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This lush family resort and spa on a tropical southeast Asian isle weathered the tsunami to come back, better than ever.

When the first JW Marriott Resort in Asia opened on the coast of the Andaman Sea in Phuket in 2002, the Marriott staff was quick to cite the friendly, welcoming Thai people as the main reason why their new property, with excellent facilities for families, was built there. As the GM exclaimed then, "The Thais adore children and also love to play and have sanuk (fun)."

So if you're thinking about a tropical paradise with palm trees swaying above deserted sand beaches, Phuket may be your destination. In part due to the reconstruction that followed the December 26, 2004 tsunami, Phuket is much less of a tourist-infested party destination for Aussies and backpacking Europeans than in the early 90s. The Marriott and other luxury resorts were a sign of change and for most visitors, the island has successfully transitioned into a very upscale getaway.

From our own family's experience, we know the Thailand Tourist office slogan "Land of Smiles" is true, and after repeat visits, the gentle Thai people have made it one of the most comfortable destinations we've taken our child. And Thailand doesn't have to be as exotic as it seems; according to management, Marriott's family guests are largely from the US, U.K. and those Asian countries where many British, American and Australian expats reside.

The Marriott's two-bedroom villas at the edge of beautiful, almost deserted Mai Khao Beach are adjacent to the Sirinath Marine National Park, so you won't see the hawkers, masseurs and hair-braiders from Phuket's other coastal villages. Year-round, several international and religious holidays are celebrated at the resort with colorful pageantry, special meals and events, and kids activities. However, if it's more action you seek, there are complimentary shuttles to Phuket Town and Patong every hour.

The JW Marriott Phuket's Beach Club is the recently expanded site of the family villas. These boast a master and second bedroom, sofabed in the living area, kitchen and laundry facilities, two bathrooms and three TVs, making them ideal for long-staying families and those traveling with nannies and/or grandparents. Due to popular demand, another 84 units and a third swimming pool have been added to the family area. The two Marriotts share many facilities and the resort deli, for example, will deliver baby supplies or groceries to the villas. The resort's 295 very spacious rooms with balconies overlooking 27 acres of landscaped gardens are another comfortable option.