Village People

The best-kept secret of Pulau Langkawi, an island off the northwest coast of Malaysia, isn't its stunning sunsets. It's the four kampong (village) houses on the western edge of the island, perched next to a field of reeds, and known collectively as the Bon Ton Resort, tel: (60-4) 955 6787. Australian owner Narelle McMurtrie purchased the antique Malay villas from islanders, dismantled them, then reassembled them on her 1.5-hectare compound. You can choose to stay in the century-old Black Coral, 60-year-old Yellow Orchid (formerly the home of a fisherman), the painstakingly restored 80-year-old White Frangipani or the equally venerable Blue Ginger.

The names might be funky, but important architectural details, including original louvered shutters and latticed panels, have been retained. The villas are tastefully decked out with white linen, Asian accessories and a few modern amenities, including a hot shower and a mini fridge. There's no beach at Bon Ton's doorstep, but a pool sits meters away, and McMurtrie's Balinese-style Nam restaurant and Chin Chin Lounge Bar (formerly a 90-year-old shophouse) make up for almost anything. Published rates start from a very reasonable $95 a night.