Tourism & Travel Review South Africa

Luxury Phuket more affordable than ever

The Pavilions Phuket in Thailand made a name for itself providing upscale, super luxurious accommodations for couples wanting to reconnect away from children and the frenzy that often accompanies family-centric holiday resorts.

When we visited, in April this year, we were intrigued to learn about their new sister property - Pavilions Suites - with all the luxury associated with private villa accommodation but now with a family focus. The good news for those of us who prefer the sacred quiet and privacy of an adults-only retreat is that Pavilions Phuket remains the exclusive enclave it set out to be but the nearby sister property offers something different - a focus on families but also on more affordable accommodation options.

Opening June 1, The Pavilions Suites, comprising 43 elegantly designed accommodations with sweeping views of Phuket hillside’s tropical greenery and the enduring fragrance of exotic flowers.

Resident manager Simona Chimenti says that it is only minutes from the peaceful stretch of white sand that is Layan beach. “The Pavilions Suites offer easy access to Phuket’s sights while providing the perfect backdrop for your island getaway adding that “Life at The Pavilions Suites revolves around the Firefly oasis, your new favourite pool club, featuring the island’s largest swimming pool.”

Luxury Phuket more affordable than ever

She explains that June also marks the launch of their brand new wellness centre, complete with a gym and tropical lap pool. “Nestled in the midst of lush tropical gardens, The Pavilions Spa is a peaceful retreat to indulge with heavenly treatments designed to revive, energise and pamper,” she enthuses.

When we visited Pavilions Phuket we stayed in a Pool and Spa Pavilion that had our own, private, double spa suite complete with sauna and steam room as well as a plunge pool and private loungers on which to develop our all-over-tan within the private, walled courtyard. Simona explains that the new wellness sanctuary has four air-conditioned treatment rooms, a Mani-Pedi area and a sumptuous Signature Pleasure for two, complete with a private bath experience.
Along with the gym, there is a 23m lap pool as well as yoga and meditation areas.

With opening specials from around R2,500 for two people per night, the premium-priced Pavilions offering is now more affordable than ever. Add to this that South Africans can travel to Thailand visa-free and the six-hours-ahead time difference means you can keep a handle on your business back home after spending the entire day in the sun!

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