Koh Chang is one of the best places for a little adventure promoting eco-tourism, as it is richly abundant in nature. A variety of fun activities can be experienced inland, underwater, on an elephant's back, by bike or on foot.

To start with, get on a bike and visit local plantations, bearing such fruits as durian, pomelo, coconut, rambutan, jackfruit, rubber trees and more. You'll feel close to nature, as some parts of the route are red dirt roads, while the main streets are paved. Visit the fishermen's villages in Ao Sapparot, Ao Bang Bao and Ao Salakphet, where locals still build their houses on stilts and fishing boats float in lines by the shore.

A popular activity is to explore the jungle by elephant. There are a few different elephant camps on the island, offering diverse programmes and different trails, to suit your preferences, budget and time available.

A voyage to the pristine mangrove at Salak Khok is well worth seeing, both day and night. By night, during cooler months, fireflies flash in the dark and light up the mangrove trees.

If you have enough energy to venture around the island on foot, there are walking trails into the mountains. Koh Chang's rainforest is teeming with flora and fauna. There are local birds and animals not found anywhere else. Such hikes can be attempted by yourself, but trekking with a local guide for the longer and more adventurous walks is recommended. Shorter hikes to waterfalls are also a favoured pastime, with both tourists and locals, as a dip in the fresh, cool water, after a sweaty hike, is incredibly rewarding!

For total immersion, the waters around Koh Chang and its nearby islands beckon divers and snorkellers year after year! Discovering the underwater world, where vivid coral reefs and colourful fish abound, is a unique and enthralling experience. The Thonburi shipwreck near Koh Lao Ya Noi is an inviting up-close history lesson in itself.

After a day of exertion, ultimate comfort awaits back at the 5-star Amari Emerald Cove Resort, where guests can relax by the lap pool or in the Jacuzzi pool, be pampered body, mind and soul at Sivara Spa by well-trained, friendly staff, or sip cocktails at Breezes Bar and savour Thai and international delicacies at a great variety of restaurants, while dreaming about what the next day's adventures will bring...

For more info and reservations, please call 03955 2000 or email: Reservation Enquiry and visit www.amari.com/emeraldcove
       
    

Editor's note:
On the South East coast of Thailand, in Trat province, Koh Chang is a stunning tropical island paradise. The Amari Emerald Cove Resort & Spa is located on a quiet stretch of beach, Klong Prao, with white sands and the lush tropical rainforest, as a beautiful backdrop. Activities for guests to enjoy include elephant trekking in the jungle, boat trips to uninhabited 'Robinson Crusoe' islands, diving trips arranged by the Dolphin Divers, kayaking and discovering the local fishing villages and much more.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                            Telephone: +66(0) 2255-3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                                Fax: +66(0) 2255-3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                           Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                                Website: www.amari.com

 

 

 

Koh Chang is part of a pristine archipelago off eastern Thailand. Koh Chang and its smaller enchanting islands are just waiting to be explored and are just a hop away! Not only are they stunningly beautiful, but also have interesting tales.

For a bit of an adventure and to feel a little like a castaway, Koh Chang's surrounding islands are an ideal destination for some island hopping...

Base yourself at the 5-star Amari Emerald Cove Resort and get away by speedboat, in a few hours or less, to find yourself in other tropical paradises.

Koh Klum has historical significance, as it was a battleground for the Thai and French, during the French colonisation of Indochina. This island is a good site for diving, as there are corals 10 to 20 metres deep, and it is also an excellent fishing spot.

Koh Wai, a crescent shaped island, has two small beautiful beaches, suitable as a quiet hideaway for a day trip.

Koh Phrao Nai and Nok have coconut trees fringing the beach, providing comfortable shady areas to laze around on the white sand beach.

Koh Lao Ya comprises 3 small islands, known for their long white sand beaches, turquoise waters, green forests and lovely coral at shallow depths. Stroll on a wooden bridge that links two of the islands and see the crystal clear water beneath.

Koh Ngam is an enchanting island, located a few hundred metres off the southern most tip of Koh Chang. The island consists of 2 sections held together by a narrow sand dune and there are two lagoons, excellent for swimming and snorkelling. Dolphins are occasionally seen in the area.

A little further away, Koh Maak, 40km from the mainland is covered in both rubber and coconut plantations, with inspiring long beaches.

80km south east of Trat, Koh Kood is the second largest island in the Koh Chang National Park. About 70% of the island is covered in tropical rainforest and there are stunning waterfalls. The beaches are fringed with beautiful coconut trees and crystal clear water laps the white sandy shore.

Island trips can easily be arranged through Amari Emerald Cove Resort, located on Klong Prao Beach.

And after the adventurous long trip, come back and relax by the pool or indulge in the ultimate pampering experience for body, mind and soul at the luxurious Sivara Spa.

Experience eastern island paradise with Amari Emerald Cove Resort.

        
Editor's note:
On the South East coast of Thailand, in Trat province, Koh Chang is a stunning tropical island paradise. The Amari Emerald Cove Resort & Spa is located on a quiet stretch of beach, Klong Prao, with white sands and the lush tropical rainforest, as a beautiful backdrop. Activities for guests to enjoy include elephant trekking in the jungle, boat trips to uninhabited 'Robinson Crusoe' islands, diving trips arranged by the PADI dive centre, kayaking and discovering the local fishing villages and much more.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                                      Telephone: +66(0) 2255-3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                                          Fax: +66(0) 2255-3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                                     Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                                          Website: www.amari.com

 

 

The reputation of Koh Chang is not only boosted by its beautiful emerald waters or its powdery white sandy beaches, but also by its pristine natural treasures… inviting and enticing you to experience everything.

'Koh Chang' in Thai literally means Elephant Island. Yet, it is not the natural habitat of elephants but its shape the name refers to. Elephants are not indigenous here, but have since made it their home, and riding on an elephant's back is one of the must-do activities on Koh Chang.

There are a few different elephant camps on the island. One is located between Klong Prao and Kai Bae with a choice of 2 trekking trails, a one-hour and a two-hour trail, taking you through a pomelo orchard and into the National Park's rainforest. Elephant bathing is also included in the long programme.

Another is in Klong Son, in the north of the island, offering a forty-minute and a one-hour-and-twenty-minute treks into the island's beautiful valley, through  peaceful pomelo, durian and rubber plantations with a chance to watch elephants bathing and to explore the locals' way of life.

The treks can easily be arranged at Amari Emerald Cove Resort on Klong Prao Beach. After the exciting adventure and soaking up the sun, a wide range of activities awaits… including the ultimate in pampering and indulgence at Sivara Spa, fine dining at the resort's restaurants while enjoying the vista of a majestic sunset…

Enjoy all you can wish for at Amari Emerald Cove Resort, Koh Chang…

Editor's note:
On the South East coast of Thailand, in Trat province, Koh Chang is a stunning tropical island paradise. The Amari Emerald Cove Resort & Spa is located on a quiet stretch of beach, Klong Prao, with white sands and the lush tropical rainforest, as a beautiful backdrop. Activities for guests to enjoy include elephant trekking in the jungle, boat trips to uninhabited 'Robinson Crusoe' islands, diving trips arranged by the Dolphin Divers, kayaking and discovering the local fishing villages and much more.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                           Telephone: +66(0) 2255-3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                               Fax: +66(0) 2255-3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                          Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                               Website: www.amari.com

Explore the underwater world of the Koh Chang archipelago. It is definitely worth the trip out to see the surrounding islands of Koh Chang.

A bit further out, you can see the different shades of the water, light clear blue, dark blue, emerald green and turquoise where underneath abide the vivid corals and a number of colourful fish swimming here and there, in and out of their playground.

To visit this remarkable habitat, the best time of the year is from October to the end of May as visibility can stretch up to 30 metres - time to plan your trip and head out!

Only about an hour from Koh Chang, Hin Lok Bat, Hin Rap have a good diversity of marine life, barracudas, crown of thorns starfish, barrel sponges, soft corals. Koh Wai is where leopard sharks and rays can be spotted occasionally and Koh Lao Ya Nok is an ideal place to snorkel in the shallow waters.

Heading to the far south of the island to Koh Rang, the highlight of scuba diving due to its perfect environment, leopard sharks and rays are commonly seen.

On the way back to Koh Chang, call in at Koh Lao Ya Nai to visit the wreck of Thonburi sunk in 1921.

Arranging such beautiful experience is easy at Amari Emerald Cove Resort, on Klong Prao Beach, where activities abound to ensure a fantastically memorable holiday. The only 5-star resort on the island features a Sivara Spa, 50-metre lap pool which is sometimes used for learner-divers, a variety of restaurants, serving excellent cuisine, a fitness centre and much more.

For more information on Amari Emerald Cove Resort & Spa, please visit our website www.amari.com/emeraldcove

   

Editor's note:
On the South East coast of Thailand, in Trat province, Koh Chang is a stunning tropical island paradise. The Amari Emerald Cove Resort & Spa is located on a quiet stretch of beach, Klong Prao, with white sands and the lush tropical rainforest, as a beautiful backdrop. Activities for guests to enjoy include elephant trekking in the jungle, boat trips to uninhabited 'Robinson Crusoe' islands, diving trips arranged by the Dolphin Divers, kayaking and discovering the local fishing villages and much more.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                           Telephone: +66(0) 2255-3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                               Fax: +66(0) 2255-3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                          Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                               Website: www.amari.com

Luxuriate in absolute comfort and amidst the natural splendour of Amari Vogue Resort, Krabi. On serene Tub Kaek Beach, this 5-star northern Thai style resort offers a maximum of choice, with room types to suit all: 35 Deluxe rooms, 8 Royal Deluxe rooms, 8 Honeymoon Deluxe, 2 Spa Suites and 4 Ocean Villas.

With the perfect beachfront location, Ocean Villas provide lavishly sophisticated comfort. Each is furnished with fine materials, offering an expansive bedroom and a separate living room, as well as a spacious bathroom with a tub and walk-in shower. Ocean Villas have broadband internet access points, enabling guests to stay in touch with friends and family. There are also two TVs and a DVD player for indoor leisure time.

Welcome the morning sunshine, just linger on a lazy day or count the stars at night on the large outdoor wooden terrace that comes complete with sunloungers and a dining area, for romantic or family dining.

Delight in the pleasure of relaxation in an exclusive outdoor plunge pool or jacuzzi, while being caressed by sea breezes and enjoying the beautiful surrounding environment.

The resort also offers a superb selection of cuisine in 2 restaurants, ultimate pampering for body, mind and soul at Sivara Spa, a variety of swimming and jacuzzi jet pools and much more…

Experience sheer indulgence and the true essence of comfort to the max at Amari Vogue Resort!

For more info and reservations, please call +66(0) 7560 7777, email: Reservations Enquiries or visit www.amari.com/vogue

    
 Living room in Ocean Villa               Bathroom in Ocean Villa

Note to Editors:
Amari Vogue Resort is located on Krabi's pristine Tub Kaek Beach. The resort offers 5-star accommodation with 57 luxurious rooms and suites and facilities including 2 restaurants, a bar, pool, fitness room and Sivara Spa. At Amari Vogue Resort, guests can experience the ultimate comfort in style and in beautiful surroundings.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                                      Telephone: +66(0) 2255 3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                                          Fax: +66(0) 2255 3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                                     Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                                          Website: www.amari.com

Enjoy Italian delicacies with a slice of heaven…

Bellini, a superb beachfront Italian Restaurant located on serene Tub Kaek Beach, Krabi, is a unique dining experience for all Italian cuisine and seafood lovers.

The delicious sea breeze and distinctly aromatic scent of freshly baked thin crust pizza and fine delicacies seduces guests before even sitting down at their table with a view to dine for! Mouthwatering lasagna amazes the palate, while the superstar seafood platter possesses not only a feast for the eyes with its stunning presentation, but also a delightfully exquisite taste.

These sumptuous treats and more await on the creatively crafted menu by the very passionate artistic Chef Matthias, while will impress as much as the awe-inspiring view and breathtaking sunsets over Bellini Italian Restaurant.

For service with a smile, special Italian BBQ buffet nights, Seafood under the Stars and private sunset dining on the beach. Make your reservation at Bellini Italian Restaurant for any occasion or just because you love great food with a fabulous view!

Bellini offers 60 beachfront seats and is open from 11.00 - 23.00hrs everyday.

For reservations, please call +66(0) 7560 7777, email: Reservation Enquiry
or visit www.amari.com/vogue

Note to Editors:
Amari Vogue Resort is located on Krabi's pristine Tub Kaek Beach. The resort offers 5-star accommodation with 57 luxurious rooms and suites and facilities including 2 restaurants, a bar, pool, fitness room and Sivara Spa. At Amari Vogue Resort, guests can experience the ultimate comfort in style and in beautiful surroundings.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                                Telephone: +66(0) 2255 3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                                    Fax: +66(0) 2255 3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                               Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                                    Website: www.amari.com

Plan your holiday now and book early to enjoy Amari Hotels and Resorts' fantastic offers.

Experience ultimate comfort and unsurpassed services, at Amari Hotels and Resorts in wonderful locations throughout Thailand.

Book now until 1st October 2008 for your holiday from 1st November 2008 - 28th February 2009, get special credit of up to 3,000Baht* to spend during your stay, such as on food & beverages and/or spa treatments at Sivara Spa, as well as room upgrades, where available…

Delight in quality time by the beach, on an island, surrounded by the charm of northern culture or take a city break, to shop and see the sights…

Need ideas on where to go? Information on destinations is available on the Amari website. So check out www.amari.com and book online today!

*Note: limited availability and conditions apply

     
    Amari Watergate Hotel  Amari Palm Reef Resort Amari Emerald Cove Resort
    Bangkok                        Samui                          Koh Chang

Note to Editors:
Amari Hotels and Resorts is one of Thailand's leading and most dynamic hotel groups operating eleven first class properties in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Koh Chang, Samui, Phuket and Krabi, as well as six associate hotels in Bangkok, Pattaya, Loei and Doi Angkhang.

For more information about this release and hi-res photography, contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                  Telephone: +66(0) 2255 3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                      Fax: +66(0) 2255 3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                 Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                      Website: www.amari.com

Top 10 Things to Do in Krabi

With Amari Vogue Resort

Krabi is a destination much favoured for its striking natural beauty. With an abundance of beautiful beaches, islands, waterfalls and other wonderful manmade attractions, there are numerous activities to enjoy. For a brief or longer stay, visitors to Krabi should not miss out on the top ten things to do, recommended by Amari Vogue Resort: 

1. Rent a long tail boat and take some packed lunchboxes along, to explore the surreal beauty of Hong Island, named after its hollowed out shape. The ‘Hong’ (meaning ‘room’) is in the middle of the island, formed by limestone rocks.
2. Kayak to Ao Thalene, a peaceful lush mangrove, where the delicate balance of nature is perfectly maintained – simply an amazing sight to see!
3. Visit Railey – one of Thailand’s most sought-after beaches – with its stunning limestone cliffs, white sandy beaches, including the Princess Cave Beach. Railey is ideal for lazing on the beach or getting active with some rockclimbing.
4. Discover the secret jungle lagoon in Khao Pra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary. Enter through lush green jungle, to find a glistening emerald lagoon on the other side…
5. Go jungle trekking, where extreme excitement awaits! Adventure seekers delight in various trails, such as Khao Phanom Bencha and Kao Pra Bang Khram.
6. Make a day of scuba diving and snorkelling. The underwater world of the Krabi province is a must-see, especially the popular spot of the Phi Phi Islands.
7.  Watch the sunset by the beach, while enjoying delicious cuisine – simple but extraordinary! Tub Kaek Beach provides and idyllic setting, with a backdrop of small islands dotted along the horizon, while the sun gleams and glitters across the water in brilliant colour.
8. Try out elephant trekking – there are many ways to explore the spectacular natural environment of Krabi, but being on the back of an elephant is an unforgettable experience!
9. Visit the Tiger Cave Temple, a quiet and peaceful atmosphere for meditation. There are two passages, 1200 steps up to the hilltop, where the striking view is worth the sweating! And 130 steps up to the monks’ cottages.
10. Be pampered and massages at Sivara Spa. Surrounded by water pools and natural beauty, caressed by cool breezes, enjoy the expert healing touch of trained therapists, as body, mind and soul are rejuvenated and relaxed – you deserve it after all that activity!

 For more info on Amari Vogue Resort, Krabi, call +66 (0) 7560 7777, email: Reservation Enquiry or visit www.amari.com/vogue.        
                
Note to Editors:Amari Vogue Resort is located on Krabi’s pristine Tub Kaek Beach. The resort offers 5-star accommodation with 57 luxurious rooms and suites and facilities including 2 restaurants, a bar, pool, fitness room and Sivara Spa. At Amari Vogue Resort, guests can experience the ultimate comfort in style and in beautiful surroundings.

For more information on this press release and hi-res images, please contact:
Nikki Busuttil
Director of Communications                                                      Telephone: +66(0) 2255 3767
Amari Hotels and Resorts                                                          Fax: +66(0) 2255 3718
847 Petchburi Road                                                                     Email: Send Nikki an email
Bangkok, 10400, Thailand                                                          Website: www.amari.com