MAKING A splash at Layan Beach without leaving the shore is Shangri-La. The name is associated with an island paradise, and so it may prove for some.
These 50 two-bedroom villas, each with a private swimming pool, are expected to maintain the reputation of the northernmost beaches for quality developments.
Spread across 125 rai on the coast and set for completion in 2009, Shangri-La includes an integrated resort and spa of 223 guestrooms and 92 villas.
Among the comprehensive facilities will be spectacular swimming pools and a beachfront wedding chapel.
What makes Shangri-La different is that the developers have turned to a team of Spanish architects to add the stylish flourishes.
These days Spain has the same kind of reputation for cleverness and creativity that Japan has in Asia.
Arcadia Design Architects of Huelva have come up with alternate villas, both with two en-suite bedrooms, living and dining areas, kitchen, and large terraces.
Villa Type A features an extra study room which can be used as a third bedroom, while Villa Type B features a 15-metre lap pool.
Both have approximate built up areas of 360 square metres. Plot sizes vary from 550 to 999 sq.m. and buyers have a choice of Water Villas overlooking a lagoon or Garden Villas.
''This area is a hidden gem on Phuket and considered as one of the best beaches on Bangtao bay,'' says Charlotte Filleul, General Manager, Resort Property at sales agents CB Richard Ellis Phuket.
''All villas feature a private pool, large terraces, a sala pavilion and substantial water and garden feature.
''The villas have a modern tropical feel with some Thai influences. Shangri-La occupies one of the last prime sites on Phuket's West Coast and is a convenient 25-minute drive from the airport.''
A blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, Shangri-La is ''set to present a truly luxurious tropical lifestyle.''
The villas are sold on a leasehold basis and all units enter a leaseback programme. All villas will be managed and rented out by Shangri-La and owners can enjoy 60 days usage of their villas each year, without blackout dates.
Dining options will include a Thai Restaurant, piazza, a grill, a Tapas bar and a lobby lounge.
Add to that a health club, tennis courts, squash courts, water sports and a children's club and entertainment centre, plus three swimming pools, including a 3000-square metres three-tier cascading pool.
Banquet facilities include a ballroom and foyer. The facilities can accommodate 400 guests.
Shangri-La's signature Chi spa will be located within the resort in its own spa village.
Villa owners will have VIP access to all resort facilities and will be offered special packaged services such as home spa treatments and personal butler services.
''This is by far one of the most substantial branded pool villas offered in Phuket,'' Ms Filleul said.
''And we believe the project will continue to attract a lot of interest from potential buyers, especially with the integrity of the Shangri-La brand and management.''
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is described on its website as ''world's leading Asia-based luxury hotel group.''
The group, says the site, ''comprises 52 deluxe hotels and resorts in key cities in Asia and the Middle East, with new properties under development in Europe and North America.
''Guests can indulge in our unique wellness concept, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, at several of our hotels and resorts.''
Contact CB Richard Ellis Phuket at + 66 76 239 967 or visit the Shangri-La villas sales office on Bangtao Beach. Website: www.shangri-la-villas.cbre.co.th or e: phuket@cbre.co.th
PROPERTY HOT SEAT
Charlotte Filleul of CB Richard Ellis Phuket responds:
What do you see as big advantage of Phuket property?
Over the years Phuket has established itself as one of the leading resort destinations in Asia. Phuket is very well connected internationally with direct flights to the main Asian and European destinations. Phuket's real estate industry is also supported by its well established infrastructure such as international standard hospitals and international schools.
Do you think the property business on Phuket will get better or slow down?
The level of inquiries for Phuket properties have been at a record high despite the ongoing political instability. We feel that once the political situation in Thailand resolves, the market will certainly pick up with more deals being closed. It is clear that foreigners still remain very interested in the Thai resort market, especially Phuket with its appeal of great beaches, Thai hospitality and property prices which are significantly lower than other international resort destinations.
Which areas are Phuket's most significant competitors, both in Thailand and overseas?
Krabi, Phang Nga, Samui, Pattaya and Bali.
These 50 two-bedroom villas, each with a private swimming pool, are expected to maintain the reputation of the northernmost beaches for quality developments.
Spread across 125 rai on the coast and set for completion in 2009, Shangri-La includes an integrated resort and spa of 223 guestrooms and 92 villas.
Among the comprehensive facilities will be spectacular swimming pools and a beachfront wedding chapel.
What makes Shangri-La different is that the developers have turned to a team of Spanish architects to add the stylish flourishes.
These days Spain has the same kind of reputation for cleverness and creativity that Japan has in Asia.
Arcadia Design Architects of Huelva have come up with alternate villas, both with two en-suite bedrooms, living and dining areas, kitchen, and large terraces.
Villa Type A features an extra study room which can be used as a third bedroom, while Villa Type B features a 15-metre lap pool.
Both have approximate built up areas of 360 square metres. Plot sizes vary from 550 to 999 sq.m. and buyers have a choice of Water Villas overlooking a lagoon or Garden Villas.
''This area is a hidden gem on Phuket and considered as one of the best beaches on Bangtao bay,'' says Charlotte Filleul, General Manager, Resort Property at sales agents CB Richard Ellis Phuket.
''All villas feature a private pool, large terraces, a sala pavilion and substantial water and garden feature.
''The villas have a modern tropical feel with some Thai influences. Shangri-La occupies one of the last prime sites on Phuket's West Coast and is a convenient 25-minute drive from the airport.''
A blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, Shangri-La is ''set to present a truly luxurious tropical lifestyle.''
The villas are sold on a leasehold basis and all units enter a leaseback programme. All villas will be managed and rented out by Shangri-La and owners can enjoy 60 days usage of their villas each year, without blackout dates.
Dining options will include a Thai Restaurant, piazza, a grill, a Tapas bar and a lobby lounge.
Add to that a health club, tennis courts, squash courts, water sports and a children's club and entertainment centre, plus three swimming pools, including a 3000-square metres three-tier cascading pool.
Banquet facilities include a ballroom and foyer. The facilities can accommodate 400 guests.
Shangri-La's signature Chi spa will be located within the resort in its own spa village.
Villa owners will have VIP access to all resort facilities and will be offered special packaged services such as home spa treatments and personal butler services.
''This is by far one of the most substantial branded pool villas offered in Phuket,'' Ms Filleul said.
''And we believe the project will continue to attract a lot of interest from potential buyers, especially with the integrity of the Shangri-La brand and management.''
Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is described on its website as ''world's leading Asia-based luxury hotel group.''
The group, says the site, ''comprises 52 deluxe hotels and resorts in key cities in Asia and the Middle East, with new properties under development in Europe and North America.
''Guests can indulge in our unique wellness concept, CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, at several of our hotels and resorts.''
Contact CB Richard Ellis Phuket at + 66 76 239 967 or visit the Shangri-La villas sales office on Bangtao Beach. Website: www.shangri-la-villas.cbre.co.th or e: phuket@cbre.co.th
PROPERTY HOT SEAT
Charlotte Filleul of CB Richard Ellis Phuket responds:
What do you see as big advantage of Phuket property?
Over the years Phuket has established itself as one of the leading resort destinations in Asia. Phuket is very well connected internationally with direct flights to the main Asian and European destinations. Phuket's real estate industry is also supported by its well established infrastructure such as international standard hospitals and international schools.
Do you think the property business on Phuket will get better or slow down?
The level of inquiries for Phuket properties have been at a record high despite the ongoing political instability. We feel that once the political situation in Thailand resolves, the market will certainly pick up with more deals being closed. It is clear that foreigners still remain very interested in the Thai resort market, especially Phuket with its appeal of great beaches, Thai hospitality and property prices which are significantly lower than other international resort destinations.
Which areas are Phuket's most significant competitors, both in Thailand and overseas?
Krabi, Phang Nga, Samui, Pattaya and Bali.
