Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach (076-335-300, goo.gl/h5UEyA) takes over an old property on Tri Trang Beach to offer accommodation on a secluded little stretch of white sand just south of bustling Patong.

Beside the turquoise seawater, you’ll find three large pools and a spa whose terracotta treatment rooms feature Sino-Portuguese tiles and teakwood floors. A night in a deluxe pool view room will set you back B5,300  or you can step things up in the royal sea-view suite complete with whirlpool at B23,300.

A massive 414 guestrooms means you won’t be staying alone, but there are eight restaurants and bars to cater to the crowds, the highlight of which is D.O.C.G., an Italian restaurant inspired by the 1960 classic film La Dolce Vita.

This resort follows the opening of Phuket Marriott Resort and Spa on Nai Yang Beach last year.