The Pavilions, Phuket

Sexy, stylish hotel with private pool villas overlooking the sparkling Andaman Ocean

The unofficial tagline says it all: no tan lines, no buffets, no kids. The Pavilions, Phuket is a seriously sexy hotel for honeymooners or young couples more used to sleek, chic European hotels than traditional Thai accommodation. Its successful combination of stylish surroundings and friendly service means guests are defecting here from the nearby Banyan Tree and Amanpuri hotels.

Perched upon a hill, the open-air reception, roof-top bar and rooms (all villas or pavilions) have stunning views over the pine-fringed bays of Bang Tao and Layan to the Andaman Ocean. These are two of Phuket's loveliest beaches, with soft sands, exotic birds, fine coral, a lagoon and few tourists. The villas are enormous, all cool grey concrete, glass and splashes of colour, and are staggered up the hillside. You can enjoy a sunset massage in total seclusion, or take a moonlit skinny-dip in your large private infinity pool right outside your bedroom door.

Highs

• The quiet, sandy coastline is away from Phuket's throngs
• There's a private 12x4 metre pool for each villa or pavilion
• It's extremely romantic, with in-villa spa treatments and private dining under the stars
• The staff are friendly but never obsequious
• The rooftop bar is named 360 for its spectacular views
• You'll find elegant bespoke furniture throughout the hotel
• Jean Christophe, the General Manager, is a mine of information

Lows

• You're not on the beach, but a short shuttle bus-ride away
• There is building work going on in the valley, and some undeveloped scrubland nearby
• It's not a place to socialise: few common areas, mostly couples, and no kids
• It would be easy to spend days here without seeing any of Phuket
• The décor might be too minimalist for some
• You would soon exhaust the menu if you eat in every day