PERKS OF PHUKET

Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort & Spa

Sure, you could do what a female tourist was recently photographed doing and sunbathe in front of Phuket International Airport. Or you can tan in style and more at Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort & Spa.

The 224-room property offers seven types of accommodation from a 28sqm Standard Room for two, to a 33sqm Deluxe Family Room with bunk beds and kids welcome pack that can hold four people. But since we’re VIP and all that, we naturally opted for the 60sqm Plunge Pool Suite on our visit. It is beautifully designed with an outdoor plunge pool next to the bedroom for a dip under the sun (or moon).

For bigger dips, there are three swimming pools. Various activities including yoga, water volleyball, water walking ball and movie nights take place at the main swimming pool. The Oasis pool offers more seclusion and is reserved for guests who stay in Deluxe rooms and higher. The kiddie pool is equipped with a slide and is next to the Kids Club where little ones can be kept happily busy with free or paid activities.

Other facilities include the 24-hour In Balance Fitness room and Horizon Restaurant. Karon Beach is just across the street, or you can book a pre-arranged sightseeing tour at the front desk.

Of course, you can get a motorcycle like Jay Z and Beyonce recently did on their Phuket vacation and explore on your own. Phuket is home to the first Thai branch of Hooters restaurant, and the local market at Wat Karon is a good option for some local flavours (and to count many shades of sunburns).

Novotel Phuket Karon Beach Resort & Spa offers a romantic option in Feb. When you book a stay, you can add the “Valentine Suite Sensation” package for an extra B3,500. The perks include in-room breakfast, 60-minute pampering treatment at InBalance Spa, one Thai cooking class, one romantic dinner, two cocktails and one gourmet fruit platter. This is quite a deal considering the actual value of these offers totals over B7,000. The package is now available for booking.