Travel & Hospitality Awards | Asia 2021 | www.thawards.com

Asia
2021

TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY
AWARD WINNER
2021

Sponsor and
Partners

Team
Contents
CEO
Rob Bruce
Editor-In-Chief
Katherine Lozell
Art Director
Marcs Bacera
32
Maldives
Director Of Sales
Stanley Lucas
Awards Director
Brian Anson
Editorial Liaison Manager
David Hyde
50
Indonesia
Director Of Marketing
Azim Aftab
Social Media Manager
Apple Gatus
Senior Writers
Tasmai Dave, Jacqui Irvine, & Joseph Wilton
44
Singapore
Senior Designers
Antoine Jackson & Hafiz Arslan
Awards Managers
Adam Cole, Joseph Malabanan, Zach Ford,
Peter Clement, & Joyce Lee
Research Managers
Jerald Jaime & Mukul
Contributing Writers
Tracy Morgan, Joseph Malabanan, & Aisha Ahmed
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Criteria
10
India
58
Philippines
66
Japan

Criteria
Service
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.
Style & Design
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
though its design and construction, or
offers a design that is sympathetic to
the natural surroundings of its location.
Local Knowledge
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.
Facilities
Award-winning guest rooms come in all
shapes and sizes, but they all have one
thing in common – a home-away-fromhome
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.
Marketing
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.
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Criteria
Diversity
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.
Customer Reviews
What better way is there to know about
an organization than by getting first
hand reviews? Customers are the best
judges of any service 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 gives us
valuable inputs for the other criteria
as well.
Industry Knowledge
It is of prime importance that an
organization has thorough industry
knowledge. Without knowing the nit-bits
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.
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 location-based 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.
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9

New Delhi, India
India
Know Before You Go
Delhi The Heart of India
Karma Chalets
The Kerala Top 3
B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort
The Bait & Hook
Jaisalmer The Golden City
Hotel Killa Bhawan
Hamari Haveli

Know Before
You Go
India is one of the most visited countries in Asia and
tends to be a bucket list destination for many. This vast
South Asian country has much to offer with its ancient
roots, long history, varied landscapes, fantastic food,
friendly locals, wellness culture, diversity, and to top it all
off it’s a relatively cheap place to visit.
With a population of over one billion, thousands of ethnic
groups, and diverse traditions it’s easy to get confused and
know how to behave especially for first timers. To help you
prepare we’ve put together a few helpful tips.
Do
Aim to dress conservatively, cover
legs and shoulders. In a temple or
mosque cover your head. This makes
a good first impression which counts
for a lot in India.
Greet people with a huge smile and
say “Namaste” or if you’re in a Muslim
majority neighbourhood or area then
greet with “Asalamalakim”.
Use Uber or ride hailing apps to get
around, these are cheaper than what
taxis will quote you. If you must go
with a taxi, then negotiate and agree
on a price at the start of the journey.
Book your train online and always
book for a reserved seat or sleeper.
Standing class is inexpensive but
extremely crowded.
Accept all food and drink should you
find yourself dining at home with a
local. It is considered rude to refuse
anything.
– Ignore ticket touts and street salesman, a lot of the time they’re trying to
sell something at extortionate prices or to scam you. Tell them “No” and
walk away. Indians are exceptionally hospitable and extremely friendly, but
these aren’t the people on the streets coming at you trying to get you to
part with your cash
– Haggle for goods or services. Bargaining over the cost of something is the
norm in India and many sellers enjoy the process.
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Don’t
Eat food or pass objects with your left. In
India the left hand is believed to be unclean
and associated with the bathroom.
Be concerned about punctuality. Although in
many countries it’s rude to be late, in India
it’s completely acceptable and expected.
Being 15-30 minutes or even an hour late is
not uncommon.
Point your finger or feet at people. Feet are
considered unclean so point it at people
or touching objects with them should be
avoided.
Outright decline an invitation to someone’s
home, this can be considered disrespectful.
Although saying “No” assertively can be
useful in some situations, when it comes to
an invite into someone’s home then it’s best
to say something along the lines “I’ll try” or
“I’ll let you know”.
– Engage in PDA. India is primarily a conservative society so engaging in acts of kissing, hugging or hand holding with
your significant other is considered inappropriate and crude.
– Accept damaged bills, as other vendors won’t accept them especially from a foreigner, but they’ll be quick to give
them to you.
– Give to beggars, even though they may pull at your heartstrings. There are two reasons for this, the first is it may
lead to more beggars swarming and aggressively following you, and the second is that the money may go to an
underground network that the beggars work for.
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Delhi
The Heart of India
An ancient capital that has it all, once you step foot in
this vibrant metropolis, you’ll quickly realise there is
nowhere else in the world quite like Delhi.
Getting in & Getting Around
There are two ways into the city internationally, first via
airplane. Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the
busiest in the world and extremely well connected. It is a
hub for many major airlines including the national carrier
AirIndia. The other way in is via bus from neighbouring
Nepal, buses depart from Kathmandu and Chitwan.
Getting around Delhi is an adventure. Rickshaws are
world famous and a novel way to get around especially
for shorter trips. For most journeys we recommend one or
combination of the metro, buses, and trains.
Things To Do
Delhi is a treasure trove
for history lovers. Many
attractions in the city have
a long history that’s been
very well preserved such as
the Red Fort, Jama Masjid,
Humayan’s Tomb, the India
Gate, and the Lodhi Garden.
Shopping in Delhi is a treat,
there are bustling bazaars
dotted all over the city.
The Dilli Haat bazaar has
a traditional feel about it,
Paharganj is a great place
to pick up a bargain, and
the Chandni Chowk is a vast
bazaar that’s fun to explore.
For a more modern shopping
experience check out the
Select City Walk Mall.
Food
Indian food is world renowned, and Delhi
is at the centre of it all. You won’t find it
too difficult to enjoy dishes from all over
India but if you’re in Delhi the local treats
are the way to go. Whether it be at a highend
restaurant or street food stall the
Chole Bhature, Parathas, and Chaat, are
unmissable.
Delhi’s significance as an international city
means you can easily find world cuisines
such as Japanese, Chinese, Italian,
Korean, Iranian, and Middle Eastern.
Accommodation
If you’re staying in the city, we suggest the
LaLit New Delhi, a luxurious and elegant
establishment. If you prefer to stay
outside of the city then we recommend TH
Award Winner Karma Chalets, located only
45 minutes away in the princely state of
Haryana. Check out their in-depth profile
on the next page.
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Karma Chalets
India | Boutique Hotel
If you’re in need of a weekend getaway, then you couldn’t ask for a more
perfect place than the quaint and award-winning Karma chalets. A
stunning boutique hotel nestled within the environmental wonderland
known as the Karma Lakelands, in the majestic state of Haryana,
India. For Vanshika Ahuja - Creative Head and Director at Karma
Chalets, it came as a bit of a surprise when her parents, Anu
Khurana and Ajay Ahuja decided to open Karma Chalets. Welltraveled
and friendly, both Anu and Ajay had learned much
about hospitality from staying in big 5-star hotels and
smaller boutique properties all over the world. When
the opportunity came in 2016 to create a place of
their own, both saw it as a chance to apply all that
they had learned, show off the little touches that
make for a memorable experience, and most
importantly of all, to design a place in their
own imagination that reflects the right
way to approach hospitality.
Working tirelessly alongside handpicked designers, Anu
brought in her own homely touches like moving away
from traditional paintings and instead, beautifying
the walls with photographs from her travels. Much of
her work has left it’s mark and the property perfectly
balances old-world charm with contemporary design.
In 2018 they opened a restaurant ‘Under the Neem’ and
Spa called ‘Nimoli’. Much to Vanshika’s delight, both
have been a resounding success and the restaurant
in particular has a strict focus on fresh local produce.
Both the restaurant and spa have come to be seen as
the finishing touches to Anu and Ajay’s vision. Strolling
around the hotel grounds between the splendid
Chalets you’ll appreciate the peace and tranquillity. The
outstanding setting of Karma Lakelands means there is
much to do - such as cycling, nature walks, birdwatching
as well as an on-site golf course, swimming pool, animal
farm, and bee apiary.
The Karma family invites you to come find a haven that
you would be glad to have discovered. Relax, rejuvenate
and rejoice while they take care of the rest!
NH-8, Sector 80 Gurugram,
Haryana, India 122002
Tel +91 9958635559
GET IN TOUCH
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The Kerala
Top 3
The tropical paradise of Kerala is beautiful, warm, and
inviting. The strip of land that makes up Kerala, on
India’s South-Eastern Coast, is awash with lush greenery,
beautiful sandy beaches, green hills, mountains, world
class spas, friendly locals, excellent food, an array of
wildlife, and cultural diversity. There is much on offer in
Kerala in terms of things to do and see. While it’s no easy
task we’ve managed to pick three unmissable activities for
any visitor.
Cruise the Backwaters
Despite being home to several stunning sandy beaches Kerala’s
main attraction is its amazing backwaters. The lush landscape,
diverse wildlife, rural villages, and extensive water network make
backwater cruising a real treat in Kerala. A popular trip is from
Kollam to Alappuzha.
Experience Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an ancient healing tradition that has its origins on
the Indian subcontinent. Kerala’s close historical association with
Ayurveda, beautiful climate and easy access to herbal plants
means it’s now considered the centre of the practice in India.
Oil massages, yoga, special diets, weeklong cleanses, beathing
exercises, enemas, and herbal remedies are all on offer and stays
at one of these Ayurveda spas can last up to one month.
Enjoy a Kathakali Show
Kathakali is a form of classical Indian dance that’s unique to
Kerala. The highly trained and dedicated dancers use colourful
costumes, extravagant makeup, a variety of postures, refined
gestures, and extensive expressions to tell mythological Hindu
stories. The dance is complemented with drumming and music.
We recommend dropping into a cultural centre to see such a
performance, you won’t regret it and it’ll add a touch of culture
to your trip.
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B’Canti Boutique
Beach Resort
India | Boutique Resort
Elegance, luxury, and intrigue await at the stunning B’Canti Boutique
Beach Resort.
Located on the seafront in the beautiful state of Kerala, the B’Canti
Boutique Beach Resort is a well-run, award-winning property
that offers much in the way of on-site services, facilities, and
accommodation.
Rooms are contemporary and carry a rustic charm, the
options start from a Deluxe Room right the way up to a
Superior Sea View Room with a Superior Deluxe option
in the middle. All rooms come with air conditioning,
high-quality toiletries, mini-bar, cable TV, in
room safe, coffee & tea making apparatus, and
a balcony. Should you choose the Superior
Sea View Room then expect a private
balcony offering panoramic views of the
Arabic Sea.
In terms of on-site facilities and services guests are in
for a treat. Kerala is famed as a haven for Ayurveda and
B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort is a happy to offer this as
a specialised service. There is an Ayurveda doctor and
specialist team on hand at the resort, offering personal
consultation and uniquely tailored holistic therapies.
Massages, yoga, special diets, meditation, and much
more are available. To add to this, you can even book long
stay packages designed to tackle specific ailments.
In keeping with the wellness theme, the resort is home to
a magnificent ocean facing swimming pool, the perfect
place to escape the heat or relax after a long day.
For delicious local cuisine with a sea view look no further
than the Bait & Hook Restaurant based on-site. The menu
is an enchanting blend of a contemporary and traditional
cooking styles all served in a rustic bamboo and coconut
laden décor.
All in all, if you’re stuck on where to stay in Kerala or all of
India for that matter then we’ve found the perfect place
for you. Go check in at the exquisite B’Canti Boutique
Beach Resort!!
GET IN TOUCH
B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort, Sree Eight,
Edava, Varkala 695311, Kerala, India
Tel +91 9846445000
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The Bait & Hook
India | Seaside Restaurant
When it comes to food, Indian cuisine is amongst the best in the world, within
India however each state has its own gastronomic profile and Kerala is
no different. Which begs the question, where must one go to find good
quality Keralan cuisine? Well, we have the answer, it’s the quaint and
charming Bait & Hook.
Based in the stunning B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort, the Bait
& Hook restaurant is a food lovers dream. Focused on local
flavours and a variety of styles the Bait & Hook restaurant
serves up delectable dishes with a stunning sea view and
in a uniquely traditional setting. The décor is made up
of traditional Keralan elements such as the bamboo
frames, teak wood furniture, and a coconut leaf
roof.
It’s no surprise given its coastal location that the Bait &
Hook prides itself on fresh seafood dishes, favourites
include the Kerala Fish Masala, Fish Moilee, and Butter
Prawns Masala. If you’re not in the mood for Keralan food
than worry not as the extensive menu at Bait & Hook
means you can choose from a variety of international
dishes such as pasta, pizza, noodles, burgers, and much
more.
For dessert we recommend the pastries, or a slice of cake
baked fresh every day. If that’s not your thing than you
can’t go wrong with the fruit salad. Kerala’s unique climate
means there is a wide range of fruit available that’s always
fresh, juicy, and delicious.
Candlelight Dinner by the Sea
This spectacular offering from Bait & Hook is perfect for any
romantic occasion. It involves a private dining experience
organised on the beach surrounded by candles and
flowers with a dedicated waiter for the evening.
GET IN TOUCH
The Bait & Hook: Seaside Restaurant,
B’Canti Boutique Beach Resort, Sree Eight,
Edava, Varkala 695311, Kerala, India
Tel +91 9846445000
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25

Jaisalmer
The Golden City
Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City, captures the imagination.
Looking like something straight out of a fairy tale about a bustling
metropolis nestled at the heart of the desert, Jaisalmer is unlike anything
else in India. Expect architectural gems, bustling marketplaces, sand
adventures, colourful locals, and a towering “living” fort.
Getting In & Getting Around
There is no direct international route available into Jaisalmer, the best
option is to land in Delhi first. Jaisalmer Airport is small and is serviced
by domestic flights from a few select cities such as Delhi and Jaipur.
There is an express overnight train service from Delhi, as well as a daily
bus from Jaipur.
Jaisalmer is a relatively small city and can be easily covered by foot or
bicycle. Rickshaws and government operated taxis are another option.
Things To Do
The big draw of Jaisalmer is its magnificent fort, the only on in India inhabited
by locals. Within the walls you’ll find several hotels, shops, homes, and small
businesses. The fort itself is beautiful, it glistens in the sun and makes for a
stunning view during sun set.
The Havelis are popular sites and can be found all over town especially within
the city walls. These structures are key heritage markers. Some are still lived in
and other converted to hotels or museums.
It’s no surprise, given its location, that Jaisalmer is popular for desert adventure.
Overnight trips in desert camps are popular as well as camel safaris, dunebashing,
quad biking, parasailing, and paramotoring.
Food
You’ll find plenty of restaurants offering international cuisine and street
food vendors selling local delicacies. Ker Sangri is one such dish unique to
Jaisalmer, this tangy and sour delicacy is centred around Ker Berries and
Sangri Beans both unique to the region.
Accommodation
We have two suggestions, the first within the fort is the renowned Hotel Killa
Bhawan, and the second sitting just outside the fort is the homely Hamari
Haveli. Both are profiled in depth on the next few pages.
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Hotel Killa Bhawan
India | Luxury Hotel
Nestled within the walls of the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, the Hotel Killa
Bhawan offers up a heritage treat like no other. Elegant décor, excellent
service, and beautiful rooms, await all those lucky enough to stay at this
stunning hotel.
This boutique hotel proposes several heritage rooms, all designed with
the trademark charm and refinement consistent with the rest of the
property. The Heritage Rooms come with a few different options,
you can choose a room with or without A/C, or as part of a shared
bathroom or private en-suite. These rooms offer the best
option on budget and for those are eco-friendly inclined.
Our recommendation is the much bigger but equally as
charming Heritage Suite that comes complete with
a private terrace, spectacular views, balcony, airconditioning,
and luxury toiletries. For the more
daring traveller however we recommend the
Killa Bhawan’s tent, located out in the desert
about 40km from the property. Here a
sense of adventure, starry night skies,
and gorgeous sand dunes await.
On-site services at the property are
exceptional: on top of free wifi, complimentary
tea, coffee, and mineral water all day long
and breakfast included, guests can find a
currency exchange, a tour desk, laundry
facilities, room service, car rental service,
and free train station transfers. For a day of
exploring and activity the staff are on hand
to help arrange anything you’d like. Popular
options include a Jaisalmer jeep safari,
sunset & evening camel safari, a night in the
desert, and in-dept guided tours of the fort
and wider city.
If you’re looking for the perfect place in the
right location with world class service in
Jaisalmer, then look no further than the Hotel
Killa Bhawan. You won’t be disappointed!
On Fort, 445 Kotri Para
Jaisalmer, 3450001
Rajasthan, India
Tel +91 2992 251 204
info@hotelkillabhawan.com
www.hotelkillabhawan.com
GET IN TOUCH
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Hamari Haveli
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India | Unique Homestay
Hamari Haveli translates into English as “your mansion”, a way one can
describe their own home, and this is what you get a Hamari Haveli, a
homely experience. If you’re someone who enjoys a big, branded hotel stay
where you are guaranteed consistency in facilities, rooms, and staff, then
this isn’t the place for you. At Hamari Haveli you can expect a warm
personable stay where staff treat guests like family and the overall
feel is authentic.
To start with the property only offers two rooms meaning
more attention and focus on guests. The room options
are the Deluxe Front Room and the Deluxe Suite Room.
Both are of a similar size and are well designed, guests
can expect air conditioning, a private safe, fine
toiletries, free parking, room service, bathrobes,
daily housekeeping, laundry service, tea &
coffee apparatus, water bottles, and free
wi-fi throughout the property. In addition
to this, guests are treated to a delicious
traditional breakfast and dinner made
up of the best local produce.
The feel homeliness is further enhanced by the fact that as
a guest you have full use of the property, at your disposal
is the spacious lobby, a serene lounge area, a chilled
rooftop, and even a modern kitchen, if you prefer to rustle
up something yourself. If you’d like to get out for the day a
city tour, a jeep safari, sunset safari, and even a night in the
desert can be arranged.
For a “home away from home” type stay in the Golden City
there’s only one option, Hamari Haveli!!
Gundi para main chowk
345001, Jaisalmer,
Rajasthan India
Tel +91-9929905716
bhanu@hamarihaveli.com
https://www.hamarihaveli.com
GET IN TOUCH
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Maldives
The Maldives
A Brief History of Tourism
in the Maldives
Kurumba Maldives
Overwater Villas Pinnacle
of Maldivian Luxury
Reethi Faru Resort
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A Brief History
of Tourism in
the Maldives
The Maldives is a premier travel destination, this small archipelago
state is associated with luxury island resorts, fine dining
restaurants, and world class service. Traditionally thought of as a
romantic destination given its popularity among honeymooners,
attitudes are shifting and it’s now increasingly popular with families
albeit from the high-end market.
Tourism to this small nation didn’t actually begin until the 70’s when
George Corbin, an Italian travel agent, was on the lookout for an
under-the-radar tourism destination and in 1971 met with Ahmed
Naseem from the Maldivian embassy, who then bought him to the
untouched islands. George instantly fell in love and came back with
journalists and photographers. Then a year later opened, Travel and
Hospitality awards winner, Kurumba Island Resort in 1972. The first
Island resort of the Maldives, Kurumba was booked solid for a few
years straight and on the back of this many foreign investors saw
potential.
In came the big brands, hotel chains,
investment firms, and airlines leading
to today where tourism is the largest
industry in the Maldives, boasting over 130
island resorts. Pre-covid the country was
consistently getting over a million tourists
per year.
Recently there has been an attempt to shift
attitudes by opening the Maldives to the
mid-range and even budget travel market,
Air Asia now operates regular flights to Male
from China, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia,
Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.
Several hotels and guesthouses have
cropped up in the capital and small little
island towns, that are much cheaper than
the private resorts and offer a more local
experience.
With the Maldives being a bucket list
destination for many and becoming more
easily accessible it’s fair to say the future
is bright for tourism to this magnificent
archipelago state.
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Kurumba Maldives
Maldives | Family Friendly Resort
Located minutes from the airport and the capital city Male, Kurumba is a staple
of the Maldivian tourism industry. Opened officially in 1972, Kurumba is the
country’s first private resort and the foundation for the nation booming
tourism scene. No trip to the Maldives is complete without a few nights
at Kurumba.
When it comes to accommodation, Kurumba does not disappoint
guests can find a wide range of options to suit their needs. The
Superior Room is a fantastic starting option, those looking
for a more room may want to consider the Deluxe and
Beachfront Bungalows, both of which a perfect for small
families. For slightly bigger groups there is a Family
Villa available or those interested in a private pool
may want to consider the Deluxe Pool Villa or the
Garden Pool Villa. The real jewel in the crown
however is the magnificent Two Bedroom
Kurumba Residence, ideally suited to large
families, the residence occupies a prime
beach front location and comes with
its own private swimming pool.
In terms of services and facilities Kurumba offers
much of what you’d expect from a private Maldivian
resort such as several pools, a state-of-the-art gym,
tennis courts, a luxury spa, gift shop, and several
restaurants offering everything from Indian food to
Sushi. Families can expect to enjoy a purpose-built
children’s centre complete with an outdoor play area
and children’s swimming pool. Diving, watersports,
a boat cruise, a city tour, and so much more can be
arranged. A novel offering from Kurumba is a football
pitch with regular games on offer.
One of the most appealing aspects of staying at
Kurumba is its excellent location. The resort is located
minutes from the main international airport, making it
easily accessible and ideal after a long flight or for a
large family.
All in all Kurumba is a beacon of excellence in what a
private luxury Maldivian resort should be, the service
is impeccable, facilities are excellent, the dining world
class, and there is plenty to do.
Vihamanaafushi, 08340,
Republic of Maldives
Tel +960-664-2324
GET IN TOUCH
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Overwater Villas
Pinnacle of
Maldivian Luxury
The dream of staying in an overwater villa is oftentimes
associated with a luxury Maldivian island resort. Despite
the concept first being realised in the South Pacific, it’s
in the Maldives where these villas have really developed
into the luxurious lodging we see today. In a country
where private island resorts and overwater villas are the
norm, architects have been given the time and backing to
develop some truly magnificent structures.
What could be better than staying in a private island resort
in your own private villa built over the sea? Choosing one
to stay in from so many is no easy feat, to help you make
the we’ve selected four distinct overwater villas that you
should definitely consider for your next trip to the Maldives.
Understated Elegance at Reethi Faru
Beautiful natural light, wooden ceilings, and warm décor,
the water villas at Reethi Faru are elegant and charming.
Perfect for a romantic break. For a full in depth feature
on Reethi Faru Resort turn over to page 42.
Water Villa
Oceans of fun at Ozen Bolifushi
The Ocean Pool Suite at Ozen Bolifush (formerly the Jumeirah Vittaveli) is a truly magnificent structure but what really
makes it unique is the 23-metre water slide. Unleash your inner child!
Ocean Pool Suite With Slide
38 39

Private Rooftop at
Jumeirah Maldives
Described as a “penthouse”
given that it has two floors
and flat rooftop rather than
thatches more commonly
seen in the Maldives. The
rooftop allows for stargazing, a
private cinema experience, or
even a private BBQ.
Prestige Water Villa
Unique Design at COMO Cocoa Island
The Dhoni Water Villas are designed to resemble
traditional Maldivian fishing boats. These
spacious bungalows come complete with a
private terrace, direct ocean access, and ultraluxurious
amenities.
Dhoni Water Villa
Big Group at Niyama
Private Islands
Although not a single structure, this
one still makes the list. It’s a set of
overwater villas designed to welcome
larger groups and appropriately
named the crescent because of
its distinctive layout. There are five
private pool villas in total that can
accommodate up to 14 adults and
8 children, they come complete
with a butler, a private chef, and
housekeeper.
The Crescent
40 41

Reethi Faru Resort
Maldives | Boutique Luxury Resort
For a luxurious and tranquil experience in private and pristine conditions look
no further than the magnificent Reethi Faru Resort. Set in the stunning
Raa Atoll, Reethi Faru stands out for excellent service, high-quality facilities,
a wide variety of room options, and dedication to an eco-friendly and
sustainable approach.
The range of accommodation at Reethi Faru is quite staggering,
starting with a Garden Villa leading all the way up to a stunning
Two-Bedroom Water Villa, in between you can expect to find
several water villas, private pool villas, and two-bedroom
suites. As a standard guests can expect luxury
amenities, private room entrance, a personal deck or
terrace, satellite TV, room service, air conditioning,
mini-bar, and so much more.
Food lovers are in for a treat, Reethi Faru is home to six
restaurants and six bars, serving a wide range of international
and local cuisine. Vakaru Restaurant is a buffet restaurant with
3 meal times a day from breakfast, lunch to dinner. For a quick
bite Raalhu Café is a good bet, and the Dhiyavaru Restaurant
is perfect for food with a view. Our favourite is without a doubt
the Reethi Grill, located on the beach, diners can enjoy tandoor
grilled cuisine and seafood and seafood in the privacy of a
personal cabana. Head to the Sunset Bar to unwind and enjoy a
drink with the view of the sun setting over the horizon.
Guests have an array of things to do, this includes access to
a world class watersports centre where canoeing, stand-uppaddle
boarding, windsurfing, jet skiing, fishing, boat tours and
so much more can be organised. Those looking to below the
water should enrol at the fantastic on-site diving school, Sea-
Explorer. The sports and health centre is fully equipped with a
state-of-the-art gym, multi-purpose courts, and yoga classes.
The centre piece of leisure experience on the island is the
opulent Coconut Spa, offering the finest spa treatments and a
wellness inducing atmosphere.
GET IN TOUCH
Filaidhoo, Maldives
Tel +960 4004000
42
43

Merlion Park, Singapore
Singapore
Singapore Super 6
Food Playground
44 45

Singapore
Super 6
Singapore is a mega city like no other, it’s a melting pot
of several cultures and a hub for international travel.
An amazing culinary scene, superb nightlife, state-of-theart
hotels, exciting adventure experiences and so much
more await. We’ve picked out six of the best things to do
next time you’re in Singapore
Stroll through the Garden By The Bay
One of Singapore’s most visited and recognisable tourist
attractions, the Gardens By the Bay is a perfect place for
a stroll. Here you’ll find futuristic gardens that are home to
super-trees, biodomes, and an impressive skywalk.
Have Fun at
Universal Studios
Located as part of Resort
World on Sentosa Island,
the Universal Studios theme
park makes for a special
day out. Packed with over
20 attractions and rides in
several themed zones this
one is perfect for families.
Shop on Orchard Road
Singapore’s answer to London’s Oxford Street is a
shopaholics dream, lined with independent boutiques,
international brands, café’s, salons, spa’s, offices, hotels,
restaurants, and entertainment spots.
Enjoy Michelin Star Street Food
In Singapore you can now enjoy two of the cheapest
Michelin starred restaurants in the world. The first is the
Hong Kong Soy Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle stall
selling soy-sauce chicken and BBQ pork. The second is
Hill Street Tai Hwa Pork Noodle, a family-owned noodle
bar specialising in minced meat noodles.
Explore Little India
One of Singapore’s most vibrant and distinctive
neighbourhoods, Little India is a marvel for the senses.
Expect incense scented streets, colourful temples,
delicious smells from the eateries, and a warm welcome
from the locals.
Enrol at a Culinary School
There is no doubting the fact that Singapore is a culinary
centre but why not take a little bit of this home with
you? With food playground, a Travel and Hospitality
award winner, you can. This culinary school offers a fully
immersive and culturally centred cooking experiences.
Find out more on the next page.
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48
Food Playground
Singapore | Culinary Experience
Food Playground is a cooking school based in Singapore offering cultural cooking classes
and culinary team building workshops. Since being founded in 2012 there has been a
focus on one unique social mission; To provide dignified employment opportunities for
local stay-at-home mothers who face barriers to employment.
Food Playground’s signature Cultural Cooking Class offers a culturally immersive
experience for tourists and food lovers alike, ultimately a unique opportunity
to learn more about Singapore’s fantastic gastronomic heritage. The
Culinary Team-building Workshops on the other hand, aid organisations
and business travellers in bonding and achieving various corporate
objectives like assimilation of new team members, breaking down
silos, enhancing creativity, and learning.
In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic severely impacted Food
Playground’s business as the number of tourists and business
travellers to Singapore dried up. This however, only encouraged
innovation and within 4 weeks, Food Playground was able
to pivot its business model completely to offer online
culinary experiences thus capitalising on the surge
in demand for virtual learning bought about by
lockdowns and work-from-home arrangements.
Food Playground’s virtual cooking classes quickly took off
and gained positive feedback, mainly due to the convenient
nature of being able to enrol in classes without the need
to visit Singapore or even leave home. The virtual culinary
classes also opened a whole new revenue stream leading to
an influx of new corporate customers that required a virtual
team bonding activity able to address demands bought on
by being in different countries and time zones, something
Food Playground was unable to offer pre-Covid.
Throughout the pandemic, Food Playground has continued to
build on its strong reputation both locally and internationally,
for delivering the finest culinary learning experience while
at the same time, making a positive impact on the local
community through the empowerment of women.
This has led to Food Playground to being the only culinary
school in Singapore to achieve a PERFECT 5.0 RATING on
both Google and Tripadvisor.
24A Sago Street, Singapore 059020
Tel +65 9452 3669
enquiries@foodplayground.com.sg
https://www.foodplayground.com.sg
GET IN TOUCH
49

Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia
Jakarta The Big Durian
ASTON Priority Simatupang
Hotel & Conference Center
50 51

Jakarta
The Big Durian
This bustling metropolis, nicknamed the Big Durian, is jam packed with things to do
and a joy to explore. With over 10 million inhabitants Jakarta is a cosmopolitan city
that carries a unique charm.
Getting in & Getting Around
The only way to get in from abroad is via airplane. There are two airports in Jakarta.
Soekarno-Hatta is the city’s international airport and a hub for Garuda Airlines, Indonesia’s
national carrier. Halim Perdanakusuma Airport is much smaller and serves domestic
scheduled flights, private charters, and military flights.
Jakarta is well connected to the rest of the country via buses, train, ferries, and an
extensive road network should you want to drive in.
Jakarta is a vast city with a confusing layout making it a challenge to navigate. Getting
around by car or taxi can be tricky during traffic hours so it’s better to use the commuter
trains as it’s more efficient. The Bajaj is a unique mode of transport similar to Thailand’s
Tuk-tuk, another popular local method is to use motorbike taxis which can cut through
most traffic.
Things To Do
Any trip to learn about the city’s
history should start in the area Kota
Tua, a Dutch legacy area, where many
old buildings have been preserved
and where the Jakarta’s history
museum is located.
For a concrete jungle of a city Jakarta
has a surprising green side to it. The
city boasts over 1000 parks. Our picks
of the lot are the National Monument
Park, Pluit Park, and Menteng Park.
The shopping malls in Jakarta are
modern, grand, and offer everything
you’d expect in terms of retail, dining,
and things to do. For an alternative
shopping experience, you should
check out one of the many bustling
markets dotted all over the city, Pasar
Baru would be our pick of the bunch.
52 53

Food
Thanks to its cosmopolitan
population Jakarta is
home to thousands of
restaurants serving a
wide array of international
cuisine.
In terms of local dishes
Nasi Uduk and Nasi Ulam
are a must have. Both
are rice dishes cooked in
coconut milk Nasi Uduk
is served with choices of
various topping whereas
Ulam is served with
fried mince beef, sweet
fried tempeh, and salad
toppings.
Jakarta, Indonesia
Accommodation
We recommend none other than Travel and Hospitality award winner the Aston Priority
Simatupang Hotel and Conference Centre. Turn over to the next page to find out more.
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ASTON Priority Simatupang
Hotel & Conference Center
Indonesia | Business Hotel of the Year 2021 - Jakarta
Jakarta, May 2021 – Strategically located in the business district of Jalan T.B. Simatupang
Kav.9, with easy access to the Jakarta – Bintaro ring road tollways, the ASTON
Priority Simatupang Hotel & Conference Center has 277 rooms that are categorized into
several types of rooms from the normal standard Deluxe room, Premier, Junior Suite,
Executive Suite, and the Governor Suite, this hotel offers a comfortable ambiance
in the middle of the central business district area. The concept of this hotel is a
modern styled modern equipped with high-tech facilities, such as IP TV and
motion sensors to control the air conditioner, etc. All rooms feature a marble
bathroom, ergonomic workspace, and plush bedding.
A large sky ballroom sits on the highest floor of the 26th floor that
can accommodate up to 500 delegates where the hotel also has an
additional 15 meeting rooms that are always in high demand utilized
for many events, from small meetings to grand launchings and
wedding events. The hotel also has four Food & Beverage
outlets; the Canary Restaurant, Momiji Japanese Restaurant,
Momiji Lounge, and the LA Lounge. For relaxation and sports
activities, this hotel provides a Spa located on B1 Level, a
Swimming pool on the Ground Floor, and a Gym on the
2nd Floor.
For reservations, visit the website simatupang.
astonhotelsinternational.com or can contact +6221 7883
8777 or email simatupanginfo@astonhotelsinternational.
com. Download the Archipelago International Membership
app for special stay rates. Follow @astonsimatupang on
social media and share your moments with the hashtag
#astonhotelsinternational.
About Archipelago International
Southeast Asia’s largest privately owned and independent
hotel management group, operating over 150 hotels with
a further 50+ under development across Southeast Asia,
the Caribbean and the Middle East. Trusted hotels with
a long track-record and 20,000 rooms in more than 60
destinations with brands including ASTON, Collection by
ASTON, The Alana, Huxley, Kamuela, Harper, Quest, NEO,
favehotels and Nordic. archipelagointernational.com
GET IN TOUCH
ASTON Priority Simatupang Hotel &
Conference Center
Jl. Let. Jend. T.B. Simatupang Kav. 9
Kebagusan South Jakarta 12520 - Indonesia
Tel +62 21 7883 8777
simatupanginfo@astonhotelsinternational.com
57

The Philippines
Manila Pearl of the Orient
Busuanga The Hidden Gem of the Philippines
La Estancia Busuanga
Palawan, Philippines
58 59

Manila
Pearl of the Orient
A
rich heritage, friendly locals, beautiful architecture, good
food, modern malls, cultural diversity, a vibrant nightlife
and much more await all those who dare venture into the
Asian megacity of Manila.
Getting in & Getting Around
Ninoy Aquino International Airport is the main international
airport of the city and is well serviced by many of the major
global airlines. The other is Clark International Airport and is a
popular hub for low-cost carriers such as AirAsia. To get in from
within the Philippines there are several ferry services that dock
at the Port of Manila, buses which are a cheap and common
way to get in, and two overnight trains from Naga and Ligao.
Manila has an extremely efficient public transport system
made up of commuter trains, buses, and jeepneys, which are
jeeps that have been converted into buses. Taxis and hailing
apps are another popular option.
Things To Do
Manila is full to the brim
with tourist sites, some
popular landmarks include
the Bonifacio Shrine, the
Coconut Palace, Intramuros,
and Roxas Boulevard. You’ll
also find some stunning
Baroque style churches
that are basically remnant
of Spanish colonial rule. The
San Augustin and Santa Cruz
churches would be our pick
of the bunch along with the
magnificent Basilica of San
Sebastian.
Manila is the cultural capital
of the Philippines so it should
come as no surprise the city
is home to several museums,
beautiful parks, and regular
festivals or fiestas.
Food
Manila holds a stellar reputation for its street food,
popular options are balut (boiled duck embroyo), fish
balls, banana cue (fried plantain coated in caramelized
brown sugar), and Taho (mushy tofu topped with sugar
syrup and tapioca balls).
Pulutan is the Philippines version of tapas and is
relatively unknown outside the country. The small plate
presentation is like tapas as is the communal style of
dining, however dishes vary. Popular options include
chilli sesame wings, Gambas, and Kilayan.
Accommodation
Our suggestion for a good night’s sleep is the Sheraton
Manila Bay, a Travel and Hospitality Award Winner,
located in the heart of the city, offering a luxury service
and world class experience. To find out more click here.
60 61

Busuanga
The Hidden Gem
of the Philippines
If you’re looking for an alternative destination in the Philippines,
one that is yet to be exposed to mass tourism, then look no
further than Busuanga Island located in the northern part of the
Palawan Province. This beautiful island is home to some stunning
natural scenery, beautiful beaches, and is usually the ideal base
for adventure activities in the region. Its undeveloped structure
adds to the feeling of adventure and although it’s only really
being “discovered” by travellers now its history stretches back
thousands of years.
Getting to Busuanga isn’t as challenging as one might expect.
There are regular flights from Manila to Francisco B Reyes Airport,
the journey takes about an hour. From the airport it takes roughly
50 minutes to the town of Coron. The ferry from Manila is another
option although it does involve an overnight trip on board. Getting
around for most tourists means riding on Jeepneys which are old
jeeps and vans converted into and used as small buses.
Once you’re on the Island you’re all
set for adventures galore. The island
is a great place for diving, it was once
occupied by Japan who were forced
out by the USA, so there are plenty
Japanese World War II shipwrecks
to visit. Other diving sites include
incredible coral reefs and a wide array
of sea life. We recommend hiking
especially to the top of Mt Tapyas at
sunrise and sunset. Horseback riding,
mountain biking, fishing, watersports,
and jungle treks are also very popular.
For something a little more relaxing
we suggest you visit the Maquinit Hot
Springs, located a few minutes outside
of Coron town these springs are the
perfect place to sit back, enjoy a drink,
and take in the stunning scenery.
In terms of accommodation, you
couldn’t do much better than Travel and
Hospitality Award winner, La Estancia
Busuanga, profiled on in depth on the
next page.
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La Estancia Busuanga
Philippines | Family Friendly Hotel
La Estancia Busuanga sits at the western most tip of Busuanga
Island, where there are no crowds, no billboards, and no endless
traffic jams. In this place, you will find the mountains and the
seas coming together. It is Busuanga at its most tranquil and
pristine best.
Estancia is a Spanish word for ranch, farm, estate and a
place to stay in. It is the perfect name for this place as
it was originally a farm, ranch, and a vacation home
where the owners enjoyed entertaining family
and friends. As a small resort now, La Estancia
Busuanga provides guests a taste of the
private island lifestyle and an escape from
the stresses of city life.
~ experience private island lifestyle ~
Surrounded by rolling hills, islands, mangrove
forests and calm seas, the rooms at La Estancia
Busuanga allow guests to see and appreciate
nature at its best from their bedrooms – from
their first glimpse of the sun rising on the horizon
at dawn to the time it kisses the sea as dark starts
to settle in at night.
Room rates range from PHP5600 to PHP15680.
Visit www.laestanciabusuanga.com for more
details.
GET IN TOUCH
Sitio Cabilbil, New Busuanga,
Busuanga, Palawan Philippines
Mob: +63918-898-0918 /
+63917-163-2917
Whatapp/Viber: +63917-149-7657
64
65

Japan
Hokkaido Your Alternative
Japanese Experience
Sapporo Japan’s Distinct City
Asahikawa Gateway to Hokkaidos Natural Beauty
Niseko A Winter Sports Capital
Aspect Niseko
Meguro River, Matsuno, Japan
66 67

Hokkaido
Your Alternative
Japanese Experience
When it comes to tourism in Japan Hokkaido takes a
back seat. It’s more glamorous counterparts such as
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka tend to be higher up on visitor wish
lists and unless you’re visiting for a second, third or fourth
time Hokkaido will rarely be mentioned.
Despite being the largest prefecture, Hokkaido is sparsely
populated, it’s in parts less developed, and has built a
reputation on its winter sports & natural beauty, probably
two of the least likely reasons people visit Japan. Scratch
the surface however, and you’ll find a beautiful Japanese
prefecture home to a long and varied history, welcoming
people, excellent seafood, exquisite cheese, stunning natural
landscapes, hot spring resorts, and a plethora of outdoor
adventure activities.
Getting to Hokkaido needn’t be a hassle, there
are plenty of domestic flights to Sapporo’s
Chitose Airport from Tokyo and Osaka, as well
as international arrivals from Hong Kong, China,
and South Korea.
Hokkaido is also connected to the mainland
via train (using an undersea tunnel) from Tokyo
to Hakodate, in Southern Hokkaido. There is a
limited train service on the islands that you can
use to get around. Although getting around is
best done by either bus or ideally by renting
your own car, for a more daring experience you
can try hitchhiking.
To bring your own car or rental to Hokkaido
you’ll need to use the ferry. There are sailings
between Russia and South Korea as well as
mainland Japan, it’s recommended to plan and
book ahead if you’re going to enter this way.
If you’re planning a trip to Hokkaido and aren’t
sure where to start then worry not, we’ve put
together a guide of three distinct destinations
on the island, perfect for first timers. The list
includes Sapparo, Asahikawa, and Niseko.
68 69

Sapporo
Japan’s Distinct City
Hokkaido’s capital and largest city, Sapporo is generally
considered the gateway to the region if you’re flying
in. This city is unique in Japan in that it’s very unlike other
Japanese cities, it offers little in the way of traditional
architecture, narrow streets, and an organic layout, in fact
it’s been described as Japan’s American city.
Historically the city has only been around since 1868 before
then the area was occupied by Ainu settlements. Upon the
construction of a canal in 1866 and the decision of the
Meiji government to establish a new capital for Hokkaido,
Sapporo was founded. The fact that it was a planned city
meant that it was laid out in a grid format with a focus easy
navigation, wide boulevards, and parks.
One such attraction, that further reinforces Sapporo’s “Americanness”
is the clock tower constructed for Hokkaido University, it’s
considered a symbol of the city.
Sapporo makes up for its lack of history by offering much to do and
see. The Ishiya chocolate factory tour is a great activity, this includes
a view of the chocolate making floor, robot show, toy museum,
souvenir shop, and a cake buffet at the on-site restaurant. Another
fantastic attraction is Odori park, a famous narrow park stretching
over 15 blocks and home to numerous flower gardens, trees and
fountains. For a more relaxing pastime we recommend the Honeikyo
Hot Springs, considered one of the most beautiful in Japan, offering
mountain views, indoor & outdoor areas, a beer bar, and a restaurant.
The city perhaps most famed for its annual snow festival, taking
place in the first week of February. It runs over seven days attracting
hundreds of thousands of visitors. The main attraction of the festival
is the ice sculpture competition featuring the best artists producing
magnificent sculptures for all to see.
In terms of accommodation, we advise you to check in to the Sapporo
Grand Hotel, despite being one of the oldest in the city, it remains
the most stylish. For food don’t miss out on the hairy crab, a local
delicacy that can be found at any seafood establishment, to warm
yourself up on a cold winter’s day then the Sapporo Soup Curry is the
way to go.
70 71

Asahikawa
Gateway to Hokkaidos
Natural Beauty
The second largest city on the island and the perfect starting
point for exploring the beautiful landscapes of the region.
Asahikawa is a pleasant city, it’s the confluence of four rivers and
surrounded by hills.
Asahikawa airport is well connected domestically with regular
flights from Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya. There are also seasonal
international flights from Seoul and Taipei. If you’re already on
Hokkaido then there are trains arriving from Sapporo, Otaru, and
Hakodate (arrive here from the mainland).
Asahikawa is the ideal base for exploring the regions natural
attraction, the most popular of which is the spectacular
Daisetsuzan National Park. The Park is virtually unspoiled and
is home to lakes, forests, mountains, hot springs, wildlife, and
stunning alpine flora. Hiking is the best way to get around and
take in scenery. Mountain biking and hot spring resorts are other
common past times.
Another much visited nearby attraction is Furano, an area of
small farming towns. Furano is famous for its powdery white
snow, fields of lavender, vineyards, and winter sports. Hiking in
the area is popular as well as cheese-making.
Biei is a wonderful sightseeing area located only 40 minutes from
Asahikawa. It resembles the Italian countryside complete with
picturesque rolling green hills and vast fields. We recommend
renting bicycle to explore.
Asahikawa itself has its own charm and attractions. The people
are friendly, and the city is small making it easy to navigate, there
are plenty of cycling trails that aren’t too taxing. The “romantic
road” is worth visiting and makes for a nice stroll. There are three
famous bridges in the city, the Asahibashi one is our pick of the
bunch. While Asahikawa Zoo itself isn’t impressive, it gets a lot
of visitors from around Japan mainly for it’s polar bear enclosure
that allows guest to see the bears underwater.
For food you’ll find most types of international cuisines in
Asahikawa and the town has a good reputation for high quality
dairy products. However, Ramen Village is the place to go, it’s
home to eight of Asahikawa’s greatest ramen shops in one
outlet. For a place to stay you can’t get much better than the
Hotel WBF Grande.
72 73

Niseko
A Winter Sports Capital
One of the big draws of Hokkaido is the winter sports and it’s
considered superior to anywhere in Japan for skiing and
snowboarding. Sapporo was the host of the 1972 Winter Olympics
and since then the local economy has thrived on winter sports
tourism.
The jewel in the crown of the Hokkaido winter sports scene is the
ski resort of Niseko, made up of four areas sitting at the base of the
majestic Mt Yotei. Over the years Niseko has become increasingly
popular with skiers and boarders in Japan and from abroad with it
being a favoured by Australian tourists.
Niseko is primarily a target for Powder ski lovers, it’s ideally located
in the path of weather systems that bring in cold air in from
Siberia which when combined with the coastal location and cold
temperatures results in heavy snowfall that is renowned for being
incredibly dry. Many enthusiasts consider Niseko the powder
capital of the world. Skiers and boarders are spoilt for choice with
several fantastic runs available in varying terrains serviced by
good quality ski lifts.
Hiking is another popular activity especially
in the summer and the hike up Mt Yotei is
a rewarding one. Other popular activities
include golfing, horse riding, canyoning,
mountain biking, ziplining, and even a
Samurai workshop.
If all the activities get too tiresome then
you’re in luck because Niseko boasts several
hot springs, or Onsens as they’re known in
Japan. Our pick is the Hilton Niseko Village,
offering a luxurious experience that includes
an outdoor setting amongst a serene forest,
koi pond and spectacular view of Mt Yotei.
As it’s a popular international travel
destination Niseko offers diversity in its
cuisine; Italian, French, Indonesian, Thai,
Indian and Nepalese cuisine are available
as well as fantastic local specialties such as
sushi and teppanyaki grills.
For an excellent night’s sleep and all round
high quality experience look no further than
Travel and Hospitality Award winner, Aspect
Niseko. Please see the next page for an
extensive profile.
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Aspect Niseko
Japan | Luxury Accommodation
Aspect sits on the edge of the famed ‘Millionaires’ Row’ in the Middle Village
of Hirafu, just a few minutes away from the town’s best bars, restaurants
and entertainment. It’s thoughtfully-designed apartments are furnished
with European and Japanese fittings of the highest standards, fullyequipped
kitchen and a dedicated concierge service that ensures you
one of Niseko’s most memorable stays. Aspect’s majestic holiday
accommodations come in 2-, 3- and 5-bedroom apartments that
combine quality, space and inclusive design no matter option
you choose. Each apartment also features impressive floorto-ceiling
windows where you’ll be greeted by stunning,
panoramic views of Mt Yotei – one of the highest peaks
in Hokkaido. Gather some friends and move up to
the apartment rooftop for a BBQ or have great fun
gazing at the stars or even the majestic Mt Yotei.
Highlights of our property :
- Magnificent views of the Mount
Yotei from each apartment
- Fully-equipped kitchen
- Laundry room with washing and
dryer machine & iron
- Fireplace
- Ski valet service, where we
handle the safekeeping and
storage of your ski equipment
during your stay with us. Let
us know when you want to ski,
and your ski equipment will be
waiting in the car for you. We will
drive you to your desired ski lift
and even unload the equipment
for you. When you’re done skiing
for the day, we will drive you
back to Aspect.
- Concierge service, where we
assist with arrangements for
Aspect Niseko
169 Yamada, Kutchan-cho,
Abuta-gun, Hokkaido
044-0081
GET IN TOUCH
your airport transfers, restaurant
reservations, ski school sessions,
ski equipment rental, private
chef bookings…anything within
our capability to make your stay
a memorable one.
- Shuttle service, where we
drive you to the nearby ski lifts,
restaurants, the grocery store
etc. Just let us know in advance
when you’d like to depart.
- Ideally located in Middle
Hirafu, just minutes away from
great bars, restaurants and
entertainment
- A rooftop equipped with BBQ
equipment, a perfect spot for
summer cookouts or even stargazing
with friends and family.
CONTACT DETAILS
Addres
Tel +
url
77

TRAVEL & HOSPITALITY
AWARD WINNER
2021
JAPAN | LUXURY ACCOMMODATION
78
79