The self-proclaimed pearl of the Andaman Sea, the Thai island of Phuket has established quite the reputation as the hedonist’s destination of choice. Famous for its lively nightlife, pristine beaches and backpacker vibe juxtaposed with the numerous five-star resorts and private villas, this year Phuket has welcomed a newcomer to Millionaire’s Mile – Andara, a Preferred Boutique hotel and the brainchild of Hong Kong’s nightlife and entertainment king Allan Zeman. With just 37 apartment-style suites and 26 four to six bedroom villas, word has it that celebrities are flocking to Andara to enjoy the complete privacy offered by the pool suites and villas as well as soaking up all of the glamorous atmosphere.
On my recent stay, home was an 8,000 square foot four-bedroom pool suite decked out with standing Buddha statues, abstract wooden sculptures, subtle mood lighting, warm wooden furniture and Jim Thompson silk. Of course, Andara isn’t without contemporary comforts – oversized pillows, plush beds, automatic blinds, rainforest showers, deep bathtubs and fragrant aromatherapy burners create an atmosphere of unrivalled calm and elegance.
The suite’s 15m private infinity pool overlooks Kamala bay and is a fine choice for those who like to sunbathe close to home. But if you want to experience true island living, then Andara’s pool villas are the best of the best. In traditional Thai style, the rooms are separated by open air courtyards, creating an extraordinarily spacious two-storey living environment. The infinity pool appears to drop off into the horizon beyond, while each villa comes with a housekeeper and chef on call to whip up some yummy Thai or Western nosh and ensure your holiday is completely stress and hassle free.
The Andara Beach Club is a white slice of chic on the laid-back Kamala beach: oversized double beds-cum-loungers are covered with fluffy pillows and thoughtful attendants serve iced water and distribute peppermint-scented chilled towelettes on arrival. They were even so kind as to move the umbrella around the loungers throughout the day to provide constant shade and stand guard over my belongings when I went for a swim – talk about VIP treatment. Andara also has two private motor yachts (28m and 35m) available for in-house guests to rent and explore the Andaman coastline and nearby islands. Full catering services are available for those who like to have their sunset canapés sur la mer and wine and dine their other half en route to Phi Phi or the pristine Similan Islands.
The spa is particularly noteworthy; firstly, for being one of the most beautiful I’ve seen (in-room fountains, double baths and all en-suite), and secondly, for the expert therapists. The traditional Thai massage performed by Aum worked out all of my knots and I left feeling energised, while the black sesame body scrub and Swedish massage duo lulled me into a deep sleep. While I was there, I saw plenty of couples and families from Europe, Asia and beyond, proving that when it comes to the search for perfection, Phuket’s where it’s at.
Quintessentially Members enjoy a number of great benefits at Andara including preferential rates with breakfast included; room upgrade (subject to availability); 10% discount at the spa; 10% discount at the restaurant; late check-out until 4pm (in the low season and subject to availability); airport transfers and a complimentary bottle of Champagne per minimum three nights’ stay (based on penthouse suites and above).
Andara Resort and Villas, 15 Moo 6 Kamala Beach, Kathu, Phuket 83120,
www.andaraphuket.com
