Luxury boutique resort’s “SALA Seekers” tap into intimate local knowledge to showcase the wonders of Phuket’s northwest coast, away from the tourist hotspots

PHUKET, THAILAND (14 February 2019): SALA Phuket Resort and Spa, the stunning pool villa resort at Mai Khao Beach, is inviting guests to step off the beaten track and uncover Phuket’s hidden gems with a new series of local guided tours.

Nestled on the island’s dramatic northwest coast, away from the bustling tourist areas further south, SALA Phuket allows guests to experience a side of Phuket that is often hidden from view. Capitalising on this spectacular secluded setting, the resort has now launched “The Forgotten Phuket”, a unique activity programme that allows guests to lift the lid on this popular resort island.

Available to all guests, The Forgotten Phuket excursions will be guided by “SALA Seekers” – members of the resort’s in-house team who are intimately familiar with the Mai Khao area. Harnessing their native knowledge, the SALA Seekers will take guests on in-depth tours of the local area, including visits to locations that are far removed from the traditional tourist trail.

During these authentic explorations, guests will have a unique opportunity to mingle with locals and discover life in remote communities. For example, tours could visit a nearby school that teaches the ancient southern Thai style of Manohra dancing, or markets where Phuket villagers purchase their everyday goods.

Alternatively, guests seeking a more active excursion could take a kayaking trip through the mangrove forests under Sarasin Bridge, which connects Phuket with the Thai mainland, or head out for a coastal walk, purchasing fresh coconuts from local vendors and stopping for a picnic under the towering pines of Phang Nga.

SALA’s discerning guests typically seek out bespoke experiences rather than mass tourism attractions, and The Forgotten Phuket tours will enable them to make a deeper connection with their destination. Also, by encouraging guests to purchase goods from local vendors, these excursions will directly benefit the local community in Mai Khao.

“Phuket now welcomes more than nine million international visitors every year, but how many leave the island with a true understanding of its rich culture and heritage? At SALA Phuket, we always try to introduce guests to the charm of the island; The Forgotten Phuket programme will allow our naturally curious visitors to look under the surface of this popular destination and gain a genuine insight into real life on Phuket,” commented Anthony Van Sleeuwen, General Manager, SALA Phuket.

SALA Phuket is operated by SALA Hospitality Group, a homegrown Thai hospitality company. Nestled directly on the golden sands of Mai Khao Beach, overlooking the Andaman Sea and just 20 minutes’ drive from Phuket International Airport, this luxury resort combines Sino-Portuguese architecture with luxury hotel facilities. Guests can unwind in a choice of pool villas, savour stunning Thai cuisine at the beachfront restaurant, or enjoy a soothing Thai massage at SALA Spa.

For more information about SALA Phuket and to book your authentic local experience at Mai Khao Beach, please visit www.salahospitality.com/phuket.