The Luxe List 2014: Point Yamu by COMO, Phuket, Thailand

There may not be beach access at Singapore-based resort group COMO’s first venture in Phuket, but the prolific natural beauty more than makes up for it. On one side of its peninsular locale, there’s a panorama of a tranquil harbor with fishing boats bobbing in the bay and the island’s forested hills beyond, best viewed from the breezy, high-ceilinged lobby. On the other, ideally savored at sunset from the 100-meter swimming pool, sweeping vistas take in Phang-Nga Bay’s limestone karsts. And there’s still a preponderance of water access: among the 79 guest rooms, 20 spacious light-filled suites come with pools, as do the 27 villas, and you can always jaunt over to Ko Phi Phi or James Bond islands via a daytime boat trip. Even the regular rooms boast balconies and verandas with views of aquamarine waters, which mirror the turquoise and jade hues of Italian designer Paolo Navone’s playful décor. From the stainless steel monk’s bowls filled with flowers to the kitschy garden statues, whimsical touches run through the thoughtful design inspired by Phuket’s Pernakan heritage and Buddhist culture. Also breathtaking is the food, from the light, contemporary Mediterranean dishes at poolside La Sirena to the exquisite Thai cuisine at Nahmyaam, where blue crab comes in a rich coconut curry with turmeric and young ginger.

225 Moo7, Paklok, Thalang; 66-76/360-100; Point Yamu by COMO; doubles from US$278