Amari Phuket

Everyone knows Phuket as a tourist destination if you like to soak up the sun, sea and have lots of fun. But with so many accommodation choices, you'd be thinking where's best. And given that transport really isn't the cheapest, choosing a resort nearby the shopping, food and entertainment would be best choice, wouldn't it?

We checked in at Amari Phuket's Two Bedroom Suite Club Ocean View Balcony. The 112 square metres offers a king in one room and a twin in another and will fit a family or 4 friends perfectly. To be honest, the living room was so spacious, you really wouldn't have any trouble fitting a couple more friends in there as well.

Besides the spacious rooms with nicely fitted sheets, you also have a choice of a pillow menu that offers you different types suited to make your stay with them more comfortable. The wardrobe also comes with an assortment of hangers for the different types of clothing, as well as laundry services.

With a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area and a separate living area, throwing a party would be as simple as ABC, not forgetting the spacious balcony that overlooks lush greenery and the ocean, promising that you'll be waking up with Mother Nature every morning.

Both rooms come with their own ensuite bathrooms and the bathroom amenities smelt as if you were in a spa. The exclusive Breeze Spa amenities contain Lemon Verbena and has a refreshing island spa kind of smell to it, so much so showering three times a day wouldn't be a problem.

The Club Room also means that you are entitled to a more exclusive breakfast at The Clubhouse, as well as cocktails every evening. While you are still entitled to breakfast at the common area, we had breakfast daily at The Clubhouse because the view was just pretty amazing and you also get to pick from a selection of made-to-order dishes including pancakes, congee, eggs done the way you like it and of course freshly made coffee.

We also had lunch at Rim Talay, an all-day dining restaurant by the sea that serves up international a la carte menu. We had a couple of Thai dishes, but I think what stood out the most was the Tom Yam Going, Moo Ping Kati Sod and the Kao Pad Goong, also known as Thai Fried Rice with a protein of your choice. The prices are extremely reasonable, considering you are getting a taste of authentic Thai cuisine and with a view nonetheless.

Just a few steps from Rim Talay, you could jump into the pool or head over to Rim Talay Pool Bar for a drink or two. Amari Phuket has 3 different pools, located at different locations, so if you are the kind that loves exploring and trying out the different pools, I highly recommend you take an entire morning or evening to do so.

If soaking up all that sunshine isn't really your thing but you really really want a drink, head on over to Samutr Bar. This bar located at the lobby is one you cannot miss out on while staying at Amari, the view of the bar is not just amazing, I'd say it's one-of-a-kind spectacular. Just as the name suggests, Samutr means ocean, and an ocean view is exactly what you can expect. Sit down at the bar and watch the day go by, or perhaps the sunset - life will pretty much feel kind of complete.

Our favourite meal at Amari Phuket however, was our meal at La Gritta helmed by Chef Patrizia Battolu. We had high expectations because I was told by a friend that it's one the of the best, or perhaps the best Italian place in Phuket. And after trying a couple of dishes including their homemade pasta and Tomahawk, let's just say that I can fully agree with that statement. Our only gripe was that we didn't make it in time to catch the sunset, because the al fresco dining area allows you to dine with an unobstructed view of the ocean and the breeze in your hair.

At the lobby, there are also a couple of shops in case you need to grab some stuff that you might have forgotten to bring for your holiday. This includes a gift store to pick up souvenirs, as well as dive shop in case you need some diving or snorkelling equipment. We also heard that Amari Phuket offers snorkelling experiences, but were too bummed that we didn't have time to check it out.

We were also disappointed that we couldn't find time to check out Breeze Spa, their hilltop spa that offers some pretty amazing massage experiences. Truth is, we were so wow-ed by what Amari Phuket had to offer as a resort amidst all that greenery and all they had to offer. No guesses where we'll be staying the next time we are back at Phuket - it's pretty much a no brainer.



Amari Phuket
2 Meun Negen Road
Patong Beach, Kathu
Phuket 83150
+66 7634 0106-14
www.amari.com/phuket


This was an invited media session.

Icon Interior Design : Scandinavian Vibes

When I got my new keys to my pad earlier in April, my biggest concern was how was I going to renovate it. It's a really small space so ideally I really needed something really functional because I have tons of stuff to keep and media drops coming in almost every other day. The apartment came with almost nothing, except a few cabinets, a fully-fitted bathroom and kitchen appliances.

On top of that, I've been shared enough horror stories about interior designers that over-commit and under-deliver. It didn't help that my parents were also about to renovate their place as well, so I was forced to move out while they took turns with the rooms at their place. I knew that I obviously needed an interior design firm that I could trust to do the job without any hiccups, or minimal hiccups I would say. I asked around and suddenly remembered that my friend Diah (www.etrangle.net) had recently done her second home renovation with Icon Interior Design, so it was quite brainless to ring them up to get a quote for my place.

I was introduced to Jason, one of the many really great Interior Designers that they have on board with them. He took a look at the floor plan, we discussed the style and feel I wanted for my new crib and within a week I literally got drawings for the new place already!

I'm not going to bore you with the nitty gritty stuff, so this post is going to be about the place in general and what we have came up with. For a start, it was quite tedious to squeeze in a good sized sofa, as well as a proper dining area that I could throw dinners when friends and family come by.

The Living Room

Initially wanting to go for a paint with a greyish tone, I was recommended to try out Nippon Paint's latest addition to their paint family - Momento Special Effects. The entire wall that links the dining and living area was created using the paint that was painstakingly done for an entire day. It requires 4 coats of paint and cannot be rushed as it every layer needs to set before applying the next coat in order to achieve the Momento effect!

We also figured that we could fit a 55" television in so we created a feature wall that matches the dining area and storage area it. Using Keminates, I loved how they offer a great variety of laminates and managed to achieve the Scandinavian look from it!

The Dining Area

Instead of buying a dining set, we created a dining table that was customised to match the entire feel of the place, as well as a size that would comfortably fit 4 (or sometimes even 5). The table-top was created using KompacPlus, they are highly resilient to wear and tear, are water and steam-proof and non-porous, hence making them extremely durable! We also fitted in a shelving for some booze, as well as some mood lightings at the back of the carpentry in case I wanted something more cosy instead of the dining light.

The Patio Area

Initially just tiles, I was recommended to layer the patio with Evorich evoDECK. The evoDECK is a wood composite decking that adds realistic wood appearances with natural looking grains. Unlike natural wood, this does not require much maintenance as it is weather friendly, scratch proof and most importantly, any stains on it be easily washed off. To be frank, I found this rather useful because it's a pool access unit and most of the time my friends and I come up from the pool dripping wet. With the evoDECK, I don't have to worry if there's access water all over! In fact, sometimes out of laziness I just let it dry up naturally without having to worry about having to mop it! It's super fuss-free and I highly highly recommend it to all of you guys, especially those with balconies and patios!

The Master Bedroom

Using Keminates again, Jason knew that I clearly that I wanted my bedroom to be minimalist. It's a small space I won't deny, so fitting in a king with 2 side tables was going to be a problem. Instead, he recommended me to go for a queen and incorporated 2 side tables for aroma diffusers and my phone. He also recommended suspending lights on each side so that the table space wouldn't be compromised. For the luxe hotel feel, we also added lights on the top frame and bottom of the bed, so there's an option for a cosier feel when I turn down in the evenings! The entire bedframe was custom made using laminates from Keminates as well!

The Guest Room

We fitted in a super-single bed frame for the guest as it was much smaller than the master. Also, because I wanted a bit more storage space, Jason cleverly included extra drawers below the bed frame so I can store some clothes of my own. We also managed to add more storage and a full length mirror at the corner of the guest room so it doubles up as my "wardrobe room" when I don't have guests over. Using a similar tone of laminate from Keminates, both guest room and master gives off the same white clean minimalist vibes which I have gotten tons of praises on!

If you are looking to renovate your house or are in the midst of settling your new crib, I cannot recommend Icon Interior Design more! They are also celebrating their 10th anniversary on 12 & 13 October 2019 where you'll get 10% off all packages! And that's a lot of money by the way, considering that renovations don't come cheap! Head on over to their Facebook page or Instagram to find more out!

For more information on the Icon Interior's 10th Anniversary promotion, visit them at www.instagram.com/iconinteriordesign, www.iconinterior.com.sg or ring them at +65 8822 3441!

Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square : The Brand New Deluxe Room

While it is no doubt that Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square is one of my favourite picks each time I'm in the city, I was stoked to know that they recently revamped and polished up their Deluxe Room! The hotel is so centrally located, I never ever have to worry about getting around. With the new rooms, it was no surprise that I knew that I had to re-visit and stay with them yet once again to find out the new offerings!

While the exterior of the hotel hasn't changed much, the inside leaves much to be said. Apart from the usual culprit that serves great cocktails at the lobby, Gourmet Bar, we also found an array of cakes and sweet treats kiosk located right outside the Premier Lounge. Oh yes and for scent lovers, Lalil is located also at the lobby, offering a range of aromatherapy products made from nature!

The brand new Deluxe Room features a modern design perfect for a fun traveller! Think memory foam beds so comfy you would have trouble waking up for breakfast, a spacious living area to unwind after a long day and a 55" Smart TV just in case you want to laze in bed! I also like how they make the flooring wooden for a 'home away from home' feel and add a pop of colour with their decoration behind the bed!

I can never be thankful and amazed by the hospitality at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square because when they knew I was coming back and that I missed the taste of authentic Mango Sticky Rice, they immediately arranged for one to be sent up to my room alongside some fresh florals. Another reason why I love staying with them and love Bangkok city so much.

The bathroom also comes highly equipped with technology such as modern vanity lighting, a rain shower to refresh yourself up and also some amazing smelling amenities that care for the environment.

Of course, we couldn't resist taking a splash in their rooftop pool in the humid weather! I love the pool because it gets great sunlight if you want to suntan and by night you get a little breeze and a city skyline!

I also pampered myself to a foot massage at Tammachart Day Spa, located on the same level as the swimming pool. They offer a good selection of spa experiences at very affordable prices despite being located within the hotel hence I highly recommend going for one if you are staying with them so you don't have to worry about moving around and can head back to your room after your massage!

Centrally located and super comfortable, it is no secret why I always choose to stay at Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square whenever it's possible!

Did you know that you also enjoy better rates when you book directly with them? Head on over to their website to find out more the next time you visit Bangkok city.

Whether for work, play or just a trip with family and friends - Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square ticks the list of travel experiences you would want to experience for a fantastic trip to Bangkok!



Novotel Bangkok on Siam Square
392/44, Siam Square Soi 6
Pathumwan, 10330
Bangkok, Thailand
+66 (0) 2209 8888 
www.novotelbkk.com 


This was an invited media session.

Le Méridien Bangkok

The next time you are visiting Bangkok city looking for accomodation, you have to check out Le Méridien Bangkok in the Silom commercial district. Whether looking for a comfy stay or a kick-ass swanky art hotel - this place ticks all the wants you probably would like to experience on a vacation.

For a start, I highly recommend you check yourself into the exclusive Circular Room that comes with an iconic round bed. Funny enough, it may seem weird and a little odd but trust me when I say it's pretty comfortable. There's also a pillow menu to maximise your comfort level, in case you were wondering.

The Circlar Room also comes with a huge sofa that gives you a pretty good view of the city. As night falls, all you can expect is a perfect view of city light - perfect for unwinding and doing nothing with a glass or two.

My favourite part of the room has got to be the bathroom that's marble-designed and comes fitted with a bathtub so you could laze around and do nothing after a long day of shopping and touring around. It also comes with a rain shower and Malin + Geoetz bath amenities to finish off that luxe bathroom experience.

When I first shared on my insta-stories about checking-in, everyone raved about the breakfast spread at Le Méridien. Kind of bummed that I didn't get the experience it the first morning (due to the extra comfy bed), I made an effort to head down earlier the next day before checking-out, only to realise how much I was missing out on.

Think a full spread of breakfast items from fresh juices (juiced using fresh fruits on the spot for you, by the way), a Japanese counter with Japanese breakfast items, fresh pastries and many more stuff you wouldn't expect to be seeing on a typical hotel breakfast spread. What wow-ed me honestly, was the fact that they bothered to customise my Instagram handle on my latte!

On the sixth floor of the hotel, you can opt for a workout at their fitness centre or take a splash in the pool. The fully equipped Technogym overlooks the pool that has a perfect Instagram-worthy background. There's also an option to have a cocktail or two at their poolside bar, Plunge.

Of course, I had to try out their award-winning spa before leaving the place. The Spa by Le Méridien boasts many treatments and I highly recommend that Hot Lava Stone Massage that uses heated volcanic stones and warm aromatic oil for a healing and stress-relieving experience.

As I mentioned earlier, Le Méridien Bangkok ticks almost all (if not all) of what you would expect of a 5-star luxury hotel when on a vacation. They are also a stone throw away from popular tourist attractions such as the Patpong Night Market and of course nightlife is aplenty just across the road. Now, if someone would - please fast-forward my life and book me my next stay with them.

Le Méridien Bangkok

40/5 Surawong Road, Bangrak

Bangkok, 10500 Thailand

https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bkkdm-le-meridien-bangkok

This was an invited media session.