The developers, Amburaya Hotels & Resorts and Istithmar World, have 12 villas, including four new beachfront residences, available for sale with prices starting from HK$16.3 million.

The Residences at W Retreat Koh Samui bring a new dimension of cutting-edge design, contemporary lifestyle, modern comfort and a new level of indulgence to Thailand, according to a number of property experts.

'We are thrilled to have this unique opportunity to present The Residences at W Retreat Koh Samui directly to discerning buyers in Hong Kong,' says Sunny Bajaj, managing director of Amburaya Hotels & Resorts.

'The Residences at W Retreat Koh Samui represent a perfect convergence of opportunities for discerning owners - one of the world's most exclusive resort destinations, the world's most desired lifestyle residential brand and all its attendant services, and classic residences with contemporary design and modern comfort.'

The project is marketed in Hong Kong by Engel & Voelkers Thailand whose executive chairman Duangjai Kraus says that the W Retreat is a quality development and would be highly appreciated by Hong Kong and mainland investors.

'As foreign buyers from Europe and Asia are returning to Thailand's resort property markets, we are seeing increased demand for investment properties, as well as holiday homes compared with the previous year. Branded resort properties are increasingly popular among foreign buyers, with emphasis on lifestyle, as they are a perfect combination of both an investment and leisure portfolio.

'The demand from Hong Kong for luxury villas has always been strong with buyers looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of a city to the tropical beach lifestyle in Koh Samui and Phuket,' Kraus says.

Koh Samui is regarded as one of the world's most exclusive tropical resort destinations. It was listed third in The New York Times' list of Places to Go this year.

The third largest island in Thailand is a favourite getaway for global jet-setters and avid trend-seekers on the trail of what's next, and those seeking to be wowed by the finer things in life - particularly those inspired by the island's unique mix of contemporary cool design resorts that provide modern comfort and an innovative style.

This includes everyone from busy executives, those looking for a weekend or holiday home to early retirees with time to appreciate Thailand and Koh Samui's culture, cuisine, sun, sea and sand.

Listing the many distinguishing characteristics of W Retreat, Bajaj says there are only 12 private residences for sale that offer exclusivity.

Also, the location of the resort on a stunning 900-metre shoreline, surrounded by verdant foliage, offers prime views from most of the villas.

The Residences at W Retreat adjoin the W Retreat Koh Samui at Maenam Beach on the island's beautiful north shore - arguably the best location on Koh Samui, given its secluded beach and interesting topography - providing all residents and guests with excellent views.

According to Bajaj, The Residences at W Retreat offer owners a combination of stylish beachfront villas, ranging from two to five bedrooms, and from 515 to 1,170 square metres of built-up area. Each residence is a study in tropical Zen-style with exotic touches, and each offers full access to the signature W comforts, services and amenities available at the W Retreat Koh Samui.

The developer says there are 24-hour concierge services, whether it be providing Champagne brunch on a deserted beach, an impromptu spot of island-hopping, or a never-to-be-forgotten tropical barefoot sunset wedding.

Residents can also sip cocktails in the W living room, enjoy preferred dining reservations at the property's signature restaurants, including Kitchen Table and Namu, or enjoy the world-class amenities of the pool.

Other Koh Samui properties are expected to be marketed in Hong Kong early next year.