To celebrate the Thai New Year and welcome international travellers back to the Kingdom, the splendid Governor's Mansion in Phuket -- the largest icon of Sino-Portuguese baroque architecture -- will be listed on Airbnb for the ultimate designer stay for the first time.
Only one group of four lucky guests will get the chance to soak up the vibrant festivities with an island getaway of a lifetime, from April 15-17. The luxurious two-night stay will pay homage to the country's rich architectural heritage and design sensibility, including never-before-seen pieces by renowned Bangkok-based furniture designers and classic Phuketian antiques.
Built at the end of King Rama V's era by successful local businessman Pra Pitak Chinpracha, the 119-year-old iconic mansion, located in the historic heart of Old Phuket Town, has welcomed many out-of-town dignitaries and remains one of several neoclassical heritage mansions on Phuket today.
The sprawling white and mustard heritage home has been exquisitely restored to preserve its original fixtures, including richly patterned tiles and teakwood floors. Its first floor is now home to the Blue Elephant Restaurant -- a Michelin Plate awardee and long-running stalwart of Thailand's culinary industry.
On the 2nd floor, renowned Thai designer Saran Yen Panya has created a memorable, visually stunning space that pays homage to Thailand's rich heritage and buzzing contemporary design scene.
A modern living room inside the Governor's Mansion. AIRBNB
The stay features statement pieces by Yothaka -- widely revered as Thailand's master of design -- in addition to bespoke handcrafted items by up-and-coming designers Kitt Ta Khon, Masaya, Sumphat Gallery, Thaniya and Mo Jirachaisakul, paired with Phuketian antiques from some of the island's most distinguished homes and museums.
Guests will be hosted by popular Phuket-born model-actress Patricia Tanchanok Good who will share her favourite hidden gems and tips for exploring the island, and master chef Nooror Somany Steppe, a national ambassador for royal Thai cuisine and founder of Blue Elephant.
The two night-stay will be available for booking for US$50 (1,700 baht) tomorrow at 8am.
Visit airbnb.com/governorsmansion.
