Fleewinter

Sandoway Resort's peaceful grounds are filled with lush palm trees, bamboo and water features, sitting on the edge of Ngapali Beach.

The resort's décor, inspired by traditional designs, uses local materials and craftsmanship and immerses guests in the artistic culture of Myanmar.

The resort has five different room types; that are in rows from the sea front. Right on the beach there are 11 Beach Front Villas and eight Sea View Villas, guests can unwind in a spacious retreat, complete with a veranda. Spiral stairs lead to a loft space with gorgeous views of the sea and garden.

The Garden Cottages are identical but can be found in the 2nd and 3rd row back - these are still filled with natural light from skylights in the roof.
Deluxe rooms are at the back of the resort with one or two floors and frame the length of the resort from the spa to the pool. Their interiors echo the tasteful hardwood design of the villas and cottages and they contain spacious bathrooms.

About five minutes down the beach (walking), the Sandoway Resort has a smaller hotel called the Sandoway Residence with 14 slightly simpler but very smartly decorated rooms - some of which have gorgeous sea views and are about half the price of the top-end rooms at their main hotel. There is no pool at the Residence but guests have full access to all the amenities of the main resort and this is our favourite option for those who want to stay here with a smaller budget.

Visitors can dine on a terrace overlooking the stunning Bay of Bengal and choose from a range of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine and international wines.

Those who like to soak up the sun have the convenience of each lounger and umbrella being assigned to a room. The resort's pool, open to adults and children, is spread over three levels, meaning there is plenty of space for a refreshing dip.

The spa is tucked away in a corner among the greenery and includes four tranquil treatment rooms and two gazebos. Massages, pedicures, shampoos, blow-dries and facials are all on offer to guests who enjoy indulging in a spot of pampering.

The elegant wood-panelled library, above the pool and bar, is a quiet haven for to enjoy beautiful ocean views, sip on a cocktail or browse books left by past guests.

To preserve tranquility, the resort does not offer TVs inside rooms but the cinema's nightly showings of international news and movies more than compensate.

Bicycle rental is available for guests wanting to explore the surrounding area. Trips include watching local fisherman at work, playing a round of golf on the rustic local course or enjoying a boat ride out into the bay.