Aureum Palace Ngapali

Set by the calm Bay of Bengal, Aureum Palace Ngapali is a great place to spend a few days relaxing and unwinding after or before a tour of enchanting Myanmar.

The 42 teak cottages each have private balconies that face either the lush gardens or the glittering sea. There are three categories: Executive, Ocean View and Garden View. All have outdoor jacuzzis, but the Executive cottages go one better with their private pools.

The Nature Spa delivers a variety of massages from its pavilion on the beach: try the traditional Myanmar massage which focuses on compression points without the need for oil. If you’re more of an active type, you can delve straight into any of the excursions and trips from Aureum, which range from snorkelling and fishing to cooking lessons and ox-cart or bicycle rides.

Ocean Bay Restaurant has fabulous sea views and serves Burmese and western dishes with plenty of fresh seafood on the menu. You can also dine at the Poolside Bar, or enjoy a healthy salad at the Garden Salad Bar. Meanwhile, the boat-shaped Ye’ Hlay Bar will keep you well-hydrated with cocktails and refreshments.