Prize in the Sky
Thailand readies to unveil Kata Rocks
After years of planning, the development team behind Kata Rocks—architect Adrian McCarroll, interior designer Kelly Hoppen, and lighting designer Rob Clift—is close to realizing its vision: a breathtaking collection of 34 oceanfront Sky Villas in Phuket, Thailand.
Anchored on Kata Point—one of the island’s most exclusive areas—Kata Rocks is more than a luxury resort; it’s an experience. Villas are harmoniously balanced and inspired by their natural surroundings. A modern ocean loft design scheme features clean lines and elements like sleek louvres and tinted glass panels.
With 15 international property awards, the development provides the space and seclusion of a private residence and the benefits of a luxury boutique resort. The onsite ocean-facing restaurant, pool and bar, five-room spa, and state-of-the-art fitness room constitute a world within a world, while restaurants, shops, and beach clubs complete the Kata Rocks lifestyle. Amenities feature cutting-edge home technology that allows owners to easily change lighting, close blinds, order room service, book activities, and access a central entertainment server.
Kata Rocks’ top accommodations are its 10 four-bedroom Club Penthouse Villas, each of which boasts over 4,950 square feet, open-plan living spaces, two master bedrooms with private terraces and Jacuzzis, a 32-foot infinity pool, and an outdoor dining area with barbecue kitchen. To date, the remaining purchase opportunities include select three-bedroom Sky Duplexes, two-bedroom Pool Condos, and a penthouse—all of which have their own private infinity pools, stunning views of the Andaman Sea, and smart technology. Project completion is estimated for this fall; prices begin at $1.1 million.
Rainforest Respite
A low Impact-community is coming to Panama’s Coast
Playa Mystica at Panama
The developers of Playa Mystica on Boca Chica Island, 30 minutes off Panama’s coast, are working to create a low-impact community that is “a perfect hideout for a pirate and a perfect fortress of solitude for a superhero.” The development consists of 35 lots on 50 acres that will serve as the anchor community on the island. This development density assures that each lot has 50 to 100 feet of rainforest between it and the next structure. Future plans include a small fishing lodge and the development of Monte Vida Park, formed to protect and preserve the natural rainforest. Boca Chica Island borders Panama’s Chiriqui Gulf National Marine Park and is surrounded by 50 smaller uninhabited islands. Lots start at $49,900. Prospective buyers can stay at the existing Mango Bay Villa Estate.
Castle Course
New Brunswick’s Algonquin reopens in June
The Algonquin Resort
A maritime tradition in its second century of service, The Algonquin Resort is a landmark in Canadian hospitality. Overlooking Passamaquoddy Bay in St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick, the 234-room Tudor-style “Castle-by-the-Sea” has been welcoming guests, including heads of state and royalty, since 1889. The majestic Bay of Fundy is the stunning backdrop for the resort’s award-winning Algonquin Golf Course. The resort will reopen in June, following a $30 million renovation that combines the elegance of a bygone era with the modern amenities of a luxury resort. Dining options will include a full-service restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients, and a lounge will reflect the hotel’s heritage by offering classic cocktails with a contemporary twist. The hotel joins Marriott’s distinguished Autograph Collection.