Sunny Side Up

Whether it’s a day spent basking in a beach cabana or serviced in a lavish penthouse – or both – TWINPALMS PHUKET offers an inspiring lifestyle of leisure and luxury for the indulgent traveller, reena hallberg discovers

Aquick flight from Bangkok and comfortable car ride later, I am standing in the expanse of Twinpalms Phuket’s airy lobby. The high, thatched-roof sala surrounded by tropical greenery and calming water bodies feels familiar and welcoming. A seamless check-in later, my friendly hostess, Yah, leeds me to my accommodation. We walk through the beautifully landscaped resort, passing by the main palm-fringed swimming pool and rows of garden suites with outdoor terraces. The lush foliage against blue skies, bright sun and the sounds of crashing waves in the distance creates a serene environment. I am pleased to find that these tropical elements continue into my 230-square-metre penthouse. The open expanse is flushed with natural sunlight that makes its way through two-storey, floor-to-ceiling windows, while the palm trees outside cocoon me in natural elements. The décor is a sophisticated mélange of ochre furnishing with the occasional pop of colour visible in abstract artworks and bed throws. The organic architecture and elegant design features harmoniously blend into its natural surroundings. The luxurious penthouse is sprawled across three levels. The ground floor comprises a living room with a dining area equipped with large kitchen counter, Cuban cigar humidor and a well-stocked wine cellar, perfect for in-room dining, as well as a separate bathroom and shower area. The sleeping quarters occupies the entire floor above. A plush kingsized bed, with ample closet space on either side, and a home entertainment system takes over the bedroom, while a master bathroom with twin vanities, a deep-soak stone bathtub and bathroom with rain shower, occupies the other end. The top floor features a spacious sun deck that spills into an infinity pool. Being at the highest point of the hotel means utmost discretion and unrivalled vistas of the rolling hills nearby. Aside from the resort’s thoughtful guest services, Yah, my residential host or butler, makes sure to go above and beyond to give me a memorable, personalised experience. From placing my favourite flowers around the penthouse to leaving handwritten notes and chocolate treats, as well as providing insider information to all the happenings at the resort’s many dining outlets and beach club hotspots. Over the course of my three-day stay, I rarely come across Yah or other staff lounging about the place. Yet my bed was always turned down come nightfall, amenities replenished and fridge well-stocked. Life on the Millionaire Mile is a far cry from the neon lights of Patong and over-populated beaches of downtown Phuket. Here, exclusivity reigns. For those blissfully unaware, Phuket’s Millionaire Mile stretch is known for its high-end luxury haunts, access to picturesque beaches, a plethora of upscale dining and bars, as well as marine activities galore. Phuket-regulars may be familiar with Catch Beach Club (CBC) on Bang Tao Beach, undisputedly the island’s most trendy hotspot. But not many know that CBC is an extension of the Twinpalms brand. This is the place to be and be seen, rub shoulders with the crème of Phuket’s society and the occasional celebrity sightings. During the day it is the perfect venue for me to waft around in my kaftan, lounge about the beach, and escape the heat in full-serviced cabanas and infinity pool. Come dusk, the place lives up to its reputation as one the island’s leading nightclubs with an Ibiza-esque vibe, renowned international DJS at the deck, live music acts and themed parties. Having already explored Phuket’s historic old town on my previous visits, I decide to spend my last day sailing. At Ao Por Marina, a short drive from the resort, we board Lady Kathryn, a luxurious three-deck yacht from Andaman Cruises – another exciting activity offered by the resort. With mimosas in hand we sail towards the majestic Phang Nga Bay, basking in the warm rays of the sun on the yacht’s stylish upper deck and being pampered silly by a professional team who made sure our glasses were never empty. Voyaging through the archipelago and enjoying the captivating landscape serves as a reminder of all the reasons that have made southern Thailand the magical place it is.