Life Crisis

Well, you may be thinking why doesn’t the heading signify any age bracket or possibly throw light on the elderly in the neighbourhood because we think crisis occur only mid-age onwards. 

Crisis doesn’t just strike you mid-life or at an advanced age. It could be at any phase in your life in my opinion. But what you need is a zest and determination to get up and bounce back. In many cases the routine seems mundane and boring and the motivation to move forward seems like a daunting task. But that is exactly when we need to pull up our socks. We need to look for that one spark that will ignite our day. It could be something as basic as being hooked to a book.

As human beings, we need to constantly strive for growth. Now this growth shouldn’t be drastic, comparative with those around or stressful. It can be our own unique journey of progression. We need not become obsessed with materialistic goals and neither have absolutely no vision at all. What it means is that we need to just get better than what we were yesterday. 

I realized I am usually the one who is always pulsating with new ideas and have been very enterprising but there came a phase sometime back where I just didn’t feel like the above. I just wanted to start my day with a blank slate, go with the flow- do the routine tasks and be thankful for the simple pleasures like enjoying my newly done cozy room. 

This phase also made me realise that I do enjoy the simple pleasures like tossing a healthy salad, decorating my room, cleaning up my closet, distributing things I no longer use, planning the daily meals and so on. I consciously made a decision to not hop on to flights mindlessly, to cancel on plans that I didn’t feel up for and avoid negative conversations which don’t do any good. I must say all this contributes to us positively in some or the other way. 

This isn’t a note of someone depressed but it comes from someone who wants to strive for a life which is a good mix. A mix of the fancy and not so fancy. I do enjoy my holidays, shopping sessions, night-outs and so on. But I also truly enjoy my morning yoga, evening walks, home-cooked meals, deep conversations and so much more.

Talking about yoga, that truly is my new love and I hope this one is for good as it has become my most looked forward to activity in the day. I love the hustle, I love to work hard but every now and then, I love to slow down because I don’t wish to run through with the pleasures of life. So, why not pause to reflect now instead of at 40: am I able to holistically enjoy my life or not?

Ultimate Spa Experience at Urban Oasis Spa

My trip to Thailand will always be incomplete without a pampering session at The Oasis Spa. Hence, this time around too I had to make sure that I indulged in my favourite treatment and got my husband to experience a worthwhile spa journey at The Oasis Spa too.

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The cherry on the cake had to be the fact that we got to try an all new branch of theirs which is extremely plush and modern. Without making any bones about it, I have to say that when you talk about luxury spa in Thailand, The Oasis Spa definitely is a strong brand to trust and reckon with!

Soon after you walk-in for your appointment, you will be asked to fill in all your details specifying the pressure points and other important information which the therapist must know before starting your treatment. They offer you a welcome drink as you complete the formalities and are then guided to your spa room. The room is well equipped with a shower and other essentials. I had opted for the King of Oasis Massage while my husband went in for Lanna Secrets.

Lanna Secrets is all about the ancient time-honored techniques of Northern Thailand where they re-open blocked energy pathways which cause fatigue and weariness. Relief begins when acupressure is applied during a Traditional Thai Massage followed by Thai Herbal Hot Compresses which dissolve soreness and further releases energy. Finally, an Aromatherapy Hot Oil Massage adds further relief. My husband felt thoroughly relaxed and rejuvenated post the treatment which lasted for two hours.

King of Oasis is one of their signature two hour treatments where one feels majestic by the end it. This stress-buster treatment combines Thai massage techniques with Aromatherapy massage. It begins with a Thai Herbal Hot Compress placed along the strong muscle lines. Then a Hot Oil Massage stretches the muscles to reopen the body’s energy pathways, enhance circulation, increase energy levels and promote overall health and well-being.

I have to say, it was the best decision we made to start our Bangkok holiday with The Oasis Spa and we were so glad to have gone back after all these years. Also, they follow all Covid-19 related safety protocols so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest. On completion, we took a quick shower and sipped some tea and yes, clicked lots of pictures for it is a gorgeous property.

Until next time, thank you The Oasis Spa! Cannot wait to be back again already!

More on Maldives

While my Instagram account was bombarded with posts of my Maldivian holiday thought why not blog about it too!

Hence, I finally decided to pen down my experience which was everything fabulous and memorable.

  1. So, first things first-Maldives is not at all boring if you plan your trip well. I feel you should plan to stay for four days and maybe increase the duration only if you are opting for hotel hopping.
  2. Choosing a good hotel is a must since your entire holiday is all about enjoying your hotel and making the most of the services and activities it has to offer. We chose to stay at Joali and we absolutely loved it.
  3. Make prior bookings- This is an advise you shall definitely thank me later for. Whether its the spa, their specialty restaurant or water sports- all these mostly keep busy with the in-house guests so to be able to enjoy these services at your convenience- it is best to make prior reservations.
  4. Definitely opt for personalized experiences such as a private screening or private meal by the sea.
  5. Meal plan- Basis how cost effective you want to make your trip, you should look into this aspect. Many hotels give an excellent all inclusive deal which works out more economical. But if you want a more personalized experience- then take each day and each meal as it comes.
  6. Clothing & Essentials- Before leave you will definitely check on the temperature but of course you’ll need a lot of beach wear and lounge wear. But make sure to plan your clothing well as the fabrics must be soft and soothing! Also, you would want to click lots of pictures against the beautiful natural backdrop so don’t hesitate in dressing up! And whatever you may forget but don’t forget to apply a good sunscreen. It is also very important to keep yourself well hydrated.

You are not alone!

Recent times have been extremely harsh, brutal and challenging. There is immense fear reference one’s health, grief of losing close ones, anxiety of what the future holds and just way too many such emotions. But we all must accept and acknowledge the fact that we are not alone in this! Each one is fighting some or the other battle, some of them may be visible while others may not be. Life has been anything but normal and it is most important now more than ever before to protect our menatl well-being.

Mental health has long been neglected, in turn causing many of us to suffer in silence. We got talking with the experts at Goodlives, who are working tirelessly to make mental health treatment accessible and affordable. They connect people to the right therapist and also spread mass awareness through various means.

In this conversation, we stressed on questions which maybe bothering many of you, for instance-when should one opt for therapy? We truly hope this article proves to be helpful.

Helipadonheels: What are the most common queries with regards to mental health which are pouring in?
Goodlives: Covid-19 has been the biggest trigger for many. The second wave has been more hard as the complications have been severe. Most questions revolve around how to cope with lockdown, covid-related stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, fatigue. The transition from being outdoors everyday with no worries on social distancing, to being in your home 24/7, alone or with family, is something that’s been most asked for counseling. Also, regarding the uncertainty of this pandemic and how it’s affecting future decisions (career, academics, family etc)- this is also another aspect where help is being mostly asked.

Helipadonheels: What are some of the basic few steps each one of us can take in current times to ensure our mental well-being?
Goodlives: We can take care of ourselves and others in some basic ways:

  • Firstly, keeping a routine is vital for providing structure during these times of uncertainty.
  • Having nutritious food (adding fruits and vegetables) and having meals on time. Water intake is also important. Skip the processed drinks and have a glass of natural juice instead.
  • Choose a specific bedtime and wake-up time. Try to keep it consistent
  • Engaging oneself in some physical activity. You don’t need to follow rigorous workout sessions. Whatever is your comfort and convenience is important.
  • Remember to unplug. Excessive consumption of news and screen time is unhealthy for both body and mind.

Helipadonheels: What are the habits which one should use as indicators for seeking help?
Goodlives: If you experience any of the following emotions or feelings to the extent that they interfere with life, therapy is needed:

  • You might feel like you have too many things to do or too many issues to cope with. You might feel like you can’t rest or even breathe. This overwhelming feeling is the biggest sign.
  • Everyone feels angry at times. Seeking support to deal with these feelings may be a good idea when they don’t pass, are extreme compared to the situation, or if they lead you to take violent or potentially harmful actions.
  • It’s normal to worry about things from time to time, but when worry takes up a significant part of your day or causes physical symptoms, therapy can help you deal with it.
  • Losing interest in usual activities, the world around you, or life in general can indicate mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
  • There is lack of appetite or even overeating.Fatigue can cause you to sleep more than usual or have trouble getting out of bed in the morning.
  • Losing hope or motivation, or feeling as if you have no future, can indicate depression or another mental health condition. Feeling hopeless from time to time, especially after a period of difficulty, isn’t uncommon. But when it persists, it may lead to thoughts of suicide.
  • Many people feel better when they’re able to spend at least some time alone. But, if social withdrawal has become a habit, then it’s time to check-in.

Helipadonheels: Lastly, if someone isn’t feeling their usual self how can they reach out to your specialists and how does the process work?
Goodlives: Goodlives has been operating on a very effective level on this aspect. Whenever you need to reach out for therapy, you just need to go to the website. There is no need to fill up a form. The right therapist is matched according to your needs. Confidentiality is absolutely maintained. And then the therapy session begins in the comfort of your room. We do not only have talk therapy, we also have expressive art therapy like music, dance and drawing. The sessions are continued consistently, as long as the client and therapist seems fit!

To all those reading this one, know that there is light after the tunnel and that you are not alone!

ON GRATITUDE

Today, I am getting back to writing for my #LoveLife series and would like to share about the concept/attitude of gratitude.

I have to say it first up, having a heart of gratitude is having the key to a happy life. Over the years, I have realized that most of us have this tendency of focusing on things we do not have. For instance, seeing the glass half empty instead of seeing it half full. However, if the focus changes to what we have or who I am- it truly can become a game changer! We shall wake up each morning feeling genuinely grateful for the little things such as the delicious home-cooked dinner we had last evening or the amazing weather in the morning or even looking forward to dressing up for work or most importantly, feeling healthy!

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A heart of gratitude is truly an enriched and beautiful heart for it appreciates and celebrates life. And trust me, everyone loves to be around people who appreciate and are grateful. With gratitude being our foremost attitude not only do we feel good but instead we uplift the spirits of another life too! For instance, it maybe routine for mother to cook, but try and compliment her for the meal and see the big smile on her face!

Also, I feel gratitude reduces the room for complain for you try and look at the good or positive in every challenging situation as well.

Lastly, I would say always be grateful for this life, our families and friends, the person we have become and are becoming and cherishing each and every necessity of life we have been blessed with from our home where we live to the clothes we wear!

Having said this, celebrate the little things in life and you would realize that you are celebrating ever so often. Share your celebrations, involve others in your celebrations, make them feel a part of being the reason itself to celebrate. Also, always have gratitude for the things you wished to own one day and with your hard work have been able to!!!

For me, my heart wells up with joy and happiness each time I think about the trips I have made and I can’t be grateful enough for those plans having become a reality!

P.S. I have and shall continue to have gratitude for all my dreams getting fulfilled. And writing this makes me realize how about some gratitude for having the will and courage to dream itself?

Best,
Sonali

Hyderabad-it doesn’t get greener and prettier than this!

Well whether you’re a local or a tourist or visiting for a business meeting- when in Hyderabad besides gorging on Biryani or experiencing the Ramoji Film City or visiting the Charminar or for that matter shopping at Ikea- you must make time to visit the Boulder Hills Golf & Country Club!

The 18-hole championship golf course has been designed by Peter Harradine and truly has it all to challenge a golfer and for the rest, it is a beauty like no other!

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And you need not stress about bringing your own equipment, the club is well stocked to offer a variety on rental and their very friendly panel of coaches shall make your golf lesson extremely fun! Taking to golf has a plethora of advantages- you meet an excellent profile of people, invest in a sport that you can pretty much play for life, spend enough time amidst nature and the list can go on!

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The weekends at the course are extremely busy so make sure your book your tee time or lesson in advance! Also, when at BHGCC- do grab a seat at their cafe which is pool facing and gives you a jaw-dropping view of the golf course and order some tasteful snacks!

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In fact, Boulder Hills is a lot more than a great golf course. It offers venues for your special occasions, whether it is a wedding or a proposal or even a corporate day-out, discuss with them and see them going all out to ensure the delivery is top-class!

Having mentioned about the swimming pool already, the club is also equipped with   squash court and gymnasium facilities.

Now, wait no more and gift yourself an experience like no other!

Pictures Courtesy: Boulder Hills Golf & Country Club

Club Address: Opposite Indian School Business, Beside Infosys, ISB Road, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, Telangana 500032

The Oasis Spa for an experience like no other!!!

Okay then, some of the finest things take time… Hence, this review is coming now- well, I was in Bangkok in February like many of you already know and a ritual of sorts for me is to pamper myself at the top quality and extremely rejuvenating spot- The Oasis Spa.

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Once you enter its surreal setting, you’re sure to leave behind all your worries and stress and trust me on this, I always feel when I am here that I am no longer in a city but truly in heaven.

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It truly is an Oasis of everything pleasant and positive! The tranquility develops as you pass through the gate into an exotic world of beauty, serenity and pleasure. Here you are in company of a place of lush foliage, wooden bridges and walkways, waterfalls, reflective ponds and private treatment villas encompassed in the arms of ancient venerable trees.

The manner in which you are greeted as if they were only waiting for you (even though they keep quite busy), the welcome with fruits, towel and a drink that follows, then the entire process of ensuring you get the most appropriate and effective therapy taking into consideration several factors- everything is dealt with utmost care and professionalism.

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I am not new to this spa at all as have been visiting it for years but this time around I wanted a loved one to try it for she is getting married soon. And with the wedding preparations comes enough anxiety and stress, so I thought this would be the most ideal spa date and gift for her! And while I shall take you through our treatments, I must share upfront itself that my lovely was blown away by the services and the experience and towards the close of our trip, said without a doubt that the visit to The Oasis Spa was the highlight of the entire trip for her!

While she opted for the King of Oasis Signature Massage which is a two hours massage and ensures utmost level of release, relief and contentment using a unique combination of “East meets West” massage techniques. It employs kneading, thumb pressure, stretching and compression combined with a warm aromatherapy oil massage and a Thai Herbal Hot Compress. Tired muscles are soothed to allow stretching that removes energy barriers and re-open all the body’s energy pathways. Eventually you find relief from stiff muscles and muscular discomfort, and gift yourself improved sleep and reduced stress.

King of Oasis Spa Signature Massage

 

And I this time around went in for the Queen of Oasis Signature Massage which is also a two hours massage combining the best of Eastern and Western therapies to promote a woman’s health and sense of well-being. The ancient oriental massage integrated into this therapy concentrates on the Meridian Lines to detoxify, improve organ function and promote self-healing. The Swedish, Hot Stone and Aromatherapy massage further restores and enhances vitality. It realigns a woman’s life-energy, improves digestion and promotes inner harmony. And you know what? This treatment quite rightly has been compared to doing yoga without the effort while receiving acupressure treatments!

And let me make an honest confession here that the hot stone therapy is absolutely blissful. I also believe that a good spa experience always helps you get some relaxed sleep and guess what? We both woke up totally refreshed post our treatment, still wanting more.

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I always say this and shall say this again- when in Thailand, a visit to The Oasis Spa is a must!!! The Oasis Spa has over 10 branches in Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations of Bangkok, Chiangmai, Pattaya, and Phuket. This is a special year for the brand as it completes 15 years of excellence in 2018!

Happy Spa-ing you all!!!

xoxo,

Sonali

For the True love for Fashion, Beauty, Wellness & More…

This one is especially dedicated to all our readers who have been wanting to read a beauty blog post- there are some fab tips and recommendations… And what’s more is that we have combined this demand with something for our readers who love to read and enlighten themselves on wellness and food.

The best part about this post is that we reached out to someone who constantly loves to educate herself about what goes into her food as well as the body. And whatever she writes whether it’s on natural products, health food, yoga, wellbeing, eco-travel, home or sustainable fashion- she doesn’t shy away from being honest and only recommends brands she truly trusts and that too post sufficient background check!

Now without any further delay, here is Helipadonheels Team in conversation with Alisha of http://www.beautysprinkles.com

 

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Q: Tell us about your journey on what eventually led to starting- Beauty Sprinkles?A: I had been blessed with very good skin throughout my teenage days but as soon as I hit my 20’s, my skin started to become very sensitive and even intolerant. It took me a couple of years to understand what exactly was going on and how I could tackle the issues without changing my lifestyle overnight. Alongside, since I already had a knack for literature, designing and other creative fields,I decided to share whatever I had learnt over all these years with other people.

Q: Tell us about the best beauty buys of 2016 and why?
A: The three best buys of 2016 would definitely be- 1) Just B Au Naturel’s 100% Natural Deodorant Cream because it is made with organic ingredients and is 100 % free from aluminum. 2) The Skin Pantry’s Aloe Whisper Moisturizer as it is very mild and hydrating and of course is organic and is made with very high quality ingredients. 3) A pair of earrings I got from Purpose Jewellery. Not only because it reflects my personality but also because it is made by survivors of human trafficking. These women are very talented and deserve to be applauded for their courage.

Q: Tell us how in our daily living-a few basic practices which we can alter to ensure a healthier living?
A: I know it may sound very basic but keeping hydrated is very important mainly to flush out all the toxins. My health has gotten a lot better after I scrapped processed food from my diet and started having fresh home cooked food. The third practice would be to have sugar in moderate amounts. You don’t have to completely remove it from your diet but having it every single day is definitely not a very healthy practice.

Q: Tell us about the three best health food buys of 2016 and why?
A: Himalayan Cheese mostly because of the taste and because it is made from real milk from grass fed cows and also as it involves fair trade. The next two things would be ideal buys for the vegans- Nut Khut Peanut Butter from Organza Foods because of the organic ingredients and the delicious taste and SVA Foods Nut Milks because they are freshly made and they even have a big range of flavoured nut milks.

Q: The most underrated health food according to you and why?
A: In my opinion, since I am not a nutritionist-I think the most underrated health food would be Psyllium Husk also known as Isabgol. It not only helps with constipation but also cleanses the colon.

Q: Tell us about that the one food term, we have to know about!
A: Omega 3 Fatty Acids which is an unsaturated fatty acid mostly found in food items like fish, nuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds etc. It has numerous health benefits for the heart, skin and hair and is also very beneficial for women with PCOD problems.

Q: According to you- the most environmentally conscious beauty and fashion brands of recent times?
A: Well, conscious beauty brands will definitely hit boom in the coming years but for now I love-The Skin Pantry and Just B Au Naturel. But when it comes to fashion, I am extremely happy to tell you that we have a long list of conscious fashion brands in India. I love Arture, Chirita, Pero, Tribling, Doodlage and Chola … I can just go on and on

Q: Any message for our readers
A: My message would be to appreciate the beautiful life you are blessed with.Taking care of your health because to create a life you want and to give back, the most important thing would be to have energy which is possible only when you are healthy. So, just be happy, be healthy and share the love.

Wow, that was quite a simple yet profound message for you guys, what say?

Beauty Spotlight:Organic Harvest

How many of you agree that winter is that extra special time to discover some great products to pamper yourself and your skin? Well, especially as with winters comes dryness and one wants to make sure that they step out looking their most beautiful self with or without make-up…

So, for we believe in sharing on products which impress us, here is a brand called-Organic Harvest which impressed us twice over this winter. And as there is still a nip in the air, it isn’t a bad idea to get your hands on them right away!

Product Pick 1: Organic Harvest Happy Lips Pomegranate Lip Care- The flavour itself was enough to win our hearts as it is one of our favourite fruits but even more impressive was the subtleness and smoothness of the product. For those who value quality products, would be happy to learn that it is sans chemicals. So, for well moisturized and supple lips- this one would be a good buy!  It even comes in other flavours such as Green Apple, Shea Butter and Strawberry.

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Product Pick 2: Organic Harvest Moisturising Lotion – For its pleasant aroma and effective doing on the skin shall definitely make you happy. What’s the best part is that it is very light and doesn’t grease you up annoyingly. Made from raw materials grown without chemicals, herbicides and pesticides; this lotion contains Tamarind Seed Extracts and Essential Oil and vouches to give a 24 hours moisturisation from head to toe. Softness and Smoothness shall be enjoyed with regular application.

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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.

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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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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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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.

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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