Once the preserve of backpackers and hippies, Koh Samui is now chock-full of luxury resorts; come October, the new kid on its coast will be the Conrad Koh Samui (49/8-9 Moo 4, Hillcrest Rd., Taling Ngam; 66-77/915-888; conradhotels.com; villas from US$825), which overlooks the Gulf of Thailand from its dramatic perch on the island’s southwest tip. The 80 pool villas here are tiered down a cliff, ensuring unobstructed views from rooms outfitted with mod cons like espresso machines and gourmet minibars. An on-site diving and sailing center offers watery excursions, while the hotel’s international restaurants stir up Thai and Mediterranean flavors. The lounge bar, Glow, promises to be one of Samui’s most romantic spots for watching the sunset. –Steve Mollman
Originally appeared in the August/September 2011 print issue of DestinAsian magazine (“Cliffhanger”)
