A Spiritual Oasis -Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai Thailand

ricci — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 21:26:57 +0000

As part of an exciting trip to Bangkok for some shopping, sightseeing and of course, a visit to my favorite tailor, A-Prime, I decided I needed some spiritual rejuvenation. I was led to the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi resort in one of the largest and most culturally significant cities in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai. From the moment my driver pulled up to its amazing architectural gates I knew I was in heaven. The reception areas is located on one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen and the staff was quick to escort me via buggy to my private two story villa. The villas are built almost entirely of teak and the smell of wood and fresh flowers filled the air. It was late at night and raining and I was in need of a massage so before I could even unpack, I was whisked away to the spa with its private massage villas. I’ll never forget how relaxed I felt in that sandalwood-scented room with the rain beating on the tiered roof. The next morning the breakfast buffet overwhelmed me with its exotic flavors and familiar favorites. A quick dip in my private full-size pool (no plunge pools here!) afterward, and I was ready to explore the Dhari Dhevi’s other amenities such as private yoga classes and a well-equipped and quiet library. Although the resort was almost full, I felt alone the entire time. Ahh, just what I needed!

Sexy Thai Treat – Trisara, Phuket Thailand

ricci — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 05:02:27 +0000

When you want to spoil your loved one with a one-of-a-kind vacation in a beautiful villa on a secluded beach surrounded by attentive staff and delicious food, head straight to Trisara in Phuket. In no time at all, you’ll forget the 14-plus hour flight from LAX you just endured to get there. Trisara is one of the most beautiful resorts you’ll ever experience and is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway because you never want to leave your room. Maybe because your room is actually a self contained villa built on stilts with your very own, private infinity pool jetting out over the Indian Ocean. In this setting, I dare you not to skinny dip at last once during your stay. No need to worry about neighbors because the freestanding villas are far away from each other and the mature landscaping ensures your privacy. When you had enough sunbathing, head to the luxurious spa for a couples massage or hibernate in your villa and order delicious Thai masterpieces from room service. For special pampering, order the private barbecue and the resort will send a personal chef, waiter, and crew to grill and serve dinner on your pool deck under the stars. There’s always lots of home made chocolate truffles in your villa to kickstart any romantic vacation, but be sure to place the stone “privacy angel” provided by the resort outside your door to let others know you’re not to be disturbed…

-Ricci DeMartino

Ricci DeMartino » Thailand

A Spiritual Oasis -Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai Thailand

Sexy Thai Treat – Trisara, Phuket Thailand