Island Hopping In Thailand

Roy Watts, a seasoned traveller, close friend and arch scrabble rival has traversed the length and breadth of Thailand many times, and no-one waxes lyrical quite like he does about this Utopia. This is a good read, so grab an island cocktail, set up the deck-chair in the back garden, put on your sombrero and read it! You will be inspired to plan that World Cup escape from soccer hooligans and vuvuzelas to languish on the soft sands of Thailand’s magnificent beaches for the same price it will cost you to hang-out in your backyard…well not quite but almost.

thl charm jansom beach 7 lr

Island Hopping in Thailand

By Roy Watts

As the Rand suffers abuse from her ugly sisters, the Euro, the US$, and the British Pound, holidays in the First World are becoming survival exercises that stretch ingenuity. This leaves the quest for affordable vacations in the realm of the Third World, and this is where the Thai Baht rises to the occasion.

Thailand is truly one of the great resort destinations of the world. The Buddhist ethos of peace and goodwill has filtered through to a charming populace, the cost of living is lower than ours, and the weather is superb for most of the year. Of great significance is the fact that their low season coincides with the worst of our winter, so bargain tariffs are the order of the day. Be warned however, that it will be hot and steamy with brief but regular showers prevailing in these times. I was lucky enough to be included in a walkabout amongst the fabulous islands in the south. The airport at Koh Samui resembles a country club. In keeping with this spirit, a fleet of vehicles resembling stretched out golf carts transports visitors to the main building set in a lovely garden. All of this boded well for our expectations, and created an atmosphere personifying this beautiful island.

Koh Samui was our first stop and we stayed at the 5 star Melati Lodge which is a glorious blend of Southern Thai architecture and truly magnificent tropical landscaping. Fronting onto the golden beach is a spectacular pool, which laps onto the edge of an impressively equipped spa on one side, and a convivial bar and open air restaurant on the other. Loaded with facilities that can be summonsed at www.melatiresort.com it was our first brush with the reality of the extremely low tariffs that prevail in Thailand’s low season.

Restaurants are also cheap, and it is amazing how far you can travel in a taxi for the Baht equivalent of R40. But this is a nation of two wheelers, and I quickly tumbled to the joys of puttering around on one of the hundreds of 125cc motor cycles available for daily hire at less than the price of a pair of cinema tickets. There are lots of things to see and do on Koh Samui with its wonderful beaches, superb eateries and interesting topography – all of which flashed by as I relished the freedom of my Honda as I sprinted along a ribbon of road around the circumference of the island. On the way we diverted on to rural side tracks taking us to beautiful water falls, primitive villages and a spectacularly remote hill top restaurant with a commanding view.

In the evenings we frequented some really classy restaurants and one of the night markets for which Thailand is universally famous. Givenchy, Polo, Ralph Lauren and all the famous brand names were on parade, whilst most of the women singing and performing street theatre were counterfeit as well. All too soon, we fell victim to the corollary of Sod’s holiday law, which decrees that just as you are having the time of your life it becomes necessary to move on. So it was on to a ferry for a transfer to Koh Tao.

Scuba diving and snorkeling is really good around most of the islands in the south, but this one is regarded as Thailand’s premier location by the world’s scuberati. There has been an explosion of activity in Koh Tao’s underwater world, and it is now considered to be the main training centre in South East Asia. So if it’s diving you want this is the place. The high volume of visitors pursuing the underwater world here has affected the make up of the holiday population – which is young, athletic and exuberant.

For our Koh Tao experience we checked into the delightfully whimsical Charm Churee resort. This lodge was built over an entire hill, and its random design has resulted in a host of seductive nooks and crannies. Chief of these was a spectacular honeymoon suite overlooking the bay, and a beach villa on the sands.

In a country renowned for its low accommodation tariffs I was amazed to learn that the latter only clocked in at an off season rate of R2,000 per day, whilst a basic unit would cost R622 according to their www.charmchureevilla.com website.

All the beach resorts in Thailand have a spa and at least 2 restaurants, one of which will usually be al fresco. The one at Charm Churee is a stunner sited on a promontory at the base of a massive granite rock which is illuminated at night.

The other outstanding feature here is the secluded beach tucked away in their exclusive bay. This lies at the bottom of a winding road which runs past all sorts of rustic and varied structures, giving the whole place a haphazard charm. The lodge also provides a good balance of quiet dignity against the frenetic activity in town. I felt really comfortable at Charm Churee, and all too soon Sod’s law kicked in again, leading me to yet another ferry heading for Koh Phangan this time.

Situated between Koh Tao and Koh Samui, this island is famous for a beach party! Every month when the moon is at its fullest, huge crowds gather on the crescent shaped Haad Rin Beach to join in a dance frenzy backed by numerous bands, fireworks, emcees, jugglers and fire eaters. Away from this, the island is rather reclusive with long stretches of road winding through lush forests and then on to some magnificent lodges. After a long drive through luxuriant jungle we came across the last two surprises far from any other activities.

The Panviman is a luxury resort tucked into a Cliffside overlooking the beautiful Thong Nai Pan Beach. It offers an impressive portfolio of sophisticated options including double rooms, various cottages and an impressive presidential suite, all of which can be seen on www.panviman.com. Some of these even have their own pools, and are all stylishly furnished.

Further down the Thong Nai Pan Beach, is the magnificent Santhiya Lodge, the last stop on our island hop around – and a good thing too as I am running out of adjectives but not enthusiasm for Thailand’s amazing resorts. They are putting the finishing touches to a really spectacular addition to their superb accommodation spread. This will be the place to beat for people looking for a unique bit of sophistication for that special event. Logging on to www.santhiya.com releases an impressive range of options culminating in the majestic Santhiya Royal Pool Villa – one of the most magnificent lodgings to be found anywhere on the island circuit.

As a grand finale to a memorable tour we flashed back to Koh Samui on the speedboat ferry that Santhiya Lodge runs between the two islands. This visit confirmed what I had discovered on previous visits – there’s something for everyone at budgets to suit all pockets in Thailand.

Computravel Holidays To Thailand

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thl charm restaurant 1lr

thl charm restaurant 5 lr

thl charm restaurant 9 lr

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thl charmchuree 6 lr

thl charm beach 1 lr

thl charm beach 4 lr

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thl charm jansom beach 5 lr

thl charm jansom beach 7 lr

Don’t forget to use your Voyager miles that may be expiring on 31 March 2010

Don’t forget if you are a Voyager member you can apply for an extension for
miles due to expire at the end of March. It applies for a six-month period
which is a benefit, as there will be fewer seats available for redemption
over the football World Cup period. The offer is irrespective of tier
status. Whether you are a blue, gold or platinum member, you can apply
online for this extension, says Suretha Cruse, SAA Voyager Head. Bear in
mind that an administration fee of 1 500 Voyager miles will be charged to
process the extension application. Extended miles need to be used by 30
September 2010.

Lindsay Quail – Computravel

Excellent holiday in Phuket

Hi Laura

The holiday was excellent, attached a pic of the view from our room at Orchidacea Resort in Kata – Phuket.

Phi Phi was beautiful but it was sad that we had to leave a day early as there was a problem with transport arrangements to get to Phuket airport for our flight out.

Nokki was extremely helpful in assisting with this.

Regards

Arvin

Glimmer of hope in battle for airline passenger protection

From Travelmole

ABTA has welcomed concerns raised in Brussels over the lack of consumer protection provided when scheduled airlines go bust.

Commissioner for health and consumer protection John Dalli gave an update yesterday on the Commission’s work on the revision of the European Package Travel Directive, which dates back 20 years.

ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “We are encouraged that the EU has taken notice of the submissions ABTA made through the consultation process of the review of the Package Travel Directive and we welcome the comments that have come out of yesterday’s discussion.

“Particularly welcome is the concern raised by both the Commission and MEPs for airline insolvency to be covered by European law.”

He added: “For too long airlines have been allowed to trade without protecting the monies they take from consumers in advance of travel. This puts consumers at risk of financial loss and places tour operators at a significant competitive disadvantage.

“The planned extension of the scope of the directive has long been our priority.”

Tanzer went on: “However, this is just the start of the formulation of a new European law and we will be working to ensure that the new Directive meets the concerns of the travel industry and its customers both now and in the future taking account of future technological and trading developments.

“We now have a timetable for the process of this new law and ABTA will be lobbying hard to make sure that members will, in future, be trading in a regulatory environment that meets their needs and the needs of their customers.”

Tanzer and ABTA head of public affairs Luke Pollard will be going to Brussels next week to continue with the process “which will have a very significant impact on members’ business and the rights of the travelling public”.

by Phil Davies

Relax in luxury this Easter

Easter availability at Royal Palm hotel!

Location: Port Louis, Mauritius
Duration: 7 nights
Valid From: 31 Mar 10 To: 10 Apr 10

Price From: 40946 ex JNB
42975 ex CT
41735 ex DBN

Terms: Prices are based on per person sharing.
Due to the volatility in the South African currency and the price of fuel affecting the price of air tickets we cannot ensure the accuracy of the price as mentioned. The price was correct at the time of printing on 9th March 2010.

Terms and Conditions apply

Description

Royal Palm is considered to be the most luxurious, sought after hotel in the Indian Ocean. Staff attend with the utmost discretion which is why the hotel plays host to visiting royalty, politicians and sports figures on a regular basis. This all-suite hotel offers the very best in accommodation and the Michelin staff Executive chef ensures the restaurants are beyond comparison. Sports and spa facilities are also of the highest standard and guests can choose to arrive in the hotels Rolls Royce Phantom for a complete ‘Royal Palm’ experience.

Includes:

• Return set departure flights on SAA
• Approximate airport taxes and levies
• Return private transfers
• Breakfast & dinner daily
• Free land & water sports per 2010 brochure
• Evening entertainment

Excludes:

• Meals & beverages not mentioned.
• Passport and visa costs.
• Travel & medical insurance.
• Items of a personal nature.

Conditions:

• Valid for travel on 31 March to 07 April / 02 to 09 April / 03 to 10 April 2010

The above package is subject to availability at time of reservation. Price is per person sharing. Prices are subject to change in accordance with currency fluctuations and increased airfares. When making a booking enquiry it is important that you are in possession of the correct documentation to travel i.e. visas, inoculation certificates etc. Please check that all names and surnames are spelt exactly as they appear in the relevant passports. Fares, where indicated, are based on low season rates.

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Relax in Mauritius this Easter

Easter availability at Le Canonnier hotel!

Location: Port Louis, Mauritius
Duration: 7 nights
Valid From: 31 Mar 10 To: 10 Apr 10

Price From: 14663 ex JNB
16692 ex CT
15452 ex DBN

Terms: Prices are based on per person sharing.
Due to the volatility in the South African currency and the price of fuel affecting the price of air tickets we cannot ensure the accuracy of the price as mentioned. The price was correct at the time of printing on 9th March 2010.

Terms and Conditions apply

Description

Le Canonnier has an air of romance, charm and history about it; the hotel is located on the famous Canonnier peninsula where forts and canons remain from a bygone era. Architecture and decor make use of natural materials and neutral colours and together with the many water features around the property, a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere is certain to create the perfect holiday location for any guest.

Includes:

• Return set departure flights on SAA
• Approximate airport taxes and levies
• Return transfers
• Breakfast & dinner (optional all inclusive package is available on request)
• Free land & water sports per 2010 brochure
• Evening entertainment

Excludes:

• Meals and beverages not specified.
• Passport and visa costs.
• Travel & medical insurance.
• Items of a personal nature.

Conditions:

• Valid for travel on 31 March to 07 April / 02 to 09 April / 03 to 10 April 2010

The above package is subject to availability at time of reservation. Price is per person sharing. Prices are subject to change in accordance with currency fluctuations and increased airfares. When making a booking enquiry it is important that you are in possession of the correct documentation to travel i.e. visas, inoculation certificates etc. Please check that all names and surnames are spelt exactly as they appear in the relevant passports. Fares, where indicated, are based on low season rates.

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Best 10 night holiday deal to Phuket – Don’t miss out! from only R8424; Valid May – Oct. 2010

Old Phuket Hotel – Karon Beach

Location: Phuket, Thailand
Duration: 10 nights
Valid From: 16 Apr 10 To: 31 Oct 10

Price From: 8424 ex JNB

10431 ex CT

10111 ex DBN

Terms: Prices are based on per person sharing.
Due to the volatility in the South African currency and the price of fuel affecting the price of air tickets we cannot ensure the accuracy of the price as mentioned. The price was correct at the time of printing on 5th March 2010.

Terms and Conditions apply

Description

The Old Phuket at Karon Beach is a Sino-Portugese-style creation that evokes memories of 19th century Southeast Asia. The atmosphere will take travellers back to the days of the spice trade, of tin mining, of Chinese junks plying the straits of Malacca and the golden age of travel before resorts and package tours.

Includes:

• Return flights to Phuket on Malaysian Airlines
• Return Airport to Hotel transfers
• 10 nights at the 3* The Old Phuket Hotel
• Breakfast Daily
• All taxes, fees & levies (estimate)

Added Value:
• Welcome drink
• Free use at Fitness Center
• 10% discount on food only at Chili Restaurant and Bai Toey Restaurant
• Free Roundtrip Shuttle bus to Central Festival Department Store as hotel schedule
• Free One-way Shuttle bus to Patong Beach as hotel schedule

Excludes:

• Meals and beverages not specified.
• Passport and Visa costs.
• Travel and medical insurance.
• Items of a personal nature.

Conditions:

• The above package is subject to availability at time of reservation. Price is per person sharing. Prices are subject to change in accordance with currency fluctuations and increased airfares. When making a booking enquiry it is important that you are in possession of the correct documentation to travel i.e. visas, inoculation certificates etc. Please check that all names and surnames are spelt exactly as they appear in the relevant passports. Fares, where indicated, are based on low season rates.

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For the health conscious traveller

Etihad Airways will install new state-of-the-art technology on its long and ultra long haul aircraft which can monitor the condition of passengers who display signs of sickness that might require immediate medical attention.

The “Tempus IC” system allows cabin crew to gather vital information about a passenger’s health quickly and efficiently. The data covers a wide range of the passenger’s ‘vital signs’ including blood pressure and an electrocardiogram. It also allows the crew to take photo imagery.

That information is then transmitted to a medical team of global experts specialised in assistance in in-flight medical contingencies. Following their advice the crew will take a decision about what to do next for the passenger and the flight.

Captain Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ chief operations officer, said: “Passenger welfare and safety is of the utmost importance to Etihad Airways and the introduction of the Tempus IC system will ensure that when medical emergencies do occur they are evaluated quickly. This helps ensure that the passenger can receive the appropriate treatment when the aircraft lands, whether this is as a diversion or at its final destination.”

Etihad will introduce the Tempus IC technology, designed and manufactured by UK-based RDT, on its A340 and Boeing 777 aircraft and then subsequently across the remaining long and ultra long haul fleet.GrahameFever, Commercial Aviation Sales Director RDT, said: “We are delighted that Etihad has chosen RDT ‘s Tempus on-board telemedicine technology. We know from our existing Tempus customers and the in-flight trials with Etihad cabin crew that Tempus technology, with its unique ease-of-use help screens and features, makes a significant difference to quality and speed of on-board medical care.”

Sourced from: http://www.traveldailynews.com

Thai Airways to resume JNB service on May 16

THAI Airways has confirmed that it will resume its scheduled flights on the Bangkok-Johannesburg route from May 16. The airline made the announcement in its 2010 summer schedule. The airline plans to operate four flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Mont Choisy Resort and Spa

Location: Port Louis, Mauritius
Duration: 7 Nights
Valid From: 12 Jun 10 To: 11 Jul 10

Price From: 10061 ex JNB

12177 ex CT

10061 ex DBN

Terms: Prices are based on per person sharing.
Due to the volatility in the South African currency and the price of fuel affecting the price of air tickets we cannot ensure the accuracy of the price as mentioned. The price was correct at the time of printing on 25th February 2010

Terms and Conditions apply.

Description

Located on the edge of the Mont Choisy Lagoon on the northern coast of the island this small intimate resort is a firm favourite with South African holidaymakers.

Set departure dates for World Cup:

Ex JNB
12 to 19 Jun
13 to 20 Jun
15 to 22 Jun
17 to 24 Jun
19 to 26 Jun
20 to 27 Jun
26 Jun to 03 Jul
28 Jun to 5 Jul
29 to 06 Jul
03 Jul to 10 Jul
4 Jul to 11 Jul

EX CPT
12 TO 19 June
3 to 10 July

Includes:

• Return economy class flights to Mauritius
• Return airport / resort transfers
• 7 Nights accommodation at the 3 star Mont Choisy Hotel in a Standard Room
• Breakfast and dinner daily
• Free non-motorised watersports
• All pre-payable airport taxes and current fuel levies

Excludes:

• Meals and beverages not specified.
• Passport and Visa costs.
• Travel and medical insurance.
• Items of a personal nature.

Conditions:

• The above package is subject to availability at time of reservation. Price is per person sharing. Prices are subject to change in accordance with currency fluctuations and increased airfares. When making a booking enquiry it is important that you are in possession of the correct documentation to travel i.e. visas, inoculation certificates etc. Please check that all names and surnames are spelt exactly as they appear in the relevant passports. Fares, where indicated, are based on low season rates.

Images