The beaches of Thailand are once again beckoning with the easing of COVID-19 health protocols in the country since May 2022. Phuket is definitely one of the top choices for travellers with its pristine beaches and repertoire of luxury hotels.
Given the myriad of accommodation options, where then shall you make your home during your holiday in Phuket? Our choice is The Slate Phuket (formerly known as Indigo Pearl), a beachfront five-star resort wherein lies serenity and a historically inspired design with links to the hotel owner’s tin-mining heritage in Phuket. Here are four reasons that make The Slate Phuket a cut above the rest in Phuket:
Tranquil Location
The Slate Phuket is located in the heart of Nai Yang Beach. Photo © Asia 361
Upon arrival at Phuket airport, the first thing you’d wish for is to get to the hotel as soon as possible. Located a mere 10 minutes’ drive from the airport, the location of The Slate Phuket cannot get any more convenient for the weary traveller.
We love that the hotel lies in the heart of Nai Yang Beach, beckoning with peace and exclusivity not found in the more mainstream areas of Phuket like Patong Beach.
Exceptional Design
An awe-inspiring lobby greets guests at The Slate Phuket. Photo © Asia 361
Design and architecture aficionados will find delight in staying at The Slate Phuket, which is designed by interior design maestro Bill Bensley. With such an esteemed name behind the hotel’s aesthetic, it is almost a given that any guest will be in awe upon stepping onto the expansive property grounds.
The hotel design drew inspiration from the tin mining past of Phuket, weaving industrial elements creatively into the décor and architecture. It is a juxtaposition of old and new.
Our suite comes with a pool. Photo © Asia 361
The bathroom incorporates raw design elements. Photo © Asia 361
The same design thought process extends to the rooms. From the raw taps and hand basins to the 1920s fans on the balcony ceiling, the elements reveals a careful thought design process not often seen in hotels on the island and provides a window into the rich history. An outstanding feature in the room is the “tin-inspired” outdoor bathtub, which makes for the perfect prop for an Instagram-worthy picture.
An outdoor bathtub is one of the key features of the Pool Suite. Photo © Asia 361
The Slate Phuket has not one, not two but three pools for guests to soak in. Each of the pools exudes a different vibe. A large lagoon pool with waterfall features appeals to families. For those who seek solitude, an adult-only infinity pool entices with a view that overlooks the resort’s manicured grounds. The resort turns up the volume at the third adult pool that comes with a swim-up bar for socialising as you bask in the sun.
The resort has three main pools, each with its own vibe. Photo © Asia 361
Exquisite Dining
Black Ginger’s menu does not disappoint with its fusion Thai food. Photo © Asia 361
A stay at The Slate Phuket would be incomplete without a dining experience at Black Ginger restaurant. Quite possibly the crown jewel of the resort, Black Ginger impresses you even before you step into the restaurant.
A hand-pulled raft glides you across a lagoon to a cocktail bar that fronts a traditional northern Thai house. Inside the Thai house is where the restaurant awaits the diner with exquisite cuisine. The menu features Phuketian and Thai dishes done with finesse and in fusion style. Having a meal at Black Ginger is something you won’t find in everyday dining experiences.
Apart from the enchanting Black Ginger, The Slate Phuket completes the dining experience with three other in-houses eateries, namely Tin Mine, Tongkah Tin Syndicate and Rivet & Rebar.
Rivet & Rebar is one of four in-house eateries at The Slate Phuket. Photo © Asia 361
A Spa Out of This World
A treatment at The Nest at Coqoon Spa is a must. Photo © Asia 361
Forget about heading out of the resort for your spa treatment. Coqoon Spa, the in-house resort spa, will soothe your senses with their range of rejuvenating treatments.
There are eight double treatment rooms, each varying in concept and style. The main highlight of the spa is the Tree Nest, an imposing bird nest-like structure set amidst branches of an old tree. Note though that a booking in advance and an added premium are needed if you wish to have your treatment done at the Tree Nest.
The Slate Phuket, Nai Yang Beach, 116 Moo 1, Sakhu Thalang, Phuket, Thailand 83110
Tel: +66 76 327 006
