Discover Thailand's Finest: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Hospitality

Northern Charms: Chiang Mai's Elegant Retreats

Nestled within Chiang Mai's historic confines, just a stone's throw from the majestic Wat Gate temple, 137 Pillars House offers a journey back to a lavish 19th-century countryside estate, seamlessly blended with contemporary comforts. This magnificent property, originally the Northern headquarters of the East Borneo Trading Company, enchants with its grand teak pillars, pristine white timber, intricate fretwork, and a treasure trove of Asian antiques. Its thirty suites embody an elegant Anglo-Lanna aesthetic, featuring beautifully patterned tiled floors, majestic four-poster beds, and verandas complete with rocking chairs. The hotel's fragrant tropical gardens, inviting outdoor swimming pool, exceptional culinary offerings, and a supremely atmospheric spa provide a serene escape from the modern world. For those desiring a more expansive natural setting, the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai spreads across 31 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens and vibrant rice paddies in the tranquil Mae Rim Valley. Here, treetop pavilions, private residences, and exclusive pool villas offer breathtaking views. Daily life unfolds with enchanting rituals, from rice farmers serenading the sunset to buffaloes bathing in the lake, which serves as a vibrant hub for activities ranging from sunrise yoga and pottery to Thai boxing and textile dyeing. Two magnificent infinity pools extend into the paddies, creating a lush, serene vista from every angle. Guests in private residences can enjoy ultimate seclusion, indulging in pure luxury with private pools, catering services, and wraparound terraces for alfresco dining. The resort's dining experience is a highlight, particularly breakfast, which presents a global tapestry of flavors, served by an exceptionally warm and friendly staff. A mere 10-minute drive from central Chiang Mai, Villa Mahabhirom offers a blissful sanctuary amidst a lush jungle landscape. Its 24 traditional Thai teak wood homes, 14 of which are dedicated to guests, provide an intimate, home-like ambiance, accommodating only 28 visitors at a time. These villas, once Thai family residences dating back over a century, have been meticulously restored. Each is elevated on stilts, featuring open-air living spaces, softly lit bedrooms, elegant marble bathrooms, and charming balconies. Larger villas offer private pools and gardens. The property is adorned with antique furniture and ornate decorations, transforming a stroll through its grounds into an open-air museum. The stunning pool, reflecting its verdant surroundings and adorned with local artist-designed clay sculptures, creates an artistic centerpiece. The poolside area hosts breakfast and dinner, offering a delightful Vietnamese menu and daily happy hour cocktails—the perfect occasion to observe the resident deer. Further enhancing Chiang Mai’s allure, Raya Heritage along the Ping river presents a refreshing departure from conventional Thai aesthetics. Eschewing traditional temple-inspired designs, this hotel embraces a linear approach, allowing local crafts to shine. Terracotta brickwork, woven reed baskets, hand-loomed textiles, and splashes of indigo celebrate the ancient Lanna culture. The property's Him Gong shop, opened in 2019, offers guests the chance to acquire these exquisite crafts. The restaurant provides a culinary journey through the region, serving noodle salads from Burma, Chinese kung pao chicken, and Shan-style river prawns. The spa specializes in unique treatments, including Burmese massages and herbal steam therapies. For those seeking an authentic immersion, excursions to meet local artisans can be arranged, though the 33 guest rooms, some with private pools, are inviting enough for a day of serene relaxation. Lastly, Hotel Des Artists, Ping Silhouette offers a charming retreat in Chiang Mai's leafy Wat Ket district. Inspired by the area's mercantile past, the hotel blends glazed tile roofs and antique French shutters with a stone-paved courtyard, bonsai trees, and traditional Chinese artifacts. Rooms are adorned in white and teal, many offering terraces with views of weeping willows and a lap pool. The café provides Thai rice porridge and pastries, making it a unique and delightful addition to the city's hotel scene.

Chiang Rai's Unique Sanctuaries

The Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort in Chiang Rai is primarily celebrated for its ethical elephant sanctuary, offering guests unparalleled, respectful interactions with these magnificent creatures. Visitors can engage in activities such as walking with the elephants through lush landscapes, feeding them, or even spending a night in a unique bubble room as the elephants roam nearby. Beyond its elephant encounters, the resort boasts a spectacular location overlooking the Mekong River, providing panoramic views of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos—a sight best appreciated at dawn as the amber sunlight pierces through the misty cloud forest. In a tranquil setting, Phu Chaisai, Chiang Rai, nestled in the Golden Triangle, offers a refreshing escape. A scenic 45-minute drive from the airport, this hilltop retreat showcases northern Thailand in its purest form, with views of vibrant rice paddies, golden temple roofs, and tea plantations. Its 33 red-clay cottages, nestled among swirling vines and bamboo forests, offer serene mountain vistas. Interiors feature natural bamboo and hill-tribe textiles, creating an unpretentious yet charming atmosphere. Some cottages boast private pools, perfect for secluded relaxation. The resort, revitalized by hotel veteran Jason Friedman, emphasizes traditional crafts and eco-conscious living. Guests can savor Akha-tribe coffee and jungle honey, enjoy all-natural spa products, and explore marked hiking trails. The serene ambiance is further enhanced by an upcoming cookery school by chef Kay Plunkett-Hogge, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a slow-paced jungle retreat.

Bangkok's Urban Luxuries

In the bustling heart of Bangkok, 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok epitomizes warm hospitality and refined luxury. This urban oasis provides 24-hour access to an infinity rooftop pool, breakfast service extending until 5 p.m., rejuvenating sleep programs, and one of the city's most efficient concierge teams. Combining the hallmarks of luxury hotel operations—such as attentive butler service, deep soaking tubs, expansive windows, Italian marble, and exquisite fine dining—the hotel also radiates a friendly warmth through its bright and welcoming staff. Furthermore, its opulent wellness program consistently garners accolades, offering diverse modalities from Reiki and deep tissue massages to revitalizing tamarind body scrubs. The Siam, Bangkok, while not centrally located for typical tourist attractions, offers an escape to a bygone era of elegance. This monochrome masterpiece, designed by Bill Bensley, transports guests to a plush playground reminiscent of mid-century Bangkok. Its hallways are adorned with vintage travel memorabilia, lending a timeless charm. Ongoing renovations ensure suites and private-pooled villas remain pristine and inviting. Despite the city's constantly evolving luxury hotel scene, The Siam maintains its unique allure, a testament to its enduring beauty and distinctive character. Standing tall as a striking architectural marvel in Bangkok's skyline, the Rosewood Bangkok echoes the traditional Thai "wai" gesture of greeting. This design is emblematic of the hotel's seamless fusion of authentic Thai hospitality with an exceptionally polished service style. The staff are renowned for their impeccable graciousness, remembering guests' names and attending to every need with cheerful efficiency. The stylish rooms and common areas beautifully reflect a sense of place, featuring modern sculptures, paintings by local Thai artists, and subtle design elements that pay homage to Thailand's rich silk-making heritage and traditional dance garments. Dining at the Rosewood is a rich experience, with Lakorn offering local agriculture-inspired dishes and Nan Bei presenting an extensive Chinese menu. The hotel's cocktail bar, Lennon's, with its creative drinks and vast vinyl library, ensures vibrant evenings. Among a multitude of luxury hotels in Bangkok, the Rosewood distinguishes itself with a quiet confidence and an inviting "wai." The Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River marks a significant return for the brand to the city. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, this riverside sanctuary caters to both visitors and local residents, offering a serene escape with strong "staying-put" appeal. Its multi-tiered swimming pool, expansive suites with river views, and floor-to-ceiling windows provide a luxurious urban retreat. The hotel boasts four distinct restaurants for leisurely meals, and the BKK Social Club, helmed by the renowned Philip Bischoff, offers a sophisticated nightlife experience. A contemporary art collection with an urban edge further enhances the hotel's appeal, seamlessly blending with Bangkok's burgeoning design district. The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, introduces a haven of tranquility in a developing part of the city, providing convenient access to key attractions and the brand's signature impeccable service. Situated within the new One Bangkok development, it offers guest rooms from the eighth to the 24th floor, many with balconies providing breathtaking views. Room options range from deluxe kings to expansive two-bedroom suites, all featuring luxurious amenities like standalone tubs and walk-in rain showers. A culinary highlight is Duet by David Toutain, offering modern French cuisine with a seasonal tasting menu emphasizing seafood and fresh vegetables. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, a venerable institution since 1876, continues to shine with timeless elegance. Despite its long history, frequent refurbishments keep the hotel looking pristine and contemporary. Its evolving culinary scene, with a dozen or so restaurants including the new Kinu by chef Takagi Kazuo and the classic Thai restaurant Baan Phraya, remains at the forefront of Bangkok's dining landscape. The spa, offering everything from CBD-oil-infused massages to traditional Thai herbal treatments, continues to be a world-class destination for wellness. It's a testament to enduring luxury and exceptional service that only improves with age. The Mustang Blu, Bangkok, transforms a former 1800s bank building into a stunning 10-suite marvel in Chinatown. This unique hotel captivates with its beautiful patina, quirky personality, and inviting features like large soaking tubs, stone accents, Persian carpets, and memorable taxidermy. While steps away from the bustling chaos of Bangkok's Chinatown, it provides a tranquil escape on Maitri Chit Road. The lobby tea parlor attracts a diverse crowd, and suites, often booked by savvy travelers, offer a blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. The interior design with concrete floors, antique chandeliers, and abundant plant life creates a romantic and distinctive atmosphere, making it a truly unparalleled experience in Bangkok. Finally, The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon, housed in the city's tallest skyscraper, injects a vibrant, youthful energy into Bangkok's luxury hotel scene. Since its opening in 2022, it has become a magnet for the city's fashion and social elite, known for its art-filled spaces, DJ sets, and lively Drag Queen Bingo parties. This five-star hotel eschews traditional serene Thai interiors for a riot of colors, vibrant restaurants, and Thailand's highest rooftop bar. While it boasts a high-voltage atmosphere, it also offers serene escapes such as a swirling pool with CBD skyline views and a friendly, international staff. It's a unique blend of sophisticated fun and artistic flair, providing a refreshing alternative to the city's more conventional luxury stays.

Ayutthaya's Historic Haven

Baan Pomphet, Ayutthaya, offers a contemporary twist on hospitality in Thailand's historic capital. This eight-room hotel and restaurant is strategically located at the confluence of the Chao Phraya and Pasak rivers. Drawing inspiration from the adjacent brick-walled Pom Phet fortress, Bangkok-based architecture studio Onion crafted an intricate structure from hand-molded red brick and reclaimed timber. The design features varied patterns of steps, stairs, and roofs, with intricately carved wooden lights and Hanuman-shaped doorknobs adding a local touch. A unique scaffolding-like footbridge connects two buildings, leading to a guests-only area shaded by an ancient bodhi tree, where a swimming pool provides a tranquil oasis. Rooms are minimalist yet cozy, with vibrant jackfruit yellow or leaf green hues, pod-like beds, and black-tiled bathrooms. Ground-floor rooms include outdoor showers, while the corner room on the second floor offers stunning fortress views. The Juumpo restaurant, adorned with family heirlooms, serves authentic local cuisine based on ancestral recipes. Come sunset, the rooftop bar opens, offering refreshing cocktails and views of the river. Despite being a short taxi ride from the beach, Baan Pomphet offers a charming and authentic departure from typical hotels.

Hua Hin's Coastal Escapes

The Standard, Hua Hin, injects a much-needed jolt of youthful energy into this traditional beach town. Departing from the typical teakwood and jasmine aesthetics, guests are welcomed by contemporary art and midcentury-modern furnishings. Pathways lined with bamboo and bougainvillea lead to chic, boho-beach villas, some featuring disco balls in their bathrooms for a playful touch. The resort's main social hub is the pool, where a lively crowd enjoys the sun under candy-striped umbrellas, and two restaurants serve innovative Thai-inspired bites and drinks until late. In contrast, Chiva Som, Hua Hin, reigns as the undisputed queen of Thailand's wellness scene. Pioneering spa breaks 27 years ago, it continues to set the benchmark for holistic health. Its life-enhancing programs combine cutting-edge fitness technology, comprehensive medical diagnostics including blood and gene testing, traditional Asian healing therapies, and profoundly intuitive staff. Guests can choose from 16 specialized retreats, such as stress management, fitness boosts, immune resilience, and senior health, each meticulously personalized to address individual mental, physical, and emotional needs. Chiva Som is the ultimate destination for transforming lifelong habits and achieving profound well-being.

Khao Yai's Countryside Retreats

Two hours north of Bangkok, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort, an IHG Hotel, emerges from lush hedgerows, transforming the landscape into a whimsical retreat. Masterminded by hotel designer Bill Bensley, the resort adopts a charming railway theme, featuring buildings and accommodations crafted from upcycled vintage train carriages. The lobby, designed as an old-time ticketing booth, sets the tone for a unique stay where suites evoke different Asian railway journeys. Two restaurants and a bar, including Poirot known for its French-inspired dishes, are also nestled within railway carts. The spa offers Thai and aromatherapy massages, providing a serene escape. This imaginative resort, appealing to both families and adults, offers a delightful respite from urban life. Also in Khao Yai, Roukh Kiri Khao Yai distinguishes itself with a refreshing approach to design, moving beyond typical Thai hotel tropes. Spread across a mango orchard, its 12 villas, designed by architecture studio Onion, feature archetypal gabled roofs and cobblestone walls, stripped of excessive ornamentation. Recycled timber barn doors add rustic charm. Picture windows reveal indoor-outdoor bathrooms, and private sandstone pools are set amidst feather grass, offering stunning views of the emerald-green valley. The communal fireplace and reclaimed-wood restaurant, which sources ingredients from its organic garden, provide a cozy and authentic dining experience. Roukh Kiri offers a refined blend of rustic charm and minimalist elegance.

Phuket's Island Paradises

Trisara, Phuket, epitomizes luxury and privacy, sprawling across a tropical hillside descending to a tranquil stretch of Layan Beach. This opulent sanctuary dedicates 40 acres and 2,000 meters of Andaman Sea coastline to just 39 peaked-roof villas and 30 palatial private residences. Each accommodation boasts a private pool and panoramic sea views, meticulously spaced to ensure absolute seclusion. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at Pru, the only Michelin-starred restaurant in Phuket and the only one in Thailand with a Michelin Green star, or enjoy the vibrant Sunday Champagne brunches. The temple-like Jara spa offers integrative Thai therapies, including unique massages with wooden hammers and chisels, promising a magical and rejuvenating experience. As the original outpost of the renowned Aman empire, Amanpuri, Phuket, initially conceived as a holiday home for Adrian Zecha, has evolved into a legendary boutique resort since its 1988 opening. Over decades, it has remained a discreet haven for royalty and supermodels, with continuous enhancements ensuring its pristine allure. The resort's iconic Thai temple-like pavilions, set amidst lush gardens and coconut palms, adorned with ancient Buddhist antiques and fresh orchids, exude an authentic charm. Recent renovations have unveiled hidden architectural details and upgraded amenities, including modern bathtubs. Its Holistic Wellness Centre, offering a range of treatments from crystal healing to advanced medical check-ups, is consistently recognized as one of Thailand's finest. Despite its global acclaim, Amanpuri maintains a serene ambiance, even during peak season. Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas offers an unparalleled "fly-and-flop" experience, conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport. This proximity, coupled with the immediate access to private villas, makes it a highly desirable choice. All 83 standalone villas boast high walls, expansive outdoor terraces with loungers and shaded salas, large private pools, and luxurious bedrooms and bathrooms. Thoughtful design elements, such as sliding glass doors connecting living spaces to the pool and a spacious outdoor stone bathtub separated by a glass panel, allow for seamless transitions between hot soaks and cool dips. A highlight of the stay is dining at the Tree House, a Japanese omakase restaurant ingeniously built into an ancient banyan tree. Guests can enjoy meals at tables overlooking the gardens or opt for the counter experience to watch chefs prepare fresh ingredients flown in from Japan. The resort also features a spa and a kids' club, with babysitting services available. While not the 'White Lotus' hotel, its beautiful beach and facilities are set to gain further popularity. The architectural style of COMO Point Yamu, Phuket, might seem stark from the exterior, almost brutalist, but step inside, and you discover a hotel as light and ethereal as a birdcage. Columns of concrete ingeniously slice the Phuketian sunshine into captivating patterns, while razor-sharp lines frame a shimmering green bay against a backdrop of undulating limestone hills. A magnificent 100-meter white-tiled swimming pool stretches dramatically towards the Andaman Sea. It is this striking aesthetic, coupled with exceptional service, vibrant cuisine, and a truly remarkable spa, that has made COMO Point Yamu a beloved destination, particularly among LGBTQ+ Thai and international travelers. Finally, the Rosewood Phuket, a relative newcomer, leads the pack in transforming Phuket from a backpacker's haunt into a serious luxury destination. From the moment of arrival, the property impresses with its elegant blend of blond wood and imposing flagstones, exuding a spacious and airy design. Free-standing bungalows are artfully scattered across the hillside, while pools, the spa, bars, and restaurants are thoughtfully dispersed throughout the resort. This layout allows the property to breathe, creating a sense of privacy and seclusion, even when fully occupied. The stunning Andaman Sea is visible from nearly every vantage point, enhancing the overall serene and luxurious experience.

Krabi's Enchanting Views

At Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Krabi, the experience is defined by its stunning views of the Andaman Sea from the Krabi coastline. This luxurious resort features 54 opulent suites and villas, nestled amidst lush tropical gardens and winding moats. While the expansive grounds might suggest reliance on the resort's golf carts for transportation, the sheer beauty of the surroundings compensates. The rooms themselves are lavishly appointed, with interiors featuring cream granite and elegant white linen. Bathrooms are a highlight, boasting unique lotus-shaped sinks and outdoor tubs, and most rooms are equipped with grand, spacious beds, ensuring a truly indulgent stay. The resort’s design and amenities cater to those seeking a blend of natural beauty and refined luxury.

Phang Nga's Serene Six Senses

Six Senses Yao Noi, Phang Nga, offers an unparalleled escape where each dawn paints the sky in a symphony of indigo, violet, scarlet, and flame orange, revealing the majestic limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay. The Andaman Sea, glowing with a cerulean hue, completes this breathtaking natural spectacle. Mornings here are greeted by unfurling lotus flowers and the calls of hornbills, kingfishers, and coucals. The resort's breezy villas, with their driftwood-canopied beds, sunken sea-view bathtubs, and expansive decks perfect for cartwheels, offer a perfect blend of rustic charm and luxury. The staff, known for their sunny disposition, provide an exceptionally personalized experience. A communal half-moon infinity pool, perched high in the hills, forms a crescent mirroring the bay below. The spa, built into the hillside, offers revitalizing treatments like lemongrass teas, hot herbal massages, and the signature Yao Noi Journey, a coconut scrub and Thai herbal steam ritual that leaves guests deeply relaxed. Culinary delights, sourced from local fishermen and the hotel's own gardens, mushroom hut, and chicken coop, include exquisite Phuket lobster and spicy grouper curry. Spending time here is a profound joy, a constant reminder of nature's beauty and the boundless possibilities that accompany each new day.

Khao Lak's Cultural Gem

Hotel Gahn, Khao Lak, bravely stands on the town's main road, a deliberate tribute from owner Rabiab Anusasananun to her late grandfather, who arrived in Thailand in 1928 to work in the tin-mining industry. This hotel is a celebration of the Baba Nyonya culture, a fusion of Chinese migrants and local traditions. Designed by Phuket-based architecture studio Locomotive, the hotel reinterprets ancestral aesthetics with terrazzo floors, arched columns, exposed-concrete ceilings, and vintage lamps. Each of its five floors showcases artworks offering insights into Baba culture, while a small shop sells colorful batik items. The Juumpo restaurant, adorned with family heirlooms, features Anusasananun's own cooking, with the melt-in-your-mouth moo hong (stewed sweet pork) being a highlight. Though the nearest beach is a short taxi ride away, Hotel Gahn offers a refreshing departure from typical resorts, providing a rich cultural immersion and a truly endearing experience.

Ko Yao Noi's Peaceful Retreats

9 Hornbills Tented Camp, Koh Yao Noi, embodies the serene essence of one of Thailand's most unspoiled islands, reminiscent of Koh Samui or Koh Phi Phi before extensive development. Here, dusty tracks are more likely to lead to grazing water buffaloes than crowds of tourists, and the beaches remain wonderfully tranquil. This peaceful island, just a 30-minute speedboat ride from bustling Phuket, was chosen by Swiss entrepreneur Jean-Michel Germing for his discreet retreat nearly two decades ago. The camp itself, named after the nine hornbills Germing encountered during his initial visit, features ten safari tents nestled within a former rubber plantation. Each tent boasts its own private pool, spacious gardens, four-poster beds, and outdoor rain showers crafted from reclaimed wood, drawing inspiration from the eco-chic design of the nearby Six Senses, also directed by Germing. The bar at the estate's summit offers a perfect spot for sundowners, and guests can enjoy the sister hotel's excellent restaurant and semi-private beach, accessible via buggy service. Attentive butlers can arrange everything from romantic candlelit dinners to island picnics and floating breakfasts served in traditional Thai tiffin boxes. However, the most captivating feature is undoubtedly the colossal, moss-covered limestone karsts rising majestically from the ocean, offering what is arguably the most spectacular view in all of Thailand.

Koh Samui's Holistic Sanctuaries

Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa, Koh Samui, founded by American entrepreneurs, is nestled on the palm-covered slopes of Koh Samui. Architect Robert Powell's design subtly blends Nepalese pagoda influences into teak-clad buildings and bungalows strategically placed among soaring trees, maximizing tropical sea views. Guests can delve into a menu of medicinal options at the Wellness Center, offering everything from flower remedies to comprehensive annual check-ups, or simply indulge in a relaxing massage. The resort stands out by eliminating fixed check-in and check-out times, welcoming guests whenever they arrive. A full schedule of aerobic and meditative exercises is available, but true peace is found amidst the vibrant butterflies fluttering among the massive pink lotus blossoms. In a different vein of luxury, Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui, located on the secluded northwestern tip of the island's tranquil Laem Yai Bay, features 60 exquisite hillside villas and ten private residence rentals. Designed by Bill Bensley, each villa offers expansive views of the Gulf of Thailand, complete with plunge pools, shaded daybeds, and well-stocked wine fridges. The resort boasts a pristine private beach, a main infinity pool, and sea-facing daybeds at the laid-back beach bar, where attentive staff craft an array of cocktails. Dining options include Pla Pla, a romantic seafood pavilion, and KOH Thai Kitchen & Bar, which highlights indigenous dishes like tom kati talay. Spa treatments in tree house-inspired rooms offer ultimate relaxation, ensuring a complete escape from real-world stresses. Finally, Banyan Tree Samui offers a breathtaking escape where lotus flowers drift in private villa pools, set against unparalleled panoramic views of Lamai Bay. Buggies transport guests along winding paths connecting villas, a secluded private beach, the spa, and the elevated restaurant, The Edge. Villas, available in various shapes and sizes, all provide stunning sea or garden views. Family and couple villas feature spacious rainfall showers and grand bedrooms that open onto private infinity pools. A wooden deck with beanbags offers a perfect spot to witness the sunrise over the sea. Guests can enjoy the private beach with kayak rentals and private boat tours, or indulge in afternoon tea at the beach restaurant. A highlight is the opportunity to observe resident turtle hatchlings migrating to the ocean between April and May. A visit to the spa is essential, particularly for the hydrotherapy massage, which includes a steam room, an ice-cold shower, and powerful water jets targeting back muscles, leaving guests utterly rejuvenated.

Koh Tao's Hidden Oasis

Langkhai Garden, Koh Tao, is a hidden gem on the tranquil southeastern coast of this sleepy Chumphon Archipelago island. Its four private villas are ideal for families and couples seeking extended stays. The bolthole, a three-year project by a French couple, opened in 2018, embodying modern cool with polished concrete walls, high wooden beam ceilings, and thatched straw roofs (home to charming local lizards). Each villa features huge four-poster beds, spacious lounges, fully equipped kitchens, and a wraparound balcony with outdoor dining and a private pool, all overlooking panoramic sea views. For those who prefer not to cook, nearby restaurants offer convenient delivery. Scooter rentals are available from friendly reception staff, allowing easy exploration of the island's marine-rich coves, where lucky visitors might swim with turtles or whale sharks. Once immersed in Koh Tao's slow island life, it becomes delightfully difficult to leave the villa's embrace.