For animal lovers: Our Jungle Camp
Situated on the mainland, about a three-hour drive north of Phuket, is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Few tourists stray that far from the beach, but Khao Sok National Park is a brilliant side trip that offers a completely different take on southern Thailand. The bamboo huts and log houses in the trees at our Jungle Camp are minimalist and cool enough at night that they don’t have air conditioning. There is a small restaurant on-site, and the camp can organize a variety of activities for a good price, including nature walks and river rafting.
Bedrooms: From £ 15, room only.
For those seeking comfort: Sala Phuket Mai Khao Beach
Sitting on Mai Khao Beach, Sala Phuket epitomizes laid-back Thai beach lounging. Everything about this hotel seems to have been designed for you to relax: the minimalist style, the serene white-on-white suites and villas, and the sunken pool in the grass, with the Andaman Sea just beyond. Spend the day at the beach with a book or relax in the spa. The food is excellent too: freshly baked pastries for breakfast, delicious papaya and red curry salads for lunch, and lobster for dinner.
Bedrooms: Villas from £ 109, B&B.
Best for athletes: Thanyapura
Go for the gold in this sprawling fitness center in the heart of the island’s jungle. World-class athletes come here to take advantage of the excellent facilities, including two competition pools, tennis courts, and boxing courts. Mere mortals can stay here too, using the facilities and in and out of more than 80 classes a week. A medical center offers comprehensive health checks and there is a spa for massages. The rooms are simple but have everything you need, including comfortable beds, power showers, and terraces.
Bedrooms: Villas from £ 70, B&B.
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