Originally Posted by chinmoylad

I've stayed at Andara - reviewed it on FT here: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/searc...3&query=andara

The three are very different resorts. Sri Panwa, as OP described it, is very hip and young with a more Asian crowd. This is definitely much more of a 'social' resort with quite a buzz around it. It's also very, very far from almost everything. Despite that, beware of the day-trippers in the common areas (particularly Baba Nest) who come over for sunset drinks. The villas are very nice and private though and still offer some sense of solitude. Beach is decent.

Trisara is absolutely fantastic and probably has the best 'hotel rooms'. Has the best beach out of the three in terms of sand, but very rocky entry to the water unless you're going in high-season. Wasn't that impressed by the privately owned villas, or the food. Service could improve too.

Andara is like a mini-Aman in so many ways (design, tiling, layout to an extent - it's also a much 'smaller' resort though). If you're going in a large group, go for Andara beacause the multiple bedroom villas are stunning - every bit as nice as Amans. This is also the most conveniently located resort if you want to explore rest of Phuket. But if the beach is a big thing for you, skip Andara because their beach really isn't up to much.

Best (Thai) food is at Andara I reckon, but you're limited for choice. SILK is the only restaurant. Commented earlier that the breakfast was horrid, but as horrid as that breakfast was, the Thai food is absolutely worth it. There are also a host of Thai/Western/touristy beach bars within walking distance from Andara.

I'm very familiar with all three - and just had lunch (again!) at Andara on my last visit to Phuket in late April and continue to keep going back every year.

Feel free to ask any questions!