luxurious experiences

Produced by Promotional Material Production Division,Marketing Services Department, Tourism Authority of Thailand for free distribution.

www.tourismthailand.org E/JAN 2008The contents of this publication are subject to change without notice.

Destination Bangkok 7

Destination Chiang Mai 29

Destination Chiang Rai 39

Destination Hua Hin 45

Destination Ko Kood 58

Destination Samui 60

Destination Krabi 71

Destination Phuket 76

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Luxurious Experiences in the land of ultimate Sensuousness


The Barai


IntroductionThailand is a land of endless surprises; a truly amazing destination rich with a wide array of unforgettable experiences that each can enjoy to the extent of his or her own discretion.

Lavish bungalows on secluded sun-drenched islands with white powder beaches, luxurious villas atop a mountain awash in lush tropical greenery, ultra-exclusive penthouse suites atop glittering skyscrapers…it’s all there

Have you ever imagined treating yourself to a wondrous experience for at least once in your lifetime?

What would the ultimate holiday experience have in store?

Find your answer in Thailand’s LuxuriousExperiences.

Q

A


Destination

Bangkok

The very mention of this capital evokes a rich, complex essence that is impossible to sum up in mere words. A booming metropolis on a global scale, Bangkok still manages to retain old world charms and hospitality that captivate and delight visitors from across the globe.

In this City of Angels, you will find the world finest luxury hotels, endless shopping delights, and extraordinarily delicious local and international cuisine, all presented with inimitable Thai panache, complete with a most graceful wai and world-renowned smiles.


Accommodation

Luxury and service come naturally to the Thai people, world renowned for their warm and inviting smiles. A large number of 5-Star and deluxe class accommoda-tions are available, spanning a wide range of ambience, style, and charms.

In Bangkok, there are choices from romantic riverside settings with stunning views of the cityscape:Always at the top of the list of The World’s Best Hotels, the 130-year-old The Oriental (www.mandarinoriental.com) epitomizes luxury and unparalleled service that all other hotels strive for. After extensive renovations, has returned in a grand manner. The exquisite timber panel details throughout the grand 295 square meters (3157 square feet) Oriental Suite residence are designed in a classic and timeless manner.

Just across the Chao Phraya River, opposite to the Oriental, the grand 364 sq meters (3,919 sq ft), The Peninsula Suite of The Peninsula Bangkok (www.bangkok.peninsula.com) is located at the heart of

The Peninsula

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Thonburi city. Without question, it is one of the finest addresses in Bangkok, offering spectacular panoramic views of the City of Angels from its windows. Its copious amenities include marble master bathroom with whirlpool, super king-size bed in the master suite and twin queen beds in the guest bedroom, both formal and private dining rooms, and a fully equipped fitness center.As we leave the old capital city not too far from the Chao Phraya River, a five star luxurious hotel, the Sukhothai (www.sukhothai.com) reflects an authentic hospitality that blends tradition with the best of elegant, contemporary living. Located on the 9th floor with a view of the Sathorn Road financial district set beyond, The Sukhothai Suite is decorated in contemporary Thai style, using rich Jim Thompson fabrics throughout, and has often served as a home in Bangkok for heads of state and movie stars.

Sukhothai Suite


In the central business area, the famed Metropolitan (www.metropolitan .com.bz/bangkok) hotel in London brings East meets West contemporary style to Bangkok, offering an urban ultramodern haven of Zen-like tranquility. The hotel’s four penthouse suites and single presidential suite are located on the hotel’s private 11th floor. The four penthouse suites here boast a bird’s-eye view of Bangkok, and include an open-plan living space, electronically operated handmade Thai silk curtains, and upstairs guest room with conservatory-style sitting room and expansive bathroom.

Just next door, The Banyan Tree (www.banyantree.com) is the tallest all-suite luxury hotel in Bangkok, offering panoramic view of Bangkok overlooking the Chao Praya River. Apart from its modern decor and renowned service, Banyan Tree’s large Spa Suites offer a veritable sanctuary, an oasis of rejuvenation and tranquility. ‘Champaka’, ‘Lavender’ and ‘Sandalwood’ have their own spa treatment rooms, so you can enjoy your favorite treatments in your own suite.

Metropolitan Banyan Tree


A hotel that fuses luxury and technology, artistry and expertise, The Conrad Bangkok (http://bangkok.conradmeetings.com) provides hotel guests with the cutting edge in design, cuisine and service. Located in the heart of Bangkok at the stylish All Seasons Place, the hotel is close to Bangkok’s major embassies, commercial centers and Lumphini Park. The Conrad’s spacious 238 sq meters (2562 sq feet) Presidential Suite features separate living and sleeping rooms with two 42’’ Bang & Olufsen plasma TVs. The unique bathrooms feature a full range of larger sized, exclusively designed amenities as well as a freestanding bathtub next to windows with louvered shutters and sweeping views over greater Bangkok.

The Conrad Bangkok


Fine Dining &Entertrainment

Thailand is a culture that revolves around the dinner table, where meals are woven into the fabric of culture and society. The standards for good food are high, and there is no lack of fine dining options in Bangkok, both for Thai and international cuisine, offering world-class cuisine to connoisseurs.

A memorable cruise down the Chao Phraya River accompanied by a fine meal is truly an experience of a lifetime, and one place to enjoy such an evening than on the “Manohra” (www.manohracruises.com), the Marriott’s beautifully restored authentic rice barge. Enjoy the exotic sights and sounds of a world on the river, full of history, experiencing a journey as you escape the city and cruise the waters of Thailand’s mighty Chao Phraya, River of Kings. First opened in the winter of 2003, Sirocco at The Dome (www.thedomebkk.com/sirocco_home.htm) has generated a lot of buzz from the beginning. The Sirocco roof bar restaurant is pretty breathtaking jutting into the skyline of the city like the deck of a space

Manohra

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Manohra

Sirocco at The Dome

Sirocco at The Dome


ship with the entrancing glow of the Sky Bar. When sipping on after-dinner cocktails, Sirocco bar is also one of Bangkok’s best live jazz venues, with international performers six nights a week.

On the 52nd floor of State Tower, glass sky-bridge, complete with a majestic viewing gallery of the city below, brings you into Breeze (www.at-bangkok.com/news_breeze_restaurant.php) in dramatic fashion. Breeze Restaurant serves an array of authentic, luxury-class Asian-style seafood and barbecue dishes with the finest seafood imported from all around the world. Balcony edged seats offer guests the opportunity to dine while enjoying vertical views of the city below.

Breeze


Not quite as elevated (but no less spectacular) is one venue perched at the top of The Oriental Bangkok hotel, where you take a private lift to a long room with the Chao Phraya River on one side, and the glittering city on the other, under the glow from fine chandeliers while black-tied waiters greet you with the perfect blend of friendliness and formality. This is Le Normandie (www.mandarinoriental.com), certainly one of Bangkok’s best French restaurants.

Situated adjacent to the BTS station at Surasak, the regal Blue Elephant (www.blueelephant.com/bangkok) restaurant sits in a beautifully renovated building that once was a leading department store and served as the Japanese Military headquarters during WWII. The interior’s beautiful decor now exudes an extremely warm charm along with elegant table settings while Thai cultural dancers in traditional dress entertain guests.

Blue Elephant Le Normandie


Tsunami (www.tsunamibangkok.com), of course, means big wave and an impressive sculpture waveform runs around each section of the expansive restaurant at the JW Marriott, creating an interesting, unique space. The sections are Tsu; traditional Japanese cuisine, dedicated to sushi and sashimi. A bar and lounge and another section called Nami, which is teppanyaki style, is where chefs show their cooking skills in front of patrons. Guests can select from Kobe, Matsuzaka, or Australian beef, seafood or seafood/meat combinations.

Hidden in the middle of busy Bangkok, The Face restaurant and bar (www.facebars.com/bg) is a large wooden Thai traditional house rendered in the Lanna (northern Thailand) style. The chic ambiance of is complete with Indian and Thai cuisine, a classy bar, pastry shop, and café. It is ideal for a great atmosphere, surrounded by lush vegetation and encapsulated in the grounds of a beautiful residence, where travelers and traders come to eat, drink and talk face to face.

Tsunami

The Face


The celebrated Mahanaga (www.mahanaga.com) restaurant offers a blend of classic and modern Thai cuisine, in an elegant setting within a converted colonial house, a cozy cocktail lounge opens up into a lush garden courtyard where you can dine under the stars or in air-conditioned in one of the pavilions alongside the garden.

Mahanaga


In London, Met Bar is hottest nighttime haunt west of Ibiza. Now, its newest sister, The Met Bar (www.metropolitan.como.bz/bangkok) Metropolitan Hotel Bangkok, delivers the same for the Asian capital, answering a sophisticated need for privacy and energy in a space reserved for hotel guests and members only. The who’s who of Bangkok can be seen here boogying down on Friday night or at the occasional late-night fashion show.

For a more sedate vibe, there is Diplomat Bar (www.at-bangkok.com/restaurant_diplomat_bar.php), an upscale lounge inside the Conrad Hotel, is decorated with silk couches for lounging, features a large bar with premium liquors along with live jazz. The crowd here is made up of the diplomatic corps from nearby embassies as well as well-heeled Thai socialites.

And you can’t go wrong at the legendary Bamboo Bar (www.mandarinoriental.com/hotel/510000244.asp) in The Oriental, where you can sip on anything from a tropical Mai Tai or a classic martini in a sophisticated setting Joseph Conrad or Humphrey Bogart would approve of.

Bamboo Bar


Thailand is a shopper’s paradise, world famous for it’s incredible range of fun and wonderful treasures. It is no wonder that many tourists come to Thailand specifically as a shopping excursion.

Located at the prominent Rachaprasong intersection, Gaysorn (www.gaysorn.com) is Thailand’s most exclusive shopping center, specializing in luxury designer brands, with flagship stores of Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as a selection of Thailand’s most innovative designers such as Fly Now, ‘Senada Theory and Kloset Red Carpet.

Across the street from Gaysorn, CentralWorld (www.centralworld.co.th) is the largest lifestyle-shopping complex in Southeast Asia, with an unrivalled mix of products and services at prices that put the fun back into shopping for Thai consumers and tourists. CentralWorld

Shopping


is cleverly divided into zones that make navigating the largest shopping center in Bangkok surprisingly easy. Specialized anchor ‘mega-stores’ include SuperSports, PowerBuy, B2S, Central Food Hall, SB Furniture and Toys ‘R’ Us.

Continuing on in the heart of Bangkok just down the road from CentralWorld (and accessible by a breezy skywalk) is a strategically located national showpiece.


Siam Paragon (www.siamparagon.co.th) enhances the Thai capital’s status as a world-class destination for a supreme shopping and entertainment experience. This newest jewel in Bangkok’s shopping district sports an assortment of fine dining, designer boutiques, and Thailand’s largest department store. Siam Paragon also boasts the most all-embracing food destination in Asia as well as Siam Ocean World, the biggest aquarium in Asia.

Siam Ocean World


Located a bit down Sukhumvit from the frenetic Siam Square area, The Emporium (www.emporiumthailand.com) is like a glossy magazine come to life. Behold the seven layers of shopper’s paradise, where the first three floors are dedicated solely to fashion. Thailand’s premier art and design resource, TCDC is located on the sixth floor. Fashionistas, this is your playground.

Speaking of which, Playground! (www.playgroundstore.co.th) is the latest “inspiration” multi-store in trendy Soi Thong Lo, houses an entire floor of cutting-edge fashion, an art space, funky homewares, a bookstore specializing in art and design, and trendy restaurants (Kuppa@Playground, Sonie’s and Vanilla Industry), Playground! adds yet another hip, hybrid, hi-so concept store to Bangkok’s shopping scene, providing welcome relief from the searing sun and cookie cutter malls.


Another boutique mall worth checking out is Erawan Bangkok (www.erawanbangkok.com/fashion.php), which provides shopping in luxurious comfort, standing out from the rest. Spacious yet cozy, a comfortable shopping experience and a pleasant respite away from the bustle of the city outside. The Urban Kitchen in the basement has several up-market outlets for Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese, Thai and other cuisine, as well as the posh Erawan Tea Room on the third level.heeled Thai socialites.


Spa

Thailand’s legendary hospitality extends to some of the world’s finest spa treatments. Whether it is for beauty, peace of mind, or health benefits, there are numerous luxurious options to satisfy mind, body, and soul.

The Bodhi (www.thebodhi.com) wellness center offering core utilizes technologically advanced equipment and modern developed treatment methods catering to health conscious consumers. It uses innovative technology and world-class equipments to promote good health, physically and mentally for people with time constrain. Results can be expected within a short period of time using a combination of innovative technology and state-of-the-art exercise equipment, along with a team of in-house specialists.


S Medical Spa (www.smedspa.com) offers ways to optimize health and appearance. Discover new ways to revitalize your mind and body, regenerate new energy to feel and look younger, plus enhance your lifestyle through a unique combination of Eastern traditional healing and spa arts plus the modern science of the West.

Indulge into the root of Asia, a soothing blend of Colonial and Royal Thai- inspired comforts at Nibhana Spa (www.nibhanaspa.com). Unwind in the charm of Oriental ambience surrounded by the rich decor of culture and wisdom. Stepping inside, you are greeted by colonial style architecture. Divided into 10 specious treatment rooms designed with its own uniqueness; Thai, Chinese and Indian, the treasures of oriental heritage.


Reputed to be one of the largest and most advanced wellness centers in Asia, TRIA Integrative Wellness (www.triaintegrativewellness.com) recently opened its doors, offering a wide range of treatment options and modalities to achieve better and faster results. The integrative wellness concept is backed by advanced know-how of modern medicine, traditional medicine, hydrotherapy, exercise, and nutrition treatment. Moreover, a team of physicians, naturopaths, chiropractors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, personal trainers and life coaches are on standby to cover all aspects of wellness.


TRIA Integrative Wellness


Destination

Chiang Mai

The ancient capital of the Lanna kingdom, Chiang Mai, affectionately referred to as the Rose of the North, is steeped in tradition and natural beauty. It is no wonder why travelers from across the globe come to touch the ambiance of this remarkable region.


Spread over 60 acres of serene, natural landscapes, incorporating picturesque rice paddies, tropical hardwoods and exotic plantations lies Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (www.mandarinoriental.com/chiangmai), Chiang Mai. The resort’s myriad facilities include the 3,100 square meter Dheva Spa, a Thai Cooking School and an authentic Thai shopping village, all offering guests a complete resort experience; the perfect retreat from which to explore the rich cultural heritage of Northern Thailand.

Accommodation


In the heart of the historical city, The Chedi (www. ghmluxury hotels.com/chedichiangmai.htm) is an elegant retreat offering all the pleasures of resort living, strategically located on the banks of the Mae Ping River in central Chiang Mai. Each of the resort’s 52 exquisite rooms and 32 Chedi Club suites boasts private courtyards, stylish furnishings and muted tones, open balconies and breathtaking views. The Chedi’s contemporary-Asian nostalgic appeal, stylish amenities and discreet service are geared to discerning guests in search of for gracious hospitality.

The Chedi


A tiny kingdom of spacious, Lanna-style pavilions dreams over rice fields and mountains - in the tranquil Mae Rim Valley, (www.fourseasons.com/chiangmai) has 64 beautifully-appointed Lanna-style pavilions feature private covered verandas, polished teak wood floors, Thai textiles and beautiful Siamese art, surrounding a tranquil rice paddy. Fit for visiting royalty and heads of state, 16 magnificent one, two or three bedrooms Residences feature the utmost in lavish comfort, complete with a personal live-in housekeeper.


Spa

Thailand’s first world-class destination spa is unique in both concept and design. The Burmese-inspired Dheva Spa palace at Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (www.mandarin oriental.com/chiangmai) is made of golden teak wood with multi-tiered rooftops and interiors, featuring Lanna scrolls, carvings and antiques. Within is an extensive range of holistic therapy, healing treatments, prescribed residential wellness programs and a world-renowned Ayurvedic treatment center.


The Spa at The Chedi has a diverse range of healing traditions designed for ultimate relaxation complemented by the serene backdrop of scented gardens, water features and quiet interiors. This tranquil oasis features a relaxation area, 10 treatment rooms and suites, as well as a manicure/pedicure parlor. In addition to the showers, fitted baths and steam rooms in each of the treatment facilities, 2 of the 5 Spa Suites include built-in saunas.


The latest addition to Chiang Mai’s growing spa and resort scene, Palm Spa Village (www.palmspavillage.com) is located in the secluded Mae Rim Valley in Chiang Mai. Palm Spa Village redefines the spa experience. This tropical oasis embraced by lush tropical gardens with a variety of palm trees and ponds affords total escapism; a serene sanctuary where the soul is soothed and the senses refreshed by Nature’s magnificence. In the tranquility of Palm Spa Village, holistic therapies honoring East-meets-West healing rituals promote rejuvenation and relaxation.


Palm Spa Village


Destination

Chiang Rai

More pastoral than it’s increasingly metropolitan neighbor of Chiang Mai, this northernmost province of Thailand has plenty to offer to travelers who want to escape to the solitude of nature while still having access to five-star luxury amenities.

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Accessible only by riverboat amid exotic bamboo jungles of the legendary Golden Triangle, a one-of-a-kind experience awaits at Four Seasons Tented Camp (www.fourseasons.com/goldentriangle). With just 15 tented accommodations, exclusive three or four-night adventures—from elephant mahout training to Golden Triangle excursions—are offered, chock-full of distinctive experiences, such as formal campfire dinners and riverside drinks in the stilt-top bar, right down to hand-hammered copper bathtubs in exquisitely appointed canvas-topped rooms.

Accommodation

Four Seasons Tented Camp


Nestled in the small area of Mae Chan outside Chiang Rai main city, the Phu Chaisai Resort and Spa (www.phu-chaisai.com) is the perfect place to rejuvenate and relax amidst the breath taking landscape and exotic culture of Chiang Rai. The Pool Villas with their gorgeous furniture, domed teak-leaf roofs, and their four-poster beds with sweeping views. There are also Honeymoon Suites tucked into the most secluded niches of the gardens. They are similarly stylish, with teak roofs, wood-patterned flooring, and an outdoor bath tickled by exotic red flowers.

Phu Chaisai Resort and Spa

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A tranquil and natural location ideal for a river resort and spa, the Legend Chiang Rai (www.thelegend-chiangrai.com) is located on the Mae Kok River, secluded from the city and within a walking distance from the city center. The immediate environment is relatively undeveloped with the property giving a panoramic view of the nearby hills and mountains. Decorated in a simple, yet modern style, The Legend fuses together comfort and class with it modern Asian decor.

Legend Chiang Rai


Destination

Hua Hin

This seaside resort town is a favorite of Bangkok’s elite for its bucolic atmosphere. Thus, an abundance of pampering resorts has emerged, each attempting to outdo the other in providing the most desirable and idyllic holiday environment.


The Barai


The Barai Suites (www.huahin.regency. hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp), eight residential spa suites ranging in size from 126 to 149 square meters, are designed for exclusive stay and private spa indulgence. The Barai Suites on the ground floor feature a verandah with a private plunge pool and tropical garden, while those on the upper floor have spacious balconies and spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand.

Accommodation

The Barai Suites


If you look for oriental atmosphere, Anantara Hua Hin (www.anantara.com) feels reminiscent of an ancient Thai village. Thai-inspired interiors impart quaint luxury, while lush tropical gardens almost beg for romantic sunset strolls hand-in-hand. The twelve Anantara

Anantara


Anantara


Suites are most indulgent, offering all the amenities and luxury imaginable, with large private verandas accessed through full-length sliding glass doors are an excellent place to lounge or host an intimate dinner for two.

Perfectly capturing Hua Hin’s charms, Let’s Sea (www.letussea.com) has 40 spacious retreats with unforgettable vantage points. Guests can enjoy easy access to the canal-like swimming pool while staying in a ‘Moon Deck Suite’, complete with a romantic porch area. The inviting Let’s Sea ‘laZzzzz bed’, mood lighting and expansive terrazzo bathroom, with an oversized tub and separate rain shower for two, completes a charmed holiday life.

Let’s Sea Hua Hin’ Beach Restaurant


In the pool villas of Asara Villa & Suite (www.asaravillaandsuite.com), watching the sunset on a private swing, indulging in the luxurious spa, or swimming under the stars is all at your fingertips. For maximum comfort and privacy in mind, Asara’s 400 sq. meter Presidential Villa is a grand two-bedroom beachfront villa comprises of three separate pavilions: the master suite, the guest suite, and an open-air leisure pavilion with a whirlpool and a steam sauna. Both suites feature an exotic outdoor garden rain-shower, adding to the sensual pleasure of the Asara experience.

Asara Villa & Suite


Putahracsa

Feel as if it’s your own resort, Putahracsa (www.putahracsa.com) is a hotel by design with unique stylish character, offers premium accommodation with friendly, professional service. The crème-de-la-crème here is the magnificently spacious La Canna Beachfront Pool Villa, with a private pool overlooking a sweeping beach vista, a perfect setting for sharing a chilled bottle of champagne..


Spa

An unparalleled world of beauty and serenity, Chiva-Som (www.chivasom.com) proudly calls itself the “Haven of Life.” Nestled within seven acres of lush tropical gardens, this beachfront health resort represents tranquility at its best with luxurious accommodation frequently visited by the world’s most wealthy and famous personalities. Focusing on greater well-being and vitality, Chiva-Som offers extensive fitness, spa and holistic health facilities combining ancient therapies of the East with the latest Western techniques to encompass the mind, body and spirit.


A journey of the mind, body and spirit, The Barai Spa at the Hyatt Hua Hin (www.huahin.regency.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp) uses architecture as the visual guide, evoking a delightful feeling of peace and tranquility deep within the inner self. Complimenting the incomparable surroundings, The Barai takes a holistic approach to wellness to provide a path to inner tranquility through custom-designed treatments echoing and gratifying personal needs and desires.

Set adjacent to the beach, the holistic Six Senses Spa at Evason Hua Hin (www.sixsenses.com/evason-huahin/index.php) provides a truly relaxing and revitalizing experience, offers therapeutic treatments to rejuvenate all the senses. There are five treatment salas, each surrounded by relaxing water pools. Inside the spa, there are three treatment rooms for couples, three single rooms, two dry saunas and two steam rooms, with all facilities complemented by limpid waters and lush vegetation.


For movers and shakers whose time is invaluable, SGA Airlines (www.sga.co.th) offers a speedy and comfortable alternative to the three-hour drive from Bangkok to Hua Hin. SGA Airlines offers three round trip flights daily from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Hua Hin Airport on the roomy 12-seat Cessna Grand Caravan, which whisks travelers to and from the seaside resort in slightly less than one hour.

Transportation


Destination

Ko Kood

A nature lover’s destination, Ko Kood is renowned for its absolutely pristine nature, both inland and outland in glistening, clear waters. Small mountains and ridged plains have given rise to many inland brooks, streams and picturesque waterfalls.


Comprised of 46 pool villas sprinkled over a sprawling 41 hectares on Ko Kood, Soneva Kiri & Six Senses Spa (www.sixsenses.com/soneva-kiri) is a luxury resort committed to economically sustainable resources and minimal environmental impact. However, the heavenly sumptuousness here is almost staggering, with villas facing crystal clear waters or lush tropical hills, featuring private spa suites and personal spa butlers, embodying the Soneva theme of intelligent luxury.

Soneva Kiri & Six Senses Spa


Destination

Samui

With broad sweeps of golden sun-warmed sand, the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Thailand, and some of the finest in elegant, serene seaside accommodations on Earth, the enchanting island of Samui has everything necessary for a dream vacation all year round.


Styled after a Thai village, The Renaissance Ko Samui Resort & Spa (www.marriott.com) overlooks the always popular Lamai Bay and is perfectly placed to deliver the perfect holiday atmosphere for all their guests. A recently added ‘Millionaires Package’ includes private jet transfers from Singapore, Hong Kong or Bangkok has made this holiday destination even more exclusive, with this personal chef, private butler, personal trainer, spa treatments, and private limousine on 24 hour standby.

Accommodation

The Renaissance Ko Samui Resort & Spa


‘The Signature Collection’ of Samui Villas & Homes Co., Ltd.’s (www.thesignaturecollection.com) has some of the most sought after beachfront locations for luxury holiday villas on Samui. Each villa comes complete with its own staff plus English-speaking Villa Manageress and full-time Thai chef. Large living areas, swimming pool, expansive landscaped tropical gardens, fitness centers, saunas and every other conceivable modern amenity (including a nanny) adds to the feeling of vacationing in your own private paradise.


With its isolated tropical garden and hilly landscape and extremely private beach front The Tongsai Bay (www.tongsaibay .co.th), a member of the ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’ group, stands out as one of the most perfect places to enjoy a holiday on Ko Samui. Pure luxury competes with nature’s own offerings for your undivided attention. A swimming pool and Jacuzzi filled with seawater, tennis courts, fine dining restaurants and the spa are among the many diversions to partake of during your stay at Ko Samui’s first five-star resort.

With the backing of a first class organization and reputation behind it the Four Seasons Resort, Ko Samui (www.fourseasons.com/Ko samui) is a veritable ‘Garden of Eden’ with all the modern amenities man could want included. Sixty villas and fourteen homes—built on stilts, each with infinity pool and ocean view —create their own village atmosphere on the Laem Yai peninsula. The spa completes a heavenly stay; the individual spa treatments are based on a fusion of Thai, Yogic and other Asian cultures.

The Tongsai Bay Four Seasons


Set in the midst of 117 Rai of tropical landscape the Napasai (www.napasai.com) uses a contemporary Thai village style of high ceilings and tall pillars combined with modern elegance and luxury to visually please like few other resorts can. This five-star resort & spa gives the choice of a beachfront or sea view cottages; pool villas all with large living areas and Northern Thai style furnishings.

At the top of every list when it comes to finest spa destinations in Thailand is the Sila Evason Hideaway Samui (www.sixsenses.com/hideaway-samui), perched on the northern tip of Ko Samui surrounded by 20 acres of tropical jungle, stunning views of the Gulf of Thailand and the surrounding islands. All villas are split level with open style bathrooms and bedrooms facing the sea, private infinity pools with Pool Villa Butlers and other expertly trained staff catering to your every need and also offers the renowned holistic spa program.

A prime destination for honeymoons and weddings, the Zazen Boutique Resort & Spa (www.samuizazen.com) has something to offer for those with discerning taste. Zazen is comfortable, cosy, exploding with color, and personality and it is seemingly perfect for photography of all things tropical. What started as a few huts for backpackers has grown into a unique boutique resort with a full range of spa services that not only pleases visually but spiritually as well.

Sila Evason Hideaway Samui


The Villa Lawana Resort (www.villalawana.com) is ideally located few minutes from Samui airport and walking distance from Chaweng center but maintains a comforting distance for peace and tranquility. All 122 villas have distinct character, featuring private plunge pools, and give the distinct impression of staying in a private Thai home they are enhanced with all amenities you expect from a first class resort. Guests in every villa enjoy a private plunge pool and/or large soaking tub as well as a shady terrace. Have a cup of tea or cocktail and the charming hillside SkyHug lounge, overlooking the ocean.


Spa

For an unparalleled and unforgettable spa experience look no further than the incredibly beautiful Tamarind Springs Tropical Day Spa (www.tamarindsprings.com). A fantastically unique, exotic design in an idyllic setting amongst a coconut jungle this place is not just a treat for the eyes: treatment programs leave the body invigorated and rejuvenated using all-natural products and expertly trained staff.


Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa (www.kamalaya.com) blends of eastern treatments ranging from Naturopathy and Acupuncture to Homeopathy and Metabolic Detoxification; Thai Massage, Chinese medicine, and many other wide ranging treatments in a five-star tropical luxury setting. Kamalaya also has an art gallery with exhibitions, a fitness center, yoga sala and a steam cavern for further enjoyment.

If it’s pampering you want then Natural Wing Health Spa (www.naturalwing.com), located in Bang Por, is the right place. Every type of Thai massage from aroma therapy and facial to foot reflexology and the always famous ‘Thai massage’ will help leave you feeling like a newer version of yourself. A combination of natural detoxification, spa cuisine at the well regarded ‘I Do U Eat’ restaurant, and exercise helps to combat the threat of disease and stress.


Golf Courses

When it comes to golfing on Samui there’s only one place to go; the ever impressive Santiburi Samui Country Club & Golf Course, host of the Bangkok Airways Open, is a breathtaking par 72 championship course blended into the natural peaks and valleys of Samui. It features stunning panoramic views, dense tropical vegetation and dramatic elevation changes. For a full day adventure, there is the ‘golfing & cruising’ boat trips offered on Mondays and Fridays which allows you to play a round then watch the spectacular sunset from the deck of a boat in the Gulf of Thailand.

Santiburi Samui Country Club & Golf Course


Diving

For an unforgettable dining experience on Ko Samui the only place to go is The Cliff Bar & Grill (www.thecliffsamui.com). Voted among Thailand’s best restaurants for the years 2005, 2006 & 2007 the fine Mediterranean cuisine along with a seafood and Thai food menu make the choice of what to eat difficult. The food, the service and the view over Crystal Bay all add individual touches to what will be a delightful dining moment during your holiday.

At the top of every wish list for dining on Samui you will find Prego (www.prego-samui.com), the epitome of world-class Italian cuisine set in a timeless and stylish atmosphere. Even when filled to its 110 seat capacity this spacious and pleasingly lit dining area never seems crowded. The hallmark of this fabulous eatery is the authentic mouth-watering pizzas, which come out of wood-fired ovens, delivered straight to your table by the warm and friendly staff.


Destination

Krabi

Lush and peaceful, Krabi is famous for its sandy beaches and friendly waters. Limestone formations tower dramatically over palm tree-lined beaches and the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea.


Rayavadee (www.rayavadee.com) has 98 enchanting two story Pavilions and 5 Villas. Spread over 26 acres of coconut groves bordered by three National Park beaches, one of which is rated one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The award winning architecture and tropical landscaping provide an atmosphere of Southern Thai Village environment, with Rayavadee Villa, an elegant two-bedroom villa on one level, featuring a private swimming pool with Jacuzzi, sauna, poolside dining room with butler service, overlooking the world renowned Phra Nang Beach.

Accommodation

Rayavadee


Pimalai Resort and Spa

Pimalai Resort and Spa (www.pimalai.com), set in a luxurious natural environment, is an elegant boutique resort on untouched Lanta Yai Island in the Andaman Sea of Southern Thailand. The resort occupying 100 acres of lush tropical forest with direct access to a 900-meter stretch of pristine sandy beach, features 75 lavishly appointed rooms and suites offering king-size and twin beds - all decorated in classy contemporary Thai designs. The Pimalai Spa enables you to experience the sights and sounds of virgin tropical rainforest while receiving treatments from their skilled therapists using mainly Thai herbal and natural products.


Located on the secluded northern tip of Phi Phi Island off the coast of Krabi, Zeavola (www.zeavola.com) is located right on the beachfront. The name ‘Zeavola’ is taken from the exotic Scaevola Taccada tree (Half Flower Tree), better known as “Rak Talay” which means “Love The Sea”. Zeavola boasts 48 luxurious yet warmly appointed villas a haven for relaxation and comfort. Each villa features a separate bedroom and living room with a spacious private sitting area, most with a private uniquely designed garden for personal sunbathing

Zeavola


Destination

Phuket

The kingdom’s largest island, Phuket is Thailand’s preeminent playground offering everything from frenetic nightlife to white sand beaches; some of Southeast Asia’s most elite resort and spa are based on this teardrop-shaped jewel of the Andaman Sea.


Accommodation

The most desirable and exclusive property in Phuket, Amanpuri (www.amanpuri.com) has an unrivalled reputation as a luxury resort where personal service, recreational facilities and fine cuisine complement the unique splendor of its surroundings. The Amanpuri offers beautifully decorated Thai style pavilions, a private beach, grass and hard tennis courts, and a private fleet of 20 cruisers and sailing craft on quiet and picturesque Pansea Beach, providing all the watersports you could ever want.


Situated on a pristine ten-kilometer beach about one hour north of Phuket town, Aleenta (www.aleenta.com/phuket/index.html) is designed with the signature ‘Outside Living In’ philosophy, with highly personalized service, meticulous attention to detail, and extensive spa treatments, including yoga retreats and supervised detox sessions. This is much more than sun, sea and sand: Aleenta bills itself as ‘a sanctuary of mind and body’. Families can choose between an Ocean View Residence, with two bedrooms, private pool, and full sea views; or the larger Beachfront Villas, with a third bedroom and direct beach access.

Aleenta


Trisara (www.trisara.com) (Sanskrit for Third Garden in Heaven), is a sanctuary of privacy, space and simple good taste. The resort’s Pool Suites are built on gently sloping contours embracing the oceanfront and sea breezes that flow throughout the property. The Trisara Spa sits in an area of 1500 square metres on the hillside above the Pool Villas, using only organic massage oils with no chemicals or preservatives while offering many healing therapies such as Yoga, Reiki, personal training, Nia and Pilates.

Trisara


An oasis of peace, Banyan Tree Phuket (www.banyantree.com/en/phuket/index.html), is tranquility-exuding seclusion; a place of luxury and romance. This exotic hideaway boasts the finest facilities and ambience, such as the Spa Pool Villa with its unique ‘floating’ king-sized bed pavilion, draped in pure Thai silk and looks up on a canopy ceiling adorned with soft fabrics that sway gently in the breeze. A dedicated in-villa spa, with private pool, jet-pool, outdoor shower and sunken bath, sets the stage for relaxing days and passionate nights.

Banyan Tree


Small and intimate, hidden in a hillside exotic jungle overlooking the Andaman Sea is The Villa Zolitude (www.villazolitude.com). Within this tropical oasis replete with rustic charm is a place as luxurious and sophisticated as one could wish for. Within each exclusive cottage is an exotic fusion of earth and Moroccan luxurious touch; a level of sophistication, ultra-modern style and impeccable service that vividly contrasts with the primitive surroundings.

The Villa Zolitude


A most unique home style atmosphere set on a secluded headland of the legendary Cape Panwa, Sri Panwa Phuket Resort (www.sripanwa.com) is one of very few locations which commands panoramic views from the top of the cape and has an exclusive private beach. Sri Panwa offers accommodation of eight two-bedroom Pool Villas of 300 sq. meters each, and three one-bedroom Pool Villas of 252 sq. meters each, all lavishly appointed with handcrafted furnishings and offering unobstructed stunning beauty of the ocean views.

Sri Panwa


An ideal holiday villa retreat, Rising Sun Residence (www.rising-sun-residence.com) is located on the southeast coast of Phuket. Here, Thai Taksin-styled villas—tastefully decorated and nestled on a hillside seventy metres above sea level—provides a stunning view of Chalong Bay and the yachts moored around its bustling pier. Four of these features are a private swimming pool and Jacuzzi, spacious living room, large dining room and fully equipped kitchen. The remaining two share a large infinity-edge swimming pool with Jacuzzi and panoramic sun deck. Five one-bedroom villas are set around a spacious free form pool with sun deck and Jacuzzi. The glittering Chalong Temple in the distance creates an immense sense of serenity, especially in the early morning light.

Cape Yamu (www.capeyamu.com) is an exclusive luxury residential development on Phuket’s East Coast, taking full advantage of stunning sea views over Phang Nga Bay. The unique peninsula setting, stunning design and architecture by Philippe Starck of YOO and Jean-Michel Gathy of Aman Resorts fame ensures that Cape Yamu is already recognized as one of the most sought-after addresses in Phuket. The premium boutique hotel here, The Yamu, will have 61 luxurious guest rooms and two duplex suites, one of which will be attached to a state-of-the-art recording studio. There will also be a lavish spa, a 100-meter swimming pool, and world-class restaurant and entertainment areas. For ultimate privacy, the Club Villas, each with its own bar, car and driver, will form an exclusive hotel-within-the-hotel, promising to redefine luxury hotels for the new century.

Rising Sun


Spa

Scheduled to open in December 2007 the Six Senses Erawan (www.sixsenses.com/sixsenses-erawan), on the island of Naka Yai, brings to you unequalled spa treatments in a luxurious private atmosphere composed of Pool Villas and Pool Villa Suites, each with a minimum of 450 sqm of personal space. Guided by Feng Shui and the four elements of life guest can experience complete immersion in personal programs designed to enrich life and positive lifestyle changes. Naka Yai is a 10 minute boat ride from Phuket where visitors are surrounded by unparalleled views of Phang Nga Bay and the lush tropical jungle of Thailand. Preventive wellness, a fitness program, healthy eating, private steam showers and oversized bathrooms and tailored treatment programs are just a few of the things available to bring your life back in balance.


Shopping

One of Thailand’s most spectacular shopping and entertainment zones, Jungceylon (www.jungceylon.com) features a host of international retailers and high quality restaurants, pubs and clubs in the vibrant entertainment district of Patong.

At the Soul of Asia (http://soulofasia.com) Master Paintings & Antiques Gallery, Mr. Eric Smulder has created the largest western art gallery in Asia including a special collection of Chigall, Dali, Picasso and Warhol. With more than 700 sqm of space in the center of Phuket Town, it boasts masterpiece paintings, antiques, Chinese Antique furniture, rugs, and porcelain. Soul of Asia has everything you will need to decorate your home in timeless style.


Transportation

Nothing incorporates the journey into the fun of a tropical vacation like hopping on a seaplane. With Destination Air (www.destinationair.com) shuttle service ferrying passengers around the Andaman Islands from Krabi and Phuket aboard a nine-seat Cessna 208 and a four-seat Cessna 206, the opportunity of stepping off a plane onto a floating pier in the middle of pristine turquoise waters is within reach.

Who says luxury is confined to hotels and resorts? Asia Marine (www.asia-marine.net) offers crewed yachts and catamarans for exciting daytrips headlined by the opulent chartered yacht Blue Gold, which can accommodate eight to ten live-on-board passengers for longer nautical adventures. Anchors aweigh!


For island hopping the Andaman Sea in sybaritic style, nothing compares to Tawan Cruises (www.tawancruises.com) for its chartered motor yachts, with state of the art entertainment systems along with generous eating and seating facilities. All Tawan Cruises vessels are equipped for a very

Tawan Cruises

high level of safety with the latest onboard navigational equipment, with well-appointed sleeping cabins for overnight excursions and these are the perfect boat for extended cruises as well as exhilarating day-long expeditions.



We h a v e m o r e e B r o c h u r e s a v a i l a b l e a t w w w. e B o o k To u r i s m T h a i l a n d . o r g .



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