Soak up the sun, sea and good vibes at the tropical oasis that is Club Med Phuket
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has long drawn sunseekers with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture. Nicknamed the Pearl of the Andaman Sea, it has been the setting for Hollywood films like Mother of the Bride and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason. This is also where you can find Club Med Phuket, which sits on 16 hectares of lush greenery on Kata Beach, just under 90 minutes from the airport.
With the beach and local shops just steps away, you might be tempted to explore, but we suspect you’ll be too busy enjoying the resort’s top-notch amenities to wander far.
For nearly 40 years, the all- inclusive Club Med Phuket has been a familiar fixture on this beloved stretch of beach. Its easygoing vibe and all-inclusive packages have made it a go-to for holidaymakers looking to unplug. A recent renovation refreshed the dining areas, pool, lounges and half the rooms, with the final phase set to wrap up by year’s end.
In April this year, the resort launched the new Lai Thai Family Oasis, a dedicated zone designed for families. Encompassing 1,117m2, the area features 32 rooms, all built around a Splash Park fitted with thrilling slides, splash buckets and water cannons, plus a Snack Bar serving quick bites and drinks.
The rooms, whether it’s a Family Superior or a Family-themed Room, follow a muted theme, featuring calming décor and nature-inspired Lai Thai motifs. All are spacious enough for two adults, two children (and a baby) and include a terrace or balcony with a great view of the Splash Park.
Parents can take advantage of Club Med’s Kids Club and leave their little ones in the care of trained professionals, a concept the brand pioneered in 1967. More than babysitting, the club offers a safe environment for kids to hang out with other kids and engage in activities – from arts and crafts to indoor rock climbing – while parents enjoy some well-earned downtime.
Adults get to play and chill out too. Thanks to a handy Club Med app, it’s easy to see what’s on offer for the day, whether it’s a Muay Thai boxing lesson at 10am or a Thai cooking class at 11.30. On especially active days, enjoy lunch at The Mamuang, featuring an international buffet of dishes that rotate daily.
In the afternoon, try your hand at trapeze and archery, or book a blissful massage at the Harnn Spa. End the day with dinner at The Chu-da for an intimate, three-course dining experience, followed by the evening’s entertainment at the main hall, ranging from circus acts and adorable kids’ performances to a dazzling fire show on the beach.
Days here are deceptively slow, but time does fly when you’re having fun. Suddenly it’s been four full days, not nearly enough to experience everything on offer. As I pack my bags, one thing is certain: I’m already planning my next trip back.
