The SALA Phuket, a couple's haven on Mai Khao Beach, Phuket, Thailand

The SALA Resort Phuket is a must go to place for anyone who loves a good drop of vino. The wine list has been awarded in the Wine Spectator magazine. No ordinary wine list gets between the sleek covers of this wine aficionado’s bible.

The resort is situated along the stretch of beach known as Mai Khao, close to the Phuket International Airport and Sirinath National Park. It is a beach that during the monsoon season is not swimmable, but outside of this season, it is an endless azure pool of glassy smoothness that begs you to dive into.

Sala Phuket is one resort that despite having a kids’ pool, is predominantly a couple’s haven. Sleek and sexy with a minimalistic approach to its style, there is nothing minimalistic about their amenities and touches of indulgence for you to enjoy.

In the complex there are 79 villas and suites, of which 63 have private swimming pools, so don’t be put off if your holiday does fall in the wrong season for ocean swimming. Described on their website as having an “eco chic landscape”, it is hard to actually step outside of your own slice of heaven to experience it. Wifi is free throughout the hotel and in your room, so apart from a stroll along the usually almost deserted beach, or searching out a local restaurant nearby, you can cocoon yourself and let the world pass you by.

You will experience local encounters whenever showering, as the bathrooms are of the outdoor variety. For a bit of extra excitement, a few natural inhabitants such as frogs and geckos may become your shower buddies when it is ablution time, not just your partner.