If you’re LGBTQ+ and looking for the perfect honeymoon destination, you want a romantic place where you can relax while feeling accepted and safe. Married lesbian couple and travel bloggers Whitney and Megan Bacon-Evans have done the hard work to find the ideal honeymoon spot: Ko Samui, Thailand. Here’s their guide on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.
Thailand is considered the most welcoming and LGBTQ+ friendly country in Asia, and that’s exactly what we experienced. We received no awkward questions such as: “Do you want two single beds instead of a king bed?” – Everyone was welcoming and congratulatory. As a same-sex couple, feeling safe while enjoying a magical honeymoon is crucial, and the wonderful Thai hospitality ensures that every couple feels special and welcome.
Where to Stay
Ko Samui definitely does luxury well, and the good news is that it won’t break the bank.
SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort
Only a 10- to 15-minute drive from the airport is SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort. Situated right by the beach, the resort offers two pools, a restaurant, and a spa on-site. We found the resort to be peaceful and tranquil, featuring luxurious, traditional Thai architecture. Our villa suite with a private pool and an outdoor bathroom was simply delightful.
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort
If you’re seeking a more modern vibe, check in at SALA Chaweng Beach Resort. Directly facing the beautiful white sands of Chaweng Beach, the resort includes a ‘moon pool’ and a beachfront restaurant. Opt for the Oceanfront one-bedroom pool suite for stunning accommodation featuring your own private infinity pool overlooking the beach.
Silavadee Pool Spa Resort
For a luxurious hideaway, look no further than Silavadee Pool Spa Resort. A buggy will take you to your scenic villa surrounded by lush tropical trees. We were mesmerized by the four-poster bed, private pool, and deck. The resort also offers numerous dining options, two pools, a spa, and an exclusive beach.
Bangkok Pit Stop
Since you’ll likely be flying via Bangkok, why not stop for a night? The Peninsula Bangkok greets you with personalized pillows, while the Mandarin Oriental is an exquisite property offering a friendly butler service. For peak romance, book a treatment at MO’s Oriental Spa, which features a private steam room and vitality pool.
What to Do
If you’re like us, you’ll want to soak up every minute enjoying your incredible villa or suite. Make sure to allocate time for relaxation while enjoying champagne in hand. However, there’s plenty to explore if you feel adventurous.
Enjoy Some R&R at a Spa
After arriving in Thailand, we delighted in a couple’s massage at SALA Samui Choengmon, which was just what our muscles needed. For a unique experience, book ‘The Rainforest Indulgence’ hydrotherapy treatment at the Banyan Tree, which takes you through an array of spa treatments, ending with a relaxing rest on hot beds.
Go on Safari Around the Island
For an adventurous day out, consider a safari tour around the island. This exploration will take you to beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and various temples, including the Big Buddha and Mummified Monk Temple. Notably, the views from the mountains are breathtaking, making the adventure well worth it.
Take a Trip to an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary
A highlight of Ko Samui is visiting the ethical Samui Elephant Sanctuary, which rescues elephants from the tourism and logging industries. Here, you can meet the elephants and hear their stories from the volunteers while enjoying the joy of feeding them.
Take a Thai Cooking Class
What’s more romantic than learning to cook together? We took a Thai cooking lesson and learned to make our favorite dishes, vegetarian green Thai curry and a green papaya salad. After cooking, savor your homemade meal right by the beach.
Visit Ang Thong Marine National Park
Ang Thong Marine National Park consists of 42 stunning islands. A boat trip will take you to paradise, where you can explore the islands at your leisure.
Where to Eat
For Rooftop Views
For breathtaking views and romance, opt for dinner at Star, Silavadee Resort’s rooftop restaurant. Arrive before sunset to enjoy cocktails under fairy lights and dine at one of the sunken tables that create the illusion of being submerged in the sea.
For a Beach Dinner Date
If a beachside gazebo sounds inviting, then you’ll want to dine at The Tent Beachfront Restaurant & Bar, located at SALA Samui Chaweng. Try the refreshing pomelo salad or the exquisite young coconut soup for an unforgettable meal.
For Riverside Romance
Enhance the romance with a boat trip from the Mandarin Oriental to its restaurant across the Chao Phraya River. Terrace Rim Naam serves unique Thai cuisine amid beautiful surroundings, making for an exceptional dining experience.
