From the outside The Boathouse, named after an old painted fishing boat that stood near its entrance when it was established, looked like any other beachside restaurant. Even the interior of the open air restaurant with beautiful sea views was more informal than I anticipated. When we sat down to eat however the meal was more formal than the beach side setting implied. Each menu was distinctive and both were worthy of the special 45-minute drive each way I had made.
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.
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.
This child friendly and stylish hotel in the heart of the city was built in a contemporary style with Cambodian art and decorative accents throughout. The hotel was conveniently situated on a busy street and within a five-minute walk of the central market.
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.
We know that summer has arrived when, in the Old Port, the brilliant yellow and blue tents of the Cirque du Soleil are raised and the bright flags flutter in the wind. On average, every two years Cirque presents a new show to the public. Montreal, Canada is the circus capital of the world. The city promotes circus schools and training centers for children and adults from all over. And so it is with great anticipation that we wait for each new creation by the Cirque du Soleil.
