Now Travel Asia Magazine Issue 30#Jan/Feb 2015 by NOW Travel Asia Magazine

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IN THIS ISSUE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

The world is full of new journey to be taken and new story to be written, especially in Asia where traces of history, civilization, and art are hidden in the architecture, culture, tradition, and food. This edition of NOW Travel Asia invites

you to go on a journey that will inspire the beginning of your next chapter in places that are so unique. These places are the signature destination in their city, so mark them on your map and go make a memorable trip! In this issue, we will take your to tourist destinations that are known for their outstanding uniqueness and see why they are the place to visit once in a lifetime.See the exclusive fashion sets from S31 Hotel. Then, see the updated events from Singapore and journey through the new capital city Naypyidaw, one of the top 10 fastest growing cities in the world.Ultimately, we end the issue with the beautifully

historical architectures in Bangkok.

asia city's signatures

2015

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CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

16 SHOW TIME News updates about lifestyle & tourism in Asia

35 COVER STORY ASIA CITY’S SIGNATURES 2015 & REASONS TO EXPERIENCE

The success of NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS 2014 8 NOW TRAVEL ASIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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CONTENTS JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

76 Fashion

84 CITY UPDATE Singapore a dynamic city

92 CHECK IN

100 EXPLORATION

OF ASIA Life Never End in Naypyidaw

Cape Sienna Phuket Bandara Villa Phuket Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Layana Krabi

112

ASIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CULTURE The beauty of architectures in Bangkok

120

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS

Interview with General Manager of Four Seasons Resort Chiangmai and Director of Chiang Mai Night Safari 10 NOW TRAVEL ASIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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OWNER NOW TRAVEL ASIA CO., LTD. PUBLISHER KENNETH S. WONG EDITOR-IN-CHIEF KANAPOT SITTHIWONG

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ASSISTANT TO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SECRETARY TO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

WORAPAN CHAIPISIT

KETSARAPORN INTHANA

SIRIRAT KAMPICHAI

EDITORIAL OFFICER

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

PHOTOGRAPHERS

THANAPORN SIANGJAM

WATHAPORN INTHAJAK

JIN SARITNUM

SUMET DAOKHUNTOD CHATORN CHOKPATRA

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

PANITHAN FAKSEEMUANG BORVORN PIENPONGPANICH

VINDA KALLAYANAMITR

VACHAPON THISADEERUK PONPARIS GURDSAPSRI

SALES & MARKETING DEPARTMENT JONGRAK NGAMDOKMAI HARUTHAI PATHOMPONGPAN TEL: +669 56 289 289 EMAIL: NOWTRAVELASIA.MKT@GMAIL.COM

WEBSITE : WWW.NOWTRAVELASIA.COM

NOW TRAVEL ASIA COMPANY LIMITED HEAD OFFICE

INFLIGHT MAGAZINE OF

333/13 MOO 3, THE TWOGETHER, MAEHIA, MUANG, CHIANGMAI 50100 THAILAND TEL. +66 5311 1334 FAX. +66 5311 1335 CHINA OFFICE #327,TIAN YAO QIAO ROAD, SHANGHAI, CHINA 200030 中国上海徐汇区天钥桥路327号嘉汇大厦 TEL: +86(21) 3363-3202 FAX: +86(21) 3363-3463 HP: +861500-187-0204 夏彬彬/JACK XIA E-MAIL : NOWTRAVELASIA@GMAIL.COM

ALL RIGHTS IN THIS PUBLICATION AND THE NAME ARE OWN BY NOW TRAVEL ASIA CO.,LTD. NO PARTS OF THIS MAGAZINE MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT THE PERMISSION OF NOW TRAVEL ASIA CO.,LTD. ALL RIGHT RESERVED. NOW TRAVEL ASIA MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BIMONTHLY AND DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT THAILAND AND THE REST OF ASIA.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

COVER: S31 SUKHUMVIT HOTEL

irst of all, Happy New Year! We welcome 2015 with an even more energetic tourism scene in Asia and the headline that praises Asia as the booming destination for tourist across the world to experience the way of Asia. Travel industry in Asia has shown its strong potential and impressed the world throughout last year. As the result, NOW Travel Asia Awards 2014 has acknowledged these leading travel businesses, as well as influential people that played an important part in the development of Asia travel industry. NOW Travel Asia will carry on the commitment to become the leading luxury travel magazine in Asia and bring you fresh new travel experiences that reflect the abundance of Asia, from famous tourist attractions, delicious food, to charming culture and tradition, as well as the latest trend in the industry. Let’s start the interesting year with our first edition of the year under the “asia city’s signatures” concept.

Kanapot Sitthiwong Editor-in-Chief editor@nowtravelasia.com

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SHOW TIME THAILAND

TO CELEBRATE “2015 DISCOVER THAINESS” CAMPAIGN WITH GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

he Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced its readiness to celebrate the grand opening of the “2015 Discover Thainess” global tourism marketing campaign, the “2015 Discover Thainess” campaign incorporates the current Thai government’s 12 national core values, among which are the promotion and preservation of Thai traditions and culture. The aim is to showcase the hospitable character of the Thai people and the many cultural assets of Thailand that make it a unique tourist destination.

THE ULTIMATE CHINESE TEA EXPERIENCE ON A LUXURY PRIVATE PLANTATION

E PASSAGE MOHKAN SHAN, A FRENCH LUXURY COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL IN CHINA’S ZHEJIANG PROVINCE, IS OFFERING GUESTS THE CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE FIRSTHAND THE CENTURY OLD TRADITION OF TEA-PICKING

Since the Tang Dynasty, the lush and green rolling hills of Moganshan Mountain have been famed for its high-grade tea harvesting. Now, from through March and April 2015, guests at Le Passage Mohkan Shan can join in the annual tea harvesting season with a personalized tea-picking experience under the close guidance of a skilled personal local Tea Hand (RMB 280++). Situated on its own tea plantation, the French-style country house hotel offers a unique opportunity to harvest the locally indigenous Camellia Sinensis plant that produces the complex and aromatic tea for which Moganshan is famous. With the close help of a tea specialist, guests are taught to pick the first shoots from the tea bushes on Le Passage Mokhan Shan’s eight-hectare organic tea plantation. The private Le Passage Mohkan Shan plantation produces a fragrant green tea that is fermented until it becomes a medium-bodied and fruity Black tea. After the tea leaves have been picked they are roasted by hand in a wok and once finally dried, the tea leaves are beautifully wrapped in Le Passage tin caddies to take home. Guests can relax on the patio with a cup of the premium signature Mogan Huang Ya yellow tea from the plantation as the scent of tea fills the air and the hotel’s 12,000 Rose bushes begin to come into bloom. For reservations visit www.lepassagemoganshan.com. Tea-picking season begins from Mid-March and runs until the end of April. Website: www.lepassagemoganshan.com

THE SOUTH B E AC H

– ONE OF ASIA’S MOST HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW OPENINGS – INTO MEMBERSHIP OF ITS PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS BRAND.

“We are delighted to welcome The South Beach as a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. This landmark property will prove to be one of the best independent hotels to open in Asia in recent years. With a unique hospitality concept, The South Beach will pave the way for change in this already dynamic industry. We look forward to working closely with The South Beach team, leveraging on expertise from both sides, as well as Preferred Hotel Group’s global distribution network, to contribute to the success of this new Singapore icon upon its opening in 2015,” said Mr. Anthony Ross, Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa.

The South Beach is a 654-room luxury hotel designed by Philippe Starck that harnesses both the latest integrated technology and innovative design elements to create a unique hospitality experience dubbed H.I.P.(Highly Individualized Places & People). The brilliant architecture cleverly integrates the current heritage site formerly comprising three army blocks and the Non-Commissioned Officers Club with m xed-use eco-friendly buildings.

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SHOW TIME WOOBAR BANGKOK

DUSIT DEVARANA HOT SPRINGS & SPA CONGHUA GUANGZHOU OPENS

HE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED DUSITDEVARANA HOT SPRINGS & SPA CONGHUA GUANGZHOU RESORT OPENED ITS DOORS WITH A SOFT OPENING CEREMONY ON 27 DECEMBER 2014, MAKING IT THE FIRST INTERNATIONALLY BRANDED LIFESTYLE AND HOT SPRINGS LUXURY RESORT IN THE CITY.

• MONDAY TO THURSDAY: AFTER WORK IS HOT More is better – it’s the way of the WOO. And it’s a philosophy to live by every Monday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. with WOOBAR’s new After Work Is Hot happy hour promotion. Buy 1 Get 1 Free on all wines, beers and cocktails.

BANGKOK’S SIGNATURE BAR AND NIGHTLIFE DESTINATION, IS WHERE STYLISH PARTYGOERS HEAD TO SIP, NIBBLE AND MINGLE. NOW, TWO NEW PROMOTIONS MEAN WOOBAR IS EVEN MORE A SHINING BEACON ON THE SCENE FROM 1 JANUARY TO 31 MARCH 2015.

• FRIDAY: GIRLS NIGHT OUT Don’t sit still, get sparkling. Sparkling wine that is during WOOBAR’s free flow promotion for ladiesevery Friday night from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. Ladies’ night at WOOBAR is already the most happening in town, where the ambience and dancing make it seem more like a nightclub than anything else. And now with Girls Night Out the place promises to be positively euphoric. Mix and mingle until midnight while listening to hip beats from WOOBAR’s resident tune masters, DJ Tripop and DJ Toru. They’ll have the room moving to the perfect vibe all night, helped, no doubt, by ladies enjoying all that free-flow sparkling.

Consisting of 133 villas and guestrooms, DusitDevarana Hot Springs & Spa Conghua is located approximately 40 minutes away from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and 60 minutes away from the central business district. The resort’s opening also marks the launch of the DusitDevarana brand in China. DusitDevarana is the most recent hotel and resort brand launched by leading Asian hospitality group Dusit International, based in Bangkok, Thailand. The resort is managed by DusitFudu Hotels and Resorts, the joint venture company established between Dusit International and Fudu Hotel Investment Management Company Limited, the hospitality arm of Changzhou Qiao Yu Holding Group. All villas at DusitDevarana Hot Springs & Spa Conghua boast private hot springs pools set against a tranquil and picturesque landscape. Dining and entertainment outlets include Devarana Bistro, an all-day dining restaurant, Cui Hu Xuan Chinese restaurant, specializing in local Conghua and Cantonese dishes and the Lobby Lounge offering creative drinks and an Asian Tapas-style menu.

THE VILLAS AT

AYANA RESORT BALIRELAUNCHES

24 EXCLUSIVE VILLAS. T

HE VILLAS AT AYANA RESORT HAS RELAUNCHED 24 ULTRA-LUXURIOUS OCEAN VIEW POOL VILLAS FOLLOWING A COMPLETE RENOVATION, DESIGNED TO CELEBRATE BALINESE STYLE AND MAXIMIZE THEUNRIVALED OCEAN AND SUNSET VIEWS OF THIS EXCLUSIVE RETREAT. Perfect for couples on honeymoon or a romantic rekindling, the one-bedroom Ocean View Pool Villas are among 78 spacious villas nestled within this breathtaking cliff-top sanctuary. Inspired by the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, the design exudes a true sense of ‘place’. Guests enter a calming space of warm palettes and textures, hand-crafted artworks, plush bedding and decor, and the seamless indoor to outdoor living that reflects the island’s iconic style. The gardens are a hive of c lors and fragrances leading to koi ponds, bridges and streams, and connecting with a jogging track to the private white-sand beach.

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SHOW TIME

GO UNDERCOVER WITH THE PENGUINS AND YOUR FAVOURITE DREAMWORKS ANIMATION CHARACTERS AT HOLIDAY INN MACAO COTAI CENTRAL

COURTYARD

BY MARRIOTT SOUTH PATTAYA OPENS IN THAILAND’S HOTTEST BEACH-RESORT DESTINATION

STEP AWAY FROM PATTAYA’S LIVELY BEACH PROMENADE, THE 132-ROOM COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT SOUTH PATTAYA COMBINES GREAT COMFORT AND A PERFECT LOCATION WITH WORLD KNOWN HOSPITALITY. Marriott International continues its dynamic growth in Thailand with the recent opening of the Courtyard by Marriott South Pattaya. Located in South Pattaya city area within walking distance to Pattaya Beach and Walking Street, the 7-story, 132-room hotel is the exciting new addition to the Courtyard by Marriott brand in Asia – making it the 2nd Courtyard branded hotel in Thailand and the 32nd Courtyard branded hotel in Asia Pacific

OLIDAY INN MACAO, COTAI CENTRAL IS OFFERING GUESTS THE CHANCE TO GO UNDERCOVER WITH THE PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR AND THEIR FAVOURITE DREAMWORKS ANIMATION CHARACTERS THIS WINTER WITH AN ICE WORLD PACKAGE PRICED FROM HKD$1,498. Until 8 February 2015, guests can enjoy an overnight stay and also have some fun at the Penguins Undercover Ice World with the DreamWorks Gang ice sculpture exhibition.

Package includes: - Overnight Accommodation in a Superior Room - Two tickets to the Penguins Undercover Ice World with the DreamWorks Gang exhibition - Complimentary in-room Wi-Fi internet access - Complimentary hotel shuttle service from either Macao International airport or ferry terminals Penguins Undercover Ice World with the DreamWorks Gang Asia’s largest annual indoor ice sculpture exhibition takes visitors on an undercover journey with the Penguins of Madagascar through the incredibly cool worlds of everyone’s favourite DreamWorks Animation characters, all carved from ice.

FA I R M O N T H E R A L D S Good Fortune in THE YEAR OF THE GOAT

O WELCOME THE YEAR OF THE GOAT (WHICH FALLS ON 19 FEBRUARY 2015), BOOK A STAY AT FAIRMONT BEIJING, Fairmont Yangcheng Lake, Fairmont Nanjing, Fairmont Peace Hotel or Fairmont Sanur Beach Bali between 14 and 28 February 2015 and enjoy the Fairmont Chinese New Year Celebration Offer.

In addition to receiving substantial savings off the best available rate, guests get to participate in a sure-win lucky draw at check-in. Prizes include F&B and spa treatment vouchers worth up to RMB200, and room upgrades that are to be redeemed during the stay. Guests are also entitled to the Hong Bao (red packet) Grand Draw that will take place on 18 March 2015. Three lucky winners will each receive a Fairmont Gift Card valued at US$888. THE FAIRMONT CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATION OFFER IS VALID UNTIL 28 FEBRUARY 2015.

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NOW Travel Asia China Awards China Dolls Model Group

Asia’s Top First class service Etihad Airways

2 0 1 4 N OW T R AV E L A S I A AW A R D S GALA CEREMONY RECOGNIZING THE POTENTIAL OF ASIA’S TRAVEL INDUSTRY. 24 NOW TRAVEL ASIA JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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NOW TRAVEL ASIA HOSTED THE 2014 NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS GALA CEREMONY IN RECOGNITION OF LEADING TRAVEL BUSINESSES IN ASIA. MR. CHATTAN KUNJARA NA AYUDHYA, ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND, HONORLY PRESIDED OVER THE 2014 NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS AT PATHUMWAN PRINCESS HOTEL BANGKOK THAILAND, WHICH MARKED THE THIRD SUCCESSIVE YEAR OF THE AWARD SINCE IT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2012.

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NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS WAS FOUNDED IN 2012 TO CELEBRATE OUTSTANDING TRAVEL BUSINESSES IN ASIA. THESE BUSINESSES ARE AN IMPORTANT PART IN PUSHING THE ECONOMY FORWARD AND DRIVING THE CONTINUOUS GROWTH OF TRAVEL INDUSTRY. THIS IS THE THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF THE AWARD AND THIS YEAR WE HAVE ORGANIZED THE FIRST NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS GALA CEREMONY,” SAID MR. KANAPOT SITTHIWONG , EDITOR IN CHIEF OF NOW TRAVEL MAGAZINE.

China Hotelier Group with Editor in Chief of NOW Travel Asia Magazine

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Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Representative of Mr. Taha Bouqdib TWG Tea and Mr. YuthachaiCharanachitta CEO Italthai Hospitality

Asia’s Top First class service China Southern Airlines

Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Mr. Jack Xia Bin Bin GM-Ramada Plaza Shanghai Gateway, China

Asia’s Top Design Hotels VIE Hotel Bangkok

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NOW TRAVEL ASIA MAGAZINE HAS BEEN AWARDING 20 CATEGORIES OF TRAVEL BUSINESSES SINCE 2012, AND IT HAS RECEIVED TREMENDOUS INTEREST AND RESPONSE FROM THE SUBSCRIBERS, TOURISTS, PEOPLE IN TRAVEL INDUSTRY AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC IN MANY COUNTRIES. 2014 AWARD CEREMONY WAS AIMED TO OFFICIALLY PRESENT THE NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS ON THE WORLD STAGE AND PUSH NOW TRAVEL ASIA MAGAZINE AS ASIA’S LEADING TRAVEL MAGAZINE, AS WELL AS MOTIVATE THE PEOPLE IN TRAVEL INDUSTRY TO BE MORE AWARE OF THE GROWING MARKET.

Asia’s Top Villa Resorts The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket

Asia’s Top Entertainment Complexes Asiatique The Riverfront

Asia’s Top Family Hotels Marina Mandarin Singapore

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mplexes

Asia’s Top Boutique Airlines SilkAir

Asia’s Top Improved Airlines Qatar Airways

Asia’s Top First Class Service Singapore Airlines

Ms. Alisa Pantusak Tiffay Show

IN ADDITION TO THE PRESTIGIOUS BUSINESS AWARDS, NOW TRAVEL ASIA WAS PLEASED TO BE CELEBRATING 2 SPECIAL AWARD CATEGORIES – THE ASIA'S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE IN TRAVEL BUSINESS AWARD, IN RECOGNITION OF OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUALS WHO PLAY IMPORTANT ROLES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ASIA’S TRAVEL INDUSTRY AND NOW TRAVEL ASIA CHINA AWARDS FOR INFLUENTIAL INDIVIDUALS IN CHINESE TRAVEL INDUSTRY WHICH HAS A HUGE MARKET FOR LUXURY TRAVEL. IT WAS ALSO A GREAT OPPORTUNITY FOR NOW TRAVEL ASIA TO ANNOUNCE ITS CHINESE BUSINESS PARTNER, MR. JACK XIA BIN BIN, VICE PRESIDENT OF BHMA CHINA. NOW TRAVEL ASIA 29 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels Pathumwan Princess Hotel

Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels Dusit Thani Maldives

Asia’s Top Business Hotels Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon

Asia’s Top Design Hotels Sofitel So Bangkok

Asia’s To W Bang

Asia’s Top Business Hotels InterContinental Bangkok Hotel

Asia’s Top Business Hotels Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel

Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Huahin

Asia’s Top Beach Hotels Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas Phuket

Asia’s To Impiana Villas Ka

Asia’s Top Design Hotels S31 Sukhumvit Hotel

Asia’s Top Family Hotels JW Marriott Phuket Resort& Spa

Asia’s To Shangri-

Asia’s Top Improved Airlines Air Macau

Asia’s Top Fine Dining Restaurants Acqua Restaurant, Phuket

Asia’s To Restaura Mix Rest

Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels StarWorld Hotel Macau

Asia’s Top Entertainment Complexes Galaxy Macau

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Asia’s Top Design Hotels W Bangkok

Asia’s Top Design Hotels X2 Kuiburi

Asia’s Top Villa Resorts Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi

Asia’s Top Villa Resorts V Villas HuaHin

Asia’s Top Family Hotels Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai

Asia’s Top Family Hotels Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort

Asia’s Top Fine Dining Restaurants Mix Restaurant & Bar

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Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Mr. Thirayuth Chirathivat CEO Centara Hotels & Resorts

Asia’s Top Spa Hotels & Resorts Sofitel Macau At Ponte16

NOW Travel Asia China Awards Mr. Harry Hua De Ming CEO, Greater China, Paxton Vacances Hotels & Resorts GM, Paxton Vacances Hotels & Resorts Qionghai Bay Xichang GM, Paxton Vacances Suite Qionghai Bay Xichang

Asia’s Top Wellness Spa Oasis Spa

Asia’s Top Beach Hotels Beach Republic

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Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Mr. SupanitVimooktanon Deputy Managing Director for Operations and Marketing Group of MBK Hotel and Tourism

Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Representative of Ms. Chadatip Chutrakul Siam Piwat Co., Ltd.

Asia’s Top Emerging Hotels Sireeampan Boutique Resort& Spa Chiangmai

Asia’s Top Emerging Hotels OZO Chaweng Samui

Asia’s Top Wellness Spa HARNN Heritage Spa

Asia’s Top Wellness Spa Mandala Spa & Villas

Asia’s Most Influential People in Travel Business Representative of Mr. Chanin Donavanik Dusit International

Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels Movenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa

Asia’s Top Boutique Airlines Bangkok Airways

Asia’s Top Design Hotels Siam@Siam Design Hotel Pattaya

Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels Rachamankha Chiangmai

Asia’s Top Budget Airlines Thai AirAsia

THE 2014 NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS GALA CEREMONY WAS A SUCCESS WITH OVER 200 LEADERS IN TRAVEL AND HOSPITALITY INDUSTRIES AROUND ASIA INCLUDING HOTELS, SPAS, AIRLINES, RESTAURANTS AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEXES ATTENDED THE EVENT, EXCHANGED IDEAS 32 NOW TRAVEL ANDASIA ENJOY THE BRILLIANT NIGHT. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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Asia’s Top Business Hotels Conrad Macao

Mr. Danai Derojanawong Mistine

els mai

Special thanks to

NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS 2015 COMING ATTRACTION NOW TRAVEL ASIA 33 WWW.NOWTRAVELASIAAWARDS.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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COVER STORY

ASIA CITY’S SIGNATURES 2015 &REASONS TO EXPERIENCE NOW30_p.3-45 .indd 35

THE UNIQUE VIBE OF ASIA IS PRESENTED THROUGH ART, CULTURE, AND LIFESTYLE OF THE PEOPLE BREWED THROUGHOUT CENTURIES OF CHANGES. THESE HERITAGES ARE WHAT MAKE ASIA SO DISTINCTIVELY CHARMING FROM THE REST OF THE WORLD. NOW TRAVEL ASIA HAS COMPILED A COLLECTION OF SIGNATURE DESTINATIONS IN CITIES ACROSS ASIA FOR YOU TO JOT DOWN AS THE PLACE TO BE ONCE IN A LIFETIME!

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hong kong

THE Ritz-CaRlton THE Peninsula HONG KONG HOTEL PANORAMA BY Rhombus sense of touCh REPULSE BAY ARMANI/aqua

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The Top of the World THE RITZ-CARLTON SHOOTING UP HIGH INTO THE SKY ON THE 102ND TO 118TH FLOORS OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMMERCE CENTRE, THE TALLEST BUILDING IN HONG KONG, THE RITZ CARLTON HONG KONG IS THE HIGHEST HOTEL IN THE WORLD! THE OVERALL DESIGN OF THE RITZ-CARLTON HONG KONG IS INSPIRED BY THE VIBRANT ENERGY OF THE CITY AND REFLECTED A GLOBAL METROPOLIS AT THE CROSSROADS OF EAST AND WEST, AND AT THE SAME TIME RICH IN ENTRANCING LOCAL FLAVOUR. If you aren’t afraid of height, the 360-degree views of the entire city and surrounding islands are the most spectacular sceneries you would find in Hong Kong. With ultra-high setting, the stunning panoramas run throughout the hotel’s 312 stylish rooms and suites. The rooms are tastefully decorated with Oriental accents and elegant silk-paneled wall, which reflect the sophistication and elegance of the hotel brand in

a fresh and contemporary way. And to enhance your top of the world experience, telescopes are available in all the suites for guests to enjoy the breathtaking views to their fullest. If you are looking for the finest culinary experience, make sure you reserve a table at Tin Lung Heen or Tosca in advance. Tin Lung Heen, the hotel’s signature 2 Michelin Star restaurant is a popular venue for Hong Kong’s traditional Dim Sum and authentic Cantonese cuisine complemented with a premium variety of tea. On the other hand, Tosca offers Southern Italian cuisine in an elegant setting with open kitchen design, high ceiling and dramatically stylish backdrop.THE HOTEL SITS DIRECTLY ABOVE KOWLOON MTR STATION SO HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN JUST 20 MINUTES AND CENTRAL HONG KONG IN JUST 5 MINUTES AWAY.

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asia city's signatures

2015 hong

“Grande Dame of the Far East” THE PENINSULA HONG KONG

Kong

OMMANDING A PRIME LOCATION IN TSIM SHA SHUI, JUST OPPOSITE HONG KONG SPACE MUSEUM AND JUST A MINUTE WALK TO THE FERRY PIER, THE PENINSULA HONG KONG REDEFINED THE WORD LUXURY IN HONG KONG HOSPITALITY SCENE SINCE THE 1920S. THE HOTEL IS KNOWN FOR ITS WHITE GLOVE SERVICE AND PERSONALIZED SERVICE. YOU HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED A TRULY WORLD-CLASS SERVICE UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN SERVED BY THE PENINSULA’S ATTENTIVE STAFFS, BUT AS SOON AS YOU NEED PRIVACY, THEY WILL BE WELL OUT OF SIGHT UNTIL NEEDED AGAIN.

With an army of modern, sleek hotels popping up everywhere in the city, this turn-of-the-century landmark hotel keeps its classy, opulent nature that earned it the reputation as the “Grande Dame of the Far East” in style. A fleet of customized Rolls-Royce limousines is just a hint of the glamour of the hotel. The Peninsula luxurious rooms and suites

adhere simplicity and chic elegance with stunning panoramas of Kowloon or Victoria Harbour and guest-focused technology. Having recently undergone a $60 million room upgrade during its 85th anniversary, the rooms now equipped with 3D TV, state-of-art audio system, wireless tablets that control everything from lights to curtains to room service menus, and lightning-speed complimentary WiFi while still retaining the luxurious and charmingly “old-world" style the rooms and suites were renowned for. It’s only natural for the hotel of this caliber to be housing at least an iconic restaurant. Gaddi’s holds the reputation as the first restaurant in the East to serve up exquisite European cuisine, serving exquisite French gastronomy in an elegant setting completed with live band and dance-floor. On a more cutting-edge side, Felix on 28th floor is designed by the legendary Philippe Starck and serves Modern European cuisine with breathtaking views of Victoria Harbour, which especially more beautiful at night.

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“With an army of modern, sleek hotels popping up everywhere in the city, this turn-of-the-century landmark hotel keeps its classy, opulent nature that earned it the reputation as the “Grande Dame of the Far East” in style.”

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Fashion & Food

Pet Friendly Hotel

ARMANI/AQUA

HOTEL PANORAMA BY RHOMBUS

Sense the Difference SENSE OF TOUCH REPULSE BAY IVE STAR SPA EXPERIENCE DOESN’T HAVE TO ALWAYS BE IN LUXURY HOTELS. SENSE OF TOUCH, THE MULTI-AWARDWINNING DAY SPA, OFFERS A FULL RANGE OF FACIAL AND BODY TREATMENTS IN 6 PRESTIGIOUS LOCATIONS IN HONG KONG. ALTHOUGH EACH LOCATION SHARES THE SAME NAME, AND THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF PRODUCT & SERVICE, THEY ARE UNIQUELY DESIGNED TO BRING DIFFERENT S”SENSE OF TOUCH” EXPERIENCE, INCLUDING THE CONCEPT, DESIGN, AND THE SIGNATURE TREATMENT.

HOTEL PANORAMA BY RHOMBUS IS THE CROWN JEWEL IN HONG KONG FOR THE NORTH AMERICA HOTEL CHAIN. THE DISTINCTIVE TRIANGLE ARCHITECTURE RISES HIGH ABOVE THE PRIME LOCATION IN TSIM SHA SHUI, JUST 2 MINUTES FROM MTR EAST TSIM SHA SHUI STATION, AS WELL AS TRENDY SHOPPING MALLS AND CHIC ATTRACTIONS. Setting Hotel Panorama apart is its pet friendly policy. Pet lovers will be delighted to know that you don’t need to leave your 4 legged friends at home when you travel to Hong Kong. Although little guests are allowed, the number is limited to 2 under 25 lbs cats and dogs, and you should provide the pet’s health certificate in advance. Now you and your little friends can enjoy the spectacular panoramas of Victoria Harbour through the floor-to-ceiling windows from one of the 324 contemporary rooms. The modern room amenities extend to the little ones with exclusive pet care amenities for you to create a memorable journey with your cute pets. Although Hotel Panorama is pet friendly, some places are only limited to 2 legged guests only. On the 38th floor with Victoria Harbour views, Ava Restaurant Slash Bar serves modern international cuisine crafted to perfection with the finest seasonal ingredients. Other unique facilities include the Sky Garden on the 40th floor where guests can unwind and relax while gazing onto some of the most spectacular sceneries, Putting Green, Rhombus Club Executive Lounge, Business Center and Fitness Center.

The 5-storey Sense of Touch Lan Kwai Fong features quite an unusual signature treatments Cheers to Beers, For Heaven’s Sake, and a Vine Romance. Experience the warm beer, sake and wine baths which can be enjoyed in wooden barrel tubs − complimented by matching barley, rice and grape seed body scrubs.

ART COMES IN MANY FORMS, AND ARMANI/AQUA HAS CAPTURED MOST OF THEM. WHILE THE NAME “ARMANI” GUARANTEES HIGH SENSE OF FASHION, HONG KONG’S REPUTATION FOR ICONIC RESTAURANTS GUARANTEES THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME. THE ULTRA-CHIC RESTAURANT IS WHERE FASHION MEETS DESIGN & FOOD. THE OVERALL DESIGN IS A BLEND OF EAST AND WEST, SHOWCASING NATURAL STONE AND WOOD UNDER SEDUCING RED, BLACK, AND GOLD HUES, AND IF YOU DREAM OF WALKING THE RED CARPET, ARMANI/ AQUA GIVES YOU A GLIMPSE OF A SUPERSTAR VIEW AS YOU ENTER THE MIRROR-LINED CATWALK THAT LEADS INTO A SPRAWLING DINING ROOM. On the culinary side, Armani/Aqua showcases a dual culinary specialties – contemporary Italian and Japanese cuisines served side by side. While the Italian kitchen focuses on traditional Italian cooking with a modern twist, the signature Japanese dishes are described as “authentic but not traditional”. It’s the norm to custom-craft your dining experience here. Warm your palates up with a sushi platter made from fresh ingredients and well-balanced vinegar rice, followed by freshly made pasta and grass fed Californian black angus strip loin served with warm rocket jelly and Saharan hoarfrost salt, or have an al dente risotto followed by a Soy glazed Wagyu beef tenderloin served with shitake mushroom and Japanese cabbage – whether you go all Italian, 100% Japanese, or the mix, the choice is entirely yours! Order a glass, or a bottle, of wine, sake, or sochu from the thoughtfully selected list and just let the electrifying vibe carries you on a completely new fine dining experience.

Sense of Touch Repulse Bay features 2 signature treatment concepts inspired by Hong Kong’s storied past and Repulse Bay’s romantic seaside setting. The “Sea” and “Nostalgia” treatment series include treatments like “Opium”, “Tobacco”, “Fragrant Harbour”, and “The Sea Shell Massage” and “Ocean’s Sand”. Working closely with world’s leading British skincare brand Elemis, Sense of Touch Tseung Kwan O, Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon, offers the exclusive “Elemis Signature Treatments” to revitalize and detoxify. In addition to indulging massage and aroma therapies, Sense of Touch is well-known for its “almost painless” Brazilian Wax. The unique ‘Blue wax’ is the successful result of years of research for the best product for the job!

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asia city's signatures

2015 hong Kong

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Historically Inspired

asia city's signatures

THE ENVOY HONG KONG

2015 hong Kong

The Perfect Gin & Tonic PING PONG 129

LOCATED ON THE 3RD FLOOR OF THE POTTINGER LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL, THE ENVOY IS THE BRAND NEW BAR AND RESTAURANT CONCEPT FROM MANAGING DIRECTOR OF TASTINGS GROUP, CHARLENE DAWES, AND MASTER MIXOLOGIST, ANTONIO LAI – THE CREATIVE TEAM BEHIND THE SUCCESS OF ANGEL’S SHARE, QUINARY, AND ORIGIN. he stylish bar has a distinctly intimate feel with a touch of colonial influence. A long dark wood bar runs along the entire length of the venue, completed with traditional dark timber paneling, unpolished timber flooring, and leather bar stools, as well as a wide range of liquors and tea leaves. Yes, tea leaves. Tea makes a frequent appearance in the cocktails and the awe-inspiring cocktail menu is centered around the essence of tea as a tribute to the city’s first governor Sir Henry Pottinger, who played a part in establishing Hong Kong as a major shipping port for tea. Contrary to the aesthetic of The Pottinger and The Envoy, the drinks are interestingly futuristic. Kick off with the refreshing Honey Me Honey Tea – the award-winning cocktail that comes in a bird-shaped glass, followed by the Dewdrops of the Heart, prepared in a Perlini carbonated cocktail shaker with vodka, green tea and jasmine double-strength tea, jasmine flowers, and homemade pandan syrup. Things get quirkier with True Blood, a beetroot, cranberry and ginseng concoction served in a hospital-style blood bag on a stainless steel tray with ice bed.

ALTHOUGH GIN & TONIC IS TRADITIONALLY A BRITISH DRINK, SPAIN TOOK THE DRINK AND RAMP IT UP WITH CHARMING SPANISH TANGO, AND HENCE GINTONERIA WAS BORN. BRING THE DELICIOUS TRADITION TO HONG KONG, PING PONG 129 IS THE FIRST SPANISH GINTONERIA IN THE CITY. THE NAME MIGHT SOUND QUITE CHINESE, BUT IT HAS GOOD REASON FOR IT. PING PONG 129 PRESERVES ALIVE THE HISTORY OF THE LOCATION WHICH WAS PREVIOUSLY THE TABLE TENNIS CENTER ON 129 SECOND STREET, SAI YING PUN. Evidences of the past such as original Chinese wording advertising Ping Pong equipment and old-style handrails painted in the characteristic green can still be found at the façade in the entrance, while inside is a characterful double-height space basked in a neon pink glow from the classical Chinese signage hanging above the bar, saying “Keep Your Body Fit”. The design is truly original and evokes contemporary Mediterranean and traditional Hong Kong influences.

As a Spanish Gintoneria, you can expect the best Gin & Tonic you have ever tasted. Spanish manager/partner, Juan Martinez Gregorio, has sourced over 40 premium, crafted, and rare gins from across the world with focus on artisan gins from craft distilleries in Spain, as well as artisan tonic water from Spain, UK, Japan to New Zealand. However, gin and tonic aren’t the only essentials for crafting the perfect Gin & Tonic. First of all, Ping Pong 129’s Gin & Tonic is served in a large ‘Copa de Balón’ Balloon glass to enhance the aroma of gin. Secondly, a single large block of hand-craft block of ice in the drink to ensure minimal dilution and perfect drinking temperature. Choosing the right garnish to properly flavor and match different gin is crucial as well, but you don’t have to worry about any of that as every step to the perfect Gin & Tonic is already thought out for you!

Beside the bar, The Envoy also features a spacious outdoor terrace overlooking the busy neighbourhood and offering a more casual, laid-back setting for evening drinks and socialising.

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macau soho, CITY OF DREAMS

ROBUCHON AU DOME AT gRanD lisboa hotel THE V enetian MACAU

the sPa,

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MACAU galaX Y MACAU

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SOHO, City of Dreams

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asia city's signatures

2015 maCau

The SOHO of Macau SOHO, CITY OF DREAMS

M ACAU DOESN’T DO SOMETHING SIMPLE OR SUPERFICIAL, AND THE CITY OF DREAMS KNOWS IT BY HEART. THE FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF CITY OF DREAMS WAS CELEBRATED IN STYLE WITH THE GRAND OPENING OF SOHO – THE BRAND NEW INDOOR FOOD AND ENTERTAINMENT STREET WITHIN THE CITY OF DREAMS! The name SOHO is usually associated with style with trendsetting district in London, New York, and Hong Kong all named SOHO. Macau’s recently opened iteration of this established name takes influence from all of these areas to form a dedicated food and entertainment street. The ultra-chic delivers innovative entertainment and amazing dining experiences in a cool urban environment with graffiti and tags from well-established street artists, including D*Face. SOHO revolutionizes Macau’s dining scene with its mix of worldwide cuisines, including Korean, Italian, Mexican, American, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines. However, the key here is the choices of medium-tiered dining options, not fine dining or food court style, but somewhere in between. In the center stage are Din Tai Fung, Taiwan’s king of xiao long bao, and StarZ Kitchen, the popular Hong Kong restaurant by singers Alan Tam and Haiken Lee. Other tenants include the famous roast goose restaurant, Chan Kee, and contemporary Italian eatery, shelter, as well as Hongjiade Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup, serving famous Korean ginseng soups. SOHO is set to be the place-to-be for unrivalled dining choices and must-see entertainment of Macau and further reinforces City of Dreams as the leader in entertainment.

Opulent French Dining Experience

ROBUCHON AU DOME AT GRAND LISBOA HOTEL ROBUCHON AU DOME STANDS MAJESTICALLY ATOP THE OPULENT GRAND LISBOA HOTEL, MACAU. THE FORMER ROBUCHON A GALERA CARRIES THE GRAND REPUTATION TO THE NEW LOCATION AT THE PINNACLE OF MACAU’S SKYSCRAPER. THE 3 MICHELIN STAR RESTAURANT OFFERS THE FINEST FRENCH CUISINE IN A DRAMATIC SETTING THAT WILL KEEP YOU AMAZED BY EITHER THE BREATHTAKING MACAU’S SKYLINE ON THE 43RD FLOOR OR THE DAZZLING CRYSTAL LIGHT CHANDELIER CASCADING FROM THE SOARING DOME. The spectacular atmosphere would be just an empty shell without extraordinary food and impeccable service. Lead by master chef Joel Robuchon, Robuchon au Dome’s menu echoes the room’s lavish surroundings, serving traditional French haute cuisine of the absolute highest standard. Looking at the menu, you will find sumptuous ingredients such as caviar, truffle, imported beef,

and fresh seafood, all which very mouth-watering just by reading the description. Start the extravagant journey with Warm salad of roseval potatoes, smoked foie gras and Alba truffle, follow by Amadai fillet with crispy skin, baby artichoke, barigoule jus and black truffle coulis. The highlights of the menu are the signature Grilled Kagoshima beef served with potato soufflés, simmered shallots in red wine, and Roasted guinea fowl and foie gras served with potato confit, then ends with the parade of a traditional dessert trolley replete with French classics and sweet fusion creations. The highlight of Robuchon au Dome doesn’t stop at just the atmosphere and the food. Known to have one of the best wine lists in Asia, the restaurant’s impressive wine cellar holds over 10,000 labels from the world’s major wine regions. If you don’t feel like browsing through the long pages, just ask for a recommendation from the welltrained sommelier and enjoy a complete journey of opulent dining.

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The highlight of Robuchon au Dome doesn’t stop at just the atmosphere and the food. Known to have one of the best wine lists in Asia, the restaurant’s impressive wine cellar holds over 10,000 labels from the world’s major wine regions.

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Asia’s Largest Integrated Complex THE VENETIAN MACAU AS THE BIGGEST INTEGRATED ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX IN ASIA AND THE FIRST IN MACAO, VENETIAN MACAU BRINGS THE CHARMING FEATURES OF VENICE TO MACAU AND MIXES IT INTO A WHOLE CITY OF ENTERTAINMENT UNDER ONE ROOF. THE IMPRESSIVELY LARGE BUILDING IS HOME TO LUXURY HOTEL, HIGH-END SHOPPING, WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT, UNIQUE RESTAURANTS, STATE-OF-ART MICE FACILITIES, AND OF COURSE HUGE GAMING AREA.

It would take more than just a weekend to enjoy all Venetian Macau has to offer. You wouldn’t want to miss the signature Gondola ride with singing gondoliers serenading you through the indoor canals along the streets of Venice lined with boutique shops, as well as colourful antics of jugglers, living statues, magicians, musicians and street entertainers. The dining scene of Venetian Macau has all the flavours of the world, from Michelin star Cantonese cuisine, explosive Sichuan, classic Italian, fine Indian, to simple Thai street food. Entertainment is the biggest feature of Venetian Macau. In the heart of the entertainment facility is the avant-garde Cotai Areana where 15,000 audiences witness world-class sporting events, concerts, awards shows and much more. A star-studded cast of major international celebrities from Asia and around the world have graced the Cotai Arena stage, including Jacky Cheung, Aaron Kwok, Rain, Joey Yung, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Justin Bieber, and Beyoncé! Since its opening in 2007, The Venetian Macau has marked the beginning of a visionary new development of luxury, leisure and entertainment resorts, and has become synonymous with innovative thinking, exceptional service and unparalleled facilities.

The Spa Experience THE SPA, MANDARIN ORIENTAL MACAU BASED ON ACCLAIMED MANDARIN ORIENTAL SPA EXPERIENCE AND SINCERE UNDERSTANDING FOR WELLNESS THAT FOCUSES ON PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, AND MENTAL WELLBEING, THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL MACAU IS THE PINNACLE OF THE TOTAL RELAXATION, PROVIDING HOLISTIC THERAPIES WITH COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF TREATMENTS IN A LUXURIOUS YET SERENE SETTING. Melt away all the stress of everyday life and just let yourself be lost in the seductive escape. Your experience begins in the heat and water complex, where you can dissolve stress and sooth aching muscles as soon as you step into the spa. With expert consultant to assist your decision, the award-winning spa offers rejuvenating signature spa therapies created exclusively by Mandarin Oriental as well as specifically developed

treatments inspired by local traditions and customs. Combining the Portuguese root to contemporary therapies, the “Spice of Portugal” program begins with an exotic Portuguese spice infusion that is used in a relaxing head massage to stimulate and revive the senses. This is followed by a gentle cleansing body exfoliation, and ends with relaxing hot stone full body massage using essential oils of Ginger, Black Pepper, and Rosemary. Each treatment is delivered by The Spa’s highly trained therapists, using specifically developed Mandarin Oriental’s signature natural products with the blend of ancient and contemporary techniques to bring balance and equilibrium to each individual guest. For an distinctive spa experience, The Spa’s private spa suite offers a luxurious, tranquil space overlooking the soothing views over the bay. Choose to indulge in one of the three exclusive suite experiences, from Mandarin Oriental Signature Spa Therapies Experience, to the Oriental Suite Experience, and Macanese Dragon Experience, or you can just return again and again to experience them all!

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2015 maCau

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Asian-Centric Integrated Resort GALAXY MACAU BLENDING INTO THE GRAND SETTING OF THE FAMOUS COTAI STRIP, THE WHITE AND GOLDEN TOWERS OF GALAXY MACAU RISE HIGH AGAINST THE SKYLINE OF MACAU. THIS MULTI-BILLION DOLLARS DEVELOPMENT IS THE FIRST ASIAN-CENTRIC INTEGRATED RESORT IN MACAU, OFFERING OPULENT LIFESTYLE, WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT, AND THE ULTIMATE LEISURE EXPERIENCE.

With an excess of 2,200 rooms, suites, and floating villas, Galaxy Macau is home to 3 luxury Asian hoteliers – the acclaimed Banyan Tree Macau, the legendary Hotel Okura Macau, and the highly rated Galaxy Hotel. Guests won’t just enjoy distinctive facilities in each hotel, but also have access to numerous recreational and entertainment facilities, including a massive 52,000 square meter Grand Resort Deck, the world’s largest sky wave pool, 350 tons of white sandy beach, numerous private cabana lounges and villas plus over 50 Asian and international food and beverage outlets. From traditional Cantonese dim sum, to upscale Cantonese cuisine, and authentic Korean BBQ to classic Macanese/Portuguese dishes, Galaxy Macau has all the flavour for every palate. As night fall, red light and seductive air begins to flow out of Macau’s best ultra-exclusive club – China Rouge. The private member club seamlessly blends elements of the classic and modern, and East and West into an exclusive performance lounge that exceeds the expectations of those with discerning tastes for the finer things in life. You need to experience it to know it, and your definition of an ultimate nightlife will never be the same.

asia city's signatures

2015 maCau

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“This multi-billion dollars development is the first Asian-centric integrated resort in Macau, offering opulent lifestyle, world-class entertainment, and the ultimate leisure experience.”

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myan mar soho, CITY OF DREAMS

ROBUCHON AU DOME AT gRanD lisboa hotel THE V enetian MACAU

the sPa,

MANDARIN ORIENTAL, MACAU galaX Y MACAU

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The Lake Garden

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The Debutant HILTON NAYPYITAW HILTON WORLDWIDE MAKES ITS DEBUT IN MYANMAR WITH THE OPENING OF HILTON NAYPYITAW LATE LAST YEAR. CARRYING THE FAMOUS HILTON BRAND, THE NEW LUXURY HOTEL SPANS ACROSS 100 ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GARDEN WITHIN THE DYNAMIC DEKHINA THIRI TOWNSHIP. HILTON NAY PYI TAW IS IN A PRIME LOCATION WITHIN EASY REACH OF THE MAIN GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES AND RUBY HALL WHERE INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS AND CONVENTIONS, INCLUDING THE 25TH ASEAN SUMMIT AND NINTH EAST ASIA SUMMIT, ARE HELD, AND IS JUST 30 MINUTES FROM NAY PYI TAW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. eel at home in all generously sized contemporary rooms, offering a restful sleep in king-size bed and refresh in the stylish bathroom with a walk-in rain shower. Upgrade to an elegant suite for floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views, a separate living area, and a stand-alone bath tub. Guests staying in executive rooms and suites are privileged to use the Executive Lounge with complimentary continental breakfast, all-day light refreshments as well as evening cocktails.

The Elements, an all-day dining restaurant, offers the finest Asian specialties, international cuisine and comforting culinary favorites prepared by expert team of international chefs. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes influenced by a variety of cultures and cooking techniques from around the globe in the relaxed, modern ambience.

Glamorous Lakeside Hotel

Kempenski’s First

THE LAKE GARDEN

KEMPINSKI NAYPYITAW

ALTHOUGH THE NAME “THE LAKE GARDEN” DOESN’T HINT A BACKGROUND OF WHERE IT COMES FROM, YOU WOULD CERTAINLY BE SURPRISED ONCE YOU KNOW THAT THE HOTEL IS A PART OF ACCOR’S GLAMOROUS MGALLERY COLLECTION.

KEMPENSKI, EUROPE’S OLDEST HOTEL CHAIN, MAKES ITS MOVE TO MYANMAR’S CAPITAL LATE LAST YEAR WITH ITS FIRST PROPERTY - KEMPENSKI NAYPYITAW. THE NEW LUXURY PROPERTY IS LOCATED ADJACENT TO MYANMAR INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE (MICC), AND JUST A SHORT DRIVE TO THE MAJESTIC UPPATASANTI PAGODA AND NAYPYITAW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.

Located in the center of the new Myanmar’s capital close to popular tourist attractions, the newly built hotel is designed to take you on a journey through the modernized exotic Myanmar culture. First, the hotel is set in a beautiful landscaped garden overlooking a tranquil lake and combines lavish facilities and amenities with Myanmar’s exquisite cultural heritage. Three stunning bells at the entrance transport you to a world tradition and heritage and they are also the inspiration for the hotel’s logo and theme as you can find traditional instruments like gong and other string instruments seamlessly blended into the design. The lobby is decorated with gilded décor, Burmese scripts, and traditional artefacts, and inspired by the Nagayon Pagoda that further immerses guests in the dazzling ambience. Take comfort in the hotel’s 165 rooms and suites overlooking lush landscaped garden or lake views. Each room feature hardwood floor, natural materials, and local furnishings artfully combined together, reflecting the rich history of Myanmar. Indulge discerning travelers with top gastronomic experiences are The Lake Garden’s impressive restaurants and exclusive cigar room. The Grand Bell offers international dishes and local Burmese cuisine while Primo specializes in exquisite Italian and Western cuisines. Sophisticated lifestyle can be found in The Oak Room where you can relax in An elegant club-feel leather chair with a selected list of wines, aged spirits, and cocktails.

empenski Naypyitaw infused the heritage of Myanmar, including local arts, crafts, and furnishings, with renowned Kenpenski services and an ambiance that exudes elegance, sophistication and warmth. At the entrance, the unique teakwood pavilion inspired by the architecture of the early Kone Baung dynasty of the 18th century stands majestically to welcome all the royal guests. Inside, 3 one-storey villas house 141 luxurious rooms and suites feature high ceilings and large windows with landscaped garden views, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. The one and only, 1,400 square meters “Grand Royal Suite” is designed to accommodate head of states and royalties. The suite is the largest and most secure suite in Myanmar and features state-of-art security, including bulletproof glass and a bodyguard room!

Enjoy Kempenski’s famous European breakfast buffet or an all-day Pan-Asian cuisine as you relax in the captivating setting of Rangoon Kitchen. For a lighter treat, Executive Lounges are located in both Bagan and Pinya villas, serving a sumptuous array of snacks and beverages in a comfortable ambiance with leather seats, live entertainment and charming service.

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asia city's signatures

2015 mY anmaR

Kempinski Naypyitaw

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thai land

D usit THANI, CaRtoon NETWORK AMAZONE, D iV ana, tW g tea salon & boutique, KISARA, Ren, imPiana PRIVATE VILLAS, KU DE TA

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Thai Hospitality at International Standard DUSIT THANI

DUSIT THANI OPERATES AS THE FLAGSHIP BRAND UNDER THE UMBRELLA OF DUSIT INTERNATIONAL, A THAI-BASED HOTEL MANAGEMENT COMPANY WHICH OWNS, DEVELOPS AND OPERATES HOTELS AND RESORTS UNDER FOUR DISTINCT BRANDS, INCLUDING DUSIT THANI, DUSIT DEVARANA, DUSIT D2, AND DUSIT PRINCESS. eaning the “Town of Heaven”, Dusit Thani symbolizes the pinnacle of Thai hospitality that extends beyond its country of origin. The international Thai hotel chain draws on its 6 decades of hospitality experience to become one of the leading Thai hotel brands. It began in 1948 when the first Dusit Thani property, the “Princess” on Bangkok’s New Road, opened. The success of its pioneering property led to the birth of the company’s flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok, since then it began its nationwide expansion in major cities across Thailand, including Pattaya, Phuket, and Chiangmai. Now the legendary Thai hotel chain has a strong international presence in Thailand, Philippines, Maldives, UAE, and Egypt, with more Dusit Thani hotels in Singapore and China on their way this year.

The success of Dusit Thani is based on its famous traditional Thai grandeur, rich heritage and world-renowned hospitality. It serves as a trusted symbol of traditional Thai values, offering elegant accommodation and warm hospitality that blends the best of Thai culture with 5-star standards. Dusit Thani hotels occupy prime location of major cities and beach destinations including Bangkok, Pattaya, Dubai, Maldives, Manila, and Cairo. While each hotel offers distinctive local character infused with Thai touches and contemporary design, they have in common the luxury accommodation providing a full range of modern amenities and convenience in tastefully designed interiors that evoke traditional Thai style with occasional uses of traditional Thai fabrics, as well as contemporary Thai paintings and décor. Another renowned feature of Dusit Thani, apart from the luxury accommodation and services, is its offering of the famous Thai cuisine. Whether you visit Dusit Thani Cairo, Dubai, Maldives, or Manila, you can always enjoy refined taste of traditional Thai cuisine at the signature Benjarong or Ruen Thai restaurants!

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World’s first Cartoon Network Waterpark CARTOON NETWORK AMAZONE

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THAILAND JUST GOT A LOT MORE EXCITING FOR A FAMILY HOLIDAY WITH THE WORLD’S FIRST CARTOON NETWORK AMAZONE IN CHONBURI. LOCATED 20 MINUTES FROM PATTAYA CITY, THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED WATERPARK BRINGS YOUR FAVORITE CARTOON NETWORK SHOWS TO AN ULTIMATE FAMILY FUN TIME AND ENTERTAINMENT. MEET YOUR FAVOURITE CARTOON HEROES LIKE BEN10, THE POWERPUFF GIRLS, AND ADVENTURE TIME IN A CARTOON NETWORK LIVE SHOWS, AND SCREAM THROUGH ALL 30 BREATHTAKING WATER RIDES AND SLIDES. Enter the Ben10 universe in the Omniverse zone and get your heart rate up as you slide down the 23 meters Omnitrix water rollercoaster or plunge vertically at the height of 18 meters before accelerate at lightning speed to a splash landing at the XLR8-TOR. The Adventure Zone is a little easier on the heart with rides and slides for the whole family. While the Omniverse and Adventure zones are all about excitement, the Cartoonival Zone let you have fun-fill aquatic activities like Splashtastic Slides, fountains, tubes, and 150 more water features to enjoy with friends and family all day long. Grab an inner tube and jump into a continuous flowing river that winds its way around the waterpark, and drift through the jungle or an uncharted Amazon of Riptide Rapids. Make your way to Mega Wave where Cartoon Network live events are hosted on special occasion. Let the gentle wave carry you up and down or just relax on a deck chair on the perfect white sand beach. Last but not least, grab a surfboard and test your surfing skill at the Surf Arena with flowrider instructors to teach new tricks and spins on surfing the waves that roll out at 56 kph! Cartoon Network Amazone is the perfect destination for a day of family fun. Make sure to leave a whole day available because you’ll definitely need all the time you have to catch all the fun and excitement!

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Science Meets Tradition DIVANA

YOUTHFUL HOLISTIC TREATMENTS IN STRESS-FREE AMBIENCE AWAIT AT DIVANA. THE LUXURY SPA BRAND HAS 4 DISTINCT WELLNESS CENTERS UNDER ITS UMBRELLA – DIVANA MASSAGE & SPA, DIVANA VIRTUE SPA, DIVANA DIVINE SPA, AND DII WELLNESS MED SPA. Experience the most modern wellness and beauty therapy of Dii Wellness Med Spa – Divana’s youngest, but the most stylish brand. As the name suggests, Dii combines modern medical knowledge to soothing spa treatments. The letter “D” doesn’t just represent the brand Divana, but more than that, it stands for DNA, the fundamental of life, which manifests in everything from Dii’s products and furnishings to illumination and the overall vibes. Dii's relationship with DNA is reflected in its futuristic design, especially in the towering turquoise models of the DNA double helix centerpiece at the reception. Dii’s Empress of the Sea, Andaman La Lunar, and Ayurveda Black Marine exclusive spa signatures provide over 4 hours of heavenly head to toe therapies, resulting in a younger and healthier you. ext on the list, enter the realm of luxury relaxation in a redesigned postmodern Thai house at Divana Massage & Spa. Inside you're met with the refreshing and soothing scent of citrus orange essential oil before warmly greeted by friendly staffs dressed in simple traditional Thai costume. Explore the signature Rayaveda Crown Gold treatment where gold leaves and precious stones are used to brighten and revive your body and soul.

Divana Virtue Spa integrates homeopathy, bio cellular therapy, anti-aging, supplements, and oriental medicine with the rejuvenating art of touch. The holistic medical center features the unique 3 days or 5 days full course programs, providing absolute rejuvenating and balancing experiences based on scientific data and traditional wisdom. Begin the journey with a thorough Doctor consultation and scientific analysis such as Live blood cell analysis and Anti- aging bio scan. After the analysis, a series of 3-5 days modern and traditional treatments begin, including a vitamin boost and revitalizing massages from head to toe. You’ll feel completely new inside out!

Last but not least, step into an oasis of calm at Divana Divine Spa where the “Organic” concept and Oriental style create a serene atmosphere tinged with the subtle hues of Zen. Sourced from reliable local and oversea suppliers, organic products are the core elements of this sanctuary from the refreshments to the treatment programs. Divana Divine’s signature Organic Golden Silk Royal Pampering nourishes your whole body, especially the hair and skin, with rich essential amino acid found in the golden cocoons. Divana elaborates the good start of being ecologically friendly from the very first touch you step in till the very last completion of your visit. With distinctive product and service in each brand, Divana has a luxury spa experience for everyone, whether you’re looking for a serene traditional experience or a full course of modern medical meets traditional wisdom.

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Diiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Empress of the Sea, Andaman La Lunar, and Ayurveda Black Marine exclusive spa signatures provide over 4 hours of heavenly head to toe therapies, resulting in a younger and healthier you. NOW TRAVEL ASIA 67 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

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TWG Tea Boutique G floor Central Food Hall at Central Chidlom TWG Tea Boutique 4th floor Gourmet Market at the Emporium

The Tea-Centric Experience TWG TEA SALON & BOUTIQUE, BANGKOK AFTER THE SUCCESS OF TWG TEA SALON & BOUTIQUE AT SIAM PARAGON, THE ULTRA LUXURY TEA BOUTIQUE EXTENDS ITS EMPIRE TO 2 MORE HIGH-END SHOPPING MALLS, THE EMPORIUM AND CENTRAL CHIDLOM. NO TEA ENTHUSIASTIC IN BANGKOK WOULDN’T KNOW TWG TEA SALON & BOUTIQUE AS IT TAKES TEA DRINKING TO ANOTHER LEVEL OF TEA-CENTRIC EXPERIENCE UNDER THE CONCEPT OF “AFFORDABLE LUXURY”. uropean elegance is revealed as you walk into the classy atmosphere filled with beautiful scent of tea and completed with dark marble floor and gold-trimmed wood paneling. Behind the bar are over 800 tea blends, some are the finest collection of exclusive tea blends, in TWG Tea’s signature yellow tins. The boutique also showcases themed tea blends in attractive packaging for customers to browse and sniff.

The Singapore-based international tea boutique is renowned for its luxury

tea selections and mouthwatering sweet and savoury menus created exclusively to match its tea blends. You can’t miss the signature Yellow Gold Buds tea blend from Sichuan, China, or the 1837 Black Tea is a blend between the finest black tea and Bermuda’s fruits and flowers. TWG Tea’s signature tea infused macarons play the main cast on the sweet side while the savoury menu features innovative dishes like TWG Tea Salad, Mesclun salad with foie gras, smoked salmon, marinated shrimps,herb Roma tomatoes, French beans and corn sprinkled with chives and served with 1837 Green Tea infused vinaigrette. TWG Tea Spinach and mushroom or Beef ragout Lasagna with homemade tomato and fresh basil sauce infused with Moroccan Mint Tea. You can’t have a Tea Salon without an afternoon tea set. TWG Tea offers classic Tea Time Set that comes with your choice of the finest tea served in fine bone china and homemade scones and sandwiches. And to heighten your tea experience, scones are served with whipped cream and uniquely delicious tea jelly instead of traditional strawberry jam.

Yuthachai Charanachitta CEO Italthai Hospitality

TWG Tea infused Macaron

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Authentic Japanese Cuisine KISARA, CONRAD BANGKOK FORMERLY DRINK TEA EAT RICE AT CONRAD HOTEL, KISARA FEATURES UPGRADED NEW MENUS BY CHEF KENJI SHINDO WHILE KEEPING THE WARM EARTH-TONE AMBIENCE WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS, COPPER SCULPTURE AND LOTS OF WOOD DECOR. KISARA REFLECTS THE TRADITIONS, SPIRIT, AND CULTURE OF JAPAN NOT ONLY THROUGH ITS DECORATION, BUT IN ITS JAPANESE CUISINE WITH A LITTLE MODERN TWIST AS WELL.

action at the Teppanyaki table and enjoy sizzling Angus beef, premium chicken thigh, and fresh scallops. KiSara offers a variety of seating preference. You can sit along the floor-to-ceiling windows, observe the art of sushi crafting at the sushi bar, enjoy cooking performance at the Teppanyaki table, or relax in a private tatami room with sunken table, no matter where you choose to sit, you are promised a superb Japanese culinary experience!

While the restaurant boasts exquisite selection of sushi and sashimi, including the most sought-after “Otoro” (Blue fin tuna fatty belly), its signature Hida beef sirloin served with soy cocktail sauce is a must have. In addition to authentic Japanese fare, don’t be surprised to find authentic Japanese dishes constructed with the freshest seasonal ingredients alongside premium delicacies like truffles, foei gras, and lobsters. Savour innovative menus like pan-fried marinated Foie Gras with sweet miso, steamed snow fish with black truffle served with sasa leaves and sakura sauce, or catch all the

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REN BY DHARA DHEVI CHIANGMAI LAUNCHED IN DECEMBER 2014, THIS NEW PLAYER OF FINE JAPANESE CUISINE AIMS TO RESHAPE THE QUALITY OF JAPANESE RESTAURANT IN CHIANGMAI. REN SHARES THE ULTRA-LUXURY NATURE OF ITS LOCATION, THE LEGENDARY DHARA DHEVI CHIANGMAI, AND REPRESENTS THE GRANDEUR THROUGH CULINARY ART. Ren is still in its early stage, but it’s in the good hand. Iron chef Thailand winner, Chef Kongwut Chaiwongkachon is the creative mind behind sumptuous Ren’s buffet offerings. Ren offers over 120 delightful items, including extensive variety of sushi, sashimi, tempura, choices of seafood such as whole tuna cuts a la minutes, udon, tataki, traditional Japanese soup, noodles, salad and teriyaki, made from the freshest local and imported ingredients. Beside regular dishes, you should not miss the signature sashimi selection, Truffle Wagyu Sushi, and Lotus Salad. Since the buffet is available only in Friday and Saturday evening, the restaurant is packed with gastronomes flocking to savour the best Japanese dishes in town!

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BEYOND Secluded GETAWAY IMPIANA PRIVATE VILLAS

YOUR JOURNEY OF EXCLUSIVITY AND SERENITY BEGINS AS IMPIANAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WELL-TRAINED CHAUFFEUR TURNS THE WHEEL INTO IMPIANA PRIVATE VILLAS KATA NOI, PHUKET. PERCHED ON A GORGEOUS HILLSIDE OVERLOOKING THE SPARKLING ANDAMAN SEA AND JUST STEPS AWAY FROM THE BUZZING PATONG BEACH, IMPIANA PRIVATE VILLAS IS A 5-STAR LUXURIOUS BOUTIQUE RESORT KNOWN FOR SECLUSION AND EXCLUSIVITY. mpiana Private Villas features 4 private villas and 7 pool suites ranging in sizes from 60 to 260 square meters. The floor-to-ceiling glass wall in each villa captures the uninterrupted Andaman Sea views

http://phuketprivatevillas.impiana.com.my

and allows for bright natural light to warmly light up the room. Each villa is decked in elegant mix of traditional and contemporary furnishings, and completed with a private infinity pool, a spacious outdoor deck for an intimate alfresco dining, and an exclusive dedicated personal butler at hand round the clock to ensure that your every desire is fulfilled whenever you want. If you ever get tired of lounging in your private villa, you can always hang out by the library and spend the afternoon with a book in one hand and a great cup of coffee in another. In the evening, The Living Room is an excellent place to enjoy fine dining with a sunset cocktail on the outdoor deck while live piano performance softly plays in the background.

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CITY UPDATE

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Singapore is a bustling cosmopolitan city populated with high-rise buildings and landscape gardens. Combining a ubiquitous collage of cultures, where people of different ethnicities and beliefs coexist. Also, brimming with a harmonious blend of cuisine, arts and architecture makes Singapore a dynamic city. Besides a vibrant multicultural experience, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more you can discover about Singapore.

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SHOP The Louis Vuitton Island The Louis Vuitton Island is a new luxury destination for demanding travelers who wish to transform every journey into a unique personal experience. The Maison sits on the waterfront of the Marina Bay promenade and will be a distinctive landmark in the celebrated landscape around the bay. Spread over two floors, including a "TRAVEL ROOM" that focuses on travel luggage and accessories, it offers an expanded range of Louis Vuitton goods and a shopping experience like no other. There's also a bookstore filled with tomes on travel, design, art and culture, and an art gallery with works from prominent designers and celebrities. This is refined shopping at its best.The inside of the pavilion has been designed by Peter Marino, featuring nautical inspired interiors and inviting the visitors to become explorers while discovering its multiple facets. It pays homage to the traveler and to the spirit of the sea. Visitors can look forward to a unique and sophisticated retail experience as the first Louis Vuitton Maison in Southeast Asia will incorporate art and cultural elements in its retail space.

The Espace Louis Vuitton Singapore is located in the underwater tunnel that joins the Louis Vuitton Island to the Marina Bay Sands shopping mall. It aims to provide visitors to the store with an immersive art experience and to help set the scene for their arrival in the main pavilion of the store.

EAT A destination for distinctive ﬂavours Xperience Restaurant & Bar Xperience Restaurant & Bar is a relaxed yet stylish gastro-bar dining concept that will take guests on a one-of-a-kind interactive culinary journey of the senses where diners will be able to design their own customized menus based on different culinary experiences. An added attraction at Xperience is the special seasonal menus created by regularly invited guest Michelin-starred chefs who will showcase their culinary talent at Xperience. Across the lobby, Xperience Bar follows a similar concept to the restaurant cuisine, with cocktails listed by “EXPERIENCE” – and taste profiles. Premium spirits, liqueurs and flavorsome ingredients are masterfully combined into consummate renditions of both re-invented classics, signature creations and mocktails. Resident DJs play nightly – adding a sociable vibe to the bar and lobby spaces.

In this chic dining place, Anne-Cecile Degenne, top professional female chef are representing her dishes and her blending of ﬂavors and textures which everyone will wow on her foods.

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Duxton’s newest Italian restaurant Alba 1836 Alba 1836 is a modern contemporary Italian Wine Bar & Restaurant conveniently nestled at Duxton Hill serving authentic Italian cuisine at its finest. Alba also offers a vast number of wines from all over Italy.The menu created by Chef Ales is an interpretation of Italian traditional classics using modern cooking techniques and presentation. Chef Ales’ dedication and passion for cooking means he never compromises on the research and selection of the best ingredients to compliment his creations.The restaurant can accommodate 50 diners, while there is one private dining room which can seat 10 guests. ALBA is also available for private events or special dinners.

STAY Fusion of organic and urban hotel W Singapore Sentosa Cove INSPIRED FROM THE DYNAMIC COSMOPOLITAN LIFESTYLE MIXED WITH SENTOSA’S VIBRANT NATURAL SURROUNDINGS, W Singapore Sentosa Cove adopts the same narrative, blurring the line between cosmopolitan city-state and a forest’s untamed nature. This glowing jungle blends the cosmopolitan structure of the city with the whole other universe of Sentosa Island, where luscious greenery and high-octane entertainment givesThis residence is home to lush rainforests, golden sandy beaches and a deep-water yachting marina. Sentosa Island is a playground for both global jetsetters and locals alike. W Singapore - Sentosa Cove features 240 sea and marina facing guestrooms. Exercise in the state-of-the-art fitness center - GYM, relax by the outdoor pool and rejuvenation spa including with 5 private treatment rooms.

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TEA First Finest Tea brand TWG Tea TWG Tea was established in Singapore in celebration of the island’s great history as a trading post for teas, spices and fine epicurean products. With over 1,000 of the world’s greatest single-harvest teas and exclusive tea blends, TWG Tea is the finest luxury tea brand in the world and internationally recognized as a veritable innovator with the creation every season of new varieties of tea in collaboration with the world’s most renowned estates. The TWG Tea team shapes the aesthetic image underpinning all the brand’s products, constantly updating the notion of TWG Tea even as they respect the Asian and European traditions of elegance and beauty on which it is based, now spiced with a touch of sensuality and originality.

EAT Popular chef in Singapore Restaurant André Art is at the heart of André Chiang’s kitchen philosophy. The Taiwanese chef - whose Restaurant André in Singapore, at number 37 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2014 and number 6 of the Asian list (both sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna) was named one of the Top 10 restaurants in the world worth a plane ride by the New York Times. He uses southern French and Mediterranean flavours, with a hint of molecular gastronomy thrown in, resulting in innovative dishes like cauliflower puree with risotto in black rice squid ink crackers and the curiously named Snickers 2012.

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The 19th-century terraced-house setting for Restaurant André’s multi-course feast is just as carefully created as the menu and has been designed to be an environment that encourages guests to open their minds to Chiang’s gastronomic philosophy. The intimate 30-seat dining room features antler lampshades, Chiang’s hand-crafted clay figurines and Christofle organic-formed crockery.

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ART Expensive art pieces in luxury hotel The St. Regis Singapore The hotel features 299 luxury rooms and suites, one of Asia’s finest private art collections, a stunning interior, and outstanding amenities, contributing to its status as one of the finest luxury hotels. Art featured in the hotel is exquisite, there is a sculpture by Colombian artist Fernando Botero, a painting by national treasure Chen Wen Hsi, and a sketch by Spanish artist Joan Miró, just to name a few. The pieces have been selected to pair with the interiors and create a magnificent interior.

STAY Award Winning 5 Star Hotel in Marina Bay City Marina Mandarin Singapore An acclaimed award-winning five-star luxury hotel in the heart of the city, Marina Mandarin Singapore offers breathtaking views of the Marina Bay and financial district in each room. The hotel has direct access to the Marina Square Shopping Mall and is facing The Esplanade – Singapore’s premier performing arts centre and is perfectly situated right on the trackside of the annual With a distinctively majestic atrium soaring through 21 levels of the hotel, Marina Mandarin Singapore is imbued with a philosophy of providing Asian grace, warmth and care in an atmosphere of relaxed elegance.

STAY Cutting Edge design of Movenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa Moevenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has added a new all-suite wing to the Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa. The wing was once a barrack base that housed British artillerymen during World War II. The three-story Heritage Wing now features 62 suites, an all-day restaurant, Tablescape, and a 250-brand whiskey lounge – WOW or World of Whiskeys – which is directly affiliated to the Waldhaus am See in St Moritz. During restoration by Singapore’s DP Architects, the wing’s original features include colonial doors, window frames, high-ceilings, wide covered ‘link way’ corridors, and other architectural details. Taking inspiration from Singapore’s culture and tropical climate, the designers also incorporated fans (as well as air-conditioning), floor-to-ceiling windows, slate bathroom floors, patchwork carpets, natural wood finishes, and local design motifs. The new Heritage Wing is the final stage of the Mövenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa to open. In 2011 the hotel unveiled a Contemporary Wing featuring interiors by the Japanese company Super Potato.

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CHECK IN

EVERYTHING WITHIN REACH Ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong South Korea 78, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea www.ibis.com

style rooms with cozy warm tone

SITUATED IN THE TRENDIEST COMMERCIAL AND SHOPPING DISTRICT OF MYEONGDONG IN THE HEART OF SEOUL, IBIS AMBASSADOR MYEONGDONG OCCUPIES ONE OF THE MOST SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS AND TOURISTS. THE MODERN HOTEL IS WITHIN A WALKING DISTANCE TO NAMDAEMUN MARKET, THE OLDEST AND LARGEST KOREAN MARKET, LOTTE DEPARTMENT STORE, AS WELL AS SEOUL MUSEUM OF ART. The hotel features 280 contemporary style rooms with cozy warm tone, carpet floor, and large windows overlooking the bustling city of Seoul. For your convenience, large flat-screen TV and complimentary Wi-Fi is readily available. Beside regular rooms and suites, ibis Ambassador Myeongdong offers disabled friendly services and rooms designed especially for wheelchair accessibility. Whether you are on a business trip or on a holiday, ibis Ambassador Myeongdong is the perfect home base for your Seoul exploration.

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PEACEFUL & CHILD-FREE Layana Resort & Spa, Krabi Thailand 272 Moo 3 Saladan, Phra-Ae Beach, Koh Lanta, Krabi www.layanaresort.com LOCATED ON KOH LANTA YAI AMIDST THE BEAUTY OF KOH LANTA NATIONAL MARINE PARK, LAYANA RESORT & SPA IS ACCLAIMED FOR ITS STUNNING SURROUNDINGS, AS WELL AS, ITS HARMONIOUS DESIGN THAT BLENDS DELUXE FACILITIES AND 51 LUXURIOUS ROOMS AND SUITES WITH THE PICTURESQUE BACKDROP OF GREEN HILLS WHILE SHOWCASING A SPECTACULAR 3 KILOMETERS WHITE-SAND BEACH. THE SIMPLE, YET ELEGANT, ATMOSPHERE HIGHLIGHTS LOW-RISE ARCHITECTURE WITH HINT OF THAI ACCENT AND CONTEMPORARY DESIGN TO GIVE AN OPEN AND NATURAL FEEL. BUT WHAT MAKES THE 5 STAR RESORT THE “FIRST & ONLY” AND A COUPLE PARADISE IS THE

STRICT ADULT-ONLY POLICY. WHILE OTHER RESORTS MIGHT PUT A BAR ON CHILDREN AGE 12 AND UNDER, LAYANA RESORT & SPA ENSURES THE PEACE AND QUIET WITH THE AGE LIMITATION OF 18 AND ABOVE, MAKING IT A PERFECT ESCAPE FOR A ROMANTIC HOLIDAY WHERE YOU CAN JUST RELAX AND BE PAMPERED ON A KIDS-FREE HOLIDAY. Having won multiple international awards, Linger Longer Spa is a peaceful sanctuary where inner harmony is the key to good health. Within the garden setting, extensive range of Eastern and Western wellness treatments are practiced to promote physical, mental and emotional well-being. The latest addition to the spa that will keep you linger longer is the salt spa. Found in only selected luxury

spas, the salt room creates the therapeutic microclimate of natural salt caves with hypo-allergic and hypo-bacterial environment. Relax in a reclining chair and let the salt works their way into the deepest areas of the lungs, cleansing the lungs of bacteria, irritants and pollution, while expertly trained therapist ease all your stress away with shoulder, neck, head, and leg massage.

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BRAND NEW PHUKET’S ALL-VILLA RESORT Bandara Villas, Phuket Thailand 96 Moo 6, Wichit Subdistrict, Muang, Phuket www.bandaraphuket.com

LOCATED ON THE SOUTHEAST COAST OF PHUKET 45 MINUTES FROM THE AIRPORT, BANDARA VILLAS, PHUKET COMMANDS A SPECTACULAR VIEW OVER A STRETCH OF PRISTINE WHITE SAND BEACH. The recently opened all-villa resort boasts 33 pool villas cascading down lush green hill, offering exceptional privacy, comfort, and breathtaking sea views. The decoration draws inspiration from the lustrous gems harvested from the seabed off nearby Little Naka Island, reflecting the purity and brightness of Naka pearls as well as the light-hued colours of Phuket Island’s tropical woods. While the 60 square meters One Bedroom Pool Villa features a spacious bedroom with floor to ceiling windows that look out onto the private infinity pool and amazing sea views, the Duplex

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Pool Villas features an intimate bedroom with sunken tub that opens directly onto each villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own private garden, as well as a large upper-floor living room with even more expansive views! The resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ocean-facing infinity pool is just a few steps from the powdery beach. Gaze the serene Andaman Sea while you sip a glass of refreshing cocktail from the beach pool bar. Or take a better vantage point with breathtaking panoramas to enjoy delightful tapas or predinner drinks on the rooftop bar before heading towards Sampao and savour modern cuisine, including international and Thai favourites as well assuperior quality Phuket seafood and local signature dishes.Further facilities are readily available at the sister hotel located a short walk away, but the facilities at Bandara Villas are solely for guests only.

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POSITIONED AS THE MOST ROMANTIC HOTEL ON PHUKET’S WEST COAST, CAPE SIENNA PHUKET IS DESIGNED AS A RETREAT FOR THE URBAN COSMOPOLITAN LOOKING FOR A PEACEFUL, ROMANTIC ESCAPE. THE CHIC LUXURY RESORT SETS ON THE HEADLAND THAT OVERLOOKS THE UNINTERRUPTED VIEWS OF ANDAMAN SEA, AS WELL AS THE VISUALLY STUNNING PHUKET’S SUNSET. EXPERIENCE THE WORLDRENOWN SUNSET SCENE IN THE COMFORT OF THE RESORT’S STYLISHLY DESIGNED ROOMS, SUITES, AND POOL VILLAS.

CHILDREN FREE GETAWAY Cape Sienna Phuket, Thailand 18/40 Moo 6, Nakalay Road, Kamala, Kathu, Phuket www.capesienna.com

Ensuring the serene atmosphere for the guests, Cape Sienna Phuket employs the “Adults Preferred” concept which strictly limits the minimum age of all guests to 13 and above during high season (November – March). So you are guaranteed a romantic honeymoon or a peaceful getaway no matter where you are in the resort.

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EXPLORATION OF ASIA

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Myanmar is one of the exciting ASEAN members. The country has undergone a major political change from dictatorship to democracy and opened its border up to the world once again. The world is getting smaller and you’ll be left behind if you don’t join the world. Myanmar made a statement by building a new capital city, Naypyidaw, to say to the world that the country is ready to embrace trade, investment, and tourism in order to develop the country and improve the livelihood of all people in Myanmar.

Ten ASEAN countries will take the next historic step into ASEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY in 2015. A common task every member is now doing is getting to know its neighbors as much as possible as they will become one big family with more traders and travelers crossing more freely across borders as soon as AEC ofﬁcially commence. If you aren’t prepared for the event, you might get a culture shock, especially when everyone is speaking English!

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Having only established in 2008, just a few people can correctly paint the picture of Naypyidaw. However, investors are rushing into this new gold mine of opportunity, so the planes going in and out of Naypyidaw are full of foreign investors with suits and ties. And as a newly built city, tourism is not yet the main focus of Naypyidaw. My twin turbine flight took off from Suvanabhumi Airport, Bangkok, through the thick monsoon clouds. It was quite an exciting ride because our plane was quite small and we experienced a lot of turbulences all the way to our destination, Naypyidaw. A couple of hours later, vast plain of green rice paddies revealed themselves as we descended below the clouds. It was a picture of infinite rice paddies as far as eyes can see. There were no skyscrapers or any sign of a city, except the Naypyidaw International Airport which literally sits in the middle of an expansive plain of rice fields.

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efore we takes off on an exploration, lets get to know a little more about the new capital city. The idea of moving the capital city from Yangon to Naypyidaw was carried out by Senior General Than Shwe because Naypyidaw is geographically located right in the middle of the country and it’ll be more convenient. The construction began in 2002 with Myanmar’s military government hiring at least 25 construction companies to build new facilities and utilities. Six years later, the new city was officially incorporated on 27th March 2008. Naypyidaw means "Royal Capital" or “Abode of Kings" and it’s is now the center of government administration. The new capital is connected to Yangon by almost 320 km of massive 8 lanes highway, and it’s the 3rd largest city in Myanmar, after Yangon and Mandalay. And surprisingly, Naypyidaw is one of the top 10 fastest growing cities in the world.

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each attraction is quite spread apart. The hotel zone consists of only a couple of hotels and shopping malls, and it would take 30 minutes or more to get to an important tourist attract or a market! You might wonder why they are so spread apart. My guess is it’s more convenient to manage everything into zones and they have a lot of space! They might also want to showcase the super road that is 10 – 20 lanes wide! The smallest road is at least 10 lanes with an additional

motorcycle lane, while the largest road is the massive 20 lanes road in front of the parliament. You have to see it to believe it! Modeled after the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the most predominant landmark and tourist attraction in Naypyidaw is the Uppatasanti Pagoda. Although it’s a replicate, the Uppatasanti Pagoda is a foot shorter than its original because the government doesn’t want it to

be bigger than the country’s iconic landmark and religious symbol. The first impression I got at Uppatasanti Pagoda is its grandeur. The pagoda is gigantic and you can easily spot it from afar. As you drive closer and closer, the majestic golden pagoda could propbably be compared to the great pyramid of Egypt! No matter who you are, shoes have to be taken off when you walk up the stairs leading to an expansive area with the golden pagoda in the middle. When you get so close to the pagoda, the only way to see the top of it is to bend your head backward as far as you can. Beside its height, the massive pagoda would take 15 – 20 minutes to walk around its base! As the people of Myanmar is very religious, you would always see locals with flowers and incense in their hands. The men would dress in white long sleeves top and a salong while women would be in their tidiest dress. It’s very common to see men chew on betel nuts and women with thanaka powder on their cheeks. So is you want to see beautiful traditional Myanmar dress, temples and Uppatasanti Pagoda are the places to experience it, especially on important religious days..

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U odeled after the majestic Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, the most predominant landmark and tourist attraction in Naypyidaw is the Uppatasanti Pagoda. Although it’s a replicate, the Uppatasanti Pagoda is a foot shorter than its original because the government doesn’t want it to be bigger than the country’s iconic landmark and religious symbol. The first impression I got at Uppatasanti Pagoda is its grandeur. The pagoda is gigantic and you can easily spot it from afar. As you drive closer and closer, the majestic golden pagoda could propbably be compared to the great pyramid of Egypt! No matter who you are, shoes have to be taken off when you walk up the stairs leading to an expansive area with the golden pagoda in the middle. When you get so close to the pagoda, the only way to see the top of it is to bend your head backward as far as you can. Beside its height, the massive pagoda would take 15 – 20 minutes to walk around its base! As the people of Myanmar is very religious, you would always see locals with flowers and incense in their hands. The men would dress in white long sleeves top and a salong while women would be in their tidiest dress. It’s very common to see men chew on betel nuts and women with thanaka powder on their cheeks. So is you want to see beautiful traditional Myanmar dress, temples and Uppatasanti Pagoda are the places to experience it, especially on important religious days.. ppatasanti Pagoda is where White Jade Buddha is kept. The inside is a large hall with extra high ceiling

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and 4 doors, one to the north, south, west, and east. This kind of pagoda is called a “Temple Pagoda” while pagodas that you can’t go inside are called “Solid Pagoda” which most pagodas in Bagan plains are. Just steps from Uppatasanti Pagoda is an important elephant house in Myanmar. The elephant house is home to 5 – 6 rare white elephants which are Myanmar’s national animals. These elephants are treated extremely well as the people in Myanmar believes white elephants are elegant animals for kings. Hiring a taxi for a day is the best way to travel around Naypyidaw because each zone is enormous and far apart. Most attractions are in the hotel zone, but you can drive to see what residential, ministry, and military zones are like although there won’t be much to see and you are not allowed to take pictures in those zones. Naypyidaw has 2 Olympic standard sport stadiums built for the 27th SEA Games in 2013, but you might be disappointed to learn that the stadiums only open during big sport events. Our driver mentioned that the stadiums are closed since SEA Games ended! This is probably because Naypyidaw is still quite new and has little population. Although Naypyidaw is the center for government administration, there are still many attractions to see. The next morning, I woke up early to catch a 30 minute motorcycle ride to the Morning Market. Here, you can see the unseasoned lifestyle of the people. See how they eat, think, talk, use, or travel around. Everything happens at the morning market!

The morning market was more active than I had expected. It’s separated into 2 zones, indoor and outdoor zones. The indoor zone sells mostly dried food, cloth, and everyday use items, while the outdoor zone is where you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, meat, flowers, and exotic wild food. Tourists don’t usually come to the morning market, so I knew from the face and actions of the merchants I was quite the talk of the market even though I don’t understand Burmese. Here, I tried a common Myanmar food called mohinga (rice noodle in soup) and it was one of the most impressive dishes in Myanmar. If you love shopping, Naypyidaw’s day market, evening market and fruit market will easily leave your wallet empty, especially if you love to try exotic food. You’ll get to see the daily life of the people as well as try traditional flavours of Myanmar. I grew

quite fond of Myanmar sweets which are dried bread or fruits, perfect with Myanmar’s instant 3 in 1 tea I bought at the market. Myanmar’s tea culture is influenced by Indian tea culture, so there is no surprise why they taste very similarly, and you can see a lot of people spend time relaxing at local tea shops. A day in Naypyidaw gone by very quickly as a lot of time was spent in the taxi. I got to see the traditional life of rice famers in between the ride from one zone to another. It was monsoon season and the farmers were planting their second crop while their first harvest were being processed right there beside the road. It was an extraordinary and rare scene today to see the whole community help one another one field at a time. But more impressively, it felt like going back in time as the farmers still use buffalo and wooden cart to transport their harvest and get around.

“MODELED AFTER THE MAJESTIC SHWEDAGON PAGODA IN YANGON, THE MOST PREDOMINANT LANDMARK AND TOURIST ATTRACTION IN NAYPYIDAW IS THE UPPATASANTI PAGODA.”

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PROFESSIONAL GUIDE SEASON

The weather pattern is similar to other ASEAN countries. Monsoon season starts around May - October and the best time to go is in winter or summer, or in November – April.

Although it was monsoon season, the afternoon sun was still blazing hot. So what could be better than going to a cooling, air-conditioned, shopping mall! Capital Hypermarket and Junction Center are the only 2 shopping malls in Naypyidaw, and of course they are located in the hotel zone. I was quite surprised to learn that taking a photo is not allowed in both shopping malls, though you can still take photos outside. The shopping malls are quite a big symbol of Myanmar’s effort in trying to catch up to the world, even though they aren’t state-of-art. Here, you can escape the heat and find anything from food, fashion, shoes, to mobile phones. What I found interesting was the mix of traditional and modern lifestyle where the people still dress in salong and chew betel nuts while they shop for modern clothes and mobile phones! As I left the shopping mall, dark clouds were gathering up for a heavy pour but I still didn’t want to go back to the hotel. I asked my taxi driver to take me to the Water Fountain Garden which is where young people and families go to hang out and relax by the small ponds, children playground, or the fountain. The fountain is the main attraction here as people would gather here at 7 PM sharp to see the spectacular water dance every day.

GETTING THERE

Bangkok Airways (www.bangkokair. com, Tel. 1771) flies directly from Bangkok to Naypyidaw 3 times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. STAY

The Lake Garden Nay Pyi Taw MGallery Collection (for reservation please go to www.mgallery.com) FOOD

Variety of international cuisines can be found in the hotels, but if you want to try the authentic taste of Naypyidaw, check out the morning market and don’t miss the traditional rice noodle soup called Mohinga SOUVENIRS

Every trip must have an end and it was time to say goodbye to Naypyidaw. If you plan to experience Naypyidaw, don’t compare it to other capital cities in the world because Naypyidaw has its own charm, and I love the simplicity of this unique city.

Tea, scarfs, silverwares, Thanaka, traditional Myanmar snacks, etc. MORE INFO

http://wikitravel.org/en/Naypyidaw

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ASIA’S CULTURE

THE BEAUTY

ARCHITECTURES IN BANGKOK

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BANGKOK IS A METROPOLIS THAT IS FILLED WITH INVALUABLE HISTORY AND BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURES, AS WE CAN SEE MANY PALACES IN BANGKOK. ALL THESE PLACES REFLECT THE HISTORY OF BANGKOK THROUGH THEIR UNIQUE ARCHITECTURAL SPLENDOR. LET’S EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF PALACES TOGETHER.

THE ANANTA SAMAKHOM THRONE HALL

ur first palace that we will take you to experience has been honored as the most beautiful palace in Thailand, “The Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall” is a former reception hall within Dusit Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. It now serves as a museum and is from time to time employed for certain state occasions. The building in Italian Renaissance and Neo Classic style was commissioned to the architects Mario Tamagno who were the royal artists serving King Rama V. The throne hall is decorated with marble from Carrara, Italy, with costs 15 million bath. Fresco drawings of the royal duties of King Rama I to King Rama VI in the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall were accomplished by Galileo Chini and Carlo Riguli. It was the first parliament house used for people’s party during the country’s political system transformed from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional one.

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THE PRAYA THAI PALACE

hen, we traveled to the next palace to “The Praya Thai Palace” or “The Royal Praya Thai Palace”, where is located near the Victory Monument. Formerly, the palace was used as the royal resident of the King Rama V for a short period of time because he died several months after the new mansion was celebrated. About the architectural style of Praya Thai Palace, it was developed from renaissance style. The design focuses on simplicity but still keeps elegant look. It is also suitably adapted to the local climate of Thailand as we can see from Waikoon Thepayasathan mansion and Piman Chankri Throne Hall, there are windows open to the air on all side. The most noticeable feature of Phaya Thai Palace is a European style round turret with a red conical roof at Phiman Chakri Throne Hall. When the King was in the mansion, the royal flag was raised to the top of the dome.

The Royal Praya Thai Palace is publicly opened on every Saturday and Sunday during 09:00 – 16:00 with free of charge. There are two rounds for touring the palace with a guide, at 09:30 and 13:00.

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NEILSON HAYS LIBRARY

eilson Hays Library is 100 years old. Dr. Hays honor his wife by commissioning this library to be built in her memory. Designed by Italian architect Mario Tamagno in association with another Italian architect, Annibale Rigotti, this harmonious, symmetrical building wisely incorporates practical features such as double walls to help keep the books well-ventilated and dry. The architectural highlight is a beautiful Italianate dome, once the imposing entrance and now a unique art gallery. It is said that the library is one of the most beautiful and classical library Thailand. The Building was awarded the status of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Historic Landmarkâ&#x20AC;? in 1986 by the Association of Siamese Architects.

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THONBURI RAILWAY STATION

he old Thonburi Railway Station, originally known as Bangkok Noi Railway Station, is a former railway station in Bangkok, Thailand. It was the terminus of the Southern Line of Thailand’s national rail network from 1903 to 1999. During World War II, the station became strategically important as the Japanese base of operations for supplying the construction of the Burma Railway. It was severely damaged by repeated Allied bombing until Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram was a prime minister; the station was renovated and remains the tall clock tower as a unique architecture. Currently, the station building was served as the site of Siriraj Bimuksthan Museum. The museum’s exhibits include those regarding the area’s origins as the Bangkoknoi community.

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PARUSKAWAN PALACE OR “PARUSK PALACE”

ast but not least, we ended our trip with the art of charming construction at “Paruskawan Palace” or “Parusk Palace”, a historic palace that is transformed to be a museum. Currently, the palace is used as the office of National Intelligence, Museums Police Department and Police Department. Inside the palace, there are 2 elegant buildings, “Paruskawan Manion”, a 3-story building in Romantic architectural style and “Suan Chitrada Mansion, a 2-story building in Stile liberty architectural style or Art Nuvo in Italian style. The palace is opened on Wednesday to Sunday, from 10:00 – 16:00.

These palaces, of course, reflect beauty of architectures and art that we can see with our own eyes but these places are also telling the rich history of Thailand that is deeply impressed to our mind. However, sentimental beauty and invaluable stories that are intervened in these historic buildings may fade away and eventually disappear, if we abandon them and do not preserve and share retention to make them remain forever.

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PEOPLE IN BUSINESS TITIYA CHOOTO G ENER AL M ANAGE R OF FOUR SEASONS R ES ORT CHIANG M AI Let’s take a journey into the perspective of an outstanding business woman who is successful in work and in life! Our “One & Only” is the first Asian woman to command the position of Four Seasons’s General Manager – Mrs. Titiya Chooto.

The strength and unique character of the organization The success today came from the fact that Titiya works with passion and teamwork. Staffs will work harder, more productive & effective, and have fun at the same time if they have the passion. The job will be better if it’s done with passion rather than just simply ask them to work hard. She motivates her staffs to have the service mind and treat the guests as if they are the guests of their “home”. The job is done with sincerity and nothing gets overlooked no matter how small they are. With well-known reputation of Thai hospitality, combined with international standard of service, the hotel providesthe “Gracious efficiency” which is truly challenging to be able to build the hotel strength on higher standard.

Vision and Direction An executive who can take an organization to success needs to be flexible and able to adjust strategies to handle incontrollable factors. There are 2 important factors for success - human resource & corporate culture and managing system. Human resource is the driving force and the strength of Four Seasons Resort Chiangmai as Four Seasons Resort Chiangmai is often ranked in the top 10 best hotels. While staffs drive the hotel forward, the hotel’s managing system boosts the effectiveness of the services and at the same time conserves the unique charm of local culture.

Work & Family The key to be successful in both the job and family is balance. They both are important responsibilities, but you have to decide which is important according to the situation. In addition to balancing work and family, family support and understanding is very important for being successful. The phase “Behind a successful woman there is a great man” serves well here and having a supportive family is essential for success. But at the same time, responsibilities to the family are also crucial and you need to find time for your family. In addition to your part, having an efficient team you can trust is also important for accomplishing your goal. Having a proper balance shows that it doesn’t matter whether you are a man or a woman, if you are capable of handling your job and responsibilities, you can step into any position and do well.

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DR.SARAWUT SRISAKUNA DI R E CTOR OF CH IA NG MA I N IGH T S A FAR I If you have to name a popular night safari in Asia, Chiang Mai Night Safari would be one of the top names in your list. The premier tourist attraction always welcomes tourists with exciting activities under the guidance of Dr.sarawut Srisakuna, the Director of Chiang Mai Night Safari. What is the unique character of your business?

hat makes Chiang Mai Night Safari unique is our collection of rare species such as White Lion, White Tiger, and Siberian Tiger, and soon weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be welcoming Golden Tiger. We also have very rare White Wallaby, White Porcupine, and White Crocodile, and we try to differentiate our night safari from others. Chiang Mai Night Safari is also a place where you can learn different animal behaviour because our animals are not caged. They live in an expansive area surrounded by mountains and nature.

How does the current tourism situation affect your business? According to the statistic, night safari is the second most popular attraction, just behind Doi Suthep Temple. We welcome tourists from over the world and have group tour visting us all year, especially Chinese group tour.

What make your business successful? What drives our success is the product difference. We work tirelessly to design attractive new events to create different experience every time you visit, so you can visit the night safari again and again.

What is the direction of your business in the future? Night safari support Chiang Mai tourism as its purpose is to extend the touristâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s length of stay and encourage them to spend more. We also are preparing for AEC by promoting the night safari overseas.

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