Travel Aggregator (July 2019)

JULY 2019

APAC Newsletter

WIN!

3D2N stay at OZO Phuket

Where Asia’s most treasured golden attractions are

Michelin star restaurant recommendations in Asia

~ Page 6

~ Page 18

Seoul favourites by WebBeds’ Han Yen Ler ~ Page 42

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 CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing Cheryl.Cheang@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 the latest edition of Travel Aggregator – WebBeds’ newsletter created exclusively for the travel trade in Asia Pacific!

This month, we’re living the high life! With Asia Pacific now recognised as a global centre of gastronomy, we reveal the region’s best Michelin-starred city breaks, including restaurant recommendations and the best places to stay. Also, we discover Asia’s most precious attractions with a focus on glittering golden landmarks.

And that’s not all; Travel Aggregator makes a splash this month with a review of the most spectacular hotel swimming pools, and WebBeds’ own intrepid traveller, Han Yen Ler, reveals her top places to stay, shop and sightsee in Seoul.

Finally, we showcase some of Asia’s most exciting new hotels, including the chance to win a fantastic stay in Phuket. And of course, we’ll bring you all the latest news and exclusive offers from WebBeds.

Enjoy the read!

VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com JOSEPH SHIH General Manager, Taiwan Joseph.Shih@webbeds.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Z@dotw.com

Daryl Lee CEO of WebBeds Asia Pacific 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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@WebBedsAPAC

Alain Ducasse at Morpheus, Macau

WELCOME

home TO

OAKS

With over 58 hotels, resorts and suites across Australia & New Zealand, you’ll always have a place to call home.

BOOK NOW AT DOTW | FIT Ruums | Totalstay

WELCOME home

oakshotels.com

OZO PHUKET

OZO Phuket Nestled just 150 metres from Kata Beach on Phuket’s sunset coast, OZO Phuket aims to let guests “sleep, connect and explore” with intuitive amenities, technology and on-the-go services.

Following a paperless check-in, guests can unwind in their “noisefree” room or suite, all of which feature blackout curtains, power showers and high-tech amenities, including free Wi-Fi, IPTV systems and USB ports. The aim is to create an environment where the guest can lie back, plug-in or switch off, depending on their mood.

Downstairs is a little livelier; guests can dine at EAT, the all-day restaurant, or grab drinks and pizzas at the Pool Bar while the kids play in the outdoor pool, with its waterfalls and slides. Chill is a relaxing place to socialise and play pool, Tone is the fitness room, and guests can also use a meeting room and iMac workstations. Primarily however, OZO Phuket is designed to let guests explore the local area, and Kata Beach strikes the perfect balance between peaceful and popular, with good bars, restaurants and family attractions.

With its combination of sleep-inducing rooms, guest-friendly facilities and a convenient location, OZO Phuket is a great option for travellers seeking stylish, social and stress-free stays.

CLICK HERE to WIN a fantastic free stay at OZO Phuket, including two nights in a Dream Room and daily breakfast!

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OZO PHUKET

WIN!

3D2N stay at OZO Phuket

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All that glitters is not gold...

Or is it?

Gold is one of the most precious materials on Earth. It has been discovered on every continent, can be found within the human body and could even help to cure cancer. It is so precious that some of the world’s currencies are pegged to its value, and of course, everybody knows that pots of gold await at the end of rainbows!

All around the world, many impressive buildings glitter like gold. But how many of these structures are truly dazzling when experienced up-close?

Are these lustrous landmarks worth their weight in gold, or will visitors discover that all that glitters isn’t gold? Here is WebBeds’ guide to Asia’s most treasured golden attractions...

S H W E D A G O N PA G O D A , YA N G O N

Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon The Shwedagon Pagoda is Myanmar’s most famous landmark.

Reputed to be the world’s oldest Buddhist temple, its breath-taking 99-metre-high golden stupa glistens on the Yangon skyline. It is estimated that the main pagoda alone comprises up to 22,000 solid bars worth of gold, and in colonial times it was said that Shwedagon contained more gold than the Bank of England. This makes it a truly spectacular sight and a must-visit attraction for any visitor.

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M E L I ร YA N G O N

WHERE TO STAY

Meliรก Yangon Meliรก Yangon is an impressive international hotel overlooking Inya Lake, just 5km from the Shwedagon Pagoda. The stylish and spacious rooms start from 40 square metres and offer views of the lake, city and the golden pagoda. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool, gym and a choice of restaurants and bars, while the Myanmar Plaza shopping mall is directly connected to the hotel.

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P H A T H AT LUA N G , V I E N T I A N E

Pha That Luang, Vientiane Nested in the heart of Vientiane, the capital of Laos, Pha That Luang is a glistening national icon. The site is believed to date from the 3rd Century, when it is said that the breastbone of Lord Buddha was brought to the temple. Rebuilt in the 16th Century by King Setthathirat (whose statue stands in front of the main entrance), this stunning stupa is covered in approximately 500kg of pure gold leaf and its 44-metre-high central peak is coated in real gold.

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LA SEINE BY BURASARI

WHERE TO STAY

La Seine by Burasari La Seine by Burasari is a romantic riverside retreat that reflects Vientiane’s French heritage and colonial charm. The luxurious rooms and suites feature artistic interiors, handmade Lao fabrics and views of the Mekong River, while the Red Rose Bar and wine cellar provide exceptional opportunities to unwind, following a day exploring Vientiane’s enchanting golden landmarks.

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KINKAKU-JI TEMPLE, KYOTO

Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kyoto Nestled in beautiful Japanese landscaped gardens in northern Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji (literally the “Temple of the Golden Pavilion�) is an exquisite zen temple and UNESCO World Heritage-listed landmark. The pavilion comprises three storeys; the first features wooden pillars and white walls, while the second is completely covered in gold leaf. The third and highest level however, is gilded inside and out and capped with a beautiful golden phoenix.

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THE THOUSAND KYOTO

WHERE TO STAY

The Thousand Kyoto The Thousand Kyoto proves that in a city of ancient wonders, contemporary style can still stand out from the crowd. Newly opened in 2019, this impressive hotel blends modern minimalist design with classical elements including an okuniwa garden. Located in the heart of the city, opposite Kyoto Station, the hotel also features a serene Japanese spa, two elegant restaurants and a tea room.

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THE MIDDLE HOUSE

The Middle House The Middle House is the fourth House under Swire Hotels’ The House Collective, offering 111 rooms and 102 serviced apartments under The Middle House Residences. The interiors are by Milan-based architect and designer Piero Lissoni, with architecture by Lissoni Architettura, and Wong and Ouyang. The Middle House has 3 restaurants and bars, including Café Gray Deluxe contemporary European café, Frasca modern Italian eatery and Sui Tang Li Chinese restaurant. 660 sqm Penthouse on the top floor features both indoor and outdoor spaces. MI XUN SPA | THE LAB | SHOP curates a choice of premium lifestyle brands in one location.

Read more about this gorgeous hotel and its ongoing promotions HERE

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THE MIDDLE HOUSE

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EXPLORE CHINA’S 4 MAJOR CITIES WITH JIN JIANG HOTELS FIT Rewards members can enjoy 3X FIT Points on featured properties.

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Discover the Shining Stars of Asian Food Tourism George Bernard Shaw, the famous playwright, once said: “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” And now, the desire to satisfy our appetites is taking us farther than ever before.

Culinary tourism is one of the biggest trends in the global travel industry, as foodies spread their wings in search of the world’s top restaurants and celebrity chefs. Global travellers now spend more than US$186 billion on F&B per year, making it the fourth most valuable tourism sector after transport, retail and accommodation.

With its deep-rooted food culture, Asia has always been a promised land for global gastronomes. In recent years however, the region’s culinary stature has been elevated even higher, with the launch of Michelin Guides in a series of Asian cities. As a result, travellers have started flocking to Asia to experience Michelin’s latest list of stars and other delectable dining destinations.

Whether you’re seeking fine-dining or street food, Asia is sure to satisfy all your cravings.

BANGKOK

Bangkok More than just the capital of Thailand, Bangkok is a global capital of gastronomy. Thai food is world-famous for its fragrant aromas and fiery kick, and guests flock to the “Big Mango� to savour their favourite dishes. In 2018, Michelin launched its inaugural Bangkok guide, giving gourmands even more reasons to visit this vibrant Asian metropolis.

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BANGKOK

WHERE TO EAT

Nahm 1 Michelin Star Nahm has successfully elevated the concept of Thai cuisine from comfort food to fine-dining. Overseen by the renowned Chef Pim, this marvellous Michelin-starred restaurant blends contemporary style with traditional recipes.

Signature dishes including an exquisite coconut and turmeric crab curry.

WHERE TO STAY

Phachara Suites Phachara Suites is nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit district, surrounded by restaurants and bars. All the rooms are spacious and stylish, while facilities include a pool, spa and fitness centre. The hotel’s own tuk-tuk will transport guests to the BTS skytrain station.

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HONG KONG

Hong Kong With its rich history, cosmopolitan vibe and global outlook, Hong Kong has developed a culinary culture like no other. Food permeates every corner of this incredible city, from bustling hawker stalls to luxury harbourfront hotels. In its latest guide, Michelin awarded stars to a staggering 63 different dining spots, including seven three-star destinations.

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HONG KONG

WHERE TO EAT

Forum 2 Michelin Stars Forum is a genuine Hong Kong landmark. For over 40 years, this Causeway Bay restaurant has showcased refined Cantonese cuisine and it now proudly displays two Michelin stars. Dishes like its iconic Ah Yat braised abalone, named after its founder, have diners returning time after time.

WHERE TO STAY

The Park Lane Hong Kong The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Pullman Hotel is a stylish sanctuary in Causeway Bay, within walking distance of Forum. Following a multi-milliondollar makeover, this 28-storey hotel offers 826 guestrooms and exceptional F&B options, including SKYE, the dramatic rooftop bar and restaurant.

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M AC AU

Macau Macau is emerging as one of the world’s great culinary destinations. Like its neighbour Hong Kong, the city’s international heritage has given its food a multicultural flavour. A new wave of world-class hotels and resorts, especially on the glittering Cotai Strip, has raised the bar for dining in Macau, which is now home to 19 Michelin-starred restaurants.

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M AC AU

WHERE TO EAT

Alain Ducasse 2 Michelin Stars Alain Ducasse at Morpheus pays homage to the great traditions and savoirfaire of French gastronomy, redefining dining with a contemporary vision.

Displaying two Michelin stars, this exquisite restaurant focuses on the finest seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients to ensure unparalleled quality.

WHERE TO STAY

Morpheus Morpheus is like no other property in Macau, or the world. Part of the City of Dreams, this innovative architectural icon has a collection of breath-taking attributes, including a 21st floor sky bridge, an elevated art gallery, a rooftop sky pool and a choice of remarkable restaurants, including Alain Ducasse.

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PHUKET

Phuket With its fresh local seafood and an amazing array of aromatic herbs and spices, Phuket is a food lover’s paradise.

The island has always been a haven for Thai diners, and it is now emerging on the global stage. Discover diverse flavours with Chinese and Malay influences, from sizzling street-side stalls to world-class oceanfront restaurants.

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PHUKET

WHERE TO EAT

PRU 1 Michelin Star PRU is Phuket’s first-ever Michelin-starred restaurant, making it a must-try for foodies. Nestled on the island’s west coast, it is dedicated to farm-totable cuisine, using ingredients from its own 96-hectare organic farm and local suppliers to create cutting-edge Western dishes with Asian influences.

WHERE TO STAY

Anantara Layan Phuket Resort Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is an idyllic five-star resort featuring just 92 rooms, suites, pool villa and residences. Start your days with a “bubbly breakfast”, unwind in the Anantara Spa, or learn the secrets of Thai cuisine with a cooking class. PRU is just moments away along the sunset coast.

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TA I P E I

Taipei Food forms an integral part of Taiwanese culture, and nowhere is this more evident than on the thriving streets of Taipei. With Chinese, Japanese, Hakka and native Taiwanese influences, the island has developed its own unique culinary style. Discover the hawker stalls of Taipei’s night markets or dine at a choice of 23 Michelin-starred restaurants.

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TA I P E I

WHERE TO EAT

Le Palais 3 Michelin Stars Le Palais is the place to dine in Taipei. The only destination in the city to boast three Michelin stars, this enchanting 17th floor restaurant resembles a Chinese garden. The highly-skilled chefs use rare ingredients to create distinctive and distinguished dishes, including ethereal dim sum.

WHERE TO STAY

Kimpton Da-An Taipei Kimpton Da-An Taipei is an urban sanctuary in the heart of Taipei. Guests can start their days with the hotel’s famous Morning Kickstarter, chill out at the Social Wine Hour, or savour the skyline at the rooftop terrace. Diners can take a quick MRT ride to Le Palais, just three stops away.

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Making a splash – Asia’s best hotel pools For hotel guests, few facilities inspire the imagination quite like a swimming pool. Glistening in the sun, they are the ultimate symbols of relaxation, rejuvenation and refreshment - iconic images of a serene summer holiday.

But nowadays, every property seems to have a pool.

To stay ahead of the growing competition, modern hoteliers are competing to create truly unique swimming pool experiences. From languid lagoon pools and lazy rivers to elegant infinity pools and fun-filled children’s splash zones, hotels across Asia are raising the watermark for aquatic attractions.

Before the summer ends, make sure you check out these spectacular hotel pools...

T R A D E R S H O T E L , K UA L A LU M P U R

Indoor Pool:

Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur Perched on the 33rd floor, this is no ordinary indoor pool! Traders Hotel, Kuala Lumpur is perfectly positioned in the downtown KLCC area and the dramatic glass walls and ceiling of its pool showcase spectacular close-up views of the Petronas Towers. The pool is long, making it suitable for serious swimmers, while the comfy sofas surrounding it (part of the hotel’s famous SkyBar) provide a great place to unwind.

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T R A D E R S H O T E L , K UA L A LU M P U R

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KARMA KANDARA, BALI

Infinity Pool:

Karma Kandara, Bali Many hotels and resorts now claim to have infinity pools, but it is not until you swim right up to the vertical cliff-edge of Karma Kandara’s breath-taking pool that you truly appreciate what the term “infinity” should mean. Guests can soak up the spectacular scenery as they gaze out across the endless Indian Ocean or the lush green foliage of the cliffside, making this a truly unforgettable Balinese experience.

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KARMA KANDARA, BALI

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V I L L AG E H O T E L AT S E N T O S A , S I N G A P O R E

Kids’ Pool:

Village Hotel at Sentosa, Singapore Singapore more than anywhere else is elevating the status of the hotel pool. The city’s latest pool experience is at the Village Hotel at Sentosa, where a spectacular seafacing outdoor deck features a children’s pool with a sandy beach, an adventure pool, an “Amazonian” lazy river and the Pamukkale Pool, which was inspired by the multi-tiered thermal pools in Turkey, all surrounded by lush landscaped gardens.

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V I L L AG E H O T E L AT S E N T O S A , S I N G A P O R E

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A C C E S S J A PA N ’ S T O P C I T I E S

Access Japan’s top cities: Osaka, Kyoto and Nara prefectures with JR Kansai Area Pass that offers unlimited travel within the designated area.

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K A N S A I A R E PA S S

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Inclusive Of: • Non-reserved seats on Kansai-Airport Express “HARUKA” • Special Rapid Services, Rapid Services, and local trains on JR-West Conventional lines • Unlimited use of local JR buses between Kyoto Station, Takao and Shuzan.

• Free use of rental bicycles at designated Ekirin Kun outlets within the covered area.

Click here for full details

For booking and enquiry, please email to rail@fitruums.com.

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Annyeonghasaeyo!

(Hello in Korean)

What comes to mind when you think of Seoul?

South Korea’s capital is an awesome city with endless shopping, amazing cosmetics, cute makeup, sumptuous food, rich culture, fascinating cafés, majestic palaces, handsome oppas, pretty noonas, addictive Kpop songs and more! There are so many interesting things to see and do in this vibrant city that you may not know where to begin.

In this edition, WebBeds’ very own traveller, Han Yen Ler, introduces her favourite Seoul spots to help get you started!

Yen Ler joined WebBeds in April 2019 as Marketing Executive, Asia Pacific. Besides coming up with ideas for marketing campaigns, she an avid fan of Korea, travels to the country at least once a year and has even learnt the language!

D ONGDAEMUN

Dongdaemun Dongdaemun is one of my favourite places in Seoul simply because it stays open so late. As a night owl, I love late-night shopping, night markets and supper haunts. Take an evening stroll along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, relax while watching the light displays or grab some street food at the pojangmacha (Korean-style tent bars) alongside the stream.

For late-night shopping, check out malls like Hello apM, Doota, Migliore and others around Dongdaemun Market, some of which are open till 5am! For those interested in design, be sure to visit Dongdaemun Design Plaza as well.

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D ONGDAEMUN

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G WA N G J A N G M A R K E T

Gwangjang Market While locals may visit this market for its quality silk goods, linen bedding and handmade products, I love Gwangjang Market for its wide variety of street food. This market is filled with authentic local delicacies and friendly shopkeepers. Must-try dishes include hotteok (sweet pancakes with brown sugar), tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), bibimbap (Korean mixed rice), jeon (fried pancakes), kimbap (Korean sushi rolls), and so much more! If you’re up for something interesting, try sannakji (‘live’ octopus tentacles) and sundae (blood sausage).

The food street can be a little crowded, so be prepared to squeeze in with the locals while you find your perfect place to eat.

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IBC HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY IBC Hotel is conveniently located near two subway lines (1 and 2) and just a few stops away from Gwangjang Market. All the rooms are nicely furnished with comfortable bedding.

Facilities include a business corner, fitness area, coin-operated laundry and convenience store. Guests can also dine at the IB Terrace Restaurant and Pub or enjoy a cuppa at the onsite Twosome Place cafĂŠ.

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HONGDAE

Hongdae Hongdae is one of Seoul’s hippest areas, packed with people and excitement. It is known for its youthful and unique ambience with street buskers, indie band performances, interesting cafés, galleries, fashion stores, clubs, art markets and gourmet eateries. If you like street art, make sure you take a walk along Hongdae Mural Street, or “Picasso’s Street”. If you love to sing, visit one of the many noraebangs (karaoke boxes) and sing your heart out! Alternatively, go shopping for souvenirs, accessories and clothes. My favourite places in Hongdae are the Stylenanda Hongdae Flagship Store, a great spot for local fashion and makeup, and Aland, a trendy store that focuses on foreign brands and Korean fashion designers.

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HONGDAE

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S TA R F I E L D C O E X M A L L

Starfield COEX Mall COEX Mall is another one of my must-visit places in Seoul. The amazing mall is home to many domestic and international fashion brands, restaurants, cafés and other leisure activities such as the Kimchi Museum, COEX Aquarium, Starfield Library and regular free exhibitions. The main highlight of my visit to COEX Mall though, is SMTOWN at COEX Artium. If you are a Kpop fan like me, be sure to visit the SMTOWN Museum, with exhibitions featuring the artists’ music, stage outfits and more. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop, dine at the SUM Café and watch concert videos at the hologram theatre!

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I N T E R C O N T I N E N TA L S E O U L C O E X

WHERE TO STAY InterContinental Seoul COEX is located in the heart of Gangnam and adjacent to the Starfield COEX Mall, InterContinental Seoul COEX is convenient for both business and leisure travellers. The hotel has a total of 654 rooms offering scenic views of the Han River, Bongeunsa Temple and Seolleung Park. Guests can also enjoy facilities such as the In Spa, Cosmopolitan Fitness Club, Club InterContinental and a business centre.

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D I S C O V E R T H E B E AU T Y O F J A PA N

Discover the Beauty of Japan

Overwhelm your senses in this metropolitan city with hi-tech gadgets, bright neon lights and quirky experiences!

Book any of these experiential tours via the FIT Ruums Attractions site or email attractions@fitruums.com for more information.

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D I S C O V E R T H E B E AU T Y O F J A PA N

Experience a Robot Restaurant

Japan is famous for being a technologically advanced country, and naturally this cutting-edge culture has moved into the restaurant industry. Guests will be amazed by a robot restaurant, which includes an unforgettable live robot dance performance!

Discover Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi This day trip allows guests to take a break from Tokyo and experience Japan’s tallest mountain and Lake Kawaguchi, admiring the breath-taking views from 2,300 metres above sea-level. The one-day bus tour from Tokyo also includes a stop at a ninja village!

Get in the Ring with a Sumo Wrestler Sumo is an ancient form of wrestling and the world-famous national sport of Japan. This unique tour allows guests to experience the daily routine of a sumo wrestler, learn the sport’s rules and even head into the ring for a bout with a real-life wrestler!

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Discover the secret Venice at Grand Hotel Dei Dogi.

Curated, contemporary hôtellerie.

dahotels.com #dedicahotels

ROME

MILAN

VENICE

FLORENCE

NICE

BUDAPEST

PRAGUE