Far away from the chaos of Phuket’s infamous streets lies Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach.
By Krishna Mawani
The melodious sounds of the red-whiskered bulbuls resonate throughout the beautiful Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach. These magnificent birds fly above the calming waves of the Andaman Sea, towards the resort’s towering trees and lush hills. This property has become a newfound sanctuary for these tropical creatures – a place of seclusion within reach.
A mere 10-minute drive away from Phuket International Airport is this newly opened paradise. As you walk through the spacious lobby, you will feel a surge of serenity. Sloped salas form the architecture exuding an Oriental feel throughout, bamboo and dark wooden furniture are placed aesthetically around the area. The same whiskered bulbuls are permanently stationed here in wooden forms atop a small pool of water. Cross this and you will find yourself staring into the expansive azure skies and blue Andaman Sea. The interiors of the resort reflect the lush nature and environment that surrounds the entire property; enveloping each visitor into an unknown sensation.
The experience is enhanced, as the front desk staff seats me and my travel companion to nearby chairs. She sits on the floor in a typical Thai style position, as we are offered a refreshing welcome drink and a woven bracelet with a motif of the red-whiskered bulbul. The bracelet is bought from the local island community in an effort to support them. We are given information about our rooms, hotel activities and tidal timings after which everything is settled within a matter of minutes.
Despite the fact that I currently reside in the Land of Smiles, I was left impressed with the resort’s incredible service as one of the staff shows us the way to our Beachfront One Bedroom Pool Villa.
While I pass through lush surroundings, I couldn’t help but notice the meandering loop pool that extends from the first building to the last, connecting the resort in a beautifully tranquil manner. The family-friendly pool also has a kid’s area, where families can splash and play without worry. Shortly after, I arrive at my destination – Villa 9 stated bold and clear. I am excited to see what lies beyond the textured door, and once inside, it was nothing like I could have ever imagined.
A spacious 200-square metre room with Thai-style interiors awaits me. The space has a separate living room and bedroom. As I walk through, the king-sized bed tempts me to jump in right away, while a 40-inch LCD TV with English,
Hindi and Thai channels seem like a relaxing option as well. The bathroom is almost twice the size of a typical hotel bathroom, with a separate Jacuzzi bathtub and shower. The amenities are no doubt up to par, fitting the standards of a Marriott property. However, the best part is yet to be seen – a private outdoor sala, which gives me a direct and secluded view of the white sandy beaches and sapphire seas. An intimate pool lies in the backyard, and I can’t wait to take the plunge once the skies turn darker and the stars shine brighter.
Upon dusk, I head towards one of the resort’s restaurants, Big Fish for dinner. This establishment is perched upon the beachfront, with an array of signature grill and seafood dishes, bought fresh from the local fishermen. With indoor and outdoor seating options, both picks offer stunning panoramic views of the ocean. Choosing to sit outdoor, the ambience is relaxing as the waiters make light conversation and ask us about our food preferences. The menu also consists of a number of vegetarian options, in addition to the premium seafood variety. A walk of less than 50 metres brings me to the Big Fish bar, where a delicious cocktail awaits. An especially wonderful time to indulge in these fruity concoctions is during sunset, when the views are spectacular.
The resort has two more restaurants, namely The Andaman Kitchen and The Lounge. The former is an all-day dining establishment that serves breakfast, as well as Thai and international cuisines. The vegetarian Tom yum soup is highly recommended. Meanwhile, the latter has a more relaxed vibe, with delicious drinks and snack offerings.
The following day is one of relaxation, as I dive into an oasis of spiritual bliss. The resort’s Quan Spa – Quan, a Chinese word that means “source of water” – draws onto the restorative properties of water to pamper its guests with treatments that soothe and rejuvenate their body and mind. Also available are manicures, pedicures, waxing as well as kids’ services. Kids can enjoy at the Kids’ Club, located by the poolside across the beach, with many fun and exciting activities available, such as clay model painting, necklace making, canvas painting and paper origami. Adults too have several activities lined up for them. After a quick session in the well-equipped fitness centre, I opt for a class of beach bag batik painting, as well as a session of beach soccer. A range of other activities include sunrise beach yoga, super stretching and introduction to Thai boxing. All of them, for both adults and kids, are scheduled according to a particular day and time, making it easy for guests to plan their day.
As the sun paints the sky in crimson hues, I lie down on the swinging hammock in front of the beach and ponder upon my stress-free weekend of pure tranquility and calm. I certainly didn’t want to leave this vacation spot, where I indulged in scrumptious food and enjoyed moments of pure bliss and relaxation.
Plan Your Dream Wedding
The resort has a number of meeting rooms and a ballroom available, with the capacity to host up to 100 guests whether for exclusive meetings, social events or weddings. For large events and weddings, the resort’s multiple restaurants can be transformed into event spaces as well. The beautiful Andaman Lawn and Andaman Kitchen Sala can accommodate up to 370 persons, and these spacious areas provide tropical outdoor sophistication. As the only hotel on this particular stretch of sand on Nai Yang Beach, the property can host up to 500 people making it the perfect location for a private party. The resort’s capable hands add extra sparkle to your wedding by arranging acrobatic fire juggling performances and night-time firework displays, among others. This comes as to no surprise, as the entire retreat is perfect for a private and special occasion.
Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa, Nai Yang Beach
92, 92/1 Moo 3, Tambol Sakoo, Amphur Talang,
Phuket 83110, Thailand
www.phuketmarriottnaiyang.com
