High-End Sojourns with Over-the-Top Afternoon Tea in Asia
By Lifestyle+Travel
To cool of the tropical heat in the afternoon, these top-notch hotels and resorts in Asia offer sensational sets of Afternoon Tea, curated by their skillful culinary team, along with engaging experiences unique to each stay.
Thailand – Meliá Koh Samui
Luxurious afternoon tea by award-winning executive chef Azizskandar Awang with a selection of premium TWG loose teas and the obligatory scones with clotted cream and homemade jam, as well as more tastebuds-pampering bites. Held every Saturday from 15:00 until 18:00.
ON THE MENU:
- lemon and pistachio éclair
- canelé de Bordeaux
- chocolate mousse and strawberry macaroon
- passion fruit, chocolate croustillant and raspberry
- egg, mayo and mixed cress
- grilled brie cheese and cranberry
- cucumber, dill and cream cheese
- smoked salmon finger
VENUE:
Yod Maprao, a stunning room with floor-to-ceiling windows affording spectacular vistas of the resort’s infinity pool and Choeng Mon Beach.
PRICES:
THB 800 (USD 25) per person (add Nua Prosecco or Moët & Chandon Piccolo for an extra cost)
Thailand – Banyan Tree Samui
A heavenly opportunity of having an afternoon tea for two by an infinity pool overlooking the frisky sun-dappled sea.
ON THE MENU:
- English Tea set – Earl Grey, fresh scones and clotted cream
- Mango Paradise Tea set – mango-flavored eclairs, tarts, mousse, cheesecake, macarons, and more
VENUE:
The pleasure can be all yours right at your beautiful secluded villa.
PRICES:
USD 30 – 35 per set
Vietnam – The Anam Cam Ranh
The Anam fondles your peaceful afternoon with your beloved one with a set of indulging afternoon tea crafted by professional culinary team who knows so well how to make your day.
ON THE MENU:
- English and raisin scones with jam and clotted cream
- Bailey’s cheesecake, coconut tart and macaron
- a ham and cheese sandwich
- grilled pork belly with mustard seed sauce and mini ciabatta
- a caprese burger
VENUE:
At the guest’s villa or other scenic locations across the resort of the guest’s choosing.
PRICES:
USD 15++ per person
Vietnam – Banyan Tree Lang Co
Banyan Tree Lang Co is very well-known for stunning traditiondal architecture amidst the mountains and the gleaming East Sea. For an ultimate Vietnamese sense, a special set of afternoon tea served in bamboo baskets are served right at your door on a daily basis.
ON THE MENU:
- a choice of premium teas
- nem lui (pork on lemongrass skewers)
- banh ngot (sweet cakes)
VENUE:
At your exquisite villa.
PRICES:
Complimentary daily for villa guests.
Vietnam – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Afternoon tea at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is now featuring an all-new selection of all good things you can savour in an afternoon in a stunning setting.
ON THE MENU:
- traditional sandwiches
- oven-fresh scones
- scrumptious patisseries
- signature madeleines
- an expanded menu of teas from around the world, from bold Assam tea from India to locally produced Vietnamese teas
VENUE:
Le Club Bar, a bright, airy venue with a timeless feel overlooking the hotel’s garden courtyard.
PRICES:
VND 690,000++ (USD 30)
Vietnam – Azerai La Residence, Hue
In Vietnam’s former imperial capital, Azerai La Residence, Hue boasts its breathtaking architectural finesse, while offering daily afternoon tea with a fascinating will that will leave you relentlessly impressed.
ON THE MENU:
- Traditional Afternoon Tea – mini club sandwiches, mini quiche, assorted sweet pastries, local special sweets, classic English tea or freshly brewed coffee
- Sparkling Afternoon Tea – all of the above plus a glass of Jean-Louis Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine
VENUE:
Le Gouverneur, the stylish Art Deco-inspired bar located just off the hotel’s main lobby, as well as outside in the verdant gardens with an amazing view.
PRICES:
Traditional Afternoon Tea – VND 450,000++ for two persons
Sparkling Afternoon Tea – VND 750,000+ for two persons
Japan – Zentis Osaka
Afternoon tea at Osaka’s newest hotel is designed by a rising culinary star, Chef Shinya Otsuchihashi, who brings his French and Japanese cooking skills to create an afternoon tea that bridges the cuisine of the two cultures. The tea service is from 14:00 – 17:30 daily.
ON THE MENU:
- matcha financiers
- passionfruit & coconut macaroons
- edamame blancmange
- chilled soups
VENUE:
UPSTAIRZ
PRICES:
A two hour afternoon tea starts at JPY 4,500++ (USD 42) and a glass of champagne can be added for JPY 1,000++ (USD 9)
Indonesia: Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana
At Tanah Gajah, a resort moored amidst a sea of rice fields, the daily afternoon tea service serves up a panorama of classic Balinese against a backdrop of art and sculpture collected by one of Indonesia’s most reputed architects. Offered from 14:00 – 18:00.
ON THE MENU:
- Balinese-spiced tuna satay
- chicken curry puffs and finger sandwiches
- Valrhona chocolate cake
- mixed fruit tarts
- jackfruit fritters
- tiramisu
PRICES:
IDR 350,000++ per person (kids 6-11 are half price and under 6 are free)
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Sky-High Spirits: The Standard’s Boldest Season
Forget silent nights. The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon subverts tradition with a high-altitude festive lineup. Ditch the ordinary for a high-altitude festive takeover. Featuring quirky markets, Michelin-starred hairy crab, and Thailand’s highest countdown, this subverted, sky-high celebration redefines holiday glamour with unrelenting attitude. The Creative Kick-off The festivities ignite at The Parlor with Objects of Desire (Dec 19–21). This isn't your average market; it’s a curated playground of creative merch, fashion finds, and holiday drama. Expect live DJs, DIY workshops—think custom scrunchies and live drawing—and a pet-friendly policy that ensures no one is left behind. When the retail therapy peaks, head to Double Standard for comfort food and festive sips. A Culinary Odyssey The hotel’s dining icons are pulling out all the stops. Mott 32 brings back its cult-favorite Hairy Crab menu, while Tease offers a "Hypnotically Cool" afternoon tea (THB 1,100++). On Christmas Day, The Standard Grill serves a lush semi-buffet featuring roasted suckling pig (THB 1,800++), and Ojo delivers Mexican-inspired singular creations like King Crab Veracruzana against the city’s best backdrop. The Ultimate Countdown New Year’s Eve peaks at Sky Beach and Ojo for Thailand’s highest party. As 2025 fades, disco-house maestro Dicky Trisco and underground icon Seelie take over the decks 78 floors up. Whether you opt for a five-course dinner at the Grill or the all-in "Stay for Midnight" package (from THB 34,000++), you’ll be toasted by free-flow champagne and front-row views of Bangkok’s explosive firework display. The morning after? Recover at The Standard Grill with a "Morning After Brunch" designed to cure any festive hangover. For more information LINE Official Account @thestandardbangkok Tel: +66 (0) 2085 8888
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Unfolding the Art of Journey
The art of elevated travel has evolved the experience of air travel far beyond mere transportation. For the discerning passenger, it has truly become an art—a curated journey where comfort, exclusivity, and personalization transform the flight itself into a desirable destination. Traveling hits another level of sophistication as Jim Thompson and Thai Airways International (THAI) elevate their collaboration. The stunning new in-flight collection transforms the journey, draping passengers in contemporary Thai artistry with bespoke amenity kits and luxurious Royal Silk Class Comfort Wear. To celebrate the third year of their landmark partnership with a stunning, style-and-sustainability-focused in-flight collection. This collaboration elevates the experience for the modern traveler, blending aviation excellence with immersive Thai culture. Building on the success of premium amenity kits launched in 2023, the latest expansion introduces 14 exclusive new prints for amenity bags. Highlights include designs like House on the Klong and Orchids Bunch—reflecting Thai heritage and THAI’s emblem. For the first time, Royal Silk Class passengers on European routes will enjoy bespoke Jim Thompson Comfort Wear featuring the signature Origami Elephant motif, ensuring travel is "Smooth as Silk." THAI's CCO, Kittiphong Sansomboon, emphasizes the commitment to sustainability and authentic Thai identity. This focus is clear in the collection's eco-friendly fabrics and biodegradable accessories, including a toothbrush and shoehorn. The 2026 Collection invites travellers to "live the story" of Thai culture through rich fabrics and innovative design, solidifying Jim Thompson and THAI's shared passion for world-class hospitality and craftsmanship.
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Celebrate the Festive Magic of Paris at Printemps
As winter arrives, the City of Light transforms into a glowing wonderland of sparkling boulevards, stylish decorations, and warm seasonal charm. The atmosphere is so unique from dazzling illuminations to cosy Christmas markets, Paris captures the spirit of celebration like nowhere else — and at the heart of this magical atmosphere stands the iconic Printemps Haussmann. Founded in 1865, Printemps has long been a symbol of Parisian elegance and innovation. Created with the ambition to offer something fresh, beautiful, and accessible, the department store soon became a pioneer in modern retail. It introduced fixed pricing, seasonal sales, and artistic window displays that would later become legendary Christmas attractions. Its magnificent Art Nouveau architecture — complete with historic domes and ornate facades — has been admired for generations and officially recognised as part of France’s cultural heritage. Today, Printemps remains one of Paris’s most beloved shopping destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. During the festive period, the store comes alive with enchanting window displays, exclusive collections, and the joyful energy that defines Paris in winter. Whether you’re searching for the perfect holiday gift, refreshing your wardrobe, or simply immersing yourself in the city’s festive charm, Printemps offers an unforgettable experience. Festive Promotion (15 Nov 2025 – 15 Jan 2026) Shop till you drop with our VIP Invitation and receive exclusive rewards when you, • Spend €800 or more → Receive a small makeup pouch (valued at €18) or a stylish cap (valued at €25) • Spend €1,200 or more → Receive a laptop sleeve (valued at €35) • Spend €2,000 or more → Receive a large bag (valued at €69) A perfect bonus treat — whether as a Parisian keepsake or a thoughtful gift for someone special. This holiday season, let Printemps be your gateway to the magic of Paris. Discover the traditions, the beauty, and the joy of celebrating in one of the world’s most enchanting cities.