Villa Amanzi Kamala

Found in the exclusive Cape Amarin estate, Amanzi Kamala is one of the most spectacular villas on the “Millionaires’ Mile” headland between Kamala and Patong beaches with superb sea and sunset views. Just a 10-minute drive north leads to Kamala Beach, a stretch of soft golden sand popular with families, with a growing beach club scene since the arrival of the chic HQ and Café Del Mar hotspots at its northern end.

Aside from casual beachside dining at one of the restaurants that line the sand, Kamala is the perfect spot for some surfing, body boarding, or simply relaxing on the sand. About seven kilometres to the south is Patong Beach, Phuket’s busiest resort town with plenty of water sports, shopping, dining and nightlife choices.

Guests can explore the delights of the Andaman Sea aboard a luxury yacht charter, and sail around Phang Nga Bay and its steep karst islands, with a stop at the floating village of Koh Panyee, or visit the nearby Similan, Raya or Phi Phi islands on a scuba diving or snorkelling day trip that can be easily arranged by the villa manager.

Just a forty-minute drive away from Villa Amanzi is Wat Chalong, the island’s largest Buddhist temple, and the Big Buddha, a 45-metre-high white marble statue set on a hilltop with spectacular 360-degree views over the beaches and lush landscapes of southern Phuket.

Guests can visit the stunning Bang Pae Waterfall and the nearby Gibbon Rehabilitation Project, a Phuket Elephant Sanctuary tour. There are also a number of vibrant and trendy beach clubs nearby; guests can watch the sun go down, cocktail in hand, surrounded by the pulsating energy of one of the island’s beach clubs, at HQ Beach Lounge or Café Del Mar on Kamala Beach, Kudo Beach Club on Patong Beach or Catch Beach Club at the south end of Bang Tao Beach, to name just a few.

Take a cultural tour of Phuket’s rich history and traditional life, learn more about the history behind the restored Sino-Portuguese shops and mansions and sample some of the island’s best local cuisine. There are countless temples and religious monuments to visit in Phuket; those that seek to immerse themselves in the Thai culture will not be disappointed.

Guests can also learn how to make fragrant and spicy Thai cuisine in a cookery class at the nearby Nahmyaa restaurant in Como Point Yamu resort, or try a class with the master of Thai fusion, Chef Tammasak “Noi” Chootong, who has opened a new branch of his celebrated Suay restaurant in nearby Cherng Talay.

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.