An aquatic orchestra of dozens of fountains tinkles away in the swimming pool, providing the contralto notes to the bass donated by the burbling water spouts. The ear is pleased, and the eye agrees - the fountains and spouts, which are softly lit from below with turquoise spotlights, are alluringly framed by softly back-lit frangipani trees.

After the ear and eye have taken in this lovely scene, the nose takes notice too. A subtle scent, donated by the delicately patterned pink and white blooms with which some obscure tropical trees are covered, perfumes the air.

The fantastic first impression made by the hotel is supported by the visitor’s later observations.  The walls and floors are coloured in restfully earthy hues that evoke the dessert more than the jungle and, whilst the artwork dotted around appears inexpensive, none of it is anything but tasteful.

A competently designed and built establishment, the only thing about this 3 year old resort that puzzles is the odd name. Where on earth did the owners come up with the name ‘Print Resort’? Maybe somebody miss-spelled the name ‘Prince Resort’ on the first batch of brochures sent out to travel agents?

Pool

Underwater bar stools are de rigeur in new Thai resorts these days, but the architects of the Print Resort have taken relaxation a step further, installing seven underwater loungers in the pool next to the bar. Guests can half float, half lounge as they sip their gin and tonics, while keeping half an eye on their children. The enormous and elaborately fashioned pool, attractively tiled in contrasting shades of blue, forms a perfect children’s playground.  

The tasteful exterior décor continues into the rooms, where earthy colours provide the perfect background on which to showcase vividly coloured silk cushions and artwork. Some of the upstairs rooms have a small sea view, but it is so miniscule as to not be worth the effort of climbing the stairs. A much better idea is to book one of the ground floor rooms.

Parents can install themselves in the massage hut on the small lawn between their verandah and the pool, and supervise their children whilst being pummeled and pulled hither and thither. When sloth subsides and activity tempts, the great Kamala beach, which is suitable for children, is only 200 metres away.