Escape to Paradise: Libong Relax Beach Resort, Trang, Thailand
Escape to Paradise: Libong Relax Beach Resort - A Raw, Honest, and Slightly Messy Review
Alright, let's be real. Planning a trip? Exhausting. Scrolling through endless hotel reviews? Even more so. But, hey, I've been to Escape to Paradise: Libong Relax Beach Resort in Trang, Thailand, and I'm here to spill the (deliciously cold) iced tea on the whole shebang. Forget the polished press releases – this is your unfiltered, honest guide.
First Impressions & That Beach… Oh, That Beach!
So, you arrive. And… whoa. Forget the stressful airport transfer (more on that later). You're met with the kind of postcard-perfect view you just know Instagram's gonna explode over. The beach? Think powdery white sand, turquoise water that practically begs you to cannonball in, and… drumroll please… not a soul in sight. Well, maybe a few other blissed-out guests, but definitely no hordes of screaming tourists. That, my friends, is the first taste of truly escaping.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Sadly
Okay, let's get the less glamorous stuff out of the way. Accessibility isn't the resort’s strongest suit. While they do have facilities for disabled guests, don’t expect fully wheelchair-friendly everything. I'd call it "partially accessible" - you'll need to double-check specific room details and pathways. Elevators are present, which is a plus.
Getting There & Getting Around (Or, The Great Tuk-Tuk Adventure)
Airport transfer is available, which is a HUGE relief after the stress of flying. But be warned, the journey itself can be… an experience. Remember, this is Thailand. Brace yourself for some winding roads, maybe a friendly (or not-so-friendly) tuk-tuk ride, and the occasional herd of water buffalos deciding to cross the road. Embrace the chaos! It's part of the adventure. Car park [free of charge] is a nice bonus for those who rent cars.
Inside the Room: My Little Paradise (or, the Battle of the Blackout Curtains)
The rooms? Generally lovely. I'm talking Air conditioning, Air conditioning, Air conditioning! Essential. Blackout curtains are a godsend (especially after a long day of beaching). Free Wi-Fi is in all rooms!!! Huge win. You get the usual suspects: complimentary bottled water (thank goodness!), coffee/tea maker, and a mini bar stocked with… delights. One small gripe: the bed was a bit firm for my liking, but hey, everyone's different. And the soundproofing wasn't perfect – but honestly, the sound of the waves crashing drowned everything else out.
Cleanliness & Safety: Feeling Secure
Okay, let's talk about the elephant in the room (or, the microscopic enemy we're all battling). Cleanliness & safety felt like a priority. They had hand sanitizer everywhere (much appreciated!), daily disinfection in common areas, and staff trained in safety protocol. You can even opt-out of room sanitization, if you prefer a more laissez-faire approach. They also use anti-viral cleaning products, which is a big thumbs up. CCTV in common areas and outside property adds to that secure feeling.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food (and the Occasional Mosquito)
Food, glorious food! This is where Libong Relax Beach Resort really shines. The Asian breakfast (think fresh fruit, noodles, and the most amazing coffee) is a MUST. The Breakfast [buffet] is decent, and there's plenty of coffee/tea in the restaurant. Lunch? Dive into the Poolside bar for a quick snack or a salad in the restaurant.
The restaurants offer a a la carte menu, featuring a wide variety of options. I especially loved the Asian cuisine in the restaurant. They're also happy to accommodate alternative meal arrangement requests.
One evening, I remember sitting on the terrace with a drink, watching the sunset. It was pure bliss… until a rogue mosquito found me. Lesson learned: Bring the bug spray!
Things to Do: Beach, Beach, and More Beach (Plus Some Spa Action)
Let's be honest, you’re probably here for the beach. And it's glorious. But if you fancy a change of pace, there's plenty to keep you entertained. There's a swimming pool [outdoor] and a pool with view, of course. The gym/fitness center seemed okay (I may or may not have used it).
Now, this is where it gets good, because I experienced something amazing… Spa. And it was nothing short of revelatory. I booked a Body scrub, Body wrap, and Massage. It was like all the stresses of modern life melted away.
Services and Conveniences: Sorted
They offer all the usual Services and conveniences: Daily housekeeping, laundry service, concierge, and even currency exchange. There's a gift/souvenir shop for all your last-minute shopping needs.
For the Kid: More than just Kids facilities
They are family/child friendly with Kids facilities.
Internet Access – A Blessing and a Curse (but Mostly a Blessing)
Internet access – wireless is available throughout the resort, and the free Wi-Fi is pretty reliable. This is a huge lifesaver for staying connected!
The Quirky Bits (And the Imperfections)
Look, Libong Relax Beach Resort isn't perfect. There's the occasional power outage (hey, Thailand!), and the service, while friendly, can be a bit… relaxed (Thai time, anyone?). But honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s not a sterile, corporate experience. It's a place where you can truly relax.
The Final Verdict: Go!
If you're looking for a luxurious, all-inclusive resort experience, Libong Relax Beach Resort might not be your cup of tea. But if you're seeking a real, authentic escape to paradise with stunning natural beauty, good food, and a chance to unplug and recharge? Book it. Seriously. You won't regret it.
My Personal Anecdote (Because You Deserve It):
One morning, I woke up, wandered down to the beach, and found a local fisherman selling the freshest, most incredible mango sticky rice I'd ever tasted. I ate it while watching the sunrise, the waves lapping at my feet. It was one of those moments that just… sticks with you. That's the kind of magic you find at Escape to Paradise: Libong Relax Beach Resort.
Booking Offer – Escape to Paradise (Seriously, Do It!)
Book directly through the resort's website today and receive:
- A complimentary welcome cocktail on arrival – to instantly melt away any travel stress.
- A free 30-minute foot massage - because you deserve it!
- A guaranteed upgrade to a room with a sea view (subject to availability) – start your day looking out on paradisaical scenery.
- And a free early check - in, if available (because relaxation can't wait!)
Don't wait! Your escape to paradise awaits.
Daegu's BEST Hidden Gem Hotel: Netflix, Free Parking & Amazing Croffles!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my version of a trip to Libong Relax Beach Resort, Trang, Thailand. Forget those pristine itineraries you see online. This is the real deal. Prepare for sand between your toes, questionable choices, and a healthy dose of existential dread (just kidding… mostly).
LIBONG RELAX BEACH RESORT: A Love Story (Maybe?) - My Chaotic Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival - The Great Unpacking Debacle & Coconut Dreams
1:00 PM - The Trang Airport Arrival (and the Quest for the Toilet): Alright, first things first: Thailand! After a slightly bumpy flight that had me clinging to my rosary beads (I'm not even Catholic!), we land. The Trang airport is…tiny. Which is fine, until you NEED a bathroom. The queue was EPIC. Like, longer than my last relationship. Finally, I got to the front. Glorious relief. Then, the baggage. One suitcase missing. Great. Just the beginning.
2:00 PM - The Taxi to Paradise…Or Was It?: The transfer to Libong was a minivan crammed to the gills. Let's just say my knees and the seat in front of me became very well acquainted. The scenery was, however, GORGEOUS. Lush green, shimmering blue… I started to forget about the missing suitcase (temporarily).
3:00 PM - Check-in and the Bungalow Reveal: The resort itself? Immediately charmed. Rustic, a bit ramshackle in that perfectly Thai way. Our bungalow was… charmingly basic. Mosquito net? Check. Questionable plumbing? Double check. (I'm already bracing myself for the shower)
4:00 PM - The Great Unpacking Debacle (Round 2): The missing suitcase! Turns out it decided to take a scenic route. Fine. I'll just… improvise. (Which means wearing the same sarong for three days).
4:30 PM - Coconut Water Salvation & Beach Bonding: Found the beach! The sand was like powdered sugar. Bought a coconut. Drank it. Pure, unadulterated heaven. Sat. Stared. Panicked slightly about the impending sunburn.
6:00 PM - Sunset Cocktails & Mosquito Warfare: The sunset… breathtaking. Swore I could almost see the mythical "other side." (Clearly I was already succumbing to the magic of Thailand). The cocktails, strong and delicious. The mosquitoes? Merciless. Armed myself with DEET and prayed.
7:30 PM - Dinner at the Resort Restaurant: Fish, Friends, and a Near Disaster: Fresh grilled fish! Actually it had an odd but palatable texture. The food was good, the company even better. Met a couple from New Zealand—they were delightful and laughed at all my terrible jokes. Right as I was mid-sentence, my chopsticks snapped in half. The entire table laughed. The server's face…priceless (I tipped extra).
9:00 PM - Star Gazing and Existential Contemplation: The night sky was like a diamond-studded velvet curtain. It was so beautiful. And then, I felt a profound, slightly panicky realization: I had nothing to wear tomorrow.
Day 2: Island Hopping & Squid Ink Regrets (Oh, The Squid Ink!)
8:00 AM - Breakfast (or the Quest for the Perfect Omelette): Attempted the breakfast buffet. The omelette station was a battlefield. I emerged victorious (sort of).
9:00 AM - Boat Trip to Koh Kradan & Koh Mook (Breathtaking… and Seasick Potential): Okay, island hopping. I'd been looking forward to this. The water was unbelievably turquoise. Snorkeled. Saw fish. Felt like I was in goddamn Finding Nemo. The boat ride, however? Rough. I, unfortunately, have a sensitive stomach. I clung to the side, fighting the urge to… well, you get the picture. (Let's just say the sea gods and I had a…moment.)
12:00 PM - Koh Mook's Emerald Cave - The Undersea Adventure & Claustrophobia Kicks In: The Emerald Cave… I'd seen the photos. I knew. But I still went. You have to swim through a dark cave. Pitch black. To a hidden beach. It's legendary. The initial swim was… unsettling. My heart was in my throat. The water was cold. The darkness was absolute. Then, BAM! The most stunning hidden beach. Worth it? Absolutely. Would I do it again? Debatable.
2:00 PM - Lunch (and the Squid Ink Incident): Found a beachside restaurant on Koh Mook. I ordered the squid ink pasta. Because… why not? It looked so… dramatic. It tasted…fine. (A little salty). I ate it. Smiled. Moments later: Looking in a mirror I realized. MY TEETH WERE BLACK. I looked like a pirate who had dined on its enemy's ink. For good measure.
3:00 PM - Beach Time (Again) and Sunburn Guilt: The beach. The sun. The guilt of not applying enough sunscreen. I roasted a little. This is very important to remember.
6:00 PM - Another Sunset, Another Cocktail, Another Mosquito Massacre: Watched sunset. Drank cocktail. Swore at mosquitoes. This is becoming a pattern.
7:30 PM - Dinner: The Longing For The Missing Suitcase and Thai Food, In That Order: Dinner was at the resort. I could almost see my missing suitcase. Missing it was. I ordered Pad Thai. It was perfect. Cried a little, out of happiness and the fact that I only had one pair of pants.
Day 3: The Search for Serenity (and a Good WIFI Signal)
8:00 AM - The Pursuit of Caffeine and Relaxation: The morning's agenda was to get a good coffee and read a book. Then it started raining. All of a sudden, it’s okay to sit and stare the sky.
9:00 AM - The Rain and the Search for a Good Book: It started and I decided I'd read my book in the room. I began to read right before I feel asleep. I had to go back and read pages on a few occasions. The first time to make sense, the second time to remember what I had already. It was wonderful and relaxing.
12:00 PM - Lunch and a Moment of Pure Bliss: Lunch. I found a quiet nook in the restaurant. Perfect. (No squid ink in sight).
2:00 PM - The Quest for the Perfect Beach Hammock: The best beach. The best weather. The best book. Hammock. I was so relaxed I needed to move to the other side. It was the best afternoon.
6:00 PM - The Sunset, The Tears, and a Moment of Pure Gratitude (and Slight Regret): The most beautiful sunset. The beauty made me start crying. But I was happy. I'm okay. I'm here. I'm grateful. The last day. Time to pack up and head back to the airport. Okay, I have a few regrets… The missing suitcase. The sunburn. The squid ink. But mostly, it was all perfect.
7:30 PM - Dinner Celebration: I decided to head back at my usual spot and get my last Thai food fix. It made me happy and sad at the same time.
9:00 PM - Farewell and The Road Back: Back to the room. I began repacking. It was time to head to the airport.
Day 4: Departure & the Epilogue (or, Will the Suitcase Ever Arrive?)
7:00 AM - Breakfast (Goodbye to the Buffet!): One last attempt on the buffet.
8:00 AM - Packing (or Pretending to): Everything was dirty, mostly sandy. It was all thrown together.
9:00 AM - Airport & Goodbye
The Epilogue (or, Where's My Damn Suitcase?!): Still no suitcase. That's life, right? The Thai people, though… always smiling. That’s what I’ll take with me. Their kindness. The emerald waters. The squid ink. And the overwhelming urge to return. (As soon as I get my clothes back.)
So, there you have it. A messy, imperfect, and utterly human account of my time in Libong. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. Just… pack an extra pair of pants. And maybe avoid the squid ink. You've been warned.
Escape to Paradise: Your Dreamy Lefkada Sunset Villa Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Libong Relax Beach Resort - FAQ (with Extra Mess!)
Okay, so you're thinking of heading to Libong Island, eh? Specifically, the Libong Relax Beach Resort? Buckle up, buttercups, because I've been there. And let me tell you, it’s... an experience. So, here's the lowdown, FAQ style, but with a healthy dose of my own brand of chaos. Prepare yourself.
1. Is it REALLY "Relax" Beach Resort? Like, *really*?
Look, the name's spot on. "Relax" is the operative word. But, and this is a big but, it depends on *your* definition of relaxation. Are you picturing pristine beaches, spa treatments, and flawless service? Sweet summer child, you're in for a reality check. Libong's more about the raw, untamed beauty. Picture this: me, sprawled on a hammock, trying to meditate while a rooster (yes, a rooster) decided my balcony was prime real estate. Relaxation, achieved! (Eventually, after I threw a pillow in its general direction... which also involved me tripping over a strategically placed coconut. It was graceful.)
2. What's the beach like *actually*? Is it Instagrammable? (Important question, I know.)
Okay, let's be honest, the beach is pretty darn gorgeous. Think powdery white sand, turquoise water, and those picture-perfect sunsets that make you want to weep (in a good way). Instagrammable? Absolutely. Did I take a million photos? Guilty as charged. But here's the thing – it’s not *always* pristine. You might find some seaweed, some shells, maybe a stray plastic bottle (sadly, it happens). But that's part of the charm, you know? It's REAL. It’s not some airbrushed fantasy. And honestly? The imperfections are what make it so beautiful. Plus, it’s usually blissfully empty, especially compared to those overcrowded tourist traps. You can actually *hear* the waves, not the screaming of children constructing sandcastles. Bliss.
3. How are the bungalows? Are they like, luxurious?
"Luxurious" is probably not the term. Think "rustic chic" with a heavy emphasis on the "rustic." The bungalows are charming, in a sort of slightly-falling-apart-but-in-a-charming-way sort of way. My bungalow? Let's just say the mosquito net had more holes than a Swiss cheese. And the shower… well, the water pressure was… enthusiastic. Sometimes it was a dribble. Sometimes it was a full-on firehose. But hey, part of the adventure, right? The bed was comfy enough, and the view (assuming you got a beachfront one, which you ABSOLUTELY should try for) was spectacular. Waking up to the sound of the waves is pretty hard to beat, even if you *did* have a small family of ants deciding your toothbrush was their new hangout.
4. What can you *do* there? Besides, you know, the whole "relaxing" thing.
Okay, besides the obvious (sunbathing, swimming, generally existing in a state of blissful semi-consciousness), you can: Birdwatching! Libong is apparently a birdwatcher’s paradise. I am not a birdwatcher myself, but I did observe a lot of birds. They're pretty. Kayaking! Paddle around the mangroves and see the wildlife. Do be careful of the tides though, I almost got stranded, had to be rescued, that wasn't relaxing at all. Explore the island! Rent a scooter (if you dare - the roads are...characterful) and discover hidden beaches and local villages. There are even hidden waterfalls. I missed those. I was far too busy relaxing.
5. The food... tell me about the food! Is it any good?
The food is a mixed bag, BUT mostly good, and certainly an adventure. They have a restaurant on-site, and the breakfasts with the fresh fruit was amazing. The dinners were hit-or-miss. Sometimes it was phenomenal, fragrant curries, fresh seafood grilled to perfection. Other times, it was… well, let's just say the chef might have been having an off day. But that's part of the game! It's all part of the charm! The main course of any meal was, regardless, the fact that you were eating it, while looking at the ocean.
6. And the staff? Are they friendly?
The staff... ah, the staff. They're… friendly. Mostly. Some are incredibly warm and welcoming, genuinely wanting to make your stay amazing. Others… well, let's just say their English skills might need a little polishing. But honestly, that's part of the charm! Embrace the misunderstandings, the pointing, the charades. You'll get there in the end. And their heart is in the right place. They genuinely seemed to care, and put up with my constant requests for extra ice for my (essential) sundowners.
7. Mosquitoes! I'm terrified of them. How bad are they?
Okay, let's not sugarcoat this. The mosquitoes are… present. They're around. They are definitely out. Bring ALL the repellent you can find. Stock up on the stuff with the highest DEET content. Slather it on religiously. Use the mosquito net. Close your doors. And pray to whatever deity you believe in. Because those little buggers are relentless. I'd say, that I personally am now about 20% mosquito bite, it's just the price you pay to be near a beautiful beach in the middle of nowhere.
8. Getting there... How do you actually *get* to this paradise? Logistics, please!
Alright, listen up. Getting to Libong isn't exactly a cakewalk. It involves a flight to Trang airport, then a taxi or minivan to Hat Yao pier, and then a longtail boat to the island. The boat ride is lovely, admittedly. But it's hot, it's bumpy, and you might get a bit wet. Then it's a transfer from the main harbour, to the resort. Make sure you arrange your transfers *in advance* and double check… *triple check*… all the details. I learnt the hard way, and ended up stranded at a bus station needing someone to pick me up. The experience was harrowing. I was convinced I'd break down and miss my flight home and never see actual civilization again. Pack light, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to embrace the adventure.
