Villa Ibon

Perfectly placed within the Ansara Resort, guests staying at this villa have their own private space, but can easily access all the activities and amenities at the resort. The villa is just a few moments from a gorgeous white sand beach, and guests can take surfing lessons at Pakarang Beach - it's suitable for beginners.

You don't even have to leave the resort to get a famous Thai massage - visit the spa for an invigorating massage, designed to relax aching muscles and relieve stress. Guests can also enjoy spa therapies designed to purify the skin. The lagoon setting adds to the relaxed atmosphere.
There are four restaurants and bars on-site, each offering their own cuisine and experience.

Kinnaree restaurant serves international cuisine and buffets with exotic garden views and a chilled atmosphere. Napalai has fusion Thai food served all day by the pool, while the Zeus Beach Bar is perfect for alfresco barbecues and light snacks. You can also indulge in sunset cocktails on the sand. The Horizon bar provides wine and cocktails in a charming, rustic setting.

Guests can also utilise one of two on-site gyms, which have an impressive range of state of the art equipment including an elliptical, exercise bikes and treadmills. There are also many free weights. Check out the resort's Beauty and the Beast style library of dreams, where you can read books and magazines in peace - perfect for those who have forgotten their reading material. Additionally, there are multiple swimming pools around the resort for guests to enjoy.

The beaches of Khao Lak are truly idyllic and unlike its island counterparts, much less crowded with a mixed crowd of locals and tourists. Khuk Khak beach has picture-perfect white sand and glittering turquoise sea. Soak up the gorgeous views with palm trees swaying in the gentle tropical breeze. There is also a daily local market here, perfect for picking up some exotic fruit and snacks for the beach.

Another option nearby is Bang Niang beach, which has fantastic swimming and snorkelling because of the crystal clear water - see if you can spot some colourful fish and coral. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to Nang Thong, or enjoy a spectacular sunset at one of the lively beach bars.

Khao Lak has a museum dedicated to the people who lost their lives in the Boxing Day tsunami of 2004. This small museum displays stories and photographs, as well as a local police boat. Khao Lak was one of the areas hit hardest by the tsunami and tourism here helps to support local people and their livelihoods.

Khao Lak is the perfect jumping-off point to visit the nearby Surin or Similan islands, both of which offer some of the most impressive scuba diving in the world. On the Surin islands, you might spot wild dolphins, sea turtles or even reef sharks. As well as scuba diving, the area is famous for great snorkelling. Boat trips to these islands are easy to arrange at the resort.

Read more about Phuket

Phuket

Nestled in the Andaman Sea, Phuket, Thailand's largest island, is a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and modern indulgence. This tropical haven has evolved from a quaint fishing village to a global tourist hotspot, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities for all.

The bustling heart of Phuket, Patong Beach, is a vibrant stretch of golden sand lined by a kaleidoscope of shops, restaurants and lively nightlife. Visitors can indulge in water sports, savour delicious local street food or immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. The historical quarter of Phuket Town transports visitors back in time with its colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Quaint cafes, art galleries and colourful, buzzing markets create a charming atmosphere, making it a perfect place to explore on foot. A colossal cultural theme park, Phuket FantaSea showcases the island's rich heritage through theatrical performances, traditional dance and a grand buffet. The ornate architecture of the park itself is a spectacle, evoking the charm of Thai folklore. As you wander through the streets of Old Phuket Town, you will encounter elegant, beautifully restored Sino-Portuguese mansions which reflect the island's historical ties with Chinese and European traders.

Standing at 45 metres tall, the iconic Big Buddha is a symbol of Phuket's spirituality. Set on the top of Nakkerd Hill, the statue offers panoramic views of the island and the Andaman Sea. The site also features a learning centre about Buddhism and meditation. As one of Phuket's most revered temples, Wat Chalong is a testament to the island's cultural heritage. The intricate architecture and serene surroundings provide a peaceful escape and visitors can participate in traditional ceremonies. A marvel of Chinese-Thai architecture, the Jui Tui Shrine is a significant Taoist temple in Phuket Town. Its vibrant colours, intricate carvings and the aroma of incense create a captivating atmosphere, especially during annual festivals.

Phuket's underwater world is a mesmerising realm of vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. Popular diving spots such as Shark Point and the Similan Islands attract divers from around the globe. A short boat ride away, the Phi Phi Islands boast crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and stunning limestone cliffs. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach," is a must-visit, as are the snorkeling spots teeming with colourful marine life. Phuket serves as a gateway to various neighbouring islands. You can join an island-hopping tour to explore the diverse landscapes, from the lush greenery of James Bond Island to the pristine beaches of Koh Phi Phi. A short ferry ride away, Krabi boasts stunning limestone cliffs, clear waters and beautiful islands. Railay Beach and the Emerald Pool are popular attractions in this province. Known for its dramatic limestone karsts and the famous James Bond Island, Phang Nga Town offers a tranquil escape from the bustling Phuket.

Visitors also enjoy exploring ethical elephant sanctuaries, where they can interact with these majestic creatures in a responsible and sustainable environment and embracing the flavours of Thai cuisine by joining a cooking class and learning to whip up classic dishes like Pad Thai and Tom Yum Goong. Perfect for a family day out, Splash Jungle Water Park offers thrilling slides, lazy rivers and a dedicated kid's zone, ensuring a day of fun and excitement for all ages. Located in Cape Panwa, the Phuket Aquarium showcases the diverse marine life of the Andaman Sea.

Phuket is a multifaceted destination that caters to the diverse interests of every traveller. From the vibrant beaches to cultural landmarks and family-friendly activities, the island seamlessly combines tradition with modernity, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit.