UGELY popular with golfers, families, and incurable romantics, the Banyan Tree Phuket is a stately smorgasbord of villas set in breezy acres reticently perched at the edge of the Laguna development. A grand escape in the Thai tradition - think rich silk, gleaming wood, lotus ponds and serene villas where privacy is assured.- the pace is measured and unhurried. Crisp service awaits at every turn, always with a smile and willing hands to unburden you of toddlers, shopping, or golf clubs. This readiness to serve is one of the resort's strongest assets.

Pick from a range of sumptuous residences or opt for a signature treat at a Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary villa - with unlimited in-villa massage - that will swiftly highlight why this luxury retreat is ranked as one of the best Asian spa resorts. A DoublePool Villa is highly recommended with up to 2,700sq m of luxe elbow room, a 15m pool, and garden. Step out of bed and wade in.

At a Spa Sanctuary villa, enjoy a vast private compound with cobalt blue pool, manicured gardens, and a belvedere for breakfast, yoga, or a good book. The jewel in the crown, the spa serves up a breathtaking menu of wellness rituals, scrubs, massage, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy. Adrenalin junkies can opt for a well kitted out fitness pavilion, yoga, three floodlit tennis courts, the beach (a short stroll away), the free-form pool, or the 18-hole par 71 Laguna Phuket Golf Club that is conveniently located right on the premises.

Gourmets will dip into Tamarind Restaurant with its Japanese flavours and fresh seafood, lagoon-view The Watercourt, the aromatic Thai Saffron, and a range of outlets for nibbles or tipples. But why leave your villa at all? Order in. In the midst of this pampering it is easy to forget that this is a splendid Phuket venue for small corporate meetings, theme parties and, of course, lavish weddings - with ample space for tossed bouquets. Limber up.