October 9, 2007

Asia | Thailand | Phuket

Live and Let Thai

By Nicole Cotroneo

Private infinity pools, personal butlers and custom helicopter trips. The new Six Senses Hideaway has it all — except Bond girls.

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Phuket may be the big-name island on Thailand’s comeback coast, but it’s certainly not the quietest. Travelers seeking pristine seclusion along powder shores — and not just a Leonardo DiCaprio moment — go to neighboring Koh Yao Noi in the heart of Phang Nga Bay. Anchored off Phuket’s northeastern flank, Koh Yao Noi and its big-sister isle, Koh Yao Yai, preside over a clutch of limestone monoliths that spot the stunning bay. It’s a scenic 40-minute boat ride to Koh Yao Noi’s shores; but if you’re staying at the new Evason Hideaway Six Senses, opening this month, you can cut to the chase and arrive in 10 with the resort’s own helicopter. This fourth addition to the Evason Hideaway portfolio has 56 huge villas with private infinity pools and individually assigned butlers. Choose one with a spa suite, or seek out the long-house spa for traditional Thai treatments. But don’t forget this is James Bond territory — The Man With the Golden Gun was filmed on a nearby isle — and there’s adventure to be had: from rock climbing to water skiing, the resort will supply the action. But sorry, guys — Bond girl not included.