Welcome to Thailand. Or should we say, welcome to paradise. Thailand is blessed with some of the world’s most-enviable beaches and a myriad of off shore islands for a holiday filled with watersports, hammocks and sunset strolls along the water’s edge. Some areas are super-vibey while others offer a more serene experience.

Some of our favourite holiday destinations in Thailand include Phuket, Phi Phi, Krabi and Khao Lak. You could decide to spend your holiday at just one of these destinations, or combine a few in a tailormade Thailand holiday.

Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and is undeniably the country’s most popular beach destination with a vibrant nightlife, bustling market stalls, a family atmosphere or romantic seclusion. Phi Phi Island is located two hours by ferry from Phuket (some resorts also offer a speedboat service) and offers a quieter area where sandy beaches lead to aquamarine bays filled with marine life. Krabi is known for sheer limestone cliffs where over 130 islands rise majestically from the sea, and secluded beaches are accessible only by colourfully adorned long-tail boats. And finally, Khao Lak is on Thailand’s mainland west coast, and is a less crowded tourist destination with a rugged natural beauty.

Thailand is an island paradise that offers a vast selection of hotels, and the beaches supply every kind of vibe! There’s always a party or something to do if you feel like being active while you’ll also find quieter beaches and rainforest retreats if you’re travelling as a family or couple. While Thailand was once known as a cheap, budget holiday destination, it is now becoming better known for its range of luxury hotels, of which the Holiday Factory only works with the best of the best.

Thailand is a unique destination where exquisite beach resorts combine with delicious exotic cuisines, stunning natural locations, unique modern architecture, and captivating local cultures, to offer a well-rounded holiday experience quite unlike anything you’ll find in South Africa. An island holiday here is like travelling to another world and offers you a chance to not just getaway but to truly explore somewhere different from your everyday.

Thailand’s tropical climate has three main seasons: hot from March to June, rainy from July to October, and cool from November to February. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. The monsoon season in the Andaman Sea is from approximately May to October but even during this time the monsoon rains are generally short and heavy, clearing quickly and days of constant rain are rare.

The currency is the Thai Baht which is better for bargaining and shopping in markets. US Dollars, Pounds and Euros are accepted at hotels. A service charge is already included in all prices. Tips, in general, are not mandatory, and you should only give them if you are really content with the service offered. Waiters, bellboys, porters, restroom attendants and taxi drivers will happily accept loose change. Thailand is 5 hours ahead of South Africa. The electric current is 220 volts AC and the majority of electrical outlets take a round, two-pronged slim plug (the same as us!)

It is important to show respect for the Thai Royal Family. Do not climb over or sit on Buddha monuments. Do not touch or give anything directly to a Buddhist monk if you are a woman. It is also rude to touch people on their head or point your feet at people or an object.

Drink only bottled water and avoid ice unless you know it is made from bottled or boiled water. Be cautious when eating from food vendors on the street.

Light, cool clothes are sensible. Shorts, sleeveless shirts, tank tops and other beach-style attire are considered inappropriate dress when not actually at the beach or in a resort area. Revealing attire is not allowed in religious shrines. The dress-code for dinner is usually smart casual and gents are required to wear long trousers.

Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket is an elegant beachfront resort set on the tranquil southeastern tip of Phuket. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and overlooking a secluded white-sand beach, the resort offers spacious accommodation, multiple dining options, swimming pools, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for couples and families seeking a peaceful island escape.

LOCATION
Panwa, Phuket

ACCOMMODATION

Junior Suite Garden View (53 sqm)
Spacious and comfortable featuring a main bedroom, ensuite bathroom with walk in shower and separate bathtub, including a private balcony furnished with a large sunbed with views of the resort gardens. Maximum occupancy 3 guests, king or twin beds


Junior Suite Sea View (53 sqm)
These suites are spacious and comfortable featuring a main bedroom, ensuite bathroom with walk in shower and separate bathtub, including a private balcony furnished with a large sunbed and sea views. Maximum occupancy 3 guests, king or twin beds

Cape Suite Garden View (78 sqm)
Luxurious and spacious featuring a main bedroom, separate lounge area, ensuite bathroom with walk in shower and separate bathtub, including a private balcony furnished with a large sunbed with views of the resort gardens. Maximum occupancy 3 guests, king or twin beds

Cape Suite Sea View (78 sqm)
Luxurious and spacious featuring a main bedroom, separate lounge area, ensuite bathroom with walk in shower and separate bathtub, including a private balcony furnished with a large sunbed and sea views. Maximum occupancy 3 guests, king or twin beds

Family Suite Garden View (114 sqm)
These suites comprise 2 connecting rooms, each with separate balconies and bathrooms, ideal for families wanting space and privacy. Maximum occupancy 5 adults or 4 adults and 2 children.

Family Suite Sea View (114 sqm)
These suites comprise 2 connecting rooms with sea views, each with separate balconies and bathrooms, ideal for families wanting space and privacy. Maximum occupancy 5 adults or 4 adults and 2 children.

Panwa Two Bedroom Pool Villa (138 sqm)
Each elegantly appointed Pool Villa features a large private pool facing the beach, two separate bedrooms with large bathrooms as well as a comfortable living room. Maximum occupancy 6 adults or 4 adults and 2 children.

Panwa Lodge (154 sqm)
An elegant colonial-inspired tropical two-bedroom private pool villa, featuring two en-suite bedrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and a relaxation room with a double sofa bed that can be converted into a third bedroom. The living area opens onto a private terrace with a swimming pool and sunbeds. The villa accommodates up to six guests. Bedding:  2 Double beds plus 1 Double sofa bed.

Cape Absolute Suite (530 sqm)
A luxurious penthouse featuring two bedrooms with two ensuite bathrooms, separate living and dining rooms, a private spa facility, large solid wooden sundecks and a full-sized infinity pool. . Maximum occupancy 5 adults or 4 adults and 1 child.

ROOM FACILITIES

• Large balcony
• Wide screen TV with cable
• Individual temperature controls
• IDD telephone
• Mini-bar
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Bathrobes and slippers
• Hairdryer
• Electronic safe
• Free in-room WiFi and LAN internet connection
• Bathroom amenity set

DINING
The resort operates on a bed and breakfast basis.

Café Andaman
Casual, all-day Thai and international dining.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner


Panwa House
Fine Thai dining.
Open for dinner. (Closed on Monday)


Top of The Reef
Exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.
Open for dinner. (Closed on Sunday)


Uncle Nan’s Restaurant
Classic Italian cuisine.
Open for dinner (Closed on Tuesday)


Café Kantary
Premium coffee, homemade pastries and gelato.
Open from 08h00 to 23h00


Beach Dining
Private dining on the beach provided on request for small and large groups


Otter’s Bar
Piano and lounge bar.
Open in the evening (Closed on Wednesday and Sunday)


The Lighthouse
Nautical themed pub with live music.
Open from 17h00 until late (Closed on Monday and Tuesday)


Bamboo Bar
Beachside snacks and drinks.
Open all day until 20h00

SPA
The Cape Spa offers a range of spa treatments to revitalize mind, body and soul.
Open 10h00 to 19h00

FACILITIES & ACTIVITIES (a supplement may apply)

• 2 swimming pools
• Fitness Centre and sauna
• Monkeys’ Club - Games room
• Children’s playground
• Water skiing
• Windsurfing
• Snorkelling
• Paddle Board
• Sea Canoe
• Kayaking
• Table Tennis
• Petanque
• Volleyball
• Badminton
• Yoga Classes
• Thai Boxing Classes
• Thai Cooking Classes
• Batik Painting
• Beauty salon
• Cape Yacht Charters
• Panwa Bay Village shopping area
• Meeting facilities