I had the best pedicure of my life at the salon across the driveway from the hotel. It was on the hotel grounds but not inside the hotel. I wonder if it is still there. If so, do go there.

>>>Robert, I will be very interested in your review of the Siam.<<<


Warm greetings to you Nicky and to all,

Had a bit of a private tour of The Siam yesterday and will say, it is a rather unique riverside property. Will not be staying overnight at the hotel until next month, but I was in Bangkok late last week for meetings (stayed once again at the fine St. Regis), so arranged for a Saturday tour.

A gracious Siam staffer (let's call her Khun 'N') I've been in touch with for some time gave the tour. For our Siam time in July, I've booked a villa at half-off, soft opening rates. Still pricey to be sure, but 'you only live once' and all that. The tour was invaluable in helping decide which villa for our stay.

Now, in keeping with the spirit of the opening post, will add another round of warm thanks to Ann and her fine review of the Mandarin Oriental. A booking has been made for a long overdue return to that sentimental property later this year. Thanks for the inspiration.

A good week of work and flights to all,

robert

Great article! Thanks for the link, eks. Robert, when will you be in BKK in July? I'm in the city from 19th to 24th.

>>>Great article! Thanks for the link, eks. Robert, when will you be in BKK in July? I'm in the city from 19th to 24th.<<<


Warm greetings Carol and thank you kindly, eks, for the fine link.

My July Bangkok meetings - and brief (The) Siam holiday stay - will conclude before your arrival, Carol. (I remain convinced our paths briefly crossed at United's Narita lounge not too long back; I was on my way to the ANA lounge to wait for SQ's evening flight back home to Singapore.)

In keeping with the Mandarin Oriental opening post, will say the MO's management and reservation staff have been most accommodating. Our reservation for later this year includes a bit of a 'frequent guest' discount, in lieu of my few business stays at the MO property in London over the past year. As noted above, a class operation to be sure. Can't wait to return.

Signing off from early morning in Hong Kong, soon to fly home to Singapore and an opening reception later today at The Gardens by the Bay. (Never a dull moment in our sweet home of SIN; fly on over sometime, fodorites -- and you know the airline.)

Warm weekend wishes to all,

robert


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