Guest Reviews

Tugu Bali: "Old world charm with the location to match"

"We asked for a beach view and we definitely received one. Great view of the beach/sunset with the sound of the waves constantly crashing in. The room had so much old world charm about it that it really makes you wonder what has happened to the current state of hotels. The entrance hall was breathtaking with the high ceilings and the massive timber beams scattered throughout. Staff were second to none and all the Indonesian/Balinese inspired meals were also a highlight. We left as relaxed and refreshed as we ever have after a few weeks in Bali. We will be back in again in a few months."

Glenburn Tea Estate: "A delight"

"How do I start to describe Glenburn? At the beginning, I guess. The journey up from Bagdogra/Siliguri is a 4/5 hour drive, and, once you get to the hills, the road twists and turns, is two way only, and has enough slow traffic to make overtaking difficult/dangerous, but, except in the couple of places where the tar has broken up and washed away, it’s OK. The last bit, tho’, when you turn down off the road to Darjeeling and Ghum, is very slow and very bumpy, just as they admit on their website. We came down it in the dark, and it was only two days later when we went up it in the daylight that we could see why it was uncomfortable – it is very poor in places. BUT, please don’t let that put you off! Glenburn is delightful. Set in a working tea estate, with its own tea “gardens” for acres and acres all around, the processing factory a short walk down the driveway, and workers villages dotted down and across the slopes, it is surrounded by green, green hills (or it was in Oct 2016). There are tracks and paths and a road or two through the estate, and down to the river, so walking is lovely. The accommodation is essentially split in two. The original estate manager’s bungalow has a long wide veranda on the front, a lovely “old fashioned” communal dining room, with one big dining table (and maybe 12 chairs round it), a lounge and 4 bedrooms, all with staff areas behind. Then the newer bungalow, set a little lower down the point, has 4 big bedrooms, a sitting room, another couple of verandas and another set of kitchens on one level, with the Spa rooms below. We had the Singalila Suite in the new bungalow. It was big, with very large ensuite bathroom, with walk-in shower, 4 poster bed (with a comfortable, new mattress), teak floors, french doors on one side and a lovely little bay window area to sit and drink our morning “bed tea”, looking out to the west towards the Himalayas – sadly, in the 6 nights we were there (in early October) the clouds never lifted enough for us to see Kanchenjunga, but that was our fault for going so soon after the monsoon. The meals were excellent. Breakfasts were served on the lower bungalow’s terrace, and were fruit, juices, toast, and eggs any way you’d like, plus a daily “special”. The lunches we had were certainly “special” – one day we walked down to the river-side, along to Sikkim and then had lunch of soup, quiches, bread and salads, on the lawn by the “fishing bungalow”, and then walked back-up (that was hot!). Another day we walked up towards the main road and had lunch of carrot soup, tuna sandwiches and salad served to us at a picnic table and chairs set up on the empty roadside, looking at the spectacular views. Diners were generally communal in main bungalow, but on two nights we asked to dine on our own, and were happily served on one or other of the terraces. Diners were varied “curries”, one night Tibetan, another South Indian, for example, but one night it was a “roast”. We stayed 6 nights, so five days, at the start of out trip, and had lots to do. A day trip out to Darjeeling for the Darjeeling/Ghum toy train, and a visit to St Paul’s School, walks around the estate, down to the river and Sikkim, and a tour of the tea factory were all fun – though the walking can be pretty steep if you choose for it to be. We loved it all, but above all, the staff were terrific; the local staff were happy, smiling, and keen to do well, and the managers, Fay and Will, were just super – efficient, kind, friendly and very well suited to their roles. Finally, was the bumpy ride down to the Estate worth it? Without a doubt."

Sandat Glamping Tents: "Gem of a property – Truly peaceful"

"A magical, beautifully landscaped property with eco-architectural designs... Exceeded our expectations! We stayed in the Ylang Ylang tent for 4 nights. The tents are secluded, comfortable and very well decorated, each with its own private pool and stunning jungle views. We enjoyed the in-room massages. The staff were extremely kind and helpful. The shuttle service into Ubud town was useful. The owners will be adding yoga facilities to Sandat in the near future. A truly perfect place to unwind. I looking forward to visiting again soon. Thank you!"

Reverie Siam: "Still the best"

After super pleasant stay on January decided to come back again. This is really magic place, very chill and peaceful. This time stayed 4 nights in mountain view room and 1 night in villa. Both room is simply perfect, well maintained and clean. I'll repeat that staff is super warm welcome and will sincerely do everything to make your stay truly memorable. Restaurant the best in Pai. Definitely recommended.

Neeleshwar Hermitage: "Heaven by the beach"

"Mr Jayan K.V. and his amazing team at this haven by the beach in Kerala gave us the most relaxing stay, even with 3 teenage sons. The service is impeccable, while the vibe is laid back at this gorgeous resort, the service could not be better, including the staff on the Lotus Houseboat. The ayurvedic treatments are a must, we hadn't gone with treatments in mind but had 1 every day. The free yoga sessions are taught by a master. If you feel wound up or run down, as we were after lengthy travels round India...this place is the cure. Room Tip: Choose 1 of the ocea view bungalows"

The Village House: "Tranquil"

"If you're looking for bright lights, loud music and alcohol till dawn forget the Village House!!!. If on the other hand you are looking for a peaceful retreat away from all the hustle and bustle this is the place. We spent 3 days here and it was amazing. The staff were pleasant, helpful and friendly. Rooms kept spotless and food very very good. Yes its off the beaten track and the beach is different, not that good for swimming and very hot with no shade, but once back in the Village jump in the pool...problem solved!!!! Would we stay here again....most definitely. Thanks to all concerned for making out stay a good one. Room Tip: All rooms have a view of the pool."

The Island Lodge: "Boutique hotel heaven"

This is the most amazing place you could visit. Lodge is a must stay if your visiting the Mekong, it is exquisitely appointed the rooms are a delight, the hosts are a joy. I could not fault this place in any fashion.

Muang La Lodge: "Amazing small luxury resort with top service and food in an splendid setting"

"We were more than pleasantly surprised by this amazing small luxurious resort in the mountains of North Laos. We felt welcome and special. Top service, very friendly staff and general mananger. Top room with view on the river. The hotel organized for us 2 amazing tours to the mountain tribes. It was a real adventure and we were touch by the people in the small mountian villages. Excellent guides and driver of the 4 x 4. Wonderfull breakfast and really amazing diners ! This is really top food. This resort is in fact too good to share with others. Thanks for a wonderful 3 days. We enjoyed it !"

Glenburn Tea Estate: "Magical Location and Five star service"

The magical location of this resort poised on a hill with direct views of Darjeeling town and Kachenjunga from my bedroom window is quite unforgettable. Lush gardens communal dinners and a sense of a bygone time reminiscent of the british rag. Day trips to Darjeeling and Kalipong and the river camp. Husna and Alex went out of their way to make me feel at home.

Supanniga Luxury Bangkok River Cruises: "Spectacular!"

I'm not exactly sure what web thread I followed to discover this jewel of a dining experience but I'm thankful for finding it! From the moment we were escorted onto this intimate floating restaurant to our departure two hours later, we felt like royalty. Champagne, a six course Thai feast (explained each step of the way by our server), tastefully selected music, and the exotic sights of the illuminated shoreline made this absolutely remarkable.