NOW Travel Asia Magazine Issue 39 Jul-Aug 2016 by NOW Travel Asia Magazine

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In This Issue July - August 2016 Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time we bring you an issue dedicated entirely on Wedding & Honeymoon Destinations in Asia! This edition is carefully curated with inspiring ideas to help you plan the perfect wedding, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on the other side of the earth or a little closer to home. In this issue, we explore the far-lung paradises in China, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore and Maldives with the most exotic locations in each country, as well as the best honeymoon spots closer to home, including Phuket, Samui, Krabi and Hua Hin. We also share with you the most special trips, diamond bridal accessories, top wedding dress designers and wedding favours ideas for your special day.

V Villas Hua Hin

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CONTENTS JULY / AUGUST 2016

SHOW

TIME

Update news and event around Asia, special promotion and some new products is waiting for you.

22 STORY COVER

Wedding&honeymoon destinations around Asia and Thailand with special tips in wedding ceremony.

51 INSIDER THAILAND

A romance wedding and honeymoon destinations in Thailand including Krabi, Hua Hin, Phuket and Samui and the quiet paradises around Thailand that will make you unforgettable.

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CONTENTS JULY / AUGUST 2016

DINING IN

STYLE

The special taste of Asia from 3 different unique restaurants.

OUT OF

ASIA

A romance honeymoon destinations in Prague. With stunning architectures and castles built throughout the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long history.

93 WORLD CHINA

Update activities in China. Get to know Indigo Hotel in Shanghai and Broadway Mansion Hotel

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NOW TRAVEL ASIA OWNER PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSISTANT TO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ADMINISTRATION

THAILAND OFFICE NOW TRAVEL ASIA CO.,LTD KENKETH S.WONG KANAPOT SITTHIWONG WORAPAN CHAIPISIT ANCHALEE SIRIKUL

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

BOONTAWAT COMFUN CHOKCHAKRIT NAMCHAK

MARKETING DEPARTMENT

THANAPORN SIANGJAM JONGRAK NGAMDOKMAI

WRITER

CONTRIBUTING WRITER TRAINEE NOW TRAVEL ASIA VICE PRESIDENT GRAND CHINA SECRETARY TO THE VICE PRESIDENT DIRECTOR OF MARCOM MARKETING MANAGER / DESIGNER

MANISA AIEMPAI ANNAT SONGCHAIKUL RINLADA CHANTHACHAROEN VACHAPON THISADEERUK SUNISSARA BOONTANG GRAND CHINA OFFICE JACK XIA MEGAN JIANG RUBY LU ABBY ZHANG KITTY WANG

MANAGING DIRECTOR EAST CHINA

RAKY ZANG

MANAGING DIRECTOR SOUTH-WEST CHINA

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Let us create a fairytale wedding you will remember forever. Let us bring the finest couturiers to parade their designs before you. Let us serve you champagne in our magical garden. Let us create the beautiful beginning to happily ever after.

The Ritz-Carlton, Beijing features the city’s first on-site hotel Wedding Chapel. Couples can celebrate their nuptials at this serene venue nestled beside a delicategarden, and then enjoy a wedding feast in the opulent ballroom. Wedding Privilege Start from RMB8,888 plus 15% surcharge per table of 10 persons T:（8610）5908 8247 E: Blake.Liu@ritzcarlton.com

RMB1,200* onwards

- Including breakfast for one person and free WIFI access - Minimum 10 rooms for one night - Complimentary one room for every 45 confirmed and paying rooms per night - Complimentary one upgrade for every 30 confirmed and paying rooms per night - Guests book and confirm 3 – 6 months in advance will be entitled for a 3% rebate off total master bill - Guests book and confirm beyond 6 months in advance will be entitled for a 5% rebate off total master bill - Blackout dates, terms and conditions apply

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Have you ever wonder what would your dream wedding be like? Wedding ceremony is perhaps the most important part of your wedding, and surely you will want your wedding to be meaningful, intimate, and relect who the two of you really are. Wedding details may be important, what is most important is everything that lies beyond “I do.” Of course everyone is unique in their own ways, and in this special issue, you’ll ind creative ideas to add to your ceremony and make it special. There are endless ideas and inspiration to enhance your wedding and make it truly yours. Furthermore, we all know that wedding is important, so does a honeymoon! A honeymoon isn’t just about taking off to an incredibly isolated paradise or somewhere very expensive, but every trip you take together should have a wow factor, even in the smallest way.

Kanapot Sitthiwong Editor-in-Cheif

July/August 2016 Cover: Bandara Resort, Phuket Thailand

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Fijis Most Luxurious Private Island Resort Announces Re-opening Date on 1st July Laucala Island, the private island set in 3,500 exclusive acres on its own 12 sq. km island in the Fijian archipelago, happily welcomes guests for the re-opening of the resort on 1 July 2016. The reopening is a result of forced closure, after Tropical Cyclone Winston hit Fiji earlier in the year.

Niche Cars Group and Simpson Marine Bring Superyachts to Bangkok Niche Marine, part of Niche Cars Group an authorized dealership in Thailand for supercars such as Lamborghini, McLaren, Lotus, Hummer Pagani and Koenigsegg, is taking luxury travel ‘off-road’ and broadening its horizons with a high-proile partnership with prestigious Simpson Marine Ltd., Asia’s leading new yacht sales, brokerage, service and management company.

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Live a Healhy Lifestyle while Traveling. Wake up and exercise in the comfort of your room or suite. Discovery what Bangkok has to offer. Dip in an outdoor sea salted swimming pool in the afternoon. Explore the vibrant city after dark. Begin your Bangkok holiday with our Sleep Well package starting from USD 95 per night. Sleep Well, Eat Well, Stay Well.

10 Sukhumvit 20, Sukhumvit Rd., Klongtoey, Bangkok 10110 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 2127 5995 l welcome@wellhotelbangkok.com l www.wellhotelbangkok.com A Lifestyle Wellness Hotel Managed by Well Hotels & Resorts MRT Shop

Well Hotel Bangkok

The Twist Bar & Bistro

Eat Well Café

Well Spa

Food & Beverage on a la carte menu

A la carte treatment

25% Discount

Code: NTA16 Valid: Now - 31 Dec 16

T H E

S B a r & B i s t r o

NTA16 NOW TRAVEL Code: ASIA 13 Valid: Now - 31 Dec 16 JULY/AUGUST 2016

SHOW TIME

Celebrate Mother’s Day with a 50% Buffet Dinner Discount! at Eastin Yama Hotel Phuket For a truly unforgettable Mother’s Day celebration Eastin Yama Hotel Phuket is delighted to invite mom and her family to enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet dinner at SenZees restaurant, with a special offer on Mother’s Day where a group coming with mom receives 50% discount! Priced at THB 599 net per person. Available on Friday, 12th August 2016 from 6.00 p.m. – 9.30 p.m. For reservations, please call 076 303 456

So Happy Hour Promotion at Sospa So Sofitel Bangkok Pamper and look after your lovely selves with SoSPA’s happy hours! Enjoy 50% disc on 90-minute Swedish massage from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. from now to Friday 29th July 2016. Discover our surprising SoSPA concept combining French cosmetology with Thai best well-kept beauty traditions for a delightful Spa journey at SoSPA, located on 11th loor of SO Soitel Bangkok. SoSPA opens from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily and opens to guests of the hotel & to non-residents. For more information or to book, please call 02-6240000 or email H6835-TH2@Soitel.com

Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou’s Revamped Ebony Restaurant Re-opens with its Own Gin Bar Mandarin Oriental, Guangzhou has unveiled its new look Ebony restaurant. An eye-catching feature of the redesigned dining area and surrounding garden is the new gin bar, JIN at Ebony, which becomes the grill restaurant’s focal point.

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A Contemporary resort brimming with Thai charm situated at the heart of Patong Beach, a lively city and beach destination in one. Ramada Phuket Deevana Patong is a serene escape from the city street where tranquil ity and warm hospitality awaits. The delightful elephant artwork throughout the resort wil add a smile to your stay and the tastefully furnished guestrooms are full of modern amenities for a comfortable and restful night’s sleep. “ELLE SPA” is a stylish amenity which the resort proudly selects for the relaxation and refreshing to guests during stays.

BRISE MEDITERRANEE

ดูขอมูลเพิ่มเติมไดที่ www.facebook.com/ellespathailand

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Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok Celebrates Banyan Tree Bangkok’s 20th Anniversary with Candle Massage, a New Spa Experience Perched sky high on the 21st loor of leading business hotel Banyan Tree Bangkok, Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok features one of the city’s most exclusive spa experiences. A proud recipient of 2016 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and 10th TAT Thailand Tourism Awards 2015: Health Tourism Hotel/ Resort Spa (Central Region), Banyan Tree Spa Bangkok continues to be a spa and wellness oasis in the heart of the city as it launches a new spa experience with its Candle Massage.

The Skinny on Super Slim Laptops

Air Asia’s Big Sale is Back!

The thinnest standard laptop, the HP Spectre is a new generation of systems that combine thinner-than-ever designs with powerful components, high-resolution screens, and prices that hit a very achievable mainstream sweet spot. The HP Spectre is too small, more efficient components, especially sixth-generation Core i-series processors from Intel, as well as the company’s second generation of Core M chips, the latter of which are able to run in upscale fanless designs while still powering everyday apps from word processors to web browsers, as well as high-deinition video streaming services and even mainstream games.

AirAsia is giving away up to 3 million promotional seats in the latest BIG SALE campaign across its entire shortand long-haul network. Starting from a base fare of 0 THB, excluding taxes and fees, guests can ly to any of the more than 120 destinations in 24 countries served by AirAsia and AirAsia X. The promotional seats are available for booking from 13 to 19 June 2016 for the travel period 4 January to 21 August 2017 on AirAsia. com and mobile app.

The Oneplus 3 Smartphone Offers Great Performance and HighEnd Features Flagship phone is the ones with the fastest processors, slimmest proile and best screens. The Oneplus 3 costs just $399 and packs tech that’s as powerful as any of them. It gets you 95% of the way to a deluxe smartphone for half the price. And it comes unlocked and without bloatware. The Oneplus 3 comes in gray. It’s 6 x 3 x 0.25 in. and weighs 5.5 oz. That’s about a quarter-inch taller and wider than the Samsung Galaxy S7 and the HTC 10, and the same width but a quarter-inch shorter than the iPhone 6S Plus.

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SHOW TIME

Marry Me at So 2016 A Week to Say “I DO” “Marry Me @ SO 2016” wedding week that will be held at The Box from Monday 29thAugust to Sunday 4th September 2016 at The Box, 9th loor. Weekdays from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. and 4 P.M. to 9 P.M. Weekend from 10 A.M. to 9 P.M. For more information, please contact 02-624-0000 or email H6835-SL11@soitel.com

Sunday Brunch at Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai Fresh Seafood, Barbecue and many more . Join our Sunday Brunch and enjoy a peaceful day with your family and loved ones on this special moment at Shangri-La Hotel, Chiang Mai. Every Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. Price: THB 1,188 net per person Reservation Telephone: 053-253888 ext. 6807

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Tea Set for Romantic Moment TWG Tea invites all classy tea lovers to bring your partner and love ones to experience the indulgence of TWG Tea infused food and sweet menus serving in elegant and aromatic ambience. Choose a private corner to enjoy TWG Tea’ elegance surrounded by hundreds of TWG Tea’s signature tea tins that make the salon unique. The delicious menus are not limited to just teas and sweets, so be adventurous and try the carefully designed tea-infused foods and snacks too! TWG Tea cordially recommend “Tea Gastronomy Set” specially designed to highlight the exclusive tea blended with food. The savory menus thoughtfully infuse the unique character of different tea into different dish with recommendations like Smoked Salmon wrapped avocado and prawn roe illed with Tea 380 infused cream cheese, Seared foie gras infused with Number 7 Tea grape chutney on French Baguette, Smoked duck on Brie and Vine tomato with Sacred Water Tea infused pesto and Yellowin tuna toasted sandwich infused with Caravan Tea. Over in the fascinating patisseries, popular menus include 1837 Black Tea infused red velvet cake with white chocolate and praline crisp, Panna Cotta accompanied with 1837 Black Tea infused raspberry coulis, Pyramid of chocolate mousse infused with Chocolate Tea and deinitely our signature TWG Tea infused Macaron. Try our exclusive tea; Magic Flute Tea, inspired by the brilliant libretto, this is an extraordinary combination of robust Black Tea and exotic red berries. A truly enigmatic TWG Tea blend. This delightful treats available for July - August 2016 only on Weekends at TWG Tea Salon & Boutique Siam Paragon MF.

Tea Lover’s Favourites Bain De Rose Tea In the month of May, the roses of Grasse come into bloom, enveloping Provence with an incomparable and luxurious perfume. Masterfully blended by TWG Tea, this sensual Darjeeling is a magical union of extraordinary roses and hints of vanilla. Truly an outstanding tea.

Bain De Rose Tea Scented Candle A melody and variation on a theme. TWG Tea’s most beloved Tea Scented Candles. The dusky roses of Grasse come into lower, enveloping Provence in an intoxicating perfume. Combined with a secret bouquet of black tea, heady notes of white sandalwood, warm vanilla and fresh grapefruit, Bain de Roses exhales a passionate and dramatic elixir as sweet as a macaron à la rose.

TWG Tea Salon & Boutique Siam Paragon M Floor he Emporium G Floor he EmQuartier M Floor , Helix Quartier Central Chidlom , Central Foodhall

www.TWGTea.com

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Tel. 02-6109527 Tel. 02-2599510 Tel. 02-0036070 Tel. 092-5298703

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COVER STORY

WEDDING DIAMOND DIAMOND HAS BEEN THE SYMBOL OF EVER-LASTING COMMITMENT BETWEEN LOVERS WHO WANT TO SHARE THE REST OF THEIR LIVES TOGETHER.DAZZLING SPARKLES OF AN ARTFULLY CUT DIAMOND CAN TRULY ENCHANT THE WORLDAND WHAT ELSE COULD REPRESENT YOUR ETERNAL PASSION AND LOVE THAN DIAMOND!

Royal Gems Heritage, commitment, and quality are three of the few reasons why Royal Gems International Co. Ltd. is Southeast Asia’s largest retailer of precious gemstones and souvenirs. Our wide range of precious stone products offers a rare beauty which is synonymous with the word “quality” and represents why we are the leaders in the industry with over 35 years of history.

Royal Gems Life Veasna Ring The Life Veasna Ring symbolizes the good fortune that will come the wearers way. As if they were hugging the wearers inger, the Veasna design dances without motion. Allow this piece to add life to your outit.

Royal Gems Life Borromean Earrings The Life Borromean Earrings compliments the Life Borromean collection. On its own, it is an extremely iconic piece that shows power and determination. The design is perfect for any occasion and will surely encapture the eyes of those around the wearer.

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Harry Winston Harry Winston Classic Winston, Round Brilliant Engagement Ring with Pear-Shaped Side Stones

The name Harry Winston was on every jeweler’s lips in 1935 and 1938 when he purchased a 726 and 726.6 carats uncut rough diamonds, the Jonker and the Vargas. Each piece of Harry Winston’s creation follows an innovative design philosophy, in which the individual gemstones would dictate the design, not the metal setting.

Classic means timeless, and timeless is the best way to express your love. Harry Winston’s Round Brilliant Engagement Ring redeines simplicity with unparalleled craftsmanship. The round diamond center stone is hailed by 2 pear-shaped diamonds in a delicate platinum setting, using pioneering techniques developed by the House’s master craftsmen and designers, and only the highest quality diamonds.

Dior Based in Paris, Chaumet’s founder, Marie-Etienne Nitot, is known as Napolean’s jeweler after she caught the attention of Empress Josephine. Chaumet brings centuries of experience to produce high jewellery and luxury watches that matches the emotional and visceral quality of its iconic designs, while still maintaining the craftsmanship and detail of a tailor-made product.

Dior Joséphine Ring in Platinum with a Violet Sapphire and Diamonds Bearing the name of Empress Joséphine , the Joséphine ring’s tiara design is one of the most recognizable Chaumet’s signature designs. The design pays tribute to the empress and recreates a miniature interpretation of Empress Joséphine’s favourite regal headgear. Diamond-paved double band sets the stage for the beautiful 1 carat to 1.6 carats pear-shaped violet sapphire center piece.

Tiffany & Co.

Lucida with Diamond Band The inest diamonds dazzling in Tiffany’s legendary design. Highlighting Tiffany’s mixed cut Lucida diamond with proud, wide corner, and an open curved diamond-paved band, the ring delicately accentuates the exclusive Lucida solitaire.

Luxury goods is Tiffany & Co. specialty and high jewelry is where the company excels. The craftsmanship of Tiffany & Co. has deined style and represented the world’s great love stories since 1837.

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TOP 10 FASHION DESIGNERS THE WORLD OF FASHION LIVES BY THE IMAGINATION OF THE DESIGNERS. THESE WORLD-RENOWNED DESIGNERS DOESNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T JUST TAKE INSPIRATION, THEY ARE INSPIRATIONS TO THE WORLD OF DESIGN.

Yumi Katsura Having honed her expertise in haute couture technique at Les Ecoles de la Chambre Syndicale de La Couture Parisienne, Paris, Yumi Katsura returned to Tokyo to opened her irst bridal salon in 1964. Soon after the opening, Katsura became the irst designer to present the irst bridal collection show in Japan. As one of the most proliic bridal fashion designers in the world, her wedding dresses relect sophisticated couture technique and art of craftsmanship that continue to attract praises from brides and industry professionals. Her masterpiece includes the one billion Yen (US $8.5 million) wedding dress made from silk-satin, 1,000 pearls, a green 8.8 carat diamond emblem, and a 5 carat white gold diamond.

Andre Kim Andre Kim has always been a staple name in Korean fashion industry. Based in Seoul, the designer set many irst steps in Korean fashion history, including being the irst male fashion designer and the irst Korean designer to hold a fashion show in Paris. His design is a distinctive fusion of classical design and futuristic elements with bold and rich colours. Cementing his reputation as Korean leading designer, Andre Kim was named the Chief Designer of 1981 Miss Universe beauty pageant and the designer of Korean athletes for 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Although he passed away in 2010, his son, Kim Jung-do continues the legacy of Andre Kim.

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Sarah Burton Helming the Creative Director position at Alexander McQueen, Sarah Burton was the right hand woman for McQueen for many years. She joined McQueen in 1997 as his personal assistance right after her graduation and worked her way up to Head of Womenswear in 3 years. Sarah became the Creative Director of Alexander McQueen in 2010 after the tragic death of McQueen. Throughout her career, she has created dresses for amazing high proile women, including the Fierst Lady, Michelle Obama, and Lady Gaga, but her most recognized creation was the wedding dress for HRH the Duchess of Cambridge, Catherine Middleton, on the occasion of her marriage to HRH Prince William in 2011.

Vera Wang Born and raised in New York, Vera Wang came a long way from promising igure skater to a world-renown fashion designer. Having worked for Vogue and Ralph Lauren, she set off to create wedding dress collection and became one of the biggest names in bridal wear. Her couture and sophisticated bridal wears were worn by well-known socialites and celebrities like Ivanka Trump, Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey, and Jenifer Lopez.

Mauro Adami Designing does not just limit to fashion. Every little detail works to perfect the whole picture, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where Mauro Adami excels. The famous Italian wedding and event designer is known for his philosophy in collaboration and synergy for creating a memorable night, not just for the bride and groom, but for the guests as well.

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Max Tan The shooting star of Singapore fashion industry, Max Tan prefers to look at himself as a garment engineer rather than a fashion designer. His signature minimalist design is the result of evolving clean, tailored silhouettes into imaginative shapes, deconstructed elements and “maximizing on minimalistic.” Instead of detailing, Max expresses his experiences and inspirations through volume and deconstruction, and that’s a bold approach that makes him a promising talent to keep an eye on.

Monique Lhuillier Filipino-born fashion designer with French and Spanish descent, Monique Lhuillier took her irst step into the fashion world when she enrolled at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. After a disappointment trying to ind the perfect wedding dress for her own wedding, Monique set her mind to designing a more modern bridal wear and her fashion line was born in 1996. Her minimalist, yet luxurious style caught the world’s attention when she created a captivating wedding dress for Britney Spears.

Han LuLu As an alumna of Istituto Marangoni, Han Lulu has an excellent foundation to become one of the greatest names in fashion design. Her creativity earned her place under the guidance of famous designers including the Han Feng and the bridal wear matriarch, Yumi Katsura. In 2008, Han Lulu established her own fashion studio, and in 2011 Lulu got married in her own fairytale, cloud inspired wedding dress, which is her inspiration for her iconic “Moving Could” collection.

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Elie Saab The Lebanese fashion designer is one of the Middle Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading designers. His talent was seen since he was 9 when he would be making clothes for his sisters, and he grew into a local dressmaker before moving to Paris to study fashion in 1981. With Lebanese background and an experience in fashion study in Paris, Elie combines western and eastern cultures to create unique line of wedding dresses using rich fabrics, lace, detailed embroidery, pearls, crystals, as well as notable materials such as taffeta, organza, and satin.

Alexander Wang In 2005, the Taiwanese-American fashion designer launched his own fashion label at the age of 21 and debuted on New York catwalk with a complete fashion collection in 2007. His urban style won him various awards throughout his early career. Wang opened his irst store in SoHo in 2011, and a year later he was named the Creative Director of Balenciaga after the departure of Nocolas GhesquiĂ¨re. In 2015, Wang was named one of 100 Most Inluential People by Times magazine and his spell at Balenciaga ended on mutual consent in the same year.

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5 SUPER CREATIVE WEDDING FAVOURS IDEAS WEDDING FAVOURS CAN SOMETIMES BE QUITE A HEADACHE. SURE YOU LOVE TO GIVE EVERY GUEST THE BEST, AND PROBABLY THE MOST EXPENSIVE, WEDDING FAVOUR YOU CAN FIND, BUT IN REALITY, CREATIVITY TRUMPS EXTRAVAGANCE! HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR WEDDING FAVOURS THAT WILL KEEP YOUR GUESTS TALKING EVEN AFTER THE EVENT!

Rustic Summer Wedding Favour

Wedding Match Box Favour

It’s the perfect “match” for your perfect wedding. Personalize it to your wedding theme with vast variety of luxury papers and exquisite glittering foil ink colours. This cute little favour is a creative gimmick with a meaningful message.

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Customizable handmade wedding favour for coffee and tea lovers. Made especially for you on your special day, Apropos’ small batch production of carefully selected beans are roasted to your preferences straight from Apropos roasters. Special tea blends and lower seeds are also available if you a coffee fan, and with custom stamp, the Rustic Summer Wedding Favour is truly a very lovable wedding favour.

Macaron Wedding Favour

Sweet favour for a sweet occasion. The French do know how to create a wonderful treat, and macaroon are the work of art. It’s colourful, it’s sweet, and it’s adorable, so all you need is a clear box to hold them in, a wedding tag, a ribbon or a string, and voilà! favour.

Succulent Wedding Favour Modern lifestyle is about keeping it green and being stylish all at the same time. Succulent plants express your fun and eco-friendly nature and the wedding favour is increasingly becoming a trend as it’s green and can be enjoyed for years after the wedding.

Miniature Champagne Wedding Favour “C” for celebration and champagne! Champagne is always a fun, sparkling way to celebrate your special event. Don’t just settle for normal champagne. Be creative! Be wild! Let the guests have fun with different fruity and refreshing lavours, including strawberry, peach, green apple, raspberry, and acai. Miniature champagne makes the liveliest wedding favours for your

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Best Wedding Destinations in Asia

Unforgettable Wedding & Honeymoon in

SINGAPORE SINGAPORE MAY BE SMALL BUT ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FULL OF AMAZING LANDSCAPE, TALENTED PROFESSIONALS, AND WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES. THE CITY STATE CARTERS TO EVERY WEDDING, FROM A 5-STAR CITY WEDDING TO BEACH WEDDING ON THE FAMOUS RESORT ISLAND OF SENTOSA.

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Photographer Lead by the award-winning Tze Weoi, Luminari never runs out of inspiration and ideas. Tze Weoi picked up the lens more than a decade ago and now his passion is shown through his art. With an equally passionate team behind him, Luminari provides photography and cinematography services that captures memorable moments. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime moment, so make every memory beautiful and capture them through zartistic eyes. For more information : www.theluminari.com Wedding dress Creating dream wedding dresses from the desire to make every bride special, The Proposal is some of the irst names when it comes to unique bridal wares in Singapore. Graduated from the prestigious London College of Fashion at the University of the Arts London, the founder works hand in hand with talented designers in order to perfect even the smallest detail that makes each dress exquisitely unique. For more information : www.theproposal.com.sg

Top Wedding Florists & Bouquet Designers in Singapore Ever seen a wedding without lowers? Since lowers are a natural part of a wedding, choosing the right lorist can truly add colours and mood to the wedding.

Sing See Soon Leading and shaping Singapore loral industry for almost a century, Sing See Soon promises exceptional lower decoration, landscaping, and stunning bouquet according to your wedding theme. The family-owned business has extensive loral knowledge and network to bring you the best lower no matter where they are grown in the world. For more information : www.singseesoon.com

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Poppy With curious and open-mind, Poppy pulls all its experience and integrates them to your inspiration and desired concept to create a highly personalized loral wedding dĂŠcor. Poppy believes all lowers are beautiful and it favours bringing lowers that are usually tucked to the corner into the limelight and presenting them in an extraordinary way. For more information : www.poppy.com.sg

Best Wedding Photo Shoot Location Singapore Botanic Gardens Recently registered as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Singapore Botanic Garden is loved by locals and tourists looking for a place to relax and capture romantic sceneries. The lung of the city offers iconic corners, including the famous Bandstand in the heart of the park – the most popular spot for pre-wedding photoshoots. Upper Seletar Reservoir Upper Seletar Reservoir’s lone tree has become the most sought after photo site for lovers and bride and groom to be. Although called the ‘lone tree’, it isn’t as lonely as it sound. Instead, the green grass, sparkling blue lake, clear sky, and strategically placed wooden benches set up the tree on the centerstage of the breathtaking scene. All you have to do is dress up and shoot!

Top Wedding Venues in Singapore Tanjong Beach @ Sentosa Sentosa may be a popular tourist destination, but Tanjong Beach is on the more quiet and serene side of the island resort. Dotting the less crowded beach are a few sunbathers and swimmers looking for a quiet strip of sand. If you are looking for an intimate wedding on the beach, Tanjong is the best in Singapore.

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Unforgettable Wedding & Honeymoon in

MALDIVES EMBRACED BY THE VAST INDIAN OCEAN, MALDIVES IS ONE OF THE TOP DESTINATIONS FOR NEWLYWEDS AND HONEYMOONERS. MALDIVESâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; BAREFOOTED, ROMANTIC ATMOSPHERE SET A MIDST CRYSTAL CLEAR OCEAN TRULY MAKES IT A PARADISE ON EARTH.

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Dusit Thani Madives While Maldives provide an endless view of glittering Indian Ocean, Dusit Thani Maldives heightens this island paradise experience with renowned Thai hospitality and unparalleled luxury. Whether you’re in a Beach Villa or a Water Villa, you’ll be spoiled with attentive and intuitive butler service and surrounded by pristine powdery beaches, as well as stunning 360 degree views of turquoise lagoon. While the serene scene extends to every corner of the hotel, your palates will have an explosive time at Benjarong.

The signature restaurant serves tantalizing authentic Thai cuisine with delicate modern touch, including signature dishes like Phla Gung and Tom Yum Poe Taek. Head out on a snorkeling or diving adventure in Maldives’ irst UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and the feeding ground for manta rays and whale sharks, take a dip in the largest swimming pool in Maldives, learn yoga by the beach or recharge your body and mind amidst coconut grove at Devarana Spa. Every day is a new day of adventurous and leisure activity at Dusit Thani Maldives.

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Underwater Photo Session Surrounded by the mystique Indian Ocean, Maldives is home to vast variety of marine lives and spectacular dive sites. Capture the fascinating sight of Maldivesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; underwater wonders through the lens in the adventurous Underwater Photo session. Swim among colourful ishes and lively corals under the clear blue sky. Your experience would not be just in your memory as you take the beauty of Maldives back home with you in the incredible photos from the love-story photo session.

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Sea Wine Cellar and Undersea Restaurant, Anantara Kihavah Villas It’s challenging to create a striking restaurant, add ‘underwater’ and ‘World-class wine cellar’ to the equation, and it becomes near impossible. But Sea Wine Cellar and Underwater Restaurant pulls off the impossible in style! Sunken on the loor of the Indian Ocean, offers incredible submarine views with amazing array of sea life dancing before your eyes. Enjoy international gourmet menu accompanied by an award-winning wine list that enables oenophiles to embark in a journey from Old World to New World.

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Subsix, PER AQUUM Niyama Resort The night-club-turned-restaurant set 6 meters below the surface, hence the name Subsix. Every detail is designed to blend you into the underwater theme, with stunning loor-to-ceiling glass windows that look nothing short of spectacular and sea anemone chairs. In addition to eating, you can book a unique wedding or schedule a midnight proposal here as well.

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Ithaa, Conrad Rangali Venture 16 feet under the sea and dine in the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s irst all-glass undersea restaurant. Designed by aquarium construction specialist, M.J Murphy Ltd, Ithaaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s transparent acrylic dome allows you to gaze almost 360o panoramas of the vibrant coral gardens surrounding it. Savour multi-course ine contemporary European cuisine with Maldivian and Asian inluences while looking through the unique window to blue Maldivian waters with ever-changing views as underwater lives go by is truly a unique and unforgettable experience.

TIP : Best time to visit Maldives is best served between late November and April during the dry season. Expect lots of sunshine and the average temperature of 30 oC.

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Unforgettable Wedding & Honeymoon in

HONG KONG HONG KONG IS COMPACT AND FULL OF EXCITEMENT. FROM THE BUSTLING STREETS OF TSIM SHA TSUI TO THE ASTONISHING VICTORIA PEAK, THERE ARE MORE IMPRESSIVE SPOTS TO CAPTURE YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENTS AND FABULOUS WEDDING VENUES IN THIS SMALL CITY THAN YOU WOULD IMAGINED.

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Top Wedding Venues in Hong Kong The Peninsula Hong Kong Commanding a prime location in Tsim Sha Shui, The Peninsula Hong Kong has been redeining the word luxury in Hong Kong hospitality scene since the 1920s. The “Grande Dame of the Far East” keeps it classy and opulent with its distinguished white glove service and personalized service. Begin your lifelong journey of “happily ever after” in the safe and sophisticated hand of The Peninsula Hong Kong. With exceptional team of wedding planners, there’s no wedding dream too big and no detail too small! If you want to set up a one-on-one meeting with the hotel’s Executive Pastry Chef, Maître Chocolatier, Banquet Chef, Chief Sommelier or lorist, just ask your dedicated team of planners who are there to deliver a tailor-made experience down to the inest detail.

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Best Places to Take Photos in Hong Hong Star Ferry Capture a piece of history in your photo album. Star Ferry operates the historic ferry route between Kowloon and Hong Kong on the fabulous doubledecker “Shining Star” ferry which replicates the ferries that plied Victoria Harbour in the 1920s. If budget isn’t your concern, why not hire the whole ferry for your prewedding photo session or even the wedding!

Photographer Excel in capturing the romance and the emotion of the moment, the internationally recognized Dennis Mok is among the best wedding photographers in the region. His studio, Dennis Mok Photography has been impressing newlyweds around the world since 2003 and it’s about time you join the club. For more information : www.dennismok.com

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Unforgettable Wedding & Honeymoon in

KOREA IN THE PAST DECADE, KOREA HAS BEEN CLIMBING AGGRESSIVELY TO THE TOP OF THE WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST TOURIST DESTINATION RANKING. WE HAVE ALL SEEN K-CULTURE WAVE RIPPLING ACROSS THE WORLD, AND NOW THE SOON-TO-BE-WEDS AND NEWLYWEDS ARE EYEING ON KOREA AS THE ROMANTIC DESTINATION FOR DREAM WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS.

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Photographer Skydal Photography Based in Seoul, Skydal Photography gives every photo a romantic K-Drama feel where you and your bride/groom-to-be are the lead actor and actress. Kim Junghoon, the lead photographer, and his team specialize in capturing striking detail of the outdoors and create a warming, dazzling, and sweet tone in all photos. For more information : www.onethreeonefour.com/ listing/SkydalPhotography

Best Places to Take Photos in Korea Dream Forest As the 4th largest park in Seoul, Dream Forest provides a number of breathtaking backdrops for romantic pre-wedding shoots. The famous Cherry Blossom Path is incredibly beautiful in spring when the cherry trees along the path are in full blossom, but as autumn approaches the Maple Tree Forest becomes more and more attractive with falling leaves painting the scenery in different shades of red hues.

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Top Wedding Venues in Korea SEOUL MARINA CLUB & YACHT With romantic venue, expensive yacht in the background, premium luxury setting, and state-of-art facilities, Seoul Marina Club & Yacht offers a unique wedding venue overlooking the marina and the bay. The expansive conventional hall is itted with starry lightings and can be lexibly transformed according to your dream wedding concept and design.

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THAILAND INSIDER

BEST

WEDDING DESTINATIONS IN THAILAND

IMAGINE YOURSELF AND YOUR SOULMATE ON A PIECE OF PRISTINE WHITE SAND BEACH, EXCHANGING VOWS IN FRONT OF CLOSE FRIENDS AND FAMILY, AND SURROUNDED BY CAPTIVATING SEA. THE SEAS OF THAILAND ARE ALWAYS RANKED ON TOP OF THE BOARD WHEN IT COMES TO LEISURE AND ROMANCE, ESPECIALLY FOR A MEMORABLE WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS, THANKS TO ITS MESMERIZING LANDSCAPE, CHARMING TRADITION, CULTURE HERITAGE, AND WARMTH, NOT TO MENTION WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES AND EXOTIC FOOD.

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krabi FACING THE ANDAMAN SEA, KRABI IS RICH IN NATURE AND NATURAL ATTRACTIONS, INCLUDING WHITE SANDY BEACHES, CRYSTAL CLEAR WATER, EXTENSIVE CORAL REEFS, NUMEROUS CAVES AND WATERFALLS, AND SOME OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ISLANDS IN THAILAND.

KOH PHI PHI One of the most well-known islands in Asia, thousands of tourists visit Koh Phi Phi every day to witness its natural beauty. This tropical paradise boasts stunning limestone cliffs, white sand beach, and world-class diving spot.

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Romantic Honeymoon Restaurant

Luxury Beach Wedding Venue in Krabi

RAYAVADEE RESORT Nestled amidst tropical gardens and coconut groves on the edge of Krabi National Marine Park, Rayawadee offers a stunning backdrop of sheer cliffs, lush jungle foliage and glittering Andaman Sea for your dream wedding. The resort’s fully customizable wedding package means you will be able to ine-tune every detail to match your imagination. Whether it is a traditional Thai ceremony, western style wedding, a renewal of vows, or even a same sex union celebration, you’ll always have Rayavadee’s expert planners at your disposal.

THE ARUNDINA Immerse in captivating nature-oriented atmosphere right by the beach. Arundina let you explore the tantalizing lavours of classic Thai dishes while you gaze the sublime views of the distant islands on the horizon. Soft lighting and glittering night stars add to the charming setting of Arundina, making it a wonderfully romantic place to enjoy an intimate dinner.

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SAY I DO IN PARADISE SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT

PICTURE THE ROMANCE OF YOUR DREAMS ON A WHITE SAND BEACH IN A TROPICAL PARADISE .

Located in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical beach destinations, Soitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort is a picture-perfect 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. Choose 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 magniique experience with classically styled rooms and suites, gourmet cuisine, a renowned spa, 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, Soitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort will make your dreams come true. Just say “I do” and leave the rest to us. 54 NOW TRAVEL ASIA JULY/AUGUST 2016

Soitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort 200 Moo 3, Klong Muang Beach, Tambon Nongtalay, Amphur Muang, Krabi 81180 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 75 627 800 Fax: +66 (0) 75 627 899 E-mail: H6184-RE@SOFITEL.COM Website: www.soitel.com/6184

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Cha Am Beach

Although located in different province, Cha Am is arguably an extension of Hua Hin. With only a few 5 stars hotel and restaurant, the beaches here offer remoteness and serenity for a peaceful escape, but if you feel like a more vibrant atmosphere, popular family themed parks such as Camel Republic and Satorini Park are just a few minutes away.

hua hin LOCATED JUST 3 HOURS FROM BANGKOK, HUA HIN IS A POPULAR DESTINATION FOR A FUN FAMILY VACATION. HUA HIN MAY BE KNOWN FOR ITS LAID-BACK ALTITUDE AND BEAUTIFUL STRETCH OF WHITE SAND BEACH THAT DOES NOT GET OVERLY CROWDED LIKE MANY OTHER POPULAR BEACHES IN THAILAND. REGARDLESS OF ITS LAID-BACK NATURE, HUA HIN’S RECENT DEVELOPMENT HAS SEEN THE ARRIVAL OF EXCITING THEMED LIFESTYLE SHOPPING COMPLEXES LIKE VENEZIA HUA HIN, PLEARNWAN HUA HIN, AND HUA HIN SAMPHANNAM FLOATING MARKET.

Romantic Honeymoon Restaurant THE BEACH AT ANANTASILA Casual yet sophisticated, The Beach’s tree-canopied alfresco dining area offers panoramic views of the sea and Khao Takiab shoreline. Savour local specialties and a wide choice of western dishes. Visit the restaurant’s wine pantry to celebrate your occasion with a ine bottle of handpicked wines from both old and new worlds.

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Romantic Honeymoon Restaurant OCEANSIDE BEACH CLUB & RESTAURANT As the name suggest, Oceanside Beach Club & Restaurant sets directly on the beachfront. Opt for a beachside table and enjoy refreshing cocktails and Thai & the Paciic inspired dishes to the uninterrupted views of the sea and sounds of waves crashing right at the foot of the restaurant.

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V Villas hua hin

THE PRIVATE LUXURY V VILLAS HUA HIN PROVIDES AN ULTIMATE SETTING FOR A DAZZLING WEDDING ON THE BEACH. LET V VILLASâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; WEDDING PROFESSIONALS HELP YOU CREATE THE PICTURE-PERFECT SCENE FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE. WORKING CLOSELY TO BRING YOUR DREAM TO LIFE, THE TEAM WILL CREATE THE PERFECT CEREMONY, DECOR, AND AMBIENCE FOR WA UNIQUE AND PERSONALIZED WEDDING. FOR THE MOST EXCLUSIVE WEDDING, SCHEDULE TO HAVE THE ENTIRE V VILLAS RESORT YOURS FOR A DAY!

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phuket SURROUNDED BY STUNNING ANDAMAN SEA, PHUKET IS THE MOST RENOWNED ISLAND DESTINATION IN THAILAND AND ONE OF THE TOP WORLD DESTINATIONS. PHUKET HAS EVERYTHING FOR EVERYONE, FROM BUSTLING MARKETS, FASCINATING CULTURAL SHOWS, EXCITING PERFORMANCE, TO SECLUDED BEACHES AND LUXURY GETAWAY RESORTS.

Kata Beach Kata Beach is the one of popular beach in Phuket. Palm-fringed beach, white sands and clear waters charm visitors to the pleasant Kata Beach. With smaller surf than the neighbouribng Karon Beach, Kata Beach is very popular with families and beginner surfers. Kata is an all-round favourite if you are looking for a lively beach, great restaurants, and a wide range of accommodation option.

Luxury Beach Wedding Venue in Phuket KATA ROCKS

Fabulous location overlooking the calm, crystal clear waters of Kata Beach and the Andaman Sea provides romantic vibe and spectacular backdrop to Kata Rocks. Couple the scenery with cutting-edge, futuristic design and intuitive services, the resort has all it needs to be an amazingly romantic oceanfront location for an unforgettable wedding, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a wedding on a rocky point just above the sea, the lounge at the ininity pool, or in a private oceanfront Sky Villa.

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Romantic Honeymoon Restaurant LA GRITTA Located on the oceanfront terrace of Amari Phuket, La Gritta is no doubt one of the most romantic restaurants in Phuket. The contemporary restaurant offers unparalleled views across the entire Patong Bay in both indoor and outdoor dining areas. Complementing the scenery are La Grittaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sumptuous classic Italian menus with contemporary lair which highlight a selection of gourmet pizzas, handmade pastas and delectable desserts.

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Wedding Ceremonies at

Bandara Resort, Phuket SPECTACULAR VIEWS, INTIMATE SETTING, ATTENTIVE SERVICES, AND STATE-OF-ART FACILITIES ARE JUST SOME OF THE KEY INGREDIENTS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE, EXTRA ROMANTIC WEDDING OF YOUR LIFE, AND BANDARA SIMPLY HAS IT ALL. NESTLED ON A PEACEFUL HILLSIDE OVERLOOKING THE STUNNING AO YON BAY ON PHUKET’S SOUTHEAST COASTLINE, BANDARA RESORT, PHUKET RESORT OFFERS AN INTIMATE SEASIDE SETTING ON A PEACEFUL STRETCH OF IDYLLIC ISLAND COASTLINE. COMMANDING THE PANORAMIC VISTAS OF ANDAMAN SEA, THE RESORT’S MODERN VILLAS FEATURE BRIGHT OPEN-PLAN LAYOUT AND DELIGHTFUL DÉCOR INSPIRED BY LUSTROUS ANDAMAN PEARLS.

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Address/Contact Details Bandara Resort, Phuket Address: 96 Moo 8 Wichit Subdistrict, Muang, Phuket Thailand 83000 Tel: 076 316 298 E-mail: stay@bandaraphuket.com www.bandaraphuket.com

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samui THE ISLAND PARADISE OF SAMUI ATTRACTS ALMOST 2 MILLION TRAVELERS TO EXPERIENCE ITS LAID-BACK VIBE, WHITE SAND BEACHES, AND CRYSTAL CLEAR WATERS. MOST VISITORS ARE HERE FOR AN ESCAPE AND MANY CHOOSE THE MAGICAL ISLAND TO BE THE SETTING FOR THEIR DREAM WEDDING, BUT SAMUI DOESN’T JUST OFFER SPECTACULAR SCENERIES AS LOCAL CULTURE IS AN ATTRACTIVE PART OF THE ISLAND WITH WAT PHRA YAI, BOPHUT WALKING STREET, AND MAE NAM WALKING STREET LEADING THE LINE.

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Chaweng Beach

Stretches along the east coast of Samui, Chaweng is the beating heart of the island. Chaweng Beach is the most popular and the busiest beach on the island with plenty of fun water activities to do and a wide range of food to taste, from sophisticated ine dining to fast food restaurants and street stalls. If you like Khaosan Road, you’ll love Chaweng Walking Street where you’ll ind everything from clothes, local handicrafts, handmade souvenirs, and lots and lots of food to try!

Romantic Honeymoon Restaurant

DINING ON THE ROCK Serving panoramic 270 degree views of the ocean and Gulf of Thai’s horizon, dining at Dining on the Rock can be quite a unique and extraordinary experience. Weathered teak verandah perches on above the gulf and creates a sense of dining on a barge drifting on a starlit sea. The restaurant’s “New Asian” cuisine is distinctively different with a cross over accent that seamlessly combines tastes of east and west, different textures and contrasts of hot and cold to really give you an extraordinary culinary experience.

Luxury Beach Wedding Venue in Samui

ROCKY’S BOUTIQUE RESORT Who wouldn’t love a small tropical Koh Samui wedding by the sea? Exchange vows on a secluded beach surrounded by turquoise sea and row after row of coconut palms. Rocky’s Boutique Resort provides everything you need for a perfect wedding with choices of Western, Thai, or non-secular wedding which can be completely customized to your imagination.

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New Star Beach Resort

EXPERIENCE A ONCE IN THE LIFETIME EVENT RIGHT ON THE BEACH OF CHAWENG NOI, FROM THE WHITE ORCHID ENTRANCE DOWN TO THE SANDY AISLE. SAY “I DO” WITH THE WITNESS OF THE GULF OF SIAM WHERE THE ONLY HORIZON IS THE BOUNDARY OF LOVE. CUSTOM DESIGN YOUR SAMUI WEDDING WITH FREE OF CHARGE OF PERSONAL WEDDING PLANNER.

New Star Beach Resort, your ideal choice to create your dream wedding or to spend your once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon. It’s a hideaway for couples seeking tranquility, comfort and personalized service on the largest and longest white sandy beach with a 200 meter oceanfront. New Star provides a specious and stylish beach environment in which to enjoy some of life’s better moments.

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LESS IS MORE The Quiet Paradises in Thailand THAILAND ISN’T JUST FAMOUS FOR ITS POPULAR, FUN-FILLED TOURIST BEACHES. IT IS ALSO HOME TO SECLUDED, PRIVATE SANDS THAT RE-ENERGIZE AND REVITALIZE YOUR BODY AND SOUL. TRAVELERS ACROSS THE GLOBE TRAVEL THOUSANDS OF MILES JUST TO RELAX AND DO COMPLETELY NOTHING ON THESE BEACHES.

Koh Kood Beach at Trat This hidden gem of the Gulf of Thailand is located south of the better known Koh Chang. Due to its location near Thai/Cambodia border, this easternmost island in Thailand had been the subject of border dispute between the two countries. With all the disputes solved, the western coast of the island offers a breathtaking hideaway which welcomes an increasing number of tourists every year. Tapao beach might be the only port on Koh Kood, but it’s still very secluded and offers great snorkeling site while swimming while Khlong Chao Bay in the south offers a serene setting for a romantic getaway.

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Crystal Beach at Samui Flanked between Chaweng and Lamai, Crystal Beach or Haad Thongtakian is a surprising piece of tranquil haven. The beach is protected by large boulders on both ends, and offers ine, powdery sand, calm water, and beautiful shallow reef. Crystal Beach feels like a secret although there are a number of restaurants and resorts nearby.

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TOP

The Quiet Paradises in Phuket

CONSIDERING WE ARE EXPERTS IN ALL THINGS PHUKET, IT IS UNDERSTANDABLE THAT PEOPLE LOOK AT US FOR RECOMMENDATIONS. ONE OF THE MORE FREQUENT QUESTIONS THAT WE HEAR IS, “WHICH IS THE BEST BEACH IN PHUKET IF YOU WANT SERENITY?” WELL, THIS IS NOT REALLY A SIMPLE QUESTION TO ANSWER AS MOST BEACHES HAVE THEIR UPSIDES AND DOWNSIDES. THERE ARE VERY FEW BEACHES THAT EXCEL IN EVERYTHING. BEING THE HELPFUL GURU, WE HAVE EXTENSIVELY GONE THROUGH OUR LIST OF EVERY PHUKET BEACH AND COMPILED A LIST OF OUR TOP 5 QUIET PARADISES IN PHUKET.

Nai Harn Beach

Tucked in the southern coast of Phuket, Nai Harn Beach is popular among expats and locals. This local secret is hidden away from the tourist hoard roaming the island, so it is relatively tranquil with only a few hotels and restaurants. Large soft sand beach, crystal clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere make it easily accessible as a day trip from other locations on Phuket or as a destination in itself. Beware though, Nai Harn Beach is great for swimming during high season, but extreme care should be taken in the low season due to strong undertows.

Koh Lanta

Koh Lanta used to be the destination for back packers and adventurers. Now modern luxury set foot on the island and its divine miles-long beaches are enjoyed by families and honeymooners. Unpolluted by jet skis and beach hawkers, the 4 kilometers Long Beach is dotted with accommodations and restaurants but it always manages to seem quiet empty, making Koh Lanta the haven of serenity that effortlessly caters to all those searching for an escape.

Similan

Divers, beach goers, honeymooners, and discerning travelers would have experience or heard the natural wonders of Similan. Similan isn’t one single island, but a collection of 9 amazing island paradises. The beauty of Similan spread across the sea and the land, from pure white sand beaches and lush green hills, to crystal clear sea and stunning coral reefs. The islands are often referred to in number instead of their proper names, and while all of the islands offer incredible beaches, Koh Sii works together with Koh Haa and Koh Hok to form the spectacular Hideaway Bay which is not only naturally beautiful, but also the safest anchor place in the National Park. Be sure to check the National Park closure period as Similan is only open for around 6 months, from late October to early April.

Pansea Bay

Railey Beach

Embraces by the imposing limestone cliffs, Railey Bay and Railey Beach is hidden from the world as it is inaccessible by land. Tourists and resorts, however, found their way around the natural fortress. With relatively low number of visitors, the pristine beach of Railey is perfect for an intimate romantic honeymoon while the towering cliffs offer intriguing challenges for beginner and expert climbers.

Tourism Authority of Thailand www.tourismthailand.org

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Renaissance Phuket Resort & Spa Thailand Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket Thailand Intercontinental Hua Hin Thailand Conrad Samui Thailand Patumwan Princess Hotel Bangkok Thailand The Ritz-Carlton Hongkong Mandarin Oriental Macau Starworld Macau Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai Pudong, China The Fullerton Hotel Singapore Dusit Thani Maldives Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai China

Intercontinental Bangkok Thailand The Royal Garden Hotel, Hong Kong Fairmont Singapore JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul, South Korea Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai, China Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon, Myanmar Conrad Macao, Macau The Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel Tokyo Park Hyatt Seoul, South Korea Ritz Carlton Beijing China Marina Mandarin Singapore by Meritus, Singapore

Dhara Dhevi Chiangmai Thailand Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Thailand Astor House Hotel, Shanghai, China Fairmont Peace Hotel, Shanghai, China Raffles, Singapore The Strand, Yangon, Myanmar Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi, Vietnam The Shilla Seoul, South Korea Movenpick Heritage Hotel Sentosa, Singapore Raffles Grand Hotel dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Angkor (Siem Reap), Cambodia

W Bangkok Thailand X2 River Kwai Thailand Vie Hotel Bangkok Thailand S31 Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok Thailand Sofitel So Bangkok Thailand Park Hyatt Shanghai, China G Hotel Penang, Malaysia W Taipei, Taiwan The Puli Hotel and Spa, Shanghai, China W Guangzhou, China W Beijing, China

Beach Republic, Samui Thailand Impiana Resort, Patong, Phuket Thailand Centara Grand West Sands Resort & Villas, Phuket Thailand New Star Beach Resort, Samui Thailand W Singapore Sentosa Cove, Singapore Mandarin Oriental Sanya, China Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru The St. Regis Bali Resort, Indonesia Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa

V Villas Hua Hin Thailand Villa Zolitude Resort & Spa, Phuket Thailand The Naka Island Phuket Thailand Bandara Villas, Phuket Thailand Pimalai Resort & Spa, Krabi Thailand Impiana Private Villas Kata Noi, Phuket Thailand Banyan Tree, Vietnam One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives Conrad Maldives Ayana Resort & Spa Bali, Indonesia

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S31 Sukhumvit Hotel A cutting-edge contemporary hotel in a prime location of Bangkok, Sukhumvit Hotel offers hip sanctuary which is the best choice to escape from the bustling metropolitan with luxury, style and functionality. The hotel design provides a sophisticated urban feel, while all guests in all rooms can experience the charm of Bangkok with different feeling throughout the day via floor to ceiling glass windows that covers an entire wall. Guests are indulged with a huge luxurious bed and stylish designed bedding in each room to ensure a pleasant stay S31 Sukhumvit Hotel is the great choice to absorb a bustling day in Bangkok and replace with comfort and relaxation.

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Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort Thailand Holiday Inn Bangkok Thailand Shangri-La Chiangmai Thailand Holiday Inn Resort, Phuket Thailand Le MĂŠridien Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok Golf Resort & Spa Hotel Indigo, Bangkok Thailand The Nam Hai Hotel, Vietnam Festive Hotel Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur, India Soneva Fushi, Maldives Shangri-Laâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Malaysia Intercontinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, Vietnam

Banyan Tree, Macau W Retreat and Spa, Indonesia Fusion Mia, Da Nang, Vietnam Pangkor Laut, Malaysia Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16

Hyatt Place Phuket, Patong Thailand Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa Nai Yang Thailand X2 HuaHin Lebayburi- Pranburi Villa Thailand Four Points By Sheraton Heyuan Resort, Guangdong, China Sheraton Grand Hangzhou Binjiang Hotel, Hangzhou, China The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, A Luxury Collection Hotel Japan Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort Japan The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur Malaysia Mondrian Hotel - West Bay Lagoon Waldorf Astoria Tower - Al Qassar Al Dafna, Qatar

Dii Wellness Med Spa (Divana Virtue Spa) The Oasis Spa Spa Ten Chiva Som Wellness Retreat at Como Shambhala Estate Bali Prana Spa Seminyak, Bali Yunomori Onsen & Spa (Singapore/Pattaya/Bangkok) g.Spa Singapore Hammam Spa, Malaysia

Thai Airasia Bangkok Airways Nok Air Tiger Air Scoot Jetstar Asia AirasiaX

Thai Airways Singapore Airlines Qatar Airways Etihad Airlines Hainan Airlines Emirates Cathay Pacific Asiana Airlines Japan Airlines Dragonair Hong Kong Airlines China Southern

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Dusit Thani Maldives Maldives provide an endless view of glittering Indian Ocean, Dusit Thani Maldives heightens this island paradise experience with renowned Thai hospitality and unparalleled luxury. Whether you’re in a Beach Villa or a Water Villa, you will be spoiled with butler service and surrounded by white sandy beaches and stunning 360 degree views of turquoise lagoon. Guests can also enjoy with dive and snorkel, swim in one of the Maldives’ largest infinity pools, retreat to one of Devarana Spa’s treetop treatment pods for a pampering experience or dine at one of the exquisite restaurants before heading back to the comfort of one of the Thai-inspired villas or residences.

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Sofitel So Bangkok Sofitel So Bangkok situated loftily in Sathorn, the heart of bustling Bangkok, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a contemporary stars hotel that is outstanding with its design concept and excellent service. The design theme of the hotel makes Sofitel So Bangkok remarkable and special as it combines the five elements of Water, Earth, Wood, Metal and Fire together to create stylishly luxury hotel reflecting the charm of Bangkok. This uniquely designed feature is styled by the world famous designer, Mr.Christian Lacrox in all details from staff uniforms to interior decoration. The hotel rooms and suites are designed by five Thai Interiors Designers. They bring to life Water, Earth, Wood and Metal to create distinctive atmosphere in each room. NOW TRAVEL ASIA 77 JULY/AUGUST 2016

Suvarnabhumi Airport Hong Kong International Airport Singapore Changi Airport Abu Dhabi International Airport Incheon International Airport,South Korea Hamad International Airport (HIA), Doha, Qatar Dubai Airport Tokyo International Haneda Narita Airport Beijing Capital Airport Taiwan Toayuan Airport Kuala Lumpur Airport Chengu Airport

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Aqcua Restaurant Mix Restaurant & Bar, Chiangmai Siam Wisdom Issaya Siamese Club Gaggan Nahm Narisawa, Tokyo, Japan Amber, Hong Kong Altraviolet By Paul Pairet, Shanghai, China Peach Blossoms Restaurant (Marina Mandarin Singapore, by Meritus) MINGLES Seoul, South Korea RESTAURANT ANDRÃ&#x2030; Singapore LES AMIS Singapore

Alessandro Frau, Acqua Restaurant Phuket Thomas & Mathias Suhring, Suhring Bangkok Ian Kittichai,Issaya Siamese Club David Thomson, Nahm & Long Chim Vicky Lau, Tate Dining Room and Bar, Hong Kong Paul Pairet, Altraviolet, Shanghai, China Andre Chiang, Restaurant Andre Singapore Hiroyasu Kawate, Florilege, Japan

Galaxy Macau Asiatique The Riverfront, Thailand The Venetian Macao, Macau Marina Bay Sands Singapore Tokyo Disneyland, Japan Resorts World Sentosa, SG City of Dreams Macau Ocean Park HK

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NOW Travel Asia Awards 2016 Application Form Company Name_____________________________________________________________________________ Hotel/Restaurant/Spa/Airline Name______________________________________________________________ Address___________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________ City________________________________________Country________________________________________ Email_____________________________________________________________________________________ Website___________________________________________________________________________________ Tel.____________________________________________Fax.________________________________________

Award Category Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels Asia’s Top Business Hotels Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels Asia’s Top Design Hotels Asia’s Top Beach Hotels Asia’s Top Villa Resorts Asia’s Top Family Hotels Asia’s Top Spa Hotels & Resorts Asia’s Top Emerging Hotels Asia’s Top Wellness Spas Asia’s Top Low Cost Airlines Asia’s Top Airlines Asia’s Top Airports Asia’s Top Fine Dining Restaurants Asia’s Top Chefs Asia’s Top Entertainment Complexes Asia’s Best Hotel Chain Authorized Signature________________________________________ Position__________________________ Date_____/_____/_____ 80 NOW TRAVEL ASIA JULY/AUGUST 2016

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DINING IN STYLE

ACQUA THAILAND

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The smart black and white restaurant in Kalim Beach, Acqua Restaurant promises to bring the fresh ingredients, sourced from the best producers from all over the world to create imaginative lavorful dishes guaranteed by Chef Alessandro Frau, an innovative Italian born concocter. A wide seletion of hand-picked wines from around the world is the best, guaranteed by â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Award of Excellentâ&#x20AC;? by Wine Spectator. Acqua restaurant is a perfect dining place with classy yet relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff and excellent service.

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JAAN SINGAPORE

The inest artisanal French cuisine, Jaan is a multi award winning restaurant that has exquisite interior design with a stunning chandlier and offers the breathtaking view of Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scenic landscape. Together with the truly fascinated culinary experience with premium quality by using the freshest ingredients, all dishes is derived from a passion of Chef de Cuisine Julien Royer to relect culinary tradition and creativity. It makes Jaan is a hot spot for dining in Singapore.

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VIDA RICA

AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL MACAU

Featuring an elegant interior and a spectacular glass wall that offers panoramic views of South China Sea, Vida Rica is the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature restaurant, using nothing but the freshest and inest ingredients to create an inimitable dining experience. Culinary highlights include traditional French cuisine with modern twist created by Chef Dominique Bugnand, and a tantalizing selection of Chinese specialties.

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OUT OF ASIA

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The Moment in Prague THE ROMANCE OF THE PAST ONLY A FEW CITIES COULD MATCH THE ROMANCE OF PRAGUE. WITH STUNNING ARCHITECTURES AND CASTLES BUILT THROUGHOUT THE CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LONG HISTORY, PRAGUE IS NO DOUBT ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC CITIES IN THE WORLD.

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Charles Bridge Morning is the best time to capture the beauty of Prague’s most famous bridge. Soft ray of sunlight shining on the avenue of baroque statues makes the bridge a spectacular scene to have in your album. Charles Bridge reaches across Vltava River and connects western and eastern Europe together, emphasizing Prague as an important trade route in Europe. Built by a skilled builder named Peter Parler by King Charles IV’s order in 1357, the bridge was originally built for jousting competitions. The former “Prague Bridge” did not have any statue until the 1600s when 30 statues were erected. However, the statues you see now are replicas of original statues which were damaged by multiple loods and natural disasters. The statue of St. John of Nepomuk is the oldest out of all 30 statues, and it is believed that if you touch the copper plate on the statue foundation, you are bound to return to Prague again in the future. As Prague’s top tourist destination, the bridge is surrounded by souvenir stalls, restaurants, and street performers. Old Town Square Old Town Square never gets dull. Tourists of all nationality always roam around the lively square, making Old Town Square the heart of Prague’s

tourism and the place to experience charming middle age architecture, as well as taste Prague’s exquisite cuisines. Before the square was built, Kings and queens used to take this path to travel between the Old Town and the palace until King George of Luxembourg allowed a town hall to be constructed at the square. The town hall led to various buildings that represent unique Gothic architectural style. Old Town Square bared witness to many historical events, including royal enthronement of King of Bohemia and the execution of Bohemians in 1621. The Old Town Hall Located at the Old Town Square in the heart of the city, the striking red Old Town Hall is a complex of several Gothic and Renaissance style building. Built in 1338, there are only 5 houses in the complex that are able to withstand the test of time. The buildings are decorated with beautiful mosaics and carvings. On the red building is a carved stone sign that says, “Prague, Head of the Kingdom,” hinting the importance of medieval Prague as the center of a great empire.

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Astronomical Clock Just south of the Old Town Hall is the famous “Prague Astronomical Clock,” the third oldest astronomical clock, but the oldest operating astronomical clock in the world. The astronomical dial represents the position of the sun and the moon with rotating igures of the Apostles and igure of skeleton or Death striking the time and turning the hourglass. Prague Astronomical Clock was built by an Imperial clockmaker named Mikulas of Kadan in 1440 and later renovated in 1490. People say the clock stops every time unrest like the Velvet Revolution occurs in Prague, so it’s considered a bad omen if it stops.

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Golz-Kinsky Palace & Stone Bell House The pink and white building just in front of Tyn Church is another masterpiece of Kilian Dientzenhofer, the architect who built Church of St. Nicholas. Golz-Kinsky Palace was the former palace of Count Golz. Using his inluences to pull strings in the local government, Count Galz was able to build his palace on the square ground, and the palace was bought by the Kinsky family after his death. The palace contained a valuable family library, and now hosts collections of the National Gallery.

Next to Golz-Kinsky Palace, Stone Bell House earned its name from the impressive stone bell on one corner of the building. It’s said that this Gothic palace was built for the royal family with a number of royalties, including King John of Luxembourg. Stone Bell House is now used by the City Prague Gallery and has been hosting countless of exhibitions and classical music concerts since 1988.

Church of St. Nicholas If you look north of the square while on top of the Old Town Hall Tower, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see a striking baroque style dome and a twin tower amidst beautiful architectures around the square. Designed by Kilian Dientzenhofer, the famous Church of Nicholas excels in both architecture and decoration with frescos that depict the story of Saint Nicholas and Saint Benedict. The church hosts a number of classical music concerts, and you can buy a ticket right at the church. Church of Our Lady before Tyn Tyn Church or Church of Our Lady before Tyn is located on the east of the square. The iconic baroque architecture of the church contrasts with the surrounding buildings, making it one of the most memorable landmarks for most tourists. Tyn Church was built in 1365 before it was turned into a Protestantism church and the center of Hussites religious revolution until 1620.

TIP! : Try the Trdelnik! The traditional Czech sweet is made from rolled dough which is wrapped around a stick, grilled, and topped with sugar. Currency : 1 USD = 24.5 CZK (Czech Koruna) Visa : Schengen visa will allow you to travel around Czech Republic for 90 days.

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CHINA WORLD

VISIT HOLIDAY INN SHANGHAI PUDONG JOIN WITH THE 18TH PUDONG OKTOBERFEST BEER FESTIVAL IN SHANGHAI

VISIT HOTEL INDIGO SHANGHAI ON THE BUND NEW CHEF, NEW MENU - SEASONAL SPECIALTIES AT CHAR CHAR AUSTRALIAN WAGYU BEEF MOONCAKES

VISIT BROADWAY MANSIONS HOTEL ONE OF THE SYMBOLS OF THE CITYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HISTORIC BUND NOW TRAVEL ASIA 93 JULY/AUGUST 2016

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Smoked Octopus Salad

Roasted Bone Marrow

The 1.2 KG Stockyard Tomahawk Steak

Seared Scallops

上海外滩英迪格酒店星级主厨 • 全新杰作 • 用心呈献 NEW CHEF, NEW MENU - SEASONAL SPECIALTIES AT CHAR Indigo Hotel Shanghai’s Award-Winning Steakhouse Unveils its New Seasonal Menu

(Shanghai) — The mercury has already started to drop in Shanghai, and nothing warms the soul like a top-quality cut of beef grilled to succulent perfection at CHAR. The award-winning steakhouse in the Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund is the city’s premier destination for great steaks and chops. But steaks are only the start. For the winter season, CHAR Head Chef Willmer Colmenares has put together a menu of fresh, seasonal selections specially designed to complement CHAR’s world-class beef. An utterly buttery cut of fresh Wagyu beef is gently smoked before it is thinly sliced and presented with freshly-laked Parmesan and rocket to accent the ultimate Smoked Wagyu Beef Carpaccio (RMB 158). However, it’s the black garlic puree that truly enhances this appetizer with its complex notes of sweetness and umami. Keeping it fresh, CHAR’s all-new Lobster and Salmon Ceviche (RMB 188), is served marinated in a tangy coconut and lime emulsion, which slightly cures the lobster and salmon, so it remains fresh and tender like sushi. Together with an avocado sorbet, some coriander and jalapenos, this dish gives off a zesty Latin lair. Colmenares demonstrates just how versatile a lavor smoke can be with his Smoked Octopus Salad (RMB 138), which is without question a highlight this season. He smokes the mollusk at a low temperature until it is fork tender. The deep smoky character pairs beautifully with creamy, ripe avocado and a sauce made from smoked chilies. Coriander, watermelon and red onion bring freshness and subtle sweetness. Seared Scallops (RMB 188) are another delectable addition to CHAR’s fall/winter menu. Colmenares sears them until slightly golden brown on the outside, leaving them supple and succulent on the inside. This creates a

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perfect match for the delicately sweet and nutty lavor of the Jerusalem artichokes. With the addition of an almond-ginger puree with Chorizo oil, there’s a spicy bite that’s offset with a sweetness and fun texture provided by tasted white almonds overtop. An homage to the towering Shanghai skyline reaching into the clouds, the decadent Roasted Bone Marrow (RMB 178) is served with a potato lam and an exceptionally lavorful ragout of smoked octopus and robust fresh winter mushrooms. And as ever, CHAR’s signature classic cuts, like The Stockyard Tomahawk (RMB 1188) of 250 days grain-fed beef, are still available yearround. This massive 1.2 kg grain-fed Australian bone-in beef rib illet is a feast in itself, easily satisfying two hungry guests. Not to be outdone, the sides deinitely won’t disappoint, like the Double Roasted Baby Potatoes (RMB 58) with bacon and garlic butter or the Sautéed Green Beans (RMB 58) over crispy shallots, roasted almonds and blue cheese crumble. Choose from one of 10 sides to round out the perfect CHAR meal. Truly home-style, Chef Willmer presents a completely new series of desserts, meant to awaken the playful side in every guest. Watch for the lames of the Apple Tarte Tatin (RMB 98) lambéed tableside being doused with calvados ice cream. For chocolate lovers, CHAR’s new Spicy Hot Chocolate Fondant (RMB 78) is served with Tonka bean ice cream, coffee and rum ganache for a rich treat. CHAR’s answer for a sweet inish to a cozy winter’s night dinner with the family is the Berries & Apple Crumble (RMB 78) presented fresh out of the oven with a scoop of dulce de leche ice cream alongside.

黄浦江畔•百年经典•历久弥新上海大厦屹立于黄浦江之滨、苏州河畔的上海大厦作为外滩经典的五星级老饭店，她曾是上海这座美丽城市的标志，熙熙攘攘的外白渡桥是她的姐妹，共同构筑了一道美丽的海上风景线。酒店现有253 间客房、多家餐厅、酒吧、宴会厅和商务中心等，并设有健身中心、SPA等休闲娱乐设施。由英国著名设计师佛兰赛设计的上海大厦原名Broadway Mansions（百老汇大厦），诞生于上世纪三十年代，饱经半个多世纪的历史变迁，矗立在外滩的上海百老汇大厦英姿雄伟，光彩依然……

Located Riverside Shanghai Newer with Time

www.shmansionhotel.com

Located at the conjunction of the Huangpu River and Suzhou Creek, adjacent to the famous Garden Bridge, Broadway Mansions hotel has become one of the symbols of the city’s historic Bund. The hotel provides 253 guest rooms, different styled restaurants and private rooms, bars and ballrooms which are all characterized by a perfect combination of modern and classic as well as vintage style. Broadway Mansions Hotel designed by the British architect Mr. Fraser was commenced it’s building in 1930 and inished in October 1934. After more than a Half-century, this Mansions still stands majestically on the Bund……

上海外滩英迪格酒店引领今秋沪上新风尚——和牛月饼 Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund CHAR Australian Wagyu Beef Mooncakes Freshly baked pork illed moon cakes are one of the most popular Shanghainese holiday treats most often shared during the Mid-Autumn Festival and the weeks leading up to it. It is a time of year when friends and family get together and celebrate often gifting each other these delicious fresh pork mooncakes. In the tradition of Shanghai, Hotel Indigo in collaboration with CHAR, it award winning steakhouse on the 29th loor will launch its irst Fresh CHAR Australian Wagyu Beef Mooncakes. The chefs at CHAR have been working closely with the bakers to select the perfect beef variety, from the many found on Char’s menu. In fact, Australian Robbins Island Wagyu Beef was selected, which offers the perfect combination of lavor and aroma when freshly baked. “Since among at Hotel Indigo and working with the CHAR team I had always dreamt of one day producing a bespoke beef mooncake.” said Chef Naldo Chen, Executive Sous Chef of Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund. Don’t take our word for it and come sample what as may become the Mooncake to have in autumn 2016.

For more information or Reservation: (86) 21 – 3302 9991 NOW TRAVEL ASIA 97 JULY/AUGUST 2016

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