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The Irish Sun
18-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Inside Thai resort nestled high in the mountains with tree top dining, mesmerising views and secluded hidden beach
ARRIVING at the five star Amari resort for our honeymoon hidden on a secluded beach in Patong, Phuket was heart-stopping. The staff greeted us with smiles in the breath-taking reception area overlooking the Andaman Sea. 9 The Amari overlooks the turquoise sea of the Andaman Sea Credit: Amari Phuket 9 The resort is located within a five minute walk to Patong Beach Credit: Amari Phuket 9 It's hidden high in the mountains Credit: Amari Phuket 9 Dining in The Tree Pods was unforgettable Credit: COLLECT I was taken back with the resort's seamless blend of contemporary Our Coral Lounge Ocean Suite had floor-to-ceiling windows that filled the room with natural light. And the mesmerising views of Patong Bay looked postcard perfect. The citrus smells as we walked into the room made us feel like we had arrived in paradise. READ MORE ON TRAVEL I then spotted the staff left some snacks and goodies for us and a gorgeous honeymoon towel display on the bed. With three swimming pools and private We spent hours by each of the pools everyday, taking in the atmosphere. The more we walked around the resort, the more we kept on discovering. Most read in News Travel A major perk is the resort is so spacious, no area is overcrowded. There was plenty of romantic spots including deck chairs by the beach and a gigantic swing stretching out over the ocean. 'Get ready for your next getaway' cry Dunnes bosses over new 'travel must have' for just €15 Food options at the Amari Phuket included Italian Fine Dining at La Gritta, Southern Thai cuisine at Rim Talay and stylish aperitifs at The Jetty. For us, we enjoyed a very romantic meal dining by the sea at La Gritta, with the stars twinkling above us. I enjoyed a Bistecca T-Bone di Black Angus Steak and the Taruflo al Cioccolato cake was divine. Another stand out experience for us was having afternoon tea in The Tree Pods. We followed a They were uniquely designed with eco-friendly material and in a boat-shape pod, high above the trees. We really felt like we were in our own little world together and away from it all, in the middle of some of the most scenic views, getting to spend time together in Thai paradise. Location: Stay there: Hidden on a secluded beach, Amari Phuket is in a prime location in Patong's southernmost corner surrounded by the Andaman Sea. Less than an hour's drive from Phuket International Airport, the resort is set within a five minute walk to Patong Beach while Phuket Town and the island's popular attractions are easily accessible. Patong Beach 1 km 5 mins Wat Chalong (Chalong Temple) 20 km 30 mins Phuket Town 15 km 25 mins Phromthep Cape 20 km 40 mins Waking up to the Continental, American and Asian breakfasts overlooking the ocean was a treat. With half a la carte and half buffet, the choices were endless. I was treated to a serene massage in the Breeze Spa. The spa itself is nestled high on the mountain top among the trees and oozes tranquillity. But for those seeking more activity, the FIT Centre and scuba diving centre won't disappoint. We ventured to Patong Town numerous times during our stay. It was bustling with shops, restaurants and bars. After sunset, Bangla Road closes off to traffic and becomes a party street. The It really was one experience after the other that made it a honeymoon of dreams. GET THERE: GET THERE: Emirates or Etihad. STAY THERE: DO THERE: Thai night market and snorkelling. EAT THERE: La Gritta or Rim Talay at Amari Phuket. 9 Unwinding at the Breeze Spa was pure bliss Credit: Amari Phuket 9 There was plenty to explore throughout the resort Credit: COLLECT 9 The staff kept surprising us during our stay Credit: COLLECT 9 The resort boasts six different restaurants and bars Credit: Amari Phuket 9 The Amari is less than an hour's drive from Phuket International Airport Credit: Amari Phuket
Tatler Asia
14-05-2025
- Tatler Asia
A collection of fun things to do on Koh Samui, eating, drinking, and traveling, with filming locations for the latest season of ‘The White Lotus'
Another world-class hotel tucked away on a lush hillside at the far end of Koh Samui, the Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui features private villas that gradually descend to a private beach. Each comes with an infinity pool and panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand. A must-see highlight is the Secret Garden Spa, hidden amidst lush tropical gardens, offering spa treatments that combine local wisdom with luxury, using herbs and essential oils from the resort's organic garden to create personalized treatments. There are also many exclusive activities to choose from, whether it's training in Muay Thai with a professional trainer in a quiet corner by the sea or sailing on a private yacht to see the small islands in the Gulf of Thailand, with a personal chef service who will create a special meal by the beach, creating a superior and memorable relaxation experience. Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui Address: 219 Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (Photo: Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui) Another luxury resort you don't want to miss, hidden away on a steep cliff on Koh Samui, Six Senses Samui offers a relaxing experience that combines luxury with sustainability. The highlight here is The Ocean Retreat, a private villa that floats above the sea with an infinity pool that stretches to the horizon, offering one of the most beautiful sunset spots on the island. Set on a clifftop terrace, Dining on the Rocks offers award-winning cuisine highlighting organic ingredients from the resort's gardens, allowing guests to participate in picking fresh produce from the garden and learning how to cook with a professional chef. Relaxation activities include Sound Releasing, a therapy using sound therapy amidst nature to balance the body and mind, reinforcing the brand's unique wellness retreat philosophy. Six Senses Samui Hotel Address: 9/10 Ban Plai Laem, Cheong Mon Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Elevated view of The Ocean Retreat room at Six Senses Koh Samui (Photo: Six Senses Samui) Where to eat For a taste of authentic Southern Thai cuisine, head to Kapi Sator. This family-run business prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Signature dishes not to be missed include Southern-style crab curry, fresh oysters from Kanchanadit District, Surat Thani Province, and eight-hour stewed pork. There are also daily specials made with seasonal ingredients. Shrimp paste and stink beans Address: 25/236 Thawi Rat Phakdi Road, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Presenting authentic southern food at Kapi Sator Restaurant (Photo: Instagram / @kinkubnon) A southern style Chef's Table restaurant that is a collaboration between Chef Jeremy Simien and Chef Tang Chitlada Sirachadapong, both of whom are passionate about the charm of traditional Thai food, whether it's the 'Lang Nuea Wagyu Chop Lang Ya' menu, which is grilled Wagyu beef in betel leaves, or 'Samui Tempura', which combines organic southern herbs with a sour puree from local Samui herbs, under the concept of conserving and using the ocean, sea and marine resources for sustainable development. CHADA Chef's Table Address: 87 Na Thon Community, Ang Thong Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Despite its location on Koh Samui, Chez François is a must-book destination for French food lovers. Chef François Peillard creates classic French dishes with a contemporary twist. Popular signature dishes include the Coq au vin (chicken stewed in French red wine), the Beef Wellington (tender pastry-wrapped beef), and the Beef Carpaccio (thinly sliced raw beef with a special sauce), all of which are meticulously prepared using the finest ingredients. This restaurant is a must-visit for both tourists and locals looking to experience fine French dining on this paradise island. Chez Francois Address: 33/2 Village No. 1, Fisherman Village, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Chez François, a French restaurant on Koh Samui that you shouldn't miss (Photo: Chez François) Experience the authentic taste of southern food at Pensiri, a local restaurant that conveys the charm of southern food to the fullest. The must-try menu items are the spicy shrimp paste and pork chili paste with authentic southern flavors. But the signature dish is the crab curry noodles set, served with four side vegetables. The highlight is the rich curry and spicy flavor, worthy of being a famous local restaurant on Koh Samui that is known as one of the southern restaurants that you can't miss. Phen Siri Address: 80/30 Moo 3, Suan Uthit Road, Chaweng Beach, Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Read more: Ultimate Luxurious Villas: 5 of the best luxury villas in Thailand for a dream vacation This restaurant is located in a quiet seaside setting on Koh Samui. In addition to its outstanding local cuisine that emphasizes fresh seafood and traditional curry pastes, it also has a bar area that selects a variety of wines and creative cocktails to sip in a romantic atmosphere at night. This is a popular place to celebrate special occasions, whether it's a wedding or a special Chef's Table meal in a cozy, hidden gem atmosphere that provides a friendly and relaxing feeling. And of course, at night, don't miss the special fire baton show. Hug Samui & Ai Bar Address: Mae Nam, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Where to drink This romantic beach bar is a perfect blend of classic fishing village and contemporary. The bar features a variety of cocktails and a wine list. Located on the beach not far from the Big Buddha Temple on the west coast of Koh Samui, Nahm offers a beautiful view of the orange sunset sky. If you stay until late, you can watch the fireworks from squid fishing boats in the sea at night. In the evening, this bar is the perfect destination for a special meal, whether it's a fancy dinner, a proposal, or just a special moment by the sea. Nahm Address: 16/9 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above The atmosphere inside Nahm restaurant by the sea (Photo: Nahm) Above Drinks inside Nahm (Photo: Nahm) A new zone under the care of Coco Tam's Koh Samui after Coco Tam's has become one of the must-see destinations for tourists, complete with food, drinks and shows that have become Koh Samui's signature. Make the most of your relaxing time at Easy on Tams, a speakeasy bar and social club located on top of Coco Tam's that combines seaside relaxation with the novelty of partying. The second floor serves as a secret bar, seamlessly hidden from the hustle and bustle of Cocotam's Restaurant. With a Mid Century atmosphere, warm lighting and a perfectly blended disco bar, it serves special drinks during your relaxing time. Easy on Tams Address: 62 Bo Phut Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's) Above Easy on Tam's, a secret bar on Koh Samui (Photo: Easy on Tam's)
The Star
06-05-2025
- The Star
‘Border to beach' getaway
DREAMING of a border-crossing cycling adventure? Songkhla, a charming town in Southern Thailand, is waiting for you just 95km north of Malaysia's Bukit Kayu Hitam border. Whether you bring your bicycle or rent one locally, Songkhla offers a warm, vibrant setting ideal for two-wheeled explorers. If you choose to bring your own bike, a folding bicycle is highly recommended – easy to transport and perfect for the mostly flat terrain surrounding the town. Getting there is simple: buses from Kuala Lumpur's Terminal Bersepadu Selatan depart daily around midnight, arriving at the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration Complex by early morning. Don't forget to declare your bicycle at Malaysian Customs before crossing the border. An old pier turned into a tourist walkway in Songkhla. The procedure is straightforward – complete a temporary export form, keep the permit with you and breeze through your journey worry-free. For those who prefer driving, the process is just as easy, provided you have the necessary documents to bring your vehicle into Thailand. Once you've arrived in Hat Yai, it's time to saddle up and head toward Songkhla. You'll have two beautiful routes to choose from. Route 414 offers a faster, modern speedway ride – ideal if you want a smooth, efficient journey. Street murals like this one featuring Thailand's King Rama 9 are typical decorations around the heritage area. For a more leisurely and scenic experience, opt for Route 407, the classic older road gently winds through the Southern Thai countryside. Covering about 28km, this route offers a few pleasant undulations and countless opportunities to stop for a cup of coffee or to hydrate under shady trees. Cycling to Songkhla will typically take around two and a half hours, depending on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the scenery. If long-distance cycling isn't your style, don't worry. Standing at an overlook before Lake Songkhla. Simply drive into Songkhla, park your vehicle at City Park near Chalatat Beach and set up your bike for a day of relaxed riding along the seaside. Once in town, start your adventure by heading to Samila Beach, home to the town's most famous landmark – the Golden Mermaid statue. Gleaming in the tropical sunlight, she is a symbol of Songkhla's seaside allure and a must-visit photo spot. For early risers, there's no better place to catch the sunrise than the Krom Luang Chumphon Monument, located 4.2km from City Park. Here, the sky puts on a breathtaking show each morning, with the Gulf of Thailand shimmering under the first light of day. From the beach, it's a short 4.3km ride into Songkhla Old Town, a district steeped in history and charm. This area, lovingly preserved by the local community, is being championed for Unesco World Heritage Site recognition – and it's not hard to see why. Wander through narrow streets lined with pre-war buildings bearing Chinese-influenced architecture. Narrow lanes crisscrossing Songkhla's old town. Many of these historic structures have been thoughtfully repurposed into boutique hotels, art cafes and quirky restaurants. It's a feast for the senses – and a dream for photographers. Be sure to bring your camera because every corner and façade offers a moment worth capturing. Cycling remains the best way to explore this enchanting part of town. The tight streets are perfect for two wheels, and the slow pace allows you to savour every detail – the weathered wooden shutters, the vivid street art and the aroma of freshly brewed Thai coffee wafting through the air. For a deeper understanding of Songkhla's rich maritime past, visit the Songkhla National Museum on Chana Road. Housed in a grand colonial-era building, the museum's exhibits trace the town's evolution from a vital trading port to the cultural gem it is today. The paved streets in Songkhla's old town are narrow and ideal for two-wheelers. Why Songkhla? The beauty of Songkhla lies in its perfect balance: small enough to explore in half a day, yet rich enough in sights, tastes and culture to linger in your memory for much longer. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist seeking new adventures or simply a traveller longing for a fresh slice of Thailand's coastal charm, Songkhla offers a breezy, bike-friendly escape that's closer than you think. So pack your bags, check your tyres and let Songkhla's golden beaches, historic streets and warm hospitality be the backdrop to your next unforgettable ride.
Los Angeles Times
28-02-2025
- Business
- Los Angeles Times
Restaurants Still Offering Free Meals or Discounts to Wildfire Evacuees
The Los Angeles wildfires have scorched more than 57,000 acres, reportedly displacing over 200,000 residents since they ignited in January. And as communities have begun the long and difficult road to recovery, the city's resilience is on full display. In a show of solidarity, local restaurants have been stepping up to support those impacted, offering free meals and discounts to evacuees and first responders. For those in need, this list provides a starting point — though not exhaustive, it serves as a resource for anyone seeking a warm meal and a reminder that LA stands together in times of crisis. The historic Scottish-inspired establishment is offering free sandwiches and choice of beverage to emergency responders and evacuees. The renowned steakhouse is providing free prime rib sandwiches in the bar area for those affected, while supplies last. Make sure to check in the manager on duty when you arrive. The iconic fine-dining establishment is serving free meals to emergency personnel. The coastal Italian eatery is providing free meal drops to fire stations upon request and has set up a Venmo for donations, with 100% of the funds going toward relief efforts. Additionally, a line item has been added to receipts, allowing customers to contribute directly to fire relief, with every dollar donated going to the cause. The acclaimed smokehouse is offering 50% off meals for first responders at both its Culver City and Downtown locations. The cozy café is offering free meals to those displaced by the fires. (not verified) The beloved neighborhood eatery is offering free pizza to firefighters and first responders. The Italian hotspot, as well as Cookbook Market and Carmelized Productions (two other businesses in the restaurant group's portfolio) are distributing gift baskets and meals to different outposts in need throughout Los Angeles. Make sure to reach out through Instagram to secure delivery. Featuring Uzbek cuisine, this restaurant is donating food for an all-you-can-eat cheese fundraiser organized by Justice of Cheese and the Ann Saxelby Legacy Fund in support of the Altadena community. The vibrant Southern Thai bistro is offering free meals for firefighters and first responders until the end of the month. The Italian-American eatery have added a few items to their menu with proceeds going toward fire relief efforts, including meals for first responders and support for those affected. The futuristic burger spot is offering free meals, with staff available to deliver food to shelters. The eastside pizzeria is providing complimentary meals for emergency responders and evacuees. The izakaya hotspot is pledging 20% of proceeds from merchandise sales of sweatshirts and t-shirts to fire relief efforts. The authentic Thai bistro is offering complimentary meals for firefighters in uniform. This list is continually updated to reflect current offers
