I’m a seasoned traveller and I’ve stayed at more than my fair share of luxury properties around the world. Over the years I’ve realised that the more I travel, the more I come to value hotels and resorts that provide a unique and authentic experience. To me, luxury is about more than plush bedspreads and butler service. Not every trip you take has to be deep and meaningful, but connecting with new cultures is a major part of travel. That’s why I was so excited to stay at Keemala in Phuket, Thailand. This famous property is a treetop wonderland brimming with character and proves that there’s so much more to Phuket than its infamous party scene. 

The Keemala Concept 

Keemala is designed to feel straight out of a storybook. The Keemala concept celebrates local folklore and is designed around the tale of four fictional island tribes. The resort is intended to be much more meaningful than an island escape; it celebrates a way of life. 

The resort consists of rustic tree houses which offer insane views of the mountains, forests and beaches of beautiful Phuket. It’s a dreamy place where time moves slowly and there’s absolutely nothing to worry about – apart from perhaps what spa treatment you’ll indulge with later on. 

My Treehouse 

My Bird’s Nest Villa felt like my own little bubble, far removed from civilization. After a hectic few days in Bangkok, link I was more than happy to spend the majority of my time relaxing by my private infinity pool and soaking up the incredible views. 

The staff also arranged for me to take a rose petal bubble bath, which was a real treat. It was wonderful to unwind in warm water as I watched the sunset over the ocean. 

The Spa 

If you prefer, you can keep yourself pretty busy with wellness activities in Keemala, but I wanted to spend as much time as possible relaxing in my forest fairytale, so of course, a visit to the spa was at the top of my agenda. What really impressed me was the range of treatments to help you with jet lag-related issues such as bloating and discomfort. As someone who has struggled with this before, this was a very welcome touch! 

The spa offers guests a sensory experience and is committed to holistic wellness. Each treatment incorporates sight, scent, sound and touch for a truly relaxing experience that helps to rebalance your body and mind. After all, isn’t that what luxury vacations are for?

Activities 

From TRX to Tai Chi, you’ll most likely leave Keemala feeling fitter than when you arrived. The resort really taps into traditional Asian medicine and wellness to deliver a rejuvenating experience for guests. 

Food & Drink 

The food at Keemala was insanely good. I’m a huge fan of Thai cuisine because it’s so fresh, healthy and flavorsome and Keemala really took it to the next level. Of course, you don’t have to stick to Thai food – one evening, I had a marble Wagyu steak that I still dream about. 

Final Thoughts 

Keemala is the perfect place for luxury travellers to disconnect from their phones and reconnect with nature. I love that this resort is so in tune with the local Thai culture and natural surroundings. It offers guests an unforgettable experience and I truly hope to return when the world opens up once more. 

Click here to book Keemala

For more on Thailand travel, check out the best islands for luxury travellers or this luxury guide to Bangkok.