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.

This boutique 5 Star resort, tucked between the forested Hang Nak mountain and one of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand is a private sanctuary to relax, romance and feel at one with nature. The Tubkaak overlooks a gorgeous white sand beach and a spectacular 13-island archipelago in the Andaman Sea. The distant islands provide great shelter from the monsoon winds creating a safe beach to swim with calm waters all year round.

LOCATION
Krabi.

HOW TO GET THERE
Road transfer from Phuket airport.

ACCOMMODATION

16 Superior Rooms (Size: 40m2)
Superior Rooms are situated on the ground floor of the villas clustered around the beautiful resort free-form swimming pool. One of the great features of this Krabi hotel room is the outdoor terrace area, a serene spot to enjoy room service refreshments while overlooking the water .Inside, the stylish master bedroom has an en-suite indoor bathroom with a rain shower and outdoor bathroom with a romantic sunken bathtub.

16 Deluxe Rooms (Size: 45m2)
These upper floor hideaways have everything you need to feel at home. Stretch out on the balcony daybed overlooking the pool and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature. The exotic bathroom is a highlight, featuring an outdoor shower and a romantic sunken bathtub.

12 Premier Pool Villa (Size: 100-130m2)
These spacious and luxurious villas are a truly private hideaway and a favourite choice for honeymooners. The comfortable bedroom opens onto a terrace with a private pool and jacuzzi. The exotic bathroom features an outdoor shower and a romantic sunken bathtub.

ROOM FACILITIES 

• Air conditioning
• Outdoor bathtub and separate shower
• Fridge
• Nespresso coffee machine
• Tea making facilities
• Satellite TV
• Mini bar
• Sandals
• Beach bag
• Electronic safe

DINING
Dining well is one of the greatest pleasures in life, and Tubkaak has created two divine beachfront restaurants to indulge in such culinary pleasures. Love and care has gone into the growth of their own organic garden where chickens lay fresh eggs and chemical-free vegetables are picked daily.
The only difficult decision is whether to choose authentic Italian at Di Mare or Thai cuisine at The Arundina.

Meal Plans
The resort operates on a Bed & Breakfast basis with optional supplements applicable for Half Board and Full Board (set menus), all served in the Arundina.

The Arundina
The chilled beach vibe sets the scene for a laid-back luxury dining experience at The Arundina.
The elegant dining tables run right down to the soft white sand, a particularly romantic spot for sunset cocktails and dinner.

Di Mare
Drawing inspiration from the delicious fresh seafood from the Andaman Sea, and the traditional Italian fare of a ‘trattoria’, Di Mare offers the very best of both worlds.
The sublime setting is romantic and relaxed, a place you will want to linger and appreciate the fine wine, authentic cuisine and conversation.
The discreet yet attentive service is balanced perfectly ensuring your appetite is truly satisfied.

Private Dining
Express your feelings of love with a romantic dinner for two, an exclusive arrangement for very special occasions. Your table will be set up on the sand for your memorable romantic meal, with the soothing sound of the waves as a backdrop. Available on request.

SPA
The exceptional L’escape Spa experience begins when you very first glimpse the unique cocoon shaped treatment rooms rising towards the sky. You just know that something special awaits inside.

The signature treatments and massages are inspired by traditional Oriental and Thai therapeutic healing. Only natural oils are used as well as fresh ingredients from our own organic garden. Each visit to this luxury spa in Krabi is a journey of relaxation, with intuitive therapists who tailor each treatment to your personal needs. Couples treatments are a speciality, allowing you to share the amazing L’escape Spa experience and all guests are encouraged to experience the complimentary sauna and herbal steam facilities.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary throughout the resort.

WATERSPORTS & ACTIVITIES (*some at a supplement)

• Swimming pool
• Kayaking
• Stand-up paddle
• Yoga
• Thai boxing classes
• Conference facilities
• Thai cooking classes
• Yoga
• Thai Chi
• Pilates
• Muay Thai boxing classes
• Mountain biking
• Scuba diving *
• Elephant trekking *

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