Great Escapes

Seven days in Bhutan during the Thimphu Tshechu Festival is a sejour of a lifetime. Organised by Druk Asia on behalf of Druk Air, the expedition allows visitors to discover Bhutan through such historical and geographical landmarks as Taktsang Monastery, Dochula Pass and Paro Valley, which is dotted with old monasteries and temples. The highlight is of course the Thimphu Tshechu, along with the masked dance at Thimphu Dzong, a unique rite of Tantric Buddhism. The festival takes place on October 11-13 across Bhutan. The seven-day package starts at Paro International Airport, and costs US$1,540 per person. The price covers accommodation, three meals daily, government fee, vehicle tour and an English-speaking guide. Hidden away in the Himalayas, Bhutan is full of mystery and magic, and the Thimphu Tshechu Festival is just a beginning. Visit www.DrukAsia.com.

 

Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya, the River of Kings, the Shangri-La Hotel Bangkok promises to pamper with its “Simply Wellness” package. Available through September 30, it includes accommodation in a Deluxe River View Room, a 90-minute spa treatment, spa cuisine lunch and late check out at 3pm, Special privileges for booking the Vitalife Longevity Programme at Bumrungrad International Hospital and a 20-per-cent discount from the third night onwards are also offered. Prices are Bt5,300 for a single and Bt6,300 ($177) for two sharing per night. Call (02) 2236 8788 or email: [email protected]. Visit www.Shangri-La.com/bangkok.

 

Kupu Kupu Barong Villas and Tree Spa by L’Occitane is giving guests the opportunity to rage gracefully against ageing by becoming “Immortelle”, just like the rare Corsican flowers which never fade after being picked. For $1,400 (Bt50,000) net for two sharing, guests will enjoy four-night stay in a Riverfront Pool Villa with daily breakfast for two, a 90-minute “Immortelle Secret to Everlasting Youth” (for two guests), one Bird Nest dinner, airport transfers and in-room Immortelle flower decorations. This tropical-chic resort is tucked away in Ubud on Bali. 

For reservations and inquiries email: [email protected].

 

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, Kuala Lumpur, offers a romantic retreat in Malaysia’s capital. The three-day, two-night deal costs RM1,039 ($251) per night and includes daily breakfast for two, one set dinner, sparkling wine and 20-per-cent savings on a la carte spa treatments at The Spa. Set between Kuala Lumpur City Centre Park and the Petronas Twin Towers, this luxury |hotel is just one kilometre from the Pavilion shopping mall. For reservations call (60 3) 2179 8818 or email: [email protected]. 

 

A cheap night at Movenpick Siam Hotel Pattaya won’t make you feel cheap at Thailand’s most famous beach holiday destination. For Bt3,999 per night, guests enjoy an upgrade from a Deluxe Seaview Room to a Premium Seaview, free wireless Internet, buffet breakfast and chocolate treat. The promotion is available from Sunday to Thursday until June 30. For booking, email: [email protected].