Kob Kun, South Forbes

MANILA, Philippines - Artistry of the highest kind deserves recognition. South Forbes Golf City, the country’s largest fully-integrated and all-themed golf resort city at the forefront of the Metro Sta. Rosa – Tagaytay corridor, through its internationally-themed Residential Cluster, has been given the Best Golf Community Development by the 2007 CNBC International Property Awards, the world’s most prestigious property awards programme, and the Highly Commended Award for Best Development by the 2010 Bloomberg Asia-Pacific Residential Award.

And today, as Thailand celebrates National Artist Day, a title given annually by the Office of the National Culture Commission of Thailand, recognizing notable Thai artists in literature, fine arts, visual arts, applied arts, and performing arts, we too take pride in featuring South Forbes’ most prestigious themed residential enclave in its Mansions line — Phuket Mansions.

Perfect Life, Perfect Place. One of the main things that impress residents and guests is how close they are to the beauty of nature. Who wouldn’t fall in love with that? From the entrance alone, towering trees, vibrant flowers, and high-pitched roofs immediately recall of the Thai island paradise that is Phuket.

The guardhouse is a small glass structure with curtains made of bamboo stalks for that Asian feel. The carpet of black natural stones paves the way from the gate to the clubhouse at the end of the main avenue. The village wall of river stones hint of coming home to a tropical resort.

Sensual Living. Some houses instantly feel like potential homes. There is something about the ambience of a house, some intangible essence that makes you feel welcome. These are the houses where your every sense can be comfortable.

From a sprawling bungalow to a two-storey residence, the Phuket enclaves offer a stylish choice of homes for every family, yet all alike in providing a safe, comfortable place to retreat, refresh and restore. Of particular interest is the Ayutthaya bungalow that becomes the ideal place to spend lazy afternoons and serene nights with a pavilion-type layout surrounded by reflecting pools and lush flora.

Water is paramount in everything that is Thai culture, from its history, economy, culture, and values. It is through this appreciation that adds a new dimension to Phuket Mansions.

The pools surrounding the Ayutthaya make it appear to float in the sparkling water that, along with the gentle breeze and a tropical garden, it creates an atmosphere of pure tranquility. Retirees will surely spend their twilight years here in the lap of luxury.

Inspiring Elegance. A remarkable amenity for all Phuket residents is the majestic clubhouse that blends well with the natural environment. Its roof is its most prominent element as it has always been the defining feature of classical Thai architecture. The clubhouse is designed to accommodate functions in different environments — indoor, covered al fresco, and outdoor — and the function halls are enclosed in glass, creating a seamless intermingling between interior and exterior spaces. The infinity-edge swimming pool has a stunning view that exudes an atmosphere of quiet elegance.

“We have recently completed the Phuket clubhouse and is now ready for use by its residents,” said Jeffrey Ng, Cathay Land president. “It is undeniably the crown jewel to our Thai-themed enclave — a palace in its own right.”

Perhaps the best time to be at the clubhouse is at twilight when it lights up like a jewel and reveals its inner beauty. In the near future, a Thai café will open to serve visitors some spicy Tom Yam soup, fresh Pad Thai, or a refreshing Lemongrass Tea.

Fit for Royalty. The anchor of the whole development is the centerpiece world-class 18-hole South Forbes Golf and Leisure Club where membership comes free with every lot or condominium unit purchase at no activation cost.

Move in right here, right now. Call 635-7777 or 631-8855 for a free city tour or log on to www.southforbes.com for more information.