Executive Escape Villas - Private Luxury Executive Escape Villas for Rent - list view - Baan Paradise, Villa Bukit Naga, Villa Da Vinci, Dhevatara Cove - Baan Tao Talay, The Dutch House, Inasia

Baan Paradise

We thought Baan Paradise would be a great villa for groups and couples looking to stay close to lively Patong. Families, especially those with older children keen to indulge in the action of Patong, will also appreciate its private location and its facilities (pool table, massive TV with DVD player, Playstation II etc). However, since there is no garden, the villa might be a constraint for younger children with plenty of energy and, whilst the shallow end of the pool is fine for a paddle, the infinity edge might call for some parental supervision. The entertainment room downstairs is ideally placed beside the twin/triple room. Since the second (more Asian-style) kitchen and staff quarters open onto the entertainment room the villa staff tend to congregate here; whilst an advantage of this is that they can keep an eye on the kids, the downside is that we often felt like we were intruding on the staff if we wanted to come down and watch the TV. The ground floor bedrooms could do with a low table or luggage rack for suitcases but, in compensation, all come with a delicious selection of toiletries! The larger bedrooms on the top floor were the most private, but the ground floor bedrooms open right onto the swimming pool and might suit some people better. Groups of adults might want to consider using only the four ground and first floor bedrooms since the twin in the basement is better suited for children, and not so private. The cook prepares simple meals according to a menu (predominantly Thai food except for a couple of sandwich options) and can also prepare international meals and BBQs on request. We thought that the complimentary case of Heineken (and soft drinks) given to us on arrival was a nice touch. While the villa staff only speak basic English, the manager is happy to assist with everything from travel arrangements (complimentary airport transfers) to restaurant reservations.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 11

Our
Rating 7.8

Villa Bukit Naga

Indonesia » Bali » Ubud

Villa Bukit Naga is one of the most delightful villas we have seen in Bali. The architect and owners have created a real gem in total sympathy with the surroundings. Tucked away overlooking a quiet river valley some 20-minutes’ drive from Ubud, the location is nothing short of spectacular. Spread over three buildings the rooms are all superb – we particularly liked the annex room with its cute garden bathroom and private little terrace. The plunge pool attched to the visitors lodge is also very special. Every room has been beautifully thought out with nice touches but it is not a delicate museum, so families with kids need not feel on edge. The staff are also outstanding, many having worked at the villa since it opened in 2002. We found Parta, the Villa Manager, a genuine delight who could not have been more helpful. Highly recommended as much for those looking for a dignified place for a pampered celebration, as for a yoga or health retreat or an extended family holiday in a fabulous location.

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TBA

Bedrooms 7

Sleeps 12-14*

Our
Rating 8.9 Guest Rating 9.6

Villa Da Vinci

Indonesia » Bali » Canggu area » Canggu

With its inspired design and intelligent space planning, Villa Da Vinci is a fantastic holiday villa for two families who want to be together yet have their own space, or for a group of friends who want to keep Seminyak at arm’s length while being only a hop and skip away (15 minutes’ drive) for night-time forays. We were impressed that the two main floors each had a master and second bedroom as well as their own large air-conditioned living and dining area with well equipped kitchens. And there’s an outrageous amount of communal living space With five dining tables – yes, that’s five – the hardest decision is where to eat! The huge rooftop terrace is a fabulous place for sunset cocktails, a barbecue dinner or even a drinks party. And let’s not forget the poolside bale where you can sprawl on a super-sized scarlet mattress or sink into the party-size jacuzzi; it’s a pretty cool place post-sundown too, with lights that change colour and illuminate the night. In fact, it’s so well designed that we didn’t even notice the lack of garden (which is little more than a wide palm-filled border for the huge swimming pool). But with so many outdoor terraces to choose from, we didn’t miss it!

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TBA

Bedrooms 4

Sleeps 8

Our
Rating 7.9

Dhevatara Cove - Baan Tao Talay

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

As much as Samui has to offer, we struggled to pull ourselves away from Baan Tao Talay’s comfortable terry cloth covered sun loungers, except perhaps for a dip in the pool every so often, or to take a stroll on the beach with its postcard-perfect sunset views. As dusk approaches, the villa puts on her party dress. Candles are lit by the staff who, though for the most part unseen, are always there when you need them. Tea-lights are dotted across the lawn, lanterns lit and cocktails prepared: we highly recommend Khun Joy's Mojito, bursting with mint and lime, and a perfect way to welcome the sunset.

The villa emits a warm glow, and delicious smells waft from the kitchen as dinner is prepared for us to enjoy in the beachside sala. The villa's talented in-house chef has no problem preparing special requests. His repertoire of vegetarian dishes is vast and he even makes his own tofu. With seafood literally on the doorstep – bought from the fishermen who walk the beach – fish is a regular item on the menu.

Oh the beds! If your goal is to get some rest during your stay at Tao Talay, you won't be disappointed. Dressed in crisp white linen, a duvet to snuggle into and with both foam and down pillows, these beds will guarantee you wake refreshed each morning, ready for another day of doing as you please. We also admired how silent the air-con is. But don't be tempted to sleep away too much of your time when there's so much else to enjoy at the villa. Should you fancy a massage, ask Khun Joy to arrange a professional masseuse and relax with a treatment either at the beach sala, or in the comfort of your room.

Although the ferry pier is only 200m away, it's no bother, and you'll only hear a short horn toot as boats depart and dock. In fact, it adds interest to what would otherwise be an uneventful, albeit pretty beach scene.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 10

Our
Rating 8.4

The Dutch House

Sri Lanka » South Coast » Galle

A favourite with visiting celebs – Sting once stayed here – the Dutch House manages to be both majestic and homely at the same time. It’s a true refuge, not only because of its large garden and hilltop location, but also because of the discreet, warm nature of the staff who keep the house so perfectly in order. Attention to detail – from the banana leaf-wrapped soaps in the bathrooms to sun hats and wicker bags in the suites – is an obvious source of pride. The house’s serene location made it hard to believe that we were staying in Galle. Everything is within walking distance, though three-wheelers are recommended to transport you up the steep hill back to the house! The large garden has plenty of outside seating (we loved the double lounger on the veranda) and was looking particularly lush on our recent return visit. The management told us that more and more weddings are being hosted at the house (for up to 200 people). Although the staff are very capable, the management team work with an experienced local events company for larger affairs. The wonderful vintage Rover parked outside the front door is an atmospheric companion to the house, and although this particular model is not roadworthy, vintage car hire can be organised for a colonial-style tour of town. Note that there are no TVs or DVDs (instead, hundred of books) but there are CD players – one in each suite. Whilst breakfast, lunch and snacks are served at The Dutch House, dinner is at sister property the Sun House (boutique seven-room hotel) just across the road. Here, three-course set dinners are served, with menus changing nightly. Guests can request to dine privately at ‘home’ on occasion, but we felt that although the food is unquestionably good at the Sun House, the Dutch House is a slightly let down by the fact that it doesn’t have its own private full-time chef.

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TBA

Bedrooms 4

Sleeps 8

Our
Rating 8.2

Inasia

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

Although there were only four of us (and two kids) staying at villa Inasia, we were struck by the benefits the villa had to offer to larger groups of friends and extended families. Even when full, everyone could have their own space and privacy but still gather socially around one of the pools or in one of the many living and dining areas. Having the beach so close kept the kids entertained and the flawless sunsets were a major plus come cocktail hour. The villa's attentive staff made sure we were well taken care of and the chef's delicious Thai food is definitely worth taking a journey through the menu for. Although the architecture is quite modern and clinical, the setting more than compensates in terms of tropical atmosphere. In many ways Inasia is a classic example of the appeal of a private villa over a hotel, offering everything you would expect from the latter, but with the added bonus of exclusivity.

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TBA

Bedrooms 4

Sleeps 8

Our
Rating 8.1

Inasia

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

Although there were only four of us (and two kids) staying at villa Inasia, we were struck by the benefits the villa had to offer to larger groups of friends and extended families. Even when full, everyone could have their own space and privacy but still gather socially around one of the pools or in one of the many living and dining areas. Having the beach so close kept the kids entertained and the flawless sunsets were a major plus come cocktail hour. The villa's attentive staff made sure we were well taken care of and the chef's delicious Thai food is definitely worth taking a journey through the menu for. Although the architecture is quite modern and clinical, the setting more than compensates in terms of tropical atmosphere. In many ways Inasia is a classic example of the appeal of a private villa over a hotel, offering everything you would expect from the latter, but with the added bonus of exclusivity.

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TBA

Bedrooms 5

Sleeps 10

Our
Rating 8.1

Inasia

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

Although there were only four of us (and two kids) staying at villa Inasia, we were struck by the benefits the villa had to offer to larger groups of friends and extended families. Even when full, everyone could have their own space and privacy but still gather socially around one of the pools or in one of the many living and dining areas. Having the beach so close kept the kids entertained and the flawless sunsets were a major plus come cocktail hour. The villa's attentive staff made sure we were well taken care of and the chef's delicious Thai food is definitely worth taking a journey through the menu for. Although the architecture is quite modern and clinical, the setting more than compensates in terms of tropical atmosphere. In many ways Inasia is a classic example of the appeal of a private villa over a hotel, offering everything you would expect from the latter, but with the added bonus of exclusivity.

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TBA

Bedrooms 6

Sleeps 12

Our
Rating 8.1

Inasia

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

Although there were only four of us (and two kids) staying at villa Inasia, we were struck by the benefits the villa had to offer to larger groups of friends and extended families. Even when full, everyone could have their own space and privacy but still gather socially around one of the pools or in one of the many living and dining areas. Having the beach so close kept the kids entertained and the flawless sunsets were a major plus come cocktail hour. The villa's attentive staff made sure we were well taken care of and the chef's delicious Thai food is definitely worth taking a journey through the menu for. Although the architecture is quite modern and clinical, the setting more than compensates in terms of tropical atmosphere. In many ways Inasia is a classic example of the appeal of a private villa over a hotel, offering everything you would expect from the latter, but with the added bonus of exclusivity.

more...

TBA

Bedrooms 7

Sleeps 14

Our
Rating 8.1

Inasia

Thailand » Koh Samui » Lipa Noi

Although there were only four of us (and two kids) staying at villa Inasia, we were struck by the benefits the villa had to offer to larger groups of friends and extended families. Even when full, everyone could have their own space and privacy but still gather socially around one of the pools or in one of the many living and dining areas. Having the beach so close kept the kids entertained and the flawless sunsets were a major plus come cocktail hour. The villa's attentive staff made sure we were well taken care of and the chef's delicious Thai food is definitely worth taking a journey through the menu for. Although the architecture is quite modern and clinical, the setting more than compensates in terms of tropical atmosphere. In many ways Inasia is a classic example of the appeal of a private villa over a hotel, offering everything you would expect from the latter, but with the added bonus of exclusivity.

more...

TBA

Bedrooms 8

Sleeps 16

Our
Rating 8.1

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