Prachuab Khirikhan

While Hua Hin remains the number one weekend destination for Bangkokians, those prepared to travel a little bit further are finding that the pristine beaches and laidback resorts of Prachuab Khirikhan offer a more serene escape.

Foresta Resort
Because it’s a little off the beach, rates start at a mere B1,500. Finished with a raw cement exterior, all nine rooms and villas surrounding the main pool feature modern tropical interiors.
We like: The food at Lay Café in front of the resort.
We don’t like: Away from the beach the concrete design is a little cold rather than cool.
Where: Pranburi Beach, Prachuab Khirikhan >>> click here to book this hotel

Le Bayburi de Pran
There are only four two-level villas each with two bedrooms, three toilets, a living room, a study, an open-air kitchen and a private pool. The overall design is contemporary but each villa is finished with a different theme, from Nordic to African.
We like: Its private, the large pool and the glass wall bathroom in the master bedroom.
We don’t like: No food outlet, which explains the fully-equipped kitchen.
Where: Pranburi Beach, Prachuab Khirikhan
>>> click here to book this hotel

X2 Kui Buri
Designed by leading Thai architect Duangrit Bunnag, the resort utilizes natural materials and sharp, clean lines to create 23 private villas and nine contemporary but spartan cave-like dwellings.
We like: Most villas face the sea and are connected by a series of intricate walkways while the large private pools make it possible to retain a sense of privacy. The food also lives up to the stylish surroundings.
We don’t like: The shade-free entrance can get super hot when you’re checking in and the villas are just a little too rustic and a little bit small to truly be called luxurious.
Where: Kui Buri Beach, Prachuab Khirikhan >>> click here to book this hotel

YaiYa Boutique Resort

Designed and owned by the architect behind a number of the luxury Evason properties and a former marketing manager at Thai Airways, YaiYa is imbued with a similar understated but relaxed style. Random artwork by the owners' American artist friend add a touch of surrealism to the intriguing architectural lines to be found in the 11 one and two-bedroom pool villas, the six suites and 23 deluxe rooms in the imposing main building. A winding garden path leads down to the sizeable beach via a top notch spa (with services created by the Anantara Chiang Mai), the beautifully warm infinity pool, glass topped pool bar and open air restaurant complete with wood-fired pizza oven.
Open: December 2008.
We like: The obvious attention for detail that's been put into everything from the beach bags and slippers to the striking architectural features.
We don't like: While they can't be blamed for it, the wasteland on either side of the resort rather spoils the soothing effect, it's also quite a walk from the beach to the main building.
Where: Cha-am, Hua Hin

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