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.

Escape to the 5 Star SAii Phi Phi Island Village, a dream-like tropical resort situated on a private 800 metre stretch of pristine white sand beach lapped by the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.
The resort is set on 70 acres of coconut palm plantations, in the privacy of Loh Ba Gao Bay on Phi Phi Island.

LOCATION

Loh Ba Goa Bay, Phi Phi Island.

HOW TO GET THERE
Resort speedboat service from Phuket or Krabi

ACCOMMODATION

44 Deluxe Garden Bungalows (Size: 50m2)
More space to chill out and lounge about in, the Deluxe Garden Bungalow is nestled within the tropical gardens with lush views aplenty from the laid-back balcony. Inside, the crisp, contemporary decor is in keeping with the resort’s Thai aesthetics, while the king size bed and daybed offer ample opportunities for unwinding.

72 Deluxe Garden Villas (Size: 45m2)
The newly refurbed Deluxe Garden Villas have modern, refreshed interiors and spacious balconies overlooking the lush tropical gardens.

37 Deluxe Premium Villas (59 sqm)
A newly renovated, rustic yet refined haven of comfort. These villas are equipped with a king bed or twin beds and sofa bed, an ensuite bathroom with shower and a balcony with deck chairs.

8 Deluxe Sea View Bungalows (59 sqm)
These sea view bungalows are a definition of down-to-earth luxe with direct access to the beachfront. They are equipped with a king bed or twin beds and sofa bed, an ensuite bathroom with shower and a balcony or terrace with deck chairs.

4 Deluxe Sea View Villas (59 sqm)
A newly renovated, rustic yet refined haven of comfort. These villas are located a few steps from the sand and are equipped with a king bed or twin beds and a sofa bed, an ensuite bathroom with shower and a balcony with deck chairs. 

14 Beachfront Junior Suites (79 sqm)
These beachside bliss suites come with a spacious deck and outdoor dining area overlooking the ocean, and also feature a king bed with sofa bed, an ensuite bathroom with separate bathtub and shower plus a balcony or terrace with deck chairs.

6 Ocean Hillside Pool Villas (125 sqm)
These exclusive one bedroom villas are situated on a secluded slope amid tropical rainforest and are equipped with a king bed and two sofa beds, an en-suite bathroom with separate bathtub and shower, a private swimming pool and a balcony or terrace with deck chairs.

ROOM FACILITIES

• Air conditioning
• Flat screen TV
• IDD Telephone
• Balcony or terrace with deck chairs
• Fridge and Mini bar 
• Tea and coffee making facilities (villas only)
• Hair dryer
• Bathrobe & slippers
• Electronic safe

DINING

Meal Plans

The resort operates on a Bed & Breakfast basis with the option to upgrade to Half Board, Full Board and All Inclusive 

Half Board includes:

• Breakfast and dinner at the Api Restaurant

Full Board includes:

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Api Restaurant

All Inclusive includes:

• Breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Api Restaurant
• Free flow local beer, spirits, soft drinks and juices in the resort’s food and beverage outlets from 11h00 to 23h00. Excludes wine.
• Afternoon tea with assorted cakes and ice creams

WATERSPORTS & ACTIVITIES (*some at a supplement)

• 2 Swimming pools
• Fitness centre
• Scuba diving *
• Kayaking
• Snorkelling
• Stand-up paddle
• Trekking*
• Yoga
• Tennis court
• Kids playground

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