Karma Samui

There’s no undersupply of seaside resorts in Thailand — the trick is finding one away from the rest of them, without having to completely trade in civilization for isolation. Karma Samui inhabits a sensibly remote ocean-side position only 10 minutes’ drive from Koh Samui’s main drag of Chaweng Beach.

Staggered down a hillside above the ocean, Karma Samui’s pool villas — 36 in total — all have water views. The titular pools are for private use of villa inhabitants, the villas themselves fully functioning holiday homes complete with kitchen and laundry, plus an outdoor area with timber loungers and sala. Interiors are large and airy and lend themselves to group or family gatherings, though there’s no legitimate reason why couples can’t make proper use of all that space. While self-catering is an attractive option, especially given the high-end appliances at hand, the onsite restaurant, Padma, offers an unmissable experience with its ring-side seats to the Gulf of Thailand.

As an alternative to crowded Chaweng, Karma Samui has its own private beach, as well as a health spa and gym, rendering trips into town completely optional. Cable TV, wifi, flatscreen TVs and a home entertainment system tick all the boxes for practicality, while outdoor showers and four-poster beds keep the lovers occupied.