Aleenta, Phuket

Aleenta Phang-Nga is the sister hotel of Aleenta Hua Hin. Opened late in 2006, this state-of-the-art property is only 20 minutes drive from Phuket airport and located on a pristine, undeveloped beach. The concept and organisation are similar to the original Aleenta property - refined modern design with a laissez-faire atmosphere.

The resort features an understated minimalist design throughout with a light, balanced colour palette. Pale blue swimming pools blend with polished concrete steps and wooden walkways. Whitewashed structural frames and glass walls subtly compliment the soft furnishings and airy living spaces. Sunlight illuminates the bright tones whilst evening spotlights give the property a calm, warm glow. Great attention has been paid to colour and lighting here and Aleenta is a shining example of contemporary, chic Asian architecture.

Aleenta Phang-Nga consists of 30 suites and villas, all featuring Aleenta's hallmark "Outside Living-In" concept. All room categories are sea facing and have private balconies. The 'Ocean View Lofts' is set on two levels, with the bed on the upper floor and the bathroom and living room on the lower floor. Bathrooms are fitted with Jacuzzi bath and separate shower. These rooms have private access to a large swimming pool which sits on a raised plateau in front of the main building. The 'Pool Suites' are located right on the beach. Floor to ceiling retractable glass walls allows a splendid view of the sea. Each suite also comes with a top terrace for dining or relaxing.. The 'Pool Villas' also sit on the edge of the beach. Each has its own swimming pool and offers the option of total seclusion and privacy. The 'Beachfront Villas' are the pick of the bunch. Three bedrooms, they come equipped with open-plan kitchen and a large living room with plasma television and surround sound systems. The beach which the resort faces is long, good for swimming and largely untouched by development.

Activities from the resort include running, Thai cooking classes, mountain biking, snorkelling, diving, boat trips, and fishing trips. Slightly further afield, excursions are possible to Khao Sok National Park, Mangrove safaris in Takuapa swamps, White Water Rafting and nature tours of Phuket and the surrounding islands. The resort also has a great KA Spa, offering the usual treatments and therapies. All spa therapists have received training from and are qualified by the Spa Association of Thailand. The resort has one signature restaurant and a beach bar which serves a selection of delicious foods throughout the day.

Despite the focus on design, Aleenta is no museum piece. This is a space designed for living in, not observing. Guests will feel at total ease in the space and encouraged to make it their home away from home.