APR 2019
APAC Newsletter
WIN! 3D2N stay at The Apurva Kempinski Bali worth USD600
Earth Day special: Eco-friendly hotel
Head to Australia to escape the summer heat
Create memorable experiences in a single day
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FOREWORD
WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC DARYL LEE CEO Daryl.Lee@webbeds.com SUN KOK SHENG CCO Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com KEVIN KHOR Vice President, Marketing Kevin.Khor@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China Jintana.P@dotw.com
FOREWORD Welcome to April’s edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific! In this issue, we head “down under” to discover the best alternative activities in Australia. As Asia heats up, the cooler weather of the Southern Hemisphere creates some amazing opportunities for adventure. In addition, we reveal the revival of the day trip and highlight some of the best out-of-town attractions to include in your itineraries. Earth Day returns this month, so WebBeds shines a light on the environmental activities of Asia’s eco-friendly hotels. We also go shopping in Hong Kong and check out Jewel, Changi Airport’s spectacular new centrepiece, ahead of its grand opening. Finally, we showcase Asia’s most exciting new hotels in Seoul, Hong Kong and Singapore, and of course, we’ll bring you all the latest news and exclusive offers from WebBeds.
VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@fitruums.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@fitruums.com JOSEPH SHIH General Manager, Taiwan Joseph.Shih@fitruums.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@fitruums.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@fitruums.com
Enjoy the read! Daryl Lee CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific
@WebBedsAPAC
To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to attractions.fitruums.com/aggregator
ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more! If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@ fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.
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Cute and cuddly koala in Australia
Eco-Friendly Hotels Lead the Way on Earth Day Earth Day returns this month, providing a timely reminder of the constant need to save the planet. Held on 22nd April 2019, this global initiative is aimed at raising awareness of the world’s most important environmental issues, including climate change, deforestation and pollution. It also provides an opportunity to show what the hotel industry is doing to help protect the environment. According to statistics, tourism (including aviation) accounts for eight percent of carbon emissions worldwide. So, it’s vital that the industry plays a leading role in the fight against climate change; from small-scale recycling initiatives to global conservation campaign, every hotel can make a difference. Here are some of the eco-friendly hotels and resorts that are leading the drive towards a more environmentally-friendly future:
S O N E VA K I R I K O H K O O D , T H A I L A N D
Soneva Kiri Koh Kood, Thailand Nestled on the idyllic island of Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri allows guests to get back to nature. The resort features a blend of barefoot luxury and ecofriendly design, with 34 villas, an observatory, an Eco Den kids’ club, and the spectacular Treepod Dining experience that suspends guests high up in the canopy. Impressively, Soneva Kiri has managed to reduce its monthly waste by 70 percent through recycling and reuse. For example, used cooking oil is turned into biodiesel, which generates the resort’s own power. Kitchen waste is made into compost, and paper, bottles and other waste are sent to recycling plants.
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S O N E VA K I R I K O H K O O D , T H A I L A N D
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SIX SENSES CON DAO, VIETNAM
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SIX SENSES CON DAO, VIETNAM
Six Senses Con Dao, Vietnam True to Six Senses’ philosophy of selecting remote yet accessible destinations in areas of outstanding natural beauty, Six Senses Con Dao is nestled on an island in a national marine park. This luxury resort features large pool villas, a stunning Six Senses Spa and beachfront dining experiences. Six Senses Con Dao aims to recycle everything, including paper, wine bottles and candles. It has an organic garden which provides food for the restaurant and oil for the spa. Bio-waste is turned into compost, wastewater is treated and reused, and the resort even operates a sea turtle conservation centre.
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J AYA H O U S E R I V E R PA R K , C A M B O D I A
Jaya House River Park, Cambodia Nestled on the Siem Reap River, surrounded by trees, Jaya House River Park is a luxurious boutique hotel with just 36 rooms, two swimming pools, a spa and a restaurant. While the hotel is designed as a peaceful hideaway, it is also a big part of the local community, supporting many charitable and cultural projects. Jaya House River Park is a member of the Refill Not Landfill campaign, which is tackling plastic waste in Cambodia. It only uses aluminium bottles, which it refills from special locations around the city. The resort is also aiming to donate 10,000+ sustainably grown tree samplings to the local community in Siem Reap.
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J AYA H O U S E R I V E R PA R K , C A M B O D I A
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H O T E L B O R O B U D U R JA K A R TA , I N D O N E S IA
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H O T E L B O R O B U D U R JA K A R TA , I N D O N E S IA
Hotel Borobudur Jakarta, Indonesia Hotel Borobudur Jakarta is quite simply one of the finest five-star hotels in the Indonesian capital. Nestled in 9.3 hectares of landscaped tropical gardens in the heart of the city, it features 695 luxurious rooms and suites, seven F&B outlets, a spa, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a tennis court and much more. While it feels opulent, Hotel Borobudur is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint through its “reduce, reuse, recycle� initiatives. Winner of the National Green Hotel Award, the hotel conserves its power, water and gas usage, minimises waste and only uses materials that do not have a negative environmental impact.
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REDEFINE LUXURY WITH SIGNIEL SEOUL
Redefine luxury with Signiel Seoul Stylish, chic and state-of-the-art, Signiel Seoul is a spectacular luxury hotel that combines stunning accommodation, fantastic fine-dining, world-class wellness and unforgettable events. Located from the 76th to the 101st floors of the 555-metre-high Lotte World Tower, South Korea’s tallest building, Signiel Seoul features 235 rooms and suites in total, ranging from a generous 40 square metres to an expansive 353 square metres, and crowned by the 100th floor Royal Suite. Guests can enjoy incredible vistas from a choice of impressive restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs, unwind in an indoor pool, sauna, gym and golf driving range, or shop at Seoul’s largest dutyfree outlet. Signiel Seoul also houses the world’s highest hotel ballroom, creating a breath-taking stage for high-end conferences and talk-of-thetown weddings. Supported by the timeless warmth and charm of Korean culture, Signiel Seoul is set to become a genuine icon of Asian luxury hospitality.
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REDEFINE LUXURY WITH SIGNIEL SEOUL
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T H E A P U R VA K E M P I N S K I B A L I
The Apurva Kempinski Bali Kempinski has introduced its five-star style to Bali for the first time with the launch of an exquisite new resort in the exclusive Nusa Dua area of the island. Nestled atop a cliff with dramatic views of the Indian Ocean, The Apurva Kempinski Bali flows down to the golden beachfront, with verdant gardens and winding pathways flanking a series of pools. The 475 rooms, suites and villas embrace outdoor living; 60 percent of units feature private plunge pools and a collection of rooms offers direct access to the lagoon pools. The dining options could become some of the most soughtafter in Bali. For example, the Koral Restaurant will become the island’s first aquarium dining experience, while Izakaya by OKU was inspired by the award-winning OKU Japanese Restaurant in Jakarta. There is also a lively international restaurant, a rooftop bar with ocean views, a traditional Indonesian deli, pool bar and beach club. Other standout facilities include a 60-metre swimming pool, a Javanese inspiration spa, a 1,000-pax ballroom with ocean views, five meeting rooms and oceanfront wedding chapels for couples who want to get married in paradise. The Apurva Kempinski Bali is now offering travel agents the chance to WIN a two-night stay at the resort! Simply take our short quiz... Exclusive to WebBeds Read more about the property and stand a chance to win 2 nights stay. Win now >
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T H E A P U R VA K E M P I N S K I B A L I
WIN! 3D2N Stay
Worth up to USD600
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ICLUB MONG KOK HOTEL
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ICLUB MONG KOK HOTEL
iclub Mong Kok Hotel Hong Kong is one of Asia’s most state-of-the-art cities; a dynamic hub of commerce and fashion that sets trends rather than following them. In keeping with the city’s modern mindset, the newly-opened iclub Mong Kok Hotel caters to smart, tech-savvy travellers. The 288 rooms at this select-service hotel are accessed with mobile keys and feature light décor and floor-to-ceiling windows. Guests can stay completely connected with LCD TVs, free Wi-Fi and USB ports and audio connectivity, plus working desks, mini-fridges, hairdryers and kettles. Guests can rise above the urban hustle and bustle at the iLounge, a relaxing outdoor space that features a natural vertical garden, while the alfresco fitness area, appropriately called the “Sweat Zone”, allows guests to work out in the open air. With three MTR stations within easy reach of the hotel and a wide variety of restaurants and bars right on the doorstep, iclub Mong Kok Hotel is perfectly positioned for business and leisure travellers who demand stylish and seamless stays.
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Escape the summer heat in Australia As the rest of the world swelters in the summer heat, guests seeking a more chilled-out vacation should head south of the Equator. Australia is a wonderful vacation destination at any time of year, but during the Southern Hemisphere’s colder months, between May and September, the land down under offers a wealth of opportunities for Asian travellers to cool off amidst an array of amazing attractions and activities. The sheer size of Australia creates a wonderfully diverse range of options for travellers. From tropical forests to ski resorts, rolling sand dunes to high-rise cities, this stunning southern land has it all. Here’s our guide to the best things to do and places to stay all across Australia this summer...
Perth
The remotest city on Earth, Perth is closer to Singapore than Sydney – just over five hours flying time! This makes it a great option for Asian travellers seeking a Southern Hemisphere break this summer.
WHAT TO DO Sand boarding: Just two hours’ drive from Perth, Lancelin is a dramatic landscape of rolling white sand dunes. And in typical Aussie style, it has been transformed into a centre of sport and adventure! Simply hire a sandboard, head out onto the dunes and slide away - this is a fun-filled experience for all ages. FInd out more >
Q UA L I T Y H O T E L A M B A S S A D O R P E R T H
WHERE TO STAY
Quality Hotel Ambassador Perth Commanding a prime position in the Perth CBD, this four-star hotel offers 170 well-appointed rooms and suites, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, bar, gym and sauna. Guests can walk to many of Perth’s downtown attractions and Elizabeth Quay is just 1.3km away.
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COMFORT INN & SUITES GOODEARTH PERTH
WHERE TO STAY
Comfort Inn & Suites Goodearth Perth This 3.5-star hotel in downtown Perth focuses on comfort and value for money. The 180 apartmentstyle rooms are ideal for families, coming equipped with kitchenettes and free Wi-Fi. There is also an onsite restaurant and bar, a shop and beauty salon.
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Sydney
Australia’s largest city and a genuine global icon, Sydney crammed with attractions. But guests who choose to explore outside the city will discover a picturesque landscape of rolling countryside.
WHAT TO DO Hot air ballooning: The best way to fully appreciate the beauty of New South Wales is from the air. Based in the scenic Macarthur region, just 50 minutes from Sydney, Balloon Aloft Camden allows guests to float serenely into the sky, reaching altitudes of 600 metres and more. A truly unforgettable experience!
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL SYDNEY
WHERE TO STAY
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney Overlooking Sydney Harbour’s iconic landmarks, the Four Seasons is a spectacular five-star hotel that showcases the best of the city. The rooms and suites command stunning views, while Mode Kitchen & Bar focuses on modern Australian cuisine and Grain features 200+ types of whiskey.
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T H E M A C L E AY
WHERE TO STAY
The Macleay For guests seeking a more affordable downtown option, this comfortable 3.5-star hotel is a great choice. The Macleay offers views of Sydney Harbour from many of its 126 rooms, plus free WiFi and a refreshing outdoor pool, all within walking distance of Sydney’s most famous landmarks.
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Melbourne
Australia’s sporting capital, Melbourne is a great destination for adventure seekers. Just four hours’ drive outside the city, guests can discover an exhilarating range of alpine activities.
WHAT TO DO Skiing and Snowboarding: As the Northern Hemisphere feels the summer heat, Australia transforms into a worldclass winter sports destination. Visitors to Melbourne should head to Mount Buller, which offers great skiing and snowboarding on a series of scenic slopes, including a challenging black run.
Photographer: Andrew Railton
CROWNE PLAZA MELBOURNE
WHERE TO STAY
Crowne Plaza Melbourne Nestled on the Yarra River in downtown Melbourne, the Crowne Plaza is just steps from the buzzing South Wharf precinct. The rooms and suites overlook the city skyline and beyond, and facilities include a gym, a heated outdoor swimming pool and the Clarendon St Grill restaurant.
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I N T E R C O N T I N E N TA L M E L B O U R N E T H E R IA LT O
WHERE TO STAY
Intercontinental Melbourne The Rialto A landmark in the heart of the city, this five-star hotel blends a dramatic gothic faรงade with state-of-the-art interiors. There are 253 luxurious rooms and suites, an exclusive club lounge and a choice of F&B options, including the Alluvial Restaurant and Market Lane Bar.
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Cairns
In Queensland’s tropical north, Cairns is the gateway to one of the world’s most breath-taking wonders: the Great Barrier Reef. The cooler Australian winter is the perfect time to discover this captivating region.
WHAT TO DO Snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef: You don’t have to learn to dive to enjoy the Great Barrier Reef. Many operators offer snorkelling trips, enabling all visitors to explore the exotic underwater world, including colourful corals and tropical fish, as well as idyllic islands and sandy coves.
R I L E Y, A C R Y S T A L B R O O K C O L L E C T I O N R E S O R T
WHERE TO STAY
Riley, a Crystalbrook Collection Resort Perfectly positioned on the Esplanade, overlooking the ocean, Riley is a luxurious hotel where guests can unwind in style. Plunge into the 1,000m² lagoon pool, cool off in a cabana, relax in the spa, or savour Mediterranean and Asia cuisine at a choice of restaurants.
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K E WA R R A B E A C H R E S O R T
WHERE TO STAY
Kewarra Beach Resort Immerse yourself in the tropical beauty of north Queensland at Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa. Nestled in 13 hectares of tropical beachfront forest, this fourstar resort features a collection of bungalows and suites, a day spa, an open air restaurant and a beach bar - great for lazy days by the sea.
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Brisbane
The capital of Queensland, Brisbane is a dynamic city with an array of activities and attractions. Explore trendy boutiques, bars and restaurants, immerse yourself in the arts or simply stroll along the Brisbane River.
WHAT TO DO Visit the world’s largest koala sanctuary: Cute and cuddly, the koala is an iconic symbol of Australia. Located just outside Brisbane, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, housing over 130 koalas and many other Australian wildlife species, including kangaroos.
H I LT O N B R I S BA N E
WHERE TO STAY
Hilton Brisbane Centrally located at the Queen Street Mall in downtown Brisbane, this five-star hotel puts guests in the heart of the action. The 319 rooms and suites all have free Wi-Fi, while the Vintaged Bar & Grill serves contemporary cuisine. There is also a heated outdoor pool, tennis court and gym.
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PA C I F I C H O T E L B R I S B A N E
WHERE TO STAY
Pacific Hotel Brisbane This four-star downtown hotel is ideal for a family holiday or couple’s break, putting the Brisbane’s top attractions within easy reach. The recently renovated rooms feature smart TVs and free Wi-Fi, while hotel facilities include the Gazebo Bar & Restaurant, a heated outdoor pool and gym.
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EXCLUSIVE
ENJOY EXCLUSIVE HOTEL DEALS AND SAVE UP TO 25% WHEN YOU BOOK THROUGH WEBBEDS’ BRANDS
Gold Coast, Australia
SEA WORLD RESORT Up to 33% OFF (including unlimited entry to Warner Bros. Movie World, Sea World and Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast) Booking Period: 01 – 30 April 2019 Travel Period: 22 April – 27 September 2019
Phuket, Thailand
AMATARA WELLNESS RESORT 5% OFF Booking Period: 01 – 30 April 2019 Travel Period: 01 April – 31 October 2019
Florence, Italy
HOTEL BRUNELLESCHI 10% OFF (Min 2 nights) Booking and Travel Period: 01 April 2019 – 28 Feb 2020
Pattaya, Thailand
AMARI RESIDENCES PATTAYA 15% OFF Booking Period: 01 – 30 April 2019 Travel Period: 01 April – 31 October 2019
Bali, Indonesia
KARANA RESORTS UBUD 25% OFF (Non Refundable) Booking and Travel Period: 01 April – 31 May 2019
JEWEL: TRANSFORMING THE AIRPORT CONCEPT
Jewel: Transforming the Airport Concept
Jewel Changi Airport is a spectacular new development that looks set to elevate Singapore’s Changi Airport to new levels of elegance and excellence. Located in the heart of Changi Airport, connecting Terminals 1, 2 and 3, Jewel will transform the concept of what an airport should be. Rather than simply being a functional space to arrive, depart and transit between flights, this stunning glass-enclosed space will be a destination in its own right, where
Officially opens on 17th April 2019.
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visitors can ‘Play’, ‘Shop’, ‘Fly’, ‘Dine’, ‘Stay’ in nature.
JEWEL: TRANSFORMING THE AIRPORT CONCEPT
Photo credit: Jewel Changi Airport Devt
The dramatic centrepiece of Jewel will be the
Having enjoyed these amazing attractions, guests
Forest Valley, a multi-tiered indoor tropical
can dine at an extensive selection of 280 F&B
garden featuring over 2,000 trees and 100,000
outlets or shop at seven levels of retail space.
shrubs plus the world’s tallest indoor waterfall
Those who need more time to unwind can book a
- the 40-metre-high Rain Vortex, which will
room at YotelAIR Singapore Changi Airport.
even display an incredible light and sound show in the evenings. Guests can also immerse
Changi Airport was already considered the
themselves in nature at the 14,000sqm Canopy
world’s finest airport – it has topped the Skytrax
Park, which features walking trails, slides, mazes
awards for seven consecutive years. The opening
and more. Also in the canopy, a pair of Walking
of Jewel this year will further raise the bar in the
Nets and Bouncing Nets allows visitors to walk
industry, creating a shining example for airports
and bounce in mid-air.
across the world.
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JEWEL: TRANSFORMING THE AIRPORT CONCEPT
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JEWEL: TRANSFORMING THE AIRPORT CONCEPT
Photo credit: Jewel Changi Airport Devt 47
YOTEL AIR SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT
YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport Officially opens on 12th April 2019
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YOTEL AIR SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT
Landing at Changi Airport on 12th April 2019 will
ports, an adjustable SmartBed and a rain shower.
be Asia’s first YOTELAIR. Part of the Jewel project,
Guests can also grab breakfast, all-day snacks and
YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport is designed
free tea and coffee at a 24-hour F&B outlet, and
as a convenient hub where international travellers
there is also a 24-hour fitness area. Guests who
and transit passengers can stay overnight, or even
just want to freshen up can use the shower cabins.
just for a few hours. Located before passport control in Terminal Rather than rooms, YOTELAIR features a series of
4, YOTELAIR Singapore Changi Airport is an
“cabins” which range from 10m² Premium Queen
innovative new concept that will allow travellers
Rooms to 21m² Family Rooms, all of which come
to rest, relax and recharge their batteries, both
equipped with free Wi-Fi, power sockets, USB
literally and metaphorically.
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SHOP ‘ TIL YOU DROP IN HONG KONG
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SHOP ‘ TIL YOU DROP IN HONG KONG
Shop ‘til you drop in Hong Kong Hong Kong is one of the world’s top shopping destinations. From sprawling mega-malls to vibrant markets, visitors can buy everything they could possible desire in this bustling metropolis. Here’s our guide to the best places for retail therapy in Hong Kong...
Pacific Place
Times Square Harbour City
One of Hong Kong’s swankiest
One of Hong Kong’s busiest
Hong Kong’s biggest shopping
malls, Pacific Place is palatial
malls and also one of the most
mall, Harbour City is simply
and more reminiscent of a
iconic, Times Square is at the
gargantuan - over three
luxury hotel than a shopping
heart of Causeway Bay - one of
kilometres in length, this
centre. Set over three levels,
Hong Kong’s prime shopping
genuine mega-mall boasts
the top floors feature designer
spots. Inspired by the New York’s
nearly 800 shops. The shops are
shops and boutiques, including
iconic Times Square, the mall
a fairly standard, albeit endless
a branch of local department
features a mix of American,
collection of international and
store Lane Crawford, while
European and Japanese brands,
domestic brands. The complex
the lower levels feature more
along with a fantastic collection
has two separate cinemas and
standard shops. The mall is
of restaurants – some of the
a wide range of restaurants
connected to Hong Kong Park
best in the city – and a cinema
covering nearly every cuisine in
and three of the city’s most
complex. Make sure you also
the world. Be sure to pick up one
upmarket hotels, as well as a
explore the shops in the streets
of their in-house maps as it is
cinema and several restaurants.
surrounding the mall.
easy to get lost in this retail maze!
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MARCO POLO HONGKONG
WHERE TO STAY
Marco Polo Hongkong These three malls are all located less than 30 minutes’ drive from Marco Polo Hongkong, which overlooks Victoria Harbour in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui. Part of Harbour City, the hotel features 665 contemporary rooms and suites plus a wealth of upscale facilities, including three world-class F&B outlets. Guests can enjoy authentic Italian dishes at Cucina, all-day international cuisine at Cafe Marco, and refreshing drinks and snacks at the Lobby Lounge. Guests in the club rooms and suites can also enjoy exclusive services at the Continental Club. Alternatively, guests can take a dip in the pool, workout at the gym or host unforgettable events in a choice of 14 state-of-the-art function rooms. Staying at Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel provides the perfect blend of warm Asian hospitality and excellent accessibility, allowing guests to explore the best shopping experiences that Hong Kong has to offer.
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MARCO POLO HONGKONG
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Transform Your Vacation in a Single Day Day trips can transform a vacation. For some holidaymakers, the view of their destination can extend no further than the short stroll between the hotel room, restaurants, shops or beach. But visitors who head out and explore the surrounding area can discover a secret world, beyond the tourist brochures. All across Asia Pacific, there are many stunning secondary destinations that provide the perfect complement to major tourist hubs. While these may not be big enough to support a full holiday, they present opportunities for highly rewarding excursions. Day trips are not a new phenomenon, but they are becoming increasingly popular among millennial travellers, who like to head off the beaten track and discover authentic experiences. These adventures are also perfect for sharing, creating unique photo opportunities and compelling social media updates. During your next Asian adventure, why not add these spectacular sites into your itinerary? A day trip may be only a small part of the vacation, but they can create memories that last a lifetime.
NUSA PENIDA
From Bali:
Nusa Penida For visitors to Bali, it can seem like there is so much
area, including the sulphur crested cockatoo and
to do on the island that offshore excursions are
Mitchell’s lorikeet. The underwater world is equally
not even considered. But for those who do decide
as diverse and dramatic, with dive spots such
to head out and explore, Nusa Penida is a richly
as Crystal Bay featuring ocean giants including
rewarding experience. The largest of the three Nusa
sunfish, manta rays even whale sharks.
Islands, Nusa Penida is an idyllic destination where guests can escape the tourist crowds and get back
Alternatively, guests can simply soak up the scenery
to nature.
and sample the local culture, including authentic villages and traditional temples. Whatever you’re
The island forms part of the Bali Bird Sanctuary,
seeking, Nusa Penida provides a slice of pure
and visitors should keep a look out for the many
paradise.
colourful and exotic species that inhabit the
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AKANA B OUTIQUE HOTEL SANUR
WHERE TO STAY
Akana Boutique Hotel Sanur Nestled in the charming coastal area of Sanur,
from Sanur Harbour, where guests can take a
Akana Boutique Hotel blends contemporary style
45-minute ferry ride to Nusa Penida. Alternatively,
with classical Balinese elegance. There are 36 chic
the Sanur coast is a great place to explore on foot
rooms, an outdoor pool, restaurant and free Wi-Fi.
or by bike.
This beachfront hotel is also just 10 minutes’ drive
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H I TA C H I S E A S I D E PA R K
From Tokyo:
Hitachi Seaside Park When you’re visiting one of the world’s busiest
million daffodils, 170 types of tulip and many more.
cities, it can be nice to escape the hustle and
The area is so vast that a great way to explore it in
bustle – at least for one day. Just two hours outside
one day is by bicycle; bike rental is available and
Tokyo lies a whole new world of sand dunes, forests,
riders can explore almost 11km of cycle paths.
grasslands and flower meadows, all kissed by the gentle breeze of the Pacific Ocean.
There is also a small theme park with a 100-metrehigh Ferris wheel that offer spectacular sea views,
Hitachi Seaside Park is an enchanting destination
plus a mini-golf course and a roller-coaster. After
that blooms with flowers throughout the year.
a day by the seaside, you’ll feel fully refreshed to
Guests can savour the vibrant colours and
continue your Tokyo adventure.
fragrances of 4.5 million baby blue-eye flowers, a
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C ONRAD TOKYO
WHERE TO STAY
Conrad Tokyo Overlooking Tokyo Bay in the Shimbashi district,
290 stylish and spacious rooms and suites (starting
Conrad Tokyo is a luxurious hotel with spectacular
from 48m²), a series of acclaimed restaurants and
city views. Covering the 28th to 37th floors of a
bars, the serene Mizuki Spa, high-tech fitness
gleaming skyscraper, this dramatic hotel features
facilities and a 25-metre swimming pool.
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E R A WA N WA T E R F A L L
From Bangkok:
Erawan Waterfall Many visitors are under the impression that
jungle in seven tiers and gathering in emerald
Thailand’s lush jungles and dramatic waterfalls can
green pools along the way. A series of jungle
only be found in far-flung corners of the kingdom.
paths lead the way up the tiers, and after the trek,
In fact, one of the country’s most beautiful natural
the idyllic pools are perfect for cooling off with a
wonders, the Erawan Waterfall, can be reached in
paddle or a swim.
just three over hours from Bangkok – and there is even a beautiful railway line that takes you straight
The best way to reach the falls is by rail from
to it!
Thonburi Station, a quaint commuter hub. Visitors should alight at Kanchanaburi Station, but the line
The showpiece attraction of Erawan National Park
continues across the infamous “Bridge on the
in Kanchanaburi Province, Erawan Waterfall is an
River Kwai”.
exquisite natural wonder, tumbling through the
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137 PILLARS SUITES & RESIDENCES, BANGKOK
WHERE TO STAY
137 Pillars Suites & Residences, Bangkok Inspired by the original 137 Pillars House Chiang
in wardrobes, while facilities include a serene spa
Mai, this luxury boutique hotel has become one of
and the iconic 360-degree rooftop infinity pool.
Bangkok’s most desirable destinations. There are
F&B options include the classical Jack Bain’s Bar,
just 34 luxurious suites with wine cellars and walk-
Leonowens Club and Nimitr restaurant.
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THE GOLDEN BRIDGE
From Hoi An:
The Golden Bridge Vietnam’s central coast is becoming one of the
sense that they are organic – emerging from the
world’s hottest new destinations, with a series of
mountain. The bridge forms part of the Ba Na Hills
world-class activities to suit all visitors. One new
cable car station and ensures an incredible photo
attraction that should not be missed is the Golden
opportunity.
Bridge - a breath-taking addition to the Ba Na Hills. Hoi An has its own famous bridge, of course; the Approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Hoi An, the
ancient and ornate Japanese Covered Bridge is the
elegant UNESCO World Heritage town, Golden
most iconic symbol of the city. By combining a stay
Bridge appears as two giant hands holding a
in Hoi An with day trip to the Golden Bridge, guests
150-metre-long curved walkway. While it was
can experience two of the world’s most beautiful
only recently opened, the huge hands appear
bridges in one holiday.
weathered and covered in moss, giving the
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S U N R I S E P R E M I U M R E S O R T & S PA H O I A N
WHERE TO STAY
Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An Nestled on the sandy shore, overlooking the azure
and seafront pool villas, soothe your senses in the
sea, Sunrise Premium Resort & Spa Hoi An blends
Bliss Spa or plunge into the two elegant outdoor
Hoi An’s ancient charm with the luxury of a five-star
pools. A choice of restaurants focuses on exquisite
beach resort. Stay in a collection of rooms, suites
Vietnamese and Asian cuisine.
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