by helipadonheels

Perks of staying in Pratunam, Bangkok

Well, with the airport less than an hour away, there sure are some fancy perks of staying in the bustling Pratunam area of Bangkok.

Talking from experience, I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay at hotels in Pratunam on each of my trips besides the times I have stayed with my friends at their residence in Sukhumvit.

Be on a Shopping Spree:

There is never a dull moment especially when you are staying in this area. During the day, no matter how much time you spend- you shall still be left wanting for more at the Platinum Fashion Mall. What’s more is that a newer building of the mall has been developed as well.

From clothes to bags to shoes to accessories to beauty products-this one is an absolute haven for girls and from the point of convenience- there is a floor where you can leave behind the love of your life or even better if he is not accompanying you, then take back something for him from that floor.

One of my personal favourite shops is the Pink Pvssy for their gorgeous and stylish clutches.

Handy Hacks for the Platinum Fashion Mall:

1. If there is anything particular you have in mind- seek their Help Desk and they give you the exact shop numbers dealing with the requested category of products.

2. Their food court is a must visit, there are ample choices and you would get a very affordable meal.

3. Carry a big empty bag as you land up shopping enough to stress your arms and hands- a bag with wheels would be a true blessing.

And, for the tech-savy, just few steps away is the Pantip Plaza.

As you step out of the Mall, do grab a slice of Pizza at Crispy Pizza or a Japanese Soft Serve at Demi Concept or how about some Mango Sticky Rice?

Some of the other malls not too far would be:

Almost a 10 minutes ride away would be the very well known MBK Mall and then not too far from MBK are the Siam Malls for all the branded shopping.

And must mention my current favourite- Central World.

And, as the sun sets down- the streets of Pratinum also liven up further with the night markets. My recent most discovery was the Neon Night Market- it was quite fun and casual.

However, a market I truly recommend for the evening would be Asiatique The Riverfront which though would be about half an hour away from Pratunam but would be totally worth the visit. There are plenty of shops, amazing restaurants by the river, live entertainment and there is just this fabulous festivity in the air.

Hotels at Pratunam, My picks would be:

–Centara Watergate Pavillion Hotel- you would love their breakfast and land up clicking umpteen pictures here for sure!

–The Berkeley Hotel-the room size is a complete luxury and we thoroughly relished all the dishes we ordered in our rooms. The location for me was perfect.

When looking for hotels, make sure you cross-check that it is not too in the interiors or isolated as then you would be far-off from the action.

Binging Big:

Just about five minutes away from the Platinum Mall is this cute place called Hungry Nerd. From their pasta to their burgers- I have always loved everything here.

Another favourite place in this area which we love for desserts is the B Story Cafe.

Hope this information comes handy and connectivity isn’t really an issue with Grab, regular cabs, tuk-tuk and so on.

Wishing you an ever amazing trip to Thailand!

xoxo,

Sonali

06.21.17

by helipadonheels

An Unforgettable Hotel Experience in Bangkok

Confucius asserted, “Wheresoever you go – go with all your heart”. It is quite a thought and advise to take and while I actually went with all my heart to this property- I even came out with my heart filled with beautiful experiences and memories which are going to stay with me forever! In short, this was not just any visit or stay in a hotel- it was one where I felt cherished and cared for throughout!

The property I am referring to is a sister hotel to the award winning 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai, and is located on Sukhumvit Soi 39 in Bangkok called the 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok. It enjoys a wonderful location as it is situated only a short distance from the upscale and fashionable shopping district of Emquartier/Emporium.

The architects for the property are Palmer and Turner from Bangkok, with Interiors by P49 Design and Landscape by Wabi Sabi Studio. 34 exquisitely appointed suites opened their doors earlier in April this year. And lucky me, just late May- I got the opportunity of experiencing the magic at their Sukhothai Suites.

The check-in procedure was extremely smooth and exclusive as my suite check-in happened at the Leonowens Club where we were even treated to a refreshing and colour-packed welcome drink.

In no time, we were guided to our suite and I have to admit it that I had a jaw-dropping moment- the minute I stepped into my suite and what made it even more special was a welcome note and platter filled with goodies.

As I looked around, I unravelled all about my home for the next two nights! Some of its features included a private butler service, maxi bars with wine cellars, user friendly mood lighting, high ceilings, large walk-in wardrobes and stunning marble en-suite bathrooms with chic circular baths complete with built in TV.

They even reckon that the sleep experience is of the highest standard and the spacious balcony was the ultimate chill zone, complete with the traditional 137 Pillars House signature rocking chair and an over-sized day-bed for two, with superb view of the Bangkok skyline. The balcony was a true blessing for a person like me who loves to sometimes just disconnect and relax!

137 Pillars Suites features the 137 Pillars Hotels & Resorts signature Leonowens Club, the Jack Bain’s Bar and Cigar Divan, and the exquisite Nimitr specialty restaurant featuring Thai favourites with a molecular twist as well as Western delicacies created by their Group Executive Chef and Culinary Artist, Peter Marx from Sweden. A meal here is a must. We dined here once and not just enjoyed the true beauty of the restaurant but thoroughly loved every bit of our meal as well. It was quite an experience I must say!

Their Bangkok Trading Post Restaurant is an all-day dining bistro and deli appealing to local residents and guests, serving Western and Asian favourites as well as freshly baked breads, connoisseur coffee and specialty beverages. I was told that both the restaurants were designed and created by Bangkok’s chic design couple Sophie Beghin and Faun Israrena na Ayudhya of Santhaya Associates.

And this is not it, staying in the suite comes with even more added benefits. One need not use the common pool, instead I had an amazing time swimming in their rooftop infinity edged pool. Also, an exclusive gym facility is available for the suite guests! The 27th floor has chic late check-out and early check-in pods and separate shower facilities in the event that suites are fully booked.

Trust me when I say that there wouldn’t be a dull moment when staying here. The NITRA spa and wellness center with a separate yoga and meditation sala offers activities including aerial flow yoga, tai chi, reiki and dance. Their Golf Studio seemed rather fun and interesting. Others services include 137 signature dining and picnics by design, a personal shopping service and guide, privately curated and customized tours, tennis and golf practice putting and chipping with personal trainers for both on request, kids’ corner and meeting space.

In case you want to know how to get here, then here are the details… You could get to the Emquartier/Emporium shopping complex through the BTS Skytrain/MRT underground trains and then you could get a pick-up scheduled in their complimentary London Cab, affectionately known as Louie.

Also, since the property name reflects residences, here is why- 137 Pillars Residences Bangkok houses 179 private residences offering bespoke facilities for leisure, business and long stay guests including the use of their stylish, customized London Cab.

Lastly, I can’t thank 137 Pillars Suites & Residences Bangkok enough for the most spectacular stay ever! The staff here was the most helpful, caring and accommodating… I thoroughly enjoyed my breakfast each day and have to mention that one cannot afford to miss trying their waffles for breakfast at Leonowens Club!

Wishing this property great success always as they deserve every bit of it!

Best,
Sonali

09.23.16

by helipadonheels

HIGH ON HOTELS: 137 Pillars House,Chiang Mai

Well, for all those who have been waiting for the latest post in our “High on Hotels” section- the wait is over!!! And we are certain that you would be quite pleased with what is coming your way… Thailand is a favourite with many of us, and this time around we have explored a beauty in Chiang Mai called 137 Pillars House. Towards, the close of this post- we are certain that you would agree that it is a beauty with a difference! Here is all that we found out…

Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: In addition to the naturally gracious Thai hospitality, exquisite cuisine and sensational spa treatments, the boutique experience at 137 Pillars House is unique due to its rich colonial history as it is built around an original teak homestead that dates back to the late 1800’s which has been lovingly restored. It evokes an experience that goes back to a bygone era which is still evident throughout the house. As the winner of the coveted Travel + Leisure’s Best Resort in Asia Award which is voted by the readers, this perhaps is a testimony to its memorability; together with its high year round occupancy and a high percentage of return guests.

137 Pillars House Chiangmai , Thailand 17-1-12

Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: 137 Pillars House has 30 suites all of which are white, contrasting with the rich wooden teak homestead and furnished with rich Jim Thompson silks and fabrics in a deep green, a vibrant red or a dark teal. Suites have high polished wooden floors, black and white mosaic tiles in the bathroom, a deep soak standalone claw footed bathtub, outdoor showers, large verandahs complete with the signature 137 rocking chair and exquisite furnishings throughout, with stunning orchids and bespoke amenities. Modern comforts and a contemporary interpretation of colonial design that marries the old and new.

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137 Pillars House Chiangmai, Thailand 18-1-12

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Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: The hotel houses the Jack Bain Bar, Wine Cellar and Dining Room among others. Recreation facilities include the Spa, Gymnasium and Swimming Pool. The hotel’s cooking classes are very popular and guests find it hard to stop at just one spa treatment! Although an intimate footprint guests can immerse themselves in the resort with in-suite dining, multiple dining areas and cuisine options, spa, wellness programs and classes.

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137 Pillars House Chiangmai, Thailand 19-1-12

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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: The hotel has two restaurants and they both offer different experiences, one with Thai food which is hugely popular worldwide and which most guests want to experience and keep coming back for more (as well as doing the cooking class so they can recreate their favorite dishes when they get home for their family and friends). Palette – a intimate dining experience for up to 20 people, also exhibits local artworks and offers exquisite western food options and daily specials, using organic ingredients.

137 Pillars House, Chiangmai, Thailand 20-10-12

Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: Rich Colonial History, gracious Thai hospitality, bespoke experiences such as- delicious cuisine, the spa –actually hard to name just one. Also, a great location in an historic area of Chiang Mai and within literally 5 minutes walking distance of upmarket boutiques, galleries and restaurants along the river. Personalized guest experience with all guests assigned a butler who remains in touch with guests both on property and off property. Thoughtfully designed, spacious suites and balconies offering guests a “private residence feeling” instead of a guest room. It is an Oasis in the city or even, a Sanctuary in the city.

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Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: Guests who stay in a hotel of this caliber prefer to use the hotel transportation, but the hotel is easily accessible by those who want to use the local tuk tuks and other local transport options.

Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: By hotel limousine which even has free wifi and is a seamless, relaxing and elegant way of getting in and out.

Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: Literally around the corner from the hotel is a renowned artisan store -Villa Cini showcasing the best of Thai silk products, ceramics and weaving (bespoke handbags, lifestyle items) then, vintage and traditional Thai sarongs at Fai Sor Kam and Sop Moei Arts for handicraft items. The street offers wonderful colonial era architecture.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Currently the kitchen closes at 11.30pm and re-opens at 5.30am as there has been no demand in the last 4 years of operation – but this is also under review to consider some menu options to be made available at such hours.

Pictures Courtesy: 137 Pillars House

08.31.16

by helipadonheels

HIGH ON HOTELS: KC Resort & Over Water Villas

Hey! So for those who were waiting to know all about yet another exotic destination, the wait is finally over. This time around we are sharing all that we have unravelled about this gorgeous property situated in a paradise called Koh Samui- KC Resort & Over Water Villas. Knowing about this place has only pepped up our love for Thailand. When you shall read this post, you shall know exactly what we are talking about…

Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Feel on top of the world from the exclusive paradise retreat KC Resort & Over Water Villas as you admire the views of Chaweng Bay, the stunning sapphire Gulf of Thailand and tropical Matlang Island. The luxury hillside hotel is a romantic hideaway nestled amongst lush nature with exotic accommodation, a sublime infinity-edge pool and elegant dining venues in the sky.

Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: Each room has king size bed and sofa, large bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and rain shower. The rooms are equipped with in-room technology such as 42” LCD satellite and cable TV. Each room also disposes of air condition, in-room safe, minibar, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, hairdryer and complimentary wi-fi.

Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: In our resort you can experience infinity swimming pool, fitness center, the View restaurant, Wine lounge, Panorama bar, Mayang Sari spa, Sauna and Steam room.

Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: The View restaurant offers a relaxing retreat for those who seek a definitely different dining destination. With a fresh new concept, and an innovative team of chefs, you can experience home-crafted cuisine like no other, taking simple food to another level. In keeping with the spirit of home-crafted cuisine, much of our produce is locally sourced and a selection of cured meats and breads are crafted in-house for use in the restaurant. Tasty flights are also on hand with a selection of three progressive wines, aptly paired with tasting bites.

Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: KC Resort is situated on Koh Samui’s most exciting beach, the resort offers tranquility and unforgettable scenery just minutes away from soft white sands and the lively Chaweng Centre, a hotspot for shopping, dining and dancing.
The divine accommodation includes our signature range of over water villas designed with relaxation and indulgence in mind. Offering a total of 95 rooms, suites and villas all guests are pampered with a full range of modern in-room amenities.

Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: On Koh Samui Island, there is no public transport but only taxi. We provide daily shuttle service to the Chaweng beach, which is located in the center of Koh Samui. Shuttle service operates 4 times per day and it’s free of charge for all in-house guests.

Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: The easiest way to get to KC Resort is to book airport transfer provided by hotel or take outside taxi. We are located only 10 minutes away from the Koh Samui airport.

Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: The closest shopping mall “Central Festival Samui” is situated in the heart of Chaweng and its only 10 minutes from our resort. This mall describes itself as “the most complete and largest lifestyle shopping complex in Samui”.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Our resort take last order at 22:30, however around us you can find many restaurants and small shops which you can reach within walking distance.

It looks like a true beauty with incredible offerings to make the overall experience a memorable one, what say?

Pictures Courtesy: KC Resort & Over Water Villas, Koh Samui

Helipad On Heels

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Tag Archives: Asia Hotels

Perks of staying in Pratunam, Bangkok

An Unforgettable Hotel Experience in Bangkok

HIGH ON HOTELS: 137 Pillars House,Chiang Mai

HIGH ON HOTELS: KC Resort & Over Water Villas