Originally Posted by Groombridge

I read a report on TripAdvisor that the GM of Amantaka told a guest that the resort will soon have its own boat that provides a 2-night Mekong river cruise, with guests sleeping on board. (I'm imagining a river-version of the Amanikan boat at Amanwala.) I'd be willing to wait a year or so before going to Amantaka if that means I'd have the option of a night or two on an Aman boat on the Mekong--particularly if that would also serve as my transfer to Chiang Rai and the FS Tented Camp.
So I've got a few questions:
1. Does anyone have any details about this rumored Amantaka boat that's under development?
2. Would it be ok for me to contact the GM of Amantaka directly to inquire about an estimated date by which Aman will provide this service? I contacted the resort directly and received a response that didn't provide much detail and provided me with a link to a Mekong cruise company that is "currently the best option." If so, do any of you know who that is and how I'd reach him/her/them?
3. Here's my more general question: to what extent do you interact directly with Aman GMs, rather than just the general reservations center, in advance of your arrival? I've always just worked through the general center, but I see references in many of your postings to the GMs, and am curious to know more about "best practices" in planning, booking, and arranging Aman stays--I'll be staying at 10 next year (the Amans in Indonesia; Thai/Cambodia/Laos, India, and Utah), so I'd appreciate your advice on ways to get the most out of the experience.