This is a stunning portrayal of the characteristics of the lifestyle resorts and extravagant private residences crafted by the Bensley Design Studios in Bangkok and Bali. Set amidst resplendent tropical gardens, the 27 resorts and homes- personalised "paradises" spread from China to India to Bali, with a focus on the Asia Pacific-are unconventional, sensual, and hold a special reverence for the tropical climate. Unlike most books on tropical buildings, this one includes not only architecture but also landscape design, interior design, horticulture, fine art and crafts - with a distinct focus on the outdoors. The houses range over a broad geographical area (China, India, Indonesia, Mauritius, etc.) rather than being confined to a homogeneous landscape and climate.

Author and Photographer Bill Bensley first came to Asia in 1984, where he worked at Belt Collins, an American landscape architectural firm, before starting his own studio in Bangkok in 1989. A need to have heaps of creative fun has fuelled the creation of his prolific portfolio, which includes over 100 resorts in 26 countries