When I visited Thailand last year, I obeyed two general rules imparted to me by the locals: don't buy drugs and don't visit Phi Phi Island. Well, I didn't buy drugs (or did I?) and Phi Phi Island (made globally famous thanks to Danny Boyle's film adaptation of Alex Garland's cult classic novel, The Beach) sounded pretty gnarly the way the Thais described it: "It's full of nappy people." I think they meant "nappy-headed" people, considering it's been invaded by dreadlocked granola beach bums trying to emulate the hedonist tribalism with which the hideaway is now forever associated. Either way, the Thais suggested I head to Koh Samui - then becoming the an "it" island - and that I should visit before it became the next German tourist trap. Although I never made it, Langham hotels did last year, and now W Retreat Koh Samui has set up lavish camp.

As of two days ago, the hotel officially opened amidst vicious flooding in southern Thailand. Luckily, Koh Samui has been spared the flash rains, so expect that typical, warm Thai welcome in typical, warm Thai weather. This is the first W in Souheast Asia and W's third Retreat (after Maldives and Vieques). Guests will plop into one of 75 beachfront villas, all of which include outdoor daybeds, outdoor showers, private pools, and the signature Whatever/Wherever service. I strongly suggest refraining from making a drug order or asking about day trips to Phi Phi island.