Anantara Thailand resorts feature in The White Lotus Season 3

Three Anantara Thailand resorts have been officially announced as filming locations for the Emmy-winning series HBO Original series The White Lotus. Filmed across Thailand, The White Lotus Season 3 features the country's landscapes, cultural heritage, and architecture to create a mesmerising setting for the series’ signature plot twists and social satire. 

Each of the featured Anantara resorts embodies the essence of Thai island life, from the beaches of Koh Samui to Phuket’s coastline. The Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, and Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort are key settings for a fictional resort, The White Lotus Thailand.

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort 

Set along the shores of Bophut Beach, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort is one of the island’s most iconic resorts, with architecture inspired by Southern Thai heritage. The resort has 106 rooms, suites and beachfront pool suites and is within walking distance to the Fisherman’s Village. Occupying a lush site that was once a coconut plantation, the resort’s landscaping — including lotus ponds and a spa garden — was designed by architect Bill Bensley.

Multiple locations within the property are featured as The White Lotus Thailand, including the signature Thai-style lobby, security station, tree-lined resort entrance, the employee parking lot and resort’s jewellery store.

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

Situated on a private beach in Chaweng, Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort blends modern luxury with Samui’s rich history. One of the most distinctive settings in The White Lotus Season 3 is the resort’s Singing Bird Lounge, a treehouse-style bar nestled within the branches of a 120-year-old tree. Announced as a key filming location for the bar scene, the lounge offers panoramic ocean views and draws inspiration from the island’s bird-singing contests, a tradition that attracts thousands of spectators. 

As guests sip handcrafted cocktails at sunset, the melodies of Samui’s avian performers create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

Locations in Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas have been designated The Wellness Sanctuary, Spa, and Belinda’s room in the HBO series. With 183 villas and suites along Mai Khao Beach in Phuket, this hideaway is renowned for its seclusion and luxury.

Guests looking to experience The White Lotus firsthand can book The Lotus Awakening Escape package*, a four-night Phuket and Koh Samui retreat. The stay includes experiences at all three Anantara resorts featured, as well as unique lotus-inspired activities that reveal the heart of Thailand.

Begin with the allure of Phuket on the golden sands of Anantara Mai Khao, breaking up poolside relaxation only for excursions, wellness rituals and sumptuous dining. The next stop is Koh Samui, where the team at Anantara Bophut will take you on a spiritual journey and arrange private dining and spa indulgences. One of the island’s most exclusive dining venues, Tree Tops, awaits at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui, a sister resort 15 minutes away by car.  

Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

- Luxury accommodation for two guests

- Half-day guided Phuket Exploration tour, including stops at a muay Thai stadium in Patong, the Phuket Big Buddha, and attractions in and around Phuket Old Town

- The Lotus Awakening spa ritual for two, including chakra crystal balancing (90 minutes) and sound healing therapy

- One Lotus Season dinner experience at La Sala

- One cocktail at BUA Bar 

Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort

- Luxury accommodation for two guests

- Full day Passage of the Lotus experience for two, including a lotus folding class, guided prayer at the resort’s spirit house, visit to the Big Buddha and Wat Plai Laem temples, the Chaweng viewpoint experience, and visit to the Elephant Kingdom shelter

- The Lotus Indulgence spa experience for two, including a lotus foot ritual, body massage with white lotus oil (90 minutes) and lotus petal tea with lotus seeds

- Anantara’s signature designer dining Cocoon experience on the beach, with a lotus-inspired menu

Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort

- One themed cocktail per person at The Singing Bird Lounge

- Eight-course set dinner with whimsical, themed elements at Tree Tops Signature Dining

Source: Minor Hotels. Lobby, Anantara Bophut Koh Samui Resort.

Explore

Book The Lotus Awakening Escape package at www.anantara.com. 

*Terms and conditions:

• The rate is subject to 18.7% tax and a service charge. 
•  The minimum length of stay is two nights. 
• The package must be fully prepaid and is non-refundable.

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort unveils private villas

The InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, Vietnam has unveiled new villas overlooking the waters of the Gulf of Thailand and the resort’s lotus lagoon, bringing a new level of privacy and luxury for guests. The space and privacy of the villas are ideal for private parties or events with a private chef, outdoor barbecues, or intimate gatherings.

Located in a private area of the resort with direct access to the Club InterContinental Lounge, the four three-bedroom villas and a four-bedroom villa offer elegant and spacious accommodations for long staying guests, families, and groups of friends alike.

Inspired by the pristine nature of its surroundings, the new villas present a contemporary design with local touches and views of the beach. Each features a spacious living room, kitchen, bedrooms and garden while surrounded by the lotus lagoon.

Guests have the use of private cabanas and sun loungers, and can enjoy sunsets from the open relaxation area on the second floor overlooking the swimming pool. In addition to the large lap pool, the four-bedroom villa also has a spacious lap pool directly in front of the standalone master bedroom.

“We are thrilled to open some of the most exclusive and luxurious accommodations in Phu Quoc with our new villas,” said Piero Bellizzi, GM, InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort.

“Nestled in its own area of the resort with direct access to our pristine beach, our villas offer the utmost privacy and elevated service to give our guests truly memorable experiences.”
 
Details:

The new villas at InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort are open for bookings. The four-bedroom villa may only be reserved via email at reservations.icpq at ihg.com or by phone, +84 297 397 8888.

Until 30 June 2019, guests who book three consecutive nights for a stay in a Club InterContinental room, suite or villa for a stay before 30 November 2019 can enjoy the third night free. Benefits include airport transfer directly to the front door, in-villa check in, private butler service, and exclusive access to the Club InterContinental Lounge. The lounge offers gourmet breakfast options, light fine-dining throughout the day including complimentary afternoon tea, evening cocktails and canapés. There is also an on-demand butler service.

Cleanse and detox on July and August weekends at the REVĪVŌ in Bali

Source: REVĪVŌ. Cleanse and detox retreats will be held every weekend in July and August.

Luxury wellness resort REVĪVŌ in Bali, Indonesia has launched cleanse and detox weekend retreats every weekend for the months of July and August.

With the option of attending for either one or two days for the retreats, the cleanse and detox programme begins at 10am every Saturday, starting with a cold-pressed juice followed by a yoga, Pilates or meditation class. After the session, guests will be served a kombucha (flavoured fermented tea) and detox lunch at NŪTRIŌ restaurant – with the aim of introducing alkaline-forming plant foods into the diet, while reducing the intake of acidic, toxin-rich foods.

Throughout the programme, guests will have unlimited access to the main pool, two hydro Vichy shower beds, hot and chill plunge pools, infrared saunas, jacuzzi, steam rooms and a saltwater floating pool. There will also be the option to enjoy an hour long lymphatic drainage massage at REMISSIŌ spa for an additional cost of US$30. The massage uses very light pressure and long, gentle, rhythmic strokes to enhance blood circulation throughout the body. 

The programme concludes at 6pm and starts again at 10am the next day for those signed up for the two-day retreat. All guests will receive complimentary transfers to and from Seminyak for added convenience (or airport transfers if flying in internationally), and for those looking to have the full REVĪVŌ experience, the Garden Suite at the resort is available at a special nightly rate of US$350.
 

REVĪVŌ offers 16 Balinese-style suites, including two four-bedroom villas.  

 

Details:

The Cleanse & Detox retreat is available in the following packages: 

 

•   One-day Cleanse & Detox – US$45; US$75 with an additional massage

 

•   Two-day Cleanse & Detox – US$80; US$140 with two additional massages 

 

All prices are subject to 10% government tax and 11% service charge

AccorHotels creates luxury footprint in the Maldives

Source: AccorHotels. The Dhevanafushi Maldives Luxury Resort, Managed by AccorHotels is a luxury resort on the private island of Meradhoo.

AccorHotels has announced its first luxury destination in the Maldives as of September 1, 2017 — Dhevanafushi Maldives Luxury Resort, Managed by AccorHotels. Set on the private island of Meradhoo surrounded by natural splendour, the resort will be repositioned following further enhancements in late 2018, and join the iconic collection of Raffles hotels and resorts.

Dhevanafushi Maldives Luxury Resort, Managed by AccorHotels presently boasts 21 island villas and 16 ocean villas with private pools, three restaurants, and an array of facilities and activities to relax, rejuvenate and reinvigorate the body, mind and spirit. These include a luxury spa, over-the-water fitness centre, yoga programmes, water sports, private dining options, 24-hour butler and private chef service, along with snorkelling and diving.

“We are thrilled to announce our very first luxury resort in the Maldives at a time when the region is enjoying excellent growth, especially with travellers from Asia Pacific. AccorHotels is bringing to the resort our expertise in delivering unparalleled luxury experiences renowned in our Raffles, Fairmont and Sofitel brands, along with the benefits of our award-wining global loyalty programme, Le Club AccorHotels,” says Patrick Basset, COO, AccorHotels, Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia.

Vincent Yeo, CEO, CDL Hospitality Trusts, adds: “With active asset management being one of the key pillars of our management strategy, we believe the appointment of AccorHotels for the resort will allow us to optimise its asset potential and redefine this resort at the very top end of the luxury resort sector in the Maldives, following the repositioning exercise in 2018.”

The resort is a 55-minute flight from Male Airport and a 15-minute speedboat transfer.

Interested?

AccorHotels takes over the management of the resort from Jumeirah. Dhevanafushi Maldives Luxury Resort, Managed by AccorHotels is located on Meradhoo Island, 20219 Gaafu Alifu Atoll, Maldives

The Anam offers luxury experience in Nha Trang, Vietnam

Source: The Anam. View of villas.

The Anam, an independently-operated all-villa five-star resort in Vietnam, is set to establish a new benchmark in hospitality. The resort was soft launched in September, ahead of a grand opening at the end of the year.

Combining colonial era charm and service with 21st century design and convenience, The Anam emphasises personalised services, culinary excellence and rejuvenating wellness. The resort is located on Northern Cam Ranh Peninsula, 15 minutes from Cam Ranh International Airport, and 30 minutes from the city centre.

“Vietnam is known for its genuine, warm-hearted people and a dedicated attitude to life. At The Anam we embrace this natural advantage by offering highly discerning levels of service while ensuring guests enjoy uniquely curated destination and resort experiences,” said Duncan MacLean, GM, The Anam.

“We are extremely proud that despite having only recently opened, The Anam is one of only six hotels and resorts worldwide to be recognised and included in the World Luxury category by Worldhotels.”

The resort features suites and villas, including beachside accommodation with private pools, along a private beach. Each of the 105 villas is finished with Vietnamese hardwood, stone and antique style tiling.

The Sweet Dreams à la carte concept offers Irish linen, goose down pillows and recognised 'world’s best' beds, while the bathrooms, with sunken bathtubs, rain showers, and handmade French lotions and toiletries, typify The Anam’s attention to detail.

In addition to the private beach, patrolled by internationally certified life guards, facilities include three swimming pools and a complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown Nha Trang city. A wide range of recreational activities – from water sports to tennis and yoga – are also available, together with a fitness centre.

For dining, the Beach Club is poolside, while the resort’s Indochine Café delivers contemporary Asian and European cuisines in show kitchens.

posted from Bloggeroid

Katamama to welcome guests in April

Source: Katamama. A rooftop suite at dusk.

Katamama, a 58-suite boutique hotel located on one of the last parcels of land in Seminyak, Bali’s most prestigious oceanfront district, is opening at the end of March 2016.

Katamama embodies “handcrafted hospitality”, with every facet of the hotel personally designed and created by Indonesia’s finest craftsmen. The hotel is the creation of PTT Family, whose award-winning restaurants and bars in Indonesia and Singapore include the Potato Head Beach Club in Bali, a 20-villa estate renowned for its cutting-edge environmental design, and a leading contemporary Indonesian art gallery.

Contemporary design elements pay reference to the Balinese lifestyle and lush green gardens reflect the natural beauty of the island. Renowned Indonesian architect and long-time PTT Family collaborator Andra Matin has designed Katamama, with interiors a partnership between the owners and the Singapore-based design company Takenouchi Webb. The hotel will be finished with Indonesian materials such as Balinese bricks, teak, hand-made tiles from Java and terrazzo made on site.

Katamama's suites will be filled with curated artwork and collectibles, many of them originally part of the owner’s personal collection. All suites boast outdoor spaces, whether balconies, secluded gardens or individual pools. The two-storey Rooftop Suites measure 268 sq m, and offer internal access to a rooftop garden complete with ocean views, a spa bath and rain shower as well as dining, lounge and bar areas. The crowning glory of the hotel will be The Katamama Suite, housing two bedrooms and a private rooftop garden.

According to the TripAdvisor November 2015 Holiday Value Report, which revealed the top 10 most popular international destinations for Singapore travellers in the first quarter of 2016 along with the average one-week costs for hotels, airfare and meals, Bali is the most popular destination for Singapore travellers looking for a beach getaway. This is followed closely by Hong Kong, Taipei, Bangkok, Osaka, Kyoto and Seoul for those who prefer city breaks. Boracay and Langkawi are also popular, coming in ninth and tenth in the top ten list.

Janice Lee Fang, TripAdvisor’s Communications Director, Asia Pacific said at the time: “Travellers can compare prices and book great deals on TripAdvisor, and if they are flexible with their dates they can save even more money by visiting during the least expensive week*, which for Bali is 28th March."

Interested?

Katamama is at JL. Petitenget 51B, Seminyak, Bali, 80361, Indonesia. Call +62 361 302 9999 with enquiries

Read the WorkSmart Asia blog post about the Radisson Bali Tanjung Benoa

*Average costs to visit the top travel destinations are representative of a one-week trip including a seven-night hotel stay, average national roundtrip airfare and three restaurant meals per day. All hotel and airfare prices were based on trips departing and returning between 1 January and 31 March 2016. Rates were correct as of 5 November 2015 and are converted from US dollars to Singapore dollars using xe.com on 18 November 2015. 

The Vines Resort & Country Club unveils new garden venue for MICE

Source: The Vines Resort & Country Club. The Pavilion.

The Vines Resort & Country Club has launched The Pavilion, a purpose-built garden structure at the front of the iconic resort in the Swan Valley, on the outskirts of Perth, Australia. Overlooking the golf course and gardens, the new function area, is an ideal location for conference groups' sundowners and launch events.

The open space, which has three sides open to nature and can accommodate 100 guests, complements The Barrett Lennard Room, The Boardroom, as well as the Samuel Copley and Cabernet function rooms, as event venues.

Interested?

Contact the events team at +61 8 9297 3000 or email dos at vines.com.au

W Retreat & Spa Bali - Seminyak marks fifth anniversary with month-long celebration

Source: W Retreat & Spa Bali website.

W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak is turning five on March 5, 2016. In W style, the resort will mark the occasion with the month-long FIVE ON FIVE anniversary party with five different highlights:

WOOBAR will feature Paletas Wey popsicles created for the occasion by the Bali-based provider of Mexican-style frozen confectionery, while W THE STORE will offer an exclusive, limited edition line of Wanitas (woman) décor in conjunction with local artist K8 that is a modern interpretation of the traditional Balinese woman. 

At the W LOUNGE the resort is introducing FIT BAR, a fruit market style stall/corner that offers a wide variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices, made to order from fresh, local and organic quality ingredients. Visitors to the STARFISH BLOO and FIRE restaurants can enjoy special five-course menus. 

Last but not least, the 24-hour AWAY SPA will offer the FIVE ON FIVE spa offer for the month of March, featuring diamond dust for skin exfoliation, a 60-minute massage and a 24K gold wrap.

Interested?

The W Retreat & Spa Bali – Seminyak is at Jl. Petitenget Kerobokan, Seminyak Denpasar, Bali 80361, Indonesia. Call +62 361 473 8106 / +62 361 300 0106

The FIVE ON FIVE party on 5 March 2016 will be held from 5pm to 4am, with DJ and music producer Alex Metric (OWSLA/UK) at the WOOBAR. Entry is free.

An exclusive W Bali x Paletas Wey menu will be available at the WOOBAR from March 5 from 6pm

Hashtag: #WFIVEONFIVE 

Novotel Phu Quoc offers 650 sq m of meeting space

Source: AccorHotels. The Novotel Phu Quoc Resort.

AccorHotels announces the opening of Novotel Phu Quoc Resort in Vietnam. Located on one of the island’s white-sand beaches, Novotel Phu Quoc is located near Duong Dong town and close to many of the island’s top attractions, such as Sao beach, Ham Ninh fishing village and various pearl farms.

“Novotel Phu Quoc Resort will cater to a variety of travellers visiting the increasingly popular island for its stunning beauty, ecotourism activities and cultural attractions,” said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer for AccorHotels Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia. “The resort is our fifth Novotel in Vietnam, and will offer guests the midscale brand’s well-known spacious room design, consistently high service standards, commitment to well-being and high-tech meeting facilities.”

The resort follows AccorHotels’ successful opening of Novotel Ha Long Bay, Novotel Danang Premier Han River, Novotel Nha Trang and Novotel Saigon Centre in Vietnam. Guests can choose from the resort’s 366 rooms, including 120 suites and villas. Each accommodation type features a sofa bed, a balcony or terrace and 42" LCD TVs, while 20 of the villas boast private pools.

Valerie Diard, General Manager of Novotel Phu Quoc Resort said, “We look forward to welcoming holiday makers to the island resort. More than half of the island’s landmass is part of a national park featuring stunning beaches, an untouched natural environment and mountains popular for motor biking, hiking and wildlife viewing."

The resort is home to two contemporary restaurants and three intimate bars. Food Exchange features international ala carte and buffet dining with live cooking stations. A second specialty restaurant offers seafood and both local and international cuisine. Guests can also enjoy views of the Gulf of Thailand at the resort’s Lounge Bar, Pool Bar and Beach Pool Bar.

The resort also offers 650 sq m of flexible meeting and event space comprising a high-ceiling ballroom and three multifunctional meeting rooms. The function rooms feature the latest meeting and video technology and can accommodate up to 550 guests.

Interested?

Novotel Phu Quoc Resort is located at Duong Bao Hamlet, Duong Bao Commune, approximately 10 minutes’ drive (8 km) from Phu Quoc International Airport, which services direct international flights from Siem Reap International Airport in Cambodia. 

To celebrate the opening, the resort is offering special daily rates until 30 April 2016 starting from VND1,850,000++ for a superior room inclusive of breakfast for two adults. Book online, or call +84 (0) 77 626 0999. 

AccorHotels launches Hotel Baraquda Pattaya MGallery by Sofitel

Source: AccorHotels. The Hotel Baraquda Pattaya MGallery by Sofitel evokes the ambience of a beach resort.

Hotel Baraquda Pattaya MGallery by Sofitel is now open. Situated in the heart of the city, the 72-room boutique hotel is within walking distance of many shopping, dining and entertainment venues. The nautically themed hotel features 60 Deluxe rooms, eight Baraquda Suites and four Baraquda Grand Suites. 

“Pattaya is a vibrant beach destination that has long appealed to both local and international travellers. With a wide array of water sports, the sights and sounds of Walking Street, cabaret shows and a floating market, the city offers something unique and special for everyone,” said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer for AccorHotels Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia. “The opening of Hotel Baraquda Pattaya raises AccorHotels to another level of success and steps up the expansion of our network in this city. This is a sophisticated, boutique hotel in every sense and a proud new member of the MGallery by Sofitel.”

“As Thailand’s premier holiday destination, Pattaya is a natural choice for vacationers seeking their own little corner of paradise with an exciting twist. Hotel Baraquda Pattaya breaks the generic mould of the city’s holiday accommodation with a vibe of its own and encourages guests to relax, unwind to get away from it all. The unique interior and exterior design is reminiscent of a transatlantic journey on a luxury liner, and this vibe is enhanced by its supremely comfortable state-of-the-art accommodation, an eclectic choice of dining options including a rooftop bar offering a panoramic view of the city skyline and AccorHotels’ renowned standards of superlative personal touches and services,” said Wanitchaya Kietdamrongwong, the Hotel Manager of Hotel Baraquda Pattaya.

For dining options, guests can sit back and watch the world go by over a cup of fresh Lavazza coffee and slice of homemade cake at Nauti-Café. Round off the evening by the uniquely shaped Pool Bar. Take in the view through the large windows at SEA Restaurant or watch master chefs at work in the kitchen while indulging in local and international dishes or watch the evening sunset over the horizon, at the all-day dining and bakery corner on the hotel’s rooftop bar.

Business and private events are catered for with a meeting room of 80 sq m accessible via an open courtyard reminiscent of a ship's deck. The meeting room can accommodate up to 80 guests while the 132 sq m White Lounge can take up to 50 guests. Both rooms are equipped with audio and visual equipment and Wi-fi connectivity.

Interested?

Hotel Baraquda Pattaya is located at 485/1 Moo 10, South Pattaya 2nd Road, Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi 20150, and is 90 minutes from Suvarnabhumi Airport by taxi or public transportation. 

To celebrate its opening, the hotel is offering an introductory rate starting from THB 2,925 ++ per night from now until 25 December 2016. For more information and reservations, please contact rsvn at hotelbaraquda.com or call +66 038 769 999.

Inaugural Nongsa Regatta in January 2016

Source: Nongsa Regatta Facebook page.

Nongsa Point Marina & Resort, in Batam, Indonesia, is holding its inaugural Nongsa Regatta from 27 January 2016 to 31 January 2016 during the peak of the northeast monsoon. The race, open to yachts, sporting boats and racing multihulls, will be complemented by dinghy and traditional kolek races.

A veteran in the regatta scene and a venue host to the Singapore Straits Regatta for nearly 20 years, the resort is expecting an estimated 300 participants for the Nongsa Regatta, including internationally from Hong Kong, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, Singapore and Malaysia.

Interested?

Visit the Facebook event page to download the entry form (link in the entry of September 19). The deadline for competitors is 20 January 2016

Review the MICE facilities. Nongsa Point Marina & Resort has four meeting rooms of different sizes, with the Sapurba room able to seat up to 150 people (theatre style).

posted from Bloggeroid

Ajman Palace Hotel MICE offer in force till end-September

Source: Ajman Palace Hotel website.

The Ajman Palace Hotel, boasting extensive meeting and conference venues including the largest ballroom in the Northern Emirates, has launched a MICE package* that will be on offer till 30 September 2015.

The resort, managed by HMH – Hospitality Management Holdings, is located 22 km from Dubai International Airport and 11 km from Sharjah International Airport. Set on a private beach, the resort offers 254 rooms, suites and serviced residences, restaurants and lounges, plus meeting and event venues.

Ferghal Purcell, General Manager, Ajman Palace Hotel said, “Ajman is transforming from a quiet emirate into a vibrant and progressive tourism and business destination. The Ajman Palace Hotel is one of the most prestigious addresses in Ajman conveniently located in close proximity to the city’s prime business and leisure attractions. We are equipped with top-notch five-star facilities offering the perfect setting for corporate and social events in Ajman. Our MICE Package is very attractively priced and provides groups with an array of value-added benefits.”

The MICE package includes a meeting room, coffee break and lunch. Prices start from AED120 per person for groups of 100 and above, and go up to AED180 per person for a meeting of 15 people. Additional coffee breaks can be arranged for AED40 per person, while additional dinners cost AED80 per person. 

Groups are entitled to a suitable event room large enough to accommodate them with the client’s choice of set-up, still mineral water, conference stationery, confectionery, as well as standard technical equipment including flip chart, projector and screen. Shared Wi-Fi is complimentary. 

*The rates are inclusive of the 10% tourism fee and 10% service charge. Food and beverage prices are based on a contracted number of guests; prices may change if there are fewer participants. Offer is subject to availability. Other standard terms and conditions apply.

Mercure Phu Quoc Resort & Villas offers beach setting for MICE

Source: AccorHotels. The Mercure Phu Quoc Resort & Villas.

AccorHotels has opened Mercure Phu Quoc Resort & Villas, the group’s second hotel on the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam. The newly refurbished resort offers both privacy and accessibility. It is 5 minutes from Phu Quoc International Airport, and 7 km from Duong Dong town. Phu Quoc is a 50-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City.

Said Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer for AccorHotels Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and the Philippines, “As the third Mercure in Vietnam, the resort strengthens AccorHotels’ commitment in the country to growing the Mercure brand, which combines international service standards with local charm.”

The 72 villas feature private terraces, LED TVs with satellite channels, coffee and tea making facilities and a minibar. The beach front Executive Pool Villas are built with private swimming pools with underwater lounge chairs, bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs and separate living rooms.

"Phu Quoc is becoming favoured for its stunning beaches and untouched natural environment, and our staff are committed to helping guests experience the best of the island,” said Remi Faubel, the resort’s General Manager.

For meetings, conferences, or corporate retreats, the hotel boasts a fully equipped function room ideal for private and corporate functions. Its meeting facilities can accommodate up to 80 guests.

Interested?

Rates at Mercure Phu Quoc Resort and Villas start at US$106. For more information, contact +84 773 972 999. 

Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort to open July 1

Source: Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort website.

July 1 will mark the official opening of the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort, located along Klong Muang Beach on the west coast of southern Thailand.

Resort owner and President–CEO of MBK Group, Suvait Theeravachirakul, said: "With a world-class management team in place, we are confident in the 5-star service Dusit will provide, as it has been recognised globally for over 65 years. The resort's location and facilities, coupled with Dusit's signature gracious Thai hospitality, will surely impress tourists from around the world here in the 'Emerald of the Andaman Sea.'"

"We are proud to add the Dusit Thani Krabi Beach Resort to our portfolio and to play a role in making Krabi a major tourist destination in the region," said Chanin Donavanik, Managing Director and CEO of Dusit International.

Bangi Golf Resort brings back popular Buffet Ramadhan

Source: BGR.

For the month of Ramadhan, Bangi Golf Resort Restaurant (BGR) presents their signature Buffet Ramadhan from 21 June 2015 to 15 July 2015.

Says Executive Chef Kamaruddin: “BGR’s Buffet Ramadhan has always been a favourite choice for families, friends and business entertainment during the month of Ramadhan. We are constantly introducing new dishes to ensure we offer a variety but at the same time, we work hard to maintain the consistency and flavour of traditional favorites. Buffet Ramadhan last year was a great success and we are excited to welcome back familiar faces this year.”

BGR’s Buffet Ramadhan offers up to 200 sumptuous selections, including Malay, Western and Oriental favourites. The open kitchen concept will allow guests to watch chefs prepare the dishes and interact with them. At the same time, a four-­piece band will entertain guests with live Malay traditional music from 6.30pm to 9.30pm daily.

Source: BGR. Satay.

This year, guests can look forward to the Cooking Showcase, where the highlight is the kambing bakar (lamb slow-roasted on the spit) and sup kambing mamak (Indian style mutton stew). At this station, chefs will serve freshly carved roast lamb and piping hot bowls of mutton stew. Guests can also enjoy freshly grilled beef and chicken satay with homemade satay sauce and condiments; fried kway teow and fried mee mamak, all prepared 'live’.

At the Western appetiser section, savour cream of smoked chicken with roasted onion focaccia and sous vide eggs with mushroom Espuma. The Beef lasagna and grilled boneless chicken with creamy mushroom Sauce are highly recommended.

For Malay and Oriental main courses, the kitchen team has butter prawns, teriyaki chicken, black pepper beef and fish fillet with Lemongrass sauce, as well as Malay favourites such as sambal sotong kembang, ayam masak ros and rendang daging Tiak minyak.

Source: BGR.
Churros.

Desserts to try include Pacojet ice-­cream in the unique flavours of teh tarik, honeydew and bunga kantan (torch ginger flower). Guests can also finish their meal on a sweet note at the Spanish churros with thick chocolate sauce live station. There will also be a selection of homemade kuehs, puddings and fruit. New for 2015 is a tea-infused chocolate ganache tartlet.

Prices start at RM55 for adults. Bangi Golf Resort also offers 800 complimentary parking lots.

Interested?

Look for the Bangi Golf Resort at GPS coordinates 2.95716N, 101.76518E
Make a reservation at +60 3 8925 3728 or +60 3 8210 0265

Sanctum Inle Resort offers an opening promotion till October 2015

Source: Sanctum Inle Resort website.

The Sanctum Inle Resort, which opened in May near the eastern shore of Inle Lake at Maing Thauck Village in Myanmar, has a Soft Opening Hot Deal till October 14.

The hotel is offering a free night's stay for every night booked, with room rates starting at US$484 per night. The 47 US$484 Cloister Classic rooms are the resort’s largest room category. Each room features between 38 and 41 sq m of accommodation on the ground, first and second floors, with a spacious bathroom and garden views.

Interested?

Make a booking

Coral Beach Resort Sharjah offers group discounts for iftar buffet

Source: Coral Beach Resort Sharjah website.

The Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, which recently underwent a complete refurbishment of rooms and facilities, will host an iftar buffet at the Al Bahar Restaurant featuring traditional Arabic and international cuisine, including mixed grills, shawarma, hot and cold mezze like kebbeh, sambosek and fatayer, stews and biryani, besides soups, salads, snacks and traditional Ramadan drinks and juices.

Jean Pierre Simon, Regional General Manager, Northern Emirates, Coral Hotels & Resorts, said, "Al Bahar restaurant offers the ideal setting for guests to break the fast together. Complete the dining experience with traditional Ramadhan desserts such as ever popular umm Ali and mouhalabia.”

The iftar buffet costs AED115, with a group of 10 persons or more charged at a discounted rate of AED99 per person. The resort also offers a special rate of AED85 per person for private iftars hosted by corporations in the ballroom, which can accommodate up to 300 people. 

InterContinental Bali Resort hosts The Spirit of Bali cultural buffet dinner on Saturdays

Source: InterContinental Bali Resort website. The Taman Gita Terrace in the daytime.

Every Saturday evening, the InterContinental Bali Resort offers the opportunity to enjoy traditional Balinese cuisine at The Spirit of Bali cultural dinner, accompanied by Okokan, Tektekan and Calonarang dance performances. These culturally-inspired performances are all part of InterContinental Bali’s ongoing commitment to preserve and showcase the island’s cultural heritage and actively support local communities and their artistic legacies.

The buffet dinner will feature traditional hot and cold Balinese classics every Saturday evening from 7pm at Intercontinental Bali Resort’s Taman Gita Terrace. Balinese food is a blend of fresh ingredients, intricate flavours and aromatic spices. Many of the distinctive tastes and cooking styles were inspired by the early Chinese, Indian, Arabic and Dutch traders and settlers. There are no artificial flavourings or additives, and colourings are obtained only from natural plant sources such as red hibiscus flowers and green pandan leaves. 

The foundation of an authentic Balinese meal is rice. Sauces are created with coconut milk and the fundamental coriander, pepper and garlic. Curries rely on freshly ground spices; common seasonings include ginger, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves and tamarind. Balinese bumbu is a basic spice paste that varies from village to village. Created from shallots, garlic, ginger, turmeric, galangal, pepper, coriander, candlenuts, chillies and lemongrass, together with salted and fermented shrimp, it is used to enliven and add depth to dishes. Hot fresh chilli can be found in fiery accompanying sauces known as sambals, and peanuts are typically present as a garnish, or ground into a paste to form a sweet and spicy peanut sauce.

Some of Bali’s most distinctive and popular dishes include bebek betutu, duck stuffed with spices, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in a coconut-husk-fuelled earth-oven; satay, small kebabs of fish, chicken or beef, barbequed in the traditional style on hot coals and served on a bamboo stick with peanut sauce; and pepes ikan, fragrant, spiced local fish, baked in banana leaf packages.

The Spirit of Bali experience is priced at Rp520,000++ upwards per person.

Interested?

Book a table.

Escape to The Meydan Hotel or Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa this summer

Source: Meydan Hotels & Hospitality website.

This summer Meydan Hotels & Hospitality is introducing The Great Escape at AED 490 per room per night at both Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa and The Meydan Hotel, till 30 September 2015. The offer is ideal for a short corporate getaway.

Just 45 minutes' drive from the city, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is situated amongst sand dunes, offering an authentic desert experience. The Meydan Hotel, on the other hand, is 10 minutes from downtown Dubai. Starting from 65 sq m, the hotel also offers some of the largest rooms in the city.

As part of The Great Escape, guests have a choice of experiences, including desert safaris, camel and horse riding, a falconry show, and archery at Bab Al Shams. The Meydan Hotel offers a tennis academy managed by Tennis 360, as well as The Track, Meydan Golf, a nine-hole championship golf course that is open till 11pm daily.

Guests can choose from Asian, Indian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines. For the month of Ramadhan, the Al Hadheerah, an open-air desert restaurant at the Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, will present traditional Arab cuisine along with cultural entertainment in an air-conditioned tent.

The Great Escape room package by Meydan Hotels & Hospitality includes*:

- Wi-Fi Internet access

- Use of hotel’s gym and pool

- 24-hour check-in and check-out (only at The Meydan Hotel)

- Lawn activities including putting green, volleyball, archery and table-tennis (only at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa)

- 25% off across all food and beverage outlets

- 25% off all spa treatments

- 25% off all tennis programmes (Tennis 360)

- Up to 50% off at The Track, Meydan Golf

- 25% off desert safaris on jeeps (only at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa)

- Up to 55% off car rental bookings

- 15% off Al Yamamah Rewards card, Meydan Hotel & Hospitality’s food and beverage loyalty programme

In addition, guests will receive a 20% price reduction in entry fees** when visiting popular attractions in Dubai, such as Kidzania, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink and SEGA Republic. Daily shuttle transfers offered by The Meydan hotel will provide guests with convenient accessibility to these entertainment venues.

Guests sharing memories of their stay using #mydxbescapeplan hashtag stand a chance of winning prizes, with the ultimate winner being crowned “The Great Escapee”.

To activate The Great Escape, contact Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa at +971 (4) 809 6100, or The Meydan Hotel at +971 (4) 381 3333. Bookings can be made online at www.meydanhotels.com/theGreatEscape.

For more formal events, there are a 450 sq m ballroom and the purpose-built Meydan Grandstand with 16,300 sq m of space at the Meydan Hotel, while more intimate events can be organised at the Falcon meeting rooms at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. There are two meeting rooms available for boardroom-style events for up to 16 delegates, and a third room that can accommodate up to 36 delegates classroom-style. Audio-visual equipment is available, and wireless Internet connections. Outdoor venues include the Falcon Courtyard, Masala Courtyard, Masala Rooftop Lounge and Garden Café. Bab Al Shams is also very near Endurance City, an outdoor multi-purpose venue that offers a combination of indoor rooms, large outdoor facilities and dining halls.

*Terms and conditions apply. Rates are subject to 10% service charge, 10% municipality fee, and tourism dirham fee of AED20 per room per night.

**To make use of The Great Escape privileges or reduced entry fees to downtown Dubai attractions, advance reservations should be made at the Concierge desk through the Escape Artist.

Sunway's Resort Cafe offers breakfast to dinner options for business dining

Source: Sunway.

Located at the lobby level of the five-star Sunway Resort Hotel and Spa, the new 362-seater Resort Cafe celebrates the cultural influences of Malaysia's Malay, Chinese and Indian communities.

The 17,588 sq ft restaurant features eight main themes: the Monumental Fruit and Salad Towers, Malay Archipelago (dishes from Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia), Indo-Chine (dishes from Thailand and Vietnam), Oriental Far East (dishes from Japan, Korea and China), Spices of India (dishes from India), Mirage of the Gulf (dishes from the Middle East), Best from the West (Western comfort food, grills, rotisserie and churrasco) and desserts. Over 60 dishes from seven different menus rotate daily, while ala carte selections feature over 50 signature dishes.

The octagonal towers for greens and fruits are a first of their kind in a Malaysia restaurant. The displays have blowers circulating 10°C cold mist over the food, keeping it fresh and appetising for a longer time. 

The Resort Cafe is open daily from 6am to 11pm. For reservations, call +60 3 7495 2009 or visit www.sunwayhotels.com.