Thailand seems like a LONG time ago now. I mean, I’m not sure how it’s got to September already but still – my actual summer holiday was all the way back in June! How time flies.
But anyway, I wanted to save some of my Thailand coverage for a later date and not bombard you with it all at once, because as much as it was an incredible trip – there’s only so much talk of white sandy beaches and chicken satay that one person can handle. So, today, several months on, I thought I’d share a part of my trip which was by far one of the most relaxing days we had. Despite planning Thailand as a relaxing break from work, life and rainy England, it actually ended up being a whirlwind of planes, boats and excursions, so the relaxation part didn’t really get fulfilled.
Anyway, while in Phuket – we decided to spare some time for an entire day at the Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa, which is an incredible location for all things relaxation. Surrounded by tropical trees, lush green hills and an assortment of the most gorgeous looking white four poster day beds, stepping inside instantly transported us into a romantic and revitalising state of indulgence. It was quite literally, a dream…
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It all started when we were picked up from our hotel in the most pimped out (sorry I’ve just used that term but I honestly can’t think of anything else) people carrier that I’ve ever seen. Glitzy and glamorous, I felt as though it belonged in Hollywood rather than Phuket, but we graciously accepted the ride and climbed on board. I don’t think I can quite do it justice by putting it into words, but the interiors were adorned with gold detailing – while the plush white leather seats had glitzy backs and drinks holders. There was even an ice bucket of cold drinks chilling ready for us. We couldn’t quite believe it – and the hour’s drive whizzed by as we kept laughing (mostly in awe) at our situation.
Although we weren’t staying overnight, we were kindly allocated a swim up room for the day to leave our belongings – which was a huge reassurance, because as much as all things water related is fun, I do get a bit on edge about leaving my camera within falling distance of the pool. We were able to put our valuables in a locked safe and completely relax in the knowledge we could just enjoy what was on offer.
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We got into our swimming gear (well I was going to say bikinis, but didn’t think David would be best pleased to have been categorised under that) and headed for the main pool – with their staple feature, a swim up bar! Yep! Now you’re talking!
After perusing the cocktail menu for quite some time, we eventually decided to go for a strawberry daiquiri (ever the adventurous one, me!) and a Singapore Sling, both of which were fantastic. We whiled away the rest of the morning floating in the pool on sun loungers (yes, you really did read that right) and taking in our gorgeous surroundings. It’s usually only when you stop to consider where you are and what you’re doing that you fully relax – basking in sheer appreciation that I was able to enjoy such things.
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The pool was quieter than I thought it would be, with just a few families dotted around – but this didn’t matter as it made for even more a relaxing moment. Music wasn’t blaring (as I’d imagined) but gently setting an atmosphere, allowing you to completely switch off and enjoy. Eventually, we somehow built up an appetite (not sure how with such a jam-packed morning, eh?) and so swam to the bar to order some lunch.
I was initially worried before venturing to Thailand how I’d deal with my dairy and egg intolerance, however for the staff at Dream, it was no problem at all – graciously taking on board my concerns without a second thought. We both opted for a wood fired pizza (me with no cheese) and a plate of fries.
Well, if you’re going to indulge – you’ve got to do it right!
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After a hearty lunch, we made for the rooftop pool (yes another pool) to take in the views and explore. Usually, there’s a rooftop bar in action but the recent rain had closed this off unfortunately. I can imagine it’s so incredible to spend the early evening up there watching the sunset!
Before long, it was time to head to the spa for a treatment each – something I’d been looking forward to all week. Of course, switching off in the pool is amazing but having 60 whole minutes of pure indulgence is a sure fire way to completely relax!
We both chose a treatment from the menu, before being ushered into a fluffy white robe and through winding corridors lined with flower petals. You honestly couldn’t have envisioned it to be more dream like if you’d tried!
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I’ll be honest and say that I don’t really remember the massage other than the fact it was the perfect pressure – because within about 5 minutes, I fell asleep. Oops. I always think that’s the sign of a great massage though – teamed with the embarrassment of doing a giant snore and waking yourself up to realise you’re still in the treatment room.
Anyway, each massage is finished off with a cup of a refreshingly ice cold herbal concoction – which I couldn’t for the life of me recall but remember it was very refreshing after my mid-afternoon snooze! We both practically glided into the lift and back up to our room, where we remained in some cloud like state until dinner.
Unfortunately while we were there, the hotel’s Beach Club – Dream Beach Club, which I’d been really excited to visit (mainly because I’d been stalking all the pictures on Instagram) was closed for refurbishment, but I can imagine if you do visit again – this would certainly be a highlight of the trip. There’s a daily programme of live music and DJ’s by the pool which creates a really fun, club atmosphere – all while having the waves rolling in the background and a stretch of white sandy beach on the horizon. Nevertheless, we still made the most of our trip – with an early evening booking at Triology, Dream’s Michelin Star Chef restaurant.
Featuring a mix of modern thai, tuscan and contemporary European cuisine, the restaurant caters for all palettes – with an exciting and varied menu. There’s a show kitchen indoors, resembling a live cooking theatre – if you fancy wowing your party, however we opted to enjoy the outside area and have a more relaxing dining experience. If I’m totally honest, I was still in my robe and feeling a bit away with the fairies after so much relaxation, so I wasn’t quite ready to get all glammed up for the evening.
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We opted for a mix of dishes, including spring rolls (these became an addiction while in Thailand), a hearty burger for David and tikka chicken for me. In all honesty, I didn’t think the food was as fantastic as I thought it would have been with such credentials (it lacked in flavour and was a tad disappointing especially after such an amazing pizza at lunch) however it was still devoured with a smile and we had a thoroughly lovely end to our day!
If you’re in Phuket and fancy a day to completely switch off, a party at the beach or perhaps even a week of swimming up to the bar for cocktails, then this is definitely the place to look into. There’s SO much to do, see, eat and drink – and I can imagine it’s even more gorgeous outside of rainy season, when the rooftop bar is open!
Thank you to Dream for the most dreamy day imaginable!
Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa | link
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