L+T’s Review: Take Time to Treat Yourself at Melia Phuket Mai Khao
By Lifestyle+Travel
Meliá Phuket Mai Khao is one of Phuket’s beautiful places to stay, offering tranquility amidst a delightful design that blends effortlessly into the natural island surroundings.
SETTING THE SCENE
As Mai Khao Beach is a protected area, crowds are not a thing here. Meliá Phuket Mai Khao is a tranquil getaway set amidst tropical island greenery offering wellness-inspired facilities and satisfying dining options. Whether you are at the lobby, in a spa treatment room or strolling along the walkways, you will enjoy spaciousness and be able to admire the tropical island greenery.
To drench yourself in summertime delight, there are two good-sized swimming pools, one situated on the beachfront lawn with private pavilions dotted around. If you are fond of watching sunsets the poolside pavilions will become your very favourite spot, as you can overlook the sun setting over the sea from them. Another popular spot is the leafy lawn by the beach, where you can enjoy wellness-inspired activities such as yoga at dawn and unwinding in peace at dusk.
GETTING COMFORTABLE
The beachfront resort comprises of 30 suites and 40 villas, all of which are remarkably spacious. In addition, 15 of the villas are wellness-oriented with compelling add-ons such as a vitamin-C shower, ultrasonic essential oil diffuser, GermGuardian air purifier, and Tempur-Pedic pillows. The interior design focuses on clean lines and mellow palettes with Mediterranean touches, and with the spacious bedroom and outdoor lounging area of my villa, I am ecstatic to have all these for my stay at Meliá Phuket Mai Khao.
DINING OPTIONS
The culinary team here is led by Italian Chef Luca Mancini, who has lived in Thailand for over a decade. He knows Mediterranean and Thai flavours so well and has create a marvellous menu with both cuisines.
All-day SASA serves up flavoursome Thai and international dishes in a gorgeous indoor setting, while alfresco GAIA Beach Club indulges playful souls with Mediterranean-inspired casual dining as well as tasty cocktails. Dishes here are mainly made with locally-sourced ingredients and there are also a number of healthful options available.
WHY I’D RETURN
I find this resort offers the right balance between selfcare and having fun ─ I can opt for wellness activities all day long, and then unwind with a delicious, refreshing cocktail in hand by the pool followed by a good meal. In addition, there is something about the air here that makes me feel invigorated all day long.
ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES…
As the resort places an emphasis on relaxation there is no work station in the guestrooms, and that may be a bit inconvenient for those who do need to spend some time doing work.
MELIÁ PHUKET MAI KHAO
233 Moo 3, Mai Khao, Thalang, 83110 Phuket
T. +66 (0) 76 563 550
E. info@meliaphuketmaikhao.com
W. www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/phuket/melia-phuket-mai-khao
FB. @meliaphuketmaikhao
Text by Pakvipa Rimdusit
By Lifestyle+Travel
Chatrium Grand X Trip.Best Oyster Month
In a significant move for luxury hospitality and culinary tourism, Trip.com, a leading global travel service provider, has announced an exclusive collaboration with Chatrium Grand Bangkok. Leveraging its curated ranking platform, Trip.Best, the partnership presents "Chatrium Grand X Trip.Best Oyster Month," a prestigious culinary festival running from 1-30 November, 2025. This month-long event promises an extraordinary display of gastronomic excellence, gathering Michelin-starred chefs, international champions, and master mixologists to celebrate oysters, caviar, and Champagne, marking a new chapter in elevated travel experiences. This collaboration is a sophisticated fusion of expertise, uniting Trip.com's global reach, powered by the trusted recommendations of Trip.Best, with Chatrium Grand Bangkok's celebrated culinary artistry. As Chatrium Grand Bangkok holds the distinguished No. 2 position on Trip.Best’s ranking of the Best Gourmet Hotels in Bangkok—a testament to its exceptional standards—this alliance aims to reinforce Bangkok’s standing as a world-class culinary tourism destination, appealing directly to discerning travelers seeking truly memorable dining adventures. Highlighting the spirit of global discovery, the partnership introduces the "Trip.Best: The Voyager's Pearl," an exclusive signature oyster creation crafted by the hotel's culinary team. This bespoke dish, available throughout November, symbolizes Trip.Best’s mission to guide travelers to the world's finest experiences. It features a European oyster harmoniously topped with diverse ingredients—Thai shrimp, North American salmon roe, and Japanese ebiko—each element representing a culture united on a single plate. For reservations and more information, please visit: W: https://www.chatrium.com/grandbangkok/oysterevent T: +66 (0) 2126 7999 E: savio.cgb@chatrium.com
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Wellness by the Waves: Relax to the Soothing Rhythm of the Andaman in Phuket and Phang Nga
Beyond its breathtaking beauty, the Andaman Sea holds a hidden power of healing within the rolling waves, soft sands, gentle breeze, and even the warmth of sunlight. Wellness by the Waves, a three-day, two-night journey in Phuket and Phang Nga, is more than a holiday. It is an immersion that soothes both body and mind with profound relaxation. The journey begins with a visit to Phuket Old Town, where the rich Peranakan architecture and cultural heritage have been carefully preserved through generations. A stop at The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket offers an authentic taste of local cuisine handed down over time, reinterpreted with a contemporary presentation—signature dishes Gaeng Poo Khai Ped (Crab Curry with Duck Egg), Moo Hong (Braised Pork Belly Phuket Style), and Pla Tao Ew (Soy-Braised Fish). Next comes relaxation with panoramic views of Cape Panwa at Amatara Welleisure Resort, where wellness experiences restore balance from within. “Sound Healing with Tibetan singing bowls guides you into deep tranquility, while Pranayama Breathing Therapy enhances oxygen flow, cultivating mindfulness and inner calm.” The day concludes with a fine dining experience at Senses Restaurant, where fresh ingredients are crafted into dishes that balance flavor and nutrition. On the second day, the journey continues in Phang Nga with lunch at Catch and Co., where the freshest daily catch from Phang Nga’s Sea is presented with refined preparation and creative flair. Guests can select from an array of premium seafood, including delicate Thai sashimi. Then continue your journey of relaxation at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, where QUAN Spa offers a full range of treatments. The highlight is the Signature Jade Stone Massage, which uses both hot and cold jade stones to relieve muscle tension, stimulate circulation, and reduce stress. The experience continues with “Mindful Mandela Art, a meditative practice of creating mandala patterns that foster focus, serenity, and inner balance amidst lush garden surroundings.” An exceptional evening follows at Nai Muang Restaurant, renowned for its distinctive Southern Thai cuisine. Signature dishes such as Gaeng Som Nai Mueang (Southern Sour Curry), Moo Pad Kapi Sataw (Stir-fried Pork with Shrimp Paste and Stink Beans), and Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir-fried Melinjo Leaves with Egg). highlight the bold flavors of the South and the quality of local ingredients. The final morning leads to Memories Beach, home to “Ocean Therapy, a practice that harnesses the restorative power of the ocean through water activities.” As one of Thailand’s premier surfing spots, it helps release stress and strengthen both body and mind under the guidance of experienced instructors. The journey concludes with a memorable meal at Toh Daeng at Baan Ar Jor, a century-old Sino-Portuguese home transformed into a restaurant and museum. Local Hokkien-inspired dishes such as Gaeng Kua Motan Moo Yang Sai Ngo (Spicy Curry with Grilled Pork and Rambutan), and Pla Jian (Pan-fried Fish) are served, while the museum offers a glimpse into the heritage of the historic family estate. Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Opening Hours: 11:00–22:00 (Closed on Wednesday) Facebook Page: The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Fresh Breath Escape: Take a Breath of Fresh Air at Khao Yai – Saraburi
Sometimes, what the body craves most is simply to breathe in the crisp freshness of nature, to let the wind sweep away fatigue, and to embrace the renewing energy that restores balance. Fresh Breath Escape offers exactly that: a short yet fulfilling 2-day, 1-night wellness retreat amidst the lush valleys of Khao Yai–Saraburi, where pure air and serene landscapes invite you to rediscover lightness of being. Begin your journey with a light trek along the historic “200 Years of Thai–US Relations” trail in Khao Yai National Park. Wander beneath towering canopies, encounter diverse ecosystems in the lush Khao Yai Park… just the right dose of exercise. After this invigorating walk, recharge with a wholesome lunch at Gin Dee Organic Restaurant, where dishes such as crisp organic salads, Nam Prik Goong Sod (Fresh shrimp chili paste), and soothing herbal infusions are prepared with care from the freshest local farm ingredients. All enjoyed in a breezy, relaxing atmosphere. In the afternoon, check in “at Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai, where the philosophy of “Rest is Wellness” comes to life.” Replenish body and mind with the signature Aromatherapy Massage using natural essential oils, unwind in private onsen baths, and soothe tension in the sauna—all embraced by panoramic mountain views. As evening descends, savor the calm elegance of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort. “At Somying’s Kitchen, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dining experience featuring thoughtfully curated health-conscious menus.” Every plate showcases organically grown produce and supports local farmers. “Awaken the next morning with inspiration at Khao Yai Art Forest, a gallery seamlessly blending contemporary creativity with the timeless beauty of the surrounding forest.” Here, art and nature converge to evoke tranquility, reflection, and deep inner calm. Continue your journey with a riverside retreat at Jittang Permaculture Restaurant & Café, where farm-to-fork dining is elevated by the philosophy of permaculture. Relish wholesome Thai–Western fusion dishes such as Moo Krob Biodynamic (Biodynamic Crispy Pork), Kanom Jeen Sao Nam (Rice Noodles with Coconut Milk and Pineapple), Choo Chee Pla Nuea On (Spicy Fish Curry), and farm-fresh organic salads, each crafted with integrity and sustainability. “Conclude your wellness escape with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Harmony Library & Tearoom, The Soul Resort. The exquisite Silk Road Tea Set pairs premium blends with French pastries, served in an Oriental-inspired space infused with the soothing energy of chromotherapy hues.” It is the perfect finale before returning to daily life refreshed, rebalanced, and renewed with every breath Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ 200 Years Thai–US Relations Trail, Khao Yai National Park Open: Daily 06:00–18:00 Website: khaoyainationalpark.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 092 6529 Gin Dee Organic Restaurant Open: Daily 11:00–20:00 Facebook: Gin-d Organic Tel: +66 (0) 62 594 6255 Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai Website: hansarhotels.com/khao-yai Tel: +66 (0) 62 432 0599 For Hansar Thai Wellness Spa (Open 10:00–18:00), advance reservation 3–7 days prior is required via website or Tel: +66 (0) 97 919 7633 Somying’s Kitchen, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort Open: Daily — Breakfast 07:00–11:00 / Lunch 12:00–15:00 / Dinner 18:00–22:00 Website: khaoyai.intercontinental.com/dining/somyings-kitchen Tel: +66 (0) 44 082 039 Advance reservation required for non-resident guests Khao Yai Art Forest Open: Thu–Fri 12:30–18:00 / Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 Website: khaoyaiart.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 569