I am looking to take my gf, who has been so stressed at work, to a beautiful, relaxing, and memorable place for 4-5 days this coming week. I was thinking of taking her to Phuket, but am open to suggestions. I have been on the net looking at different places and have seen some really nice places. Here are some of the best:

1. The Racha - Koh Racha Yai www.theracha.com

It looks like a very beautiful and peaceful place. I love the decor and the beach looks great. The price is a little hig and I am wondering what options, if any there may be for outside restaurants, etc at this resort. Its about 5,500 B a night, which is a little more than I wanted to spend, but may be worth it for the relaxing atmosphere.

2. The Mangosteen Resort, Phuket www.mangosteen-phuket.com

Very nice villas, some with their own Jacuzzi. It looks like the resort over looks Nai Harn beach, but is way up on a cliff about 5 minutes drive to the beach. The price is about the same, at 5,000 Baht per night.

3. Movenpick, Phuket

When I was in Dubai, I really enjoyed the Movenpick and was happy to see they had opened one in Phuket. The resort is not as boutique and romantic as the others, but I think the standard would be there as well. The price is better at about 3,500 B a night.

4. Khao Lak Merlin Resort, Khao Lak www.merlinphuket.com/khaolak

I've never been to Khao Lak. The resort looks great and the sand and sea as well. Its about an hours drive from Phuket as I can see, so not that bad. If you take a package from the resort, they offer free transfer each way. The rate at this place is even better at about 2,500 B per night. I don't know if this is becuase of the location or some other reason, but maybe someone here does.

So far, these are the places that have interested me. I am really looking for something special, and I know that sometimes these places are not on the net (asiarooms.com, etc). IF someone has stayed at or knows of a great place to relax and recharge the batteries, please let me know. Could be in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, Khao Lak, etc...

Thanks much.

Out of the 3 probably the Racha. Think Movenpick is a rebranded hotel. Have a look at www.tripadvisor.com for reviews on hotels. Twin Palms at Surin may be of interest or Banyan Tree at Laguna.

Go for option 2 - The Mangosteen.

In a very peaceful location with Nai Harn beach a 3 minute drive away, Karon and Kata beaches just 15…. but if you’re in the mood you can be in the bright lights of Patong within 25 minute for a wild night out.

Enjoy

geoffphuket

here's a list of some more:

http://www.phuket.com/hotel/villas.htm