Escape to Paradise: Nest Sense Resort, Koh Chang - Your Thai Dream Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Nest Sense Resort, Koh Chang - Your Thai Dream Awaits! – A Review That's NOT Just a Brochure (Trust Me!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average, sanitized hotel review. I’m about to unleash the raw, unfiltered truth about Nest Sense Resort on Koh Chang. I'm talking sweat, tears (mostly because of the amazing massages), and maybe a slight sunburn. Let's dive into this tropical dream, shall we?
First Impressions: Accessibility (and the Lack Thereof… Kinda)
Right off the bat, let's address the elephant in the room: accessibility. The resort does list "Facilities for disabled guests," and that's encouraging. HOWEVER… and this is a big, flashing, slightly-imperfect-emoji-shaped "however" – I didn't see definitive details on wheelchair accessibility. This means you might want to reach out to them directly and really grill them on specifics if you're relying on those features. Don't take chances!
Getting Connected: Internet - A Necessary Evil (and Mostly a Good One Here!)
Okay, the internet. In this day and age, it's as crucial as that first Singha beer after a long flight. Good news: Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! Also, Internet access – wireless and Internet access – LAN are listed, so you've got options. I found the Wi-Fi pretty reliable (crucial for documenting my adventure, duh!), but there were those moments. You know, the "spinning wheel of death" that plagues us all. But overall, a thumbs up.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Feeding the Beast (and Your Soul)
Listen, I came to eat. Koh Chang demands it. And Nest Sense? They deliver. Let's dissect this food situation, shall we?
Restaurants & Variety: They've got Restaurants, (yes, plural!) which is always a great start. There are Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, covering all the bases. My personal favorite spot was the Poolside bar. Imagine: sun, cocktails, and a view that's pure Instagram gold. Their Snack bar was my savior during those afternoon hunger pangs.
The Grub: They offer A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant, and Breakfast [buffet]. I might have, ahem, overindulged in that buffet a few times. The Asian breakfast was a delight, especially the fresh fruit. And for the hungrier among us, Room service [24-hour]… thank you, Nest Sense, thank you. Did I mention the Bottle of water always conveniently placed in your room? Lifesaver.
Honest Confession: I’m not a huge soup gal, but the Soup in restaurant was surprisingly good.
Relaxation Station: Spa Days and Serenity (Almost!)
This is where Nest Sense really shines. Let's talk about the "escape" part of "Escape to Paradise."
The Spa Experience: Ahh, the spa. My therapist was a miracle worker. Massage is a must-do. I'm talking next-level relaxation. Body scrub and Body wrap are also on offer, but I was all about the classic Thai massage. Warning: you might spontaneously start drooling (happened to me. Twice.). The Spa, with Sauna, Spa/sauna, Steamroom and, gasp, Pool with view (yes, another pool!), are all worth their weight in gold.
Other Ways to Unwind: There's a Fitness center (I managed one visit. The pool was more tempting). The Swimming pool [outdoor]? Gorgeous. Pristine. I spent a lot of time there. A Foot bath sounds lovely, didn't try it.
My Epic Massage Story: Okay, confession time. I may or may not have fallen asleep mid-massage. And snored. Loudly. It was mortifying… at first. But then, the therapist just gently woke me up, gave me a knowing smile, and kept going. Talk about service! It was like she knew exactly what my weary, travel-worn body needed. That single experience made the entire trip worthwhile.
Keeping It Clean (and Safe-ish): Cleanliness and Safety
In these COVID-crazed times, safety is paramount. Nest Sense seems to take it seriously.
The Good: They list Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment. All promising signs! They also say you have Room sanitization opt-out available.
The Slightly Less Good (or Just Reality): While they have a Doctor/nurse on call and a First aid kit, there's no mention of rapid antigen testing readily available onsite.
My Take: I felt relatively safe. The staff were masked, hand sanitizer was everywhere, and everything seemed meticulously clean.
Rooms: Your Personal Oasis – With a Few Quirks
Okay, the rooms. Let's be real, this is where you spend a decent chunk of your time.
The Perks: Air conditioning, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Internet access – wireless, Mini bar, Private bathroom, Slippers, Smoke detector, Wi-Fi [free] – check, check, check. The Air conditioning in public area was appreciated.
The Quirks (and the Realness): The Blackout curtains are your best friend if you're trying to beat the Thai sun. The Soundproofing was decent but not impenetrable (you will hear the birds!). The Bathrobes were plush. I appreciated the Extra long bed. There was no Additional toilet.
The Anecdote: I stayed in a room with a stunning view of the pool. I spent hours on the Terrace watching the sunset. It was pure bliss.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Nest Sense offers a bunch of little extras that make your stay smoother.
The Solid Stuff: Air conditioning in public area, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Facilities for disabled guests, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Smoking area.
The Business Stuff: They’ve got Business facilities (who's there for business?!), and Meetings and Meeting/banquet facilities.
The Fun Stuff: They offer Food delivery, a Gift/souvenir shop (perfect for grabbing those last-minute trinkets), and a Convenience store, which is a lifesaver for late-night snacks.
For the Kids (and the Kid in You!)
- Family-Friendly? It appears so! They list Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, and Kids facilities.
Getting Around: From Arrival to Departure
- Convenient Options: Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service. They offer Valet parking.
Safety & Security – Because Peace of Mind Matters
- Solid Measures: Access, CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Security [24-hour].
The "Meh" Zone
- Things I Didn't Need: Alarm clock, Bathroom phone, Exterior corridor, Hotel chain, Laptop workspace, On-demand movies, Reading light, Scale, Separate shower/bathtub, Soundproofing, Telephone, Towels, Umbrella.
Things I Didn't Notice: Couple's room, Proposal spot, Room decorations, Shrine, Meeting stationery, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Indoor venue for special events, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center.
Overall Verdict: Go for It! (But Know What You’re Getting)
Nest Sense Resort is a fantastic option if you want a relatively luxurious escape on Koh Chang. It's got stunning views, a killer spa, and a generally relaxed vibe.
Here's My Honest Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars. It lost half a star for the lack of definitive accessibility details and a few minor quirks.
The Offer You've Been Waiting For – Book NOW and Get Your Thai Dream Started!
Here's the Deal:
Book now and receive a complimentary upgrade to a room with a pool view. (Subject to availability, of course!)
Plus, enjoy 15% off all spa treatments during your stay. (Yes, that includes the massage that may or may not cause you to snore!)
But Wait, There's More!
For bookings made within the next 48 hours, we're throwing in a free welcome cocktail at the
Freyung Sauna Getaway: Unwind at Flat Roswitha!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your perfectly curated Instagram travel guide. This is the real deal. My attempt at surviving and thriving at Nest Sense Resort in Koh Chang, Thailand… and honestly, probably failing spectacularly a few times. Here's the itinerary, or at least, my version of it:
Day 1: Arrival and Immediate Panic
- 14:00 - Arrival at Trat Airport (TDX) - supposed to be, anyway. Let's be honest, after a 14-hour flight, I'm basically a grumpy walrus in a sundress. Finding the Nest Sense shuttle van… well, it's an adventure. Google Maps tells me one thing, the Thai driver vaguely gestures, and I’m pretty sure my luggage has developed sentience and is plotting an escape.
- 15:30 - Check-in Chaos: The reception is beautiful, all breezy white linen and smiling faces. Too beautiful. I have a feeling these people aren't used to dealing with my level of jet lag. Someone offers me a welcome drink, a concoction of something vaguely tropical and suspiciously green. I take a massive gulp and immediately regret my life decisions.
- 16:00 - Bungalow Debrief: Finally, the bungalow! It's stunning, right on the beach. "Paradise," they call it. Right now, it's "Where am I? What is happening?" I try to unpack, but give up after untangling my bra from my suitcase handle and accidentally setting off the mosquito repellant. The smell is potent, like a citronella apocalypse.
- 17:00 - Beach Reconnaissance Mission (Attempt 1): Stumble down to the beach. Gorgeous. But I’m immediately overwhelmed. The sun is BRUTAL. The sand is HOT. The waves are… well, the waves are FINE. More importantly, the beach is swarming with people. I try to find a secluded spot, but apparently, that's a myth. Settle for the least crowded patch and immediately get sand in my swimsuit AND a rogue beach umbrella nearly decapitates me as the wind picks up (remember the sunscreen!). I retreat, defeated, back to the bungalow for a 'nap'.
- 19:00 - Dinner at the Resort Restaurant: The restaurant is gorgeous and romantic, with fairy lights and soft music…that I can barely keep my eyes open to appreciate. Order Pad Thai, which arrives promptly… and tastes suspiciously similar to the green welcome drink from earlier. Question everything.
- 20:00 - Early Night/Jet Lag Apocalypse: Officially defeated by jet lag. Collapse into bed. Pray for sleep. The ocean sounds are now amplified, like a relentless, crashing wave of existential dread.
Day 2: Discovery (and Possibly a Catastrophe or Two)
- 07:00 - Wake Up, Maybe: Wake up… or is it? The bed is so comfy, and the pillows… Oh, the pillows! My brain is still struggling to process reality.
- 08:30 - Breakfast Battle: Head to the breakfast buffet. This is where things should get good. But the sheer abundance is paralyzing. So many options! I grab a croissant and… it's surprisingly stale? I'm pretty sure I saw the chef give me a stink eye.
- 09:30 - Beach Exploration (Attempt 2, the Rebound): Today, I'm determined to conquer the beach. Armed with more sunscreen (a giant bottle to compensate for yesterday's lack of application) and a much smarter hat. Eventually, I find a tiny, perfect little cove. I even dip my toes in the water, although a school of fish seems to be looking at me as though I am a buffet.
- 11:00 - Massage Me, Please!: Book a Thai massage. Yes, yes, yes. Sign me up. For an hour of bliss, but I can't help but judge the masseuse.
- 12:00 - Lunch Time!: The best part is the lunch, the best part is getting off the beach at noon to get lunch. I am starving and the food is amazing, I eat 2 plates of the rice, chicken and curry, I also order a pineapple smoothie, the drink of the gods.
- 13:30 - Poolside Snoozefest: Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool, actually managing to read a book (shockingly). I hear some local kids playing and decide to have a chat with them. They ask me 10 questions in Thai, that I cannot answer. So I offer them candy from my bag, and they laugh.
- 16:00 - Exploration into the Big City, Kai Bae! I decided to leave the hotel for the day and visit Kai Bae, I got the taxis for 100 baht and quickly I was in the city. I went shopping and visited the Kai Bae View Point.
- 19:00 - Dinner and Sunset Spectacle: Dinner somewhere off-resort (because I need to be independent). Watch the sunset. It’s genuinely breathtaking. I actually tear up a little (jet lag, okay?). Decide this trip might not be a complete disaster after all.
- 21:00 - The Great Mosquito War (Again!): Back in the bungalow, the mosquito repellant is back in action. This time, I'm winning the battle. For now…
Day 3: Full-Blown Immersed in Island Life (Probably Slightly Messy)
- 08:00 - Sunrise Yoga (Or a Hilarious Attempt at it): The resort offers yoga on the beach. I sign up. I’m flexible… like a pretzel made of pure procrastination. The instructor is a zen goddess, I'm a clumsy, sweaty mess. I nearly topple over during a particularly challenging pose, sending my mat flying and nearly hitting a sunbather. I quickly retreat to the buffet for breakfast.
- 09:30 - Snorkelling Adventure: Snorkelling excursion! Excited is an understatement. I'm a huge fan of the ocean. I am ready to feel like a mermaid. Until I get seasick. The waves are bigger than I anticipated. Finally, after a couple of hours, I find the courage to get in the ocean. The coral is mind-blowing, but… I swallowed half the ocean. I am still seasick.
- 13:00 - Lunch Resignation: Head back to the resort for lunch. I am too exhausted to go out, I eat whatever I have leftovers in the small fridge.
- 14:00 - Poolside Bliss (Take Two): Back to the pool, but today's mission is relaxation. And nap. A very long nap.
- 16:00 - Waterfall Wonder (and potential for disaster): I take a taxi to the Klong Plu Waterfall, because I'm feeling adventurous. I hike up the trail and it’s lovely… at first. Then, the path gets slippery. I almost slip and fall into a mud puddle, rescuing myself in a maneuver that's half-grace and half-flailing arms. I make it to the waterfall, which is stunning, but my shoes are now caked in mud. Decide the hike back down is even more treacherous than the climb up. Spend the rest of the day in a state of high-alert, praying I don't break a leg.
- 19:00 - Dinner Disaster Relief: I treat myself to a lovely spicy Thai meal at the Nest Sense resort restaurant.
- 21:00 - Final Mosquito Battle: Sleep is just a dream at this point.
Day 4: Farewell (and a Bittersweet Goodbye)
- 08:00 - Last Breakfast, the End?! Final breakfast at the buffet. I've mastered the art of the perfect omelet, the staff recognize me, and I may or may not have snagged a few extra croissants.
- 09:00 - Beach Stroll (One Last Time): Stroll along the beach one last time, feeling the sand between my toes… and the rising tide of sadness that this is almost over.
- 10:00 - Packing and Reflection: Packing up my things. Feeling sentimental. Koh Chang, you wild, beautiful beast.
- 11:00 - Check Out and Departure: Check out. Hugging the staff goodbye, vowing to come back. Praying the airport transfer goes a lot smoother this time. Thinking that this resort is not just a trip, but an experience, that is not easy, and beautiful.
- 13:00 - (Hopefully) Safe Arrival at the Airport: Praying for the flight to go smoothly, and that my sense of humour will survive the journey home.
So there you have it! My messy, imperfect adventure at Nest Sense Resort. It wasn't perfect, it wasn't smooth, and it certainly wasn't always pretty. But I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Alkmaar Hensbroek Holiday Home Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Nest Sense Resort, Koh Chang FAQs - Because Let's Face It, You Have Questions!
Okay, spill the tea. Is this place REALLY as Instagrammable as it looks?
Alright, let's be honest. Yeah, *mostly* it is. Nest Sense is a visual feast. Those overwater villas? The infinity pool that blends into the sea? It's a photographer's wet dream. But here's the messy truth: Sometimes the lighting SUCKS. Cloudy days can kill the vibe, trust me, I know. I spent a whole afternoon trying to snag a good shot of that sunset and ended up just looking vaguely greenish and annoyed. Also, everyone else is trying to take the perfect pic! Prepare for some mild competition for the prime spots. I even saw a woman in full bridal attire doing a photoshoot. Like, *here*?! Anyway, yes, gorgeous, but pack your patience and a filter (or ten). And please, *please* don't be that person who hogs the hammock for an hour. I swear, I almost lost it.
What's the deal with the food? Is it all pad thai and endless buffets?
Okay, the food. Blessedly, it's not just pad thai every. single. day. (Although, the pad thai they *do* have is pretty darn good, I must admit.) The Nest Sense restaurant has a surprisingly varied menu. Think fresh seafood (caught that morning!), some Western options for those who are feeling a bit… you know… homesick, and plenty of delicious Thai dishes. My personal highlight? That MASSIVE, unbelievably juicy grilled whole fish. Seriously, I'm drooling just thinking about it. It was a bit messy though. Scales got everywhere, and my (very attractive) travel buddy got a fishbone stuck in his throat. Drama! Luckily, a kindly waiter came to the rescue. Service, in general, is fantastic, always smiling always helpful. Breakfast buffet is standard, but good, very good coffee. I'd skip the omelette station though, honestly.
I'm a total beach bum. How's the beach *really*? No sugar coating!
Alright, the beach. This is where it gets a little... complex. The resort's beach is gorgeous – white sand, turquoise water, postcard perfect. But… (and there's always a but, isn't there?)… it's not a huge, sprawling beach where you can stroll for miles. It's more of a smaller, intimate cove. Perfect if you like privacy and a little serenity. But if you're a serious beach walker, you might get a bit restless. Also, the sand is unbelievably hot in the middle of the day! Seriously, bring those beach shoes, you'll thank me. And oh, the tide! Watch out for that. Sometimes it goes way out leaving you with… well, a lot of exposed sand and not much water.
Are the overwater villas worth the splurge? Seriously, tell me!
Ugh, the overwater villas. Yes. Just yes. Okay, maybe not *completely* yes. They are *expensive*. Like, "should I be eating baked beans for a month to afford this?" expensive. But… the feeling of waking up and just stepping into the water from your own private deck? Priceless (almost). The views are UNREAL. That feeling of isolation, of being completely removed from the everyday hustle and bustle? Bliss. I spent hours just staring at the water, watching the fish swim beneath. I even saw a sea turtle! And the sunsets from the deck… well, let's just say they’re the kind of thing you'll be posting on Instagram for YEARS. The only downside? The occasional mosquito party at dusk and the slight wobble you feel when the waves are a bit rambunctious. But honestly? Totally worth the splurge. Just maybe skip that extra massage to balance the budget.
Tell me about the Spa! I NEED to relax!
Oh, the spa. Prepare for a deep dive into relaxation. The Nest Sense spa is… let's just say it's a good place to be. The therapists are wonderfully skilled, the atmosphere is tranquil with the most beautiful scents. I got the Thai massage and was pretty much a puddle for the next hour, in a good way. The only thing I did find slightly annoying, and this is a very minor point, is the fact that sometimes other guests were a little… chatty. Like, “Oh, I just HAD to tell you about my amazing trip to….” While I loved her enthusiasm, I could have done without the conversation during my oil treatment. So, if you’re looking for total silence, maybe bring some earplugs. But the massages themselves are fantastic. And make sure to book in advance, they fill up FAST.
What are some things to do *besides* lying on the beach and eating? (If that's even possible...)
Okay, you *can* escape the beach, although it’s tempting to never leave. Nest Sense offers boat trips, snorkeling excursions, and even cooking classes. I did the snorkeling trip. The coral was pretty, the fish were colorful and plentiful, and the boat ride itself was stunning. However, I AM a notoriously bad swimmer and got a bit freaked out at first. My snorkel kept fogging up (annoying!), and I may or may not have accidentally swallowed some saltwater and choked a little. Not my finest moment. But even still, the beauty of the underwater world was worth it. Don't be like me though! If you are a subpar swimmer, wear a life jacket. Also, you can rent kayaks, explore the island, go for a hike. Even a little exploring will make you appreciate the resort all that much more.
How's the Wi-Fi? Because, you know... *work*.
Ugh, Wi-Fi. The bane of every traveler's existence these days. Look, it's Thailand. Don't expect lightning-fast, fiber-optic internet in the middle of paradise. The Wi-Fi is… patchy. It works, most of the time, but don't count on streaming HD movies or doing any heavy video calls. The signal strength in the villas varies. Some days it's great, other days it's like trying to connect to the outside world using carrier pigeons. I actually found it quite a blessing, though. Forced digital detox, anyone? Embrace the slow life!
Any tips for surviving and thriving at Nest Sense?
Okay, wisdom from a seasoned Nest Sense survivor: * **Bring bug spray.** Seriously, Mosquitoes with a vengeance. And they seem to like me. * **Pack sunscreen**. Duh, but seriously. The sun is intense. * **Learn a few basic Thai phrases.** It will make a huge difference, and the locals will appreciate it. "Stay While You Wander
