AUGUST 2022
APAC Newsletter
72 Hours In Phuket ~ Page 10
Catch The Last Rays Of Summer ~ Page 24
Where’s the Beef? ~ Page 52
FOREWORD
WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC KS SUN President, Asia Pacific Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com CHUA CHUN KIAT Vice President, Commercial Strategy Chunkiat.Chua@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com
FOREWORD Welcome to the latest edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ monthly newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific! While it may feel like summer is coming to an end, there is still plenty of time to catch the sun’s last rays and enjoy exciting activities across Asia. In this issue, we want to inspire you to embrace the great outdoors! Try cycling in Singapore and Vietnam, diving in the Philippines and the Maldives, or make a splash at water parks in Bali and India. With Thailand now fully open to international visitors, WebBeds invites you to spend “72 Hours in Phuket”. Check out our immersive three-day itinerary which uncovers the top attractions and activities in this popular resort destination, from the cultural heritage of Phuket Town to the blissful beaches of the west coast and much more – including the best places to stay. Also in this edition, we’re embarking on a culinary journey across Asia Pacific to discover the region’s most mouth-watering meats! From ultra-tender wagyu beef to luscious lamb and more, this is the ultimate adventure for keen carnivores.
JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indochina Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI Managing Director, Pacific, India & Indonesia John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com
In our new “Ask the Insider” feature, we chat to our clients and learn about what motivates them to travel, and “Newly Opened” offers an exclusive glimpse of one of Asia’s newest places to stay: Komune Living & Wellness in Kuala Lumpur. Finally, you can take part in our monthly quiz and catch up with all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific. Enjoy the read!
@WebBedsAPAC
KS Sun President, Asia Pacific WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.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@webbeds.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email apac.marketing@webbeds.com
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Take a surf at the FlowRider in Waterbom Bali, Indonesia
GRAND JOSUN BUSAN 292, Haeundaehaebyeon-ro, Haeundae-gu, Busan, Korea gjb.josunhotel.com | apac.sales@webbeds.com
JOURNEY TO DELIGHTFUL MOMENTS Find out what determines hospitality inside the Grand Josun Busan’s 330 impeccable rooms spread across 16 floors. Take on a culinary adventure with dining options that suit every taste, including an authentic Cantonese restaurant, a lavish buffet, and a stylish lounge & bar. Then, relax and recover in the indoor & outdoor pools, sauna, fitness center and more.
HOTEL EXTERIOR
ARIA BUFFET
DELUXE OCEAN VIEW
KOMUNE LIVING & WELLNESS
Komune Living & Wellness
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NEWLY OPENED
KOMUNE LIVING & WELLNESS
In the modern era, there are many trendy new hotel concepts geared towards millennials, but very few that focus on the lifestyle needs of seniors. Now, older guests can experience a new era of hospitality at Komune Living & Wellness, an integrated co-living complex in Kuala Lumpur. Overlooking a 99-acre public park in the Cheras area of KL, Komune is a haven of natural tranquility. The hotel’s mission is to create a “new way of living focused on community, wellness and convenience”, and it achieves this by blending accommodation for short or extended stays with medical services and a wealth of amenities for the older generation. The development offers one of a kind communal spaces, facilities and events designed to bring likeminded individual and travellers together. From indoor and outdoor pools, a jacuzzi, cinema, gym, craft studios, games rooms, a community kitchen and more, guests are provided the opportunity to experience something new every day. Whether it is for a solo wellness getaway or one with friends and family, Komune Living & Wellness’ 863 rooms, ranging from cosy studio rooms, larger en-suites, to even two-bedroom apartments, promise a restful and comfortable stay in an upscale setting.
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Choose ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka as your business base, or enjoy a vacation filled with sightseeing, dining and nightlife - all while staying in one of our comfortable guestrooms overlooking Naka-no-shima Park. 1-3-1 Dojimahama Kita-ku, Osaka-shi, Japan 530-0004 www.anacrowneplaza-osaka.jp
Situated in the heart of Susukino, T-Mark City Hotel Sapporo is in a prime location for guests to enjoy the most bustling, lively area in Japan, north of Tokyo. With beautiful views of the surrounding mountains from the rooms, create unforgettable memories with the best that Sapporo has to offer.
Minami 7 Nishi 5, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan 064-0807 www.tmarkcity.com/sapporo
TravelAgain! Some of us are ready to explore the world in 2022! Now that we can travel again, let’s look at the first big trip we have taken since the start of the pandemic, as shared by the WebBeds team and our travel agent partners.
Pile Gate, Dubrovnik, Croatia Croatia is a famous Game of Thrones filming location and I've always wanted to visit the real-life fantasyland of King’s Landing! Pile Gate is absolutely gorgeous with great medieval architecture! If you are visiting Dubrovnik, it is impossible to miss out on the opportunity of passing through the Pile Gate and indulging in the depth of the Old Town and its cultural heritage. Yee Yen Thing
Boustead Travel Services Sdn Bhd
Mercusuar Cafe Bandung, Bandung, Indonesia We visited the magical Mercusuar Cafe in Bandung, a medieval wonderland perched on the hills of Dago Pakar. We loved how it resembles Hogwarts, the wizarding school from the Harry Potter franchise. Feel the cool breeze as you enjoy spectacular views from above. Jhonwy Ricky
PT Fuma Jaya Travelindo
Sequoia National Park, California, USA Going on a road trip is the best way to explore remote destinations at my own pace. I was so eager to get back to nature again that I visited five iconic national parks in California, and Sequoia National Park is my favourite! Fun fact: Sequoia is home to the largest tree in the world! Sara Lee
WebBeds Asia Pacific
Bintan, Indonesia Dreaming of a return to the pristine and balmy beachside, with a cool drink in hand and great company! Huiting Chay
WebBeds Asia Pacific
Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne, Australia One of the things I missed the most during the pandemic was being able to attend live musical performances. I was extremely thrilled to be able to catch the spectacular musical, Hamilton, on my Melbourne trip. This 11 Tony Award-winning musical is a lyrical masterpiece from Lin Manuel and I highly recommend it to everyone! Jerome Lau
WebBeds Asia Pacific
72 HOURS IN PHUKET Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the world’s most popular resort destinations. With its crescentshaped bays, crystal clear seas and sandy beaches lined with swaying palm trees, this is a dream destination for all holidaymakers. But Phuket offers more than just sun, sea and sand; with its rich Sino-Portuguese heritage, captivating culture, vibrant nightlife, creative culinary scene and sensational shopping, this enchanting island offers a wealth of activities and experiences for all ages. After two years of global travel restrictions, Phuket is fully refreshed and looking fantastic – ready to welcome the world back to paradise!
72 HOURS IN PHUKET
DAY ONE EXPLORE THE CULTURE OF OLD PHUKET TOWN Phuket Town, the island’s quaint capital, is the perfect place to uncover Phuket’s Sino-Portuguese heritage. In the 19th Century, Phuket’s tin mining industry attracted people from around the world and the island became a melting pot of cultures. This diverse heritage is reflected in the exquisite architecture of Phuket Town. Take a stroll through the old town, amid Chinese shrines and shophouses, discover mesmerizing markets and savour authentic culinary delights at Lock Tien, a bustling food centre.
VISIT THE CHALONG BAY RUM DISTILLERY Like the islands of the Caribbean, Phuket has the ideal climate for growing sugar cane – the main ingredient in rum. Discover this native industry at Chalong Bay Rum Distillery, which uses local ingredients to craft an international award-winning spirit with a highly distinctive taste. Nestled on the island’s quieter east coast, not far from Phuket Town, this distillery offers regular afternoon tours (every hour, 2-6pm), including the chance to sample the finished product in a refreshing mojito!
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
HIKE UP TO KHAO RANG VIEWPOINT Away from the beaches, Phuket is blessed with rolling hills. Take a short sunset hike to the top of Khao Rang and soak up panoramic views across the Andaman Sea.
SPEND AN EVENING AT CHILLVA NIGHT MARKET After dark, Phuket Town comes alive! Head to Chillva Night Market, a trendy and family-friendly attraction which features an impressive selection of food, fashion, arts & crafts and live music. Open Monday to Saturday from 5pm to 11pm, this is a great place to chill out and soak up the “sabai sabai” vibe.
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
DAY TWO HIT THE BEACH! In Phuket, every beach lover can find their perfect stretch of sand! Active travellers should head to Patong Beach, the tourist hotspot where a wealth of exhilarating activities await, such as jet-skiing, parasailing and more. Serene afternoons can be enjoyed at Kata Beach, which is ideal for snorkelling in the calm, clear waters. Or do you dream of a secluded sandy beach with precious few other visitors and no banana boats in sight? If so, take a trip to Freedom Beach.
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
TAKE IN A MUAY THAI BOXING MATCH Muay Thai, or Thai kickboxing, is the country’s national sport and is hugely popular all across the kingdom. Every evening, highly-skilled fighters battle it out at the Patong Boxing Stadium, the largest Muay Thai centre in southern Thailand. Whether you like martial arts or not, this offers an amazing insight into Thai culture, as you watch the many ceremonies and traditions that are deep-rooted in the sport, surrounded by excited locals. This experience will live long in the memory.
COOL OFF AND SHOP AT JUNGCEYLON After a long day at the beach, escape the heat and indulge in some retail therapy at Jungceylon, the island’s main lifestyle mall, which is filled with Thai and international brands, fashion outlets and restaurants – all blissfully air-conditioned! Once you’ve finished shopping, you can enjoy a wealth of other family-friendly facilities including a cinema, trampoline park and bowling centre. Meanwhile, adults can ease their aching muscles with a massage at the onsite wellness centres.
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
DAY THREE
TAKE AN ISLAND HOPPING EXCURSION Phuket is surrounded by some of the world’s most spectacular seascapes, including the maze of offshore islands in Phang Nga Bay, so make sure you take a day out of your schedule to explore these marine marvels. Head to the picturesque Phi Phi islands, swim in the sparkling sea and explore the colourful underwater world with a snorkelling trip. Trips may also let you uncover unspoiled islands like Koh Pai, also known as Bamboo Island, or discover wall paintings in Viking Cave.
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
ENJOY A SOOTHING SPA EXPERIENCE Thailand is the spiritual home of wellness and no trip to Phuket would be complete without a spa session. Whether you’re seeking an invigorating Thai massage, which targets deep-rooted tension in the entire body, a relaxing head and shoulder massage, or even a soothing oil treatment, there are plenty of professional wellness centres to choose from. The award-winning Spa Burasari offers a wealth of therapies using natural products that are handcrafted by highly-skilled spa specialists.
IMMERSE IN THAI CULTURE AT PHUKET FANTASEA End your Phuket vacation in style at Thailand’s biggest cultural theatre: Phuket FantaSea! This amazing attraction, which covers 30 acres, will immerse you in Thai heritage and mythology. Packed with a multitude of activities and entertainment, including a carnival village with games, handicrafts, shopping and a themed Thai restaurant, this is a truly awe-inspiring experience. This unforgettable evening culminates with a breath-taking, award-winning Las Vegas-style show in a 3,000-seat theatre. Simply spectacular!
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
R E C O M M E N D E D
S T A Y S
I N
P H U K E T
Burasari Phuket Burasari Phuket is a vibrant four-star boutique resort located just 50 metres from Patong Beach. Unwind in the bright, modern rooms – including options with private Jacuzzis and direct pool access – and enjoy a range of activities, from a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, with its swim-up bar, to revitalizing therapies at the award-winning Spa Burasari. Kantok is an exceptional Thai restaurant and the Juice Bar specialises in local tropical fruits.
Cassia Phuket Cassia Phuket is a trendsetting family hotel within Laguna Phuket, the integrated leisure destination at Bangtao Bay on Phuket’s west coast. This waterfront hotel features spacious, apartment-style rooms with kitchens and free Wi-Fi, plus diverse dining options, from the Vista restaurant to in-room steamboat noodles, takeaways and more. Chill Chill Spa offers a wide range of treatments and the trendy beach club is a great place to hang out.
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72 HOURS IN PHUKET
R E C O M M E N D E D
S T A Y S
I N
P H U K E T
Nipa Resort Nipa Resort is a contemporary Thai retreat that reflects the authentic essence of the kingdom while also offering plenty of amenities. Located just 10 minutes’ walk from the attractions of Patong Beach, including Jungceylon shopping mall, this four-star retreat features stylish rooms, a main swimming pool with a dramatic waterfall, the Nipa Massage & Spa, and the Aim-Aoch Restaurant, which serves traditional Thai cuisine, Western dishes and fresh seafood.
R-MAR Resort and Spa R-MAR Resort and Spa is a haven of relaxation in the heart of bustling Patong. This modern boutique hotel features just 86 rooms and suites, all set amidst beautiful gardens and freeform pools, to create an enchanting ambience. Splash in the sparkling water and workout in the fitness centre while your children play in the kid’s club. The Daorueang Restaurant showcases Thai and international cuisine.
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Tokyo's Hotel Resol Ikebukuro offers guests a perfect gateway to the central area of the city's bustling district where you can find plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment. This new concept hotel offers unique exquisite features, including superb relaxation spaces to rest your five senses and rooms that will help you achieve a night of comfortable sleep.
2-30-14 Minamiikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo, Japan 171-0022 www.resol-ikebukuro.com
T O K Y O
O M O R I
Tmark City Hotel Tokyo Omori is the brand's flagship hotel in Tokyo which was built with a design concept of 'new modern Japanese style'. It offers simple and modern rooms in the vicinity of Shinagawa Aquarium. Discover freshly sourced, authentically prepared Japanese and Continental dishes along with local seasonings at Restaurant T Table.
1-2-10, Omorihon-cho, Ota-ku, Tokyo, Japan 143-0011 www.tmarkcity.com/tokyo-omori
Endless Experiences Await Plan ahead and indulge in stays you'll love, choose from over 75 hotels across Asia Pacific at up to 50% OFF*! Book & Earn 2X FIT Points Now
*Terms and conditions apply.
Catch th Rays of S
Summer might be coming to an end, but there’s still time to catch the sun! A
for adventure. Whether you want to make cultural discoveries or sim
Check out these fu
he Last Summer.
All across Asia, outdoor activities and attractions offer outstanding opportunities
mply splash in a pool, this is the perfect time to feel the sun’s warm rays.
un outdoor activities...
BIKE TRAILS
MARINA BAY LOOP, SINGAPORE Singapore is one of the cleanest and greenest cities on Earth, which makes it great to explore by bike. The Marina Bay Loop is an easy 11km cycle route that takes riders past landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge and the Singapore Flyer, and continues on towards the Esplanade and Merlion Park. Visitors can take advantage of a selection of bicycle rental services, including apps, and keen cyclists can extend their ride towards East Coast Park and beyond.
G R A N D PA R K C I T Y H A L L
WHERE TO STAY
GRAND PARK CITY HALL Grand Park City Hall is an architectural landmark
suites, plus an elegant European restaurant,
in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from
24-hour fitness centre, swimming pool and
Marina Bay. This five-star hotel offers spacious
the Crystal Club lounge.
accommodation with outdoor Jacuzzis in the
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STUDIO M HOTEL
WHERE TO STAY
STUDIO M HOTEL Studio M Hotel is a chic loft-inspired hotel close
many of which are spread across two floors,
to the Singapore River. Operated by Millennium
plus a swimming pool, open-air fitness centre,
& Copthorne, this four-star property features
café and lounge.
contemporary Italian-style rooms and suites,
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BIKE TRAILS
HOI AN, VIETNAM The UNESCO World Heritage-listed port town of Hoi An is closed to vehicles for much of the day, which makes it an enchanting place to explore on foot or by bike. The narrow stone streets, bustling markets and famous Japanese covered bridge will transport guests back in time. Curious travellers can then cycle outside the city to discover the verdant countryside, rolling rice fields and quaint villages. End the ride at An Bang Beach, where the inviting waters of the East Sea await.
PA L M G A R D E N B E A C H R E S O R T & S PA
WHERE TO STAY
PALM GARDEN BEACH RESORT & SPA Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa is a charming
cool off in the inviting freeform pool, enjoy
beachfront retreat that reflects the authentic
soothing therapies at the Palm Spa, and dine
elegance of Hoi An. Stroll along wooden
in style overlooking the sea.
walkways among shady gardens and ponds,
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V I C T O R I A H O I A N B E A C H R E S O R T & S PA
WHERE TO STAY
VICTORIA HOI AN BEACH RESORT & SPA Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort & Spa is an
while L’Annam Restaurant offers local and
outstanding upscale resort that blends
international cuisine, and the infinity pool
Vietnamese tradition with contemporary style.
faces the ocean. Free bicycle hire is available.
The rooms feature wooden floors and furniture,
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DIVE SPOTS
BOHOL, PHILIPPINES The turquoise seas that surround Bohol are not only achingly beautiful; they are also home to an amazing array of marine life, from tiny seahorses and tropical fish to majestic manta rays and even mighty whale sharks. Two of the best dive sites in Bohol are Balicasag Island and Napaling Reef, where visitors can explore a variety of vibrant underwater ecosystems. In neighbouring Panglao, which is connected to Bohol by bridges, the coral reefs teem with life.
BOHOL SHORES
WHERE TO STAY
BOHOL SHORES Bohol Shores brings a slice of paradise to every
facing restaurants and bars and a wealth of
guest. Nestled on the stunning southern island
water sports, so every traveller can unwind
of Panglao, it features just 40 modern villas, a
and soak up the exotic island vibe.
spectacular 2,500-square metre beach pool, sea-
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MODALA BEACH RESORT
WHERE TO STAY
MODALA BEACH RESORT Modala Beach Resort is an inspiring, eco-friendly
water sports, or snorkel in the warm sea. The
five-star hotel where guests can reconnect with
infinity pool, swim-up bar, spa, kids’ pool and
nature. Take a horseback ride along the beach,
restaurant offer even more ways to chill out.
kayak through lush mangroves, enjoy world-class
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DIVE SPOTS
MALDIVES With its clear blue waters and tropical climate, the Maldives is one of the world’s most dramatic diving destinations. Travellers who head to the Ari Atoll can explore vibrant coral reefs, caves and overhangs that house an amazing array of colourful marine life. Come face-to-face with oceanic giants such as barracuda, eagle rays, loggerhead turtles and more. Those diving after sunset could even experience the drama of a shark feeding frenzy.
MALDIVES
KURUMBA MALDIVES
WHERE TO STAY
KURUMBA MALDIVES Kurumba Maldives pioneered the concept of
Centre can organise offshore excursions,
the private island resort and it remains an idyllic
while the crystal-clear lagoon and a lively
destination with pure white beaches, beautiful
house reef are great for snorkelling.
villas and extensive activities. The onsite Diving
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O U T R I G G E R M A L D I V E S M A A F U S H I VA R U R E S O R T
WHERE TO STAY
OUTRIGGER MALDIVES MAAFUSHIVARU RESORT Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort is a
with Maldivian elements. The pool, spa, yoga
luxurious island retreat in the South Ari Atoll.
pavilion and lagoon present myriad ways to
Guests can unwind in overwater and beachfront
soak up the exotic ambience.
villas and dine at six F&B outlets, all infused
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SPLASH PARKS
WATERBOM BALI Waterbom is the perfect place to cool off in the heart of Kuta, Bali’s main tourist hub. Covering 3.8 hectares, this impressive attraction features a wide range of rides and slides for all ages, including Boomerang, Double Twist and The Climax, which is billed as “Asia’s steepest slide”. There is also a lazy river, surf simulator and bungee launcher, plus family areas, private gazebos, expansive lawns and dining options, all nestled within lush tropical gardens.
R A M AYA N A S U I T E S & R E S O R T S K U TA
WHERE TO STAY
RAMAYANA SUITES & RESORT KUTA Ramayana Suites & Resorts Kuta is a five-star
lagoon pool with shady trees and wooden
sanctuary that is nestled in the centre of Kuta,
decks. Facilities include a spa, gym, kids’
yet feels miles away from the hustle and bustle.
playground and an Indonesian restaurant.
This Balinese retreat is set around a winding
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T H E A N VA Y A B E A C H R E S O R T S B A L I
WHERE TO STAY
THE ANVAYA BEACH RESORTS BALI The Anvaya Beach Resorts Bali is a tropical
experience the art of Balinese cuisine, take a
hideaway featuring luxurious rooms, suites and
refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy soothing
villas, including private pool options, all just
therapies at the spa.
steps from the shore. Dine by Kuta Beach or
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SPLASH PARKS
IMAGICAA WATER PARK, INDIA This popular Indian attraction is located in the cool hill station of Lonavala, just 83km from Mumbai. Inspired by the Greek island of Mykonos, Imagicaa Water Park is a hot spot for city dwellers to cool off. Chill out in the wave pool and lazy river or plunge down a series of exhilarating waterslides, such as the winding Loopy-Woopy, Swirl Whirl and The Screamer, which are sure to set pulses racing. Multiple dining options are also available.
F A R I Y A S R E S O R T L O N A VA L A
WHERE TO STAY
FARIYAS RESORT LONAVALA Fariyas Resort Lonavala is a fun-filled five-star
place for a swim. The rooms and suites offer
resort which offers a wealth of activities for all
panoramic views and the Fusion Restaurant
ages. The outdoor pool and water park feature a
focuses on pan-Asian cuisine.
series of slides, while the indoor pool is a relaxing
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NOVOTEL IMAGICAA KHOPOLI
WHERE TO STAY
NOVOTEL IMAGICAA KHOPOLI Novotel Imagicaa Khopoli offers international
Guests can stay in family rooms and suites and
upscale accommodation and extensive amenities
take part in a range of activities, from archery,
just steps from Imagicaa, which comprises of a
Segway rides, pool games, a kids’ play area
water park, theme park and snow park.
and more.
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STEP INTO AN OASIS OF TRANQUILITY Located in a quiet, peaceful area of Kyoto's Higashiyama, Chion-In Wajun-Kaikan is a stone's throw away from the hustle and bustle of Gion, a place home to new-age attractions that highlight culture and diversity. Enjoy clean, spacious rooms overlooking Chion-in Temple, with an added touch of tranquility as you relax and unwind.
400 Rinka-cho Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan 605-006 www.wajun-kaikan.jp
Joytel Hotel Shinsekai Sakaisujidori is situated within walking distance of outstanding attractions like Shitenno-ji Temple, Isshin-ji Temple, Tokoku-ji Temple and Kuroda Han Historical Gate. The hotel features some rooms with views of Abeno Harukas, the tallest skyscraper in Japan and Tsutenkaku, the well-known landmark of Osaka. Experience a traditional yet modern Japanese vibe, with dark, earthy colours in cosy guestrooms.
2-10-9, Ebisuhigashi, Naniwaku, Osaka-city, Japan www.joytelhotels.com/shinsekai
WHERE’S THE BEEF? Discover the Finest Meats in Asia Pacific Asia Pacific is home to some of the world’s foremost food cultures, and this makes it a focal point for gastronomy tourism – the up-and-coming trend for uncovering the planet’s ultimate culinary experiences. At the heart of many epicurean adventures is meat – cooked however you like it, from sizzling steaks and slow-roasted joints to steaming stews and heavenly hotpots.
So, vegetarians look away now! In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we take a closer look at the finest meats in Asia Pacific.
JEJU BLACK PORK
SOUTH KOREA
Jeju Black Pork The World Heritage island of Jeju is famous for many things, such as its spectacular mountains, coastal cliffs and lava tubes. Visitors to this captivating Korean destination can also discover one of the world’s finest varieties of pork: Jeju black pork. Commonly cooked on a barbecue to seal in its exquisite taste, this fatty, tender meat simply melts in the mouth. Head out and find an authentic local restaurant to savour the real thing.
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LOTTE HOTEL JEJU
WHERE TO STAY
LOTTE HOTEL JEJU Lotte Hotel Jeju is a five-star hotel located in the main Seogwipo area of Jeju, overlooking the ocean and surrounded by attractions. Foodies can experience a combination of traditional Jeju flavours and international favourites at The Canvas, the all-day dining destination, or head out into the vibrant local streets where several restaurants specialise in Jeju black pork. The spa, outdoor pool, rooftop terrace and designer shops provide countless ways to unwind.
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LOTTE HOTEL JEJU
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KOBE BEEF
JAPAN
Kobe Beef Japanese wagyu beef is famous around the world for its sheer quality, including the iconic marbling that makes the meat so wonderfully tender. The best known of all, Kobe beef, must be produced from cattle born and raised in Hyogo Prefecture. Usually served as premium steaks, shabu shabu (thin slices of beef quickly boiled in a broth) or sukiyaki (wagyu simmered in a hot pot), this is an unmistakable taste sensation.
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HOTEL MONTEREY KOBE
WHERE TO STAY
HOTEL MONTEREY KOBE Hotel Monterey Kobe is designed to demonstrate the rich cultural heritage and charm of Kobe. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the city’s Sannomiya Station, it is surrounded by a seemingly endless network of streets and steakhouses that specialise in Kobe beef. When travellers are not exploring this smart port city, they can be immersed in Japan’s wellness culture at Trinite, the hotel’s second floor public bath and sauna.
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HOTEL MONTEREY KOBE
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NEW ZEALAND LAMB
NEW ZEALAND
New Zealand Lamb New Zealand is home to approximately 30 million sheep – six times the human population! So, it is no surprise that this country knows how to farm the most fabulous lamb. It is often said that happy animals produce the tastiest meat, and the sheep in New Zealand have plenty of space to roam free and graze happily on pure, lush, unpolluted grass. Joints of meat are often roasted with herbs until soft and succulent.
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Q U E E N S T O W N H O U S E B E D & B R E A K FA S T A N D A PA R T M E N T S
WHERE TO STAY
QUEENSTOWN HOUSE BED & BREAKFAST AND APARTMENTS Queenstown House Bed & Breakfast and Apartments is situated in the heart of New Zealand’s spectacular South Island, between magnificent mountain ranges and overlooking languid lakes. Queenstown is a major centre for gastronomy tourism and the city has a wealth of restaurants dedicated to lamb. This four-star hotel, which has previously hosted MasterChef New Zealand, lies just 200 metres from the city centre and frames elevated views of Lake Wakatipu.
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Q U E E N S T O W N H O U S E B E D & B R E A K FA S T A N D A PA R T M E N T S
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Ask the WebBeds Insider is an interactive platform that provides the latest insights, opinions, giveaways and more exclusively to WebBeds users in Asia Pacific. In this dedicated space, we reveal insider tips from Asia Pacific’s top travel experts to keep you inspired! This month, Yvonne from GCR Travel reveals what she looks for when booking a hotel for her customers.
Location is the most important factor when booking a hotel for customers. - Yvonne Teoh GCR Travel & Tourism Sdn Bhd
Most customers prefer to explore the area around the hotel; they like to discover nearby attractions and taste local cuisines that are within walking distance. For example, if a customer is booking a stay in Kuala Lumpur with friends or family, I would recommend a hotel in Bukit Bintang, where there are many accommodation options for all budgets.
Shopaholics can head to Pavilion Mall, Sungai Wang Plaza, and Berjaya Times Square, and Bukit Bintang puts you close to the centre of
partygoers can explore Changkat Street or Jalan
Kuala Lumpur, with modern shopping malls,
Mesui Street. Getting around the city is also very
upscale restaurants, street hawkers and lively
convenient with both a monorail station and an
nightlife.
MRT station at Bukit Bintang.
For foodies, a trip to Jalan Alor, the city’s most famous hawker food street, is a must!
Augus t 2 0 2 2
Quiz of the Month
Answer 10 simple questions to earn 100 BONUS FIT Points Take the qu iz for this m o nth 's is s ue of Travel Ag g r eg a to r i n c lud i n g qu e stions on w hat to exp l o r e in P h uket, o utd o o r a d ventur es to ca tch t h e la st rays of su mme r, and w h er e to s avo ur th e fi nes t m ea ts in As ia P aci fi c.
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