Review of The Tongsai Bay, by The TI Review Team

This elegant hideaway manages to combine Thai charm, tropical surroundings and unadulterated luxury without a whiff of ostentation. The Tongsai Bay is contemporary and sophisticated, yet almost rustic and the first-class friendly service makes Tongsai contender for The Most Perfect Place to Be. The owners have been careful to ensure all the buildings are in harmony with the lush natural habitat, successfully creating an unforgettable holiday environment. Admittedly, this is not difficult to do when your hotel is set amongst 25 acres of natural beauty, complete with stunning views of a tranquil, sandy bay. The hotel's private beach remains tranquil and uncrowded, undisturbed by beach peddlers or the drone of motorized watersports.

Sun lovers can also choose between an infinity edged, half-crescent freshwater pool that melts into the horizon and a seawater pool by the private beach. It's here that Tongsai ticks every box you could wish for; the sunloungers are even equipped with flags to grab the attention of the bar staff, while iced water and cooling face cloths land in your paws at regular intervals. And fear not the word "resort." The cottages and rooms overlooking this little enclave are anything but tacky. Even the coastal Internet café is a dream; cool, clean and modern, it serves cakes and coffees that make Starbucks taste like the kind you'd get at a dodgy greasy spoon, all served with a mega-watt smile. Guests enjoy graceful fusion cuisine at the Po-Lad Beach Bistro and Bar, a breezy and fresh spot with a canopied terrace that looks out over the beach and bar.

The rooms

Whether it's a beachfront suite with a bathtub on the balcony or one of grand villas, all of the accommodations boast spectacular sea views. All rooms are spacious and plush and feature elegantly simple decor. Honeymooners couldn't find a better bunk-up than the Tongsai Pool Villas, which boast enormous porches bearing an alfresco four-poster bed, a bath and their own not-so-mini bars and private pools.