Despite being part of a large chain, we found the Crowne Plaza worth highly recommending. Situated just off terminal 3 of Singapore Changi airport it certainly ticks the convenience box- but whereas most other airport hotels rest on those laurels, that’s just the start. Carefully designed to maximise natural light the design is thoughtful, environmentally and ascetically pleasing; tinted glass walls provide welcome natural light into the bathroom and the corridors are open air to reduce the need for unnecessary AC. The pool is welcoming and unique, with forest islands scattered along its maze of narrow channels and a brightly windowed ballroom visible through the water underneath.
The restaurant provides the sort of high-end buffet that staff bring their families to on their weekends off- fresh pasta, seafood, patisseries, sushi, curries…you’ll be spoilt for choice. Stay two nights, you’ll be pleased you did.
From US$230+ per night
– Perfect for a 1 or 2 day stop over
– Linked to the Airport and only 20 minutes from downtown Singapore
– Excellent food served in the restaurant
– Great, unique pool
– None!
If you are looking for complete seclusion and tranquillity the Kui Buri may be just what you had in mind. Forty minutes from busy Hua Hin or three hours from Bangkok (a private taxi is the perfect way to get there in style) this resort will make you feel like you have completely stepped away from normal reality. Most rooms have their own private pool set in a secluded courtyard, with plenty of snugs to lounge, unwind and relax. The restaurant overlooks the wild and unspoilt beach as does the large pool (if you fancy a change of swimming scenery).
Being pretty self-sufficient guests tend to keep to themselves, so at times you may just get the impression of being there all by yourselves. There are activities if you want to rejoin the human race- sunset yoga on the beach, making and releasing Chinese lanterns into the sky, a visit to the elephant forest, a petanque tournament, kite flying or of course a trip to the spa. And with a 50 metre long bar you’ll never need to queue for a drink.
From US150+ per night
– Most villas have private pools
– Beachfront location
– Only 3 hours from Bangkok
– Resort is rather isolated from other restaurants/ shops
Chris & Hannah
Directors
With its dimly lit interior and helpful staff, the Hansar Bangkok is plush yet welcoming. Situated close to the BTS transit system, designer shops, street food stalls and plenty of up-market restaurants it covers most of what you’d want on your doorstep in Bangkok.
The rooms have floor to ceiling windows to take in skyscraper and race course views and a lovely eye for locally crafted detail. Breakfast on the leafy terrace overlooking a quiet backstreet is a tasty and laid-back affair, but definitely leave room for dinner- the evening menu is world class and cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to drop in at the fragrant and calming spa for single or couples treatments, or the large infinity-edge, 8th floor outdoor pool- perfect for unwinding after a hectic day in Bangkok.
From US150+ per night
– Great central location
– Enormous rooms with great views
– Excellent restaurant and extensive room service
– Great Spa with outdoor hot-tub!
– None!
Chris & Hannah
Directors
If you have a couple of nights to spend in Sydney city centre we can highly recommend the Blue Sydney. A 19th century warehouse and shipping wharf the hotel and marina have a fascinating history which is woven into the very fabric of the building. Combine this with ultra modern design, exemplary service and beautiful features and you have a place which is not just a hotel but almost an event.
A cocktail in the sleek and sophisticated bar is a must, where you can relax in intimate booths nestled within the vast space at the heart of this the longest wooden structure in the world. A hotel at one end, luxury apartments at the other and plenty of quality restaurants next to the water make this a sought after, vibrant location. It’s not cheap, but nothing in Sydney is! But for a short break a stone’s throw from the botanical gardens and harbour bridge the Blue Sydney is definitely worth splashing out.
From US250+ per night
– Great building with so much history
– Big rooms with great views
– Hotel bar is one of the best in Sydney
– Limited breakfast buffet options
Chris & Hannah
Directors