Actually, it doesn’t quite work that way either at Design Hotels’ gorgeous new Casa de la Flora hotel situated on the beachfront at Khao Lak in Thailand. What the “Dream Maker” does provide is a truly bespoke holiday experience by getting to know every guest personally and helping to fulfil every wish from romantic dinners on the beach to assisting guests secretly plan a special celebration.

The just-completed Casa de la Flora hotel comprises 36 contemporary grey cube villas, tiered back from the coastline and set in lush vegetation. The sophisticated resort offers villas with private pools, gardens, terraces, and arresting sea views.

A chic grey modernist building with a front of cascading water is the stunning point of arrival. A large open lobby area provides an airy and relaxing space for guests to sink into holiday mood and meet their friendly hosts.

The resort’s 36 spacious villas come in eight categories and are designed to allow guests to experience the environment from inside out, with large glass facades that widen the perspective when looking out to sea.

Situated just steps from the beach are 10 Beachfront Villas, each with a private outdoor area with infinity pool, decking area and small garden, and uninterrupted views of the ocean. Those looking for a large space will enjoy the 11 Duplex Grand Pool Villas and eight Duplex Pool Suites, set further back from the shoreline with two floors, all with private pools on the ground floor.

Set amongst lush vegetation are five Studio Pool Villas that offer a secluded retreat with wooden balconies surrounded by greenery.

At the back of the property lies the Casa Pool Suite and the Presidential Suite – both offer stunning ocean views thanks to their elevated position at the top of the property.

The Casa Pool Suite has an outdoor pool on the veranda, whilst the 128-square-metre Presidential Suite, set to open in June, offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with a large outdoor pool with sea views, one large bedroom and contemporary artwork throughout.

Once in their private villas, guests may never want to leave. As well as having their own private swimming pool and decking area, there is a range of amenities, including an in-room entertainment system from Apple, Wi-Fi Internet access, and an i-Pod docking station.

For dining, the La Aranya restaurant, just steps from the beach, lures guests with veritable feasts of Thai and international cuisine. There is also a large infinity pool at the centre of the resort with a bar serving smoothies, snacks and tropical cocktails. For some pampering, the spa, with four rooms and wide variety of spa treatments, is certain to leave guests with a holiday glow.

Casa de La Flora

Located directly on the beautiful beach of Khao Lak and close to the Khao Lak National Park, a one-hour drive by car from Phuket International Airport.

www.designhotels.com/casadelaflora

Mark Eggleton