Escape the April Heat with These Songkran Getaways
No matter whether you decide to celebrate the Thai New Year in Thailand or overseas, Guru By Bangkok Post has everything you need.
Anantara Golden Triangle
The Mekong Explorer Tent represents Anantara Golden Triangle’s latest luxurious accommodation option and stands out as one of the most distinctive upscale lodgings in Thailand.
Perched on a private hilltop, The Mekong Explorer Tent provides an exceptional sanctuary boasting spectacular 360-degree views at the meeting point of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar. Situated inside a vast 160-acre bamboo grove, visitors can start their day with sights of the dense rainforest, the expansive Mekong River, and theGolden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation’s 20 rehabilitated elephants wandering beneath them.
These two opulent tents, each featuring infinity pools, have been meticulously crafted for contemporary adventurers. They merge sumptuous leather, inviting wooden elements, and premium Jim Thompson textiles to offer a classic yet engaging ambiance. Your visit comes with a welcoming arrival aboard a traditional longtail boat, an exhilarating sky bike journey above the canopy, along with all-inclusive gourmet meals and specially selected activities.
Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket encourages guests to unplug from their devices and savor quality time together during Songkran festivities. At Angsana Laguna Phuket, you can participate in various age-appropriate activities such as family-focused spa treatments, regular almsgiving rituals, serene seaside yoga sessions, and fun-filled kids' yoga classes. Additionally, Azura has been refreshed and will be hosting an exclusive Easter Sunday brunch on April 20th featuring a sumptuous feast, lively musical performances, and beachside Easter-themed events.
At Cassia Phuket, guests can experience a 'Wellness Wonderlands,' treating their pet-loving accommodation as an extension of their own homes. Begin your mornings with sessions in yoga or Muay Thai, then progress to eFoil surfing adventures within the grounds of Cassia Lagoon. Engage in educational experiences such as coffee workshops or enjoy community-driven fun including swimming competitions, video game tournaments, and outdoor cinema evenings beneath the starry sky. The SAii Spa located at SAii Laguna Phuket presents a "Nutrition for Relaxation" initiative aimed at enhancing well-being through mindful eating practices.
Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket blends seaside allure with genuine Thai warmth, offering beach yoga sessions, relaxing massages, and evening kayaking under the sunset. Guests also have access to a round of golf at Laguna Golf Phuket. For families, numerous bonding experiences are available such as egg-picking on the farm, bonfires under the stars, engaging cooking lessons, and creative tie-dye workshops. At Homm Suites Laguna, guests looking for a break from technology can participate in yoga sessions, practice mindfulness techniques, explore stunning surroundings, and enjoy specially curated outings.
The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa, Phuket
The Westin Siray Bay Resort and Spa, Phuket is providing a unique package along with numerous invigorating activities. Dive into celebrations that encapsulate the true spirit of Songkran.
The festivities begin on April 13 with a propitious merit-making and water-pouring ritual held at Prego, succeeded by a customary long drum procession. Delight in entertainment and activities at the Horizon Pool and the Kids Club, featuring abundant opportunities for water battles and enjoyment.
During Songkran, visitors have the chance to step back from the celebrations and explore the culinary delights of Thailand. On April 13, an Isaan Thai buffet lunch at Seasonal Tastes will feature the tastes of northeastern Thailand. Then, on April 14, a traditional Southern Thai buffet lunch at Seasonal Tastes will spotlight the produce from Phuket and southern regions of Thailand. The Asian Night Buffet Dinner will occur at EEST, which overlooks the sea. Finally, on April 15, food lovers can indulge in a street food buffet lunch at Seasonal Tastes.
Enhance your Songkran celebration with the '4 Nights In Paradise' package, featuring additional perks such as daily breakfast for two adults and two children, along with 20% off on meals, beverages, and relaxing treatments at the Heavenly Spa by Westin. This offer requires a minimum stay of four nights.
Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa
The Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa is hosting an array of celebrations on April 13th. Commencing early morning, visitors have the opportunity to participate alongside the resort staff in a customary merit-making ritual, where they can offer food donations to Buddhist monks along Hua Hin Beach.
After enjoying breakfast at Amber Kitchen, visitors can join the yearly Songkran Parade. The event features staff from the resort adorned with vibrant Songkran-inspired Hawaiian shirts and traditional Thai attire leading everyone through the property towards the garden lawn, where they carry this year’s Miss Songkran on a palanquin. Consistent with ancient customs, people of all generations will participate in Water-Splashing games on the grassy area, using large water guns, buckets filled with water, along with an abundance of drinks and snacks.
When the sun goes down, guests can come together at Amber Kitchen for the Songkran Dinner Buffet, which includes fresh crab and premium imported oysters, roasted top-tier Australian Wagyu beef, entire roast suckling pigs, legs of lamb, and many other delights. The evening also features traditional Thai dance performances along with engaging activities for children.
Raffles Sentosa Singapore
Recently, Raffles Hotels and Resorts launched the Raffles Sentosa Singapore, marking the nation's premier all-villa retreat.
Located across 100,000 square meters of vibrant tropical landscape on Sentosa Island, this resort harmoniously merges nature’s splendor with exceptional service, continuing the illustrious tradition of the iconic Raffles brand established in Singapore back in 1887.
Created by Yabu Pushelberg, this resort boasts 62 villas, every single one equipped with a private swimming pool and an open-air terrace. The accommodations vary in size from a spacious one-bedroom villa spanning 211 square meters up to the lavish four-bedroom Royal Villa which covers 650 square meters. Grand floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking vistas of lush greenery surrounding the property. Inside, a cohesive mix of organic elements and detailed finishes seamlessly connects the interior living areas with the exterior surroundings.
Located within a restored historic site, The Raffles Sentosa Spa includes 13 treatment rooms and provides a modern wellness experience. Besides having a gym, visitors can benefit from discounted golf rates at the Sentosa Golf Club and have access to Tanjong Beach.
The resort features five dining venues and bars — including the upscale Empire Grill, where you can enjoy contemporary Italian dishes. For those inclined towards Chinese culinary delights, Royal China provides exquisite Cantonese fare. Experience an exclusive Japanese omakase menu at Iyasaka by Hashida. The Chairman’s Room serves as the venue for the brand's renowned afternoon tea service and boasts a curated collection of whiskies, cognacs, and premium wines. Check out their site for more details.
Ayana Cruises
Between April 18 and October 18, the leading ship from the Ayana Cruises lineup will provide an extended journey into Komodo National Park, along with the standard two-day overnight trip.
The latest offering includes a three-day, two-night cruise along with the previously launched two-day, one-night trip, both taking place onboard the Ayana Lako di'a. This premier ship is a contemporary version of the ‘phinisi’ style, honoring the historic wooden schooners from South Sulawesi—a tradition acknowledged by UNESCO. The craft boasts nine designated cabins: an extensive 69 square meter Master Suite complete with a personal terrace and a bath tub facing the open seas, as well as six smaller but equally luxurious 20 square meter suites, each equipped with their own en-suite bathroom and panoramic ocean vistas.
Visitors have access to numerous shipboard amenities like a lounge, bar, indoor eating space, and large daybeds located on the main deck. Their travel plans feature stops at stunning locations including Kalong Island; Komodo Island where they will get close-up views of famous Komodo dragons; snorkeling excursions at the well-known Pink Beach; and an evening trek on Padar Island.
Included additionally are airport transfers to and from Komodo International Airport, entry fees for Komodo National Park, and digital photographic documentation. Please visit our website for more details.
Explora Journeys
Explore Journeys celebrates the delights of spring through a series of Mediterranean trips on board Explora I and Explora II.
An "Easter Celebration Afloat: Mediterranean Voyage with Explora Journeys" offers an intricately designed array of activities including entertainment, cultural happenings, and gastronomic treats. This event provides families opportunities to bond over island-wide Easter egg searches, special celebrations, and distinctive meals aboard the ship.
From April 14 to May 4, 'Barcelona To Barcelona: An Extended Voyage Through Concealed Histories And Flavorful Andalusia' is scheduled. Meanwhile, 'Barcelona To Piraeus (Athens): A Journey Of Legends, Mountains, And Majestic Ruins' will take place from April 18-28. Various cruise options are available for selection. Check out their website for more details.
Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises has broadened its selection of engaging Culinary Discovery Tours by introducing 12 new gourmet experiences.
The recently introduced chef-guided tours now cover various destinations across the world, ranging from Europe and the United Kingdom with new routes in cities like Amsterdam, Belfast, Invergordon, Valencia, and Valletta; to Asia where they've added three new choices for Japanese voyages in Kobe, Kochi, and Shimizu, as well as an option in Busan, South Korea; and finally, in North America, guests can enjoy fresh experiences in Halifax, Quebec City, and Victoria.
The Culinary Center, the premier interactive cooking school aboard a cruise ship, provides exceptional opportunities for gastronomy enthusiasts eager to learn about global cuisines and cultural exploration through food. With only 18 participants per session, these exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours extend beyond conventional tours by granting entry into local markets, renowned eateries, and practical cooking workshops held both onboard and on land. For more information, check out their site.
Tanjong Beach Club
Tanjong Beach Club, Singapore’s premier island getaway, has resumed operations. Featuring completely redesigned interiors, enhanced culinary offerings, carefully selected musical events, and additional improvements.
Pioneering urban beach culture across Southeast Asia, Tanjong Beach Club debuted in 2010 aiming to cultivate a lively seaside ambiance within an island metropolis surprisingly devoid of such experiences. Following a brief closure lasting four months, it makes a resounding comeback—remaining faithful to its initial concept yet expanding upon it significantly. Look forward to revamped interiors, an entirely new culinary lineup, along with engaging events tailored to enhance your time at the shore.
The traditional beach barbecue has been transformed into sophisticated coastal cooking suitable for the most refined food lovers. The centerpiece of this culinary experience is a Mibrasa grill, powered by a blend of ironbark, binchotan, and applewood, adding an irresistible smoky flavor throughout the dishes. Discover the revitalized beach store, featuring essential seaside items alongside desirable collectibles.
Britannic Explorer
Launching in July, the Britannic Explorer offers the pinnacle of leisurely luxury featuring collaboration with the British wellness brand, Wildsmith, and a special Wellness Suite aboard the train.
Located within one of the train’s 10 carriages, thisSuite will offer the premier such experience aboard a train in England and Wales. The treatments offered by Wildsmithwill focus onfive customized sessions centered around mindfulness, grounding methods, and personalized contemplation—reflecting elements observed throughthe landscape visible from the carriage windows.
The Wellness Suite offers nature-inspired therapies for the body, aligning with Wildsmith's ethos that emphasizes growth, sleep, and rejuvenation. Tailored for the Britannic Explorer, the 'Signature Circadian Rhythm Reset' experience includes a selection of three treatments.
Visitors have the opportunity to extend their wellness experience through various off-site activities such as sailing around Cornwall, practicing yoga, and participating in a reflective fire ceremony. In the Lake District schedule, guests will find outdoor pursuits like wild swimming, boating, and stand-up paddling. For those traveling through Wales, health and excitement come together with picturesque valley treks, tours of lavender farms, sessions in wood-fired saunas, art workshops, and clay pigeon shooting.
Laguna Lang Co
Laguna Lang Co is reshaping the concept of luxurious golfing in Vietnam. Their Play, Stay, Dine and Unwind offer encourages visitors to delve into the untouched natural splendor, historical legacy, and top-notch hospitality at Laguna Lang Co.
At Banyan Tree Lang Co, enjoy opulent lodging paired with unrestricted access to the Laguna Golf Lang Co course. Savor exquisite meals and distinctive outings as part of this lavish offering. The package includes free use of practice balls along with high-end Titleist rental clubs. For culinary delights, five personalized dining events await you such as a special meal at the 18th hole, a boat ride culminating in a beachside barbecue on a secluded island, plus a campfire supper overlooking the sea from Banyan Tree Beach. Additionally, experience an individualized cultural exploration trip featuring transport services, guidance from a fluent English speaker, and regional cuisine during your visit. All-inclusive amenities encompass private return airport shuttles alongside comprehensive service charges.
The package encompasses staying at Banyan Tree Lang Co’s One-Bedroom Villas, which can be found either surrounded by verdant scenery or overlooking the beach. Every villa boasts a separate infinity-edge swimming pool, ample living spaces, and an interior design influenced by classic Vietnamese aesthetics. The expansive resort comprises ten different venues for eating and relaxing spread throughout its grounds.
Eastern And Oriental Express
In May, the Eastern & Oriental Express will make its way into Malaysia. Additionally, a unique Tiger Express trip has been organized in partnership with Save Wild Tigers, focusing on increasing public awareness about the initiatives aimed at conserving the Malayan tiger and preventing its extinction.
This week-long expedition takes you through the natural wonders that make up Malaysia—its primordial rainforests, sprawling hillsides, and untouched beaches—while paying tribute to one of its most emblematic yet vulnerable inhabitants: the Malayan tiger. Starting from the sophistication of Singapore and the historic Raffles Hotel, journey further into Malaysia’s wild heart aboard the luxurious Eastern & Oriental Express as it winds through dense jungles, allowing you to witness the nation's raw splendor personally.
Explore Taman Negara, among the planet’s most ancient forests, home to the rare Malayan tiger. Your adventure ends at The Datai Langkawi on Langkawi Island's coastline, where the sounds of the wilderness blend with the sea.
Jati
Jati, a secluded private island getaway brought to you by Shinta Mani Hotels, is set to welcome guests starting April 1. This haven combines Cambodian elegance with laid-back tropical living along the country’s southern shoreline. From April through September 30, visitors can experience what they call the "Jati Sunrise" launch phase.
This relaxed getaway featuring 82 villas exudes a distinct Cambodian island atmosphere at Koh Russey, also known as ‘Bamboo Island’. Just a quick 10-minute boat trip away from Ream Beach, which is close to Sihanoukville, this tranquil spot promises an experience of rebirth—Jati—which means 'rebirth' in Sanskrit. The resort captures the essence of transformation through its isolated location and revitalizing wellness programs, offering guests a chance for significant change. Guests can enjoy various recreational activities including a racket and sports facility where they can play tennis or pickleball, participate in basketball games, tackle mini-golf courses, engage in badminton matches, try their hand at Thai boxing, go stand-up paddling, use kayaks, explore coral reefs via snorkeling, and wander along scenic island paths either walking or cycling.
The Bamboo Spa and Gym offers a variety of Khmer-themed treatments starting in May, complete with sauna and ice bath options. It also boasts destination restaurants like Phnom Penh’s wine bar Le Manolis and the city’s favorite steakhouse, KoKo, which bring an urban international atmosphere to the coastal location. At the Arun beach café, lazy mornings can be enjoyed amid sea breeze. In the Banyan Lounge, you can savor exotic cocktails shaded by a banyan tree. Meanwhile, the vibrant Beach Club encourages stylish relaxation during sundown, featuring locally sourced fresh seafood, nightly barbecue sessions, and a relaxed tropical ambiance.
Palace Hotel Tokyo
The Palace Hotel Tokyo introduces the "Jaxury at Palace Hotel Tokyo" experience, a lodging package aimed at enhancing guests' appreciation of Japanese sensibilities and offering insights into the charm of Japanese aesthetic principles.
The room showcases handcrafted lanterns along with an objet d'art mirror from Time & Style; a glass speaker by Sony; organic cotton sleepwear including an eye mask, slippers, and a throw blanket provided by Tenerita for guest retention; exquisite wooden creations by Azmaya paired with cushions enveloped in splendid Nishijin fabrics courtesy of Hosoo. Exclusive experiences like dining at Wadakura and touring Parfum Satori’s workshop aim to engage both taste buds and sense of smell.
At the Lounge Bar Privé, you can enjoy a Jaxury Cocktail based on one of Parfum Satori’s acclaimed fragrances, paired with wagashi from Higashiya. Meanwhile, The Palace Lounge offers a combination of Suntory’s renowned single-malt Yamazaki whisky coupled with handcrafted chocolates by Maison Cacao, all while offering designated seats near the piano where guests can revel in live jazz performances throughout the night.
To enhance the stay and dining experiences provided in the package, three additional off-site activities offer guests the chance to deeply engage with common items that can be cherished in ways that hold personal significance for each individual.
The Hari Hong Kong
To embrace the popular trend of wellness tourism, The Hari Hong Kong has introduced a 'retox' experience that indulges in life’s pleasures. Check your remorse at reception and savor an evening cigar, enjoy a glass of gin, relish a dessert platter, and sip sweet sparkling wine as part of their one-night 'Retrox Without Detox' room package. This offer comes with lavish accommodations or suites plus breakfast for two guests.
The most harmful component of this offering, known as the "Late-Night Retox," provides you with a selection between the 'Cigar Combo' or 'Sweet Duo' for two individuals. In the 'Cigar Combo', one can enjoy a Confidential cigar alongside a serving of The Hari London Dry Gin, which features notes of citrus, pepper, and flowers, served over ice per person. On the other hand, the 'Sweet Duo' treats diners to an array of desserts including homemade Amalfi lemon cake, berry panna cotta, and pistachio cannoli, complemented by a glass of Moscato d'Asti Scagliola Primo Bacio from Piedmont, Italy. This special package will be offered from April 1 through September 30.
Lopota Lake Resort & Spa
In Kakheti, Georgia, you'll find expansive vineyards, ancient monasteries, and charming villages. This region offers families the opportunity to discover the beautiful Alazani Valley, known for its vibrant meadows filled with wildflowers, providing an idyllic setting for Easter outings and various outdoor pursuits.
The yearly Kakheti Orthodox Easter festivities take place from April 18-21, enlivening the area with traditional music, dance shows, and craft fairs featuring regional artisans. For those seeking tranquility, Lopota Lake Resort and Spa provides a serene retreat just a couple of hours away from Tbilisi. Spanning across 60 hectares, this picturesque resort is nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and Lopota Lake, offering an ideal setting for an unforgettable vacation.
Featuring 311 meticulously crafted rooms, numerous both indoor and outdoor swimming areas, along with an array of activities suitable for every age group, Lopota Lake Resort and Spa guarantees a rejuvenating retreat. At the Forest Spa, guests can enjoy calming therapies, explore a traditional Slavic bathing experience, and engage in various well-being programs.
Mutiara Laut
Indonesia’s Raja Ampat is a haven for some of the most stunning and varied island getaways.
Mutiara Laut, translating to 'Pearl Of The Sea' in Indonesian, is a magnificent two-masted schooner that harmoniously combines the sophistication of an 18th-century North Atlantic design with distinctive Indonesian elements. Inside, the vessel features elegant teakwood furnishings, providing seven lavishly decorated staterooms that offer a cozy yet impressive atmosphere perfect for families looking for both excitement and luxury. Embark on the Mutiara Laut to discover the breathtaking scenery of Indonesia.
The Royal Scotsman x Dior
In 2023, following the introduction of the Dior Spa aboard The Royal Scotsman, the train will host its first mobile wellness retreat from June 20-23 as it travels through Scotland’s Highlands in partnership with Dior.
Led by Dior Wellness Specialists Bryony Deery and Rose Ferguson, this four-day, three-night retreat celebrates Scotland’s beauty and ensures an exceptional experience focused on tranquility and renewal. During the train ride through Scotland’s breathtaking mountains and landscapes, Pilates and mindfulness coach Deery will lead participants in mindful movement sessions. In addition, nutritional consultant Ferguson will provide insights into intentional eating as part of the wellness program.
Ferguson has worked alongside Royal Scotsman’s chief chef, Mark Tamburrini, to design every menu aboard the train. This partnership aims to assist passengers in reaching their wellness objectives through thoughtful dining practices. During this journey, travelers can savor carefully curated afternoons filled with tea and treats designed for nutritional balance, engaging performances, and leisurely times spent in the Observation Car. Additional offerings provide chances for complete disconnection from daily life; these include guided breathing exercises and pampering experiences at the Dior Spa.
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