Phuket Resort

Phuket resorts can be found all over the island, each of them boasting a wealth of activities suited to an escape to Asia's most famous sea and sun paradise. While there are certain elements common to just about every Phuket resort, each offers their own special pleasures, distractions and services. Visitors will certainly be struck by the size of most establishments, some of them expanding over many acres and often owning long stretches of private beach.

The appeal of having a private stretch of white sand that extends as far the eye can see in either direction, is certainly high on the list of reasons many people choose a specific Phuket resort, especially if they are intent of experiencing a little snorkeling or scuba diving without having to consider the intrusive presence of throngs of holidaymakers. The local coral reefs are legendary and many amateur and professional divers wend their way to luxury establishments, simply to have a base from where to venture out to a few of the 39 smaller islands and dip beneath the surface of the water and behold the color spectacle that is something of a universe in itself.

Whichever resort in Phuket is your haven away from home, you can expect the height of island-style sophistication. All of the best establishments have incorporated the ethos and beauty of the island into their design. This means that you'll have large, airy rooms and suites, all with spectacular views, if not of the calm waters of the Andaman, then certainly of a lagoon or a lush landscaped garden. In addition, all rooms and suites of the best Phuket Resorts will supply a touch of exotic Thai design.

Different traditional elements of design are woven into the aesthetic will vary from place to place, sometimes within a single place, but you can expect a generous use of quality woods and those wonderful multi-hued Thai silks to find their way into some part of your special sanctuary. Some places supply rooms which are almost like an extension of the island's natural beauty, while others have opted for a more glamorous design, offering an island-style sophistication ideal for those who want to live it up and indulge themselves to the full.

And indulge yourself you'll certainly want to when it comes to the cornucopia of culinary options that each Phuket resort has become famous for. Almost all of the best establishments have at least four restaurants, and that isn't including the in-room dining options, or the light snack options. Some places have upwards of 10 restaurants and bars where guests can have anything from a signature cocktail infused with coconut and local spice, to a full menu of contemporary haute cuisine prepared by a chef of international renown. In-between are as many options as you can imagine.

Meals for the whole family are easily found, while an ever popular dinner treat is to be found the beachfront grill. Most have a grill right on the sand, where a spectacular sunset provides the perfect backdrop from the dramatic flame on which a good chef seers fresh local fish and other succulent delicacies for hungry diners. Those already inculcated to the contrasting textures and special fiery elements of Thai cuisine, will not be disappointed, since the country's best chefs will be hard at work supplying both traditional and contemporary iterations of local dishes. European food also features prominently, from informal pizza places with a great family atmosphere, to romantic Italian fine dining stamped with sophistication and elegance.

Depending on where you find yourself, you're likely to have a full helping of distractions both fun and sporty. Tennis courts are to be at most resorts, usually more than one and there's always the chance of a game with one of the resort's pros if you're in the mood and can't find a willing partner. Some places have squash courts, as well as numerous other games which require far less energy. From table tennis to billiards, there is something for everyone, young and old. Those looking to go further afield, will have mountain biking or walking in the wonderful forest covered mountains, while golfers are in for a special treat. Exceptional golf courses are a major feature of the island, and there are many beautiful 18-hole courses, each with their own appeal, while one or two are ranked among Asia’s finest.

Your chosen hotel will most likely also offer shuttles into the main town as well as Patong. Both are great places to visit. The area of Patong Beach is particularly well known for its nightlife, shopping and restaurants. For those with love of history, the island offers many must-see historic sites. In fact there are few places in the world which offer something for everyone like this exotic island of Thailand.

These elements of sport, fun, beauty and great cuisine found at all the good Phuket resorts, are brought together by the excellent service that is something of cultural tradition and part of every visit. The warmth of the people translates into every part of local life and goes quite a way to ensuring that whichever country you flew from, is country you'll truly have left behind.