Showing posts with label Trip Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Trip Review. Show all posts

Thursday, August 30, 2007

Koh Samui, Thailand - Panoramic Seaview with Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa at Samui

Like usual, I love to travel around. During the meeting, my Thai colleague recommended me to visit Koh Samui as one of the holiday paradises in Thailand. It is a must to visit this place. It is one of the most beautiful islands. Thais and foreigners usually find time to visit this island. With all of these advertisements from my colleague, that is it. I am going. This time, I was in Koh Samui during August 25 – 28, 2007 along with my wife and chose to spend our time at Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa - Pool Villa with the word from my local travel agent – silkzpider.

This island is located in the East coast of Southern Thailand, in the Siam Gulf. It is one of the most famous islands and holds the third largest island after Phuket and Koh Chang. This island is filled with white sand beach, coconut plantations, and fishermen. It’s known by the traveler as a small tropical paradise.

We got there by air through Bangkok Airways. Flying time was about 1 hour. We hire a taxi to transfer us to Sila Evason Hideaway & Spa at Samui which is approximately 10 minutes drive from the airport. The hotel is located on a headland on the northern tip of Koh Samui called Samrong Bay on Choeng Mon. We were stunned by the hotel’s view of surrounding sea. Our villa sat in the nature with sloping headland. This made the view so panoramic. The bathroom was well-designed with plenty of space and light. The hotel’s staff was so polite and friendly. We didn’t even want to get out of the hotel to explore the island. We felt so private, secure, and well-treated; therefore, we decided to spend our first day at the hotel instead of driving around the island. We enjoy the private swimming pool with horizontal design and service from Pool Villa Butler. It was so exclusive. The central swimming pool was also not bad. We also loved the spa treatment that made us so relax. Anyway with all these activities – pool, spa, gym, watersports - we had both lunch and dinner at the hotel.

On the second day, we went out to explore the island by taking an island offered by the local tour company to visit Mummified Monk, Big Buddha, Plai Leam Temple, Grandfather and Grandmother Rock, Monkey Show, Waterfall, and Downtown area. The Grandfather and Grandmother Rock was amazed us. Unbelievable what the nature can make. After full day adventure, we decided to go to Chaweng Beach to have dinner. This beach is the most well-known beach in this island. It filled with nightlife, restaurants, bars, shopping, people, etc. We had dinner at the restaurant named “Captain Kirk”. The seafood was so fresh and tasty with all the grill and boil technique. After a couple of drink, we decided to go back to the hotel. We didn’t know why; we just think about our bed at the hotel. Finally, we agreed upon that we were so tired for the day.

On the third day, we went snorkeling at Koh Tan and Koh Mudsum with a longtail boat. It was a raining season, so we had quite a drop of rain but last for just one hour. No harm done. We were enjoying snorkeling. There were so many fish that had ever seen in my life. I wish I could have them in my fish tank at home. Dinner was arranged by the hotel’s taxi driver at one of the local seafood restaurant. I could not even read the restaurant’s name because it was written in Thai language. It looked good and lots of people were coming to this place. The seafood dishes were recommended by the restaurant’s owner. It was fresh, tasty, and not so spicy (as our request). I wish I could ask my sister to come along; we would certainly love the food here.

On the forth day, we had to catch the early flight back to Bangkok due to my work. We certainly will be back to Koh Samui again due to the clean atmosphere, the nice hotel, the fresh seafood, and the lovely people. Finally, I found out that the hotel is managed by Six Senses Resorts & Spas which also manages Soneva Fushi & Spa in Maldives. That is why they are so professional, and the hotel is so well-design.

P.S. Sorry for not having pictures posted this time. Our camera was filled with water while we were snorkeling. We will need to get a new one soon.

Photo Source: suratthani.go.th and Six Senses Resorts & Spas

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

Phuket, Thailand - Spectacular Scenery with Great Value Accommodation

After finishing my business in Bangkok - Thailand, I had some free times, so I decided to travel to Phuket between 15-18 June, 2007. I flew to Phuket - flight time is 1.20 hours - by airline named One-Two-Go, rented the car - Toyota Yaris - from AVIS, and reserve the hotel room - Karon Princess Hotel, Superior Room - via Silkzpider.

This is not a good time to go to Phuket since rainy season already began in May and lasts till October. However, it is just the begining of the season, it was not so rainy as I expected. The weather was around 30 Degrees Celsius with light rain.

First Day - My flight arrived at Phuket around 8.30am - round trip ticket costed me around 1,700THB. I went directly to AVIS counter to get my rented car. It was nice - brand new Toyota Yaris in red color (see right). The rental cost was 950THB/day. The car was clean and new with full gas in the tank. I chose to rent a car since I don't like the motorcycle. I had fallen down before, and it was really hurt. That was my only reason to rent only car and I had heard that the taxi fee in Phuket area was very expensive. Most people recommended renting a car because the rental cost is much cheaper than the taxi fee.

My first stop after getting out from the airport was the place named "Pra Tong Temple" (see below). This temple enclosed a golden statue of Buddha that sprang up from beneath the earth. The temple is amazing. It was clean, cultural rich, and full with friendly munks. People in Phuket believe that this holy statue brought good luck to them.

Then, I rode along the beach road to check out Laem Sing, Kamala Beach, Na-Kha-Le Bay, and Patong Beach. The road was in a good condition, no rain, not much traffic, and full of the mountain side view. I was stunned by the view. Then, I stopped at Patong Beach - the most beautiful beach in Phuket and had lunch at Jungceylon Shopping Destination - the largest international shopping and leisure destination in the Andaman region. This shopping mall is located on the corner of Bangla and Patong 2 roads - the liveliest spot in Patong area. The place was not so crowded since it was in a day time and at the begining of rainy season; however, the local food was good.

After my stomach was filled, it was time to check in the hotel - Karon Princess Hotel (see below). This hotel is located on the Karon Beach which is next to Patong Beach. The drive from Patong to Karon was smooth, still full of mountain view. This hotel is situated on the beachfront in the heart of Karon Bay with a few meters from the beach of Andaman Sea. This time, I did not expect to spend much time in the hotel, so this 3-star hotel was perfect as recommended by Silkzpider. Besides, I got an extra discount because of the Samui's low season. The superior room was clean equipped with air-condition, cable TV, private balcony, refrigerator, bath tub, shower, bathroom amenities, hair dryer, etc. Perfect place to crash down.


Immediately zipping a cold drink from the hotel, I was on the road again. My plan was driving around the island and stopped by one of the best View Point (see below left) to see bird-eye-view of 3 bays - Kata Noi, Kata, and Karon.




Then, Chalong Temple is another famous temple in Phuket. It's a must to visit. This temple has the statues of Luang Por Cham, Luang Por Chuang, Luang Por Gluam, and other monks. They are the objects of respect and recipients of offerings by Phuket people. Don't forget to buy the firework...your wish will come through.



Then, Promthep Cape (see left) was the next stop. This is one of the Phuket's most inspiring vistas - emerald green currents swirl in the deep water and breakers hurl themselves in vain against the rocky point. It is the most beautiful place to catch Phuket's famous sunset view. Don't forget to buy chicken grill near parking area - a little oilly but taste good. It was great....eating while waiting for the sunset. Now, remind me of that chicken grill, I definitely buy some more, if I have a chance to get there next time.

Now, it was time to go back to the hotel and enjoy my shower before having dinner at Patong area near Jungceylon Shopping Destination. Try any local food stalls and enjoy the drink at Bang La Road.


Second Day - I went on the full day diving trip to Phi Phi Island, Khai Island, Monkey Beach, and Maya Bay (see left)- the ultimate Andaman experience. I really enjoyed the trip. I got this trip from Patong tour counter near Bang La Road. This trip included hotel transfers, speed boat transfer, mask, snorkel, life jacket, lunch, fresh fruit, and a tour guide. It was not my day at the begining, but it was one of my perfect day at the end. Our trip didn't look good at first since we got so many medium waves during the way due to the rainy season. However, the spectacular scenery of the islands and bay were so beautiful both on the land, sea, and underwater. I would never forget it. The tour guy and his team were very helpful and friendly.




Third Day - Also a full day trip to Phang Nga Bay - Talu Cave, Hong Island, Panak Island, James Bond Island, and Panyi Island (Fishing Village). This trip was on the other side of island and also included hotel transfers, boat transfer, canoe gear, lunch, fresh fruit, and tour guide. This trip was kind of relax and easy-going-trip observing the undisturbance nature. The canoe tour leader was so funny and very friendly (see right). He certainly knows how to take care and make you smile : )



My dinner plan for the night was having a nice dinner buffet (started at 6.00pm - 9.00pm) and seeing a show at Phuket Fantasea - the award-winning, Las Vegas-style production spectacle colorfully blending the beauty of Thai culture with magical illusion, 4-D effects, aerial ballet, aerobatics, pyrotechnics, special effects, exciting stunts and an elephant circus featuring over 30 elephants in the unique theatrical experience. This is one of the world's greatest buffet feasting of Royal Thai dishes and international delicacies. I was really enjoy the eating. The show was also great. I was amazed what Thai people can do in this world class show. Here is your souvenir from Phuket Fantasea. Enjoy!



Forth Day - Today is my last day in Phuket, so let's see the town. I had breakfast which I didn't actually know the name of the food. I called noddle soup with fish ball and Pork Satay with special sauce. It was great. I love it. Then, I went up to the hill to the other best View Point area. Zipping my ice coffee and looking over Phuket town gave me the unforgetable memory (see below). What's a nice trip.

Friday, May 18, 2007

Amazing Thailand - Paradise for Shopper

I was in Thailand just 3 days and got so many things to do, go , and shop. Let's see how my trip would benefit you.

First Day: I arrived in Thailand early morning and got to the hotel - Pathumwan Princess Hotel (recommend and got deluxe room with special rate from http://www.silkzpider.com/). The hotel's location is perfect-right in the middle of the town adjoining with 7 story shopping mall building named MBK Shopping Center and in the center of the Siam Area. The hotel looks modern and well-maintained. The room is clean and quite large for 2 people.

After getting some refreshment from the hotel, we went shopping at "Siam Paragon" (http://www.siamparagon.co.th/)- the new and modern shopping entertainment in town. There were so many good selections to choose, especially lady shoes, cosmetic, and sport accessories.

After shopping for 2 hours, we had lunch at the "Food Court in this shopping complex". The Thai food was excellent- spicy, sweet, sour...ummm...very tasty, yummy. Assorted kind of food such as Pad-Thai, Tom-Yum-Kung, Assorted Curry with Rice, Assorted and Decorated Bakery, etc.
Then, we went down to "Siam Ocean World" (http://www.siamoceanworld.co.th/) located in the lowest floor of the building. This is the largest aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere. It has 7 zones including weird and wonderful, deep reef, living ocean, rainforest, rocky shore, open ocean, and sea jellies. The admission is 450 Baht for adult and 280 Baht for child. The place was filled with all kinds of aqustic animals including the one that we had never seen in your country.

Then, we went to pay our respect to "Erawan Shine" locally known as "San Pra Prom" located at the junction of Ratchadamri Road and Ploenchit Road. People come here to make specific pray with special offer if their pray is granted. It's just the belief, but I certainly made my pray and hope that he will grant it : )

Then, we went to "Pratunam Area" to buy cloth. This is the wholesale area for clothing located in the center of the Bangkok. Many international and local people come here to buy things for resell in their store. We got so many things for our friends and family back home such as baby clothing, beach bag, hand bag, etc. Imagine nike sport bag was cost me about 5USD. Baby cloth for my nephew cost only 2USD per set. I really love this place.

Now, we went to "Pantip Plaza". This is the place for computer shopping on Phetburi Road in Pratunam District. It is an indoor IT Shopping Mall with 5-story building. We got software, hardware, and computer accessories for lower price than our town. For example, I got Flash Drive SanDisk: Cruzer Micro 1 GB for only 8 USD and Kingston: Data Traveler II 1 GB for only 10USD, etc. I will certainly show this to my boss and my colleague. They will be envy. Glad to come here.

Then, catching a taxi meter (make sure the meter is turned on) to "Suanlum Night Bazaar". This is the night market open until midnigtht located on Wireless Road in Pathumwan District (much like Chatuchak, but open only night time). I didn't get much things from here, but the surrounding is good.

Now, moving to the place named "Patpong"- Thailand's well-known nightlife area. There are so many bar, a lot of people, many product to shop including watch, polo shirt, cloth, lighter, shoes, belt, etc. We had our dinner here ordering from the food stall nearby. Sorry, couldn't remember the name of the plate, just follow other people eating at the same stall. Then, so tired, so we went back to the hotel to recharge our battery for the 2nd day.

Second Day: "Wat Phra Kaew" was our first place to visit. This is the temple of Emerald Buddha and also the Thailand's most important temple. Special things about this place is the robe for this Buddha which will be changed 3 times per year by the King RamaIX considering Thai's seasonal changed-hot season, cold season, and rainy season. The Buddha and the place are cultural rich. "Grand Palace" adjoins Wat Phra Kaew. It used to be royal residence area. Currently, it only uses for occasional ceremonial purposes. It builds with Thai and European style. Very beautiful both Wat Phra Kaew and Grand Palace.

Next stop is "China Town" locally known as "Yaovarath". Most Chinese merchants preferred to stay in this area. We found them everywhere including "Sampeng Lane" which famous in selling all kind of souvenirs in bulk such as six pack or one dozen per item. We got cute hair string, alarm clock, office accessory paper weight, pen, mechanic pencil (All of these in Kitty Collection) : ) Food stall here was also good taste and cheap. We had Noodle with BBQ Pork, Oily Rice with Chicken, and Sugarcane Juice. Perfect Lunch. Then, we went to the place named "Thieves Market" locally known as Nakhon Kasem ( if I'm not mistaken). Merchants here are well known for selling Thai and Chinese antique products stolen from anywhere in Thailand. We bought Buddha here to remind us about our trip to Thailand.

Then, "Khao San Road" was our last place to visit for this 2nd day. This is the place for budget traveller located in Banglumpoo District. It is simply splendid, lively scene. A market with a huge range of goods and hundreds of restaurants. There were so many shops and many of goods with low price such as silver necklace, silver ring, antique furniture, fashion and traditional clothing, music, CD, DVD. Actually, we didn't buy many things here except silver necklace and ring, but we really enjoy the food along this road. We were eating while walking. So many fun and people are so friendly and lively. Oh! foot message here was great. Try it. Help me a lot after a long walk, just 200-300 Baht per hour.

Then, it was time to go back to the hotel to recharge ourselves again.

Third Day: This is a big shopping day. We was going to "Chatuchak Weekend Market". You might call it "The World's Biggest Weekend Market". It is a heaven for bargain shopper. This market is selling everything such as antique, fashion, cloth, wooden crave, live animal, plant, furniture, ceremic, glass, etc....you name it. Imagine, this area contains about 100,000 booths overflowing with people. We spent the whole day walking, eating, sitting, sightseeing in this place.

Now, it's times to get back to the hotel and got ready to catch the flight to go home. We were very tired but worth to visit. We will come back again....Lovely Thailand.....

P.S. Does anyone has any recommendations for different shopping place in Thailand? Please advice....