PHUKET: The landmark Movenpick Resort and Spa Karon Beach Phuket has been sold to a listed Malaysian finance conglomerate for the equivalent of 2.8 billion baht, according to an announcement today.

Purchasing the four-star resort is TA Global, the property arm of Kuala Lumpur-based stockbroker TA Enterprise Bhd. Saudi-based Kingdom Hotel Investments was the seller.

TA Global said the acquisition would further enhance the company's hospitality operations in major cities around the world and expand the existing portfolio of hospitality properties into Thailand.

It's not known yet what the new name of the Phuket resort, which sits on the beach road directly opposite the sand at Karon, will be.

The resort's online site says: ''The main building offers 175 renovated rooms, most with views of the sea, featuring upscale amenities to delight even the most discerning guests: individual air-conditioning control, direct-dial phone/voicemail, high speed internet connection, satellite TV, hairdryer, minibar or mini-fridge, 24-hour room service, coffee and tea-making facilities, and a safe.

''All rooms, suites and villas at this luxurious Phuket resort reflect elements and traditions of Thai decor and design influences.

''Luxurious residences offering spectacular sea views and nightly sunsets, Movenpick Residences Karon Beach comprise 30 unique beachfront two-bedroom apartments in an integrated resort concept that embodies the ultimate in tropical living through its modern design.''

The spectacular piece of beachside real estate was originally the Karon Villa Resort, built in 1984 by the Vanich family.