There is one thing everyone around us seems to be doing… planning their next vacation. Thailand appears to be the season’s flavour with its visa-free entry extension for Indians. So, if Thailand is on your mind, but you want to escape the usual touristy trail, consider Krabi.
It offers a unique blend of tranquillity and sophistication that resonates deeply with vacationers. Bringing the right amount of seclusion and perfect doses of uber luxury is Phulay Bay, the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Reserve, nestled on the shores of the Andaman Sea.
Phulay Bay is not just a hotel, it’s an experience, where days transition smoothly into balmy evenings and indoor-outdoor boundaries blur. This 3-Michelin Keys resort, overlooking the limestone mountains emerging from the Sea, is designed to integrate and celebrate the natural environment. Just close your eyes, flung your flip-flops away, and soak in the mystical sounds. You will, however, find yourself quickly tempted to explore this beautiful space that you will call home for a few days or a week may be.
Before you arrive
The journey begins even before you set foot into the property. All you need to do is book your stay at Phulay Bay and the rest will be taken care of by the resort’s Experience Ambassadors and Personal Hosts. A series of transformative experiences is proposed, through pre-arrival, personalized communication. Every little detail is curated in an unscripted style based on your hobbies, interests, and tastes. The Personal Host executes the plan with stealth proficiency during your stay. Sounds fascinating?
A ton Hong at your beck
As you enter the open-air Sala Srichan, the Thai architectural marvel that cleverly replaces conventional reception, you are assigned a personal butler or Ton Hong. Be it a romantic beach barbeque or a spa reservation, they will ensure you enjoy without any logistical hassles. They know the resort, the destination, and the cultural nuances as the back of your hand.
What suite dreams are made of
This 77-key resort has freestanding Thai-style villas with private pools and oversized suites that feature some of the largest beds in the history of hotels. The Reserve Pool Villa overlooks the garden while the Royal Beach Villa gives direct access to the cerulean beachfront. Every villa is meticulously designed to offer privacy and breathtaking views. True luxury lies in the details. It will be a task to leave your villa, we say.
For the love of fine dining
If culinary experiences are what you live for, Phulay Bay is just the spot. With five restaurants and Dining Beyond, a bespoke service, everything from international cuisine to Mediterranean and local fare is served. Helmed by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Christian Herrgesell, the menu is an artwork complemented by fresh ingredients sourced locally. Enjoy contemporary fine dining at the rooftop lounge of Lae Lay seafood restaurant or pick a chef’s table at Jampoon for an exclusive glimpse of how the Mediterranean-inspired cuisine is prepared in the kitchen. Craving Thai food with a modern twist? Head to Sri Trang, where dishes are served traditionally. Admire the sunset with crafty cocktails at Chomtawan Beach Bar or lounge around the pool at Plai Fah. Looking for an intimate setting to pop the question? With the help of the personal host and Phulay Bay’s Dining Beyond concept, create an unforgettable memory as a curated dinner menu is served in Sala Srichan illuminated with the glow of 2,000 candles. It would be a dreamy yes!
Embrace the island vibe
Begin your day with a mindful session with in-house yoga expert, Himani Pal on the beach and end it with a restorative spa session in peaceful open-air treatment rooms. Immerse yourself in local culture at local temples, a blessing ceremony by Buddhist monks, or drive to the Tiger Cave temple. Don’t miss out on learning Muay Thai, Thai cooking, and Batik painting by experts. Snorkel near Bamboo Island to see stunning marine life including colourful coral reefs, take a long-tail boat ride to Hong Island, or kayak through lush rainforests to discover hidden coves.
If adventure is your thing, hike to the nearby Naga Mountain to catch the sunrise or trek to the Hang Nak Mountain summit for panoramic views of the beaches, town, and even the Koh Phi Phi islands on a clear day. Return to the resort for relaxing laps in Phang Nga Bay’s infinity pool. There are no dull days in Krabi.
Slow down, reconnect with nature, and indulge in the quiet luxury of a truly exceptional experience.
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