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<title><![CDATA[Travel guides never tell you]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz</link>
<description><![CDATA[Travel news and information including travel tips, discount travel and speciality web deals.]]></description>
<language>en-us</language>
<lastBuildDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:33:27 GMT</lastBuildDate>

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<title><![CDATA[Hua Hin&#39;s fresh flavour Travelling is all about new sights and smells]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=13</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>Travelling is all about new sights and smells - but the tastes can be what stays in the memory longest <br /><br /><br />
<br />
Memories of my vacations are always packed with the food I enjoyed along the way - even more so than the places I visited. For me, good food shared with close travelling companions is the best recipe for any holiday.</strong><br />
<br />
These same ingredients were behind the success of a recent visit to Hua Hin - the hip seaside town that I've munched my way through on countless previous trips. But this time was a bit different, thanks mainly to the culinary tour laid on by the team of chefs at Asara Villa & Suite - a new beachside resort that's a five-minute drive from Hua Hin town.<br />
<br />
Asara sits on a vast 22-rai plot of land with pool villas and suites stretched across the beachfront. They have three restaurants and a large bar, but it's the room/beach service that makes the place a heaven for lazy vacationers whose idea of free time includes sea, sun and savouries. Yes, Asara is place to relax and unwind - but it's also serious about food.<br />
<br />
After settling into a one-bedroom suite, we were ravenous, and decided to take it easy with a big Thai dinner at the Asara Thai Bistro. On the terrace overlooking a lotus pond we selected from a menu of familiar favourites and sat back, not knowing what to expect from our first taste of the holiday. We got a delicious surprise - it turned out to be one of the best Thai meals we had ever eaten.<br />
<br />
Thai dishes are prepared traditionally at the Asara - that is, with lots of spice. The presentation is detailed but unpretentious, each plate decked out as a five-star treat of elaborate tastes and textures.<br />
<br />
Our table groaned with large and delicious plates of pomelo salad with prawns, spicy lemongrass salad, fried fish with chilli sauce, stir-fried prawns with cashew nuts, and spicy chilli-shrimp dip with a big basket of assorted fresh and steamed vegetables. The restaurant even managed to make a memorable dish out of something as simple as a Thai omelette, serving the comfort food with a spicy green-mango sauce. Savouring the first mouthful, I immediately stored the flavour away in my memory, to be drawn on when I got the chance to imitate the recipe in my own kitchen back home.<br />
<br />
Later at dinner, we met Asara's executive chef Christophe Maillard, a Frenchman from Brittany who's settled in Hua Hin with his Thai wife and baby boy. He came out of his busy kitchen at Asara by Choice and greeted us with the day's specials, offered according to what was fresh that day in the market. Asara by Choice is perched on an outdoor terrace on the second floor of a beachfront pavilion - great surroundings for a romantic dinner. The two of us decided on the three-course meal at Bt1,800 per person, which comes with a glass of Kir Royale cocktail. We shared a dish of sole in creamy, smoky morel sauce and a plate of grilled marinated rack of lamb with mint sauce. Both were lip-smackingly delicious.<br />
<br />
Over a breakfast of scrumptious buttery croissants served with assorted home-baked breads the next morning, we learned that Maillard is from a family of chefs, and honed his skills in the Compagnon du Tour de France, France's most prestigious guild of artisans. Maillard's resumé runs from the Le Jules Verne on the Eiffel Tower, to the one-Michelin-star Le Cheval in Nime, the Martinez Palace in Cannes and a tour aboard a cruise ship, where he collected local flavours from ports around the world. His secret, he says, is in the combination of five-star presentations with home-cooked flavours.<br />
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"You're average well-presented restaurant meal doesn't come close to the kind of tasty dish many of us remember our grandmas cooked at home. I want to combine both without any compromises," says Maillard. If you have a sweet tooth, don't forget to ask for the dessert menu. Maillard is generous with his portions - our favourites included the smooth caramel mousse and the chocolate soufflé served with Thai pineapple chips.<br />
<br />
Sirin P Wongpanit<br />
Special to The Nation<br />
Xpress]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:33:27 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Before it&#39;s too late Coconut Island: it&#39;s 2km from Phuket]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=12</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>Take a step back in time with a trip to Coconut Island: it's 2km from Phuket<br /><br />Off Phuket's eastern side there's a small island with no resorts, go-go bars or tuk-tuks. It's a place where children ride bikes, where fish and rubber trees are mainstays of income and beaches are lined with homes instead of umbrellas. Koh Maphrao remains a little-visited time warp.</strong><br />
<br />
The only public access to "Coconut Island" is a boat from Laem Hin fishing port. Once across the 2-kilometre stretch of water, visitors can hire a motorbike to the village centre for Bt15.<br />
<br />
This mostly Muslim community remains largely untouched by the tourism that has transformed Phuket.<br />
<br />
About 150 families make up the island's population, most of whom work on the rubber plantations or as fishermen.<br />
<br />
Wallop Khamhaeng, of Koh Kaew Tambon Administration Organisation, said tourist traffic remained low because it lacked basic facilities, such as electricity. Koh Maphrao isn't on the Phuket power grid;:most of the power comes from small solar panels.<br />
<br />
Untouched beauty<br />
<br />
The beaches are not as long as those at Patong or Nai Harn, but are refreshingly empty of beach chairs and sun-soaked bodies. Crabs stray across sand still strewn with seashells, yet to be picked clean by tourists.<br />
<br />
Local motorcycle-taxi driver Ason Abdulamum says the most beautiful beach is Yao or "Long" Beach, though it's only about 30m long.<br />
<br />
"Not many people come to this beach because it is at the back of Koh Maphrao, but some days small tour groups visit. It's a favourite fishing spot for locals," he said.<br />
<br />
There are a couple of small restaurants serving standard fare. Visitors are usually day-trippers who pedal a rented pushbike, taking in the village life. However, there are two home-stays for those wanting to spend a night.<br />
<br />
By Sangkhae Leelanapaporn<br />
<br />
Phuket Gazette]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:23:37 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Weird creatures of the wind The 10th International Kite Festival]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=11</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>The 10th International Kite Festival celebrates a popular Thai hobby of yesteryear</strong><br />
<br />
The sky above the beach at Cha-am will be coloured by hundreds of kites from around the world at the annual International Kite Festival, which is hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand. The event is taking place tomorrow and Sunday for the 10th consecutive year at Rama VI Camp in Cha-am, Phetchaburi.<br />
<br />
Flying kites has long been an annual activity in Thailand. From late March till the beginning of the rainy season in May when the sky is clear and windy, fields all over the country - Rattanakosin's Sanam Luang in Bangkok among them - are dotted by kite lovers doing their thing. Though kite flying is not as popular as it once was, enthusiasts can still appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into making each traditional kite and the skill that goes into flying them.<br />
<br />
Soaring and swooping alongside wacky creations from around the world will be traditional kites from all four regions of Thailand. There will also be competitions for the "fighting" chula and pak-pao kites. Other events include demonstrations of giant 3D-kite flying, stunt kites, remote-controlled aeroplanes, balloons and night kites.<br />
<br />
The event draws participants from countries all over the world including Cambodia,  Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, China, Australia, Belgium, England, Germany and Holland.<br />
<br />
The festival starts with a kite caravan from Bangkok to the festival site at 7am on Saturday. On Sunday the fun kicks off at 10am. Both festival days end with a night-kite and balloon show at 6.30pm.<br />
<br />
Call the TAT in Bangkok at (02) 250 5500 ext 3477 or in Cha-Am at (032) 471 005-6.<br />
<br />
Flying times<br />
<br />
Saturday<br />
<br />
7am: Caravan sets out from Bangkok bound for Cha-am<br />
<br />
10am: Opening ceremony<br />
<br />
10 to 11am: Parachuting show<br />
<br />
11am to 6.30pm: Shows by international kites, stunt kites with music, fast kites and Thai kites and a contest between chula and pak-pao kites<br />
<br />
6.30pm to 8.30pm: Night-kite show, balloon show.<br />
<br />
Sunday<br />
10 to 11am: Parachuting Show<br />
<br />
11am to 6.30pm: Shows by international kites, stunt kites with music, fast kites and Thai kites and a contest between chula and pak-pao fighting kites<br />
<br />
6.30pm to 8.30pm: Night-kite show, balloon show<br />
<br />
By Manta Klangboonkrong<br />
<br />
Daily xpress]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:20:38 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Palace of petals]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=10</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>The lush and colourful gardens of a former royal retreat lure visitors with their bursting blooms</strong><br />
<br />
When people talk about Mrigadayavan Palace, the summer home of King Vajiravudh (King Rama VI) close to Hua Hin in Phetchaburi province, they usually rave about the beautiful architectural style of the buildings, but ignore the surrounding gardens. That's a shame, because the gardens are a great attraction in themselves, well worth a visit for their peaceful atmosphere.<br />
<br />
The 40-rai grounds were designed by ML Poomchai Chumbala, a celebrated landscape expert.<br />
<br />
Each garden has its own unique character, with different kinds of plants, flowers and lay-out. For example, the Venice Vanich Garden has an elegant fountain with benches that make a fine spot for relaxing with a drink or a snack, while the beautiful lawn of the Sakhuntala Garden overlooks the Gulf of Thailand and is bordered by thousands of Ixora plants of all colours. But a must-see for any visitor is the Matanapata Garden, home to a great collection of Carmona plants.<br />
<br />
Plan a visit<br />
<br />
 Mrigadayavan Palace is open from 8.30 to 4, Monday to Friday, and from 8.30 to 5 on weekends and public holidays. Admission is Bt30 for Thais and Bt90 for foreigners.<br />
<br />
By Ryo Vaanich<br />
<br />
Special to Daily Xpress]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:17:39 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[PHUKET Link with past]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=9</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>The Thavorn Hotel was the island's first five-star hotel. It houses a marvellous collection of memorabilia </strong><br />
<br />
Phuket has a rich history of visiting ambassadors who brought exotic contraptions, inventions and traditions to the melting pot of Chinese, European, Malay and other cultures.<br />
<br />
The landmarks of Phuket's vibrant life of yesteryear still stand, but are now surrounded by modern shopping malls and entertainment venues.<br />
<br />
One of the city's popular sites in the 1960s was the 200-room Thavorn Hotel on Rassada Road. It was Phuket's first five-star hotel and the first to have an elevator.<br />
<br />
These days, the hotel seems like just another old building, but a peek inside gives an insight into days of yore. Beside the lobby is a series of rooms joined by wooden archways leading through a fascinating collection of antique contraptions, fading photographs and all sorts of tin-mining paraphernalia.<br />
<br />
The items are much older than the hotel, which was built in 1961. The collection features more than 1,000 items, most of which are at least 100 years old.<br />
<br />
First to catch the eye is an oversized "Lotus pan" with a label in Thai and English explaining it was used to cook rice for some 200 tin workers late in the 19th century.<br />
<br />
Next to the pan is a wooden trunk that would have held the clothes and possessions of one of the workers, hotel manager Prateep Chairchai says. "This Chinese 'safe-deposit box' is more than 200 years old. It would have usually been kept locked, and coins would have been dropped into it through a slit in the lid."<br />
<br />
The collection belonged to hotel founder, Tilok Thavornvongwongse, who also owned several tin mines in Phuket and neighbouring provinces. The antiques now belong to Tilok's son Chareon.<br />
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The antiques radiate a positive aura. Even though their makers and original owners have long departed, the relics seem still to be alive with the love and passion that went into making them.<br />
<br />
"These artefacts are like a reminder that everyone's life will eventually come to an end, but that something will always remain to mark that time in history," Prateep says.<br />
<br />
Historic sabres<br />
<br />
A large metal contraption in the centre of the room turns out to be a 100-year-old movie projector. Apparently Tilok owned two local movie theatres, including the once-popular Paradise, which stood where the Ocean shopping mall is today.<br />
<br />
Two sabres in a glass case are much older than the projector, and apparently of much greater significance. They are said to be the weapons used by Phuket's famed heroines, Tao "Jan" Thepkrasattri and Tao "Muk" Sri Soonthorn, who led islanders to victory over Burmese invaders in 1785.<br />
<br />
The many black-and-white photographs on the walls show wide, dirt roads full of people and carts long before cars came.<br />
<br />
There is a picture of Phuket Airport dated 1930, and an image of Ranong Road during the 1940s. The collection is large and varied.<br />
<br />
The Thavorn Hotel Museum contains hundreds of items from a variety of cultures.<br />
<br />
Sompratch Saowakhon<br />
<br />
Phuket Gazette]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:14:34 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[GREAT DRIVE Paradise off the beaten track]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=8</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>Trat's unspoiled beaches are perfect for a weekend far from the madding crowd<br /><br />Hordes of tourists arrive in Trat every month but very few linger more than an hour or two on the mainland of Thailand's easternmost province, instead hurrying through to catch the ferries that sail regularly to Koh Chang or Koh Kood.</strong><br />
<br />
They are missing out: Mainland Trat with its kilometres of unspoiled, sandy palm-shaded beaches, vibrant fishing villages and abundant home-cooked seafood is ideal for anyone looking for a quiet weekend getaway.<br />
<br />
Unlike Koh Chang, many of the province's beaches remain largely undeveloped. Some are covered by willows, others flanked by forests, and several can only be accessed only by dirt tracks, so are clean, quiet and attractive.<br />
<br />
Running along "the elephant's trunk" - the narrow strip of land that protrudes from downtown Trat and leads up to the border with Cambodia - these beaches have been immune from the tourist waves for years. So a short holiday here guarantees both discovery and serendipity - provided you're willing to go off the beaten track.<br />
<br />
Trat is just 315 kilometres from Bangkok and on the fast, open road, it takes slightly more than two hours.<br />
<br />
Trat, or Krat as it used to be known, is a very old province, first mentioned in a historical account written during the reign of King Naresuan of Ayutthaya, when it was under the control of his foreign ministry. The province also served as a key military base for King Taksin after the fall of Ayutthaya following the 1767 Burmese attack. In 1904, Trat came under French rule following a skirmish with the French navy over the colonialist's demand for Siam's vassal provinces on the eastern side of the Mekong. The colonial-style, two-storey wooden structure of the French governor's residence still stands in downtown Trat and today serves as the Department of Corrections office.<br />
<br />
Given its colourful past, it's perhaps not surprising that the province is home to a rainbow of races, with sizeable Chinese, Vietnamese and Cambodian communities.<br />
<br />
The Khmer language plays a prominent role in both the cultural and commercial life, in part because the province, which is next door to Cambodia's Koh Kong, has often played host to Cambodian refugees.<br />
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Villagers living along the beaches between downtown Trat and the last district in the east, Khlong Yai, speak Khmer as a second language. Even police at checkpoints on the road to the border town of Khlong Yai will often answer in Khmer!<br />
<br />
The best beaches lie on the road connecting Trat town with Ban Had Lek, the easternmost village in Khlong Yai district. They are all pristine, but for beauty and convenience, check out Muk Kaew, which is one of the few accessible by an asphalt road. Mid-range accommodation is available at Muk Kaew Resort, along with mouth-watering seafood and eye-smacking views.<br />
<br />
A good day at Muk Kaew starts with a swim in the sea followed by a great seafood lunch. In the afternoon, rest in the shade of pine trees before relaxing as night falls with your favourite cocktail.<br />
<br />
You should also make time to explore some of the oldest fishing villages in Trat, especially those fringed by Ratchakarun, Ban Chuen and Tanuek beaches. Ratchakarun beach boasts the Thai Red Cross's Khao Lan museum, which offers an interesting snapshot of life in the refugee camp. And Ban Chuen beach is positively breathtaking.<br />
<br />
From Ban Chuen, drive along the seafront to Tanuek beach, home to some of the more stylish resorts in the area. Stroll along the beach at sunset and stay overnight. If you want curried soft-shell crab, rise early, and buy fresh seafood directly from the small boats that sail between villages selling the catch of the night before. And there you have it.<br />
<br />
With such tranquil beaches and tasty seafood, Trat remains a surprisingly well-kept secret.<br />
<br />
Manote Tripathi<br />
The Nation]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:12:15 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[The wonders of graceful graz.]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=7</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>With green parks, red roofs and a blue river, Austria's second-largest city beckons the discerning tourist<br /><br />
<br />
Mention Austria and the mind conjures up snow-capped mountains, music by Mozart, sinfully rich Sacher Torte and, of course, the cities of Vienna and Salzburg. Few people, though, have heard about Graz, Austria's second-largest city after Vienna, in the southeast region of Styria.</strong><br />
<br />
In some ways that's good, as this strikingly beautiful city is rarely swamped by tourists, although with its harmonious blend of historical monuments and modern buildings, it certainly merits a visit.<br />
<br />
Cobblestone streets, red-tiled roofs and a clear blue river that runs through the city are just a few of its charms. Two-thirds of the town is covered with beautiful parks and an interesting and vibrant art and cultural scene earned it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2003.<br />
<br />
Because the city is situated in a cultural borderland between Central Europe, Italy and the Balkan States, Graz has absorbed various influences from these neighbouring regions, and these are reflected in its remarkable townscape.<br />
<br />
Restaurants are abundant and varied, ranging from Indian to Japanese and Chinese, plus the usual smattering of international fast-food eateries. The locals still prefer the Mediterranean and Austrian food, though, and delicacies include such Styrian specialities as pork-filled dumplings, sausages, sterz (polenta) and backhenderl (crispy chicken).<br />
<br />
The best way to explore is by foot but those who prefer alternative forms of transport can take advantage of the extensive network of local buses, trams and trains.<br />
<br />
Start with the Old Town, one of the best-preserved city centres in Central Europe and named by Unesco as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2003. This is a great place to spend time around some of the major landmarks and get a feel of what Graz was like hundreds of years ago.<br />
<br />
Hauptplatz is the main square and lies in the heart of the old town. The historical place was built in the Middle Ages and revamped in 2002 by local architect Markus Pernthaler. Several pedestrian streets lined with small antique shops, cafes and boutiques connect to this city centre, making it a popular hangout for the young.<br />
<br />
A trip to the Schlossberg is a must. This formerly fortified wooded hill topped by a castle rises 472 metres above Graz and offers a panoramic view of the city. It is now a beautiful park and can be reached either via a funicular railway that stops next to the restaurant or by climbing 260 steps from the Schlossbergplatz.<br />
<br />
At the top is the Glockenturm (bell tower), built in 1588 and one of the few castle structures still standing. During the summer months, concerts are held on the castle's ramparts, providing a unique ambience.<br />
<br />
Nearby is the Uhrturm (clocktower), the traditional emblem of Graz. Its five-metre wide face has shown the exact time since 1712, despite the unusual fitting of its hand. Visitors can choose to either take a glass elevator or walk up the stairs to the clock tower, where they can enjoy a coffee shop while gazing down over the old town.<br />
<br />
Graz is home to scores of museums and galleries, showcasing exhibitions of contemporary arts, photography, folklore and literature as well as the sciences, aviation and weaponry. World class theatre and music festivals are held throughout the year and include La Strada puppet theatre festival and Jazz-Sommer.<br />
<br />
In the last few years several modern buildings have been, the most famous being the Kunsthaus Graz contemporary arts museum along the banks of Mur River. Designed by British architects Peter Cook and Colin Fournier, it is regarded an example of revolutionary architecture.<br />
<br />
Another bizarre artistic creation is situated in the Mur. The Murinsel (Island in the Mur), is an open shell-shaped floating platform made of steel. Designed by American architect Vito Acconci, the Murinsel contains a cafe, an open-air theatre and a playground. Built in 2003 to celebrate Graz's title of the European Capital of Culture, it also functions as a bridge.<br />
<br />
Graz is also home to celebrities, most notably Arnold Schwarzenegger, former actor and current governor of California. Others include astronomer Johannes Kepler and composer Robert Stolz.<br />
<br />
But Graz has more to offer than just its city sights. The surrounding countryside is also an attractive destination for hiking and day trips to the famous Lipizzaner stud farms, castles, monasteries, archaeological trails and local vineyards.<br />
<br />
Graz is probably Austria's best kept secret - and a hidden gem indeed!<br />
<br />
Kittima Sethi<br />
Special to The Nation]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:07:52 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Mediterranean marvels]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=6</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong> French chef Jerome Serres opens his third restaurant in his adopted home of Athens<br />There's a love affair between Jerome Serres and the city of Athens, the kind of affair that involves passion and a lot of commitment. Before opening the restaurant that bears his name, the French chef was already known in the Greek capital: first at Spondi, one of Athens's finest restaurants, then at Pil Poul, famous for its incredible view over the Pantheon.</strong><br /><br />
<br /><br />
For his third and most important venture so far, Serres opted for the Eridanus Luxury Art Hotel and its attractive neoclassic setting. His decision was based on a wish to stay close to his former clientele while attempting to seduce a more international crowd. Judging from the endless reservation list, this strategy was clearly successful.<br /><br />
<br /><br />
When it comes to the roots of Mediterranean cuisine, Serres makes no compromise: his dishes are both colourful and lighthearted, with a strong reliance on regional ingredients and a unique cooking style that owes as much to France as it does to Greece.<br /><br />
<br /><br />
Jerome Serres (one star)<br /><br />
<br /><br />
78 Pireaus Avenue, Keramikos, Athens, Greece]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:04:52 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Yoga North and South Have yoga mat, and travel]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=5</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>It's getting so you can't walk down a street anywhere in Thailand these days without hearing the satisfied pop of a shoulder or knee joint finally rediscovering its proper position. Thank the yoga boom.</strong><br />
<br />
Here's a quick survey of some of the top yoga retreats across the land.<br />
<br />
KOH SAMUI: A few new places caterฌing mainly to yoga lovers are about to open up on Samui. Joining Absolute Yoga Samui and Love Kitchen in the Bophut fisherman's village on the north shore in April will be Absolute Sanctuary, a yoga and detox centre (www.AbsoluteSanctuary.com).<br />
<br />
The island has a longestablished ashtanฌga centre called Yoga Thailand in the Mae Nam area, run by dedicated practitioner Paul Dallaghan (www.YogaThailand.com).<br />
<br />
The Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa (www.Kamalaya.com) offers immaculate facilities, including an openair, woodfloor pavilion and sala, and the enclosed Yantra Hall, all with breathtaking sea views.<br />
<br />
KOH PHANGAN: Yes, there's more than fullmoon parties here. The bestknown getaway for yoga aficionados is the Sanctuary (www.TheSanctuarykpg.com), built into the side of a forested mountain overlooking Thien Beach.<br />
<br />
It has bungalows on stilts and several yoga halls where three daily classes are held along with evening meditation sessions. The restaurant offers complete vegetarian meals.<br />
<br />
Also well established is the Agama Yoga Resort (www.AgamaYoga.com) founded by Swami Vivekananda Saraswati from India.<br />
<br />
CHIANG MAI: The Anusara Yoga Immersion Retreat was completed at Kaomai Lanna Resort (www.KaomaiLanna.com) earlier this year. It will be hosting big gatherings of devotees of anurasa yoga from all over the world. Yin Yoga will be offered by Paul Grilley and Sarah Powers in December at the Tao Garden Resort (www.SarahPowers.com).<br />
<br />
<strong>MORE STAFF PICKS</strong> Koh Ngai Yoga Reteats, www.yogatraveller.com<br />
<br />
Vipasai Niyamabha<br /><br />
Special to Daily Xpress]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 07:58:07 GMT</pubDate>
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<title><![CDATA[Hotel Jen in Hong Kong has opened for business]]></title>
<link>http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-Gj98mZ0laacXOx0GdLWfIixz?p=4</link>
<description><![CDATA[<strong>Taking its name from the Chinese character which symbolises the Confucian ideal of love and goodwill towards people, Hotel Jen's approach is to provide travellers with the essentials of a quality hotel room without the expensive extras. A clean and functional room, a comfortable bed and a great shower are at the heart of the Hotel Jen experience.</strong><br />
<br />
"Hotel Jen brings an affordable, contemporary interpretation of traditional hospitality to Hong Kong. We created the rooms to be comfortable, functional, and clean to give good value to our guests - the essence of what we feel travellers today are really looking for in accommodation. A return to simplicity," said general manager Gordon Aeria.<br />
<br />
Hotel Jen is located in the western district, just down the hill from Hong Kong University. The Western District still preserves the flavor of old Hong Kong, yet is just 10 minutes from Hong Kong's Central business district, the Airport Express and the city's hottest nightlife centres of Soho and Lan Kwai Fong.<br />
<br />
The 280 room independent hotel offers standard rooms, Jen Rooms and Jen Suites, all fully equipped with LCD TV, cable TV, iPod/MP3 connector, wired and wireless broadband, personal voicemail service, in-room safe, hairdryers, and more. The signature Jen Rooms have sleek wooden flooring and an innovative bathroom design that maximizes space while maintaining privacy. The Jen Rooms are located on the top floors of the hotel and offer either harbour or mountain views.<br />
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The spacious Jen Suites offer affordable luxury with harbour views. The one-bedroom suites feature living/dining room, fully equipped kitchenette, separate dressing area, his and her sinks, separate shower stall and a deep soaking bath with harbour views. The 50 square metre rooms are perfect for a luxury getaway or for longer stays. Jen Rooms and Jen Suites include daily international buffet breakfast and exclusive use of the Sky Lounge.<br />
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Food and beverage offerings at the hotel include the Jen Caf้, Sky Lounge and Lobby Bar.<br />
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The Jen Caf้ is an all-day restaurant and lounge serving a menu of international and Asian fare. Long share tables create an informal ambience, encouraging guests to interact, and open kitchens enhance the space with warmth and activity.<br />
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The Lobby Bar, located in the lobby level of the hotel, serves beverages, light and ready-to-go snacks. On the top floor with sweeping harbour views, Sky Lounge provides an exclusive retreat for Jen Room and Jen Suite guests during the day that includes a nightly 6-8pm complimentary wine and cocktail hour. Thereafter it is open to the public, and offers a place to relax and unwind with wine, cocktails and snacks into the evening.<br />
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Recreational facilities include a 16-metre outdoor rooftop swimming pool overlooking the harbour, and 24-hour gym equipped with the latest fitness machines.<br />
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The 96-square-metre Function Room is ideal for private meetings and small events, including banquets for up to 50 guests. It is complete with a selection of the latest audio/visual facilities for meetings.<br />
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For the convenience of guests, Hotel Jen operates a regular shuttle bus throughout the day to Macau Ferry (Sheung Wan MTR), Central Star Ferry, Airport Express Hong Kong Station (ifc mall) and Admiralty MTR (Pacific Place).<br />
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Source: nationmultimedia]]></description>
<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 07:56:32 GMT</pubDate>
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