Amanpuri Resort Phuket, Thailand – Review

Amanpuri Phuket is an iconic part of the history of 5 star resorts on this beautiful holiday island in the Andaman Sea. For 24 years it has set the standard of unbridled luxury to which other resorts have aspired. It is a beautifully sculptured masterpiece of Thai architecture that synthesises a wonderful location next to the pristine Pansea Beach, top class modern facilities and first class friendly service, making it a perfect holiday location.

Aman resorts throughout the world have a unique footprint and raison d’ǟ¶¦tre based upon the desire to provide a peaceful environment for their guests whilst minimising any detrimental effects upon the local environment. Indeed the word ‘Amanpuri’ in the Sanskrit language means `place of peace`. In typical Aman fashion, the entrance to the resort is understated so nothing prepares you for the breathtaking beauty of Amanpuri that you experience as you drive in. The whole place is absolutely magnificent, based around traditional Thai buildings neatly sculptured into the hillside location. The mature flora and fauna and the way it complements the facility is a lesson in how nature and manmade construction can live in synchronised harmony creating a perfect synergy and a beautifully exciting backdrop.

Following a warm welcome at the reception area we were driven in one of the fleet of open sided cars to our stunning pavilion where efficient check-in procedures were completed in our own sala set on the raised sundeck terrace. As we were shown into the pavilion we were overawed by the quality and timeless elegance that greeted us. Each pavilion is a uniquely designed masterpiece of comfort and style combining traditional Thai design with ultra modern facilities. There is a huge and very comfortable bed flanked by original Thai artefacts, a large desk, sitting area and mini-bar. Adjacent to this is a dressing area, very well equipped with his and her wardrobes and vanity units. In the centre of this was a very large and impressive arrangement of freshly cut orchids. What a lovely welcome that was! The bathroom area deserves a special mention with its sunken bath and top quality luxury toiletries. The powerful rain shower surrounded by elegant black tiles was probably the best we have ever experienced. The accommodation featured everything we could possibly wish for including many extra little touches. Wifi was free and available extensively throughout the site. In keeping with the desire to provide the utmost tranquillity for all its guests, a TV is not provided as standard. However, those wishing to watch TV can request one to be installed in their pavilion. Outside we could relax on the comfortable day beds or sit at the sala enjoying a quiet drink and breathing in the beauty around us. Being on the 7th level we had the most spectacular views of the ocean and felt as if we were right amidst the canopy of abundant and lush tropical vegetation.

We also had the opportunity to visit one of Amanpuri`s breathtakingly luxurious villas set high above the beautiful landscape. These private villa homes have from two to six separate bedrooms and enjoy the sort of luxurious Thai furnishings art and antiques reserved for the most opulent and splendid hotel accommodation in the world. There is a large private pool, separate living and dining salas and each villa has its own chef and housekeeper. This makes it an ideal venue for large family gatherings, business events and weddings. We could not think of a more romantic place to get married or to spend a honeymoon.

The Resort boasts exceptional cuisine from all around the world. All day dining is available at the stunning poolside restaurant called `The Terrace` which, in the evenings, specialises in Thai food. Here we enjoyed a delicious Thai meal featuring the very best locally sourced fresh ingredients and top quality imported goods. Our culinary journey started with `Tom Kha Gai, Poo Re Talay` (a seafood soup with coconut and herbs) for me and `Yaam Makhua Yao` (chargrilled eggplant salad with shrimp, soft poached egg, shallot, coriander and nam yam vinaigrette) for my wife. As an extra delicacy we were unable to resist the hot plate of freshly caught tiger prawns barbequed to perfection and accompanied by the most delicious dipping sauces. It was hard to choose a main course from this very extensive menu but after much deliberation I opted for `Gaeng Kaeh`; a perfectly spiced curry of succulent lamb tenderloin in yogurt, apricot and cardamom gravy. My wife enjoyed a very large serving of `Guay Tiow Paad Thai Talay` (stir-fried noodles with seafood, egg and dried shrimp). The service we received was exceptional and the food outstanding due to the obvious presence of the Food and Beverage Manager and the passion and enthusiasm of the Executive Chef, Stefano Artosin. In addition to this restaurant, Italian cuisine is served in the stylish `The Restaurant` overlooking the ocean and a variety of excellent food is available in the many bars and terrace venues in the beach area.

For the more active of guests there is a state of the art gymnasium, tennis courts, pilates, yoga and meditation studios, windsurfing, snorkelling, kayaking and the opportunity to extend your adventure aboard one of Amanpuri`s own fleet of cruising and sailing crafts. If your tastes are more sedentary there is a large, well stocked library, computer area and the tranquil Aman Spa offering the best in holistic therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate body, mind and soul.

Saturated in culture, history and innate charm Amanpuri is a place of tremendous beauty and tranquillity. It has long had an enviable reputation as being at the cutting edge of the very best in holiday accommodation. This well earned respect is deserved, as despite the long history of excellence in this esoteric resort, it still strives, through innovation and attention to detail, to stay at the forefront of outstanding holiday destinations.