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Once Upon a Belmond

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Healthy Life, Happy Heart

Surrounded by natural beauty and lush vegetation, Kinan Spa at Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, launches a three-day wellness retreat with curated experiences to nourish the soul and body and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Healthy life, Happy Heart is a new package to bring guests peace of mind and a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature and their inner self.

DAY 1

Releasing ceremony at the beach – a Shaman starts the ceremony with an energy cleansing using a mix of copal crystals and medicinal herbs. An offering is made to the ‘Universe’ with local flowers along a good intention to complete the circle.

Private consultation – guests are invited for a tour of the spa and a private consultation with Spa Manager, Cinthya Alva, to discuss personal objectives and how to make the most of their retreat.

Aromatherapy Blending – takes place as a workshop to create the combination of essential oils for improvement of mood and nurture the skin.

DAY 2

Private yoga with healing music – personalised Hatha Yoga class with healing music will help to increase flexibility, energy levels, cleanse the body from toxins and decrease stress levels.

Nutritional consultation –a nutritional expert guides an in-depth session on diet, healthy eating and methods of detoxing the body and guests will receive tips and recipes to ensure they achieve their goals.

Kinan body glow 30 minutes – the magic of Kinan Spa is experienced with a slimming exfoliation and reaffirming sapphire salts by Gemology cosmetics.

DAY 3

Private meditation – at the enchanting Yoga Palapa, guests enjoy a meditation class that is a primary method of self-healing and gateway to self-awareness – scientifically proven to reduce both heart rate and blood pressure, in addition to helping with sleep and healthy eating.

Detox body wrap 50 minutes – heated cotton sheets infused with herbs are wrapped around the body to draw toxins to the surface. A Melipona bee honey from the spa’s own honey bee harvest is then used as a body mask to clean and rejuvenate skin.

Cilantro Juice Bar – a visit to the Cilantro Juice Bar is where guests can learn about the benefits of superfoods and enjoy a tasting of the different type of kombucha -raw probiotics – prepared locally.

Alila Jabal Akhdar’s New Spa Arbour

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Alila Jabal Akhdar in Oman, at 2,000 metres above sea level overlooking the dramatic gorge and spectacular Al Hajar mountain range, has just introduced a new alfresco Spa Arbour, situated on the edge of the canyon, for some fabulous gravity defying Spa Alila indulgence. Staying true to the Alila philosophy of creating bespoke and surprisingly different wellness experiences, the Spa Arbour blends dramatic Omani vistas with Spa Alila treatments, inspired by the local traditions and delivered from the heart.  

Spa Alila has created three exceptional treatments available exclusively at the Spa Arbour, to be enjoyed singly or for a couple.  

On the Edge

A 60 or 90-minute slow-stroke massage with deep pressure focus on the legs, lower back and shoulders. The masseuse will use a blend of virgin coconut, local frankincense and vanilla massage oils with a gentle Thai stretching technique, which will release any lingering tension for complete relaxation.  

60-minute single massage is USD55 and a couple’s massage is USD10090-minute single massage is USD70 and a couple’s massage is USD130

Heart of the Mountain

A 60 or 90-minute Balinese full body massage, delivered from the heart through an age old technique that has been passed down from generations of Balinese healers.  

60-minute single massage is USD50 and a couple’s massage is USD9090-minute single massage is USD65 and a couple’s massage is USD120

Reach your Peak

This 60-minute revitalising treatment using enriched moisturising oils will leave guests feeling recharged and ready to go. The treatment combines an acupressure massage on the soles of the feet and hands with a therapeutic neck, shoulder and scalp massage.  

60-minute single massage is USD45 and a couple’s massage is USD80

Guests looking to combine their Spa Alila indulgence with adrenaline-pumping hikes, can now attempt the Via Ferrata, a brand new protected climbing route. The Via Ferrata Cave Affair Experience involves walking over a cave mouth, traversing along the side of the canyon and ascending into a steep gully. Those looking for a gentler trail may enjoy the 90-minute Adventure Trek experience.  

Rates at Alila Jabal Akhdar start from USD 428 for a Mountain View Suite on a half board basis excluding tax.

For more info please visit alilahotels.com/jabalakhdar

Robertson Quay Opens in Reinvigorated Neighbourhood in Singapore

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The first international luxury hotel brand at The Quayside, Robertson Quay, is set to impress with its residential-inspired hotel concept 

Set amidst a dynamic, sophisticated neighbourhood along the Singapore River, known for its dining options and arts houses, the luxury hotel has been carefully curated by world- class designers, architects and culinary purveyors. Located just a few minutes from the CBD, the hotel still maintains a stylish but laid back, relaxed feel in the leafy, upscale neighbourhood of Robertson Quay. The hotel offers 225 luxurious studios and suites, including an expansive Penthouse, which has unparalleled views of both the Singapore River and vibrant city via floor-to-ceiling windows.  

Designed by award-winning architect firm, SCDA, the residential-inspired property combines elements from Robertson Quay’s industrial and intriguing past with sleek contemporary finishes using rich Italian marble, slate, brushed copper and bronzes, whilst seamlessly blending into the residential surrounds. The light- filled room interiors have been designed to magnify the familiar comforts of home. Guests can sink into soft, plush, custom-made furnishings and enjoy bespoke amenities such as a specially designed in-room cocktail kit by local bar guru’s Proof & Co.  

InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay is fully equipped for business travellers, with five intimate meeting and event spaces as well as an exclusive 24-hour Club InterContinental lounge. Club guests will enjoy access to tailored and personalised services, including a dedicated team to personalise their stay, private in room or lounge check-in and impressive Club rooms. Quayside Lounge, which is set amongst lush tropical surroundings on level four, offers sophisticated afternoon tea and curated evening cocktails. Guests looking to maintain their wellness routines can look forward to recreational facilities such as the lap pool and 24-hour fitness studio.  

Established as part of a holistic dining and lifestyle destination, the hotel boasts a wide range of restaurant and bar concepts. Flagship restaurant Publico, representing the central core of Italian culture, is a multi- concept dining destination comprising a variety of Italian experiences under one roof – a neighbourhood deli and bar and a ristorante with adjoining terrazzo by the river. Other highlights throughout the hotel include New York institution Wolfgang’s Steakhouse by Wolfgang Zwiener, and a bar and dining concept from the team behind Izy Sushi.  

“InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay has been created and positioned to make you feel at home, to bring an inspiring lifestyle offering to both the local community and visitors alike. With a fresh, residential- inspired design feel across the property and a plethora of dynamic food and beverage outlets, we are excited to bring a new InterContinental to centre stage in Singapore, and in the city’s most reinvigorated neighbourhood,” said Mark Winterton, General Manager of InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay.

Room rates at the hotel start from SGD285++ as part of an opening offer for stays between 12 October and 30 November 2017.

French “Bistronomie” by Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts

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Hospitality group’s talented chefs take inspiration from global culinary movement to create seven exclusive dishes for latest food promotion

Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is bringing the best of “bistro” and “gastronomy” to its restaurants around the world in its latest “Bistronomie” food promotion, which runs from October 20 to November 20, 2017. Taking inspiration from a trend that started in France two decades ago and has now become a global culinary movement, the hospitality group’s talented chefs have created seven exclusives “Bistronomie” dishes.  

The “Bistronomie” concept was conceived in the 1990s when young French chefs with haute cuisine training re-interpreted classic dishes and served them in a new breed of casual, less stuffy, “bistro”-style restaurants.  

Today, “Bistronomie” is synonymous with high-quality French cuisine with a twist and Mövenpick, which is renowned for its culinary expertise, has mastered it.  

Made from the best quality ingredients and prepared to perfection, the seven dishes on its new “Bistronomie” menu include “Salade Niçoise”, “Plateau de Fruits de Mer” (Seafood platter), “Moules Marinières” (Mussels with garlic and sweet cream butter), “Cabillaud à la Bordelaise” (Cod fillet), “Pot au Feu à la Bourgeoise” (Beef topside hot pot) and “Cordon-bleu au Comté” (Veal rump steak).  

In line with the company’s commitment to offering personalised experiences, the individual preferences and tastes of guests have been taken into consideration, with vegetarian options available – “Pot au Feu Végétarien” (Vegetable hot pot) – for example. In addition, some dishes such as the seafood platter are customisable to include specific ingredients selected by diners.  

 Guests with a sweet tooth are also in for a treat with Mövenpick’s version of “Café Gourmand” – a French take on the British “afternoon tea”. The “Bistronomie” “Café Gourmand” combines aromatic Mövenpick coffee with “Reine de Saba” (“Queen of Sheba”), an irresistible chocolate cake baked with Mövenpick’s very own 72% cocoa Swiss chocolate.  

“When it comes to gastronomy, Mövenpick is a pioneer, known for its culinary innovation and ability to create classic dishes with a twist, which is very much akin to the “Bistronomie” movement,” said Olivier Chavy, President and CEO of Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts.  

Thomas Hollenstein, Director of Food & Beverage Europe, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, who has led the team of chefs developing the “Bistronomie” dishes, added: “We have encapsulated the essence of French cuisine, but in a fresh and exciting form and importantly, acknowledging the personal tastes of our discerning diners and guests around the world.”   More information: Bistronomie

Grow Up Rooftop Bar

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Multi-Award Winning Chef Ryan Clift Takes Bali’s Cocktail Scene to New Heights

Breathtaking sunset views and laidback tropical beats combine to make GROW UP Seminyak’s hottest new hidden rooftop bar. High above the island’s busy roads and beaches, GROW UP is nestled in the vibrant heart of Bali and is fast garnering a reputation as the more wayward, wilder sister concept to famed Chef Ryan Clift’s GROW restaurant.  

Offering an entirely new drinking experience for Bali’s discerning local and international guests, an eclectically and meticulously designed al-fresco terrace provides an inviting space with a distinctively urban edge, inviting guests to indulge in pre-dinner drinks and post-meal digestifs.

Chef Ryan’s cutting-edge bar menu offers Seminyak’s most sophisticated cocktails and bar bites – an inspired selection of unique beverages created to trigger past memories through fine flavours and sultry fragrances. Highlights include the Mango Natan, a subtle blend of dark rum, passion fruit syrup, mango purée, lemon juice and basil leaf; and the Kupu-Kupu, which is an exuberant concoction of tequila, Cointreau, lime and rose. The Fla-Min-Grow (pictured) is an equatorial coup de grace with dark and light rum, lime, pineapple juice, beetroot and coconut cream while the Kupu-Kupu is a flavour bomb crafted from tequila, Cointreau, lime and rose.  

  A selection of refined small plates served as the perfect accompaniment to the creative array of beverages and include steak tartare dressed with an egg yolk nestling in its shell, and confit of duck and cashew rillettes.   GROW UP Rooftop Bar hosts guest DJ’s as part of a diverse and regular weekly entertainment schedule, which makes the venue a stylish party hotspot with a sophisticated culinary edge – a playful addition to the Bali cocktail scene.   GROW UP Rooftop Bar is open Monday – Sunday from 5pm – Midnight.    

About Chef Ryan Clift

A few years ago, 10 of the world’s greatest chefs named Ryan Clift as the gastronomic superstar of tomorrow. Originally from Devizes, Wiltshire, in the United Kingdom, Ryan Clift was immediately drawn to the high energy and atmosphere of the kitchen. Over the course of his 27-year career, Clift has worked with some of the world’s best chefs, including Marco-Pierre White, Peter Gordon, Emmanuel Renaut, Shannon Benne and Raymond Capaldi. In 1999, he moved to Melbourne as Head Chef of Vue de Monde, one of the Australia’s most acclaimed restaurants with Three Hats by The Age Good Food Guide.    

Clift moved to Singapore in 2008 to start his own venture, determined to take modern food and cocktail pairing to a new level. Within a few years of opening, Tippling Club was named as one of Singapore’s top restaurants, earning a place in the annual Miele Guide compilations of Asia’s Top 20 Restaurants in 2010, 2011 and 2012. This year, Tippling Club debuted at #27 in the prestigious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants and ranked at #11 at Asia’s 50 Best Bars.  

Fresh Cuisine Inspired by The Sea in The Bustling Heart of Seminyak

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Urchin is a fresh, fun restaurant and bar in the heart of Seminyak that has established itself as the place to go for vibrant cuisine inspired by the sea. With a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, excellent service, modern, contemporary menu and a welcoming bar, Urchin is a hot-spot for guests to chill and soak up the Seminyak vibe whilst enjoying great food, wine and company.

Chef Gede Prandika has created an approachable and imaginative menu with a Mediterranean feel that is heavily influenced by the sea, but also offers wonderful options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. There is an excellent selection of the freshest raw seafood but many other options besides.

From starters such as the tuna tartare cone with lime and wasabi; coral trout crudo with kemangi, sea grapes, pomelo and tobiko caviar or sushi & sashimi with house ginger through to house made pasta options such as prawn ravioli with tomato fondue and shellfish emulsion, the menu is brimming with surprises and delights.

The main course offerings are diverse with something for all tastes including seared yellow fin tuna with ratatouille and ginger yoghurt; slipper lobster with garlic, herbs, Bali rice and greens or Cajun spiced pork chop with kangkung, herb cake and Bali broth. It is recommended to leave space for one of the tempting desserts such as coconut ginger crème brulee with coral sponge, cherry and apple guava jelly. The chef has also devised a 6-course tasting menu with accompanying wines or a 3-course set dinner.

Urchin has an extensive selection of international wines from Australia, Europe and South America that has been carefully curated to complement the menu perfectly.

The open kitchen at Urchin allows guests to be an audience to the theater of food preparation as their dishes are constructed before their eyes from the tiniest ingredient up, following the various techniques employed by the kitchen crew as they meticulously prepare the food. The stars of the show are the fresh ingredients, wherever possible locally sourced.

The restaurant interiors are textured and spacious, with recycled timber tables beneath suspended lights and a clean, minimal but comfortable overall feeling, not unlike a large and welcoming seaside holiday house.

The elegant stoneware ceramics and crockery are by local supplier Kevala Ceramics, with brass artworks designed by Laurence Sanders and created by Sands Bali. Urchin has been designed to encourage long, lingering stays that have guests wondering where the night went.

October’s Fabulous Lobster at Gran Melia Jakarta

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This October, Chef Eric Lau-Chinese Chef of Tien Chao Chinese Restaurant will take guests on a lobster journey to savour the renowned lobster dishes in Asian delicacy flavours. Diners will be able to discover these lobster specialties freshly prepared with superior ingredients, creating an exceptional combination taste of the lobster sweet meat and the artistry of the East.

Tien Chao invites diners to enjoy and devour the finest grilled, braised or baked lobster highlights, including fruit salad lobster, cheese baked lobster, braised lobster with superior broth, and also the baked lobster with butter garlic mayonnaise.

With the themed of ‘Fabulous Lobster’ Tien Chao at Gran Melia Jakarta offers you with sophisticated cuisines for the ultimate seafood lovers, because our chefs prepare each lobster dish with care and love to ensure our best guests the exceptional dining experience possible. An indulging experience for all culinary enthusiasts, evoking the artistry and delicacy taste of the east with fine fresh ingredients of lobster. Guests are able to enjoy these fine feasts for IDR 318,000++ starting from October 9th to 22nd.

For reservations: (021) 526 8080 ext 2322

A haven of serenity and luxury in the heart of Indonesia’s capital, Gran Meliá Jakarta is an urban oasis nestled in the prime Golden Triangle central business district of Kuningan.

Cutting an elegant figure against Jakarta’s cityscape, Gran Meliá Jakarta is an iconic address for business and leisure travelers, with 407 luxurious guest accommodations, five dining destinations, a spa and wellness sanctuary by Meliá Hotels International’s signature wellness brand, YHI Spa, and renowned hospitality and service.

Super Suite Escapes

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A stay at any of Alila Seminyak’s stylish suites is now sweeter than ever, thanks to an exclusive reward of up to USD 250 Resort Credit given with every suite booking. You may use this reward to redeem your choice of six different experiences, specially curated to enhance your holiday with a variety of extra indulgences, from romantic dinners for two to wellness and beauty pampering experiences, culinary journeys and more.

The package is available from USD 437++ per night and includes daily breakfast at Seasalt for two, return airport transfers and an additional of USD 150 – USD 250 Resort Credit.  

Sweeten Your Suite Escape

Enjoy these exclusive Resort Credit benefits during your stay in one of our magnificent suites. From fun and frolics by the ocean to secluded romantic escapades, you can boost your holiday mood and complete your Suite Escape with any of these fantastic options!  

What to do with Your USD 250 Resort Credit?

Romantic Escape

Planning a romantic getaway? Make it more memorable with this value-added package. Dine by twilight with your beloved, put your feet up and relax at Spa Alila, enjoy canapés and margaritas at sunset, and chill with pizza and beer by the pool.  

Package includes:  

  • One-time “Twilight for Two” dinner at Seasalt
  • One-time reflexology experience at Spa Alila for two
  • One-time Margarita Matchup at Seasalt for two
  • One-time Pizza & Beer by the pool

More than Just Fun!

Enjoy a magnificent seafood brunch with ocean views, fresh grilled barbecue bites on the beach, and an indulgence of spa treats to pamper you from head to toe. A feast for all your senses that makes for an even more sensational stay!  

Package includes:  

  • Experience One-time Coastal Munch Brunch at Seasalt for two
  • Choice of four items at our Barbecue by the Beach at the Beach Bar
  • One-time “Spa Feast: Just for Fun at Spa Alila” for two: 60-minute Spa Manicure or Pedicure Gel; 30-minute Foot Rejuvenation & Chamomile Seasalt Soak; Unlimited herbal ice tea and snacks

What to do with Your USD 200 Resort Credit?

Island Life

Immerse yourself in the island vibe, enjoying the freshest sushi at Seasalt, ocean views paired with canapés and cocktails, and our unique Silk Bath & Vichy Shower, where a rain-like flow of warm water leaves you feeling alive and invigorated!  

Package includes:  

  • Silk Bath & Vichy Shower experience for two at Spa Alila
  • Two glasses of Mojito by the pool
  • One-time Margarita Matchup for two at Seasalt
  • One-time Sushi (Lunch/Dinner) at Seasalt lounge

Oceanic Feeling

Unwind in rhythm with the ocean waves, discovering new depths of relaxation with blissful spa treatments, and quenching your thirst with delicious refreshments on the Beach Terrace and by the pool.   Package includes:  

  • “Blissful Escape” Spa Treatment for two at Spa Alila
  • 90-min Spa Manicure and Pedicure Gel
  • 60-min Soothing Aloe Vera Facial or Avocado & Coconut Hair Spa
  • Afternoon tea or mocktail at Seasalt’s Beach Terrac
  • One-time Pizza & Beer by the pool

What to do with Your USD 150 Resort Credit?

Sunset O’Clock

Sunset in Bali is the most magical time of the day. We can make it even more magical for you with these delightful treats – reflexology to pamper your feet, tastings from our barbecue by the beach, and mojitos to sip on as you lounge by the pool.   Package includes:  

  • Choice of four items at our Barbecue by the Beach
  • Two glasses of Mojito by the pool
  • Spa reflexology experience for two at Spa Alila

Chill Time!

Sun, sea and Alila Seminyak’s cool vibe make this the perfect place for chilling out. But throw in a deeply relaxing Balinese massage, cold beer and comfort food, and you have everything you need to take your chill time to the next level!  

Package includes:  

  • 60-minute Balinese Massage for two at Spa Alila
  • One-time Pizza & Beer by the pool

Terms and conditions:

  • Applicable for a minimum of two-night stay
  • Credit card guarantee is required.
  • Cancellation is available within a minimum of 7 days prior to arrival.  

Luxury Abode in The Rainforest

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Alila Ubud Launches Six New Terrace Tree Villas

Alila Ubud expands its rainforest abodes with the launch of six new Terrace Tree Villas – five one-bedroom units and one exclusive two-bedroom unit with private pool – all perched on a steep forested hillside beside a beautiful temple, immersing guests in Ubud’s lush natural landscape.   Increasing the resort’s current inventory of One-bedroom Terrace Tree Villas from four to nine, the new one-bedroom additions are spacious private retreats comprising 75 – 80 sqm of indoor space adjoined by 43 sqm of an outdoor garden and courtyard.  

  The Two-bedroom Terrace Tree Villa is extraordinary, spanning a lavish 190 sqm, including a large outdoor terrace for relaxing, dining and soaking up the jungle views, and a 40 sqm private pool where guests can swim above the treetops.   Each villa is designed as an intimate haven with its own private entry court and water garden. Maximizing natural light, generous space and views, the foyer connects an indoor/outdoor bathroom with a high-ceiling bedroom, opening directly onto a terrace that sits high over the Ubud jungle.  

  The villas are designed by Indonesian architects NXST, who have drawn inspiration from the temple forms and details that are evident throughout everyday life in Ubud. Local artisanship is also beautifully reflected in the volcanic stone tiles that give each villa a sense of mystery, showcasing the rich stone carving tradition prevalent in the surrounding villages.

The villa interiors are classic Alila in elegance and restraint, accented with opulent handwoven textiles from nearby Sideman Village, and with spaces defined by the sensual interplay of light and shade imbued by the Ubud environs.    

  Luxury pervades every thoughtful detail – from the 300-thread-count PLOH bed linen to the decadent deluxe bathroom equipped with an indoor bathtub, outdoor rain shower, and jet shower. Separate His and Hers vanities are furnished with a complete range of award-winning Alila Living amenities made from locally sourced organic ingredients: lemongrass and black pepper for Him; mandarin, lemongrass and rose geranium for Her.  

  There’s even more to uncover in the special bathtub box, the ultimate pampering kit, from bubble bath to face masks and beautifully handcrafted beeswax candles, all in the Alila signature secret scent. For guests venturing outdoors, they will be protected and covered with sunblock, after-sun cooling gel, mosquito repellent and face spritzer. And for want of anything else, a personal Villa Host is just a call away, ready to attend to every whim.  

  Combining luxurious space and privacy in a lush forest setting, Alila Ubud’s Terrace Tree Villas promise a truly sensational stay. Book “The Ultimate High” at Best Available Rate and enjoy USD 100 Resort credit for Food & Beverage, Spa, and Alila Experience.  

Som Chai Bar & Restaurant

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Sophisticated and artfully themed dining and drinking with a Thai influence.

Located in the heart of Jalan Raya Kerobokan, at the northern edge of Seminyak, the latest destination from the Sarong Group offers sophisticated and artfully themed dining and drinking with a Thai influence. Meet SOM CHAI, with fine dining in a ‘secret’ cavern of ballroom proportions and a bar that hosts nocturnal adventures set to the awesome beats of live DJ’s.

Som Chai Eat presents Thai cuisine interpreted through the imaginative use of locally sourced ingredients not often used in Indonesian cooking, leading to a botanic reimagining of the regional cooking culture of Thailand. With a menu derived from a diverse range of regional cooking styles, Som Chai Eat encompasses the very essence of excellent Thai food. Som Chai’s restaurant pays homage to an ancient, forgotten era: the era of the first Kings of Siam.

Entering through a magnificent golden door, diners find themselves immersed in “Steam Punk Siam” inspired interiors that echo the era of slow travel and the discovery of new and exotic worlds, heady with temptations.

Representing a journey through time – a conversation between the old and new worlds, with the high ceiling and large open space immediately imparting a sense of opulence.