Best for traditionalists
THE NAI HARN^
In its 1980s heyday, this five-star resort
played host to all the big names, from Roger
Moore to Jacques Chirac, and retains an
air of breezy glamour. There are no pool
villas here, only rooms, but each comes
with a bougainvillea-veiled balcony with
plump day beds and knock-out views of
Nai Harn Beach — rightly hailed as one
of the most beautiful in Asia. The food is
another highlight, particularly the bountiful
breakfast, while the rooftop bar, with its
sunken sofas, reflecting pools and chilled-
out vibe, is the perfect place to settle down
with a few mai tais in the evening.
ROOMS: From £90, B&B. thenaiharn.com
Best for families
THE SLATE
Families don’t need to sacrifice style at
this fabulous resort just 15 minutes from
the airport. Styled by acclaimed designer
Bill Bensley, it pays homage to Phuket’s tin
mining heritage, joining together peaked
roof pavilions with polished concrete,
wrought-iron furniture and violet neon
lights. Wander through the lush gardens
and you’ll find three swimming pools and
a gate leading onto Nai Yang beach, which
stretches as far as the eye can see. A kids’
club, cookery school, art classes, watersports
centre and an extensive spa means no
member of the family will ever be bored.
ROOMS: From £115, B&B. theslatephuket.com
74 nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel
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