Royal Chulan (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) – 5-star sleeps for < 3-star price (thank you, agoda). cavernous, ornate, impeccable service and an intense breakfast spread.
Tonsai Beach (Krabi, Thailand) – a hidden gem beyond the kitsch clutter of ao nang. sure, there are large trash piles and an over-capacity monkey population but this is THE combination of stunning beach landscape and chill (i mean, real chill) atmosphere.
Mae Pen Rai (Koh Phagnan, Thailand) – forget haan rid and the full moon party (oops, we did). Tucked away on Thandasset beach, this is true, idyllic relaxation. great food, great staff, great deals for great bungalows with great views. yes, it is that great.
Shangri-La (Chengdu, China) – worth a birthday splurge. inside you’d have no idea you’re in a mega-city, or in China at all (which every once in a while can feel quite nice).
