Thailand is a special place for me, – each time I find myself burnt out, run down or needing to check out of London life, I’ve flown out to be restored. This time I headed to the beach front boutique hotel, Hansar.
Koh Samui, Thailand’s “Coconut Island,” isn’t just a haven for sun worshippers and adventure seekers. For a busy person like myself, it became an unexpected sanctuary for artistic exploration and a gentle nudge away from the fast pace of London life. Here, amidst the turquoise waters and swaying palms, unfolded a symphony of vibrant culture, a stark contrast to the structured routines and the pressure of deadlines back home. My refuge in this paradise was the Hansar, a boutique hotel that whispered of tranquility and embraced luxury with a subtle touch.
The Hansar isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it embodies a philosophy that resonated with my inner soul. Sleek lines meet natural textures, creating a seamless flow that mirrored the island itself – a harmony between modern comfort and the raw beauty of nature. My room, a haven of peace with a balcony overlooking the endless blue expanse, became a space for reflection. The rhythmic murmur of the waves was a constant lullaby, inviting me to slow down and reconnect with the creative wellspring within.
However, Koh Samui offered more than just relaxation. It was an open invitation to embrace the vibrant tapestry of Thai culture. The charming Fisherman’s Village (I have memories from decades ago when it was quiet and undiscovered), a short stroll from the hotel, was a sensory feast. Here, bustling markets overflowed with handcrafted treasures, and the air hummed with the rhythmic calls of vendors and the gentle clinking of wind chimes. I wandered through these spaces, not just as a tourist, but as a student of a different artistic language. Each aroma, each sound, was a brushstroke on the canvas of Thai life.
One evening, serendipity led me to a hidden gem nestled amidst the swaying palms – a small open-air theatre. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long, dramatic shadows, a group of local dancers took centre stage. Their performance wasn’t just a display of graceful movement; it was a captivating fusion of traditional Thai dance and contemporary expression, a story told through the language of the body. Witnessing this performance was a profound reminder of the universality of dance, its ability to transcend borders and cultures, speaking to a shared humanity.
The Thailand International Film Festival, while not focused on dance showcases a diverse range of films, some of which explored the rich history of Thai dance forms like Khon and Lakhon. These stories, projected on a giant screen under a starlit sky with the ocean breeze is an experience deeply enriching.
Another day, I delved into the island’s lush embrace, following a scenic trail through coconut groves and rubber plantations. The air hung heavy with the intoxicating scent of exotic flowers, and the unseen symphony of birdsong filled my heart with a sense of peace. The trail culminated at a hidden waterfall, its cascading waters a refreshing reward for my journey.
My stay at the Hansar and exploration of Koh Samui wasn’t just a physical escape; it was a journey of artistic discovery. The island’s connection to traditional dance forms sparked a curiosity within me, a thirst to delve deeper into this rich cultural expression. Back at the hotel, I found myself gravitating towards their yoga classes, discovering a new connection between the graceful movements of dance and the mindful practice of yoga.
As I reluctantly boarded my flight back home, I carried with me more than just a tan and a collection of souvenirs. Koh Samui had gifted me a renewed sense of peace, a heart brimming with inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways humanity expresses itself. It was a reminder that dance isn’t just about pirouettes on a stage; it’s about finding the rhythm within ourselves and connecting with the vibrant tapestry of human creativity that surrounds us.
Stay at the Hansar.
