We often think of Japan and Taiwan when it comes to hot spring destinations, but hidden among the lush trees of Ranong province in Thailand, newly-available Baan Nai Mong Tree House (88/22 Soi Khlong Lhum Tan 2, Moo 4, Bang Non, Muang District, Ranong, +66 (0) 093-497-4999) provides an onsen experience too.
Still in its pre-opening period, the homestay offers 6 types of compact-sized, eco-friendly accommodation: the Eco Camp ($79/night*), the mountain view Smallville ($77), the lakeside Private Garden-house ($107) and Eco Cabin ($79), and the two-storey Rainforest Cabin and Loft Cabin, which are the main stars of the property. Each room is simple but cozy, designed to reflect the owner’s love for a simple, natural way of life.There are also bigger new lodgings on the way too as we speak, suitable for four to five guests and will be ready during the rainy season.
The common space is also a highlight, which features a tree house that the owner built for guests to relax and an outdoor hot spring onsen right amid the trees by the scenic lake that uses pure water from the mountains (although you need to book in advance as it takes 7-8 hours for the water to heat up, available for use at $20/family between 5-9pm).
Food-wise, the owners do provide Burmese food, Thai-style pinto, barbecue sets and aromatic tea sets for in-house guests, available upon request. Alternatively, some rooms come equipped with a kitchen, so you do have the option to cook using vegetables from the on-site organic farm. Or you can grab the homestay’s bike and cycle to Ranong town center, and also use it as a base for an excursion to the up-and-coming Koh Payam in the Burmese Andaman Sea. Bookings can be made via Facebook message and on Airbnb.
*Note that these are special rates before the official launch later this year.
Several airlines fly to Ranong via Bangkok. If you’re making last minute bookings for this weekend, airfares start from $420 with budget carriers like Jetstar, Thai Lion Air and Nok Air.
