Arrived via taxi from the Oriental Hotel Friday April 12, 1991 while the Oriental were upgrading their electricity supply, and all power was turned off.

Wonderful entry foyer, with brass, marble, pools, flowers. Beautiful girls dressed in the Thai Airways national dress greeting us - and the men in the Siamese pantaloons.

Restaurants, bars and public areas and all areas tastefully furnished, rooms with carved timber, marble bathrooms and silk wallpapers. Wonderful views from our room #2414 over the Chaophaya river with the changing traffic - barges carrying teak, motor boats, tourist cruises, long-tailed and public boats. A wonderful dinner in the Captain Bush Grill - and the considerate attention from our waiter, Nivat, added to the warm welcome.

Very pleasant stay - soothing and relaxed.

Departed lunchtime Saturday 13th. April, '91 for Chiang Mai.

How far is it ? - 354 miles (569 km) - 1 hr. 10 mins.

Arrived around 3.30am. Tuesday December 16, 1997 via airport transfer - Thai Airways TG982 from Melbourne/Sydney.

Advised on arrival the power supply would be unavailable for a few hours - meaning no airconditioning ! Spent that time pool-side, and also in the Business Centre with both supervisors during their shifts, showing them shortcuts and de-mystifying the net.

Early breakfasts - fresh sweet pineapple, juicy rambutans, pomelo, tart rose apples - while watching the traffic on the river as the sky changed.

Icy cool drinks by the garden pool, listening to the budgies. Exploring Garden City - the jewellers, silk shops, tailors, handcraft shops. Watching the ever changing view over the river from high in my room as I sent postcards.

Closure of the Captain Bush Grill since renovations started twelve months ago made locating Nivat almost impossible. As we had exchanged postcards since our first visit, and I always sent one from other Sheratons - I was lucky to locate a good friend of his who will pass on my best wishes.

Talking with the ever pleasant staff, and enjoying their laughter will always be remembered fondly.

Departed late Wednesday 17th. December for Stockholm, Sweden. Thai Airways TG962

How far is it ? - 5138 miles (8268 km) - 11 hrs. 25 mins.