The Vijitt Resort Phuket

This is an older property, which is evidenced both in the lush growth of rubber trees and plants, and in some of the maintenance issues around the grounds. Guests approach the Vijitt Resort via a circular driveway built around an island of patchy grass and tall trees. Sparkling Chalong Bay is visible in the distance, as are mountains. A short flight of steps (steps are common at this hillside property) leads up to the semi-open-air lobby. The teak wood reception desk is decorated with exotic tropical flowers; hanging cuts of wood hang on the walls behind it. Stone benches line the walls and there are several clusters of contemporary wooden armchairs topped with soft orange cushions. Outside, there are more views of the sea and water fountains filled with green-hued water and lily pads. Baan Vijitt restaurant is a traditional Sino-Portuguese-style house with a tile roof and wooden shutters. Coconut palms give a tropical vibe to the garden grounds.Kids are welcome here (there's a club and kids' pool) but most of the visitors are couples, especially honeymooners. 

The Vijitt Resort Phuket is located on a small strip of Friendship Beach, sometimes called Tidal Beach, just off the road from Chalong Circle in Rawai. There are a few small bars and mostly residential homes in the neighborhood, though the street isn't good for walking as it doesn't have a sidewalk. Le Piman Resort is just down the road. Expect a 30-minute drive to Patong Beach and about a 40-minute journey to reach the airport. Parking on-site is free and there's a free scheduled shuttle to Phuket Town, Phromthep Cape, and area beaches including Patong Beach, Rawai Beach, and Nai Harn Beach. 

There are 92 standalone villas at Vijitt Resort Phuket divided into five different categories: Deluxe, Deluxe Pool, Prime Pool, Two-Bedroom Pool, and Vijitt Pool. Each has traditional Southern Thai details such as wooden roof tiles, teak wood interiors and furniture, and coconut and bamboo details. All of them have at least partial views of the Chalong Bay. The Deluxe option is the most affordable as it has a private furnished balcony and no private pool. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in ample light. The layout is a bit awkward with the bed placed in the center of the room (facing the balcony) in each, and a desk placed behind the headboard. A short step leads down to a small living room area set with a flat-screen TV and tiny love seat. Wooden wardrobes provide plenty of space for storing clothes and luggage, while a long counter on the back wall holds glassware, coffee- and tea-making facilities, a minibar, mini-fridge, and ice bucket. The bathroom is a true highlight with double sinks, luxe toiletries, and a soaking bathtub. Outside, there's a large rainfall showerhead surrounded by a bamboo fence. The shower is clearly visible from the bathroom, separated only by a wall of glass with a glass door. Remaining villa types include more square footage and private outdoor plunge pools, though some have indoor showers. Wi-Fi is free and a plate of Thai fruits greets guests on arrival in each of the villas.

Most resorts (and even smaller hotels) in Thailand have great spas, and the Vijitt Resort is no exception to the rule. The V Spa is decorated with the same teak and bamboo details found throughout the rest of the property. Treatment rooms are designed with couples in mind as they have open-air whirlpools that are quite romantic. The fitness center has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lush grounds and decent cardio equipment and strength-training equipment. There is a kids' club on-site, with an outdoor jungle-gym and small pool, though it gets mixed reviews on provided supervision. It's difficult to imagine getting much work done here, but there are business rooms and free Wi-Fi throughout. Staff can arrange activities like horseback riding on the beach and nature walks, for a fee. 

Food and drinks at Vijitt Resort generally get high marks for variety, quality, and reasonable cost. Many packages include the breakfast buffet with the price of a villa. Room service is available, though the hours are limited.Savoury is the main restaurant, where the breakfast buffet is served each morning. Lunch and dinner are a la carte with both Asian and Western choices. It offers a fancy Sunday brunch that's popular with locals. The elegantly casual dining room is partially open-air and overlooks the beach. Baan Vijitt (closed in the low season) is located inside a traditional Sino-Portuguese-style house, overlooking the bay. Antique furniture gives the place an upscale vibe with a dash of romance. The menu presents classic Thai dishes, many with a contemporary twist. Guests can dine indoors or out.The Beach Bar has small tables overlooking the beach for light bites and cocktails, or staff can deliver food and drinks to guests' pool chairs. The Wine Cellar has an impressive wine list with selections from around the world. 

The resort is built on a small strip of sand called Friendship Beach (also known as Tidal Beach). Depending on the tide, the sand can disappear entirely or provide a wider beach but with super shallow water that's better for wading than an actual dip. Sun loungers are placed on the grass above the sand. There are much better beaches within a short drive, but Friendship Beach is usually free of vendors and the hectic party scene found at Patong Beach, which is about 30 minutes away. 

Poolside is where most guests at Vijitt Resort can be found. The multi-tiered and elegant pools are divided by a wooden sun deck set with wooden sun loungers and red umbrellas. The rectangular pool is actually pretty large, though it doesn't include anything fancy like water fountains or a swim-up bar. Coconut and rubber trees add to the mellow vibe. Past guests report relative ease in securing a sun lounger, and staff provides drink and food service to the pool.