ASEAN TRiPPER July 2014 | Page 23

Steps to the Beach L ocated in Kalim Beach, not far from the tourist mecca of Patong, the U Zenmaya Phuket opened its doors at the beginning of March this year and has already established itself as one of the island’s must-see resort getaways. The property features 50 rooms, comprising of Superior, Deluxe Seaview, Deluxe Seaview Pool Access, Junior Seaview Pool Access Suites, as well as a trio of 70 sq. m Seaview Suites. And if you don’t get a suite with private pool access don’t worry, all Deluxe Seaview and Seaview Suites come with Jacuzzis built for 2 that offer stunning views of the sea. Additionally the rooms feature all the luxury amenities one could want, including rainforest shower heads, relaxing day beds, seaview balconies, and more. The rooms themselves feature a Sino-Portuguese design influence – a nod to the local heritage of Phuket town – and the abundant use of wood and wood paneling gives some rooms a decidedly “nautical” feel. The resort also boasts a spacious rooftop lounge with glorious ocean views, a fully equipped gym, 2 boardrooms, a library, and a soothing spa with 5 treatment rooms. However the outdoor infinity rooftop swimming pool is easily the scene stealing attraction. It’s a great place to watch the sunset and enjoy the hotel’s million-dollar view overlooking the ocean. The resort’s signature restaurant Zeascape provides a place for relaxed dining – indoors and out – that combines well-known Thai and Southern Thai dishes made with a cutting edge flair. A bit closer to the beach is where you’ll find Zeacret, a modern and playful bar and lounge that oozes a fun and friendly ambience. Plunk yourself down in a beanbag chair, or grab a cue and get ready for a friendly game of pool. Finally the Breezes Pool Bar, located next to the infinity swimming pool, is the place to wind down and enjoy the sublime tranquility of the sundeck, while sipping innovative tantalizing cocktails. For sun-worshippers, access to the beach is close at hand and as you descend the slope that leads down to Patong Bay you come to a raised platform that has been constructed out of the rock face – complete with sand and lounge chairs – which is the perfect place for soaking up some rays. Continuing from here, you can make your way down the stone stairway that leads to the beach itself, where the ocean waves crash dramatically against to boulders along the shore. Like all U Hotels – the chain has 5 locations in Thailand – this resort continues in the tradition of offering its own unique concept of individual service, which includes such conveniences as 24-hour room check-in (in other words if you check in at 4pm you check out at 4pm on the day you leave), as well breakfast whenever/wherever during your stay, and pre-selected amenities such as personalized pillows, tea, and music, that guests can choose online or in person on arrival. There’s also complimentary bicycles available for sightseeing, or if you want a more comprehensive tour arranged – to Old Phuket Town or one of the other neighbouring attractions – the U Zenmaya staff are only to happy to accommodate. photo U Zenmaya Phuket Infinity Pool with View Deluxe Seaview Pool Access Suite U Zenmaya Phuket 6/181 Moo 6, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket Tel +66 (0)76 336 888 www.uzenmayaphuket.com 23