Join @djtigerlilly on a trip to Thailand with the Australian DJ! From premier luxury resorts and essential activities in Phuket to remarkable island excursions – this guide is indispensable for anyone planning a visit to Thailand!
TwinPalms Phuket
Upon returning to Thailand, the first aspect that captivates me is always the warm-hearted nature of the local people. It’s a common sentiment, yet their graciousness truly renders this country one of my preferred travel destinations.
My arrival in Phuket took place late in the evening after a lengthy day traveling from Kyoto, Japan. Upon checking into TwinPalms Phuket, the stunning architecture of the entrance and the expansive swimming pool serve as an enticing backdrop. Although the surroundings were remarkable, I was in dire need of rest, which I found in an elegantly appointed bedroom. After selecting my desired pillows, flowers, and aromatherapy scents, I finally succumbed to slumber in sheer comfort!
The first day at Twin Palms focused entirely on relaxation. I awoke rather late, just in time for breakfast, which I was fortunate not to miss. As a vegan traveler, I often encounter difficulties in finding suitable options; however, the breakfast offerings at TwinPalms were impeccable. They provided selections for meat consumers, alongside sugar-free, gluten-free, and plant-based options.
Following a brisk session in the hotel gym, which was impressively equipped, I ascended to the third floor of my villa to soak up the sun, indulge in reading, and enjoy a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear private pool.
While bathing is a rare indulgence for me at home, I seized the opportunity to enjoy an expansive bath in my Twin Palms room before dinner, relishing an hour of relaxation for the first time in quite a while!
I dined at Phuket’s renowned Cash Beach Club, where I was once again thoroughly impressed by the culinary offerings. I highly recommend the spinach salad and customizing the pad thai dish (without egg and shrimp) to cater to vegan preferences. The presence of exquisite Australian wines on the menu further enhanced my experience, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Accessing Cash Beach Club, owned by TwinPalms, was quite straightforward, with a shuttle service operating every 30 minutes from the hotel!
On Day 2, I ventured to Surin Beach early to escape the sun’s heat and tourist crowds. Surin Beach is truly magnificent and a mere two-minute stroll from TwinPalms Resort. The water is crystalline, complemented by palm and banana trees lining the shore.
I once again returned to the resort to ensure I did not miss breakfast (the buffet was exceptional), before preparing to continue my journey.
My time at the TwinPalms Resort in Phuket was remarkable! I extend my gratitude to the incredibly attentive and kind staff who took care of me throughout my stay.
Phi Phi Islands Day Trip
Reflecting on my life, certain days stand out vividly, particularly when I embarked on an exploration of the Phi Phi Islands at the age of 19—nearly six years ago! Given the cherished memories of that day spent discovering the ocean and beaches, I resolved that Chris and I must revisit this beautiful location.
We arranged a tour through Laguna Tours (facilitated by TwinPalms Phuket), a decision I am grateful for, as it resulted in a splendid day.
At 9 AM, we were collected from our hotel and driven approximately 40 minutes to the Marina to embark on our boat. The group consisted of 10 individuals, creating an intimate atmosphere aboard a luxurious speed boat. During my previous Phi Phi Island excursion, a traditional small boat was used, characterized by its slender and beautiful form. However, this time, given the expensive camera equipment we had, I opted for a less turbulent option.
The boat journey from Phuket to Phi Phi spans just under an hour. We selected a slightly choppy day that Chris and I found exhilarating, although some fellow island visitors appeared less pleased.
Our first destination was Phi Phi Don Island at Monkey Beach, undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking spots I have encountered. The water exhibits a remarkable light blue-green hue, with such clarity that it resembles looking through glass. The sand, incredibly soft, sinks beneath your feet and feels akin to silk. Families of monkeys inhabit the trees above this beach, although we arrived at high tide, resulting in no sightings.
Subsequently, we cruised over to Phi Phi Lei, visiting the Viking Cave, which is home to locals who search for Birds Nests for the production of Bird’s Nest Soup. Following that, we proceeded to Pi Lei Cove and Maya Bay, both distinct highlights of the trip. The water here was remarkably clear, making it appear as though the surrounding boats were floating on air! The only drawback was Maya Bay, the iconic location where ‘The Beach’ featuring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed, as it was crowded with countless tourists eagerly seeking the quintessential photo opportunity.
In the afternoon, we snorkeled at Camel Rock. Our guide provided small pieces of banana for the fish, which eagerly swarmed around, creating a beautiful display of vibrant marine life. I was pleasantly surprised by the rich diversity of fish inhabiting the cove, and it was a delightful experience swimming among them for an hour.
We enjoyed a picnic for lunch on Bamboo Island, and I was delighted when my lunchbox appeared from under the boat’s hull. My meal consisted of vegetable fried rice sans egg, accompanied by chips (not the healthiest choice), along with pineapple and watermelon.
Traveling by boat around the Phi Phi Islands is an exceptional way to explore. If your schedule allows for some extra time and resources while in Phuket, this experience is profoundly rewarding. Not only does it allow one to escape the bustling environment of Phuket, but it also offers a glimpse into regions of this world that remain relatively unspoiled.
Sri Panwa
After two idyllic days in Phuket, we opted to elevate our accommodation experience as we journeyed to the southernmost tip of the island to Sri Panwa. This luxury resort is unparalleled, presenting an otherworldly experience. The service is extraordinary, with attentive details that consistently surpass expectations.
Chris and I arrived at Sri Panwa late in the evening, greeted by a breathtaking sunset resembling candy floss. As we refreshed ourselves with ice-cold peppermint towels and enjoyed traditional Thai iced tea, we admired the pristine view before heading to our villa. The expansive resort features a clever transportation system, utilizing tuk tuks to shuttle guests around. For those unfamiliar, a tuk tuk is a type of open-air van with bench seating in the back!
Upon entering our villa, I was awe-struck by its exquisite beauty and design. After a period of astonishment and leisurely wanders through the space as if I belonged there, we retired for the night after a long day.
My bedroom overlooked the villa’s private pool, enabling me to sleep with the curtains open and bask in the calming turquoise light throughout the night. I awoke without an alarm, which is a cherished luxury for me, and gasped at the breathtaking view that revealed itself at dawn.
Chris joined me as I practiced the Wim Hof breathing technique for the first time, an experience that proved to be quite enlightening. We did this after my unsuccessful attempts to hold my breath underwater during our boat tour of the Phi Phi Islands! Chris guided me through basic movements that promoted circulation throughout my body, invigorating me like a strong cup of coffee!
Breakfast featured a vibrant buffet once again. Due to our exhaustion the previous night, we had skipped dinner, so this morning’s feast was especially gratifying. We filled our plates with an array of dishes: salads, fruits, roasted mushrooms and tomatoes, avocado, hash browns—you name it, we enjoyed it. However, the view surpassed even the food (a rare comment from me!).
While traveling, maintaining a consistent routine often proves challenging, particularly when it comes to dedicating time to work. After breakfast, Chris and I committed a few hours to managing emails, edits, uploads, and Skype calls. I thoroughly enjoy these productive sessions, producing a satisfying sense of achievement by the end.
After a swim in our beautiful pool, we decided it was time to try out my drone. We gingerly piloted it into the sky, capturing stunning footage of the resort. Unfortunately, five minutes in, we received a notification from reception advising us that drone usage is prohibited on the premises. While this regulation is understandable, I must apologize for the absence of sweeping drone imagery.
The afternoon was warm and inviting, prompting us to explore the resort. We ascended to a building housing Baba’s Nest, renowned for its picturesque sunset views and tantalizing cocktails. Climbing four stories elevated us to the pinnacle of the resort, resembling a scene from a fairytale. This beautiful spot, with its cozy cushions and small tables, offers a 360-degree panorama of the ocean and surrounding forest. I chose to indulge in a cocktail named ‘Love Potion’ in honor of Valentine’s Day, even though I felt a twinge of sadness missing my loved one back in Australia. Our cocktail experience was followed by a traditional Thai meal, and I highly recommend the delectable potato spring rolls and the yellow curry (modified to be vegan by substituting vegetables and tofu for the animal products).
Retreating to my cloud-like bed, I found sleep to be utterly enchanting. Despite the need to depart early the next morning, our two nights at the resort were truly delightful, and I genuinely recommend dedicating time to this splendid resort if you find yourself in Phuket, Thailand!
Tigerlily xxx
My Travel Essentials
- Sunscreen
- Bikini
- A good book
Must-Do’s in Phuket
- Experience a massage at TwinPalms Phuket
- Embark on a speedboat to the Phi Phi Islands
- Enjoy a cocktail at the peak of Baba’s Nest at Sri Panwa
My Insider Travel Tips
- Opt for a tuk tuk instead of a taxi
- Many traditional Thai dishes can be adapted to be vegan; simply inquire about options
- Coconuts provide an excellent means of hydration throughout the day
This Phuket Diary was written by @djtigerlily for @theasia.collective.
