Stay & Play

Thai Hotel Quartet

by Michael Morcos

The Sukhothai Bangkok

Round and round I went, that’s what I did after entering my deluxe suite at the Sukhothai hotel. First, going to the left was the enormous washroom, then into the master bedroom and around to the living room and back to the large entranceway. I was in bliss! After a very long journey, including three long-haul flights, my stay there was exactly what the doctor ordered.

I knew from our approach to the hotel entrance that this was one incredible property. It was quiet and tranquil with beautifully kept gardens, reinforcing my thoughts of this gem in the city.

My room was absolutely perfect, with plenty of space, or should I say an overabundance of space, that I barely even used the living room. I appreciated the well-appointed washing facilities that had both a tub and a shower, and on opposite ends were his and hers wash basins. The tall windows opened onto the courtyard and offered a magnificent view of the large pool of exotic floating aquatic plants.

Dining on the property was perfect. The service was impeccable, and the Thai menu was amazingly prepared by master chefs that made the presentations so beautiful that it was a shame to disturb them.

As compared to many Bangkok hotels which are increasingly in skyscraper buildings, the Sukhothai hotel’s main building is only a few floors high and although it is an older premise, it is absolutely spotless and has an abundance of gardens, statues, and assortment of smaller buildings.

The biggest danger of staying in such a beautiful and opulent property is that you might likely miss out on visiting the city. This beautiful resort has just about all someone needs on premises. There are richly decorated restaurants, a spa, pools, seating areas both inside and outdoors, and perhaps one of the best hotel gyms anywhere in Bangkok. In all, this is a one-of-a-kind property and boasts beautiful artwork throughout, rich decorations, built with the finest material and kept with loving care.

www.sukhothai.com

Sriwilai Hotel

Another day, and another visit to a magnificent Thai hotel. By total coincidence, we would be in the city sharing the name of our last hotel, Sukhothai. This time, we were out of Bangkok and into the ancient capital. This wonderful hotel reflects the tranquil and natural setting of the city and we immediately felt relaxed and at total peace within the property. The Sriwilai is set on a large plot of land with gardens full of colorful flowers, healthy looking vegetables, and many fruit-baring trees. We were in the country and as close to nature as we could get.

My accommodation in a large, superior room was spotlessly clean and as natural as the surroundings. There was a beautiful dark wooden ceiling, earth tone ceramics throughout, spacious washroom facility, classy looking wooden and wicker furniture, and wonderful large windows with a dazzling view of the greenery.

My room had the look and feel of rural Thai village design, but also had all the modern amenities one would want and expect, including fast Wi-Fi service, plenty of storage space and a welcoming tea station.

Although this was a hot night, we would still sit outside with a refreshing breeze and a view of the beautiful pool reflecting the flames up from garden lanterns. Perfect moments only happen once in a while, and we were living in one here at the Sriwilai. Our incredibly tasty and well-presented Thai meal included different delicacies meant to be shared. It was so fresh that we could tell it came from just a few feet away.

The truly enjoyable nights and beautiful sunny days in a perfect setting washed away our jet lag. With a friendly, caring, smiling staff, blissful moments at the Sriwilai, and among the many incredible historic sites of this charming and peaceful city that refreshed and nurtured our mind, body, and soul.

https://sriwilaisukhothai.com/

Melia Chiang Mai

The Melia Chiang Mai is nothing short of a top-class property. It was striking at first sight and refreshing as we entered the lobby. It was both simplicity and sophistication, modern and yet had a definite old-world Thai influence where the major style was white walls and ceilings with accents of different colored wood tones and highlighted with modern looking furnishings and artwork.

I have stayed at many Melia properties around the world, and I have always left with the impression of an upscale experience and restful and relaxing time. This Spanish hotel chain knows and understands hospitality and how to serve their guests. And from my stay at the Melia Chiang Mai, these thoughts were reconfirmed.

My deluxe room was just about perfect, as comfortable as it was inviting. It seemed that everything was thoroughly thought out and placed in just the right place. Although not a large room, I never felt that I was missing space. The washroom facilities were just right, very clean and proper with a fantastic showerhead to soothe aching muscles.

To my delight there was a large window with a seating area that gave a magnificent view of the surroundings. Speaking about views, the roof top terrace was to die for. Built on multiple levels, guests could have refreshments and meals while enjoying a 360° view of the whole city of Chiang Mai, as we did to watch a spectacular sunset over the hills.

Besides being in the heart of the city, close to a popular street market, this property also has a top-notch spa facility and my massage there was heavenly. Everything was just perfect at this gem in Chiang Mai.

www.melia.com

Paradee Koh Samed Resort

Plainly stated, Paradee Koh Samed Resort is a spectacular destination on its own. Once checked in, there is no reason to step out as everything is at hand for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Koh Samed is a tropical paradise and so is this incredible property. You cannot just drop by, as it takes a coordinated effort with the dedicated hotel staff to get you and your luggage onto a luxury speedboat and out to the resort. This on its own was a delightful adventure as we would take in the refreshing breeze on blue waters alongside the tropical coastline to arrive on the resort’s beach to a smiling, welcoming staff.

My Garden Pool Villa was nothing short of heavenly. I had a magnificent villa to myself that included a beautifully decorated living room coupled with a large and comfortable bedroom. The magnificent washroom had both a big tube and private outdoor shower, added to these was an outdoor patio with a private plunge pool. My walled area had shrubs in front with just enough open space to get a view of the sandy beach and clear aqua-blue waters.

The Paradee dining experience was perfect. There was a fantastic hot and cold breakfast buffet, drinks at the sunset bar and our dinners were delicately prepared and well-presented Thai dishes served alfresco and made for a memorable evening of eating delight.

Life is good at the Paradee. How could it not, a beautiful tropical island, opulent accommodations, clear blue skies, hot sunny days, a private sandy beach, great service and a wonderful ambiance, how else could it be.

www.samedresorts.com/paradee/