The Blue Marine Resort & Spa

Situated on a hillside to the north of Patong Beach, the Blue Marine Resort & Spa offers both stunning panoramic sea views and the last word in comfort. The style is probably best described as contemporary Thai – there's no doubting where you are, with the architecture following local traditions, but there has been no compromise on luxury. The hotel is split across two buildings, ensuring a more intimate, human scale, while the grounds are animated by delightful water features and sculptures, and two infinity pools that reach out to the deep blue sea beyond. Inside, you are struck by the appealing effects of the polished cement walls, coloured in rich, warm oranges and yellows; floor to ceiling windows that lead onto private balconies allow wonderfully light interiors, while drapes conjure up a touch of romance.

The rooms are beautifully decorated in a fusion of local colours and handicrafts and cutting-edge design; dark wood furniture and crisp white sheets add a note of refinement. Every room has satellite television and a welcome fruit basket, while Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout most of the hotel. The inviting turquoise swimming pool is the best place to start on your quest for total relaxation; and the neighbouring pool bar makes a great next stop. There is also a smaller dedicated pool for children. If you've worked up an appetite, you can choose between the Blue Pacific coffee shop, which is open all day, or the Deep Andaman Restaurant, which offers the freshest seafood. The spa offers a range of treatments, including aromatherapy and traditional Thai massage, while the well-equipped fitness centre has everything that you'll need to stay in shape. For the less active there is a library (where you can also get soft drinks) and a DVD collection to choose from. A beauty salon, tour counter, and currency exchange round off the comprehensive range of services provided.

The Blue Marine Resort & Spa is located to the north of Patong or Kalim Beach. Patong shopping area and nightlife is less than five minutes away, while Phuket town is just 25 minutes away. It takes about 45 minutes to get to Phuket International Airport.