Overview: InterContinental Samui proves that a good architect, and enough money, can reignite even the most archaic of properties. With a head-to-toe revamp (they knocked down everything except the pillars and the roofs), InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam is now ready to unveil its Thai décor with a twist, blending warm colors and Southern-style bird cages with mineral materials: stone, marble and glass. The 79 rooms, suites and villas range from 67-320 sq meters and feature a more classic European influence.

Food and drinks: Amber, decked with dark wood and marble, offers all-day dining. Flames grills seafood and meat right on the beach. And the real highlight is Air Bar, an alfresco bar where you can enjoy cocktails created by Joseph Boroski while soaking in one of Samui’s best sunset scenes.

Spa and facilities: When completed in next few months, Baan Thai Spa will be perched on a cliff offering stunning views and Ayurvedic treatments. (For now, treatments are carried out at a beachfront villa.) Feel like a swim? There are no fewer than seven swimming pools. And check with the concierge service for tips on what to do in Koh Samui, inlucluding a visit to Samui’s only private museum

Good: The view is stunning, especially from the lobby, Air Bar and your room. Not only are the rooms chic and spacious, the bed is so comfy you could sleep all day. Rooms 214-215 are highly recommended.

Bad: The food at both restaurants is not quite there yet—especially when you consider the price.

Rates: From B6,500 for an Ocean View room. Top Koaysomboon