Soneva Kiri

With a motto of "no news, no shoes," this eco-chic luxury resort delivers just that: bliss and relaxation in a dreamy setting. Grounds are extensive at 102 acres and guests receive personal electric buggies to get around the property. Rustic architecture blends into the lush jungle surroundings, and the remote location makes for a tranquil getaway. The property's wooden buildings have an almost treehouse feel, with large windows or partially-open air architecture that overlooks the tree canopies outside. There's a true sense of harmony with nature here, and the outdoors seamlessly weave into the interiors, where decor is simple yet chic. The proliferation of wood gives the place a rustic vibe, and is spruced up by nice fabrics and colorful textiles like yellow and tangerine cushions or green table linens.

The property draws honeymooners and couples on romantic getaways, though families are well catered to as well with an excellent kids' club for a variety of ages and plenty of activities to occupy the young ones. Guests rave about the exemplary staff and service, and though the location is remote, there are plenty of features to keep busy.

The resort occupies a remote location on Thailand's least populated island: Koh Kood, which requires a transfer by private plane from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The flight takes about an hour to 90 minutes. The plane lands on a private airstrip on a neighboring island, from which guests are then transferred to the resort by speedboat. Set on extensive grounds, there's not much in the surrounding area. Guests have access to a gorgeous white sand beach, but it requires a short boat trip.

Like the rest of the resort's buildings, guest villas have an eco-chic treehouse look with a rustic yet luxurious vibe. They're large, with living rooms and plenty of outdoor space, including dining and relaxation areas. All have infinity pools and sundecks with loungers. Some even have treehouse-like kids' rooms with slides down to the pool, or other perks like fitness rooms, steam rooms, and spa treatment areas. Outdoor bathrooms include tubs and separate showers, while toilets are indoors.

The villas come with a host of amenities and services, including personal electric buggies to get around the extensive grounds, as well as private butlers. All spaces have flat-screen TVs, Bose soundsystems with iPod docks, tea- and coffee-making facilities (including espresso machines), minibars, and free Wi-Fi.

Loaded up with features and services, from an astronomical observatory to an outdoor cinema to numerous activities and excursions, this luxe hotel offers plenty of entertainment. There's a lovely main pool (that's generally quiet since all rooms have private pools), a full spa, and a modern fitness room with Technogym equipment. Yoga and meditation classes are available for free, and there are outdoor tennis courts. Guests have access to a stunning, white-sanded private beach, but it requires a short boat journey to reach (about three minutes). Non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddleboards and kayaks are free to use in the water. 

Many guests rave about the food here, and there are several dining options to choose from, including free breakfast (with a raw food bar) and dinner at the Dining Room, gourmet Thai fare at Benz, and Western fare at the scenically set The View. The Treepod Dining experience is a guest favorite, with waiters zipling to the treetop pods, while the free chocolate and ice cream parlor is a hit with kids. Kids are well catered to with kids' clubs serving various age groups, centered around the Den, a bamboo playground shaped like a manta ray. Professional nannies are on hand, and kids can indulge in a host of activities.