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Three countries, two wheels

Symbiosis Expedition Planning, a travel agency with ties to England and Cambodia, has organised the Bangkok to Saigon Cycle Challenge 2008 to raise funds for underprivileged children.

The cyclists leave Bangkok on November 8, cross the Cambodian border at Aranyaprathet and head to Siem Reap to see the Angkor temples. Then it's across Tonle Sap to Phnom Penh and south to Ho Chi Minh City. It's 15 days in all and more than 1,000 kilometres. Registration, which covers shared accommodation, is Bt87,000. Email enquiry@symbiosistravel.com or visit www.CyclingSoutheastAsia.com.

Grand Hyatt Erawan is 'city's best'

The Grand Hyatt Erawan has been voted Bangkok's "Best City Hotel" by the weekly Travel Trade Gazette.

"We are proud to have won the TTG Award for 2008," says hotel general manager Richard Greaves. "This prestigious accolade recognises the efforts of our associates to consistently deliver contemporary products with gracious Thai hospitality."

The Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok is next to the famous Erawan Shrine and within walking distance of the Chidlom Skytrain station.

French chef joins Mom Tri

Mom Tri's Restaurants have recruited chef JeanNoel Lumineau to oversee the Boathouse Wine & Grill and Mom Tri's Kitchen, its new eateries at Mom Tri's Oasis on Phuket's Kata Beach.

The French chef is a member of Maitre Cuisinier de France, one of the elite culinary associations there. He'll maintain and promote the quality and prestige of French cuisine and train young culinary professionals.

Meridien opens in Chiang Mai

Opening today in the northern capital is Le Meridien Chiang Mai, which is being billed as a new urban icon.

The hotel has 384 rooms and is designed throughout in an intriguing blend of European heritage and Lanna styles.

Most of the rooms look out on majestic Doi Suthep, and all have the signature Le Meridien Bed to ensure a restful night's sleep.

Located on Chang Khlan Road, Le Meridien is a short walk from the great temples, food markets and the shopping arcades of the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.