By Raja Izz
Photos courtesy of Banyan Group.
After my unforgettable stay at Angsana Laguna Phuket, I sought another luxurious beachfront experience and found it in Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, a haven blending modern luxury with natural beauty, just 30 minutes from Phuket International Airport. The resort's seaside sanctuary offers direct access to a 400-meter stretch of white sandy beach, with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, allowing me to fully immerse in this serene setting.
Personalized Service Beyond Expectations
(1) The hotel lobby.
(2) The hotel lobby overseeing the pool.
From the moment I set foot on the grounds of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of exceptional hospitality. The staff didn't just greet me; they welcomed me by name, instantly making me feel like a valued guest rather than a mere visitor. The refreshing face towels and complimentary mocktail offered upon arrival were just the beginning of what would be a series of thoughtful gestures throughout my stay.
What truly set the service apart was the staff's remarkable ability to anticipate and cater to my preferences, often before I even realized them myself. It was as if they had an intuitive understanding of my needs, always one step ahead in ensuring my comfort and satisfaction.
This extraordinary level of service extended to every interaction, no matter how small. From the housekeeping staff who noticed my preference for extra pillows and ensured they were always available, to the beach attendants who seemed to materialize with fresh towels and cool water just as I needed them, every member of the Dusit Thani team contributed to an atmosphere of warmth and genuine care.
It was this consistent, thoughtful, and highly personalized service that elevated my stay from merely luxurious to truly exceptional. In the world of high-end hospitality, where excellent service is expected, Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket manages to surpass expectations, setting a new standard for what it means to cater to guests' every need and desire.
A Room with a View: Beachfront Bliss
The room.
A stay at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket offered me the unique benefit of direct beachfront access, an experience that truly set this resort apart. Stepping into my room, I was immediately greeted by a thoughtful welcome gift - a beautiful bouquet of local fruits and exquisite chocolates, a sweet touch that made me feel instantly at home.
But it was the view that took my breath away. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the vast expanse of the Andaman Sea, inviting the outside in. Each morning, I awoke to the soothing symphony of gentle waves, a natural alarm clock that set the tone for days filled with tranquility and wonder.
The true magic of this beachfront accommodation revealed itself the moment I stepped out onto my private balcony. The soft, white sand was mere steps away, beckoning me for early morning strolls where my footprints were often the first to mark the pristine beach. These quiet moments, with the world still half-asleep, became a cherished daily ritual.
As the day progressed, the beach transformed into my personal playground. I could partake in exhilarating water sports or simply lounge on the sand, all without ever losing sight of the comfort of my room. The proximity to the sea meant that every moment was infused with the refreshing ocean breeze and the calming presence of the water.
But it was the evenings that truly showcased the splendor of this beachfront location. I found myself mesmerized by breathtaking sunsets, the sky painted in hues of orange, pink, and purple, reflected beautifully on the calm sea. On one particularly memorable night, I indulged in a romantic beachside dinner, the gentle lapping of waves providing the perfect backdrop to an exquisite meal under the stars.
This exclusive beachfront experience ensured that every moment, whether active or restful, was touched by the magic of the sea. It created a seamless connection between luxury accommodation and natural beauty, allowing me to immerse fully in the tropical paradise that is Phuket. These special moments, unique to a beachfront stay, wove themselves into the fabric of my holiday, creating memories that I know will linger long after my return home.
A Culinary Journey at La Trattoria
(1) La Trattoria 10-course menu
(2) La Trattoria food
(3) La Trattoria Chef Massimiliano
(4) La Trattoria atmosphere
The pinnacle of my gastronomic adventure came on the evening of October 8th, 2024, with an exquisite 10-course Italian dinner at La Trattoria. Curated by Chef Massimiliano, each dish was a masterpiece, showcasing the perfect balance between tradition and innovation.
The journey began with the Insalata Burrata - fresh Burrata cheese paired with tomatoes, Italian basil sauce, and pine nuts. This was followed by the Tartare di Pesce "King", a delicate king fish tartar accompanied by avocado and crispy vegetables, dressed with a passion fruit dressing that added a tropical twist to the Italian classic.
The Fritto Misto di Mare was a celebration of the sea - deep-fried squid, prawns, and local fish, complemented by soft shell crab and a smoky tomato sauce. The Branzino alla Mediterranea took center stage, featuring pan-seared local seabass adorned with a Mediterranean salsa, mango, and pine nuts, all brought together with an Italian green sauce.
As the evening progressed, we savored the Anatra all'Arancia - pan-fried duck breast with cured beetroots, raspberry gel, and a zesty orange sauce. The Pasta all Aragosta was a true indulgence, featuring pasta al pomodoro elevated with rock lobster, cherry tomatoes, and black olives.
The Prosciutto di Parma offered a taste of Italy's finest, with tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, rocket salad, and the star of the dish - Parma ham. Two side dishes, Patate Arrosto con Rosmarino & Aglio (roasted potatoes with rosemary and garlic) and Insalata Verde con Pecorino e Pinoli (green salad with pecorino cheese, pine nuts, and balsamic vinegar), provided perfect accompaniments.
The grand finale was the Panna Cotta ai Frutti Rossi - a classic panna cotta dessert, crumbled biscuit served with a mixed red fruit compote, offering a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable culinary journey.
Adding to the exceptional dining experience was the presence of Mr. Samir Wildemann - General Manager of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket. I was immediately impressed by his demeanor and graceful mannerisms. As I later learned, Mr. Wildemann is one of Thailand's most knowledgeable and experienced hoteliers. His attention to detail and genuine interest in ensuring guests' satisfaction elevated the entire experience, demonstrating the caliber of leadership that makes Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket truly exceptional.
Benjarong – Authentic Thai Elegance
(1) Benjarong atmosphere
(2) Benjarong food
(3) Benjarong Chef Boonram
Stepping into Benjarong was like entering a portal to Thailand's rich culinary heritage. The restaurant, housed in an elegant teak structure, exuded an aura of refined authenticity that immediately captivated my senses. The soft glow of traditional lanterns cast intricate shadows on the intricately carved wooden panels, creating an ambiance that was both intimate and regal.
As I was seated, the panoramic views of the stunning lagoon stretched before me, providing a serene backdrop to what would become an unforgettable gastronomic journey. The menu, I soon discovered, was not just a list of dishes, but a carefully curated Michelin-guide experience, each item a testament to the complex flavors and techniques of Thai cuisine.
The Mung Korn Lui Fai arrived at my table in a spectacle of flames, the lobster's succulent meat infused with a perfect balance of spices and aromatics. But it was the signature sauce lobster that truly showcased the chef's mastery. The dish was a symphony of flavors - the sweetness of the lobster meat harmonizing with the complex spice blend of the sauce, each bite revealing new depths of taste and texture.
As I savored each course, I found myself not just eating, but embarking on a culinary voyage through Thailand. The flavors were so authentic, so vivid, that for a moment, I felt transported to the bustling streets of Bangkok. This wasn't just a meal; it was an exploration of Thai culture through its most beloved medium - food.
Transformative Experiences
Thai cooking class, collecting eggs, kayaking.
At Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, luxury extends beyond material comforts to encompass experiences that nourish the soul and expand the mind. Among these, the Thai cooking class at Benjarong stood out as a truly transformative adventure.
The class began in the herb garden, where the chef guided us through a fragrant forest of lemongrass, kaffir lime, and Thai basil. As we plucked fresh ingredients, the chef shared stories of each herb's significance in Thai culture, weaving a rich tapestry of culinary history.
In the kitchen, under the chef's expert guidance, I found myself immersed in the art of Thai cuisine. The process of creating Thai green curry chicken became a meditation in mindfulness. As I pounded fresh herbs into a vibrant paste, the rhythmic sound of the mortar and pestle became a soothing mantra. The aroma of galangal and coriander filled the air, transporting me deeper into the heart of Thai culinary traditions.
What began as a cooking lesson evolved into a profound cultural exchange. As we chopped, stirred, and tasted, the chef shared insights into the philosophy behind Thai cooking - the delicate balance of flavors, the importance of fresh ingredients, and the role of food in Thai social life. I wasn't just learning recipes; I was gaining a deeper understanding of Thai culture and way of life.
The culmination of the class - sitting down to enjoy the fruits of our labor - was a moment of pure joy. Tasting the complex flavors of the curry I had created from scratch, I felt a sense of accomplishment and connection to the local culture that no purchased meal could provide.
This experience went beyond mere skill acquisition. It awakened my senses, ignited a passion for Thai cuisine, and gave me a gift I could take home - the ability to recreate a piece of Thailand in my own kitchen. The thought of surprising my wife with an authentic Thai meal filled me with excitement, knowing I would be sharing not just food, but a piece of the transformative journey I had undergone.
The cooking class was just one of many experiences offered by the resort that went beyond typical vacation activities. Whether it was collecting eggs at hen farm, a tie-dye t-shirt making, or kayaking, each activity was designed to engage guests on a deeper level, fostering personal growth and cultural understanding.
These transformative experiences, carefully curated by Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, turned a luxury vacation into a journey of self-discovery and cultural immersion. They created memories not just of a beautiful place, but of moments that changed my perspective and enriched my life long after I returned home.
A Bittersweet Farewell
(1) Amore dinner
(2) Ariel view of Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket
(3) Casuarina Beach Restaurant & Bar
As my time at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket drew to a close, I found myself filled with a mix of gratitude and sadness. This resort had not just met my expectations; it had redefined them. From the personalized service and culinary delights to the breathtaking natural beauty and transformative experiences, every moment had been carefully crafted to create memories that would last a lifetime.
The unforgettable hospitality, epitomized by figures like Mr. Samir Wildemann and the entire staff, had made me feel not just welcome, but truly cherished. As I prepared to leave, I realized that a piece of my heart would remain in Phuket, nestled in the warm sands and gentle waves of Dusit Thani's beachfront.
Departing from this paradise was genuinely difficult. The connections I'd made, the flavors I'd savored, and the serenity I'd experienced had woven themselves into the fabric of my being. As I bid farewell to the resort, I was already dreaming of my return. Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket had not just provided a vacation; it had given me a second home, a place where luxury meets heart, and where unforgettable memories are born with every passing moment.
Without a doubt, I will return to this slice of paradise. For now, I carry with me not just souvenirs, but a memory that will continue to inspire and delight me long after I've returned home. Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket - where every goodbye feels like the beginning of a new adventure.