By Rama Gaind.
Whether it’s your first time in Phuket, or your fourth, one of Thailand’s busiest islands is sure to surprise with something new that can be easily uncovered.
This rainforested, mountainous island in the Andaman Sea has something to suit any taste and budget. There’s a myriad of sightseeing wonders to visit, hotels to choose from and a wide choice of dining options. The island is home to many high-end seaside resorts, spas and restaurants.
Nestled on the golden sands of Mai Khao Beach, SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort overlooks the Andaman Sea.
One of the southern provinces of Thailand, Phuket is the country’s largest island, with another 32 smaller islands off its coast. It is among the world’s finest beach destinations, mainly situated along the clear waters of the western shore. With swaying palm trees, fine white sands, glittering seas and active towns, Phuket is set apart with more than 30 amazing beaches to choose from including popular Patong Beach, Kata, Karon and Kamala.
You can take an exhilarating speedboat trip to the many nearby tropical paradises, including the famous Phi Phi Islands or enjoy a serene cruise around the mystical Phang Nga Bay.
You would be wrong to assume Phuket has no hidden gems. Escape the tourist illusion because you now have the opportunity to uncover ‘The Forgotten Phuket’ with authentic local excursions.
Forgotten Phuket
These are available at the SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort that’s inviting guests to step off the beaten track and uncover Phuket’s hidden gems with a new series of local guided tours.
Just 20 minutes’ drive from Phuket International Airport, SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort combines Sino-Portuguese architecture with luxury hotel facilities.
The luxury boutique resort’s ‘SALA Seekers’ tap into intimate local knowledge to showcase the wonders of Phuket’s northwest coast, away from the bustling tourist hotspots. These members of the resort’s in-house team are closely acquainted with the Mai Khao area.
SALA Phuket allows guests to experience a side of Phuket that is often hidden from view. Capitalising on this spectacular secluded setting, the resort has now launched ‘The Forgotten Phuket’, a unique activity program that allows guests to lift the lid on this popular resort island.
Guests are taken on in-depth tours of the local area, including visits to locations that are far removed from the traditional tourist trail. Designed to be authentic, these explorations will see the SALA Seekers exercising their native knowledge.
The chance is there to mingle with locals and discover life in remote communities. For example, tours could visit a nearby school that teaches the ancient southern Thai style of Manohra dancing or markets where Phuket villagers purchase their everyday goods.
If a more active excursion is the preference, there’s a kayaking trip through the mangrove forests under Sarasin Bridge, which connects Phuket with the Thai mainland or you can head out for a coastal walk, purchasing fresh coconuts from local vendors and stopping for a picnic under the towering pines of Phang Nga.
SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort is a chic five-star complex featuring a collection of pool villas, suites and luxurious facilities all overlooking the Andaman Sea.
Nestled on the secluded shores of Mai Khao Beach, this chic five-star resort features a collection of pool villas, suites and luxurious facilities. The 11km-long straight beach, a part of the Sirinat National Park, is still undeveloped. The sand of Mai Khao Beach – the name translates to ‘white wood’ – is possibly the coarsest of any on Phuket.
Make a connection
If you seek to bespoke experiences, rather than mass tourism attractions, then these tours will enable you to make a deeper connection with your destination. It also encourages visitors to purchase goods from local vendors, as these excursions directly benefit the local community in Mai Khao.
According to the general manager, SALA Phuket, Anthony Van Sleeuwen, Phuket now welcomes more than nine million international visitors every year.
“How many leave the island with a true understanding of its rich culture and heritage?”
“At SALA Phuket, we always try to introduce guests to the charm of the island. ‘The Forgotten Phuket’ program will allow our naturally curious visitors to look under the surface of this popular destination and gain a genuine insight into real life on Phuket,” Anthony said.
The 11km-long straight Mai Khao Beach is still undeveloped as it is part of the Sirinat National Park. SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort nestled on the golden sands of this beach overlooks the Andaman Sea.
Sitting snug on the golden sands of Mai Khao Beach overlooking the Andaman Sea and just 20 minutes’ drive from Phuket International Airport, this complex combines Sino-Portuguese architecture with lavish hotel facilities.
Indulge in the peaceful ambiance as you unwind in a choice of pool villas, savour stunning Thai cuisine at the beachfront restaurant or enjoy a soothing Thai massage.
A variety of sea, city, mountain and jungle activities are available. Tours can be arranged that cater to all needs from snorkelling and diving to mountain biking or elephant trekking, shopping and dining.
Alternatively, why not take advantage of a special travel deal? There’s plenty on offer including family getaway, book direct benefits and other packages that include suite escape, 7 nights getaway, 3 nights beach break, culinary club enhancement or a spa retreat. It’s just too good to be true.
DETAILS BOX
SALA Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort
E: [email protected]
