Thursday, May 29, 2014

Paresa Resort Kamala, #Phuket, Thailand


Set in nature’s garden, so to speak, the external walls of natural handmade
earth tone brickwork and green roofing reflect the thought
and sensitivity for the environment that went into the property’s construction.


Thai-styled resorts with stereotypical design
and ostentatious architecture based on the Northern Thai Lanna-style
with Jim Thompson-like essentials,
Paresa is very much understated in the true Thai sense of the word
with the Southern Thai cultural detail to be found in the finishes.


Built around several magnificently preserved Banyan trees,
several elements of Paresa’s structural design are reminiscent
of the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired organic architecture. 


Unadorned and calming off-white walls further highlight the airy
and spacious atmosphere created within each Paresa villa.
From the tranquil and relaxing bedrooms to the open-plan interior areas,
each villa flows seamlessly to the outdoor terrace
and frame the breathtaking uninterrupted views across the Andaman Sea.


Private exterior verandas are made all the more enticing
with comfortable daybeds or sun lounges, outdoor treatment sala
and a separate outdoor bathroom making each villa completely self-contained
for total uninterrupted indulgence and relaxation.


Situated high on the cliff top, this al fresco restaurant is shaded by the canopies
of majestic Banyan trees preserved for posterity and offers the perfect venue
from which to enjoy the magnificent nightly sunsets across the Andaman Sea.


Kata Noi Beach, #Phuket, Thailand


Kata Noi Beach is a beautiful little bay if you want to be near Kata Beach action
but stay away from the usual tourist herds.
This nice wide strand of white sand has incredibly clear blue waters during the high season
and fortunately, its ‘out of the way’ location kept it relatively quiet.
Unless you know about it, you probably would miss it.


Except the beach itself and two resorts, not much is going on around Kata Noi Beach,
the usual tailor, convenience store, massage and few bars seem to be waiting for the hotel’s guests.
The northern end of the beach is also a popular spot among surfers
who occasionally get some decent waves for learning and practicing.
When low season arrives, the bay gets rougher and surfing is more challenging.


If you stay at Kata Thani Resort or at Mom Tri’s Villa Royale, you will get free beach chairs,
otherwise it will cost you 200 baht for a pair of loungers and an umbrella,
which is the normal price around the island.


The whole Kata Noi Beach front is occupied by the Kata Thani Beach Resort
and all rooms happen to face the beach… very popular and first rooms are affordable.
If you want to treat yourself to something luxurious
you can try ‘The Shore’, their beautiful new wing, all featuring pool villas.


More unique and renown since decades is the ‘Villa Royale’,
built on the side of Kata Noi northern end.
This unusual hotel, surrounded by a beautiful garden,
used to be a private house converted very successfully into a hotel. In the original wing,
each room has a different design and different decoration,
one of them even still features its own wine cellar built into a rock boulder.


Another spot no to miss while in Kata Noi Beach, is the line of bars built high on top of the back hill,
offering spectacular views on the bay… With name like ‘Small View Point’ or ‘After Beach’
or the newest addition ‘Baan Chom View’ you get the idea :
great sunset, decent food and definitely the best way

to enjoy a beer watching the sun go down on Kata Noi Beach.

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Ka Jok See Restaurant, Phuket


Ka Jok See is the sort of place you can stroll past and not even notice,
yet it’s one of Phuket’s most popular restaurants. How is this? Well,
this enigma is largely due to the fact that Ka Jok See (meaning ‘stained glass window’)
does not advertise nor solicit reviews in fancy magazines.


The owner, Khun Lek, keeps away from that sort of thing,
preferring word of mouth recommendations and,
perhaps as a result, the restaurant is packed every night
and it’s not at all that unusual to spot a celebrity or two dining there.
Serving mostly Thai food, for a fixed price you can order as much as you want
an unusual yet successful arrangement but then again
‘unusual yet successful’ are words that succinctly describe this restaurant.


Set in a Sino-Portuguese converted shop-house
and cleverly decorated with Thai and European touches,
Ka Jok See emulates certain Dutch steak houses with newspapers on the tables,
thick wooden beam ceilings, large plants and low lighting;
all it needs is sawdust on the floor to round the impression off but no, this is Thailand after all.


The food (expect large portions and far more than you can handle) is served Thai style,
meaning that everyone at the table shares and this enhances the fun factor here.
But come past nine o’clock at night the fun factor goes through the roof as a camper
than camp cabaret kicks in, the mood escalates,
shirts are thrown off and absolute party mayhem ensues.


It’s not unknown for diners to dance on the tables (so that’s why the newspapers are there…)
and the restaurant’s fun reputation is consolidated by nightly happenings.
Of course it’s gayer than a pink cigar but straights are welcomed here just as avidly
by the extremely friendly and attentive staff.


Just how Ka Jok See manages to pull this off on a nightly basis for more years
than they’d like to admit is one of Phuket’s great mysteries
but handing out bongo drums, party hats and tambourines
and pumping up the volume is a pretty shrewd strategy in getting shy diners to boogie along.
Think conga lines, limbo dancing over a candle, hip-swinging partiers swilling mojitos
and you’ll have a fair idea of how zany things get here. It’s most certainly not recommended
for blue-nosed teetotalers who have to be in the office at eight the next morning

as the party swings here till very late indeed.

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

Dhara Dhevi Hotel, Chiang Mai, #Thailand


The luxury resort’s design draws heavily from the architectural
and cultural influences of the historic Lanna Kingdom.
Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai offers some of the world’s most spacious accommodations available
in the world, from our beautiful setting to our acclaimed restaurants and outstanding spa.


Nestled across 60 acres of beautifully landscaped tropical grounds
in Thailand’s Rose of the North – Chiang Mai – is the Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai. 
A heartfelt welcome from our gracious and friendly staff welcomes you into this delightful
and serene setting, inspired by the region’s rich heritage.


Ancient palace-like structures, traditional Lanna-style villas
and delightful colonial mansions house luxurious accommodation,
the finest of restaurants and superb recreational facilities the world has to offer.


Spread throughout the resort’s 60 acres are stunning suites, villas and residences that
have become almost legendary for the amazing accommodation experience they offer.
Ranging from 80 sqm to over 250 sqm, these 123 luxurious hideaways were lovingly built
in keeping with traditional Lanna and colonial-style architecture.


With outstanding cuisine and beautiful settings, our restaurants, bars
and cake shop offer guests a choice of mouth-wateringdining experiences.


Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai is the only resort in Chiang Mai that offers guests a regular daily program
for arts and crafts demonstration – basket making, bamboo weaving, rice pounding, paper cutting
and flower arranging in northern Thai style. Guests can either watch or participate.


The Cultural Centre also plans to host lectures by local and foreign experts
on a wide range of topics related to Southeast Asian Culture, artisan and craft demonstration.  


Thursday, May 22, 2014

Beaches made in Heaven


Patong Beach, Charm is not perhaps the first would that springs to mind when describing Patong,
but the miles of perfect turquoise seas and powdery sand, right next to all the razzmatazz,
manages to absorb hundreds of sun-worshippers, strollers, joggers, volleyballers etc.
without getting crowded. When the sun tan lotion is no longer needed,
Patong’s night life offer the best dining on the island, shops galore and the occasional bar – well to be honest,
quite a lot of bars. No holiday would be complete without a visit
to the pulsating glitz of Soi Bangla road– where it all happen.


 Paradise Beach, It is open from 9 am until 6 pm and is never crowded.
The waters are crystal-clear and the pure white sandy beach is framed by a lush green backdrop of coconut palms.
Only 150 metres long, Paradise is a jewel in a perfect serene setting.
There’s a small restaurant, which also rents beach chairs, snorkeling gear etc.
If you are actively inclined why not try sea kayaking among the rocky coves.


Nai Yang Beach, Right at the top of the island, just south of  Sarasin Bridge, is Nai Yang.
The beach has been declared a National park, but the public still have free access.
There would be an uproar if this were to change, for this deserted stretch of fine sand fringed
with giant casuarinas is where Thai residents come to picnic and get away from it all.
Near the bridge there are some small seafood restaurants. Between November and February,
this is where the sea turtles struggle up the beach to lay their eggs.


 Laem Sing ( Sing Cape), Continuing south, intrepid beachcombers will encounter this delightful, bijou bay,
Nesting between stony headlands, Laem Sing features sandy coves
and rock pools which bear close inspection. Its unique charm attracts many visitors in high season. 


Bangtao Beach, About 2 Km. north of Surin village, is Bangtao,
home to the exclusive Laguna hotel complex.
The north part of the beach is quiet with a few scattered, laid back beach bar/restaurants
and has some fine coral for snorkeling. There you’ll find a lagoon
and a small river estuary, which gives on to the beautiful,
tranquil Layan beach – also a national park. 


Banana Beach, Also known as Haad Hin Gluai or Banana Rock Beach,
has everything a beach lover would ever need: a small bay or soft sand,
rocks offshore, water as clear as glass for snorkeling and just a smattering of sun bed.
Aside from the stretch of sand, there’s a single restaurant serving slightly overpriced seafood dishes
with five plastic tables that sink into the sand.


 Ya Nui Beach, If you seek still more tranquility and privacy,
there’s another small and white powdery-sand beach, located next to Paradise.
Just continue south down the small path through the rocks.
Follow the same track up the hill and you will reach a quiet and peaceful viewpoint
offering wonderful vistas of sea and surf; the darker blue of the deep waters
contrasting with the azure surf effervescing on the dark.

The Pavilions Resorts, #Phuket


Perched atop one of Phuket’s highest points,
each lavish pool villa is utterly private, delightfully decadent and unusually spacious.


Tropical modern temples framing show-stopping seascapes.
Or the glossy, pared-back chic of a Spa & Pool Pavilion with your own spa and steam rooms.
High walls and screens of lush foliage create remarkable sexy sanctuaries,
with veiled sale elegant tables set for al fresco dining,
and private pools made for skinny dipping.


Service shaped around your privacy. Cuisine that embraces organic yet celebrates indulgence,
and a balanced view on wellness. Chocolate wraps and champagne breakfasts.
Salad days and happy hours. And for something wild,
succumb to the allure of new and mysterious East-land.


We loved serving you on your last visit and look forward to welcoming you back again
for your return escape to our luxury villa resorts in Bali and Phuket
to make your next visit a smooth
one we have given you automatic membership to our loyalty program.
This will ensure that we keep you updated with all of our upcoming news and enticing promotions.


A whispering bamboo grove to the highest point of The Pavilions and the ultimate perch over paradise.
360° Bar & Grill is the island’s pre-eminent home of happy hour,
with infinite vistas, dazzling skies, love potions, tapas with a twist,
mellow grooves and our intriguing ‘sunset ritual’ to farewell the day.


Soft breezes stir the sea of trees that stretches towards the horizon.
You settle back, utterly relaxed, to peruse the menu.
Welcome to The Plantation Club, an all fresco setting of timeless elegance inspired
by the colonial homes of the Asian trade routes and Phuket’s rich history.
Discover a cultured cloister for connoisseurs. Here, long lunches unfold at leisure.
Afternoons are given over to the fine art of Tiffin.
And in the evenings how refreshing to dress for dinner.


Dining approaches perfection at The Pavilions.
Let us lay the table for romance, ply you with fine wines,
tempt you with a Champagne supper, or serve a sensual Pleasure Platter for two.
Perhaps a candlelight dinner a la carte dinner on your private terrace.


Wednesday, May 21, 2014

The Continent Hotel, #Bangkok


The Continent Hotel, Bangkok is an absorbing and expressive business, leisure
and lifestyle hotel. Endowed with an unbeatable address at the intersection
of Sukhumvit and Asoke roads (often referred to as the “Crossroads of Bangkok”)


The Continent Hotel, Bangkok is positioned right in the heart of Sukhumvit.
Within walking distance is the BTS Asoke sky train, MRT Sukhumvit station,
international shopping destinations like Terminal 21, Robinson and more.
The thrilling nightlife entertainment area and tourist attractions are close by.


Style and elegance define The Continent Hotel’s deluxe room
which is very cozy, warm and inviting.
This type of room offers a choice of a king sized bed or twin beds
and Smoking and Non Smoking rooms.


Amazing skyline view from the Hotel floor 26 through 32.
Our sky room combines sophisticated yet comfortable design,
warm and inviting atmosphere fitted with plenty of amenities
and safety features. We highly recommend this room type for our guests.


Every aspect of The Continent Hotel’s design and decor is stylish and sophisticated,
from the front entrance wrought iron canopy
and the lobby’s art decor chandeliers to the plush room carpeting,
motorized louvered bathroom blinds, and spiral staircase
connecting the 38th and 39th floors  Axis & Spin the sky entertainment bar.


Furthermore, the hotel owners, from their extensive overseas travels,
were committed to creating an exquisite visual experience for guests,
straight down to smallest details.


Accomplishing this feat meant that only the finest quality products,
materials and brands went into the design and making of this stunning, personalized hotel.


JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa


JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa introduces you to a realm of indescribable beauty,
flawless service and thoughtful touches. Daydream by spectacular pools
or venture beyond the doors of one of the finest Phuket, Thailand,
resorts for an exhilarating day of elephant trekking,
diving off the Similan Islands or exploring the wild on a safari.


Enjoy a creative blend of Eastern and Western flavours served in a casual setting,
featuring an extensive breakfast buffet with Thai and Japanese
specialties, fresh juice & more.


Sala Sawasdee Lobby Bar Eclectic Creative Asian tapas are served
with exotic drinks in this open-air lobby bar overlooking the reflection pool,
an ideal spot for watching our Evening Sunset Ceremony.


Out of the Blue Splash Tapas Crystal blue waters splash
into the swimming pool surrounding our unique swim-up bar
with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea.


Mandara Spa The award winning Mandara Spa complex consists of 16 spacious,
private double treatment suites and 5 outdoor Thai massage salas,
and is truly a place for guests to rest, relax and rejuvenate.
A wide range of high-quality imported and natural products.


Resort Activities for kids and families Keep the kids engaged and busy throughout your stay,
because happy kids mean a happy family.


Kids, families, teambuilding can join together with our chef to have a wonderful time cooking.
Make your holidays even more enjoyable with our Thai Cooking Classes at Ginja Cook.
Discover the best recipes of the world-famous cuisine directly from our Thai expert chef.