Phuket’s peaceful Ao-Yon Bay has just welcomed Bandara Resort (www.bandaraphuket.com), a contemporary Asian-styled hideaway nestled by the bay’s turquoise waters and white sands.

Inspired by the tales of seafaring merchants, the resort is actually divided into two separate hotels: the five-starred Bandara Villas and four-starred Bandara Beach.

Bandara Villas consists of 33 contemporary villas, each equipped with a private, sea-view infinity pool, TV and DVD player. Guests are also promised a beautiful seaside sunset through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Rates start at B5,838 per night if you book from now till Aug 3. 

Bandara Beach consists of 84 units decorated in vibrant blue and wooden tones. Each room includes cable TV, a DVD player and a snack bar with coffee and tea. Rates this season start at B1,095 per night.