This Hotel Offers Guests To Experience What Life Was Like For British Aristocracy In The 1920s
By Lifestyle+Travel
In anticipation of Downton Abbey’s big-screen debut this September, fans of the series will be delighted to hear that Hotel Café Royal is offering the ultimate British escape to experience what life was like for British aristocracy in the 1920s.
Opened in 1865 and previously the haunt of famed British patrons, from Princess Diana and Winston Churchill to Oscar Wilde and Virginia Woolf, Café Royal, London has been an established and iconic landmark on the capital’s social scene for over a century. Located in the beating heart of London in between Mayfair and Soho, the hotel is perfectly positioned for guests to enjoy an action-packed itinerary of history and glamour inspired by the characters and storylines of Downton Abbey.
The Royal Package, from $8500
The ultimate experience for Downton Abbey fans, the Royal Package offers two nights in one of Hotel Café Royal’s historic suites and two days packed with activities inspired by the show. The adventure begins with a day trip to Highclere Castle, the sprawling country house and estate where Downton Abbey’s Crawley family call home, for a tour of the much-loved grounds where so many memorable lines were uttered. Guests will be escorted in their own private Rolls Royce or helicopter for the day and will return to Hotel Café Royal to enjoy their award-winning traditional afternoon tea with a bottle of champagne.
The next morning, guests can enjoy a chauffeur-driven tour of nearby Mayfair of British institutions Burberry, Fortnum & Mason, Prestat and Penhaligon’s, all of which hold the London Royal Warrant and are approved suppliers to the British royal family. Once guests are in need of a refreshment, they will be escorted to St James’ Park, next to Buckingham Palace, to enjoy a Butler’s picnic and champagne in the grounds of Marlborough House, the birthplace of King George V who is expected to visit the Crawley family in the movie. That evening, guests are invited for a private cocktail masterclass at Hotel Café Royal’s Green Bar where they will learn how to master the art of 1920s-isnpired mixology, and of course sample some too.
On their final morning in London before departure, guests will enjoy a private etiquette lesson to learn how the characters in Downton Abbey would have behaved in Edwardian England. During an afternoon filled with history lessons about early 20th century customs and culture, guests will learn about everything from making conversation to the correct handling of flatware.
The Royal Package includes
- Two-night stay in a Signature suite
- Private transfer and tour of Highclere Castle
- Butler’s picnic in St James’ Park
- Royal Warrant shopping
- Private etiquette class
- Daily breakfast
- Afternoon tea in the Oscar Wilde Lounge with champagne
- Complimentary mini-bar excluding alcohol
- 1920s Cocktail masterclass at The Green Bar
- Copy of Downton Abbey cookbook and cocktail book
The Aristocracy Package, from $3600
Guests choosing the Aristocracy Package can enjoy a two-night stay in one of Hotel Café Royal’s Grand Deluxe Guestrooms, private transfer and tour of Highclere Castle, Royal Warrant Shopping, afternoon tea in the Oscar Wilde Lounge, daily breakfast, and a copy of the Downton Abbey cookbook and cocktail book to take home.
The Aristocracy Package includes
- Two-night stay in a Grand Deluxe Guestroom
- Private transfer and tour of Highclere Castle
- Royal Warrant shopping
- Daily breakfast
- Afternoon tea in the Oscar Wilde Lounge
- Copy of Downton Abbey cookbook and cocktail book
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Wellness by the Waves: Relax to the Soothing Rhythm of the Andaman in Phuket and Phang Nga
Beyond its breathtaking beauty, the Andaman Sea holds a hidden power of healing within the rolling waves, soft sands, gentle breeze, and even the warmth of sunlight. Wellness by the Waves, a three-day, two-night journey in Phuket and Phang Nga, is more than a holiday. It is an immersion that soothes both body and mind with profound relaxation. The journey begins with a visit to Phuket Old Town, where the rich Peranakan architecture and cultural heritage have been carefully preserved through generations. A stop at The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket offers an authentic taste of local cuisine handed down over time, reinterpreted with a contemporary presentation—signature dishes Gaeng Poo Khai Ped (Crab Curry with Duck Egg), Moo Hong (Braised Pork Belly Phuket Style), and Pla Tao Ew (Soy-Braised Fish). Next comes relaxation with panoramic views of Cape Panwa at Amatara Welleisure Resort, where wellness experiences restore balance from within. “Sound Healing with Tibetan singing bowls guides you into deep tranquility, while Pranayama Breathing Therapy enhances oxygen flow, cultivating mindfulness and inner calm.” The day concludes with a fine dining experience at Senses Restaurant, where fresh ingredients are crafted into dishes that balance flavor and nutrition. On the second day, the journey continues in Phang Nga with lunch at Catch and Co., where the freshest daily catch from Phang Nga’s Sea is presented with refined preparation and creative flair. Guests can select from an array of premium seafood, including delicate Thai sashimi. Then continue your journey of relaxation at JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, where QUAN Spa offers a full range of treatments. The highlight is the Signature Jade Stone Massage, which uses both hot and cold jade stones to relieve muscle tension, stimulate circulation, and reduce stress. The experience continues with “Mindful Mandela Art, a meditative practice of creating mandala patterns that foster focus, serenity, and inner balance amidst lush garden surroundings.” An exceptional evening follows at Nai Muang Restaurant, renowned for its distinctive Southern Thai cuisine. Signature dishes such as Gaeng Som Nai Mueang (Southern Sour Curry), Moo Pad Kapi Sataw (Stir-fried Pork with Shrimp Paste and Stink Beans), and Bai Liang Pad Khai (Stir-fried Melinjo Leaves with Egg). highlight the bold flavors of the South and the quality of local ingredients. The final morning leads to Memories Beach, home to “Ocean Therapy, a practice that harnesses the restorative power of the ocean through water activities.” As one of Thailand’s premier surfing spots, it helps release stress and strengthen both body and mind under the guidance of experienced instructors. The journey concludes with a memorable meal at Toh Daeng at Baan Ar Jor, a century-old Sino-Portuguese home transformed into a restaurant and museum. Local Hokkien-inspired dishes such as Gaeng Kua Motan Moo Yang Sai Ngo (Spicy Curry with Grilled Pork and Rambutan), and Pla Jian (Pan-fried Fish) are served, while the museum offers a glimpse into the heritage of the historic family estate. Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Opening Hours: 11:00–22:00 (Closed on Wednesday) Facebook Page: The Charm Dining Gallery Phuket Tel: +66 (0) 76
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Fresh Breath Escape: Take a Breath of Fresh Air at Khao Yai – Saraburi
Sometimes, what the body craves most is simply to breathe in the crisp freshness of nature, to let the wind sweep away fatigue, and to embrace the renewing energy that restores balance. Fresh Breath Escape offers exactly that: a short yet fulfilling 2-day, 1-night wellness retreat amidst the lush valleys of Khao Yai–Saraburi, where pure air and serene landscapes invite you to rediscover lightness of being. Begin your journey with a light trek along the historic “200 Years of Thai–US Relations” trail in Khao Yai National Park. Wander beneath towering canopies, encounter diverse ecosystems in the lush Khao Yai Park… just the right dose of exercise. After this invigorating walk, recharge with a wholesome lunch at Gin Dee Organic Restaurant, where dishes such as crisp organic salads, Nam Prik Goong Sod (Fresh shrimp chili paste), and soothing herbal infusions are prepared with care from the freshest local farm ingredients. All enjoyed in a breezy, relaxing atmosphere. In the afternoon, check in “at Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai, where the philosophy of “Rest is Wellness” comes to life.” Replenish body and mind with the signature Aromatherapy Massage using natural essential oils, unwind in private onsen baths, and soothe tension in the sauna—all embraced by panoramic mountain views. As evening descends, savor the calm elegance of InterContinental Khao Yai Resort. “At Somying’s Kitchen, indulge in a Farm-to-Table dining experience featuring thoughtfully curated health-conscious menus.” Every plate showcases organically grown produce and supports local farmers. “Awaken the next morning with inspiration at Khao Yai Art Forest, a gallery seamlessly blending contemporary creativity with the timeless beauty of the surrounding forest.” Here, art and nature converge to evoke tranquility, reflection, and deep inner calm. Continue your journey with a riverside retreat at Jittang Permaculture Restaurant & Café, where farm-to-fork dining is elevated by the philosophy of permaculture. Relish wholesome Thai–Western fusion dishes such as Moo Krob Biodynamic (Biodynamic Crispy Pork), Kanom Jeen Sao Nam (Rice Noodles with Coconut Milk and Pineapple), Choo Chee Pla Nuea On (Spicy Fish Curry), and farm-fresh organic salads, each crafted with integrity and sustainability. “Conclude your wellness escape with an indulgent afternoon tea at The Harmony Library & Tearoom, The Soul Resort. The exquisite Silk Road Tea Set pairs premium blends with French pastries, served in an Oriental-inspired space infused with the soothing energy of chromotherapy hues.” It is the perfect finale before returning to daily life refreshed, rebalanced, and renewed with every breath Contacts & Practical Information ━━━━━━━━━━━━👇━━━━━━━━━━━━ 200 Years Thai–US Relations Trail, Khao Yai National Park Open: Daily 06:00–18:00 Website: khaoyainationalpark.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 092 6529 Gin Dee Organic Restaurant Open: Daily 11:00–20:00 Facebook: Gin-d Organic Tel: +66 (0) 62 594 6255 Hansar Thai Wellness Khao Yai Website: hansarhotels.com/khao-yai Tel: +66 (0) 62 432 0599 For Hansar Thai Wellness Spa (Open 10:00–18:00), advance reservation 3–7 days prior is required via website or Tel: +66 (0) 97 919 7633 Somying’s Kitchen, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort Open: Daily — Breakfast 07:00–11:00 / Lunch 12:00–15:00 / Dinner 18:00–22:00 Website: khaoyai.intercontinental.com/dining/somyings-kitchen Tel: +66 (0) 44 082 039 Advance reservation required for non-resident guests Khao Yai Art Forest Open: Thu–Fri 12:30–18:00 / Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 Website: khaoyaiart.com Tel: +66 (0) 86 569
By LIFESTYLE+TRAVEL
Nature’s Embrace: Find Renewal in Chiang Mai’s Embrace of Nature
“If everyday life feels like it’s spinning too fast and overwhelming that your mind and body are calling for a ‘reset’, it’s time to journey into the tranquil embrace of nature in Chiang Mai.” Take this three-days and two-nights Nature’s Embrace retreat to recharge your energy and restore balance in your life. Begin your journey “with a soulful dining experience at Ekachan Ethnic Thai Cuisine, where rare and traditional Northern dishes are thoughtfully prepared using organic local ingredients.” Signature highlights include Jeaw Phak Pang sai Jin Som (Spicy Dip with Pickled Pork), Yam Som-O Miang Poo (Pomelo Salad with Crab Wrapped in Betel Leaves), or Kaeng Rawaeng Neua (Beef Curry with Aromatic Spices) all served in the atmosphere of a 150-year-old wooden Lanna house. Next, journey to Lisu Lodge by Asian Oasis for a Forest Bathing experience, a mindful practice of connecting with nature by walking slowly or simply being still in the forest. “This is an experience that helps ease away the fatigue and stress while replacing them with deep, positive energy.” Stay overnight surrounded by rice fields and mountain views, while learning the culture of the Northern Thailand’s Lisu hill tribe including a heartwarming Circle Talk gathering where feelings are shared among participants. In the next morning, you can explore the organic tea field at Araksa Tea Garden. “Learn about the art of cultivation to tea tasting as well as the types of tea that are globally awarded to celebrate their health benefits.” Complement the experience with tea-inspired culinary creations against the peaceful backdrop of rolling hills. Then you can spend your afternoon restoring both body and mind at Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai. Engage in a mindful art by crafting a traditional Tung Lanna (northen ceremonial flag). Afterwards, “unwind with a soothing treatment at the Ayurah Spa & Wellness Centre”, and conclude the day with a wholesome dinner at The Garden Restaurant, where premium ingredients are thoughtfully crafted into flavourful dishes that nourish your wellbeing. As evening falls, retreat to Cross Chiang Mai Riverside, where Lanna-inspired architecture harmonizes with lush riverside landscapes. “Awaken to sunrise yoga by the Ping River, embracing the calm energy of the morning.” On the final day, immerse yourself in local wisdom at Baan Noi Norn Muan, learning how to make herbal inhalers and compress balls using local herbs. For lunch, indulge in contemporary Thai flavours at BAAN Landai Fine Thai Cuisine, featuring creative dishes such as Laab Mamuang Suk Poo Kon (Spicy Ripe Mango Salad with Crab Meat), Phad Mee Boran Goong Tod Sauce Makham (Stir-fried Ancient-style Noodles with Tamarind Sauce and Crispy Prawns), and many more