Aleenta Phuket Resort & Spa
"Phuket’s beaches are notoriously overcrowded so a sister and brother team of locals in the know headed to the nearly deserted Natai Beach in Phang nga, one half hour drive north of Phuket International Airport to create Aleenta Resort. Their first property, on the beach outside Bangkok, was a hit with well known sun seekers like the Beckhams and this architecturally eye-catching contemporary resort promises even more pleasures. White washed standard suites are on the sand, epitomizing Aleenta’s ‘outdoor living-in’ philosophy, with floor to ceiling retractable windows that open onto private infinity pools plus tropical gardens, outdoor showers and whirlpool baths. Set back behind lemongrass stalks and lotus ponds, four duplex loft suites with soaring double height ceilings bring an urban chic to this uninterrupted 2.5 miles stretch of beach. 15 private villas have long since been sold to savvy investors; five are outfitted as spa residences for hotel guests who want to sleep, exercise and pampering to take place without leaving their private space. Pilates and yoga are the domain of an Indian yogi who rises with the sun to lead guests through downward dogs, extensive stretches or simply contemplative meditations in the sand. The waterfront four room spa incorporates the soothing waves to heal along with strong Thai massage. Worth leaving the beach for are nearby excursions like jungle safaris into the rain forest and a bevy of diving options as well as visits to the leatherback turtle rescue initiative sponsored by the hotel. Come back in time for exquisite dinners from the French chef who expertly turns out western dishes while adding a toque worthy touch to indigenous classics like pad thai. Making a barbeque grill from hollowed coconut trunk, he’s perfected the beachfront picnic by the seashore."
