Talented stylist, photographer and author Pia Jane Bijkerk recently stayed in these arrestingly beautiful thatched-roof Malay huts–“a resort with heart”–and her photographs really capture that magical feeling of discovering inspiration, authenticity and sense of place. Rich, gorgeous textiles and intricate, hand-carved wooden interiors don’t hurt either. And when Pia gushes about finding a spot that “ticked all my island-fantasy boxes,” well, it’s like a research gold mine–trusty, pretty words to book a trip by.

“It’s one of those best-kept secrets–a place that’s not fancy, not well known in trend circles which means it manages to retain its authenticity,” says Pia. “I love the villas at Bon Ton because each is unique and antique…  Each villa is made completely from wood. There are no glass windows, no metal structures. Even the bathrooms are all wood.”

And to top it off: The resort was started as a way to raise money for an on-site animal shelter and sanctuary called LASSie.

[All photographs by Pia. You can read more about her trip and see more photos at her blog.]