Sweet Escape
Immersive Thai experiences in private worlds
BANGKOK Art in the city...
Creative sanctuary ... Consider an immersive stay in Park Hyatt Bangkok, where works of art by renowned artists such as Hirotoshi Sawada and Chatchai Puipia are as expressive as the hotel’s design language, showcasing the intricate beauty of Thai culture while adhering to Park Hyatt’s contemporary sensibilities. The sense of calm evoked through design practice Yabu Pushelberg’s ingenious use of lighting, space, and textures with the hotel’s interiors reflect the identity of the art installations, too, from the swirling Pagoda Mirage hanging over a minimalist staircase to the suspended batons of Naga that twists above the Living Room, meant to “rain blessings” on its diners. Prime real estate ... Start your morning with a finely crafted breakfast at the Embassy Room, where the decision to dine by the open kitchen, at the main dining room, or alfresco by the garden and infinity pool, is one you’d love to make; retreat to the tranquil environs of The Spa, and let the crystal steam rooms and laconium dry heat rooms transport you to your ideal headspace; and experience the lavish Penthouse Bar + Grill, a collection of six venues, where the energy is always buzzing, from The Grill to The Cocktail Bar and Rooftop Terrace. www.hyatt.com
KRABI A corner if paradise...
Private worlds ... Glistening waters, stunning white sands, and breathtaking views make the islands and beaches on Krabi so desirable. Go on a kayak excursion to Koh Talabeng and admire the sloping dramatic rocks. Retreat to the paradisiacal Koh Hong for a low-key hideaway that while comparably smaller than the other Krabi islands, does not pale in its beautiful Insta-worthy spots. Scale the limestone cliffs of the Railay peninsula, a mecca in this region for rock climbing enthusiasts. Culture trip … Island-hopping may be the default move, but the rich culture of this southern Thai province has to be experienced in its entirety. Riding a long-tail boat is de rigueur when in Krabi, a real do-it-like-the-locals activity, but also essential to get to Koh Klang, a fisherman’s village where the signature floating Baan Ma-Yhing restaurant resides. Dense mangrove trees line the swampy waterway to the village, setting a peaceful scene before a hearty southern-style lunch. Quiet enclave … Spend an afternoon at the award-winning Wareerak Hot Spring Spa, where soothing hot spring baths, meditative yoga, and tension-relieving Thai massages amid lush surroundings await.
PHANG NGA An idyllic place...
Out of this world … Tucked between Krabi and Phuket, Phang Nga bay first came into the mainstream consciousness when its iconic needle-shaped tower karst was used to depict the planet Kashyyyk in Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. However, the Ao Phang Nga National Park and its forested wetlands have always captured the hearts of visitors. Secluded beauty ... The beautiful island of Koh Yao Noi remains as one of the few in the area that still retain its rustic charm and virginal shores—a rare feat for a place that is a short distance away from the tourist-trodden Krabi and Phuket. Cape Kudu, a quiet hotel that looks out to the Andaman Sea, offers a serene stay, where pastel hues and soft linens decorate the property. Laze under the shade of the pavilion at Long Island Bar, the sea breeze brushing up against you, crafted cocktail in hand … and you’ll easily see the appeal of this lesserknown island. Alternative excursion … Take a ride around the island in Cape Kudu’s 1963 Porsche Speedster, sail off into the sunset while enjoying a private dinner, and indulge in Cape Spa’s finest head-to-toe treatments. Earthy yet sophisticated, the hotel’s eco-friendly glamour makes for a seaside getaway that while slightly gimmicky, will leave you relaxed, happy, and well taken care of. www.capekuduhotel.com