NOW Travel Asia Magazine issue 35 # Nov-Dec 2015

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contents n o vem ber/ december 2 015

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www.impiana.com

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AwArd winners Announcement Following the success of NOW Travel Asia Awards since its establishment in 2012, we are proud to be announcing the highly anticipated result of NOW Travel Asia Awards 2015.

This year marked the record-breaking number of votes from our readers around the globe, sharing their thoughts on top destinations, luxury hotels, airlines, restaurants, and inspiring people in Asia’s travel industry. Lets turn the page and see if your favourites make it to the top!

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www.nowtravelasiaawards.com

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Asia’s Top business Hotels

prince park tokyo, japan

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Asia’s Top business Hotels

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www.nowtravelasiaawards.com

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AsiA’s Asia’s Top TopheriTAge heritagehoTel Hotels

astor house hotel shanghai, china The Astor House Hotel (formerly known as the Richards Hotel) is located to the north side of Waibaidu Bridge, a well-known landmark at the Bund, Shanghai. The hotel was built in 1846 (the 26th year of Daoguang reign) by a British man, Richards. It was the first western hotel in China, and enjoyed the reputation of “the finest hotel in China”.

The present Astor House Hotel is well facilitated, including standard rooms, restaurants, unique bars, and conference rooms. It not only retains the classical and Victorian architectural style, but also added Executive Rooms, Celebrities’ Rooms, featured services, and modern facilities, such as satellite TV, broadband Internet access, and so on.

The Peacock Hall, which had long enjoyed the reputation of “the finest ballroom in the Far East” and was the Shanghai Stock Exchange trading floor, remains flawless after the elaborate restoration. With an area of 500 square meters and a high ceiling of 10 meters, it is a multi-functional hall capable of holding large-scale conferences, fancy banquets, buffets, fashion shows, and dances.

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raffles singapore

the strand

yangon, myanmar

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www.nowtravelasiaawards.com

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Asia’s Top design Hotels AsiA’s Top design HoTel

S31 Sukhumvit hotel Bangkok, Thailand “Up” is the new way to escape the hustle bustle of the city, especially when you are in Shanghai. Located in Shanghai World Financial Center, Park Hyatt Shanghai offers a piece of luxury haven on floors 79 to 93, making it one of the highest hotels in the world.

The hotel entrance boldly exudes simple, yet elegant atmosphere with its 52-foot-high ceilings and brown or white walls. There’s no need for loud or colourful artworks - just a cool, calm serenity. The lobby on the 87th floor feels elegant, yet boutique in composed earth tone with hardwood floor, glossy finishing, and huge glass walls that overlook Huangpu River and the entire city. The furniture consists of simple chairs upholstered in taupe punctuated by artworks of emerging Chinese artists. But if you hadn’t already known, Park Hyatt Shanghai is surrounded by unparalleled views, and they are creatively used as a part of the design instead of flashy interiors.

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sofitel so Bangkok Thailand Sofitel So Bangkok synergizes French elegance and the essences of Bangkok. The stylish hotel is proud of its French heritage but it never takes local tradition and culture for granted. Renowned French fashion designer, Christian Lacroix, worked closely with 5 of Thailand’s leading designers in a one-of-a-kind collaboration to create Sofitel So Bangkok’s distinctive character, from the interior, hotel emblem, staff uniform, and Club Signature lounge stamp.

The design of Sofitel So Bangkok is based on the five elements, water, earth, wood, metal, and fire. The elements are reflected throughout the hotel with the rooms and suites embracing the first four. For example, the Water rooms evokes sophistication and calmness with flowing curves and deep blue walls while the Metal rooms evokes purity and modernity with cool metallic surfaces, white tone, and glass. While it would be too hot for a Fire room, the last element blazes passionately in the kitchen of all restaurants.

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Asia’s Top beach Hotels Hotel

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Many years ago, merchants arrived at Thailand’s sandy beaches and, for the first time in their lives, set their eyes upon a beautiful tropical paradise. Fast forward into the present and people are still enjoying the beautiful views and feeling the soft sand between their toes today.

So where else is better to join in and experience paradise than Phuket, with a coastline to die for, and a villa that compliments it entirely. Bandana Villas offer a range of private villas with panoramic views of the sea - perfect for that quiet getaway or a romantic date that will never be forgotten.

Chink glasses to that right decision while watching the sun set over the horizon at either the rooftop or beach pool bar.

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Asia’s Top villa resorts

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Asia’s Top villa resorts

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AsiA’s Top villA resorTs

Villa Zolitude ResoRt & spa thailand Tucked away in a small patch of rainforest on the coast of Phuket, Thailand, sits Villa Zolitude, a luxury villa retreat with spectacular panoramic views over the bay of Chalong and glorious sweeping mountain ranges behind. Just minutes from the beautiful beaches and urban sophistication of the famous city of Phuket, this stunning villa resort offers a hidden space away from the world, with tropical island atmospheres and beautiful sunset views.

Each villa is positioned to ensure the maximum amount of privacy for every guest, something that is key for those wishing to escape it all on a tropical island and forget about time.

With stunning pool villas and treetop villas, views are guaranteed to be spectacular and services beyond the imagination of every guest. Enjoy a day of pure bliss in the Zense Spa before tucking into some fine dining menus at the 180 degree Wine and Dine restaurant, and feel a world away while you enjoy the sun setting from a view unseen by others.

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Asia’sTop Top villa HoTel resorts AsiA’s fAmily

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Sofitel Krabi PhoKeethra Golf & SPa reSort krabi, thailand Enjoy an unforgettable stay in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations at Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort. Set in a lush tropical garden with the largest free-form swimming pool in Thailand, and a few steps from the beach, the resort is a dream tropical hideaway.

The luxurious five-star resort offers 276 rooms and suites with a large private balcony overlooking the sea, pool or garden. Dine at three restaurants serving Thai, Indian, Italian and international cuisines, chill-out at swim-up pool bar, find sanctuary at So SPA with L’Occitane or stay in shape the fitness centre.

At the family-friendly hotel, there are daily activities for adults while youngsters can have fun at the Kid’s Club. Premium services include a luxury speedboat for sunset cruises or personalised excursions to nearby islands. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a thrilling game on the resort’s exclusive 9-hole course at Phokeethra Golf Krabi.

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Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort 200 Moo 3, Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81180 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 75 627 800 Email: H6184-RE@SOFITEL.COM Website: www.sofitel.com/6184

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Asia’s Top family Hotels

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Holiday inn ResoRt PHuket Mai kHao BeacH Phuket, thailand Imagine beautiful white sands sprawling endlessly into the distance, creating a scene of an idyllic Andaman coastline, and you have imagined the beach of Mai Khao. The Holiday Inn Phuket is located in an area of the city protected from over development and a perfect getaway for that tranquil Thailand experience. Holiday Inn caters for all types of visitors, with bars, restaurants, spas and a large infinity pool and even a separate kids’ pool. Daily activities are always on offer for all the family, and the Kids’ Club will keep the little ones occupied while the bigger ones can enjoy the peace and tranquillity that comes as standard with Mai Khao beach.

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Asia’s Top emerging Hotels

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Asia’s Top emerging Hotels the St.Regis Shenzhen-China

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AsiA’s Top wellness spA www.nowtravelasiaawards.com

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DII WELLNESS MED SPA FROM DNA TO DII: THE AESTHETICS OF LIFE Nestled on the 4th floor of Central Embassy, the high-end shopping mall in the heart of Bangkok, Dii Wellness Med Spa is the little sister of the luxury Divana Spa brand.

Although in the Divana family, this little sister breaks out from the mold.

You know you are in for a different experience the moment you enter the spa. Modern glassy façade and pearl tone reception separate Dii from ordinary spas, while the towering transparent models of the DNA double helix physically present the basis of Dii’s philosophy, DNA. With doctors on hand every day and specialists on selected days, the

luxury med spa offers exotic cutting-edge treatments that combine modern and traditional medicines based on individual requirements. To get the most of Dii, Dii Exclusive Signature packages are designed for an ultimate experience. From Empress of the Sea, Andaman La Lunar, to Ayurveda Black Marine, and Organic Golden Silk Royal Pampering, Dii Wellness Med Spa promises an extraordinary pampering experience like no others. i

Dii Wellness Med Spa contact details : Central Embassy Shop, 4th floor 1031 Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Tel : +66 2 160 5850-1 E-mail : contact@dii-divana.com www.dii-divana.com

www.dii-divana.com

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Asia’s Top wellness spa

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AlessAndro FrAu thailand The Sardinian born chef is the master of his art. His passion in food is inspired by the vibrant colours and flavours of Mediteranean and it drove him around the world in the pursue of culinary technique and knowledge.

Having extensively accumulated a wealth of technique and understandings through England, France, Sweden, Finland, and Mexico, Alessandro settled in Thailand and opened his dream restaurant, “Acqua”, which becomes the stage for him to freely express his delightful creativities.

Awarded as Asia Top Best Chef, Alessandro’s cuisine is a refined collection of his experience in the countries he visited, the people he met, perfumes and scents, ingredients, objects, shapes and even emotions, resulting in an exceptional modern Italian cuisine that does not neglect tradition and regional specialties.

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Bencotto,Mandarin Oriental Taipei, Taiwan

Capric, Hong Kong

Les Amis, Singapore ithaa undersea restaurant

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Amber, Hong Kong

Mix RestauRant & BaR thailand Stepping up as one of Thailand’s premier restaurants, Mix Restaurant & Bar takes traditional flavour profiles variety of cuisines to a new height.

While keeping true to authentic flavour, each dish is enhanced with modern cooking technique and ingredients and given the cutting-edge presentation. Mix’s eclectic menu covers an extended range of dishes from Thai, Chinese to Western cuisine designed with taste, nutrition, looks, and the “Wow” factor in mind.

Since delectable food is just half of a great fine dining experience, the décor and beverage choice are similarly eclectic. Relax in cozy garden zones, welcome your business partner at a more formal table, or unwind at the intimate indoor lounge areas. Behind the bar and in the cellar are over 80 different cocktails, 25 of which are innovative molecular cocktails, and an extensive selection of wines and beers from around the world. With restaurants in Chiangmai, Bangkok, Vientiane (Laos), Yangon (Myanmar), and Nakhon Ratchasima, there’s no excuse not to visit Mix Restaurant & Bar if you are in ASEAN!

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Asia’s Top

outstanding airlines

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hainan airlines

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special interview

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Peter Henley president and ceo of ONYX Hospitality Group

What is the concept behind the brand’s legend?

ONYX Hospitality Group is a Thailand-based international hotels, resorts and serviced residences management company with 50 years of industry experience.

Today, we manage a portfolio including Amari, OZO, Shama, Mosaic Collection and Oriental Residence Bangkok, with 59 hotels over 10,000 rooms open or under construction in 11 countries across the Asia-Pacific region.

Proud of our Thai roots and origins, we continue to enhance our commitment in our key Thai destinations whilst expanding our unique blend of Thai hospitality and management acumen across various regional markets.

In 2015, we commemorated the 30th anniversary of our flagship Amari Phuket with the completion of a full renovation, and the opening of its Ocean Wing and Clubhouse extension. Feedback from our guests and from the industry has been positive, with Amari Phuket named as the Best Beach Resort in Asia Pacific at the TTG Asia Travel Awards.

In May 2015, we opened our fifth OZO property with OZO Kandy Sri Lanka.

OZO is a select service brand created

by ONYX, targeting travellers who crave the basics done well. With a focus on an incredible sleep experience, energizing breakfasts and superb connectivity, OZO hotels provide practical and stylish accommodation options which exceed mid-market expectations.

Our continuous growth and expansion is powered by a combination of our solid expertise perfected over five decades and innovative approach towards identifying new trends and market opportunities

What is your view on travel trends in 2016?

Travel continues to evolve and consumer habits and demands change over time. In the recent years, we have observed a number of key trends and have responded to them through our product enhancements, brand offerings and service delivery.

Our observation is the rise of a segment of travellers who want the basics done well. We looked at this trend, embarked on market research, and developed a new brand in OZO, which provide these travellers exactly what they need – a great sleep experience, a great start to their

mornings, and great connectivity. We opened our first OZO hotel in 2013 in Hong Kong, have a current portfolio of five OZO hotels in three countries, and an active pipeline of four hotels under development in Malaysia, Vietnam and China.

To ensure relevance and market leadership, we continue to observe consumer behavior and travel habits in our quest to develop new products, enhance existing offerings and increase guest satisfaction.

What are the keys that make you achieve your goal successfully?

I was appointed President and CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group in 2008.

At that time, we had 15 properties in Thailand. Over the last seven years, we have expanded our flagship Amari brand beyond Thailand, entered Greater China with our acquisition and expansion of Shama, and introduced a new select service concept in OZO. Our brand portfolio spans a range of hospitality segments from select service properties to mid-scale hotels and resorts and luxury hotels and residences. They include

Amari

There are 13 Amari hotels and resorts in operation – 11 in Thailand, one in Doha and one in Dhaka – and 10 additional properties under development in the Maldives, Malaysia, China, Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia and Thailand. We are particularly looking forward to the January 2016 opening of Amari Havodda Maldives and the reopening of Amari Koh Samui following an extensive renovation. Amari introduces guests to share an evolving modern Asia, creating memorable experiences that embody the spirit of local culture as well as enhancing the renowned traditions of Asian hospitality

and luxury. Shama is currently available in 10 locations in China, Hong Kong and Thailand. The coming years will see Shama extend its reach, with five additional properties under development in multiple Chinese cities as well as in Malaysia.

What is the future plan of your organization?

We have a goal of becoming the Asia-Pacific region’s leading mid-sized hospitality provider, and our growth and expansion in the recent years put us on track towards having 81 hotels open or under development by 2018.

active development pipeline will bring us to a total of 11 countries by 2018, and we are excited about our entry to the Maldives, India, Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam.

As we continue to grow our portfolio and build scale, our focus is in ensuring that our team is empowered, our hotels are adequately resourced and that our demand and satisfaction driving systems and procedures are geared towards helping us deliver success in the years ahead.

From being a single market operator with one hotel brand 7 years ago, ONYX Hospitality Group has hotels in operation in six countries today. Our

OZO

Since developing the brand concept in 2010 and opening our first property in 2013, OZO has attracted significant interest from owners and investors who appreciate its select service approach and distinct focus on sleep, breakfast and connectivity. There are currently five OZO hotels open in Hong Kong, Thailand and Sri Lanka, with an additional four under development in Vietnam, Malaysia and China.

Shama

As a lifestyle provider, Shama’s philosophy is to create serviced apartments that epitomise comfort, style

Amari Phuket Ocean Wing Clubhouse Pool

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taha bouqdib president, ceo & co-founder of twg tea

What is the concept under the brand’s legend?

TWG Tea, which stands for The Wellbeing Group, is the finest luxury tea brand in the world with an extensive collection of more than 800 different single-estate, fine harvests teas and exclusive handcrafted tea blends. We have also cultivated exclusive relationships with tea growers from more than 46 tea producing regions to ensure exclusive access to harvests from renowned gardens, creating unique blends with the most fragrant flowers, fruits and spices from around the world. With unparalleled access to the world’s best tea plantations, TWG Tea is able to influence and innovate new processing methods to create new and better teas that will appeal to the modern tea drinker.

The TWG Tea concept is composed of a tea salon and a boutique, a concept that welcomes guests at the tea room where they can taste all kinds of tea from around the world. To date, we have 51 Tea Salon & Boutiques in 15 countries including iconic landmark destinations such as Tokyo, Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taipei, London and we are distributed globally to 40 countries. With teas from most popular regions including China, Japan and India to teas sourced from Hawaii and New Zealand, TWG Tea invites customers to experience the world’s tales and magic in a teacup!

What is your vision for the Asia travel industry in 2016?

In the recent years, I have noticed from our global customers that travelers are becoming more well-informed due to their increased exposure to new experiences. This applies across the board for all travelers and I foresee that Asia’s travel industry will continue to grow at an exponential rate in 2016. China, for example, is definitely one of the biggest travel markets in Asia where

the Chinese consumers account for as much as 35% of the global luxury sales, purchasing everywhere from Pudong to Paris, Taipei to Tokyo.

Recognizing this trend, TWG Tea was the first and only international luxury tea brand to open in China, travelling back to the birthplace of tea. TWG Tea has since launched 3 locations in Shanghai - Grand Gateway 66, IAPM Mall, Ifc Mall and 1 location in Taikoo Hui, Guangzhou.

Besides the usual popular destinations, travelers have also taken on a more exploratory approach as they start to take the route less travelled and visited more exotic locations. While these less trodden routes are gaining popularity, the large cities still have not lost their charm. This is evidenced by the large number of local and overseas customers that TWG Tea welcomes across our various salons and boutiques located in cosmopolitan cities around Asia. In order to extend the reach of TWG Tea to a more diverse base of customers, we also have plans to open more salons and boutiques in Qatar, Cambodia, Canada and Vietnam.

close to my heart, especially when I am trying out a new recipe to create a new blend of tea for TWG Tea.

What is the future plan of your organization?

Last but not least, having a strong and cohesive team to support different aspects of the business is also very important in determining one’s success. One cannot be a master of all trades hence it will be appropriate to allocate different duties to team members who have expertise in the respective areas. In this aspect, I am very fortunate to have my co-founders and key members of the management team to oversee this. It also allows me to better focus on other areas of the business and help TWG Tea to grow overall as a global brand.

TWG Tea has been blessed and fortunate to gain a strong foothold in the tea industry since we were established seven years ago. As the brand grows in scale, I hope to extend the global footprint of TWG Tea and open more salons and boutiques around the world. In 2016, customers will see more presence in regions including Vietnam, Cambodia, Qatar and Canada. Our focus and attention will remain on Asia and I hope to expand to Europe and beyond in the years to come. Products wise, I also hope to introduce exciting new additions to our extensive collection of teas and tea accessories.

What are the keys that make you achieve your goal successfully?

First and foremost, focus and dedication to the craft is what helps me to set the tone and direction for TWG Tea. We are committed to providing only the finest teas to our customers, which is also why I continue to personally visit tea plantations and select the harvest of tea leaves. I believe the key to retaining customers and having them return to TWG Tea is to provide the best we can to our customers.

It is also very important to persevere and trust your gut feel when working towards a desired outcome. Many a times, we do not necessarily achieve success on the first attempt. It requires trial and error and many attempts before we are rewarded with the results. Hence, it is important to stay committed to our goals and not lose sight of what we seek to achieve in the long run. This mantra stays

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Bangkok boasts many interesting venues to entice travellers from around the world ranging from the timelessly beautiful temple, high-class department stores, and vibrant bar&restaurants. Check out the list inside to see what you should not miss in the ‘City of Angels’ in 2016.

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Tranquil, yet so close to the city center, U Sathorn is the definition of a “Luxury Urban Resort”. Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most influential Asian architects, gives the French colonial style resort a modern twist and blurs the line between interior design and landscaped architecture. While a Michelin-starred chef, Jean- Michel Lorain, earns U Sathon a reputation as one of Bangkok’s gastronomic havens.

This legendary restaurant has recently got a new facelift; moreover, the kitchen is now orchestrated by Chef Morten Nielson, one of the most talented chefs in the world of molecular cuisine. Modern techniques are innovatively combined with traditional flavour profiles to produce contemporary dishes that are distinctly Thai at heart.

There is no denying that coffee and friendly environment products are the trends of 21st century. In Bangkok, a new wave of bicycle cafes is gaining momentum and it has moved up a gear! This is the place to join local cycling community and share the passion over a cup of coffee. A warning though, if you are just there for a coffee, you might catch the contagious cycling fever on your way out!

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Opened in January 2015, Hotel Indigo has quickly become travelers’ favourite hotel in Bangkok. The stylish hotel is a smooth combination of heritage and contemporary style with a vintage detail and modern materials that reflect a contrast of technology and tradition on Wireless Road.

Sitting on the rooftop of Banyan Tree Bangkok, Vertigo and Moon Bar come together to complete your highest night out. Constantly featured in various tourist guides, Vertigo and Moon Bar offer an unbelievable al fresco dining experience and a chic open-air lounge for unwinding, but more importantly, they both boast a stunning 360 degrees of Bangkok’s skyline.

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The EmDistrict symbolizes the pinnacle of Bangkok’s luxury lifestyle.

Located in the heart of Sukhumvit, the multi-billion mega project comprises of 3 world-class shopping malls, including The Emporium, The EmQuartier, and The EmSphere. As the primary store in the EmDistrict, the Emporium has been renovated into more stylish look yet still comprises the sense of luxury. The EmQuartier , the District’s latest store, features high-end boutiques and shops as well as Thailand’s first automated car-park system, and The EmSphere will feature a state-of-art art and performance center after its completion by the end of 2016.

Situated by the lobby of Conrad Bangkok, Diplomat Bar is named after its location on Wireless Road, known as where several prestigious foreign embassies are situated. The premier luxury jazz bar offers an elegant, yet comfortable ambience to wind down.

Choose from an expansive list of innovative specialty cocktails or fine selection of wine and sip to live jazz, played gracefully at conversation level.

Specialized in authentic Thai food and cooking technique, Siam Wisdom does not just offer the taste of Thai cuisine in a charming traditional Thai setting. The restaurant also offers private cooking classes for a complete Thai culinary experience.

Learn the unique charm of Thai culture through its cuisine. The cooking classes are designed to be fun and easy, yet educational. The class starts in the restaurant’s organic garden where you will learn about key ingredients and their flavour profiles. Then the action moves to the kitchen. Get to know the technique and recipe required to craft traditional Thai foods and desserts in a hands-on approach. Each menu will be simple enough to cook at home and easily adapted to local ingredients. In addition to popular dishes like Tom Yam Kung, a grilled beef salad, and Bua Loi, you can request for your favourite dish and learn the secrets behind it. Siam Wisdom cooking class also adds a little fun by introducing traditional Thai cooking tools; such as, the coconut grater for students to learn how coconut milk is made in the past. With experience and extensive knowledge of authentic Thai cuisine, Siam Wisdom cooking class is the best way to spend an afternoon experiencing the heart of Thai recipe.

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Mandarin Oriental showered discerning travelers with an extensive choice of luxury suites. While keeping true to its charming heritage the suites have in common on the elegance and sumptuous design that fuse elegant Thai style with seductive modern touches. Each suite enjoys its own distinct character, and at the top of the line are the uniquely designed Siam Suite, Royal Oriental Suite, and Selandia Presidential Suite.

Naj Arj-Han discovered his passion in cocktail when he began his career as a humble barman at his family’s resort in Samui. Twelve years later, the self-taught mixologist is one of the most reputable mixologists in the world. His signature style of modern-technique cocktails, jazzed up by adding a twist on the classics, pop culture, interests, and history, took him across the world to Hangar-7 in Austria, the renowned Tippling Club in Singapore, and now the famous Hyde & Seek in Bangkok.

The majestic river received its name, Chao Phraya, when King Rama I founded Bangkok on its west bank. Chao Phraya River roughly translates to the “River of Kings” and it is still the lifeline of Bangkok as more than 50,000 people still use ferries to travel across or along the river and barges still carry cargos up and down stream. Solemn temples, historic civic buildings, and beautiful traditional teak wood houses dotted the banks of Chao Phraya alongside soaring condominiums and hotels as these are some of the most sought after locations in the city.

Gulfstream G200 JET

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What could be more comfortable and more convenient way to travel than on your very own private jet! Advance Jet, By Advance Aviation, it will let you travel around the country in style anywhere, anytime on the Gulfstream G200 JET, the luxurious Super Mid-Size Private Jet. Avoid the hassles and bustles at a regular check in counter and make the most of your time because time is valuable and they know it!

Timeless elegance meets luxury contemporary comfort, sophisticated Thai charm, and ultimate cultural experience at the Peninsula Hotel. Set on the bank of the majestic Chao Phraya River, the hotel features sumptuously appointed rooms and suites with stunning river views, state-of-art technology, and its legendary around-the-clock service. Also, the Peninsula Hotel Bangkok offers you to taste the extensive choices of world cuisine, from authentic Thai dishes at Thitara to refined Cantonese cuisine at Mei Jiang, while immersing in the exquisite river scenery.

Thai silk was in decline during late 1940s due to competition from cheaper, machine-made fabrics. However, the quality and craftsmanship caught an eye of Jim Thomson, an American architect and founder of The Thai Silk Company. By the 1960s, the quality of Thai silk was widely known around the world as the best silk in the world.

The handicraft was revived with over a hundred silk companies in Thailand, giving employment to thousands of Thais, and silk had become perhaps the country’s most famous product.

Only a few rooftop restaurants can reach the level of quality and sophistication like the Park Society at Sofitel So Bangkok can. Upon entering, a futuristic maze of bold design with embossed stainless steel, infinity mirrors and intersecting polygons will guide you to your table where stunning views await. The fine dining restaurant offers refined French gastronomic dining with an emphasis on a market-style menu that allows the chef to design the meals according to taste and the freshest ingredients available on the day.

Nestled on the 4th floor of Central Embassy, the high-end shopping mall in the heart of Bangkok, Dii Wellness Med Spa is the little sister of the luxury Divana Spa brand. Despite being in the Divana family, this little sister breaks out from the mold.

By the time you step into the venue, your sensation will be excited with the different spa experience. Modern glassy façade and pearl tone reception separate Dii from ordinary spas, while the towering turquoise models of the DNA double helix physically present the basis of Dii’s philosophy, DNA. With doctors on hand every day and specialists on selected days, the luxury med spa offers exotic cutting-edge treatments that combine modern and traditional medicines based on individual requirements. To get the most of Dii, Dii Exclusive Signature packages are designed for an ultimate experience. From Empress of the Sea, Andaman La Lunar, to Ayurveda Black Marine, and Organic Golden Silk Royal Pampering, Dii Wellness Med Spa promises an extraordinary pampering experience like no others.

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Vogue lounge

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Suphanut Suwansanya The brand owner Ten out of Ten After graduated from Srinakarinwirot University (Thailand) in the field of Economics. he decided to follow his childhood dream of arts and fashion.

So, he moved to London to study at the University of the Arts London. During his time in the United Kingdom, he secured a work placement with Jean-Pierre Braganza, where he gained experience in what is involved in running and sustaining a fashion house. In early 2010, he moved back to Thailand and began working on his own menswear brand called 10/10 (Ten out of Ten), which was successfully launched on 10/10/10.

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Reception

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【泰中旅游酒店友好协会】2015东方文化元素国际特展—泰国奢华酒店行业考察中国行圆满落幕

TCTHA -

THAILAND LUXURY HOTELS ALLIANCE 2015 ORIENTAL WORLD INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION CHINA TOUR

On October 15th to 17th, 2015, successful 2015 Orientalworld International Exhibition-Luxury Thailand Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association Tour was held by Frankfurt Exhibition(Shanghai),co-organizered by Intergration Hotel Management Consultants Cooperation, Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association and NowTravelAsia.

Mr.Jack Xia, Vice President Grand China of NowTravelAsia, General Secretary of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association, Vice General Secretary of IHMA and Mr.Kenneth S.Wong, President of NowTravelAsia,Editor-In-Chief of NowTravelAsia Magazine, warmly welcomed with Thailand Hotel Luxury VIP:Mr.Jitsak Gino ,General Manager of Villa Zolitude Resort & Spa Phuket, Mr.Mathieu Lacabanne,General Manager of Dream Hotel Bangkok, Mr.Visidhi Thammanubarn, Sales & Marketing

Director of S Hotel Group, Mr.Gan Sarapuech, General Manager of Compass Hospitality Group, Ms.Anne Yuan ,Chief Consulting officer of Integration Hotel Management Consultants Cooperation, visited Pudong Tourism Association(PTA) and Shanghai Media Group(SMG) having a nice communication.

Then Thailand Luxury Hotel Representatives were invited to attend 2015 Orientalworld International Exhibition-Thailand Luxury Hotel Culture Forum, Mr.Kenneth S.Wong, President of NowTravelAsia,Editor-In-Chief of NowTravelAsia Magazine was received media interview on the spot,they all felt very pleasure to having this opportunity through TCTHA which will devote to a long-term nice friendlyship and collaboration between China and Thailand on Hotel,Tour,Culture,Sports and Trading continually.

上海市浦东新区旅游业协会 SHANGHAI PUDONG TOURISM ASSOCIATION

ORIENTAL FINANCIAL PUDONG CHANNEL

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2015东方文化元素国际特展

FLASHBACK OF ORIENTAL WORLD 2015

Oriental World 2015, one of the most comprehensive platforms for oriental creativity, culture, manufacture, design, and attractions, came to a successful conclusion on 17th October 2015 with record-breaking number of visitors throughout the exciting 3 days. The lively event attracted visitors from over 80 countries, especially visitors from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the USA, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Russia and Germany.

This year, the spotlight shined brightly on the Oriental Culture zone where an array of Oriental

contemporary products was displayed. These culturally inspired products with modern twist and inventive design have gained popularity in recent years. Visitors also had an opportunity to capitalized on diversity of fringe events such as forums and seminars that aimed to stimulate ideas and assist the audience in formulating their business strategies. No doubt the Oriental World will return again next year on 20-22 September 2016 at Shanghai New International Expo Centre.

See you there!

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2015泰中旅游酒店友好协会-国际饭店业职业经理人优秀代表泰国考察交流行

TCTHA-IHMA THAILAND CHIANGMAI HOTEL INDUSTRY TOUR & COMMUNICATION 2015 In the first half of the year TCTHA(Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Communication Association) and IHMA (International Hotel Professional Manager Association),the two sides reached important consensus on future developing the bilateral strategic cooperative partnership.

On November, Successful IHMA Delegation Thailand Tour & Hotel Industry Visit was held by TCTHA(Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association).Mr.Jack Xia, General Secretary of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association, Vice President Grand China of NowTravelAsia, Vice General Secretary of IHMA, who took the outstanding delegation to Thailand for communicating. They received great welcome by Mr.KennethS.Wong, President of NowTravelAsia, Editor-In-Chief of NowTravelAsia Magazine, Secretary General of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association at the airport.

Accompanied by representatives of Thailand, delegation of IHMA visited Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai, Siripanna Villa Resort & Spa Chiang Mai, CMECC((International Convention and Exhibition Centre Commemorating), Jirung Health Village Mae Rim, Chiangmai Night Safari Resort and the office of NowTravelAsia in Chiang Mai with a nice communications focusing on tour package in industry. In addition, the delegation of IHMA experienced OASIA SPA(Thailand's top spa) for investigating human geography project. Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Communication Association will commit to promote booming development on tour & hotel, mass media, culture, trade, sport, fashion and luxury industry between Thailand and China firmly spare no effort in China Market Business.

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ASIA’S TOP EMERGING HOTEL CHAIN

BLOSSOM HILL HOTELS&RESORTS CHINA Founded in Lijiang, Yunnan province, in 2009, Blossom Hill Hotels&Resorts have been able to perfectly pair modern high-end boutique designs and service with local folk customs and other cultural characteristics from numerous locations in China.

Currently, through the Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts chain-operating model, they have successfully opened hotels in nine locations (Lijiang, Shuhe, Shangri-La, Zhouzhuang, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Wuxi, Tongli and Langzhong), with more four locations (Nanxun, Songyang, Changxing and Ningbo) soon to be opening within the next two years.

Each hotel succeeds at showing the beauty of local Chinese cultures, alongside a stunning high-end resort that will leave every moment unforgettable. Their care for quality and authenticity goes beyond the call of duty which expresses itself further in the vast range of facilities on offer such as a library, western food restaurants, a tea house, a wine bar and an exclusive spa for ladies, all equipped with yoga facilities too.

Experience China like never before in one of their superb hotels found across the country.

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“PAXTON ACADEMY”̶PAXTON’S FULL STRIKES ON CULTIVATION OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT TALENTS As the hospitality management industry developed rapidly in China, Paxton Vacances Hotel Management Group has come to realize that the demands are far beyond the supplies of hotel management talents. As a result, Paxton founded “Paxton Academy” in the beginning of 2015 to ensure the chain of the cultivation and supply of hotel management talents.

The establishment of “Paxton Academy” ensures the cultivation and supply of hotel management talents through providing scholarships, tuition waivers, the “Paxton Class”, and job opportunities. “Paxton Class”

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intertwines practical trainings with regular hospitality management trainings in order to nurturing hotel management elites who are qualified for outstanding international hotel service and management abilities. As a result, Paxton graduates deserve the priority to work in Paxton hotels, and through Paxton’s trainings at the schools, Paxton graduates have already become Paxton Elites, whose training period is shortened but the quality of their work is on the other hand, advanced.

Starting from 2015, Paxton has been talking to several local colleges to

reach a common ground of benefits and growth. Paxton first affiliated with Xichang College in March, 2015 to allow Paxton Vacances Resort Xichang Qionghai Bay to work closely with Xichang College. In July, 2015, Paxton reached an official agreement with Urban Vocational College of Sichuan and managed to have Paxton Park Hotel Chengdu to hold forums. After these affiliations were successfully formed, Paxton, again, in October, 2015, signed an agreement with Panzhihua College to build a platform for future development.

In just 8 months, several “Paxton Academy” projects have been settled

in the cities where Paxton hotels are located.

The rapid development of hotel industry in China has brought a few problems, and the supply of qualified hotel management talents is one of the issues that needs to be solved immediately. Paxton’s solution leads to the formation of “Paxton Academy”, and Paxton is now looking forward to affiliating with more relevant local colleges in order to keep up its development in China.

CHARITIES ARE PAXTON’S RITUALS Paxton Vacances Hotel Management Group, with its roots in France, took the plunge into the Chinese hospitality management industry in 2010, and has revolutionized standards across the board, offering all kinds of services, training and charitable development in a large number of cities and communities. Charitable philosophies populate the group’s business plans and have played a large part in their development as a business. Mr Harry Hua, Chief Executive Officer of Paxton Vacances Hotel Management Group, explains quite clearly that Paxton must “let charities become Paxton’s rituals; the worth of people is always beyond the value of objects.” This belief was the key in the foundation of the Paxton One-Yuan Charity Fund in 2015. The concept of the One-Yuan Charity Fund is that for each room charge, one Yuan will be donated to a number of charities and facilities, depending on the customer’s decision. This

new charitable movement within Paxton not only supports charities across China, but also encourages customers to become more engaged with giving to charities, but with no skin off their back. If customers wish to make additional donations, the option is also available. In October 2015, Paxton was invited to take part in the charity event, “This City Has Love – 3 Yuan Happiness,” which is regularly organized by FM102.6 and has been held in Sichuan City every year since 2013. Paxton became one of the major sponsors for the event, and put in a great amount of effort to help keep the event growing and developing and also making additional contributions back to society.

The warm-up banquet was a huge success, with a golf contest among all participants, from organizers and sponsors to private and state representatives. The competition was enjoyed by all during the longest fall

season in Chengdu. The golf course shone brightly in the sky, with the soft morning dew on each blade of grass sparkling like diamonds. All money raised from the competition obviously went towards charities that help impoverished children receive education and be able to travel to school. In the hearts and minds of all those who were involved knew that all their hard work has a value that, for some, could be everlasting.

All money raised from the event and auctions during the warm-up banquet was donated to schools in Liangshan, Xichang. The winners of the golf competition were provided gifts from Paxton, which also donated a range of coupons and vouchers to the event for free. The winners received a free stay in the Paxton Vacances Resort Xichang Qionghaibay’s luxury room and the Paxton Park Hotel

Chengdu’s most luxurious room. The winners were handed their prizes

by Mr Harry Hua himself, who made an appearance to show his support for charity projects. In the same month, DJs and crew members from FM102.6, along with several pop singers, visited Paxton Vacances Resort Xichang Qionghaibay to join forces with Paxton in donating daily supplies, food, toys and snacks for children in Liangshan. Teams from Paxton, FM102.6 and the pop singers all joined forces to cook for the children before they spent some quality time reading, playing and singing with the children, and also teaching them Chinese. The genuine warmth that radiated from all who attended was clearly experienced by the children, and was an experience that Paxton hopes to continue to facilitate through their Paxton One-Yuan Charity Fund.

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