Prime Phuket property remains among the cheapest

Prices of prime Phuket property are amongst the cheapest of the world’s most popular international homes market according to a new report.

The International Residential Report published by Chesterton Humberts discovered the price of new homes on the Thai island were EUR3,500 (US$4,460) per sqm. Prices for similar homes in Singapore were recorded at EUR16,200 (US$20,650), and at EUR19,500 (US$24,850) in Hong Kong. Monaco remains the world’s most expensive location for property, with prices for a second hand home coming in at EUR45,000 (US$57,350) per sqm.

The report said: “While the Asia Pacific region is largely maintaining healthy growth rates with China and India leading the way, the road to recovery remains bumpy in Europe and North America – a scenario that is broadly mirrored in the respective residential property markets.”

It also noted the millionaire population is rising fastest in the Far East – with Singapore, Malaysia and China all recording growth of 35 per cent, 33 per cent and 31 per cent respectively.

“Several Asian markets, like China and Singapore for example, are already exhibiting signs of overheating. If another bubble is developing, this would indicate a worryingly short cycle from trough to peak and back again although both the Chinese and Singaporean governments have taken decisive action to head off such an occurrence through a combination of restrictions on purchases, tax penalties and increased public land sales,” the report concluded.

Absolutely Fractional

The Absolute World Group are Asia’s leading lifestyle vacation club, property development and hotels & resorts organisations with offices across China, Europe, Hong Kong, Russia and Thailand.



The Absolute World Group are pioneers within the exciting fractional industry in Asia Pacific and organise the industry's highly anticipated fractional conference, AOCAP 2009. Absolute Fractionals represents a collection of fully managed and fully serviced properties offering headache-free deeded outright secure ownership with a one time payment to own for a lifetime.

location, location, vacation

The brand new Absolute Nakalay Beach Resort is located at a private cove of peaceful Nakalay beach on the Western coast of Phuket Island.

The resort offers beach front luxury apartments with stunning panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and jungle-clad mountains.

This ultra modern resort in Phuket is the perfect place to relax with beautiful natural surroundings, simply breathtaking land and seascapes, and dramatic sunsets!

The resort features an exciting blend of studios, 1 & 2-bedroom apartments as well as spectacular penthouses in Phuket. Each apartment is spacious with a private terrace.

The apartments and suites have been designed to integrate the outdoors with the spacious indoor living areas, and are ideal for couples or families. All apartment types contain a kitchen or pantry as well as a full size refrigerator. LCD TVs are in each apartment along with DVD player and a magnificent array of TV channels with programs bound to please all.

Absolute Twin Sands Beach Resort and Spa

Proving that there is still life in the Phuket property market,  Absolute, have launched their latest branded resort – Twin Sands Resort and Spa, overlooking Tri Trang Beach, Patong.

Investing over 750m Baht into the project, Twin Sands Managing Director, Darren Judges, feels they’ve hit the market at exactly the right time despite the political situation in Thailand and the global economic problems.

“Stock of prime units in Phuket is running out, we’ve seen nothing new launched in the last twelve months which has a good ocean view and is within a minutes’ walk to the beach. Those people who are in a position to buy are struggling to find a product which fits their lifestyle and their pocket.” says Darren.

It’s fair to say that ocean view apartments are in very short supply and with the new environmental restrictions coming into place during the latter half of this year, these type of developments are likely to become even harder to find.

Darren went on to say, “‘A key market for us is Hong Kong and with the stock market flattening, bank interest rates at a low level, many Hong Kongers and expatriates are looking to overseas property to boost their investment portfolios.”

The development, located on seven Rai, (11,200m2) of prime ocean view land, in the Tri Trang area of Patong, is aimed at the mid to low end of the Phuket property market with prices ranging from 4.7m Baht to 15.2m Baht.

The location is certainly appealing, just a few kilometres from the bustling nightlife and entertainment centre of Patong, but yet far enough away to be peaceful. It’s ideal for those who want to party all night and come back to a place where they can relax and unwind.

Positioned between two idyllic beaches, Merlin and Tri Trang, Twin Sands owners can deliberate over which beach they visit, whether to spend the day lounging beside the communal pool or to take the resort shuttle bus into the centre of Patong.

Twin Sands will be built to the same exacting standards as Absolute Nakalay Beach Resort, the developers primary resort located on Nakalay beach on the outskirts of Kamala. Designs at Absolute are distinctively modern and maximise natural light with large scale windows and good use of outdoor terracing. Twin Sands Resort and Spa will comprise 46 units in the first phase, with a range of studio (50m2), one bedroom (80m2) and two bedroom apartments (120m2).

Purchasers at Absolute Resorts, buy not only due to the exceptional quality of design, breathtaking ocean views and convenient location but also because of the superb rental programme which is fully managed by the resort and guarantees owners an excellent return on investment.

Owners will also benefit from a good range of facilities which include, a restaurant and bar, pool lounge bar, fitness centre and spa as well as an infinity edged swimming pool and plenty of terraces for sun-bathing.

The newly launched Absolute Twin Sands Resort and Spa in Patong,  Phuket, has sold over 60% of their inventory in record time.

Ocean Villas Group officially launched the development less than three weeks ago at the SMART International Investment and Property Expo, Hong Kong and sales have been incredibly strong.  The mix of studio and one bedroom units, priced from 4,800,000 Baht, have been snapped up by eager investors who are banking on the development as a sound investment for the future, with strong rental returns and high capital appreciation.

I asked the developer why he thought sales had been so good, “I think we’ve got the mix right, we offer value for money, ocean views and are within walking distance of four beautiful beaches, yet we’re just minutes from Patong….the location couldn’t be better.”

“Our investors can be assured of high quality accommodation, sound rental returns and high capital appreciation,” he continued.

Located on Tri Trang beach, a picturesque and relatively unknown spot just south of Phuket’s entertainment and nightlife centre in Patong, Absolute Twin Sands Resort and Spa has all the advantages of being close to the centre of the action but none of the disadvantages. Owners and residents can take a shuttle bus or taxi into town or opt to spend the day relaxing at Tri Trang or one of the other four beaches within walking distance of the resort.

On completion Absolute Twin Sands will be managed by Absolute Resorts, who already have several top performing hotels and resorts in Phuket, including Bangla Suites in Patong and Absolute Nakalay in Kalim Bay.  The resort will have full hotel facilities including a restaurant and pool bar, infinity-edged swimming pool, gymnasium and spa…..and the benefit of being within walking distance of several other top hotels and resorts in the area.

Investor, Brian Southall, explained why he’d bought into the project. “I’ve been looking around for a good investment close to Patong for some time but I’d not been able to find anything suitable.  When I heard about Twin Sands I was impressed by the location but also by the fact that it’s managed by a well respected hotel operator, rental income is very important to me.  Also, as I bought in off the plan I got a good price and I’m likely to make a good return if I come to sell in a couple of years…but I think I’m likely to keep it.”

If you’re looking for a well priced ocean view apartment within a superb resort development……with high rental yields and good capital apreciation then Absolute Twin Sands is the development you’ve been looking for.

Red Mountain Golf Course

Winding its way through a truly dramatic 1400 rai former tin mine site in the heart of Phuket, Red Mountain is surely one of Asia’s most exciting new courses.



The course has been cleverly routed to take advantage of a huge variety of landforms and dizzying elevation changes. Scars left from the tin mine era have been imaginatively incorporated into the overall scheme, creating a unique character at the same time as establishing an indelible link with an important era in the Island’s past.

Designer Jon Morrow and co-designer Al Tikkanen, have created a highly strategic and challenging 6,900 yard lay out to complement the shorter and gentler old Loch Palm Course. While the course is undoubtedly challenging, numerous risk and reward options create a fun playing environment, an exhilarating test of golf and a breathtaking scenic tour around a course destined to become a golfing landmark in the region.

• As you walk in to Red Mountain's clubhouse you will be welcomed by responsive staff and will find a modern yet stylish Pro Shop on the left hand side where you may register your tee-time and purchase your green fee or make a future reservation. You'll also find that our friendly Pro Shop staff caters to all golfers needs whether it is a piece of memorabilia, a new glove to rental clubs or shoes.
• Once you've checked-in you may make your way to the locker rooms located just around the right hand corner at the end of the clubhouse lobby where we allow guests to freshen up after their round. As you enter the locker rooms sign yourself in and a locker key will be handed to you, then put away your fresh set of clothes and any other possessions you won't need on the course.
• For golfers looking for a sensational meal before or after hitting the course head to Red Mountain's Restaurant where we serve first-class breakfasts and a variety of western and Thai fine cuisines.
• If you're not feeling like a full meal then head down to our Staging Area just past the locker rooms and down the stairs. Here you can order a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a snack from our restaurant while overseeing golfers tee-off on the first hole. Your clubs will be close by on you golf cart with your assigned caddie ready to assist you around the mountains and if you would prefer to get a feel for the greens prior to your round you may head down to the putting green adjacent to the first tee. Once it's time for you to tee-off you will be approached by a Starter who will direct you to your allocated tee-box.
• Red Mountain golf club has kiosks spread out along the course every 3 holes filled with refreshing beverages and snacks keeping golfers energy levels high throughout the round. We also provide marshals on the front and back nine to maintain the pace of play at all times.
• Searching for the golfing experience second to none? We cater specifically to your requests to make your day at Red Mountain GC unforgettable to your business partners and colleagues. Organizing your day, from scoring to 'closest-to-the-pin' challenges you'll find our operation is highly service minded. So lay back, relax and allow us to prepare an array of dishes and keep the drinks flowing.
• Make your next family celebration or special event even better by enjoying our selection of western and Thai dishes accompanied by a bottle of great wine and if you like, we'll even arrange the cake!
• Furthermore, Red Mountain golf club provides golf club storage, scoring teams and a taxi pick-up service.

Red Mountain Golf Course is the second course at Loch Palm Golf Club and the newest golf course on Phuket Island. The course was designed to take advantage of a huge variety of landforms and dramatic elevation changes, making it Phuket's hilliest course.

The entire Loch Palm site, like Blue Canyon, Phuket's other famous golf course, is an abandoned tin mine. The hole routing explores the four corners of the former tin mine property representing a memorable tour of Phuket’s historical landscapes. Cliffs and gullies etched in sandy tailings over the years by storm waters feature on several holes. Towering cliffs cut out of the hills and flooded canyons frame several other holes. Golfers face the full range of natures hazards; wind, water, slopes and elevation changes. This is the highest golf course on Phuket Island and dramatic views are realized from many of the points on the golf course.



The concept of variety has been carried into all areas of Red Mountain. There are large and small greens; some with subtle breaks, some with wilder contours. Bermuda grass is used on the greens which make for fast but smooth putting surfaces. Fairways and tees are grassed with Seashore Paspalum; a popular turf being used at other Thailand championship courses like Amata Springs and Best Ocean, both in Bangkok. Wild, local grasses have been preserved in some rough areas to complete the natural look.

The course has a few shorter par 4's to give some good birdie chances, but also for the longer hitters there is the 12th, a 481 yard par 4. The par 3’s all require accurate shot placement and they are as beautiful to look at as they are challenging to play. For example, the signature ninth hole has a vertical drop of 50 meters from tee to green and the shot must be carefully threaded through large pine trees lining both sides of the hole. The four par 5's are also all unique. The 6th and 10th holes play downhill and are both over 500 yards. The 8th and 18th are uphill and shorter. Each of the four holes presents golfers with different challenges that require a variety of shots.



The Loch Palm site, being located almost in the exact center of Phuket Island makes this course one of most accessible to those staying on the poplar Patong and Karon beaches. Only 15 minutes is needed to get to/from the course which makes it a real possibility for those with non-golfing families to spend the better part of the day with their family after a quick early morning round.

For golfers wanting to spend more time at the course, there are excellent shared practice facilities, a grass driving range, as well as a fully stocked club house for 19th hole formalities. While Loch Palm is an optional walk or ride course, golf carts are compulsory at Red Mountain. This is usually a negative, but in the case of the hilly Red Mountain course, it is unlikely that anyone on a golf vacation would opt to walk this layout anyway. Loch Palm's new Red Mountain course is one of the top three Phuket courses and should be part of any golf package to the area.

Guide to Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay is an unspoilt paradise located between Phuket and the west-side of the Malay peninsula, where 67 virtually deserted islands sit in 400km² of spectacular natural beauty. The bay forms part of Phang Nga province, which is bordered by Phuket and Krabi provinces.

Phang Nga’s unspoilt beauty takes visitors back to a time when all of southern Thailand was uninhabited thanks to its protected status as the Ao Phang Nga National Park, which is has enjoyed since 1981. While neighbouring Phuket has suffered the ravages of rampant commercial development, eco-travellers can rest easy in the knowledge that Phang Nga is not about to suffer the same fate.

The bay’s beauty is typified by vibrant, turquoise sea waters in which sit stunningly unusual karst islands formed by thousands of years of fault movements. Some of these peaks stand at lofty heights of up to 300 metres and the majority is enhanced by a thick covering of lush green vegetation. More than 40 of these structures, which are essentially comprised of limestone, are dotted across the bay, creating unique and genuinely awe-inspiring views.

The smaller structures can only be admired from afar, while the larger ones are big enough to allow for exploration. Networks of caves located at the bases are significant features of the geological evolution of these islands, with many able to be entered by kayak. Inside, unusual rock formations can be seen, while a flashlight might help you to catch sight of the birds and bats which call the caves home.

Inhabitants are few and far between in Phang Nga Bay. The small island of Koh Phan Yee has settlements that are over 200 years old, with residents who are simple people, fishing for a living and dwelling in bamboo houses which sit on stilts in the waters immediately offshore from the island’s beach. These primitive sea gypsies who are known locally as Chao Leh, are devout Muslims, and their community is believed to have descended from two families who first migrated here.

While natural beauty should be Phang Nga’s greatest claim, the islands here are perhaps best known for their tenuous Hollywood connections. The 1974 Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun included a number of scenes featuring the island hideout of Scaramanga, which were filmed on Khao Phing Kan, one of the bay’s larger islands. This island is now referred to as ‘James Bond Island’ and forms the focal point of many boat tours of the bay.

Khao Phing Kan offers zero in the way of tangible evidence of its once famous encounter, although the distinctive karst structure sitting in the bay off of the island’s beach serves as a good photograph backdrop for the hoards of tourists wanting a souvenir of their trip there. Additionally, there’s a wooden sign in English and Thai saying ‘James Bond Island’. Scaramanga’s hideout is nowhere to be seen however.

Boat trips from Phuket and Krabi offer tourists the best opportunity to see Phang Nga’s most notable sights, with typical itineraries including stops to check out Tham Lawt (caves) and James Bond Island. The sea gypsy village at Koh Phan Yee is also included on most trips and is generally the stopping point for a lunch break, with the locals providing the food and dining facilities.

A trip to the unspoilt wilderness of Phang Nga Bay with its breathtakingly spectacular views will reassure you that many of Thailand’s finest natural sights continue to remain unaffected by the tourist dollar.

Peaceful Phuket

Wichai Praisa-ngob, the Governor of Phuket, asked people, both Thai and foreigners, who are worrying about the situation in Bangkok, to change their destination to Phuket. He said that the island was very beautiful , calm and was not affected by the violence or protests in other part of Thailand. Moreover, the accommodation and services costs decrease during this time of the year.

Meanwhile Tawee Tongcham, the Mayor of Karon Municipality, said that during the ‘green season’ this year the municipality would hold many activities to promote tourism in Phuket. He told us that on May 22nd, there would be a new event called ‘Phuket Live Volume 1 Jazz on the Beach’ near Nong Harn Lake. He said the event would be crowded with tourists from Scandinavia and local visitors.

During May 31st – June 5th, the 5th Senior World Cup would kick off in Phuket, including some matches at Karon Stadium: there were senior football teams from eight countries joining the tournament.

In November, the women’s World Beach Volleyball Tour 2010 would again take place on Karon beach.

The mayor added that Karon Municipality planned to hold activities continuously to promote Phuket tourism and asked people and related organizations to express assurance to tourists that Phuket was free from any violent protests.

Phuket may present itself as host for ‘World Expo 2020′

Due to the request of the Thai government to find a province to host the World Expo 2020, Wichai Praisa-ngob, the Governor of Phuket, called a meeting to discuss presenting Phuket as the host of the event. The attendees at the meeting were Smith Palawatwichai – a Vice Governor of Phuket; Somboon Jirayus – the President of Phuket Tourism Business Association; representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, Southern Hotel Association of Thailand, and private sectors.

World Expo 2010 at Shanghai, China

Wichai revealed that the qualifications needed by a host province were:

1. The province must have more than 1,000 – 1,500 rai of area to hold the World Expo 2020
2. The province must have its own international airport (or the location of the province must be within 200 – 250 far kilometers from Suwanbhumi International Airport, Bangkok)
3. The province must have proper public utilities and a long term plan in transportation development to Bangkok, with no more that 150 minutes traveling period including a mass electric train development project, high speed train and railway development project, double railway project, transportation investment projects or marine transportation projects that would be used to travel to the event.
4. The province must have enough 3 – 5 star hotels or they must be located within 150 minutes from the event location.
5. The province is supported by local administrative organizations and the residents to host the event.
6. The province must have development strategies that match with socioeconomic development plan.
7. The province must feature its uniqueness in tourism and culture or be outstanding in economic innovation or alternative power development.
8. After the event, the province can develop the conference center, plus academic and social learning centers.”

The area planned to be a possible location of World Expo in Phuket is at Thachatchai in the very north of the island, where an international conference hall and product exhibition center has already be planned for construction.

In addition, the related sectors are quite confident that Phuket has a high possibility to be selected since the island’s conditions are better than other candidates in Thai provinces.

A sun drenched treasure trove

Every year more words are written describing the diverse marine life that prowl the depths of Thailand's oceans and every year more divers visit the country. With one of the most diverse aquatic habitats, from submerged rocks and pinnacles to sheer walls and coral gardens, Thailand has a lot to offer to the scuba diver with all levels of expertise and experience. 



Due to this diverse marine and diving environment, Thailand has attracted diving lovers from throughout the world due to which it has become one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving. For the last three decades, Phuket has been catering to a huge number of visitors from almost every part of the world out of which a large percent is of scuba divers looking out to dive in some of the finest diving sites in Asia.
Today, scuba diving has become on of the biggest businesses and the island of Phuket offers many great diving centres and services from leisure dives to advanced courses in diving.



Scuba Diving destinations in Phuket:
One of the best diving sites in Phuket is the Racha Islands located off Thailand’s southern coast. The small island of Racha Noi provides some overwhelming underwater scenic views and has been renowned for encounters with manta ray and whale shark.




King Cruiser Wrecks and Shark Point also attract a large number of scuba diving enthusiasts to try their hands on. The water around and in the Ao Phang-Nga has been notable for their marine life profusion offering access to diverse marine and coral life unrivalled anywhere else in Phuket.



Diving in the destinations such as Mergui Archipelago, Burma Banks and Similan islands can be an awe-inspiring experience for the fans of scuba diving Thailand. Ko Phi Phi Lae and Ko Phi Phi Don are the regions characterised for stunning topography, amazing cliffs of limestone, many hard coral gardens and excellent soft corals, sea whips, black coral and orange sea fans.
While scuba diving, the divers can frequently see whale sharks, large pelagic fishes, manta rays and silver tip sharks. With its vast variety of tropical fishes variety, the place has impressed even the most seasoned divers. Scuba diving Thailand can be done all year through but the best time is during October to June when the waters are calm and you can have the ultimate scuba diving experience.



Undoubtedly, diving in this area is of a high standard and the place is a host of many excellent diving sites. In fact, Phuket has managed to develop an entire tourism industry due to its scuba diving attractions and today, a large number of scuba divers visit the place every year.

There are endless diving opportunities in Thailand and the place has been listed in the top ten scuba diving sites. It is not surprising why a large number of people get attracted towards the place due to its world-class scuba diving Thailand sites, crystal clear water and white clean sandy beaches. It is just the ideal place for the adventure lovers.

Absolute Dining : Phuket Restaurant Guide

Phuket has so many places to eat, from street stalls to high-end resort dining rooms, making it hard to choose where to go for a meal. If it’s Thai cuisine you’re craving and you’re looking for a special place to dine in Phuket, pick from one of these five favorite restaurants.



Baan Rim Pa is the obvious choice for fine Thai dining on Phuket. The traditional Thai menu, attentive service and large wine list attract foreigners and locals looking for a special meal. The elegant, open-air dining room is nestled in the hills overlooking Patong and Kalim bays so if you arrive in time for sunset be prepared for a stunning view.



Baan Rim Pa has long been established as one of the most famous restaurants in Thailand and a favorite of visitors from all over the world. With a menu featuring Thai dishes formerly found only in the Grand Palace of Thailand, Baan Rim Pa is the standard for Thai cuisine fine dining on Phuket Island and throughout Thailand. This Phuket Thai restaurant also features a piano bar showcasing live jazz, blues and Broadway standards nightly. The Cellar has won Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for consecutive years since 2002. Baan Rim Pa also features one of the best selections of spirits and cocktails in the region, nightly ice- and fruit-carvings, a cigar bar and a Thai handicrafts boutique. Founder Tom McNamara's "home on the cliff" has it all. Baan Rim Pa is simply the finest in the Kingdom.
The curries and typical Thai dishes are delicious but the fresh-caught seafood is what’s really shines at this Phuket institution. Pick your fish or shellfish and let your server know how you’d like it prepared and then sit back and enjoy the view of Chalong Bay and the surrounding islands. Kan Eang @ Pier looks fancy (it was completely renovated in 2007) but is really just a great, basic seafood restaurant.



Special with its setting, Kan Eang@pier is located just next to the Chalong pier offering a picturesque dining venue and a fantastic culinary experience. Serving Andaman seafood, local specialties and Japanese cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Operating since 1973, the restauran is very famous among locals and tourist alike for its seafood.

You can enjoy daily caught seafood in any cooking style. Whether BBQ, steamed, fried or sashimi. Try Nam Prik Goong Siap, Bua Tod, Hor Mok, or crab meat creamy curry served with white noodles and so much more.
Phuket’s most appealing restaurant for the sophisticated international traveler is located far away from the busy noise of international tourism. LIM’s, tucked into a setting of tall trees and lush vegetation on the hillside above Kalim Bay, features Modern Thai Cuisine, the latest sounds from Europe’s top DJ’s, all in a setting of tropical splendor and fine art..


The 60-cover hillside restaurant encompasses everything a class act should: ultra-fresh food, expertly prepared select ingredients, great background tunes and a sense of occasion in unusual and tasteful surroundings.

Lim's is located in Kalim, just to the north of Patong, but this beach feels like it's on another planet – the difference in atmosphere being that great. If coming from Patong, drive one kilometer along the Beach Road and, just after where the road separates around a tree in the centre, turn right up Soi 7 where the Orchid Hotel makes the corner. You'll find Lim's up the hill on the right-hand side of the soi.
Mom Tri’s elegant beachfront restaurant on Kata Noi is consistently ranked one of the island’s best restaurants. The airy dining room attracts a mix of foreign visitors and local tourists, and the Thai and Mediterranean menu satisfies everyone’s tastes. During high season, reservations are essential.


Enjoy fine dining in an award-winning restaurant set just above the rocks overlooking Kata Noi Beach. Panoramic sea views combined with the sound of the waves below create a peaceful, sensually indulgent and romantic setting.

European favourites and Thai dishes are served either on the open-air terrace, covered patio or Thai sala. An exuberant menu offers delicious creations from talented executive Chef Sura. Popular dishes include hot crab soufflé, light and savoury appetisers, tuna carpaccio, Phuket lobster and Angus beef tenderloin.

Mom Tri's Kitchen is the winner of the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for 3 years in a row and has over 350 labels including an extensive organic wine list and 16 wines available by the glass.
As of 18th December 2009 SILK will be at Andara Resort Villas - Phase 3. Offering traditional thai cuisine in a contemporary setting, with stunning views of the Andaman sea The menu combines the finest traditional Thai ingredients prepared with a focus on authenticity of taste and texture. The delicious creations are carefully concocted using local flavours and time-honoured techniques and the freshest ingredients.



This sleek, chic rooftop restaurant just around the corner from Surin Beach serves traditional Thai food and very international cocktails to a cosmopolitan crowd. Sit out on one of the comfy balcony loungers or inside in the air-conditioned dining room.

Absolute Heaven : Phuket Spa Guide

Aside from the amazing cultural heritage, to-die-for shopping, distinctive mouthwatering cuisine and tropical climate, Thailand is blessed with a unique attribute that has cemented its reputation as a preferred destination: its people. Warm and welcoming, the “Land of Smiles” is unparalleled, greeting with a beautiful “wai” and making sure each guest feels right at home.



It is no wonder that such factors and especially this sense of hospitality – found only in Thailand – translates flawlessly into the spa and wellness experience. Apart from the kind hospitality, Thailand is endowed with herbs and serene sanctuaries that provide the guests with many indulging retreats such as herbal streams, hot herbal compress or traditional Thai massage. The world renowned Thai massage illustrates the distinctive culture and exotic heritage, where each style reflects different characteristics and massage techniques such as the Royal Thai massage, the Commoner Thai Massage and the Lanna Thai massage. Just as Thailand is a melange of cultural influences, here you can find Ayurvedic treatments from India, Chinese acupressure and homegrown “Thai Boran” ancient Thai massage techniques. Every desire is brought to soothing fruition, from rejuvenation to relaxation to detoxification, in the most elegant and natural settings.



When you want to unplug from the world and replenish your health, sometimes you nhave to find a special place that offers plenty of “Me Time” with soothing treatments along with programmes of meditation, yoga and mental equilibrium. These destination spas in Phuket represent the very best of the best. On the island jewel of the Andaman, Phuket hosts the flagship Banyan Tree Spa of Banyan Tree. This is a must-visit for spa enthusiasts visiting Phuket : a holstic approach to traditional Eastern healing therapies administered in a luxurious sanctuary of the senses, including open-air spa pavilions. For the ultimate indulgence, the Banyan Harmony massage is conducted by two therapists who work in uncanny unison : by the time head and feet are massaged simultaneously, the sense of utter bliss may be overwhelming. Another highlight is the Thai Traditions menu, which offers treatments with local zest to both men and women.



In the midst of just 62 exclusive private pool villas and pool villa suites the Six Sense Destination Spa Phuket offers a complete immersion in contemporary and holistic treatments, presented in a very private, pristine tropical sanctuary. Programmes at this premiere island destination begin following an in-depth diagnostic evaluation. Therapies have been inspired by a blend of Chinese, Indian, Indonesian and Thai disciplines. All aromatic oils, scrubs and wraps are performed with signature Six Senses spa products. The fitness programmes – often decribed as groundbreaking – include kinesis training, postural enhancement, and oxygen fitness therapy. Meanwhile, guests dine on the freshest spa cuisine at the interactive earth kitchen or raw food restaurant overlooking the stunning Phang Nga bay.



Another blissful retreat , Sukko Cultural Spa & Wellness is a contemporary Thai realm set amidst six acres of a luxuriously landscaped tropical forest, and has also been called the “Abode of Bliss”. The 5-star spa provides a blend of tradtional Thai customs and wisdom derived from ancient Siam. Massage treatments are based on Thai-Ayurvedic principles using only natural herbs and extracts. The spa also offers half- and full-day Cultural Wellbeing programmes, which include lessons in Thai massage, cooking, and fruit and vegetable carving. Sukko which translates to “abundant happiness” certainly lives up to its name.



Phuket also offers some impressive resort/spa combos. the Aleenta PhuketHotel is mind-blowingly beautiful and its spa has the facilities to match. Float into heaven with treatmenst from the extensive spa menu, like the Earth and Sea in the sky package that includes a salt scrub, a wrap of sea minerals and rare Thai herbs, a floral bath and Hawaiian massage. Or go for the After Sun Healer package to restore your skin after a long day sunbathing. Alternatively pamper your abused-by-the-keybord fingers with a spa manicure package.




Body and Mind Day Spa in Phuket offers discerning visitors a spa experinece without the ludicrous price tag. Decorated in a contemporary style, the spa has treatments that specialise in Oriental healing therapies such as the Thai foot massage, along with treatmenst using the Jurlique range of therapeutic products which are fairly hard to find in this part of the world. For visiting couples, the spa has a range of candlelight promotions to choose from.


Life in the modern metropolis can be extremely hectic to the point of nerve-fraying. When time is of the essence, convenience is the key. Luckily there are retreats of calm, waiting for a welcome moment of Zen.