Ngao, Lampang, The Sarojin

Whilst staying at The Sarojin resort I heard that it had made the Conde Nast Hot List for 2006, and it is very clear to see why.

This is a perfect paradise for lovers and singles seeking a place to hideaway and pamper themselves. The resort offers the 'freedom to relax', and it is not so much the amazing rooms and tranquil environment, but more so the essence of heart which seems to infuse the great space it has. This heart comes from the remarkable staff, the owners of the hotel, and it is tied up in all the thoughtful extras and hidden comforts that you don't see in other resorts. Here the concept is that the whole resort belongs to you and you can choose to use it as you wish. If you want a private romantic dinner for two on the beach or by the pool, you just need to ask. Use your imagination and this place will do all it can to see your dream come true. If you want to go for a bike-ride, take a bike, it's yours for the time you are there; as are the books and the DVD collection. and the computers in the library. It is your luxury home.

There is a great soul residing there. The place was built not once, but twice following the Tsunami of December 2004, and yet you wouldn't know it, except for the special hearts of those who are proud to serve the hotel and its guests. Names on the doors of each room are dedicated to those staff, which gives the feeling they are family and you are being welcomed into it. Each Tuesday the owners host a cocktail party to meet their guests and share their vision and gratitude. The central restaurant area turns into a meeting place of friends, with the rooms superbly positioned on the circumference of the resort to give you privacy.

The rooms are simply stunning. It's in the smell of the fluffy white towels and the dreamy pillows and the flower bowl-bath for two. They thought of everything; Moet is chilled and on-hand in anticipation of that special event, and there's salmon and Camembert and other delectables in the fridge... 'at home' rather than mini-bar.

The Spa is exceptional! Everything about the place coaxes you gently into the present moment where all worries and stresses are left behind. No stone was left unturned in it's design, and it's pure extravagance. I have never received a more skilled massage nor one that was given with as much genuine care.

The resort sets a different standard for luxury hotels, and I doubt I will ever choose a brand-named hotel again. You cannot manufacture this quality, or this heart.