The Thai hotspot of Patong in Phuket is striped with golden beaches and inspiring views of the Andaman Sea. Here, Impiana Resort Patong provides an ideal place to relax and unwind, in the charming and peaceful confines of the resort, but – with the heady distractions of Patong’s bars, nightclubs and restaurants within easy reach – it’s also a base for letting your hair down.

The beachfront accommodations of Impiana Resort Patong feature 71 rooms in six room types, including cabana style chambers with private balconies as well as a decadent choice of luxurious suites and private villas.

To learn more about this beautiful seaside resort I spoke to Impiana Resort Patong general manager, David McCallum – a seasoned hotelier with 30 years of experience in the industry. He has worked with iconic brands such as the Radisson Hotel Group, Fairmont, IHG, Starwood and Grand Millennium Hotel Group in key market destinations like London, Shanghai, Beijing and Shenzhen.

How does Impiana Resort Patong stand out from the crowd in such a busy market like Phuket? Can you describe design and visual appeal of the location?

Impiana Hotels & Resorts Phuket has a long history in the Phuket and Thailand market, with 50% repeat guests year after year. It has traditional Thai design, old world charm, warm and friendly people, and is surrounded by lush tropical landscaped gardens, nestled in between Patong’s vibrant nightlife, entertainment and Patong beach.

What kind of MICE facilities do you have for meetings, events and weddings? What kind of events support do you have in place?

We cater to all types of special events, starting from small workshop training, facilitating up to 20 people where clients can combine business activities and leisure to maximise the work-life balance – which has grown more and more popular recently.

Our wedding facilities can hold up to 120 people maximum capacity, for a sit-down, multi-course set dinner complimented with wines and champagne, or full international and Thailand cuisine buffets.

What is your favourite part of the hotel and why?

I think the lobby must be my own personal favourite place in the hotel. First impressions count and it is amazing to step out of the car on arrival and walk up the front stairs to where you can see the ocean sparking in the distance – it’s so impressive.

What are your future plans for the hotel?

We continue our efforts year-on-year with an active upgrade programme for all of our hotels and resorts to meet and exceed our guest’s expectation. Impiana Hotels and Resorts are in the planning stage now to increase Impiana Patong from 71 guest rooms and suites to 150 rooms and suites – with a complete rebuild of the hotel and resort scheduled within the next three years.