First impressions of this Pullman Phuket Panway Beach Resort -- from seeing it from the outside -- are distinctly underwhelming; a weather-worn sign and a patchy circle of grass greet guests upon arrival to this boxy and architecturally unremarkable property. Inside things improve with a spacious and airy lobby area which blends warm polished woods and contemporary takes on traditional Thai-style decor. This area received some upgrades after our visit, including new flooring and upgraded furniture. Grounds, too, are impressive, with smartly terraced landscaping surrounded by lush tropical gardens that overlook a vast sweeping bay and golden sandy beach. The vibe is one of an upscale resort chain -- with the odd lack of detail and impersonal atmosphere that this often entails -- and it draws a mix of everything from honeymooning couples, attracted by the tranquil setting, to families with children taking advantage of the extensive facilities of this large holiday complex.

The resort is located towards the southern tip of the Panwa peninsula on the southeast corner of Phuket island. It's set just off the main, but lightly trafficked, road leading to the end of the cape and a relatively remote part of the island which overlooks the picturesque Makham Bay. Its location means fairly easy access to the island's capital, Phuket City, which is about 15 minutes away by car -- the hotel provide a free shuttle bus. Phuket Airport, however, is positioned on the opposite north side of the island, so it takes about an hour to reach it from the Radisson Blu.

The hotel's 211 rooms are decorated in a blend of light tones and contemporary Thai-style touches with polished wooden floors, furnishings, and fixtures. All rooms have large sliding doors that open onto furnished balconies or terraces, many with views over the bay. Unusual for many Phuket resorts, Wi-Fi access is free of charge in rooms, while amenities also include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and DVD players (with a DVD library available to guests). Bathrooms are finished in marble, most with separate walk-in showers and tubs, while luxury Pool Villas feature infinity-edge pools with outdoor tiled terrace areas and wooden decking.

The hotel features one of the largest lagoon pools on the island, which includes terraced wooden decking lined with loungers and parasols as well as daybeds overlooking the beach. The other garden pool is also larger than most and features a waterslide for the kids. Children are also kept entertained with a program of activities and a mini-club, while kayaks, surf boards, and even scuba lessons are available free of charge. As you'd expect, the hotel has a modern fitness center and a range of spa treatments on-site, as well as several eating and drinking options with evening entertainment. Direct access to the sandy beach is also a huge bonus, though the sea is only really accessible when the tide is in, and even then a bit shallow for swimming.