Accommodation
Day Dreaming at Pa Sak Tong Chiang Rai
Chiang Rai’s only luxury resort villa offers you the ultimate in indulgence in a peaceful, natural setting. Pa Sak Tong has accommodation for up to 6 guests in 3 private bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom.
CHIANG RAI – You could say it was an excursion to see how the other half lives. You know the “haves” of this world as opposed to the “have nots”. They are usually so rich they can sneak under the radar, flying in on private jets and heading off to luxury holiday addresses that are not even identified on a map, never mind Lonely Planet.
At first I had my doubts. Was it really a top notch, perhaps over-the-top resort villa in a small farming village on the outskirts of Chiang Rai?
Hold on, Chiang Rai is not exactly the pits of budget tourism. It has a Four Seasons tented village, 60 km up the road at Bt200,000 for two days and a hot shower. In town, TripAdvisor reckons the riverside restaurant Chitwit Thamada is out of this world.
The villa’s terrace
There is also a Le Meridien on the banks of the Mae Kok River suitably attired with a fine Italian restaurant that TripAdvisor says is a close runner up to Chitwit Thamada’s fish and chips.
I learn all this from those who monitor the lifestyle charts that peg our station in life by the food and booze we consume. Market noodles or posh nosh; crates of ale or flawless French wine by the bottle. It says something about the way we live.
I am mulling over what constitutes a quality tourist as we turn off the old Chiang Mai road about 12 km clear of Chiang Rai town into a small country lane as obscure as they come.
So obscure we lose our way and a friendly villager puts us back on course to Baan Farang. No matter the architectural aspirations or money splashed on construction, villagers across the land, file and label them all as simply the “foreigner’s house”.
There are no grand entrances at Pa Sak Tong to warn us to loosen our wallets, or that we are approaching 70 rai of spacious park land that has two magnificent, stately villas of enormous proportions.
A solitary guard raises a bamboo barrier and waves us to a car park surrounded by lush trees and shrubs.
This is a hush, hush twilight tour of the grounds and the imposing hillside villas. Led by Ni Hao publisher, Jaffee Yee and a Google regional director, Myia Ross, I recognise I am in the company of wine and luxury travel experts, way out of my league for sure.
We are led along tiny winding paths illuminated by lanterns to a hillside where an imposing three-bedroom villa commands spectacular views of vast stretches of rice fields, while the last rays of sunlight silhouette Chiang Rai’s hazy, blue mountains due west.
Our host Pa Sak Tong’s general manager, John Dunbar, explains the sea of emerald green rice extending as far as I can see, without my glasses, is all part of this magnificent property. So are the two buffalos posing under a small shelter and the organic herb and veggie gardens. The list of agricultural distractions goes on for ever. This is a working estate where most of the garden’s produce finds its way to the kitchen tables.
My mind boggles at owning a garden of 70 rai. Well, we know Singha Park, just 5 km north of here, has literally thousands of acres, but they need them to grow barley to brew their famous ale.
I focus on the business at hand. We are scouting out luxury accommodation, so to speak. The two-level three-bedroom villa sits comfortably on a gentle slope with a spacious terrace. If there was a morning mist you wouldn’t see the far end of it.
I am admiring the mountainview thinking this is an ideal location for an afternoon snooze between reading a book on the comfy sofas and admiring hilly vistas. Perhaps even a sip or two of chilled white wine? I notice two maids hovering in the background with a tray of drinks. There are chefs and butlers discreetly blending in with the wall paper of a villa that rents for US$1,500 a day lock, stock and barrel.
I could get used to it. An entire floor is packed with exercise machines and other play items that are supposed to keep you fit, while you indulge on the best wines and three wholesome meals a day, probably more if you let your wishes be known to the resident chef.
The villa has its own swimming pool, a pavilion for yoga classes and gardens where a massive marble ball revolves on a thin skin of water. It’s an invitation to be philosophical, a pastime that you could easily adopt in this setting if you own a bank or a shopping mall chain.
My first impressions are that this is a holiday spot for families, quite large ones, very rich ones too. There are three bedrooms, an enormous teak floor lounge and dining area and a gadget-packed home theatre room where children can be suitable get lost in video games for hours, while mom and pop enjoy champagne and canapés.
We leave the vast villa on the hillside to explore the rest of the property. It is a kind of blur by now as we admire the second villa from afar. Bamboo bridges are being repaired over a small stream that cuts a gully around the main luxurious property that waits for its owner to return once the sun dips below the horizon late October in faraway chilly Europe.
When the gaffer is not around, his villa is rented out to anyone who has visions of grandeur and the cash to splurge to feed their dreams.
Like the attractive villas of Bali, Pa Sak Tong sells as an all- inclusive holiday where the service, food, wine and liqueur is included in the price tag.
But you can also disappoint the villa’s resident chef by telling him to feed the kids beefburgers, while you sneak off to the resort’s stand-alone restaurant. That is where Mr Dunbar entertains our little group of scouts.
You could say we are sussing this out for our readers. You really believe that. We are about to enjoy a heavenly meal with great wines and not even a passing thought for anyone else.
I am immediately impressed when our host warns us not to bump into the Chinese porcelain vases standing at the four corners of this semi-open restaurant. They are irreplaceable. We skirt around the impressive vases on tip toes and head for the bar and lounge that is separated from the restaurant’s single teak wood banquet table by a fireplace and brick chimney.
“That’s the owner’s idea, but we do need a log fire here in the winter, it gets very chilly,” Mr Dunbar points out.
My colleagues insist on taking photos of the wine labels, while I am concentrating on the contents. I am sure the photos are all destined for TripAdvisor, each course accompanied by superlatives that will be hard to believe when online. In this instance they are probably an understatement.
I always thought my mum was the best cook in the world and she was famed for lamb chops or a Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding. But nothing came close to the tender, perfectly cooked lamb chops we enjoyed as we rambled carefree through a four-course meal flawlessly presented and served by Pa Sak Tong’s courteous restaurant staff.
Long after the recollections of good wine and fine dining recede, we will ask what is the message of Pa Sak Tong? It is not sending us an invite to a health farm or a retreat to meditate or cultivate a new hobby or skill in arts and crafts.
Just where does it fit? Its nearest rivals are probably the villas on the mountains of Bali where families and group of friends can celebrate an anniversary or another equally auspicious event.
Mr Dunbar gives us a hint when he says: “The resort’s clients often don’t bother with world famous frequent flyer cards”. They would show considerable distaste at owning even a Star Alliance Gold or super platinum if it exists.
They travel to Pa Sak Tong to chill out with their families, to become anonymous and touch exclusivity, but that does not mean they disappear behind the vast bamboo clusters never to emerge into the real world of Chiang Rai. They do engage, visiting sustainable tourism projects, shopping incognito and relying on the management to steer them to places and experiences that have been honed to appeal to their luxury holiday needs.
But there are factors that challenge the promise of quality. One of them is getting there.
“The end of THAI’s services to Chiang Rai early next year in favour of THAI Smile is worrying,” Mr Dunbar says. “At least they could travel in business class and use the lounge albeit one of the shabbiest around.”
Plantation greenery in Chiang Rai
THAI Smile flights will represent a drop on the quality scale, although the aircraft it uses (A320s) are newer than THAI’s A300-600s and Boeing 737s on the Bangkok-Chiang Rai route.
“There will be more business for private jet companies,” quips the general manager. “Some of our guests have their own private jets, but we already book others with companies offering services out Don Mueang Airport.”
Tours to hilltribe villages are an option
Since I visited Pa Sak Tong, I noticed that every time I open Google and search perhaps for the nearest nuts and bolts shop, Agoda alerts me with an invitation to book two nights at this exclusive resort.
Google has me tagged, knows where I am and what I have been up to lately. Somewhere the little chips in cloud computing whirl out a prompt to Agoda and between them they reckon I am dying to spend US$1,500 to go back to Pa Sak Tong.
If only they could profile me more accurately, they would quickly realize my bank manager would have something to say about my aspirations. No harm in dreaming? Check how the other half lives at www.pasaktong.com. – by Don Ross
Feeling worn out from the constant hustle and bustle of city life? If you’re yearning for a getaway to unwind amidst the serene beauty of nature, Khao Yai, one of Thailand’s largest and most visited national parks, might be just the place for you.
Situated a mere two-hour drive away from Bangkok, Khao Yai boasts an abundance of tranquil natural attractions, making it a favored destination among both locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re someone who prefers laid-back relaxation or craves thrilling outdoor adventures, delve into our list of the 7 Best Khao Yai Accommodations for 2024 and discover accommodations that will truly elevate your vacation experience.
1. Rancho Charnvee Resort & Country Club
Rancho Charnvee Resort & Country Club, nestled in the heart of Khao Yai, offers a European country-style ambiance. This Khao Yai accommodation is tastefully adorned with vintage English décor, exuding warmth and charm.
Complete with modern amenities, the resort provides a comfortable retreat for guests. With plenty of activities available, it is an ideal destination for relaxation, whether with family, lovers, or a group of friends.
Exciting Activities at Rancho Charnvee Resort & Country Club, Khao Yai
– Horseback Riding: Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty surrounding the resort as you embark on a horseback riding adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, experienced trainers ensure your safety and enjoyment with well-trained horses.
– ATV Adventure: Feel the thrill of driving an ATV through specially designated adventure trails. Capture picturesque moments against the backdrop of stunning Khao Yai National Park scenery, perfect for sharing on social media.
– Golfing Experience: Golf enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the opportunity to tee off at the resort’s championship-level golf course. With 18 holes set amidst natural surroundings, both professionals and beginners are guaranteed an enjoyable game.
– Skydiving Excursion: For the adrenaline junkies, skydiving under the expert guidance of seasoned instructors promises an unforgettable adventure.
– Cycling Expedition: Explore the resort’s captivating surroundings on a leisurely bike ride while getting closer to nature’s tranquility.
– Vintage Classic Car: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to rent a super cute vintage electric classic car during your stay. With a variety of colors and sizes available, you can enjoy leisurely drives and relaxing strolls around the resort area.
Visit https://www.charnveeresortkhaoyai.com or Tel. 088-378-2324 (Resort), 088-375-4466 (Golf & Country Club) for more information.
2. Khao Yai Paradise on Earth
Located amidst the natural beauty of Khao Yai, Khao Yai Paradise on Earth offers a Tropical Modern design that exudes warmth, tranquility, and a sense of privacy. With a diverse range of activities available onsite, including options tailored for families, groups of friends, or couples, your vacation needs are sure to be met. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in this idyllic setting.
Experience Exciting Activities at Khao Yai Paradise on Earth
– Swimming Pool: Dive into relaxation at our expansive swimming pool, where guests of all ages can unwind and enjoy the refreshing waters.
– Adventure Activities: Embark on thrilling adventures with a range of options including kayaking, rope courses, cycling, and more.
– Social Gatherings: Connect with loved ones and new friends alike at our designated social areas. Enjoy a delightful barbecue experience at our grilling corner, where you can sizzle up a variety of delectable treats such as barbecue delights and grilled pork while bonding over shared moments.
3. The Greenery Resort Khaoyai
This resort is adorned with contemporary decor, both inside the rooms and throughout the outdoor spaces, creating a tranquil ambiance complemented by lush greenery. Surrounded by verdant forests and an abundance of trees, The Greenery Resort Khaoyai offers a refreshing retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re traveling with your family and small children or with a group of friends seeking adventure, the resort provides ample opportunities for fun and relaxation without the need to venture far. With a wide range of activities available onsite, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Exciting Activities at The Greenery Resort Khaoyai
– Water Park: Dive into fun at the thrilling Water Park, featuring giant slides and an array of water toys that are designated zones for both children and adults.
– Amusement Park: Step into the vibrant Amusement Park, where a variety of rides await.
– Adventure Activities: Whether you’re driving an ATV, rolling inside giant balls, tackling rope courses, or trying out other thrilling adventures, there’s something for every adventure enthusiast to enjoy.
4. Dusit D2 Khaoyai
Discover the allure of Dusit D2 Khaoyai, a highly sought-after Khao Yai accommodation renowned for its luxurious ambiance and extensive range of activities. Boasting spacious, elegantly decorated rooms and comprehensive amenities, the resort offers a tranquil escape amidst greenery around. From thrilling adventures to serene relaxation, Dusit D2 Khaoyai’s diverse activities cater to guests of all ages and interests.
Whether you’re seeking family bonding moments, romantic getaways for couples, or memorable experiences with friends, the resort provides a shady, cool, and welcoming atmosphere ideal for every occasion.
Exciting Activities at Dusit D2 Khaoyai
– Alpaca Farm: Delight in the charm of our Alpaca Farm, where you can interact with these gentle creatures up close, feed them, capture memorable photos, and enjoy playful moments with them.
– Night Safari: Embark on a Night Safari adventure, offering a unique opportunity to observe nocturnal wildlife up close and witness their fascinating behaviors under darkness.
– Adventure Activities: Indulge your adventurous spirit with a variety of exhilarating activities such as kayaking, mountain climbing, rock climbing, trekking, and more.
5. Phukumhom Resort
An exquisite Khao Yai hotel & resort adorned in modern elegance and surrounded by the verdant forests of Dong Phaya Yen, the resort offers breathtaking mountain views and a serene atmosphere. With an abundance of small and large trees dotting the landscape, guests can enjoy a tranquil and cool retreat, perfect for unwinding with family, friends, or loved ones.
Exciting Activities at Phukumhom Resort
– Cycling: Explore the vast landscape on two wheels with the cycling activity.
– Organic Vegetable: Embark on a journey to the organic vegetable plots, where you can discover chemical-free farming practices and learn about sustainable agriculture.
– Camping: Experience the thrill of camping under the starry sky at our designated camping area with your family or friends for a memorable night of bonding and relaxation amidst the tranquility of nature.
6. Khaoyai Fantasy Resort
Step into a world where fantasy and nature intertwine at Khaoyai Fantasy Resort, a unique Khao Yai accommodation that promises an unforgettable experience. The resort boasts a distinctive design inspired by the concept of “We are bears hibernating in a luxury cave,” making it an enchanting destination, particularly appealing to families with children.
Exciting Activities at Khaoyai Fantasy Resort
– Amusement Park: With countless options for fun, there’s something to delight every member of the family.
– Adventure Activities: Whether you fancy land skiing, rappelling, ATV driving, rocking tricycles, boating, buggies, or more, there’s no shortage of exhilarating experiences to enjoy during your stay.
7. Thongsomboon Club Resort
Discover the allure of Thongsomboon Club Resort, a sought-after destination renowned for its diverse range of accommodations and exciting activities. Offering a variety of room styles to suit every preference, the resort ensures a personalized and comfortable stay for all guests.
Exciting Activities at Thongsomboon Club Resort
– Rafting: Delve into amazing adventures on the water with rafting experience, promising excitement and scenic views along the way.
– ATV and Go-Kart Driving: Get your adrenaline pumping as you navigate through rugged terrain on an ATV or race around the track in a go-kart.
– Cable Car and Pump Truck: Take in panoramic views from above as you ride the cable car, or opt for a unique experience driving a pump truck.
Thailand stands out as a dream destination for countless travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. For those seeking a luxurious retreat filled with diverse activities, Khao Yai appears as your perfect choice. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, Khao Yai offers an abundance of options to cater to every taste and preference.
From lush accommodations to thrilling adventures amidst nature’s embrace, these 7 Khao Yai accommodations guarantee an unforgettable escape, promising moments of relaxation, excitement, and cherished moments that will last a lifetime.
A luxurious bathroom isn’t just an ordinary one; it’s a sanctuary within your home, a space that exudes comfort and elegance. It’s equipped with sophisticated elements like spacious tubs and exquisite flooring that elevate your daily routines into moments of pure indulgence. Moreover, it significantly enhances the value of your home.
Creating such a sophisticated bathroom requires careful planning and specialized skills. Designing the layout and coordinating various professionals to do the work demands expertise and precision.
Enter Barr Built, the go-to experts in Sydney for creating magnificent bathrooms. With over 20 years of experience, they possess the know-how to craft bathrooms that resemble those seen in prestigious design magazines. They handle every aspect of the process, ensuring a seamless journey from concept to completion, allowing you to bask in the pleasure of your new luxurious bathroom.
Contact Barr Built for bathroom renovations. By entrusting Barr Built with your project, you’re ensuring not just a stunning bathroom but also a long-lasting investment in sophistication and comfort for your home.
And for those wondering what does a luxurious bathroom renovation involves and what factors you need to be aware of, this blog has covered all the details for you. Scroll down to know more!
Importance of a Luxurious Bathroom Makeover
Elevating Home Value and Appeal
Revamping your bathroom with high-end features can significantly boost your home’s selling potential. Luxurious additions like heated tile floors, bespoke wood vanities, and modern walk-in showers instantly capture buyers’ attention. The inclusion of panoramic lighting and exquisite finishes not only reflects superior craftsmanship but also enhances the overall allure of your home. Even minor enhancements like new water fixtures and stylish tile backsplashes contribute to maximizing your home’s resale value.
Enhancing Comfort and Functionality
Many older bathrooms fail to meet contemporary standards, making a makeover essential for enhancing comfort and functionality. Introducing modern design elements such as spacious walk-in showers and smart storage solutions like drawers ensures a more organized and user-friendly space. Universal design features further enhance accessibility, catering to various needs and preferences.
Creating a Personal Oasis for Relaxation
Luxury bathrooms serve as personal sanctuaries for daily rejuvenation. Indulging in an air-jet bathtub or a custom spa shower within the confines of your home creates opportunities for unwinding and self-care. A thoughtfully planned makeover allows you to transform your bathroom into a dream environment tailored to your relaxation and wellness needs.
Meet Barr Built: Sydney’s Renovation Experts
With more than 20 years of collective construction expertise, Barr Built has assembled a team of specialized tradespeople dedicated to crafting luxury bathrooms throughout Sydney. Founded by Afi and Christie, the company oversees complete transformations, from initial design concepts to the final exquisite details.
Barr Built stands out from other firms by tailoring each project to match the client’s unique lifestyle and aspirations. Instead of a cookie-cutter approach, they invest time in understanding how homeowners envision their ideal space. This personalized touch allows Barr Built to create bathrooms that serve as personalized havens—spaces designed to rejuvenate and resonate with the homeowners’ desires.
About Luxury Bathroom Makeovers at Barr Built
Luxury at Barr Built transcends mere aesthetics; it encompasses a deep understanding of clients’ dreams, where form harmonizes with function. Their design expertise amalgamates beauty, practicality, and durability, culminating in exclusive bathrooms that cater to individual needs. Homeowners can anticipate:
- Consultations tailored to unveil their dream bathroom vision
- 3D modeling that breathes life into conceptual ideas
- Methodical project management to ease any concerns
- Skilled artisans delivering impeccable finishes
- Exclusive use of premium, resilient materials
The result is not just a visually stunning bathroom but a space designed to accommodate the homeowners’ needs, crafted to endure everyday usage while providing enduring pleasure. Barr Built’s commitment to meticulous craftsmanship ensures that each bathroom embodies a refined excellence, offering enduring delight to homeowners.
Conclusion
A luxurious bathroom isn’t just an upgrade; it becomes a home’s treasure, offering a serene sanctuary and enhancing property value. Investing in luxury fosters a space promoting wellbeing.
Achieving this requires specialized skills, where Barr Built excels. Their design expertise, project management, and commitment ensure the final bathroom mirrors the homeowner’s vision. Ready to transform your bathroom into a personal oasis?
Barr Built’s team is set to bring your dream bathroom to life. Contact Sydney’s top bathroom renovation experts to rediscover your bathroom as a sanctuary for self-care, reinvented with Barr Built’s expertise.
As you embark on the exciting journey of transforming your living space into a smart home, additional insights and inspiration can be found on nerdplusart.com. This website delves deeper into the world of technology and home automation, offering valuable resources, reviews, and creative ideas to complement the guidance provided in this comprehensive guide.
Whether you seek in-depth analyses or artistic perspectives on smart home integration, Nerd Plus Art serves as an excellent companion to enhance your understanding and elevate your experience in crafting a seamlessly integrated and efficient smart home.
Smart Speakers and Voice Assistants: The Hub of Home Automation
Transform your home into a command center with smart speakers and voice assistants. These devices not only play music and answer questions but also serve as the central hub for controlling other smart devices, offering seamless integration and hands-free automation.
Security Systems: Safeguarding Your Smart Haven
Security systems play a pivotal role in safeguarding your smart haven, extending beyond conventional measures to offer advanced protection. Smart cameras and doorbell cameras provide real-time monitoring and notifications, while integrated security networks fortify your home.
These systems often feature remote access, allowing you to control and monitor your home’s security from anywhere. With smart sensors and alarms, they offer a proactive defense against potential threats.
The interconnected nature of these devices enhances overall safety, providing peace of mind through advanced features like facial recognition and motion detection. In the realm of smart homes, security systems become a fundamental pillar, ensuring a protected and connected living environment.
Intelligent Lighting Solutions: Illuminating Your Smart Space
Intelligent lighting solutions illuminate your smart space with unparalleled versatility and efficiency. These innovative systems go beyond traditional lighting, allowing users to customize ambiance, color, and intensity through smart bulbs, switches, and integrated lighting networks. Offering remote control and automation, they adapt to daily routines, enhancing convenience and energy savings.
Integration with voice assistants and smart home ecosystems further elevates the experience, providing seamless control and synchronization. Whether adjusting lighting scenes for different activities or setting schedules for energy efficiency, intelligent lighting transforms your space, creating an atmosphere that aligns with your preferences and modern connectivity for an enhanced living environment.
Smart Thermostats: Climate Control for Comfort and Efficiency
Smart thermostats redefine home climate control, providing an unprecedented level of comfort and efficiency. These intelligent devices learn your temperature preferences, adapt to your schedule, and offer remote control capabilities through mobile apps.
Optimizing heating and cooling based on occupancy and external conditions, not only enhances comfort but also contributes to significant energy savings.
With features like geofencing and smart integrations, smart thermostats empower users to create personalized climate zones, ensuring an ideal environment while reducing energy consumption. The result is a seamlessly managed and energy-efficient home, where comfort aligns with modern technological advancements.
Connected Appliances: Streamlining Daily Tasks in Your Smart Home
As we explore the transformative capabilities of connected appliances, it’s crucial to address the occasional challenges that arise in smart home technology. If you find yourself wondering, ‘Why do my security cameras keep going offline?’ our guide offers troubleshooting tips and insights to ensure the seamless operation of your smart security systems.
Maintaining a reliable connection is essential for the effectiveness of your smart home, and understanding and addressing connectivity issues contribute to a smoother and more dependable experience in managing your connected devices.
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