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Dusit’s big plans for Davao

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Dusit’s big plans for Davao

sleep January 03, 2019 12:40

By The Nation

The Beach Club at Lubi Plantation Island in the Philippines’s Davao Gulf marks the first stage of a three-pronged project that will include two hotels – dusitD2 Davao and Dusit Thani Residence Davao.

Both will be located in the heart of Davao City’s new central business district, Lanang, only 30 minutes by boat from the Beach Club and 15 minutes by car from Davao International Airport.

Owned by Torre Lorenzo Development Corp and set in a 36-hectare master-planned leisure township within a former coconut plantation, the Beach Club invites visitors to experience an upscale island lifestyle amid unspoiled reefs, coral gardens, exotic marine life and lush tropical fauna.

Easily accessible by boat from the mainland, the family-friendly retreat features a large swimming pool, a children’s play area, an events hall, the Tarictic Grill & Snack Bar serving barbecued favourites, and a private beach stretching 50 metres. Visitors can also easily arrange to explore the island’s prime snorkelling and diving sites.

DusitD2 Davao hotel is slated to open next month with 120 well-equipped guestrooms and suites. The focal point is a lush, landscaped courtyard featuring a lap pool, wading pool, children’s pool and deck areas for relaxation. From here, guests will enjoy direct access to an international restaurant, lounge areas and a lobby set within a striking, glass-enclosed pavilion.

The Dusit Thani Residence Davao hotel, meanwhile, is slated to open adjacent to the dusitD2 in April. The hotel will feature 178 well-appointed studios and suites.

Other offerings include Namm spa, a state-of-the-art gym, four meeting rooms and two large ballrooms accommodating up to 1,000 guests. Dusit’s signature Benjarong Thai restaurant is expected to open in mid-2019.

The world at our feet

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  • Mae Hong Son is one of 25 eco-cultural tours under the Once as a Tourist campaign.
    Mae Hong Son is one of 25 eco-cultural tours under the Once as a Tourist campaign.

The world at our feet

Thailand December 29, 2018 01:00

By Pattarawadee Saengmanee
The Nation Weekend

4,440 Viewed

Trips to space may well be in the future for the inveterate traveller but in the meantime there’s plenty to do and see on Planet Earth

AS 2018 COMES to an end, we take a look at what’s coming up for travel in 2019 and the best places to go to satisfy our inner ecologist

Medical tourism

With many countries entering an ageing society and people increasingly focusing on their health, it comes as little surprise to see that more than 10 million tourists are now travelling to other countries to seek out the best treatments at an affordable price. According to Patients Beyond Borders, Thailand ranks among the top 10 medical tourism destinations, along with Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Mexico, Israel, Costa Rica, India and Turkey.

“The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has conducted research into medical tourism and discovered that in 2016 Thailand welcomed more than 60,000 medical tourists from China, England, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, India, Germany, Australia, Vietnam, America and Qatar. This year, the number has continued to increase,” says Thapanee Kiatphaibool, executive director of the TAT’s product promotion department.

Fishermen’s villages in Nakhon Si Thammarat give travellers a chance to sample local life.

“Thailand is home to 64 hospitals accredited by Joint Commission International, which assures visitors safety and high-quality standards – this is the highest number in Asean and the fourth in the world.”

Thailand is best known for its regenerative and anti-ageing programmes, rehabilitation, in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and wellness centres. In the coming year, TAT is promoting 12 cities including Bangkok, Khao Yai, Hua Hin, Khon Kaen and Udon Thani as top-class health destinations, where tourists can take advantage of quality treatments and enjoy a shopping experience, sight-seeing tour and great hospitality during their stays.

Go local

For those who wants to get back to basics and take a break from the stressful pace of urban life, the TAT and travel agencies Local Alike, KTC World, AirAsia, Journey D and Take Me Tour have tailored 25 “eco-cultural” tours as part of the new “Once as a Tourist” campaign.

Part of the “Amazing Thailand Unseal Local” project, it features 42 communities in 15 provinces to which visitors can enjoy a day trip or three-day homestays.

“Today’s younger travellers want to find new experiences, not just stay in a hotel, and the ‘Once as a Tourist’ campaign will meet that demand. It will be a channel that connects travellers with communities and give villagers a chance to promote their local wisdom and way of life, while travellers will have the opportunity to sample new things and get closer to nature,” says TAT governor Yuthasak Supasorn.

Mae Hong Son is one of 25 eco-cultural tours under the Once as a Tourist campaign. 

Designed to showcase its unique lifestyle, Baan Laem in Nakhon Si Thammarat has “Once as a Mud Man” that involves a cruise to Ao Thong Kham (Golden Bay) for a mud bath, a cooking class and a hike through a mangrove forest. Baan Nong San and Na Chueng in Sakon Nakhon have “Once as a Designer” with workshops on indigo dying techniques and traditional silk weaving, while for “Once as a Hill Tribe”, Baan To Phae in Mae Hong Son dresses guests in Tai Yai apparel, the better to explore the local history and have fun making handicrafts.

Gastronomic tours

With Thailand now home to several Michelin-star restaurants, tourists will also be coming here to eat.

Jay Fai’s shop-house restaurant, which is famous for Thai-style crabmeat omelettes, has retained its Michelin star, remaining the only street venue in Thailand to earn this internationally recognised praise. Meanwhile the 60-year-old restaurant Methavalai Sorndaeng as well Le Du, Gaa, Canvas, R.Haan, Saawaan, Sorn, Ruean Panya and Suan Thip are among the 14 restaurants to have received their first star in the second edition of the “Little Red Book”.

The 12 one-starred restaurants in the first edition have also retained their honours, namely Bo.lan, Chim by Siam Wisdom, Elements, Ginza Sushi Ichi, J’aime by Jean-Michel Lorain, L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon, Nahm, Paste, Saneh Jaan, Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin, Upstairs at Mikkeller and Savelberg. The European contemporary restaurant Suhring run by chef brothers Mathias and Thomas Suhring earned an upgrade from one to two stars.

This year, the Michelin Guide also covers some dining venues in other parts of the country including Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon and Samut Prakan to Phuket and Phang Nga.

Tourists can find some new rising culinary stars in the second edition of Michelin Guide Bangkok. (Photo/EPA) 

Pru restaurant in Phuket is the only restaurant in region to have been awarded one star, while the “Bib Gourmand” award, a rating that recognises restaurants offering exceptionally good food at moderate prices, doubled in number this year from 35 to 72 venues.

Among them are the legendary Southern food restaurant Raya and its sister restaurant Chomchan in Phuket, along with Krua Bai Toey and Nai Mueng in Phang Nga.

Visa-free travel

Visa-free entry will continue to play an important role in drawing visitors next year. Japan has claimed the crown for top Asian holiday destinations according to this year’s booking data from Agoda and has capitalised on its no visa requirement policy for Thai tourists by adding flight routes to coax more visitors into enjoying everything from the ephemeral sights of cherry blossoms to quirky robot cafes.

Taiwan continues to gain in popularity thanks to its wealth of nature, history and culture and South Korea has stolen the heart of young travellers with K-pop music and drama series. Meanwhile, Hong Kong has turned some historical buildings like PMQ, the former police and court compound, into a creative art space called Tai Kwun for Hong Kong artists and designers to showcase their works.

Malaysia takes advantage of Air Asia’s direct flight to Kota Kinabalu, capital of Sabah State, where vacationers can enjoy striking views of verdant mountain ranges, massive farmlands and beautiful beaches and have fun with a wide range of outdoor activities.

Japan is still the most popular holiday destination thanks to its diversity of culture, beautiful nature and illumination festivals. (Photo/EPA)

Easy does it

Based on over 163 million verified guest reviews and surveys of 21,500 travellers across 29 countries, Booking.com predicts that tech travel innovations will be much in demand.

In the coming year, those offering the technologies as practical solutions like keyless room-access with your phone, personalised travel tips or a robotic concierge who can communicate with guests in their mother tongue will be the winners.

“2019 is set to be an exciting year for travel. With technological advancements, an ever more connected world and a continuously growing consumer appetite for the best travel experiences, we’re poised for groundbreaking developments, taking travel to unexplored heights. With a mission to empower people to experience the world, Booking.com learns and innovates continuously and we’ve never been more excited to be at the epicentre of thrilling industry,” said Pepijn Rijvers, chief marketing officer at Booking.com.

He adds that the innovations won’t be the most futuristic or exotic, with travellers more enthusiastic about real-time luggage tracking through a mobile app and having a single app for all their planning, booking and travel needs than the prospect of using self-driving transportation in their destination.

2019 will also see more tech developed for use pre-trip at the research stage. Booking.com’s study shows that almost a third of global travellers like the idea of a “virtual travel agent” in their home, using voice-activated assistants to answer travel queries, and one in five want to see such technology as augmented reality helping to familiarise themselves with a destination before they arrive.

Travellers staying at Hotel Jen Orchardgateway and Tanglin Singapore are greeted by a pair of robotic butlers Jeno and Jena. (Courtesy of Hotel Tanglin Singapore)

In Singapore, Hotel Jen Orchardgateway and Tanglin Singapore are introducing a pair of robotic butlers called Jeno and Jena to deliver amenities and local favourites from the in-room dining menu to guests.

Designed and built by Savioke, the Relay robots can move unmanned around the hotel at a safe speed of 2.5 km per hour, half that of the average human walking speed. They can ride the elevators, make phone calls to rooms upon arrival, and are equipped with sensitive sensors that know to avoid obstacles in its path.

“The Relay robots, yet again proves that it can surprise and delight urban adventure-seekers,” said Cetin Sekercioglu, executive vice president of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts.

Jeno and Jena are integrated with a software system that can easily track their to-do list once an order is placed and guests can expect one of the pair to have these delivered within 15 minutes from the time of request.

This is the first fully autonomous delivery robot that has been deployed in over 70 dynamic busy environments such as logistics, hotels, office buildings, and high rise apartments. Using advanced technology to navigate around people and objects, the Relay robots deliver items quickly, safely, and reliably.

Plastic not-so fantastic

The issue of single-use plastic will continue to be a hot topic, but in 2019 environmental concerns will turn into greater environmental action. Millennials and Gen Z travellers will look for sustainable experiences in their destination, while accommodation providers will be working to reduce their plastic usage and increase their sustainable credentials.

According to Booking.com, an overwhelming majority of global travellers say they would be willing to spend some time on activities that offset the environmental impact of their stay, with over a third willing to clear plastic and litter from a beach or other tourist attraction.

The “Appren-trip”

Representing a new type of currency and means of personal fulfilment, 2019 will see a focus on travellers making choices with extra significance as they look to add more purpose to their trips.

Over half of global travellers agree travelling has taught them invaluable life skills, and 2019 will see a rise in people’s desire to learn something new whilst away, as well as an increase in volunteering and skills-based vacations across generations.

In particular, Generation Z will increasingly scrutinise the value of expensive college degrees against the life skills and practical learning that can be gained from travel, especially as experiences beyond the classroom and office cubicle continue to make for attractive potential employees in many companies’ eyes.

Phuket’s surging MICE market valued at Bt10.9-bn, says consultancy firm.

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Phuket’s surging MICE market valued at Bt10.9-bn, says consultancy firm.

Breaking News December 28, 2018 14:19

By The Nation

2,146 Viewed

Phuket’s increasingly prolific MICE market nearly doubled in year-on-year growth in 2017, a global hospitality consultancy firm says.

As revenue for the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions tourism segment skyrocketed from Bt5.9 billion to a record-high Bt10.9 billion, the key metric that reflects the economic impact is the average spend of Bt13,000 per person.

Looking at the size of the market, a report from consulting group C9 Hotelworks Phuket MICE Market Update, reported that for the full year, the island hosted 660 events with close to 60,000 participants.

With overseas demand becoming increasingly prolific throughout Thailand, the Top 3 international geographic source markets are Singapore, Mainland China and India.

Another key feeder of business is Indian weddings, which is attracting high-spending events from the subcontinent. Over the last month the island attracted two luxury weddings, with spending for each eclipsing Bt320 million. One key catalyst that is expected to see this market grow is the uptick is introduction of direct flights by GoAir between the resort destination and Mumbai, New Delhi and Bengaluru.

One niche that Phuket has commanded a best in class reputation and sustainable upward trajectory is in large sports events. This year the Laguna Phuket Marathon attracted over 8,000 participants while garnering considerable international visitors. Other marquee events include the Laguna Phuket Triathlon and Thailand Yacht Show and Rendezvous.

Commenting on the importance of the meeting and incentive segment to island tourism, C9’s Managing Director Bill Barnett said: “Phuket has been successful in attracting high-yielding MICE business on substantially less volume than Thailand’s leading event destinations of Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Pattaya. The expansion of the gateway airport has added to the attractiveness by inducing broader demand.

“Despite the absence of a convention center, recent notable additions includes the new 1,000 seat Grand West Sands Resort venue which is being managed by Hong Kong’s Langham Hospitality Group. In the longer term, Central’s planned 10,000 square meter MICE facility in the heart of Phuket is expected to start development within two years, and will result in a coming of age for an already dynamic storyline of growth.”

Phuket marina set to host major yacht show

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Phuket marina set to host major yacht show

Tourism December 27, 2018 17:43

By The Nation

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Having been home to yacht shows in Phuket for almost 15 years, Royal Phuket Marina will host the country’s largest yachting and luxury lifestyle event from January 10 to 13, the Thailand Yacht Show and RendezVous, organised by Verventia.

Gulu Lalvani, chairman of Royal Phuket Marina, said: “What makes Royal Phuket Marina special is our integrated concept with easy access to boats in the marina, restaurants on the boardwalk and the island’s largest exhibition hall right on the waterfront.

“This makes it an ideal boat show venue as visitors can move easily between displays without having to walk too far.

“We’ve been working closely with the organisers and the show looks set to be one of the best ever with a record of more than 50 boats in the show ranging from 10 to 54 metres.”

Recognising the importance of growing markets, Royal Phuket Marina is collaborating with GoAir, the first airline to fly direct from India to Phuket.

GoAir is offering 50 per cent discounts on all flight tickets from India to Phuket for passengers who are registered to attend the yacht show.

Dusit opens in Krabi and Thimphu

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Dusit opens in Krabi and Thimphu

sleep December 28, 2018 01:00

By THE NATION

Dusit International continues its expansion in Thailand and Bhutan with the soft opening of dusitD2 Ao Nang, Krabi and dusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu.

Opened two weeks ago, dusitD2 Ao Nang, Krabi puts guests within walking distance of the beach and other major attractions in this popular Southern Thailand resort.

It offers 173 stylish guestrooms and suites with a choice of sea, mountain or pool views and features an All-Day-Dining restaurant, a lobby bar, an outdoor swimming pool with a separate children’s pool, a fitness centre, a spa, a 200 sqm ballroom, and an extensive children’s playground. Rock climbing excursions, jungle treks, and boat trips to nearby paradise islands can all be arranged at the hotel.

 

dusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu, Bhutan serves as the first and largest internationally branded hotel in the enchanting kingdom. Drawing inspiration from the Four Harmonious Friends, a beloved national folktale about four animals working together to harvest fruit from a magical tree, each guest floor of the hotel is dedicated to a different animal from the tale.

Adorned with colourful contemporary motifs of the creatures, the resort houses 83 well-appointed guestrooms and suites, a beautiful lobby showcasing local artworks, Thai spa, fully equipped gym and an international all-day-dining restaurant. A vibrant bar and the first authentic Thai restaurant in Bhutan will follow soon.

With a prime innercity location in the capital Thimphu, the resort is surrounded with many popular attractions such as Buddha Point (Kuensel-Phodrang), the iconic Tashichho Dzong, the Royal Botanical Park, and Clock Tower Square.

“Designed to reflect and anticipate the needs and desires of today’s hyperconnected travellers, our dusitD2 resorts feature a unique combination of comfort, convenience and style, creating vibrant places for guests to socialise and interact,” said Lim Boon Kwee, chief operating officer, Dusit International.

“We are delighted to welcome dusitD2 Yarkay Thimphu, Bhutan and dusitD2 Ao Nang, Krabi to our fastgrowing portfolio of global hotels, and we look forward to delighting guests with our unique brand of gracious hospitality.”

To celebrate their opening, guests can enjoy 400-per-cent off the Dusit Best Available Rate, daily breakfast, exclusive dining discount and more great benefits.

Check out the best rates at http://www.Dusit.com.

Sleeping on the wild side

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Sleeping on the wild side

sleep December 28, 2018 01:00

By THE NATION

Nestled deep in the wilderness of the South Cardamom National Park, Cambodia, Shinta Mani Wild, which opened its doors just last week, is a radical new concept in the luxury tented camp experience.

Operated by the Bensley Collection, it is located in a pristine wildlife corridor three hours’ drive south of Phnom Penh and is perched over 1.5km of river and waterfalls. The 14 one-bedroom tents (100sqm) and one two-bedroom tent (140sqm) have been meticulously designed with inspiration from a luxury safari in the jungle of Jacky O who travelled throughout the Kingdom with King Sihanouk in 1967.

 

Creative luxury adventures include exploring the untrammelled waterways of Southeast Asia’s last wild estuarine ecosystem aboard a custom Bensley-designed expedition boat; or joining Wildlife Alliance rangers on antipoaching patrols. Ever changing menus are inspired by sustainably foraged wild edible plants, as the camp’s naturalists guide guests through the forest to discover – and taste – Cambodia’s natural larder. The Boulder Spa provides chemical-free Khmer Tonics treatments including a riverstone foot massage while soaking in a waterfall pool.

 

Described by Bensley as a “utopia of sustainability”, Shinta Mani Wild’s comprehensive conservation and community programmes are spearheaded by the Shinta Mani Foundation, and include the provision of long-term employment opportunities to local inhabitants where there is minimal infrastructure and fewer work prospects. Shinta Mani Wild  Bensley Collection, in conjunction with the Foundation, will nurture its natural environment through partnerships with respected conservation organisations including Wildlife Alliance and The Cambodian Government. Rates start from US$2,345 (about Bt78,000) per night, inclusive of all food and beverage; all private guided activities and excursions; spa treatments; personal Bensley Butler; land transfers from Phnom Penh or Sihanoukville airports, and taxes. Helicopter transfers are additional.

A minimum threenight stay is required and kids under the age of 13 are not accepted.

Find out more at http://www.Shintamani.com/wild.php.

Hilton opens in Da Nang

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Hilton opens in Da Nang

sleep December 27, 2018 15:05

By The Nation

Following its success in Hanoi, Hilton Hotels & Resorts recently added the Hilton Da Nang to its collection, targeting both leisure and business travellers.

Located near the Han Bridge and the city’s famed Bach Dang street, the hotel offers easy access to the hub of main entertainment, shopping and business belts. The hotel is also a short 10-minute drive from Da Nang International Airport, and five minutes from Da Nang Beach.

“The opening of Hilton Da Nang represents a milestone for us with the entry of the brand into yet another key destination in Southeast Asia. Bringing our flagship Hilton brand into major and secondary cities with the right partners is part of our growth strategy. With Da Nang expected to draw 15 million tourists by 2030, we are confident Hilton Da Nang, as a beacon of hospitality, will be top-of-mind for them when they visit this beautiful coastal city,” said Paul Hutton, vice president, operations, South East Asia, Hilton.

“Hilton has welcomed travellers through its doors for almost 100 years, and we are thrilled to be able to continue doing so in a city with tremendous growth potential, such as Da Nang, underscoring our commitment to offer our guests moments that matter around the world,” added Vera Manoukian, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts.

Ranging from 36 square metres to 202 sqm, all 223 spacious guestrooms and suites feature locally inspired contemporary designs and views of the Han River. The hotel’s executive floor rooms offer exclusive access to the 27th floor lounge, where guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, all-day refreshments and panoramic views of the city.

With a total of 725 sqm dedicated to flexible meeting spaces, Hilton Da Nang offers eight meeting rooms and a grand ballroom, which can accommodate up to 500 guests. Each meeting space comes fully equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment, LED screens and high-speed Wi-Fi to ensure events run smoothly and seamlessly.

In addition to a 24-hour gym and a heated outdoor swimming pool overlooking the Han River, Hilton Da Nang also boasts three dining options. The all-day dining Brasserie Nam offers a creative menu with locally sourced ingredients, featuring Western, Asian and Vietnamese specialities. Guests can select between indoor and outdoor seating for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

From Banh Mi to pastries, Parisian-inspired Cafe Viet features selection of fresh local delicacies with modern twists in a relaxed and contemporary setting.

Located on the 28th floor, The Sail is a high-end rooftop grill bar that offers sweeping views of the city from both its restaurant and lounge areas. With a menu featuring classic grill options, local and Mediterranean inspired bites and a comprehensive wine list, guests can look forward to dining or lounging in style.

To celebrate its official opening, Hilton Honors members will earn an additional 5,000 Honors points for bookings of three nights or more until March 31 when booking directly with Hilton. They can also take advantage of a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, free standard Wi-Fi and the Hilton Honors mobile app.

Make a reservation at http://www.3.Hilton.com.

Discover the beautiful city, seaside and hilltop palaces of Thailand

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  • Doi Tung Royal Villa, Chiang Mai. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram Temple or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Bangkok. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, Grand Palace, Bangkok. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Police Museum, Parusakawan Palace, Bangkok. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Phayathai Palace, Bangkok. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park, Phetchaburi. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace, Phetchaburi. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • The Aisawan Thiphya-Art Pavilion in Bang Pa-In Palace, Ayutthaya. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • The Wehart Chamrun Throne Room in Bang Pa-In Palace, Ayutthaya. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.
  • Daraphirom Palace, Chiang Mai. Photo: Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Discover the beautiful city, seaside and hilltop palaces of Thailand

Travel log December 28, 2018 01:00

By Courtesy of the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Images of fairy tale castles and towering palaces are not so often associated with Thailand, thus many are surprised to discover there are various palatial palaces spread throughout the kingdom.

The Spectacular Grand Palace

The word ‘palace’ in relation to Bangkok will, for most tourists, immediately bring to mind the iconic Grand Palace. Built with the establishment of the new capital in Bangkok in 1782, this spectacular complex was the home of the king and the royal court and also the administrative seat of government for nearly 150 years.

Situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River in the heart of Rattanakosin Island or the historic Old City area and a must-see for any tourist visiting the Thai capital, the Grand Palace boasts beautiful architecture and intricate detail throughout its various buildings, halls, pavilions, gardens and courtyards.

The complex incorporates the Temple of the Emerald Buddha – considered the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand, the Outer Court, the Middle Court including the Phra Maha Monthian buildings, the Phra Maha Prasat buildings and the Chakri Maha Prasat buildings, the Inner Court and the Siwalai Gardens quarter.

Dusit Maha Prasat Hall is reminiscent of the Ayutthaya Throne Hall, while the Phra Maha Monthian buildings have been used for royal coronations but are rarely open to the public.

The Grand Palace’s most iconic and majestic structure is the Chakri Maha Prasat buildings, comprising nine structures and which reflect the taste of earlier times for a blend of European and Thai styles. These were built between 1868 and 1887 and were commissioned by King Rama V the Great. Only three buildings of the former nine structure complex remain today, among these being the famous Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall.

Originally conceived in pure European style, the Throne Hall blends an Italian style classical façade with a Thai-style roof crowned by gilded spires. It was built between 1876 and 1882 and was Siam’s first structure with electricity.

Overall the Grand Palace is an intriguing blend of Thai and European structures, a stunning mix of ceramic-cladded stupas, gothic style façades and golden spires that speak of classical columns and porticos.

Art Nouveau and Late Baroque in Bangkok

Being one of Bangkok’s top attractions the Grand Palace is regularly crowded with visitors, and luckily there are other palaces in the city which are open to the public for visiting. Bangkhunphrom Palace along Samsen Road is a magnificent early 20th century European-style palace known for its ornamental stucco details and elaborate interiors, although it is currently undergoing renovation.

One of the most striking palaces in the Dusit area has to be Parusakawan Palace, which is an extraordinary blend of baroque architecture inside and art nouveau outside. The former residence of the Chakrabongse family, this palace evokes the splendours of rococo or late baroque art in Italy or Austria. In particular, there is the main room with walls covered by mirrors, golden stucco and crystal chandeliers. The Palace also features a police museum.

Not far from Victory Monument is Phayathai Palace, an early 20th century royal residence built by King Rama V the Great in 1910. A noticeable feature is the European-style round turret with a red conical roof, which almost seems to have come right from a fairy tale castle. The building’s interior is very European and includes beautiful frescos on the ceiling in Italian style.

Phetchaburi’s Royal Palaces

Around 140 km south of Bangkok, along the Gulf of Thailand, the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi are home to many palaces including the kingdom’s first European-Thai style palace.

Phra Nakhon Khiri Historical Park is perched on a hill overlooking the city of Phetchaburi and while its name means Holy City Hill, it is better known locally as Khao Wang or hill with a palace. The palace complex was built for King Rama IV in 1860 and blends elements of European, Chinese, Khmer and Thai architecture. This was a beloved summer residence for the King, with its white stupa and neo-classical structures, observatory tower and theatre, and while there he liked to observe the stars.

In the town itself is Phra Ram Ratchaniwet Palace, also known as Ban Puen Palace, which was designed by a German architect and features both art nouveau and baroque style with its curves, ceramics and statues. Large windows from the floor to ceiling help create a bright and spacious feeling in the Palace’s rooms, and the whole interior exudes luxury and grandness. Completed in 1916, the elegant Palace is now home to the Phetchaburi Historic and Arts Museum under the supervision of the Royal Thai Army.

In Cha-am is Mrigadayavan Palace, which served as the seaside palace of King Rama VI. Designated a cultural heritage site in 1981, it is in an ongoing restoration project that aims to restore the Palace grounds and surrounding coastal vegetation in time for the Palace’s 100th  anniversary in 2024.

Blending Thai and Western styles, the Palace comprises 16 teak buildings connected by balconies and corridors and elevated on pillars to aid ventilation, and 23 staircases. For tourists and visiting school groups, Mrigadayavan Palace plays the role of an educational museum with exhibits on conservation and history.

North of Bangkok in the vicinity of Ayutthaya, Bang Pa-In Palace was used by Thai kings and inspired by the royal summer palaces of Europe. Originally built around 1630 by King Prasat Thong, it fell into decay following the war in 1767 and then began to see some restoration in the 19th century under King Rama IV. From 1872 to 1889, King Rama V the Great commissioned architects to redesign the entire compound as a European palace with an Asian touch.

Also known as the Summer Palace, Bang Pa-In Palace is situated alongside the Chao Phraya River. Amid its gardens and landscaping is an eclectic collection of small palaces, pavilions and various structures inspired by the United Kingdom, France and Italy.

There’s the colourful Chinese-style royal palace Wehart Chamrun (Heavenly Light), which served as a throne room, the Warophat Phiman (Excellent and Shining Heavenly Abode) royal residence, Ho Withun Thasana (Sages’ Lookout) a brightly painted lookout tower, and the Aisawan Thiphya-Art (Divine Seat of Personal Freedom), which is a Thai style pavilion in the middle of a pond that offers a sharp contrast with the European style statues and neo-classic pavilions.

Swiss Chalet in the Mountains

Among the palaces of Northern Thailand are Daraphirom Palace just outside of Chiang Mai city and Doi Tung Royal Villa, both former royal residences.

About 20 minutes out of town, Daraphirom Palace in Mae Rim district was home to Princess Dara Rasmi, a consort of King Rama V the Great. This large wooden mansion on stilts was built in 1913 blending Thai and European architecture and is now a museum offering a look into how the Princess lived in the early 20th century. On display are many of the princess’s personal belongings and items relating to her work in the fields of culture, the arts and agriculture. Visitors can see antique furniture, photos, musical instruments, dinnerware and more.

An hour’s drive from Chiang Rai city, the beautiful Doi Tung Royal Villa was home to Princess Mother Srinagarindra. Built in dark teakwood, the Villa affords sweeping views over the mountains of Doi Tung and has a distinctive Swiss flair. Its wooden balconies and rustic style furniture evoke thoughts of a chalet in Switzerland. The Villa is today a museum in honour of the Princess Mother and how she dedicated herself to improving the livelihood of the local people.

Stretching out in front of Doi Tung Royal Villa is Mae Fah Luang Garden, the landscaped expanse filled with hundreds of kinds of plants and flowers.

These are some of Thailand’s most prominent palaces. There are more throughout the country, dazzling architectural gems in their own right, and each one a unique attraction waiting for tourists to discover.

Garden ideas sprout for visitors at Chiang Mai Botanic Festival

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ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/Travel_log/30361150

  • Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens/Jintana Panyaarvudh

Garden ideas sprout for visitors at Chiang Mai Botanic Festival

Around Thailand December 26, 2018 10:24

By The Nation

5,591 Viewed

The Botanic Festival 2019 has kicked off in Chiang Mai, with fresh garden ideas blooming at Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens.

The Botanical Garden Organisation is showcasing the beautiful plants and designs at the festival under the theme “Home Garden” theme until next Wednesday, January 2.

The festival offers tours of the gardens, where visitors are invited to learn more about cultivating stylish displays and also growing their own vegetables.

Thailand’s very first botanic gardens are now a major travel destination in Mae Rim district, where they cover a mountainous area of 560 acres and showcase a vast collection of plants from different climates around the world.

Established in 1992 to honour HM Queen Sirikit, the gardens’ highlights include a Rainforest Glasshouse where you get to walk among a dense array of plants from tropical forests all over Asia.

Canopy Walk

Visitors can also take a bird’s-eye view by strolling among the tree tops on a Canopy Walk, where lush mountain vistas greet the eye.

For more, visit www.facebook.com/qsbgcm

Chilling out in style

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ศาสตร์เกษตรดินปุ๋ย : ขอบคุณแหล่งข้อมูล : หนังสือพิมพ์ The Nation

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/world/30361169

  • Hotel de Glace
  • Snow Hotel
  • Icehotel
  • Blacksheep village Igloo La Plagne
  • Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel

Chilling out in style

World December 26, 2018 01:00

By The Nation

According to an online survey conducted by Booking.com in August among 21,500 respondents in different countries including Thailand, 54 per cent of Thai travellers say they plan to stay at least once in a type of accommodation they’ve never stayed at before in 2019 and 68 per cent say that they plan to prioritise spending money on experiences over material items when travelling in the year to come

Booking.com has thus delved into it’s more than 29 million listings in over 143,000 destinations around the globe to inspire travellers to discover the once-in-a-lifetime experience of spending a night in an igloo or ice hotel. Here are the top five offers.

 

Snow Hotel – Kemi, Finland

The Snow Hotel is located in the Lapland region of Finland and offers cool rooms made entirely out of ice and snow. If wondering how you are going to stay warm in a room that has an average temperature of -5 degree Celsius (23 degrees fahrenheit), beds are covered with warm lamb skin and sleeping bags with cosy fleece interiors. The Snow Hotel also features unique winter experiences such as a Snow Castle, a Snow Chapel for weddings, several sculptures with light effects, a Gemstone Gallery and a weekly programme that offers different activities and additional experiences for guests to choose from.

Icehotel – Jukkasjarvi, Sweden

Tucked away amongst the various lakes and hills of northern Sweden, more than 160 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, the Icehotel is rebuilt every winter entirely from snow and ice from the nearby Torne River. Holding a temperature between -5 to -8 degrees Celsius, each of the individually themed rooms has hand-carved ice furnishings made by artists from all around the world. After a refreshing sleep in thermal sleeping bags on beds covered in reindeer hides, guests can start their day with a rich and hearty breakfast before spending time in the sauna, wood-burning hot tub or the ice bath. The area around Jukkasj?rvi is popular for outdoor winter activities such as dog sledding, reindeer sled excursions and snowmobile tours.

Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel – Alta, Norway

Located along the Alta River 20 km from Alta’s town centre, the Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel is an impressive 2,000-square-metre structure made entirely from snow and ice every winter. With a consistent room t temperature between a chilling -4 and -7 degree Celsius, guests are encouraged to bring their own thermal undergarments to stay warm, although reindeer leather sleeping pads and ultra-warm sleeping bags are provided to every room. For those who like art, don’t miss the artistic ice sculptures on display throughout the property. For those seeking a little outdoor adventure, the friendly hotel staff will gladly assist with booking a snowmobile safari to explore the surrounding winter wonderland.

Hotel de Glace – Saint-Gabriel-De-Valcartier, Canada

With three thematic ice bars, an indoor ice slide and ice chapel that seats 70 guests, the Hotel de Glace in Saint-Gabriel-De-Valcartier, Quebec is a landmark on its own as it’s the only hotel of its kind in North America. The warm hotel staff welcomes guests with a cocktail in an ice glass before taking them to their cool room with a temperature between -3 and -5 degree Celsius (23 to 26 degrees Fahrenheit). This ice hotel also offers a heated indoor water park as well as a Nordic relaxation area with outdoor spas and sauna.

Blacksheep village Igloo La Plagne – La Plagne, France

Overlooking the iconic Mont Blanc, the Blacksheep village Igloo La Plagne is a great choice for travellers who would like to combine an igloo stay with an amazing ski trip. Set in La Plagne, near the Belle Plagne and Bergerie Ski Lifts, you can experience a variety of fun and exciting outdoor activities such as bobsleigh and luge before enjoying a delicious cheese fondue. If sleeping in a snow cave is not for you, guests can also book a stay at the Hot Igloo and enjoy the cosy heat of a wood stove.