South Africans searching for a destination where they can enjoy a luxurious, indulgent getaway should look no further than Thailand.
“Thailand is a luxury travel destination with pristine accommodation options, many of which have won awards for their comprehensive service offerings,” says Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Sadudee Sangnil. “These resorts cater to all of the needs and whims of the contemporary traveller. Our pristine selection of resorts are particularly popular amongst South Africans who want to soak up the majesty of foreign shores. We’re ready to welcome them all to experience the New Chapters of Amazing Thailand.”
The notion of luxury often has a variety of meanings for different people. Some travellers value the wellness offering of a resort or its expansive beach-scape views. Others choose a resort based on its gastronomic offering or the elegance of its accommodation. These 10 beach resorts are rated as the most luxurious getaways in Thailand, and have been carefully selected cater for a range of different tastes and preferences.
Treehouses in the tropics | Six Senses Yao Noi | Phang Nga Bay
The Six Sense Yao Noi resort is situated in Phang Nga Bay, a region characterised by towering limestone and rock formations surrounding the crystalline waters that have become synonymous with Thailand. The resort features 56 elevated villas, each with its own pool. Onsite, there are four diverse and delicious dining experiences, a watersports centre, a spa and a fully-equipped fitness facility. Outdoor movies are projected onto a big screen for evening entertainment and during the day, a host of activities are catered for and facilitated by your very own GEM (Guest Experience Maker).
Click here to visit Six Sense Yao Noi
Escape into the rainforest | Soneva Kiri | Trat Province
If luxury is defined by rarity, then today’s greatest luxuries are peace, time, and space. Soneva Kiri provides for all of these and more. With its “no news, no shoes” philosophy, the resort’s facilities allow guests to take advantage of a welcome escape from everyday urban stresses, and indulge in what the island has to offer. One of the resort’s trademark experiences is Treepod Dining. Guests are lifted into the tropical foliage in a pod-like structure designed to accommodate a luxurious dining experience that’s best enjoyed under the stars.
Click here to visit Soneva Kiri
Welcome to Wonderland | Keemala | Phuket
“Quality of life,” is the vision that Keemala sets before every guest that crosses its threshold, and every experience at this resort is designed to bring that vision to life. The resort’s various accommodation facilities are built around an inspirational story of the four clans of the region, each with its own trademark architectural style and design philosophy. Clay Pool Cottages reflect the organic beauty of the earth clan, Tent Pool Villas are inspired by the nomadic lifestyle, Tree Pool Houses embrace the beauty of the clear blue sky and Bird’s Nest Pool Villas are inspired by uncompromising opulence.
Where land meets sea | Trisara | Phuket
Fondly referred to as the “garden in the third heaven,” Trisara is located in a secluded cove, nestled in the tropical hills of northwestern Phuket. There is so much to see and do in this impressive region, which caters to everyone from fitness fanatics who want to incorporate exercise into their vacation, and guests who need to unwind at the spa, to connoisseurs who want to experience the local cuisine. Trisara also offers private cruises within the resort’s private beach area and to neighbouring islands.
The newest sanctuary in the Banyan Tree group | Banyan Tree Krabi | Krabi
Guests are spoiled for choice at 72 luxurious suites and villas, each with their own private pool, which have earned this resort the nickname, “sanctuary for the senses.” The Banyan Tree Krabi is more than a resort – it’s a retreat that is fully equipped with a world-class spa, a selection of restaurants, a beach bar and captivating vistas overlooking land and sea. At the spa, guests can experience theRainforest Hydrotherapy facility, which offers holistic treatments designed to heal and soothe. For corporate or working travellers, the resort provides ample room for privacy as well as a pre-function and meeting room space.
Click here to visit Banyan Tree Krabi
A nature-lover’s dream | Sri Panwa | Phuket
Perched atop Cape Panwa and commanding breathtaking views of the southeastern tip of Phuket, Sri Panwa is perfectly integrated with the surrounding jungle, giving guests an unparalleled experience of contemporary luxury infused with nature’s own finery. Sri Panwa is built for privacy as well as socializing and entertainment. For those guests who enjoy playing host, all the villas and surrounding common areas are equipped with world-class surround sound entertainment systems and iPods preloaded with music to suit any preference.
In the lap of luxury | Phulay Bay – a Ritz-Carlton Reserve | Krabi
Traditional culture meets contemporary comfort at Phulay Bay – a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, Thailand. Guests can toast the sunset as they enjoy exceptional culinary offerings including Mediterranean-inspired dishes, signature Thai cuisine, and other casual dining options. A personalised butler service is available for all accommodation options, which include luxury villas and private pavilions. Villas have their own private pools and personal gardens, providing guests with an escape into solitude and bliss. An onsite spa offers a comprehensive list of wellness and lifestyle treatments, as well as amenities which include a yoga and wellness studio, a heated vitality pool with water massage jets, and private treatment and relaxation rooms.
Click here to visit Phulay Bay
Designed for perfect family vacations | V Villas | Phuket
Guests who visit V Villas Phuket will enjoy a 24-hour butler service as well as access to an exquisite rooftop bar with panoramic views of the secluded Ao Yon Bay. These villas present the perfect opportunity for a family getaway, with entertainment services for children as well as a range of beach and water sports included in your stay. The intimate design of these villas lends itself to an experience that is exclusive and tailored to the preferences of each guest. No stay will be the same.
Click here to visit V Villas Phuket
For the eco-traveller | Rayavadee | Krabi
Bordering the Krabi Marine National Park, in the heart of the Phranang Peninsula, Rayavadee was built over two decades ago, in a way that allows guests to live in harmony with the unique environment. The three pillars that have come to characterise this resort’s philosophy, are “responsibility, sustainability and community,” and all the facilities are geared towards providing guests with a full and wholesome experience of these ideals. Rayavadee actively supports a number of charitable causes, including Pan Kan, Food4Good and the Yuvabhadhana children’s scholarship fund.
Awarded-winning and ready for adventure | The Shore at Katathani | Phuket
Your journey begins at a secluded cove in Phuket, overlooking a sparkling, emerald sea at Kata Noi Beach, which locals have referred to as the most beautiful beach on the island. The Shore at Katathani is a pool villa sanctuary with five-star sophistication. On-site, you’ll find six restaurants, five bars, swimming pools, tennis courts, a games room and a luxurious spa. Romance is the only item on the menu at The Shore – Phuket’s most illustrious adults-only resort. The Shore is the recipient of a bevy of awards including the 2020 and 2021 TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice awards, as well as the 2019 Agoda Green Reward, received for the resort’s progressive policies and strategies towards offsetting its carbon footprint.
