Phuket is a paradise for most tourists and business travelers who go to this beautiful Thai destination. Although most people think that this island just caters to leisure travelers, it is not so. It also caters to thousands of business visitors who come each year to invest in Phuket.
The Trisara Resort in Phuket is extraordinary in many ways, from the fact that it is such a short drive from the airport, and yet so quiet, peaceful, private, and beautiful.
The ocean view villa we stayed in was exceptionally spacious and private with incredible uninterrupted views over the ocean. It’s the kind of place that makes you dream that this is your own private villa.
The actual accommodation has so many nice touches it would be impossible to include them all, sufficient to say, that everything you would expect from a five star deluxe resort is there in abundance, and much more besides. We could start with the indoor and outdoor showers, the furnishings are a beautiful blend of colours, with lots of dark wood. The bed was large, and very comfortable, with such fantastic fluffy pillows. I always think pillows are the real measure of the quality. It is the little touches like fresh flowers everywhere, even in the bathroom. The built in window seats and couches, the cleverly hidden large plasma TV, all part of the top quality workmanship that has gone into the construction and maintenance.
Outside the villa, it is completely private, with a gate at the entrance, and a large teak sundeck with table and chairs for eating, and four padded teak sunbeds. The infinity pool, is larger than your normal plunge pool, and totally private because of the greenery.
The food quite superb, both Thai and Western style. We were on a breakfast included package, and it was a terrific meal in itself, having got used to buffet breakfasts being the norm, it was a pleasant surprise to have it served up fresh from the kitchen. Be warned however that if you decide to take your included breakfast in your suite, then you would be charged at full rate, which seems a little mean.
At lunch and dinner, you can choose either the Thai or Western option, although it would be fair to say the Thai food was spicy hot and very authentic, not milder for those of us from the West. I personally like that.
You can get most of the food available with room service but it is more expensive, and wine as expected is expensive, because they kind of have a captive audience as there are no nearby restaurants
The overall service, and once again attention to detail are fantastic.
Small final thoughts are, you will never forget the sunset from the pool villa, and the beach is delightfully private with no hawkers, and very comfortable loungers, and naturally the high level of service continues there.
There is not a whole lot to do here except to relax, and unwind, so if that is your thing, there is nowhere better to be.
Read More..
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Koh Samui Villas
Everybody needs to get away once in a while on a refreshing holiday to clear your head of all the stresses and strains of everyday life. If you really want to spoil yourself with the ultimate luxurious break you should try a few weeks in a Koh Samui villa.
When you are vacationing on Koh Samui, you'll be enjoying the beaches, the waterfalls and the active nightlife, you'll still need a place to stay, and some of the best places to stay on Thailand's third largest island are the rented villas! The villas of Koh Samui are inexpensive and they can provide you with a degree of privacy that's hard to get in some of the larger resorts. When you stay on one of Koh Samui's beautiful villas, you get a real idea of what it's like to live on this island paradise.
When you are planning out your vacation accommodations, you might automatically dismiss the villas as being to expensive. Depending on your situation though, they could be exactly the right choice for you! For instance, if you are planning to stay for longer than two weeks, or even a week and half, the rates of the villa suddenly become a lot more manageable. In the long term, they are cheaper than staying at the resorts, and much more comfortable as well. While you might feel uneasy after an extended stay in a hotel, a villa will provide you with a kitchen, where you can do some cooking if you're tired of eating out and space to just kick back and relax.
One thing that a villa will definitely do is give you a terrific sense of privacy. Many Koh Samui villas have views that show you the ocean with nothing between you and the beach. While this might take you slightly off the beaten path, you'll find that you can enjoy the wonderful tranquility that Thailand's islands are so well known for. Frequently, because the villas are part of a loose system, you'll still be able to get get to town for the nightlife and parties via a bus or a car, and when you go home, you won't have to deal with that vibrant nightlife right outside your window!
Just because you choose to skip the overcrowded resorts doesn't mean that you have to spend your vacation tidying! Many villas have the option of maid service for a small extra fee and you can find your home away from home spotless every time you walk into it. Because most villas are part of a larger system, you'll find that you have access to things like guides and delivery service, so rest assured that even in a villa you will be well taken care of.
Another benefit of the Koh Samui villas is that you can find them practically everywhere and that they have many of the benefits of the resorts but without the crowding. You'll find palatial villas that have pools and hot tubs, but you'll also find plenty of more cozy options that encourage you to settle in and just be yourself. When you are looking for a Koh Samui villa, think about what you want to do while you're in Thailand and make sure the villa you choose in a central location for it. You can have a terrific Koh Samui vacation using a villa as your center of operations, so start planning today! Read More..
When you are vacationing on Koh Samui, you'll be enjoying the beaches, the waterfalls and the active nightlife, you'll still need a place to stay, and some of the best places to stay on Thailand's third largest island are the rented villas! The villas of Koh Samui are inexpensive and they can provide you with a degree of privacy that's hard to get in some of the larger resorts. When you stay on one of Koh Samui's beautiful villas, you get a real idea of what it's like to live on this island paradise.
When you are planning out your vacation accommodations, you might automatically dismiss the villas as being to expensive. Depending on your situation though, they could be exactly the right choice for you! For instance, if you are planning to stay for longer than two weeks, or even a week and half, the rates of the villa suddenly become a lot more manageable. In the long term, they are cheaper than staying at the resorts, and much more comfortable as well. While you might feel uneasy after an extended stay in a hotel, a villa will provide you with a kitchen, where you can do some cooking if you're tired of eating out and space to just kick back and relax.
One thing that a villa will definitely do is give you a terrific sense of privacy. Many Koh Samui villas have views that show you the ocean with nothing between you and the beach. While this might take you slightly off the beaten path, you'll find that you can enjoy the wonderful tranquility that Thailand's islands are so well known for. Frequently, because the villas are part of a loose system, you'll still be able to get get to town for the nightlife and parties via a bus or a car, and when you go home, you won't have to deal with that vibrant nightlife right outside your window!
Just because you choose to skip the overcrowded resorts doesn't mean that you have to spend your vacation tidying! Many villas have the option of maid service for a small extra fee and you can find your home away from home spotless every time you walk into it. Because most villas are part of a larger system, you'll find that you have access to things like guides and delivery service, so rest assured that even in a villa you will be well taken care of.
Another benefit of the Koh Samui villas is that you can find them practically everywhere and that they have many of the benefits of the resorts but without the crowding. You'll find palatial villas that have pools and hot tubs, but you'll also find plenty of more cozy options that encourage you to settle in and just be yourself. When you are looking for a Koh Samui villa, think about what you want to do while you're in Thailand and make sure the villa you choose in a central location for it. You can have a terrific Koh Samui vacation using a villa as your center of operations, so start planning today! Read More..
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Beautiful Thailand Beaches
Finding a perfect Thailand beach for your holiday is not something that should be left to the travel agents alone. With a few steps that you can do on your own could turn up your ideal paradise. If you do find that paradise please keep it to yourself!
Khao Lak is a wonderful Thailand beach. Just a short drive from the airport, this paradise offers a remote vacation area like no other. Thanks to the area being largely uninhabited, there is lush rain forest nearby along with a whole host of wildlife to be viewed. The water remains warm in the November through December months and the fishing and scuba diving is out of this world.
Phuket Thailand Beach is another great spot. Enjoy this resort November through March. There is more than enough to do. It is a bit more crowded than other beaches as this area thrives on the tourism dollars that it brings in. The scuba diving is top notch in this area and you will also find some of the warmest most clear water in the world. There are several nearby attractions to keep one busy for quite a few days.
Phi Phi Don Thailand beach is quite the turn around. Once a remote and nearly unknown place, this Thailand beach came to life when Hollywood came in and filmed a movie here. It is now considered to be one of the most popular beaches in the entire country and is frequented by many big names. This is a site that you will not want to miss, as the views are breathtaking and the water warm and inviting.
West Raily Thailand beach is one of the undiscovered diamonds in the rough. There is very little that is expensive here and one can stay at the “resort” for over a week and barely tap the budget. The sands are milky white and the water clear. Scuba diving is very popular here as well as the fishing. This location is only accessible by long tail boat so plan for a bit of a long ride. Read More..
Khao Lak is a wonderful Thailand beach. Just a short drive from the airport, this paradise offers a remote vacation area like no other. Thanks to the area being largely uninhabited, there is lush rain forest nearby along with a whole host of wildlife to be viewed. The water remains warm in the November through December months and the fishing and scuba diving is out of this world.
Phuket Thailand Beach is another great spot. Enjoy this resort November through March. There is more than enough to do. It is a bit more crowded than other beaches as this area thrives on the tourism dollars that it brings in. The scuba diving is top notch in this area and you will also find some of the warmest most clear water in the world. There are several nearby attractions to keep one busy for quite a few days.
Phi Phi Don Thailand beach is quite the turn around. Once a remote and nearly unknown place, this Thailand beach came to life when Hollywood came in and filmed a movie here. It is now considered to be one of the most popular beaches in the entire country and is frequented by many big names. This is a site that you will not want to miss, as the views are breathtaking and the water warm and inviting.
West Raily Thailand beach is one of the undiscovered diamonds in the rough. There is very little that is expensive here and one can stay at the “resort” for over a week and barely tap the budget. The sands are milky white and the water clear. Scuba diving is very popular here as well as the fishing. This location is only accessible by long tail boat so plan for a bit of a long ride. Read More..
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Asia Cruise Tours
Your interest in taking vacations on cruise lines will eventually lead you to the exotic continent of Asia. The dazzling culture and customs, glimmering white beaches, and fine cuisine will call to you like no other place in the world. See temples and statues from far back in history.
A cruise to Asia may just be the thing for you if you wish to explore exotic lands. There are many different cruise lines that offer trips to Asia, and all of them feature various itineraries to choose from.
One of the specific cruise lines that offer cruise travel to Asia is Crystal Cruises. They feature cruises that last anywhere from 11 to 16 days, and include many exciting adventures in Asia. They have four different excursion packages to choose from that include the Ancient Dynasties, Mysteries of Asia, Kingdoms of Jade & Gold, and the Exotic Asian Odyssey.
The Ancient Dynasties cruise lasts for two full weeks and includes trips to Honk Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai, China, Taipei, Taiwan, Kagoshima, Japan, as well as offering an “Adventures In Beijing” land tour once the cruise has completed.
The Mysteries of Asia excursion includes overnight stays in many cities including Nagasaki, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Osaka. Optional land tours are also available with this particular cruise package.
The Kingdoms of Jade & Gold will take the traveler from Hong Kong to Singapore with several stops included, and this adventure lasts for a total of eleven days.
The Exotic Asian Odyssey goes to Thailand, Myanmar and India. It lasts for an extensive sixteen days and many land excursions are also available.
While cruising through the open sea you can enjoy the many amenities offered aboard the cruise ship. The ship can accommodate 940 guests, and features a full service fitness facility, a Jacuzzi and two swimming pools, a Caesar’s Palace casino, a teak Promenade Deck, and a wide variety of live entertainment and exquisite cuisine.
On any given night, or during the day for that matter, the entertainment choices seem virtually endless. On board entertainment choices include Broadway style shows, classical musicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, live jazz in the piano bar, dancing in a choice of lounges, a movie theater which features new and recently released motion pictures, as well as offering lectures on such topics as golf, gambling, health & fitness and so much more.
Some cruises that travel to Asia also have stops in Hawaii, and these will allow you to enjoy island life for a day before setting off on the Pacific Ocean as you head towards Hong Kong. While many cruises that offer a stop over in Hong Kong have predetermined land excursions that all passengers must participate in, other cruises allow passengers to plan their own day trips while in Hong Kong. If your cruise affords you this worthwhile opportunity, one of the things that you must see is Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak is in essence a mountain that features magnificent restaurants, wonderful shopping, and the most gorgeous views in all of Hong Kong. The top of Victoria Peak can be reached by taking the Peak Tram, which will afford you the opportunity to see all that the Peak has to offer as you make your way to the top.
A cruise to Asia is in no doubt something that you will never forget, no matter what your destination will be. Read More..
A cruise to Asia may just be the thing for you if you wish to explore exotic lands. There are many different cruise lines that offer trips to Asia, and all of them feature various itineraries to choose from.
One of the specific cruise lines that offer cruise travel to Asia is Crystal Cruises. They feature cruises that last anywhere from 11 to 16 days, and include many exciting adventures in Asia. They have four different excursion packages to choose from that include the Ancient Dynasties, Mysteries of Asia, Kingdoms of Jade & Gold, and the Exotic Asian Odyssey.
The Ancient Dynasties cruise lasts for two full weeks and includes trips to Honk Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai, China, Taipei, Taiwan, Kagoshima, Japan, as well as offering an “Adventures In Beijing” land tour once the cruise has completed.
The Mysteries of Asia excursion includes overnight stays in many cities including Nagasaki, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Osaka. Optional land tours are also available with this particular cruise package.
The Kingdoms of Jade & Gold will take the traveler from Hong Kong to Singapore with several stops included, and this adventure lasts for a total of eleven days.
The Exotic Asian Odyssey goes to Thailand, Myanmar and India. It lasts for an extensive sixteen days and many land excursions are also available.
While cruising through the open sea you can enjoy the many amenities offered aboard the cruise ship. The ship can accommodate 940 guests, and features a full service fitness facility, a Jacuzzi and two swimming pools, a Caesar’s Palace casino, a teak Promenade Deck, and a wide variety of live entertainment and exquisite cuisine.
On any given night, or during the day for that matter, the entertainment choices seem virtually endless. On board entertainment choices include Broadway style shows, classical musicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, live jazz in the piano bar, dancing in a choice of lounges, a movie theater which features new and recently released motion pictures, as well as offering lectures on such topics as golf, gambling, health & fitness and so much more.
Some cruises that travel to Asia also have stops in Hawaii, and these will allow you to enjoy island life for a day before setting off on the Pacific Ocean as you head towards Hong Kong. While many cruises that offer a stop over in Hong Kong have predetermined land excursions that all passengers must participate in, other cruises allow passengers to plan their own day trips while in Hong Kong. If your cruise affords you this worthwhile opportunity, one of the things that you must see is Victoria Peak. Victoria Peak is in essence a mountain that features magnificent restaurants, wonderful shopping, and the most gorgeous views in all of Hong Kong. The top of Victoria Peak can be reached by taking the Peak Tram, which will afford you the opportunity to see all that the Peak has to offer as you make your way to the top.
A cruise to Asia is in no doubt something that you will never forget, no matter what your destination will be. Read More..
What to bring when traveling to asia
Traveling to Asia can be fuss-free and enjoyable when you are prepared. Thinking through your logistics and learning a few local words can make your Asian vacation more rewarding.
For those planning to travel to Asia, you are in for a great visit. To ensure your trip is a memorable one, there are several things you will want to take care of prior to you leaving. If you are traveling to Pakistan, you need to be aware that there is a travel warning at this time due to threats of terrorist activity. You will need to register with the Embassy’s Consular section. Regardless of your destination in Asia, it is advised that you register with the US Embassy’s Consular. This is for your protection. If an emergency arises, no one can help you if they don’t know where you are.
You will to have a valid passport. Check to see if a visa will also be required for where you are going. Read the Consular information sheets for the areas you are traveling to prior to leaving. This will provide you with up to date information of anything taking place in that region that you should be aware of. If you do find yourself in any type of legal trouble, immediately contact the US Embassy for assistance.
Rules, regulations, and laws are different in Asia than in the United States. It is wise to familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of that area. You don’t want to find yourself in legal trouble out of the country because you weren’t aware of how things are done there. Follow there rules set by all airports of not leaving your bags unattended or attending any type of package from someone you don’t know for any reason.
Basic rules that apply anywhere including wearing expensive jewelry and clothing and showing large amounts of cash. These are indicators that you have items of value. It can lead you to being the victim of a robbery or worse crime. To avoid being the victim of a scam don’t exchange currency with anyone except an authorized agent. Fully investigate prior to making purchases such as jewelry, art, and antiques.
Traveling to Asia can be a great experience. If you take the time to follow these basic tips, you will be more likely to enjoy your trip as well as return safely. By being prepared, you will be able to avoid surprises that will ruin your trip. By registering with the US Embassy, you will have an ally in the case something does take place. Having all these things in place will help you be able to focus on the beauty of Asia. Read More..
For those planning to travel to Asia, you are in for a great visit. To ensure your trip is a memorable one, there are several things you will want to take care of prior to you leaving. If you are traveling to Pakistan, you need to be aware that there is a travel warning at this time due to threats of terrorist activity. You will need to register with the Embassy’s Consular section. Regardless of your destination in Asia, it is advised that you register with the US Embassy’s Consular. This is for your protection. If an emergency arises, no one can help you if they don’t know where you are.
You will to have a valid passport. Check to see if a visa will also be required for where you are going. Read the Consular information sheets for the areas you are traveling to prior to leaving. This will provide you with up to date information of anything taking place in that region that you should be aware of. If you do find yourself in any type of legal trouble, immediately contact the US Embassy for assistance.
Rules, regulations, and laws are different in Asia than in the United States. It is wise to familiarize yourself with the policies and procedures of that area. You don’t want to find yourself in legal trouble out of the country because you weren’t aware of how things are done there. Follow there rules set by all airports of not leaving your bags unattended or attending any type of package from someone you don’t know for any reason.
Basic rules that apply anywhere including wearing expensive jewelry and clothing and showing large amounts of cash. These are indicators that you have items of value. It can lead you to being the victim of a robbery or worse crime. To avoid being the victim of a scam don’t exchange currency with anyone except an authorized agent. Fully investigate prior to making purchases such as jewelry, art, and antiques.
Traveling to Asia can be a great experience. If you take the time to follow these basic tips, you will be more likely to enjoy your trip as well as return safely. By being prepared, you will be able to avoid surprises that will ruin your trip. By registering with the US Embassy, you will have an ally in the case something does take place. Having all these things in place will help you be able to focus on the beauty of Asia. Read More..
Asia Travel Tips
Planning to travel to Asia? This article will share with you not only some of the popular sites, but ideas on how to best cover the countries you wish to visit.
Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.
As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:
Island Nations-
Indonesia:
One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.
Philippines:
Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia’s forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.
Japan:
For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.
Southeast Asia
Thailand:
The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.
Vietnam:
A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.
Mainland Asia-
China:
Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.
Korea:
South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.
India:
Another of Asia’s largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants. Read More..
Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.
As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:
Island Nations-
Indonesia:
One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.
Philippines:
Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia’s forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.
Japan:
For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.
Southeast Asia
Thailand:
The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.
Vietnam:
A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.
Mainland Asia-
China:
Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.
Korea:
South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.
India:
Another of Asia’s largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants. Read More..
