Travel & Hospitality Awards | Asia 2018 | www.thawards.com

TRAVEL &
HOSPITALITY
AWARDS
ASIA
2018
2

TEAM
CEO
Dennis Mayhew
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Katherine Lozell
ART DIRECTOR
Marcs Bacera
DIRECTOR OF SALES
Stanley Lucas
AWARDS DIRECTOR
Brian Anson
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Zoe Watkins
SENIOR WRITERS
Tasmai Dave
Jacqui Irvine
Joseph Wilton
SENIOR DESIGNERS
Antoine Jackson
Dave Chen
AWARDS MANAGERS
Adam Cole
Joseph Malabanan
Zach Ford
Peter Clement
RESEARCH MANAGERS
Costin Marcel
Sarah Patel
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tracy Morgan
Kim Feldmann de Britto
Joseph Malabanan
Aisha Ahmed
Criteria ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Asian Megacities................................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Asian Megacities ............................... 12
Cordis Shanghai Hongqiao ............ 18
Belmont Hotel ...................................22
Ambassador Row Hotel Suites
Lanson Place Bukit Ceylon
Serviced Residences ..........................26
Parkroyal On Pickering ................. 20
Sunny Hills........................................ 21
by Lanson Place ...............................24
The 7 Wonders of Asia ...................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Hotelpoispois ................................... 30
Interview With Jean Ching Chu ......32
Kuraya ..............................................36
Kihaa Maldives ............................... 40
Xi Hotel .............................................42
Baraquda Pattaya –
Mgallery by Sofitel........................... 44
Amaya Kuda Rah Maldives ........... 46
S.N.E.G Hotel & Restaurant ...........48
East Asia ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 50
Japan .................................................52
Hokkaido | Japan ...........................58
Hokkaido Nature Tours ..................59
Hotorinite ......................................... 60
Daikokuya Sangam ......................... 61
Costel Minoshima .............................62
Why Kansai? ................................... 64
Gion Hanna Stay .............................68
Shiki Properties................................ 69
Fujitaya Bnb .................................... 70
Hyogo Top 5 .....................................72
Remembering Anthony Bourdain
& His Love For Tokyo .....................76
Cyclo Limousine .............................. 80
Obi Hostel ......................................... 81
Taiwan ..............................................82
Getting In & Getting Around ...........84
China Airlines ...................................86
Taiwan Attractions ......................... 94
Kenting Coast Resort ....................... 96
Exploring Taiwan’s
Food Culture .....................................98
The Great Roots Forestry
Spa Resort .......................................100
South East Asia ............................................................................................................................................................................... 102
Penang Vs Genting Highlands ......104
Grand Ion Delemen Hotel ............. 108
Matahari Tours & Travel .............. 109
Malaysia Adventure........................110
Explore Balik Pulau ........................ 113
The Philippines ................................ 114
Malapascua Garden Resort ........... 118
The Avenue Plaza Hotel ................. 119
Boracay Re-Opening ..................... 120
Boracay Haven Resort .................... 121
Savoy Hotel Boracay ......................122
Thailand: the Home of
Beautiful Beaches ........................... 124
Sibaja Palms Sunset Beach
Resort ................................................127
Wanida Tardivel ............................ 128
Koh Jum Beach Villas .................... 130
Seanery Beach Resort ..................... 131
Adventure in Thailand ...................132
Island Gem Tours ............................135
Tim’s Thailand .............................. 136
Ekman Garden ............................... 138
Chiang Mai .....................................140
Puri Punn ......................................... 141
The Enduring Beauty of Bali ........ 142
Sun Suko Retreat ............................ 146
Astagina Resort .............................. 148
Bondalem Beach Club ................... 150
Nyaungshwe | Myanmar ..............152
Ann Heritage Lodge ........................153
Asiana Link .................................... 154
Sol Beach Resort .............................155
South Asia ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 156
Bhutan ..............................................158
Bangladesh | The One to Watch .. 162
Holiday Xpress ............................... 164
Hotel Grace 21 ................................. 166
Palace Jhargram .............................173
Niraamaya Retreats ........................174
Soulitude In The Himalayas ..........175
Jammu & Kashmir | India .............176
Varanasi Heritage Walk .................178
Tasmais Varanasi Adventure .........179
Sri Lanka Top 3 .............................. 180
Rainbow Tours Sri Lanka ............. 184
India Top Five Things
to See and Do .................................. 168
Nimmu House ..................................177
Maldives .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 186
The Maldives Overview ................. 188
Pearl Sands At Huraa .................... 190
Robinson Club Maldives ................ 192
Bibee Maldives ................................ 195
Contents
Dive Maldives ................................. 196
Rasdhoo Dive Lodge ..................... 198
Local Tourism |
A New Approach ........................... 200
West Sands ..................................... 204
Island Beach House ...................... 206
3 4

CRITERIA
Excellence in Service is an important category, as customer
service can often be responsible for having guests return
year after year. We look for the hotels and tour operators
that go out of their way to please their guests, those that
provide a personal level of service and take the time to
get to know each visitor so that they might anticipate their
every need. This can be something as simple as a 24-hour
concierge desk, a hotel manager who offers a personal
greeting or a tour guide who is happy to create bespoke
private tours – but whatever it is, we are always pleased
when we encounter staff that have been trained in the art
of customer satisfaction.
SERVICES
It is no question that style and design plays a big part in
selecting our awards shortlist. A guest will form an opinion
about a hotel as soon as they arrive so it is important
to us that all our winners make those first impressions
count. We’re certainly not partial to a particular period of
architecture – but whether we’re judging a gothic castle or
an environmentally friendly lodge, the criteria remains the
same. We consider factors such as architectural features,
use of materials, creation of spaces, décor and the overall
feel. We love it when we find a hotel that tells a story
through its design and construction, or offers a design that
is sympathetic to the natural surroundings of its location.
STYLE & DESIGN
Knowledge of the local area is essential for any
organization, be it a hotel or a tour operator. The quality
of services takes a great hit when the quality of this
element is not up to the mark. Quite a few of our winners
in this category are because they have displayed excellent
knowledge about the surrounding areas. The criteria for a
hotel is slightly lenient compared to a tour operator, as the
latter is expected to have thorough knowledge of the area
in order to provide good services.
Image by: Mahir Uysal
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
5 6

FACILITIES
Award-winning guest rooms come in all shapes and sizes,
but they all have one thing in common – a home-awayfrom-home
feel. The comfort of the facilities on offer are
of vital importance; we look for luxurious linens, stylish
bathrooms and a coordinated colour scheme that work
together to create a cohesive sense of relaxation. Additional
touches, such as complimentary toiletries, free wi-fi or tea
and coffee making facilities are always a bonus in making
us feel welcome. We’re always impressed to find hotel
rooms that embrace technology and offer amenities like
tablets or smart thermostat systems, but this does not
always necessarily trump the traditional – four poster beds,
ornate fireplaces or antique furniture can add a touch of
decadence to a hotel stay.
LOCATION
Location is one of the most important factors, but also
one of the most subjective, as the ‘ideal’ is very much
determined by the type of visitor and the type of hotel
itself. However, there are a few factors we take into
consideration when determining the winners of locationbased
awards. The first is convenience; that is, hotels that
are easy to travel to. Many of our winners in this category
are in convenient locations, such as adjacent to airports,
close to beaches or found in the heart of easy-to-navigate
cities. We are always impressed when hotels go the extra
mile to take the hassle out of traveling and offer such
additional services as airport shuttles or car hire services.
However, we’re always excited to come across a hotel
that is, to use a familiar phrase, off-the-beaten-track. A
hotel that can offer something a little different, in terms of
natural surroundings, can make the difference between a
good holiday and an incredible one.
In today’s modern age, a hotel or tour operator cannot
rely on word of mouth to get their message out into the
world. As social media has become a vital part of everyday
life, we like to see companies that go the extra mile to
engage with their guests, both past and future. Attractive
and informative websites and engaging and honest
content are what we look for when judging a company’s
use of marketing; how well they display their services, how
up-to-date their content is, how well they get their brand
message across, and, most importantly, how well their
marketing can tempt us to go and see what they have to
offer for ourselves.
What better way is there to know about an organization
than by getting first hand reviews? Customers are the best
judges of any service out there as they are the ones who
experience them and can assess whether they were up to
the mark or not. Considering reviews from hundreds of
customers gives us a fair idea about the general pros and
cons of any organization and also give us valuable inputs
for the other criteria as well.
MARKETING
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Diversity is one important aspect that needs to be taken
into consideration when in the travel and hospitality
industry. It is essential to have staff that has varying diversity
to ensure that the organization can properly connect with
their guests. Diversity is taken into account in terms of
gender, nationality as well as languages spoken among
other factors. Not only do we take the diversity of the staff
into account but even that of the facilities and services
offered; a hotel or tour operator providing a better range
of services is preferred over those that do not.
It is of prime importance that an organization has thorough
industry knowledge. Without knowing the ins and outs of
the industry, it is difficult to flourish and provide services
which are a class apart. Before any organization ventures
into the industry, it is essential that they know how the
industry is moving and how they should make changes to
their methodologies in order to remain relevant and also
be a top-performing organization.
DIVERSITY
INDUSTRY
KNOWLEDGE
7 8

ASIAN
MEGACITIES
Image by: RH Lee
9 10

ASIAN MEGACITIES
When you mention venturing to Asian cities, it is likely that the idea of a bustling
megalopolis crowded with hundreds upon hundreds of people, all shuffling
through crowded streets under a buzz of vibrant neon lights are what come to your mind.
While this Asian city stereotype certainly does have some truth behind it, it is not allencompassing
and some of the most populous and fascinating Asian megacities could
not be more different.
Take Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai for example. All of these cities are
international business hubs. They all possess the towering skyscrapers and the flashing
neon signs that comprise many cities but more than that, they all possess their own
distinct personalities and cultures.
Kuala Lumpur
The Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur is a popular starting point for adventures around
Malaysia or wider Southeast Asia. The country is renowned globally for its tantalising,
flavourful food, its diverse multiculturalism and its bustling markets. With a diverse
population, traveling to Kuala Lumpur makes travellers feel transported to various parts
of the globe without even having to venture out of the city. One moment, you could
be sipping a hot cup of chai tea in Kuala Lumpur’s Little India district, and dipping naan
in your chicken curry. The next, you are revelling in the scent of incense and watching
Chinese prayer-goers pay their respects at Guan Di Taoist temple in Chinatown.
Kuala Lumpur is a Muslim country and the skyline of this city is made incredibly unique
compared to other Asian megacities in that it is filled with the ornate minarets of
mosques. At several points throughout the day, the call to prayer will echo through the
city streets. Kuala Lumpur essentially exists at a cultural crossroads of the Middle East
meeting East Asia. The layout of the city, the friendliness of the locals, and the neon
buzz is Asian, whereas many aspects of the culture are reminiscent of Turkey or the
Middle East, such as the spicy, flavourful cuisine, or the many hammams (Turkish baths)
that offer an exotic form of rest and relaxation for the weary traveller.
11 12

Singapore
A rich, multicultural city in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is one of the most
visited countries in the world, and for good reason. In a similar way to Dubai in the
Middle East, Singapore could be considered as the embodiment of modern living
and the luxury lifestyle in Asia. At first glance, Singapore looks on the surface to be
comprised of glitzy skyscrapers, luxurious megamalls, and bars and restaurants catering
to the jet-set. When you dig a little deeper, however, you find the true heart of Singapore
lurking beneath the surface. Like both Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai, Singapore’s street
food game is strong. The best dishes are said to be found in the many Hawker’s centers
scattered throughout the city. Grab a stool, sit among locals, and slurp up a delicious
bowl of Singapore beef noodles beneath the canvases of the food tents.
In a similar way to Kuala Lumpur, Singapore is an extremely diverse country. Residents
of the country are comprised of people who are predominantly ethnic Chinese, Indian
or Malay. The city itself houses various neighborhoods that reflect the different cultures
of those that inhabit them. In this way, Singapore is very similar to Kuala Lumpur. Both
megacities house countless temples and religious buildings of various faiths, and diverse
neighborhoods for people of different backgrounds. For example, both Singapore and
Kuala Lumpur have large Indian populations and their own “Little India” districts –
Brickfields in Kuala Lumpur and the area around Lavender station in Singapore.
13 14

Shanghai
Though huge, Shanghai is actually China’s second
largest city, with the capital being Beijing. Just
like Singapore, Shanghai is a commercial hub for
finance and business. Though Shanghai does not
have the same multiculturalism intertwined within its
roots as Kuala Lumpur or Singapore, it does house
professional and educated people from an array
of backgrounds as a consequence of many expats
(often from western countries) relocating here for
work.
Shanghai possesses many of the same appeals
as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur from a travel
perspective – the opportunity to try fascinating
local cuisine, world-class hospitality and a glimpse
into an Asian culture. However, it is some paces
behind Singapore on its journey to becoming an
international center of activity. Shanghai does feel
cosmopolitan, international and modern to an
extent; however, this is still China. Mandarin remains
dominant here and English is less widely spoken
than in Singapore (where English is actually the first
language). If you cannot speak the local language,
you will find it a little trickier to get by in Shanghai
than in the other two cities. It is advisable to use a
translator app or keep the addresses of where you
will be staying written down on paper in Mandarin
at all times for when you need to get cabs, or should
you have to ask for directions.
Over 90% of Shanghai’s population is Han Chinese.
This is evident everywhere – in the neighborhoods,
the décor, the religious sites and the restaurants.
Shanghai possesses a fascinating culture in terms of
experiencing cosmopolitan China for the first time,
practicing your Mandarin and sampling traditional
Chinese delicacies, but the level of diversity is
relatively low, so you should have an interest in
Chinese traditions and culture if venturing here.
All three megacities are well-suited for a first-time
visitor to Asia. Though the landscapes, the diversity,
and the ease of communicating with locals vary
extensively from one city to another, all of these
cities are accustomed to seeing foreign travellers
and the locals will do their best to assist you should
you need help at any point during your trip.
15 16

China
CORDIS
SHANGHAI
HONGQIAO
Airport Hotel
333 Shenhong Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 201106 China ♦
Tel + 86 21 5263 9999 ♦ cordishotels.com/shanghai-hongqiao
Situated right at the
heart of the integrated
commercial, residential and
economic district, Hongqiao,
Cordis, Shanghai, Hongqiao
connects you well to the city.
Welcoming guests with modern
interiors, exceptional attention
to detail and thoughtful extras,
our 396 guest rooms and
suites capture the intimacy
and individuality of a private
home. Ranging from a cozy 41
square meters to an expansive
162 square meters for the
Presidential Suite, our rooms
meet the needs of on the go
business executives and leisure
travelers, with comfortable
and generously sized work
desks with high-speed internet
connectivity, blackout curtains
and JBL Bluetooth speakers.
We have partnered with a
consultant Pure Living, for the
latest indoor air purification
technology, which reduces the
indoor PM2.5 index to a single
digit.
You could dine at C Market, the in-house restaurant that is spread across a terrace as well
as indoors. If you wish to try out Cantonese cuisine, you could head over to Ming Court
and try out the authentic Cantonese dishes. If you fancy some drinks, you could head over
to Connection 12, which is located right next to the swimming pool on the top floor and
gives you stunning views of the city. For a more peaceful place, you could visit the Lobby
Lounge and enjoy some fine sweets along with your drinks.
The hotel has a fully-equipped gym along with a rooftop swimming pool for your fitness
and leisure requirements. If you wish to host an event, The Shanghai Grand and Hongqiao
ballrooms are great options. Both of these ballrooms can accommodate more than 600
guests. You could even book Break-out Rooms for your meetings, weddings, and other
events.
17 18

Singapore
PARKROYAL ON
PICKERING
Hotel and Restaurant
of the Year
Singapore
SUNNY HILLS
Unique Experience
3 Upper Pickering Street, Singapore 058289 ♦ Tel +65 6809 8888 ♦
parkroyalhotels.com/pickering
Rising above the city’s dramatic
skyline with a unique hotel-ina-garden
concept and sustainable
features, PARKROYAL on Pickering
elevates green hospitality and
natural living to a whole new level.
Located at the key gateway to
the Central Business District and
financial hub at Raffles Place, and
close to bustling Chinatown and
waterfront entertainment along
the Singapore River, the 367-
room property offers elegant and
contemporary accommodation.
Experience an uplifting stay in the
nature-inspired guestrooms and
unwind completely at the fitness
center, infinity pool and iconic
poolside cabanas, or pamper
yourself with a delightful spa
treatment at the award-winning
St. Gregory. The hotel’s signature
restaurant, the hotel boasts a
friendly, welcoming atmosphere,
offering guests a warm and inviting
setting to enjoy a wide range
of local, Southeast Asian and
international culinary delights.
Ngee Ann City (Tower B), Unit #B2-27A Takashimaya S.C., Singapore 238872 ♦
Tel +65 85229605 ♦ sunnyhills.com.tw
If you’re looking for a place that specializes in pineapple products in Singapore,
Sunny Hills is a great option. With two main products on offer – Pineapple Cake and
Pineapple Juice, they give you the opportunity to enjoy the goodness of pineapples.
The ingredients are sourced directly from the farmers and suppliers to ensure the highest
quality standards. With the kitchen helmed by a professional baker, the sweet and sour
pineapples are squeezed to form great juices and baked to make the pineapple cakes.
Take one sip of the juice or a bite of the cake and you’ll be transported to the sunny hills
of Bagua Mountain, the place where these fruits originate. With multiple stores across
Singapore and a web portal to allow you to buy these ‘Sunny Delights’, you can be
assured that your favorite pineapple product is just a few clicks away.
19 20

Philippines
BELMONT HOTEL
Airport Hotel
Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay City, 1309, Philippines ♦
Tel +632 318-8888 / 903-1999 ♦ belmonthotelmanila.com
If you’re traveling to Manila for some urgent work and need a luxurious hotel to stay right
next to the airport, Belmont Hotel is an amazing option. Situated at just a 5-minute walk
from the Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s 3rd terminal, this hotel provides you ease of
access to the airport while affording some beautiful views of the Manila city skyline. Each room
here is designed to exude elegance and is equipped with every essential amenity and plush
furnishings to ensure that you can have a comfortable stay. The hotel also has a special family
room that can house your complete family for a fun-filled family stay.
To satiate your hunger cravings, you can head to Cafe Belmont, the all-day dining restaurant of
the hotel, and enjoy some delicious international preparations in its minimalist-yet-sophisticated
setting. If you’re craving for some pastries or a cup of coffee, you could head over to the bakery
of the hotel. For alcohol lovers, Rooftop 11 has an amazing selection of wines, margaritas, and
beers on the hotel rooftop.
To ensure that guests have a leisurely stay,
the hotel has installed state-of-the-art
facilities which you can take advantage of.
You could head to the roof deck and swim
in the 360-degree panoramic view pool or
can even have some soothing massages
on the massage deck. Moreover, you could
visit the gym to keep up with your fitness
regime. If you feel like relaxing, a sauna
bath or steam session is a great option, or
perhaps you could sit back in the outdoor
jacuzzi too! Even for the kids, the hotel has
a special children’s pool.
Being an airport hotel, they have daily
airport shuttle buses to and from the airport
for your convenience. If you wish to have a
VIP airport transfer or departure assistance,
they arrange that for you as well.
21 22

Malaysia
AMBASSADOR
ROW HOTEL
SUITES BY
LANSON PLACE
Business Hotel
Relax in the sauna or with soothing
massages at the spa after a day of activity.
The outdoor pool also has a sun deck.
Providing a business center, friendly staff at
Ambassador Row Hotel Suites by Lanson
Place also provide tour information and
concierge services.
Light refreshments and hot beverages
can be enjoyed at the casual dining
environment of Café at Lanson.
1, Jalan Ampang Hilir 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ♦ Tel +60 3 4811 2888 ♦
ambassadorrow.lansonplace.com
A
home away from home,
Ambassador Row Hotel
Suites by Lanson Place
features spacious suites with
fully furnished kitchens and
free internet. Situated in Kuala
Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, it
offers free parking and a large
24-hour gym.
Ambassador Row Hotel Suites
by Lanson Place is within a
5-minute drive from Petronas
Towers, Bintang Walk and
Royal Selangor Golf & Country
Club. The Polo and Riding
Club is a 5-minute walk away.
Fitted with classic furnishings,
stylish suites have a separate
lounge area with a comfortable
sofa and flat-screen TV. Meals
can be prepared with the
modern electric stove and
oven. Bathrooms are en-suite,
and come with free toiletries.
23 24

Malaysia
LANSON PLACE BUKIT
CEYLON SERVICED
RESIDENCES
Aparthotel
10, Jalan Ceylon, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia ♦ Tel +60 3 2725 8888 ♦
bukitceylon.lansonplace.com
Set in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, Lanson Place Bukit Ceylon Serviced
Residences is your new dazzling address with free Wi-Fi in all of its 150 spacious one to
three-bedroom serviced apartments for your exquisite selection.
Feel at home in Lanson Place’s serviced apartments in Kuala Lumpur, enjoy a luxury living style
crowned by the sky lounge and an outdoor barbeque area that makes a perfect venue to
unwind and for sophisticated entertainment.
A 5-minute drive away is the shopping district, which includes malls like Pavilion, Sungei Wang,
Berjaya Times Square and Lot 10. The Kuala Lumpur Tower and Petronas Twin Towers are a
10-minute drive from Lanson Place Bukit Ceylon Serviced Residences. It takes 45 minutes to
drive to Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
Changkat Bukit Bintang, an avenue on
which a large number of Kuala Lumpur’s
most popular bars and restaurants lay,
can be reached within a 5 minute walking
distance. It’s a busy street that’s lined with
plenty of international restobars, lounges,
whisky bars and lively Irish pubs.
Guests enjoy access to a fitness center and
outdoor swimming pool. Safety deposit
boxes and luggage storage facilities are
available at the 24-hour reception. Airport
shuttle and laundry services are provided
at a surcharge. Friendly staff are fluent in
English, Malay and Chinese.
25 26

THE 7
WONDERS
OF ASIA
27 28

Taiwan
HOTELPOISPOIS
Boutique Hotel
No.168, Section 4, Civic Boulevard, Da’an District, Taipei City ♦
Tel +886 2 2771 1188 ♦ hotelpoispois.com
Located conveniently at the heart of the bustling city of Taipei is hotelpoispois.
Pois literally translates to “dot” in French and it sounds like the pronunciation
of “bubble” in Mandarin.
And this is exactly what the hotel is
all about. Everything, right from their
exteriors to their furnishings are designed
by keeping bubbles in mind. This 5-star
hotel gives you a chance to escape the
hustle-bustle of the city and relax in its
laid-back and comfortable environment.
The brightly-lit exteriors of the building
are extremely appealing and once you
pass through the doors of the hotel, you’re
welcomed into a luxurious lounge which is
completely bubble-themed too!
They offer two types of rooms – Petit and
Deluxe. If you wish to stay in a tiny and cozy
bubble, the Petit Pois Pois is for you. This
room comes complete with all luxurious
amenities. If you wish to have a larger
than life experience, the Deluxe Pois Pois
is the one you should choose. Apart from
these, they have a variety of unique rooms.
Each of these rooms is uniquely-themed.
The Green Room has bird lighting and an
installation from the House of Hackney.
The Pink Room, on the other hand, is
completely covered in pink and has a
slight touch of green on the beds. It has an
oversized armchair where you can sink in
and relax after a tiring day. The final room
is the Palette Room, which is the most
colorful room among all and has a base
tone of yellow.
For your gastronomic requirements, ch-eat
and drink is the perfect place. This bistro
has a chic and intimate atmosphere that is
pleasing for all your senses. It’s a great place
to hang out and meet new people. Do try
out their Cheese Platter and Spaghetti with
Seafood and Garlic Tomato Sauce.
For alcohol and party lovers, the Velvet
Rouge is the place to be. This bar is open
late into the night so that you can have
your favorite drinks even post-midnight.
Do give their cocktails a shot; they are
extremely good!
The hotel even features an installation
from the renowned German artist,
Peter Zimmerman, which has been
displayed inside the elevator space. Such
installations only add to the visual appeal
of hotelpoispois.
The hotel gives you direct views of the
city skyline, including the towering Taipei
101, which stands out in the skyline. You
could even sit back and take a spin on the
Heathwicks’ designed “Spun Chair” that
will give you a completely new view of the
Taipei city.
Thanks to the location of the hotel, all
the prominent landmarks and happening
areas of town are just a stone’s throw
away. Be it restaurants or bars, there are
so many places to explore around the
hotel. With such stunning interiors and
exteriors, as well as their luxurious facilities,
hotelpoispois has definitely made a mark in
the Taiwanese hotel market.
29 30

INTERVIEW WITH
JEAN CHING CHU
Manager of Hotelpoispois
Q. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Answer. I am the manager of hotelpoispois.
I studied interior architecture and design
in the UK; I lived and worked there for 6
years. The environment has given me a
rich exposure to the art and culture. After
returning to Taiwan, I have been assigned
to work on this project for 4 years. From
the beginning of shaping the concept to
realizing it, I have coordinated with the
creative team from different backgrounds.
Now I am focusing on the operations of the
hotel and planning for our future ones.
Q. What led you to open the
hotelpoispois? Why Taiwan?
Answer. Our mother company is a real
estate developer based in Taiwan for the
past 30 years. We chose this location
because Taipei is not only the city that we
are most familiar with but also has a highly
competitive hospitality and entertainment
business industry. We took our time after
acquiring the land a few years back and
finally decided to make it into a hotel, for
its very central location and unique features
of the land.
The initial idea was to make a real
authentic, bold statement in the saturated
hotel industry in Taiwan, to be unique and
not to copy. To give alternative dwelling
experience with our solid background in
architecture and interior design. It is also
our take to introduce a contemporary hotel
that breaks the frame of stereotypes. Every
decision we make is the interpretation
and realization driven by the concept of
‘bubbles’.
Q. Where did the name come from?
Answer. The name was triggered in a
conversation between three people, our
creative copywriter, art director and me. We
were flipping through a French dictionary
and we found the word ‘pois’, which means
‘dot’ in French. We found that meaning of
a dot matched the small space we have,
and the pronunciation sounds like ‘bubble’
in Mandarin, which is not only catchy for
the Taiwanese market, it also proposes a
very challenging task to work on, it suits our
great ambition perfectly.
Immediately after we started to use these
two elements in our space and all the visual
communications. ‘Bubble’ for us represents
fantasy. It delivers pure joy, creativity, and
freedom. We reached out to the biggest
ocean institute in the world ‘Scripps’ in
California and consulted with a Ph.D.
Doctor, Dale Stokes, who specializes in the
study of the bubble, to further investigate
and gather ideas. He enlightened us with
the physical facts. Bubbles always go to
the least pressure and usually the top of
the surface. They always have a short life
and within the bubble is a vacuum and
absolute peace. Among all, we found
these three the most comprehensive and
could perfectly be applied to the hotel.
Q. The first thing that caught our judge’s
eyes was the décor, slick and modern
interiors. What is the inspiration behind
this?
Answer. Everything in the hotel is about
the interpretation of the bubble according
to us. Defining how the ‘bubble’ should
be presented in space is subjective. The
biggest challenge for us was trying to focus
more on the physics and the romance side
instead of being too literal. We tried our
best to keep it childlike yet sophisticated
but not childish. In response to this, the
choice of our material and color tone is
carefully curated.
The entire building creates a strong visual
impact inside out. While the exterior could
be bright red with constant changing neon
lights, almost like asking for attention in the
hustle and bustle of the urban context, the
guest rooms are all white and quiet so the
guests could rest. In the common area, we
stress on the reflective or colorful material,
reflecting the nature of the bubble. In the
end, we aim to deliver a fantasy space.
Q. Who would you say is your target
market?
Answer. Initially, instead of setting a target
market we were keener on introducing
this new interpretation of the hotel to the
public. I would say people who are curious
and open to new ideas. After opening, we
were surprised to find that over 50% of
our guests are local Taiwanese guests, and
overall 70% of our guests are women.
For the type of guests, their habit of
choosing where to stay is between
Airbnb and five star hotels, which enjoy
characteristic or even eccentric living
experience. We have guests from a wide
range of ages, but mostly between 25-45.
They are also the group who are heavy
users of digital media, which helped with
our exposure a lot.
31 32

Q. The online reviews really impressed
our judges. What would you say is the
one thing that sets you apart from the
competition?
Answer. Most of all would be the spirit.
There are various aims and reasons
behind running a hotel for a corporate,
and that idea will be practiced in the
management and strategy of decision
making. Sometimes the concentration
of spirit and the magic of a hotel could
be compromised by putting the profit as
first priority. For us, we try our very best to
keep a good balance. Everything about
the hotel from the design, the experience
of space to service is all based on our very
own interpretation of ‘bubble’. For the
service from the staffs, we try to shake off
the stiffness of the usual hotel, all our staff
could maintain their personality, and are
highly interactive with our guests. It takes
hand work to form a lively hotel with its
own culture, but so far it is rewarding.
Q. You offer themed rooms, a unique
concept. How many themed rooms do
you have and what sort of themes can
guests expect? What room would you
recommend?
Answer. There are a total of 4 theme
rooms, the classic ‘petite poispois’ is the
most original statement of the bubble, the
guests could experience an actual bubble
chair in the room, a ceiling with swirls that
seemingly extract all the noise in the room
and leave the space as if it were a vacuum,
and the curved walls throughout the
room that make you feel you have been
covertures within a bubble.
‘La Chambre Vert’ is the little bit eccentric
green room with wallpaper from House
of Hackney and the installation of bird
lighting. ‘La Chambre Rose’ is a relatively
more feminine room covered in pink with
a touch of bright green and an oversized
armchair. ‘La Palette’ is the most colorful of
all, with the base of a yellow tone. These
three rooms are the most spacious ones
in the entire hotel, and almost every time
our guests after seeing all the rooms could
instantly tell us which is their favorite.
If the guest is intrigued to know more
about us, I will recommend room 802, as it
is the prototype of the very first version of
the room, a room that is experimented with
mistakes which now seems beautiful.
Q. What sort of cuisine do you serve at
Ch-eat & Drink?
Answer. We are an all-day dining restaurant,
serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and
dinner. The dishes we have are based on
the Italian cuisine reinvented with the locally
sourced ingredients. We leave a small part
of the menu that changes each month for
our regular customers. On most of the
special occasions, we create a festive menu
or a theme ingredient menu, when it is the
right season. For example, the seafood
feast we had before was directly sourced
from the fisherman of the northeast coast
of Taiwan to our table.
Other times, we work a lot with highend
brands, including fashion, cosmetic,
celebrities meetings and so on. They rent
the entire restaurant as the venue for
their PR event, and our chefs deliver any
required customized food that is based
on their theme. We basically serve any
possible kind or format of food if you could
name it.
Q. What are the best local activities for
guests?
Answer. I once read a sentence it wrote that
“A hotel should function as a springboard
into the city.”
For sure first stop we recommend spending
some time at our rooftop garden, where
there is also our reception. You can have a
view of the landmark, Taipei 101, and also
enjoy a spin on the Heathwicks’ design
the ‘Spun chair’ which will change your
perception of the sky of Taipei city.
For the local activities, we are at the east
end area of Taipei; you could enjoy both
major departmental stores to independent
shops. It has a vibrant nightlife, with one
of the best clubs in the neighborhood and
tons of restaurants and bars to explore.
Like all our other services, we will try our
best to deliver any other requests too.
33 34

Japan
KURAYA
Historic Accommodation
ON Building 2F, 544-2 Higashi-shiokoji cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan ♦
Tel +81 75 535 4440 ♦ machiya-stay.co.jp
“Kuraya” is a brand name for a series of 100 year-old traditional wooden
Japanese style buildings (known as Machiya / 町 家 ) used primarily as a
dwelling with a shop.
“Kuraya” is owned by R-Square,Inc, who currently operate ten Machiya over the Kyoto
area.
Originally, R-Square, Inc. was founded to conserve Machiya through local business.
After the second world war the Machiya began to disappear only to be replaced with
what was at the time more modern architecture. In recent times this process was sped
up and in the last 10 years over 5600 Machiya have ceased to exist.
R-Square, Inc is aiming to do its best to impact the local community through raising
awareness of traditional hospitality and culture.
The two key missions of Kuraya is to;
1. Pass on historical knowledge and traditional culture to the next generation
2. Showcase Kyoto’s unique hospitality to the world
35 36

KURAYA
KURAYA
37 38

Maldives
KIHAA MALDIVES
Family Friendly Resort
Kihaa Maldives, Kihaadhuffaru, Baa Atoll, Maldives ♦ Tel +960 400 0501 ♦
kihaamaldives.com
At least once in your lifetime, it’s a must to visit one of nature’s best kept secrets amongst
the remote islands of Maldives.
Kihaa is not simply a Resort. Here lies an unforgettable experience just waiting to be discovered.
A friendly atmosphere, a breath of fresh air, away from life’s stresses. What’s unique about Kihaa
is not only the beauty of the island, but it’s also the ultimate destination for ocean explorers.
It is located at a world heritage biosphere reserve, Hanifaru Bay is where Giant Mantas are
witnessed in feeding frenzies.
Located at the incredible Kihaa, Ocean Dimensions dive operators offer in-house services to
allow novice and seasoned pros the chance to experience the wonders of the Indian Ocean.
Sandy white beaches and brilliant blue skies
makes you feel so calm. Snorkeling with
the whale sharks & manta rays feels like a
dream. The scenes of playful dolphins, just
magnificent.
Clear nights of moonlight, shooting stars
and starlit skies, private dining on the beach
under the stars at night. A special treat to
certainly impress your special someone.
Awaken each morning to stunning views
across sun kissed, turquoise water that are
sure to enliven your spirits and breathe
new life to your soul. Escape to an exotic
world of breathtaking possibilities where
exciting recreational facilities, adventure
and relaxation are equally abundant.
It’s much more than a holiday. It’s a lifestyle,
an experience. To get away from the
stresses and the rush of life, spend a night
of your life at Kihaa.
An experience of a lifetime.
39 40

Hong Kong
XI HOTEL
Business Hotel
7 Minden Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong ♦ Tel +852 2739 7777 ♦
xihotel.com.hk
If you fancy some alcohol, you can head
over to Courtney’s Wine Bar to enjoy some
refreshing wines from their wide selection
of wines from all around the world. The
sophisticated atmosphere only adds to the
appeal of this bar and the outdoor seating
with candlelights makes it a fashionable
place for a meeting or a romantic date.
Located right in the heart of Hong Kong in the vibrant Tsim Sha Tsui, Xi Hotel offers
luxurious accommodation for business travelers. The rooms are finished to perfection and
have some spectacular facilities which you can take advantage of. The rooms come furnished
with plush duvets and beds so that you can sink in for a good night’s sleep. Moreover, you
will also have your very own mini-bar from which you can sip some of your favorite cocktails.
Choose from one of the 64 comfortable rooms in the hotel according to your preference of
luxury and take advantage of their luxurious amenities.
They also have special family quad rooms which can host up to 4 guests so that you can reside
there with your entire family. The hotel also has a deluxe suite room. For helping you out with
information and bookings, there is a concierge desk. They have multilingual guest relation staff
which leaves no stone unturned to make your stay more comfortable. You could also opt for a
day tourand airport limousine services.
As the hotel serves primarily as a business
hotel, it is no surprise that you can find
a room where you can hold meetings,
conferences or even cocktail parties. The
sophisticated furnishings of the place gives
the hotel a touch of comfort. Xi Hotel’s
location too makes it easy for you to reach
the financial district of Hong Kong with
ease. The hotel definitely serves as a great
place to stay when you visit Hong Kong for
business.
41 42

Thailand
BARAQUDA PATTAYA –
MGALLERY BY
SOFITEL
Luxury Hotel
485/1 Moo 10 Pattaya 2nd Road, Nongprue, Banglamung,
Chonburi 20150 Pattaya, Thailand ♦ Tel +66 0 3876 9999 ♦ hotelbaraquda.com
Conveniently located near Pattaya
Beach, Hotel Baraquda Pattaya,
MGallery By Sofitel offers 5-star
luxurious accommodation. You can
stay in one of its 72 lavishly furnished
rooms and suites that come with beds
that have leather headboards to give
you the feel of sleeping in a traditional
quarterdeck of a ship. Each room is
decorated and furnished with care to
give you the vibe of a tranquil beach.
The bathrooms are designed with
translucent glass, porthole mirrors and
‘island’ sinks to give you the feeling of
being on board a ship!
For your gastronomic indulgences, they
have an array of outlets at your disposal.
The Sea restaurant overlooks the pool
and serves the best food from cuisines
around the world. You can sip on some
fine wine and cocktails while indulging
in some delicious tapas at the Sunset
Lounge (one of Pattaya’s finest rooftop
bar) while marvelling the spectacular
view of Pattaya. For your sweet tooth,
they have their own French run bakery
– Nauti Café, which serves a variety of
fresh bakes.
You can take a dip in the fish-shaped
swimming pool to cool off or could sit
back on the lounging beds, chairs and
sofas to soak in the sun or simply enjoy the
ambience. The Spa is a tranquil haven in
the midst of the hotel where you can heal
your mind, body and soul with soothing
treatments administered by experienced
masseuses.
Wish to conduct a meeting in the hotel?
They have special meeting rooms where
you can conduct your meetings with stateof-the-art
equipment to support your
requirements. If you wish to hangout or
party at night, Deep Bar is the place to
head to. They have funky music playing
throughout the evening and night along
with an active bar. Hotel Baraquda truly
gives you the chance to explore Pattaya
like a VIP!
43 44

Maldives
AMAYA KUDA
RAH MALDIVES
Villa Resort
South Ari (Alifu Dhaalu) Atoll, Republic of Maldives ♦ Tel +96 06 6 80000 ♦
amayaresorts.com/amayakudarah
A
luxurious stay awaits you on the paradisiacal island of Kuda Rah at Amaya Kuda Rah.
This is your chance to run away from civilization and unwind in the peaceful and lush
environment of the resort. This island resort will give you plenty of opportunities to spend time
at the beach marveling at the infinite blue or witnessing the sunset over it. If you’ve ever dreamt
of staying in your very own villa on the beach, this is your chance to make your dream come
true. The resort has 51 villas on offer with private plunge pools, jacuzzi and sundeck in each villa,
so that you can have a peaceful getaway here.
Each villa comes with amenities and this
paired with the resort’s services makes
your stay absolutely fulfilling. They also
have special villas for families so that you
can spend time with your loved ones in
the same villa. For the epitome of luxury,
you can book the presidential suite, which
comes with private access to the sea too!
You could visit Glow, the resort’s bar and
sip refreshing cocktails with delicious
snacks under the palm trees or could dine
at Half Lime, the Asian restaurant where
you can gorge on Indian, Thai, Sri Lankan
and Middle Eastern cuisines. If none of
these seem to fit your liking, you can dine
anywhere on the island or even in the
comfort of your villa!
The resort comes with a fitness center,
special club for kids, a swimming pool
and a spa where you can unwind and relax
during your stay. You can also go for some
adventure sports and excursions or learn
to cook new dishes in the cooking classes.
The resort also has special venues for
weddings and is the perfect place for your
honeymoon too!
45 46

Country
NAME OF
HOTEL/TOUR
Award
Kazakhstan
S.N.E.G HOTEL &
RESTAURANT
Eco Friendly Hotel
Shymbulak Ski Resort, middle station, Kazakhstan ♦ Tel +7 705 705 47 42 ♦
Marina 19-21, Barcelona, 08005 Spain ♦ Tel +34932211000 ♦ ritzcarlton.com
pgr.kz/sneg
Rising above the rest of Barcelona, Hotel Arts located on the waterfront, provides
a luxurious stay with spellbinding views of the sea and city. With some amazing
facilities like terrace gardens, outdoor swimming pool and spa, they ensure that the
guests here get a unique experience. If that was not enough, you can keep up with your
gym schedule at the fitness center or get pampered in the hairdressing salon and luxury
fashion boutiques. The sophisticated rooms and suites have elegantly done décor and
plush furnishings.To top it all off, the hotel boasts of some amazing duplex penthouses
that offer the pinnacle of luxury travel experiences. The penthouses come with a butler
and shopping concierge to provide assistance along with luxury private transfer to
The shopping places. name of the hotel and restaurant S.N.e.G. combines all the best that the ski
resort Shymbulak has to offer. In addition to Sneg (snow), it stands for Solnce,
Nebo and Gora (the sun, the sky and the mountain).
Enjoy the tremendous view of Trans-Ili Alatau, the beautiful sky and clean air on the
terrace of our restaurant while being treated to dishes cooked by our chef. You will
find the new original hot and cold appetizers, salads, soups, burgers, hot dishes and
desserts from the Parmigiano Group.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle at our mini-hotel S.N.e.G. The limited number
of rooms (six rooms only) will make you feel like a special guest.
In addition, S.N.e.G. is a very stylish place. The interior is made of natural materials –
wood, felt and iron.
47 48

EAST ASIA
49 50

JAPAN
When you think of Japan, what comes to your mind? Perhaps, it’s Scarlett
Johansson in a pink wig singing karaoke in Lost in Translation, or maybe it’s the
images of the notorious monster Godzilla, rising out of Tokyo Bay. Either way, you’ll most
likely picture a big city. And as home to the largest capital city in the world, Japan certainly
doesn’t disappoint on that front.
Tokyo’s transportation systems are world
class, and those of many of its other main
cities not far behind. Millions of people
pass through Tokyo’s major train stations
each day, and yet the city keeps on
running, peacefully and on time.
Indeed, Japan is an extremely safe
country, and even in the midst of Tokyo’s
bar-hopping buzz in Shinjuku, or its neonlit
club scene in Shibuya, you’ll find that
there is a sense of security everywhere, with
koban police boxes on practically every
corner. Japan is also renowned worldover
for being the land of convenience.
Where London might play hard and then
sleep hard, with shops opening late and
closing shortly after office hours, Tokyo
skips the sleeping part, with restaurants,
bars, convenience stores, game centers
and more, all open 24 hours of the day,
7 days a week. A veritable playground for
explorers both young and old.
That said, one of Japan’s most unique
and timeless charms is its dynamic
blend of old and new. A visit to Japan
means being able to experience some
51 52

of the world’s most vibrant,
futuristic and technologically
advanced cities without
sacrificing time spent losing
yourself amongst the most
captivating temples, palaces
and cultural traditions.
Japan’s history is evident
at every turn, whether it’s a
venerable Shinto shrine, a
museum housing Samurai
Swords, or one of Japan’s
many regional festivals with
their profusion of costumes,
ancient rituals, and throngs
of revelling crowds. Feudalera
castles still rise up from
massive stone foundations,
while Japan’s exquisite
gardens, many of them
former royal retreats, act
as visual commentaries on
nature and the craftsmanship
of generations of elite
gardeners. But for visitors,
nothing conveys Japan’s
heritage better than its
many ryokan traditional
inns, renowned for their
impeccable service, refined
beauty and mastery of
regional cuisine.
This leads us onto our next
point – the food. Lovers of
fine cuisine will be swept
away by Japan’s varied styles
of cooking, from tempura,
sushi and teppanyaki to the
feast of all feasts, kaiseki.
Many visitors to Japan
will have already sampled
the pleasures of raw fish
or batter-fried shrimp. But
few first-time visitors to
53 54

Japan are prepared for the
variety and sumptuousness
of Japanese food, as it is
traditionally prepared. Sink
your teeth into a piece of
‘Genghis Khan’ – mutton
grilled over a hot barbecue
stove – in the near-arctic
conditions of Hokkaido in
the north, or sink your spoon
into a comforting bowl of
ramen noodle broth in the
sub-tropical surroundings of
Kyushu island in the south.
And it doesn’t stop there.
Japan’s eclectic food culture
reflects the diversity of its
seasons and landscapes.
Volcanoes and ravines,
islands and oceans,
waterfalls and hot springs all
rub shoulders in a country
that, despite its megalithic
metropolises, is covered by
more mountains than by its
cities. Whether you’re an
all-gear/no-fear adventurer
or an Instagram-hungry
backpacker, it goes without
saying that there is no
shortage of activities and
outdoor pursuits for people
of all tastes and abilities.
Take skiing, for example.
With Japan’s winters being
governed by the Siberian
air mass (the coldest in
the world), every year sees
the central highlands and
northern regions blanketed
with snow, making the
Japanese ski experience
among the best and most
reliable in the world. For six
months of the year, fresh
powder is very much the
norm and, what’s more, there’s no need for a helicopter to get to it – all you need is a
lift pass.
So what’s stopping you? Difficult? Expensive? Far? We’re happy to say that all that has
changed. With the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics/Paralympics on the horizon in
2019 and 2020 respectively, Japan is converting its celebrated hospitality into tourism
finesse as English signage becomes even more widespread and technology continues
to make transport even more accessible.
Whilst Japanese carriers like All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines whisk passengers
directly from London to Tokyo in under 12 hours, European airlines such as Finnair, KLM
and Air France are flying travellers indirectly from an ever-growing number of airports in
the UK to an equally increasing number of regional airports in Japan. Very reasonable
prices in just a few more hours of travel – not too bad for a trip that transports you to
the other side of the globe, is it?
In fact, throw in the Japan Rail Pass for economical coverage of pretty much all national
rail services country-wide, and we would say you’re more or less ready to go, wouldn’t
you?
55 56

Hokkaido | Japan
Population: 5,377,435
How to Get in
• Plane
• Train
• Ferry
Get Around
• On Foot & Hitchhike
• Train
• Plane
• Bus
• Car Rental
Attractions & Sights
• Akan Mashu
National Park
• Shikotsu-Tōya
National Park
• Odori Park
Things to do
• Horseback Riding
• Skiing/Snowboarding
• Rafting
• Whalewatching
Find out more – http://
en.visit-hokkaido.jp/
Japans second largest Island is a
haven for those looking to get away
from the bustling cities. Untamed
majestic wilderness, interesting
history, great food and distinctive
seasons, what more could you want?
Japan
HOKKAIDO
NATURE TOURS
Tour Company
2-6, 7-83 Ishiyama, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan 005-0842 ♦
Tel +81 11 5923959 ♦ hokkaidonaturetours.com
If you’re visiting Hokkaido in Japan, you can explore its natural beauty with HNT. They
offer private custom-made tours and a variety of day trips to spectacular locations
across Hokkaido in every season with English-speaking guides. Some of the most popular
destinations include Noboribetsu Hell Valley, Lake Toya, historical cities of Otaru and
Hakodate, Furano flower fields, UNESCO World Heritage Site Shiretoko Peninsula,
Japan’s largest National Park Daisetsuzan, and more. Hokkaido lives up to its frontier
spirit, offering unique activities that aim at reconnecting you with nature: from mountain
trekking, to dog sledding, to ice fishing, to whale watching and much more. If you wish
to have a more personalized experience, they offer a variety of customized tour packages
suited to different seasons. They design special itineraries based on your requirements.
Moreover, they give you the flexibility of the tour durationand you can choose to have a
trip as short as a day or as long as 2 weeks! With thorough professionalism, they make
sure that you can get the most out of your trip to Hokkaido
57 58

Japan
HOTORINITE
Affordable Hotel
Japan
DAIKOKUYA
SANGAM
Guest House
401-0501 Yamanashi, Yamanakako, Yamanaka 1464, Japan ♦ Tel +81 555 62 0548 ♦
hotorinite.com
409-1204 Yamanashi, Koshu, Yamato-cho Hikage 49, Japan ♦
booking.com/hotel/jp/daikokuya-sangamu
If you’re looking for an affordable
place to stay near Lake Yamanaka
in Yamanakako village, Hotorinite is
a great option. The hotel gives you
a chance to experience traditional
Japanese housing with traditionally
designed rooms complete with wovenstraw
floors, traditional futon bedding
and a low table with seating cushions.
The tranquil location of the hotel is
perfect for a peaceful getaway from the
city life. It is located right at the lake so
you can relax and wake up to the scenic
view of the lake. It is not too far away
from the city too; it is just 15-minutes
walk away from the Yamanaka Suwa
Jinja Shrine! The hosts make sure that
you are comfortable in the hotel by
giving all the support necessary. They
introduce you well to the area and
also give you free bicycles so that you
can explore the area. Hotorinite truly
gives you a chance to escape all the
hullabaloo without shelling out too
much.
If you’re looking to stay near the mountain in Koshu, Daikokuya Sangam is a great
option. This guest house is located at the foot of the mountain and gives you a true
Japanese experience with cozy wooden interiors. The entire building is itself a traditional
Japanese home and was built 300 years ago. You can stay in Japanese-styled dormitory
rooms which are equipped with futon beds. You can also enjoy their fine gastronomic
preparations that will win all vegetarian’s hearts every day. The healthy food is not the only
thing that guests love here; they also provide common laptops for guests to use. You can
easily reach other areas of the city as the guest house is located at a 7-minute drive from
the closest train station. The beautiful location of Daikokuya Sangam (20-minute walk)
also makes it possible to go hiking in the surrounding areas.
59
60

Japan
COSTEL
MINOSHIMA
The Outstanding
Location Award
812-0017 Fukuoka, Fukuoka, Hakata-ku Minoshima 2-27-14-1, Japan ♦
Tel +34932211000 ♦ booking.com/hotel/jp/costel-minoshima.en-gb.html
Costel Minoshima is situated right at the middle of Minoshima Shopping Arcade in the
heart of Fukuoka and gives you easy access to all the major regions of the city and is at
the center of all the happening areas. With such an amazing location, you can easily explore the
city and reach the lively areas of Nakasu and Tenjin which are just a 10-minute drive away. You
can choose between a Deluxe King Room, which has a large double bed, and a Triple Room,
which has 3 single beds. Each room comes with every basic amenity like an en-suite bathroom,
shower, and a balcony. The entire hotel is Wi-Fi enabled too so that you can stay in touch with
the outside world with ease.
For your gastronomic requirements, the
hotel has a cafe on the ground floor where
you can sip on some drinks or feast on
light snacks before heading out for a day
of exploration of Fukuoka. Moreover, the
hotel offers a free luggage storage facility
so that you don’t have to worry about your
luggage during your tour. If you’re visiting
the Hakata hot springs or wanting to relax,
Costel Minoshima is a great option due to
its location and affordability. The hotel is
known for its value for money and hence
even a long stay at this place will not burn
a hole in your pocket. The highlight of the
hotel though remains the central location
that makes it convenient for you to even
use public transport.
61 62

WHY KANSAI?
Traveling to Japan is a bucket-list experience for many. Though a lot of travellers
are drawn by the bright lights and big city feel of Tokyo, venturing outside of the
Japanese capital and heading southwards towards the Kansai region of Japan is also
incredibly rewarding.
Also known locally as the “Kinki Region”, Kansai is comprised of seven different
prefectures. For several centuries, Kansai was the most important region of Japan. Kansai
was once a hub of political and economic activity and indeed, Kyoto was the ancient
Japanese capital. It goes without saying, that the region is filled with ancient temples,
history, and fascinating traditions. Within the seven prefectures, there is plenty to explore
in Kansai, however the cities of Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo are among the most notable,
and perhaps the most rewarding to visit if you have limited time.
Kyoto: Traveling Back to Ancient Japan
The capital of Japan for many centuries, Kyoto is brimming with history. More than
that though, Kyoto just possesses an undeniable charm that makes even the most
hardened travellers fall in love. Where fragrant cherry blossoms blow in the wind,
where thousands of ornately decorated temples await the traveller and where
mysterious Shinto shrines and zen gardens make every turn a photo opportunity,
Kyoto is without a shadow of a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Japan.
There are over 1,600 Buddhist temples scattered throughout this picturesque city, each
with their own unique design and personality. The iconic Fushimi Inari shrine is located
here and is a must-see for any Japan itinerary. Exploring this shrine means passing
through hundreds of vermillion coloured gates as you proceed to the mountain peak
with stunning views over Kyoto city. You could spend weeks exploring Kyoto’s temples
and never see them all.
Kyoto is one of the only places in Japan that still has a working Geisha district. In the
quaint alleyways of Gion, travellers may catch a glimpse of Geiko and Meiko (trainee
geisha) shuffling along from appointment to appointment in exquisite kimonos. There
is also the opportunity to watch the show at Gion corner, to see what life like a Geisha
actually means and enjoy traditional performances that are still loved in Japan today.
63 64

Osaka: Tokyo’s Punkier Little Sister
Spending a few days in Osaka is a must while in the Kansai region of Japan. You can
get a feel for the city and most of what it has to offer in a day or so. Dubbed the kitchen
of Japan, foodie travellers will be in their element browsing the various street markets
here and sampling the local delicacies. Don’t miss okonomiyaki – the Japanese answer
to the pizza, or fugu – Japanese blowfish.
Osaka is home to Shitteno-Ji, the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan so there is certainly
history here. With that said, it is the various neighborhoods of Osaka, each with their
own distinct personalities, that are sure to steal your heart. Shinsekai neighborhood is
an entertainment district that was built before the Second World War and still retains
its old-fashioned charm with its wooden restaurants and traditional gaming arcades.
When the sun goes down, head over to Dotonburi. Essentially the Times Square of
Japan, Dotonbori is instantly recognisable from the flashing neon Glico man sign that
is so commonly photographed and discussed in travel media. Dotonburi is a popular
nightlife spot and a great place to order up a sake tasting platter, or try your hand at
Japan’s much loved pastime – Karaoke!
Hyogo: Kobe Beef Dreams
Hyogo is one of the seven prefectures of Japan that make up the Kansai region.
While the region itself is brimming with charm, the capital of Kobe is definitely
worth checking out before leaving the Kansai region of Japan. As the name
suggests, Kobe is famed across the globe for its sumptuous Kobe beef. What better
place to try this dish or get reacquainted with it than at the source in Japan itself?
From the center of the city, visitors can take cable cars that lead them upwards towards
Mount Rokko – a beautiful mountain that looks especially stunning in the autumn when
the golden leaves on trees create an almost ethereal atmosphere. Once at the peak,
one can marvel at the views of Kobe below, or soak away their travel aches and pains
at a natural Onsen (Japanese hot spring).
If you have the opportunity to travel around the Kansai region of Japan, it is rewarding
to do so at a slow pace. One can take the shinkansen (Japanese bullet train) from city to
city, with short distances between each destination. A wider exploration of this region
offers travellers invaluable cultural experiences and an insight into the Japan that exists
outside the neon buzz of Tokyo.
65 66

Country
NAME OF
HOTEL/TOUR
Award
Japan
GION HANNA STAY
Alternative Hotel
Japan
SHIKI
PROPERTIES
The Award for Excellence
in Service
2-50-3 Ohashi-higashi, Sanjo-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto Japan ♦
Marina 19-21, Barcelona, 08005 Spain Tel +34932211000 ♦ ritzcarlton.com
Tel +075 541 1010 ♦ gionhannastay.com
173-5 Sanjo Aburanokoji-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi Kyoto-fu 604-8251 Japan ♦
Tel +81 80 6156 3850 ♦ shikiproperties.com
Rising above the rest of Barcelona, Hotel Arts located on the waterfront, provides
a luxurious stay with spellbinding views of the sea and city. With some amazing
facilities like terrace gardens, outdoor swimming pool and spa, they ensure that the
guests here get a unique experience. If that was not enough, you can keep up with your
gym schedule at the fitness center or get pampered in the hairdressing salon and luxury
fashion boutiques. The sophisticated rooms and suites have elegantly done décor and
plush furnishings.To top it all off, the hotel boasts of some amazing duplex penthouses
that offer the pinnacle of luxury travel experiences. The penthouses come with a butler
and shopping concierge to provide assistance along with luxury private transfer to
shopping places.
If you’re visiting Kyoto and want to experience the true spirit of the city, choose to
reside at Gion Hanna Stay. The hotel is centrally located in the Gion district and that
makes it easy for you to access the main regions of the city. You will feel totally at home
in the comfortably furnished rooms that are decorated with elegant Japanese colors.
Interiors of the hotel are adorned with Nishijin tapestries to give you a true Japanese feel.
Moreover, the rooms come with complete kitchens so that you can cook your favorite
food right there! If you wish to have food delivered to your room, they do that too. They
have massage facilities for those wishing to relax after a tiring day of exploring Kyoto. This
is the perfect place to reside if you’re looking at a long term stay in the city.
67
SHIKI
Shiki Properties is an experienced team of local
residents offering professional high quality
accommodation with premium service, and real time
communications. Our mission is to make sure that
your trip to Japan will be a memorable and a hassle
free experience.
Each of our properties is custom designed in
collaboration with local architecture firms to provide
the utmost comfort and convenience for our guests
from the moment of booking to the moment of check
out.
A special local guidebook full of tips and information
related to your stay at the property will be
provided before arrival. Take advantage of our top
recommendations and free restaurant reservations
service to avoid any trouble with language barriers.
We offer a wide range of services such as (but not
limited to): bicycle city tours, countryside nature
tours, delivery catering, chef services, and more.
For a unique travel experience with a traditional feel,
Shiki Properties has just what you are looking for.
68

Japan
FUJITAYA BnB
Bed & Breakfast
37-1 Kitanishinocho Nishishichijo Shimogyo-ku Kyoto, Japan 600-8878 ♦
Tel +81 75 925 9217 ♦ fujitayabnb.jp
If you’re looking for an
affordable place to live
in Kyoto, Fujitaya BnB is the
perfect place for you. Located
a short distance from from all
the major hubs of the city, this
place gives you the chance
to discover Kyoto like never
before. It is located very close
to popular restaurants so
food is never a concern when
staying here. Whether you’re
looking to have a small room
to yourself or want a bigger
room in which you can stay with
your friends, they have rooms
suiting all your requirements.
They have special family
rooms where a family of four
can reside comfortably. Each
room comes with all the basic
amenities that are required
for a comfortable stay such as
towels, air conditioning, and
heating. However, all their
rooms come sans toilets and
bathrooms; they have shared
bathrooms and toilets.
The staff here ensures that no stone is left
unturned to make sure that you have a
great stay. Through the entirety of the stay,
you will be served simple but delicious
breakfast daily. The entire hotel is Wi-Fi
enabled so that you can remain connected
during your stay. For your entertainment,
there is a shared lounge and a TV area.
You could also go hiking around the area
or head out for a short cycling trip around
town. The hotel also offers a free baggage
storage facility so you can easily head out
for your tour without worrying about your
luggage. After a long day of exploring the
city, if you wish to have some peaceful time
in the midst of nature, the hotel features a
garden where you can sit back and relax
and rejuvenate.
69 70

HYOGO TOP 5
1. Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen is located
near the downtown of
Kobe, surrounded by the
beautiful nature of Mt.
Rokko.
One of the three best
hot springs of Japan, this
hot spring town with a
nostalgic atmosphere has
two public baths.
Visitors don’t have to
stay at the inn to use its
hot spring, so visitors can
enjoy different hot springs
in one day.
2. Nada Japanese Sake
Japanese Sake from Hyogo has
always been considered to be one of
the very best in the country, especially
the varieties made in the Nada Gogo
area.
This area has qualities that allow them
for the production of great tasting
sake; Miyamizu water from Mt. Rokko,
local large and high-quality rice,
master sake brewers from the nearby
Tamba region and a cold front called
Rokko-oroshi that blows down from
the mountains.
All of these factors helped create an
amazing flavor with top-quality, which
is loved by people all over Japan.
3. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle was the first
Japanese site to be registered as a
UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
site in 1993.
Qualities such as the unique
structure of the castle and the
beauty of its white plastered walls
earned it the nickname White
Heron Castle.
Its well-preserved towers and the
structures surrounding the castle
have mainly kept their original
form and have helped the castle
earn its excellent reputation.
It has been about 400 years since
the castle was first built, and it is
a storehouse of numerous national
treasures and important cultural
properties.
71 72

4. Engyo-ji
Located 371 meters above sea level on top of Mt. Shosha in western Himeji, Engyoji
is home to many Important Cultural Properties. Maniden, a beautiful wooden hall,
Daikodo (main hall), Jikido (lodging and dining hall, now exhibiting temple treasures)
and Jogyodo (gymnasium) are especially popular. It was selected as a filming location
for the Hollywood movie The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise.
5. Kinosaki Onsen
Kinosaki is a historical hot
spring town, famous for the
seven hot springs in the area.
Called Sotoyu-meguri,
visiting these seven hot
springs is a popular activity.
Each of the seven Sotoyu
has a unique story, as well
as different guardian deities;
therefore people believe
that visiting all seven brings
seven different types of luck.
With beaches in the
summer, and delicious
crab in the winter, Kinosaki
receives quite a few tourists
throughout the year.
73 74

REMEMBERING
ANTHONY BOURDAIN
& HIS LOVE
FOR TOKYO
June saw the passing of one of the most
notable figures in the travel industry:
loveable rogue Anthony Bourdain. As the
world mourned, people across the globe felt
as though they had lost a friend. Bourdain is
often cited as the reason that many people
felt inspired to get out and travel outside
of their comfort zone. He had his favourite
cities, which he presented to the world
in all of their glory. One of those was the
eccentric, neon clad city of Tokyo.
With so much of the world to discover,
Bourdain rarely visited the same city over
and over again, however Tokyo was one
exception to that and he made frequent trips
to the vibrant Japanese capital. “I’m endlessly
fascinated” he had stated. “I’ve been many
times and it’s still thrilling”.
One thing is for certain, Tokyo is quite unlike anywhere
else in the world and it’s understandable why Bourdain
fell in love with it. Be prepared to stand out “like a big goofy
foreigner” as Bourdain himself had stated. Since afterall, the
culture here is quite unlike anything we are used to. There
is sadness in the fact that this article is written for Bourdain
posthumously, however his legacy will live on and he will
continue to motivate people to travel after his passing.
76

First time visitors should look to gain an insight into Tokyo’s
history by visiting the Meiji shrine and the temple at Asakusa.
In order to avoid the crowds, go early in the morning while the tourist
hordes are still sleeping. One of Tokyo’s highlights is undoubtedly
its various neighborhoods – each with their own unique, quirky
personalities. Fashion hub Harajuku is the place to go for people
watching and exploring the kooky independent boutiques. For the
ultimate cultural immersion, explore Ryogoku – the “Sumo” district
of Tokyo where if you are lucky, you can catch a sumo fight or an early
morning training session. Here, the ramshackle wooden houses
make you feel that you have been transported to a different city
entirely. When the sun begins to set, head to Shinjuku or Shibuya
for an evening tipple or two at one of the city’s rooftop bars.
Anthony
Indeed, Tokyo offers a unique juxtaposition between modern culture
and ancient oriental traditions. Exploring one neighborhood can see
you surrounded by shrines and zen Buddhist temples that date back
thousands of years. The next, they have been engulfed by towering
modern skyscrapers and contemporary art installations. A traveller could
spend months wandering the streets of Tokyo and still depart feeling that
they haven’t had the opportunity to explore everything.
77 78

Japan
CYCLO
LIMOUSINE
Eco Friendly Tour Company
Japan
OBI HOSTEL
Hostel
〒104-0032 Tokyo Chuoku Hachobori 3-9-10 1F Japan ♦ Tel +81 3 4500 4446 ♦
cyclolimousine.raroma.co.jp/wp
〒103-0003 3-14, Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho. Chuoku, Tokyo, Japan ♦
Tel +81 03 4405 5092 ♦ obi-hostel.com
Cyclo Limousine is the first
company ever in Japan that
offers services using a Cyclo – originally
of French design, tricycle rickshaw.
The Cyclo is a common vehicle in
many South East Asian countries. In
the early days, the Cyclo was a service
pointed at sightseeing and a way of
every day travel for the upperclass.
As the Cyclo begins in Japan, we aim
to incorporate the many traditions of
our diverse team and the incredible
spirit of Japanese hospitality to ensure
the enjoyment of our clients.
It is from now that the old elegant
Cyclo evolves to succeed and
represent on the Japanese stage, and
to deliver a long served luxury to the
shores of its new clientele.
Enjoy a total customized tour with us
to feel the difference.
Email: info@raroma.co.jp
Facebook: @cyclolimousine
Instagram: @cyclo_limousine
Located in Higashi-Nihonbashi
in Tokyo, Obi Hostel provides
spacious rooms to its guests at
reasonable prices. The hostel is situated
at a short walking distance from the
Bakuro Yokoyama station and its
locations gives you easy access to all the
sightseeing spots and business areas of
Tokyo. You can choose between single,
double and quadruple bunk-beds.
They have both unisex and separate
female dormitories so that you can
choose one as per your convenience.
The rooms are spacious and you can
get a sense of privacy as the bunks
have curtains as well. Facilities include
lockers, refrigerators, WiFi connection,
shower rooms and more. Moreover,
the hostel offers washing machine and
dryer facilities at a minimal cost. You can
also have some delicious preparations
in the in-house cafe and bar or could
even sip on some specially prepared
cocktails. Obi Hostel truly gives you the
opportunity to meet new people and
discover Tokyo.
79 80

TAIWAN
As a small island nation, Taiwan and its capital Taipei are often overlooked by
travellers to Asia in favour of adventures to its more extravagant neighbouring
nations. Attracted by the bright lights and towering skyscrapers of Shanghai and Tokyo,
or the paradisiacal beaches of Thailand, often Taiwan is forgotten. Taiwan is certainly one
of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations and with a rich culture and a fascinating
history, it is definitely deserved of a spot on your travel bucket list.
Taiwan’s History
The history of Taiwan dates back tens of thousands of years with the first records of
human inhabitants on the island dating back as far as 40,000 years ago. With strong
tribal and indigenous roots, the first settlers in Taiwan were aborigines and many
current residents in the country are descendents of these people. Over the past 4000
years, a diverse range of settlers and invaders have anchored their ships on Taiwan’s
shores, drawn to the land by its captivating beauty and nature. Since the 15th century,
Taiwan has been occupied or invaded by settlers from China, Portugal, the Netherlands
and Japan - factors which contribute to a diverse and unique cultural existence in the
modern country today.
Taiwan Travel Highlights
When the Portuguese first landed in Taiwan, they awarded it the nickname of “Ilha
Formosa” meaning “the beautiful island” on account of its stunning natural scenery.
The mention of Taiwan is often synonymous with the idea that any East Asian country
is a bustling megalopolis filled with cosmopolitan cities and neon lights. While Taiwan
certainly has that, it is also home to numerous picturesque hiking trails and national
parks. Many notable movies have been shot in Taiwan on account of its beauty -
including the awe-inspiring Life of Pi. Whether you enjoy browsing night markets and
sampling street foods in concrete jungles, or you want to uncover more about the
history of the place that you travel, Taiwan certainly has something for everyone.
81 82

GETTING IN & GETTING AROUND
When planning a trip to Taiwan, managing the logistics of how best to reach
the country and how to get around from one city to another is an important
consideration to ensure that your adventure runs smoothly. Fortunately, public
transportation links in and around Taiwan are efficient, frequent, and are good value for
money.
Getting to Taiwan
With flight routes from across the globe servicing Taiwan, it is easy to access this fascinating
island nation and to do so without breaking the bank. Travellers can get to Taiwan via
plane or by sea, depending on their starting location.
• Getting in by Plane
Taiwan is serviced by two international
airports - Taoyuan and Kaohsiung. Most
people commence their Taiwanese
adventures in Taipei and so Taoyuan airport
is arguably the most convenient. It is easy
to take the high speed train from Taoyuan
airport into Taipei center.
• Getting in by Boat
If you are planning to travel to Taiwan
from China or Japan, it is possible to take
overnight ferries into Keelung or Taichung
in mainland Taiwan, in addition to a ferry to
the Taiwanese island of Matsu.
Getting Around
Many international travellers depend on
getting around via public transport when
they travel and fortunately, it is easy to do
that in Taiwan. An important thing to note
is that when traveling between cities it is
prudent to buy your tickets a couple of
days before your intended travel date to
ensure that you secure a seat. During the
Taiwanese holidays, trains and intercity
buses get very busy.
• By Rail
Taiwan’s train network is comprehensive
and runs around the entirety of the island.
There are a variety of options available
when it comes to traveling around Taiwan
by rail with train services offering different
class options to suit your budget and
personal preferences. Most rail services in
Taiwan are managed by the Taiwan Rail
Administration, however there is also the
Taiwan high speed rail network which is a
somewhat similar concept to the famous
Japanese bullet trains. The high speed
trains are slightly more expensive, but
may be preferable if you have only a short
amount of time in the country and are
willing to spend a little extra.
• By Bus
If you are traveling to Taiwan on a strict
budget, then bus travel in and between
cities may be one of the best options
for you. Buses in Taiwan often run for as
little as 50 cents and are clean, efficient
and frequent. Since it is only Taipei and
Kaohsiung that have metro systems in
Taiwan, it is useful to familiarise yourself
with the Taiwanese bus network before
embarking on your trip.
• The Metro Systems
Taipei and Kaohsiung are both home to
extensive metro networks that service all
areas of the respective cities and are a
convenient way of getting around. Upon
arrival in Taiwan, it is useful to get an “Easy”
metrocard that can be purchased from the
machines at the various stations. This works
out cheaper than constantly buying single
tickets for each journey, particularly if you
plan on being in Taiwan for more than a
week or two.
• Taking a Cab
Taxis can be found in plentiful supply in all
large Taiwanese cities and are inexpensive
to use. Since the traffic in Taipei can be
heavy, it is advisable to consider using the
metro as a first priority. However if you find
yourself on the outskirts or out at night and
you prefer a cab, rest assured it will not be
difficult to find one.
Similar to New York cabs, taxis in Taiwan are
yellow and run on meters. Unfortunately
the majority of Taiwanese cab drivers do
not speak English and so you should have
a local, or someone at your hotel write
down the place that you are headed to
in Mandarin before getting in a cab. Uber
also exists in Taiwan, and can often be a
more convenient option.
83 84

CHINA AIRLINES
China Airlines makes sure that families that travel together have a relaxing time during
their journey. For this, they have introduced an exclusive feature called the “Family
Couch” for their long haul flights. In this feature, all three seats are adjusted to create a
bed so that you can cuddle with your kids and have a comfortable journey. It is the only
airline in Asia to have this feature.
If you’re traveling to Taiwan, the first name that comes to your mind is that of China
Airlines. The flag carrier and the largest airline of the Republic of China was established
way back in 1959 and since then has grown leaps and bounds to become one of the largest
airline companies in the world. With over 1400 flights every week to 102 destinations
across the world, this airline has become a formidable competitor in the airspace.
Not only does the airline provide international travel but also has a subsidiary, Mandarin
Airlines, that handles all their domestic flight operations. The aircrafts sport three
classes – Business Class, Premium Economy Class and Economy Class. The Business
Class offers the epitome of comfort and opulence in the flight with a perfect amalgam
of traditional and modern elements in the cabins. Plush comforts and stellar services
are not the only things you get when you choose to travel by Business Class but you
also get access to a special Sky Lounge where you can enjoy your favourite beverages
with some snacks while reading a book from the library! In the Premium Economy Class,
you can spread out your legs and lie back comfortably throughout your journey or work
on the dedicated work surface and even take a break by watching some entertainment
on a 12’’ monitor! The Economy Class, on the other hand, sports oriental aesthetics
and gives you a comfortable experience throughout your journey and has all basic
amenities needed to make your flight a comfortable one.
Additionally, the airline has its very own rewards program called “Dynasty”. In this
program, the travellers can accumulate miles for their travels on self-operated flights
of China Airlines and Mandarin Airlines. These miles can then be used to buy tickets,
transfers, VIP Lounge access and what not! Along with this, your cards come with
privileges like extra baggage allowance and discounted ticket rates!
On all their Boeing 777s and Airbus 350s, on-board Wi-Fi services are enabled to
ensure better connectivity for you when up in the air. While this service calls for an
additional charge, the Dynasty members benefit from discounts here as well.
For those who are traveling from select destinations in USA to Asia from China Airlines,
there is a special gift waiting. You can enjoy a free stopover in Honolulu and explore
the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands en-route to Asia! This offer is truly irresistible, isn’t it?
Those who are planning for a getaway to Taipei from California can rejoice too as China
Airlines is offering non-stop direct flights from Ontario International Airport to Taipei!
85 86

For those traveling to the United States, the airline operates private bus services to
transport customers from their residences to airport. This service is available in New
York, New Jersey, North and South Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Not only does the airline provide stellar services but also cares for our planet. China
Airlines has participated in a biofuel program developed by Airbus and Air TOTAL.
This move was made to reduce the carbon footprint of the airline and as a result
The airline has 9 airport lounges across 7 airports in the world and at other destinations,
the services are offered by Skyteam, which is a major airline alliance, and other partner
airlines. For those holding the Dynasty Flyer Emerald and Paragon cards, the Dynasty
Supreme Lounge at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is accessible, which features
suites, shower rooms, dining services and more! For those traveling by Business Class
or holding Dynasty Flyer Gold cards and above, the Dynasty Lounge is available at the
airports where you can relax with some comfortable facilities like meals, computers,
shower rooms and sleeping quarters.
87 88

educe the global greenhouse gas emissions.
Their commitment towards the environment
was proven when their headquarters was
awarded the “Diamond-rated” green building
label by Taiwan’s Ministry of Interior in 2017
for saving 23000 kWh of power across the
year. Moreover, the airline has dedicated four
aircrafts towards Pacific climate observation
and is the first Asian airline to do so. Each of
these aircrafts are fitted with a special probe
that collects data of high-altitude gases during
the flight and this data is then transmitted to
research centers in Europe for studying global
warming and climate change. The addition
of these aircrafts has expanded the area of
coverage to even Australia, New Zealand and
Hawaii.
89 90

Apart from this, the airline has also introduced liveried aircrafts on various routes like
the “Urocissa caerulea” on the Taipei-Vancouver route which sports a Taiwan Blue-
Magpie, which was voted as the national bird of Taiwan. Additionally, they had unveiled
the “A350 Syrmaticus Mikado” and “Buddy Bears” liveried aircrafts to promote
environmental protection. The Buddy Bears aircraft features Taiwan and Japan’s
cartoon bears OhBear, Hero and Kumamon with all on-board supplies too featuring
cute designs based on these bears. This flight flies regularly between Kaohsiung and
Kumamoto and ferries bear lovers. Currently, the airline has seven special livery aircrafts
in service.
In addition to that, China Airlines has also signed the Buckingham Palace Declaration
Against Wildlife Trafficking in 2017 and is the very first airline in Taiwan to do so. The
airline has committed to not use any endangered species in its menus and has even
banned the transportation of shark fins.
Apart from the passenger aircrafts, the company also runs cargo services under the name
of China Airlines Cargo and this fleet of 18 freighters flies to 33 destinations across Asia,
Europe and North America.
Under the leadership of Nuan-Hsuan Ho and Shih-Chien Hsieh, this airline has flourished
over the years and brought several laurels home. Today, the airline stands as the 29th and
10th largest airline in the world in both the passenger and freight segments respectively
for revenue per kilometer. China Airlines has truly set an example for all other airlines by
not only concentrating on business and growth but also on the impact on environment
and has professed sustainable growth which is nothing short of extraordinary.
91 92

TAIWAN ATTRACTIONS
Regardless of your particular travel, Taiwan has something for everyone. Outdoorsy
types will fall in love with the island’s plentiful national parks and scenic hiking
trails, whereas culture vultures will love sampling the unique local delicacies and rubbing
shoulders with the locals at temples and night markets. There are so many things to do in
Taiwan that any travel itinerary here is going to be bursting at the seams.
Ascend to the
Top of Taipei 101
With an appearance that looks as though
it is numerous noodle boxes stacked atop
each other, Taipei 101 is one of Taiwan’s
most recognisable pieces of architecture.
Of course, while traveling here it is essential
to take an obligatory selfie or two in front of
Taipei 101, however from the observatory
at the top of the building, travellers can
enjoy some fairly spectacular views of the
Taiwanese capital.
Admission: NT$600 for a general ticket,
NT$540 for students, free for children
Get Spirited Away in Jiufen
Fans of Studio Ghibli movies and Hayao Miyazaki will certainly want to visit Jiufen -
the location that was Miyazaki’s inspiration for Spirited Away. Even those who are not
familiar with the movie, however, will certainly fall in love with quaint and quirky Jiufen.
Where locals sip tea in colonial tea rooms that overlook the sea, where traditional
lanterns gently dance in the breeze and where you could spend an entire day getting
lost among winding, labyrinth style alleyways, to travel to Jiufen is like stepping back
in time or into a fairytale and this area almost feels like a completely different country
compared to the busy, hectic Taipei.
Admission: Free. Just enjoy wandering the streets and soaking up the ambience.
Traverse Hiking Trails in Taroko National Parks
There are in fact nine national parks scattered throughout the landscape of Taiwan,
each of which is beautiful in its own right, however Taroko National Park offers diverse
landscapes and dramatic scenery where every turn offers a new photo opportunity.
From the perfect coastal panoramas by Qingshui cliff, to the pleasant walking trails that
lead you alongside waterfalls at the Changchun eternal spring shrine, it’s possible to
spend a few days enjoying the scenery at Taroko.
Admission: Free.
93 94

Taiwan
KENTING COAST
RESORT
Beach Front Resort
No.150,Dawan Rd.,Hengchun Town,Pingtung County 946,Taiwan ♦
Tel +88688861501~2 ♦ kentingcoast.com.tw
Looking for a relaxing
beach retreat in Taiwan?
Head over to Kenting Coast
Resort and breathe in the cool
sea breeze. Tucked away in the
lush environment of Kenting
Coast, this resort features exotic
rooms which boast of the finest
of amenities. Each room comes
with its very own balcony where
you can sit back on the chairs and
enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while
marveling at the beautiful views
of the sea.
You could either go for a
comfortable double room or
could even opt for the luxurious
VIP rooms which offer unmatched
luxury and opulence. They have
something for the families too.
Special family rooms are available
so that the family can stay
together during the holidays.
To spend your holidays in leisure,
you could relax in the outdoor
recreational area and sip on some
beverages and munch on some
delicacies.
If you fancy exploring the beautiful
Kenting Coast, the resort provides you
with itineraries for a day trip to different
destinations so that you can have a leisurely
travel experience. They even have special
packages for travelers who wish to have a
complete experience of all their facilities
and Kenting Coast.
The entire resort is situated away from
civilization and gives you the finest vacation
experience possible.
Wish to take a dip in the water? The resort
is situated a few seconds walking distance
from the beach where you can take a dip
in the crystal clear waters of the sea. The
night market of Kenting Coast is at a short
walking distance from the resort.
95 96

EXPLORING TAIWAN’S FOOD CULTURE
Many travellers to Asia cite the food as one of the notable highlights during their
time in the region and Taiwan is no exception to that rule. With a diverse and
flavourful cuisine, foodies and their taste buds are certain to fall in love with the food
culture of Taiwan.
Taiwan for Sweet Tooths
No dinner time is complete without rounding it off with dessert and the Taiwanese know
that all too well – the precise reason why there are so many sweet treats in their cuisine.
Consider ordering up a serving of an A-Zhu Peanut Ice Cream Roll. Originating in Yilan,
the ice cream roll is comprised of special sticky peanut candy along with homemade
scoops of taro ice cream, all rolled together neatly in a spring roll. Forget the savoury
spring rolls you are used to. After trying the A-Zhu peanut ice cream roll we are sure
you’ll have a new favourite.
Savoury Classics in Taiwan
For something completely unusual and unique to Taiwan, consider sampling a taste of
the Taiwanese Iron egg. The colour and appearance can seem a little intimidating but
brave and open-minded foodies will be rewarded for their efforts. These “iron eggs”
are essentially chewy, flavoured eggs and are a popular snack in Taiwan. Originating in
the northern town of Danshui, the eggs are boiled, and air dried several times before
spices and flavourings are added. The eggs are available in a variety of flavours – from
garlic to spicy chilli.
When dinner time swings around, slurp up some Mee Sua – thin salted noodles that are
made from wheat flour and served with a rich broth and pig’s intestines. Ask locals to
advise you of their favourite Mee Sua restaurants. The queues at the popular spots are
long but certainly worth the wait. Mee Sua restaurants often have a selection of sauces
available for you to choose from for extra taste – commonly garlic and chilli. To eat like
a local, add a healthy dollop of each, mix it together and enjoy.
97 98

Taiwan
THE GREAT
ROOTS FORESTRY
SPA RESORT
Resort
#79 Chajiao, Sanxia Dist., New Taipei City 237, Taiwan ♦
Tel +886-2-26749228 ♦ dabangan.com.tw
Located in Sanxia District, New Taipei City, only 50 minutes from Taoyuan International
Airport and also Taipei City. The resort covers a 17-hectare site that was formerly the
biggest tea-processing plant in Taiwan during the Japanese colonial period. There is a vacation
villa formerly used by the Japanese royal family, as well as gardens, fishponds and forest trails.
The resort is tucked among the only low-elevation primitive tropical rain forest in Taiwan, with
rare century-old tabular root (buttress root) trees.
Veined/mountain figs (Ficus
Nervosa), Ficus Variegata
and tree ferns from the
dinosaur age are among the
nearly 500 species of plants
in the rain forest. The forest
is also home to more than
4,000 varieties of insects and
over 30 varieties of birds,
among them is the Blue-
Winged Pitta – a globally
protected species. These
rare natural wonders wait
along with the healthy and
relaxing essences of the
forest at the resort.
In addition to enjoying the
natural scenery, visitors
can take a soothing and
skin-pampering soak in the
carbonic hot springs at the
resort. Relax at the hot spa
area, which overlooks the
beautiful forests of Sanxia.
The stunning natural setting
contributes to an unrivaled
relaxation experience. In a
world where technology has
allowed stress to become a
constant companion, Great
Roots Forestry Spa Resort
offers a moment’s rest. It is
a place where you see the
world, and even yourself, a
little bit differently. Where
you can find your center,
soothe your body and stir
your imagination, and where
you find the fuel that feeds
your soul.
99 100

SOUTH EAST
ASIA
101 102

PENANG VS GENTING HIGHLANDS
There is much more to traveling in Malaysia than simply venturing around the streets
of the crowded capital of Kuala Lumpur. In fact, outside of the bright lights of
Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Genting are two captivating Malaysian travel destinations that
have soared in popularity in recent years with the Malaysian tourism figures demonstrating
that annual visitors are increasing year on year. With that considered, they are both at a
stark contrast to each other and on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of the travel
experience they offer.
On one end of the spectrum, Penang is more traditional and historic, possessing a colonial
past and lots of fascinating history to uncover. Genting on the other hand is an altogether
more modern, cosmopolitan Asian city. A little time spent in both locations is the perfect
choice for your Malaysia itinerary but if your time in the country is limited and you have
to choose between the two, we’ve drawn up the travel highlights for each spot to help
you decide where you should roam based on your personality and specific interests when
you travel.
Penang
Often referred to as being the “pearl of the Orient”, Penang is adored by locals and
tourists alike, especially for its miles and miles of undisturbed sandy white beaches
and its rich local food culture. For a little rest and relaxation, be sure to venture over
to Batu Ferringhi or Tanjung Bungah – both seaside beach resorts where life moves a
little slower and one can enjoy a glass of Malaysian Kopitiam as the sunsets over the
horizon. These two locations are referred to time and again as being among the best
beaches in Penang.
Of course, no visit to the self-proclaimed food capital of Malaysia would be complete
without taking the time to dabble in the local street food delicacies. Take your taste
buds on an adventure to one of the many local hawker’s centers, or the much-loved
Cecil Street Market to try “only in Malaysia” style dishes such as Penang Assam Laksa
(spicy fish noodle soup) or Lor Bak (deep fried pork served with braised sauce). For an
insight into the culture, religion and history of multicultural Penang, be sure to take
the time to visit the many Hindu temples, churches and mosques that are scattered
throughout the city.
103 104

Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands is quite a juxtaposition of a city. For one thing, as its name suggests,
it is located in the Highlands. In other words, Genting is situated atop a picturesque
range of hills that would not look out of place in an Avatar movie. One only has to
venture a short distance out of the city limits to be met with stunning nature, peace and
tranquillity. Genting itself, however, is the exact opposite of peace and tranquillity. In
fact, Genting is everything that you would expect from a metropolitan Asian city and
more.
Enshrouded in a buzz of neon lights, Genting is a place of razzle-dazzle and luxury
resorts. Think the Las Vegas of the East if you will. Filled with entertainment complexes,
amusement parks, quirky themed bars, malls and casinos that are open 24 hours a day,
Genting is the place to come to party.
Arguably you are not going to immerse yourself in the typical Malaysian culture here,
but Genting Highlands can be a fun place to unwind during your travels, or to see how
locals and people from other parts of Asia like to kick back and enjoy life after a stressful
week at the office.
Penang may be a travel paradise for an introvert or a culture vulture, whereas Genting
is perhaps more suited to the night owl traveller. Whatever you like to do when you are
overseas, arguably it is worth visiting as many places as you can in each foreign country
that you venture to in order to gain a “full picture” of the country and its people.
105 106

Malaysia
GRAND ION
DELEMEN HOTEL
Mountain View Hotel
Malaysia
MATAHARI
TOURS & TRAVEL
Adventure Tour Company
Jalan Ion Delemen 1, Genting Highlands, 69000, Pahang Darul Makmur | Malaysia ♦
Tel +603 6433.2200 ♦ iondelemenhotels.com
29 Jalan Dato Koyah, 10000 Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia ♦
Tel +6019 4480440 ♦ cyclematahari.com
Visiting Genting Highlands and wish to have a comfortable retreat? Grand Ion
Delemen Hotel is a great option for you. Tucked away in the Titiwangsa Range,
you can relax in luxury in the midst of lush rainforests and marvel at nature’s beauty.
The luxuriously furnished rooms reflect the surroundings of the hotel and boast of huge
windows so that you can see the splendid view outside. For your gastronomical needs,
they have six restaurants and bars which serve both local and international delicacies
along with a choice of cocktails and drinks. The hotel has a fully-equipped gym which is
open throughout the day so that you can keep up with your fitness regime. You could also
take a dip in the heated swimming pool that has a picturesque view of the mountains.
The hotel also hosts both meetings and functions at eight of its meeting rooms and one
ballroom.
Want to see Malaysia from a different perspective? Ride with Matahari Cycle Tours
and see the country at your own pace. You will have the option to stop by for
photos or chatting with the locals whenever you wish; this is your chance to see Malaysia
just the way you wish to. Not only will you get to see the main tourist attractions but also
the off-the-beat locations like tiny village markets and indigenous people’s settlements.
While they have a set collection of tours and itineraries, you can choose to build your very
own itinerary with them and visit those places which you really want to visit. Many of their
tours are easy but a few are even physically challenging in a good way! They also have
special tour options for team building and corporate events. With Matahari Cycle Tours,
you get to discover the essence of Malaysia!
107
108

MALAYSIA ADVENTURE
Home to sprawling megalopolises that boast towering skyscrapers and crowded
streets, idyllic paradisiacal beaches, scenic trekking trails and lush green rainforests,
Malaysia is home to one of the most diverse landscapes in the world and offers plenty of
activities for the intrepid adventurer - regardless of their specific interests. Many travellers
to Malaysia first venture to the busy capital of Kuala Lumpur, but in order to experience
the best of the country’s beauty and nature, it is best to venture a little further afield to the
picturesque regions of Penang and Gopeng.
Go Trekking in Penang National Park
Those who love immersing themselves in nature and the great outdoors will relish the
countless hiking trails scattered throughout the Penang National Park. Here, travellers
can get up close and personal with Turtles in their Natural habitats and see some of
Malaysia’s most breathtaking nature. The trails here offer far more than a brisk walk
through greenery - they transcend past mangrove plantations, ethereal looking lakes
and stunning beaches. It is possible to spend several days here exploring all that the
area has to offer.
Visit the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur
No visit to Malaysia is complete without a short stay in the capital of Kuala Lumpur
and the opportunity to marvel upon the Petronas Towers - a structure which has
undoubtedly became an icon of the country.
Stroll Along Penang’s Harmony Street
Malaysia has long been home to a diverse blend of international cultures and that
could not be more evident in the Penang. The city’s “Harmony Street” - situated on
Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling is filled with countless places of worship each built to satisfy
different faiths - from Sikhs to Hindus and Buddhists. It is not unusual to wander along
the lengths of this street during weekends and see that it is jam-packed with devotees.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the Kuan Yin Temple and the Masjid Kapitan Keling
are all open to the public and provide an interesting insight into the multiculturalism of
Malaysia. Between the religious buildings, eateries and tea shops serve up a diverse
international blend of delicacies.
109 110

Visit Gaharu Tea Valley
Situated in Gopeng, the Gaharu Tea Valley has seen an increasing number of tourists
in recent years. Travellers can try the famous “Gaharu” (agarwood) tea, rumoured
to possess healing properties. No doubt a box of fresh Gaharu tea makes a unique
souvenir for those at home. The valley provides an interesting insight into local life as
visitors can watch the plantation in action, or sit out at one of the picturesque viewing
platforms and admire the scenery away from the humid Gopeng jungle.
Malaysia
EXPLORE BALIK
PULAU
Tour Company
145(U-1) MK B, Sg Rusa, 11010, Balik Pulau, Penang, Malaysia ♦
Tel +60 16 4522100 ♦ explorebalikpulau.com.my
If you’re ever in Balik Pulau in Penang, the best way to discover it would be with
Explore Balik Pulau. Explore Balik Pulau takes you on a journey to discover Penang
like never before with their thorough knowledge about the area. They have some amazing
tours where you can explore green paddy fields, fruits orchards, plantations, farms, fishing
villages, and many others rustic Malaysian scenery in the west of Penang. The seasonal
Penang Durian Appreciation tour is a unique tour that gives you a chance to learn more
and appreciate the king of fruits – Durian. They plan the trips early in a manner where the
guests do not get disturbed with heavy traffic or by even unordered schedule. The group
sizes are kept to just 12 guests so that you can get more personal attention. Explore Balik
Pulau gives you the true taste of Penang, one that you will cherish for a long time.
111
112

THE PHILIPPINES
Nestled in the heart of the Western Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is a popular travel
destination for those venturing around Southeast Asia, or simply those that wish
to enjoy a little rest and relaxation amid sunnier climes when they travel.
The History of the Philippines
It is believed that the first inhabitants of the Philippines arrived in the region over 67,000
years ago. These first settlers are understood to have been Negrito groups – people
traveling to the region from remote parts of South and Southeast Asia. Throughout the
years, the Philippines has passed through several owners. After being “discovered” by
the Spanish, the Philippines became a Spanish colony in the 15th century and remained
under Spanish rule until 1898 when Spain were defeated in a Spanish-American war.
The Philippines remained a US territory for several decades until finally receiving its
independence in 1946.
The People in the Philippines
The official language of the Philippines is Tagalog; however, English is also widely
spoken. The locals are generally excited to see tourists in their country and will do their
best to help you as much as they are able to during your stay. Filipinos are known for
their excellent hospitality and warm nature and it is likely that every traveller that you
encounter that has explored the region will have a tale or two to tell about how they
befriended friendly Filipinos and enjoyed an all-night karaoke party, or how a family
invited them to eat. The disparity between rich and poor is extreme in this part of the
world. In one part of Manila you will see glitzy high-end bars, whereas in the other,
you will encounter manual laborers struggling to make ends meet. Be sensitive when
traveling here.
113 114

Must See Places in the Philippines
The Philippines is by no means a small region. In fact, there are over 7000 small islands
that make up this country! With that said, it is understandable that it can be difficult to
choose where to explore on a first trip to the Philippines.
Puerto Princessa
In the Palawan region, Puerto Princessa is a town that has been put on the map on
account of the underground river that is located here. The river has been labelled as
one of the seven new world wonders of nature. Though the area is touristy, it is certainly
not every day that you have the opportunity to see a river that flows underground. Aim
to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, but don’t let them kill your holiday
spirit.
Palawan
If you are looking for undisturbed natural
beauty reminiscent of a paradise lost that
makes you feel as though you have your
very own tropical island paradise, consider
taking a trip to Palawan. Here, among the
numerous blue lagoons and tiny sandy
white islands, there are many beautiful local
villages and stunning beaches. Palawan
itself is still a fairly large region. For first
timer’s El Nido and Coron are arguably the
most picturesque and rewarding to explore.
The quaint little town of Coron is a nice
place to explore in itself, however it is also
home to numerous dive sites that feature
plentiful, colorful marine life and the
remnants of wreckages from World War II.
If you are a qualified diver, you certainly
want to bump this place to the top of your
Philippines travel list.
Boracay
Boracay, like Puerto Princessa,
is a little touristic, however it
is so charming that it is easily
forgiven. With vibrant nightlife
and plenty of fun and quirky
bars, clubs and restaurants,
Boracay is a great place to kick
back, unwind, and socialise
with other travellers at one
of the many beach or boat
parties that are organised here
virtually every day of the week.
115 116

Philippines
MALAPASCUA
GARDEN RESORT
Luxury Resort
Philippines
THE AVENUE
PLAZA HOTEL
Hotel
Daan Bantayan, Logon Malapascua Island, Cebu Philippines ♦ Tel +63 977 856 1569 ♦
malapascua-garden-resort.com
Magsaysay Avenue, Pilgrim City of Naga, Bicol, Philippines ♦
Tel +63 54 473 9999 / +63 2 250 8088 ♦ theavenueplazahotel.com
Malapascua Garden Resort is situated on the Malapascua Island, one of the
7641 islands in the Philippines. For an island known for its Bounty Beach, coral
gardens and some of the best diving spots in the Philippines, this resort provides a perfect
retreat, where everything else blends into the background. Malapascua Garden Resort is
a family run business which serves vacationers, from all around the world, with the best of
Malapascua. You can experience unmatched opulence in their duplex buildings which are
surrounded by natural tropical gardens. The resort is located a short walk away from the
beach, which ensures that while the guests are always near the beach, they still get the
peace and tranquility of nature while resting. You can relax in the MGR-Bistro and enjoy a
selection of drinks and beverages in the cozy atmosphere. The resort also assists you with
various activities like island walking, boat rides and scuba diving among others. They also
provide massage facilities.
East-Central Philippines’ celebrated
boutique hotel on the banks of
the historic Naga River, 4-star Avenue
Plaza Hotel is ideally located for dining,
entertainment, shopping and convention
venues, as it is near tourist key places
such as the Peñafrancia Basilica, Camsur
Watersports Complex, Mount Isarog
National Park, the 225-year old Seminario
Conciliar de Nueva Caceres, and the Jesse
Robredo Museum.
Located on the business, leisure and
pilgrimage hub of the Philippines’ leading
tier-3 city, the Avenue Plaza Hotel is central
to the city’s government and business
districts, the Naga National Airport, and
the region’s prime universities and colleges.
The Avenue Plaza Hotel is home to
restful suites and rooms, a lifestyle center,
dining and fitness outlets, and venues for
meetings and events with seating capacity
of 2,000. With its advocacy in culture, the
arts and heritage conservation, the hotel
provides guests with curated moments
to experience Bicol heritage hospitality
and to explore cosmopolitan cuisine and
artisanal craft.
The Avenue Plaza Hotel is recognized by
TripAdvisor as Travelers’ Choice Winner
for Best Service, and is a Certificate of
Excellence Hall of Fame awardee. Cebu
Pacific Air’s inflight magazine Smile
conferred the hotel with Best Hotel
for Stress-Free Business Trips, and the
Department of Tourism bestowed the hotel
with the Enterprise Service Excellence for
global competitiveness.
117 118

BORACAY RE-OPENING
The 26th of October this year approaches with much anticipation from the local
people as well as from wanderlusting travellers across the globe. Boracay has been
closed for clean up and refurbishment for almost 6 months so you can understand the
excitement.
Philippines
BORACAY
HAVEN RESORT
Boutique Resort
Station 2, Brgy. Balabag, Malay, Malay, 5600 Aklan ♦ Tel +036 288 5729 ♦
boracayhaven.com.ph
With pristine white sandy beaches and translucent blue waters, it is understandable why
Boracay has frequently been referred to as being one of the world’s top beaches. Tourism
figures in Boracay have been steadily increasing year on year as word escaped about the
island’s beauty. In 2017, Boracay’s revenue from tourism reached a whopping 56 billion
pesos.
Certainly the tourism boost has been positive for Boracay’s economy but it also came with
a price. Environmental Chief Roy Cimatu stated that there were previously issues with
pollution and sewage on the island that needed to be addressed. Boracay was previously
not well equipped to deal with the huge influx of tourists and provide them with the
paradise beach vacation they deserved. As such, the Boracay rehabilitation program was
launched in order to present tourists with a cleaner, more organised Boracay. The roads
were widened to make travel safer and more comfortable, and the beaches and businesses
across the island were revamped. This is excellent news for travellers to the Philippines as
it shows that Boracay is serious about ensuring visitors have the best experience possible.
119
Boracay Haven Resort welcomes you with award-winning guest service and a homely
environment. You can choose to stay in one of its 63 rooms that are elegantly
designed and well-appointed with some amazing facilities.
The facilities combined with their services and prime location make it a convenient and
comfortable retreat for you. You can dine in the two restaurants here – Haven Bistro and
Eden Bar and Restaurant. Do try out their beef tapa with pickled papaya and pair it up
with your favorite cocktails, beers, and wines! Just a few minutes walk from the resort,
you’ll be able to relax in their private beachfront lounge chairs with a beach butler on
standby for all your needs. If you prefer to stay back in the resort, you can take a dip in
the swimming pool or laze on the lounge beds to get that perfect suntan. The resort also
arranges for tours and watersports activities on the island.
120

Philippines
SAVOY HOTEL
BORACAY
Hotel
Newcoast Drive, Boracay Newcoast, Barangay Yapak, Malay, Aklan, Philippines ♦
Tel +63 36 286 2800 / +63 917 828 4495 ♦ savoyhotelboracay.com.ph
Savoy Hotel Boracay is an amazing retreat on the island of Boracay Newcoast. Overlooking
an expansive stretch of a white sandy beach and clear blue waters, this hip and vibrant
hotel offers a unique style with a strong focus on colorful and stylish comfort. Moreover, the
hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service to the White Beach nearby where you can spend
a fun-filled and enjoyable day.
Each room of the hotel is carefully designed
and fitted with every possible amenity so
that you can have a leisurely stay there.
Apart from the plush furnishings and
contemporary decor of the rooms, each
room features its very own private balcony
from where you can get stunning views
of the adjacent golf course. To ensure
that the guests have a comfortable and
pleasurable stay, the hotel has a host of inhouse
attractions. You can spend the day
sitting on the sunbathing lounger with your
favorite book or could dive into the hotel’s
open-air swimming pools. Surrounding
the hotel is the first and only concert
pool arena in the country with pool deck,
cabanas and lounges that’s open to public
for events, parties and concerts. If you wish
to sit in the cabanas, you can grab a glass
of your favorite cocktail from Chambery
Pool Bar and enjoy your time there. The
hotel also has a fitness center and will soon
be opening its very own spa!
A host of dining experiences await you at
Savoy Hotel as well. Head to the Savoy Cafe
and have some delicious contemporary
and modern cuisine here. If you’re ever
hankering for a scrumptious meal, Vienne
Lobby Lounge is open from 6:00 am to
11:00 pm ready to fulfill your cravings. The
hotel also has something for the kids. Every
day there are different activities organized
by the hotel to make sure your kids have an
exciting time.
121 122

THAILAND: THE HOME OF BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
Thailand is a country that has long been renowned for its pristine coastlines, idyllic
islands and miles of undisturbed sandy white beaches. International tourists
have been traveling to Thailand in pursuit of paradise long before Leonardo DiCaprio
introduced its beauty to the masses in “Beach”. Though there is beauty to be uncovered
in all corners of this friendly nation, the island areas of Phuket and Koh Samui are among
the most adored and for good reason.
The Perfect Day in Phuket
If your idea of a perfect vacation is to relax during the day and party during the night then
Yae beach, situated 5km north of Patong, is relatively secluded and quiet. This is a great
place to rent a sunlounger and unwind with a book, before enjoying a sumptuous Pad Thai
at one of the nearby restaurants and venturing back to Patong when the sun sets.
Best Time to Visit Thailand
Possessing a warm, tropical climate, it is possible to visit Thailand all year around. With
that said, the climate does vary depending on the specific season you travel during.
Generally speaking, the best time to visit Thailand is during the months of November
through to April - particularly if you wish to relax and sunbathe on the various beaches.
During this period, the temperatures range between 27 and 32 degrees celcius and the
annual rainfall is at its lowest. The summer months of July to October are also monsoon
season and arguably not the most pleasant time to travel.
The Island Paradise of Phuket
Nestled in the heart of the Andaman Sea, and home to a rugged natural landscape
that boasts both mountain ranges and some of the best beaches in Thailand, it
is understandable as to why Phuket is one of the region’s most popular tourist
destinations. Owing to the ever-growing popularity of Phuket, travellers that enjoy a
peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to get off the beaten track may worry that
Phuket is a little too hectic for their liking. However since Phuket is home to over 30
beaches, it is easy to find a little slice of paradise here.
Secret Beaches of Phuket
Patong beach and Karon beach are among the most popular beaches in Thailand. They
are home to vibrant nightlife scenes and dozens of crowded bars and eateries though
the former of the two has been known to get a little wild. If partying is not your cup of
tea, venture to the lesser known secluded beaches of the island. Nestled away from
the crowds, the beaches of Ao Sane and Ao Yonn are the picture perfect depiction of
a tropical paradise with low hanging palms, groves of tropical almond trees and quaint
beachside villages.
123 124

Koh Samui
On the Eastern coast of Thailand, a short boat ride away from Surat Thani, Koh Samui
is the country’s second largest island. Here, Chaweng beach is the main tourist hotspot
and can be one of the busiest parts of the island. At any given time of the day, this
7km stretch can be seen filled with sunkissed travellers participating in watersports or
enjoying a morning jog along the sea. One should not be put off by the popularity
of this beach though, it is still one of the prettiest on the island, and arguably in all of
Thailand.
Those hoping to experience a little more culture while in Thailand can venture to Bo
Phut beach, home to an old traditional fisherman’s village and a little more peaceful
than the main tourist strip.
Thailand
SIBAJA PALMS
SUNSET BEACH
RESORT
Beach Front Resort
Koh Samui – Surat Thani, Thailand ♦ Tel +66 0 812 706 872 ♦ sibajapalmssamui.com
Thailand Beach Activities
The more popular beaches in Thailand and its islands are often home to a host of activities
to keep you occupied and active during your time in the self proclaimed “land of smiles”.
In Phuket alone, travellers can try everything - from trying their hand at kitesurfing and
wakeboarding classes, to trying sea kayaking around Phang Nga Bay.
125
the tropical island Koh
“Visiting
Samui in the Gulf of Thailand and
looking for a luxurious getaway? Sibaja Palms
Sunset Beach Resort, the winner of Beach
Front Resort of the Year 2018 in Thailand, is
the answer to your needs!” Located at the
Five Island Beach on the romantic, West
Coast of the island, this Resort not only gives
you the chance to have a lavish stay but also
puts you in the midst of the best unspoiled
natural surroundings of Koh Samui.
Sibaja Palms offers 2 beautifully furnished
spacious luxury VILLAS (each 120 m2) and 4
spacious luxury APARTMENTS (each 40 m2).
Situated around a pool with jacuzzi and
access to a private beach area, with lounge
decks, umbrellas and outside shower.
This quiet area with wonderful nature
features and the best sunsets on the island is
the place to be for an unforgettable, relaxing
holiday
The Dutch owners, who run and manage
the Resort with over 10 years experience,
and their staff are looking forward to
welcoming you.
126

Luxury Society Asia
WANIDA TARDIVEL
What type of luxury tourism would you
say is most popular? For example, family
trips, romantic/wedding holidays, spa &
wellness or is it something else entirely?
Actually all of them
European & US: Wellness
Asia: Romantic /wedding and family and
wellness (beauty)
Thailand isn’t your only area of expertise,
you also offer an insight into Singapore,
Hong Kong & Vietnam. Of these three
which is you favourite & why?
Singapore & Hong Kong because they are
similar to Thailand/Bangkok, we do love
similar things, fast pace, modern life with
new technology, moving and happening all
the time.
Finally, do you have any exciting projects
planned for Luxury Society Asia?
We will have new luxury business partners to
join exposure, and enlarge our networking
group included joint venture luxury events
coming up in 2018/2019
Q&A
Tell us a little about yourself
Wanida Tardivel, Managing Director -
Luxury Society Asia
With extensive experience in marketing,
public relations, business development and
operations for five-star hotels, more than
20 years of experience in marketing luxury
hotels and a depth of operating knowledge
in Thailand and Asia. Wanida was also
instrumental in establishing business &
leisure clubs including the Luxury Club,
Thailand Professionals Club.
What is the inspiration behind Luxury
Society Asia?
We started an offline networking group
named Thailand Professionals in 2001,
aimed at promoting and strengthening
business relationships among sophisticated
and affluent professionals in Thailand and
Asia, through our mutual interest in all
things luxurious.
2012 we changed the name of group to be
Luxury Society Asia and launched a web
portal to be our communications tool.
Today, “Asia’s One Stop Luxury Business
& Leisure Solutions” attracts professionals
from diverse business backgrounds
including the financial and banking sector,
127
company owners, executives, senior
management, celebrities, local influencers,
journalists, and bloggers.
You focus a lot on global high-end
brands, but are there any Thai brands
that our readers should keep an eye out
for?
Thai designer brands, i.e. fashion, jewelry
and others
Have you noticed any trends or changes
in the luxury travel market? Especially
considering the rise of digital media
Yes, our clients and partners whether
associated to luxury tourism, hospitality or
consumer goods for example recognize the
need and numerous opportunities to use
digital to enhance their clients relationship,
drive business and build brand awareness
and most importantly loyalty.
Information is today available on a variety
of devices and available to readers from
everywhere. Prices, details, offers of luxury
companies are made available easily and it
takes only a few clicks to find data, get on
chats, share, or compare products before
purchasing online.
Many of our clients are seeking for a
compelling mobile presence, engage and
influence with new consumers through
targeted use of social media which is one
of the most important platforms used by
brands to create value. Recurrent messages
and tailor made campaigns are important
to pass messages through and social media
is a fantastic tool to target audiences.
For Luxury Travellers visiting Thailand,
where would you recommend staying?
There are lots of choices for various
destinations. My favourites are
– Bangkok, Sukhothai Bangkok
– Samui, Conrad
– Phuket, Rosewood
– Koh Kood, Soneva Kiri
– Chiang Mai, Four Seasons
– Chiang Rai, Four Seasons Tented Camp

Thailand
KOH JUM
BEACH VILLAS
The Outstanding Location Award
Thailand
SEAnery
BEACH RESORT
Beach Front Boutique Resort
320/29 M. 3, T. Koh Sriboya, Nua Klong, Krabi 81130, Thailand ♦
Tel +66 86 184 0505 ♦ kohjumbeachvillas.com
100/2 Moo 1 Phongprasan, Bang Saphan District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77140, Thailand ♦
Tel +66 032 691352-5 / +66 09 8828 9968 ♦ seanerybeach.com
Looking for a quick getaway in Thailand? Head over to Koh Jum Beach Villas and
enjoy luxury in the midst of nature. Situated next to the beach, this resort gives
you serene views of the sea and the Phi Phi National Marine Park. Their nineteen villas
come in all shapes and sizes and you can choose to stay in a cozy one bedroom villa or
even a lavish five bedroom one! The villas boast of luxurious features like private pools
too. Throughout your stay, you will be able to experience the true tranquility of nature by
walking through the lush tropical gardens and jungle in the resort! You could also explore
the organic garden and sample some fine vegetables and fruits with the chefs. You will
also have complete access to seven hundred meters of beach! The resort features a bar
and a restaurant as well.
Situated right on the beach in Prachuap Khiri Khan, SEAnery Beach Resort gives
you a chance to enjoy life away from busy cities. Tucked away in a private natural
environment, you can choose among their beachfront and beach pool villas, and luxury
sea view-hill suites. Each of their accommodations comes with an array of modern
amenities to ensure that you have a comfortable stay. The villas come with their own
private pools while there is a huge common pool for all to enjoy as well! You could sit back
on the sunbathing beds on the private beach and enjoy the serene views of the infinite
blue or could even go kayaking in the waters. For your gastronomic indulgences, you
could head over to The SEA Restaurant and devour a vast selection of healthy foods and
beverages. You could even sip your favorite beverages at the pool bar. They can arrange
tours and activities for you during your stay.
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ADVENTURE IN THAILAND
A
country known for its beautiful beaches, friendly locals and opulent Buddhist
temples, Thailand is a popular travel destination for culture vultures or those
looking for a little rest and relaxation during their vacation. There is another demographic,
however, that is perfectly suited to the land of smiles and that is the adrenaline junkie.
Canoeing
If you have the opportunity to visit Phuket, consider taking a day trip to the nearby
Khao Sok National Park. With a man-made lake, gigantic limestone rock formations
that jut out of the sea, and the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, the national
park is a place of immense beauty. You could spend days here treading the various
hiking trails and soaking up the scenery. For the adrenaline junkies, however, this is a
great place to canoe, or try inland rafting at the Cheow Lan lake.
Kayaking
Not far from the crowded beaches of
Phuket, await isolated turquoise lagoons,
an intricate network of caves just waiting
to be explored and secluded beaches
perfect for a night’s camping beneath the
stars. The only caveat to reaching these
beautiful locations? They are accessible
only by kayaks. From picturesque lakes
to hidden lagoons, Thailand is home to a
number of idyllic spots that are perfect for
exploring by kayak.
The location close to Phuket is Phang
Nga Bay, a relatively undiscovered spot
that leads kayakers through the emerald
waters of the Andaman Coast. En route,
as travellers paddle through the waters,
they will pass by rainforests and local
wildlife - including monkeys, birds and
lizards. A number of tour operators in
the area offer excursions into the waters
making the area accessible even for first
time kayakers.
Those who want to avoid the tourist
crowds can kayak independently or hire a
private guide, and opt to venture towards
the off the beaten path island of Koh Yao
Noi - a peaceful and tranquil island in the
middle of the bay.
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Cycling
Aside from the motorbikes and vespas that
narrowly whizz past you while traveling
in South East Asia, a popular way to get
around Thailand is via bicycles. A number
of tour operators offer “Thailand by bike”
style tours. However with a little research
and preparation, what’s to stop you from
doing the same trip independently?
Essentially you could travel pretty much
the entire length of Thailand via bicycle
if you so wished. However, there are
some areas that are more scenic and
pleasant than others. Keen cyclists will
enjoy the challenge presented to them by
the Mae Hong Son hills loop. Departing
from Chiang Mai, this route leads cyclists
through the highest mountain peaks in
Thailand and to the peak of Doi Inthanon
- Thailand’s highest mountain.
A more pleasant and simple introductory
trail is perhaps the Khao Yai wine trail,
where Cyclists can enjoy a predominantly
flat terrain, picturesque vineyards and a
tipple or two of fresh local wine along the
way.
Located on the paradisiacal
island of Koh Samui, Island
Gem Tours gives you a chance
to experience the beauty of the
island intimately. You can choose
to have a gourmet picnic on a
secluded beach, explore the
sightseeing spots or even try
out the most unique and finest
alcoholic drinks on the island. They
even have a special wellness tour
for those looking to get healed
by traditional Thai medicines and
also experience spiritual calmness.
If you wish to head out into the
blue with your close ones, you
could even charter a speedboat.
They have something for the
cruise passengers as well; they
have created private itineraries
with hand-picked locations so that
you can make the most of your
stopover at Koh Samui! Each tour
is carefully planned by them so
that you can get the best and most
unique experiences on the island.
Thailand
ISLAND GEM
TOURS
Tour Company
106/7 Moo 4 Maenam Koh Samui Suratthani 84330, Thailand ♦ Tel +66846476185 ♦
islandgemtours.com
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134

Tim
TIM’S THAILAND
Q&A
Tell us a little about yourself
I’m originally from the state of Wisconsin
in the USA. I first visited Thailand in 1997
and have lived in Khon Kaen since 2007.
I make my living by a mix of travel writing
and organizing tours in Thailand’s seldomvisited
Isan region.
What made you decide to settle in
Thailand, why Isan in particular?
After traveling in Thailand a few times I
decided to have a different kind of travel
experience by staying in one place for
a year. That year turned into two, then
three… Now I have no intention of leaving.
I chose to live in Isan because it’s the region
of Thailand that I enjoyed most the when
traveling.
Isan isn’t necessarily top on most people
lists of places to visit Thailand, why do
you think that is?
The idea that Thailand is overrun with
tourists is a widely believed myth. But the
vast majority of visitors go to the same few
places leaving the rest unspoiled. I think
the prevalence of the standard Bangkok-
Chiang Mai-and-a-beach itinerary mostly
boils down to two things – people on their
first trip to Thailand want to see the things
they’ve seen in pictures and videos, and
they want to go places where they can get
by in English. Isan doesn’t offer either of
these.
Any specific tours you’d recommend
travellers to do when in the area?
People who come to Isan are generally
looking to experience local life –
handicrafts, food, temples, markets, and
the like .Beyond delving into the local
culture, two Isan highlights are Khmer ruins
and traveling along the Mekong River. Isan
Explorer’s Absolute Isan tour (https://www.
isanexplorer.com/absolute-isan.html) gives
visitors some of all three.
Have you noticed any recent trends or
changes in Tourism to Thailand?
Elephant tourism in Thailand has improved
in the past couple of years. There are still
a lot of terrible, abusive elephant camps
out there, but the trend now is to transition
from elephant trekking to people walking
and swimming with elephants. This doesn’t
solve all the problems with elephant
tourism, but it’s a good first step.
Also, there’s less off-the-beaten-path travel
by foreigners in Thailand than there was
two decades ago. The opening up of travel
in Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar means
there is much more to see on a SE Asia
trip without having to rough it. On the
other hand, the increase in Thais traveling
around their own country means that there
are more and better facilities in the lessvisited
parts of Thailand.
What would you say is the best way to
get around the country?
It’s easy to travel region to region in
Thailand by bus, train, and plane. But to
explore an area in depth – visiting villages,
historic sites, and scenic sites – you usually
need a car.
Outside of Isan, what is your favourite
place & why?
I love Si Satchanalai. The ruins themselves
are a little less captivating than nearby
Sukhothai, but the setting is far more
beautiful and peaceful.
Thailand is famous for its food, what is
your favourite dish?
I live in Isan, but my favorite Thai food is
Khao Soi, from Northern Thailand.
135 136

Thailand
EKMAN GARDEN
Affordable Resort
39/2 Moo 5 SaoPao Sichon Nakhon Si Thammarat 80340, Thailand ♦
Tel +3081 958 2493 ♦ ekmangardenresort.business.site
137
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in
Sichon, there is no better place to reside
at than Ekman Garden, the affordable family
friendly resort. They’ve got 13 rooms and
suites that are well-furnished to ensure that
you can have a comfortable stay. The resort
is itself tucked away in lush garden premises
where you can stroll around or simply sit back
and enjoy the views and tranquility of the
area. For your gastronomic requirements, they
have a restaurant that serves both Thai and
European cuisines made to perfection. If you
wish to relax during the day, you can take a
dip in the swimming pool in the midst of the
gardens. The hotel also has a conference room
where corporates can hold their meetings
or conferences. You can also celebrate your
special wedding day here at the resort with
special decorations and cozy ambience in the
party room.
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Chiang Mai
Population: 131,091
How to Get in
• Plane
• Train
• Bus
Get Around
• Taxi
• Motorbike, Vespa or
Car
• Bicycle
• Songthaew (Passenger
Vehicle used as a share
taxi or bus)
• Tuk Tuk
Attractions & Sights
• Elephants
• Wat Phrathat Doi
Suthep
• Bua Tong Waterfalls
• Wat Chedi Luang
Things to do
• Rafting
• Shop at the Night
Market
• Muay Thai
• Motorcycle Touring
Find out more - http://
en.visit-hokkaido.jp/
An ancient capital nestled at the
foothills of the Himalayas, Chiang
Mai is perfect for those interested in
history, culture & wildlife
Thailand
PURI PUNN
Thailand Design Hotel
Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand ♦ Tel +66 53 244 567 ♦ puripunn.com
Tucked away in a secluded
region in Chiang Mai in
Thailand, the Puripunn Baby
Grand Boutique Hotel is the
perfect getaway for those looking
to move away from the hullabaloo
of the city life. The elegantly
furnished hotel is with traditional
Lanna designs and contemporary
colonial styles to give a retro-yetstylish
look. You can choose your
room based on your preference of
luxury and can enjoy their warm
hospitality throughout your stay.
Each room comes with plush
furnishings and is equipped with
the most modern amenities. You
will get to devour authentic Thai-
Lanna dishes at Punna, the inhouse
restaurant during your stay
along with a traditional breakfast
and high-tea (advance reservation
for high-tea). You could also enjoy
some fine drinks after taking a dip
in the swimming pool at the Pool
Lounge. You can pamper yourself
at SALA Spa with some soothing
massages. The hotel also has
special packages for honeymoons.
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140

THE ENDURING BEAUTY OF BALI
According to TripAdvisor reviews, Bali is considered as being the number one best
travel destination in the world - an accolade that certainly doesn’t come easy.
Though tourism in Bali has certainly had its ups and downs over the years, it is still a major
bucket list destination for many wanderlusting adventurers.
So why is it that even though Bali is no longer a new or undiscovered destination, its
visitors numbers increase every year and do not falter? How has Bali sustained its number
of tourists when the number of visitors to nearby “popular” spots of India and Thailand
have seen substantial declines? In 2017, it was reported that Bali saw a record number of
5.5 million international visitors and we have a couple of ideas as to why that could be.
Bali Offers Affordable Luxury
Lets face it. All of us would love to rent spacious villas that overlook our private infinity
pools and miles of sprawling rice paddies as far as the eye can see when we travel but
the unfortunate reality is that our budget often does not allow for that. The exception
to that rule however is Bali.
In this tropical Indonesian paradise, travellers can rent out entire luxury villa complexes
and even hire their own chefs and masseuses for their time on the Indonesian island
for prices equal to or lower than what they could rent a hotel room for in most western
nations.
Indeed, it isn’t just the accommodation that is low cost. Travellers heading to Bali
from various cities in Asia and Australia can take flights for less than $100, meals can
be enjoyed for less than $2 and public transport costs less than $0.50. Few other
destinations are so budget friendly.
Plentiful Activities
Many people associate the idea of traveling
to Bali with lazing on a beach or sipping
cocktails from a bamboo shack. In fact,
there are a diverse range of activities to
enjoy in Bali. The island boasts hot springs,
hiking trails and quaint cultural villages such
as the fishing village at Pemuteran.
141 142

The Beaches
Though there is certainly more to Bali than simply its beaches, we confess that they
are absolutely one of the islands major draws. With miles upon miles of undisturbed
coastline, each of the island’s beaches has its own quirky personality and a different
draw. From the popular Kuta-Seminyak where travellers can try their hand at various
watersports and other adrenaline pumping activities, to some of the quieter beaches
that are perfect for relaxing and reflecting - such as Gunung Payung beach or the Yeh
Leh mystery boulder beach.
A Diverse International
Community
After word got out about the beauty
of Bali, people from across the world
ventured to the island to see it for
themselves. Many of these people
relocated to the island, often opening up
restaurants and businesses in the region.
With the rise of Digital Nomads and
people opting to work remotely, there
is a consistent flow of people deciding
to base themselves in and around Bali.
This makes for a unique culture where
the warm-hearted Balinese live among
people from all corners of the globe,
and where first time or solo travellers
can comfortably travel to Bali and know
they will be greeted with plenty of likeminded
peers and home comforts.
The Food
Balinese food is rich and flavourful. Arguably
the best thing about the traditional dishes
served up here is the fact that they utilise
high quality, fresh produce that are sourced
locally - fresh fish from Balinese waters and
freshly picked fruits and vegetables. Sate
lembat (the Balinese answer to Satay) is a
great quick street food eat, yet the main
courses (often curries or meat based dishes)
will capture your heart at the first mouthful.
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Country Indonesia
NAME SUN SUKO OF
HOTEL/TOUR
RETREAT
Boutique
Award
Resort
Jalan Seririt – Gilimanuk, Gang Sahadewa , Pemuteran, North West – Bali 81155 ♦
Tel +62 82 413 39994 ♦ sunsukoretreat.com
Surrounded Rising above by the the rest beautiful of Barcelona, sacred Hotel hills of Arts Pemuteran located on and the in waterfront, walking distance provides to
the a luxurious enchanting stay beach with spellbinding and the crystal-clear views of ocean, the sea you and will city. find With the some stunning amazing Sun
Suko facilities Boutique like terrace Retreat. gardens, Here, you outdoor can truly swimming explore the pool unspoilt and spa, nature they and ensure the authentic that atmosphere guests get of Northwest a unique experience. Bali. Pemuteran If that village was not offers enough, you a combination you can keep of up the with amazing your
mountain gym schedule energy at and the fitness a relaxing center summer or get breeze pampered by the in sea. the The hairdressing area was in salon fact announced and luxury
fashion one of boutiques. Bali’s best The diving sophisticated and snorkeling rooms spots. and suites have elegantly done décor and
plush furnishings.To top it all off, the hotel boasts of some amazing duplex penthouses
Each of the 10 tastefully furnished rooms and suites at Sun Suko Boutique Retreat tells a
that offer the pinnacle of luxury travel experiences. The penthouses come with a butler
different story and the individual design of each of these reflects the love and attention to
and shopping concierge to provide assistance along with luxury private transfer to
detail
shopping
that’s
places.
gone in by the designer. The warm and welcoming atmosphere at the retreat
will put you directly into a relaxed holiday mood. Sun Suko´s in-house restaurant is ensuring
high quality, freshness and a great variety of healthy food. Give yourself a treat at the Spa
or refresh yourself by hopping into the pool. A perfect place to escape from the hectic
everyday life and to experience a great personalized service.
Image by: Ardhy Sapanca
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146

Indonesia
ASTAGINA
RESORT
Villa Resort
Combining the amenities of the best 4-star
resorts with the convenience and exclusivity of
a private villa, they are one of the finest Legian
Beach hotels for couple getaways, family
holidays, leisure travelers and business guests
who demand the best.
Jalan Werkudara No. 8, Legian, Bali - Indonesia ♦ Tel +62 361 4741000 ♦
astaginaresort.com
A
hidden escape in the midst
of Legian, Bali Island. A
garden resort w alking distance
from the beach in the heart of
Legian Bali Astagina Resort
Villa & Spa merges a modern,
minimalist design with an
atmosphere of tropical relaxation
and revitalization in a trendy
and eco-friendly silhouette. The
central location of the resort also
makes the access to airport easy.
It is conveniently situated at a
short distance from Seminyak,
Denpasar and Nusa Dua.
The resort boasts 61 guest rooms
where you can choose from
deluxe rooms, suites and even
family rooms that are specially
designed for families. The resort
features 12 swanky villas where
you can experience utmost
leisure and opulence. The villas
are nestled in a botanical garden,
which provides both tranquility
and a cozy environment with
an abundance of natural
surroundings.
Expect unforgettable experiences at the resort hotel on the beach, which
features a unique vertical garden, exquisite dining, a fabulous outdoor pool
and pool bar. You could also go to the Anjali Spa and get treated with
therapeutic massages at the hands of experienced masseuses to heal your
mind, body, and soul. To help you make the most of your visit to the garden
resort and villa in Legian, Bali, they even feature an exceptional collection
of affordable deals and accommodation specials.
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Indonesia
BONDALEM
BEACH CLUB
The Outstanding Location Award
Bondalem, Tejakula, Buleleng Regency, Bali 81173, Indonesia ♦
Tel +62 812-3788-8444 ♦ bondalembeachclub.com
North Bali beachfront resort Bondalem Beach Club nestled in a traditional Bali village
right on the black-sand beach with a coral reef a few steps from your bungalow.
Bondalem Beach Club – offers a unique and
relaxing atmosphere. Observe and enjoy
the experience of authentic life in north
Bali, make trips to local attractions, take
part in ceremonies and rituals conducted
here daily. If you are looking for a place to
relax, to spend a memorable vacation with
your family or searching for a yoga & fitness
area to conduct training – Bondalem Beach
Club would be able to provide you with the
highest service, maximum comfort, friendly
staff and reasonable prices.
Accommodation types:
Family Bungalows, Double Rooms
Facilities:
2 swimming pools, fruit garden,
fitness and yoga area for group
tours, restaurant serving indonesian,
european and vegetarian dishes, bar,
SPA, diving & snorkeling facilities
Excursions:
dolphin tours, waterfalls, temples,
hot springs, art galleries
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Nyaungshwe | Myanmar
How to Get in
• Plane
• Train
• Bus
Get Around
• On Foot
• Motorbike rental
• Taxi
Attractions & Sights
• Inle Lake
• Phaungdawoo Pagoda
• Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery
• Coffee & Tea Tours
Things to do
• Hot Air Balloon
• Food Tours
• Horseback Riding
• Spa’s
Find out more - https://
www.go-myanmar.com/
nyaung_shwe-yawnghwe
A hidden gem and perfect base to
explore Myanmar’s finest tourist
attraction, Inle Lake
Myanmar
ANN HERITAGE
LODGE
Lodge
Myaenigone Village,Inly Lake , Nyaung Shwe Township, Southern Shan State, Myanmar ♦
Tel +09 400053573 ♦ annheritagelodge.com
Ann Heritage Lodge serves as a one stop destination for business and leisure
travelers visiting Taunggyi. Located at the edge of the Inle Lake, this place
provides a perfect getaway in a tranquil environment. Its convenient location renders the
guests with easy access to the cities must-see destinations. The spacious rooms provide
basic amenities such as hot and cold water, a mini bar and a safe box. They also provide
car and boat rental services so that you can explore the region at your pace. Moreover,
the lodge has a pool bar, restaurant and a cave spa that exude a Burmese vibe fused with
a western one. You can simply sit back and enjoy the serene lake views throughout your
stay here. If swimming or fitness are of your interest, they have facilities for them as well.
Ann Heritage Lodge gives you a chance to experience Burma like never before.
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152

Vietnam
ASIANA LINK
Tour Company
Cambodia
SOL BEACH
RESORT
The Outstanding
Location Award
29A Dong Khoi St., Dist 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam ♦ Tel +84 28 39141080 ♦
asianalink.com
Saracen Bay, Koh Rong Sanloem, Krong Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia ♦
Tel +855 (0)31 66 77 88 6 / +855 34 935 108 ♦ solbeach.com
Asiana Link gives you a
chance to experience
Vietnam like never before.
From the historic cities of Ho
Chi Minh City and Hanoi to
quieter places like Buon Me
Thuot and Da Lat, they cover
it all. You have the option to
choose the type of tour based
on your requirements; you may
choose to go for adventure,
classic or even family tours.
This ensures that you can get
the exact experience that you
are looking for. The tours are
of varying lengths so you can
choose a short day tour or
could even go for a long 2 week
expedition! Their well-trained
and professional staff leaves
no stone unturned during your
tour to make sure that you have
a great experience. If you have
some special requirements
like honeymoons, they create
unique packages for you too!
They also have tours to Laos,
Cambodia and Myanmar.
Tucked away on the beautiful island of Koh Rong Samloem, Sol Beach Resort gives
you a chance to escape the city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of
nature. Their villas are tastefully designed and furnished in the traditional Khmer-style to
give you the true Cambodian experience. With every possible modern amenity at your
disposal, you are guaranteed a luxurious stay in this paradise. Its location by the beach
gives you the opportunity to take in the serene views of the infinite blue. To tantalize your
taste buds, you can head over to their restaurant, which is located right on the beach,
and enjoy local and western cuisines along with fresh juices or your favorite liquors! What
better place can there be to relax and unwind with some rejuvenating treatments than a
spa right on the beach? You can choose between a private spa and a massage on the
beach. Sol Beach Resort provides a stay that is truly soothing for your soul.
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154

SOUTH ASIA
Image by: Martin Jernberg
155 156

Bhutan
Bhutan – The Land of the Thunder Dragon is a serene
country which is also known as the last Shangri-La
on Earth. Also known as The Land Of Happiness,
Bhutan measures its progress through Gross National
Happiness (GNH), which truly makes it a lovely country
to visit and stay. Locked between India and Tibet, this
country has an abundance of natural attractions for the
discerning traveler. Surreal views of hills shrouded in
clouds await you on your visit to Bhutan. Prepare to be
astounded by the natural wonders of this country which
has 10 national parks, each of which is connected via
Biological Corridors.
The capital, Thimphu, is the main city in the country and houses over 100,000 residents.
If you’re looking to see the modern side of Bhutan, Thimphu is the place you should
head to. It is dotted with cafes, shopping centers, and restaurants but it is still a peaceful
destination without any sort of hustle-bustle. Do visit it during the months of September
or October when the four-day long Tsechu Festival is held, where you’ll get to see
various mask dances in the sprawling of the Tashichho Dzong. Some of the attractions
of Thimphu are Semtokha Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma
Statue, Druk Wangyal Chortens and Dochhula Pass, which gives you spectacular views
of the Himalayas.
157 158

Punakha is yet another amazing city
to visit. It used to be the capital of the
country until 1907. Here, you can marvel
at the beauty of the Punakha Dzong,
which is the second oldest and second
largest Dzong in the country. This
beautiful valley is extremely welcoming
with its pleasant climate and warm and
friendly people.
Paro Valley is yet another beautiful
place that you must visit in Bhutan. The
entire valley is covered in lush green
vegetation and has over 155 temples
and monasteries which date back to the
The sheer number of places worth
visiting in Bhutan are difficult to list down
and even tougher to describe; they can
only be experienced. Apart from these
destinations, there are many activities
you can indulge in during your time
in the country. If you’re an adventure
junkie, Bhutan has some fast-flowing
rivers where you can go for rafting or
kayaking. If you wish to explore the
beauty of the country at your own pace,
you could go mountain biking and see
it from a totally different perspective.
With plenty of hilly regions, trekking
is an activity you should definitely do
when visiting Bhutan. Bird and animal
lovers have lots to look forward to in the
national parks of the country which have
an abundance of wildlife. Whatever your
tastes may be, whatever you may wish
to see, Bhutan has something to offer to
everyone. Most importantly, this place
takes you one step closer to peace and
happiness and makes you want to revisit
all those places once again.
14th century. It is also the first place that you might see on your visit to Bhutan as it is
the only city with an international airport in the country. When in Paro, do not miss out
on visiting one of the most stunning places in the country, The Tiger’s Nest Temple,
locally called Taktsang Lhakhang, which is built on a cliff face 900 meters above the
Paro Valley. It is indeed a spectacle to watch and it can be reached by a short trek. This
is one place you simply cannot miss when visiting Bhutan.
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BANGLADESH | THE ONE TO WATCH
Bangladesh is emerging on the world travel scene as an up and coming travel
destination for those who like to venture off the beaten track and experience new
and fascinating cultures. Neighbouring India has been a popular travel destination for
decades but for those who want to traverse a land where they are likely to have beautiful
sites and temples entirely to themselves and bump into very few other adventurers,
Bangladesh is the perfect alternative option.
With miles and miles of lush green countryside, rainforests, and a diverse network of
rivers, Bangladesh is home to some of Asia’s most beautiful natural attractions, in addition
to its most fascinating cities.
Bangladesh Highlights
See Tigers in Their Natural Habitat
The mangrove forests of the Sundarbans National Park that lies at the India-Bangladesh
border is a wonderful place to spot wild Bengal tigers in their natural habitat in addition
to witnessing the majestic beauty of other endangered species in the region. A lot of the
wildlife present in Bangladesh is unique to this part of the world.
Take a River Tour
Bangladesh is comprised of an intricate network of rivers and to this day, river travel is one
of the preferred ways to get around the country. It is estimated that Bangladesh is home to
more varieties of boats than any other country in the world. The famous Bangladesh paddle
boat steamer “The Rocket” may not be the fastest way to get around, but is a pleasant way
to travel between cities while observing the country’s scenery and sipping a cup of locally
adored seven colour tea.
Witness the Chaos of Dhaka
Of course, no trip to Bangladesh would be complete without exploring the chaotic, crowded
capital city of Dhaka. Though they are not so accustomed to seeing international tourists,
Bangladeshi people are among the friendliest in the world and will do their best to assist
you during your time in their country. Dhaka is also a food lovers paradise, with low cost
local restaurants serving up diverse and flavourful dishes similar to those offered by their
Indian neighbours - from roti to spicy curries and refreshing chai tea.
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Bangladesh
HOLIDAY XPRESS
Affordable Hotel
Askuna Road, Uttara, Dhaka-1230 Bangladesh ♦ Tel +88 02 8957232 ♦ holidayxpress.asia
Located right at the center of Dhaka, Holiday Xpress Hotel gives you easy access
to major parts of the city, including the international airport. If you’re traveling for
business, the location makes it very convenient for you to reach the business centers.
Each guest room is equipped with modern amenities and the hotel also has facilities
like conference rooms and a business center for your business related activities. For your
gastronomic requirements, the hotel has a dedicated restaurant and a cafe bar where you
can feast on some delicious preparations. If you wish to keep up with your fitness, the
hotel has a fitness center too. You could take a dip in the rooftop swimming pool and view
the Dhaka cityscape spread out in front of you. The hotel also has money exchange, rent
a car and other services to make your trip comfortable and hassle-free.
Image by: Al Amin Khan
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Bangladesh
HOTEL GRACE 21
Boutique Hotel
House #1 & 3, Road #21, Nikunja 2, Dhaka-1229, Bangladesh ♦
Tel +880 17 0070 7724 ♦ hotelgrace21.com
For your gastronomic requirements, the La Gracia
Restaurant is a great place to have breakfast,
lunch and dinner. You can choose between a
la carte and buffet options here and can enjoy
some amazing continental dishes along with
Thai and Indian cuisines throughout the day.
The restaurant itself is decorated royally and
furnished to match the decor; this only amplifies
the whole dining experience. If you wish to grab
a cup of coffee or enjoy some light snacks or wish
to have a meeting, Grace Cafe, the coffee shop
of the hotel in the lobby area is open 24x7 to
serve you. This is the one place in the hotel that
is always bustling with activity.
Situated in the capital
of Bangladesh, Dhaka,
Hotel Grace 21 offers luxurious
accommodation in the vicinity
of the international airport.
Conveniently located in
Nikunja 2, the hotel gives
you easy access to business,
residential and recreational
areas. Whether you’re looking
for a simple room for yourself
or a double deluxe room,
you can choose your form of
luxury according to your taste
and preferences. All rooms
come with stocked mini-bars,
in-room safes and 24-hour inroom
dining options. Other
five-star facilities include
airport pick-up and drop off
services in luxurious vehicles.
This business boutique hotel not only
offers its 5-star services to its customers
but has also opened its doors for corporate
meetings. Companies can host up to 25
people for dinners and other events at
their special meeting area called Corporate
Point. This smart hotel is truly a heaven for
every business traveler visiting Dhaka.
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INDIA TOP FIVE THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Loud, vibrant, chaotic and an attack on all of the senses. These are just a few of
the terms commonly used to describe incredible India. A bucket list destination
for many, India possesses a unique culture that is incredibly rewarding for the openminded
adventurer to uncover. It can be difficult to describe India, or to suggest
the definitive list of the “best” things to see and do in the country since the nation
is so diverse. From the beaches of Goa, to the quaint backwaters of Kerala and
the bustling megacities of Delhi and Mumbai, no two regions of India are the same.
For the first time visitor to the region, the below list highlights some of the most rewarding
experiences to cross off your India exploration list while you’re on your trip
The Taj Mahal, Agra
Of course, no India travel bucket list would be complete without the mighty Taj Mahal.
Often referred to as being the most beautiful building in the world, the Taj stands out
among Agra’s haze like a beautiful mirage. The ornately carved archways, the stunning
white marble pillars, and the lush green gardens on the banks of the Yamuna river are
guaranteed to take the breath away from even the most hard-to-please travelers.
The Taj is India’s most famous monument and was built by Shah Jahan in memory of his
beloved third wife, Mumtaz Mahal who passed away during childbirth. It is not a temple
or a palace, but a mausoleum. The Taj took years, and the assistance of 20,000 workers to
build. Sadly, following its completion, the Shah was overthrown by his son, who sentenced
him to living out the rest of his life in jail while gazing at his beloved creation out of his
cell window in Agra. After passing away, the Shah was buried alongside Mumtaz in the
Taj. Today, millions of people visit the Taj every year. The Taj Mahal gets crowded and is
a little touristy, sure. However, if you travel all the way to India and don’t visit the Taj, did
you really visit India?
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Join the Pilgrims at Holy
Varanasi
India’s Uttar Pradesh region is often
referred to as being the “heartland
of India” – owing to its rich cultural
heritage, history, and the sheer number
of important sites located here. Agra
and the Taj Mahal are contained within
Uttar Pradesh, and so is Varanasi – India’s
holiest city. Varanasi is a beautiful place
to sail out into the Ganges on a boat and
to watch the sun rise and illuminate the
skies in hues of red and deep orange. It
is also an extremely important religious
spot for Hindus, who venture to the
banks of the river here to perform funeral
rites. Pilgrims from around the world
venture here for religious purposes.
Palace Jhargram
Palace Jhargram is another famous
tourist attraction in India. Situated in
West Bengal, the palace offers travellers
a unique opportunity to both explore its
grounds, annexes and learn about the
history of the site, in addition to feeling
like royalty themselves by opting to
enjoy a stay at the palace.
A complex comprised of stunning Italian
gardens, Hindu temples, fragrant flower
gardens and canopies of sal, peasal and
teak trees, Palace Jhagram is today still
the current residence of the Malla Dev
Royal family. Designed with influences
from Islamic and Italian architecture,
the ground floor of the palace has been
renovated and transformed into a luxury
hotel. For the ultimate in luxury and
unique travel experiences during your
trip to India, travellers should consider
making a reservation here.
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Go Hiking in Dehradun
Most people associate the mention of India with somewhere overcrowded and chaotic.
Breath-taking natural beauty is not something that necessarily springs to mind when
you think about India, however Uttarkhand, at the foothills of the Himalayas is a place of
beauty, peace and serenity. There are many options for enjoying scenic hiking trails in
Uttarkhand, however one of the most notable is Dehradun – a trail that leads adventurers
past caves, waterfalls and miles upon miles of rolling green hills. The viewpoints from
the higher parts of the trail overlook the Ganges and the various Indian cities below and
is a wonderful way to get a bird’s eye view of magical India.
Meditate at Rishikesh
Considered as being the “yoga capital of the world”, Rishikesh is based at the point
where the spiritual River Ganges meets the Chandrabhaga and is a place of tranquillity
and peacefulness. If you are on a journey of self-discovery, or you wish to practice
yoga and meditation then you can find many centers to participate in such activities in
Rishikesh. Rishikesh is also a hubbub for adventure activities that are perfectly suited for
thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies such as white water rafting, kayaking and hiking.
India
PALACE
JHARGRAM
Country Hotel
District Jhargram, West Bengal, India ♦ Tel +91 3221 255016 ♦ jhargrampalace.com
Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) was the colonial capital of India and the second largest city
in India after Mumbai and is where all the heritage buildings of the colonial era are
located and serves as the cultural heart of India. Kolkata continues to spawn generations
of poets, writers, film producers and Nobel Prize winners along with crumbling British era
gems, sprawling gardens and historical colleges.
Jhargram Palace located at a distance of around 170 kms from Kolkata, which is one of the
most fabulous destinations around the city. Situated between the Subarnarekha river and
Belpahari valley, this place abounds in natural beauty as well. The tropical forests couple
with the fragrant red soil to give a distinct flavor of aboriginal culture in the eastern part
of India. Jhargram has the heritage of a royal past and The Hindu temples and palaces
here testify to it.
A stay at the Jhargram Palace will bring the legends of the famous Malla Dev rulers to
the fore. Here you can experience the royal lifestyle that was once the tradition of the
Jhargram Kings. The rich heritage and the history of The Royal Family is sure to excite
guests who are interested to know and explore the rulers of ancient India.
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Country
NAME OF
HOTEL/TOUR
Award
India
NIRAAMAYA
RETREATS
Wellness Retreat
India
SOULITUDE IN
THE HIMALAYAS
Unique Hotel
Poovar – Vizhinjam Rd, Vizhinjam, Kovalam, Kerala 695521, India ♦
Marina 19-21, Barcelona, 08005 Spain ♦ Tel +34932211000 ♦ ritzcarlton.com
Tel +91 80 4510 4510 / +91 80 4510 4520 ♦ www.niraamaya.in
Niraamaya is a family of exclusive private
retreats that are an embodiment of
wellness and luxury, operating in India’s
most sought after destinations, designed
with craftsmanship that offer the stillness
and charm of a peaceful retreat and pride
of experiencing contemporary hospitality,
integrating a seamless blend of regional
heritage and culture. Niraamaya Retreats
Surya Samudra Kovalam is submerged in
the luxury of secluded beaches, wellness
immersions and epicurean delights.
Nestled in a verdant cliff-top coconut
grove, the retreat is dotted with traditional
cottages that celebrate Kerala’s heritage
and culture. Live by the coast with
breathtaking views of the Arabian sea, the
infinity pool for your indulgence, private
sit-outs to watch glorious sunsets, the
charm of swaying palms and the sound
of crashing waves will take you on an
unforgettable sojourn. The award-winning
Niraamaya Spa is a haven for wellness
and rejuvenation seekers with the best
of traditional Ayurvedic and International
therapies, morning yoga sessions on a
cliff-edged platform, meditative wellness &
mindfulness capsules, hydrotherapy, steam
and sauna treatments. Gastronomic choices
are offered at two dining restaurants and a
scintillating bar.
Snow View Point, Gagar, Nainital, Uttarakhand-263132 ♦ Tel +91 9555 99 7650 ♦ soulitude.in
Soulitude in the Himalayas provides a unique mountain experience at an altitude
of 7,200 feet. Once you get there, one is face-to-face with the mighty Himalayas
and the peaks of Panchachuli, Pindari Glacier, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Kamet are all
visible from the property. Each of the 10 beautifully appointed rooms are unique and
designed to frame panoramic views ... they provide for a luxurious stay with great food
and warm hospitality. Soulitude has just the right ambience for rest, relaxation and
fun. With several beautiful walks and treks that start from Soulitude’s door, it’s an ideal
location to explore the Kumaon region with several lakes, including Nainital, Bhimtal,
Naukuchiatal and Sattal … all within an hour’s drive. Soulitude is the kind of place that
demands repeated visits.
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Jammu & Kashmir | India
Population: 12,541,302
How to Get in
• Plane
• Train
• Bus
Get Around
• Private Hire Taxi
• Buses
• Motorbike
The former princely state is a
perfect spot to enjoy India’s rugged
mountainous landscape, beautiful
shrines, rich cultural history and
delicious food.
India
NIMMU HOUSE
Country Hotel
Nangso House Nimmu, 194101 Leh, Jammu and Kashmir, India ♦
Tel +91-8447 757517 ♦ ladakh.nimmu-house.com
Attractions & Sights
• Gulmarg
• Kashmir Valley
• Mubarak Mandi Palace
• Peer Baba
Things to do
• Trekking
• Horseback Riding
• Camping
• Jeep Safari
Find out more - http://
www.jktourism.com/
Nimmu House is a century old noble house converted into a charming boutique
hotel nestled at 3100m of altitude in the heart of Himalayan panoramas, only
45 minutes from Leh. Nimmu House is the ideal place to immerse into Ladakhi culture,
discover monasteries, go trekking in the mountains, take time to recharge batteries or
enjoying fresh breeze far from the noise of busy cities. The hotel provides an exclusive
and convivial atmosphere, with 4 heritage rooms and 7 deluxe tents. Our meals are
cooked every day with healthy, fresh and local ingredients which can be served half-board
or full-board.
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India
VARANASI
HERITAGE WALK
Walking Tour Company
India
TASMAIS
VARANASI
ADVENTURE
Discover the Abode Of Lord
Shiva
Varanasi 221005, India ♦ Tel +91 078391 67321
India
Situated on the holy
Ganges River, Varanasi is
one of the oldest continuously
inhabited cities in the world. A
visit to Varanasi is a feast for all
the senses. Your eyes are filled
with colorful gurus and pilgrims
along the bustling ghats, as
well as beautiful, centuries-old
architecture, while your ears
take in the sounds of faithful
mantras, melodious hymns and
lively outdoor markets. Varanasi
Heritage Walk guides have well
over 50 years combined guiding
experience. They are passionate
about and devoted to Varanasi,
the holiest of holy Indian cities.
Along with their signature
personalized guided walking
tour of the narrow alleys in the
old city, Vivek and his staff offer
sunrise and sunset boat tours
and tours of some of the over
1000 sacred Hindu temples in
Varanasi. They provide any travelrelated
services guests may need
before arriving or while staying in
Varanasi.
A
s a Senior Writer at Travel and
Hospitality Awards, I had the
chance to visit the holy city of Varanasi
situated on the banks of the Ganges. I
recently had a chance to visit Varanasi,
locally known as Kashi, which is home to
over 23,000 temples! The best way to
explore this ancient city, with its ages old
buildings and temples lined up along its
winding lanes, is by walking. Mr. Vivek
from Varanasi Heritage Walk took me on
the path to discover this beautiful city.
The labyrinthine lanes can be tough to
navigate but this is the beauty of the city;
do explore them on your own too! From
the marvelous Kashi Vishwanath Temple
to the grand Aarti of the Ganges, this
city took me into a completely different
era. I also had the chance to go for the
early morning boat ride on the Ganges,
which gave me some spectacular views
of the numerous ghats of the city. Apart
from its rich heritage, Varanasi has loads
of gastronomic options for you. Chole
Kachori, Banarasi Paan, Tamatar Chaat,
Aloo Chaat, Thandai, and Lassi are
some of the things you must try on your
visit here. If you do have additional time
remaining, do visit the nearby ruins at
Sarnath.
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SRI LANKA TOP 3
Often overlooked in favour of its louder, brasher neighbour India, Sri Lanka is a
picturesque island nation in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Formerly known as
Ceylon, Sri Lanka has long been known around the globe for its tea plantations and its
unique and exquisite blends.
Arguably one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Sri Lanka houses a diverse
landscape. It is here where leopards and elephants prowl around the jungles, where
fragrant tea plantations cover the highlands and where the sound of monks chanting
echo through the valleys from the intricately designed Buddhist temples. Sri Lanka is still
a relatively undiscovered travel destination, so the time for venturing there is now before
the masses discover its appeal and beauty.
Visit the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Sri Lanka has a fascinating history. Centuries ago, the residents were worried about
falling victim to invasions from Europe and India. As a result, they frequently moved
their capital around in order to throw potential enemies off course. Polonnaruwa is
classified as a UNESCO world heritage site. Even those who do not consider themselves
as history buffs will be blown away by the beauty of this place and captivated by the
huge Buddhas and Regal statues that have been carved into the rock faces.
Most nationalities traveling to Sri Lanka must obtain a tourist visa in advance which is
then valid for 30 days. Of course, there are countless sights to see and things to do
in Sri Lanka that could keep you occupied well beyond this period, however these
are our top 3 Sri Lankan attractions.
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Explore Yala National Park
Though there are numerous national parks scattered throughout the Sri Lankan
countryside, Yala National Park is one of the largest and most diverse. The park doubles
as both a national park and an animal sanctuary and is divided into several different
sections. It is possible to take a safari here and witness some of the most rare and
endangered animals on earth - including leopards, elephants, crocodiles and numerous
other mammal and bird varieties.
A rather unique feature of Yala National Park is the opportunity to spend the night in
the midst of nature at one of the onsite wildlife bungalows where you can fall asleep
listening to the sounds of the jungle, and awaken early, ready to explore before the
masses arrive on a day trip.
Dambulla Cave Temple
There are plenty of spectacular
Buddhist temples to explore
while in Sri Lanka, however the
Dambulla cave temple is one
of the oldest. Dating back over
2000 years, the temple houses
dozens of intricately carved
Buddha statues: 40 which sit in
a meditative pose and 16 that
stand to attention.
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Sri Lanka
RAINBOW TOURS
SRI LANKA
The Award for Excellence
in Service
Sri Lanka ♦ rainbowtourssrilanka.com
With over 40 years of
promoting Sri Lankan culture
and tourism, we are amongst the most
experienced of local tour operators and
our team is well qualified and dedicated
to sharing the huge variety of options
available on our exquisite, exotic and
amazingly diverse “Resplendent Isle”.
We are an independent specialist with an
impeccable record of financial integrity
offering private tailor made cultural
round island touring itineraries, which
can include adventure experiences and
wild life safaris as well as a program
of Day Tours in and around Kandy.
Whatever your holiday interests, we can
deliver unforgettable and competitively
priced arrangements that will attract
you back to “Paradise” time and
time again! Highly recommended on
TripAdvisor – among other forums – with
top reviews and 4 consecutive years of
“Excellent 5 star” awards, we respond
to enquiries quickly, professionally and
in fluent English. Let us show you our
island’s fabulous treasures and rich local
traditions in security and comfort.
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MALDIVES
Image by: Mohamed Thasneem
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THE MALDIVES OVERVIEW
Globally renowned as being an epicenter for luxury travel, any
mention of the Maldives causes one to conjure up images of
impressive five star resorts, glamorous jet-setters and undisturbed
beautiful beaches extending as far as the eye can see. The main reason
that people are motivated to travel here is to relax, unwind and enjoy
the natural scenery, however the Maldives also possesses a fascinating
and multicultural history.
A Brief History of the Maldives
The beautiful island nation of the Maldives has existed as a Muslim
nation since 1153. Throughout the decades, it has maintained its
independence and remained a peaceful country, despite its neighbours
being powerful colonising countries. In the 15th century, the Maldives
was invaded by the Portuguese who evidently led a very cruel and
dictatorial rule over the island trying to force the Maldivians to convert
to Christianity or be murdered. Fortunately, the Maldivians fought off
the unwelcome invaders and maintained control over their nation.
Few records of history exist prior to the conversion to Islam in 1153,
however the first settlers to the island arrived in the 5th century BC, in
the form of Buddhist sailors from nearby Sri Lanka and India.
What Travellers Can Expect in the Maldives
No amount of research or browsing information and travel media can
prepare visitors for the sheer breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. A visit
here is like being transported to paradise and is certainly a once-in-alifetime
dream realised. With translucent blue waters, crystal clear skies
and sights that make you proclaim “wow!” at every turn, the Maldives is
without a doubt one of the most beautiful travel destinations on earth.
Aside from the scenic beauty and the opportunity to relax and unwind
at the beaches and resorts, there is plenty to do in the Maldives to keep
busy. Owing to the extensive and diverse marine life that lives beneath
the surface of the waters, the Maldives is one of the most popular
diving destinations in the world. Even those who are not PADI certified
have the chance to admire the creatures of the deep though - either by
snorkelling, or taking an excursion out to sea on a glass bottom boat.
The attitude to life in the Maldives is a lot more laid back and slow
paced - perfect for escaping from the pressures of everyday life.
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Maldives
PEARL SANDS
AT HURAA
Boutique Resort
K.Huraa, Republic of Maldives ♦ Tel +960 797 8883 ♦ pearlsandsofmaldives.com
Situated on the lush
island of Huraa in the
Maldives, Pearl Sands of
Maldives provides you the
perfect retreat away from
the moribund city life in an
exotic location in the midst
of nature. The Huraa Island
is located just 30 minutes
away from Male Airport
and thus provides ease of
access to guests as well.
The resort is located right
on the beach and each of
its 32 lavishly furnished
rooms is sea-facing and
comes with some amazing
amenities like private
balcony or patio, indoor
shower cubicle, and semioutdoor
shower cubicle.
Each of the rooms opens up
to the beach where you can
sit back on the sunbeds and
enjoy the cool breeze and
serene view with complete
privacy of the beach.
The Chavana by Mandara Spa in the resort
is a tranquil haven for healing where you can
soothe all your senses and pamper yourself
with some head-to-toe massages with a
wide range of traditional treatments. For
those who wish to go on a little adventure,
the Pearl Sands Dive Center, a 5 Star PADI
Dive Center, takes you on fun dives into
the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. You
could also rent equipment from there or
go for training courses as well. The resort
also offers tours to explore Male’s famous
attractions, including a submarine tour that
takes you 30 meters into the deep blue!
If you wish to explore the natural attractions
of the Maldives, the resort takes you on
such tours as well. You can go snorkeling
at coral reefs, discover villages, see the
underwater life in glass bottom boats, go
fishing or even rent your own boat and
explore the ocean. For those who wish to
have their most memorable day of their life
in the Maldives, the resort arranges dreamy
destination weddings for you too!
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Maldives
ROBINSON CLUB
MALDIVES
Award
Funamadua, Villingili 20077
Imagine you are lying on a white sand beach with a glass of your favorite drink and are
surrounded by the blue ocean. The sun is beaming and the sea winds mess up your hair.
There is no iota of worry on your mind and you are having the much-deserved time of your life.
Now turn this exact imagery into reality and visit the picturesque resort Club Robinson in the
island country of Maldives. This place is situated almost in the middle of nowhere, on one of the
islands of the Maldives archipelago. It is pristine and the promenade, built on the ocean, would
give you a sense that it is the pathway to one of the most scenic places on earth.
The Robinson Club Maldives provides a
variety of bungalow choices with an option
for a private pool. It also provides the
option for a Presidential Suite for an even
more luxurious stay at the club. The club is
an ideal vacation spot for couples, whether
they are honeymooning or looking for
a relaxing getaway from their day to day
life. During your stay, you can indulge in
a variety of activities - go for deep sea
excursions in the almost untouched coral
reefs of the island or surf your way on top
of the friendly waves of the ocean. You can
also take part in fitness activities like Yoga
or body & mind courses. You could even try
one of the many varieties of spa treatments
offered by the club.
The club ensures complete entertainment
by organizing live music or DJ everyday, so
that your nights are as colorful as your day.
If you want to just head out and spend a
romantic evening with your partner, then
worry not. The Robinson Club Maldives
offers a private bonfire by the beach with
room service, for you to add a little more to
your getaway and make it truly memorable.
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Maldives
BIBEE MALDIVES
Affordable Guest House
Bibee Maldives, K.Dhiffushi ♦ Tel +960 9621604 / +960 9621621 ♦ bibeemaldives.com
Bibee Maldives is a cozy
guest house tucked away
on the island of Dhiffushi in
the Maldives. If you wish to
experience the sunny life of
the Maldives, this is the place
you should head to. This
resort features 9 rooms where
you can relax and enjoy the
tranquility of the destination.
Each room is equipped with all
modern amenities required for
a comfortable stay such as rain
showers and minibar. You can
feast on the delicious local and
continental delicacies prepared
in the in-house restaurant and
you’re definitely in for a treat
if you love seafood; they really
know how to make it well!
During your stay, you could
go on sandbank trips, reef
fishing, snorkeling, canoeing,
surfing and more; the list is truly
endless. All of this is possible at
affordable rates thanks to Bibee
Maldives so that your vacation
isn’t heavy on your pocket too!
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DIVE MALDIVES
Diving in the Maldives is one of the island’s most popular
experiences. As a matter of fact, for many travellers diving is
the primary reason for their visit to the Maldives. With translucent blue
waters, vibrantly coloured coral reefs and an abundance of marine life,
the Maldives is one of the best diving destinations in the globe.
When to Go Diving in the Maldives
The Maldives is a pleasant destination for diving all year around owing
to its warm, steady climate. With that said, there are a few factors that
divers may want to take into consideration.
During the months of December through to May, there is little wind
and the seas are calm. The visibility in the water is generally better
during this time.
The months of June through to November see a lot more rainfall,
clouds and slightly rougher seas, though there are still periods of
sunny skies. From a marine life perspective, the creatures that occupy
these waters can be seen all year around.
Where to Dive in the Maldives
Diving in the Maldives is suited to all levels of Divers - from beginners
to advanced. Diving sites are scattered throughout the region close
to the resorts, however divers can also try their hand at live board
diving which is often considered the best choice.
The nice thing about diving here is the sheer volume and range of
marine life that can be witnessed among the stunning coral reefs. The
entire region is good for spotting various creatures, however the main
dive spots can be surmised as the North Male Atoll, the Ari Atoll, and
the Vaavu Atoll.
What You Can Expect to See
It is important to note that the area is expansive and diverse. It is
worth organising dives in both the North and South areas in order to
see the widest array of marine life possible. In the northern sectors,
divers can expect better macro life and shoals of fish, whereas in the
south sectors, there are more sharks. Reef sharks, hammerheads,
whale sharks, thresher sharks and tiger sharks are just a few of the
species that can be witnessed here as they feed on plankton.
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Maldives
RASDHOO
DIVE LODGE
Eco Friendly Resort
Rasdhoo Dive Center, BoduMagu, AA Rasdhoo – 09020, Republic of Maldives ♦
Tel +960 9577111 / +960 9577222 ♦ rasdhoodivelodge.com
Located on the island
of Rasdu, the Rasdhoo
Dive Lodge provides an
amazing getaway from
city life. It is conveniently
located at a 5-minute walking
distance from the beach and
provides easy access. You can
choose between a Deluxe
Queen Room, which comes
with a large double bed, and
a Deluxe Triple Room that
features a large double bed
and a single bed. Each room
is equipped with all amenities
possible to make your stay
comfortable. You will have
a safe and a minibar in the
room too. Drinking water,
tea & coffee is provided free
daily. You can sit back in the
comfort of your room and
see the lush garden spread
out in front of your room.
Moreover, the entire hotel is
Wi-Fi enabled to make it easy
for you to stay in touch with
the outside world.
Being a dive lodge, they have an awardwinning
dive center from where you
can go for eco-friendly dives into the
deep blue and explore the life beneath
the surface of the Indian Ocean. The
hotel also has a dedicated tour desk
from where you can book all tours to
explore the island or even other regions
of the Maldives without any hassle. You
could go snorkeling or fishing there and
enjoy your peaceful retreat. If you wish
to explore the area without having to
carry your luggage, they have a luggage
storage facility to save you from all that
trouble as well. The hotel makes sure
that your stay is comfortable by even
offering airport shuttle services.
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LOCAL TOURISM | A NEW APPROACH
Any mention of the Maldives is synonymous with the idea of luxury. The sheer
reference to the country draws up imagery of idyllic, undisturbed beaches,
translucent turquoise waters and paradisiacal luxury resorts where a lucky globetrotter has
the opportunity to be pampered to within an inch of their lives.
All things considered though, the Maldives has historically been considered as a destination
that is out of bounds to the majority of people. Famous for its expensive resorts and
exclusive beaches, the Maldives has long been considered a travel destination that many
of us dream of, but few can afford. With few options catering to the middle and working
classes, local people and businesses in the Maldives are starting to realise that there is a
demand to cater to these demographics and are opening up guesthouses or homestay
opportunities accordingly.
The Maldives as a More Accessible Travel Destination
Until recently, the Maldives had stringent laws in place in terms of accommodation,
which meant that tourism was only possible in the form of resorts built on uninhabited
islands. Fortunately for budget travellers, that law has recently been relaxed and as
such, dozens of guest houses have been popping up around the area. In fact, there are
presently over 400 guest houses in the Maldives making the region more accessible.
In terms of the specific offering, the guesthouses vary significantly between each other.
Some offer comparable luxury to five star hotels - boasting infinity pools and rooftop
bars that rival those of the pricey resorts in the area. On the other hand, some are
quaint, homestay style establishments that offer simplistic rooms and basic amenities.
In any case, since there are so many available (and likely to be many more opening up
going forward), there is certainly something to suit every budget and taste.
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Costs of Enjoying Local Tourism in the Maldives
The price differentiation between luxury Maldives resorts and guesthouses is
phenomenal. As a matter of fact, it is possible to stay at a guest house here for
approximately $40 per night or less. If you are traveling as a couple or as a group and
sharing the costs, that is incredibly good value.
It should also be noted that the budget accommodation options are also accompanied
by prices at local businesses and eateries that do not break the bank - eating out at
restaurants in the Maldives will set you back no more than $7 or $8 a meal, and drinking
tea at local tea rooms cost less than $0.40 cents a cup. Traveling the Maldives on a
budget is entirely possible, and the increase of guest houses opening up has helped
make this a more accessible travel destination for many.
A More Culturally Immersive Experience
There is no doubt that the Maldives tourism in general is beneficial to the local economy,
however the rise in the number of guest houses opening means that more money is
going directly to the local people, rather to large international chains as previously
when the only option was to stay at (and therefore give money to) the resorts.
When you opt to do a homestay or visit a local guesthouse, you have the added benefit
of enjoying a more culturally immersive experience. These accommodation types are
normally much more cosy, and the locals that host you can give you insider tips on their
favourite places to eat and hang out, as well as insight as to what island life is really like.
Though the Maldives is primarily a vacation spot for rest and relaxation, staying at guest
houses also offers a semblance of a cultural experience to travellers.
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Maldives
WEST SANDS
Luxury Guest House
The hotel features a restaurant on the ground floor where you can gorge on a wide
breakfast spread or even enjoy delicious meals all day long. The restaurant serves both
local traditional preparations and international cuisines. For your convenience, the
hotel features a 24-hour concierge desk to assist you and also has a special desk for
excursions. Moreover, you can go to the hotel’s very own private bikini beach and relax
or even have a few splashes in the ocean.
West Sands at Ukulhas, Vashamagu, Ukulhas 09030, North Ari Atoll, Maldives ♦
Tel +960 951-5150 ♦ westsandsukulhas.com
If you’re looking for a
great place to stay on
the paradisiacal island of
Ukulhas in the Maldives,
look no further. West
Sands provides fantastic
accommodation in the
midst of nature with every
possible amenity so
that you can have a laid
back vacation and get
pampered throughout
your stay. You can
choose your preferred
accommodation based
on your requirements
and taste in luxury. They
also have a special Sea
View Suite that has an
uninterrupted view of
the ocean and a balcony
where you can enjoy the
cool ocean breeze all day
long. If you’re traveling
as a family, they have
a special family suite
to accommodate your
entire family.
The hotel also arranges various activities on the island on request such as snorkeling.
You can choose to go for a manta safari and see giant manta rays or even head out for
a session of night fishing or dolphin watching. They have expeditions to spot whale
sharks and even take you to uninhabited islands for a relaxing and fun time with all
luxuries included! The hotel also provides airport transfers, free bikes to explore the
island and beach gear!
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Maldives
ISLAND BEACH
HOUSE
Modern Guest House
Hirundhu Magu, Malé, Maldives ♦ Tel +960 335-6999 ♦ ibh.mv
Here at Island Beach
House, we offer you
exclusive services and facilities
that would complement your
tropical beach vacation. We
take pride in pampering you
with the perfect breakfast
spread, either at Cooks – our
in-house Dining, or in bed.
Upon your request, the friendly
and enthusiastic team at Cooks
would be more than happy to
serve you the breakfast of your
choice.
We have exclusive services
and facilities here to make sure
that you get the best of “EAT,
SLEEP, BEACH & PLAY”.
Here at Island Beach House,
we are a family. We love, care,
laugh and do our best to make
you feel at home.
It’s our greatest pleasure to
ensure that all your needs are
met and your experience with
us is as magical as possible.
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