2020’s Brand New Sojourns
By Lifestyle+Travel
The year 2020 is definitely the high-flying one for discerning tourists and business travellers, thanks to a myriad of new, cutting-edge hotels opening worldwide. Check out our 10 picks and book your ticket to discover new destinations.
♥ THE CHOW KIT
Inspired by the rich-in-history old Kuala Lumpur area, The Chow Kit tastefully blends into the district with its magnetic manner, fusing neoteric ornateness, tradition, and homely warmth together. It is the first design-led, experience-driven boutique hotel in the area.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Scrupulous decoration and interior design
• Art collections by local artists
• Convenient location
WHERE TO FIND: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
WEBSITE: www.thechowkit.com
♥ CARLTON HOTEL BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT
In the heart of the fashionable district of Bangkok, Carlton Hotel Bangkok Sukhumvit debuts itself with imposing look and impressionable facilities. As an expansion from Singapore, the Bangkok hotel also brings famous Wah Lok here, serving authentic Cantonese cuisines, as well as signature Singaporean and Peranakan dishes at The Plate.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Convenient location with a short walk to the sky train
• Upper-upscale design and services
• Business-friendly stay
• Top-notch tastes at dining outlets
WHERE TO FIND: Bangkok, Thailand
WEBSITE: carltonhotel.co.th
♥ FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BANGKOK
Bangkok’s Chao Phraya Bank welcomes new first-rate hospitality refinement, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, opening for arrivals starting from 1 February. The hotel is a meticulous melting pot of natural grace and metropolis magnetism, plus an art space with contemporary Thai artists. With Four Seasons’ high standards, what else can be expected but ultimate satisfaction?
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Sensational riverside stay
• Stunning art pieces
• Top-notch hospitality
• French cuisine at its finest
• Iconic infinity pool
WHERE TO FIND: Bangkok, Thailand
WEBSITE: fourseasons.com/bangkok
♥ RENAISSANCE XIAMEN
Xiamen, the coastal melting pot of Chinese and Western influences, has recently opened the brand new Renaissance Xiamen to pamper tourists and business travellers with well-thought-out design, 200 beautiful guestrooms and seven opulent villas, as well as attractive dining outlets.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Rooms with sea view
• Beachfront restaurant
• Business-friendly stay
• Kids-friendly facilities
• “Navigators” to show you one-off experiences
WHERE TO FIND: Xiamen, China
WEBSITE: www.renaissancexiamen.com
♥ SOFITEL MEXICO CITY REFORMA
Sofitel has landed its first footprint in Mexico with an iconic sojourn in rich-in-culture Mexico City, harmonising modern French art with unique Mexican elements with one another. Apart from the imposing, you can satisfy your palate with the finest traditional Mexico and Mediterranean cuisine here as well.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Palatial guest rooms
• Business-friendly stay
• Indulgent spa by L’Occitane
• Culinary excellence
• Exclusive location
WHERE TO FIND: Mexico City, Mexico
WEBSITE: www.sofitel-mexico-city.com
♥ THE RITZ-CARLTON, PUNE
India’s charismatic Pune metropolis has welcomed new palatial estate, The Ritz-Carlton, Pune. The hotel is a congenial composite of perennial sophistication and the city’s fascinating uniqueness. Apart from its grandiosity, you will definitely be endlessly impressed with The Ritz-Carlton’s top-notch standard of services.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Rich-in-culture programmes
• Brilliantly beautiful design
• Signature dining experiences
• Golden hours at the hotel’s rooftop lounge
WHERE TO FIND: Pune, India
WEBSITE: www.ritzcarlton.com/pune
♥ PARAMOUNT DUBAI
Bringing Hollywood lifestyle to the heart of Dubai, Paramount Hotel Dubai encompasses the elegance of Californian lifestyles developed by world-famous Paramount Pictures. Paying homage to the cinematic life, The Paramount Screening Room is a paradise for movie lovers. The highlight goes to unsurpassed gastronomic experiences here.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Unparalleled elegance
• Californian beverages at Pacific Groove
• A chocolate lab!
• Hollywood-themed stay
WHERE TO FIND: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
WEBSITE: www.paramounthotelsdubai.com
♥ AZERAI KE GA BAY
On a five-kilometre shore with pure white sands, Azerai Ke Ga Bay will be your next favourite escape. Combining colonial-style architecture with cutting-edge luxury, the oceanfront resort boasts 55 well appointed rooms, with three paradisiacal pool villas as stunning highlights, as well as other wonderful creature comforts.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Unimpeded view of turquoise sea and azure sky
• Soul soothing retreat
• Cosy feeling in the midst of elegant setting
WHERE TO FIND: Phan Thiet, Vietnam
WEBSITE: www.azerai.com
♥ CAMP SARIKA BY AMANKIRI
Surrounded by five national parks and Navajo National Reservation, Camp Sarika by Amankiri is an otherworldly experience of luxury amidst wilderness. Designed for escapism and riveting adventure, the enthralling retreat will doubtlessly make the journey of a lifetime.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Peaceful disconnection
• Ultimate privacy
• Breath-taking landscape
• Bespoke adventures
• Campfire under the stars
WHERE TO FIND: Utah, USA
WEBSITE: www.aman.com/resorts/amangiri/camp-sarika
♥ WYNDHAM GRAND NAI HARN BEACH PHUKET
On Nai Harn’s sandy shore, Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket boasts a brand new pompous stay with 353 guest rooms of high privacy, embraced by lush forest and calming ocean. In addition to the indelible panorama, you can enjoy culinary excellence the resort has to offer.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Pool-access beautiful rooms
• Breezy beach bar and sky bar
• Convenient location to Phuket’s famous attractions
• Quiet beach
WHERE TO FIND: Phuket, Thailand
WEBSITE: www.wyndhamgrandnaiharnphuket.com
By Lifestyle+Travel
“MATILDA THE MUSICAL” is Coming to Bangkok for the Very First Time.
Tero Scenario and GWB Entertainment in association with the Royal Shakespeare Company is delighted to announce that the multi-award-winning production of Matilda The Musical will be touring to Bangkok at the Muang Thai Ratchadalai Theatre on 21 February until 3 March 2024. “Matilda The Musical” is adapted from the classic children’s book by Roald Dahl. The fantasy musical brings a magnificent production and guaranteed fun for all the family. The show has won over 100 awards worldwide, including 24 awards for “Best Musical”. Over the past 12 years, the show has been seen by more than 11 million people in 90 cities across the globe and is now making its way to Thailand for an exclusive season of 15 performances at Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre from 21 February to 3 March 2024. Don’t miss out! The UK’s “TheTimes” described the show as “Spectacular, satirical and emotional,” while the “Independent” raved that the show is “Utterly exhilarating – Matilda explodes onto the stage!”. “Matilda The Musical” brings to life Dahl’s wonderfully imaginative story with outstanding performances from an amazingly talented cast. The show features magnificent sets and set-transitions as the action moves from Matilda’s home to school with oversized props – from giant books to machinery - adding to the wonderfully whimsical fantasy elements of the story. The show’s brilliant award-winning score, combined with the stunning lighting and sound design all add up to an unforgettable night of musical theatre for all ages and genders. Get ready to be enchanted by this marvelous, fantastical story of an extraordinarily intelligent and imaginative young girl who uses her courage and smarts to change her life. “Matilda The Musical” will be live on stage for 15 performances only from 21 February to 3 March 2024 at Muangthai Rachadalai Theatre. Tickets start at Bt1,000 and are available at all ThaiTicketMajor outlets or via www.thaiticketmajor.com For more information, call 02 262 3838. Get all the latest updates at www.facebook.com/rachadalai
By Lifestyle+Travel
Thailand’s Breathtaking New Lifestyle Destination Unveiled – Beyond Skywalk Nangshi
The southern Thailand hospitality Icon, Kata Group, marking 40 years of hospitality reign by unveiling "Colors of Beyond" – a transformative rebrand for the Beyond resorts and a splash of excitement into vacations. A 500-million-baht investment in Beyond Skywalk Nangshi, a sky-high landmark destined to attract global travelers. This is more than a facelift – it's Kata Group redefining hospitality and painting unforgettable experiences onto Southern Thailand's canvas. . Unforgettable Phang Nga Adventure Awaits at Beyond Skywalk Nangshi! Forget the ordinary and step into an exhilarating escape at Beyond Skywalk Nangshi in Thailand's stunning Phang Nga Province. Here, 500 million baht has been poured into crafting a 57-room haven that caters to every travel style and budget. Thrill-seekers will conquer their fears on Thailand's highest and longest glass-floored viewing platform, while nature lovers soak in panoramic vistas from the infinity pool. Couples can create lasting memories amidst verdant valleys, and families can embark on unforgettable adventures together. Beyond Skywalk Nangshi redefines the Phang Nga experience with its diverse room types, each promising a unique perspective on the surrounding beauty. Seaview Tent, these cozies 23 sq m tents offer comfort and style, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature, imagine waking up to the gentle murmur of waves and a panoramic sunrise over the sparkling sea. Forest Tent, nestled amidst lush greenery, these 23 sq m tents promise a tranquil escape. Breathe in the fresh air and wake up to the symphony of birdsong, surrounded by the emerald embrace of the forest. Seaview Pavilions, climb the stairs to ultimate relaxation in these 30-31 sq m pavilions. Located in a charming two-story building, they boast sweeping views of Samet Nangshi's pristine beauty, offering a haven of luxury just steps from the beach. Pool Villa, unwind in a private oasis with one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas. Featuring a refreshing pool or Jacuzzi, stunning sunrise views, and a distinctive design, these villas offer the ultimate escape for couples or solo travelers. A noteworthy feature is the 'Beyond Skywalk,' recognized as the tallest and longest glass-floor walkway in Thailand. Spanning 180 meters and positioned 80 meters above sea level, the walkway comprises three layers of thick glass (30 mm), capable of supporting weights up to 500 kilograms per square meter. It reveals dazzling turquoise waters with stunning clarity. Every step feels like hovering, every glance offers a breathtaking perspective. Admission to Beyond Skywalk, which includes food and drink credits, is priced at 500 baht for adults, 300 baht for students/children, and free for young children (during the launch period until February 29). Beyond Skywalk Nangshi offers a smorgasbord of delights beyond its breathtaking skywalk. Fuel your adventures at Horizon, an all-day restaurant serving delectable cuisine with a panorama that'll leave you speechless. Or grab a casual bite and invigorating coffee at Skywalk Café, the perfect spot to soak in the laid-back vibes. Afterward, take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool on the 4th floor of the Upper Lobby building. Breathe in the fresh air as the Andaman Sea stretches before you, a shimmering
By Lifestyle+Travel
The Thailand Polo Association commemorates its 20th anniversary
The Thailand Polo Association (TPA) celebrates its remarkable success through an exhibition narrating the association's two-decade journey on its 20th anniversary. This event is dedicated to perpetuating the vision of Mr. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the association's founder, who aspired to elevate Thailand's polo to international standards. Accompanying this commemoration, Mr. Kanoksakdi Bhinsaeng, the President of the Thailand Polo Association, and accomplished Thai national polo athletes, including Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha, Ploy Bhinsaeng, and Chonnarlite Thomongkhon, participate in insightful discussions on stage at the Pullman Bangkok King Power Hotel on Soi Rangnam. Mr. Kanoksakdi Bhinsaeng, the President of the Thailand Polo Association, discloses that over the past 20 years, the association has been promoting Thai polo on the global stage and has hosted prominent international tournaments and major polo events, significantly contributing to the heightened recognition of Thai polo on a broader scale. Presently, there are many Thais and expats with an interest in polo. Athletes under the association follow structured training schedules with coaches providing guidance. This encompasses the planning of tournaments, both domestic and international. In the past, the association has sent athletes, including Mr. Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha and Mr. Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha, to participate in tournaments in the UK, renowned as one of the world’s leading polo hubs. Additionally, the association also intends to organise a youth camp for young individuals keen on polo. The association's current objective is to ardently advocate for the inclusion of polo in the 33rd SEA Games in 2025, with Thailand as the host country. The association is thoroughly prepared in all aspects, encompassing tournament venues, horses, personnel, and international-standard facilities. Presently, the association is in the process of seeking approval from the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, with the expectation of receiving the result shortly. The ultimate aspiration is to secure a gold medal for Thailand. Historically, the Thai polo team secured silver and bronze medals in 2017 and 2007, respectively. Mr. Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, a Thai national polo athlete, states that over the past 20 years, the association has continuously enhanced the popularity of polo. On behalf of the Thai national polo team, it is my pride to have contributed to its success and to continue supporting this sport to increase its recognition in Thailand and on the global stage through participation in various tournaments. In preparation for the 2024 tournament organised by the Thailand Polo Association, a total of four tournaments are scheduled. The first event is the All Asia Cup, taking place from 4th – 10th February. This year, teams from five countries, including Brunei, China, the Philippines, Mongolia, and Thailand, will participate, with Thailand set to compete in this tournament as well. Anticipation is high for such competitive tournament, as all teams are believed to have undergone intensive training. Ploy Bhinsaeng, a Thai national polo athlete, conveys that her initiation into the world of polo commenced with an introduction by Mr. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha. Upon trying the sport, she swiftly developed an enduring affinity for it. Polo demands a fusion of skills, encompassing strategic planning and teamwork.