Preferred Hotels and Resorts Has Welcomed New Dreamy Member Properties
By Lifestyle+Travel
PREFERRED HOTELS & RESORTS WELCOMES 19 NEW MEMBER PROPERTIES
World’s largest independent hotel brand, Preferred Hotels and Resorts, has welcomed 19 new member properties to its global portfolio this year, ranging from a new urban jewel in downtown Los Angeles to a villa estate on the island of Sicily, these distinct luxury hotels present experiences anchored in their local communities and surroundings for travelers to explore with family, friends, and even pets over the summer season. Highlights include:
- Hotel Per La (Los Angeles, California, United States): Formerly a historic building in downtown Los Angeles, the 241-key hotel features an art collection with more than 4,000 curated pieces, vast spaces for events and meetings, a rooftop pool and bar with sweeping skyline views, among others, with a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that is set to open soon.
- Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun – a Tafer Resort (Cancun, Mexico): The all-inclusive resort is situated in an embrace of pure white sands of Playa Mujeres, offering 452 beautiful suites, 6 stunning dining concepts, heated pools and rooftop pool, holistic treatments by Spa Imagine, as well as a chance to explore the Mayan archaeological sites.
- INIALA HARBOUR HOUSE & RESIDENCES (Valletta, Malta): Located in the gorgeous St. Barbara Bastion, the luxury pet-friendly hotel comprises 4 palatial houses, 20 suites, and 3 guestrooms, all with breathtaking views. Other highlights include ION Harbour – a rooftop restaurant by Michelin starred chef Alex Dilling, spa treatments at Essensi Spa by Iniala, glamorous cocktail bar, and original artworks from both renowned and up-and-coming Maltese and Gozitan artists.
- Grand Hotel San Pietro (Sicily, Italy): The 20th-century-villa-turned-luxury-hotel is situated on the site of an ancient Roman road in Taormina. Guests can enjoy 63 guestrooms, some pet-friendly, with sweeping views out to the Ionian Sea, an outdoor pool surrounded by gardens, an al-fresco restaurant with an expansive terrace, the Rotonda sul Mare – an intimate patio that serves romantic dinners for two directly above Isola Bella, a spa with a Finnish sauna and steam bath, private boat trips to sea caves and rocky beaches, and guided tours to Mount Etna, one of the world’s most active volcanos.
- Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club (Anguilla): The utopian island resort pampers guests with unparalleled spa and wellness experiences in the midst of sweeping panorama of beautiful beach. Luxury offerings include the recently re-imagined Aurora International Golf Club and seven restaurants and bars including D. Richards, the island’s only steakhouse looking out to neighboring Saint Martin.
Each of these new member hotels participate in I Prefer Hotel Rewards, the brand’s points-based loyalty program with more than four million travelers enrolled globally. Complimentary to join, members of I Prefer earn points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, Elite status, and other value-rich benefits from eligible stays at more than 650 participating hotels and resorts worldwide. Travelers seeking memorable independent hotel experiences are invited to sign up at www.IPrefer.com/enroll.
To find out more about Preferred Hotels and Resorts’ latest additions, visit preferredhotels.com
By Lifestyle+Travel
Chatrium Grand X Trip.Best Oyster Month
In a significant move for luxury hospitality and culinary tourism, Trip.com, a leading global travel service provider, has announced an exclusive collaboration with Chatrium Grand Bangkok. Leveraging its curated ranking platform, Trip.Best, the partnership presents "Chatrium Grand X Trip.Best Oyster Month," a prestigious culinary festival running from 1-30 November, 2025. This month-long event promises an extraordinary display of gastronomic excellence, gathering Michelin-starred chefs, international champions, and master mixologists to celebrate oysters, caviar, and Champagne, marking a new chapter in elevated travel experiences. This collaboration is a sophisticated fusion of expertise, uniting Trip.com's global reach, powered by the trusted recommendations of Trip.Best, with Chatrium Grand Bangkok's celebrated culinary artistry. As Chatrium Grand Bangkok holds the distinguished No. 2 position on Trip.Best’s ranking of the Best Gourmet Hotels in Bangkok—a testament to its exceptional standards—this alliance aims to reinforce Bangkok’s standing as a world-class culinary tourism destination, appealing directly to discerning travelers seeking truly memorable dining adventures. Highlighting the spirit of global discovery, the partnership introduces the "Trip.Best: The Voyager's Pearl," an exclusive signature oyster creation crafted by the hotel's culinary team. This bespoke dish, available throughout November, symbolizes Trip.Best’s mission to guide travelers to the world's finest experiences. It features a European oyster harmoniously topped with diverse ingredients—Thai shrimp, North American salmon roe, and Japanese ebiko—each element representing a culture united on a single plate. For reservations and more information, please visit: W: https://www.chatrium.com/grandbangkok/oysterevent T: +66 (0) 2126 7999 E: savio.cgb@chatrium.com
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