Richard Howell

Koh Samui has certainly come of age as a top tourist destination. Around 2.7 million visitors on average per year now flock to Thailand’s third-largest island and its still-beautiful beaches like Chaweng for the night owls and Lamai for the sun loungers. Development literally took off from 1989 when the airport opened, but it is still possible to find an unspoiled corner of this paradise on earth…just. The north and east coasts are the most built-up, and it’s here where you’ll find razzy spas back-to-back with beer-busting bars and throbbing nightlife. Head south or west for a quieter, more authentic experience. Wherever you head you’ll find the island has an excellent range of hotels to match its great things to do, from luxury 5-star spa resorts through to beachside bamboo bungalows and even luxury villas inspired by the return of HBO hit, White Lotus. Our pick of the best here aims to offer something for everyone; whether you’re on honeymoon, your family summer hols, a yoga retreat or to party… and however deep your travel pockets are. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The Andaman sea gently laps the shores of the 120km of coastline and 154 islands that make up the southerly Thai province of Krabi. We’ve focused on the province in our pick of Krabi’s best hotels because its less visually impressive capital goes by the same name – but is little more than backpacker central. Sadly, the secret of this gorgeous stretch of Thailand is out in some places, where the noise from the armada of long-tail boats competes with the sound of bucket-swilling backpackers.  However, it’s still possible to find some remote spots from which it would be very easy to forget to leave – particularly when they include the jaw-dropping beauty of iconic limestone karst formations and cliffs rising up regally from the shore. Not forgetting those dazzlingly white beaches such as Railay and Ko Phi-Phi Leh (yep, the one made famous by The Beach), and plenty of things to do whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation. From the wide range of hotels spanning the gamut of styles and prices throughout the region, here are our favourites. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

There’s no doubt that Thailand, with its long coastline and 1,430 islands, is Asia’s No1 tourist destination, offering a diverse range of things to do. Buddhists and backpackers, hedonists and the well-healed can all find their nirvana in the Royal kingdom (which is actually run by the military). Despite the explosion of tourism over the last few decades, it is still very possible to find some tranquillity, be it at a meditation retreat in the Northern Highlands or on the massage table of a luxe island resort. A short spell in bonkers Bangkok is a must, but the call of the gently lapping ocean and the lure of getting the white sand between your toes will be strong. You’ll find a dizzying range of hotels across the country suited to every budget, and from eco-intelligent nests and Michelin-starred restaurants to a lemongrass and turmeric compress or a 2000-book library, our pick of Thailand’s best hotels include all manner of tempting Thai treats.

Formerly the stopping-off point for resting your weary ankles while exploring the temples of amazing Angkor Wat, Siem Reap has now flourished into a destination itself. Despite the city having few tourist attractions, there are still lots of things to do, see and discover. A burgeoning creative scene takes in annual film and photography festivals, and the town is also the home to Cambodia’s leading contemporary circus. Unsurprisingly, there are plenty of opportunities to spend your dollars (the most accepted currency) too, with first-class shopping and cuisines to suit all tastes and pockets. Accommodation-wise, you’ll find the best selection in Cambodia; from many top-end, tasteful spa hotels right down to backpacker hostels. Add in stilt houses, gay-friendly options, eco-chic resorts and social collectives and you’ve got something for everyone. Here are our favourites.