Fodor's Expert Review Amanpuri Resort

You'd be hard-pressed to find a more sparklingly dignified hotel in Thailand—nor one quite as expensive. (The nightly rate for the largest of the villas is more than $8,000!) There are two palm-shaded restaurants overlooking the blue-tiled swimming pool, and the reception area, with beautifully polished teak floors, is completely open in the dry season so that you can enjoy the ocean breezes. Choose between rooms in secluded hillside pavilions or immense villas with a private pool. Pavilion prices differ according to the view offered; villas have between two and six bedrooms. The split-level bar has stunning sunset views.