Fresh off a trip to Niseko, Filipina actress, producer and TV Host, Ruffa Gutierrez traded in the slopes for the beach. Staying at Baan Samlarn in Koh Samui with her teenage daughters, we chatted with the legend about all things Samui, travelling with teens and what she prefers – sand or snow. Keep reading for the good stuff.
The last time we spoke, you had just visited Niseko. What do you prefer – sand or snow?
I love both! We hardly get to visit cold destinations during the winter since we are such beach lovers. After exploring Niseko for the first time, in February, we will definitely be adding more SNOW to our travels.
Read also: Filipino Actress, Producer & TV Host Ruffa Gutierrez on her first Niseko experience
We heard that this was your first trip to Samui! How did you find it?
I had actually made a promise to stop frequenting the same favourite cities every time I travel. Going to Koh Samui for the first time didn’t disappoint! We enjoyed chilling in the villa, checking out different restaurants & just relaxing without a set schedule.
Where Ruffa Stayed – Baan Samlarn
- Baan Samlarn is a 5-bedroom, 5 bathroom villa beachfront villa in Lipa Noi.
- One of six villas within the Dhevatara Cove Estate, Baan Samlarn was designed in the traditional Ayuttha-style. The living areas are spread across several pavilions housing dining areas, bedrooms and the main lounge area.
- The villa has a 15-metre private pool with waterfall feature, a hot tub and open-air dining sala.
It was Songkran when you visited! Did you brave the streets and get involved?
We totally avoided all the Songkran festivities! There was just so much traffic, but when we went to the supermarket to buy some essentials, the van was sprayed by kids on the street. It was super fun to experience this!
You went to quite a few of Samui’s newest bars and restaurants. Did you have any favourites?
Yes!
- Nikki Beach in Lipa Noi
- Woo Bar at W Koh Samui with its majestic view for sunset sessions
- The Kitchen Table, also at the W.
- Amber at Intercontinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort
Read also: Everything you need to know about Samui before you go
How did your daughters spend their time? Is there anything, in particular, they loved?
My girls are very easy. They enjoyed the villa pool, our beachfront view, in house massage and took lots of pics. The key is to choose the best villa. If you do, no need to go out ?
You stayed at Baan Samlarn. How did you find it?
View this post on InstagramSawadee Ka, Samui! paradise found ??✨ @theluxenomad @dhevataracove #theluxenomad #baansamlarn
Landing in the island of 1000 smiles was certainly full of smiles! The Thais are so welcoming! The staff and villa manager at Baan Samlarn were so helpful in giving us tips on where to go and what to experience. They booked our massages, restaurants, and private van transfers. The American breakfast at the villa is insanely delicious! I ate so much that I gained 3kg this trip which I’m now trying to shed off.
You had a shoot while you were there – what are your top Instagrammable spots at the villa?
Definitely, the infinity pool area, which is where we spent most of our time, the large pavilion with French doors where we lounged around & watched TV. The Beach!!! We explored a rocky area and took lots of swimsuit pics!!
