Bel Air Resort and Spa Panwa is a hidden gem of Phuket.The Hotel had arranged an Airport pick up who was holding a placard.Phuket in general has a problem that very few speak English,though the people are nice and reflects that it is the "Land of Smiles".So the Driver had very few words of English for us,leading to a quiet ride to the Hotel.
Bel Air is on the other side of the island located at Cape Panwa and is a good 40 minute ride from the airport,a fact we were aware of and was not an issue with us as we preferred a quiet place.
The Hotel is more of a Condotel and is on a hill,the Hotel Lobby is very deceptive as it looks more of a 3 Star lobby.The staff at the reception were very nice and welcoming,only one lady Ms Kwang ( knew english).
Our Suite was on the top most floor ,we had the most beautiful view of the sea,the rooms were 5 Star standard,the bath room was one of the best .The Kitchen was adequately equipped ,the balcony offered a plenty of options including a table with chair and lounge decks.
The swimming pool located on a high floor is next to a poolside bar/restaurant with a large seating area.
There are plenty of shops near the Hotel,and the Cape Panwa area is quite close to the aquarium and the Hotel offers a free shuttle to the Cape area.
They offer a shuttle to their private beach which is clean and very nice and pleasant,with no bother from any peddlers.Makes the hotel as good as any beach Hotel.
We enjoyed the beach,Phuket town is not far from the hotel as it appears initially.Patong beach is a crowded area and has a buzz.
Cocoon Spa is absolutely great and offers good value for money,while more expensive than outlets near Patong ,it is much cleaner and offers better facilities.The manager there Ms Ping is very resourceful,she operates the spa,provides sight seeing tips,sells tours.She also helped a few guests get together and get the town in a shared van,acted as an interpreter,pointed us to a restaurant and most importantly she speaks english!
Shopping-We liked some of the outlets in Big C as well as the Premium Outlets- a word of caution,visitors get fleeced there while trying to locate the outlet which has the VAT refund form.The outlet does not recognize all the other outlets where you have shopped and will do everything to avoid giving you the form.
The GM of the Hotel Mr Doeke is very friendly and speaks English.
Would we recommend this hotel?Definitely yes !It is ideal for families and couples or groups of individuals.
While we were there ,we met a few families from Scandinavia and they too appreciated the property.
Any grouses-no,but the internet is real slow,maybe it will improve.The network connection at the lobby is pretty good.Communication with the staff could be a challenge but the smiles win you over.
Food choices at the Hotel and Beach restaurants are good.
We would tick excellent for most boxes regarding the Hotel.the kids loved the place.
Silk Air was pretty efficient both ways,our confirmation was at the last moment.
nice english and have also planned a trip to phuket.Will use this info
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