After the recent heat wave and monsoon downpours, summer is definitely in full swing. Stuffed into offices and workplaces, many people may be sitting around dreaming of the perfect summer getaway, far away from their daily routine in the crowed city. As a famous advertisement once said, ``You, hard worker! Leave for the holiday season!’’

However, where you would like to go? The most likely answer at this time will be a sea resort somewhere where vacationers can lie down and relax under a parasol at the beach, or cover themselves in a layer of cooling beach sand. Imagine swimming or dipping your feet in the sea or watching a sun setting over the ocean?

Though there are excellent beach resorts in South Korea, prospective travelers who desire a taste of the exotic and something a little different may spend some time choosing on the right place to go.

Here’s an easy answer: Phuket in Thailand!

If you go on vacation to Phuket, Club Med Phuket is a highly recommended resort, as it will make your holiday in the tropical island more enjoyable.

``Phuket is the best place for those who wish to enjoy real summer sports,’’ said Choi Ji-hae, 30, who got back from her four-day honeymoon in Phuket last month through Club Med.

``I hate cold weather and my husband loves summer sports. And since both of us were tied up with busy schedules, we didn't have time to plan our honeymoon. That's why we chose the all-inclusive Club Med Phuket. It made our honeymoon perfect,'' she said.

Club Med Phuket is part of a French-based resort group of approximately 120 properties, located in Thailand. The village boasts 304 superior, deluxe and suite rooms with more than 200 staff. Located on Kata beach, it mixes traditional Thai architecture style and a Mediterranean atmosphere.

Thailand's only island province, Phuket is a world famous tourist destination, renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear water, lots of offshore islands providing great sites for diving, as well as plenty of high quality resort accommodation.

The philosophy of Club Med, the world's largest total holiday company was developed over five decades and remains simple but effective: for one price, guests can use all services covering return flights and transfers, accommodation, full board, sports and entertainment.

Founded by a Belgian sports player, Club Med owns over 120 villages around the world, mostly on the coastline and is continuing the construction and purchase of new villages.

``Club Med Phuket is a place where travelers can enjoy meeting new people and having a simple vacation without any worry or extra cost,’’ Choi said.

Since it opened in 1985, Club Med Phuket has been a favorite holiday spot for Europeans and Asians who want to appreciate the tranquility of natural scenery. The village is stretched out over 25 hectares along the rainforest on the beach of Kata.

French holidaymakers and Japanese travelers account for the lion's share of visitors but the number of Koreans, especially honeymooners, has sharply increased recently thanks to the attractive nature around Phuket's and Club Med's various activity programs.

These include advanced instruction in golf, tennis, squash, archery, snorkeling, wind-surfing, swimming, sailing and more, all under close supervision. Lessons are offered for all ages and levels of experience _ beginner, intermediate and advanced.

During the day, the village provides excursions to Phuket town by jeep, elephant shows, visits to a traditional Thai village, outings to Phangnga Bay or a trip to discover the beauty and coral reefs of Phi Phi island.

At night, there are various events including shows and a discotheque, which encourage visitors to mingle with new people.

The village is also considered perfect for families with young children. For younger guests, a Mini Club keeps children aged 4-10 occupied so that parents can relax and enjoy their own pursuits.

The cuisine is another adventure at Phuket to help people enjoy their vacation.

A Korean housewife in her 30s said, ``When I left Incheon International Airport, I decided not to take any Korean food during this trip. It proved to be no problem. Since the cuisine comprise of Western, Thai, Chinese and Japanese and Korean dishes, you are free to choose from many different kinds of food.’’

A visitor from France, who stayed at the village with his family, said, ``I've been to many Club Med villages, but I've never found food to be a problem at any them.’’ ``I can always find items to my liking. Most people list the food at Club Med as a high point.’’

For more information about Club Med Phuket, visit its website (www.clubmed.co.kr) or call Club Med Seoul Office at (02) 3452-0123.