Pool villas give guests absolute privacy while offering luxury beachfront living. These villas are growing in popularity, and quality, and make for a viable alternative to the traditional hotel.

In the southern province of Krabi is Railay, often regarded as the country’s finest beach. Also there is Railay Village Resort and Spa, a luxury resort enveloped by limestone cliffs. Inside its bungalows are exquisite views of the beach and mountains. Staying near the sea means it’s easy to arrange boat trips to go snorkeling or diving, or to explore the nearby labyrinth of caves.

Also in the south is Trisara, which means ‘Heaven’s Third Garden’. This has a range of 1 to 5 bedroom pool villas and suites, which will come with seaviews and private pool decks. It’s an intimate resort that has plenty of space to lounge about and enjoy the water. The larger rooms come with full-time cooks and maids