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Asia’s Top Leisure Hotels
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1. Fairmont Jaipur, Rajasthan, India 2. Oberoi Udaivilas, Udaipu, India 3. One & Only Royal Mirage, Dubai, UAE 4. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa, Penang, Malaysia 5. Viceroy Bali, Bali, Indonesia 6. Amanusa, Bali, Indonesia 7. The Oberoi Lombok, Lombok, Indonesia 8. Discovery Shores Boracay, Boracay, Philippines 9. The St. Regis Sanya Yalong, Hainan, China 10. The Peninsula, Shanghai, China 11. The Upper House, Hong Kong 12. Wynn, Macau 13. Conrad Macao Cotai Central, Macau 14. Six Senses Hideaway Ninh Van Bay, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam 15. Palais De Chine Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan 16. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan 17. Amanpuri, Phuket, Thailand 18. InterContinental Samui Baan Taling Ngam Resort Samui, Thailand 19. Conrad Samui, Samui, Thailand 20. Sofitel So Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
1. Armani Hotel & Resort, Dubai, Dubai, UAE 2. Shangri-La Hotel Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, UAE 3. Hotel Missoni Kuwait, Kuwait 4. Oberoi Rajvilas Jaipur, India 5. TAJ Tashi, Thimphu, Bhutan 6. The St. Regis Lhasa Resort Tibet, China 7. Hotel G, Beijing, Beijing, China 8. Aman at Summer Palace Beijing, China 9. The Water house at South Bund, Shanghai, China 10. The Mira Hong Kong 11. Hotel ICON Hong Kong 12. The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong Hong Kong 13. W Taipei Taipei, Taiwan 14. PALAIS de CHINE Taipei, Taiwan 15. Capella Singapore, Singapore 16. Indigo Pearl, Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 17. S 31 Sukhumvit Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand 18. Hotel Muse, Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand 19. The Library, Koh Samui, Samui, Thailand 20. G Hotel, Penang, Penang, Malaysia
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Asia’s Top Business Hotels
Asia’s Top Beach Hotels
1. Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Abu Dhabi, UAE 2. Trident, Gurgaon, New Delhi, India 3. The Leela Palace Kempinski, Bangalore, Bangalore, India 4. Grand Hyatt Doha, Doha, State of Qatar 5. Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait, Kuwait 6. Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel, Taipei, Taiwan 7. The Shilla Hotel Seoul, Seoul, South Korea 8. Pullman Ambassador, Changwon, South Korea 9. The Fullerton Hotel, Singapore 10. Fairmont Hotel, Singapore 11. Park Hyatt Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan 12. Conrad Hotel Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan 13. The Peninsula Tokyo, okyo, Japan 14. Hilton Kuala Lumpur, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 15. Sofitel Wanda Beijing, Beijing, China 16. China World Summit Wing, Beijing, Beijing, China 17. Four Seasons, Hong Kong 18. The Okura Prestige Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand 19. Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong, Bangkok, Thailand 20. JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand
1. Fusion Maia Resort, Danang, Vietnam 2. La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc, Phu Quoc, Vietnam 3. Hyatt Regency, Danang, Vietnam 4. The Nam Hai Hotel, Hoi An, Vietnam 5. Shangri-La Rasa Sayang, Penang, Malaysia 6. The Westin Langkawai Resort & Spa, Langkawai, Malaysia 7. Regent Bali, Bali, Indonesia 8. W Retreat and Spa Bali, Bali, Indonesia 9. The Samaya Bali, Bali, Indonesia 10. Angsana Bintan Indonesia, Indonesia 12. Capella Singapore Resort and Spa, Singapore 13. Soneva Fushi, Maldives 14. Four Seasons Resort Landaa Giraavaru, Maldives 15. Mandarin Oriental Sanya, Hainan, China 16. Centara Grand Mirage Beach Hotel Pattaya, Pattaya, Thailand 17. The Radisson Blu Plaza Resort Phuket Panwa Beach, Phuket, Thailand 18. Crowne Plaza Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 19. The Surin Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 20. Renaissance Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 21. The Naka Island, Phuket, Phuket, Thailand
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Asia’s Top Heritage Hotels 1. Jai Mahal Palace Hotel, Jaipur, India 2. Umaid Bhawan Palace Hote, Jodhpur, India 3. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia 4. La Residence Phou Vao by Orient Express , Luang Prabang, Laos 5. The Strand Hotel, Yangon, Myanmar 6. Hotel Sofitel Legend Metropole, Hanoi, Vietnam 7. Uma by COMO, Butan 8. The Peninsul, Hong Kong 9. Hotel Okura Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan 10. Amangalla, Galle, Sri Lanka 11. Le Sun Chine, Shanghai, China 12. Waldorf Astoria Shanghai On The Bund, Shanghai, China 13. Hotel Majapahit, Surabaya, Indonesia 14. Raffles Hotel, Singapore 15. The Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang, Penang, Malaysia 16. The Majestic Malacca, Malacca, Malacca, Malaysia 17. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand 18. Mandarin Dharathavi Chiangmai, Chiangmai, Thailand 19. Ratchamanka Hotel, Chiangmai, Thailand 20. Sofitel Centara Grand Resort Hua Hin, Hua Hin, Thailand
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Asia’s Top Asia’s Top Spa Hotels & Resorts Emerging Hotels
Asia’s Top Villa Resort
1. The Spa Maya Ubud Resort and Spa, Bali, Indonesia 2. Away Spa W Hotel, Bali, Bali, Indonesia 3. COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia 4. Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, Maldives 5. Angsana Lhuru, Maldives 6. Six Senses Spa Lamuu, Maldives 7. Sense of Touch Repulse Bay, Hong Kong 8. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Hong Kong 9. Banyan Tree Spa, Macau 10. Le Spa Du Metropole Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Hanoi, Vietnam 11. Vedana Spa of Vedana Resort and Spa, Hue, Vietnam 12. St. Regis Spa Beijing, Beijing, China 13. So Spa, Sofitel Guangzhou, Guangzhou, China 14. Brilliant Spa and of Chongqing, Chongqing, China 15. Amanfayun, Hangzhou, China 16. Four Seasons Chiangmai, Chiangmai, Thailand 17. VIE SPA, Bangkok, Thailand 18. The Spa at Anantara Bophut Resort & Spa, Koh Samui Thailand 19. Six Senses Koh Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand 20. Assawan Spa Health Club, UAE 21. Talise Ottaman Spa, UAE 22. ESPA at Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore
1. Vana Belle, A Luxury Collection Resort, Koh Samui, Koh Samui, Thailand 2. Foto Hotel, Phuket, Thailand 3. Hua Chang Heritage Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand 4. Mod Sathorn Hotel Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand 5. Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand 6. Le Meridien Suvarnabhum Golf Resort & Spa, Bangkok, Thailand 7. Sala Lanna, Chiangmai, Thailand 8. Hotel Indigo, Hong Kong 9. Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canel, Abu Dhabi 10. Waldolf Astoria Ras Al Rhaimah, Abu Dhabi 11. Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia 12. Conrad Ubud, Indonesia 13. Renaissance Johor Bahru Hotel, Malaysia 14. Aloft Kualar Lampur Sentra, Malaysia 15. Four Seasons Kyoto, Japan 16. Hoshinoya Okinawa, Japan 17. Palace Hotel Tokyo, Japan 18. Mandarin Oriental Pudong Shanghai, China 19. Aman Lijang, China 20. W Guangzhou, China 21. The Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou, China 22. InterContinental Sanya Resort, China 23. Jumeirah Himalaya Shanghai, hanghai, China 24. Parkroyal, Singapore 25. W Singapore, Singapore
1. W Retreat & Spa Maldives, Maldives 2. Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa , Maldives 3. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives 4. Taj Exotic Resort and Spa, Maldives 5. Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives 6. Ayana Bali Resort and Spa, Bali, Indonesia 7. Amapulo, Algntaya, Philippines 8. Shangri-La’s Boracay, Aklon, Philippines 9. The Westin Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia 10. Pangkor Laut Resort, Pangkor, Malaysia 11. The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Hoi An, Vietnam 12. Banyan Tree Resort Sanya, Sanya, China 13. Fuchun Resort, Hangzhou, China 14. Banyan Tree, Samui, Samui, Thailand 15. Silavadee Pool Spa Resort, Samui, Samui, Thailand 16. W Retreat Koh Samu, amui, Thailand 17. Impiana Private Villas, Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 18. Sri Panwa Hotel, Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 19. Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin, Hua Hin, Thailand 20. V Villas Hua Hin managed by Accor, Hua Hin, Thailand
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Asia’s Top Family Hotels
1. St. Regis Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia 2. The Shilla Jeju, South Korea 3. InterContinental Grand Seoul, South Korea 4. Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Penang, Malaysia 5. The Kee, Phuket Thailand 6. Soneva Kiri, Thailand 7. The Greenery Resort Kao Yai, Thailand 8. Amari Vouge Krabi, Thailand 9. DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Sanya Haitang Bay Sanya, China 10. The Winsor Toya Resort & Spa, Hokkaido Japan 11. Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta, Japan 12. Rutsu Resort Hokkaido Japan, Japan 13. ClubMed Kabira Beach, Japan 14. Shangri-La's Mactan Island Resort & Spa, Cebu, Philippines 15. Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 16. Anantara Mui Ne, Vietnam 17. The Venetian Macao Resort Hotel, Macau 18. Cotai Strip Resorts, Macau 19. Grand Lapa, Macau 20. Atlantis The Palm, Dubai
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Asia’s Top Wellness Spas 1. Harn Heritage Spa, Bangkok, Thailand 2. Divana Massage & Spa, Bangkok, Thailand 3. Absolute Sanctuary, Koh Samui, Thailand 4. The Oasis Spa, Chiangmai, Thailand 5. Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa, Bali, Indonesia 6. The Farm at Sanbenito, Batangas , Philippines 7. Mandala Spa, Boracay Island, Philippines 8. The Spa at The Address Dubai Mall, Dubai 9. Spa Time, Kuwait 10. Mission Hills Volcanic Mineral Springs & Spa, Haikou, China 11. Sense of Touch, Shanghai, China 12. Kocoon Spa Lounge & Elixirs, Beijing, China 13. evian SPA TOKYO, Tokyo, Japan 14. Aegean Spa, Singapore 15. Adeva Spa, Singapore 16. The Spa Artisan, Singapore 17. Spa by MTM, Hong Kong 18. Le Tranquille Spa, India 19. Avi Spa, Malaysia 20. Crown Spa, Macau China 21. Araamu Spa, Maldives 22. One & Only Spa by ESPA Reethi Rha, Maldives
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JEJU
Romantic SUMMER LOVE
FOR MILLIONS OF YEARS, THE SMALLEST PROVINCE IN SOUTH KOREA WAS SHAPED AND NATURALLY TRANSFORMED INTO A WONDERFUL WORLD-CLASS DESTINATION. THE STUNNING SCENERIES, MODERATE WEATHER ALL YEAR LONG, AND ROMANTIC AMBIENCE, ALL WITHIN JUST AN HOUR FLIGHT FROM SEOUL MADE THIS MARVELOUS ISLAND A PERFECT HAVEN FOR HONEYMOONERS.
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Jeongbang Waterfall, a famous waterfall on Jeju Island that falls directly in the ocean
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rriving at Jeju International airport, the dazzling beauty of Jeju from 10,000 feet above the ground is an extraordinary picture, but I’m sure Jeju has much more to offer at ground level. Jeju is blessed with romantic attractions across the island, but it would take weeks to experience them all. From the airport, Jeju City is just a short drive and it has almost everything a city needs, including 5 stars accommodations and restaurants. If one is looking for a city experience just stay in Seoul. The Jeju trip is all about getting back to nature and indulge in the romantic vibe of the charming island. A great romantic getaway should start off slowly before reaching the climax. Shangri La Yacht Cruise takes us around the magnificent island while serving refreshing wine and tea with selections of fresh fruits. The relaxing yacht cruise with the spectacular backdrop under a bright blue sky and exhilarating sea breeze is an ultimate introduction to Jeju. 42
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After a little re-energising break, we witnessed the natural wonders of Jeju. Apart from the sunny shores and exciting activities on the beach, we had to make time for the amazing Manjanggul Lava Tube. A must see destination for every visitor. Just like a paintbrush on a canvas, the lava movement for millions of years has painted incredible art throughout Manjang Cave. It is also home to rare cave species and was designated as a natural monument in 1970, and announced as a World Natural Heritage by the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in 2000. The temperature within the cave ranges from 11 to 21 c , allowing couples to intimately explore the longest lava tube in the world together for longer periods of time. The natural patterns on the wall are artistic in nature. Stalagmites and Stalactites symbolise the power and beauty of nature.
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Woman divers in black diving suit, icon of Jeju Island 44
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Jeju Folk Village Museum NOW Travel Asia
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CHI is the Shangri-La’s signature spa brand, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa NOW Travel Asia
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GEORGE TOWN THE TOWN OF Heritage
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Laguna Lang Co Fishing Village
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FIRST IMPRESSION AT LANG CO escaped the busy traffic of Hue on Highway No. 1 to Danang, but I wasn’t heading to another big city. The drive took me to the cooling sea breeze of Lang Co, a small quiet town on the central coastline of Vietnam just off the border of Danang. Lang Co may be small, but it is known to be the peaceful haven for tourists who love tranquility and a secluded location. Unlike Hue, there is very little chaos on the street of this fisherman village.Lang Co is blessed by nature. Get back
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with nature and personally experience why countless species of wild animals, plants, and birds call Bach Ma National Park home. Then dip your feet in the cooling stream and nurturing surrounding of Elephant Springs (Suoi Voi) before heading
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back to town for freshest seafood menus at Sao Bien Restaurant and burn some of that energy off with a relaxing stroll down Lang Co market where you’ll see true native lifestyle.
ACCOMODATION AT HUE VEDANA LAGOON RESORT & SPA
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irst Try an exquisite experience on the water villas in Vietnam at Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa. The resort nestles between two well-known heritage sites, Hue and Hoi An. The resort embodies the subtle connection of modern art and a high-end lifestyle. All 27 well-appointed villas and bungalows are spaciously separated for complete privacy. Choose to stay in the lush garden villas, over water bungalows, or the elegant Pool Aqua Bungalow with your very own private pool, all with the panoramic view of the peaceful lagoon and the majestic mountain. Even in the cultural Heritage city like Hue, you can find a world of tranquility and services beyond your expectation at Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa.
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PILGRIMAGE VILLAGE taying in a 5 star hotel is the best way to embrace the idyllic natural wonder of Hue. Just 4 km from Hue’s downtown, the Pilgrimage Village Hue showcases the traditional Vietnamese charm on Minh Mang Road. The resort features a serene environment in the luxurious Villa Deluxe, Honeymoon Bungalow, or the Traditional Vietnamese Pool House. Every corner of the resort is beautifully adorned in traditional Vietnamese décors in with a soothing natural environment. The essence of nature surrounding the resort is best experienced at Vedanā spa. The spa takes great care of sourcing to handling to blending 100% natural ingredients to create its own exquisite spa products.
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taying in a fishing village doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice all the luxuries. Banyan Tree Lang Co is one of the most visually stunning resorts in central Vietnam. It adds a luxury lifestyle to the traditional Vietnamese culture. Lifestyle and art are very noticeable. A short distance from the Beach Pool Villa you can find the soft texture of powdery sand of the beach . There are plenty of activities to do here. Water activities and afternoon golfing at Laguna Lang Co Golf Club to name a few. Spoil all your senses in Banyan Tree Spa Lang Co. The treatments are developed from ancient wellness techniques, using only quality natural products, and deliver by professional therapists. Then relax in a pool and enjoy a private meal in the comfort of your pool villa while watching the sun disappearing beyond the mountains.
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f you prefer a more modern vibe, Angsana Lang Co is the best choice in Lang Co. The contemporary Angsana Lang Co was conceptualised in tribute to the rich culture and heritage of Vietnam. Traditional Vietnamese aesthetics can be found throughout the buildings and chic interiors. Finishes such as silk embroidery, eggshell lacquer as well as renewable materials like bamboo can be found on fretworks, timber paneling, lighting, fabrics, furnishings, lanterns, and artwork. Embark on a delightful culinary adventure at Angsana Lang Co. Starting from the stunning views over the East Sea, Upper Deck is the ideal place for guests seeking a beverage in a mellow and relaxing lounge atmosphere. Then head down to the beachfront and taste world-class tapas at Moomba before deciding whether you want a hearty rice dish at Rice Bowl or Market Place’s Indochinese an international favourite.
My captivating summer journey might be at the end of the road, but it ended with a great impression. The historic sites, the delightful time on the beach, and the enchanting Perfume River were beyond my expectation. I know I have fallen in love the with the charming streets, the generous smiles of the people, and the simplicity of Hue. I love the traditional beauty of Ao Dai, and of course, I won’t forget the chaotic traffic. I just hope that Hue will be able to preserve its unique chemistry for the times to come, and I just hope to return there one day!
JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa Tel. +66(0)7633 8000 www.jwmarriottphuketresort.com check update hotel information on facebook.com/jwmarriottphuket
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OKINAWA WHERE THE SUN KISSES the Ocean
THE LAND OF “BLUE SKIES AND INDIGO SEAS”, THE OKINAWA ARCHIPELAGO HOLDS THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE OCEAN AND THE LAND. OKINAWA IS SURROUNDED BY RICH NATURE, COOLING BREEZES, WARM SUNLIGHT, AND RHYTHMIC RIP CURLS. NOW Travel Asia
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fter satisfying your shopping needs, a trip to some authentic Ryukyu food is a must! Ryukyu food is passed on from generation to generation and somewhat more Chinese than Japanese. It is a refreshing taste away from traditional Japanese sashimi which you might have had already on your vacation. You must try the popular Goya Champuru (stir fried bitter melon with egg) which is highly nutritious and can rebalance your body. Parades of drooling menus like Rafute, a succulent soy braised pork belly that ‘melts in your mouth’, and Okinawa Soba that uses 100% wheat flour, top with delicious pork belly pickled ginger. Western influence is also present in Taco Rice, a Mexican taco flavoured pork served on rice! Okinawa is also famous for its Beniamino Tarot or Okinawan Sweet Potato Pine.The mellow sweet treat is perfect for all ages and is the popular souvenir for every tourist. While absorbing in the charm of Okinawa, you will realize the similarity of Okinawan architecture and the Chinese. Most houses are single story with pointed gables and ceramic roof tiles. If you look closely, you’ll notice 2 Shisas or Shiisaa which are ceramic dolls sitting on the roof for welcoming guests at the house’s front entrance. The Shias are believed to bring good luck and drive away bad luck with one Shisa has its mouth closed to keep positive energy in while another Shisa has its mouth opened to push the negative energy away. The relics are the images of mythical creatures which is a merge between a lion and a dog, which rightfully earned its reputation as The Guardian Dog. It’s no doubt that Shias are found everywhere on Okinawa and are made into popular souvenir as well.
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Be a part of Mediterranean vibe with a wonderful mix of glamour and laid back items by Jaspal. The collection brings all Summer Spring trends to the world, from Colour Block, Floral Mashup, and Blue Wave, to the sexy Sheer Chic style. Completing the vibrant collection are trendy sunglasses, eye-catching jewelries, and every lady’s best friend, a colourful shoulder bag!
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WINE & BISTRO 100m Wine & Bistro Indulging the Aesthetics of Relaxation 100M WINE & BISTRO COMES ALIVE AT NIGHT AS PEOPLE MAKES THEIR WAY THROUGH THE TRAFFIC TO THE 22ND FLOOR OF S31 SUKHUMVIT BOUTIQUE HOTEL. THE BISTRO SITUATES ON THE TOP FLOOR, 100 METERS ABOVE THE GROUND, HENCE THE NAME 100M WINE & BISTRO. THE BISTRO ALLOWS YOU TO WITNESS ONE OF THE MOST SPECTACULAR CITIES FROM UP ABOVE, SERVED TO LIGHT TUNES, INVIGORATING COCKTAILS, AND FLAVOURFUL DISHES.
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legance reflects through the modern design with the use of refined black décors and warm wooden floor. The chic rooftop glass-fronted restaurant overlooks unbelievable 270° panoramic view of Bangkok at night. Romantic ambience flows through slow jazz songs plays through the night. Dusky candle lit tables laid with crisp white linens and fresh flowers ensure that the focus is only on your dining partner and the night skies. Let the atmosphere takes you away while you sit back and relax with a glass of champagne. Indulge in French – Italian fusion menus from the creativity of experienced chef, Kampon Lekwattananon. After a whole day of tiring city exploration, 100m Wine & Bistro is all you need to unwind!
Tips: May ’ 13 – July ’ 13 V Promotion 3 (Three) – 4 (for) 1 (one) @ 599 net – from 5 PM – 8 PM 2 glass of wines plus 1 dish of Tapas Get 20% for A La Carts Menu V Special Tapas Buffet is served Fri – Sun, 8 PM – 10 PM 124
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philosophy. Radisson Suites Bangkok also offers complimentary high speed Wi-Fi for all guests, one of many Radisson Brand hallmarks which we are very proud of.
What is Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit’s best strength PR focus and marketing platforms to convince guests and all travellers?
guests. I truly believe acknowledgement and praise to the team for creating memorable moments to our guests goes hand in hand with the constant strive for business success, as neither can be achieved in the absence of the other.
What makes Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit different from other business hotels in Bangkok-the highly competitive city of travel industry and hospitalities? Radisson Suites Bangkok Sukhumvit is located in the heart of Bangkok, just off the bustling Sukhumvit road, with easy access to Bangkok skytrain, subway stations, elevated expressway, and has several unique offerings to differentiate itself from competitors. Our Guest Suites are well appointed and range between 32 square meters to more than 110 square meters, 2-Bedroom Suites. With over 5 room types to choose from including our Business Class Rooms with upgraded amenities and services for the discerning corporate traveller at very attractive prices. Our service philosophy to our guests are backed by a 100% Guest Satisfaction Guarantee, and characterized by our unique “ Yes I Can!” service
Our focus on F&B offerings has resulted in our Mauve Restaurant being a popular restaurant with its signature food and bar menu. To match everyone’s life style, our marketing and communications efforts are centred on promoting this as well as our guests rooms via both traditional media and online media i.e. TV channel, local and international magazines, social media networks. We also have our own fanpage on Facebook which all social networkers can visit and receive our updated news and promotions with just one click. In term of marketing, we have specially created the 5 Value Added Packages (Romance, Shop Till You Drop, Get Amongst the Action, Family Funtastic, Business Travel Made Easy) to attract all genres of customers which are already live on our hotel website, and promoted on our social media pages.
What is hotel’s goal and visions towards the remained half year 2013? The hotel’s goals and vision will remain unchanged and will continue to provide the best service and facilities to our guests through our Radisson brand hallmarks and at superior value.
What will be the upcoming trends of travel industry related to hospitalities in Bangkok? How is your moving forward platform or re-action after that prospect trends? The every changing way hotels interface with technology both within guest rooms, as well as communicating with guests will remain as a constant focus. We have done this since the hotel opened, offering free internet to all guests. We have also installed state of the art in-room entertainment system whereby guests can control the lighting and air conditioning, all from
a television remote. There will be more of such exciting changes later this year. Watch this space!
Any update hotel’s plan or project to convince business travelers and all target clients? Please tell us. We have exciting developments coming up before the end of the year and that includes the addition of a second contemporary fine dining Indian restaurant with a live show kitchen, as well as a rooftop bar and some enhancement to our meetings facilities. This will provide guests with more reasons to stay, meet, relax and dine at our hotel. In addition, we aim to gain more members for our worldwide free of charge loyalty program named “Club Carlson” and for Meeting Planners “Club Carlson for Planners” by providing additional benefits to reward our repeat guests for their loyalty.
What is the most favorite interesting activity or leisure travelers should do during staying at your hotel? Any food and beverage outlets to recommend? This is a very good question! Inside the hotel: you should not miss our homemade muesli at our international buffet breakfast line. During the day, relax at our rooftop orange pool while enjoying our signature drink “Soi Sib Sam”. And after a successful day, gathering with friends at Asqu bar and try our Negroni cocktail with a set of tapas or savour our great taste of “ Yam Som-O” at Mauve restaurant. Outside the hotel: there are thousands of things to do such as shopping, you can enjoy retail therapy from local shopping streets to leading shopping malls.
In term of our business guests, we are also close to many leading office towers which saves your time and money for transportation. For health and wellness guests, we are only 5 minutes away from one of the leading international hospitals.
Being as a person who stays in Bangkok quiet long, what is the best highlight or best scenery in your point of view? I truly love the city of Bangkok, although there are so many activities outside of the city, I do strongly recommend that travellers spend more time immersing themselves within the city itself and the amazing Thai culture, especially the graceful Thai way of greeting “Wai” as well as “Smile” which is trademark of Thai people, they do smile with their hearts whenever I see it and experience all that Bangkok has to offer. My personal highlights for Bangkok are everything from the amazing cityscapes that rooftop bars and restaurants offer to traditional street food, Bangkok as a city that definitely never sleeps or is ever lacking in personality! Don’t forget a visit to Bangkok must include a Tuk Tuk ride through the city at night! NOW Travel Asia
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Please tell us about your hospitality management background before joining with Hotel Muse in Bangkok. I graduated from a French Hotel and Catering school in Brittany before starting my career at the Ritz hotel in Paris in 1992 as a Management trainee. I then moved to the hotel Martinez in Cannes before arriving to London in 1995 at Claridge’s where I spent 3 years in various positions in Front of House. In 1998 I moved to Danesfield House hotel and Spa in Marlow member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World In 2004 I took up my first General Manager position at the acclaimed 5 star country house hotel ‘The Vineyard at Stockcross’ in Berkshire England, a member of Relais and Chateaux and winner of many top accolades to include 2 Michelin Star and Best Hotel Restaurant in England in 2009 In August 2009 I moved with my family to sunnier climes to take on my first international challenge as General Manager of the successful beach resort “Evason Ana Mandara” in Vietnam part of the Six Senses group and awarded best resort in Vietnam in 2010 and 2012 at the World Travel Award. During my time the resort was always included in the famous CondeNast Traveler “Gold List”.
What is the matter or factor making you interested in working this business field of hospitality? My parents where in it so I have been working in the industry since a very early age.
What is your vision towards the rapid growth of hospitality business in Asia Pacific? Look after your staff, they’ll look after your customer, profit will then come. Do it the other way round and you’ll get into trouble quickly.
Why did you decide working in Bangkok City with Hotel Muse? In Mid 2012 it was time to do something else with my professional life and relocate my family from a beach resort to a bigger city. When Muse came along I felt in love with the challenge instantly
Being as a person who stays in Bangkok quiet long, what is the best highlight of Bangkok inyour point of view? Well I have only been here for 5 months but the quality and diversity of the offering in Bangkok is simply stunning, and this is not just for the hospitality industry. Coming from Vietnam it has been rather easy for the entire family to adapt..
With very pre-eminent passionate character of Hotel Muse, how was the strategy you firstly doat very first days of becoming part and playing the important role of management?
NICOLAS PETH
GENERAL MANAGER, HOTEL MUSE BANGKOK People, people and people, listen to them first when new in an environment before deciding on any changes. Whether they are staff or guests they all have a story to tell you.
How is the management strategy of Hotel Muse doing in the present? Judging by our financial result so far in 2013 and our guests comment on site like Trip Advisor the team here at Muse is delighted with the performance. But never be complacent.
What makes Hotel Muse prominently different from other design and leisure hotels in Bangkok, the highly competitive city of travel industry and hospitalities? We are unique by our style and interior decor in a very competitive market so it helps a lot. We are so far away from the rest in Bangkok.
What is Hotel Muse’s PR focus and marketing platforms to convince guests and all travelers as well as public perception? Hotel Muse is still fairly new having only opened in September 2012 so we need to spread the word about it. Social media is a very strong platform nowadays but we also need to travel the
world to visit potential customer at trade show, exhibition, private meeting and meet them face to face. This is what Luxury market demands
How is about the hotel’s goal and visions towards the remained half year 2013? To remain highly creative and innovative in all that we do
What will be the upcoming trend of travel industry related to hospitalities in Bangkok? How will be your moving platform or affective steps after that trend? Very difficult to know, please can I have a crystal ball? Don’t look at others but do your own thing that work for your property and become trend setter. Hotel Muse has been very good at it so far. Look at our live opera singer in our Medici restaurant. Now so many hotels and restaurants are trying to do the same.
Any update hotel’s plan or outlets specially created for travelers and all target clients? Please tell us. Shuuuu….!! It’s a secret but keep an eye on our Facebook page to be the first one to know what’s going on NOW Travel Asia
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ANA INTERCONTINENTAL TOKYO
et against a breathtaking backdrop of The Imperial Palace, the Parliament House, Mount Fuji,, Tokyo Bay, ANA Continental Tokyo, offers guests from across the world a whole new lifestyle equipped with both superb relaxation and culinary facilities. The bright and spacious Atrium Lounge on 2nd floor is the ideal location to meet with friend and colleagues throughout the day and into the evening. The soft, calm atmosphere and surrounding water, is the perfect place for a sumptuous afternoon high tea served to the light jazz music. With more than 50 kinds of drinks, delectable cakes and light snacks, Atrium Lounge offers quite a bit. Also countless pairs of sweet treats, pastries, sandwiches and teas can be seen consumed by the satisfied guests. Enjoy the exquisite Ceylon, Earl Grey, Assam, and Dajeeling, or try ANA’s special blend Samova Tea. Samova Tea is blended from freshly picked Darjeeling from the highest peak of the Sanguma farms and Assam from Mokalbari East estate. All blended with herbs and spices collected from all over the world. The selections and luxurious Samova Tea will lead you to a whole new tea experience. Every weekday from 3-5PM is a special time at Atrium Lounge. The highly seductive High Tea dessert buffet serves Pierre Gagnaire Pains et Gateaux’s sweet delicacies, including fruit compotes, a mouthwatering selection of cakes, tortes, to French pastries, Belgium chocolate cascade and delectable finger sandwiches. Tip: Atrium Lounge serves Traditional Afternoon Tea Set during the weekend&holidays from noon to 5 PM.
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INTERVIEW
GREGOR ANDREEWITCH
keeping a close eye on China where a tremendous amount of wealth is emerging.
GENERAL MANAGER, CONRAD TOKYO
WHAT’S THE GREATEST DRAW OF TOKYO?
GRADUATED FROM THE SCHOOL OF HOTEL ADMINISTRATION,VIENNA, AUSTRIA, AND SOON JOINED HILTON INTERNATIONAL, GREGOR ANDRE’EWITCH HAS THE STORY ABOUT HIS HOTEL AND TOKYO. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING WITH CONRAD HOTEL AND RESORTS?
I’ve been working at Conrad Tokyo for 5 ½ years. I arrived at the end of 2007, and 2008 was a very difficult year due to economic downturn. We had to work very hard and very effi ciently. We nearly recovered in the following years before the earthquake hit Japan in March 2011. We found our way out of the crisis faster than expected. We keep on developing our business, and our different segments. We worked toward a complete recovery and better financial result.
HOW DID YOU RECOVER SO QUICKLY?
First of all, the main business in the finance industry wanted to prove immediately that they didn’t want to leave Japan behind. Many businesses returned to Japan to secure their operations. We had a strong Japanese leisure traveler base which offset some shortfalls. What helped us a great deal was the IMF conference last year. Many Financial Ministers wouldn’t had visited Japan if there were any doubts or danger. It reassured the travelers and leisure travelers from oversea are on the increase. The weaken Japanese Yen also made the country more accessible.
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WHAT MAKES CONRAD OUTSTANDING?
Everybody wants to visit Japan. This was delayed by the tragic incident in 2011. Japan always has a reputation of being an expensive country, but now it is 15-18% less expensive. Japan has a tremendous diversity in architecture, technology, and a thousand years of history and culture behind it. The countryside is unbelievable from beaches in the South to the ski destinations in the North. It has beautiful villages and amazing festivals throughout the year. Japanese culinary heritage is vast. Japanese are very meticulous in pairing international, American, Australian, and European foods. Our Japanese chef from our fine dining room has 12 years of experience abroad, and he now runs a successful modern French cuisine, Gordon Ramsey Restaurant.
What makes Conrad outstanding is the tremendous generosity of space. It’s the size of our room, our restaurants, and our spacious public areas. We provide the luxury of being yourself. We have probably the most outstanding venue in Tokyo. We have the park, Tokyo Bay, and the skyline behind it. We have a fantastic contemporary art selection and original Japanese arts. We have 4 world-class restaurants, 2 of them are Michelin star restaurants, and to my knowledge, there is no hotel with 2 Michelin star restaurants in it. Our award-winning spa features 25 meters indoor swimming pool, the only one in Tokyo. We have fantastic connectivity. The subway is right below us, we are 10 minutes from the Tokyo train station, and 20-25 minutes to the airport. For leisure travelers, Ginza, one of the world’s most exclusive shopping districts, is just a stone throw away.
WHY DO YOU LOVE TOKYO?
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A NEW MARKET?
HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR HOLIDAYS IN TOKYO?
We’re always looking for a new market. Our focus is on the Middle East, Russia, and we’re
If you are in the hospitality business and see the unbelievable customer service in Japan, to see how eager team members are to please guests, and see the natural hospitality due to its culture, all without the expectation of tips, you realize that it’s a very special country. In my particular job, the key is to retain and increase return customers so it is of great importance to provide excellent service. We have the “Silent Symphony” service concept. Services are seamlessly integrated so that you can experience the service as one whole experience. There are many sayings like “Customers are kings” and in Japan “Customers are gods”. When I came to this hotel, it’s immediately clear that I would like to take this opportunity to discover the culture and the people, attempt to learn a new language, and to explore a dynamic experience.
If I have guests coming to Tokyo, we would take a boat to Asakusa and go to Sensoji Temple. You’ll get a very immediate impact of what Japan is all about. I love to show people the differences in other cities like the gizmo town of Akihabara. The gimmicks and electronics at Akihabara is probably trend setting around the world. You have the combination of futuristic designs next to traditional architectures. The way the Japanese travels within the city and outside. Despite the masses of people, it moves without problems. It’s very organized and respected. There is tremendous harmony, people respect each other’s feelings. People are very respectful of public properties.
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