Mr & Mrs Smith

This part of Khao Lak isn’t overly endowed with eateries. Rather than upmarket bistros, you’re more likely to find roadside shacks nearby, serving up authentic (pretty darn spicy) Thai dishes. Phuket to the south is a different story: try Sunday brunch at the bright and buzzing Oriental Spoon (+66 (0)76 316 500) on Surin Beach Road – you’ll need to book. In Surin Beach itself, at 121 Srisonthorn Road, Weaves (+66 (0)76 270 900) is a romantic evening option, with a pan-Asian menu: dine poolside or in the comfort of a private air-conditioned room. Or, discover cool interiors and fantastic fusion-modern Thai food at gastro favourite Lim’s (+66 (0)76 344 834), 28 Phrabaramee Soi 7, Kalim Beach. 

Along the street from Lim's at number 223/3, Joe’s Downstairs (+66 (0)76 618 245) is a sunset-cocktails stop where the crowd are so fashionable, it smarts.

Phang Nga Bay is one of southern Thailand’s most scenic spots, with cavern-riddled limestone cliffs and sheer-sided rocky islets towering about the glassy waters. Take a canoe over to Koh Panyi to take in the stilted sea-gypsy village that sits on the water, and check out the ancient paintings on the cave walls of Khao Khien, where you can also catch sight of marine iguanas taking to the waves.