Angsana Opens Flagship Resort in Phuket

SINGAPORE - Angsana Laguna Phuket, the newest resort within Laguna Phuket's idyllic beachside complex, opens December 1st, 2011. Following extensive refurbishment totaling $30 million USD, the flagship Angsana resort reflects the relaxed seaside ambiance of southern Thailand, offering a range of amenities and activities for the active and contemporary traveler.

Nestled within Bang Tao Bay at Laguna Phuket - Asia's first integrated resort - Angsana Laguna Phuket occupies the site of the former Sheraton Grande Laguna Phuket. The refreshed and stylish resort is the largest Angsana property in Southeast Asia with 409 rooms and suites. Ten different room categories offer a variety of accommodation options, from the 430-square-foot Laguna Room, ideal for couples, to the 5,274-square-foot Angsana Grand Pool Residence, perfect for large families with four bedrooms, a private kitchen, sun deck and an outdoor pavilion.

The resort's all-day dining venue, Market Place, exudes the charm of a traditional Thai street market and features a range of international cuisines. Located on a beautifully landscaped patio overlooking the lagoon, Bodega & Grill features premium char-grilled steaks, roasted fish and seafood prepared in a wood-fired oven.

Fresh local seafood such as Phuket lobster, tiger prawns and black crabs can be enjoyed at Baan Talay and Loy Krathong offers sunset cocktails and creative Asian tapas complemented by live entertainment. Just a five-minute boat ride across the lagoon, Canal Bakery offers freshly baked pastries and fresh juices along with healthy sandwiches and salads.

XANA, the resort's beach club, is slated to open on March 1st, 2012 and will feature spacious sun lounges, plush daybeds and a fusion of Mediterranean and Thai cuisine.

Guests with children can enjoy the resort's Treehouse Kids' Club which is built over two stories and features a caf� along with activities such as arts and crafts classes and interactive story hour. Next to the Kid's Club is a Thai pavilion offering children's spa treatments including hair braiding and basic manicures and pedicures.

The club also offers the opportunity for children to play with two baby elephants named Lucky and Joey who are housed in Laguna Phuket. Kids can take walks along the beach at Bang Tao Bay with the animals, or watch as they bathe in the Andaman Sea. The rescue of Lucky and Joey is one of the many examples of the resort's commitment to sustainable development on the island.

The new Angsana Spa embraces a tropical garden spa concept and features a vibrant contemporary design. Treatments are based on aromatherapy and highlight a fusion of wellness techniques from the East and West. Offering 12 indoor treatment rooms comprising seven double and five single suites, each equipped with shower facilities for added privacy.

The Spa also features a signature rain mist facility, steam room, sauna and a beauty salon. Signature treatments include the innovative Bamboo Massage uses the soothing touch of warm bamboo and therapeutic long, firm massage strokes to ease stiff muscles and stimulate blood circulation.

To celebrate, Angsana Laguna Phuket is offering an irresistible Introductory Rate starting from approximately $199 USD* per room per night (exclusive of service charge and taxes), with breakfast for two for stays between December 1, 2011 and February 27, 2012. Guests booking for two consecutive nights will also receive one $98* USD hotel credit per room, redeemable for food, beverage and spa treatments during their stay. Those booking for three nights will receive a $98* USD hotel credit as well as one complimentary 90-minute massage at the renowned Angsana Spa (one credit and spa treatment per room).

The leading international operator in the boutique resort, residences and spa industry, Banyan Tree offers a signature blend of romance and travel with a green conscience. The philosophy behind the hotels, resorts, residences, spas, retail galleries and destination club is based on rejuvenation of the body, mind and soul - a Sanctuary for the Senses.

Angsana Hotels and Resorts is the ideal complement to Banyan Tree, comprising contemporary, chic and ecologically sensitive retreats. Based in areas of outstanding natural beauty and exciting city hubs, Angsana hotels, resorts, residences, spas and retail galleries reflect the spirit and communities of their environment.

To date, the Banyan Tree Group manages and/or has ownership interests in close to 30 resorts and hotels, more than 60 spas and 80 retail galleries as well as two golf courses.

Angsana is a hotel brand that caters to the modern traveler seeking style and authenticity. Comprising of contemporary and chic retreats, Angsana properties are designed to create and deliver vibrant and enlivening experiences for guests at work and at play. Each Angsana hotel, resort, spa and retail gallery exudes the spirit and conscience of its environment, while offering a strong sense of individuality infused with our Asian heritage.

Facilities and services at all Angsana properties are focused on enabling guests to draw the most of every moment. Managed by the Banyan Tree Group, Angsana Hotels and Resorts operates close to 10 resorts and hotels, over 40 spas, and 40 retail galleries.

For reservations or more information, please call Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts at +1 (800) 591-0439 or visit www.angsana.com .

*The above rates are based on the exchange rate at the time of going to press; final price depends on the exchange rate at the time of booking.