(Bangkok, October 30, 2008) � Festive season packages celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year with grand parties and countdown fireworks at Veranda Chiang Mai � The High Resort, a serene luxury spa retreat in the forested hills of northern Thailand.

The Festive Season Special for arrivals from December 22-24 at the popular getaway for Bangkok�s smart set, offers three nights in a Valley Deluxe room including a traditional Christmas party with live entertainment, priced at 32,000 Baht (US$925).

Also included is a spa massage for two, airport transfers to and from Chiang Mai International Airport, daily breakfast for two and welcome drinks. Accommodation upgrade to a Jacuzzi Pavilion or Plunge Pool Pavilion for the three nights is available for an additional 5,000 Baht (US$ 143).

For arrivals from December 29 � 31, the New Year�s Eve High Party package also offers three nights in a Valley Deluxe room with a grand buffet dinner and live entertainment counting down to the New Year as well as a firework display welcoming 2009, priced at 36,900 Baht (US$1,060). Upgrading to a Jacuzzi Pavilion or Plunge Pool Pavilion is again an extra 5,000 Baht (US$ 143).

Terraced gardens, a dramatic infinity-edged hillside swimming pool and feng shui landscaping create a zen-like symphony of natural balance and harmony at the boutique hideaway in hills on the outskirts of Chiang Mai.

Peacefully isolated from the hustle and bustle of the nearby city, it features just 69 rooms, all with large private balconies and stunning views over the forest, mountain streams, rice and tea terraces. Jacuzzi Pavilions have sunken spa Jacuzzis and Rice Terrace Pavilions overlook rice terraces with private plunge pools.

Dining is at The Higher Room, a fusion of contemporary northern Thai design serving international cuisine with an extensive wine cellar, and Rabiang Cha, a modern version of a traditional Thai rice granary, serving contemporary northern Thai cuisine.

The Veranda Spa offers deluxe pampering in a relaxing forest setting. Each private cottage is a self-contained spa with a large sunken bath, steam room, shower and twin treatment beds, ideal for couples.

Daily activities in a purpose-built �Cultural Pavilion� allow guests to embrace local culture with Thai cooking classes, T-shirt or handkerchief tie-dye instruction, yoga, stress release massage classes, Tai Chi, and northern Thai banner craftwork.

A Kid�s club keeps youngsters entertained with educational toys and daily programs of indoor and outdoor activities.

A Fitness Room features the latest modern workout equipment.

Offering a total zen experience from the moment of arrival, the resort is distinguished by superb personal service around-the-clock and warm and friendly staff.

Scheduled mini-bus shuttle services ferry guests to and from both the airport and Chiang Mai city centre for shopping and sightseeing.

The resort is a members of Small Luxury Hotels (SLH).

For reservations Email: rsvn-chiangmai@verandaresortandspa.com Or Call +66 2 513 3003 (Bangkok Office) or +66 53 365 362 (Chiang Mai)

Website: www.verandaresortandspa.com/chiangmai/

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Distributed on behalf of Veranda Chiang Mai by Grebstad Hicks Communications.

For further information or high resolution images please contact: Ms Sheeva Harilela/ Ms Candy Ng Grebstad Hicks Communications Tel: (852) 2810 0532 Email: sheeva.harilela@ghcasia.com/ candy.ng@ghcasia.com