These days, discrete (and discreet) personal space isn’t just preferable—it’s essential. Luckily, there’s Thailand, where the tradition of the sala—a freestanding pavilion—is longstanding. What that translates to in hotel design is that the country’s resorts are rife with the modern interpretation of the indigenous structure: the private resort villa. Of course, you’ll find premium hotels the world over that offer freestanding accommodations, but they are all playing catch-up to Thailand and its mastery of the form. Case in point: Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
