Out of This World — And Everything In Between

Sometimes you just want to get away from it all.

As summer vacations comes to an end, kids are going back to school, now is the best time to travel.

Traveling to Thailand could be chaotic, especially if you spend time in Bangkok. The city is vibrant and lively but sometimes seclusion could be the best form of vacation. About 3 hours drive away from Bankok, Kui Buri (pronounced GOO-E BU-LEE) to be honest, there is not much going in here. Maybe that is why it is the perfect location for a villa with private beach.

We were picked up by the resort in a small van at a predetermine spot and drove into a narrow road. After going through a lightly wooded area, we have arrived at the resort. The entrance is as theatrical as it can be. The driver was making small talk with you as you walk into the outdoor lobby while other staffs are taking care of your luggages. I felt like I was in a rap music video in slow motion.

The lobby is under a semi-outdoor façade. The design of the resort is in a ultra sleek modern style. They mix minimal and modern shapes with warm and organic materials like wood and rocks which makes this place stylish but still feel warm and welcoming. This is relaxation with flare. The check-in process was smooth, we were led to our room in no time. We got a room with private pool but to be honest, the pool is too small to really have fun. The X2 is not exactly a tourist hotspot (best kept secret?) so there is not a lot of people inside the resort. We had the ocean facing big pool all to ourselves for the whole morning. There were dry towel and even popsicle for you by the pool side.

We didn't do any activities in the afternoon and I think that is exactly the point, to do nothing. I mean being chased by schedule while on vacation is not what I had in mind. I have enough schedules to chase me when I am back to work, thanks. We ended up walking on the beach, getting our feet soaked in the beautifl turquoise coloured ocean and getting our sun tan while having cocktails by our side.

Well, I did have a surprice up my sleeve. When I made the reservation for the hotel, I booked our dinner by the beach. We got back to our room and took a shower and get dressed. When we walked back to the beach, a beautiful tent was already set up with candle and champagne on the table. We are served by 2 waiters dress in all white with perfect service. They only shows up when you need them. We enjoy the champagne while watching the sun slow disappearing into the horizon. I must be completely overwhelmed by the scenery because I don't remember much about the food. I don't even have picture of them. I cannot praise the food because I really can't recall but then again, I cannot remember anything worth complaining either.

The true magic comes at night. As the sun set, the moon rises. It was a full moon. The moon was hanging very very low, almost touching the ocean. Being in a secluded area, there were not much light at night so the stars are extra bright. I seriously felt I was in a different planet. How the ocean reflecting the full moon, the stars shining and the ocean glitters, while hearing nothing but the sound of the waves, this is a moment I never experience anywhere and will never forget. Even with my Leica M8, I couldn't capture the image properly.

I guess something just meant to be left in the memory.

I highly recommend X2 Kui Buri to anyone when are looking for total relaxation while feel like a rock star. This place will not disappoint. If you are lucky, book dinner by the beach during full moon. For just one tiny moment, you will feel like you are not in Thailand, not on Earth but on a whole other planet.