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The Best Resorts & Spas
The Best Luxury Resorts & Spas
The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (Chiang Mai; tel. 05388-8888): This mega-resort was designed to echo a sumptuous Lanna-era palace with gardens, rice paddies, lawns, and a restored viharn (shrine). Many of the freestanding villas boast unique luxuries such as a piano, sauna, sun deck with Jacuzzi, and a private massage table. A number of the suites have plunge pools and the spa is modeled after a stunning teak Burmese palace. There's mouthwatering cuisine on hand, too; but deep pockets are required for that, as well as the rooms.
The Banyan Tree (Phuket; tel. 07632-4374): It's chic, it's private, and it's (supposed to be) paparazzi proof. Maybe that's why the likes of pop singer Kylie Minogue and British sports star David Beckham book the Banyan Tree. This self-contained resort boasts luxurious Thai-style villas and possibly the island's best spa treatments; expect pools, palms, and lots of panache. Plus, this prestigious hotel chain prides itself on its environmental awareness schemes that benefit different communities all over the region. It appeals to celebs and jet-setters with a conscience.
The Racha (Phuket; tel. 07635-5455): Escape to your own secluded island at the southernmost tip of Phuket. Cerulean seas, white-powder beaches, and a cluster of villas dot the hillside crowned with The Lighthouse -- this property's self-contained suite. The Racha is an unpretentious refuge for those in search of intimacy.
JW Marriott Resort & Spa Phuket (Phuket; tel. 07633-8000): This distinctive haven is set amid acres of spectacular gardens featuring ponds, flowerbeds, and landscaped lawns leading to a glistening beach; though the strong riptides make ocean swimming unsafe, two stylish pools make up for this. Balconies offer expansive sea views and guests have endless dining options, from Mediterranean to traditional Thai -- all top quality. The Mandara Spa, hidden behind giant ochre walls and copper doors, is reminiscent of a Marrakech palace. The hotel's environmental efforts mean that staff and keen guests are actively involved in turtle conservation groups such as Naucrates.
Rayavadee Resort (Krabi; tel. 07562-0740): Two-story cottages are scattered over this expansive coconut grove, facing two of Thailand's best white sand beaches. Many villas have Jacuzzis or hammocks, with breezy views of some of the most magnificent cliffs in the country. A newly refurbished spa and the addition of private villas make it a dream hideaway. A trip to the nearby limestone hongs (caves) here is unforgettable.
Chiva-Som (Hua Hin; tel. 03253-6536): Unashamedly sleek and swanky Thai-style accommodations enhanced by personalized healthcare make this wellness retreat a popular choice for visiting celebrities in need of a body-and-soul detox. Prices are some of the highest, but the trade-offs are tangible. After experiencing any of Chiva-Som's careful healing therapies or invigorating health regimes, nowhere else will seem quite the same.
Anantara Resort and Spa Golden Triangle (Chiang Saen; tel. 05378-4084): On the edge of the Burmese jungle, just meters from the Laos border, and overlooking the swirling Mekong River, this resort's spectacular spa and fine restaurants are just some of this two-wing property's many pleasures. The landscape is artfully punctuated with a glassy infinity pool overlooking a towering bamboo grove. An amazing museum dedicated to the history of opium is just a short walk or bike ride away, as is the hotel's Elephant Camp, where you can sharpen your pachyderm-handling skills with a 2-ton inmate.
The Best Mid- & High-End Resorts
The Evason Hua Hin (Koh Samui; tel. 07632-4333): Private villas hidden behind whitewashed adobe walls, gorgeous sunken poolside salas, and bright, modern living spaces make this resort a delight. Close enough to the beach for walks, but far enough for tranquillity, gourmets and gluttons will revel in the culinary experiences to be had here. The organically inspired mud-built spa has beehive-shaped treatment rooms, which appear to float in a lily pad pond. It's run by the sultans of spa, Six Senses; renowned for their eco-sensitivity as much as restorative treatments.
Hilton Hua Hin Resort and Spa (Hua Hin; tel. 03253-8999): This huge hotel towers over the main beach at Hua Hin and offers spacious rooms with teak floors and balconies overlooking the ocean. No less than seven restaurants are on hand to whet appetites, all of which are outlets for Hilton's impeccable service. Expect high-speed Internet and all the other amenities of a large-scale, midrange, family-oriented hotel.
The Sarojin (Khao Lak; tel. 07642-7901): The Sarojin is a great escape from nearby Phuket. The superbly styled beach resort is scattered over 10 acres, with delightfully designed pool villas and outstanding suites, all minutes from a pristine beach. Guests can indulge in the outdoor spa and Thai cooking classes.
Twin Palms Phuket (Phuket; tel. 800/525-4800 or 07631-6500): A stunning Sirin Beach property, the Twin Palms adheres to a clean, contemporary style. Bright guest rooms overlook a leafy garden and expansive lagoon pool; a local golf course is nearby. New residences open in 2008, including a huge penthouse for the truly indulgent. Opportunities abound for culinary indulgences and there's a wine list to write home about. The health conscious can sign up for a breadth of treatments at the Palm Spa.
Pimalai Resort and Spa (Koh Lanta; tel. 07560-7999): On a remote stretch of beach on the quiet island of Koh Lanta Yai, this delightfully designed hillside resort blends easily with the island's unspoiled nature. Its sympathetic Thai architect has thoughtfully built the shady walkways around old trees. An immaculate indigo infinity pool, excellent spa, and sumptuous villas put it on top of this island's A-list. Direct speedboat connections in dry season make it a perfect upmarket escape.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
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