Villa Gao

Samujana Villa 9 is the family favourite of the Samujana hillside: a bold, modern house with planted roofs and stone pillars, a sixteen-metre saltwater infinity pool and a whole lower floor given over to play. Deep navy and crisp white run through the interiors, with flashes of red on the poolside sunbeds, and the views stretch across Choeng Mon’s bay to the green islands offshore. It suits families with children of any age, and groups of friends who like a lively house with plenty to do on a slow afternoon.

The pool is generous and sociable, sixteen metres by six, lined with red loungers and big umbrellas, with an outdoor dining table at the water’s edge. The open living and dining pavilion looks straight out over it to the sea. Downstairs is the real surprise: two cinema rooms, a billiard table, table tennis, foosball and video games, a built-in play area for younger children and a kitchen counter where snacks and drinks are close to hand. The main kitchen is fully equipped, and a fence for the pool is available for families with toddlers.

The four bedrooms sit between the living spaces and the pool, and each opens onto its own private garden. Three have king beds and the fourth has two singles, perfect for children. The master suite is a highlight, with a jacuzzi looking out over the garden and an outdoor shower. Every room has its own bathroom, and breakfast is included each morning, with a manager on site, daily housekeeping and airport transfers taken care of.