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.

Set along a beautiful stretch of beachfront, surrounded by tropical gardens and the sparkling Andaman Sea, Kantary Beach Hotel Khao Lak offers a relaxing escape for couples and families seeking space, comfort and a laid-back beach holiday.

Spend your days lounging beside the beachfront swimming pool, enjoying a refreshing drink at the swim-up bar or dining at the resort’s restaurants. A shuttle service to Khao Lak centre, approximately 15 minutes away, makes it easy to explore the local shops and attractions.

LOCATION
Khao Lak

HOW TO GET THERE
Road transfer from Phuket Airport.

ACCOMMODATION

The resort’s spacious suites and villas feature private balconies, comfortable living areas and kitchenettes, with villas also offering open-air showers.

128 Suites (Size:58 sqm)
These suites feature a main bedroom with ensuite bathroom equipped with walk-in shower and a separate tub, a separate living area, a kitchenette equipped with crockery, glassware, cutlery and microwave plus a spacious private balcony with sun loungeRs overlooking the resort gardens.

78 Villas (Size: 60 sqm)
These stand-alone villas feature a main bedroom with ensuite bathroom equipped with walk-in shower and a separate tub, a separate living area, a kitchenette equipped with crockery, glassware, cutlery and microwave plus a spacious private patio with sun loungeRs overlooking the resort gardens.

ROOM FACILITIES

• Separate living room and bedroom
• Widescreen TVs with cable
• DVD player
• Individual temperature controls
• Spacious private balconies with sun loungers
• Kitchenette with crockery and glassware, cutlery and microwave
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Walk-in shower and bathtub
• Hair dryer
• Free in-room WiFi and LAN Internet connection

DINING

The resort operates on a bed and breakfast basis with the option to upgrade to Half Board and Full Board meal plans.

Half board includes dinner at Café Andaman with a la carte and set menu options.

Full board includes breakfast, lunch and dinner at Café Andaman with a la carte and set menu options.

Café Andaman
The main restaurant overlooks the beach and coconut groves and offers Thai and International menus.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner

The Similan Restaurant
A fine dining restaurant specializing in European cuisine.
Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday for dinner

Garden Café
Located in the hotel’s central garden overlooking the Garden Pool, serving snacks and refreshments
Open daily

Otters Bar
Enjoy sunsets at the rooftop bar overlooking the Andaman Sea, this bar offers a large selection of liquors and cocktails.
Open from 18h00 until late

Boat Bar
Located along the beach serving a selection of drinks daily from 11h00 to 18h00.

Pool Bar
A swim up bar in the garden pool serving refreshing drinks daily from 11h00 to 17h00.

KIDS CLUB
Available daily between 08h00 to 18h00 for children under 12 years old. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

WiFi

Complimentary throughout the resort

FACILITIES & ACTIVITIES (a supplement may apply)

• Beachside pool
• Free form pool with a swim-up bar
• Fitness Centre
• Mini-mart (Open daily 09h00 – 20h00)
• Paddle boarding
• Two seat canoe
• Three seat canoe
• Windsurfing
• Yoga on the beach once a week
• Lagoon Fishing
• Tennis
• Badminton
• Football
• Volleyball
• Bicycle rental
• Conference and meeting facilities
• 24-hour Reception, concierge, security and maintenance
• Free Wi-Fi Internet access throughout the hotel (rooms and public areas)

All information in this Fact Sheet is applicable from November 2026 and is subject to change without prior notice.