COMO Hotels and Resorts will launch its first-ever resort in Phuket, Point Yamu by COMO, on the island's Yamu peninsula in July 2013, almost a year later than its previously scheduled September 2012 opening (TTG Asia e-Daily, January 11, 2011).

Harry Apostolides, COMO vice president of business development, said: “This new COMO resort will be our second Thai property, after the Metropolitan by COMO in Bangkok. Phuket is one of the top tourist destinations in the region, and we have focused on its east coast – an area of outstanding natural beauty and great biodiversity. The location perfectly frames the COMO experience of service and cuisine, complemented by a wellness focus delivered by our award-winning COMO Shambhala Retreat.”

Overlooking Phang Nga Bay and the Andaman Sea, the 79-room beachside resort will offer 30 villas, with a clutch of private residences available for purchase. Facilities will include a 100m swimming pool, an eight-room COMO Shambhala Retreat, a yoga studio, an Italian and Thai restaurant, as well as a private beach.

Italian architect, Paola Navone, has been appointed to design the interiors of Point Yamu by COMO.