My first clue that this is no ordinary resort comes when a speed-boat pulls up and a call goes out in our names. We slip through the crowded deck, feeling a hundred jealous looks burning into the back of our skulls and jump aboard in the single most Bond-like moment in our lives. On arrival at this immaculate, luxurious village, we’re driven through tropical flora while monkeys leap overhead. The most breathtaking of it all is The Grotto, a bar and restaurant set in the recess of a cliff face and opening onto a movie location scout’s wet dream of a beach. Another highlight was the deep blue infinity pool that literally melted into the Andaman sea.
The accommodation ranges from the merely luxurious (two story chalets with outdoor hot tubs) to the truly spectacular (moat, drawbridge and koi carp included). One incident encapsulates the impeccable level of service you get here. We’re out reading by the beach, taking in the sunset and just as the light dips, out of nowhere a staff member appears, attaches a tiny reading light to our books and before we can mispronounce “korp khun kap” to her, she’s disappeared again. Pure, unadulterated luxury.
