Thailand's South: Discover these exclusive resorts between nature and luxury
Soft reggae music pours from the speakers of a sleepy, hip beach bar on the famous Sairee Beach on Koh Tao. The turquoise sea hits the beach gently, swings blowing in the breeze among the palm trees. Visitors chill in the hammocks or at the bar, enjoying their fruit shakes as the sun slowly approaches the horizon. Another day in paradise for Thailand's sun-hungry tourists.
The rush to Thailand from Europe has been unabated since it opened up to tourism. It was one of the first and only countries in Southeast Asia to reopen its doors to travellers. In the meantime, Indonesia has followed and, since a few days ago, also the Philippines. Thailand has fascinated many travellers for decades, as the country has a high claim to meet its visitors with its hospitality, its unfailing culinary offer and its top-class resort facilities on dream beaches. But it is not only a place of longing for backpackers, it also particularly delights luxury travellers with an exclusive selection of 5-star hotels. We would like to present our favourites to you today, so perhaps you will soon find yourself travelling to the "Land of Smiles", too.
Twin Palms Phuket
One of the most exciting and modern contemporary resorts on Phuket is located directly on Surin beach and offers his guests 72 rooms as well as 25 penthouse suites with private pools. Exceptional service awaits you right at the start of your trip, with a limousine pick-up from the airport and your own butler. The grounds of this luxury resort are beautiful and stand out for their tranquillity, far from the hustle and bustle of the streets. The hotel garden is adorned with beautiful coconut palms and magnificent plant arrangements, inviting those in need of relaxation to linger. Of course, indulgence is also catered for: for lovers of Thai cuisine, the Twin Palms Phuket offers a fantastic culinary experience in charmingly decorated eateries. The main lagoon pool covers an area of 1600 square metres, with a shallower part that can be used as a children's pool and a deeper area that stretches along the rooms so you can jump into the pool from your balcony. Start your day with a dip in the cool pool, enjoy your first fresh fruit smoothie at the pool bar and finish your morning with a healthy breakfast.
Keemala Phuket
The fabulous Keemala Phuket is located off the beaten track, overlooking the lush forests of Kamala village and the turquoise Andaman Sea. Probably the most extraordinary thing about this luxury hotel are its cottages, which blend directly into the landscape in their fancy natural charm. Architecturally, these are inspired by four mythical, fictional indigenous tribes from Phuket who were invented as part of the hotel concept and provide a magical fairytale charm. This imaginative detail directly gives the hotel a special touch. Keemala's hotel restaurants combine Thai specialities with Western influences. The top chefs also prepare their food gluten-, wheat-, dairy- and sugar-free on request. They carefully cater to all needs, cook according to healthy methods and use only organically grown ingredients. The highlight of the complex is the lagoon-like swimming pool with its own waterfall and bar. Fancy a little fitness under the palm trees? Daily classes such as yoga, Tai Chi on the beach and Muay Thai boxing are offered, making your holistic luxury experience at Keemala Phuket perfect.
Ritz-Carlton Phulay Bay
Immerse yourself in the local culture of Krabi at the Ritz-Carlton Phulay Bay, feast on Thai specialties in the hotel's top cuisine and enjoy views of the luxurious rocky backdrop of the popular holiday destination. Enjoy classic Thai dishes or excellent Western cuisine at one of the hotel's five restaurants, or surprise your family with a very special lagoon picnic on Hong Island. Fancy being completely pampered the Thai way? The open spa area made of high-quality natural materials has a beautiful natural pool with a decelerating view of the tropical garden. And don't miss out on the typical Thai massages offered there! All rooms at this luxury hotel in Krabi feature unique details such as large, inviting indoor bathrooms, spacious walk-in wardrobes and spacious verandas with lounge beds. For the more extravagant, treat yourself to one of the hotel's own villas with their own private pool.
Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan
The Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan in Thailand welcomes its guests after a traditional arrival by longtail boat with crystal clear sea water, a high-rise palm jungle and white powdery beaches. This resort is one of Koh Phangan's best-kept secrets, transporting guests to an oasis of luxury and adventure far from the usual resort world. This extravagant island paradise fulfils all the wishes of its guests, who want to be pampered by Thai local culture and refined culinary delights. The Anantara Rasananda Koh Phagan has 64 pool suites and villas, with high-quality furnishings and even a private butler on request. Luxury travellers can enjoy beachfront villas on one of Thailand's best beaches, as well as high-end spa treatments amidst the jungle garden. Finally, in the award-winning spa of Anantara Rasanda, pampering can begin with a breathtaking view of the jungle and the sea.
Soneva Kiri
When one raves about the Soneva Kiri resort among other luxury travellers, it is always met with rapturous approval. Although at first glance rather unluxurious principles prevail - such as their everywhere-barefoot rule - the extraordinary eco-luxury resort is especially inspiring with its location on a secluded paradise island. You can reach this luxury domicile comfortably by private plane or private boat from Bangkok. The spacious, luxurious island villas have up to 6 bedrooms and private infinity pools (the 6-bedroom villa even has its own water slide!), your own private butler named Mr./Ms. Friday, their own buggies and stylish interiors. From charming ice cream and chocolate delicatessens complimentary during your stay, to a romantic dinner restaurant in the treetop, Soneva Kiri ensures that you will definitely never forget this magical stay in Thailand.
