Samed Resort, unspoilt paradise
Trip Start
Unknown
1
Trip End
Ongoing
Where I stayed
Samed ResortSamed Resort
Koh samed, Thailand
Friday, October 10, 2008
Koh Samed
Whilst other parts of Thailand have fallen prey to the
scourge of over development and budget tourism the small island of Koh Samed
has retained the uniquely Thai feel associated with the trails blazed and
experienced by travellers two or more decades ago.
The resort
Samed Resort is a small resort, with it's own white sand
beach, that caters to those wanting to relax and experience the relaxed
ambience of Samed.
Days in Samed can be as busy or as low key as visitors want.
Resort facilities include:
·
Bar
·
Restaurant
·
Table tennis
·
Badminton/volley ball
·
Pool table
·
Motor bike hire
All activities and transfers can be arranged by the ever
helpful and friendly manager Tim, who is as happy to make you a cocktail, join
you in a drink or organise your future travel plans and activities.
Whilst some opt for exploring the island others invariably
enjoy the community atmosphere of Samed resort and can be found relaxing in the
beach front bar with the staff and other guests. Manager Tim is always on hand
to introduce people and is proud of the friendships that have developed between
guests and staff that have resulted from lazy days spent chatting over a beer
or cocktail or two!
The staff
Tim
Manger Tim moved to Koh Samed after having come across the
island during his travels around Asia. At once struck by the fact that Samet
hadn't succumbed to the same over developed fate of previously unspoilt islands
like Koh Samui he sought to involve himself within the community to ensure that
the island retains its attraction to travellers without sacrificing its
uniquely Thai sole.
After finding an old resort Tim set to work refurbishing the
accommodation from its former dilapidated state into what is a clean, safe and
secure environment that is sympathetic to the island surroundings.
Tim is particularly proud of his re-landscaping of the area
with local plants and shrubs local to the region. He can often be found
pottering around with his dogs,
'Franky, No name' and Colour', attending to the grounds that have become a
labour of love.
Tim's reputation amongst the island's population has meant
that employment at Samed resort has become a highly sought after by locals. As
a result Tim is proud to boast the best Thai cook on the island in Nong, who is
available to cook the freshest, additive free, organic food from dawn 'till
dusk.
Samed Resort environment policy
Tim's has used his time on the island to set an example to
others in the way that tourism can be both successful and sustainable to the
local area. With this in mind he is keen to point out that:
·
All staff are local to the island and are remunerated
properly in order that the fruits of tourism benefit the local community.
·
Water wastage is minimised to ensure the island's
resources remain sustainable.
·
All materials used in the resort are sourced locally
and are environmentally friendly to protect future generations.
·
All food is bought from local producers and supports
organic farming.
And finally
Tim and the
staff hope to see you at Samed resort soon. They take pride in the fact that
everyone who has visited Samed resort have arrived to a warm welcome and have
left as friends.
