Life Begins At.....
Issue link: http://ebook.aprs.com.au/i/47118
One week of luxury As publisher of The Retiree, I'm lucky enough to travel occasionally and go on location to review some of the world's fi nest and not-so-fi nest destinations. Compared to say a professional travel writer who tends to use fancy lingo, I am an amateur at very best, but my approach is, and always has been, to write an honest appraisal of my stay and experience, whether good or bad. For instance, some of my ventures abroad I have written about haven't been so kind, but I personally fi nd it imperative to be honest about the experience. Kata Phuket Thailand's island of Phuket is the larg- est in the country, an idyllic paradise with a vast coastline of luscious picture-perfect beaches – and from the moment you arrive it's clear to see why this destination entices thou- sands of tourists each year! One of the more quieter areas of Phuket is Kata and its neighbour Kata Noi. Situated 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Phuket's most famous beach, Patong, is in a word 'heavenly'. Kata is a favourite destination for the over 50's because of its spectacular palm-lined beaches, great restaurants, lively but not raucous nightlife – all close to the beach. So if you're seeking a holiday with a balance of having your own little bit of peace and quiet, plenty of space on a beautiful beach then Kata and Kata Noi are the place for you. Kata offers a wonderful 'balance' of an active mix of fi ne restaurants and bars for those that still wish to step out for a late night. 18 THE RETIREE SUMMER Mom Tri's Villa Royale Kata Noi Beach is a beautiful 700 metre stretch of paradise immediately around the southern point of Kata Beach. Sitting in an absolute stunning location on top of the headland that separates both beaches is Mom Tri's Villa Royale boutique hotel in which this publisher has had the privilege of staying. Possibly my all time favourite resort Villa Royale is pure paradise. Some use the word paradise loosely but not this writer. Mom Tri's is pure indulgence at its best. This place was once the private holiday villa of Mom Luang Tridhosyuth Devakul (better known as Mom Tri), a renowned Thai architect and descendant of King Mongkut Rama IV. A private path from the hotel leads to the beach where guests can enjoy the classic white sand and turquoise water. All suite rooms, also known as the Beach Wing Suites, face the sea and enjoy panoramic sea views. The suites are comfortable, spacious and have a balcony or terrace to enjoy the view. Three swimming pools can be found also overlooking the sea with a choice of freshwater or seawater. There are only 35 rooms in total which adds to the secluded feeling of this resort magnifi cently hidden amongst tropical Thai fauna with lovely little walkways. Every exquisite detail, furnishing, food, service and atmosphere at Mom Tri's is a testament to its reputation of pure comfort and pleasure. Whilst there don't forget to have a meal in the famed Mom Tri's Kitchen. A winner of numerous awards Mom Tri's Kitchen has visitors from all over the world. The wine cellar won Wine Spectator magazine's Award of Excellence consecutively since 2006. Mom Tri's Kitchen's relaxed, breezy dining is renowned for inspired gourmet innovations and sea views. Bookings are essential. Recently expanded the wine cellar now features over 700 labels to choose from and 18 wines by the glass. Verdict - 5 Stars Villa Royale was an experience of pure luxury. Wonderful spacious suites with open spaced living areas and all the extras plus some that one might hope for when staying in a world-class resort. My stay was a truly breathtaking moment-by-moment experience that will be very hard to top. I'm sure I'll be back sooner rather than later! Garth Wright