THAILAND TRAVEL NEWS: For those visiting the southern Thailand town of Krabi and in search of a touch of luxury the hunt is over with the opening of the worlds first Ritz Carlton Reserve.

Situated 40 minutes from Krabi International Airport and two hours from Phuket International Airport, Phulay Bay, A Ritz Carlton Reserve property, offers discerning guests the pinnacle in service and facilities.

It’s 54, one-bedroom villas range from a spacious 41sq.m for the 13 Resort Pavilion villas up to a whopping 120sq.m for the Six Royal Villa’s.

All feature flat screen televisions, large indoor baths, verandas appointed with lounge beds, “rainforest” outdoor baths and private plunge pools. In addition a personal butler is on-call 24-hours a day.

The up-market resort also features five dinning establishments ranging from RAW, serving fresh and raw fruits, vegetables, juices and teas, to formal dinning areas such as Si Trang where guests are promised a personalized and unique dining experience.

The Phulay Bay, A Ritz Carlton Reserve, also features a large infinity pool, as well as its own Spa featuring 11 treatment rooms designed for couples or individuals, as well as a vitality pool, wellness studio and relaxation area, all staffed by professionally trained and highly skilled practitioners.

With prices ranging from Bt19,550 to Bt68,000++ (about$US585 to $2,035), the breathtaking views and exceptional service levels do not come cheap though.

Costing more than Bt3 billion (about $US89.793 million) to construct, the resort has been in “soft opening” mode for some time and will officially open on December 22.

Ritz-Carlton Hotel group regional vice-president for Asia Pacific, Mark DeCocinis, said Krabi was selected by the group to introduce the new Reserve brand as it believes their is strong growth potential for the Thailand tourism market.

“The company is confident that people will keep travelling and their spending remain strong, especially among upper-income tourists who are willing to pay for luxurious services and privacy,” he said.

By John Le Fevre

Thailand Travel News for October 26, 2009