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.

Located directly on the beautiful, palm-fringed beach of Khao Lak, just 1.20 hour drive by car from Phuket International Airport.

This ultimate 5 Star design resort with stunning Andaman views as well as its friendly service welcomes visitors from across the globe. Casa de la Flora is the first modern hideaway in Khao Lak, presenting cutting-edge architecture and unique design amid tropical nature.

LOCATION
Khao Lak

HOW TO GET THERE
Road transfer from Phuket Airport

ACCOMMODATION

Casa de La Flora comprises 34 contemporary slate-grey cube villas in six categories and are designed to allow guests to experience the environment from inside out, with large glass facades that widen the perspective when looking out to Ocean. 

All villas offer a range of modern comforts for design and luxury lovers, complemented by unrivalled service. To guarantee greatest comfort, one king-size bed is provided in every villa.

5 Studio Pool Villas (Size: 70m2)
Each villa features a bedroom specially designed to enhance the feeling of seclusion. A highlight here is the ultra-spacious bathroom where the natural sunlight shines on a romantic two person bathtub which is separate from the rain shower and toilet. The surrounding foliage fence helps make this villa secluded and beautiful.
Relax at the private swimming pool (4.30m x 1.90m).

8 Duplex 2 Bedroom Pool Suites (Size: 90m2)
These suites are set in the rear part of the property. There are two stories in each suite. 
The ground floor is comprised of a spacious living room which has access to a private plunge pool (3.40m x 2m). The second floor is made up of a plush bedroom and an extended spacious bathtub (by a terrace). The terrace has two sunbeds for guests to enjoy.

11 Duplex Grand Pool Villas (Size: 110m2)
These Duplex Grand Pool Villas are set further back from the shoreline with two floors, all with private pools (6.20m x 2.20m) with a terrace and spacious living room on the ground floor. A bathroom with a two person bathtub, separate rain shower and toilet is on the mezzanine level. On the second floor of each villa is a large bedroom with king-size bed, where privacy, comfort and style are perfectly blended.

4 Beachfront Pool Villas (Size: 75m2)
These villas are located at the beach with stunning ocean views. They have a luxurious bedroom, a bathroom with a two-person bathtub, rain shower and separate toilet and an outdoor deck with a private pool.

5 Beachfront Suite Pool Villas (Size: 100m2)
These Beachfront Suites have panoramic ocean views. Each villa has a large bedroom plus a separate  living room. The bathroom features a romantic two-person bathtub plus a rain shower and separate toilet. The secluded outdoor area has a private deck and pool.

ROOM FACILITIES

• Air conditioning
• Smart TV
• Mini bar (complimentary and replenished daily)
• Coffee machine with capsules
• Direct dial telephone
• Electronic safe
• Pillow menu
• Evening turndown service
• Bathrobe & slippers
• Organic bathroom amenities
• Hair dryer
• Umbrella
• Sandals