A resort development on Phuket is aiming to tap the 'pink dollar' by offering added elegance to attract same-sex couples.
The Lotus Gardens project is the first of its kind in Thailand specifically designed to appeal to same-sex couples by 'offering the outstanding services that a gay-friendly property presents such as elegant services and facilities,' according to the lifestyle consultant for the development, Bruce Stanley.
'There are gay-friendly destinations around the world, cruises and resorts in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, and many tour operators are looking for a site in Southeast Asia for holidays for the gay-friendly market,' he said.
Located on Northern Phuket's Bangtao Bay, Lotus Gardens will comprise 24 two-bedroom residences and two duplex penthouses in a condominium layout with upscale resort facilities. There will be a small bar, a small restaurant and two swimming pools. Construction will begin in mid-April, with completion expected about 16 months later.
Prices at Lotus Gardens run from $2.5 million for a one-level garden residence to $4.6 million for a two-level penthouse.
Under Thai law 49 per cent of the condominium units can be sold to foreigners with freehold title. The remaining units, if bought by foreigners, must use a legal framework with essentially two purchase options.