Sublime Thai hideaway is the first private residence in the network of region's finest luxury travel experiences
The Elite Resorts of Asia Pacific is pleased to welcome SURALAI, a stunning holiday villa in the scenic northern hills of Koh Samui as the first private residence to join the region's premier internet showcase for sublime luxury resorts and travel experiences.
The six-bedroom tropical hideaway (www.suralai.com) is now part of an elite collection of 40 of the Asia-Pacific's finest luxury experiences in 12 countries.
Taking its name from the 'residence of the angels' in Thai mythology, SURALAI joins an exclusive network of beach and island resorts, destination spas, lodges and mountain retreats - as well as a small ship, expedition voyager and luxury train - on the luxury online showcase.
The unique concept (www.eliteresortsofasiapacific.com) is a "popular hub for those searching for luxury resort accommodations chosen with excellent taste", said Chief Executive and co-founder Mark Greedy.
The network includes such exclusive brands as Mandarin Oriental , Banyan Tree , Oberoi and Capella.
On a hilltop in Bophut commanding breathtaking panoramic vistas of Thailand's popular island and the Bay of Siam, SURALAI is styled as an ultra-exclusive boutique resort; accommodating parties, families or groups of up to a dozen.
The luxury residence features an expansive sun-terrace, 20-metre infinity swimming pool, private gym and lush landscaped gardens. Six spacious contemporary bedrooms all feature elegant en suite bathrooms.
Guest services include a resident manager, housekeepers and private chef, serving daily continental or full international-style breakfast and both Thai and western cuisine. An optional driver is also available for exploring the idyllic island, browsing local markets or experiencing Koh Samui's eclectic nightlife and popular tourist spots.
SURALAI is owned by Samui Concepts, a joint venture company comprising Paul Hicks and Lynn Grebstad, founders and partners of Hong Kong-based public relations agency Grebstad Hicks Communications; and the villa architects, Hong Kong architectural firm MAP Architecture and Planning (www.maphk.com ); with their Thai partners.
"We are delighted to become part of one of the most exclusive collections of luxury travel experiences in the Asia-Pacific," said co-owner Mr Hicks.
"Elite's portal gateway to unique luxury experiences immediately suggests to online visitors 'Wow, I must go there!'. SURALAI is such a destination, leaving lasting memories of a magical experience."
Elite co-founder Jim Smith said: "SURALAI is a welcome addition to our network of experiences embracing the spirit of individuality as an ultra-exclusive private boutique resort in one of the region's most desirable destinations."
SURALAI is just 15 minutes from the main shopping and entertainment area of Koh Samui, Chaweng - with its stunning white sand beach and busy, mile-long strip of beachfront resorts, countless restaurants, bars, shopping arcades, open-air markets and eclectic nightlife.
Koh Samui is also one of Thailand's newest golf destinations with two championship courses, Santiburi Samui Country Club and Royal Samui Golf & Country Club, plus the fun 9 hole, par 3 Bophut Hills Country Club which is just minutes walk from the residence.
Koh Samui is easily accessible via daily direct flights on Bangkok Airways from Hong Kong or Singapore, as well as frequent direct flights from Bangkok.
