What are the best Asian-Pacific tropical islands to live and work on? Thailand’s Koh Samui and Phuket, Langkawi in Malaysia and Australia’s Hamilton Island offer idyllic beach lifestyles

Oct 11 , 2022

Island properties, such as the five-bedroom Villa Sila Varee in the southwest of Koh Samui, have become more appealing whether as a home, retreat or investment, since the pandemic. Photo: Richmont’s Thailand

Seclusion has been at a premium in the pandemic era, and island properties are trending hard – Richmont’s Thailand offers Five Islands Estate and Santikhiri Estate in southeast Koh Samui

Knight Frank suggests Layan Beach in Phuket while Hamilton Island Real Estate recommends the Pavillions and Hibiscus Lodge developments

Two years of lockdowns and other restrictions have pushed the appeal of waterfront living to the forefront of many homebuyers’ minds. “For many, being near the water, with more space and greenery, has been a primary driver,” said Chris Druce, senior research analyst at Knight Frank, noting that 42 per cent of respondents to a recent survey said they were more likely to buy a waterfront property as a consequence of the pandemic.

Island properties, of course, offer the opportunity to live surrounded by water, at a pace of life more relaxed than in urban centres. So, where in the world can you bask in the island lifestyle, without moving too far away from civilisation?

Villa Bang Sang in Koh Samui, Thailand. Photo: Richmont’s Thailand

The top pick of Tim Skevington, managing director of Richmont’s Thailand, affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate, is Koh Samui.

“When compared to some other resort destinations in Thailand, Koh Samui has a much more laid-back vibe, with terrific beaches, world-class hotels and excellent restaurants, but no high-rise buildings, and fewer shopping malls and nightlife destinations,” he said.

“So it appeals to different residents and holiday makers than, say, Phuket.”

He added that Koh Samui is very accessible, with direct international flights being reinstated and ferries from Surat Thani less than two hours away.

“We get inquiries from buyers all over the world, including from Hong Kong, for a second or first home in Koh Samui,” added Skevington. “Many buyers make income from their island villas when not in residence by taking advantage of high rental demand among holidaymakers, and the many local management companies available who can look after the property.”