AMANPURI, PHUKET

This luxurious resort is the perfect place to experience total solitude. It is a private paradise off the southern tip of Phuket featurings crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea.

Amanpuri is a Sanskrit word meaning the ''city of peace'' and true to its name the resort is a picture of calm and tranquility.

It only has 40 pavilions, some facing the sea, but all have a terrace and sala for sunbathing or leisurely dining. Each pavilion is spacious, stylishly decorated and fitted with basic amenities.

Amanpuri also has 30 private villas by the sea. Each of these traditional Thai homes comes with a private pool and a choice of two to six bedrooms, separate dinning and living, a live-in maid and cook. All the rooms are beautifully decorated in simple Thai style.

Room rates (valid until October 31) are as follows: Pavilion (garden view) US$337.50; Superior Pavilion (garden view) US$387.50; Superior Ocean Pavilion (partial ocean view) US$450; Deluxe Ocean Pavilion (ocean view) US$600.