The children of South Africa’s Mpumalanga Region are a truly resiliant and inspiring bunch. Following a trip to the area in November of 2011 I had the privilage of visiting a Pride ‘n Purpose Virgin Unite Project at a village just outside the luxurious surroundings of Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Game Reserve in Sabi Sands to help them paint a creche for the local children.

Pride ‘n Purpose is a non-profit development fund committed to the upliftment of disadvantaged communities living in and adjacent to the Sands. The charity has been set up by members of the Ulusaba family, you can follow their amazing work on facebook.

Dumphries Village is assisted by a variety of projects funded & managed by Pride ‘n Purpose Virgin Unite, these include a fresh water project, a literacy centre & the provision of creche facilites for the local pre-school children.

The purpose of the visit that day was to take donations of toys and clothes to a local school and then get involved with the decoration of a newly constructed creche. Many of the children in the village were orphans, their parents having been victims of HIV/AIDs that is still rife in the rural areas of the country.

The Akani creche had been funded by American actor and celebrity Christian Slater who is a regular visitor to Ulusaba. The shell of the building was complete & upon arrival we were greeted by the children who were to be it’s new attendees. They ranged in age from 6 months to 5 years and as our mini bus drew closer many eagerly ran towards us waving and laughing. Although a wonderful welcome it was heartbreaking to see the condition they were in; clothes torn, dirty and ill-fitting, many with no shoes.

After lots of “Hellos”, hugs & high fives, the children gathered together & sang us a selection of local songs. At the end of this wonderful chorus one amazing little two year old girl came forward, she was the youngest of the singers yet clearly a star in the making as she posed right at the front of the group before stepping further forward and amazing us with a solo version of ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’. Never have I been so touched…

Afterwards we were taken to see the current creche facilties. You will see from the pictures the reason that the new creche was necessary. The doom & gloom of this shell of a building was depressing; no furniture, no decoration, just a mattress on the floor for the babies to sleep on – a truly shocking sight.

In contrast, the new Akani creche would be colourful & safe with toys & games to stimulate and amuse the eager young minds of it’s pupils.

We spent the remainder of our visit busily painting the new creche and digging paths lined with  tyres to mark the boundaries of the play areas.

In all my years of travelling I have never had such a heart-renching yet rewarding experience. I feel truly privileged to have been able to help in my own very small way and would definitely love to go back in the future.

The Akani Creche was officially opened on 12th December 2011 by Richard Branson and Christian Slater.

The work the Pride ‘n Purpose Virgin Unite volunteers do is making a real difference and I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart.

Koh Samui sits in the gulf of Thailand, with soft sand beaches shaded by towering palms, delicious seafood and a vibrant nightlife, Samui has a magical formula that entrances everyone.

The island has many beaches the most popular are ‘ Chaweng, Lamai, Maenam and Big Buddha.

Chaweng beach is located on the eastern coast of the Island with a coastline that is about 6kms long. The waters are clear and suitable for windsurfing, parasailing, snorkelling and other water sports. Many bars and restaurants and shops are situated in this area as are the majority of the tourist hotels. The nightlife is vibrant and you can party into the early hours should you wish.

Lamai Beach is Samui’s second largest beach. The waters are calmer and the coast is marked by granite boulders that jut out from the sea. Also within this vicinity are the Hin Ta and Hin Yai rocks, one of the islands top natural attractions.

Maenam is best known for those seeking solitude, since it is smaller and less touristy, while the nearby Bophut offers the best sunset view on the Island.

Big Buddha in the northern coast is quite secluded, making it the perfect hideaway.

Getting around in Koh Samui is easy, the bus service (a large canopied  pick up truck with seats in the back) operates all around the island a regular intervals prices range from 60-90 bahts an average of £1.50. Car hire costs around £25 per day and the most popular form of transport the mo-ped is approx. £8 per day to hire. Taxis are many, they do have meters but most prefer to agree a price before hand.

No matter where you stay you are never far from a village or town and Chaweng Beach is easily accessible from any resort.

Tongsai Bay

There are many trips and tours available on the island. Snorkelling and diving are best done on the nearby Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan Islands approx 1hour and 20 mins boat ride away. The waters here are crystal clear and the coral reef spectacular. Watersports such as sailing, jet skis and kayaking is available at most hotels within the Chaweng beach area.

The Island of Koh Pha Ngan that can be seen from Bophut beach is popular for the famous ‘Moon Party’ that takes place close to the lighthouse on the most Southern tip of the island. This is not for the fainthearted and alcohol and drugs are in abundance amongst the party revellers until well into the early hours of the morning.

If you prefer something a little more relaxing, the island has an 18 hole PGA golf course or you could visit the Na Muang waterfalls in the national park; the largest waterfall is 80 metres high but beware there is a half hour up hill trek to reach it.

Samui for me felt truly Thai, the island is welcoming, unassuming and relaxed, the beaches are inviting, the food wonderful and the people always have a smile.

Top Tips:

1. If you want to be within walking distance of shops, bars, vibrant nightlife etc then Chaweng Beach or Lamai are the best locations.
2. Try an authentic Thai massage from a reputable establishment or hotel, prices start from 500 bahts or around £10 for one hour – not to be missed.
3. The food is amazing, hotel prices are more than town, but the standard is excellent.

HOTELS VISITED

Rocky’s – 5 Star Luxury Boutique Resort

Fabulous atmosphere, great for weddings, couples with young children or those who just like to chill.

The slogan of this fabulous boutique hotel is ‘When you’re at Rockys you’re family’ – never was a truer word spoken. The hotel is family owned and run with the aid of a general manager ‘Jon Elms’. There are only 35 rooms in total including 3 villas, all are well appointed with attention paid to every detail. The staff and management make you feel at home as soon as you arrive, and by the end of your stay you will know them all personally and they you. The resort is on Lamai beach within sight of the Hin Ta-Hin Yai rocks. The beach is superb, calm waves lap the golden sand and the granite rock formations that the resort is built upon make the setting magical. At night the resort is lit with pretty fairy lights and candles and the meal at the restaurant in the evening was one of the best we had. The hotel is about 25 minutes from Chaweng Beach yet only 5 minutes from the lively town of Lamai, so is ideal if you want a more restful base with the advantage of the nightlife etc on your doorstep but far enough away so as not to intrude. If you like good quality with a very chilled atmosphere in the day, this hotel is superb. The hotel also hosts weddings and I can honestly say that the beach location for the wedding is perfect.

Santiburi – 5 Star Finest

‘True luxury, great for Rest & Relaxation’

In Thai ‘Santiburi’ means peaceful village, an excellent description of this 71-room/villa hotel located on the more secluded Maenam Beach. This resort exudes elegance and quality from the every corner. The rooms are spacious, airy and have a contemporary Thai style. The villas are located in the gardens or some are on the beachfront, many have a private plunge pool and all have a private outside terrace. The hotels has everything you will need on site, with several world class restaurants, a spa, gym, leisure facilities and a fabulous 18 hole PGA golf course just 5 minutes away. The golf course is immaculate with sea views from every hole, for around £60-£80 you can enjoy a full 18 holes including green fees, caddie and golf cart. If it’s total relaxation, pampering and elegance this resort is for you – at a price.

Tongsai Bay – 5 Star Finest

‘Superb for honeymooners’

A resort with a difference, the philosophy here is one of ‘ kindness and respect for the environment’, coupled with sheer luxury.

Tongsai Bay is set on the hillside above the Bay of Tongson. This hotel was Samui’s first 5 star hotel, the emphasis has always been on the natural and eco-friendly yet this does not detract from the sheer beauty and elegance of this resort. The steep hillside is home to 84 cottages or villas, the steps to each room are many, so this is not a resort for people with walking difficulties. Chaweng beach is just 15 minutes away so for those who crave the nightlife or just want to do some shopping. Personally I don’t think I would ever leave my room!

Centara Grand Beach Resort – 5 Star

‘Great for families’

Located in a fabulous position on central Chaweng Beach. The Centara has 203 rooms with 6 room types. Some rooms have a small private pool and are excellent for honeymooners or families with children as the room and pool area are very private and enclosed. The facilities and standards are what you would expect from a good 5 star hotel with several restaurants, a spa and activities centre. Families are made very welcome and the kids clubs and daily entertainment are superb.

Amari Reef  Hotel –4.5/ 5 Star

Good Value for money’

A good hotel with 5 star standards yet fewer facilities than the Centara. The hotel is located at the most northern end of Chaweng beach about 10 minutes from the airport, yet still within walking distance of all the action.

Suites are located on the beachfront, whilst deluxe and superior rooms are located across the road – there is a crossing warden 24hrs a day to ensure guests are safe whilst crossing. The hotel has 3 restaurants one of which is the Italian ‘Prego’ – reputed to be one of the best Italian restaurants in the Chaweng area.

Hua Hin is a place where locals and travellers live side by side and many Thai people visit the resort to holiday (especially on a weekend, when it is very busy). The King of Thailand now resides in the ‘Summer Palace’ and you will see several Navy ships anchored just off shore when he is at home.

Many European travellers make Hua Hin their winter home staying for up to 3 months at a time and repeat guests to hotels is approx 35%.

The resort has 6 championships standard Golf courses, Green Fee prices range from approx £40 to £75 and most hotels will arrange transportation and book Tee times.

For those who want to explore the Night Market at Dechanuchit Road is a must see, you will find a big variety of delicious local food served for a very good price. The main town centre is busy at night. Eating out is cheap and the variety is good, drinks are also cheaper here, you can get a beer for less than £1.

The resort is also in a good location to explore some of Thailand’s sights – as with Bangkok, you can book excursions to the River Kwai and the Floating Markets, both are approximately 2.5 hours transfers away, the River Kwai is still the most visited site for British Tourists. Elephant trekking is also popular and can be combined with the visit to River Kwai.

You can also do a full day excursion to Bangkok. For those who wish to see the beautiful scenery of Thailand, the trip to Sam Roi Yod National Park is stunning, just one hours drive from Hua Hin through coconut and pineapple plantations you can visit a typical unspoilt Thai village and then travel to a nearby beach to explore the fascinating sea caves, you can also Kayak through the mangroves should you wish.

The pool at Rest Detail, Hua Hin

Hotels Visited

Dusit Thani Hua Hin – 5 Star luxury

Best for sincere service and great atmosphere

As with all Dusit hotels this property does not disappoint. The lobby is magnificent; a 10-foot glass chandelier hanging over a glass water fountain dominates the entrance. All guest rooms are elegantly appointed and offer all the usual amenities with modern and comfortable styling alongside subtle Thai touches. Grande Rooms are larger and have an additional sitting area and roll top bath that opens out into the bedroom area. Guests who stay in ‘Club’ rooms and above have access to the Club lounge, where snacks and drinks are available throughout the day and cocktails are served free of charge from 5.30pm until 7.30pm each day.

The hotel has 4 excellent restaurants, which is good news should you not want to make the 15-minute journey into town. The themed buffet nights are marvellous value with a great atmosphere as many guests gather together to enjoy the feast.

The resort also features a spa, well equipped gym, a sports centre offering tennis, squash, yoga and aerobics classes and a very well appointed changing room with Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. From experience I can say that the Spa is great value for money and a wonderful treat whilst on holiday. The General Manager Victor’ is a true professional, he has been at the hotel since it opened nearly 20 years ago, he enjoys mingling with the guests and knows many of them by name as they have visited the hotel many times over the years. The resorts staff equally attentive and nothing is too much trouble. A fabulous hotel for those who want the feeling of a home from home!

Sofitel Centara Grand Resort & Villas Hua Hin – 5 Star

Best for Location

The Sofitel Centara is in a brilliant location in the centre of Hua Hin town. The shops, bars and restaurants are all within a few minutes walking distance, making this hotel a good choice for those who want 5 star accommodation but want to bring the budget down by eating out although saying this the food in the hotel is excellent, with the breakfast the best we had during the entire 2 weeks in Thailand. The hotel is over 80 years old and still retains much of the history of colonial Hua Hin. Although old the hotel has been renovated to bring it into the premium 5 star market. It has 207 rooms located in the hotel and 42 villas located adjacent to the main hotel buildings.

Rooms are comfortable with wooden floors and the most fabulously comfortable beds I have ever slept in. The grounds are immaculate and very beautiful, 36 gardeners work tirelessly to trim the many hedges into animal shapes that delight guests of all ages. The villa section of the hotel was opened in 2006, all but 4 of the villas have a private pool and many have an additional bedroom that can sleep up to 2 children under 12 years old. All the villas are decorated and furnished almost entirely in white making them feel light airy and contemporary. The villa section of the hotel also has a private check-in, extra pool area and a bar and all day restaurant.

Overall the hotel has a relaxed feel, for a town centre property it is very well laid out and spacious all around.

The Rest Detail – 5 Star Boutique

Best for contemporary Boutique style

The ‘Rest Detail’ is located approx 10 minutes from the centre of Hua Hin. From the outside as you drive up, this hotel gives the appearance of being nothing special, however once inside and certainly once inside you room your opinion will change. Opened in April 2008, the ‘Rest Detail’ is a boutique resort of just 56 rooms. Each room has a very contemporary feel; the all white décor with just a touch of colour given through soft furnishings and jazzy hints of wallpaper plus modern lighting and gadgets give this hotel a real WOW factor. WiFi access is available free of charge in all rooms, a real plus as most hotels charge by the hour. In my opinion this hotel will suit young couples or families wanting an excellent base that still gives them access to town should they desire. The hotel has 2 pool areas and 2 restaurants.

Bangkok

Angela & Stuart at Grand Palace, Bangkok

On the second day after our hotel inspections we visited the ‘Grand Palace’, in my opinion you cannot leave Bangkok without seeing this. Entrance costs 350 bahts or approx £7, I would advise visiting as early in the morning as you can, as the heat in the afternoon can be unbearable, there is also a strict dress code to enter, men and women must cover there legs and shoulders, if wearing trousers they must be full length, even three quarter trousers are unacceptable.  The palace and surrounding temples were built by a succession of Thai Kings over the last 300 years, ninety five percent of Thai people are Buddhists and the temples reflect the origins of the religion and offer travellers and locals alike the chance to pray and offer gifts to the ‘Emerald Buddha’, if you visit on the weekend you will see literally thousands of ‘eggs’ on the offering table, it is believed that the more gifts you offer the greater the chance you will have of your prays being answered, eggs are affordable for most locals and many bring ninety nine each time they visit. If you truly wish to experience Bangkok two nights in my opinion is not enough, had we stayed an extra day I would have liked to take a trip on the river or even visited the floating market. Speaking to the many tourists the advice is to plan ahead, try and have an idea of the trips you wish to do before you get there. The most popular trips are:

1. Grand Palace & Temples
2. Floating Markets (2 hours transfer)
3. River Kwai (2.5 hours transfer)
4. Patpong Night Market for designer copies
5. Siam Square for designer clothes etc
6. Suan Lum Night Bazaar for souvenirs
7. Jatujak Weekend Market

Recommended Hotels:

Best Value for Money – Majestic Grande

Good location on the city side of the river, within walking distance of the skytrain & underground. 25 floors with 251 rooms & suites offering a good, clean, modern standard of accommodation with a contemporary feel. There is even a small pool and some spa facilities. The food is excellent and there are a choice of 2 restaurants, with 24-hour room service and wireless Internet in all rooms.

Best for families – Bangkok Marriott

A well laid out resort with 413 rooms over 4 floors. This hotel is located on the opposite side of the river to where the main attractions are and is either 40 minutes in a taxi or 20 minutes across the river to the skytrain station and then on from there. This hotel would not be ideal if you wish to take many trips into the city centre or just wanted to venture out on foot in the evening. What it does have is a high standard of accommodation with spacious rooms and one of the largest outdoor swimming pools in the city. Great for families who want to experience Bangkok through organised excursions and who also want some rest & relaxation before transiting on to a beach destination. The hotel has 6 restaurants and is close to mainstream shops and fast food restaurants.

Best location – Dusit Thani

The first high rise hotel to be built in Bangkok, with a reputation for excellence. The Dusit has hosted many famous people in the past including the Thai Royal family. Rooms are clean and spacious and for those who want something extra special there are several Thai themed suites that offer panoramic views across the city, even whilst sitting in the luxurious roll top bath. Club rooms offer the added bonus of a private lounge, where snacks and drinks are served throughout the day and during ‘Happy Hour’ 05.30pm to 07.30pm all drinks including cocktails are free. The location of the Dusit could not be better, 2 minutes walk from the skytrain and just 2 stops to Siam Square, both night markets are within walking distance and there are many good restaurants both in the hotel and outside.

Best river location –Royal Orchid Sheraton

The river is the lifeblood of Bangkok and no one should leave without taking a trip- a fabulous way to see the sites. The Sheraton is in a fabulous position on the city side of the river directly on the riverbank; all rooms have a river view and the higher the floor the better the view. There is a lovely bar and restaurant that is situated on the river bank within the hotel grounds, the food is great but again prices are more expensive than restaurants in town. The downside of the Sheraton is that unlike the Dusit you either have to take a ferry and then the skytrain to get into the city centre or a taxi. Taxis are cheap at around £2 one way from the hotel to Patpong but in the day traffic is a problem so best to use the Taxis outside of rush hour.

Top tips:

• If you arrive in the afternoon or early evening be aware that trips to the ‘Floating Market and the ‘River Kwai’ leave at approx 6am in the morning as the transfer time is approx 2 hours, so you may not wish to do this after a long flight the day before.
• Getting around is really easy as long as you avoid the roads! Take the skytrain wherever possible. The river gives easy access to most destinations or to the skytrain stations that will take you into the city centre markets and Siam. Taxis are cheap but always ask for a meter or agree a fare up front.
• Hotel prices can be steep for food & drinks, wine is particularly expensive as the government tax is around 300%, a glass can cost around £5.
• Visit the ‘Vertigo restaurant’ or ‘Moon bar’ on the rooftop of the 61 storeys ‘Banyan Tree’ Hotel. Other great restaurants within walking distance of the Dusit Thani Hotel are ‘The Mango Tree’ and the more contemporary ‘Eat Me’, both serves authentic Thai cuisine.

The island offers an abundance of choices from lazy days on the beach to more active relaxation. With so many nearby Islands and pristine beaches to explore, national parks and forests to visit, and world class golf courses to play, choosing how to spend your days is exhaustive in itself.

Phi Phi Island with its famous sandy beaches and crystal waters is an hours boat ride away, as is Krabi, where snorkelling is a must. Trips can be easily arranged to the famous diving sites of the small Similan islands located close to the Phang Nga bay, these were ranked amongst the best in the world and the site of the granite boulders jutting out from the sea is awesome. This is a must for divers and those who love to snorkel but be aware that the transfer is approx 3 hours so pick up times from the hotels are approx 06.30am.

If it’s amazing nightlife, abundant shops, bars & restaurants that you require you are best staying close to Patong Beach. This is Phukets largest and busiest beach, the nightlife is boisterous, flashy and loud making Patong the ideal place to party and play. The beach attracts many local vendors that can be quite persistent, just say no thank you firmly and turn away. The neighbouring beaches to Patong are Karon and Kata, both have wide sandy beaches with shallow sea shores, these areas also have many shops, bars etc but are a little less raucous than Patong so more suitable for families or those who want to observe the action from a little further a field.

For a quieter experience Bang Thao Beach is ideal, the hotels here are set in a large complex called the ‘Laguna’. All hotels in this area are built around the lagoon with the beach on one side, they all share dining facilities so you will never be stuck for something to eat. Most hotels also offer a day pass rate should you wish to try a different hotel during your stay. The hotels also run a shuttle bus and a ferry between each resort so getting about is easy.

Further north is the even quieter area of Naithon. The beaches here are superb but the hotels are smaller and more secluded.

To the north of the island is Mai Khao Beach; the hotels here are mainly 5 star with many facilities. The downside here is that hotel prices for food etc are higher and taxis into Patong expensive.

Phuket Town is a mixture of old and new Thailand. The town hosts the more modern business district and also has some top notch shopping malls located in the ‘Central Festival’ area, yet it still retains the charm of the street markets in the evening. These are located just off Ranong road and alongside Soi downtown.

At the far southern tip of the Island is Cape Panwa, the views from here are spectacular, and the turquoise/green colours of the ocean dotted with many small Islands are truly worth a visit. The beaches are pristine and the water crystal clear making swimming and snorkelling excellent. There is also a scattering of shops and restaurants and prices here seem cheaper than the busier resorts.

If its adventure you are after there is more choice than days of your holiday will allow. The sea caves and lagoon at Phang Nga Bay are spectacular; you will travel in a small sea kayak into the national marine park – well worth a visit for those who love nature and spectacular scenery.

You could also do a Safari Nature Tour or elephant trek, this can include an overnight stay in a safari lodge if you desire.

If you are fit and active the ATV tours are good and you could even try white water rafting – not my cup of tea but I am told it is very popular.

The most popular tours are those to Phi Phi Island – a visit to Monkey Beach is a must for those with children as they can get really close to the small monkeys that inhabit this beach area.

JW Marriott – 5 Star

Best for Families

A large resort located on 27 acres of land in the Mai Khao Beach area. The hotel has 265 rooms in total with 13 of these being suites. Rooms are a good size with traditional Thai colours and decoration.

Very much a family resort, the hotel has a fabulous kids club that takes children from age 2 onwards, the pool is large yet has many shallow points for young children and even a water slide shaped like an elephants trunk.

The plus points of this hotel are that it has everything you need on site, the downside is that it is quite far from the nearest town where you could go out to eat etc and eating in the hotel can be expensive, as are drinks etc. You get the distinct feel with this resort that money is no option to most guests.

Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket- 5 Star Luxury

Best for luxury with an authentic Thai feel

Located in the prestigious ‘Laguna’ region, the Dusit offer guests a true taste of Thailand. The resorts neo-colonial style incorporates traditional Thai design with contemporary rooms that are elegant and very comfortable. The club rooms are superbly located, all having sea views, but for sheer luxury go for the 2 storey ‘Pool Villas’ – each has it’s own plunge pool and terrace overlooking the sea and can accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 children. Facilities are superb with a spa, fitness centre, kids club, golf club, several restaurants and top-notch service.

Andaman White Beach Resort – 5 Star Boutique Resort

Best for rest & relaxation away from the crowds

The Andaman White Beach nestles on a secluded hillside on Nai Thon Noi Beach. The resort has only 54 rooms and offers guests a true hideaway in glorious surroundings.

The rooms are mainly villa style with outside showers and baths overlooking the sea or gardens. Some suites have outdoor plunge pools or Jacuzzis that due to the nature of the resort are quite private. Although small the hotel offers a gym, spa and three dining options along with beach barbeques from November to mid March. If peace and relaxation is all you require this resort is s true gem. If you did decide to travel to the nearest restaurants and shops in the Laguna area a taxi is around 700 bahts or £14 each way so can be a little pricey.

Sheraton Grande Laguna – 4 Star

Best for Value & Families

The Sheraton is located in the Laguna area of Phuket alongside many top hotels such as the Dusit Thani and Banyan Tree. As with all hotels in this area there is a regular shuttle bus or ferry to the neighbouring hotels, where guests can exchange dining facilities. Every day at 10am and 3pm the resorts baby elephant comes down to the beach and bathes in the sea – wonderful for adults and children alike.

The hotel is large with 422 rooms spread across a large area. Rooms are clean and bright and the lagoon rooms offer reasonably spacious accommodation for 2 adults and 2 children. The hotel offers a good range of facilities including 5 restaurants, a kids club, spa, gym, golf club and shopping. The resort is by no means luxurious, but it does what it ‘says on the tin’ and the location is good if you do not want the busy hotels in Patong Beach.

Cape Panwa – 4 Star

Best Value 4 Star fabulous views and Beach

On arriving at the Cape Panwa my expectations were low, however I have to say that this hotel really surprised me. Set on a remote hillside on the Cape peninsula this 200 plus room hotel has a great atmosphere. The rooms are basic yet clean and have all the amenities you would require, the Jacuzzi suites have fabulous views as they are on the third (top floor) and the hot tub on the balcony is a nice touch. The resort also has 6 x 2 bed villas all with plunge pools that overlook the beach. With a total of 5 restaurants and several bars including an English Pub all with very reasonable prices compared to some hotels there is everything you need on site. The hotel also offers a shuttle bus to Phuket town twice a day for approx £6 return and a shuttle into Patong for around £4 return, the Patong trip also caters for those who wish to go into the area at night. The real plus of this hotel is the beach and the stunning views across the clear blue/green ocean to the small Andaman Islands in the distance. The beach is fairly private and the resort has numerous sun beds, umbrellas and even a second swimming pool, along with the water sports, bar and café you could literally set up camp for the day. One thing to note is that the hotel has many steep steps and even though there is a tram up and down to the beach you will need to be reasonably fit. Another plus for this hotel is the spa; A beautiful setting with 8 cool and well laid out treatment rooms, the prices are at least half those of the big brand hotels! Overall a great hotel that really pulls at your heartstrings!

Diamond Cliff Resort & Spa – 5 Star

Best for – Excellent Location

Diamond Cliff is located on the northern tip of Patong Beach, literally 10 minutes walk into the thick of the action, but far enough away when you want to escape back to base for some rest and relaxation. The resort as the name suggests is set on a steep cliff overlooking the beach. There are 331 rooms including a handful of fabulous one and two bed villas all of which have butler service. The hotel was constructed some 20 years ago so it does have a bit of a 70’s feel with lots of concrete used in the construction, however the gardens are mature and very beautiful and you do not feel that you are in an older resort. The rooms are spacious and immaculately clean, the design is traditional Thai with many rooms having four-poster beds. The amenities and small touches in this hotel make it special, if staying in a ‘Diamond room or above’ upon arrival you will have a small basket in your room that you can take to an onsite fruit shop and choose 1 kg of fresh fruit, bottled water is unlimited and free (believe me this is s good point as most hotel allow only 2 free bottles per day before you start to be charged). All Diamond rooms have a laptop with free Internet access.

The resort has several restaurants and pool area’s and even has it’s own private beach away from the crowds of Patong, you do have to take a free 15 minute transfer but there are amenities available on the beach once you arrive. Again this hotel is not suitable for those with walking difficulties but there are lifts, so it’s not too bad. Overall a lovely resort, with outstanding service and attention to detail.

Kata Thani – 5 Star

Best for location (Families)

Located on Kata Beach, the Kata Thani is a large resort of 479 rooms. The layout is good, as junior suites and Grande Suites are located along a large stretch of beach, all with a sea view and superior and deluxe rooms are located around just across a small road with either a garden or pool view.

The hotel is modern and comfortable, Grande Suites are stunning and all have a Jacuzzi bath and living room area, yet even the deluxe rooms are spacious with a good contemporary design.

The beach and main pool areas are well spread out so you never feel on top of anyone.  The beach is lovely white sand and not too busy as you are at least 8 miles outside of Patong. The location of this hotel makes it ideal, as you are centrally located for getting to Patong Beach, Karon Beach or even Phuket Town. Outside the hotel and within walking distance are many bars, shops and restaurants, not as busy as Patong especially at night but for a family perfect.

Top Tips

1. Wine is expensive; check the prices before ordering as a half decent bottle can cost £30 to £40.
2. Take care in Patong – local vendors can be persistent and during the evening will try and entice you into clubs that you may not wish to frequent.
3. Visit Phuket town in the late afternoon/early evening to enjoy the shopping and night markets when it is cooler.
4. Tipping is not expected in Thailand but is very much appreciated should you feel it is deserved.
5. Most bar & hotel prices do not include the government tax or vat, add at least 15-20% to any prices unless stated otherwise.

Top Tours:

1. Phi Phi Island- including Monkey Beach – great for adults and kids alike
2. Phang Nga Bay – Sea Cave Kayak Tour – Nature lovers paradise
3. James Bond Island speed boat tour – not for the faint hearted
4. Sunset Dinner Cruise – Best for romance…
5. Similan Islands – Best for diving