On Koh Yao Noi island, a few clicks off Phuket, the exclusive Ani resort can host up to 20 people for a bespoke getaway. Just choose your fellow guests wisely.
My first and only glimpse of Phuket is stepping out of an air-conditioned minivan onto a marina where a speedboat is waiting to transport me and two travel companions to the nearby island of Koh Yao Noi.
The floating Dining Pavilion is an example of the Lanna architecture that typifies Northern Thailand. When I do venture from the villa, there’s plenty going on to keep me entertained. One memorable night, we’re treated to a fire juggler who performs on the sand; his pyrotechnical act is so high-octane, we can feel the heat of the flames on our faces.The villas and suites are equipped with coffee machines, tea, a mini bar , plus preserved homemade snacks such as glazed cashews and salty banana chips.
On the downside, you have to find 19 others to make the booking a financially friendly proposition. Given it’s only your group at the resort, choose wisely. Think of it as a yacht charter: Who would you really want to spend five days at sea with?Food, glorious food