Two Thai Destinations

EL'S MEGAN HOBSON heads back to a couple of her favourite spots in Thailand, this time enjoying a little slice of luxury along the way.

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It wasn’t too long ago that I was a backpacker on the hippie trail in Thailand, meeting other travellers in elephant pants, heading to places like Phuket for its beaches and turquoise waters, and Chiang Mai for its wildlife and temples. There are still plenty of backpackers in those places, of course, but you’ll also find two new resorts by Spanish hotel company Meliá, offering the chance to experience these incredible destinations, sans the elephant pants!

MELIÁ PHUKET MAI KHAO

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This new resort in Thailand is located on unspoiled Mai Khao Beach – as tranquil a paradise as you could expect in Phuket. The beach is so quiet, in fact, that in certain months sea turtles come ashore here to lay their eggs.

There are three types of villas and suites available at the Meliá; I stayed in one of the wellness villas. These 85-square-metre spaces come with a king-sized bed and private terrace with plunge pool and outdoor bathtub; and the showers are infused with vitamin C to help protect your skin and hair!

A sense of coastal relaxation echoes through the design, with contemporary, light-filled spaces with neutral and blue accents. Beautiful tropical plants surround each villa for privacy and shade.

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