Phuket
Thailand


The Experience

A feng shui masterpiece set into a hillside overlooking Thailand's Andaman Sea, Evason Phuket Resort proves that environmental consciousness is next to godliness. Every aspect of the property works in concert with the natural surroundings, from its location on Phuket's sheltered southern tip to its open-walled architecture and locally influenced decor. However, this is not the most lavish of the Evason resorts -- those looking for ostentatious dazzle should look elsewhere. Instead, it seduces the senses gently, with birdsong, warm tropical breezes and lush greenery.

The Rooms

Furnished with Thai hardwoods such as maka (like teak, but more environmentally sustainable), rooms are cheerily accented with persimmon and yellow fabrics, and the airy, uncluttered feel comes courtesy of a feng shui consultant. Fixtures are made from hand-tooled coconut shells, carved wood and other local products -- plastics are verboten. Even the standard rooms, at a healthy 430 square feet, include romantic safari touches such as mosquito-net canopies, while larger rooms have spa tubs built for two. Still, skip the basics and go with at least a junior suite, where a glass wall opens onto a private balcony outfitted with a wooden table and chairs, taking full advantage of the ocean views and the distant cliffs, which add drama to the scene.

The Service

Every employee from the bellman on up greets you with a wai (traditional Thai bow) and a Buddha-esque smile. The staff-to-guest ratio is even 1-to-1, so it's never obtrusive -- but when you want to book a tour, order a cocktail or just borrow a pen, one glance gets the ball rolling.

The Highlights

A quartet of oceanview restaurants serves everything from pizza to lobster to themed buffets; your best bet is to stick with Into Thai's authentic regional cuisine (Into Med may be the signature restaurant, but it's more about show than food). Then wind down at Six Senses Spa, where trained specialists consult with each guest before providing customized services, either in private rooms or oceanfront salas. Seclusion is a strong suit here, and when the sun shines, you'll find it over on the resort's private island, with empty stretches of beach and the area's best snorkeling.

-- Lena Katz

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