LUXE Loves is our regular feature where we spotlight our all-time favourite places on the planet. From wowza hotel stays to the world’s most happenin’ restos, bars and shops worth raving home about … welcome to the crème of our curated cohort.
What:
Where:
Kamala, Phuket, Thailand
Why We Love It:
For those looking for a true home away from home in Phuket, the Andara Resort of suites and villas developed by the Paradise Group (owned by Hong Kong’s father of Lan Kwai Fong, Allan Zeman) is the perfect fit.
Getting there:
Located 28 kilometres from Phuket International Airport, getting to Andara Resort & Villas takes a brisk 28 minutes without traffic, and up to 45 minutes to an hour with traffic. From the resort to the party district of Patong is also just a 20-minute drive.
Suites and villas:
Designed for couples, groups of friends or families (up to 8 guests), Andara’s suites start at a spacious 153 square metres with an open kitchen and dining room, connecting bedrooms and outdoor lounging areas. Choose from the Terrace Suites with views of the Andaman Sea, Pool Suites with their own private pools or Penthouse Pool Suite with a rooftop deck and infinity pool all to yourselves.
The villas at Andara can accommodate six to 14 guests and start at a sprawling 1,160 square metres with stunning sea views, ensuite bedrooms, private infinity pools and large indoor and outdoor living areas. Perks of staying in a include having two dedicated staff at all times – an in-villa chef (who prepares your daily brekkie in the villa, unless you decide to dine at SILK) and a villa attendant.
For the ultimate luxury villa stay, opt for Andara’s Signature Villas that go from four to seven bedrooms and can accommodate eight to 14 guests. The jewel of the resort is Signature Villa 10 at 2,630 square metres, seven bedrooms, a 25-metre infinity private pool, sun deck, outdoor garden, indoor game room and personal gym. And of course, you’ll get your own bespoke villa attendant and two private chefs at your service 24/7, too.
Dining:
Besides in-villa dining, all guests of Andara can enjoy a mix of Thai and Western meals at SILK Restaurant. Start with a hearty breakfast buffet in the morning, delicious Italian or Western fare at La Seta for lunch, and seafood delights or freshly made pizzas at night.
LUXE tip: Book yourself in on Friday nights for a cultural evening of Thai cuisine, dance performances (that you can even join in!) and fire shows by the pool. For steak-lovers, don’t miss SILK’s Steak Night every Wednesday for quality cuts of steak paired with handcrafted cocktails and world-class wines.
Activities:
With a beautiful 40-metre infinity resort pool, fully-equipped gym and zen-like spa with a large menu of treatments, wellness lovers are well taken care of at Andara. Families will also love the onsite Kid’s Club and those looking to bring home some souvenirs can peruse the Andara Boutique for the latest resort wear and accessories.
More of a foodie? Join SILK Restaurant’s Thai Cooking Class every day from 11am-1:30pm and learn how to make mouthwatering Southern and Northern Thai dishes at home.
Verdict:
If you’re looking for a spacious villa for your next trip to Phuket, it doesn’t get much better than Andara Phuket Resort & Villas. Thanks to their sprawling sizes designed for couples and group travel, you’ll enjoy the privacy of your suite and/or villa whilst enjoying all the facilities of a luxury hotel, including the stunning resort pool, gym and spa.
Learn more at andaraphuket.com
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