Honeymoon Hideaways

Honeymoon inSOUTHERN THAILAND

WORDS BY HARMONY WALTON

Spin the globe to seek out the most pristine tropical destination wedding or honeymoon location in the world and you could land on Phuket, Thailand. The island is a top contender for unwinding on the ocean and relaxing in some of the world’s best spas in-between adventures. This jungle-meets-the-water destination has it all for honeymooners and groups who want something truly out of the ordinary in a culture that’s unbelievably warm and welcoming.

Trisara, a resort in Phuket, is a destination unto itself. Just 15 minutes from the airport, it’s perched on a hillside on the northwestern shore, winding all the way down to the water’s edge and beyond. You’ll tiptoe between lily ponds to a variety of dining pavilions and outdoor relaxation areas before entering your villa, which inside-and-out is entirely private (except for the 180-degree ocean view). With a Michelin-star restaurant on property (PRU), a Muay Thai boxing ring and training facility, tennis, watersports, and cooking classes, there’s plenty to do right outside your villa door. The on-property Jara Spa is certainly a highlight for anyone seeking a bit of R&R on the island. Within its walls, you’ll find an offering that includes a Royal Trisara 6 Hand Massage (make that twelve for couples). That’s right, three therapists each working away that last bit of wedding stress. Then your private paradise awaits as you retire to your pool villa complete with infinity pool, outdoor lounge area, and indoor/outdoor showers. The sunsets from your deck are awe-inspiring, complemented by fresh flowers updated daily in outdoor urns. These suites feel like private residences – spaces so large you never have to leave.

When you do venture out in season (December to April), you’ll find a jetty off Trisara’s shore that ushers resort guests onto a variety of vessels for private charters, a day at sea to snorkel and local tours of the coastline. A half-day trip to Phang Nga Bay, home of the famed James Bond Island, is a highlight, as are the Phi Phi Islands for a sunset cruise.

If your adventures are by land, consider paying a visit to the Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. With over 30-acres of

preserve, the resident rescue elephants are happily retired and available for up close viewing (and feeding) in a resortstyle environment designed for these gentle giants.

Teahouses in town are another local highlight. With so many families serving up their special brew, you could spend days dining on different desserts and sweet treats. One spot not to miss is i46 Old Town. The family-run business boasts a shop in front with local remedies for a variety of ailments and a beautiful teahouse in back, just below their own apartments. The elders will tell tales of their travels and life experiences, while you enjoy home-brewed concoctions and baked confections. A day of textile shopping and tea sipping can only be improved with a stop for gelato at the end of the trek at Malou Tea Atelier. This posh eatery is packed with see-and-beseen locals and travelers alike dining on cold brew tea and ice cream delights almost too pretty to eat.

If you fall in love with Phuket so much so that you want to share it with more than just your mate, consider an exotic destination wedding on the beach or in one of Trisara’s many private residences (that feel more like boutique hotels). Say “I do” over a Plexiglas-clad pool or go barefoot in the sand before dining on authentic Thai dishes with fresh vegetables plucked from their very own sustainable farm. Staying in one of the residences means up to seven bedrooms to entertain guests, full size pools, lush gardens and grounds, and plenty of party spaces surrounding you. The residences even come with a dedicated staff including a cook, to cater to your every need.

Whether you’re ushering your guests around the globe for a destination wedding or seeking total privacy with land and sea fun for your honeymoon, Trisara and the island of Phuket are matches made in heaven for celebrating these special milestones.