Lazing about on the river

I’d heard about Bann Makok from a friend who did the designs for this small getaway on Koh Kood and knowing his talent, I promised myself I’d check it out. 

Tucked away in a quiet and very serene mangrove forest by the Klong Yai Kee river, Bann Makok is not a seaside paradise. Instead, this eight-room abode offers intimate homestay-style accommodation that’s ideal for anyone wanting to do nothing at all. 

Erected next to the canal in the dense mangrove, Bann Makok is built on stilts like a big Thai house. Its rooms are interconnected by a wooden walkway, an ample “living room” and an all-day restaurant. Reclaimed wood has been used to build everything here and there’s no key swipe card for your room but a metal key chain that loops between the two folding doors complete with bolts and latches. Every room is different but each is fitted with a wooden bed, curtains, colourful tinted glass and glossy wooden floor. Since wood is not noise-proof and you hear it if other people sneeze, talk and walk, “quiet please” signs are posted all over the place to make sure guests keep the racket down, especially at night time. 

Our room was the number 1, air-conditioned and right next to the mangrove. It was lovely and clean: the bed was firm and fitted with an adequate mosquito net. There’s no television, but a sofa, two chairs, one table and good enough light to read by. The bathroom is connected to the bedroom with just a thin curtain dividing the two.

Bann Makok’s main facilities are its comfortable living room and its restaurant. Both overlook the beautiful Yai Kee river and are perfect for lounging. The living room is fitted with hammocks, reclining chairs, daybed and loveseats with lots of cushions where guests here can lie down with a book or allow their eyes to linger over the scenery outside.

The restaurant, serving from 7.30am to 10pm, does a good job providing both Thai and international dishes and drinks. You can also order some chilled drinks at the living room if you are really feeling lazy.

Being on an island means electricity is restricted and Bann Makok depends heavily on a generator that works only during the night. In-room air conditioners and the living room’s DVD player and projector come alive from 7pm onward. There’re plenty of DVD choices and books available for you to choose from. 

Aside from reading and just chilling, activities at Bann Makok include kayaking. They have kayaks ready at the dock for anyone interested in firming their upper body muscles. The place is about 10 minutes kayaking from Yai Kee beach, which was pristine and worth the effort. Bann Makok also provides some rental motorbikes for anyone brave enough to explore the island on two wheels. Or if the water permits, Yai Kee waterfalls might be a good short excursion during your stay.

Bann Makok is small and you do need to book way in advance during the high season. It’s closed throughout the rainy season (June-September). The staff is friendly but professional. It is a good choice if you want a quiet and peaceful time for yourself and for loved ones. 

 

      At a glance

High Points: Very quiet, serene and intimate with distinct decoration and stunning views of the lush mangrove river and forest 

Low Points: They could do better environmentally. Outdoor showers discharge flushed into the river and bottled water is used too freely.

Pay for it: From Bt2,500 per night.

Find it: 10 Moo 4, Koh Kood, Trat

Browse it: www.BannMakok.com

Phone it: T: (081) 643-9488, (081) 934-5713