejuvenate, while
being within reach of the island's night life. Staff trained in the special hospitality
culture that Pansea has become so famous for are there to address all guests'
needs, making their stay at Napasai Pansea Samui an unforgettable experience.
If life near a resort is what you crave for, one of the 11 remaining Pansea Villas
might be just the answer. Built on an adjacent slope and enjoying ample sea view,
all two or three bedroom villas can be rented out or purchased, while their inhabitants
are guaranteed to enjoy the facilities of the resort.
With the symbol of
the Orient Express to accompany the name, Pansea Napasai Samui has a distinct
advantage over its competition. For here you know that the service will be impeccable,
the location unique and guest satisfaction paramount.
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