Amatara Wellness Resort ★★★★★

Thailand evokes images of white-sand beaches, gently lapping waves, luscious green forests, and delicious street food. Essentially, it’s the epitome of paradise. But it’s also a very popular paradise, and with popularity comes crowds and noise. Luckily, there are still a few hotspots in Thailand that haven’t been taken over by tourists. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Phuket island lies Cape Panwa, one of Phuket’s brightest gems and the home of the five-star Amatara Wellness Resort hotel. Here, the combination of warm, rich colours, and stark, sleek lines offer a contrast between contemporary luxury and traditional Thai details. This design extends to the rooms, which boast hardwood floors, crisp white cotton sheets, and a generous terrace decked out with sunbeds that overlook the shimmering Andaman Sea.

Everything here points towards paradise, from the infinity pool to the warm sea of the shores of the private beach, located just moments from the hotel. Between the expansive spa facilities, the tennis courts, the beckoning sun loungers on the beach, and the tranquil pool, all you need is at your fingertips. Aside from sheer beauty, the cultural side of Thailand, with its towering temples and fascinating history, is also accessible from Phuket. The hardest decisions you will have to make here is whether to bask by the sea or the pool, and which dish to order in the in-house restaurant (with a menu as diverse and delicious as theirs, this really is no mean feat).

Thailand isn’t just a brochure of sprawling sands, cobalt blue waters, and palm-fringed shores; it also has a fascinating backstory and a vibrant, lively culture, best experienced from your own piece of paradise at the Amatara Wellness Resort.