By Rama Gaind.
| The first of an occasional series on destination planning for your next adventure – when it’s safe to travel again. |
The desire to travel comes in many guises and while we are in a COVID-19 lockdown, uncertainty surrounds us. Until the worldwide rules and restrictions are fully lifted, we have the time and an ability to plan a visit to one of our dream destinations or to re-visit it when it’s ‘safe’ to travel again.
A boutique hotel, Villa de Pranakorn, in Bangkok, houses a unique collection of heirlooms and mementos from the past century.
Now is the time to prepare. As our thoughts wander, there’s sweet motivation to get us through these times when we are not allowed to venture outside. We can do that by either remembering an enjoyable adventure from the past or look forward to what’s ahead.
Our experience is a mantra – perhaps often – repeated in the hospitality industry. It’s evident that travellers today are searching for opportunities to learn and experience encounters that transform to provide good memories to broaden our outlook on life.
Here are four, one-of-a–kind experiences in hotels and resorts in Asia to consider for impending trips.
In Thailand, discover Bangkok’s historic Sam Yot district through the story of a Thai family. Charting the long and storied history of the Kittisuwan family who own Villa de Pranakorn, the Ancestors Hall in this boutique hotel houses a unique collection of heirlooms and mementos from the past century. Explore this deeply personal space and discover both the roots of the hotel and the rich culture and age-old customs that have shaped this historic Bangkok neighbourhood.
Take a wooden raft to dine at an Ayutthaya-style mansion at The Slate Phuket.
History, food and culture come together majestically at this heritage hideout. Tucked away only moments from the heart of Bangkok’s Old Town, Villa de Pranakorn is the easy-going, eye-opening alternative for people who want to get away from the chaos and clichés of the Thai capital.
History on display
Here’s your chance to rub shoulders with century-old temples, legendary street food stalls and contemporary art galleries, all from the comfort of this elegant yet understated space. It’s a front-row seat to Bangkok’s past, present and future.
This eclectic community is buzzing with culture. By day, there’s the architectural marvels and old-world charm to admire, shophouse restaurants serving some of the world’s best street food — including Michelin superstar Jay Fai’s eponymous restaurant — and creative hubs, from chic cafes to independent art galleries, just waiting to be discovered. Come nightfall, the neighbourhood transforms with hip bars, unique eateries and classy cocktail joints taking centre stage amid the buzz of Bangkok Old Town’s lively street life.
Take a wooden raft to dine at an Ayutthaya-style mansion at The Slate Phuket. This is where the spirit of discovery will be stimulated by the whimsical, art-inspired beachfront resort, designed by Bill Bensley.
A haven of tranquility, embrace the power of the moon at SALA Spa on Koh Samui, nestled in the peaceful Garden Wing of SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort.
It is also reflected in the resort’s dream-like gardens and dramatic restaurants, which showcase highly authentic yet innovative dishes. For example, Black Ginger is set in a traditional Ayutthaya-style mansion that appears to float above a tranquil lagoon. Only accessible via a wooden raft, this exquisite dining venue blends Phuket’s sensational street food with royal Thai culinary traditions.
Embrace the power of the moon at SALA Spa on Koh Samui. Nestled in the peaceful Garden Wing of SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort, the spa is a haven of tranquility. It has been uniquely designed to reflect the changing phases of the moon, including the half moon and dark moon and incorporates areas of light and shade, with moon-shaped elements and natural materials.
The six treatment rooms are named after the planets of the solar system and all come equipped with soothing bathtubs, showers and twin spa beds. Separate steam rooms are also available. Guests can choose from a wide selection of treatments, including body scrubs, wraps and massages, all conducted by highly skilled spa therapists.
Next let’s go to Vietnam, and indulge in spa pods inspired by the famous Vietnamese basket boats in Cam Ranh.
Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh is an elegant beachfront resort located on an 18km-long stretch of sand on Vietnam’s south-central coast.
Newly-opened at Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh, an elegant beachfront resort located on an 18km-long stretch of sand on Vietnam’s south-central coast, the spa’s modern design blends seamlessly into the hotel’s terrain and seaside location.
The design of the seashell-shaped treatment rooms is inspired by the famous Vietnamese traditional basket boats, which are also used by the fishermen from Cam Ranh Bay. The Spa at Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh invites everyone to experience the ultimate in wellness and comfort with a tailor-made spa menu based around the concept of ‘getaway, recharge and revive’.
While you are there, you will also get the opportunity to explore Vietnam’s unspoiled coast along the bay, offering delicious seafood and ‘dream’ boat trips. Cam Ranh is the perfect destination for travellers looking for adventure. Filled with paradisiacal turquoise waters and sandy beaches, the city’s natural beauty is amazing. Seafood is a specialty. Set on Bai Dai Beach, the resort provides a restful retreat in lush grounds.
Just enjoy!
DETAILS BOX
Villa de Pranakorn
The Slate Phuket
SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort
Radisson Blu Resort Cam Ranh
T: 1800 370 603
