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Published on August 18, 2007

 

The world is round, and so are the rooms and everything else at the Kaban Tamor Resort. Curves, ovals and ellipses rule. Famous as a top honeymoon destination in Hua Hin, the resort certainly goes for atmosphere with its dim lighting and white-on-white shades in the 23 Mediterranean-style (circular) two-storey chalets.

All the rooms are well designed and, of course, large enough for two. On entering there is a wardrobe with a fridge inside that secretively partitions off the bed - an island in the middle of the room.

The elevated and, yes, curved living area is spacious between the curved balcony and curved bathroom. The separate shower area is, to no guest's surprise, round in shape.

The motif is maritime, from the seashell tile in the bathroom to the fish wall-lamps, which don't do a particularly good job for the non-amorous. The room is too dim for guests not on honeymoon, and reading is out of the question.

But romance was the intention, so the chalets boast four huge windows on their balconies, all draped in white curtains. The windows are meant to evoke spaciousness and afford access to the sky, sea and garden, but the windows are rarely open - it's too hot, risks your privacy and welcomes mosquitoes.

So instead of being your front-row seat to the great outdoors, the windows become a disadvantage, trapping you inside. There seem to be only two choices: live in a fishbowl or lurk in your private white world.

The views, of either the garden or the sea, can be very nice, though some rooms overlook other guests' garden space. Rooms on the second floor afford the better view and a little more privacy.

Located amid foothills, the Kaban Tamor is just a few paces from Wat Khao Takiab, a good destination for morning and evening strolls. The sand at the local beach isn't as white as elsewhere in Hua Hin, but it's fine for sunbathing, and the neighbourhood stays tranquil all day.

There are quite a few good, reasonably priced seafood restaurants nearby.

If you fancy more contemporary resorts, this is a good choice. It's located in prime Hua Hin where the big-money boutique hotels and their chic bars are springing up.

Given so much hype about its romantic ambience, the Kaban Tamor is a perfect destination for honeymooning couples, but not for less love-struck tourists.

The Kaban Tamor at a glance

High point: Prime location and a peaceful neighbourhood.

Low point: You're either a fish in a tank or confined to quarters.

Pay for it: A chalet for two starts from Bt3,600, including breakfast. Children under 12 stay for free.

Find it: 122/43-57 Takiab Road, Nongkea, Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan 77110

Phone it: (032) 521 011-3

Browse it: www.kabantamor.com