When the Villa Becomes the Destination

Thai ultra-luxury villas are redefining travel – blending privacy and luxe lifestyles with smart investment opportunities

Words: Kankanit Wichiantanon
Photos: Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, Azur Samui, Beach Republic (The State House), Botanica Grand Avenue, Botanica MontAzure, Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang, Vignette Collection by IHG, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui, Keeree Tara Villa Koh Samui, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, and Rayavadee

No longer just a niche indulgence, ultra-luxury holiday villas are quickly becoming a prime motivation for travel. These must-visit escapes promise privacy, tailored experiences, cultural resonance and exclusivity – qualities that appeal to both high-end travellers and investors. In Thailand, this shift has turned luxury villa living into a star attraction for both tourism and real estate.

Think art-filled architectural masterpieces, wellness retreats that rival resorts, party-ready bachelor pads, and serene estates. For many travellers, the focus is less on the location and more about the villa itself.

“Ten to 15 years ago, people came to experience the destination. Now, they come for the property,” says Thulana Fernando, Cluster Director of Marketing for Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, Layan Residences by Anantara, Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, and Layan Life by Anantara.

Why Villas are Taking Over

The rise of villas comes down to a single truth: they deliver total privacy and personalisation. In Thailand, the villa model has been elevated into fully managed sanctuaries, complete with upkeep, security and attentive hospitality.

“People are drawn to the design, the quality, the views and the assurance of being part of a well-run community,” says Tim Dean-Smith, founder of the Azur Samui.

The luxe villa trend is being driven by wider global shifts. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, long-stay demand has soared as travellers seek havens of stability amid uncertainty at home – be it political, economic, or even weather-related, Dean-Smith noted. Many guests stay for months, blending leisure with remote work – proof that villas are no longer just short-term hideouts.

Though privacy sits at the heart of the appeal, the experience goes much further. Once defined by a modest kitchen and a couple of bedrooms, today’s villas boast private pools, terraces and gardens – along with chefs crafting tailored menus, spa therapists on call, and concierge teams helping to manage every detail of your itinerary. Guests wake up in homes that feel like theirs, but with the allure of a boutique resort.

Thailand has embraced this luxury lifestyle and turned it into an art form. Many villas are no longer just temporary homes but fully managed sanctuaries. Professional teams handle everything, from daily upkeep to concierge services and round-the-clock security.

Villas as Destinations

The new generation of villas has changed the game: no longer just places to visit, they are destinations in themselves.

In Phuket, tropical-modern designs offer panoramic ocean views, with architecture that flows harmoniously between indoor and outdoor living.

“Single-storey Bainese villas are very popular. They are open and airy, usually featuring 3-4 bedrooms, outdoor spaces, large windows and sunbathing areas. People prefer not to rely on air-conditioning and don’t like closed-off spaces. They want natural light to flow in,” says Naruewan Pinit, Director of Marketing at Botanica Luxury Villas Phuket.

Meanwhile, Koh Samui’s luxury villa market is booming, attracting developers, investors, and those in search of a second home. “Right now, I mostly see people looking for a second home or an investment, and each buyer wants something different, whether it’s location, view, or holistic elements,” explains Mario Joao DeSouza, founder of DOMO Development. “I listen to my clients and to the market, knowing that architecture and design appeal to each person in their own way.”

The message is clear: when your villa is this extraordinary, staying in becomes the ultimate luxury.

Designs that Pamper

Ultra-luxury villas are no longer one-size-fits-all. These stunning retreats are now tailored to reflect the passions and lifestyles of their guests.

Imagine stepping into a space adorned with curated paintings and sculpture-filled gardens, where guests don’t just view art, they live within it. “The key selling point of Botanica Luxury Villas Phuket is luxury centred on art. The villas showcase artworks throughout the home, which often reflect the style of the featured artists. Gardens are designed in a majestic modern Zen style, and interiors follow the Japanese minimalistic aesthetic,” Naruewan says.

For those seeking balance and rejuvenation, wellness-focused villas offer spa suites, meditation salas, yoga terraces, and holistic programmes, particularly in destination like Koh Samui where detox and renewal are front and centre.

Sustainability may not be the headline, but it’s increasingly embedded in villa design. Solar panels, rainwater harvesting and green roofs are becoming standard, while natural materials like wood and stone anchor villas to their natural settings.

“A more holistic approach to design is what’s needed now, something that blends with the environment and location. Maintenance and operation also play a big role,” says DeSouza “When it comes to sustainability, for me it’s about creating something with permanence and intention, and that’s what I aim to build.”

Technology, meanwhile, seamlessly elevates comfort to new levels. Smart systems quietly manage lighting, climate, and entertainment, turning the villa into a haven of indulgence and convenience.

Villas as Investments

No longer confined to lavish holidays and private escapes, today’s villas have become sought-after assets. Developers across Thailand are reimagining properties by offering professional management programmes that cover everything from rentals and guest services to maintenance and security, turning villas into both personal retreats for owners and income-generating properties.

Phuket, in particular, attracts investors who spend part of the year in their villas before renting them out or selling them for a good return on investment.

“Phuket is very close to Dubai’s markets, so many investors have come in. Most are driven by investment. They might stay for a few months, and rent it out for the rest of the time or sell it for a return after a couple of years,” Naruewan says.

Today, villas serve as both lifestyle statements and strategic portfolio moves, blending pleasure with profitability. As Dean-Smith puts it: “People want their own house with a private pool, and villas will continue to grow as investment opportunities, increasingly seen as more substantial and desirable than condominiums.”

The New Villa Culture

When asked what defines the new villa culture, experts in ultra-luxury real estate agree on one thing: there’s no single blueprint.

Some people want beachfront access, others prefer in-land retreats. But what unites them is a desire for stylish, practical homes that are in harmony with their surroundings. Think energy-efficient layouts, glass with minimal solar impact, and expansive windows that flood rooms with light and air, reducing the need for air-conditioning.

“People used to think villas had to be on the seafront or a mountain, but actually they can be anywhere. Developers are creating villas that celebrate the uniqueness of each location,” Naruewan says.

Convenience has also become the new hallmark of luxury. At resorts like Anantara, beachfront or beach-access pool villas are in highest demand – not just for the views, but for the sheer indulgence of stepping straight from pool to sea.

The result is a new villa culture shaped by diversity. Today’s villas cater to a range of lifestyles and aspirations – from wellness sanctuaries to social hubs, from architectural statements to serene havens. What unites them is their dual purpose: private homes that double as luxury experiences – and increasingly, as savvy investments.

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort: Where Luxe Villas Meet World-Class

This serene retreat of suites, villas and private residences blends Thai contemporary design, wellness and premium dining into one harmonious escape

Photos: Anantara Layan Phuket Resort

A peaceful oasis on Phuket’s lush northwest coast, Andaman Layan Phuket Resort is where barefoot luxury transforms tropical dreams into reality. With 72 suites and pool villas, plus 15 private residences, this serene hideaway invites you to embrace life’s gentler rhythms.

The property whispers tranquillity through its Thai contemporary style of wood accents softened by lush greenery. Walkways wind beneath trees, vines climb walls and hidden gardens surprise at every turn.

Each villa is its own private world of indulgence. Choose the Sala Pool Villa for secluded sunbathing perfection, the Beach Access Pool Villa where the surf is a few steps away, or the Two-Bedroom Anantara Pool Villa for shared escapes in paradise. Every villa features a private pool and a dedicated host to ensure every desire is met, whether that’s sundown cocktails or crafting your perfect day.

Beyond the villas, the Andaman Sea unfurls like a painting framed by gorgeous tropical gardens. Days flow from sunrise yoga to languid afternoons by the pool, while evenings dissolve into golden sunsets.

For deeper rejuvenation, Layan Life by Anantara brings the wellness magic to your stay. From Himalayan salt saunas and cryotherapy to meditation gardens and Thai healing rituals, each experience is designed to relax and recharge. The Active Zone, meanwhile, invites you to move with energy, while the Layan Garden reminds you to slow down and smell the roses.

Dining at Anantara Layan matches the stunning wellness facilities with world-class choices. Dara Cuisine Phuket serves constellation-inspired meals under romantic starry skies, Beach House Layan blends Mediterranean flavours with moonlit ambience, while Age Restaurant delights with hand-cut steaks and vintage wines. And for vibrant Japanese flair, Zuma Phuket serves sensational sushi, robata grills and inventive cocktails.

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is a sanctuary of rhythm and balance, where nature, design and hospitality meet in tasteful harmony.

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort
168 Moo 6, Layan Beach Soi 4, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket
Tel: +66 76 317 200
www.anantara.com/en/layan-phuket

Azur Samui: Where Luxury Meets Island Living

Spacious villas, sweeping seascapes and a stunning clubhouse set a new standard for contemporary living on Koh Samui

Photos: Azur Samui

Azur Samui is built on the three cornerstones of joyful living: luxury, scenery and convenience. Conceived by British developer Tim Dean-Smith, this exclusive estate takes its name from the sparkling blue sea surrounding Koh Samui. Its hillside perch provides panoramic views across the Gulf of Thailand, with the silhouette of Koh Phangan as a stunning backdrop.

Once you’ve savoured the jaw-dropping views, Samui’s famous delights are just moments away. Maenam Beach is a five-minute drive, while the restaurants, cafés and boutiques of Fisherman’s Village are 10 minutes away. At Azur Samui, tranquil seclusion goes hand in hand with island accessibility.

Step inside and discover contemporary island chic, where floor-to-ceiling windows invite natural light, cooling breezes and breathtaking views. Outdoors, an infinity pool complete with deck, cosy seating, and barbecue area sets the stage for alfresco gatherings. Villas ranging from two to six bedrooms which sit on generous plots of up to 1,2000 Sq M, ensuring privacy and peace. Interiors feature open layouts, sleek kitchens with quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances, and carefully chosen finishes blending style with easy maintenance.

At the heart of the estate lies the Clubhouse, home to a 26-metre lap pool, a fully equipped Life Fitness gym and a serene yoga studio. Whether you prefer high-energy workouts or mindful stretching, wellness is always within reach.

Safety is another strong feature of the Azur Samui lifestyle. With 24-hour professional security, CCTV coverage and optional housekeeping and gardening services, residents can truly “lock and leave”, confident that their home will remain pristine in their absence.

In addition to villas, Azur Samui offers a selection of stylish apartments. Options include one-bedroom penthouses of 120 square metres and spacious three-bedroom duplexes spanning 280 square metres. Whatever your preference, Azur Samui sets new standards for islands for island living.

Azur Samui
144/37 Moo 2, Maenam, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Tel/WhatsApp: +66 96 198 6998
www.azursamui.com

Elevated Island Living at Beach Republic

Private pool villas, oceanfront dining, seafront salas and doorstep adventures turn Samui style into a way of life

Photos: The State House, Beach Republic

Nestled on Lamai Beach, Beach Republic blends Samui glamour with Balinese flair, offering accommodation choices ranging from sleek suites to One- and Two- Bedroom Private Pool Villas, and even Private Pool Penthouses. The crown jewel is the two-storey State House – a beachfront vision that sleeps up to eight guests across four spacious bedrooms.

With a 15-metre lap pool, indoor and outdoor dining areas, a chic living room, and a kitchen ready for all your culinary adventures, this is island living at its best.

The Master Bedroom Suite occupies the entire second floor, complete with a private balcony framing sweeping views of the cobalt coastline and golden sands. On the ground floor, three ensuite bedrooms open onto the garden, providing both comfort and privacy for every guest.

Food lovers are in for a treat. The resort’s beachfront restaurant lays on all-day dining, with everything from smoothies and salads to pizza and pasta on offer around the clock. As the sun dips, saunter over to Papa’s Beach Bar for signature cocktails highlighted by the bold, boozy President’s Sangria.

Wellness seekers will also find plenty of ways to recharge here. Daily yoga sessions, a well-equipped gym and beachside jogging set the tone for active days, while in-room Thai and oil massage, or seafront salas with ocean breezes provide the ultimate rest.

Personalised experiences are a specialty at Beach Republic. Have your very own chef whip up a special in-villa dinner, book a babysitter for a carefree date night, or join a private cooking class to discover Samui’s local flavours.

For adventure-loving guests, private island tours, Samui excursions and boat trips with gourmet picnics ensure unforgettable adventures.

Beach Republic
176/34 Moo 4, Tambon Maret, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Tel/WhatsApp: +66 642 292 936
www.beachrepublic.com

Phuket Luxury Living Redefined

Botanical raises the bar with all-in-one villa paradises blending style, seclusion, and breathtaking surroundings

Photos: Botanica Grand Avenue

Botanica Luxury Villas is setting new standards for ultra-luxury living in Phuket, with unmatched elegance and vision. More than a home, each residence is a crafted experience where architecture embraces nature and quality is woven through every detail.

With an array of distinctive designs across Phuket, every villa tells its own story to align with owners’ varied lifestyles. From the cosmopolitan energy of Botanica Grand Avenue to the coastal calm of Botanica MontAzure, these addresses redefine the idea of Phuket luxury, creating homes designed not just for living but for pure pleasure.

Botanica Grand Avenue: Unravelling the Epitome of Luxury Living

Phuket shines as one of the world’s most coveted lifestyle destinations, but Botanica Grand Avenue is set to raise that reputation even further. Marking the boldest chapter yet in the Botanica Luxury Villas story, this landmark 178-rai development in the heart of Laguna blends modern sophistication, architectural flair, and the breezy charm of resort-style living.

Tucked away in Cherngtalay, a charming corner of Thalang on Phuket’s central-west coast, Botanica Grand Avenue boasts a paradise setting. This peaceful enclave is embraced by some of the island’s most spectacular shores – the golden stretch of Bang Tao, the tranquil waters of Layan, and the chic allure of Surin. A contrast to the lively buzz of the south, these beaches offer a gentler rhythm, where sunset vibes linger and life feels effortlessly serene.

But Botanica Grand Avenue is more than a residence – it anchors a vibrant community, joined by the HYTHE by Botanica Condominium and Botanica Prestige, where elegance meets convenience. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances privacy with connection, creating a space for those who want everything in one place.

The villas themselves are showcases of craftsmanship, offered in six distinctive layouts that combine refined design with enduring quality. At the heart of the development lies the picturesque Grand Lake, framed by lush greenery, walking and jogging trails, and peaceful corners perfect for reflection. Wellness and leisure flow effortlessly together, with tennis courts, a state-of-the-art gym, inviting cafés, and fine dining options dotting the community.

With prices ranging from 44.5 to 254.9 million baht, Botanica Grand Avenue delivers more than prestige. It represents permanence – homes to be treasured as family legacies and symbols of good living.

Beyond walls and rooftops, Botanica Grand Avenue invites you to embrace a lifestyle where design harmonizes with nature, where community meets serenity, and where every new day carries the promise of something extraordinary. This is the essence of Botanica Luxury Villas – crafted to be lived, felt and celebrated.

Botanica Grand Avenue
Pasak-Koktanood Road, Cherngtalay, Thalang District, Phuket
Tel: +66 81 324 2999
www.botanicaluxuryvilla.com

Botanica MontAzure: Embrace of the Mountain, Whisper of the Sea

Photos: Botanica MontAzure

Adorning the golden stretch of Phuket’s Kamala Beach, Botanica MontAzure unveils a new chapter in tropical refinement. Set within the vast 400-rai MontAzure beachfront estate, 41 secluded private villas capture the rare harmony of mountain and sea. Think emerald hills rolling down to sapphire waters, pools shimmering in the sun, and forward- thinking features like solar energy and EV charging, all designed for nature and architecture to flow as one.

Here, life unfolds in rhythms shaped by both beauty and convenience. Within the MontAzure community, residents are surrounded by an enviable collection of lifestyle experiences: the chic InterContinental Phuket Resort, sunset beats at Café Del Mar, the coastal charm of 333 At The Beach, and the refined comforts of Twinpalms MontAzure. A lifestyle mall completes the picture with boutique shops, wellness havens, and tempting dining, making sure that everything you need is always within reach.

The villas radiate the true essence of retreats, each one a haven of light, air, and privacy. Private pools gleam at the centre, while generous layouts draw in cooling breezes. Soaring windows frame panoramic skies and greenery, while natural textures and contemporary finishes create interiors that feel sophisticated yet grounded. Every line, every material, every detail embodies a vision of living where modern elegance embraces Phuket’s tropical soul.

Botanica MontAzure is more than just a place to stay – it’s a way of life. Wake to the whispers of the forest and a dip in your pool for a blissful start to the day. Spend the afternoon floating between Kamala’s soulful beach club and dining escapes. As evening falls, bask in a horizon glowing with streaks of amber and rose, knowing the day has unfolded exactly as you wished.

This is Botanica MontAzure – a rare meeting point of design, nature, and coastal vibes. A retreat where solitude meets sophistication, offering a daily invitation to live beautifully on Phuket’s most coveted shores.

Botanica MontAzure
4030, Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket
Tel: +66 81 324 2999
www.botanicaluxuryvilla.com

*Terms and promotions are subject to company policies.
** Computer-generated images for advertising purposes only.

Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang, Vignette Collection of IHG: Where Luxury is Framed by Nature

Heritage, sustainability and modern comfort converge to create an escape both timeless and indulgent

Photos: Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang, Vignette Collection by IHG

Set along Koh Chang’s 250-metre stretch of golden sand, Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang, Vignette Collection by IHG, blends seamlessly into its lush natural surroundings. With 162 rooms and villas nestled amid the greenery, the resort offers a quiet haven where the island’s rhythm gently takes over.

Every corner tells a story of sustainability: reclaimed wood, hand-spun hemp, upcycled timber, handwoven rattan ceilings, salvaged tin and palm-leaf umbrellas come together to shape spaces that are both grounded and elevated. Local artisans leave their mark through handcrafted décor and furniture, weaving Thai artistry into contemporary comfort.

The name pays homage to Din So Phong, the traditional white clay powder once used by Thais for sun protection. White clay walls across the resort pay tribute to this tradition, blending age-old building techniques with a deep respect for Mother Earth. From direct pool- access rooms and sweeping-view suites to family-friendly lodgings and secluded pool villas, each space feels like a cocoon – warm, indulgent and effortlessly welcoming.

Dining takes many forms at the resort. D_Primitive begins the day with an abundant breakfast spread before transforming into a showcase of Thai-fusion fine dining at night. D_Castaway Beach Club, built from driftwood and shipwreck relics, pairs barbecue seafood with Italian, Asian, and Indian classics, served alongside cocktails and sunset beats. At D_Wreck, the aroma of coffee fills the air all day, while evening reveals a shipwreck-inspired wine cellar for intimate dinners. D_Beach Table brings diners together on the sand, where surprise menus and shared stories often spark new friendships.

Wellness finds its home at D_Jamuna Spa, while younger guests can take centre stage at D_Kids Club. At D_Craft Studio, guests can explore local heritage through
Din Sor Pong pottery, Muay Thai lessons, and artisan workshops. And while plenty of island excursions are available, evenings at the resort’s signature bonfires remind guests that sometimes the best adventures happen right where you are.

Dinso Resort & Villas Ko Chang, Vignette Collection by IHG
Klong Prao Beach, Tambon Koh Chang, Koh Chang District, Trat
Tel: +66 39 552 000
www.ihg.com/vignettecollection/hotels/th/th/koh-chang/bkkdr/hoteldetail

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui: In-Villa Wellness, Weddings and More

Secluded luxury and serene nature just a short hop from the heart of Samui

Photos: Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

Step into Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui and be gently embraced by zen calm and the warm welcome of the team.

This beachfront haven set in 28 acres of lush grounds overlooking a secluded bay is a true haven of serenity on Samui. With exclusive access to the pristine beach and bay, Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui is the perfect hideaway for lovebirds, friends, or families seeking an escape cradled in the arms of nature.

The Wellbeing Seafront Pool Villa shines as one of the complex’s many jewels. This 189-square-metre residence is designed to rekindle the spark in both body and soul. Inside, the wellbeing wall encourages energising workouts at your own pace, while a thoughtfully selected wellbeing minibar and turndown service ensure your every need is catered for. Step onto the terrace and discover your private pool, where the sea stretches to the horizon. An open-air tub completes the scene, inviting a soak with sweeping panoramic views.

Accommodating up to three guests, this villa is ideal for those seeking a complete wellness journey that nurtures intimacy and connection.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui also redefines marriage celebrations with the In-Villa Wedding Experience, turning dream nuptials into an intimate and luxurious reality. Exchange vows on the terrace of your private

pool villa, with the ocean as your stunning backdrop, surrounded by up to 40 of your closest friends and family. Every detail, from décor to dining, is meticulously curated to make your day a unique and personal experience.

Don’t forget to stop by at the 8LEMENTS SPA to unwind in your private onsen, where mineral-infused waters breathe new life into tired muscles. Savour bold Thai cuisine at RHOY RHOY!, fresh seafood and international favourites at Fish Tales, and vibrant, sustainably sourced, nutritionally balanced dishes with vegan and plant-based options at EVOL, while maintaining your wellness routine at the fully equipped 24-hour gym.

When you’re ready to explore beyond the villa and wellness programmes, Samui’s lively heart is just 15 minutes away. Fisherman’s Village, Chaweng Beach, and local markets offer an authentic taste of island life, while Garrya’s sustainability-focused activities allow guests to explore Samui in a fresh and mindful way.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui
84 Moo 5, Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
Tel: +6677 913 750
www.garrya.com/en/destinations/samui

Keeree Tara Villa Koh Samui: Living Your Wildest Villa Dream

Escape into barefoot luxury in the serene hillside of Chaweng Noi

Photos: Keeree Tara Villa Koh Samui

Perched majestically on Chaweng Noi’s hillside, Keeree Tara Villa Koh Samui is a sanctuary where the ocean’s gentle symphony meets the caress of tropical breezes – a luxury retreat brimming with effortless style, soulful design, and sun- drenched serenity.

More than a home away from home, Keeree Tara is a lifestyle, where the warmth of Thai hospitality and design meets the opulence and sophistication of Middle Eastern elegance. Step through its doors and the ordinary melts away in an instant. This is not merely a place to stay, but a sanctuary where every moment offers precious feelings that linger long in the memory.

The architectural design feels like an enchanting story written in stone and glass. Layered facades rise in harmony with the landscape, while glass walls dissolve the boundary between indoors and out. Rooftop gardens overflow with greenery, softening the bold geometry of contemporary design, and every level of the villa is angled toward the sea, making the horizon itself one of its most striking features. From the moment you step onto the terrace, Chaweng Bay unfolds like a private stage.

Yet beauty here isn’t just about appearances; it flows through the space as a living harmony. A 20-metre infinity pool seems to melt into the Gulf of Thailand, its sunken lounge drawing guests into unhurried conversations beneath a canvas of blue sky. Terraces transform into theatres for sunset cocktails, the wine cellar beckons for leisurely tastings, and the villa’s cinema and game lounge make even the quietest evenings feel magical. Every corner is both inviting and intentional, designed to inspire comfort without compromising on elegance.

The soul of Keeree Tara, however, shines in the heartfelt way it cares for guests. The team – from private chef, to butler, and wellness gurus – moves with a discreet choreography, anticipating every desire with quiet grace. One evening, you might discover a feast of freshly grilled seafood waiting by the pool; a morning may begin with yoga at sunrise, mats laid out on a deck overlooking the Gulf. For some, the villa becomes a stage for celebrations – think festive dinners and fireworks lighting up the bay on New Year’s Eve – while for others, it is a sanctuary of stillness, where spa rituals and quiet mornings gently restore balance to life.

The private spa, carved into the hillside, is a world of its own. A rock-framed Jacuzzi, steam room, and massage suites make it easy to sink into serenity. Guests staying more than a few nights are welcomed with a complimentary massage and a gentle invitation to slow down. The gym, framed by a curtain of tropical greenery, invites guests to move in a setting where wellness feels natural rather than forced. Even the bedrooms follow this rhythm of care, each suite opening toward the sea, with king- sized beds, private terraces, and bathtubs perfect for lingering soaks.

What truly sets Keeree Tara apart is a design that flows harmoniously with the landscape. Smart home technology quietly disappears into the background, every view feels framed like a gorgeous painting, and the villa itself seems to breathe with its surroundings. Sustainable elements at Keeree Tara are no mere afterthought but seamlessly integrated into the villa’s design. Eco-conscious features appear where they make sense, enhancing both function and beauty – from rooftop gardens that naturally cool the suites to energy-smart systems that operate quietly in the background. Here, green living feels practical, purposeful, and entirely intuitive rather than imposed. The greater goal is to build with permanence, creating homes that stand the test of time while minimising environmental impact.

Keeree Tara’s attention to detail earned it the 2023 DOT Property Award for “Best Ultra-Luxury Villa Architectural Design”. For those wishing to experience the villa firsthand, nightly stays begin at 59,000++ baht per night, with ownership from 198 million baht.

Keeree Tara Villa Koh Samui
104/168 Moo 3, Tambon Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani
+66 84 406 8888
www.keereetaravilla.com

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale: An Andaman Stay Fit for Royalty

Once an aristocrat’s home, this boutique retreat blends heritage and Andaman panoramas with modern indulgences

Photos: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale

Perched on the fringe of Kata Noi Beach, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale is steeped in prestigious tradition and framed by stunning coastal beauty. Once the private residence of King Rama IV’s descendent and renowned architect, Mom Luang Tridosyuth Devakul – fondly known as Mom Tri – this boutique hotel merges artistic heritage with seaside serenity.

Timeless architecture and antiques evoke Thailand’s rich past, while sweeping views of
the Andaman Sea and modern luxuries ensure contemporary comfort. Each of the 42 suites is individually designed and adorned with handcrafted furniture, artwork, and décor that weave together the essence of Thai culture.

Beyond the suites, moments of calm await at every turn. Slip into the saltwater pool, lounge by one of the two freshwater pools or follow the villa’s private path down to the soft sands of Kata Noi Beach.

Dining here is a highlight in itself. Mom Tri’s Kitchen, perched above the shimmering blue bay, pairs local flavours and international favourites with views that command attention. The resort’s award- winning wine cellar – honoured with the Wine Spectator Best of Excellence Award – is a treasure trove for connoisseurs. Prefer something more intimate? Private dining and bespoke tasting menus are crafted to fulfil your every culinary desire.

For those in search of renewal, Spa Royale offers a sanctuary of ancient Thai healing. Step into a cloud of herbal steam, surrender to time-honoured therapies and let body and mind reset in harmony with age-old rhythms.

Meanwhile for couples dreaming of a destination wedding, Mom Tri’s Villa Royale brings romance to life with the Andaman Sea as your witness. From oceanside vows to barefoot ceremonies on the beach, the team curates every detail – flowers, tailor-made menus, entertainment, and more – leaving you free to soak in the magic of the moment.

Mom Tri’s Villa Royale
12 Kata Noi Road, Tambon Karon, Kata, Phuket
Tel: +6676 333 568
www.villaroyalephuket.com

Rayavadee: Luxury Anchored in Nature

Jungle paths lead to pristine beaches, while private villas frame dramatic views – Rayavadee offers an immersive encounter with the best of Krabi

Photos: Rayavadee

Krabi lingers in the heart with its unhurried pace and breezy beauty, offering stays that range from soulful simplicity to the lavish and extraordinary.

However, for visitors seeking a truly memorable escape, Rayavadee is where luxury soars beyond expectation. Nestled on the Phranang Peninsula at the edge of Krabi Marine National Park, this stunning resort blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Picture sparkling blue waters, soaring limestone cliffs, lush jungle alive with wildlife, and a secluded beach, all embraced by the warmth of five-star hospitality.

The resort’s accommodation portfolio is second to none. From the Family Villa to the Raitalay Villa, the celebrated Rayavadee Villa, and coveted Phranang Villas 401 and 404, each offers its own unique experience. Interiors are crafted with understated sophistication, harmonising natural textures with tropical tones that mirror the surrounding landscape. Guests are treated to a discreet butler service, with stellar restaurants, a serene spa, and thrilling island adventures all within easy reach.

The Rayavadee Villa is the pinnacle of indulgence. With a private pool overlooking the picture- perfect Phranang Beach, elegant Thai-inspired interiors, two spacious bedrooms, a sauna, a kitchenette and inviting alfresco spaces, it sets the stage for extraordinary living.

Meanwhile, Phranang Villa 404 delivers a different kind of magic. Spanning 417 square metres, it sits in a private enclave framed by dramatic limestone cliffs. Inside, the master bedroom and two guest bedrooms – each with its own ensuite bathroom – offer comfort and seclusion. The generous living room, dining area and kitchenette ensure a home-like ease, while a personal butler anticipates your every need.

Dining at Rayavadee is equally captivating. The Grotto, set beneath soaring cliffs amid the gentle rhythm of lapping waves, offers one of Krabi’s most atmospheric settings. It is a place where fabulous flavours meet nature’s majesty, with mountains rising behind, the ocean stretching before you and every dish crafted with flair by the resort’s culinary team.

The Twilight Dinner Set Menu transforms this space into a haven for romance, giving couples an intimate and unforgettable evening without ever leaving the resort.

More than just a destination, Rayavadee is an encounter with Krabi at its most enchanting.

Rayavadee
214 Moo 2, Tumbon Ao-Nang, Mueang Krabi district, Krabi
Tel: +66 75 817 630,
www.rayavadee.com

Read more [TH]