BEST PLACES
TO TRAVEL 2018
welcome
Find the best of Asia in four fabulous cities the best part about heading into a new year is the anticipation of all the new adventures it will bring. and 2018 is especially exciting for us, as we watch four of our favorite hotel brands blossom in some of the world’s most exciting cities. the soaring and serene park hyatt bangkok envelops you in the best of the thai capital, while cocooning you from its chaos. towering in the tallest building in the philippines, Grand hyatt manila plays up the cosmopolitan vibe in the freshest, most innovative area of the city. with its sophisticated interpretations of local culture, andaz singapore sets a new standard for immersive hospitality. and hyatt centric ginza gets you in on the ground floor with the cool trendsetters and rich traditions of tokyo’s creative nexus. read on and we’re sure you’ll agree these are this year’s hotspots. your resolution is easy: get planning!
Bangkok
An aerial reverie in the City of Angels visit the kinetic thai capital for stellar shopping, fantastic food and fascinating culture. admire the frenzy from high above the fray at park hyatt bangkok.
Shop Central Embassy—the elegant, luxury lifestyle mall out of which Park Hyatt Bangkok rises—offers unfettered
access to top global runway brands. Keeping guard is the 2,000-kilogram Freddie Horse, a huge, playful bronze sculpture by beloved Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Other temples to commerce just down the road include the exclusive Central Chidlom. + A trip to Bangkok is incomplete without a visit to Jim Thompson House, the gorgeous teak home of the man who put the Thai silk industry on the map. You’ll leave with covet-worthy souvenirs and bedeviled by the tale of mystery and intrigue behind Thompson’s infamous disappearing act. DO Even if you’re not hunting for precious antiques, imaginative local art or all the textiles, homewares and souvenirs you can carry, Chatuchak—the largest outdoor market on Earth—is still a weekend must-do. Meet young designers hand-stitching tomorrow’s coolest fashions. Chat up local artists on the inspiration behind their work. The street food is bountiful: try the classic grilled pork on a stick, some refreshing honey-lemonade, the decadent fried-potato spirals, an overflowing plate of paella and—if you’re a bit daring—the jumbo prawns boiled in their shells and dipped in chili sauce. + Adults and kids alike marvel at Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World, a multi-story indoor aquatic adventureland where you can dive with sharks and sting rays, sail in a glass-bottom boat or stroll through a surreal tunnel seeing all the fish and fun from the bottom of the seabed.
Bangkok
SEE The timeless tourist trifecta in Bangkok’s Old Town starts with the gilded Grand Palace, until 1925 the residence of the monarchy. One of the most sacred places in Thailand, it houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a 66-centimeter-tall statue of carved jade whose cloak the King changes thrice yearly. Next door in Wat Po resides another revered deity, of epic proportions: the 46-meter-long golden reclining Buddha. It’s a meditative joy to wander the grounds, which are the birthplace of Thai massage and the home of the ashes of the first four kings of this dynasty. Cross the river at sunset for the brilliant natural light show behind Wat Arun, a wondrous sandcastle of a temple that has just emerged from an extensive restoration. T+L Tip: To display proper respect, keep shoulders covered and wear pants or skirts past the knees; socks are required to enter the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
Bangkok
eat+drink In foodie capital Bangkok, there’s no shortage of sophisticated spots for a drink or dinner, and Park Hyatt Bangkok has a prime position near many of them: Central Embassy is trendy, with internationally acclaimed dining brands; happening eateries and cafés for music or refined fare; and the fanciest food court around. + Keep climbing, for each of the polished food and beverage outlets in Park Hyatt Bangkok has an outdoor terrace—ideal for maximizing the views from all angles of the shimmering tower. This twisty design is echoed in artist Hirotoshi Sawada’s Naga, the Thai water dragon that blesses the ceiling of the Living Room, the hotel’s all-day communal space. The Embassy Room showcases an open kitchen for culinary theater, and The Bar is a convivial retreat for classic drinks. If these relaxed, refined spaces don’t make you feel enough at home, Penthouse Bar + Grill—the crowning beauty on the top three levels of the tower—is sure to do the trick. You’re invited into the home of your most cultured friend, a globetrotting polymath with impeccable taste whose art collection, private chef, personal bar and even BMW are at your disposal across six vibrant and dynamic eating, drinking and lounging venues. relax Even in a country known for the gentle touch of its people and a rich history of massage, we’ve never seen a sanctuary quite like the heavenly spa at Park Hyatt Bangkok. Dedicated to providing the ultimate in luxury, comfort, peace of mind and personalization, the calming spa magnificently melds all-organic
ingredients with innovative treatment concepts. Emerge from a day of Thai herbal compresses and milk-salt body scrubs, crystal-steam rooms and aural- and aroma-therapy “experience showers” and feel yourself floating. stay It can be as much of a thrill to plunge wholeheartedly into Bangkok’s buzzing streets as to gently retreat from them. Park Hyatt Bangkok is a tranquil oasis of understated luxury showcasing curated art, personalized service and a pervasive sense of serenity. The peace shines through Hirotoshi Sawada’s Pagoda Mirage, an intricate, suspended sculpture that evokes the reflection of a pagoda on water. But, in fact, all the windows, walls, service and sustenance bring in the best brilliance of Thai culture while holding the chaos of the city at bay. The generous-sized rooms and suites, each with luxurious spa bathrooms, ensure unique sleep experiences. The terraced-garden pool deck hovers above the greenery of historic Nai Lert Park and the British Embassy like a sky Eden. Krung Tep, the most commonly used Thai name for the capital, translates to “City of Angels”— and you certainly feel among them in this calming cocoon on high.
Bangkok BAngkok
“Park Hyatt Bangkok is a tranquil oasis of understated luxury portraying curated art, unique dining experiences and personalized service within a pervasive sense of serenity�
Explore the urban vibe of Manila
manila
feel the energy of the philippine capital’s new commercial hub, bonifacio global city, with its open-air theater, lush green parks and amazing murals. grand hyatt manila is your luxury perch.
SEE Who would have imagined Bonifacio Global City (BGC), a former military base, would become the hippest place in town? Designed in a grid, much like New York City, everything within BGC is easy to locate. From new-concept drinking and dining destinations to fabulous shopping, everything is within easy walking distance and you can also enjoy artistic murals along the way. A round of applause goes to Bonifacio Art Foundation, which launched in 2015, inviting artists to cover the town in creative masterpieces. Among the many talented artists to look out for are Kristin Farr, whose work adorns the Bonifacio Technology Center and the Transformer Building; Faile, who painted on One Global Place; Dog and Pony, who have enlivened the Bonifacio Stopover; and Francisco Diaz, on the BGC Corporate Center.
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DO Manila is a unique blend of old and new—the perfect destination for travelers interested in culture and history. A must for visitors is Fort Santiago, first built by the Spanish after their 1571 conquest. The citadel forms part of Intramuros (literally, “within the wall”), a historic walled city housing the remains of old stone churches, stately residences, plazas, convents and schools that survived multiple colonial changes-of-hands, World War II bombings and natural disasters. + With mild weather on our side, Manila is perfect for yachting. On the west coast, adjacent to the Philippine Navy Headquarters, is Manila Yacht Club—the best place to catch the city’s famed salmon-pink sunsets. + Meanwhile, for those traveling with children, Active Fun—an indoor playground filled with ball pits, slides and games—will prove popular.
manila
Shop In the fashion-forward Philippines, style mavens blend international heavy hitters with local haute couture and new twists on indigenous designs. To plump up your wardrobe, head to SM Aura Premier and Power Plant Mall. + Meanwhile, much appreciation is due to places that seamlessly mix business with pleasure, and Bonifacio High Street is a winning combination. On this multi-level, kilometer-long boulevard dominated by a pleasant park with art installations, you’ll hardly notice you’re shopping. eat+drink Bonifacio Global City is a melting pot of culinary ideas, and for a night out, there is no shortage of restaurants and bars to choose from. Those who hanker after exclusivity should head to The Peak, a fascinating blend of speakeasy, whisky bar and live-music venue. Its location on the rooftop of Grand Hyatt Manila only reinforces the feeling of living the high life. Speaking of entertainment, prepare to be marveled by the chefs at No. 8 China House, who theatrically create delicious Chinese cuisine in front of guests. Those who prefer a quieter evening may opt to book a pew at The Cellar, where your sommelier-curated bottle of wine pairs precisely with small plates of tapas, including everyone’s favorite Philippine specialty, lechon.
stay Planning has its privileges. Unlike much of Metro Manila, BGC is lush, welcoming and walkable on ground level, kind of like Manhattan, from which the area purposefully takes inspiration. Grand Hyatt Manila occupies a skyscraper that resembles the Empire State Building in a bustling, luxuriant development called Grand Central Park. And if that’s not New York enough for you, wait until you see the sizzling skyline views from the floor-to-ceiling windows of your guestroom, comfortably ensconced in the tallest building in the entire country. The sixth-floor open-air pool deck provides a verdant reprieve from the heat of the city... and perhaps from your stress, too: seek out the purposebuilt meditation garden if you need a little Zen. Further relaxation can be found at the hotel’s serene spa. Distingushed by stellar service, Grand Hyatt Manila wants you to feel at home, so expect that endearing Filipino warmth to pervade every moment of your stay.
“Wait until you see the sizzling skyline views from your guestroom, ensconced in the tallest building in the country�
manila
singapore
Discover what makes the Lion City roar roll into the powerhouse ‘red dot’ for a vibrant immersion in one of the region’s best melting pots. stay scintillated in the atomspheric Andaz singapore.
SEE Of course, the lively streets teem with heart and history as well. Andaz is perfectly positioned at a cultural crossroads—near Kampong Glam, Bras Basah Bugis and Little India—so that within striking distance you’ll find both Sultan Mosque, the largest in Singapore, and Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, one of the more important Buddhist sites. Also be sure to stroll, shop and sip among the cute shophouses on trendy Haiji Lane and Arab Street. + Among the benefits of a planned city is the ability to allocate an abundance of green space. Two verdant areas worth your time are the peaceful, sprawling Singapore Botanic Gardens and the sustainable, otherworldly Gardens by the Bay, whose neon “supertrees” shouldn’t overshadow the wonderland’s one million plants and the world’s largest glass greenhouse. Shop This is a fast-paced, trend-setting, glitz-loving city. You’ll find no better evidence of this than on a stroll down Orchard Road, where shiny towers and
singapore
DO Singapore’s modern history dates to the 1819 establishment of a British settlement at the base of the Malaya Peninsula. Traders and laborers flocked from around Asia (but mostly China and India) to the free port whose original name, Singapura, means “Lion City” in Malay. Excellent museums in the city shed a spotlight on the various ethnicities and traditions that make up the diverse city. We highly recommend the Peranakan Museum, which is dedicated to people of mixed ethnic origins, many of whose roots go back to the earliest traders who arrived at or breezed through this entrepÔt. + In the recently reopened National Museum of Singapore in the grand former City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, art, festivals, film and other media help tie up the best of the culture in one innovative and stunning exhibition space.
are countless culinary delights to discover at Andaz Singapore. Just try resisting Pandan’s creative take on the national cake, the pandan chiffon, made here in flavors such as black sesame and rose syrup. Premium steakhouse 6650F seduces with its Savile-Row style, skyline views and delectable meats and seafood. You’re going to need a nightcap, of course, and where better to toast your good fortune than at a rockstar roofbar named for the bird of good omens, Mr. Stork.
singapore
shoppers of all walks of life make commerce a competitive sport. eat+drink Nothing better exemplifies the perfectly seasoned melting pot that is Singapore than its cuisine. From chili crab to nasi lemak, the picks of the culinary broad spectrum can be found in bustling community-centric hawker centers. Alley on 25 brings that street-dining concept to the sky, adding a touch of panache along with a dash of the best international flavors Singapore excels at. Get your barbecue fix at Smoke & Pepper; savor cast-iron heartiness at The Green Oven; graze on charcuterie and Italian desserts at Icehaus; or watch your prime cuts of meat sizzle to perfection at Plancha’Lah! For more home-grown flavors, Auntie’s Wok and Steam serves sustainably sourced live seafood, dim sum and homey Chinese classics like noodles and congee. In line with the city’s impressive mixology scene, infused spirits and craft cocktails are the name of the game at Bar Square—though we wouldn’t fault you for lounging, complimentary drink in hand, in the natural light of the Sunroom all day. + Bottom to top, there
stay For all the guidebooks you read and apps you download, nothing can give you an equally sharp insight into a city as a friend who lives there. That’s the vibe you get from the moment you set foot in Andaz Singapore, a sophisticated, sky-high tribute to the multi-ethnic Lion City that’s also a pretty sweet pad to lay your head. The sense of place is pervasive, with indoor alleyways echoing the city’s iconic ones, and local textures, textiles and techniques reinterpreted and woven into every space. Around every corner there’s something new to discover—and possibly someone, too, as the lack of barriers, desks and counters encourages friendly rapport with the staff and spontaneous interaction with other guests. Designed by Andre Fu, the hotel partnered with a local brewery to create its Andaz Pale Ale; with a Javanese community to create coffee blends; and with au courant Singaporean label In Good Company to curate a wardrobe of clothing items staff members can mix and match as they like. We’d expect nothing less from Andaz, which means “personal style” in Hindi. If locavive isn’t already the next hot word, Andaz Singapore is defining it.
“Andaz Singapore is a destination offering new perspectives inspired by its eclectic neighborhood�
singapore
A launchpad into the heart of Tokyo
tokyo
for generations the trendiest district in japan, ginza is a neighborhood of artists, fashion-plates, publishers and foodies. and hyatt centric ginza is where the cool kids stay.
Shop It’s hard to overemphasize the command that Ginza has on trends in a city known around the globe as a style and creative capital. Just stepping outside of the hotel here is an inundation of color and cool. The neighborhood takes its name from the silver mint that was built here in the 1600s to create Shogunate coins. Over the centuries, the artisans, actors, dancers and geisha who lived and worked in the area helped make it a creative hub, and a total rebuild following a fire in the late 1800s rendered the architecture, commerce and mindsets decidedly more modern and Western. Newspapers, followed by magazines, printers and ad agencies moved in, solidifying Ginza as the filter and mouthpiece for style that it remains today. On weekend afternoons, the glittering luxury brand-lined Chuo Dori Street is closed to traffic and becomes a pedestrian thoroughfare of haute commerce. Here, you’ll find the district’s largest shopping complex Ginza Six, where the art, cultural displays and stores are sandwiched
between the lovely rooftop garden and—in the basement—a Noh theater. There you can see the 14th-century performance art of music, dance, drama and comedy called nogaku that is on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. + Tokyu Plaza Ginza is another mall worthy of getting lost in, where two floors are dedicated to duty-free shopping for foreign visitors. DO There’s no shortage of entertainment options in this sprawling mega-city, but two timeless traditions should not be skipped. For a few years now, there has been a strategic move in the works to relocate Tsukiji, and while the end is nigh, it isn’t quite there yet. You still have time to squeeze in a predawn trip to the world’s largest fish market to hopefully catch a tuna auction, see the old-time fishmongers in action and get a crazy-fresh sushi breakfast, all before 8 am. (Just hurry up!) + Head to the neighborhood known as the heartland of sumo, where three of the country’s six Grand Sumo Championship tournaments are held each year. Even if you can’t make match day, Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Museum is super
tokyo
Landscape and Japanese Traditional. Obviously, cherry blossom season here is a knockout.
interesting, as is chankonabe—the one-pot stew wrestlers eat to gain weight that you can taste in eateries all over the Ryogoku area.
tokyo
SEE A certain spirituality is woven into the fabric of Japan. Tokyo’s most famous Shinto shrine, Meiji-jingu, was dedicated to the 19th-century emperor who opened Japan to the West. Traditional and serene, the shrine is guarded by a gate made from a 1,500-year-old cypress. + To show your appreciation for Japanese food, you might want to stop by an Inari shrine, dedicated to the diety who protects rice. The ten Ginza Hatcho Shrines are scattered around the district in alleys and on roofs, sometimes guarded by a stone fox. + There are lots of wonderful green spaces in Tokyo, but the most comprehensive is Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens, with sections faithfully recreating different botanical styles, such as French Formal, English
eat+drink From the ocean’s diverse bounty to the farmers’ artisanally raised meat, this is a foodie culture like no other. The lively NAMIKI667 whips up hyperlocal ingredients in modern meals crafted with a passion for food and flair. Papillote wrapping keeps fresh fish from Tsukiji and local vegetables tender and juicy. Small-batch Akikawa beef (only 60 cows available per year!) cooked with straw in a cocotte gives a hearty, smoky flavor. Old techniques, new tastes— perfect for a Ginza palate. stay You didn’t come to Ginza to hide in your hotel room. You came to get among it. Hyatt Centric Ginza is right there with you on world-renowned Namiki Dori Street, a cultural and commercial nexus. Inside, the welcoming design and friendly staff ensure you instantly feel part of the community, ready to chat with fellow travelers or learn more about local lore. The hotel reflects its roots with artwork that portrays Ginza’s defining characteristics: landscape, fashion, entertainment and media. The comfortable, sophisticated guestrooms, for example, are adorned with blockprinted patterns in a nod to the district’s publishing history—and the site’s ownership by a national newspaper company. A stay at Hyatt Centric Ginza is energizing, eventful and will make you feel like an insider almost instantly. And who wouldn’t strive for that in this historic ‘hood where the traditional and trendsetting blend so beautifully?
tokyo
“Just stepping outside of the hotel here is an inundation of color and cool�