New hotels in Phuket and Chiang Mai plus a camel-themed fun park: Top openings around Thailand

Where are you traveling next? This week we're off to Phuket, Phang Nga, Chiang Mai and Cha-am.

13 October, 2014 Bangkok time

PHUKET

Novotel Phuket Karon Beach

Phuket recently welcomed Novotel Phuket Karon Beach (076-358-666, www.novotelphuketkaron.com), a 224-room resort located a five-minute walk from Karon Beach and 45-minute drive from Phuket Town. There are seven room types ranging from a 28-sq-meter standard room to a 60-sq-meter plunge pool suite. Also on-site are three restaurants and two bars, as well as a kids’ club and a spa. Through Dec 19, it’s offering a “stay three nights, pay two” package with rates starting from B3,609 for a standard room and B6,565 for a plunge pool suite (per night).

PHANG NGA

Le Coral Hideaway Beyond Phuket

Located a 30-minute drive from Phuket’s International Airport, Phang Nga is an alternative beach paradise for those who want to steer clear of the crowds. The stylish Le Coral Hideaway Beyond Phuket (076-679-888, www.coralhideaway.com) is now offering an attractive “stay one night, get one night free” deal. Two nights at the the 52-sq-meter Horizon Suite will cost you B5,700 including breakfast for two. Valid through Nov 15.

CHIANG MAI

Eastin Tan Hotel Chiang Mai

The cool season is just around the corner and that means it’s time to plan a trip up north. A new addition to the Northern capital of Chiang Mai, Eastin Tan Hotel Chiang Mai (052-001-999, www.eastintanchiangmai.com) is set to open its doors on Dec 1. Located near the vibrant Nimanhemin Road, the 128-room hotel has seven room types ranging from a 35-sq-meter superior to a luxurious 162-sq-meter three-bedroom duplex suite. The latter is great for a family or a group of friends as the suite can fit up to six people and also comes equipped with a spacious living room and dining area with pantry and stove, microwave and washing machine. For bookings before Dec 1, the opening rates are B1,999 for a superior room and B14,000 for a duplex suite.

CHA-AM

Camel Republic

Cha-am has recently welcomed a new themed attraction, Camel Republic (092-269-5055, www.fb.com/camelrepublic), decked out with bright, Middle Eastern-inspired architecture. Located on Petchkasem Road, almost opposite Santorini Park, the new theme park has a zoo with camels, flamingos and alpacas, plus a host of fun rides. Of course, there are also many spots to snap that kooky holiday snap, too. With the Swiss Sheep Farm also nearby, this area has become a bit of a family favorite. Tickets are B120 per person for adults. Open Mon-Thu 10am-6pm, Fri-Sun 9am-7pm.