Recent Hotel Openings: Le Méridien Koh Samui

Called the "Coconut Island," Koh Samui is situated in the Gulf of Thailand bordering the South China Sea. Once a haven for fishermen, it is Thailand's third-largest island. Earlier this fall, the ultra-posh Koh Samui got another dose of luxury with the opening of Le Méridien Koh Samui Resort & Spa.

The island resort sits on the exclusive Lamai Beach, with 77 suites and villas designed in the image of a traditional Asian seaside village. All rooms are quipped with 32-inch TVs, DVD players and iPod docking stations. We love the rainforest showers in the bathrooms, as well. We hear the best rooms in the house are the Ocean Front Pool Villas. These freestanding villas span 1,500 square feet and have open-air salas, sitting rooms, and a stretch of private ocean facing the infinity lap pool. In-villa dining with a private chef can also be arranged.

Le Méridien Koh Samui features three distinct epicurean experiences: Latest Recipe, all-day dining in a casual setting; Latitude 9, a colorful bar, great for coffee and pastries; and Plunge Bar, for swank barefoot relaxation.

An on-site spa, fitness center, and beachside and ocean swimming pools are also available.

This article was originally written for our sister publication: Luxury Travel Advisor