Villa M Phuket

The crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea and the powder-soft sands of Nai Thon Beach are in full view from every villa and residence in The Malaiwana Estate. Just a short walk or downhill drive away from the estate, this pristine one-kilometre-long beach on Phuket’s peaceful northwest coast is perfect for sunning, swimming, snorkelling, stand-up paddling and sandcastle building.

A tranquil village atmosphere prevails in this unspoiled corner of the island and the beach road is lined with low-key shops and cafés.  Along the coast, numerous hidden coves and beaches are waiting to be discovered. The Malaiwana Estate is an easy and convenient 20-minute drive from Phuket International Airport.

Just up the road, the Trisara Resort offers fabulous dining, and other chic nearby venues include Dream Beach Club at Layan Beach and the beachfront restaurants at Bang Tao, eight kilometres to the south. Guests can explore the Andaman Sea aboard a luxury yacht charter, or on a scuba diving or snorkelling excursion.

The beautiful Nai Thon Beach is directly accessible from the villas, and the Raya Islands, Similan Islands, Koh Phi Phi and more are all within an easy day’s sail. Guests can hop on a stand-up paddleboard at Nai Thon Beach and explore the coves and beaches of Phuket’s rugged northern coastline, then make a stop at the tiny Banana Beach for a refreshing drink and snorkel session.

Local jungle excursions can also be arranged, where guests can discover Phuket’s lush interior on a jungle trek to the waterfalls at Khao Phra Thaeo National Park just a 20-minute drive away.  At the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, which is in the same area, visitors can observe elephants rescued from the tourist trade. Phuket itself has a brilliant beach club scene: decadent brunches, DJ dance parties and romantic sunset dinners are all within a short distance of The Malaiwana Duplex.

About a one hour drive from the Malaiwana estate is the incredible natural hot springs of Phang Nga; the Hotspring Beach Resort and Spa is happy to accommodate day-trippers who are looking to relax on the spacious property. There are two hot pools as well as two cold pools, and an on-site restaurant to grab a bite to eat and refreshments before dipping into the pools once again.

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.