In search of much-needed downtime in Phuket, I sought refuge in a little 'suite' and civilised luxury, and kept a respectful tad of distance from the craziness that is Patong - a view from afar...
The Amari Phuket, formerly Amari Coral Beach Resort, just south of Patong, secluded on its own picturesque headland, overlooking the entire bay, is not the aging lady one would expect of her years.
It’s been years since I was last there, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from the new wing, before I arrived. Amari is a reputable name in the Thai hospitality industry, and their hotels in the South of Thailand are particularly well loved and continually made over. This one was no exception!
Under the expert hand of hospitality veteran (left), Vice-President and Area General Manager, Pierre-Andre Pelletier (Onyx Hospitality), renowned for his smiling, effortless and tireless devotion to his guests and his profession, the new Ocean Wing was a welcome surprise.
Nestled up in the hillside, with an amazing sea and bay view, I found myself in one of the executive club suites. Now, if you can avail yourself of such luxury, you certainly should – at least for a night or two.
The one-bedroom suite, by no means the largest I’ve stayed in, is a good size, with separate bedroom, bathroom, and an open room, serving as the living/dining/kitchen area. It comes complete with everything you need to make use of said kitchen too. This means you’re not forced to eat out every night, should you fancy a quite night in, for some romance or alone time.
The double balcony has both seating and lounging areas – really, there’s no need to leave this little cocoon… Except for the fact that you’d be missing out on The Clubhouse privileges that come with it.
I was a very short walk (two buildings away) from The Clubhouse, and although I was advised to call for the golf buggy to ferry me around wherever I need to go, it was highly unnecessary for me, until checkout.
A quick stroll and I had access to a private infinity pool, with an equally impressive view. Staff were on hand to continuously supply water and occasional snacks. There was no worry of dehydration – the staff were discreet but attentive, and yes, they serve cocktails too!
The Clubhouse also has a well-equipped fitness room – operation hours were limited to 8:00pm, but the resort’s main fitness centre in the other wing is open later.
The club lounge serves breakfast and early evening cocktails and canapés, as well as tea, coffee and snacks all day long, included in the ‘executive’ style stay. From there, you can work, chill or also order full meals, throughout the day – a little luxury goes a long way here, when you prefer the respite a privileged stay offers.
After having had a very hectic week of mad activities and constantly being on the go, Amari Phuket’s Ocean Wing gave me exactly what I needed. Peace and quiet, no nonsense, and a space to unwind, but be spectacularly productive with my work - not to mention the extremely thoughtful, personal touches that made me feel so welcome back: a handwritten note from the GM, and edible welcome gifts that took into account my dietary requirements, of which all the staff at The Clubhouse were aware too! I was quite blown away. No doubt, I’ll be back there again, as soon as time permits!
If you do wish to get out and about, yet not be in the thick of the Patong madness constantly, Amari Phuket makes for an idyllic location – close enough, with a scheduled hotel shuttle, but not near enough to feel overwhelmed by it all.
A closing tip, I’d suggest anyone visiting Phuket download the ‘Grab’ app (similar to Uber or Lyft, but with the option to pay cash and get motorbike taxis too!), as a way to get around, if you aren’t wanting to tempt fate with a motorbike hire or self-drive experience – Phuket’s traffic and road rules are somewhat special! Do be careful on foot too there, as crossing roads can be an adventure.
*Certain images are courtesy of amari.com*