Page 35 - MASALA Magazine Vol.15 Issue 2 | December 2023 - January 2024

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Turning into the main gate of the resort, it felt like I
had driven through a portal of serenity. “Welcome to
Vana Belle,” said the receptionist, as she gracefully
poured rose water on my partner’s hands to complete
the welcome ceremony. The lobby was architecturally
stunning, with large wooden arches resting on tall pillars,
allowing an unobstructed view of the sea.

As the rain subsided, we were also given a welcome
drink made of coconut water and butterfly pea essence,
before we were whisked away to our room via electric
buggy. The room we would be staying in was the Grand
Ocean View Pool Suite located on the southwest end
of the property. It had all of the exclusive amenities
you would come to expect from a Luxury Collection
Resort: spacious size, tasteful décor, soft linens sheets,
and an indulgent bathroom complete with two sinks
and a bathtub. The highlight of the room was definitely
our private terrace which also came with its own private
infinity pool. Even from the bed, the ocean was clearly
within view. But admiring the seascape from the edge
of the pool felt otherworldly.

After soaking in a hot bath, I felt rejuvenated, and ready
to explore more of the property. The hotel is designed
after the mythical forest Himavanta, a legendary forest
said to be located in the Himalayas. Along the arrival
pavilion, you can see beautiful fountain features of
the mythical creatures said to inhabit the forest. This
inspiration trickles into every design element of the
property, giving it a traditional and elegant ambience.

Another impressive feat is the way the resort is perfectly
integrated into the hill it sits on. The buggies offer a
speedy way to get around, but the best way to explore
the property is on foot. Since the roads are rather steep,
the designers placed long, wooden walkways which
stretch from the top of the hill all the way down to sea
level. Along the walk, I witnessed the heartwarming
sight of housekeeping staff calmly collecting flowers
from the bushes, and arranging them in their wooden
baskets. Once I had made it to the bottom of the hill,
I was greeted by a pristine sandy shoreline and the
beautiful turquoise waters of Chaweng Noi Beach.