Urban Ears Plattan denim headphones, B3,790. 3/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.

Topman floral shirt, B1,890. 2/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-264-5555.

H&M sweater, B1,299. 2/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.

Ice Watch Solid, B2,250. Order online at www.central.co.th

Jack Spade Davis brief, B18,500. 4/F, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-264-5555.

H&M blue trousers, B899. 1/F, Siam Paragon, Rama 1 Rd., 02-690-1000. BTS Siam.

Vans Madero sneaker, B2,150. 3/F, Central Chidlom, Ploenchit Rd., 02-793-7777. BTS Chidlom.

Test your guts and take on Halloween Horror Nights 2 at Universal Studios Singapore, which has three haunted houses, five scare zones and special late-night ride attractions in the region’s largest and most sophisticated scare-fest. October 19-21, 25-28

Wander the creepy rainforest beneath the Singapore Flyer at the Fright Fest 2012, where creepy Asian and Western characters inspired by popular horror movies (such as Dark Water and Friday the 13th) lurk. October 12-28

Venture into five dark and creepy trails of Fort Siloso's terrifying Spooktacular where tortured characters from a haunted army camp, victims of the Ouija board and other terrifying creatures come out to play. October 19, 20, 26, 27 and 28

Back for its third run, Scape's Museum of Horrors III in 4D invites you to enter a secret laboratory and uncover the truth behind an zombie uprising. October 18-31

Be prepared for chills and thrills as Segway's Gogreen After Dark takes you down the dark captivating past of Pulau Blakang Mati. Through Dec 30

The gothic and the glamorous make a grand appearance for the Yelloween Masquerade, happening at La Terraza Rooftop Bar, Mojo, Royal Room and Taboo. October 25-27

Zouk transforms into a blood-curdling Doll House, replete with Victorian wax, Haitian and living dead dolls. October 27

Party up high with fellow ghouls and freaks at the Radio Star Party Series: Red Lantern Halloween at Ku De Ta. October 27

Expect an exhilarating night of live performances, games, contests and face painting at Clarke Quay's Halloween 2012 party with 987FM DJs Rosalyn Lee and Bobby Tonelli. October 27

Avalon is unleashing the walking dead at the Zombiepalooza. October 27

Society's most evil minds congregates at the sinister Chamber of the Damned for night of pumpin' club bangers and damned creatures at Zirca. October 27

Take DJs Reiki, Jerls, Microstripe, JDL Quake and Rah, pair them with Halloween, and you'll get a zombifying, "spook-tacular" Night of the Living Bass at Home Club. October 27

DJs STASSH & Tyler Made dish out wicked tracks at The Superstition Ball, held at the deliciously eerie The White Rabbit. October 27

Forgotten boybands and celebrities make a comeback with a vengeance at Acid Bar, Alley Bar and Outdoors Bar for a Retro Horror Halloween night. October 27

DJ The Randy Groover takes you into the witching hours at Mambo's Halloween party Mam-boo! Haunted highlights include a gypsy fortune teller, freaky face painting and all-night horror movie screenings. October 27

For one Superstar night, Zirca transforms to a dungeon of the underworld for The Queen of The Damned, complete with cages, spikes, electric chairs and torture paraphernalia. October 28

TGIW (Thank God It's Wednesday) at Zouk celebrates Halloween with a Trick or Treat party filled with varied sounds of house, hip-hop, electro and mash-up, and a scary crowd. October 31

Shopping online can get a little intimidating if you don’t know where to start. After all, blog shops continue to infiltrate the World Wide Web with affordable but substandard finds. Still, there are some sites that fall under the radar offering unexpected gems and previously unavailable labels. Here are our top picks for the season.

ButtonNStitch

Who says affordable men’s shirts are usually poorly made? Founder Sherrey Chng-Bahuguna uses only premium fabrics with high thread counts and custom shirts, creating a value-for-money selection spanning over 40 handcrafted designs. “The only thing not extravagant about the shirts is the price, starting from just $80,” she says. Even the buttons here are carefully chosen to reflect the brand’s artisanal aesthetic. “Each shirt comes with laser-engraved BNS buttons, and is born with a unique female name like Miyuki, Ming and Ayako.” All shirts are also double-stitched for durability, with highlights such as the Sora featuring subtle white and-blue checks ($99) and formal working shirts like the Kishi ($109) which sports a classic collar and signature logo embroidery on its sleeve plackets. To further seal the deal: there’s an easy-to-use sizing chart and free shipping island-wide. 

Jooix

The collections from this quirky shopping site—from accessories to postcards and even candles, perfumes and cushions—are as vibrant as its name, inspired mby the phrase “joie de vivre” (joy of living). Founder Angelina Seow’s penchant for precious, pretty objects are apparent in their selections here—cushions from Picasso ($190 upwards) bearing illustrations inspired by, you guessed it, Picasso’s cubic artworks, the site’s in-house jewelry brand notiz by Jooix with adorable animal motifs embellished with precious stones ($335 upwards), and chunky accessories from Gwen Stefani’s sought-after L.A.M.B. fashion brand, such as a statement bracelet engulfed in solid brass and plated in 18K gold ($230). “Unlike other online stores, Jooix is somewhere between luxury and indie,” says Seow. “It bridges the gap between the intangible online and brick-and-mortar experiences by creating an online shopping interaction akin to strolling down the small streets of Paris and New York—the kind lined with niche boutiques full of delectable gems.” 

Social

Channeling looks that are hot off the fashion pages, this womenswear site is a must for hard-to-find American designer labels like Parker, Boulee, Wildfox, CCSkye and Joomi Lim. Coveted by Hollywood celebrities, these brands were previously unavailable here. “While studying and interning in LA, a friend and I fell in love with the vibrant yet laid-back spirit of SoCal (short for Southern California) lifestyle and fashion,” says founder Katheleen Painan. “So on our return to Singapore after graduation, we decided to bring the SoCal style we love so much to locals and shoppers across Asia.” The result: pictorials), plus quick style references on each product and info on which celebrity has been seen wearing them. Highlights include the long pleated maxi dress from Parker ($395) and spiked bracelets from Joomi Lim ($155 upwards). 

White Antler

For home décor pieces with an edge, look no further. Designer Linda Lim handcrafts some seriously collectible ornaments that personalized, decorative skulls; we have since evolved into being a retailer of taxidermy-inspired and rare vintage ornaments,” says Lim. “Pieces are specially handpicked from all over the world with each item being the only one in stock.” There are some one-offs that are truly desirable, like the unique Garden of Eden mixed media artwork which consists of an antler and a series of dried moss and beetles placed in a birdcage ($660), plus Lim’s own creations of handcrafted florescent skulls ($220) which are also standouts, alongside a series of photo frames and bookends ($39 upwards). The eclectic range here is nothing short of inspiring. 

Adidas King of the Road, October 28

This ambitious regional marathon culminates in an ultimate championship race set in Gardens by the Bay. With an expected turnout of 12,000, this race looks like it’s going to be massive, and scenic too. Definitely something to watch even if you’re not up to participating. Register ($50) on the Adidas King of the Road website by October 7.

Lion Dash Sprint, November 3

Get downright filthy at this extreme mud and obstacle race course that resembles parkour more than running. For the first time in Singapore, participants will be expected to leap, climb and crawl their way over, under and around obstacles to the finish line at Tampines Bike Park. The organizers are very open to runners donning costumes—that should be wild—but make sure you can slap your race bib on or you won’t qualify. Register ($74-79) on the Lion Dash Sprint website by October 26.

Run For Hope, November 18

Devote those long, labored strides to a worthy cause, such as cancer research. For 20 years, this leisure run has helped raised funds for the National Cancer Centre Singapore, and aims to get 10,000 runners this time. Boasting 3.5km and 10km distance categories, it also has a new route at the Padang. Register ($35-80) on their website by October 31.

Brooks Run Happy, November 24

Running and partying can go together with this new 9km race that stretches across Marina Barrage to a makeshift party venue, where Zouk’s resident DJ Ming will be spinning into the night. Register ($50-135) on the Brooks Run Happy page by October 31.

Pioneer Road Run, November 25

For amateurs, this new race at Jurong Central Park promises to ease you into the world of runner’s high. It has 5km and 10km competitive and fun run options, as well as training runs before the day itself. Those with preexisting medical conditions can join the 3km Walk for Health—don’t worry, there’ll be doctors on standby. Register ($15-35) on their website by October 30.

Salomon X-Trail Run, November 25

Step it up with this unique race at Tampines Mountain Bike Park & Trail, which returns for its fifth edition. Runners pound the undulating trails of sand, gravel, grass, soil and even running water to get to the finish line—possibly one of the best ways in the city to commune with nature. Register ($45) on the Salomon X-Trail Run website by November 7.

Where to get great barefoot running shoes in Singapore

2 Months Off

We’re suckers for this gem of a cocktail, made with strongly steeped English Breakfast tea. It’s tempered with agave syrup and tangy lemon juice, uplifted with fresh mint, and spiked with Havana white rum over lots of ice. Translation: a fine drink that’s an irresistible combination of sweet and sour, with a pleasant tea aftertaste for balance.
$14 from Broadcast HQ.

Festivi-Tea

Their Tea Cup Cocktail Collection presents several concoctions, but there’s something about sipping on this chilled T2 black tea-infused drink that makes us feel like Christmas has come early. It might have something to do with the delightful notes of berries, cinnamon and cloves, plus Canadian Club whisky for kick.
$15 per teacup, or $45 per pot (fills four teacups) from Speakeasy.

Eastern Spice

A spicy little number that calls on the powers of Bombay Sapphire East, chili umeshu and chili padi. But the not-sosecret weapon is the signature KU DÉ TA tea—a floral oolong enhanced with ginger, peaches and even pink peppercorns—specially blended by local tea company Gryphon, that really gives it its edge.
$20 from KU DÉ TA.

Carpark@SG

There are at least 50,000 motorists in Singapore, which means parkingrelated apps are a dime a dozen here.Even the Housing Development Board has jumped on the bandwagon and released Mobile@HDB, which may potentially be every motorist’s go-to app for car park, season parking and parking offence information (a pity about the poor search functions). Until that’s fixed, Carpark@SG remains everyone’s driving buddy. It’s got almost every car park in Singapore listed (with rates and availability) using data collected from the Land Transport Authority and allows users to suggest other types of information they find useful.
Free from the App Store.

Split-It

There’s been a mad scramble to ride on the success of taxi booking apps
like Comfort DelGro’s all year, with the launch of two new cab-sharing apps (Split-It and GoMyWay) since August. Considering apps of this nature require critical mass to hit home, we figure the one to watch is Split-It, which came out on September 25 after successfully garnering 10,000sign-ups. The app’s easy enough to use: share your location, post your destination and watch the results for anyone who’s going in your direction. You can both communicate via their chat feature (without disclosing your contact details) using credits, which are free till the end of the year. You can also earn credits by referring friends—another great marketing tactic.
Free from the App Store. Available on Google Play from October onwards.

Popcorn

It seems the cinema experience is still very much appreciated even when video-on-demand is readily available. Both Cathay and Golden Village have rolled out ticket booking apps and while these get the job done with minimum fuss, nothing is a better time-saver than the integrated Popcorn app. Pick a date (you can only book a maximum of three days in advance, though), a cinema and your movie (in that order) and you’re directed straight to the booking page. Most cinema sites are mobileoptimized so the entire process really doesn’t take more than a couple of minutes with 3G.
Free from the App Store and Google Play.

Gothere.sg

If you’ve downloaded the iOS 6 and are afraid you’re never going to be able to make your way around the city again (we miss you Google Maps!), don’t fret. Gothere.sg has a search engine that reads streets, building names, postal codes and even acronyms, as well as provides dining reviews and listings for amenities, plus train, bus, driving and walking directions with street views. There is nothing else to desire for.
$2.99 from the App Store.

adidas adizero Feather 2

The lightest model on the market, it comes with SPRINTWEB, a thin mesh that gives great support and breathability so your feet don’t stink after a long run.
$179 from the adidas Sports Performance Concept Store.

New Balance Minimus Ionix 3090

This has a plush underfoot feel and provides great flexibility—all at under 190 grams.
$155 from the New Balance Concept Store.

Nike Free 3.0

Besides being the lightest model in the Free series, this pair also sports injury-prevention features like rubber inserts in high-wear zones.
$113.40-189 from Nike.

FARMSTORE
This pop-up store located at the Viridian Art House features FARM’s quirky knickknack collection, mostly products of collaboration with local designers and institutions that offer a twist on the Singaporean identity. Oct 6-31. Free.

The Pool is Closed
Architectural photographer Jeremy San introduces his photographs of the country’s oldest public pools, part of a series that documents the era of Modernist architecture in Singapore. Oct 6-31. Free.

Rethink Office Spaces
Tour creative, smart and inspiring work places such as the Park + Associates Office, Solaris and the Ministry of Design Office at this event. Only 30 spots available. Oct 12, 2-6pm. $26-37.

TEDxCity2.0: ReThink! Ideas for Idea Cities
If you have aspirations you’d like to share with other people passionate about shaping our city’s future, this brainstorming session organized by TEDxSingapore is your chance to talk. Oct 13, 4pm. Free.

Urban Graphics in Singapore
Singapore’s urban landscape is saturated with signs and symbols. At this walking tour, learn how to understand the use of typography and lettering in these artifacts. By the end of the session, you’ll be able to critically evaluate the imagery and architecture of the city. October 13, 2:30pm. Orita Sinclair School of Design. Free.

The Archifest Forum
This one-day round-table discussion and networking session involves progressive practitioners like Atelier Dreiseitl’s managing director Leonard Ng discussing a wide range of topics, including architecture photography and urban greenery. October 17. School of the Arts (SOTA). $160-270.

10 Years of Shooting Home
Held in conjunction with Objectifs, this photography exhibition features new talents like Deanna Ng, Lim Weixiang, and Jean Loo exploring the themes of home and identity. October 20-December 30. National Museum of Singapore. Free.

Reading the Symbolic-geometric Order of Old Singapore: from Mandala to Pentagram
Find patterns in ancient Singapore’s spatial plan based on the Hindu Mandala principle, British colonial panopticon viewpoints and even Masonic pentagrams in this unique walk led by Dr. Johannes Widodo, associate professor at the NUS Department of Architecture. Only 20 spots available. October 27, 9am. Free.

Read our interviews with the principal designer of the Archifest Pavilion James Tan, as well as the editor-in-chief of 4d magazine in Bangkok, which is behind Archifest event Designing (in) the City.

Backyard @ Dempsey

The guys from Sideshow, who were responsible for all the cool performances at The Training Shed, have now moved their ad-hoc gigs here. Not surprising as this latest joint at Dempsey boasts the Shed’s similar easygoing vibe. Although
the next gig is unconfirmed, check out the live music performance by Cord & Chords every Friday from 7:30pm. Gather your buddies for a round of Carlsberg ($23 before 7:30pm, $29 after) as you take in the lush greenery and fun-filled atmosphere. While you’re at it, we highly recommend its Cajun Spiced Chicken ($12.30) for a quickie bite.

TAB

Still boasting lively music performances after a slight revamp a couple of months
back, the three-level bar started having Neverland exclusive parties (from 10:30pm), featuring regional dance and music acts from China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand. For the perfect concert experience, match the
thumping music with hearty grub such as TAb burger ($24) and TAb Hand-cut Fries ($8). After that, down signature cocktails like Charlie brown ($18), a smooth blend of peanut butter and vanilla ice cream, spiked with vodka.

Universal Studios

Bet you didn’t know that the popular theme park transforms itself every Saturday from 7pm for its newly launched Hollywood After Party. The weekly program includes live band performances from the likes of 53A, Common People, Today’s Special and enigma, plus spectacular fireworks from 9:30pm. entrance fee is $20 and includes one drink voucher. Top up $15 for all you can eat with a choice of party bites, snacks, nachos, pizza and hot dogs. For free-flow drinks, including Tiger beer, cocktails and mocktails, just add another $13.

CHIANG RAI

Le Meridien Chiang Rai Resort

221/2 Moo 20, Kwaewai Rd., Robwiang, Muang, 053-603-333. www.lemeridien.com
The buildings of this 158-room resort hug two 100-year-old trees on the quiet banks of the Kok River. The décor sees charcoal-colored wood furniture brightened up with red cushions, glittering mirror mosaics, and small Lanna details. Hotel guests get free access to Mae Fah Luang Art and Cultural Park.
>> To celebrate Chiang Rai’s 750th anniversary, rooms start from US$75 (B2,320 room only) until Oct 31. During Nov 1-Dec 22, rooms are from B3,040.

NAN

Pukha Nanfa

369 Sumondevaraj Rd., Muang, 054-771-11. www.pukhananfahotel.co.th
KBank CEO Banthoon Lamsam renovated the 50-year-old wooden Nanfa Hotel, located right in the middle of Nan’s provincial capital, into a 14-room hotel by preserving most of the old wooden structure and adding traditional paintings, expensive Lanna-style amenities, silk bed sheets and other mod cons.
>> B2,300-4,200 through Oct 31, B2,500-4,600
during Nov 1-Dec 20 and B2,800-5,200 during Dec 21-Jan 5.

CHIANG MAI

137 Pillars House

2 Na Wat Gate Road Soi 1, Wat Gate, Muang, 053-
247-788, 081-553-4871. www.137pillarshouse.com
Sat in the heart of the centuries-old Wat Gate community, this traditional teak house was formerly the residence of the British East Borneo Company manager. The house has since been reborn as the library and restaurant of this classy colonial-style hotel containing 30 suites ranging from 70 to 135 sq meters.
>> A three-night package is B32,200, including a half-day trip to downtown Chiang Mai and Doi Suthep and a one-day trip to Mae Sa Elephant Camp and a hill tribe village. Through Oct 31.

Proud Phufah

97/5 Moo 1, Maerim-Samoeng Rd., 053-879-389, 053-879-286. www.proudphufah.com
Artsy resort Proud Phufah, in Mae Rim, has just unveiled its new Phu Zone, featuring ten rooms finished with ivory-colored terrazzo and matching furnishings, as well as a pool or Jacuzzi in which to soak while enjoying the mountain views.
>> The new Phu Zone is B5,500-9,800 per night or B15,000-28,000 for three nights. Villas are B2,950-4,900 per night. Through Oct 31.

Nimman Mai?

Soi Sukkasem, Nimmanhaemin Rd., 053-400-567. nimmanmaihotel.com
Nimmanhaemin’s newest chic-yet-affordable hotel is located down a small lane close to happening café Doppio Ristr8to. The rooms are themed according to different styles from traditional Thai to Japanese to European.
>> Opening rates from B1,320, through Oct 31.

Tamarind Village

Ratchadamdoen Rd., Phra Singha, 053-418-896/-9. www.tamarindvillage.com
This hotel, a cluster of low-rise Lanna mansions encircling a two-hundred-year-old tamarind tree has always been a favorite of ours whenever we want to feel the old charms of the North, thanks to its warm décor, local hospitality and premier location right next to the Sunday walking street.
Discount on food & beverages: 15%
>> From B3,000 per night for a Lanna room for Thai residents only. Valid until Oct 31.

Zensala Resort

168 Patan Rd., Muang, 053-225-888. www.zensalaresort.com

With its edgy, minimal architecture, this 11-room boutique hotel is a harmonious marriage of boxy structures and warm-colored teak furniture. Another real perk is the location, right on the Mae Ping riverside, facing nothing but lush forest. We recommend a pool-access room.
>> From B3,000 for a riverfront deluxe and B3,500 for a pool-access deluxe to B8,000 for a Loft by the River room. Through Feb 28.

HUA HIN

Amari Hua Hin

Hua Hin-Khao Takiab Rd., Hua Hin, 032-616-600. www.amari.com/huahin
Hua Hin’s newest large-scale hotel combines a convenient location with four-star standards. The six buildings house 223 rooms and suites (36-85 sq meters) with views of either the sea or the swimming pool.
>> Welcome offers start from B2,900 per night, through Oct 31.

The Hen

Naeb Khehat Rd., Hua Hin, 032-531-331. www.thehenhuahin.com

This former beach house of the royal family was transformed into a small six-room boutique hotel right on the Hua Hin beachfront. The fashionable design boasts a colonial theme with a black-and-white palette.
>> Rates for Sun-Fri are B4,990-7,990, through Oct 31.

Dune

5/5 Naeb Khehat Rd., Hua Hin, 032-515-051. www.dunehuahin.com
A member of Tablet Hotels, a group of compact hotels with character, Dune comprises only five guestrooms clad in a minimal theme, with black and red details. Not on the beach, but it’s only a five minute walk to the sea.
Discount on food & beverages: 10%
>> B5,100-8,100 on Sun-Thu and B5,800-10,800 on Fri-Sat. Stay two nights and your second night is 50% off. From Nov 1 rates start at B8,100. You can also book the entire hotel (all five rooms) at B24,000-36,000, depending on dates and options.

Marrakesh Hua Hin

Petchakasem Rd., Hua Hin, 032-616-777.
Flaunting a neo-Moroccan design theme, this cluster of orange buildings houses 76 suites (55-105 sq meters) overlooking Hua Hin Beach. Guestrooms sport a mix of modern comfort with Arabian details, like glittering mosaic tiles and ornate lanterns.
Discount on food & beverages: 10%
>> Weekday rates online reservations only. From B5,900 with one choice of the activities on offer, which range from high tea to candle making.

Let’s Sea Alfresco Resort

Petchakasem Rd., Hua Hin, 032-536-888. www.letussea.com
Hua Hin’s fashionable beach resort has been a favorite among young couples since its opening in 2006, thanks to its great F&B and that long pool that runs right in front of your room.
>> Among several promotions that are running, the “Life is Good” deal seems to be the cheapest, starting from B4,222. From Nov 1, rates are from B5,400. fh (No free Wi-Fi if booked through an agent)

CHA AM

Cher

924 Bureerom Rd., Cha Am, 032-508-508. www.cherresort.com
A design hotel that sits on Cha Am beachfront and is most memorable for its tree-inspired façade. Cher contains 36 rooms in five different styles, from a room with an elevated Jacuzzi tub to a room with a huge Zen-style bathtub hugged by lush trees.
>> Two-night deals are B6,400-19,200 on Sun-Thu, until Oct 31.

Veranda Resort & Spa

737/12 Mung Talay Rd., Cha Am, 032-709-000/-99. www.verandaresortandspa.com

This pioneering minimal resort on Cha Am Beach is favored by amorous holiday-makers for its cozy rooms and romantic dining tables, and among kids for its huge beachfront swimming pool. The pool villa also offers a real pool you can actually swim in.
>> From B3,995 through Oct 31. But if you book 30 days in advance, rates start from B3,576. For those planning ahead, its B25,404 New Year package features three nights with a gala dinner, 20% discount on food and a buy-one-get-one-free massage deal. The package is applicable during Dec 29-Jan 2, but if you book and pay by Oct 31, you’ll get one free night at Veranda The High Resort in Chiang Mai, too.

PATTAYA

Nova Hotel & Spa

Pattaya 2 Rd., Central Pattaya, 02-101-1234 ext. 1. www.centarahotelsresorts.com

Part of the Centara Hotel Group, the newly-opened Nova Pattaya features 79 rooms and suites decked out in a contemporary style with Thai touches, each with a private balcony that overlooks the swimming pool. It’s only a short walk to the beach and the main nightlife district.
>> From B1,650 for a deluxe, through Oct 31.

PRANBURI

Villa Maroc

Paknam Pran, Prachuab Khirikhan, 032-630-771. www.villamarocresort.com

Not the first Morroccan-themed resort in Thailand but this is probably the best of its kind. The sophisticated Arabian décor makes you feel like you’re holidaying at a beach house in Morocco. Its two-story pool villa is just perfect for honeymooners. And your minibar is all free here.
>> A two-night deal is from B19,500 with 45-min massage and one dinner. On weekdays (Sun-Thu) rates are from B6,500, through Oct 31. From Nov 1, weekday promotions start from B8,500 but you’ll also get a one-hour massage for two.

Khao Lak

Casa de la Flora

Khaolak Beach, Phang Nga, 076-428-999, 02-679-8025. www.casadelaflora.com
Thailand’s newest member of Design Hotels, a global group of aesthetically bold hotels, this beachfront resort designed by VasLAB Studio is a collection of white boxy, cutting-edge architecture finished with natural wood.
>> Last-minute deals from B8,213 per night, until Oct 31. fh

KRABI

Rayavadee

Railay, Krabi, 075-620-740. www.rayavadee.com
The most luxurious resort in Railay, and possibly all of Krabi, Rayavadee has 102 two-story cottages and villas hidden among a grove of coconut trees. Don’t forget to try the authentic Southern dishes at the beachfront Krua Phranang Restaurant.
>> B11,500 per night with breakfast, a roundtrip airport transfer and a 75-minute massage for two. Thai residents only. fh(minimum two nights)

PHUKET

Club Med Phuket

Kata Beach, 02-253-0108. www.clubmed.co.th
Kata Beach’s long-established landmark has just completed a renovation to refresh its Thai-influenced architecture and décor. Club Med is also famed for its wide array of recreational activities, courtesy of their GOs.
>> B8,800 per couple/night for a superior, B11,000 for a deluxe and B16,800 for a suite—all meals included. Plus B900 membership fee per adult. Thai residents only.

Mercure Patong Deevana

Rat-U Thit Rd., Patong, 076-302-100. www.mercurephuketdeevana.com
Sat right in the heart of Patong town, not far from the beach, Mercure Phuket Deevana is the logical choice for those looking for Accor standards, a central location and affordable prices.
>> From B6,600 for a two-night stay, plus a buffet dinner for two and a 45-minute Thai massage for two. Through Oct 31.

The Naka Island

32 Moo 5, Pa Klok, Thalang, Phuket, 076-371-400. [email protected]
Situated on the isolated Naka Island, off Phuket’s northwest coast, all 67 villas of The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, are finished with tropical touches and aqua-color accents. Its highlight is the 1,600-sq-meter Royal Horizontal Pool Villa, featuring two bedrooms, a 546-sq-meter wrap-around swimming pool, and some sweeping sea views.
>> Royal Horizontal Pool Villa is B63,000 per night (4 pax) until Oct 31, and B90,000 per night during Nov 1-Dec 2. Regular pool villa from B13,200.

Sri Panwa

88 Sakdidej Rd., Phuket, 076-371-000. www.sripanwa.com
Thanks to its location on Panwa Cape, the view at this celeb-frequented resort is to-die-for. The suites and villas (190-2,000 sq meters) come with Sino-Portuguese-inspired décor and their own private pools. Check out its newly-opened rooftop bar, Baba Nest, which sits on top of the entire resort so that nothing blocks the panoramic view of Phang Nga Bay.
Discount on food & beverages: 10%
>> From B18,100 for a two-night Escape Holiday package.

Angsana Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket, Bangtao Beach, Phuket, 076-324-101. www.angsana.com
A US$30 million overhaul has given this long-running resort a fresh new look under a new name. Located on the relatively quiet Bangtao Beach, its ten room types range from 40 to 490 sq meters. Its newly-opened Xana Beach Club is well worth checking out, too.
>> From B3,200. Thai residents only. Valid through Oct 31.

SAMUI

Centra Coconut Beach Resort

114/1 Moo 4, Taling-ngam Beach, 07-733-4069-70. www.centarahotelsresorts.com
Centara Hotel group’s newest budget property on Koh Samui sits on the southern coast of the island, overlooking Koh Tan and Koh Matsum, two renowned skin-diving spots.
>> Introductory rates are B1,410-1,890, through Oct 31. fh

Ibis Samui Bophut

197 Moo 1, Bo Phut Beach, www.ibishotel.com/thailand
The world’s only Ibis hotel that has a beachfront location is home to 209 compact rooms and one restaurant. The location is also close to the popular Fisherman’s Village walking street.
>> A family room that fits four adults is B1,999, until Oct 31.

W Retreat Koh Samui

4/1 Moo 1, Maenam, 077-915-999. www.whotels.com/kohsamui
Situated where Maenam and Bophu beaches meet, this fashionable resort boasts a 180-degree panorama of the two beaches and Phangan Island from its lobby and adjacent WOO Bar. All 75 villas are identical—white and grey with natural wood, boldly colored accents and an 11-meter pool.
>> Thai resident rate is B9,999 on Fri-Sun, through Dec 21.

Conrad Koh Samui

49/8-9 Moo 4, Hillcrest Rd., Koh Samui, 077-915-888. www.conradkohsamui.com
The villas of Conrad Koh Samui are found on the remote southwest tip of Koh Samui, where breathtaking sea views are offered at every spot, whether it’s the bedroom, restaurant or spa. The signature restaurant, Jahn, prepares tasty Thai dishes.
Discount on food & beverages: 10%
>> The all-villa resort is celebrating its first anniversary with villa deals. From B11,526 for an ocean pool villa. Book until Oct 15 for stays until Dec 15. For Thai residents only, three consecutive nights required.

Le Meridien Koh Samui

146/24 Moo 4, Lamai Beach, 077-960-888. www.lemeridien.com
Despite being a chain hotel, the resort’s slow-paced ancient Chinese village structure, inspired by the story of a self-made Chinese tycoon, offers a unique atmosphere. If you can afford it, try and book a pool villa and you’ll never want to leave. The hotel is celebrating its first anniversary by reviving its opening offer launched last year.
>> From B4,399. Book through Oct 31 for stays until Dec 20.

UDON THANI

Centara Udon Thani

227/1 Prajaksillapakhan Rd., Muang. www.centarahotelsresorts.com
A just-completed renovation has made the Centara Hotel & Convention Center Udon Thani one of the largest hotels in northern Isaan with 259 rooms and suites. The modern décor will make you forget its former life as the Charoensri Grand Royal Hotel.
>> B1,300 for a superior through Oct 26.

UBON RATCHATHANI

Sedhapura by Tohsang

68 Moo 7, Ban Huay-Mak, Khongchiam, 081-860-5905, 045-351-174/-6. www.tohsang.com
This sister resort of the long-standing Tohsang Resort offers an awesome view of the Mekong delta, thanks to its infinity pool that wraps around loungey daybeds. If you can, book yourself a swanky villa accented with hardwood furnishings and a private swimming pool. Their kai krata is one of the best in town, too.
>> A two-night deal is B15,000 for pool villa and B18,000 for a duplex pool villa, until Oct 31.