Marriott Rewards - JW Phuket vs. JW Khao Lak?

Two questions...

1. New hotel opening. Is JW Khao Lak any closer to activity (town/city/shopping) or even more secluded than JW Phuket?

2. At JW Phuket should I ask for top or bottom floor (I think they are only 2 floors and I am staying on a award stay)?

J.W. PHUKET is very close to the Phuket Airport and about 30 - 45 minutes car ride from Phuket town and other major shopping/nightlife etc.

Khao Lak is about one hour farther than the J.W. Phuket, so quite far from Phuket activities. So both are away from main shopping areas and nightlife but of he two, J.W. Phuket is much closer.
Have NOT been to the J.W. Khao Lak but have been to the Phuket several times and it is a beautiful resort.

Thank you.

Should I ask for top or bottom floor at JW Phuket?

I ve not been to the new JW Khao Lak (scheduled to go there in 3 weeks) but it should be close to the Khao Lak tourist area (think of some local bars, restaurants & shops) whereas the JW Phuket is rather isolated sharing the area with another 5* hotel (SALA Phuket / great hotel & restaurant btw). Generally if it is your first time in Phuket i would go for the JW Phuket as your sightseeing options are rather limited in Khao Lak. Having a rental car is big plus at both locations, though. If you are interested in having your own terrace opt for the ground floor otherwise go for the higher floor.

Edit: There are no decent diving options around JW Phuket so if one of your primary interests is in diving definately go for the JW in Khao Lak as it is way closer to diving spots around the Similan Islands.

Unless a seaview is your priority (which even on the higher floors is not a guarantee due to the trees and matured foliage), I would definitely recommend a ground floor room. It's very convenient to walk out from your terrace to the the beautifully landscaped grounds. The JW Phuket is a huge property and there's a lot of walking to be done.

If you're booking an award stay, you will have to request for a ground floor room as these are higher category rooms. If the resort is not full, they would probably be able to accommodate your requests.