Banyan Tree Phuket

Set on Bang Tao Bay, a manicured tourist enclave in north-west Phuket, this is a flagship destination spa, with a team of brilliant therapists. All 140 villas have gardens or sundecks and open-air sunken baths, pools or Jacuzzis. The 13 Spa Pool Villas were recently renovated. There's an 18-hole golf course; meditation, t'ai chi and aerobics are also available. The Quest Adventure Programme for children includes rock-climbing and abseiling.