DESTINATION HOTLIST | HOTELS & RESORTS
ABU DHABIQasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
Star in your own romantic Arabian getaway, with infinite views of the golden
desert wrapped in the luxury of your private suite at Anantara’s Qasr Al Sarab
Desert Resort. Your accommodation of choice is the One-bedroom Anantara
Pool Villa, which starts from USD 1,192 per night. Here, you will enjoy decadent
relaxations in the lavishly designed bedroom and spacious living and dining
areas, followed by an afternoon of lounging in your private plunge pool and
outdoor patio with shaded day beds. The al fresco dining area is a perfect spot
to watch the sunset, accompanied by refreshments and cocktails served by your
private butler. If you can manage to break away from this lavish pampering,
there is also the spectacular beauty of the desert waiting to be discovered.
www.qasralsarab.anantara.com
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14 | TRAVELITE
An exquisite hotel, perched on a cliff overlooking the breathtaking
Aegean Sea, makes the famed beauty of Santorini all the more
alluring. The Grace Santorini is a sensational destination to witness
incredible sunsets and enjoy ultimate privacy and relaxation.
Here’s a little secret - the latest addition to the hotel’s luxurious
accommodations, and definitely the one to book is The Villa, with
special introductory rates ranging from USD 2,000 to 6,000 per
night. Revel in the comforts of the two spacious suites, unwind
in your private spa, heated plunge pool and steam bath and have
relaxing dips in your private swimming pool. Your personal chef
can whip up gourmet meals in the private open show kitchen to
satisfy whatever cravings you may have, best enjoyed al fresco
complete with the stunning Santorini scenery.
www.santorinigrace.com
SANTORINIGrace Santorini Hotel
DESTINATION HOT LIST | HOTELS & RESORTS
TRAVELITE | 15
DESTINATION HOTLIST | HOTELS & RESORTS
BANGKOK
PHUKET
Breathe a good dose of sophistication into your Bangkok travels
with the recently launched design hotel located by the renowned
Chao Praya River. The Siam takes pride in offering the first
ever private pool villas and luxury Muay Thai gym in the heart
of the bustling city. Arrive in style with exclusive transfers via a
traditional Thai barge or a luxury speedboat to the hotel’s private
pier. Stay in one of the Thai Houses, Connie’s Cottage and enjoy
the largest accommodation in the hotel complete with its unique
Siamese charm, luxurious amenities and bespoke offerings at
USD 1,465 per night.
www.thesiamhotel.com
Redefine your Phuket getaways with a
memorable stay at the latest addition to
the island’s stretch of luxury resorts. The
Chedi has undergone a major renovation
to bring you this magnificent resort
offering nothing but the best and most
luxurious amenities. The Surin is a perfect
host to any dream vacation you have in
mind, from the pristine white-sand beach
it sits on to the many unique experiences
it offers. Book a Beach Deluxe Suite
starting from USD 525 to USD 880 and
relax in a spacious master bedroom with
your private terrace, outdoor veranda
and lounge area, all while enjoying
uninterrupted beach views.
www.thesurinphuket.com
The Siam
The Surin
DESTINATION HOTLIST | BaRS & LOungES DESTINATION HOTLIST | BaRS & LOungES
Prepare for a night of shots and toasts at the upscale cantina of Agave. This
heaven for Tequila lovers enjoys a cosy spot off Roponggi’s main nightlife
district. The bright hues, upbeat music and lively ambience exude traditional
Mexican flair with Tequila bottles stacked in rows of glowing glass shelves,
as if luring you to take a shot. Sit back, let loose and find your favourite
among the 400 variations of tequila and mescal. Start the night by ordering
a tasting set, allowing you to sample three different kinds of tequilas. The
Premier Set (USD 49) is a lavish choice with a shot each of the XQ Blanco,
Artillero Reposado and the Reserva de La Familia Añejo. If you’re still sober
enough, try some of the rare Mexican liquors and deluxe Margaritas on the
drink list. Order a glass of the Patron Perfect Margarita (USD 23) with a
splash of the ultra-premium Patron Tequila followed by endless rounds of the
Frozen Fruits Margarita (USD 19) with your choice of strawberry, raspberry,
pineapple, peach or banana flavor.
www.agave.jp
If your idea of a great night out is impressive interiors, bespoke
cocktails, scrumptious food and impeccable service, then Laruche
is just the place for you. The space is drenched in modern eclectic
design evoking Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. A huge, marble-
topped bar greets you as you walk in, and a few steps more will
lead you to the spectacular glass-blown chandelier centrepiece,
which extends to the bar’s upper area. Sink in one of the plump
sofas or whimsical lounge chairs and browse through the drinks
menu, which is playfully divided into drink categories that take
you back to specific eras. The fun begins in choosing the era you
want to revisit and deciding on the winning cocktail to accompany
your journey back in time. Take your pick from Punches-1690s
to Nightcaps-1700s, Juleps-1770s, Sours-1790s, Champagne
Cocktails-Mid 1800s, Martinis-1850s, Highballs-1890s and
Old-fashioned-1890s. The rumoured favourites are the Spiced
Bonaparte (USD 18) from the 1770s, which is a blend of Wild
Turkey rye, Jagermeister, Mandarine Napoleon, mint and spiced
honey; and the Judo Hip Flip (USD 20) with a combination of
Yamazaki Japanese whiskey, Dom Benedictine, Crème de Cacao
dark, orange blossom and egg yolk from the 1700s.
www.laruche.com.au
There’s no better place to spend a night of fun and drinks than
at Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel’s The Spare Room. For those
seeking much more beyond an impressive list of fancy cocktails,
the lounge also functions well as a modern day gaming parlour.
Downing a drink or two just got more exciting with the custom-
made domino sets as well as a variety of board games available
on the menu. Strike a few pins at the lavish vintage bowling lanes
in your custom bowling shoes handmade by Spare Room co-
founder George Esquivel, while sipping on your choice of Punch
by the Bowl. Take your pick from the 10 variations available
for sharing. A serving good for four to six is at USD 60, best
spiked with a splash of Domaine Chandon Champagne for an
extra USD 25. Leave room to try some of the unique cocktails,
which come in distinct categories such as Sour, Aromatic, Spicy,
Seasonal and Tiki. For a more upscale choice, call ahead to
create your own infused drink tailored to your discriminating
taste (USD 500). And if the game hostess challenges you to a
competition, make sure to pull up your aces to beat her as she
might just buy you a drink!
www.spareroomhollywood.com
Give in to a night of decadence at Dstrkt, one of London’s hottest
destinations for exquisite cocktails, state-of-the-art sound systems
and ultra-elegant interiors. This avant-garde lounge is designed to
host fancy night outs in the heart of Piccadilly district’s vibrant
entertainment scene. For the hush-hush crowd, the world’s first
VIP lounge lies within, featuring a stunning bar made of precious
black stone, sophisticated seating and lounge areas, cutting-edge
lighting systems and a modern stage for dancers and performing
artists. Unwind at the pre-dinner lounge with delectable canapés
and light bites served with your choice of bubbly. Choose from an
extensive selection of the finest wines, champagnes and signature
cocktails created by the in-house mixologists. Have a glass of the
Green Fairy Bubbles (USD 20), with a blend of Absinth, Cointreau
and Moet Chandon Champagne. Better yet, create your own
bespoke cocktails with premium liquors, fresh fruits and other
exciting ingredients.
www.dstrkt-london.com
AGAVE TOKYO
LARUCHE BRISBANE
THE SPARE ROOM LOS ANGELES
DSTRKT LONDON
16 | TRAVELITE TRAVELITE | 17
De-stress with tailored holistic treatments at One&Only’s award-
winning Cape Town Spa. Enjoy luxurious pampering from head to
foot in one of the 12 treatment rooms, exclusive his and hers Thermal
Suites, private Relaxation Room and outdoor yoga pavilion. It is also
the only spa in South Africa where you can enjoy unique hand and
foot treatments by acclaimed foot specialist Bastien Gonzalez and
indulge in ESPA’s luxury range of spa products and treatments.
Choose the focus of your spa journey from the relaxing and calming
Unwind treatments to Restore detoxification remedies and the
inner wellbeing Elevate therapies. Your 120-minute signature spa
experience begins with a full-body cleansing exfoliation, followed
by either a deeply relaxing, rhythmic or Thai massage, finished off
with a therapeutic scalp and head massage. For a bespoke touch,
book a Holistic Body Ritual (USD 170), combining your choice of two
signature journeys to create a personalised spa experience. Take your
pick from the warming Oshadi, detoxifying Algae or skin nourishing
Marine Mud body wraps that come with the body ritual treatments.
For your ultimate relaxation, book the Me Time Full Day Experience
(USD 360) for a day of spa indulgence including full access to the
thermal suites with your own sauna, steam room, vitality pool and
ice fountain, complete with a delectable spa cuisine lunch.
Signature Treatments: Unwind Signature Experience, Restore Signature Experience, Elevate Signature Experience, Holistic Body Ritual
www. capetown.oneandonlyresorts.com
SOUTH AFRICA
HONG KONG
NEw zEALAND
One&Only Cape Town Spa
Sense of Touch
Polynesian Spa
DESTINATION HOTLIST | SPa & WELLnESS
Indulge in Polynesian Spa’s soothing hot mineral spring baths
and healing spa treatments while enjoying panoramic views of
Lake Rotorua. Your thermal spa experience begins with a calming
soak in your choice of bathing area – deluxe lake spa, adult pool,
private pool or the family spa. Relax in the privacy of your all-
natural geothermal pool filled with 38.5ºC alkaline mineral water.
The heat soothes your muscles and the minerals leave your skin
soft and supple. Your one-hour Mud Body Polish follows, an
exfoliating treatment using thermal mud enriched with minerals,
which gently buffs away dead skin cells to further soften your
skin. Heighten your relaxation with the full-body signature Aix Spa
Massage. Organic coconut oil is used in this 60-minute treatment,
which also comes with soothing pressures from the overhead jets
of warm water. Enjoy your two and a half hour Deluxe Retreat for
USD 250 and a priceless state of relaxation.
Signature Treatments: Rotorua Mud Body Polish, Aix Spa Massage, Spa Massage Therapy
www.polynesianspa.co.nz
Counter the bustling entertainment scene of Lan Kwai Fong with unique spa
treatments at Sense of Touch. You are sure to find total rest and relaxation
with a twist at the five-storey flagship spa. Two-hour treatments start with a
lavish bath, where you will soak in a barrel-inspired tub filled with your choice
of libation – dark ale beer, hot sake or red wine. Beer has properties that
warm and relax your tired muscles while red wine refreshes and rejuvenates
your skin. Your relaxation is extended with a full-body scrub using handmade
ingredients such as barley, rice and red grape to complement your bath
soak. The treatment’s highlight follows, an hour-long deep tissue, lymphatic
drainage or aromatherapy massage to relieve your stresses and lull you
to an extraordinary state of bliss. The two-hour treatment (USD 210) is a
unique way to indulge in a barrel of alcoholic beverage, yet feel sober and
totally relaxed afterwards. The spa also offers an extensive list of specialised
massages, luxurious facials and nail pampering at the in-house manicure
bar. You can also host exclusive chic sparties at the rooftop lounge.
Signature Treatments: Cheers to Beers, For Heaven’s Sake, A Vine Romance
www.senseoftouch.com.hk
DESTINATION HOTLIST | SPa & WELLnESS
18 | TRAVELITE TRAVELITE | 19
DESTINATION HOTLIST | LuxuRy cRuiSES DESTINATION HOTLIST | LuxuRy cRuiSES
20 | TRAVELITE TRAVELITE | 21
THE ARCTIC AND REMOTE NORTH
KIMBERLEY, AUSTRALIA
Silversea Expeditions
Orion Expeditions
Embark on an expedition with a rare and unique itinerary to the
most remote regions of the Arctic. Silversea Expeditions takes you
to the Arctic Circle and beyond, navigating through less-trodden
paths for a glimpse of towering glaciers and rare wildlife. Get up
close encounters with reindeers, seals and walruses, and catch
one of the highlights – a chance to see a polar bear in real life.
Enjoy lavish accommodations at the Grand Suite, an impressive
space with a large living area, en-suite bathroom with a full-sized
tub and walk-in closet. The suite’s spacious teak veranda is best
for lounging during the sunset.
Departures: 5, 15, 22 July and 1, 19 Augustyour Voyage: The 18-day White Sea and Franz Josef Land cruise with Grand Suite accommodations is at USD 35,999 per person on double occupancy
www.silversea.com/expeditions
Set sail for a thrilling expedition aboard the spectacular MV Orion.
Cruise through an off-the-beaten path and explore secluded
white-sand beaches, isolated river coves and cascading waterfalls
along the way. The expedition allows you to delve deep into the
heart of Australia’s northwest coast and immerse in rich Aboriginal
culture, from meeting and interacting with the locals to witnessing
ancient indigenous rock art. Indulge in breathtaking views from the
private French balcony of your Owner’s Suite, which also comes
with a spacious bedroom and living room, marble bathrooms and
complementary 24-hour room service.
Departures: 2, 12, 22 July, 1, 11, 21, 31 August and 10 Septemberyour Voyage: The 10-night Kimberley Expedition with Owner’s Suite accommodations is at USD 19,100 on twin share per person
www.orionexpeditions.com
AMAzON RIVER, PERUAqua Expeditions
Take a luxurious journey through the Amazon aboard Aqua
Expedition’s MV Aria for an in-depth adventure like no other.
The exhilarating itinerary takes you through three of the Amazon
River’s powerful headwaters. Steer through isolated black water
lakes and get a chance to see exotic wildlife as you cruise deep
into the Amazon jungle and rainforests. Unwind in the comforts
of your Design Suite on the second deck, with oversized windows
allowing full views of the rivers and lush jungles while you lounge
comfortably in the spacious en-suite seating area.
Departures: 5, 15, 22 July and 1, 19 Augustyour Voyage: MV Aria’s 7-night Amazon Expedition Cruise with Second Deck Suite accommodations is at USD 6,650 per person on twin sharing
www.aquaexpeditions.com
DESTINATION HOTLIST | MicE DESTINATION HOTLIST | MicE
22 | TRAVELITE TRAVELITE | 23
TAIPEI
BANGKOK
Have worry-free meetings at Le Méridien Taipei with the help of
a highly attentive banquet team, who will tailor fit every single
detail to suit your requirements. Your business needs from small
meetings to large conferences and social events will get the
bespoke treatment it deserves, complete with state-of-the-art
equipment in an assortment of venues. Choose from the 10
venues available according to the size of your event, the largest
being the Le Grand Ballroom, which accommodates up to 900
participants in theatre-style seating. All audiovisual equipment
are provided, including LCD projectors, white boards and stages,
with a team of expert technicians to provide support throughout
the event. The banquet team also extends additional services
for your convenience, may it be translation, video conferencing,
video recording or on-site business centre support.
www.lemeridien-taipei.com
Plan your next business event with a breeze at the Four Points
by Sheraton in Bangkok. “Breeze” here refers to the exclusive
rooftop function room located on the 8th floor, which is a unique
and exciting venue to host your meetings, seminars, conferences
and product launches to name a few. You can also extend your
event outdoors, at the private courtyard surrounded by lush
greenery. Additionally, there are four other meeting spaces for
more intimate gatherings, and the main facility, The Pinwheel
seats 100 persons banquet-style and enjoys a pre-function area
and a private outdoor courtyard.
Le Meridien
Four Points by Sheraton
www.fourpoints.com/bangkoksukhumvit15
SANYAWhether you are making a business proposal or receiving
one, there’s no better place to have it than at The St.
Regis Sanya in Yalong Bay, where all events are tended
with impeccable service and great attention to detail. A
variety of well-designed meeting areas are available to
cater to your event, be it big or small. Ten meeting spaces
are ready to accommodate your business requirements,
including top-notch amenities and the latest audiovisual
technologies. Host huge events at the Astor Ballroom,
which seats 700 persons theatre-style, with assistance
from a team of catering professionals who will see to your
every need.
www.starwoodhotels.com/stregis/sanyayalongbay
The St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay Resort