We set out from Bangkok to visit the Tiger Temple in Kanchanaburi and found our very own garden of Eden. The Mom Chailai Forest resort truly lives up to the promises made on the web site. Set in a forest glade, high up on the banks of the Kwai River, the setting is one of pristine natural beauty, lovingly tended by the staff. The accommodation, (all with names such as Forest Charm and Forest Kiss) is quite remarkable, ranging from luxury suites to larger cottages, all set within the forest glade. Each one has it's own little fenced off garden area for relaxing. the interiors are all different, but the natural theme is the same, using Ingeneously designed furniture made from old wooden farm implements or drift wood. All the bathrooms are designed to give the feeling of the outdoors, with artistic usage of stone, wood and greenery. There is even a bamboo shower with rain water for real nature lovers.
Facilities/activities available seem to be endless. Just ask and it appears. Bicycles are provided and are a great way to get around the retreat. Star gazing is a must and the staff are keen to show off their sky at night. After a day at the tiger temple, elephant riding or rafting on the river, dinner is served. The combination of fresh local produce, fish from the river, a good chef and eating outdoors with a candelabra on the table for light is truly a dream like experience. Mom chailai is not just a bed for the night it is a big bit of heaven right here on earth and certainly deserves a 5 star rating. We met the owners, who described their vision when planted the first sapling trees here 20 years ago. they called it 'natures breath' and so it is.