Set in the lush hills of Thailand’s famed Phuket island provides a sanctuary where rustic charm meets eco-conscious luxury. As we arrive, we are immediately struck by the tranquil atmosphere, and every detail feels as if it was created to offer a deeper connection to nature. From the scent of tropical blooms to the gentle rustle of trees in the breeze, everything feels intentional and immersive.
The resort offers a peaceful escape from city life, seamlessly blending sustainability with thoughtful design. About 80 percent of its built environment, including the villas, walkways, and main facilities, is made from recycled materials. These elements are thoughtfully integrated into a design that values character over perfection. “Sustainability is at the heart of our philosophy,” says Jirapon Khwansungnoen, known as ‘Minnie’, marketing coordinator at Dinso Resort and Villas. “We embrace the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi, which celebrates the beauty of imperfection.” The result is a raw yet refined environment that feels both grounded and elegant – a true reflection of the resort’s eco-conscious ethos.
The resort’s location is ideal for experiencing both the vibrant energy of Phuket and the serenity of the hills. Dinso is just a 10-minute walk from Jungceylon Shopping Centre and 15 minutes from Patong Beach. A free shuttle service to Patong and Karon Beach offers the best of both worlds: peace and access.
Guests are encouraged to embrace local traditions, whether through a Thai tea ceremony or a personalised tour of the island. For us, this was the chance to engage with the culture on a deeper level – far more enriching than a typical sightseeing trip. Inspired by the traditional use of Din Sor Pong plaster that’s integral to Southeast Asian architecture – another nod to Wabi-Sabi – guests can shape their own ‘Dinsosculpture’ from the same soil used in the resort’s wall plaster. You can use the provided moulds or create a free-form design using leaves and flowers as stencils, and once dry, the sculpture becomes a meaningful keepsake.
Wellness is a natural extension of the peaceful surroundings. Our mornings begin with yoga on open-air decks, followed by spa treatments tucked beneath a canopy of trees. A must-try is the ‘Queen of Dinso’ treatment, which incorporates ‘Tok Sen’ – a signature variation of massage where a handmade hammer is used to gently stimulate energy points.
The dining experiences at Dinso are equally intentional. At Rice Restaurant, we savour plant-based Thai dishes made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms and Dinso’s own garden. “My aspiration is for each guest to embark on a sensory journey through every dish we serve where flavour, presentation, and carefully curated ingredients come together in harmony,” shares Chonlakarn Hormjan, the resort’s cluster executive chef. “Each plate is thoughtfully composed to reflect not only our culinary philosophy, but a sense of place.” Also on offer is the restaurant’s Indian menu, where our firm favourite was the butter chicken cooked in a tandoor and finished in a rich tomato, cream, and fenugreek gravy.
Like most travellers, we did our research online before the trip, and mango sticky rice repeatedly came up. And so, our culinary explorations continued outside of the resort when we tried sweet mango over sticky rice topped with coconut milk at the Lard Yai Sunday Night Walking Street Market, which is packed with vendors offering tempting street eats.
Evenings at Dinso are memorable. At D Jungle Bar, the soundtrack moves between traditional Thai melodies and familiar pop classics, creating a soundscape that feels both rooted and universal. Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather plays, feeling surprisingly fitting in the lush setting.
What truly stays with us, however, is the warmth of the staff. They go above and beyond to make guests feel at home, remembering our preferences and anticipating our needs. Thoughtful gestures, like a handwritten note on the pillow or our favourite fruits at breakfast, make every moment personal. “To me, thoughtful service means making guests feel truly cared for not only during their stay but even before they arrive,” says rooms division manager, Suphansa Thunngan. “From the very first step a guest takes into our hotel, we hope they feel genuinely embraced by our hospitality and leave with memories that are truly unforgettable.”
Beyond sustainability, Dinso offers guest experiences that foster a deep connection with nature. Eco-excursions are designed to encourage mindfulness – from scenic forest hikes to discovering hidden beaches, each outing invites the resort’s travellers to appreciate Phuket’s biodiversity and traditions. Throughout our stay, the way nature and intention shape every experience resonates with us the most. These activities feel restorative rather than performative, designed not for show, but for sincere immersion and learning.
Whether sipping herbal tea under the trees or waking to birdsong, it’s clear Dinso is where travel meets meaning. It’s not just a beautiful escape, it’s an experience that lingers long after we leave.
