26 July 2023

Sands China presents activities for Art Macao

Source: Sands China. Poster for an event to be held at Art Macao.
Source: Sands China. Poster for Meet the Magic: In celebration of Disney 100 by Philip Colbert & Jason Naylor is one of three exhibitions being presented by Sands China for Art Macao: Macao International Art Biennale 2023, along with Behind the Forms: Aesthetics of Contemporary Art – Trio Exhibition by Lei Ieng Wai, Leong Chi Mou and Lai Sio Kit and The Genesis of Rationality, featuring Ung Vai Meng.

 

Sands China will present a number of activities for Art Macao: Macao International Art Biennale 2023 from August to October:

Meet the Magic: In celebration of Disney 100 by Philip Colbert & Jason Naylor;

Behind the Forms: Aesthetics of Contemporary Art – Trio Exhibition by Lei Ieng Wai, Leong Chi Mou and Lai Sio Kit; and

The Genesis of Rationality, featuring Ung Vai Meng.

Meet the Magic: In celebration of Disney 100 by Philip Colbert & Jason Naylor

 Exhibition period: August 3 - October 15

 Venues: The Venetian  Macao, The Londoner Macao and Le Jardin

In this exhibition, British contemporary pop artist Colbert and American graffiti artist Naylor each present their unique artistic interpretations of Mickey Mouse in celebration of Disney's 100th anniversary. Colbert uses his mastery of pop art to revolutionise centuries of legend into his iconic, larger-than-life lobster character, while Naylor is known for employing a kaleidoscope of street art colours to transform giant installations.

Co-organised with Forward Fashion Holdings, and curated by ASCE and ARTOX GROUP, this showcase of large-scale artworks conveys a message of positivity, explores timeless classics from a fresh perspective, and infuses contemporary hues into traditional art forms. The outdoor art installations, each over 5 m tall, will be on display at Le Jardin and The Venetian Macao’s lagoon area. Meanwhile, their indoor artworks will transform The Venetian Macao’s hotel lobby into a lively pop art paradise this summer.

At The Londoner Macao, the new ASCE Diverse and Explorative Art Hub will feature Disney’s commemorative products launching in Macao for the first time; the space will also present Colbert and Naylor’s new original works.

Behind the Forms: Aesthetics of Contemporary Art – Trio Exhibition by Lei Ieng Wai, Leong Chi Mou and Lai Sio Kit

 Exhibition period: August 9 - October 15

 Venue: Sands Gallery

In line with the theme of this year’s Art Macao, The Statistics of Fortune this exhibition demonstrates three local young artists’ own understanding of various topics around the development of the city’s diversification – spectrum, data texture, belief and value.

To this end, Lei has used light as a theme to demonstrate virtual spectrums on canvases filled with gorgeous colours and frequencies, while Leong has visualised how people endow real value onto circulating currency through his Alchemist Project series. Lai, on the other hand, has tells stories of a city through distressed tiles with the theme of time. The exhibition is co-organised by the Macau Artist Society, curated by Leong Kit Man and coordinated by the Macau Youth Art Association.

The Genesis of Rationality, featuring Ung Vai Meng

 Exhibition period: July 28 - October 29

 Venue: • ART SPACE, Macao Cultural Centre

As part of the Invitational Exhibition by Local Artists initiated by the Cultural Affairs Bureau for Art Macao 2023, Sands China commissioned local artist Ung to create The Genesis of Rationality, a mixed-media installation with screens and antique wood collected specifically for the exhibit, with reference to ancient Greek mythology. With this work, he expresses his notions about the rapid pace of technological progress driven by artificial intelligence, examining how the innate nature of humanity, the intuitive sensations of the body and mind, and the connection with the natural world are all buried, paralysed, and dismembered by the rationalised numerical technology that has overtaken us.

Ung is a distinguished guest professor and doctoral mentor at the Macau University of Science and Technology (M.U.S.T.), and previously served as the president of the Cultural Affairs Bureau of Macao and the first director of the Macao Museum of Art. In 2022, YiiMa, an art group he formed with artist Chan Hin Io, represented the Macao SAR in Italy at the 59th International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia.

24 July 2023

Randstad names the top employers in Singapore for 2023

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has been voted the Most Attractive Employer in 2023 by 2,753 locally-based respondents in an independent survey commissioned by Randstad Singapore.

This is the 6th time the company won over the hearts of employees and job seekers in Singapore in 12 years of employer brand research in Singapore. The last time SIA claimed pole position was in 2020, before the COVID-19 pandemic, Randstad said.

SIA is also the first and only employer to be inducted into the Randstad Employer Brand Hall of Fame for being the most-voted company consecutively from 2012 to 2014. The company returned to the Most Attractive Employer ranking from 2018 onwards.

Jaya Dass, MD of Permanent Recruitment at Randstad Asia Pacific said: "We would like to congratulate all the winners for being the most attractive companies to work for in Singapore. No matter your ranking this year, it is a remarkable achievement that reflects your hard work and dedication in creating work that feels good for your employees and the workforce at large. These companies have set a high standard, especially amid a competitive hiring environment, where employers have to constantly innovate and adapt to the evolving market conditions and changing talent expectations.

"This year’s winners have demonstrated what it takes to stand out and appeal to the best and brightest in a dynamic environment. We commend them for their employer branding excellence and look forward to partnering with them to engage and attract talent.”

2023 Randstad Employer Brand Awards

- Singapore Airlines

- Danaher Corporation

- Changi Airport Group

- Pratt & Whitney

- Edwards Lifesciences

- Marina Bay Sands

- Procter & Gamble

- Dyson

- DBS

- ExxonMobil

Goh Choon Phong, CEO, Singapore Airlines said, “We are grateful for our outstanding colleagues, who dedicate themselves to offering the best possible travel experience to our customers every single day. This recognition from Randstad validates the SIA Group’s longstanding commitment to attract and retain talent in Singapore and around the world. We know that the SIA Group can only remain competitive and resilient in a dynamic operating environment by offering our people a meaningful and rewarding career, taking care of their wellbeing, and prioritising their growth and development.”

Companies in the survey were rated on their relative employer brand awareness and attractiveness. The top attractiveness score was 69.15 out of a maximum of 100, which is 9.49 higher than the previous year.Compared to 2022, Danaher Corporation improved the most in attractiveness score, gaining 13.05 points in a year. Two other companies that have recorded more than 10-point gain in a year are Changi Airport Group and ExxonMobil, increasing their scores by 10.84 and 10.86 respectively.

Both Danaher Corporation and ExxonMobil are the new entrants in this year’s top 10 most attractive companies to work for in Singapore. Jai S. Krishnan, President for High Growth Markets at Danaher said, “We are truly humbled by this recognition, which reflects the passion and commitment of Danaher colleagues in Singapore and the region to serve our customer needs. Our success also would not be possible without the world-class innovation, science and business ecosystem that Singapore provides. At Danaher, our associates (employees) are inspired every day to constantly improve our work and fulfil our purpose of Helping Realize Life’s Potential.”

The relative employer brand awareness and attractiveness scores are also measured at the industry level. Out of the 10 industries in the voting, the life sciences sector was ranked top with 59.2 points out of a maximum of 100, making it the most attractive sector to work for in Singapore. The industry recorded a 6.4 point increase from 2022.

The top three most attractive industries to work for in Singapore this year are life sciences, hospitality and recreation, and services, which includes security, facilities and catering. The semiconductor manufacturing sector recorded the best improvement, as their year-on-year attractiveness score increased from 39.2 to 49.3.

The 2023 Randstad Employer Brand Research provides employers with a unique opportunity to uncover new insights and validate their assumptions of employees and job seekers. Randstad said this independent research is the most representative employer brand study in the world, reaching out to 163,000 respondents across 32 markets, including 2,753 who are based in Singapore in January 2023.

22 July 2023

Xiaomi Pad 6 targeted for work

Source: Xiaomi. The Xiaomi Pad 6.
Source: Xiaomi. The Xiaomi Pad 6 is build for work productivity.

Xiaomi has released the Xiaomi Pad 6 in Singapore. Packed with practical features, this high-performing tablet is built for busy professionals.

The Xiaomi Pad 6 opts for the iconic design aesthetic of the flagship Xiaomi 13 Series. Slim, light and resilient, Xiaomi Pad 6 features an aluminum-alloy unibody design with a 6.51 mm bezel and weighs 490 g.6

MIUI for Pad software – an exclusive mobile user interface, an upgraded Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd generation) and Xiaomi Pad 6 Keyboard,2 work together to improve overall productivity. The buttons on the Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd generation)2 enable users to take a quick screenshot, or quickly switch between writing, painting and colour functions whenever needed in the Notes application.

When used with a Xiaomi Pad 6 keyboard, functionality is ramped up further and the interface is customisable so users can create personalised shortcuts. Meanwhile, its Snapdragon 870 Mobile Platform ensures powerful performance throughout the working day. A 8,840 mAh (typ) battery offers excellent energy efficiency.

Xiaomi Pad 6 features an 11" WQHD+ (2,880 x 1,800) display1 at 309 ppi that delivers sharp, clear images. The display’s higher pixel density ensures small font sizes are easier to read so even more content can be viewed on the display to ensure less scrolling. For video calls, Xiaomi Pad 6 has a centred ultra-wide front camera with a FocusFrame function that automatically adjusts the camera to keep the user clearly in the middle of the shot.3 The tablet’s four microphones pick up the user’s voice accurately and significantly reduce background noise, even in busy locations. Xiaomi Pad 6 also features a built-in USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, which connects to other devices for swift data transfer and supports an output video signal for up to 4K resolution at 60 Hz, sure to satisfy all multitasking work needs.4

The Xiaomi Pad 6 also delivers as a personal ultraportable entertainment centre, supporting Dolby Vision for a vivid visual experience. It offers 99% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut for 1.07 billion colours (following the CIE 2015 standard). The display’s refresh rate is up to 144 Hz5, offering a fluid gaming experience. Meanwhile, TÜV Rheinland-certified Low Blue Light ensures hours of viewing with reduced eye fatigue.

Supporting Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio, Xiaomi Pad 6 features a quad-speaker setup covering a wide range of sound.

Details

Xiaomi Pad 6 will be available in three colour options: Gravity Gray, Gold, Mist Blue. The new tablet is available at Authorized Xiaomi Stores across Singapore, as well as exclusively online on Lazada. There will be two variant options for the Singapore market – the 8 GB + 128 GB storage option, which is only available online, can be purchased at S$459, whereas the 8 GB + 256 GB variant costs S$529.

As part of the launch promotions, the 8 GB + 128 GB storage option will be available at an early bird online price of S$449 from 22 - 29 July online. Customers who buy the 8 GB + 256 GB variant can get a free Xiaomi Pad 6 Cover (recommended retail price [RRP] S$49) and enjoy S$30 off the Xiaomi Pad 6 Keyboard at S$99 (RRP S$129) for each purchase at Authorized Xiaomi Stores nationwide.

The Xiaomi Pad 6 Keyboard and Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd Generation) retail at S$129 and S$99 respectively, whereas the Xiaomi Pad 6 Cover can be purchased for S$49.

1 The display size of Xiaomi Pad 6 is about 11" in the full rectangle when measured diagonally. Actual viewable area is less due to the curved corner design, and measurements between individual products may vary.

2 Xiaomi Smart Pen (2nd generation) and Xiaomi Pad 6 Keyboard sold separately. Availability may differ across regions.

3 The features and functions of conference tools are only available on Messenger, WhatsApp, WhatsApp Business, Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams.

4 The 4K 60 Hz video output is only applicable with external display devices that support DisplayPort, and a connecting cable or adapter supporting 4K 60 Hz video output. The external display devices should also support 4K 60Hz video play and the output video signal must be at the 4K resolution at 60 Hz.

5 The refresh rate will be adjusted to 30/48/50/60/90/120/144 Hz automatically on Xiaomi Pad 6, depending on the actual situation. Users can also set the refresh rate to 60/90/144 Hz manually.

6 Actual measurements between individual products may vary. All specifications are subject to the actual product.

21 July 2023

Facebook flooded with fake pages luring victims with generative AI

Source: CPR. Sample posts on fake Facebook pages inviting viewers to download malware.
Source: CPR. Sample posts on fake Facebook pages inviting viewers to download malware.

A new scam uncovered by Check Point Research (CPR) uses Facebook to scam victims by taking advantage of the interest in generative AI.  Many of these fake pages have tens of thousands of followers, with a mix of real content and malware, Check Point said.

Criminals first create fake Facebook pages or groups for a popular brand, even including engaging content. The pages can offer tips, news and enhanced versions of AI services Google Bard or ChatGPT, for example. 

Unsuspecting Facebook users end up passionately discussing the role of AI in the comments and like or share posts, thereby ensuring it shows up on the feeds of their friends and attracting them to the page as well.

The scam occurs when visitors are invited to obtain new services or special content via a link on the page. Most of the Facebook pages lead to landing pages which encourage users to download password-protected archive files that are allegedly related to generative AI engines. When the link is clicked, victims unknowingly download malware, designed to steal their online passwords, crypto wallets and other information saved in their browser.

There are many versions, from Bard New, Bard Chat, GPT-5, G-Bard AI and others. Some posts and groups also try to take advantage of the popularity of other AI services such as Midjourney and Jasper AI. Seemingly small details matter, such as the fact that the real Jasper AI page has 2 million fans or the length of time the page has been in operation, in telling the genuine from the fake.

According to Sergey Shykevich, Threat Intelligence Group Manager, Check Point Research: "Unfortunately, thousands of people are falling victim to this scam. They are interacting with the fake pages, which furthers their spread – and are even installing malware which is disguised as free AI tools. We urge everyone to be vigilant in ensuring they are only downloading files from authentic and trusted sites."

CPR observed that criminals have gone to great lengths to ensure their pages appear authentic. When a user searches for ‘Midjourney AI’ on Facebook and encounters a page with 1.2 million followers, they are likely to believe it is an authentic page. The principle applies to other indicators of page legitimacy: when posts on the fake page have numerous likes and comments, it indicates that other users have already interacted positively with the content, reducing the likelihood of suspicion.

Additionally, the links to malicious websites are mixed with links to legitimate Midjourney reviews or social networks.

CPR attributed the surge to expanding underground markets, where initial access brokers specialise in acquiring and selling access or credentials to compromised systems. Additionally, the growing value of data used for targeted attacks such as business email compromise and spear-phishing, has fuelled the proliferation of infostealers.

As authentic AI services make it possible for cybercriminals to create and deploy sophisticated, credible scams, it is essential for individuals and organisations to stay vigilant, CPR said. Some rules of thumb to protect yourself include:

- Ignore display names: Phishing sites or emails can be configured to show anything in the display name. Instead of looking at the display name, check the sender’s email or web address to verify that it comes from a trusted and authentic source.

- Verify the domain: Phishers will commonly use domains with minor misspellings or that seem plausible. For example, company.com may be replaced with cormpany.com or an email may be from company-service.com. These misspellings are good indicators.

- Always download software from trusted sources: Instead of downloading software from a Facebook group, go directly to a trusted source, such as the official web page for that software. Do not click on downloads from groups, unofficial forums etc.

- Check the links: URL phishing attacks are designed to trick recipients into clicking on a malicious link. Hover over the links within an email and see if they actually go where they claim. Enter suspicious links into a phishing verification tool like phishtank.com, which will tell you if they are known phishing links. If possible, don’t click on a link at all; visit the company’s site directly and navigate to the indicated page.

18 July 2023

Artyzen Singapore to launch in October

Preferred Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest independent hotel brand representing more than 650 hotels, resorts, and residences across 80 countries, is set to grow its footprint in Asia Pacific with the October launch of Artyzen Singapore. 

The 20-storey property is located at the site of the mansion Marie Villa, near Orchard Road and the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The hotel boasts 142 rooms and suites starting at 42 sq m, with either a balcony or terraced Sky Gardens, and a roof garden featuring a cantilevered infinity pool and outdoor deck with a sunken lounge. 

Said Jonathan Newbury, Executive VP, Asia Pacific for Preferred Hotels & Resorts: “The new flagship for Artyzen Hospitality Group is located in a key market for our brand and will stand out for its best-in-class architecture and design that beautifully captures the charm of Singapore’s storied past and is complemented by a modern lifestyle philosophy and service ethic.” 

Source: Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Guest room.
Source: Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Guest room.

Artyzen Hospitality Group worked with architectural firm ONG&ONG along with Australian interior design studio Nic Graham & Associates to create a green vertical oasis. For food aficionados, the new hotel will offer a fresh reinterpretation of local cuisines favoured and flavoured by the people of the Straits, including signature restaurant Quenino (pronounced ˈke-ni-nu’ and meaning little one in Malaccan Creole Portuguese), which was co-created with Malaysian-Australian chef Victor Liong. Three food and beverage outlets will be available, including a standalone bar.

“Artyzen Singapore was conceptualised as a lifestyle hotel for the luxury traveller, especially travellers looking for a local experience, different from that of traditional luxury hotel brands. Since Preferred Hotels & Resorts has built an entire ecosystem to support independent hotels and resorts, we see them as a perfect partner,” said Jeff Crowe, GM, Artyzen Singapore. 

Artyzen Singapore will participate in I Prefer Hotel Rewards, the world’s largest points-based loyalty programme for independent hotels. Complimentary to join, members of I Prefer can access exclusive member rates, earn points, and take advantage of other value-rich, immediate benefits during eligible stays at more than 650 participating properties worldwide. Travellers seeking memorable independent hotel experiences are invited to sign up at www.IPrefer.com/enroll.

13 July 2023

Snack to the future: Deliveroo predicts future food trends in Asia

Deliveroo has launched the Snack To The Future Report, which identifies how the region will be eating by 2040. 

Source: Deliveroo. Two people looking at packages and containers on a table, virtual interface above table..
Source: Deliveroo. The report finds that by 2040, people’s diet could become fully bespoke thanks to AI. Food delivery services could synchronise meal options with someone’s personal AI and provide recommendations based on their physiological and psychological state at any given time, for instance.

Led by Deliveroo alongside Singaporean food experts Yip Hon Mun and Luke Tay, together with several other global industry leaders, the report has uncovered key food trends that will be impacted by technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences by 2040. Some of the trends include:

○ Breath-prints will make our future food decisions for us. Expect personal tech devices to be enabled with breathtech, enabling consumers to breathe on a device and get a deep level of insight into what foods they should be eating to have optimal impact on their individual health and wellbeing.

○ Me-ganism: Going beyond keto, the next big thing in dieting and set to be the mainstream diet of the future is the me-gan diet (me-ganism). This is a hyperpersonalised diet which takes into account individuals’ nutritional needs, and is powered by AI.

○ Personal AI: Underpinning the Me-gan diet and lifestyle, AI technology will offer consumers their own personal AI (a life-long AI buddy) which will help automate and tailor what they eat based on their preferences and needs at any given time.

○ FOODGASMS: By 2040, dining will be a fully immersive experience and as such, food delivery s
ervices such as Deliveroo can use experiential formats such as augmented imagery, audio and packaging to elevate consumers’ meal enjoyment as part of their delivery orders.

○ EDIBLE BEAUTY: Get ready to see the food and beauty industry become more integrated than ever with a rise in edible beauty products like anti-ageing ice-cream and the chance to dine from hormone-balancing and dopamine driving menus.

○ 3D PRINTED MEAL PLANS: From packed lunches to printed lunches, food prep is about to become a lot easier with advances in 3D printing technology helping consumers create perfectly portioned and nutritionally balanced meals of their choice at home.

○ A METAVERSE OF FOOD DISCOVERY: The metaverse will expand into an interconnected world where people’s digital and physical engagement with food fully converge. With the rise in augmented artificial smell technology, the metaverse can be incorporated into meal delivery platforms, where consumers will virtually smell and taste the food before ordering, helping to discover new food options while reducing time deciding between a wide-selection of cuisines.

○ RESTORATIVE RESTAURANTS: New restaurant concepts will immerse diners and remove outside world distractions, with personal tech devices banned from entry, to a rise in popularity of silent cafés and restaurants which ONLY offer tables for one to encourage mindful eating.

○ NEWFOUND FOOD STAPLES: Daily staples will look a bit different from the usual rice and noodles, as petai, jackfruit, cowpea, arrowroot, azuki bean, buckwheat, amaranth and other variants of Asian yams, beans and forms of superfoods are set to be our newfound daily staples.

○ ALT-OHOL: Pairing of alcohol alternatives with the desires of healthy living. Gone are the days of awful hangovers as by 2040, we expect alt-ohol beverages like wine-inspired cordials formulated to mirror the dryness and depth of wine but fortified with vitamins and nutrients to keep consumers healthy - literally raising a glass to a longer life.

“The most notable trend across all is the need to empower consumers with control over their food choices, allowing them to enjoy meals on their terms, precisely when and how they prefer. In addition to considering affordability, taste, and nutrition, customers will have the option to select sustainably sourced food or customise their meat to align with their ethical and environmental standards,” said Yip, a Senior Adviser on Food Technology in Singapore. Beyond the shifting consumer preferences, the report highlighted that climate change and overpopulation will continue to contribute to future food shortages, people’s diets and the way they live. Many of the plant varieties that are grown today might not be available because they are unable to meet the climate challenges of tomorrow.

“For tropical countries like Singapore, we will face harsher and more volatile weather, shaping Singaporeans’ life- and work-styles. Hence, their nutritional needs and food-styles will transform in tandem,” said Luke Tay, a Food Systems, Sustainability and Geopolitical Analyst from Singapore.

“People will also become more nocturnal, working and eating amid the cooler night hours, leading to food and delivery services being a segment that never sleeps, catering to consumers round-the-clock. Concurrently, with climate change impacting staple crops, it gives way to other mainstream ingredients that will need less water to grow and sustain in Singapore,” shared Tay.

“Operating in a food haven like Singapore allows for a massive catalogue of meals. With these new technologies, those willing will be able to make more informed food decisions based on data collected of their daily food intake. There’s even the option for food companies to recommend various meal options that increases convenience and ensures nutritional needs and goals are met consistently in line with Singapore’s Healthier SG Strategy,” said Jason Parke, General Manager at Deliveroo Singapore.

“I started Deliveroo in 2013 with a mission to connect people to the best quality food from local restaurants and deliver it directly to people’s doors. It has been an incredible ride over the past ten years and I am really proud of what we have built. As we look towards the next decade and beyond, Deliveroo will continue to create exciting new innovations in food delivery, build new and better consumer experiences and take Deliveroo beyond functionality and convenience to really capture the passion and emotion of food,” added Will Shu, Founder and CEO of Deliveroo.

3 July 2023

The Ritz-Carlon goes live in Fukuoka

Source: The Ritz-Carlton. Facade, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka.
Source: The Ritz-Carlton. Facade, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka.

The Ritz-Carlton, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 31 hotel brands, has opened The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka on the island of Kyushu in Japan. The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka brings the brand’s service and contemporary aesthetic to a city famous for its thriving startup scene as well as for its history, traditions, and culinary culture, the Ritz-Carlton group said.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the expansion of The Ritz-Carlton with the opening of the brand’s 7th hotel in Japan,” said Tina Edmundson, President, Luxury for Marriott International.

“Since we first debuted The Ritz-Carlton in Japan in 1997, the brand has been consistently recognized for its legendary luxury and service, beloved by locals and visitors to Japan alike. We are excited to further strengthen our luxury positioning in the country by entering a new and emerging destination such as Fukuoka.”

Fukuoka was once a key waypoint of Silk Road trade routes, and today the city remains a major gateway between Japan and the rest of Asia. The destination is famous for its annual festivals, such as the 800-year old Hakata Gion Yamakasa summer festival, designated by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Other attractions include its beaches, natural parks, and historic places such as the ruins of Fukuoka Castle.

The luxury hotel is situated within the 111 m main tower of Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City, the tallest urban lifestyle complex in the city’s core commercial district. The hotel is also adjacent to Tenjin, an up and coming tech hub filled with shops, bars, cafés, and nightlife. The area is 15 minutes by car or public transportation to Hakata Station, Hakata Port or Fukuoka Airport, which links the city to Tokyo.

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka occupies the nine topmost floors in a 25-story glass tower designed by Kume Sekkei of Tokyo, offering views of the Genkai Sea and surrounding hills. The interior is inspired by Fukuoka’s traditional yarn-dyed silk and kimono weaving craft,

called “Hakata-ori”. Folding screens, sculptures, paintings, and woven textiles by local artisans are displayed.

On the 19th to 23rd floors, the hotel features 167 guestrooms of 50 sq m, including 20 suites that start at 75 sq m. Fukuoka Skyline rooms offer views of the city, while Park View rooms overlook the greenery of Ohori Park. From Bay View rooms, guests can see the passing shi

ps of Hakata Bay and beyond. The 132-sq-m Presidential Suite and the 188-sq-m Ritz-Carlton Suite each feature a dining room and kitchen for private meals.

The Ritz-Carlton Club at the top floor is a private sanctuary for guests staying in club and suite categories. Five culinary presentations are offered daily including breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, hors d’oeuvres, and cordials. With its bar and a private room, The Ritz-Carlton

Club offers a convenient venue for business and social gatherings. Live jazz performances are held every Saturday night, and a dedicated concierge service ensures personalised care for guests.

The hotel’s four restaurants and two bars reflect the food culture of Fukuoka. Sustainably-produced local ingredients are transformed into creative farm-to-sky Western c

uisine at Viridis, and three of Japan’s finest culinary traditions— kaiseki, sushi, and teppanyaki — are showcased at Genjyu. The Lobby Lounge & Bar offers refreshments and light meals throughout the day, and Bay offers breathtaking views and original cocktails along with chargrilled dishes and tapas to enjoy on its terrace. Diva is a refined yet relaxed café serving light meals, desserts and afternoon tea showcasing the green teas of Kyushu.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, located on the 24th floor, features an indoor swimming pool overlooking the bay, a gymnasium with exceptional city views, and both single and double private rooms for treatments using local ingredients and featuring products from ESPA.

Two banquet venues on the third floor of the hotel, the 108-sq-m Ritz-Carlton Studio and 336-sq-m Ritz-Carlton

Ballroom, can be configured to accommodate breakout sessions, board meetings, and other gatherings. The Ballroom is equipped with a 6 sq m LED screen.

“We are excited to debut The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka and our talented team of ladies and gentlemen look forward to delighting guests with the brand’s legendary care and service,” said Radu Cernia, GM, The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka.

“Whether our guests are here to explore the local startup scene or discover Fukuoka’s fascinating culture and cuisine, we look forward to welcoming them to The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka and provide them unforgettable memories.”

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Watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-Z1NI6rngk