By Robert Schrader and Tyler Bohlman

Whether you’re missing Phuket’s idyllic beaches, unique food culture, or just the warmth of its people, Marriott’s Mai Khao Resort – Phuket is ready to welcome you back — or introduce you to — this beautiful Thai city.

With the resort’s reopening, you’ll find a welcoming base for all your explorations. Are you ready to reserve your stay? Here are five more reasons to plan the perfect Phuket holiday you’ve spent the last two years dreaming about.

1. BEACHES AT THEIR BEST

Do more than just peruse the “Phuket Sandbox” of Instagram. Spend some time on famous Phuket beaches like Karon, Kata, and Patong as they’re truly meant to be experienced — in person.

As more people start to visit Phuket, you can take some time for yourself when you hit less-visited beach spots. Cool off with a fresh coconut at Rawai along the southern coast,or walk through the lush palms of westward-facing Nai Thon. For a best-of-both-worlds approach, you can always make a day of it at the resort’s beach, just minutes away. Ask the Concierge about buggy service to get there.

2. A CRASH COURSE IN THAI CUISINE

Phuket is famous for its fresh-caught seafood and delectable Thai classics. Don’t be afraid to enjoy grilled prawns or lobster from local sellers on your favorite beach. Take a bit of Thai flavor home with you when learn to make favorites like green curry with chicken (Gaeng Kiaw Wan Gai) or a classic pad thai at Cooking School by JW at the JW Marriott^® Phuket Resort & Spa.

You could also dig deeper by sampling local Southern-style Thai cuisine at most Thai restaurants on the island. Choose dishes like spicy yellow curry with crab (Pad Pong Karee Puu) or Panang Curry, whose rich gravy is flavored with savory star anise.

3. DISCOVER HERITAGE IN PHUKET’S OLD TOWN

It doesn’t matter if it’s the morning, afternoon, or evening; a visit to Phuket’s Old Town is always time well-spent. You can continue your explorations of local cooking by sampling Thai-style chicken biryani (Khaaw Mook Gai) at Phuket Town Central Market, or earn your pool time by walking amid colorful Chinese-style shophouses.

Cool down at the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, which spotlights local Peranakan culture. Or join locals for an iced drink at The Shelter Coffee or Dou Brew Coffee & Craft, two of the most popular cafes in the historic center.

4. PICK A DAY TRIP, ANY TRIP

There’s plenty to do on Phuket proper, but what’s a trip to a paradise island without spending time on the water? You can arrange a private speedboat or long-tail boat outing with the resort’s Concierge; then rise early and hit the open sea.

Head south to the Koh Racha Islands, or east to the Koh Yao Islands, where pristine beaches and minimal development hearken back to a bygone era. Or boat north into Phang Nga Bay, where Khao Phing Kan (sometimes known as James Bond Island for its cameo in the 007 film The Man With the Golden Gun) is one of countless limestone formations that tower above the turquoise waters.

5. FRIENDLY FACES, BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

It’s easy to get caught up in activities while in Phuket that you forget to enjoy simple smiles and kindness. A wonderful place to experience both is in Kamala, a beachside Muslim community just north of Patong. Here, the slow rhythm of life — and tasty streetside snacks like banana roti pancakes and Gai Tod fried chicken — make it easy to engage, even if your Thai scarcely extends beyond Sawasdee (“hello”).

Another way to gain perspective in Phuket? Head to one of the island’s famous viewpoints — whether at the Big Buddha, a nearly 46-meter-tall statue that’s about 48.2 km southwest of the resort, or at Cape Promthep, a spot known for spectacular sunsets about 64.3 km south of the resort.

PARADISE IS WAITING AT MARRIOTT’S MAI KHAO RESORT — PHUKET

You don’t need to travel far to take a relaxing holiday that’ll leave you feeling refreshed. Now is the time to plan for your stay at a resort that not only is vibrant and exciting, but also comfortable and inviting.

Your stay starts with the water. Enjoy access to a sparkling pool that includes Aqua Bar, a perfect place to order poolside cocktails and snacks. The little ones in your family can join in on the fun as they have their own children’s pool featuring playful fountains and a slide. If you’re still looking to remain active but don’t want to spend time in the pool, keep fit by visiting the on-site fitness center.

Staying active works up an appetite. Fill your stomach with delicious food at the resort restaurants. Zest Restaurant offers a captivating blend of western and eastern cuisine, perfect for sampling local delights in an inviting and comfortable setting. If you’re looking to fuel your body up before a long day in the city, stop by Delights and pick from an assortment of gourmet food items to take with you during your adventures.

After a full day of exploring Phuket, nothing will feel better than a relaxing spa treatment. Located just next door at the JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa, The Spa is an award-winning retreat available for massages, facials, foot baths, therapy baths, and more. Relax your muscles and rejuvenate your spirit for another exciting day in Thailand.

Log in to your Member Website to use Points* to make a reservation at Marriott’s Mai Khao Resort – Phuket.