Putahracsa, Coco Cottage, The Zign, Deevana Patong

September 17th, 2008

HUA HIN

Self-Made Artist

As one of the members of the Unique Collection of Hotels and Resorts, Putahracsa Hua Hin (22/65 Nahb Kaehat Rd., 032-531-470. www.putahracsa.com) intends on keeping their guests uniquely entertained. Their range of creative activities includes origami-folding, scented candle making, batik painting or learning the art of self-massage every Saturday in September. Is this place for Japanese housewives or what? If you are a hotel guest (room prices start from B3,999), join in for free, while outsiders are obliged to pay B300 per activity. Through Oct 31.

TRANG

Truly Tranquil

With no cars, motorbikes or even roads and just a small beach tractor to carry supplies and luggage, you can really experience that castaway feeling on the the tourist-only island of Koh Nhai (aka Koh Hai). Complete the all-natural vibe by staying at the environmentally-friendly wooden cottages at Coco Cottage (Trang Office: 109/77 Moo 9, Koke-Lor, Muang, 075-224-387, 081-542-9757. www.coco-cottage.com). Both fan and air-con rooms are available
(price starts from B1,300) at this family-run venture. Of course, one of the pleasures of island life is not having much to do. But, if you do tire of doing nothing then take a break with a spot of snorkeling or scuba diving at neighboring islands, or head out on foot to explore this undisturbed island’s interior.

PATTAYA

Artzy Holidayz

The Zign, (555/65 Moo 5 Naklue 12 Rd., Bang Lamung, 038-909-800-20. www.thezignhotel.com), a hotel that takes its design concepts from the fine arts, is currently offering a special promotion. Receive a 30% discount on their villas or a 40% discount on their art inspired tower rooms with prices starting from B4,237/night with breakfast for two. You get three styles of villas to choose from: flint, with hints of modern Stone Age; terra, all cool clays; and wicker, umm, well a wicker theme actually. Up in the tower, the Zign brings you close to some of the the masters of modern art with each room inspired by a different famous painter. Get a lesson in Art History 101 and pick from the artistic styles of Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh, Pissarro and Warhol. Through Oct 31.

PHUKET

Serene Senses

Stir up your senses by temporarily relocating to Deevana Patong Resort and Spa (43/2 Raj-U-Thid 200 Pee Rd., Patong Beach, 076-341-414-5. www.deevanapatong.com). Take advantage of their special Senses package and relax in a room of your choice (prices start from B1,500 net/room). For a two-night stay, receive complimentary buffet breakfast, airport round trip transfers, late check out till 2pm and 10% discount at their Oriental de Phuket spa and all other hotel outlets. Decide to stay an extra night and you can indulge in a complimentary one-hour Thai massage. Through Oct 31.

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