WHEN you turn to your husband and you both let out a gasp of excitement — you just know your honeymoon stay will be a trip of a lifetime.
After a long, but luxurious, flight to Thailand we arrived at the five-star Pavilions Phuket.
Perched high above Layan Beach, it boasts luxurious villas, breath-taking views and unforgettable adventures.
A gong was rung as we arrived before we were shown to our Ocean View Pool Villa by the friendly resort staff.
The first thing we did was jump into the private infinity pool with panoramic views of the beach below and the glistening Andaman Sea, before taking some time to unwind on the sundeck day bed.
The 310sqm villa had a lavish and luxurious feel and the staff couldn’t have been nicer — they even prepared a honeymoon cake for us, which was a lovely touch.
The spacious bedroom was sleekly decorated with plush linens while the en-suite bathroom featured a glorious rain shower.
A major perk of the villa is its emphasis on privacy. Although the resort was fully booked out, we felt like it was just the two of us. Isn’t that what every newlywed pair want to feel like?
There’s something for everyone with 94 luxurious accommodations, from the private pool villas to impressive spacious suites.
For our first venture out of our villa, we kicked off with a cocktail at 360 Bar, taking in the spectacular sunset overlooking the sea.
But some of the best parts were in our own space, when we were treated to some exquisite personal dining experience including a floating breakfast and a romantic in-villa surf and turf BBQ.
Diners are also spoiled for choice in the award-winning Alto Italian restaurant. And a nightcap in Alto cocktail bar with a game of pool was a must.
The award-winning Firefly Pool & Restaurant, located by a gorgeous 60-metre pool, offers delicious Mediterranean BBQ and Thai cuisine.
Breakfast boasted an A La Carte menu as well as an expansive buffet.
From the classics of eggs benedict to signature Thai dishes, the breakfast choices are endless.
TOP ACTIVITIES
And while it’s tempting to never leave the villa of bliss, The Pavilions offers numerous activities including Thai language classes, animal towel folding classes and a cocktail class.
Morning yoga was an invigorating way to start our day – and not too strenuous for us sporadic yogis.
The fabulous instructor Eden guided us through as the sun began to rise.
BEST MASSAGE
The blissful Zen continued at The Pavilions Spa with a wonderful Thai herbal compress massage. It was truly the best massage I have ever had.
Chef Noi and Sous Chef Toy hosted a private cooking class for us in ALTO Restaurant.
We whipped up the best meal we have ever made – they even presented us with certificates to prove it!
The three-course meal was Pad Grapao Gai Mee Krob, Massaman Curry and our new favourite Mango Sticky Rice.
EXCITING EXCURSIONS
A number of fun excursions are available to guests including islands trips, catamaran rides or a temple visit.
But for me, an incredible excursion was visiting the Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary Phuket.
Our guide, aptly named Big, was exceptional and had a true passion for the majestic creatures.
And feeding Cherry, Madam Sandra, Beyoncé, Ploy and Madonna was a treat.
We made a concoction that detoxes the elephants and keep pests and bugs away.
ELEPHANT WALKING
We then took the elephants for a walk in the surrounding forest where they are free to wander and explore, crossing fallen trees and munching on leaves.
Then it was bath time (and play time) for all of us.
Splashing in muddy water with these gentle giants, they playfully rolled in mud and sprayed us with their trunks.
I started the day cautiously attempting to pet their trunks and finished with mammoth hugs from all my new friends.
The sanctuary operates without any government funding, relying solely on donations and the hard work of its team.
UNFORGETABLE MOMENTS
Visiting a local temple with a fantastic guide from hotel staff Neung was an experience to remember.
A monk gave us a special blessing and Neung kindly informed us on all their traditions.
For beach lovers, there’s a complimentary shuttle to the sea and to the shopping area for all guests.
There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area – and don’t miss the fun Friday night market!
Of course, no trip to Thailand would be complete without exploring the beautiful islands of Phuket.
JAMES BOND ISLAND
We visited James Bond Island, which was bustling with tourists but not overwhelmingly crowded.
Then we jumped in a canoe to explore Hong Island, where the surrounding cliffs were breathtaking, like something from a movie.
Our highlight was swimming at night with the illuminating plankton fish in Phang Nga Bay.
Phuket is more than just a place to stay – it’s an extraordinary experience, full stop.
Go: Phuket, Thailand.
Stay: The Pavilions, Thalang District.
Curated Journeys: Just the Two of Us, Like A Boss.
Eat: ALTO Italian Restaurant, Firefly Pool & Restaurant
Try: Thai cooking class, scent making class or learn basic Thai phrases.
Do: Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, Phang Nga Day Trip and Phuket Cultural & Temple Visit.
Stay at The Pavilions Phuket with up to 30 per cent savings with the ‘Phuket Stay Longer’ offers; rates start from €141+ (GBP £118+) per night, based on two sharing a Garden View Suite (with min. of seven nights stay). Price includes daily breakfast for two, taxes and service.
