Picturesque Escapes

Instagram-worthy resorts? Yes please!

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Instagram-worthy resorts? Yes please!

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CHIANG MAI

MOUNTAIN RANGER

Set in 32 acres of tropical gardens in the lush Mae Rim Valley, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is an impeccable luxury retreat for exploring northern Thailand’s culture and gorgeous countryside. Spacious Lanna-style pavilions with vaulted ceilings, polished teak floors and Thai-inspired decorations overlook terraced rice fields and the Doi Suthep mountain range. From plunge pools to private sundecks, the luxurious villas and residences offer a taste of the glamour of old Siam and the exclusivity of private homes. Immerse yourself in a variety of activities – take a Thai cooking class or visit the Four Seasons’ acclaimed spa, or venture away from the resort to take in the stunning rice paddles and ancient temples. www.fourseasons.com

PHUKET

CRUISE COLLECTION

Tucked away in the idyllic Cape Panwa of Phuket, Amatara Resort & Wellness is set against a mesmerising coastal view of the turquoise Andaman Sea and a secluded white-sand beach. Tropical holidaying is redefined with the spacious, subtly luxurious pool villas and pavilions, each featuring its own private ocean-view balcony. The resort’s signature wellness programme offers a holistic package tailored for stress-relief, weight management, physical reformation and to just rest and relax. For the ultimate pampering, indulge in the new Thai hammam experience that blends traditional Turkish and Moroccan bathing practices with the wisdom of Thai wellness philosophies, massage and aromatherapy. www.amataraphuket.com 

LET’S ROCK

The sleek and stylish Kata Rocks radiates minimalist glamour sitting atop the boulder-strewn cliffs of Kata beach, Phuket. Each of its 34 sprawling Sky Villas is bright with all-white decor and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, opening onto a private infinity Jacuzzi pool with a view of the Andaman Sea. Relish a holistic treatment at Kata Rocks’ spa, equipped with chromo-therapy chambers, Iso-Benessere water massage beds and Metronaps rest pods; or enjoy a personalised fitness regime with cutting-edge facilities to achieve individual health goals. Venture beyond the complex for yachting, snorkelling or visiting the famous James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay. www.katarocks.com

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OPENING PAGE: A peaceful setting at Amatara Resort & Wellness. CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai; Kata Rocks seascape; cooling off at Conrad Koh Samui

My Reading Room
My Reading Room

KHON KAEN

URBAN VIBES

Located in Khon Kaen’s city centre, Pullman Khon Kaen Raja Orchid is an impeccable mix of urban and tranquil. Featuring a blend of European and Thai design, the suites are contemporary with a view of the city or Kaen Nakorn Lake, while keeping guests connected with multimedia entertainment options. Experience Thai hospitality at the outdoor swimming pool and day spa, or get a cold one at Kronen Brauhaus – the first microbrewery in a Thai hotel. Museums, street markets and shopping malls are only minutes away. www.pullmanhotels.com

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KOH SAMUI

NATURALLY THAI

Perched on a dramatic hillside overlooking the Gulf of Thailand, Conrad Koh Samui is connected to the Thai natural beauty and culture. Each of the 81 villas is outfitted with tropical hardwood floors, Thai silk and local artwork for a sense of organic luxury. Private infinity pools extend into the azure waters of Aow Thai Beach and west-facing balconies that look out to stunning sunset views. Sample the culinary delights at a range of venues from the cliff-side siganture restaurant to the modern Mediterranean eatery. Rejuvenate at the Conrad Spa with one of its iconic treatments that combine contemporary recuperation and ancient healing with idyllic surroundings. www.conradhotels3.hilton.com