Centara Grand Beach Resort in Phuket is a luxury resort that’s inspired by the quintessential Sino-Portuguese architecture which is typically found amongst the townhouses of Phuket’s old town. Centara Grand has rapidly found success due to pioneering this classical style, which has been a first for Thailand and has drawn the attention of many first-class travelers. This is their newest 5-star luxury resort and covers a whopping 41 hectares which are connected directly to the blissful Karon Beach, found near Krabi province and the beautiful Phi Phi islands.
A highlight of the Centara Grand Beach Resort is the magnificent beauty and intricate design of the Sino-Portuguese architecture, which is best described as a blending of European architecture, Mediterranian culture and Western masonry with a pinch of Eastern charm featuring luxurious decadence and an old fashioned taste of unrestrained opulence.
The cultural heritage here originates from the streets of the Sino-Portuguese style dwellings found in the old town center of Phuket, which is still well preserved and has been functioning now for over 100 years. It’s a respectful nod towards the heritage of Phuket and added to the overall aesthetic during my stay here. Truly staying here was like being in another world.
To give you more of an overview - the buildings are made of traditional masonry, there’s bricks and mortar with smooth plaster walls just as you would expect, and these are decorated with stucco motifs, and of course the instantly recognizable arched windows, pillars, and large doorways, these are finished with hardwood carpentry from local woods and colorful glazed tiles with decorative wrought iron fittings.
The roofing is made of ceramic tiles from the local clay, and the windows are completed with the traditional wooden shutters that are found all over Europe but are quite a unique feature for Thailand. I felt like I was in a different era almost and certainly not the Thailand I had visited before. Staying here felt regal and limitless. High ceilings and grand views are found throughout the immaculately maintained grounds and tropical gardens.
In addition to the outstanding architecture used throughout the construction of the resort, the Centara Grand is also fully equipped with many amenities which are available to all guests, found in all 262 rooms and villas are excellent restrooms with large showers, baths and also HD TVs and WiFI, there’s also a balcony to enjoy the view from, and of course you have access to private swimming pools with jacuzzis that are accompanied by a sea view. There are a total of four fine dining restaurants serving a world of gourmet cuisine with Asian and Italian styles, plus there’s also a beach bar and poolside bar with lounge for your enjoyment.
I enjoyed eating fresh seafood in a spicy Tom Yum soup at the Cove (which is a beachfront restaurant that serves Asian cuisine) and also having some baked pasta dishes at the Mare (the Italian restaurant) which went down well with the house red.
Also, what made me feel like I was living the dream here was the Coast beach club and barefoot bar, with its spa pools. I spent many hours relaxing in the barefoot bar enjoying the rum cocktails and blended or single malt whiskeys on offer and I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to let off some steam and indulge for a week or two.
When staying here you can choose either the half board option which includes the buffet breakfast at The Cove restaurant and a set menu dinner from 7 pm to 10.30 pm or the full board option which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Cove or Mare restaurant.
You can certainly enjoy a wonderful private time sunbathing here with family because this is the only hotel that is located on the beach without any separation by the road, so there is an expansive long beach with plenty of secluded spots that means you can easily spend the whole day on the beach without any interruptions.
If you are bringing your children, you can also choose to enjoy the giant water park which stretches to the beach along with 4 large swimming pools which are guaranteed to be enjoyed by the whole family. The hotel also prepares many more activities to relax such as tennis courts, a children's playground, fitness center and premium treatment from the Spa Cenvaree.
Transportation to the hotel is simple and easy, it takes only a 45-minute taxi from Phuket International Airport. Hartt Voyages concierge service will provide pick up and drop off to the Marina so you can get your charter easily and not need to worry about arranging a taxi or driver for the day. This is all-inclusive of the price of all charters.
Taking a charter to Phang Nga Bay, Krabi or Phi Phi Island from the Centara grand is a perfect day out, especially for those who enjoy fishing and exploring the islands. We offer both luxury Yachts and motor catamarans that are just perfect for enjoying your dream vacation.
Since Centara Grand Beach Resort is located near Karon beach, you are within a stone's throw from the nightlife of Patong Beach which has many nightclubs, bars, and restaurants for your nighttime enjoyment. Getting to Patong is a short taxi ride and there are many taxis available, ask the front desk to arrange a taxi for you and later to return home simply show them your room card and the driver will understand as the Centara Grand is well known.
Alternatively, when you want to escape from the crowds and have some quiet time, the private beach of the resort is always waiting for you to enjoy some reflection.
If you wish to book a room at the Centara Grand please visit their website: https://www.centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand/cpbr/