The Ko Magic Art Garden, formerly known as The Kingdom of Somchai’s Affection, is an avant‑garde open-air sculpture exhibit located inland on Koh Mak, an idyllic island in eastern Thailand’s Trat province. Created by local artist Somchai, the garden features a provocative and whimsical series of erotic sculptures, focusing on human sexuality, affection, and humor—presented with bold, playful intent. The site provides a striking contrast to the island’s serene beaches and coconut plantations.

Location & Accessibility

Hidden down a dirt road off the main island route, access to the garden can be challenging. Several reviewers noted it’s easy to miss and that the signage is minimal. Visitors are advised to watch for statues guiding the path and sometimes to rely on GPS landmarks. Some pathways inside feel overgrown or abandoned. Despite this, many consider it a fascinating “hidden gem.”

Experience & Atmosphere

Once inside, you’re greeted by statues clustered densely together—often the pathways don’t lead anywhere, making navigation tricky. Some visitors describe the layout as chaotic, with sculptures literally touching or piled together. Yet others celebrate it as a quirky, thought‑provoking, artistic statement that breaks the mold of typical island attractions. Expect a somewhat eerie, forest‑edged setting, with overgrowth creeping up many of the sculptures.

Artistic Themes & Highlights

• The art is adult‑oriented, with exaggerated statues, suggestive poses, and deliberate nods to human eroticism—intended for mature audiences.

• The sculptures serve dual roles—as visual commentary and occasionally as functional pieces like stone tables or fountains.

• Among the standout pieces are stylized mermaids, oversized female figures, and abstract forms blending whimsy with bold sensuality.

History & Legacy

Somchai began building this garden in the late 20th century, long before Koh Mak gained tourist appeal. He lived and worked on site until his passing in 2023. Though the original creator is gone, a dedicated group of art enthusiasts now maintain and promote the garden, aiming to preserve Somchai’s visionary legacy.

Visitor Tips & Practical Info

• Admission is free, and access is open 24 hours—though daylight visits are recommended.

• Not suitable for children or modest travelers due to explicit content.

• Some reviewers reported on-site inhabitants (e.g., locals or caretakers) living in makeshift shelters—please respect boundaries and sensitivities.

• Bring insect repellent, and consider wearing long sleeves and sturdy shoes for exploring the wooded paths.

Why Visit? Appeal & Attractions

• Offbeat and unique: A distinctive contrast to Koh Mak’s usual beach and nature-focused sites.

• Thought-provoking: Whether you find it controversial or ingenious, the garden sparks conversation about sexuality, art, and cultural norms.

• Intriguing photo opportunities: Quirky, bizarre sculptures among lush greenery lend a surreal atmosphere.

• Authentic local art: Created by a single artist with personal vision, it lacks commercialization—giving it raw authenticity.

Suggested Visit Format

• Combine with a visit to Laem Tukata, or Ao Suan Yai beach, for a full-day exploration of the island’s varied attractions.

• Drive via scooter or tuk-tuk with a guide—directions can be unreliable and roads are uneven.

• Spend approximately 30–60 minutes inside, depending on your pace.

• Best for art lovers, curious travelers, and those open to unusual, boundary-pushing experiences.

Final Thoughts

Ko Magic Art Garden is an artistic oddity that stands in bold relief against the tranquil beauty of Koh Mak and its beaches. It is not a mainstream attraction, but for those curious to explore creative expression and Thailand’s less conventional art scene, it is an unforgettable stop. Visitors should approach with an open mind and sense of humor—and leave ready for conversation.

The post What Is the Ko Magic Art Garden in Koh Mak? appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

As part of our trip to Koh Kood, a tropical island off the Trat coast in Thailand, to compile a guide for the Tourist Authority of Thailand in Rome, we had the opportunity to stay at Tolani Resort Koh Kood—a serene and stylish retreat located on the island’s unspoiled southwest coast. This boutique property blends natural surroundings with refined Thai design, and while not without its quirks, it proved to be a solid choice for travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and a touch of understated luxury.

Setting & Accommodation

The resort is nestled in tropical gardens just a short walk from a small, semi-private cove. It has a beachfront location, but access to the sea is limited and somewhat rocky—something to keep in mind when visiting. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, offering views of lush hills and the shimmering Gulf of Thailand.

Accommodation ranges from Hillside Bungalows to Seaview and Beachfront Villas, including some with private pools. Rooms are spacious, comfortable, and tastefully decorated in a modern tropical style, with natural wood tones, minimalist furnishings, and generous balconies or terraces. Bathrooms are functional, though a few could use modernization.

Service & Atmosphere

What truly sets Tolani apart is the exceptional hospitality. Staff are warm, professional, and genuinely caring. From front desk to housekeeping and restaurant teams, service is prompt and attentive without being intrusive. Guests frequently note the personal touch, often mentioning staff by name in online reviews—a rare and telling sign of consistency.

The atmosphere is peaceful and laid-back, ideal for couples or travelers looking to disconnect. While not a “resort” in the all-inclusive sense, the small scale ensures quiet surroundings and privacy throughout.

Dining & Facilities

The on-site Molano Restaurant serves a variety of Thai and international dishes in a beachfront setting. Breakfast is included and offers a reasonable spread. Dinner service is pleasant, and though we found the menu limited it needs to be said that it was low season.

The resort also features Skugga Café, a stylish coffee bar with beans sourced from Tolani’s own plantation in northern Thailand—a thoughtful and high-quality touch.

Facilities include a saltwater infinity pool with limited lounging space, free kayaks and snorkel gear, and a small game room with darts and billiards. A few nights a week, Tolani organizes low-key entertainment such as grill dinners or traditional fire shows, adding a nice community feel.

Highlights

• Excellent, caring staff with great attention to detail

• Quiet, secluded setting with well-landscaped grounds

• Comfortable villas with character and privacy

• Lovely in-house coffee shop and good massage options

• Free activities (kayaking, snorkeling) available

Final Thoughts

Tolani Resort Koh Kood strikes a fine balance between rustic charm and boutique polish. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a quiet atmosphere, personalized service, and natural surroundings over full-service resort features. While beach lovers may prefer properties with easier sea access, Tolani excels in delivering comfort, warmth, and a distinct sense of place.

We would recommend it especially for couples and mature travelers who value peace and greenery. As part of any well-rounded Koh Kood itinerary, Tolani makes an excellent base for rest, reflection, and slow-paced exploration.

The post Hotel Tolani – Koh Kood, Thailand appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Make it a summer to remember with Soneva’s fun-filled programmes at Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives and Soneva Kiri in Thailand. Throughout July and August, one-of-a-kind experiences, exceptional cuisine, rejuvenating wellness sessions at Soneva Soul and an inspiring Summer Camp programme set the scene for tropical adventures with loved ones. For the ultimate island escape, a curated calendar of visiting Soneva Stars boasts one-of-a-kind workshops and experiences with Michelin-starred chefs, professional athletes and revered wellness specialists from around the world.

Two Bedroom Junior Beach Pool Retreat at Soneva Kiri

With views of the ocean and surrounding tropical forests, expansive decks, idyllic walkways, shaded plunge pools, and even a spa, gym and sauna in some of the villas, no luxury is spared in Soneva’s vast private hideaways. At Soneva Fushi, one- to nine-bedroom island and overwater villas fringed by lush tropical vegetation capture the 2 essence of castaway chic. Across the Indian Ocean at Soneva Jani, guests can choose from expansive one- to four-bedroom island or overwater villas that feature iconic slides straight into the lagoon. On the island of Koh Kood in Thailand, Soneva Kiri’s villas are nestled next to its private beach, hidden in the jungle on the hillsides, or commanding spectacular views from the clifftop, with each offering a private pool, vast living spaces and verdant gardens.

Every Soneva stay is entirely bespoke, with exclusive summer offers complemented by signature 24/7 Barefoot Guardian butler service, complimentary access to the resorts’ ice cream, chocolate and cheese and charcuterie parlours, and more.

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Sandbank Dinner at Soneva Fushi

Guests at Soneva Fushi this summer can dine with not one, but four exceptional visiting chefs from around the world as part of the Soneva Stars calendar. Latin America’s Best Female Chef Manu Buffara will be making a welcome return to the Maldives, while Executive Chef at Restaurant Merlet in the Netherlands, Jonathan Zandbergen, will be showcasing his distinctive style of Dutch cuisine. Named Austria’s Most Creative Chef, two-Michelin-starred Konstantin Filippou’s signature cooking style blends his Greek and Austrian heritage. And Wassim Hallal, the chef behind Denmark’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Frederikshøj, will be taking guests on a sensory journey in refinement and rendition without a horizon.

Helping guests stay active this summer, former Real Madrid defender Rafael Márquez will be hosting a series of exciting football camps. Guests can also take a fascinating voyage of the galaxy with planetary astronomer Dr James O’Donoghue and 3 astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy at Soneva Fushi’s island observatory. Both passionate advocates for science education, they will be hosting after-dinner stargazing sessions along with fascinating talks throughout the day.

Exploring the Maldives with Soneva Academy at Soneva Fushi

Families and younger guests have so much to see and do at Soneva Fushi. The Den, one the region’s largest children’s zones, has a fun-packed programme of activities that include sustainable arts & crafts, summer-time journaling, island-wide treasure hunts and camp nights under the stars. Children aged 9 to 13 can also join the Soneva Academy’s bespoke Summer Camp programmes. From yoga and meditation on the beach and cooking classes using organic ingredients to workshops on digital storytelling, dolphin cruises, astronomy sessions and more, it’s the ultimate invitation to discovery.

View the Soneva Fushi Summer Programme

Soneva Jani, Maldives

Soneva’s exceptional line-up of visiting chefs will also be going to Soneva Jani in the Maldives’ serene Noonu Atoll. Chefs Manu Buffara, Jonathan Zandbergen, Konstantin Filippou and Wassim Hallal will all be hosting exclusive dinners at the resort, including at So Engaging, an intimate chef’s table that seats just five guests.

Childminders at The Den at Soneva Jani

Hailed as one of the best Mexican football players of all time, Rafael Márquez will also be offering his exclusive workshops for guests of all ages at Soneva Jani, alongside planetary astronomer Dr James O’Donoghue and astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy at the resort’s over-water observatory. At Soneva Soul, visiting wellness 4 specialists Bill Gillespie and Amberin Fur will be offering a range of transformative treatments to reconnect mind and body, and heal from within.

Soneva Jani’s two-storey family zone The Den will keep children and teens engaged from morning to night. From sensory spaces for toddlers to a mocktail bar for teens, plus areas for dressing up, Lego play, crafts, reading and so much more, there’s an array of family-focused activities to enjoy. Children aged 9 to 13 are also invited to connect with the world around them at the Soneva Academy’s immersive Summer Camp programme. Led by experts in their fields, each session uses experiential learning and crafted play to explore the themes of nature, community and sustainability.

View the Soneva Jani Summer Programme

Soneva Kiri, Thailand

7 Days 7 Beaches Boat at Soneva Kiri

Summer at Soneva Kiri invites guests to relax, unwind and reconnect on tranquil Koh Kood, one of Thailand’s most unspoiled, least populated islands. The resort’s dining experiences take guests on a journey of flavours and culinary cultures. Joining Soneva Kiri’s resident chefs is chef and restaurateur Jane Alty, whose focus on using authentic Thai ingredients and techniques, paired with carefully-sourced wines and unique cocktails, has made her one of the Top 100 Influential Women in Hospitality.

Koh Kood’s pristine beaches and thriving rainforest make Soneva Kiri the perfect backdrop for a serene summer escape. Guests can explore the beauty of the resort’s island home onboard a traditional fishing vessel during the Seven Days Seven 5 Beaches experience or guided snorkelling trips to the nearby sunken sculpture garden at Koh Raet and the pristine waters of the Koh Rang Yai National Marine Park.

Kruua Mae Tuk Tuk’s Kitchen at Soneva Kiri

At the Soneva Kiri Spa, guests can relax and rejuvenate surrounded by nature. In addition to an extensive menu of therapies and healing rituals, guests can also enjoy daily complimentary wellness sessions including Himalayan singing bowl meditation, cardio workouts, Pilates and Tai Chi.

And for Young Sonevians, the team at The Den and Eco Den have compiled an enthralling summer programme. From bua loy masterclasses and summer science experiments to junior Muay Thai classes and snorkelling trips to Koh Raet, there’s so much to pique your children’s imaginations.

View the Soneva Kiri Summer Programme

For more information about Soneva, visitwww.soneva.com

The post Summers in the Maldives and Thailand with Soneva appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Koh Rang, the uninhabited 12 island group at the centre of the Koh Rang Marine Park, is situated well over an hour out from Bang Bao on Koh Chang and just to the west of Koh Mak. The main island has a ranger station, a couple of bungalows and a very passable restaurant, with toilet and washing facilities for overnight camping. Accommodation can be booked from Koh Chang, though people staying is a rarity. The best beach on Koh Rang is at the south eastern tip, with another popular spot in the north west, and rougher strands along the eastern shore.

The islands in Detail

The islands scattered around Koh Rang are in 3 distinct groups. In the east and south east, Koh Laun (sometimes referred to as Koh Yak Lek), Koh Yak and further south, Koh Mapring are combined with the very pretty beach at the southern end of Koh Rang to make up one of the main snorkeling areas.

To the north west, that name again, Koh Mapring, which sits alongside Koh Klang and another Koh Thian form the second grouping. The smaller speedboats may call in here, so that people can have lunch on the beach over on the main island itself. In the north east, Koh Thong Lang, Koh Kra and Koh Thian were also a principal and very popular destination for the snorkeling trips. Unfortunately, the degeneration of their coral, its bleaching in particular, has forced the Marine Park authorities to place these islands off limits.

Visiting on a Day Trip

To visit Koh Rang, you either jump on a snorkeling trip or take a day out on one of the dive boats. When out and about on Koh Chang, you’ll see the snorkeling advertised as 4 or 5 Island, with everything from large tour boats to private speedboats on offer. Meanwhile, the diving is recommended due to the sheltered bays of Koh Rang giving good visibility as well as manageable depths. From Koh Mak, the more adventurous can kayak but there are organised tours too.

National Park Fee

Koh Rang has a government tax of 200bt per person, 100bt for kids levied on all snorkelers, 400bt and 200bt respectively for divers. Thai Nationals are 40bt and 20bt. This is collected by the rangers once you arrive in the Marine Park area. It is an additional cost to any advertised daily rates.

Getting there 

There are lots of tour operators in Koh Chang that organise day or half-day trips to Koh Rang Marine Park with large wooden boats or speedboats. The majority of these tours include the transfer by minivan from your hotel, the roundtrip by speedboat from Bang Bao pier, tropical fruit, juice and water on board, snorkelling equipment, lunch buffet on beaches, tour guide and insurance. The large number of tourists transported from one point of view is negative, but makes it very competitive price, with prices ranging from 800 to 1200 THB, depending on the service offered and boats used. Alternatively you can rent a speedboat in Bang Bao or Kai Bae, the price is between 3,000 and 4,000 THB for a half-day tour, up to 6 people.

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