Connections

Executive summary by darmansjah

SUMPTUOUS IN SAMUI

With breathtaking vistas across the famous Five Islands and Angthong National Marine Park, the recently opened InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort abounds with luxury and personalized services. Guests can avail themselves of private speddboat transfers from Koh Samui’s airport, or indulge in signature treatments at a cliff-top spa. Additionally, Intercontinental’s ‘In the Know’ concierge program guarantees a journey of discovery that reveals the best that the island and surrounding areas have to offer, including a range of bespoke packages that plunge guests into the local community and rural life. Until July 15, 2012, opeing rates start from US$210++ for an Ocean View room. (For More information, call 66-07/742-9100 or visit ihg.com).

REGAL COMFORT ON BANGKOK’S RIVER OF KINGS

The newly refurbished rooms and suites at the anantara Bangkok Riverside Resort & Spa now boast backlit mirrored panels, solid makha-wood flooring, and high cellings with full-length windows that bring in light and views. Enjoy the renewed waterfront property with the ‘summer in the City’ package, priced from US$144++. For views of age-old the Chao Phraya, opt for the Anantara Premier Suite, which boasts a wrap-around balcony, a separate bar, dining room, and living area, and an opulent bathroom with marble vanities and stainless-steel inlays (Until November 6. For more information, call 66/2476-0022 or visit Bangkok-riverside.anantara.com).

IN PHUKET, LEAN BACK AND ENJOY

At the newly opened Andara Resort and Villas, beach bunnies can recline in style on Phuket’s kamala Beach. The hillside property’s Beach Club coddles sunbathers with king-size platform beds, the lounge is a full-service bar serving up ice-cold beverages and tasty Thai treats. A dedicated staff attends to guest’s every need and chauffeured transport whisks you to and from the sand in comfort. (For more information, call 66-76/338-777 or visit andarphuket.com)

RAISING THE BAR IN HAINAN

Opened in March, the MGM Grand Sanya is a waterfront property located in popular Yalong Bay. The resort is the newest addition to China’s Hainan Island and aims to take lavish living to new heights. The 675 guest quarters, including suites and beachfront villas are furnished in a luxurious ocean vibrancy. With 12 dining venues and four different nightlife options to choose from, including a wine bar and nightclub, guests will be fully entertained. After a session at the hotel’s spacious, state-of-the-art gym, head to the Sho spa for soothing treatments or a whirl through its integrated bath circuit. For more information, call 86-898/8869-1999 or visit mgmgransanya.com