Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket ★★★★★

Against the deep-green forest background, the roofs of Sino-Portuguese buildings of the Centara Grand Beach Resort shine out like terracotta red beacons. We chose the resort because it had something for everybody, the water park for the kids with its lazy river, waterslide pool and supervised kid’s club, then for us adults, the spa, stunning adults-only infinity pool, and the poolside bar. It also has a great oceanfront location on Koran Beach which stretches out a long three miles. Koran town centre is also known for being family friendly and if we wanted the thrill of a busy town centre, Patong was only a short shuttle bus ride away.

The Beachcomber Beach Club bar offers a great opportunity to sit back and relax and take in the sunset, glass of champagne in hand, while Luna Bar offers to take in the romantic red-sky sunset with a succulent cocktail in hand. At The Cove, the Thai and Asian fusion cuisine is mimicked in the design of the restaurant, with its pink rugs, low-hanging lanterns, and woven chairs (here is also where we enjoyed a buffet breakfast each morning). Meanwhile, the classy Mare Italian Restaurant exudes Italian chic, here, the authentic dishes of Chef Matteo Verini’s and the excellent wine list can be enjoyed indoors or on the terrace with a view of the beach, al fresco.

Our ocean-facing room was spacious, light and airy. The décor was refined, largely incorporating wood, and evoking the traditional Sino-Portuguese style. The large king-size bed faced the windows so we could lazily see the view from our bed, however, when it was time to sleep, the thick blinds did a great job to block out the early morning sunlight.

Naturally the adult’s favourite hangout (while the kids were occupied at the kids’ club), was the SPA Cenvaree. The spa combines traditional treatments with more modern and innovative selections, all using only the highest quality of products, and a soothing Thai massage is of course a must! The interior is illuminated by the warm glow of mood lighting, whilst fresh flowers bring a refreshing atmosphere, and all the elements work together to bring a relaxing and tranquil ambience.

Our two-week Thai sojourn was a holiday to remember, and if we get the chance, we wouldn’t hesitate to repeat the experience!