The Treepod Dining Experience On Thailands Koh Kood Island

A Thai island resort is offering guests the chance to dine in the rainforest canopy. But there are no walkways or terraces here – instead, individual pods are hoisted up from ground level and are served by zip-lining waiters.

Eating in the air

The Soneva Kiri resort on Koh Kood island claims its Treepod Dining was inspired by ‘the free-spirited nature of childhood’. The bamboo pods house two to four people who are hoisted around seven metres (23 feet) up in the air to gaze out at the ocean and the great trees that tower all around. The pods are fairly spacious, with a wood-hewn table, cushions, napkins and cutlery, and their spindly exteriors are inspired by the nests produced by the local weaver bird.

Much of the menu is sourced from the resort’s own organic gardens

Breakfast, lunch, tea and dinner are all offered and are delivered by khaki-clad waiters who swoop through the foliage on zip lines to deliver food and drinks. Much of the menu is sourced from the resort’s own organic gardens and local markets.

Treepod Dining is offered by the five-star Soneva Kiri resort on the northwest side of Koh Kood. It’s open to hotel guests and visitors. Located in eastern Thailand, in Trat province, Koh Kood is an idyllic spot that’s less developed than many of Thailand’s islands. It’s a popular destination for luxury and package holidays, though it’s getting easier to visit independently – boats run from the mainland port of Laem Sok, which connects with Trat Airport.

Koh Kood is famous for its soft beaches and clear water, and it’s a great place to lounge by the shore, hopping into the water for a swim, snorkel or kayak when the mood takes you.

Inland, Nam Tok Khlong Chao and Nam Tok Khlong Yai Ki waterfalls are good destinations for a hike or motorbike ride, and you can swim at both; boat trips through the mangroves offer wildlife spotting and the chance to see fireflies sparkle when the evenings draw in.

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