Phuket, Thailand, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a popular beach resort destination into one of the world’s most sought-after luxury residential and lifestyle markets. Situated on the shores of the Andaman Sea, the island now boasts elite consumer brands, Michelin-starred dining, and international-quality healthcare and education, attracting a global audience.
Unveiled at the “LivePhuket: A Global Luxury Lifestyle Destination” event by C9 Hotelworks and Property Guru International, the report highlights several factors driving this growth:
• Luxury Infrastructure: Phuket is home to two iconic hospitality pioneers, Aman Resorts and Banyan Group, alongside a private jet terminal, four international-standard marinas catering to superyachts, and five ultra-luxury hotels with room rates exceeding $1,000 per night.
• World-Class Amenities: The island offers 13 international schools, top-tier hospitals, and lifestyle experiences that cater to affluent global citizens.
• Integrated Communities: Developments like Laguna Phuket and Gardens of Eden combine luxury living with wellness-focused, nature-inspired designs, appealing to investors and lifestyle-conscious individuals.
Leading Luxury Projects
1. Laguna Phuket: Developed by Banyan Group, this 1,000-acre community draws over 1 million visitors annually. It features 8 world-class hotels, an award-winning golf course, a wellness clinic, international kindergarten, and 3,000 private residences.
2. Gardens of Eden: This eco-luxury project on Bangtao Beach devotes 70% of its land to parks, lakes, and gardens, prioritizing green living and well-being.
Insights from Industry Leaders
• Stuart Reading, Deputy CEO of Laguna Resorts, emphasized Banyan Group’s leadership in branded residences, ranking fourth globally in the sector.
• Ravi Chandran, Corporate Affairs Director at Gardens of Eden, highlighted the island’s appeal to lifestyle-conscious families seeking investments that align with health and sustainability.
• Wilaiporn Pitimanaaree, SVP at Central Pattana, noted the growing demand for premium brands, as seen in the newly launched luxury floor at Central Phuket Floresta, which features Prada, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Rolex.
Phuket has emerged as a Michelin-star dining destination, with chefs like Marco Turatti (InterContinental Phuket Resort) and Parkorn “Tan” Kosiyabong (GOAT Bangkok and LAAD Phuket) showcasing world-class cuisine. These offerings complement the island’s upscale lifestyle, from private yachts to cultural landmarks.
According to Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks, Phuket’s luxury real estate sector has experienced exponential growth, fueled by changing global preferences for space, wellness, and a high-quality lifestyle. This shift positions Phuket as a leading destination for both living and investment in the post-pandemic era.
Phuket’s transformation into a global luxury hub reflects a new chapter in its history. With its seamless blend of natural beauty, world-class amenities, and innovative developments, the island is attracting discerning investors and lifestyle seekers from around the globe. From branded residences to premium retail and Michelin-starred dining, Phuket is redefining the meaning of tropical luxury.
