Baba Ecolodge, Andaman Sea, western Thailand - Explore & Book
"If you’re in Thailand looking for utter peace and seclusion in an unspoiled natural environment, this is the place to go. Baba Ecolodge is the perfect antidote to the high-density tourism and rampant development found on nearby islands like Phuket and Krabi. With 15 kilometres of empty golden beaches and not a jet ski in sight, the island, although large, is totally undeveloped - when you arrive no buildings are visible. Take an early morning walk along the beach, or swim in a sea turned gold by the sunset, and the place is all yours. Go canoeing along a tidal river or snorkelling in the bath-warm lagoon, and you'll have just hornbills, sea eagles and - if you’re lucky - sea turtles for company. Practise yoga in an open-air pavilion under the coconut palms; blissful Thai massages are on offer in a shady sala next to the sea. Staying on the island is as close as you can come to having your own tropical hideaway in paradise, without having to cater for yourself and your family. Highs Morning swims on a deserted beach, followed by a gentle massage and a healthy breakfast of exotic fruit A range of spacious, private and well-designed wooden houses that suit couples, singles and families alike The happy, smiley staff - a symbol of the successful training programme that employs 98% of staff from the village Saturday BBQ night is great fun - there's a bonfire on the beach with rum punch and cashew nut roasting Exemplary environmental practices including solar energy, sustainable fishing and water purification Lows This is a back-to-nature resort: expect geckoes, tree frogs, monkeys, occasional snakes and black flies (if the weather is unnaturally still) There's no pool, but you’ll have miles of beach to yourself Rooms don't have air-con, but beachside houses in particular benefit from a sea breeze Don’t expect much in the way of nightlife The location means travel arrangements need to be planned carefully - worth it once you arrive!" - Michael Cullen
