The elusive pleasures of traditional Thai calm and elegance are often advertised and rarely found. But cordoned off from the crowds of Phuket is an exception, a true sanctuary of Thai style: Mom Tri’s Villa Royale. This is a haven for travellers who are tired of look-alike hotels and who want a genuine cultural experience.

The villa’s name echoes its royal heritage. It was once the private holiday compound of Mom Tri, a renowned Thai architect and artist. Mom Tri’s has retained that exclusive atmosphere of a privileged island of serenity set between Phuket’s two best beaches — Kata Noi and Kata Yai. Ready to swim? Skip the crowds and stroll down a private path to enjoy the classic tropical beach glamour that originally made Phuket famous.

Every exquisite detail or furnishing, food, service and atmosphere at Mom Tri’s is a testament to its heritage of comfort and pleasure. The two wine cellars have each won Wine Spectator magazine’s Award of Excellence. Mom Tri’s relaxed, breezy dining is famed for inspired gourmet innovations — perfect after busy day of relaxing or conferencing.