Nai Lert Hotel, THAILAND
Airing Date: Apr 25th, 2005
Bangkok is the bustling capital of Thailand and is a six-hour flight from the east coast of Australia. With a population of 10 million people, it's easy to get lost in the hectic pace of Bangkok, however there is a few places that you can escape to!
Lumpini Park is a popular oasis, named after the Buddha's birthplace. The green expanse provides a relaxing and relatively peaceful retreat from the heat and noise of the rest of the city. The best time to arrive is just after sunrise, when hordes of fitness fanatics can be spotted jogging, doing aerobics, practising tai chi, yoga or even ballroom dancing! You can hire a paddle boat, eat at one of the reasonably priced outdoor restaurants, or just take it easy under a shady tree.
A great way to relax is by doing Tai Chi as it is practiced today can perhaps be thought of a moving form of yoga and meditation combined. Tai Chi is performed slowly, softly and gracefully, with smooth even transitions between movements.
Traditional Thai massage is a proven physical therapy that dates back to ancient India sometime before the lifetime of Buddha. It has been practiced here for centuries, and many swear by it as effective cure for common ailments such as aches and pains, fevers and nervous strains. This therapeutic and highly soothing form of massage purportedly evolved from rishis (forest-dwelling Brahmin hermit ascetics) who relieved the physical stress of extended periods of meditation by adopting certain postures. You can try this ancient therapy in its original form at the Wat Pho Temple where masseuses offer their service seven days a week at very reasonable prices.
Nestled amidst a luxuriant, sprawling garden estate lies Swisstel Nai Lert Park, Bangkok. Located in the very heart of Bangkok's central business and diplomatic district, this unique hotel offers a modern haven from the city. The Hotel has a very swanky 'Syn bar' and restaurant and the rooms offer a luxury and contemporary style with a city view. The original part is of course their park - the gardens have been there for generations as a breath of fresh air in the middle of Bangkok!
Further information:
Rooms at Nai Lert Park Hotel start from $232 a night, twin share.
Subject to exchange rates.
Includes deluxe room, breakfast, aromatherapy massage & drink at Syn Bar.
Minimum 2 night stay.
Raffles: Ph. 0011 66 2655 4255.
For more information visit their website: bangkok-nailertpark.swissotel.com.
Thai Airways International fly to Bangkok from $1187 ex east coast & $1148 ex west coast.
Includes taxes. Subject to exchange rates.
www.thaiairways.com.au.
Prices correct at 25/4/05.
