Sala Samui

This lovely and popular resort is situated on Choeng Mon beach, just ten minutes from the lively beach of Chaweng and also close to Bo Phut Fisherman’s village.

The Sala Samui has 69 rooms, 53 of which come complete with their own private pool. Of particular note are the Sala Pool Villas – these are individual villas accessed via your own private gateway. Enter into a white and airy bedroom, filled with an elegant day bed and mosquito nets. The adjoining bathroom is semi-outdoor with an outdoor rain shower and is separated from the garden area by stylishly draped curtains. The garden area includes another day bed and a 3x5m plunge pool with sunloungers. Garden Pool Villas feature a similar layout but are in a duplex building with the Deluxe Balcony rooms above. Pool Villa Suites are even more deluxe, with an additional stylish living room and stunning bathroom.

The resort has a gracious style – the chic décor combines a Thai aesthetic with the clean lines of modern Mediterranean design. Communal areas have funky colours and create a buzzing atmosphere. There are two swimming pools including a large lap pool surrounded by four massage salas, floating on a lily pond. There is also a children's pool. Both pools are on the beachfront. The beach itself is 80 metres long with fine white sand. There are two restaurants, one serving international cuisine and the other serving Thai with some Western dishes. The Beach Bar includes outdoor terrace seating and there is also a beachfront wine cellar. The resort's facilities also include a luxurious spa.

A Phuket sister property, the Sala Phuket, is due to open in September 2007.

PRICES Prices start from £131 per person per night in a Sala Pool Villa, based on two people sharing, including breakfast. Upgrade to Premium Economy on EVA Air from as little as an additional £175 per person per way on the London-Bangkok sectors.