Wish You Were Here

Earlier this year, just before the pandemic lockdown, Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts unveiled its first address in Phuket, and it’s a gorgeous hideaway that encourages total relaxation

- Brian Cheong

It is common belief that it’s good feng shui when a house faces the sea and its back is against a mountain. Stretching from the beach to the lush Surin hills, Intercontinental Phuket Resort stands on such a coveted plot of land.

As a matter of fact, the resort offers the option of a beachside stay or a bed down at the foot of a hill. The latter also features the signature architecture of the resort, the Heavenly Pavilion with its stark white façade and a multi-tiered roof that has already enthralled a slew of Instagrammers. This magnificent structure is the climactic representation of the resort’s overall design inspiration from an ancient Thai text that lays out the concept of heaven. The walls along the path leading to the pavilion are mirrored for a “floating” effect, like heaven on earth.

Pushing this “heavenly” narrative further are five sculptures displayed in various spots in the public space. Inspired by the epic tale of Ramayana, the sculptures depict the conflict between angels and giants.

How very apt then that Intercontinental Phuket promises the sort of blissful escape that is a far cry from the overcrowded Patong beach only 10km away. A big part of this serenity is credited to Kamala beach at its doorsteps, which is a much quieter stretch of powder than Patong. Although the presence of Café del Mar next door is switching things up, the beach has maintained its pristine state that makes a leisurely, pleasant stroll during sunset still a possible experience.