ArdorAsia – Best Places To Visit In Asia

Category: Thailand Holidays – Places To Visit In Thailand

  • 9 Things To Do In Phuket For A Perfect Long Weekend From Singapore

    9 Things To Do In Phuket For A Perfect Long Weekend From Singapore

    Phuket is one of Singaporeans’ favourite destinations for long weekends. Getting there from Singapore is easy with short travelling time and affordable with numerous budget airlines serving the route. There are plenty of things to do, see and eat in Phuket. If it is your first time heading over, here’s our list of 9 best activities to do In Phuket for the perfect long weekend getaway from Singapore. Have a blast!

    A post shared by Jessica Soong (@jessicasoong) on

    1. Explore the beaches

    There are lots of beach spaces in Phuket. You will definitely fall in love with the crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and endless horizon. Go trigger happy and capture every precious second while you are there. Your Instagram followers will definitely appreciate the cam whoring.Not sure which beaches to visit? Here’s quick and dirty Phuket beach guide for you:

    a) Patong

    This is the centre of everything fun and exciting in Phuket. You will be spoilt for choice with a wide variety of restaurants and accommodations in Patong. The beach is nice but can be crowded due to its popularity. It’s a convenient location since you don’t have to worry about where to eat and shop. Nightlife is vibrant in Patong, and party-goers will definitely have their share of bars, music and dance. If you are looking for excitement, definitely head to Patong.

    A post shared by Luke Mcparland (@lukemcparland) on

    b) Karon

    It’s to the south of Patong beach and is the second biggest beach in town. Golden sand, clear waters and swaying palms attract a significant crowd. There are a number of tourist-standard hotels and dining establishments with a good price. The downside is that the beach can be rough can the waves are high at times.

    A post shared by Диана (@dishvili) on

    c) Kata

    There are 2 main areas in Kata, Kata Centre and Kata South. It’s popular amongst families as there are nice restaurants, shopping areas, convenience stores. The beaches (Kata Noi and Kata Yai) are quiet and beautiful, the perfect place for you to post some Instagram pictures! You can also expect a good number of surfers here.

    A post shared by Doron Langen (@doronie) on

    d) Kamala

    There are fewer activities on the beach as compared to others. The beach relatively quiet, with bamboo-hut-style restaurants. If you are looking for a local touch and a laidback vibe, this is the place to be.

    2. Enjoy Local Cuisine

    Of course, a Singaporean itinerary will never be completed without a list of places to eat and drink. Who wouldn’t love to eat authentic Thai food in its birthplace? That rich, flavourful tom yam, chewy pad thai, sweet mango sticky rice with creamy fragrant coconut milk… Make sure to put these on your checklist:

    • Tom yam goong: Bang Pae Seafood restaurant, Ang Seafood restaurant
    • Massaman Curry: N.C. restaurant, Oriental Spoon restaurant
    • Green Curry Chicken: Kaab Gluay restaurant
    • Kanom Jeen Phuket: Khanom Jeen Mae Ting Shop, Pa Mai Kanom Jeen Restaurant

    3. Massages

    Another thing that Singaporeans always love: massage. You can get a massage almost anywhere in Phuket, from a beachside vendor to a high-end boutique, you get it all. Here’s a list of the best massages on the island:

    • Atsumi Retreat Healing Center, Rawai
    • Santosa Wellness Center, Karon
    • Banyan Tree Spa Phuket, Cherngtalay
    • Kata Day Spa, Kata
    • Spa by Burasari, Patong
    • Breeze Spa at Amari Phuket, Patong

    4. Visit Phuket Town

    Phuket town is a quaint, charming town with a fine local touch. While the tourism scene in Phuket is developing fast, and you can see hotels, bars, restaurants popping up to meet the needs of global tourists, at this small little town, you will still be able to have a view of what Phuket really is about. Small adorable houses, a combination of Thai and colonial architecture, cute cafes and hawker centres. You will be able to enjoy local food in its truest sense.

    A post shared by Ariel Leanne (@rielish) on

    5. Visit the lively night Market

    You can’t leave Phuket without going to one of its lively night markets. Colourful streets, souvenirs and street food are aplenty. There are lots of things to see and the prices are very cheap. Not sure where to go? Check them out below:

    • Phuket Weekend Market, Chao Fa West Road, Phuket Town
    • Phuket Walking Street, Thalang Road, Phuket Town
    • Phuket Indy Market, Limelight Avenue, Dibuk Road, Phuket Town
    • Malin Plaza Patong, Prachanukhro Road, Patong

    A post shared by Chillvamarket (@chillvamarket) on

    6. Check out Bangla Road in Patong

    You will find a lot of alcohol, neon-light night clubs, street vendors and transvestites. It’s exciting, lively, and you definitely can’t find something similar in Singapore. Bangla Road is not for everyone, but you need to see for yourself to find out if you like it or hate it.

    A post shared by Sandy Yap (@faves_world) on

    7. Stay in your own private luxury villa

    Why not spice up your stay in Phuket with a luxury villa? There are plenty of villas in Phuket for all kinds of budget. Gather your group to split the cost, you will be able to enjoy the villa at an amazing prize. How does spending a full day lounging by the pool while sipping away a refreshing coconut sound to you? Pull out your handphone and snap some Instagram photos. You don’t want to miss these moments!

    8. Explore cultural attractions

    If you want to fit some cultural activities in the itinerary, fret not, there are plenty of temples, galleries and museums to check out. You will find towering statues, colourful architecture and ornate interior – a sight that’s not to be missed. While there are many temples on the island, the following 5 are not-to-be-missed:

    • Phuket Big Buddha
    • Wat Chalong
    • Wat Phranang Sang
    • Wat Srisoonthorn
    • Wat Tham Ta Pan

    9. Check out Phuket Viewpoints

    Phuket is more than just sand and water. There are numerous viewpoints with captivating sights of the beautiful town. Gorgeous coastal sceneries, undisrupted vistas of the sun, the sky and the sea, mesmerising sunsets, these viewpoints just take your breath away. Take this silent moment to wind down, forget the kiasu rat race and just enjoy the beauty of life. Here are 5 viewpoints to check out:

    • Radar Hill
    • Windmill Viewpoint
    • Promthep Cape
    • Khao Rang Viewpoint
    • Karon Viewpoint

    What a view ?

    A post shared by Istvan Beke (@is__ti) on

    There is something for everyone in Phuket. It’s no wonder that Singaporeans favour this little island. It’s time to plan for your next trip!

  • Anantara Rasananda Opens Koh Phangan 1st Teppanyaki Restaurant

    Anantara Rasananda Opens Koh Phangan 1st Teppanyaki Restaurant

    Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa has expanded the dining options available to every Japanese cuisine aficionado visiting Koh Phangan with the launch of the island’s first and only teppanyaki restaurant, Yukinoya. Featuring local ingredients to be expertly prepared and enjoyed in lush, airy surroundings, Yukinoya will be a culinary destination to be discovered by anyone who seeks a superb Japanese dining experience.

    Diners on Koh Phangan can now satisfy their cravings for delectable teppanyaki expertly grilled in front of them or for exquisitely crafted sushi and sashimi, all without having to leave the island. Every meal at Yukinoya can be rounded out perfectly with a starter chosen from our chef’s signature dishes and a luscious dessert inspired by Japanese and other Asian delights. The beverage selection is just as appealing, and for those who would like to indulge in some stronger refreshment, Yukinoya offers a selection of premium sake, exclusive sake-inspired cocktails, and umeshu to satisfy the most discerning connoisseurs.

    Diners at Yukinoya can choose to be enthralled by the culinary flair of our teppanyaki chefs, slicing, dicing, grilling, and sizzling mouth-watering dishes. Or they can choose to dine al fresco under the stars on our terrace, looking over a crystal blue swimming pool to picturesque sea views and enjoying their delicious meals while being cooled by a refreshing ocean breeze.

    The Anantara brand fully embraces the “farm to table” concept, and Anantara Rasananda is no different. Koh Phangan is known for its incredible, fresh seafood, but there are plenty of sources for succulent meats, fruits, and vegetables on or near the island. This not only ensures fresh ingredients for even more scrumptious dining, but also that indigenous fishermen, farmers, and purveyors are being supported and not overlooked. And to emphasise the quality and freshness of these native sources, Yukinoya will create special daily menus highlighting these local ingredients.

    Yukinoya is open for dinner every day from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. To book a reservation or for more information, please contact: +66 (0) 77 239 555 or rasananda@anantara.com.

  • 10 Reasons To Book Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 For Next Thailand Trip

    10 Reasons To Book Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 For Next Thailand Trip

    If you are heading over to Asia, Bangkok is one of the Asian cities that you must visit. Other than the heritage and cultural aspect of the Thai Capital, many visitors from all over the world come back again and again for its delicious food, relaxing massages and satisfying retail therapy! To complete your Bangkok experience, we recommend accommodations at AccorHotels latest Novotel-branded hotel – Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20. Located in the heart of Sukhumvit, it caters to both business and leisure travellers.

    1. Location, Location, Location

    The hotel is just a short 10-minute walk away from the Sukhumvit MRT and Asoke BTS stations. You can consider taking Suvarnabhumi Airport Link to Phaya Thai Station at only 45 baht and save your cash money for other luxuries! You just need to do a quick change of trains to Asoke BTS Station to reach the hotel. Located near both BTS and MRT stations makes this hotel a really convenient rest point for your stay in Bangkok! You will be happy to know that the hotel also provides personalised Tuk Tuk transport from its lobby to the main road where the BTS station is.

    2. Hassle Free Check In & Gorgeous Lobby

    Let the hotel know in advance if you plan to check in early and they will do their best to make your room available at an earlier time. Check in is fast and hassle free. Just take a seat, relax and take in the gorgeous view of the beautiful and welcoming lobby.

    3. Rooms With Space To Spare

    Each of the hotel’s 244 rooms (ranging from Superior, Deluxe, Executive Deluxe, Family and Executive Suites) offers generous spaces and beautiful interior decor that perfectly blends clean modern lines and traditional Thai style, allowing you to unwind in an atmosphere of unmatched calm and relaxation.

    The bed looks inviting with its generous pillows and cushions. All rooms feature the fullest range of contemporary comforts, including complimentary Wi-Fi, modern furnishings, large LCD TVs and bright, stylish, bathrooms.

    4. Kink For Love Nest

    The full-length glass wall at the showers adds a surprising kink for couples. If that is not your kind of thing, you can simply press a button for the blinds to drop.

    5. Great Dining Options All Within The Hotel

    Foodies get to enjoy lots of dining options right within the hotel to suit every taste. The moment you step into the hotel lobby, you would have been greeted by the Gourmet Bar. They provide a quick fix for your burgers cravings and you must try their famous Epic Burger which consists of fresh tomato, crunchy lettuce, local chips, meat and the rest is according to your tastes.

    Breakfast is served daily at the Food Exchange where you will get to sample a wide range of delicacies ranging from the international spread of pastries, bacon, omelettes to Japanese sushi, Korean Kim Chi and of course traditional Thai dishes such as soup noodles. Great wholesome spread to re-charged for new adventures in Bangkok!

    6. Soak In The Infinity Pool With An Amazing Bar

    Always reserve some chill out time at the hotel’s infinity pool on the 9th floor of the hotel. Its pool bar serves cool drinks and light meals under the covered poolside dining area or in the comfort of a sun lounger. Some of the recommended menu items include the burgers, which are said to be particularly mouthwatering.

    If you love to sipping cocktails while you soak. Come during “Sundowner Time” between 5pm to sunset and enjoy 50% discount on all drinks. Great way to get a little tipsy before you head out for dinner.

    7. Night Cap On Sky On 20

    Before you call it a night, Sky on 20 beckons to take a step back from the busy streets and unwind in one of Bangkok’s most chilled venues. Located on the 26th floor of the hotel, it makes the perfect venue to round off the evening with a nightcap while taking in the colours and lights of the Bangkok nightscape. Finding the place can prove to be quite an adventure too!

    The bar offers stunning 270-degree views of the sunsets and nightscape of the Thai Capital. We loved how the seats are positioned to maximise both privacy and the great view of the city.

    Sky on 20 serves a full range of wines and imported craft beers, and the friendly bar staff can mix just about any cocktail you can name. Tapas-style snacks and pizzas are also served. The bar also offers nice cosy seats for group gatherings too.

    8. Gymmers Not Forgot

    If you need to burn off extra calories from all the amazingly good food in Bangkok, hit the 24 hours gym in the hotel. Fitness is available round the clock in the hotel.

    9. Keeping Your Little Ones Entertained

    Travelling with young children? You can leave your little ones at the hotel’s kids room to cater for more private time with your lover.

    10. Fast & Super Easy Check Out

    Going to be late for your flight? Novotel’s super convenient key drop off service will have you on your way to the airport in no time! Just drop your key card and hop onto your cab. No waiting time required!

    There you go. 10 awesome reasons why you should book Novotel Bangkok Sukhumvit 20 for your next trip to Bangkok city. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest accommodations and dining offers!

  • Top 10 Things To Do In Bangkok – Bangkok Must See Attractions

    Top 10 Things To Do In Bangkok – Bangkok Must See Attractions

    Visitors from all over the world see Thailand as a land of wonder, religion, culture, history, and excitement. There is perhaps no other city in Thailand that embodies these qualities than the Thai Capital – Bangkok. From majestic palaces, temples to beautiful parks to happening nightlife. Wherever you look, there is always something new to discover in Bangkok. Particularly for first time Bangkok visitors, here are the top 10 things to do in Bangkok – Bangkok Must See Attractions that you simply can’t afford to miss.

    1. Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn) & Chao Phraya River

    Often known as the most stunning temple in Bangkok, Wat Arun resides on the west (Thonburi) bank of the Chao Phraya River. The facade of this temple differs from most of the other temples in Bangkok. If you look close enough, you will realise that Wat Arun is partly made up of colourfully decorated spires. With the river within its composition, Wat Arun is a majestic sight from afar.

    Address: West of Chao Praya River | Opening hours: 8.30am – 5.30pm | Getting there: Take the Skytrain to Saphan Taksin, exit to Central Pier 8. You need to take a riverboat for 3 baht to Tha Tien Pier | Temple Fee: 100 Baht

    A post shared by Simon Leggett (@simon.leggett) on

    2. Khlong Lat Mayom Floating Market

    Both locals and visitors adore Bangkok’s floating markets!  Khlong Lat Mayom is one of the three floating markets located closest to the Thai Capital. Unlike the touristy Damnoen Saduak or over-crowded Amphawa, this market exudes the charm and authenticity of a local floating market and you would probably one of the only foreigners around. Local market culture has deep roots in Thai daily life and eating out is fun, cheap and casual. Remember to try their famous boat noodles while you are there!

    Address: 30/15 Moo 11 Talatnam Khlong Lat Mayom, Bang Ramat Road | Khwaeng Bang Ramat, Khet Taling Chan, Bangkok 10170, Thailand | Opening hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm (Sat & Sun Only) | Getting there: You can get a taxi from Wongwian Yai BTS station.

    A post shared by PREETI GHOSH (@ghoshpreeti23) on

    3. The Grand Palace

    Completed in 1782, the majestic Grand Palace is one of Bangkok’s most famous landmark. The palace has functioned 150 years as the home of the Thai King and served as the Royal court and the administrative seat of government. Till today, it still continues to awe visitors with its gorgeous architecture and intricate details – a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of Thai people.

    Address: Na Phra Lan Road, Old City (Rattanakosin) | Opening hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm | Getting there: Get off at Saphan Thaksin Station and take boat from Sathron Central Boat Pier No. 9 | Fee: 400 Baht

    A post shared by Manish Dhamija (@mdsquared78) on

    4. Wat Pra Kaew

    Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha) is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historic centre of Bangkok and within the grounds of the Grand Palace, the temple enshrines Phra Kaew Morakot (Emerald Buddha), the highly revered Buddha meticulously carved from a single block of jade.

    Address: Na Phralan, Phra Nakorn (within The Grand Palace grounds) | Opening hours: 8.30am – 3.30pm | Getting there: Get off at Saphan Thaksin Station and take boat from Sathron Central Boat Pier No. 9 | Fee: 500 Baht

    *As a sign of respect, shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops aren’t allowed. Sarongs are available for rent at the entrance, but it would better if you come appropriately dressed if you’re going to visit this temple.

    5. Jim Thompson’s House

    Located on the bank of Saen Saeb Canal, the house was the elegant residential enclave of Jim Thompson, the Thai Silk King. Known for his passion in reviving the art of Thai silk, his home echoes his 30-year love affair with South-east Asian art and cultural heritage. After he mysteriously disappeared in 1967, his abode was turned into a museum in memory of his dedication to Thai silk.

    Address: Thanon Rama I, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10400, Thailand | Tel: +6602 216 7368 l Opening hours: 9am – 5pm | Getting there: Few minutes from the Soi Kasemsam 2 from the BTS National Stadium Station Exit 1 | Website: The Jim Thompson House l Facebook:  jimthompsonhouse

    6. Yaowarat (Chinatown)

    Bangkok’s Chinatown is a must visit for food lovers who are into exotic street-side cuisine once the night falls. Of course, you can also visit during the day to purchase staples, trade gold, or pay a visit to one of the Chinese temples. Oozing with market stalls, street-side restaurants and a dense concentration of gold shops, plan your visit during major festivals, like Chinese New Year for the ultimate experience. Dig into cheap Chinese delicacies such as shark fin soup and bird nest while you are there!

    Address: Mangkon Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100 | Getting there: Alight Saphan Taksin BTS, get to Sathorn Pier. Take a riverboat to Ratchawongse, Pier #5. It’s a short walk from Ratchawong to Chinatown.

    A post shared by San-va-rit (@aesimo) on

    7. Chatuchak Weekend Market

    Chatuchak Weekend Market with its 35 acres area size and 27 sections comprises of 8,000 stores and merchandise which will literally make you shop till you drop. More than 200,000 locals and visitors visit the market on a typical weekend to sift through the goods on offer. Veteran shoppers would agree that just about everything is on sale but not all at the best bargain rates. If you have only one weekend in Bangkok, squeeze in a day trip to Chatuchak Weekend Market. You will not be disappointed.

    Address:Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok | Opening hours: 9am – 6pm (Sat & Sun) & 6pm – 12am Midnight (Fri) | Getting there: Alight BTS Mo Chit or MRT Chatuchak Park Station Exit 1

    A post shared by @im__38 on

    8. Rod Fai Night Market

    Rot Fai Market (Train Market) is an authentic open-air bazaar selling an amazing spread of vintage collectables and memorabilia. With three sections to this huge market space, you will find an assortment of traders selling a variety of wares from modern fashion and apparel antique furniture to hippy fashion and one-off, hard to find items that really make Rot Fai Market superior to all other night markets in the city. 

    Address: Srinakarin Road Soi 51 (behind Seacon Square) l Opening Hours: 5pm – 12am Midnight (Thurs – Sun) l Getting there: Taxi from BTS On Nut

    A post shared by AspirantSG (@aspirantsg) on

    9. Soi Cowboy

    This part of town can be said to be the equivalent of Las Vegas and Nevada. Flashing neon-lined the colourful streetscape comprised mainly of middle-aged expats, Japanese and western tourists, and a lot of scantily dressed girls. With cries of ‘helloooa, welcome!’ these ladies will try to lure you into their respective go-go bars. Entry is always free and drink prices are fixed but it is not the place to be when you are with your wife or girlfriend.

    Address: Sukhumvit Road between Asoke Road (Soi 21) and Sukhumvit Soi 23 l Opening Hours: After 6pm to pass midnight l Getting there: Alight Asoke Station (Skytrain) or the Sukhumvit Station (MRT)

    10. Khao San Road

    Experience quintessential Bangkok at this bustling street where East Meets West. Better known as a backpacker street, you can find anything from sleek clubs to eccentric market stalls to eclectic food. Its irrepressible energy and carefree vibe make this part of town well worth a visit.

    Getting there: Taxi from Victory Monument, Siam, or Silom BTS Station

    A post shared by @miazalidi on

    Of course, there is a lot more to Bangkok than just the above attractions. We hope our list will help you to get started with exploring what this amazing city has to offer. Share with us your experience and favourite local spot when you are back!