[top photo: The Sala Phuket Resort itself is designed like a colonial period bungalow]
By Vincent Wee
IF you're in the habit of nipping over to Phuket for a quick getaway, it can get a little predictable to keep going back to the same beach or resort. That's why those in the know head to the relatively unspoiled Mai Khao beach on the island's northwest coast.
The 11km stretch of beach only has two resorts - the JW Marriott Phuket Resort and the newly opened Sala Phuket Resort and Spa. If you happen to be sailing on a three-night luxury cruise on Silversea's 382-guest Silver Whisper cruise liner from Singapore to Phuket, a stay at the Sala Phuket can be tagged onto the cruise.
After three days of life on the sea it's nice to set foot on dry ground and let the pampering continue, especially after a 45-minute ride from the port where the ship is docked - there is no proper cruise terminal in Phuket yet - to the other end of Phuket where the Sala Phuket Resort awaits your arrival.
The welcome is warm and gracious as you are led back in time to the colonial era, inspired by Phuket's tin mining heritage.
The resort itself is designed like a colonial period bungalow, complete with a long driveway that leads to a high-ceilinged reception area. While there are eclectic and modern touches to the decor, the resort's design remains faithful to Sino-Portuguese architecture, which is unique to Phuket. The style is believed to originate in the 18th century, when much of Phuket's tin mining was carried out by immigrant Hokkiens who, as they did everywhere else they settled, went on to dominate the old part of the city.
In the early 20th century, major European mining companies were invited in, and their influences soon got reflected in the designs. It is unknown exactly when the first building in this style was constructed, but old photographs from the reign of King Rama V (1853-1910) show that it was already well established by then.
Typical features of Sino-Portuguese architecture are high ceilings, geometric patterns on tiles and lots of intricate wooden carving on doors and windows. These are all incorporated into the resort's 79 villas and suites, of which 63 have their own private swimming pools.
The only downside, if any, is that Mai Khao beach is not one of Phuket's best beaches. The sand is coarser and not pristine white like many of the Thai resort island's top beaches. There is also a very sharp drop-off straight into the Andaman Sea where the big waves and resulting undertow can be especially dangerous in the stormy southwest monsoon period from July to October.
The upside, though, is that the beach is generally deserted and long private walks amid the crashing waves while savouring the sunset are a rare pleasure in an overcrowded tourist world. This little secret might not last long, though - a huge resort complex is already being built right next door to the Sala. But the resort itself has more than enough to relax and entertain you, so venturing to the beach is not really necessary.
With the always warm Thai hospitality beckoning and promise of a return to a more relaxed age, a return visit certainly sounds tempting.
Silversea has a range of cruises from Singapore and the region in its Asian season which runs till mid-May with prices starting from US$7,095 (S$ 11,000) per person.
www.silversea.com
www.salaphuket.com
