by Editor | Sep 1, 2010 | Simon and Baker Travel Review, Thailand
The dusitD2 was a stunning study in contrasts, a harmonious balance between the latest international standards for a luxury hotel and the timeless grace of Thai hospitality; a beacon of tranquility and contemporary refinement in the heart of bustling downtown Chiang Mai. Located on an unassuming side street in the midst of the city’s vibrant Night Bazaar, the clean white stucco and glass facade barely hinted to the chic urban sanctuary within. But the lobby quickly set the tone. Its serene minimalist expanse of gleaming bleached floors was punctuated with ultra-modern designer furniture and bursts of warm, persimmon-colored accents to achieve an understated yet dramatic effect.
by Editor | Sep 1, 2010 | Cambodia, Simon and Baker Travel Review
Before entering Restaurant Le Grand for a midweek dinner we enjoyed amouse bouche and mixed drinks in the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor lounge to the sounds of live piano music. The savory bites and specialty drinks were a preview of the tasty dinner that awaited us in the adjacent dining room.
Le Grand, the fine dining restaurant at the Raffles Hotel in Siem Reap, Cambodia, offered a selection of a la carte dishes based on ancestral Cambodian recipes from the Royal family as well as classical French selections.
by Editor | Sep 1, 2010 | Simon and Baker Travel Review, Thailand
Named Hansar to emulate the meaning of the word, happiness and joy, in the ancient Sanskrit language this newly opened family friendly beachfront property on Bophut Bay on the northern coast of Koh Samui, Thailand had many pluses. Among them were the 74-room hotel’s beach facing restaurant and upstairs lounge, a spa, an air conditioned fitness center, an attractive saltwater swimming pool and a computer room/library with two computers for guest use.
by Editor | Sep 1, 2010 | Simon and Baker Travel Review, Thailand
The first time I visited the Luxsa Spa I noticed the staff ladies were barefoot as was common in many places I visited in Thailand so I began removing my shoes at the door. The young lady at reception intercepted me and explained it was not necessary. Soon she was showing me around the spa and inviting me to return for a massage to help me get my visit to Koh Samui to a relaxing start. I followed her advice and with the spa manager’s help planned several treatment sessions over the course of my stay.
by Editor | May 1, 2000 | Simon and Baker Travel Review, Singapore
A great spot to stay in the city a little bit away from the frantic pace on Orchard Road, though it offers good access to the downtown area. The health club, swimming pool, local entertainment and dining make the Merchant Court a fun place to stay while working or sightseeing in Singapore. With the MRT station just a half block away, access to any location in the city is just that much easier.
by Editor | Apr 1, 2000 | Simon and Baker Travel Review, Singapore
If you want to see the tourist side of Singapore, this is a fine place to do it from. Reasonably priced for the class of accomodations, with spacious rooms and many facilities, the Mandarin Singapore is a great spot to rest up after a trans-pacific journey. The rotating restaurant in the tower is worth a look, just for the view at night of the entire city/country. The buildings all around this area are honeycombed with stores, although the prices are not really bargains, the selection is overwhelming. This is a fun area too, with lots of street performers and regular events (mostly promotional), and a great place for people watching.
