One of the most unusual resorts in the Laguna Phuket complex, Laguna Beach Resort combines elegance, opulence and common sense.

The romantic nature of the resort comes from the setting and design . . . lush tropical gardens, ocean-view rooms complete with Thai-style floor cushions and an atmosphere which allows you to feel relaxed but well aware that you are in Siam.

An airport limousine collection will swiftly transport you through the oasis of lakes and lagoons to the Laguna Beach Resort. The resort is architecturally low-rise, enabling all guests to enjoy an ocean or garden view. On arrival, a fruit cocktail, pleasant service and the short walk to your room is immediately endearing. Even wandering through the lobby is a pleasant exercise in itself, as the decor consists of fine antiques and Thai furniture.

Each room is decorated in traditional Thai style, with the fabrics and furnishings drawn from different periods of Thailand's history. Orchids are everywhere: placed in ornate bowls or as an attractive accompaniment to the evening's first cocktail.

The reason Laguna Beach Resort is doubly romantic is this . . . if you are a couple with children, the resort has a variety of options available for your offspring whilst you can take time out to enjoy the romance of Phuket. The four-acre water park, designed to resemble an ancient palace, is spectacular and children are well catered for . . . the (seasonal) Kid's Club is on a par with any 5-star resort.

For a romantic repast, try out one of the six restaurants and bars on offer: Thai, Asian and Continental fare abounds every night. Director of Food and Beverage, Phillippe Hauser, hails from Switzerland and is very proud of his culinary expertise. Having worked in Indonesia, America and most recently Singapore, his experience has stood him in good stead. Director of Kitchen, Rainer Roersch has also travelled the world with a view to experiencing all things culinary.Their efforts have resulted in a dining experience second to few. . . a meal where in most of their six restaurants you may sample a variety of small dishes to give a wide range of tastes (or, if you wish, the full-blown meal of a lifetime).

The general atmosphere of the Laguna Beach Resort is one of calm, although if you are looking for something a little more active there is tennis, jogging, aerobics and much more on offer. Also on offer is windsurfing, Scuba diving, sailing and snorkelling.

The emphasis for Laguna Beach Resort is on people . . . if a quiet time is your desire, there is no problem at this beach-front paradise. If you wish to take the children on an exotic tropical holiday there are people who will enable you to have a great, fun, family time with that extra bit of privacy. If it's fun and excitement you crave, look no further.

As the resort is set directly on the beach, there is a wealth of sea-front dining opportunities on offer. The Grange Grill, although not an open-air eatery, promises barbecued steak and succulent seafood with an extra hint of European flair from Rainer.