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.

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the 5 Star Keemala is an all-pool villa hidden paradise nestled in the rainforest above Kamala Beach. With only 38 villas and cottages celebrating four fictional ancient Phuket Tribes this resort is nothing short of special - unique dining options, an award-winning spa and enchanting gardens and surrounds.

The Kamala Beach is a 5 minute shuttle away and if you are hungry for some of Thailand's famous buzz Patong is a mere 10 - 15 minute taxi drive from the resort.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a special occasion with friends and family, whether you fancy never leaving the sanctuary of your private pool villa or you'd prefer to get out and experience the Phuket social life, Keemala offers you a magical and memorable stay in Phuket.

LOCATION
Kamala Beach, Phuket.

HOW TO GET THERE
Road transfer from Phuket Airport.

ACCOMMODATION
Keemala Villas all offer home comforts to ensure that your stay is as relaxing as possible. Draped over the oversized beds are luxuriously soft Egyptian cotton sheets to ensure you a great slumber and all villas offer a climate-controlled environment.
All villas have a Villa Host who is on hand to assist with unpacking, room service deliveries, booking of Spa treatments, restaurant tables and excursions etc.

14 1 Bedroom Clay Cottage (Size: 126m²)
The individual cottages offer a bedroom with en-suite bathroom with monsoon shower, stand-alone tub and an outdoor shower with a private pool on the terrace
The cottages offer rainforest and resort views and are nestled alongside a natural stream and shaded by a tropical canopy.
Pool size 21m².

2 2 Bedroom Clay Cottage (Size: 180m²)
These individual cottages offer two separate bedrooms and one shared bathroom with monsoon shower, stand-alone tub, an outdoor shower and a private pool on the terrace.
The cottages are nestled alongside a natural stream and shaded by a tropical canopy and have jungle and resort views.
Pool size 24m².

7 Tent Pool Villa (Size: 140m²)
These tranquil tent-themed villas are nestled in the rainforest with sunset views and the soothing sounds of the jungle. The master bedroom enjoys forest and partial ocean views and the en-suite bathroom comprising monsoon shower, stand-alone tub and an outdoor shower provides luxurious bathroom amenities. The private pool on the deck is accessible directly from the bedroom.
Pool size 30m².

7 Tree Pool House (Size: 169m²)
With two floors these spacious villas come with a private pool, an upper level master bedroom and a large lounge/dining area on the lower level. Unique interior design features include cocoon shaped beds and loungers, and furniture that hangs suspended from the ceiling. A spacious and luxurious bathroom features a monsoon shower, stand-alone bathtub and an outdoor shower. The pool is located on the terrace with commanding rainforest and resort views.
Pool size 26m².

8 One Bedroom Birds Nest Pool Villa (Size: 185m²)
The individual villas are tucked into the tree canopy with partial sea, rainforest and resort views.
The rooms offer en-suite bathrooms with monsoon shower and a stand-alone tub as well as a lap pool and sun deck
Pool size 30m².

ROOM FACILITIES

• Air conditioning
• Large bathtub
• Mini bar
• Flat screen TV and iPod dock
• Tea and coffee making facilities (traditional coffee grinder and beans from Chiang Rai)
• Hair dryer
• Electronic safe
• Bathrobe & slippers
• Siam Botanicals bath products
  
  

DINING
At any of Keemala’s dining locations, guests can choose the healthy Spa Cuisine version of the menu for a lighter, wholesome option.
A full vegetarian and vegan menu is also available, as well as gluten-free and dairy-free selections.
A variety of herbs, vegetables, and fruits are grown at Keemala and sourced from trusted suppliers.

Meal Plans
The resort operates on a Bed & Breakfast basis only.

Mala Restaurant
All-day dining in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Mala Bar
Bid farewell to the day at Mala Bar, an ideal spot providing a stunning view, with mouth-watering signature cocktails in hand, completing a perfect day.
The cocktail list includes non-alcoholic cocktails and tropical fruit smoothies for guests who are enjoying a wellness retreat at Keemala.
Open until late.

Cha-La Pool Bar
Savour scrumptious nibbles and delightful cocktails.
Open for Drinks.

Destination Dining
Intimate dinners-for-two in alluring venues.
Available on request.

SPA
Upon entering the sanctuary of Mala Spa, each guest will embark on a sacred healing journey. 8 spacious treatment pods (4 with a sauna and steam room) have been designed for a truly multisensory rejuvenating experience for both individuals and couples. Treatments have been carefully curated to incorporate elements of ocean, earth, fire, air and ether, as well as unique Keemala rituals designed by the spa team and inspired by the stories of the Keemala clans and their distinctive way of living. Enjoy holistic experiences such as pampering spa massages, anti-ageing skin treatments, energy healing, aromatherapy baths and rain showers with exotic fragrances.

All products, including VOYA, Siam Botanicals and Spa Rituals are selected based on alignment with the Keemala ethos, and are paraben- and cruelty-free to allow you to unwind fully with a clear conscience.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary throughout the resort.

WATERSPORTS & ACTIVITIES (*some at a supplement)

• Swimming pool
• Fitness centre
• Sauna
• Steam room
• Thai Chi
• Nature walks
• Snorkelling
• Scuba diving *
• Excursions *

All information in this Fact Sheet is applicable as at January 2025 and is subject to change without prior notice.