Where booming Phuket falls silent

You have enough space at Duangjitt Resort.

While many holidaymakers are shifting their gaze away from Phuket to more secluded and peaceful destinations, the popular resort's Patong Beach has a hidden gem that's worth a second glance.

Spacious, green and relaxing, Duangjitt Resort & Spa was opened 23 years ago by a local family that was one of the early accommodation entrepreneurs on the island. It began as a small guesthouse operation of five bungalows on the family's land but gradually expanded over the years. Now, seven lowrise buildings dot the 80 rai of this former coconut plantation.

Newer properties on this world-famous beach tend to use up every inch of their space and locate themselves very close to the busy road, but Duangjitt prefers a more laid-back, spaced-out vibe. You don't get the feeling that it's crowded here even when the resort is fully booked.

The buildings are scattered all over, nestling among the lush tropical garden. Tunnels of shade under the trees give visitors the chance to stroll in cool comfort however hot the sun is. Breaking the hush is the birdsong, which is the only noise likely to wake you in the early morning.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with nine types to choose from. Ranging from compact Superiors to a roomy Family Villa, the resort has options for everyone, whether you're travelling alone, in a group, as a couple or with your family.

The smallest is 35 square metres while the largest is 70, making the rooms here some of the most spacious on Patong Beach. Each is cleverly designed and guarantees you a view of either the pool or the garden. The complexes that house them are located in their own sea of green, far enough apart for plenty of quiet and privacy.

Room amenities include a TV with satellite channels, separate shower and toilet with toiletries, safe box, coffee and tea maker, bathrobe and slippers, and Internet access at an additional charge. If you want a bubble bath, you'll have to book a villa to get a tub.

Especially pleasing is how much thought has gone into the rooms' layout. It's a little strange to open the front door and find the shower right next to the entrance. But you quickly realise how practical it is, enabling you to rinse your sandy feet and flip-flops in the shower before stepping into your room. Between the shower area and the bedroom there's a sliding door that you can shut for privacy or to muffle any noise from the hallway. Beneath your feet, the mix of wood and tile flooring means you don't get the musty smell that comes as standard in carpeted rooms, and the freshness is protected by the nonsmoking policy. Smokers get a big balcony where they can puff away to their lungs' content.

Though it feels secluded, the resort is just a few steps from bustling nightlife, restaurants and shops. Less than 10 minutes' walk takes you to Junceylon shopping mall or to the notorious strip of bars that is Soi Bangla.

One important thing: don't forget to book airport transfers from the resort. The trip to the airport takes 45 minutes, and will cost you a couple of thousand in a private taxi. The hotel charges Bt700.

AT A GLANCE

High point: Family and elderly-guest friendly, quiet with lots of trees, has three pools, spacious rooms

Low point: A long way from the airport, not beachside, no free Internet

Pay for it: From Bt2,500 to Bt9,530. Prices double during high season. 

Find it: 18 Prachanukroh Road, Patong Beach, Phuket

Call it: (076) 340 778; Bangkok office: (02) 933 0655, (02) 933 0653

Browse it: www.DuangjittResortSpa.com