Mandarava Resort and Spa

Guests arriving at the Mandarava follow a long, traditionally Thai-styled portico that leads up a regal stairway to an airy, open-sided hexagon-shaped reception area illuminated with globe lamps and dotted with wicker furnishings. A lemongrass-infused drink and cooling towel are also offered to new arrivals. Opened in 2013 and one of the newer kids on the block, this upscale resort complex shows its youth with a contemporary, chic vibe that extends throughout the property and fresh ideas that fuse 21st-century decor with traditional Thai design. The hotel makes full use of its lofty, hilltop setting, with most of its 39 villas strategically positioned to take full advantage of the superb views. Its seven acres of grounds are brimming with tropical plants, exotic flowers, and palm trees. 

The resort is situated on a steep hill towards the north end of Phuket's Karon Beach with views over the Andaman Sea and a backdrop of jungle mountains. Karon’s beachfront, with its numerous shops, bars, and restaurants -- not to mention beautiful white sands -- is about 10 minutes away by foot, though getting back uphill might be an issue for the mobility-challenged. The Mandarava does offer a free shuttle service to the beach, though it's not very frequent and you have to make bookings in advance. The area's capital, Phuket City, is about 30 minutes northeast by car. Phuket International Airport is about 50 minutes north while flights to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport take an hour and 15 minutes, in addition to boarding time.

The hotel's 130 rooms are spread across 39 one and two story villas. Tropicana Superior Rooms are positioned on the lower level, with pool or garden views while Panoramic Deluxe Rooms occupy the second story with vista-style resort views. Horizontal Deluxe Rooms are housed in the single-story villas and are the resort's top end units. Interiors are tastefully finished in natural woods with a simple, uncluttered design with clean lines and white-tiled floors. Sliding doors open out onto furnished terraces or balconies, while spacious bathrooms are finished in gray slate with marble topped sinks. Many include tubs big enough for two. Free Wi-Fi and 40-inch flat-screen TVs with satellite channels are also standard. 

The resort offers three elegantly-designed infinity pools, two of which include swim-up bars with daily happy hour drink deals. The other has lovely sea views. The on-site Cheeva Spa, positioned at the top of the hill, is home to three massage rooms, a steam bath, and an outdoor hot tub while Chomtalay Restaurant has views over Karon and beyond, accompanied by a refreshing breeze. Additional on-site activities include free weekly yoga classes and Thai cooking classes (for a fee), with the Mandarava also offering wedding packages. Although kids are allowed at the hotel, there's little specifically catered to them.