“Love at first sight” was how the secluded bay that is home to Garrya Tongsai Bay Koh Samui was first described when chairman of The Imperial Hotel Group, Akorn Hoontrakul, first laid eyes on it.
For three months he slept on the beach dreaming of his ideal resort and planning the layout. And two years later, in 1987, this dream came true as the first five-star luxury hotel on Koh Samui.
Little could he know more than three decades later that it would become a place highly sought after by couples to declare their love. But today, this idyllic paradise with 11.3 hectares of breathtaking nature wrapped around that turquoise pristine bay is considered one of the best islands for a wedding in Thailand with many frequently choosing its location to say “I do”.
Wedding in Thailand
Here, villas tumble down a lush hillside, and there are sprawling contemporary suites with infinity pools. Romantic beachfront abodes overlook the picturesque beach which is popular for many a wedding. For those who prefer the hills, you can marry in the verdant countryside with the glistening ocean as your backdrop.
Dine at one of three restaurants where most ingredients come from local farmers with dishes created also using the resort’s garden. Or opt for an in-villa barbecue or private beachside candlelit dinner.
Read more: The most romantic resorts for your destination wedding
Beyond the resort
During the day take a dip in the 50-metre freshwater pool, or the hillside adults-only pool. Or indulge in a spa treatment at 8LEMENTS Spa. Learn new dishes in a private Thai cooking class or try your hand at a traditional craft. For a dose of local culture, you’re less than a 10-minute drive from Wat Plai Laem temple and Wat Phra Yai, the ‘Big Buddha Temple’ overlooking the northern coast. With the resort only 15 minutes from the airport, it means less time before the nerves set in if you’re planning a tropical island proposal. And a great excuse to return for the wedding.
This article was produced in partnership with Garrya Tongsai Bay Koh Samui. www.garrya.com
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