April 9th 2011
Chiang Mai, Thailand
The Four Seasons Chiang Mai - Wowzas
I have been dreaming of visiting the Four Seasons Chiang Mai ever since I first came upon it doing hotel research for a story ages ago. Its signature landscape, treetop-style bungalow-meets-pagoda design and just overall exoticness has stayed with me over many subsequent years of hotel research. Thus, when the opportunity to actually visit presented itself, I leapt, literally, off the ground, in sheer glee.
The restaurant's deck, the gym below and one of the property's residential villas in the far background all overlooking the center rice paddies
I have had many friends and family visit the property since my interest had been peaked and I peppered them with Viagra Online questions upon their return. One might dare call it an obsession. Each person I asked said the same thing, “It’s incredible”. Of course, they often had varying elements that stood out based on their individual interests, but everyone, EVERYONE, commented on the beauty of the scenery. A pronounce aesthete, I was smitten and even staring at the photos above, having taken them myself, I’m still, just as smitten.
The evening torches
I arrived late afternoon and was greeted with a soft, darkening dusk light that made the property even more alluring upon first sight. Then, as I was changing and readying myself for the evening, the staff had lit torches throughout the property’s marshy land, ensuring my obsession was justified all along.
MORE TO COME
BANGKOK
September 19th, 2009
Another stellar suggestion from Maria, the MUAY THAI BOXING is a must-do when visiting Bangkok. Be sure to go to the fights at Lumpini Stadium and sit up front (VIP) for all the action – including the splatters of blood and sweat. Be sure to check the listings for which nights have fights but I recommend going to the late night ones that begin at 8:30pm after dinner and indulging in a raucous, beer-fest entertainment of high-level kickboxing.
The ring where it all goes down
The bleachers in the back are reserved for betting and would be fun to engage but a commanding knowledge of Thai seems to be necessary. Another fascinating facet is watching the fans or family of the fighters – especially the younger ones – shouting their encouragement in shrill tones after each and every move. Oh and be sure to hit the shop outside and pick up your very own pair of Muay Thai shorts – they make great casual ware, if not a colorful statement to the everyday gym short.
Round House in motion. Also - please note the sign on the ring. So much for the halftime show
The fighters seemed to get older with each round but I doubt they ever exceeded 145 lbs
This girl was screaming her head off - no, seriously. I have video and will figure out how to post it to this image asap
OUTSIDE BANGKOK, THAILAND
September 17th, 2009
My apologies that I cannot write more right now. I’m exhausted from a long, hot day – woo-ee is it muggy here. But I’m going to post some pics and promise to add more textual reference to them tomorrow. Thank for your patience.
Waterside viewings north of Bangkok
Where's Buddha?
Temples and a gold-sash for Buddha
