NOW Travel Asia 5 september/october 2015
12
22
30
show time
NOW TRAVEL ASIA AWARDS 2015
COVER STORY
Update events and travel industries in Asia.
47
Let’s vote on vote for 15 categories of travel businesses.
62
SWEET SENSATION
THAILAND INSIDER
Wedding’s fashion at Bandara Villas Phuket.
Romantic places in Thailand that properly to say the word “I do”.
Where to celebrates wedding and Honeymoon? Find the most luxury hotels and wellness spa around Asia.
78 EXPLORATION OF ASIA “Kashmir” another heven on earth, the beauty natural that you never met.
88 DINING IN STYLE Introducing 5 luxury restaurants in Hong Kong
99
8 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
106
GRAND CHINA
ASIA CITY UPDATE
Visit Blossom Hill Hotels & Resort and Waldolf Astoria Shanghai Interview Jack Xia and Dr. Anne Yuan
A joyful and easy trip in Taipei
NOW Travel Asia 9 september/october 2015
10 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
This edition takes you to different romantic destinations around Asia in our sweetest journey. However, this doesn’t mean that our Wedding & Honeymoon destinations are only for lovers as these romantic destinations are also perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing atmosphere. Forget all other hotel suites, restaurants, and spas, and be ready to write a new list of the most romantic suites with spectacular views, delightful restaurants with a private romantic corner, spas that will redefine indulgence, and sweet activities for two! Keep an eye on the upcoming vote result of the highly anticipated NOW Travel Asia Awards 2015! The result will be revealed in December, and you can still cast your vote on the best hotel, restaurant, spa, travel service, and airline today at www.nowtravelasiaawards.com. Be up-to-date on the news and events on the growing relationship between Thailand and China travel industries, and get to know uprising individuals and leading businesses in the industry. No matter how you lead your lifestyle, just don’t forget to occasionally add some sweet journey to your life and your special one! Kanapot Sitthiwong Editor-in-chief editor@nowtravelasia.com
September/October 2015 Cover: Bandara Villas Phuket Thailand
Show time MANDARIN ORIENTAL ANNOUNCES NEW HOTEL AND RESIDENCES IN BEIRUT Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced that it will manage a new luxury hotel and branded residences currently under development in Beirut. Scheduled to open in 2018, the project provides the Group with a unique opportunity to further extend its reach in the important Middle East market.The architects of the development are the renowned Singapore-based designers, Kerry Hill, and the design will reflect a bold and elegant style that cleverly integrates the different project components of the hotel and the residences. Featuring local sandstone with shaded private outdoor spaces and colonnades, as well as extensive rooftop terraces, the entire project will reflect a sense of sophisticated, urban resort living. Mandarin Oriental, Beirut will offer some of the finest dining in the region, with an all-day dining restaurant and bar, a chic lobby lounge and a spacious club lounge spread across the lower levels of the two towers. In addition a fine dining restaurant and bar will span across the top of both towers affording spectacular views over the cityscape. Extensive banqueting and meeting space will include a 300-seat grand ballroom, a 270-seat junior ballroom and a variety of adaptable conference rooms.
14 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Show time
BALI’S STORIED HADIPRANA VILLA RELAUNCHES ATER RENOVATION One of Indonesia’s foremost architects and art patrons, Hadiprana built the property as a family estate in the early 1980s before the luxury hotel group GHM assumed stewardship in 2004. More than a decade after Hendra Hadiprana transformed sprawling Balinese retreat into a luxurious 20-villa resort, The Chedi Club
Tanah Gajah has wrapped up renovations on the most stunning villa of all the Hadiprana Villa. As centerpiece of a 570-square-metre retreat, the traditional villa now includes a spacious deck and bale that surrounds a 60-square-metre swimming pool. The two-bedroom abode features private en-suites, with the master bath emerging from the makeover with a secluded, sunken outdoor Jacuzzi. A museum-worthy collection of art and artifacts grace the white-washed brick walls and complement the modern Balinese furnishings of this completely private residence.
ROYAL CLIFF’S RESTAURANT WON WINE SPECTATOR’S BEST OF AWARD OF EXCELLENCE For the 9th consecutive year, 5 outstanding restaurants located within the exclusive grounds of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group have been awarded with Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Excellence 2015” in September 2015. Royal Grill Room & Wine Cellar have offered superior quality to diners all year long consequently achieved another
remarkable milestone to the award-winning culinary team. Wine Spectator’s “Best of Award of Excellence” began recognizing the world’s best wine lists in 1981 and awards restaurants with at least 350 selections of fine wine with superior presentation appealing to a wide range of wine lovers.
SEASONAL FACIAL TREATMENT AT SO SPA SOFITEL SO BANGKOK Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life to So SPA, located on 11th floor of Sofitel So Bangkok, overlooking the infinity pool and Lumpini Park. This November, we welcome the winter season with Seasonal Facial Treatment which combines the touch of Asian techniques with botanical products by Ytsara.
16 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Show time
2015 BEST OF THE BEST CULINARY AWARDS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED Visitors and Locals Can Enjoy the Winning Dishes at the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival in October. The winners of the 2015 Best of the Best Culinary Awards were selected at the finals held at the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute. Organised by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), this year’s event featured four categories – dim sum (Chiu-Chow style dumplings), minced meat dishes, mushroom and vegetable dishes, and chicken pot. A total of 9 dishes were bestowed the highest award – Gold with Distinction Award. Various dishes given the Gold with Distinction Award will be available at the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival to be held during 22 to 24 October 2015.
SEADREAM YACHT CLUB’S 2016 MEDITERRANEAN SEASON -Exclusive Ports and Harbors Await-
SeaDream Yacht Club’s 2016 season will sail to the Mediterranean’s most secluded destinations, visiting ports so small that only the 112-guest twin luxury mega-yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II can enter. Ideal for travelers who wish to explore beyond popular ports of call such as St. Tropez, France, these itineraries transport guests to the beautiful and intimate ports of Patmos, Kotor, and Cassis among many others. SeaDream’s award-winning luxury mega-yachts will arrive in the Mediterranean in May and the season features 40+ itineraries.
18 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Another highlight for the 2016 season will be SeaDream Yacht Club’s popular crew-led shore excursions available in numerous ports which many of the yacht’s staff call home. SeaDream continues to offer innovative dining, including an optional Raw Food menu and traditional Japanese menu. Additionally, the chef welcomes guests to the local market in select ports to collecting fresh local seafood and produce for the evening meal.
The cooking competition consisted of a preliminary round, which shortlisted 10 contestants for each category for the finals on 23 and 24 June. The judging panel, formed by renowned local food critics, celebrity chefs and other personalities, rated the dishes based on various criteria, including taste and smell of the dishes, the culinary knowledge and skills of the chefs, the combination of ingredients and sauces, 1 presentation and creativity. In addition to the Gold with Distinction Award, there were Gold Awards and Silver Awards in each category.
Grand Wedding Caviar Tin Tea
Tea for your
‘Happily Ever After’ Moment Celebrate the speCial moments in life with twG’s Carefully seleCted speCialty teas from the best tea oriGins around the world. no teas are more perfeCt for speCial times of your life than twG’s speCial blends. twG’s Grand weddinG tea isn’t just eleGantly paCkaGed in ClassiC loose leaves tins, but you’ll surely fall in love with the fraGranCe and the beautiful mood Created by these unique blends. Enhance your romantic moment to an unforgettable one with the mysterious and sensual aroma of TWG Grand Wedding Tea. Symbolizing bridal bouquet, aromatic white flower is blended with rich black tea, sunflowers, and exotic tropical fruit to create a perfectly aromatic tea for a grand moment.
20 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
TWG Tea has also captured the essence of love in a sensual Darjeeling tea blended with delicate rose blossoms. An enchanting potion elegantly packaged in TWG Tea’s signature Caviar Gift Box, Amour de Thé is a divine Valentine’s creation, making it the ideal gift to dazzle the hearts. Create a lasting memory and revel in the wedding bliss to a true celebration of one of life’s most precious moments, this exquisite selection of exclusive and luxurious blends will captivate the senses with a decadent blend of luxurious flavors and aromas to last a lifetime. A rhapsody of romance, TWG Tea’s wedding collection will enrapture with luxurious savors and sensations as precious as the moments they commemorate.
Amour de Thé Caviar Tin TWG Tea Salon & Boutique Siam Paragon MF Tel. 02-6109527 The Emporium GF Tel. 02-2599510 The Emporium 4thF Tel. 092-5298704 The EmQuartier MF, Helix Quatier Tel. 02-0036070 Central Chidlom Central Foodhall Tel. 092-5298703 www.TWGTea.com
BANGKOK AIRWAYS
to Open New Direct Route between Phuket and Hat Yai
Boutique Lounge at Phuket International Airport
Bangkok Airways Public Company Limited announces the launch of new direct route between Phuket and Hat Yai. The new service will serve daily flight starting from October 11, 2015 onwards. Mr. Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways PCL said “Bangkok Airways foresees the potential of Phuket and Hat Yai as prominent destinations of leisure and business. Phuket is recognized as one of the world’s most famous tourist attractions where millions of travelers from all over the world have visited. Hat Yai is a major commercial city of Southern Thailand and a gateway to Malaysia and Singapore. This new service between Phuket and Hat Yai will certainly enhance the growth of tourism and economy due to the convenience and ease of travel. “Bangkok Airways currently operates several routes between Phuket and Thailand’s most popular destinations such as Phuket-Bangkok (8 flights daily), Phuket-Chiang Mai (1 flight daily), Phuket-Samui (4 flights daily) and Phuket-U-tapao (Pattaya) (1 flight daily).
This new direct route will certainly offer a greater choice to our passegers in Hat Yai to be able to connect to Phuket and to other destinations within Bangkok Airways network, which ultimately will drive the tourism industry in both ends,” Mr. Puttipong added.
Hat Yai
Bangkok Airways will serve daily flight between Phuket and Hat Yai, operated by ATR72-500/600 which consists of 70 economy class seats. From Phuket to Hat Yai, PG298 departs from Phuket at 07.25 hrs arrives Hat Yai at 08.30 hrs and back to Phuket by PG299 departs from Hat Yai at 09.10 hrs arrives Phuket at 10.15 hrs, All passengers may enjoy and satisfy with free snacks and beverage in Boutique Lounge at Phuket Airport and Courtesy Corner at Hai Yai Airport. Serve special menu every flight.
For more information, please contact call center 1771 www.bangkokair.com
Phuket
NOW Travel Asia Awards 2015 ASIA’S BEST IN TRAVEL Throughout the year NOW Travel Asia has been asking our readers to vote on what they throughout are the best hotels and resorts around Asia. We have taken the top hotels and resorts in various categories. In addition, NOW Travel Asia Awards 2015 celebrates 15 categories of travel businesses by allowing the people to easily vote through www. nowtravelasiaawards.com. , we are proud to present to our readers. NOW Travel Asia chose to host the prestigious event in Bangkok to bring back tourist confidence and let the world see that Bangkok is ready to impress everyone!
NOW Travel Asia Awards 2015
24 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, UAE Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai Pudong, China Taj Falaknuma Palace, Hyderabad, India Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong Amantaka, Luang Prabang, Laos Conrad, Macau Empire Hotel and Country Club, Brunei Darussalam Banyan Tree Shanghai On The Bund, Shanghai, China Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, Mumbai, India The Mulia, Nusa Dua, Sawangan, Indonesia Raffles Jakarta - Jakarta, Indonesia
Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels Alsisar Mahal - Heritage Hotel, India PARK HYATT SAIGON, Vietnam Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Vietnam The Siam, Bangkok, Thailand Eastern & Oriental, Penang, Malaysia Raffles Singapore The Strand, Yangon, Myanmar Hotel Majapahit, Surabaya, Indonesia The Imperial, New Delhi Settha Palace Hotel Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok The Shilla Seoul, South Korea Imperial Palace Hotel Seoul, South Korea
Asia’s Top Business Hotels Sofitel Wanda Beijing, China Jing an shangri-la hotel, west shanghai, China The St. Regis Osaka - Osaka, Japan Langham Place Beijing Capital Airport - Beijing, China The St. Regis Tianjin - Tianjin, Heping District, China Oriental Residence, Bangkok Kerry Hotel, Beijing, China Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur, India Park Hyatt Seoul, South Korea The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore G Tower Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malyasia Swissotel The Stamford, Singapore The Peninsula Hong Kong Sofitel So Bangkok, Thailand JW Marriott dongdaemun square seoul, South Korea Marina Mandarin Singapore by Meritus, Singapore The Royal Garden Hong Kong
NOW Travel Asia 25 september/october 2015
Asia’s Top Spa Hotels & Resorts Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali, Indonesia W Retreat and Spa Bali Seminyak, Indonesia Fusion Maia Da Nang, Vietnam Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort, China The Westin Ubud Resort and Spa, Indonesia Banyan Tree Club and Spa Seoul, South Korea Pangkor Laut Resort, Malaysia Sofitel Guangzhou, China
Asia’s Top Wellness Spa
Asia’s Top Design Hotels Upper House, Hong Kong Macalister Mansion, Penang, Malaysia Hotel Icon, Hong Kong Mira Moon, Hong Kong W Taipei, Taiwan Naumi Hotel, Singapore ALILA JAKARTA, Indonesia The Capitol Hotel Tokyu - Tokyo , Japan Devi Garh, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India The PARKROYAL on Pickering, Singapore The Oberoi Gurgaon, Gurgaon, India Hotel Eclat Beijing, Beijing, China Park Hyatt Siem Reap, Cambodia J Plus Boutique, Hong Kong The Opposite House, Hong Kong MUSE CITY HOTEL WENHUAGONG, Fuzhou, China Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund, Shanghai, China Dream Hotel Bangkok, Thailand Sofitel So Bangkok, Thailand X2 River Kwai, Kanjanaburi, Thailand
Asia’s Top Emerging Hotels Waldorf astoria dubai palm jumeirah, UAE ajman saray a luxury collection hotel & resort, UAE Shangri-la Hotel Doha, Qatar W Beijing, China Hilton Qingdao Golden, China St. regis Chengdu, China Sofitel So Singapore, Singapore Le Meridien suvarnabhumi, Thailand Andaz Toyko, Japan Sheration Nanching, China Ritz-Carton Kyoto, Japan Le Meridien mahabaleshwar resort, India Hotel Indigo Bangkok Wireless Road, Bangkok Cheval blanc randheli, Maldives The Chedi Club Jimbaran, Bali, Indonesia JW Marriott HotelAsia Hanoi, Vitetnam 26 NOW Travel september/october 2015
So Spa, Sofitel guangzhou, China Banyan Tree Spa, Banyan Tree Samui, Thailand So SPA with L’Occitane at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra, Cambodia AWAY Spa at W Singapore - Sentosa Cove, Singapore Six Senses Spa at MGM Macau Bodhi Spa at Conrad Macao Quan Spa at The Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel, Kong Kong ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore Banyan Tree Spa Chongqing Beibei, China LUXSA Spa at Hansar Samui, Thailand The Shillim Spa at Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa, India Pure romance: Oazia Spa Villas Bali, Indonesia Big splurge: Armani/Spa, Tokyo Kamalaya Koh Samui, Thailand Hot spring spa: Villa 32, Beitou, Taiwan Green T House Beijing, China Crown Spa Resort Hainan, China
Asia’s Top Beach Hotels Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, Male, Maldives RIMBA Jimbaran Bali - Bali , Indonesia Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, Kuta, Bali, Indonesia Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa, Boracay Island, Philippines St. Regis Bali Resort, Denpasar, Indonesia Six Senses Hideaway at Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam Amankila Bali, Indonesia Six Senses, Con Dao Island, Vietnam Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia Oberoi Lombok, north Lombok, Indonesia Song Saa Private Island Resort, Cambodia Cocoa Island by COMO, Maldives Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta Krabi, Thailand
Asia’s Top Villas resort Banyan Tree Lang Co, Vietnam InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort Ritz Carlton Bali, Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia Naladhu Resort, Maldives Pimalai Resort & Spa, Koh Lanta Krabi, Thailand
Asia’s Top family hotels Festive hotel resorts world sentosa, Singapore Shangri-la’s rasa sentosa resort& spa, Singapore Mandarin oriental Sanya, China The Peninsula Shanghai, China Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort, Cambodia Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort and Spa, Malaysia Golden Sands Resort by Shangri-La, Malaysia Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach, Thailand Soneva Fushi Resort Maldives Holiday Inn Resort Phuket Mai Khao Beach
Special Award Asia’s Best Fine Dining Restaurants Nahm, Thailand Gaggan, Thailand L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Thailand Amber, Hong Kong Jaan, Singapore Acqua, Phuket Vida Rica, Macau Mix, Thailand Lanshu Chen, Taiwan Song Saa Private Island
Asia’s Best Chefs Narisawa, Japan Gaggan, Bangkok Vicky Lau, Hong Kong Alessandro Frau, Thailand Andre Chiang, Singapore Seiji Yamamoto, Japan Tetsuya Wakuda, Singapore Tony Khoo, Marina Mandarin Singapore, by Meritus
Asia’s Top Entertainment Complexes Galaxy Macau, Macau Sands Macao, Macau Asiatique The Riverfront, Thailand The Venetian Macao, Macau Marina Bay Sands, Singapore Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore City of Dream, Macau Ocean Park, Hong Kong Tokyo Disneyland, Japan Sunway Lagoon, Malaysia Fusion Maia, Da Nang
NOW Travel Asia 27 september/october 2015
www.impiana.com
COVER STORY
Weddings take months to organize, and there are fittings and invitation lists about the honeymoon, and having somebody’s perfectly for a bridesmaid. And then prepare hundreds of wedding presents. Let NOW Travel Asia help you find your perfect honeymoon and wedding place.
a couple
Special for
Ithaa Undersea Restaurant Maldives
Make Your Heart Flattering with Undersea Dining of Maldives
D
34 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
elight your honeymoon trip with special dining at the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, the five meters below sea level restaurant at the Hilton Maldives Resort and Spa. The restaurant creates a unique acrylic design with 270-degree panoramic view of underwater world. Ithaa serves your date dining with contemporary fusion Maldivian cuisine with Western and Asian influences dishes. The place was granted to make your heart flattering with beautiful view of underwater and various wonderful marine creatures during your enjoyable dining.
Mandarin Oriental Singapore
Tea Time Memory of Marina Bay
T
ake a sweetness afternoon tea moment over Marina Bay at Axis Bar and Lounge, Mandalin hotel Singapore. This is the place you can enjoy the over view of Marina Bay and Singapore city serves with cozy and contemporary atmosphere. High loyal afternoon tea with a selection
of light bites such as sandwiches, scones and sweets will be served as a treat of your sweet moment. At night, Axis offers chic style bar where you and your lover can enjoy smooth cocktails or sparkling champagnes with cozy relaxing space and shimmery night of Singapore city.
Bedouin camp Dubai
Experience the Romantic Sense of Desert Safari in Dubai
O
vernight Safari in Dubai desert gives the heritage and exotic experiences the couple will ever have on their honeymoon trip. The splendid trip offers overnight stay at Bedouin camp with authentic and traditional desert retreat. Private wildlife journey will be served by professional guide. Couple will experience cultural activities such as henna, music, dance, bread and Arabic coffee making before enjoying a delightful dinner under the stars. The highlight is the Hot-Air Balloon riding, fly over the Dubai desert where couple can see the romantic sunrise and horizon line of beautiful morning. The colors sand below is glittering and touching which will last long in your memory.
NOW Travel Asia 35 september/october 2015
At.Mosphere DUBAI
Spectaculars Highest Place for Honeymoon Meal:
S
pend your honeymoon time at the world’s highest restaurant; At.Mosphere. The restaurant was perched 422 meters above the ground, on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa the world’s tallest building. At.Mosphere offers luxury dining and lounge experiences where couple can enjoy the finest romantic scenery of Downtown Dubai and Arabian Gulf. The special deluxe dining, the romantic senses of decoration along with the most beautiful view of Dubai city further make your honeymoon spectaculars and memorable.
36 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Veuve Clicquot Sunse Lounge HONGKONG Romantic Sunset Scenery of Hong Kong.
T
ake sunset memory with your lover at Veuve Clicquot Sunset lounge, Hong Kong. The exclusive sunset lounge placed on the 118th floor, Hong Kong’s tallest rooftop the Ritz-Carlton. The place offers the private cabanas where couple can chill and relax with scenic sunset and 180 degree panoramic view of
Hong Kong. The private cabanas package serves bottle of Veuve Clicquot Rich with two accompanying ingredients and extra payment for five selection tapas dishes. For all the reasons, couple can enjoy their private romance period towards sunset scenery of Hong Kong as a backdrop.
Jahn
KOH SAMUI Romantic Atmosphere under Candle Light Dinner Truly Sweetness Dining in Koh Samui
A
fter your long tried journey day, relax yourself at Jahn, The contemporary Thai cuisine restaurant in Koh Samui. The restaurant is the comfortably place with utmost luxury environment suitable for a date night. Couple can enjoy special Thai traditional dishes served by executive
chefs with the scenic of twilight sky and glittering ocean of Thailand Gulf. Candle-lit dinning under starry night with a hug of beautiful beach surrounding and ocean whispering is the perfect treatment for your honeymoon trip.
NOW Travel Asia 37 september/october 2015
suite
LUXURY
EASTERN MANGROVES HOTEL & SPA BY ANANTARA Royal Residence Sanctuary of love
B
eing the great royal residence of Abu Dhabi, The palatial Royal Mangroves Residence offers an elegance honeymoon trip unlike any other hotel accommodation in Abu Dhabi. There is unique experience walking hand in hand to experience the height of luxury in this apartment-style abode. After a long day, treat yourself to a dip in the private infinity pool or a drink at the private pool bar, followed by star gazing in the suite’s rooftop garden. Fitted with all the amenities necessary for a modern life, the Royal Mangroves Residence is a personal sanctuary for you and your special one.
38 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
InterContinental hua hin resort Paradise on tranquil beachfront
Immerse yourselves in the tender of love
A
pristine white sand beach stretching as far as the eye can see, embracing the tranquil Gulf of Thailand, greets you every moment of your honeymoon within the colonial-style charms of InterContinental Hua Hin Resort. A variety of well-appointed elegant rooms, suites and villas are provided for you led by La Residence, a two-story Thai-Victorian mansion set apart from the main resort; or take advantage of our exclusive enclave Club InterContinental for its discreet, personalised service. professional team will blend their expertise and local knowledge to create a truly memorable occasion.
Al jasra boutique Doha, Qatar
A
l Jasra’s 22 rooms and 4 designer suites are designed with the utmost opulence in mind. Whilst rooms offer distinctive style statements, each suite provides the same refined elegance with the extra luxury of additional abundant space. As well as premium amenities including, you also have access to a fully-equipped gymnasium and signature therapies at our treatment spa.
NOW Travel Asia 39 september/october 2015
Raffles Hotel Singapore
The beauty of history Surrounded by the charming of the past
T
he pair of Presidential Suites is the grandest romance offerings in the hotel. The Sarkies and Sir Stamford Raffles Suites are architecturally stunning. Each is bedecked with antiques and artworks throughout its parlour, dining room and two bedrooms. The Sarkies Suite, evoking the romance of history, is inspired by the early Colonial bungalows of the 1920s. Among the treasures found inside are a six by four metres carpet handwoven in Iran in the 1930s, Tiffany & Co Audubon silver flatware and matching china, and two early twentieth century Cantonese blackwood recliners. As the founder of modern Singapore, Sir Stamford Raffles is an apt person to name this suite after.From a French colonial table, to a coffee table from the early twentieth century finely inlaid with mother-of-pearl scenes, the Sir Stamford Raffles Suite represents the beautiful romance from the past.
Coco Prive Kuda Hithi Island Ocean Embrace Romantic Privacy
W
ith its open plan, free-flowing design coupled with a palette of natural earthy hues and sweeping views of the ocean, the master Palm Residence is distinctive in both design and decor. Overlooking the stunning private beach, comfortable sun loungers, enticing infinity pool and spacious sunken seating area allows the honeymooners to relax in the ocean embrace Step into the split-level villa and discover a home to create your best trip ever. On the second level, the master bedroom is large and peaceful. The bathroom features a vast sunken bath and both an outdoor and indoor shower. Palm Residence will surely be the one on your unforgettable list.
40 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
InterContinental Hong Kong
Dramatic scene for lovers World-Class experience
I
nterContinental Hong Kong is acclaimed as the one of the city’s most prestigious venues for high-end honeymoon and glamorous weddings. The hotel is recognized as one of the world’s top hotels, this Hong Kong hotel is renowned for its dramatic location on the Kowloon waterfront, with spectacular views of the island. Ideally located near Kowloon’s business, entertainment and shopping districts, the hotel boasts Asia’s most spectacular Presidential Suite and over 500 luxuriously appointed rooms, each with spacious bathrooms. Internationally acclaimed, award-winning restaurants pay testament to this Hong Kong hotel’s impeccable credentials.
NOW Travel Asia 41 september/october 2015
spa
WELLNESS
42 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Banyan Tree Lang Co Vietnam Seamless blend of romance Natural serenity
C
ome into the heart of Central Vietnam and revel in a spread of carefully cultivated treatments and therapies, delivered flawlessly by professionals. With remedies containing fresh, aromatic ingredients picked from the tropics such as prune, pandanus and butterfly peas, your senses will be reawakened under the gentle guiding touches of Banyan Tree Spa therapists. Allow your mind the freedom to find flight in imagination as your body rests in complete stillness under the welcoming pressure of gentle healing hands at our spa in Lang Co. Central Vietnam. There is also a truly escape from it all with unlimited spa treatment from crafted menu in a couple’s pavilion
NOW Travel Asia 43 september/october 2015
Quan Spa at The Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel Award Winning Spa Authentic Treatments
Q
uan Spa is unique to the Marriott brand, which is Renowned for its tranquility zones. The award-winning boutique spa offers a variety of massages, authentic treatments and spa packages. Relax after a day of long trip in Hongkong is going to be one of memorable thing to do for your honeymoon. Now, Quan Spa at Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel, located at the
city’s international gateway of Hong Kong International Airport provides locals with a haven of escape from the frenetic pace of urban life and visitors with the opportunity to recover from or prepare for, the effects of long distance travel. Quan’s core philosophy of health through water is now delivered with active organics to make Quan truly, your source of rejuvenation.
Oasis Spa
Majestic Romance Treatmants Meet Ultimate Thai Lanna Spa Experience
O
asis Spa treatments created by combining the best of ancient Thai traditional medicine and herbal secrets with advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness. Spas was designed with a distinctive Thai atmosphere which will be one of the ultimate experience during your honeymoon trip. Relax, recharge, and find healing therapies at Oasis Spa destination in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. Whether you choose a spa package or the amazing “Four Hand Massage,” the highly trained therapists will pamper you while coaxing your body into a state of serene tranquility, enhanced beauty, and vigorous health.
44 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Touching truly definition of the Thai Traditional Massage and discover a higher level of vitality and increased flexibility. It will make you feel majestic! This 2-hour Signature Massage takes your spa experience to the next level of release, relief and satisfaction by using an invigorating and unique combination of “EastMeets-West” massage techniques. The benefits of this massage include relaxation for honeymooners and relief from stiff muscles and muscular discomfort, improved sleep and the reduction of stress. from October 1st- December 31st ,2015 Oasis Spa is offering the best experience with special promotion of Oasis Signature Massage (2 hours, 3,900++THB) and get another one at a 50%OFF
Kempenski The Spa at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok An escape from the urgency Tranquil atmosphere
K
Kempinski The Spa has its own tranquil atmosphere, offering an escape from the urgency of life. Believing that Kempinski The Spa is a season for everything and that everyone is attuned to the rhythm of the seasons, Kempinski. The Spa provides natural treatments which aim to restore the harmony of nature, which can be broken by the modern urban lifestyle.
Kempinski The Spa’s philosophy lies in restoring the powerful effect of nature, either by adapting to the outside environment or by restoring inner balance. Kempinski The Spa uses the wisdom of plants, flowers and herbs in all its treatments.
Six Senses Spa at MGM Macau Contemporary Sanctuary Romantic Therapy
O
ffering the very best comforts combined with cutting edge wellness facilities and therapies, Six Senses Spa at MGM MACAU is a contemporary sanctuary. An extensive spa menu combines locally inspired therapies with Six Senses signature treatments, together with fitness and beauty. New Ayurveda Aromatherapy treatments are also
offered along with spa rituals which promise ultimate pampering. Six Senses Spa features eight treatment rooms, which are spread over two floors and divided up according to the five Chinese elements — water, fire, air, earth and metal. With Moroccan-inspired, artistic design (expect lots of mosaic and shimmering objets d’art), each area is created to fulfill your romantic trip.
ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa
Luxurious Treatments Beautiful Relaxation
E
ESPA represents a spectacular 10,000 square metre leisure environment conceived by ESPA’s award-winning team of creative visionaries, ESPA at Resorts World™ Sentosa is an oasis of tranquility. Finding wide range of luxurious treatment pavilions, private beach villa and garden spa suites are immaculately designed for total relaxation. Every encounter with ESPA brings with it a profound sense of pleasure and discovery. ESPA signature facilities include Singapore’s first authentic Turkish Hammam, Vitality Pools, Forest Onsen-style Pools, Rock Saunas, Crystal Steam rooms, and our spa café Tangerine. As Asia’s flagship ESPA, ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa is the perfect environment to indulge in naturally-based therapies combining the most effective traditional techniques and products sourced from around the world. For a sneak peek of the indulgence that awaits you and what you should not miss out on your honeymoon trip.
NOW Travel Asia 45 september/october 2015
Things To Know Before Your
WEDDING DAY Things To Know Before Your Wedding Day Wedding Blackout Dates
Guests Come First
If your wedding day is the same day with other local event or festival so that’s will effect to traffic and hotel room. Make sure to reserve your guest room early.
Check out the approximate number of guests you’ll invite before choose a venue. This will ensure there’s ample space for your crew also for the tables, bustling waiters, the band, and the dance floor.
Prepare the Emergency Number
In case of some emergency can be happen. Keep the paper with names and phone numbers of all your vendor and give copies to your crew.
Use The Credit Card
If you have to pay for something, sign up for a credit card with a rewards program is the better way than cash, whether it gives you airline miles or great shopping deals for your honeymoon.
Spare some money in case of emergency Keep some money as a spare for surprise expenses like umbrellas for a rainy day, additional tailoring needs or any unanticipated mistakes.
Provide Accurate Driving Directions
Make sure guests know the detination. Ask your reception sites for printout of accurate driving directions and test out the routes by yourself.
Classify Your Budget
Start your budget planning by making a list of the crucial details, then assign the number from most to least important things. Cut some unimportant things if you can, for example, choose simple invitations and smaller floral arrangements.
46 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Dress Shopping Tip Don’t go dress shopping on your own, bring someone honest with you when you really need to know which dress looks best.
NOW Travel Asia 47 september/october 2015
48 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 49 september/october 2015
50 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 51 september/october 2015
52 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 53 september/october 2015
54 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 55 september/october 2015
56 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 57 september/october 2015
58 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 59 september/october 2015
60 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 61 september/october 2015
62 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 63 september/october 2015
insider
Thailand
64 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Perfect
Wedding Place V VILLAS HUA HIN
A wedding must by perfect, and everything in it a wonderful haze of happiness, love and natural beauty. So where better than to tie the knot on the warm sandy beach of Hua Hin while staying at V-Villas. From photoshoots to alfresco receptions, pre-wedding packages to post-wedding parties, each step is hand tailored by wedding professionals that ensure your special day is the most memorable experience for you, your family and your friends. Given it’s the most important day of your life, you must of course enjoy the full VIP experience. Take haste to the Presidential Beachfront Pool Villa Suite, a personal two-storey villa with rain showers, a twin Jacuzzi and open-plan kitchen. Enjoy the perks such as your own personal complimentary iPad2, a well-stocked wine cellar and even a private swimming pool. Enjoy so you time at a personal candlelit dinner with your very own butler, served in the privacy of your villa, on the pool deck or on the beachfront. Sign off the best day of your life with one of the best spa treatments of your life, tailor made by professional therapists on site every day.
NOW Travel Asia 65 september/october 2015
Relax in atmosphere
of luxurious and mordern
ROYAL CLIFF GRAND HOTEL PATTAYA At the Royal Cliff Grand Hotel, the ultimate honeymoon with its exceptional services and timeless hospitality awaits. Royal Cliff Hotels Group features many luxurious building and their elegant atmosphere. Spending time in the embrace of sea breeze, the unforgettable ocean scene is displayed along your path through the restaurant, swimming pool, and your room. The optimum
experience for any honeymooners is Grand Sea View Plus rooms where you can adore the breath-taking view on your balcony and see the legible pool at the same time. This type also offers a unique accommodation with a revitalized design, luxurious bathrooms and an innovative room control system that manages lighting, room temperature and ultra modern motorize blinds!
Royal Cliff Grand Hotel - Grand Sea View Plus
Tip
The newly designed two-level infinity edge pool featuring a heated pool offers breathtaing views of the Gulf of Thailand. With an eye-catching free-form design with natural stones, waterfalls and pool lighting, holiday makers are in for an enchanting visual treat in this panoramic vista setting!
66 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Grand Infinity Pool
NOW Travel Asia 67 september/october 2015
A Honeymoon
Location You Won’t Want To Leave NEW STAR RESORT KOH SAMUI
Feel the warm waters lap at your feet and enjoy that sunbaked warmth of beautiful sand between your toes at the New Star beach resort on Koh Samui. Situated on the peaceful Chaweng Noi Beach, it is the perfect hideaway for couples, newlyweds and lifelong partners alike. For those couples just starting out on their journey, why not take in the beauty of the island by getting married under a canopy of white orchids. Stay in their most elegant rooms such as the Beachfront villa or the Ocean pool villa, both offering king size beds, evening turn-down services, aromatherapy oil burners and private sun beds. The views are,
68 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
of course, second to none. Take a trip to the Akiira Spa, which reflects the local natural beauty in their precise and elegant massage packages. Private dining areas in secluded areas on the beach are also avaliable for those wanting to relish in their partner’s company, or a space ideal for those thinking of asking the question every woman wants to hear.
NOW Travel Asia 69 september/october 2015
Majestic Romance Treatmants
Meet Ultimate Thai Lanna Spa Experience OASIS SPA Oasis Spa treatments created by combining the best of ancient Thai traditional medicine and herbal secrets with advanced discoveries in beauty and wellness. Spas was designed with a distinctive Thai atmosphere which will be one of the ultimate experience during your honeymoon trip. Relax, recharge, and find healing therapies at Oasis Spa destination in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya. Whether you choose a spa package or the amazing “Four Hand Massage,” the highly trained therapists will pamper you while coaxing your body into a state of serene tranquility, enhanced beauty, and vigorous health. Touching truly definition of the Thai Traditional Massage and discover a
70 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
higher level of vitality and increased flexibility. It will make you feel majestic! This 2-hour Signature Massage takes your spa experience to the next level of release, relief and satisfaction by using an invigorating and unique combination of “EastMeets-West” massage techniques. The benefits of this massage include relaxation for honeymooners and relief from stiff muscles and muscular discomfort, improved sleep and the reduction of stress. from October 1st- December 31st ,2015 Oasis Spa is offering the best experience with special promotion of Oasis Signature Massage (2 hours, 3,900++THB) and get another one at a 50%OFF
Finding Adventure
& Romance
CHIANG MAI NIGHT SAFARI Create your memorable moment amidst pristine nature and peaceful romantic atmosphere. Chiangmai Night Safari combines the beauty of nature with creative imagination to create a unique experience that is sure to please all ages. The park is not just the place to learn about wild animals, but its 131 hectares of lush landscape hides some of the best spots that naturally evoke romance, including the dazzling laser-water performance of the most beautiful
musical fountain & water screen in Southeast Asia. In addition to serene atmosphere and amazing backdrops, Chiangmai Night Safari has impressive facilities to host a stunning wedding outdoor on the lakeside or indoor in a spacious ballroom. Chiangmai Night Safari Resort also features safari style guestrooms where you can spend quality time closer to nature, yet so close to the city.
NOW Travel Asia 71 september/october 2015
Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi
PHUKET Luxury and exclusivity awaits at Impiana Private Villas, Kata Noi. This boutique villa resort is nestled above the picturesque bay of Kata Noi Perfectly located enjoying Phuket’s wonderful sunsets. With just 4 luxuriously appointed villas and 7 tastefully designed suites come with private pools and breath taking view of the Andaman sea, our private villas gives you the feeling of calm and timelessness.
72 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 73 september/october 2015
Seaside Paradise PUTAHRACSA HUA HIN
LOCATED ON NAEB KAEHAT ROAD IN HUA HIN’S RESIDENTIAL AREA, PUTHARACSA HUA HIN COMBINES THE CHARMS OF A SMALL RESORT TOWN WITH A BEACH HIDEAWAY.
T
he contemporary boutique retreat is split into 2 zones, the resort side and Oceanside, by a residential road. Though the resort side’s stylish 2 storey retro motel concept is perfect for a casual getaway, Oceanside is a beachfront paradise for a memorable romantic escape. Private pool, checked! Alfresco Jacuzzi, checked! Luxury amenities, checked! The luxurious Oceanbed Pool Villa and La Canna Pool Villa have everything you need for an ultimate getaway vacation, including a mini wine cellar, personalized butler service, and of course, picture perfect sea views!
Putahracsa Hua Hin Address: 22/65 Nahb Kaehat Rd. Hua Hin, Prachaub, Kirikhan 77110 Tel: +66 (0)32 531-470 Website: www.putahracsa.com
74 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Lavish life SPRINGFIELD @SEA RESORT & SPA
FIND YOURSELF IN A LAID-BACK SURROUNDING AMIDST LUSH GARDEN AND SWEEPING SEA VIEWS.
S
pringfield@Sea Resort & Spa is a stylish tropical resort located on Cha-Am beach, just 15 minutes to the famous resort town of Hua Hin. The architecture evokes a harmonious blend of luxurious living and nature with soothing gardens and shimmering rain curtain. If quiet, peaceful, and intimate honeymoon is what you seek, the lavish Royal Suite provides an outdoor Jacuzzi on your very own private veranda for lovers to cuddle and relax while gazing the endless emerald sea and far-reaching horizon. Equally spectacular, Profusion Restaurant also features panoramic views of the ocean and beach while serving an exotic medley of delightful fusion dishes. Springfield@Sea Resort & Spa Cha-Am - Hua Hin/Address : 858 Jumnong Poomivej Rd., Cha-Am, Petchburi 76120 Tel : +66 (0)3270 9300 Website: www.springfieldresort.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/springfieldgroupresort
NOW Travel Asia 75 september/october 2015
76 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Picture The Romance
of your dream on a white sand beach in a tropical paradise SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT
LOCATED IN ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL TROPICAL BEACH DESTINATIONS, SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA IS A PICTUREPERFECT SETTING FOR A TRULY MAGICAL WEDDING AND HONEYMOON. OUR DEDICATED INSPIRED WEDDINGS PLANNER WILL CREATE AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE FOR YOU, YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR FRIENDS.
and the largest free form swimming pool in Thailand, all enhanced by our signature Leisure Butler service. Whether you wish for an intimate ceremony with friends on the beach, a spectacular wedding banquet, and a romantic honeymoon, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa will make your dreams come true. Just say “I do” and leave the rest to us. Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Address: 200 Moo 3 T.Nongtalay A.Muang Krabi, Thailand Tel: +66(0)75 627 800 Website: www.sofitel.com/6184
C
hoose a Western or Buddhist wedding ceremony on the beach, and enjoy your joyous celebration in our impressive Grand Ballroom or elegant marquee. At our luxurious resort, every moment of your stay will be a magnifique experience with classically styled rooms and suites, gourmet cuisine, a renowned spa,
NOW Travel Asia 77 september/october 2015
Fine Dining in an
Ancient Thai Home
SIAM WISDOM B A N G K O K Treat yourself to an impressive dining experience surrounded by the charm of traditional Thai home in the heart of Bangkok (Soi Sukhumvit 31). Taste the authenticity of Thai fine dining cuisine of Siam Wisdom, serving exotic traditional Thai dishes alongside contemporary Thai menus. Siam Wisdom showcases beautiful presentation, taste, and ingredients that truly highlight the authentic flavour of traditional Thai cuisine. All ingredients are meticulously selected from the best producers in Thailand before combining them with advanced cooking technique, both traditional and modern. The result is not only exquisite appetizers,
main courses, and desserts, but beautifully presented ones that can be paired with high-end wines from across the globe as well. The elegant atmosphere of traditional Thai home with a strong teak décor accent of Siam Wisdom makes the setting much more than just a fine restaurant. The restaurant is one of the best locations for mag-ical Thai weddings, whether it’d be an engagement ceremony, lustral water pouring ceremony, and wedding celebration! Since it’s a restaurant, just choose how food will be served and just let Siam Wisdom’s profes-sional team take care of the rest!
Tip
Decorated in a mix of Thai and Western style, the 1st floor can be arranged into your private party zone. 78 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 79 september/october 2015
EXPLORATION OF ASIA
K a s h m i r Paradise on Earth in the Hug of Himalayas
80 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
When someone talked about Himalayas, “Nepal” was always the place that got into my mind even I never had a chance to be there. Thus, if I wanted to visit this great mountain range, Nepal would definitely be my destination. Nevertheless, everything has changed after I visited “Kashmir” in India! NOW Travel Asia 81 september/october 2015
J
ammu and Kashmir is a state located in Himalayan ranges in northern India close to Pakistan. The state consists of three regions: the Kashmir Valley, Jammu and Ladakh. The capital of Kashmir is called “Srinagar”. During British Colonial Period, the British had built their residence in Dal Lake called “Houseboat”. The houseboats were created beautifully with carving artwork made of cedar woods. After India Independence, the Kashmir houseboats were owned by Indian millionaires who changed houseboats to villa for their vacation. Then the D-Day arrival, I flew from Bangkok to the capital of India: Delhi where I stayed overnight for a flight to Srinagar next morning. The reason is Indian Airlines has operated a flight to Srinagar one time in day. Luckily, my trip was in a spring season so there was no worry and surprising of flight delayed or canceled because of snow storm and so on. After I finally sat in the cabin, I intended to awake myself all the time of this flying trip. The trip was
82 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
claimed to be one of the most beautiful flying route in this world which you can see Himalayan ranges from the bird-eye view! So, I spent almost one hour of my flight to observe the outside view which was quite hurt my neck. Suddenly, I saw various white peaks that complex line in groups. That’s Himalayas! Incredible gorgeous! Especially, this sky view made me closer to Himalayan ranges. When the flight landed at Srinagar airport, I discovered that all men and women in Kashmir town are good looking. They have got light beautiful skins and their faces are piercing. This is different from the Indian who own “Rotee” shop in my hometown (I was realized after that they are Middle Eastern Muslims who are descent from Aryan). The weather was quite cold in Srinagar that made my tropical person’s lip shook. The temperature ranges around 1.9-7.3 ºC in winter and is not over than 29.5 ºC in summer. This cool weather enables the city to be the vacation place all year round including with its beautiful scenery.
After luggage reclaim, I went out to touch the fresh air, the outside was crazy cold. The weather in Delhi and Srinagar was totally different, from 32 ºC to 12 ºC. It was unbelievable that they were in the same country. Even I was there in spring period, the temperature was also 6-23 ºC. I tightened my clothes warmer then walk quickly, escaped the coldness to the car that waited to pick me up to the houseboat where I had to spend my 4 nights after this. Jeep 5-seat is common transportation in Kashmir. It took 30-45 minutes from airport to the houseboat because the road is not as good as ours. Only 2 minutes in the car, I heard many thunderous sound of horn from various vehicles. People only honk their horns whether they want to overtake, turn-left, turn-right and reverse, nobody uses their indicators! Just a few minutes of our sightseeing in the car, we finally arrived to “Houseboat”. Oh! I was impressed by their external decoration. The outside was fully planted with various kinds of flowers such as pinkish cheery flowers, red and yellow flowers and orange tulips. Guide treated us a welcome drink: Kashmiri Tea. Kashmiri Tea was tasty with its milky taste. It was a good combination when served with dessert similar to kà-nom bâa bìn (Thai coconut macaroon).
NOW Travel Asia 83 september/october 2015
84 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
After a delightful tea time, we were led to our bedroom. I was told by guide that the houseboats in Dal lake have been here for hundred years but still strong because the boats were renovated all the time. Every houseboats have their own name and I stayed on a boat called “Pearl of Kashmir”. The houseboat is as beautiful as its name, there is 3-4 bedrooms with a dining room, living room with fireplace for cold nights, and balcony. Also, there’s deck to see the top view outside. Floors were covered with carpets and rooms were decorated with white curtains with embroidery pattern. Besides, every rooms have their own bathroom and toilet. There’s a perspective of snowy Himalayan range from the balcony this made me day dreamed. The water in Dal lake was clear likes mirror. Various birds flew independent over the sky. While after, guide told me that we were going to have a Shikara cruise. Shikara is a 4 seat boat. It is a rowing boat with a sharpened front and roof. Boat is decorated beautifully with color clothes. There’s comfortable sofa seat which I could feel like a great queen. Besides the beautiful view of Dal lake, we visited the Floating Garden. It was awesome to see the garden where the villager planted their seeds such as mustards, tomatoes and cucumbers. Along the way back to our houseboat, there were many villagers rowed the boat to sell sweets, breads, jewelries and their handicrafts. It was comfortably to sell and buy in this rowing boat. After arrival to the houseboat, I took a shower with warm water then had a dinner. Our dinner was a hot vegetable soup with a little spicy taste. Also there were Indian basmati rice served with sautéed spinach, fried chicken with spices and salad. When I finished dinner, I quickly headed to my bed suddenly closed my eye with an intention to wake up early for sun rise in the morning.
Pashmina is the popular souvenir that every traveler buy when arrive Kashmir, there are 3 types of Pashmina: Himroo—Himroo fabric is made of both cotton and silk in the Deccan region of India Shahmina— Type of shawl made in Kashmir from Pashmina with a fiber diameter of 13 micrometres or less Shahtoosh— A fine type of shawl, now illegal, handwoven in Kashmir using the down hair of the endangered Tibetan antelope
NOW Travel Asia 85 september/october 2015
At Gulmarg has cable station call “Gondola� (800 meter long). Recommend start from below to the top on Gulmarg mountain, during the way you will see the beautiful natural like paradise and have fun with ski and sled at the most beautiful ski area in Kashmir. 86 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
I woke up with freshness in this morning. This day, guide took us to Pahalgam which means “shepherds valley”. Actually, there are many attractive places in Kashmir. However there are 3 popular places including Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Gulmarg. Pahalgam is located 2,440 meters above the sea level. It is located 95 km far from Srinagar. On the way to Pahalgam, there were yellow fields of mustard flowers and militaries who held a gun in their arm stranded along to the view of yellow fields. This is because Kashmir is the border close to Pakistan. However they are welcoming to the tourists.
We stopped for a lunch time picnic nearby natural small river. After that, we rode pony to observe the sightseeing of flowers meadows, streams, valleys and local villages. The local people are very nice, smiley and friendly. They dressed with the similar costumes which are long gabardines with a big belly both men and women. I asked the guide for my question of this pregnant-liked costume. Guide told that the costume calls “Phiran” a Kashmir style winter costume which made from wool and the big-belly-liked is pot fill with fire and ashes this can warm your body from cold weather.
NOW Travel Asia 87 september/october 2015
The weather in second morning was clearer than yesterday. Guide led us to Sonamarg where is difficult to visit if there is a bad weather. Sonamarg means “Meadow of Gold” is located 2,730 meters above the sea level and 87 km away from Srinagar. Along the way, there were yellow fields of mustard flowers with the perspective view of Himalayas. The color of the sky contrasted to the yellow mustard fields. I visited the natural Trout Farming, the farm is supported by the government and to be conserved for men who love natural fishing. Finally, we arrived to Sonamarg. In this place there are two choices for natural sightseeing: walking and pony riding. I chose
88 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
walking that I could slowly took a picture of the views. Today, Sonamarg still covered with numerous snows. There’s mountain on the left side and Indus River on the right. I enjoyed picking up and throwing some snow balls. Guide told us that we could play toboggan in this area. I saw two guys shaking their hand to me. They took me to the 45 degree slope. It was high enough for me to get excited. I slide from the slope, it was incredible funny. So, I decided to take it one more that cost about 100 rupees. Besides, Sonamarg is the beginning of the way to Ladakh: a little Tibet, the important route calls “The Gate to Himalayas”.
Third morning, we headed to Gulmarg the popular place for ski and toboggan in winter. The ski price is very cheap compares to other countries. In summer the place is changed to 18 holes - golf course which is the highest golf course in this world! Also, there are many restaurants, hotels, clubhouses and The St. Mary Church that was built by British Colonial. I didn’t hesitate to try “Gondola” to observe the top view of this mountain. On the way up to the mountain, we could see the roofs of gypsy village. In winter the gypsy immigrate to the below valley then come back to their village in summer. The top view was very
incredible wonderful. Everywhere was white and snowy that I could clearly see Himalayan ranges. Many people enjoyed playing ski and toboggan but an Indian girl was caught to my eye. She wore a bright-yellow sari! If there’s a country where a girl wear sari to ski, it will be India! The last day that I had to leave Kashmir, my heart felt a little sorrow because I still want to spend more time here. This place is the unbelievable wonderful city that why they called: Kashmir the most romantic city in India! Good Bye. See you next time Kashmir!
TRAVELER’S GUIDE Getting there
Indian Airline operates a flight from BKK to Delhi where you can connect the domestic flight to Srinagar by the same airline. There is also a flight from BKK to Delhi by Thai Airways then you can connect the domestic flight to Srinagar by different airlines such as Indian Airline (Tel: 0-2231-0555-9) and Air Sahara (visit www.airsahara.net).
When to go
Kashmir is a place suitable for visiting all year round with its various scenic in different season. For flowers lovers, spring is your recommendation (March to June). In autumn, all leaves in town will change their color (October to Mid-November) and If you want to visit the Switzerland of Asia, winter is recommended.
Overnight
Stay overnight in Houseboats beside Dal Lake: contact “Hill tour” (www.hilltour. com)
Cuisine
“Rice” is Kashmiri main dish eat with lamp, chicken and fish cooked with spices such as cinnamon and cardamom. There is also a popular dish likes sautéed vegetables with mustard oil such as carrot, tomato, spinach, lotus root and turnip.
Souvenirs
Paper Mache, Pashmina Shawl, Persian Carpet and Kashmiri Embroidery Cloth.
More info
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism; visit www.jktourism.org
NOW Travel Asia 89 september/october 2015
dining in style
Hong Kong is a destination in lists of most travelers around the world unless the beautiful natural and shopping malls, Hong Kong also famous in food that has individual and own style. Prepare for holiday and go to place that fulfill your energy with 5 luxury restaurant in Hong Kong.
90 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Tate Dining Room and Bar Chef Vicky Lau prouds to present food as a playful journey of discovery under internationally recognized rules of cuisine. She inspried creating manu from the freedom to explore her world through her cooking and she call it culinary expressionism. Tate Dining Room and bar was establish on July 17, 2012, serving an eclectic mix of French and Asia cuisine. Decorate by the softly lit white and cream décor makes the space, which seats around only 26 dinners because she wants customer to feel like they are entering a person's home. Moreover, the tate dining room and bar got the reward “Michelin 1 Starred Restaurant (2015)” and chef Vicky Lau got has been crowned Veuve Clicquot's Asia's Best Female Chef 2015 by the same committee which selects Asia's 50 Best Restaurants as well.
NOW Travel Asia 91 september/october 2015
92 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Stazione Novella A neighbourhood bar that pays homage to the simple italian boltholes around the train station in florence. Located on the bustling corner of Soho's station and Aberdeen streets. Stazione Novella is inspired by the fiaschetterias of Florence, Italy, and serves up paninis, bruschetta, salumi and cheeses. The all-Italian wine list definitely sounds appealing, as does the refreshing ‘Sgroppino al Limone‘, an icy lemon sorbet and prosecco cocktail. Open from breakfast until bed, Stazione Novella is a venue to be visited at any time of day.
The offical meaning of a “cocktail” is an iced drink of wine or distilled liquor mixed with flavoring ingredients.” That’s a pretty broad definition, but reflects the modern practice of referring to almost any mixed drink as a cocktail.
NOW Travel Asia 93 september/october 2015
Scarlett Cafe & Wine carlett Wine Bar & Restaurant is open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner offering freshly baked items in the morning, and a food selection of Daily specials, rotisserie items, salads, etc. Decor is design and trendy with a mix of high and low seatings, main bar and wine cellar spread on 2 floors. The bar is located on the ground floor while a comfortable dining set up is on the 1st floor. In the evening, the atmosphere changes to be one of a wine bar, with its great wine cellar display and an offer of 8 references of wines by the glass to be changed weekly. Another highlight manu is Pike Fish Dumpling that created by executive chef Emmanuel Xu Zhao.
94 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
NOW Travel Asia 95 september/october 2015
Boqueria Tapas Bar and Restaurant
96 NOW Travel Asia september/october 2015
Brings spain’s vibrant and convivial dining culture to Hong Kong’s bustling Lan Kwai Fong. The manu is inspired by El Mercat De La Boqueria and the best tapas bars in Barcelona, and includes a large selection of classic tapas and signature dishes meant for sharing, along with a market manu
that changes regularly. The flagship Boqueria opened in New York city’s flatiron district in 2006, and has since expanded to New York city’s Famed Soho and upper east side neighbourhood, Washington D.C. and Central Hong Kong
NOW Travel Asia 97 september/october 2015
PEOPLE IN BUSINESS OF CHINA
夏彬彬 先生
亚洲旅游中国区 副总裁 泰中旅游酒店友好协会 秘书长 国际饭店业职业经理人协会 副秘书长
Mr. Jack Xia
Vice President Grand China of Now Travel Asia Group Secretary General of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association Vice Secretary General of International Hotel Professional Manager Association
J
ack Xia is no stranger in the world of hospitality. His 17 years of experience has earned him the prestigious position as the Secretary General of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association and Vice President Grand China of NOW Travel Asia.Both of his positions drive his devotion to build the collaboration and communication between Thailand and China’s tour,hotel,culture and trade industries through variety of means, including international events and media. In cooperation with NOW Travel Asia Thailand, Jack’s team organized a successful Now Travel Asia Thailand Luxury Hotel’s China Road show 2015 which show cased leading luxury hotels in Thailand and provided a great opportunity for them to build a connection with powerful players in China travel industry, including Pudong Tourism Association, Meadin.com, Ctrip, Pinchain, Tao on the road, LY.com,Maidou.com and Huantaoyou.com,etc. With the close collaboration with Meadin.com, he was appointed as Vice Secretary General of International Hotel Professional Manager Association(IHMA)which is an acknowledged International Hotel General Managers communication platform. Meanwhile, he is a outstanding general manager in charge of an International largescale hotel.He is commit to make great efforts on the Thailand-China Tour & Hotel industry business with his outstanding leadership not only by his extensive China general managers connection resources, but also by varieties of China hospitality industry partners.
He devote himself to develop the Tour & Hotel Industry business and firm friendship between Thailand and China, also strive to achieve his goal with highest standard of excellent. He seems like an ambassador in industry for the friendship between Thailand and China. EDITOR’S VIEW NOW Travel Asia Grand China team commit to promote booming development on Tour and Hotel, culture, trade , sport fashion and luxury industry firmly spare no effort in China Market Business.
PEOPLE IN BUSINESS OF CHINA
袁学娅 女士 上海星硕酒店管理咨询有限公司 首席咨询官
Ms. Anne Yuan
Chief Consulting Officer of Intergration Hotel Management Consultants Cooperation
A
nne Yuan, the founder creator for coaching technology of hotel management
service in China has been in hospitality industry over 30 years, she is the first generation to obtained the professional education of hotel management in end of 1970’s. Then she has luckily gone through the interview of first international hotel brand in Shangshi as the hotel executive from tourism bureau officer in the middle of 1980’s. In 1990, she has been selected by the international hotel management headquarter again base on her financial education background, been gone through a financial management training in oversea and in year of 1992, Anne became the first Chinese been appointed as hotel financial management training in overseas. Two years later Anne became the first Chinese been appoint as hotel finance controller for international brand. From 1997’s to 2009’s, the industry been changed a lot, and Anne integrated western management concept and china market situation, been as finance director for CCA international China, and director of operation planning for Intercontinental group China, business development director for Barceló international Asia, and executive director of research & development for Las Vegas Sand Macao project. The international management concept and combined local market experience for many years, Anne decided to create a new module for the industry by using the coaching technoligy to provide the hotel management consulting plus training service. The professional consulting is gone the through data review and profit improvement points introduction and training for result achievement so, Anne has been a professional trainer to provided training for hotel management for over 20 years, and she also as the visiting professor for MTA class for three universities. She been published four books and been as professional column writer for China Tourism News, Reader & Review, the Hospitality Industry, Hotel Resource, Professional Executive,”learning for change”, that is what Anne said.
Dr. Anne has been a professional trainer to provided training for international hotel management and tourism industry for over 20 years, and as Chief Consulting Officer of NTA as well. She has published four books and been as professional column writer for China Tourism News, commit to use the coaching technoligy to provide the hotel management consulting plus training service. EDITOR’S VIEW Ms. Anne Yuan is more valued person in hospitality industry, she created the unique module plus professional service, the most of learning style hotel obtain the service improvement and profit achievement result.
PEOPLE IN BUSINESS OF CHINA
华德明 先生
柏栎酒店管理集团 中华区首席执行官 亚太旅游联合会 常务副会长 泰中旅游酒店友好协会 中国区副会长（西南）
Mr. Harry Hua
Chief Executive Officer of Paxton Vacances Hotel Management Group Executive Vice President of Asia Pacific Tourism Organization Vice Chairman in Grand China of Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association
P
axton Vacances Resorts & Hotels was founded in France. The word “Paxton” is derived from Latin archaism, in which “Pax” means “Harmony”, “ton” means “Measurement”, and the word means E-House in old English; and Vacances means Vacation in French. Paxton Hotel Management Group has been aiming to be the “Leading Hotel Management Group” within China since its first flagship hotel opened in 2010. Paxton’s hotels are located in exciting cities, and exotic tour destinations, and it has four different subsidiary brands—PaxtonPark Hotel for business customers, Paxton Vacances Hotels and Resorts for leisure customers, Suiton by Paxton for savvy travelers, and Issra by Paxton for celebrities. Personal Awards 2013 Hotel Fashion Figure 2013 Best General Manager in China Hotel Industry 2013 Best Hotel Top Star 2014 President of Asia Pacific Hotel Construction League 2014 Honorable Member of French Hotel and F&B Association As an excellent leader in charge of Paxton, Harry will strive to achieve the highest standard of excellence and to create an impeccable experience for his Paxton’s guests while ensuring financial return for Paxton’s partners.
EDITOR’S VIEW “Harry’s vision can leading International Hotel and Hospitality Management Group in which professionalism, service and commitment to excellance is the highest priority”
【泰中旅游酒店友好协会】2015泰国行业考察圆满落幕
Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association Tour 2015 Following the success of Now Travel Asia Thailand Luxury Hotel’s China Roadshow 2015 and the celebration of 40th anniversary of China and Thailand diplomatic relationship, Thailand-China Tour & Hotel Industry Communication Association representatives, including Mr.Raky Zang Wei, Vice Chairman in East China of the association and General Manager of Ramada Plaza Wuxi, Mr.Harry Hua De Ming, Vice Chairman in Southwest China of the association and CEO of Paxton Vacances Hotel Management Group, Ms. Jojo Jin Hai Qiong, Vice Chairman Unit of the association and Vice President of Huantaoyou. com, and Mr.Jack Xia,Secretary General of the association and Vice President Grand China of Now
Travel Asia, had a successful visit to Bangkok, Hua Hin, Chiangmai and Phuket in order to promote friendship and collaboration of the hospitality industry. The association received a warm welcome in Bangkok by Mr. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, Executive Director-Advertising and Public Relations Department of Tourism Authority of Thailand in the conference to promote seamless operations between China and Thailand hospitality industry. Representatives also had a great opportunity to observe luxury hotels and resorts, tourism attractions, and restaurants in order to build a stronger relationship and collaboration.
花间奇缘 气韵生动 花间堂酒店及度假村
BEAUTY ON EARTH AT BLOSSOM HILL HOTELS & RESORTS
B
lossom Hill Hotels & Resorts, which was born in Lijiang in Yunnan province in 2009, perfectly integrated the service concept of high-end boutique hotel into the local residence, folk custom and other cultural characteristics by which it pioneered in creating the cultural and boutique resort hotels and gradually has expanded into Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts. Nowadays, Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts has developed a chain-operating model with hotels opened in Lijiang, Shuhe, Shangri-La, Zhouzhuang, Suzhou, Hangzhou and Langzhong and new hotels to be opened in Wuxi, Tongli, Nanxun. Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts drive Chinese culture, hoping to show the beauty of Chinese culture that illustrates the times and manifests the vivid charm to the world by conveying the Chinese style philosophy of happiness. Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts is the perfect place to share special moments with your loved ones and to create memories while touring the stunning backdrop of China. In a setting of unparalleled beauty, Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts
has always been offering guests a peaceful resting place for body and soul. Not only can experience the comfort and privacy as offered by a starred hotel, besides, Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts uniquely immerses you in China’s cultural atmosphere. Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts care about the quality and authenticity of guests experience and meticulously integrated cultural elements particular to each Blossom Hill locale into a multitude of our dazzling facilities, which include a library, a restaurant that serves western cuisine, a mini conference room, a tea house, a wine bar, a recreation room, and an exclusive SPA for the ladies equipped with yoga facilities. Any lingering fatigue from your travels will be gone, replaced by a refreshing feeling of leisure. So relax comfortably, as our attentive steward service ensures you a peaceful and pleasurable stay. Come experience the full grandeur and richness of China like you’ve never before. At Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts, it’s your own land of Utopia on Earth. Being drift between heaven and earth “Blossom Hill Hotels & Resorts” the ideal land on Earth.
www.blossomhillinn.com
历久弥新
海上传奇 上海外滩华尔道夫酒店
Waldorf astoria shanghai on the Bund
L
ocated in the heart of the Bund, a well known and much celebrated boulevard that runs alongside the glistening Huangpu River, sits the glamorous Waldorf Astoria Shanghai. A hotel with impeccable standards and managed by Hilton Worldwide, visitors are invited to take their pick of some of the most luxurious suites in the city, such as the Club Suites that boast vibrant decor, stunning views and a one-and-only Luxury River Suite fitted with a four poster bed, heated flooring, marble bathroom and even a dining room. Yet for those looking for an authentic Shanghai experience, take rest in one of the Tower Suites, with 180-degree views of the river and the city skyline. The Waldorf Astoria would not be complete without its one and only Presidential Suite - the epitome of luxury and elegance, with two living rooms and a full service kitchen. Choose from three restaurants at the Waldorf Astoria, offering tastes from across the globe, with Chinese and French speciality chefs attaining to leave your palate amazed. Finish
it all off with a visit to their top quality spa with a highly qualified team of therapists, guaranteed to bring any guest who graces the spa with a feeling of rejuvenation and sheer relaxation with every visit. To experience life is to experience Waldorf Astoria Shanghai on the Bund.
www.waldorfastoriashanghai.com
CITY UPDATE
Taipei
A Joyful Trip “ Life is journey!”
Every trip we take creates memories we can look back to and we get to learn new lifestyle, culture, and tradition of each of our destination every time we travel.
T
his edition of NOW Travel Asia will take you to a charming city not so far from Thailand, yet full of interesting stories to tell. Taiwan, or what the Portuguese used to call “Formosa”, is known for its natural beauty, and within the island is a charismatic city and the capital city of Taiwan – Taipei. Since the city is easily accessible via air travel, Taipei welcomes millions of travelers each year. Direct flights are available from Bangkok, and major cities in Asia, to one of the two international airports in Taipei – Taoyuan International Airport and Songshan International Airport. Personally, I prefer Taoyuan International Airport because it’s closer to commercial districts where 5 star hotels, large shopping malls, and stylish restaurants are.
Where to See Taipei 101 is not the only landmark attraction of the city. Travelers come from around Asia to worship Buddhist and Chinese deities at the oldest temple in Taiwan, Longshan Temple. Despite modern technology seamlessly blend into Taiwanese lifestyle, Hsing Tian Kong Temple reflects the spiritual beliefs of the local through traditional evil banishing ceremonies performed at
the temple. Any trip would be more fun if you know some background of the city. A half day visit to National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Formosa Museum and The nearby Gugong Museum will strengthen your knowledge on the history of Taiwan, as well as its culture, art, and 11 native tribes on the island.
Buy a mobile phone sim card with affordable internet package at the airport as it’ll be harder to find in the city.
Where to Stay If you are not sure where to stay, Caesar Park Taipei is a luxury recommendation that comes equipped with world-class services, well-appointed rooms, and stateof-art facilities guaranteed by overwhelmingly positive independent reviews. The hotel is located in the famous Zhongzheng district, just 5 minutes to Taipei Futai Street Mansion, National Taiwan Museum and Shin Kong Life Tower, making it a great home base to explore Taipei. The rooms and suites are designed to be a home away from home with cozy modern décor and a complete list of amenities for a comfortable stay, including large LED TV,
wireless internet, and a coffee machine. Downstairs, Checker and Dynasty restaurants serve variety of international and Chinese cuisines that easily satisfy any foodie. Taipei was once home of the tallest building in the world before Burj Khalifa took the crowd away from Taipei 101. The majestic Taipei 101 houses a high-end shopping mall, company offices, restaurants, and the highest scenic point in the city where some of the most spectacular bird-eye sceneries are captured, and if you stay in a connecting hotel you can swiftly make your way to Taipei 101 via connecting bridges.
Where to Eat If food is your interest, make sure you visit Taipei fish Market, the largest fish and fresh food market in Taipei. The market is zoned into 10 sections where you can basically find anything from fresh meat, vegetables, fruits to local delicacies.
Another recommended restaurant which is grantee by Michelin star award “Yen Chinese Restaurant” located on 13th floor of W hotel. Serving modern Chinese foods but still keep original flavor and fresh material. Luxury decorate by using purple color and has private zone for couple as well, if look around can see the view around of Taipei. The signature’s dish that should not miss is Deep Fried Rice Puff in Superior Braised Lobster .
Spring (March to April) is the best season to visit Taiwan. Temperature during the day stays at a comfortable 19-20 oC.
Another popular attraction in Taipei is the Shilin Night Market. The biggest night market in Taipei is a great place to discover local food and shops. Just take the red subway route to Jiantan station and the market is just 300 meters away from exit 1.