Found near the Chao Phraya River, Lebua Hotel at State Tower is one of Bangkok’s most luxurious hotels. Stay here if you’re traveling to Bangkok on business, or if you’re a huge foodie.

Bangkok is one of Thailand’s most fascinating cities. Here, visitors get a true window into Thai life. Colourful, gritty and fun, no trip to Bangkok is complete without a great place to retreat to after a day spent in meetings or (if you’re lucky, and are staying here on vacation) wondering the packed streets and shopping.

One of our favourite luxury hotels in Bangkok is Lebua Hotel at State Tower.

Spacious suites that offer up exciting views of the city and river are a major feature of this hotel. Lebua Hotel has suites as large as three bedrooms. In fact, the three-bedroom executive suite has four balconies, perfect for enjoying the view.

This great hotel in Thailand is perfect for lovers of fine food as well.

Whether you’re in to Mediterranean, Italian, Asian, Indian or Lebanese cuisine, you’ll find it here. Sirocco (one of the hotel’s signature hot spots) is the world’s highest open air restaurant!

Check out some photos of Lebua below while you plot your next escape to bustling Bangkok.

Anantara Phuket Resort & Spa’s Infinity Sunset Sessions are now in full swing, bestowing guests with a fabulous blend of fine dining, tempting cocktails, coastal fashion and intoxicating sounds, against a backdrop of Phuket’s raved about sunsets.

Nestling the exotic sandy shores of Mai Kao beach, Anantara Phuket boasts the perfect setting for long, spectacular sunsets, while the fibre optic infinity pool, lounge and bar play host to leisurely magical evenings.

This alluring setting conjured an exquisite venue for the Infinity Sunsets launch event on 3rd December, at which this gorgeous resort in Phuket proudly partnered with Jim Thompson and DJ Jose Padilla for the very first, and much talked about, Infinity Sunset Session.

For the ongoing Infinity Sunset Sessions, which will run every night up until April 2010, the line up is simply astounding.

Throughout December and January world renowned DJ Tony Montana from London will be gracing the decks with his illustrious ambient beats, to be followed by a rapturous roster of guest chill-out DJ’s throughout March and April.

These unmissable sunset sessions kick off at twilight with flame lit torches and atmospheric lanterns illuminating the exotic beachside lounging area in fiery island flair.

Languish by the infinity pool as international mixology specialists craft exquisitely tailored cocktails, including the fabulous Grilled Peach Martini, or sidle up to the uniquely appealing bubble bar.

Friday nights culminate in a dining experience extraordinaire.
Step up for a ‘barefoot’ dinner served in the infinity pool from 7 p.m., comprising the signature Coastal BBQ accompanied by free flowing wines by the glass.

Reflecting the launch event in silky style on these frivolous Friday nights, Jim Thompson will display a weekly showcasing of elegant coastal fashion, available for guests to purchase.

Guests who time their visit on other nights are promised not to miss out on the much coveted silky wares, with specially designed apparel from Jim Thompson’s launch event range also available exclusively at the Anantara Boutique, while decorative fabrics from this revered designer are soon to grace the resort’s plush interiors.

If you’re planning a last minute trip to beautiful Phuket over the holidays, you might want to take advantage of Pavilions Phuket’s newest package: stay for two nights and get the third night free.

The package, which is available until January 12, 2010, includes:

• Three consecutive nights’ accommodation (at the price of two nights)
• One complimentary cocktail per person at 360 Bar and Restaurant
• Daily complimentary breakfast per person
• Complimentary round-trip airport transfer

Phuket Pavilions features both one-bedroom and three-bedroom suites. All rooms have wireless internet, a kitchen, maxi-bar, Ipod and Idock, a personal safe, satellite TV and a CD/DVD player (with choices from the resort’s movie and music collection).

This luxurious resort in Thailand is all about providing intimate and secluded experiences – so you can dine in the romantic privacy of your villa throughout your stay. It’s a great feature that makes this a perfect spot for a romantic Christmas or New Year’s vacation.

Check out some photos below:

The hardest part of traveling is usually picking just one destination that you want to go to. Why not make it easy on yourself and pick them all?

No epic journey is ever complete without a great cocktail to kick start it all. The around the world cocktail will inspire you to seek and discover all that the world has to offer and with Kiwi Collection, we bring you nothing but the best from every corner of the world.

How to Make your Around the World Cocktail:

-    ¼ oz Cognac
-    ¼ oz Crème de Noyaux
-    ¾ oz Dark Rum
-    1 ¼ oz Orange Juice
-    1 oz Sweet and Sour Mix
-    Crushed Ice

In a blender add all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into a wine goblet and serve!

Some of the best places in the world to get your fabulous Around the World cocktail:

Regent Beijing:
Located just minutes away from the famous Forbidden City, Wangfujing Shopping and Tiananmen Square is the Regent Beijing, one of China’s best luxury hotels. Featuring five restaurants and lounges, a fabulous spa sanctuary, a huge adult pool and an exclusive selection of luxury boutique shops, this hotel is sure to satisfy any discerning traveler.

Tivoli Victoria:
Golf lovers rejoice! The Tivoli Victoria in beautiful Vilamoura, Portugal is home to one of Europe’s best golf courses designed by the ledged Arnold Palmer. This luxury five star resort is perfect for business or leisure with state of the art conference rooms, an exclusive nearby beach club, delicious gourmet cuisine by Chef Pedro Pereira and a touch of Far East at their Spa by Banyan Tree.

Jumeirah Essex House:
Since 1931 the Jumeirah Essex House has been the gem of New York. Situated on Central Park South and minutes away for shopping and Broadway this is the perfect spot to get a fabulous New York experience.

Sivory Punta Cana:
Craving a luxury Caribbean getaway like no other? Look no further than the Sivory Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Creating a harmony with its natural surroundings, this luxury resort takes relaxation to a whole new level and makes sure that your every need will be met. Here you can rediscover the pleasure of food and dine on world class delicacies along with a great glass of wine from there cellar featuring more than 8000 bottles.

Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver:
Set in the heart of the city surrounded by a neighborhood of luxury shops, amazing mountain views and the world famous Stanley Park is the tallest building in the city the Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver in Canada. Offering spacious rooms, amazing cuisine from internationally acclaimed chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and an indulgent holistic spa sets the scene for a truly unforgettable west coast experience.

Madinat Jumeirah:
Madinat Jumeirah is the famous Arabian Resort of Dubai paying tribute to its heritage and is styled to resemble an ancient Arabian citadel. Comprising of three separate properties with spas, restaurants, shopping and activities, your experience here will truly be like no other and will feel like a whole new world unto itself.

Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago:
Located alongside the Chicago River is the city’s most enviable address, the Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago.  Sophisticatedly decorated with custom designed furnishings, floor to ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens, and attentive service at your disposal makes this the ideal hotel choice for any traveler.

Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket:
Get ready to indulge in a private tropical escape in Thailand at the beautiful Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket. With ocean facing suits and floor to ceiling windows for breathtaking views, private pools and beach-side dining options, this one luxury getaway  that you will never forget.

The Standard, New York:
The Standard, New York is located in Manhattan’s thriving Meat Packing district of New York and is known as one of the city’s most fashionable neighborhoods full of exclusive clubs, hip restaurants and lovely boutiques. Showcasing unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan and the Hudson River this hotel is the place to see and be seen.

Tribe – The Village Market Hotel:
Take a cultural journey though the farthest corners of Africa at Tribe – The Village Market Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. Every room at this hotel is a testament of world class comfort with a chic design with an emphasis on detail and luxury.

Who doesn’t love the beach, the sun and a delicious fruity cocktail while you are busy doing nothing? Don’t take the deliberate sexual double entendre lightly, Sex on the Beach goes down easy and is sure to help make a night to remember.

This relatively young cocktail was invented around the end of the 80’s for the promotion of peach schnapps, and since sex is often associated with cocktails, the name Sex on the Beach fix quite nicely. This drink is perfect for any location and a hip open mind is required.

Make your own sex on the beach:

-2 oz. Vodka
-1 oz. Peach Schnapps
-2 oz. Orange juice
-2 oz. Cranberry juice

Bring all of the ingredients into a shaker, shake and pour into a highball glass filled with ice.

Need a beach vacation? We’ve got some of the most luxurious places from around the world to enjoy that perfect Sex on the Beach:

Sivory Punta Cana:
Located in the fabulous Dominican Republic and situated on a private beach, Sivory Punta Cana is a Caribbean dream. Each luxurious suite is designed with privacy in mind along golden sand and clear water. Take time out for yourself and relax in their spa or dine on world class gourmet cuisine. Once you experience this luxury resort you may never want to leave.

Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort Phuket:
Indulge in a tropical escape at the Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort in Phuket, Thailand. Set on a lovely beach at Chalong Bay, enjoy sweeping ocean views from their roof top decks, rest up in their beautiful gardens or catch some sun in one of their beachfront lofts with private swimming pools. Be sure to take advantage for their Wellbeing Centre offering therapeutic massage, beauty treatments and holistic healing.

St. Regis Princeville Resort:
What could be better than a perfect island setting at one of the most beautiful hotels in Hawaii? The St. Regis Princeville Resort on the island of Kauai is world famous for its ocean views and is just minutes away from well known Napali and Waimea Canyon. Spend your days here soaking in the sun with your cocktail or play a few rounds on their golf course which is one of the best  in America.

Amanwella:
Situated amidst a mature coconut grove close to the village of Tangalle in Southern Sri Lanka, the Amanwella luxury resort is the perfect place to enjoy your sex on the beach. Each of its 30 beach front suites offer their own private plunge pool and open up on both sides to enjoy the cooling sea breezes off the Indian Ocean.

Conrad Bali:
Imagine seven hectares of secluded tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, lagoons and a pristine 350 mile beach. This is Conrad Bali, one of the most beautiful luxury resorts in Thailand. And with a 24 hour personal assistant to cater to your every whim, you might just start to think you are in heaven on earth.

The Chedi Muscat:
Simple elegance and ageless charm is the perfect way to describe The Chedi Muscat located on the stunning Boushar Beachfront in Oman.  All of the rooms and suites offer exclusive access to the crystal Gulf waters, turquoise pools bordered by cabanas, a water garden and a private stretch of beautiful sandy shore. This is truly the perfect luxury oasis.

Pacific Resort Aitutaki:
Escape to one of the most beautiful islands in the world; Aitutaki, Cook Islands. Enjoy pure white sandy beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and coral atoll at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki. With just twenty seven luxurious beachfront bungalows, suites and villas all with their own personal panoramic view of this world-famous lagoon makes for a perfect romantic getaway.

Maia Luxury Resort and Spa:
Located on the main island of Mahe in the Republic of Seychelles, an archipelago nation of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is the beautiful Maia Luxury Resort and Spa. This area is widely considered to be the world’s most perfect, unspoiled islands. Bask in the lush green surroundings and savor the panoramic view of the ocean from their villas on the hillcrest. Maia also offers the most delectable Mediterranean cuisine complemented by Asian and Creole influences.

Mandarin Oriental Sanya:
Overlooking the South China sea from China’s only tropical island is the Mandarin Oriental Sanya. Every room has a perfect view of the sea, lush landscaped gardens and their pristine protected coral beach. Spacious interiors combine contemporary design with artistic touches inspired by Sanya’s ethnic minority culture. This is a place you won’t find anywhere else.

Hotel Punta Islita:
Come and get pampered with authentic Costa Rican charm at the Hotel Punta Islita in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Developed in full synergy with its neighboring communities, inter-weaved with nature and featuring local art, gives this luxury hotel a truly authentic feel. And if you are a spa lover you are in for a special treat at their Casa Spa which offers treatments in the traditional healing arts with herbal wisdom of the native Chorotega tribes.

If your kids are big fans of the oh-so popular book, The Mystery of Bangkok’s Golden Treasure, you won’t want to miss out on the Mandarin Oriental’s new package for families.

The package includes a treasure hunt along the colorful streets of Bangkok and the opportunity to ride on an elephant.

By using the popular children’s book The Mystery of Bangkok’s Golden Treasure, guests will follow the book’s heroine, Claire, to discover new and amazing sights in Bangkok through a child’s eye, and a stay at one of the best hotels in Bangkok to boot.

A professional tour guide will provide guests with an unsurpassed insight to Bangkok’s colorful heritage and the delights of the city.

The two-day Golden Treasure Family Adventure package is available until October 15, 2010, and black out dates are from December 23, 2009 to January 2, 2010.

The Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok is well known for its extravagant rooms and gorgeous spa. Perfect for families looking for a great escape, this 358 room hotel makes Bangkok extremely accessible and luxurious. We featured this gorgeous hotel in our photo feature of hotels in Thailand.

The Golden Treasure Family Adventure Package is divided into two parts: the White Elephant and the Golden Naga. Guests should state their preference at the time of booking:

White Elephant- Part One

Day 1:
•       A visit to The Grand Palace
•       A visit to Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha)
•       A visit to Pak Klong Talad (Flower Market)
•       A visit to The Golden Chedi
•       A visit to the Pantheon of the Chakri Kings
•       Afternoon Tea for four persons at the Verandah followed by feeding the catfish
•       Thai set dinner at Sala Rim Naam for four persons

Day 2:
•       A Klong river tour
•       A visit to the Royal Barge Museum
•       A visit to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn)
•       One 60-minute spa treatment for two adults at The Oriental Spa
•       Set dinner for four persons at the Verandah
•       After dinner Siam Niramit Cultural Show

Golden Naga- Part Two

Day 1:
•       A visit to Wat Trimit (Golden Buddha Temple)
•       A visit to Pak Klong Talad (Floating Flower Market)
•       A visit to Wat Po (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)
•       A visit to Marble Throne Hall
•       Four tickets to Siam Ocean World to see 4D theater and experience a glass boat ride
•       Dinner for four persons at the Barbecue Riverside Terrace

Day 2:
•       An all-day trip to Ayutthaya
•       One 60-minute spa treatment for two adults at The Oriental Spa
•       Thai set dinner at Sala Rim Naam for four persons

Although not a famous cocktail yet, Thailand’s newest national signature cocktail has been recently invented to make sure that visitors to the country get a little spice in their vacation.

This is a cocktail drink for all occasions, and who doesn’t like to celebrate? And, although this drink does take a bit longer to prepare than your average cocktail, the results will be oh so worth it. Choc-tee!

Ingredients:
-2 small red Thai chili peppers
-1 stalk lemon grass
-3 quarter size slices ginger root
-1 Kaffir lime leaf
-1 ounce vodka
-1 ounce coconut-rum
-1/4 ounce fresh squeezed lime juice
-1/2 ounce simple syrup
-Club soda

Directions:
-Cut a small sliver from the Thai chili pepper and reserve the rest for another drink. Keep the other whole chili pepper for garnish.
-Over ice, bring together the sliver of the chili pepper, ginger, Kaffir lime leaf, and lemon grass in a cocktail shaker and muddle to bring tout the aroma and flavor of the Thai herbs.
-Add the simple syrup, lime juice, vodka and coconut rum and shake well.
-Strain into an iced glass and add a slash of soda water.
-Garnish with a whole Thai chili and a slice of lemon grass.
-Close your eyes and begin daydreaming about Thai beaches.

Where to get a great Siam Sunray during your next vacation to Thailand:

Outrigger Serenity Terraces:
Beautiful Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort in Phuket is situated on a sugary beach at Chalong Bay. At this boutique hotel, you’ll have excellent views of the Andaman Sea.

The Barai at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin:
Think tranquil, spiritual and elegant – The Barai at Hyatt Regency Hua Hin is an excellent spa hotel designed for overnight stays and spa treatments. This tiny boutique hotel in Hua Hin only has eight rooms.

Anantara Si Kao Resort and Spa, Thailand:
You won’t find a nicer beachfront location than Anantara Si Kao Resort and Spa in Thailand. Only an hour away from the airport of Sikao, this resort boasts excellent views of the nearby islands, fresh cuisine and excellent rooms of varying sizes.

X2 Samui:
Perfect for couples looking for a relaxing escape or a honeymoon, X2 offers 27 luxurious villas (most with private swimming pools). We love this resort’s beachfront location.

The Library:
Elegant, minimalist and modern is how we’d describe The Library (a chic 26-room hotel in Koh Samui, Thailand).

Lebua at State Tower:
Right in the heart of Bangkok, you’ll get breathtaking views of the city and of Chao Phraya River from Lebua at State Tower.

Rayavadee:
Sometimes, you just need to get away from it all – and we can’t think of a better place to do that than at Rayavade, located about 800 kms south of Bangkok. Think white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and an amazing assortment of wildlife.

The Racha:
Located on the island of Racha, The Racha Hotel can’t be in a better locale. Surrounded by warm, turquoise water, you won’t find better snorkeling on more colorful reefs!

The Tongsai Bay:
Beautiful and perfect any time of year, The Tongsai Bay is ideal for weddings, honeymoons and travelers who care about eco-friendly accommodation. The hotel is on the northeast coast of Samui Island and is purposely designed to blend in harmoniously with the surrounding environment.

Phuket Pavilions:
The world “intimate” perfectly describes Phuket Pavilions. Here, guests are afforded total privacy. Tan lines are a no-no at this gorgeous retreat.

Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok:
Known for its sheer extravagance and over-the-top décor, Mandarin Oriental Bangkok is one of the premier hotels in Thailand. You will not want to leave this hotel without taking a trip to its world famous spa.

Amanpuri:
This gorgeous resort in Phuket is located within a former coconut plantation and overlooks the Andaman Sea. All pavilions feature an outdoor sala, king-sized bed and separate bath and shower.

Check Availability

Plan a romantic escape to beautiful Phuket, Thailand with Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort.

This gorgeous resort in Thailand is the perfect spot to take your sweetheart, and is currently running a special offer for guests who book their stay with them through Kiwi Collection, the world’s most comprehensive collection of luxury hotels!

Found along the southeast coast of Phuket, on a lovely beach at Chalong Bay, Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort consists of 78 luxury one and two-bedroom apartments and several exclusive penthouses (with rooftop terraces and a sun deck). Most rooms have fabulous views of the Andaman Sea. It’s no secret why this gem is included in our collection.

Details of the exclusive Kiwi Collection offer at Outrigger are:

•    Buy one night and get another night free
•    Offer includes Outrigger’s sumptuous breakfast for two
•    Complimentary upgrade (based on availability)
•    General Manager’s VIP amenity
•    A bottle of sparkling wine
•    A15 minute in-room welcome back massage
•    Early check-in and late check-out
•    Complimentary internet access
•    Welcome drink for two

Promo Code: KIWI
Booking & Travel Dates: Now until December 19th, 2009
Room Types: Any choice of accommodation
Rates: Best Available Rates
To Book: Use Kiwi Collection’s online booking system by clicking on the Check Availability button above, or call +66 7637 1900 to book your stay. Make sure to include the promo code “KIWI” to get the special offer!

Visit Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort in Phuket if you’re looking for a great romance hotel, or a hotel geared towards watersports. You won’t be disappointed by Outrigger which is, hands down, one of the best hotels in Thailand.

Where to go when you’re looking for a beach vacation in an exotic locale? If you ask us here at Kiwi Collection, we’d have to tell you to look no farther than Phuket, Thailand. Phuket is Thailand’s largest island, giving visitors to this beautiful place the best of both worlds: an exotic vacation right on the beach.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, make sure you stay at Outrigger Serenity Terraces Resort. This gorgeous place opens this April. Guests will truly enjoy this Phuket resort.

Outrigger has 78 elegant suites. Ocean-facing rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows that allow guests to take advantage of the beautiful view of the water. All rooms are decorated with warm woods and natural colours that reflect this Thailand hotel’s gorgeous surroundings.

After you get settled, be sure to take advantage of some of the resort’s amenities, like the “Serenity Toys”, which are basically a slew of fun boats (both motor and sail) that allow the more adventurous guests to take advantage of Thailand’s warm waters. You’ll get to play with speed boats, catamarans and kayaks.
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