Thunderously Thai

A getaway to Bangkok and Hua Hin, courtesy Amari, is the perfect indulgence for your senses

Asma Ali Zain

Published: Fri 2 Nov 2012, 2:06 PM

Last updated: Sat 4 Apr 2015, 7:45 AM

Thailand beckons, it surprises. A land of pristine beaches, lofty mountains, elephants and urban life that offers a  varied mix of entertainment, shopping and delectable cuisine, this Far Eastern country remains a popular destination, especially among those from the UAE.

Upon landing in Bangkok, one  would immediately want to start out on the shopping and sight-seeing mission, and what’s better than staying right in the middle of all the action.

Amari Watergate is situated in the bustling centre of Bangkok, right opp-osite the most popular shopping  district. Offering comfort and sophistication in a prominent location, the  stylish Amari Watergate is the ideal  Thai city getaway.

Scratch the surface of Bangkok, and one can find international brand names at reasonable prices at the Central World, Platinum and MBK malls as well as Siam Paragon, just around the corner from the hotel. Ladies, this is the best opportunity to grab bargains on shoes, handbags and clothes!

For those who are used to Dubai’s five-star hospitality, Amari Watergate features 569 well-appointed rooms and an Executive Floor with a private reception area, as well as breathtaking views of the city.

And of course, the best way to relax and wash away the tiredness of the  six-hour long flight from Dubai is to visit the hotel’s luxurious Breeze Spa. The spa offers a sensuous selection of body, massage and facial treatments in a serene environment. Skilled therapists offer a personalised service in one of eight exclusive treatment rooms with three themed double rooms including the botanically inspired Mystical Forest. From the hot stone to the Thai massage, the choices are ample, based on your mood and health conditions. For the fitness freaks, there is a surprise in the form of a jogging track right on the  hotel’s rooftop.

For those who have never tasted Thai cuisine, it is the best time to do so since they are bound to become huge fans of the spicy curries, and sweet and sticky mango rice. Most of Central Thailand’s food originated from the Royal Household. Each dish has its own history, including impressive decorations to make it inviting. Some must-try foods from all corners of the kingdom include green beef curry with coconut milk, chilli and Thai herb and the red curry sauce.

While Thai street food is ample,  easily available and cheap, the hotel’s authentic Thai cuisine is worth trying. Choices include dining at the elegant Heichinrou, and Thai on 4, that offer food prepared by a chef from the royal family; Promenade, Lobby Lounge  and Cascade, which serve freshly  made sandwiches and cakes, and a wide  selection of coffees, teas and other  beverages throughout the day; and the  popular Henry J. Bean’s Bar & Grill.

There is a lot more to feast the eyes and senses on while still in Bangkok. You can visit Temple of the Dawn (Wat Arun) situated by Chao Phraya River, or pick up colourful garments at Pratunam street market or splash some cash at Siam Paragon for a more sophisticated retail experience. The Flower Market (Pak Klong Talat), where a variety of flowers and fresh fruit are sold, is a must-visit. Weave through Bangkok’s lanes (sois) and markets of Chinatown and end your day by dining romantically on a boat cruise along the Chao Phraya River.

Having experienced the rush of urban life in Bangkok, the seaside town of  Hua Hin, which is just a two-and-a-half hours’ scenic drive away, offers a rel-axed time for the entire family. Look out for the warehouse sales while driving down the road!

Amari Hua Hin is located next to Khao Tiab, a popular stretch of beach. Hua Hin’s downtown area is just 10 minutes drive away from the hotel.

This newly opened hotel in Hua Hin is indeed an ideal place to chill. From the cool décor to the warm hospitality, Amari offers a five-star experience for the price of four. A varied palate, be it at the Coral Lounge, Shoreline Beach Club, Reef Deli or the Aqua Pool Bar, Amari showcases all that is fresh, local and simple.

Originally a quiet fishing village, Hua Hin was one of the first beach resorts in Thailand. The construction of a railway station and the summer palace of  King Rama VII in the 1920s started its transformation into the popular beach resort it has developed into today. In 1924, Thailand’s first golf course opened and this resulted in the Thai high society choosing Hua Hin as a holiday destination.

Amari Hua Hin offers a variety of  accommodation options including 207 deluxe rooms, eight family rooms and eight suites. The views from the room are ideal, opening either to the poolside or hills.

A recent survey by the Dubai Health Authority showed that Thailand is a popular medical tourism destination that offers 96.1 per cent satisfaction to those who visit, due to its cheap medical facilities and accommodation.  Amari’s location next to Bangkok  Hotel in Hua Hin also offers an ideal medical retreat.

The hotel also has a unique concept to guide tourists --— the Amari host — who encourages guests to experience the local culture, whether it is by visiting nearby attractions or by attending a festival or trying the local cuisine.

A visit to the first boutique vineyard, Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, is an experience for all. Fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and tour of the vineyard on an elephant, rounded off with a sumptuous meal, is an enjoyable experience.

The floating market is a place for unique deals, while the fish feeding farm just next door is a fun day out for the kids.

A visit to Hua Hin is incomplete without having dinner at Supatra-by-the-Sea. The variety of the yummiest seafood cooked to perfection and offered while you enjoy a panoramic view is an unforgettable experience in itself. For those travelling from the UAE, just ask for halal food just before you decide to visit.

A late night stroll from the hotel to Cicada market is worth experiencing. An art and entertainment playground featuring products by local artists is a great place to shop for knick-knacks unique to Thailand.

Also a must-visit is the Hua Hin night market, featuring a great selection of  seafood restaurants and food stalls offering tasty local delicacies, handicrafts, souvenirs and clothing. The Plearn Waan Vintage is a step back in time; one can catch a glimpse of the seaside town’s glory days at this quaint shopping village. Look out for local candy, retro LP records and jewellery.

The Hua Hin Railway Station is one of the oldest stations in Thailand, built during the reign of King Rama VI in 1923. The brightly painted wooden railway station and adjacent royal waiting room are undeniably charming.

(Amari is a hotel brand associated with the Onyx Hospitality Group; it caters to both business and leisure travellers,  featuring mid to upscale hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Koh Chang.)