June 7th, 2008

Exotissimo Vietnam and Partners Raise Aid for Cyclone Victims

myanmar_relief_2.jpgOn June 7th, An Phu Women’s Association and the Mekong Merchant organized a charity bazaar to benefit the victims of Cyclone Nargis. Exotissimo set up an information booth detailing the current situation in the Irrawaddy Delta and worked with Caravelle, Ana Mandara Nha Trang and Six Senses, Renaissance, Nam Hai, Park Hyatt, Majestic, Furama, La Residence, Accor, Mango Bay, Life Resorts, the Sailing Club Mui Ne, along with Lufthansa, the Emeraude, the Press Club and Dalat and Ocean Dunes Golf Clubs to raise almost 7000 USD during this event.

Another 600 USD was received at the 6th annual Mui Ne Triathlon (co-sponsored by Exotissimo) on June 1st, also being donated directly to our Cyclone Relief Fund.

Further reading about Myanmar Relief Action here.

June 6th, 2008

Royal Thai Treasures at the Throne Hall and Increased Grand Palace Fees

grand_palace-left.jpgValuable art treasures created by craftsmen in Thailand and donated to the Thai Royal Family are being displayed in the former Parliament Building in the Thai capital. A collection which is very well presented (signage in English and headphones giving the full explanation) in the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall which was built in 1907 and is now for the first time open to the public. The impressive renaissance style building is decorated with gold and fresco domes and was used only by high government officials or the royal family and royal guests until very recently. This permanent exhibition housed in a very impressive building is definitely worth a visit, especially for deluxe clients.

Starting from 1 July 2008 the entrance fees for “Arts of the Kingdom” (normally 150 THB) is automatically included in the entrance fees for the Grand Palace (as the entrance fess for Vimanmek are included in the ticket for the Grand Palace). At the same time the entrance fees for the Grand Palace will gradually increase to 350 THB (50 THB increase from 1 July 2008 and 50 THB increase from 1 January 2009). Appropriate dress is required to visit the Throne Hall (same as for the Grand Palace).

Exotissimo has decided that for all bookings already confirmed and paid to Exotissimo before 1 July 2008 there will be no surcharge for the increased entrance fees for the Grand Palace. However, for new confirmations, quotations and bookings Exotissimo will automatically include the increase in entrance fees in your quotation / invoice.

June 4th, 2008

3 Nagas Renovates for the High Season

The 3 Nagas by Alila will be renovated this summer, from May to June 2008. This upcoming high season will see a jump in traffic to Luang Prabang this year, and without a doubt the 3 Nagas is one of the nicest properties in the area. The 15 rooms and suites will be updated with Laotian touches matched with quality linens and bath products. During this time, the service team will undergo training to ensure every guest is well-taken care of. The hotel will remain open during this time, though with limited capacity.

June 2nd, 2008

Sukhothai’s Night Lights

sukhothai_historical_park-right.jpgTAT has recently begun lighting up ancient Sukhothai at night. From 19:00-21:00 each weekend night, visitors will be able to enjoy a spectacular view of the ancient Lanna empire. Private light and sound show with snacks and drinks, traditional Thai performance, fireworks and Lanna lantern floating can be arranged in the park at night.

Besides looking great, visiting Sukhothai at night opens up the day for a series of different possibilities, including cooking classes, countryside bike trips to enjoy the sunset and visits to local organic farms.