The Paradise Koh Yao

The resort's central area is airy, bright and full of shabby-chic pieces. The spa deserves a special mention with its waterfall plunge pool above a herbal steam 'cave', and you can also join the resident yogi for a session on the beach. There are plenty of options for dinner including delicious seafood dishes, served on the sand, wood-fired pizzas, and wok fried fare. By day, slurp Italian ice creams on a beanbag and as the sun sets, grab a cocktail as the local musicians start to play and hornbills cackle overhead.

With varying proximity to the beach, the rooms and villas are filled with natural light, their shades of blue creating a relaxing space. Squares of bamboo cover the King-sized beds in netting, a cosy swing on the patio provides an uninterrupted view, and the bathrooms all have a rain shower and a deep bathtub, whilst some even have an alfresco Jacuzzi. The beachside villas feature a private pool, outdoor lounge and bar, and incredible views of Phang Nga Bay.

When you're not horizontal in a hammock or massage sala, explore the bay on a catamaran cruise or kayaking excursion, stopping to peruse forest-veiled caves, unspoilt beaches and reefs. Enjoy the underwater sights on a scuba diving trip, discovering the most beautiful reefs in the marine reserve. On land, venture further into the jungle to swim below cascading waterfalls, visit remote villages by bicycle, and watch the sunset while it turns the entire landscape gold.