Look at the map of Burma and you can’t help but have your eyes drawn to the ribbon of coast that stretches down next to Thailand and imagine the beauty of the beaches and islands that await. Only recently opened up to tourism, very few of the 900 or so islands are permanently inhabited and there are very few luxury hotel options at the moment. The area lends itself perfectly to sailing and liveaboard boats for diving are the most popular way of exploring the area.

Barefoot Luxury Living

There are very few places left in the world that can offer the splendid isolation the islands of this beautiful archipelago boast. Luxury small hotels are starting to open up on a few of the islands and although they are relatively expensive, they deliver everything you dream of when you read the words barefoot luxury. They are just the cherries that sit atop a beautiful cake.

Arguably the best is the Wa Ale Island Resort, an intimate resort nestled into its own jungle clad cove a few steps from the crescent of white sand beach. Set in the Lampi Marine National Park this private eco-tourism wildlife reserve offers visitors access to the abundant natural beauty of indigenous flora and fauna above and below the waves from a position of extreme yet sustainable comfort.

Once In a Lifetime Sailing Experience

Not cheap but sailing offers access to one of the least developed parts of South East Asia. No wifi, no email and you may not see another tourist boat during you time on the water. But what you will experience is a unique seascape with pristine beaches, hidden lagoons, dense jungles, nomadic sea gypsies and marine life both above and below the surface. Away from the boat you can swim, kayak, paddle board and snorkel to your hearts content. A once in a lifetime holiday experience.