DESTINATION HOTLIST | hotELs & rEsorts

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | hotELs & rEsorts

prepare to be captivated by the pink sands of sveti stefan

islet, where the truly romantic villa Milocer stands. once a

summer residence of yugoslavia’s queen Marija karadjordjevic,

it has been lovingly refurbished by no less than amanresorts

to recreate a haven for romance seekers at the heart of

Montenegro’s adriatic coastline. six luxurious suites are

drenched in classic european splendour fused with modern

comforts with fireplace centerpieces and bathrooms with

freestanding tubs, lined with luscious stone floors. The Juliet

verandas of the suites heighten the romance, which comes

with a choice of ocean or garden views. book one of the two

queen Marija suites for a decadent 125 sqm space spread over

four separate quarters, including your own living room, dining

room, bedroom and bathroom.

a feast of the freshest seafood caught daily is just one of

the many indulgences you can enjoy at any of the villa’s

dining destinations. the cosy ambience of the dining room

with Milocer beach views is a staple favourite, while loggia’s

wisteria-covered portico and the living room’s relaxing

lounge are also well-loved for romantic meals and cocktails.

Fall in love amid breathtaking beaches, towering olive trees

and verdant gardens with a delightful stay in a queen Marija

suite at a nightly rate of usd 1,300.

www.amanresorts.com

MontenegroAman Sveti Stefan villa Milocer

DESTINATION HOTLIST | hotELs & rEsorts

a short drive from lisbon takes you to the enchanting areias

do seixo charm Hotel, where you can delightfully rendezvous

with nature. built with reverence to the seas, sand dunes and

pine trees, all 14 uniquely-designed accommodations offer an

exotic and romantic vibe, which is truly thrilling to the senses.

All rooms feature fireplaces, wooden patios and spacious bath

areas with ceiling showers, which evoke a feel of showering

under a natural rainfall.

book the love room at usd 815 per night for a most romantic

stay at the hotel. all stays come with signature unique

experiences, featuring a host of weekly-changing activities.

don’t miss the First circle experience, which is a nightly wine

tasting event with fine Portuguese wines and some nibbles

around a bonfire, including a special guitar rendition by one of

the owners. www.areiasdoseixo.com

Portugal

Areias Do Seixo Charm Hotel & Residences

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | hotELs & rEsorts

the high-altitude location of ceylon tea trails, perched 4,000

ft above sea level is a charming destination to indulge in high

teas. Hovering above, it commands panoramic views of sri

lanka’s ceylon tea region; with 20 luxurious rooms spread

over four lavishly renovated colonial bungalows. retaining the

old-fashioned charm infused with five-star service, you get an

authentic tea estate experience with a few added surprises.

the Master suite at the tientsin bungalow enjoys the estate’s

highest location at 4,600 ft, featuring high-ceilings, polished

wooden floors and lovely four-poster beds. Book at USD 825

nightly for a minimum of two nights’ stay for two persons.

sign up for the tea experience hosted by the resort’s resident

tea planter, andrew taylor. the tour takes you through the

tea planters’ trail where you can experience picking tealeaves

followed by a visit to the factory to see how the teas are

processed. www.teatrails.com

revisit a rich colonial heritage dating back from the 1800s with

a unique stay at the 137 pillars House. the quaint boutique

hotel enjoys an intimate setting in the midst of lush tropical

gardens, yet is still accessible to nearby attractions Wat Gate

khar rnam and the ping river.

spacious all-suite accommodations, 30 in all, are built within

the historic teak homestead for a truly sophisticated and

nostalgic escape. decked in sumptuous Jim thompson silks,

the suites feature verandas, four-poster beds and indoor and

outdoor garden showers. the freestanding claw foot tubs in

the en suite bathrooms are for long, luxurious soaks while

enjoying soothing garden views.

book your stays at a louis leonowens pool suite for a nightly

rate of usd 1,405. your lavish stay comes with a super king

bedroom with French doors opening to views of the infinity

pool, a sunken bath flanked by soothing green foliage and its

own private swimming pool calling for romantic dips any time

of day. www.137pillarshouse.com

sri lanka

Chiang Mai

Ceylon Tea Trails

137 Pillars House

DESTINATION HOTLIST | bArs & LounGEs

glass bar Madrid

ozone hong kong

true to its name, this ultra-stylish watering hole is surrounded

by glass and sits its well-heeled patrons on philippe starck

ghost chairs, while a grandiose Moroccan chandelier hangs in

the middle, providing just the right amount of illumination.

Needless to say, a night here is the perfect occasion to don

your best party garb. Glass bar certainly provides a visual

feast, but its grandeur isn’t limited to its appearance.

created as the only oyster bar in spain, it is the go-to spot

for Madrid’s hip crowd who like their succulent molluscs with

great cocktails, champagne and Japanese-inspired aperitifs.

the red tuna sashimi at usd 18 and spanish cheese plate

at usd 33 are some of the bar’s signature offerings, but

regulars are also smitten by the complimentary nibbles that

come with the drinks. combine the stunning ambience and

scrumptious dishes with 80s funky music and the result is

a vibe that’s unmistakably cool without being uptight. on

sunday mornings when it serves brunch, Glass bar becomes

a chic daytime hangout where the events of a fun night out

are gleefully recalled. www.derbyhotels.com

Rising above Kowloon on the 118th floor of The Ritz Carlton,

ozone proudly reigns as the highest bar in the world. the futuristic

space brings the party to new heights with seriously awesome

views and eye-popping interior design, giving you magnificent

sights on either side of its glass windows. everything you set

your eyes on is nothing short of spectacular, with a honeycomb-

like pattern that adds depth to floors, walls and ceilings and soft

lighting effects that create a cosy, inviting mood. settle in one

of the black-and-gold bar stools and ask for one of the signature

drinks called ‘senses’, a combination of Hennessy vsop cognac,

crushed blackberries and fresh fruit juices available at usd 21.

ozone also hosts more intimate affairs in a private dining room

furnished with a wooden round table surrounded by lush, leather

seats. dripping from the ceiling is a fantastic chandelier that

sparkles with the slightest movement, but it’s still no match to

the twinkling lights of victoria Harbour, seen through massive

glass windows.

When the night deepens, take your party to the outdoor terrace.

With cocktails in hand, enjoy the beats of world-class dJs over

asian tapas and an equally sumptuous view of the glowing city.

www.ritzcarlton.com

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | bArs & LounGEs

loCal edition san franCisCotaking inspiration from the newspaper industry of the 50s and

60s, local edition deserves every column inch of attention

it gets. With a 511 sqm space that was once the printing

room of local daily paper the examiner, this subterranean

establishment is a laid-back yet sophisticated haven for

writers or anyone who drinks like one. but jocularity aside, the

bar is lauded not only for its unique interiors, but also for the

excellent spirits on offer. choose from a bar menu of classic

and contemporary drinks re-interpreted with a mod era twist

and chatter the night away amidst vintage typewriters, paper

press machinery, old san Francisco news clippings, marble

table tops and heavy velvet curtains. It’s definitely not the

average trendy nightspot, but an ideal location for good times

nonetheless. to thoroughly soak up the atmosphere, request

table service along with any of the rare whiskeys available. if

you prefer cocktails, try local edition’s version of the bloody

Mary and the Gibson at usd 10 each. Whatever your choice

of drink is, the mood gets even better when a live jazz or

acoustic performance takes the stage.

www.localeditionsf.com

DESTINATION HOTLIST | spA & wELLnEss

Find tranquility in the midst of vibrant seminyak district with

a relaxing journey to the award-winning prana spa. true to its

name, prana spa offers life and vitality of spirit to all who walk

in seeking for some relaxation. Nestled in verdant tropical

gardens at the villas seminyak, it has been recently voted

as indonesia’s leading spa resort for two consecutive years,

owing to exquisite treatments and decadent spa facilities. it is

also one of bali’s largest spas with 25 well-appointed private

treatment rooms. relaxation seekers are treated to a handful

of surprises at prana spa. Not only does it offer stress-relieving

treatments, it also thinks about one’s physical well-being as

a whole. Guests are pampered with total rejuvenation of the

body, mind and soul.

For the ultimate indulgence, book a private suite treatment,

which includes an enticing selection of three to five-hour spa

packages. You may also tailor fit pampering sessions with

your choice of luxurious spa treatments. the suite is lavishly

designed with your total relaxation in mind. it sets a luxurious

ambience and a majestic feel with exotic colours and intricate

details including the use of genuine pearl powder and 24-karat

gold-infused massage oils. the golden touch is calming and

it is a delight to enhancing your skin’s elasticity. to heighten

your royal treatment, relaxations here are served with canapés

and the finest red, white or sparkling wine.

baliPrana Spa, The villas Seminyak

sIGnAturE trEAtMEnts: Private Suite Spa Packages

for two – Eastern Mystique (USD 340++), Jewel of the Nile (USD

465++), Sinbad’s Seven voyages to Health (USD 520++), One

Thousand and One Nights (USD 590++) www.thevillas.net

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | spA & wELLnEss

as the name suggests, relaxations at the timeless spa are

perennial. blending traditional healing therapies, a range of

natural products and top-notch facilities in a soothing backdrop

of lush landscapes and mountains, you get an experience

you won’t easily forget. timeless spa’s signature treatments

incorporate the finest, chemical-free Sodashi products from

Western australia. the holistic treatments pride on attaining

physical and mental relaxation, healing and wellness, which

offer a deeper sense of calm.

indulge in an extensive menu of lavish treatments in a

relaxing spa environment or in one of the six double treatment

rooms with its own changing area and private bathroom with

a shower and Japanese-style soaking tub. Here, you’ll relax

close to nature in a series of sumptuous spa sessions with

a view. Not just any view at that, but of majestic sandstone

escarpments and sweeping views down the valley.

Get pampered in the chicest r and r destination in the

outskirts of beijing. designed as a modern interpretation of

a Tang dynasty emperor’s bathhouse, you’ll be sure to find

nothing less than an opulent relaxation experience. a huge

teaspoon-shaped granite bath welcomes you for sumptuous

bathing rituals. it is infused with hot steam, which is not only

utterly soothing, but is also rich in anti-oxidants to breathe

new life into your skin.traditional chinese medicinal massages

are also on offer, using exquisite Green t. oils and customisable

bath products, which you can enjoy in your choice of setting.

Whether you wish to relax in the bath, by the gardens, on a

rooftop day bed, under the stars in a rooftop hot bath or in

one of the “emperor beds”, the staff would be glad to indulge

your preference. post-relaxation, you are invited to join in on

the fun with tea ceremonies, contemporary art exhibits and

imaginative performances.

australia

beiJing

Emirates Wolgan valley Resort & Spa

Bath House ResidenceGreen T. House

sIGnAturE trEAtMEnts: Sodashi Pure Radiance Facial

(USD 172), Wolgan Signature Experience (USD 515 for 4 hours)

www.wolganvalley.com

sIGnAturE trEAtMEnts: Chakra Balance Third Eye

Treatment (USD 125), Meditation Training and Music Therapy

(USD 160), Ten Hands Massage (USD 1,070 for a 120-minute

treatment by five therapists) www.green-t-house.com

FEATURE | sAntIKA InDonEsIA hotELs & rEsorts

I NSI DE R’S SEC R E T

he warmth of home and the grandeur of world-class

accommodations are lifestyle elements that Santika

Indonesia Hotels & Resorts has always believed in.

This fusion is apparent in all of the 52 notable properties owned

and managed by Indonesia’s largest hotel chain. Catering

to a broad market, each hotel is unique and offers a different

experience depending on its location.

Hotel Santika properties are found in many parts of Indonesia,

pleasing locals and tourists alike with high-quality service and

thoughtful amenities. The signature hospitality of the brand

has been thriving in Bali, Bandung, Lombok, Jakarta and many

other locations in the archipelago. Whether you’re travelling for

business or leisure, get treated to an impressive list of desirable

features including state-of-the-art convention centres, fine

dining facilities and enjoy easy access to favourite attractions.

Those seeking more decadence, however, find exactly that

and more at any Santika Premiere hotels. With exclusivity and

luxury as top priorities, no stone is left unturned, making each

stay an unforgettable escape for the most discerning clients.

From sophisticated beachfront resorts to tasteful city hotels,

all Santika Premiere properties are conveniently located in

numerous parts of Indonesia, putting you in the heart of the

action just the way you like it.

Santika reserves the bells and whistles for The Royal

Collection, a group of gems that shine the brightest among all

of Santika’s treasures. visit the three boutique hotels under the

management of PT Grahawita Santika and breathe new life to

your exciting escapades. The Samaya Seminyak is a serene all-

villa refuge by the Indian Ocean while The Samaya Ubud is a

hillside sanctuary beside River Ayung. The Kayana, melding

modern comforts with traditional Balinese culture, is the third

property to complete Santika’s trio of luxurious properties.

Santika has indeed come a long way since it started in 1981 as

part of the Kompas Gramedia Group. For over 20 years, it has

made honeymoon getaways, family vacations and business

trips more and more memorable. After all, it has always

aimed to provide the best ‘second homes’ for travellers of all

backgrounds. With its commitment to great value, Santika adds

more properties under its name including the new Amaris Hotel

Malang. very soon, it will also make its mark in other countries

starting with Singapore. Expect the usual quality Santika is

known for when these new properties open its doors.

Whatever the purpose of your trip is, choose from the varying

types of accommodations in and around Indonesia and expect

that unmistakable Santika touch to fill your stays with delight.

www.santika.com

THE SANTIKA SIGNATURE

t

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | Luxury cruIsEs

Go island-hopping aboard a cruise liner that’s like no other,

combining old-world charm with modern luxuries. Modelled

after a phinisi, a traditional indonesian sailing ship, the

alila purnama offers an intimate voyage accommodating

a maximum of only 10 guests at a time. Get pampered

by a crew of 16 as you and your party exclusively occupy

the 46-metre-long vessel with four elegant cabins plus

a master suite wrapped with windows that showcase a

270-degree view of the changing scenery. the luxury

boat is equipped with a library, a lounge, a bar, an air-

conditioned dining room and an outdoor deck to keep you

occupied while on your way to the next stop. the journey

takes you to four islands in the northwest of indonesia,

collectively known as raja ampat (Four kings), and its

surrounding islets. believed to have 70 per cent of the

world’s coral species, its underwater environment serves

as the most incredible classroom for alila purnama’s dive

centre courses.

Get lost in the vibrancy of south america as you travel from

one latin city to another aboard the seven seas Mariner.

kicking off with the passionate rhythm of tango in buenos aires

and concluding with the infectious vibes of samba in rio, this

journey lets you delve into colourful cultures while enjoying on-

board features such as fine dining and duty-free shopping in

between excursions. With a complimentary butler service as well

as Hermès and l’occitane amenities, the Master suite with two

private balconies is your exquisite home by the atlantic ocean.

Get invigorated in the Canyon Ranch spa and fitness facilities

when you’re not perusing the cobbled-stone streets of san telmo

or sunbathing on the remote beaches of ilha Grande. the cruise

also includes a stop in the laid-back city of Montevideo and the

charming countryside of punta del este in uruguay to add even

more amusement to your latin american exploration.

indonesia

argentina, uruguay & brazil

Alila Purnama

Seven Seas Cruises

DEpArturE: 5, 12, 19, 26 January | 2, 9, 16, 23 February | 2 March

your VoyAGE: The 7-day Alila Purnama Expedition includes

five suite accommodations, meals, refreshments and non-alcoholic

beverages, as well as island excursions at USD 54,000+ for a group

of 10 persons.

www.alilahotels.com/purnama

DEpArturE: 14 February

your VoyAGE: The 12-night Sophisticated South America itinerary

with Master Suite accommodations is at USD 30,149 per person.

www.rssc.com

Photo Courtesy of Alila Hotels & Resorts

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DESTINATION HOTLIST | Luxury cruIsEs

Join the countless devotees in seville as the town celebrates

Semana Santa or holy week with floats adorned with lifelike

religious statues during processions. it’s one unique way to

start a special voyage on-board azamara quest, which passes

through Guadalquivir river and later on brings you to Gibraltar,

valencia and barcelona for more cultural immersions. With

features including two specialty restaurants, a piano bar

and a spa and wellness centre, sailing through the spanish

coasts is never dull. there are also live entertainment and

daily enrichment programmes including wine and champagne

tasting to make your expedition more memorable. book the

club World owner’s suite to make every second of your time

on-board decadent. While at sea, enjoy your complimentary

bottle of whisky at the private veranda while your own

english-trained butler takes care of your every request.

the turndown treats and egyptian cotton sheets are other

thoughtful touches that make this cruise a divine experience

you wish would never end.

DEpArturE: 27 March

your VoyAGE: The 7-Night Semana Santa in Seville cruise

with a Club Owner’s Suite accommodation is at USD 15,998 based

on double occupancy. www.azamaraclubcruises.com

sPainAzamara Club Cruises

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Enjoy work and play in Conrad Bali, with five-star venues and

facilities to hold your large-scale conferences, intimate events

and business meetings. the upscale conference centre has

its own private entrance to eliminate distractions from your

event, ensuring that your functions run smoothly. overall,

it offers a 531 sqm divisible ballroom on top of seven well-

appointed meeting rooms and board rooms. enjoy modern

equipment and amenities at your events, including access to

the courtyard for relaxing coffee breaks in between sessions.

a business centre, conveniently located adjacent to the

conference centre provides equipment rentals and other office

needs. conrad’s meeting planners are on standby to assist you

with creative themed parties, corporate gala events as well as

casual gatherings. For a more noteworthy event, take your

functions outdoors with a selection of venues beneath the

moon and a bed of stars. www.conradbali.com

baliConrad Bali

DESTINATION HOTLIST | MIcE

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Work and entertain in style at the downright stylish the

Waterhouse, by the famous bund waterfront. Fronting a

historic docks area by the Huangpu river, the Waterhouse is

aptly designed in industrial chic to embrace the neighborhood’s

past. there’s an interesting mix of the old and the new, with

contemporary furnishings and modern details throughout the

hotel, including the event hall in the adjacent building.

the unique event space boasts a 743 sqm pillar less

multipurpose venue with high ceilings and a flexible layout to

cater to any event, big or small. it is a one-of-a-kind space

to hold any function that would go well with panoramic views

of the bund. entertain and impress up to 800 of your guests

here. www.waterhouseshanghai.com

tend to both business and pleasure at a special destination

for your special occasions. Hanoi Westlake offers expansive

venues ideal for hosting your corporate events and social

gatherings. Five meeting rooms, five meeting spaces and one

exhibit space come in handy with an onsite events team to

assist you with your needs. the ballroom pre-function foyer

opens to the opulent Grand ballroom, which seats up to 450

guests reception-style.

Now, you can personalise your meetings with the

intercontinental insider collection, which comes with

authentic and thoughtful experiences. indulge in sumptuous

lunch breaks of local specialties, host unique team-building

activities inspired by the destination’s culture and heritage,

arrange inspirational speakers to impart and inspire your

delegates and get a chance to reach out with the community

for a truly meaningful and unforgettable event!

www.ichotelsgroup.com

shanghai

hanoi

The Waterhouse at South Bund

InterContinental Hanoi Westlake

DESTINATION HOTLIST | MIcE

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