Lipa Lodge Resort

This was my second visit to Lipa Lodge, and I’m already looking forward to visit number three. The place has barely changed in the past few months, and hardly at all in 20 years. The owner is such a welcoming, beautiful person, and Mai, thank you for the hug every morning. The people who work here are scrumptious. Their welcome doesn’t feel like something learned in hospitality training. It’s more like, “This is my home, I love being here, and I’m happy you’re enjoying yourself. What can I do to help?” It’s the most chill, quiet place. No parties or loud music, and the kids who visit seem happy. It’s great for resting my heart. Weed is allowed, but guests rarely seem to use it, because I never smell it. That’s a big deal when the smell of weed being smoked all day can ruin a vacation. Lipa Lodge isn’t billed as a Western-style yoga healing center, but I found it wonderful for sitting and meditating for an hour a day. People do their yoga routines on their own each morning, on the beach or on roofed platforms. The vibe is perfect if you want an unorganized retreat.

We had planned to spend a week in Thailand away from the beach, but life had other plans. On our first day, my retina detached while we were in Udon Thani. After emergency surgery, we needed to stay in Thailand for a few weeks, so we decided on a week in Koh Samui. I got the last available spot at Lipa Lodge, a one-bedroom room with a beach view. We chose Lipa Noi because it’s less touristy and faces the sunset. The island is small enough that a $10 taxi can get you anywhere. We were not disappointed. The gardens, pool, beach and buildings are beautiful, designed for privacy and simplicity. The relaxed, joyful staff made every part of our stay delightful. Breakfast was delicious: an omelette made to order, good strong coffee, assorted fruit and one or two other Thai dishes. The pool is meticulously maintained, and the private, serene beach sits right beyond the gardens. Our room was thoughtfully designed and more than spacious enough for a couple to be romantic without getting on each other’s nerves :) We had an amazing, restful week and can’t wait to return. I think we’ve found our vacation spot!

Seven years ago I stayed here and left a good rating. This time I only sat on the edge of the property, well away from the buildings. I was alone, not disturbing anyone, and practically unnoticed, but a staff member still asked me to leave because I wasn’t currently staying there. I had planned to stay here again next week. After being treated so unfriendly when I wasn’t causing any disturbance, I no longer want to return. A note after the property’s response: I wasn’t inside your property. I sat on the stone wall dividing your area from the neighboring vacant lot, far from everything and everyone. This was hardly an issue. Staff should be able to tell when it’s necessary to ask someone to leave and when doing so is simply unnecessary.

My first stay at Lipa Lodge made a great impression right from the start. The food was delicious, the view was beautiful, and the atmosphere felt peaceful and relaxing. Every staff member was friendly, kind and attentive, which made the experience feel warm and special. I truly love this hotel, and the stay was memorable.