With immediate effect, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts is undertaking management of the Palm Beach Club hotel and rebranding it Movenpick Residences Laguna Beach Phuket.

The resort will ideally complement the Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket, the first property the hotel company opened in Thailand in 2006. Both Phuket properties harmoniously blend Thailand's gentle way of life with the Swiss tradition of hospitality and attention to detail to create two striking holiday getaways for discerning travellers.

Movenpick Residences Laguna Beach Phuket is located on Bang Tao Beach, one of Phuket Island's most pristine beaches and famous among golfers. The Phuket International Airport and several world-class golf courses, including Blue Canyon Country Club and the Laguna Phuket Golf Club are within a 20-minute drive.

The new portfolio addition features 39 residences including luxurious penthouses and two and three-bedroom suites, all blending the best of Thai and contemporary design. Modern interiors evoke an easy living design complete with large balconies and some come with a private pool or Jacuzzi. All are designed to provide a perfect tropical haven for families, friends and long-term guests, creating a delightful ambience for a memorable holiday.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to operate this exclusive retreat and to expand our presence in Thailand, one of Asia's top leisure destinations," said Andreas Mattmuller, chief operating officer of Movenpick Hotels & Resorts, Middle East & Asia. "We have plans to increase our portfolio in the country and to operate six hotels in Thailand by 2014."

Guests can choose from a variety of leisure and entertaining facilities including an expansive swimming pool nestled amid the tropical gardens, lively dining options and a modern fitness centre.

Spa enthusiasts will enjoy Blossom Spa, a world-class facility offering traditional Thai treatments as well as therapies derived from Asian and European influences.

Guido Karl Wenk, owner of Diamond Management Co. Ltd. and property owner said, 'We are delighted to team up with Movenpick Hotels & Resorts. Their experience in the market will assist our efforts to further promote our property to international levels."

Hansruedi Frutiger, General Manager of the resort mentioned. "We will build on the success of the Movenpick Resort & Spa Karon Beach Phuket and extend the same gracious Thai hospitality to ensure our guests enjoy a memorable holiday at our resort."

Since 2010 Movenpick Hotels & Resorts has extended its Asian presence beyond Thailand and Vietnam, with new developments announced in China, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and India. The recent opening of the Movenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa in Singapore and the Movenpick Resort & Spa Cebu in Philippines indicate the solid and strategic Asian expansion for the Swiss-based hotel company.