Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi
Monday, December 22, 2008
Location: Koh Yao Noi, Thailand
Web site: www.sixsenses.com
Dates of Shoot: December 17 to 22, 2008
Spa Manager: Piyanuch Ketnim
Model: Eliana Landori
Vibe: Set against the tropical beach backdrop of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay, this secluded private pool villa getaway offers you all the services you want, whenever you want them.
Music: It’s common for hotels to offer music compilations that suit the lifestyle they’re promoting, but it’s rare for that a location commissions a musician to create an album that’s all its own. The Evason Hideaway CD sets the mood for the entire day—from early morning tracks titled “Samui Sunrise” to post-sunset sounds like “Evening Samba.” The CD infuses tropical rhythms with caribbean steel drums, latin guitar and downtempo beats. Hear a sample here.
It’s the Little Things: The excellent service at Six Senses Yao Noi all point to one thing: choices, choices, choices. Customize your stay by filling out a short preferences sheet upon (or prior to) your arrival. Do you want a butterfly pillow, firm pillow, soft pillow, body pillow, snore reduction pillow, or all of the above? Would you like a pair of earplugs to enhance your sleep? What is your preferred scent for all your bathroom essentials—lavender, lemongrass or mint? Is there a particular time you want turn-down service? The options are endless. But if you’re still unsatisfied, use the red buttons on your phone to reach your butler, the general manager, spa manager, or chef directly.
Cuisine: Both the casual Living Room and more formal Dining Room offer Thai and Western menus, but the real highlight of our stay at Six Senses was the resort’s ice cream parlor, pastry shop and delicatessen. At sunset, enjoy signature cocktails and Asian-inspired tapas at The Den, a cozy lounge area with a bar and ocean views.
Though I didn’t try this treatment myself, one of the massages that captivated me during our photo shoot was the Lomi Lomi massage. Can you tell us about it?
Lomi Lomi is an ancient healing art practiced by Hawaiians. The therapist uses [her] hands, arms, breathing, rhythm, dance, and energy flow during the treatment. At the end of the session, Lomi Lomi should leave the recipient uplifted and invigorated.
How did you learn to perform this treatment?
Lomi Lomi training starts with the dance. Once a therapist is comfortable with the rhythm and music, the massage technique is [integrated] into the dance.
What do you like most about performing this massage on clients?
I like the fact that the massage aspect is combined with a dance. It makes the experience fun for guests.
Hear the music played during this treatment here.
Spa Q & A: Nunthita “Elle” Srilert, Spa Therapist
(translated by Piyanuch Ketnim, Spa Manager)
Pick of the Menu: The Thai tapas dish lab pla (shown above) is a low-calorie, spicy tuna tartar with lime juice, chili and roasted rice.
Treatment to Try: Fusion Massage (See “The Perfect Mix” on Maria’s blog for a full write-up.)
Recommended Room: Hill Top Reserve
The Hill Top Reserve is the height of luxury at Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi. Priced at $12,000 per night, this 3-bedroom villa is a mini resort in its own right—complete with live-in staff, a chef’s kitchen, gym, conference room, wine cellar and swimming pool with 180-degree, unobstructed ocean views. Added bonus: the pool has a water slide so you can satisfy your inner child with unlimited splashing.
