Celebrity Life

Your taste for the finer things in life doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the offbeat travel experience. Lucky for you, Asia's abundant with extraordinary luxury resorts and hotels, some rustic, utterly one-of-a-kind, and even bordering on peculiar. Here are a few unique luxury escapes we've handpicked for you from around the region.

From kelongs to castles: Asia’s unique luxury escapes first appeared on PrestigeOnline Singapore

The post The best places to go in Asia for a unique luxury getaway appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

There's something about Rosewood Hong Kong that instantly makes you feel like you're sitting in the lap of luxury.

It might have something to do with the chauffeur-driven Jaguar that comes to pick you up, but the extravagance continues once you arrive at the hotel. Located within Hong Kong's new art and design district, Victoria Dockside, the global flagship hotel offers a total of 413 guest rooms and suites: Each of them feature the eclectic luxuries of plush furniture, curated art works, exquisite objets d’art, and a lavish, marble-clad bathroom -- not to mention one of the best views money can buy. What more is there to say? This is luxury at its finest. Find out more in our full review below.

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Location: 9/10

Occupying a prime piece of real estate on the harbourfront promenade, Rosewood Hong Kong is not only conveniently located in Tsim Sha Tsui, a shopper's paradise, but it's also part of the 3 million-square-foot urban regeneration project Victoria Dockside, where a cultural blend of art, design, business and retail comes together. In short, there's no shortage of activities in the area. However, if you do need to get to and from work on Hong Kong Island, then this can take upwards of 20 minutes on the road, depending on traffic, and 30 minutes or more on the MTR.

Design: 10/10

The building was designed by architecture firm Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates, whose work includes The Landmark Mandarin Oriental and International Commerce Centre in Hong Kong. Their work at  Rosewood reflects Hong Kong's upwards growth in the form of a "vertical estate". Inside, Rosewood's interiors were created by award-winning designer Tony Chi, who showcases the spacious rooms and suites in elegant eccentricity accented by Asian elements. It's totally opulent and yet feels somewhat homely. There's magic in the details, what with contrasting textures, fabrics and finishings which successfully emanate an unconventional luxury. In fact, in some areas of the room, I would say these even clash, but somehow it all works.

Ambience: 10/10

Rosewood Hong Kong is the type of place that you can go to escape and take your mind off things -- a stress remedy, if you will. At the same time, the hotel's overall design -- which nods to our city's heritage and culture -- not to mention phenomenal views, combine to make you fall in love with Hong Kong once more. A gentle buzz runs throughout the hotel, but with calm corners for peace of mind dotted around. It's no wonder it attracts families of all ages, which is what we noticed during our stay, along with couples who are in need of a relaxed stay.

Rooms: 10/10

The 1,324-sq.-ft. Harbour Corner Suite boasts an expansive layout, with ample lounge areas, a marble bathroom, freeform bathtub, twin sinks and showers, and a walk-in closet. Oh, and in case you forgot, that truly amazing vantage point of the city. All amenities are top-notch and there are a total of three bars in the room; a mini bar (complimentary except for alcoholic beverages), a personal bar with coffees, teas and snacks, and a night bar featuring whisky and calming teas. A suite stay includes a personal butler and 40th-floor Manor Club access, which means afternoon tea and happy hour cocktails are included, too.

Service & Facilities: 9/10

Getting picked up in a leather-seated Jaguar XJ or Mercedes Benz Class S320 is quite the luxury, and it's a luxury that Rosewood does so very well. The ride is comfortable to say the least, with WiFi, snacks and water to keep you going until you reach the hotel. Once you arrive and complete check-in inside your suite, you'll notice that the rooms are spotless and little gifts and snacks await, while staff remain well-informed and friendly. However, a bucket of ice that took more than 25 minutes and the lifts which always seem to at a sub-zero temperature, were slight problems for us. As a pet-friendly hotel, guests can also look to bring their dogs or cats with them on their staycation. Asaya, Rosewood’s holistic wellness concept, is also available to guests, as well as an impressive state-of-the-art fitness centre and outdoor swimming pool.

Food & Drink: 9/10

There will eventually be a total of eight dining concepts at Rosewood, five of which are already open and offer different food and beverage options to guests. A must-visit is the Chinese and Shunde restaurant The Legacy House, which is already popular with Hong Kong diners. Here, I fully recommend ordering the stewed bamboo shoots with conpoy, or steamed clams if you like seafood, both of which are exemplary examples of the finesse found in Shunde cuisine and the focus on freshness. Elsewhere, the desserts, confections and pastries at Butterfly Patisserie are wonderful to look at and even better to taste, so afternoon tea at The Butterfly Room is worth booking in.

For drinks, head to DarkSide, which pours some mean dark spirits and great cocktails, but bear in mind the live band can get excessively loud. Perhaps it was because we visited on a Saturday night, but be prepared if you're sitting close. Unfortunately for us, Holt's Cafe, which serves international and local cuisine, did not stack up as high as the other outlets. It lacked flavour, and classic dishes such as roasted duck on rice fell flat.

Rates: From HK$4,300/night for a Kowloon Peak View Room to HK$35,000/night for a Manor Suite (prices may vary depending on availability and season).

Special Mention: The Rosewood Hong Kong is also offering guests who book from now until 30 December 2019 an Urban Staycation package*. It includes Manor Club access, one-way transfer, HK$1,000 dining credit, a 60-minute Wellness Class and more. On top of that, if you present your Hong Kong or Macau ID, you can receive an additional 10% off the room rate.

*Terms and conditions apply

Rating: 9.5/10

Perfect for:  a luxurious city escape that makes you fall in love with Hong Kong (again).

The post Hotel Review: Rosewood Hong Kong Is the Luxury Escape You Didn’t Know You Needed appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

If you could drop work and disconnect all your devices in order to reconnect with nature or a loved one, would you? Assuming your answer to that is, "Yes, I would love to spend 24 hours confined inside a luxury tent in Bali!", then Capella Hotels & Resorts might have the solution for you. However, if letting go of your phone isn't really your bag -- don't worry, I'm right there with you -- but culture is, then the luxury hospitality group has a range of activities from their new immersive cultural program, Capella Curates,  for you to choose from.

[caption id="attachment_163638" align="alignnone" width="1181"] Confined to Quarters at Capella Ubud[/caption]

The new activities engage local experts from each of Capella's eight locations, and they're designed to enrich your travel experience. After all, experiential travel is the new luxury travel. Intrigued to give these experiences a go myself, I headed to their Singapore and Bali properties. I have visited both destinations before, but never like this. Here's how it went down.

Capella Singapore

Many of us have been to the Lion City numerous times, strolled along the Marina Bay waterfront, shopped until we dropped at Orchard Road, and maybe even frequented their many hawker centres for authentic Singaporean cuisine. But at Capella, we explored the city in a way that spotlights new adventures and uncovers the city's hidden gems.

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But first, let me set the scene: Located on Sentosa Island, Capella Singapore is the group's flagship property in Asia which makes use of two gorgeously restored colonial bungalows dating back to the 1880s, along with landscaped gardens and sweeping views of the South China Sea to impress its guests. It's a lush hotel fitted with 112 rooms, suites, villas and manors with modern Asian touches across the board. It also happens to be one of the most dog-friendly hotels I've ever visited, which makes it a hit with many resident Singaporeans looking for a luxury staycation.

After warm greetings and an ice-cool towel while I checked in, I'm given a golf buggy lift to my spacious private plunge-pooled villa. It's relaxing, so much so that I began to zone out while staring at the flourishing greenery. That was until a certain feathered visitor decided to stop by and gave me a sight I never thought I would see in Singapore: Roaming the island freely, peacocks can be seen at the hotel gracefully parading the grounds regularly.

[caption id="attachment_163639" align="alignnone" width="1520"] A tour of the city on vintage Vespa sidecars; image courtesy of Singapore Sidecars[/caption]

Meanwhile, the food is just as lush. With lots of fresh fruits and variety for breakfast, The Knolls also offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu for lunch overlooking the cascading pools. Cassia, the Chinese restaurant, looks incredibly familiar thanks to interiors designed by acclaimed Hong Kong designer André Fu; it offers contemporary takes on traditional Chinese cuisine. The Chef's Table is great fun too, with a bespoke-style service that gives guests a chance to get stuck in and help prepare dishes for dinner.

As for the exclusive activities, one took us for a spin in a sidecar around Singapore to learn about the foundations of feng shui that the modern cityscape of Singapore was built on. And by sidecar, I mean the one-wheeled seat attached to the side of a vintage Vespa. Chinese metaphysics aside, it really does give you a new perspective of the city as you zip around from Marina Bay and the Singapore Flyer to the ArtScience Museum, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and more. Another experience had us walking through the Botanical Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a passionate guide that took us through the history and heritage, providing fun facts about the 160-year-old tropical flora and fauna.

Capella Ubud

Over to the uplands of Bali and we're suddenly in rainforest territory. When they told me I'd be staying in one of their tents in the forest, I had visions of rustic camping and the great outdoors in mind. Fortunately, no holes needed to be dug. Instead, Capella Ubud is a luxury retreat hidden in the cool valley of Keliki. It's built in and around the rainforest, with not one tree cut or removed in the process, and is a unique experience in itself. Look up and you'll see stars so clearly and in such abundance that it seems like an illusion. Look around and you'll see Bali's untouched natural surroundings with the refined tented rooftops, or maybe I should say lodges, popping up through the trees.

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There are a total of 23 tented suites dotted around, separated by stairs and footbridges and all with private pools, at Capella Ubud. Each is individually designed and themed by none other than Bangkok-based luxury hotel designer Bill Bensley, who was inspired by the Dutch settlers from the 1800s for this project. His designs show off interiors filled with European glamour blended with touches of Balinese life and all the eclectic flair that he is known and loved for: Think dark woods, rattan walls, soft drapes, a whimsical mix of colours and furnishings, along with a copper bathtub, indoor and outdoor shower. My only issue with this impressive 'tent' was the throne-like toilet that really was just not for me. But if you're feeling a little Game of (Toilet) Thrones, then off you go.

Dining doesn't disappoint either, with sustainably-farmed and fresh produce offered at Mads Lange in the form of healthy yoghurt bowls, avocado toasts as well as classic Indonesian nasi campur. There's also authentic Asian barbecue at Api Jiwa, which blends the traditions of Asia and the finesse of western dining with smoke. Our meal here was centred on seafood and produced some stunning dishes with takes on beef rendang sprinkled with coconut snow stealing the show. This was followed by some marshmallow roasting by the campfire -- nostalgia at its best.

[caption id="attachment_163637" align="alignnone" width="1540"] Balinese dance class is combined with yoga moves[/caption]

At Capella Ubud, more active experiences awaited and it didn't take too long for us to meet with our Capella Culturist (local expert) to discuss the bespoke activities ahead. For us, a cycling tour around the local area and through rice paddies geared us up for a dance class, which combined both Balinese dance and yoga to really burn some calories. This all lead up to the climbing of Mount Batur, which is an active volcano no less, to witness the sunrise. It's no easy feat with its call time of 3am and steep 1,717-metre incline on slippery volcanic powder and rock, but thanks to our expert guides that literally pushed and pulled us up, we made it to the summit. And if the magnificent view wasn't enough, a splendid little picnic spread had been laid out for us to enjoy. So there I was, with hot coffee and croissant in hand, in awe of the rising sun. Then it occurred to me that had I not stayed at Capella, I never would have experienced the destinations this way, walked away with this particular memory, or have this story to tell you all.

[caption id="attachment_163623" align="alignnone" width="5102"] Sunrise at Mount Batur[/caption]

The post Capella’s New Enriched Travel Experiences Tell the Cultural Story of Amazing Destinations appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Much like other St. Regis properties around the world, The St. Regis Hong Kong exudes the kind of refined luxury that can subconsciously make you sip your tea with an upturned pinkie finger.

But in reality, there are more layers that define modern luxury in this hotel, from the timeless elegance and creativity of its design, to the highly considerate and bespoke services, to the downright excellent hospitality that lets you know you are always well looked after. Read on for our full review.

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Location: 10/10

Situated in Hong Kong's Wan Chai district, just steps away from the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center (HKCEC), it's no wonder business travellers are choosing to stay here. But for those looking for leisure, you won't be too far from Wan Chai's heritage buildings, boutiques and street-food stalls. What's more, there's plenty of shopping and dining in nearby Causeway Bay, Admiralty, Central, North Point and Quarry Bay, too.

Design: 10/10

Thoughtfully designed by celebrated Hong Kong architect and designer André Fu, the interiors of The St. Regis have been left with his signature mark for stylish, polished, and always tasteful design. The hotel's 129 rooms and suites, in particular, benefit from Fu's memories of the city, which reflect an East-meets-West sensibility in the subtlest of ways. Delicate hues of beige, taupe and ivory are juxtaposed with dark wood and pops of colour on lacquer. Its striking yet understated design makes guests feel like they could actually live here forever.

Ambience: 10/10

An air of refinement translates into soft voices and manners across the board. It's a lovely atmosphere to enjoy lounging without feeling like you might be ushered away at any moment. It's relaxed with a hushed level of organisation that allows for all those customised services. During our stay, we saw mostly business travellers, a few couples and families (and even fewer children) enjoying the hotel's facilities.

Rooms: 9/10

The St. Regis Suite's spacious living area features a functional and contemporary design that you would want to model your own home on. A separate bedroom complete with a king-size bed induces slumber immediately, while a Claybrook bathtub and rain shower call for a few more washes during the day. If we were to nitpick, the only thing lacking would be a better view. The closeness of the cityscape (the hotel is sandwiched between buildings) doesn't warrant much gazing out, but with the hotel being so stunning, you don't really need to look outside to find beauty.

Service & Facilities: 8/10

Upon entering our suite, we noticed a few housekeeping issues that were probably due to the fact that a requested early check-in had rushed the staff. Thankfully, they were rectified immediately. Check-in was completed within our suite, which does away with all the queuing and waiting you might experience at other hotels. But the best part? Well, if I could continue living with The St. Regis' signature Butler and e-Butler services, I would die a happy woman. The service is quick, attentive and really quite pleasant. My only judgement is reserved for the fact that every time I called, they would address me with my husband's name, which felt a little old-fashioned in my opinion. A spa, pool, large gym, along with valet parking, laundry on-site and mobility accessible rooms are also available.

Food & Drink: 10/10

There are a few options at The St. Regis that are definitely worth trying; these include French fine-dining restaurant L'Envol led by acclaimed chef Olivier Elzer, an elegant Chinese restaurant named Rùn with some outstanding dim sum items for lunch, exquisite afternoon tea at The Drawing Room, as well as distinctive cocktails at The St. Regis Bar. Breakfast isn't included, but is available at Rùn for an additional price and includes continental and Chinese hot foods, cereals, cold cuts, cheese and pastries made in house. Definitely pick up a pain au chocolat with an apple pastry or two, and thank me later.

Rates: From HK$3,500/night for a Deluxe Guest Room to HK$123,500/night for the Presidential Suite (prices may vary depending on availability and season).

Special Mention: It's also worth knowing that The St. Regis launched a Suite Package to give guests special experiences when staying in The St. Regis or Metropolitan Suites. Complimentary experiences include afternoon tea for two, two signature cocktails, and personal sabrage lesson with bottle of champagne. The offer runs until 31 December 2019.

Rating: 9.5/10

Perfect for:  a luxurious staycation in refined elegance and zero pomposity.

The post Hotel Review: The St. Regis Hong Kong Promises a Refined and Relaxing Stay appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Though summer is typically thought of as a relaxing season, let's face it: We could all use a bit more time to rest and recharge. So what better way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city than a mini vacation? We’ve partnered with The Langham, Hong Kong to bring Prestige readers a staycation that you won’t want to miss out on.

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Located in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, The Langham is a luxury hotel that has not only 498 rooms and suites, but also T’ang Court -- a three-Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant. There's also the highly exclusive Langham Club, where guests can have a private check-in and check-out experience in The Ante Room, various F&B offerings through their Butler’s Pantry, as well as complimentary garment pressing services.

The Giveaway:

Exclusively for Prestige readers, one (1) lucky winner will receive a two (2) night stay in a luxurious one-bedroom suite at The Langham in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, along with Langham Club Access, and a set lunch for two (2) at Cantonese restaurant T’ang Court. This giveaway prize is worth over HK$10,000.

How to Enter:

1. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.
2. Fill in the giveaway form below and answer the question.
3. To increase your odds of winning, like our giveaway posts on Facebook and Instagram and tag your friends so they can participate, too.

Terms & Conditions:

• 1. By entering this PrestigeOnline.com giveaway, you will be bound by these terms and conditions and acknowledge that you satisfy all eligibility requirements.
• 2. This contest is open to Hong Kong residents only and entrants must be over the age of eighteen (18).
• 3. Entrants must follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and respond to the question for their entry to be valid.
• 4. Email entries will be added to the Prestige Hong Kong database.
• 5. Entries will be accepted until 10am on Wednesday, 21 August 2019.
• 6. Winners will be notified by email before 6pm on Wednesday, 21 August 2019.
• 7. Winners must respond to redeem the prize within seven (7) days of the prize announcement, otherwise the prize will be forfeited.
• 8. Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash, credit and are non-transferrable to third parties.
• 9. Prestige reserves the right to cancel, re-draw or otherwise modify this giveaway at any time with immediate effect and without giving prior notice.
• 10. Photos are for reference only.

The post Giveaway: Win a 2-Night Stay at The Langham with Lunch at 3-Michelin-Starred Restaurant T’ang Court appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

The Baccarat Hotel reimagines the elegance and perfection of the legendary French crystal maker into a luxury lifestyle destination in the heart of New York City. The first hotel of its kind, this unique boutique hotel is a small piece of paradise that rises above the busy streets of Manhattan.

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Location: 10/10

Situated in the heart of the city that never sleeps, the Baccarat Hotel is a stone’s throw away from some of New York’s ultimate attractions. Just steps away is the Museum of Modern Art, the glitzy shops of Fifth Avenue, the flashing lights of Times Square and Central Park, the world's most-visited urban green space.

Design: 10/10

Paris-based interior designers Dorothée Boissier and Patrick Gilles spent three years bringing the Bacarrat Hotel concept to life . The interiors are a mash up of 18th-century Parisian design and 21st-century aesthetics. The minimalistic design plays with spatial proportions and light throughout the property, from the flickering LED installation in the lobby to the refractions of light in the crystalware and 17 custom chandeliers to the reflective mirror surfaces -- all paying homage to the Baccarat brand.

Special mention: An easily overlooked yet very charming feature of the hotel is the library located in the Grand Salon. It houses 255 guestbooks -- one for each year since Baccarat's founding -- all in white (with the exception of 2015, the year the hotel opened) for visitors to leave their special mark and personalised messages.

Ambience: 9/10

One step inside the Baccarat Hotel and you'll be completely transported, forgetting that you're in the middle of Manhattan. An unassuming air of luxury radiates throughout the premises, and the space gives off a spacious grandeur with natural sunlight rushing through its floor to ceiling windows and bouncing off the countless crystal chandeliers and accents. The soft hues of wood flooring, hand-pleated silk walls, mirrored surfaces and marble finishings are lightened up with fresh bouquets of red roses (the signature colour of Baccarat) in every room, too.

Rooms: 8/10

New York and Hong Kong share quite a number of similarities, and enclosed spaces is definitely one of them. The standard room is on the smaller side and might be less than what you're accustomed to, but at least the use of the limited space is clever. Hand-painted French doors slide open to reveal a white marble bathroom with a glass wall providing an illusion of more space. A small seating area is pushed up against the window for enjoying views of the city. To add a special Baccarat touch of luxury, a custom-designed, red enamel mini bar offers hand blown crystalware and Ladurée treats alongside a range of premium beverages.

Service & Facilities: 9/10

The distinctive black-and-white marble indoor swimming pool, lined with luxurious four-post day beds, is a must-visit for guests of the hotel. Whether to relax or snap up some travel photos, this is a sweet spot to get away from it all. Right next to it is the hotel’s spa -- Spa de la Mer -- for those looking for pampering. Like its other locations, the ocean-inspired wellness retreat offers its guests bespoke treatments for the face and body -- all using La Mer products, of course.

Food & Drink: 8/10

With two Michelin-starred chef Gabriel Kreuther as the property’s Culinary Director, it’s safe to say that you’ll be properly fed at the Baccarat. However, due to the size of the hotel, the restaurant options are limited" You can choose to dine in the Grand Salon, at The Bar or, when the weather permits, outside on their open-air patio deck. In spite of the fact that there’s only one kitchen, the contemporary menu is substantial. Afternoon tea is headed up by the hotel’s tea sommelier and is by far the most popular dining experience offered here.

Rates: From US$945 (HK$7,380) for an Atelier King Room to US$18,945 (HK$147,917) for the Baccarat Two-Bedroom Suite. (Prices may vary depending on availability and season.)

Rating: 9/10

Perfect for: an indulgent getaway from the city, within the city. 

The post Hotel Review: Baccarat Hotel, New York appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

What’s a holiday without some indulgent pampering? Think unlimited free massages and all-natural wellness masterclasses. That’s precisely what The Pavilions Hotels and Resorts, a luxury boutique hotel chain, is showcasing at its properties in Phuket and Bali, respectively. The group announced that it will be putting the spotlight on wellness and delivering some of the most immersive experiences to help restore your mind, body and soul.

[caption id="attachment_153125" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] The Pavilions Phuket (image from www.pavilionshotels.com)[/caption]

Take the brand’s flagship The Pavilions Phuket, for instance. The cosy hilltop retreat offers unlimited complimentary massages to guests who are checked-in at the 310 sqm Ocean View Pool Villas (starts at MYR1,947 plus taxes per night). Signature spa therapies include a two-hour Thai Silk experience that fuses a rejuvenating mandarin scrub with a traditional Thai massage to soothe those travel-weary muscles. Love Journey, a three-hour couples’ experience, features a sea salt scrub, a massage, a floral milk bath and a platter full of tropical treats. The Spa and Pool Pavilions here spell unparalleled luxury complete with steam rooms, sala (an open pavilion) and a terrace.

[caption id="attachment_153124" align="aligncenter" width="1072"] The Pavilions Bali (image from www.pavilionshotels.com)[/caption]

Elsewhere at the organic spa in The Pavilions Bali, guests can try their hand at natural beauty treatments and sign up for an exclusive aloe vera facial masterclass. This 90-minute session guides interested participants on various aspects of organic wellness, right from whipping up their own ‘skin superfood’, to choosing the freshest natural ingredients and taking them for setting up spa time back home. The session uses handpicked organic ingredients from the resort’s spa kitchen and touches upon techniques such as facial rejuvenation, DIY facial massage and reflexology; there’s even a recipe booklet that guests can take home. The best part? The Pavilions Bali is offering a 30 percent discount on advance bookings and accommodation at the Garden Villa, which is priced at MYR642 plus taxes per night. [inline_related_article article_id="145987"]
The group’s upcoming urban resort in Rome will feature state-of-the-art wellness facilities, thanks to a collaboration with Revivo Wellness Resorts. This luxury resort group currently has one property in Indonesia, with further openings in Japan, Sri Lanka, Spain, Italy and France. Its main focus includes sustainable wellness and rejuvenation through yoga, Pilates, holistic medicine treatments, meditation and food. First Roma Ego, the new resort in Rome, will be unveiled in 2020. This is the group’s third boutique luxury hotel in the city, the other two being First Roma Arte and First Roma Dolce. [dual-images right-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/FirstDolce_Facade_daylight-min.jpg" left-image-url="https://www.prestigeonline.com/hk/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/pavilions-arte.jpg" right-caption="Facade of The First Roma - Dolce (image from www.thefirsthotel.com)" left-caption="The grand entrance of The First Roma - Arte (image from www.thefirsthotel.com)"]
The Pavilions Hotels and Resorts aims to help guests unwind and attain their wellness goals through personalised spa journeys. Whether it means soaking in the foothills of the Annapurna in Nepal at The Pavilions Himalayas Lake View or discovering hidden canals while staying at The Toren in Amsterdam, there’s always a myriad of ways to relax and connect with your inner self.

The post Pavilions Hotel and Resorts foray into wellness with new collaboration appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

It’s the final night of our three-night stay at Kiroro Resort, on Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido, and a soothing stillness descends along with the big, fluffy flakes of snow that have been falling almost non-stop since our arrival. With only two hotels tucked in the bowl of a small valley, Kiroro is a far cry from its bigger and busier neighbour Niseko. But not long after the sun sets and the entire valley becomes shrouded in darkness, cheers ring out as the sky lights up in a dazzling display of fireworks.

Kiroro, it seems, has a lot to celebrate. The one-time corporate retreat for Japanese conglomerate Yamaha (whose chairman tasked his staff 25 years ago with locating the best snow in all of Japan) is attracting more and more visitors for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, Japanese-style hospitality and wide range of activities to keep the entire family entertained. And, as locals are quick to point out, the best powder in the entire world.

It’s January when we visit and check in at The Kiroro, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, which served as Yamaha’s employee retreat before it was purchased by Thai developer Property Perfect and converted into a 282-room hotel. Property Perfect also owns the 140-room Sheraton a few minutes’ drive away, at the base of Kiroro’s twin mountains, and the Yu Kiroro condominium complex that’s due for completion by the end of 2019. Just a 90-minute drive from New Chitose Airport, Kiroro also happens to be the closest ski resort to Otaru and Sapporo.

After dropping our bags in the spacious double rooms situated around the hotel’s central atrium, it’s time for a tour of the facilities. As with most, if not all, Japanese hotels, there are various public bathing options including a smaller single bath inside the hotel and a larger complex that requires a brief walk outside but is rewarded with indoor and outdoor baths and -- my favourite after a long day of skiing -- massage chairs in the relaxation area.

[caption id="attachment_153672" align="alignnone" width="3811"] Fresh powder on the hills surrounding the resort.[/caption]

The Kiroro also has an arcade, small fitness room, outdoor-activities centre, arts and crafts room, pirate- themed play area and makeshift town with bars and restaurants as well as a gear and souvenir shop. In winter, there’s a skating rink, snow park for kids and the Ice Star Resort bar/restaurant built entirely of ice.

After learning about the weather systems that bring cold air from Siberia and across the Sea of Japan to deliver about 21 metres of snow annually in Kiroro (only after which they move on to Niseko), we can hardly wait to hit the slopes. With snow falling steadily for about 150 days a year -- which means Kiroro has the added advantage of Japan’s longest ski season, from November to May and sometimes even stretching into June -- there’s no need for artificial snow and no risk of avalanche.

Once we’re geared up at the Mountain Center and equipped with a handy smart card that stores our sizes and lift passes, all that’s left to do is choose our first run. Kiroro comprises 22 groomed runs on Nagamine and Asari peaks, served by nine lifts (all covered except one) and a gondola. And the best part? Because this is Kiroro, and not Niseko or Nagano, we never have to wait in line.

So we jump on the gondola that takes us to the summit of Asari Peak and kick things off with a photo op at the resort’s famous Niisa Bell, a local landmark that appeared in the Thai film One Day and is said to result in marriage for couples who ring the bell twice.

[caption id="attachment_153670" align="alignnone" width="3500"] The row of restaurants and shops outside the Kiroro.[/caption]

The bell tower is also a fun way to see just how deep the snow is, which on the day we visited reached at least halfway up the 5.8-metre-high structure. But we came here to ski and for the rest of the day, that’s what we do. This being my first time skiing in Hokkaido -- and first visit to the island since a three-month exchange programme in college -- I had high hopes for its legendary powder.

And, as it turns out, it’s legendary for a reason. At times I feel like I’m floating down a run, at others both relieved and surprised when what would normally be a patch of ice carved by previous skiers or boarders is nothing but smooth, packed powder.

Kiroro has a good mix of beginner and expert runs, plus extra snow features and banks for practice and tricks. For the more adventurous, it also has extensive off-piste offerings. Skiers must register with a Mountain Club, where they’re provided with safety equipment and tracking devices. Thanks to these measures and various checkpoints, it’s possible to find anyone lost or injured in the backcountry within 20 minutes.

Off-piste skiing is certainly something to aspire to on our next visit, but after talking to the hotel staff and local residents we could be back even before the next ski season. Hokkaido is one of those rare places that can truly claim to be a year-round destination.

[caption id="attachment_153668" align="alignnone" width="4928"] Taking in the scenery.[/caption]

From the lush beauty of spring (despite the lack of a rainy season) and the perfect hiking and golfing weather of summer, to the beautiful display of autumn colours (not to mention Japan’s biggest and best beer festival), and of course that powder in winter, the island satisfies all comers. And perhaps the best news I’ve heard: no mosquitoes.

Finally, and one of the main reasons people visit Japan, is the food. Hokkaido, I’m told by our Kiroro hosts, supplies most of the country’s foodstuff. It’s most famous for its seafood and dairy products but the island also produces some of the finest fruits, vegetables and speciality dishes such as ramen and jingisukan (the latter being the iconic grilled meat-and-veggie dish otherwise known as Genghis Khan).

The restaurants at Kiroro, like the rest on the island, focus on serving the best of the season. For our winter visit, that means big, meaty king crab legs, colourful assortments of fresh-caught sashimi, thinly sliced pork belly for hot pot, and some incredible sake.

As I’m lying back in my massage chair after a full day of feasting, snow-cat touring and snowshoeing, flakes continuing to fall silently outside, I wonder how I’m going to describe the Kiroro experience. And then I recall the words of the resort’s COO, Lothar Pehl: “You have to see it to believe it. It’s as simple as that.”

Yu Kiroro, a ski-in ski-out luxury condominium, is the first of many exciting developments at Kiroro Resort.

Since acquiring the two hotels and ski resort at Kiroro in 2012, Property Perfect has set its sights on creating nothing less than “the premier alpine destination in Asia”. The next step in its master plan is Yu Kiroro, a 108-unit luxury condominium due for completion in December of this year.

The six-storey building sits in between the Sheraton and Tribute hotels and will be connected to the slopes by a new combi lift/gondola serving all three buildings. It will also offer ski valet services, a family-friendly snow sports area, and natural indoor and outdoor hot-springs baths as well asstandard amenities such as all-day dining and a fitness centre.

Inside, the units range from one-bedroom (667 square feet), two- bedroom (904 -- 1,367 square feet) and-three bedroom (1,313–1,507 square feet), to a four-bedroom penthouse (2,874 square feet). Even the smallest units are suitable for long stays with full kitchens, washers and dryers, and all furniture and accessories provided.

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The design, meanwhile, is described as 70 percent alpine and 30 percent Japanese with muted colours, and wood and stone finishes. The penthouse also features a private outdoor bath and spacious entertaining areas. Yu Kiroro is just one part of Property’s Perfect long-term vision for the valley. The Thai company plans to develop an entire village with villas, townhouses and apartments centred around dining and shopping areas, a premium ski club for the winter and various outdoor activities year-round.
With more and more visitors hailing from Thailand, China, Indonesia and the rest of the region, Hokkaido could well be on the cusp of an Asian ski boom. And if the 2020 Olympics raise the level of international tourism even further, Kiroro could well be perfectly positioned for its developers and investors alike.

For more information on Yu Kiroro, including floor plans, property news and investment opportunities, see yukiroro.com. For information on Kiroro Resort, see kiroro.co.jp. Both properties are accessible from Sapporo’s New Chitose Airport, with non-stop flights from Hong Kong (roughly five hours) available from Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong Airlines.

The post Welcome to Kiroro, The Premier Alpine Destination in Asia appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Imagine renting out an entire private island in French Polynesia or sleeping in an 18th-century château in Provençe that you booked through Airbnb -- well, now you can do exactly that. The vacation rental platform has launched a brand new luxury tier called Airbnb Luxe that offers access to more than 2,000 of the most spectacular properties in the world. All bookings will also include a dedicated trip designer that can arrange bespoke experiences and provide 24-hour VIP support during your stay.

Thanks to its acquisition of Luxury Retreats in 2017, Airbnb has gained expertise in the arena of extravagance and is now able to offer the kind of accommodation that appeals to customers with a slightly higher budget. Ranging from HK$8,000 to HK$1 million a night, Airbnb Luxe listings includes only the best of the best, as they all must pass strict inspection with over 300 criteria to keep to the highest standards and five-star quality.

So for those who need a jaw-dropping experience to celebrate an occasion or simply prefer travelling in utter luxury and privacy, here are our top five luxe properties on the Airbnb Luxe list.

1. Château d'Estoublon in Provence, France

For a little heritage and sophistication, this 18th-century château certainly hits the mark. Aside from admiring the surrounding countryside, you can enjoy historic architecture and modern interiors with a heated pool, wine cave, theatre and more on the grounds.

2. The Fleming Villa in Jamaica

Named after James Bond writer Ian Fleming, this beachfront villa in the Caribbean may spark some of your own adventures. After all, it was on Jamaica’s stunning north coast that Fleming wrote all 14 of his popular spy novels.

3. Nukutepipi in French Polynesia

A secluded private paradise in French Polynesia, this island retreat can host a total of 52 guests in houses and bungalows amidst lush palm trees, pristine white-sand beaches and azure Pacific Ocean views.

4. Sky Loft in Sydney

This luxurious sub-penthouse is situated in the Darlinghurst suburb of Sydney. The property has a wraparound balcony that shows off panoramic views of the iconic skyline, and it's just minutes away from the Royal Botanic Gardens or Sydney Opera House, too.

5. Chalet Les Étrennes in Swiss Alps

Newly renovated and expanded, this Swiss chalet is the ideal luxury stay you’ve been looking for. The property overlooks the incredible pistes of the Mont Blanc massif and Verbier. So ski away, and then indulge in the alfresco hot tub for a little après-ski.

The post Airbnb Luxe Allows You to Stay in the World’s Most Extraordinary Homes appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

The wealth of Kuala Lumpur's hospitality scene is thriving. And when it comes to what travellers and local city dwellers alike are looking for, location is a huge draw. KL Sentral has become one of the top addresses for hotels as the hub of all trains and buses, and its direct train routes to and from the airport. Smack in the middle of KL Sentral, guests at Le Méridien can easily hop on a train to venture the sights and sounds of the city, while a variety of shops, restaurants and bars are just outside the hotel.

The Parisian brand that is Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts was formed in 1972 and has since become synonymous with its European heritage and flair. Admittedly, we've been holding hotels to international standards, but in the recent years that's all changing with the hospitality industry encouraging more local aspects and aesthetics. Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur is a part of the movement with its newly refurbished look reflecting the character of our city.

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On the outside in, the hotel operates like one busy terminal. Its different areas have been renamed to imagine an arrival destination. First, guests arrive at the Porte Cochere with a cartography design that's meant to look like movements and motions. The contoured white ceilings even have Malay literature known as "pantun" on them.

The lobby, now known as the 'hub' is a mix and match of different seating areas including high and low communal tables. The featured wall behind the reception counter is an abstracted map of old Kuala Lumpur in a blurred dot matrix pattern form, and the illuminated coloured changing wall channels the progression of the city from the past into the future. The art piece was created just for the hub by Mr Noor of ZDR, an international Architecture, Interior and Design firm.

One thing you can't miss is the 'Symphony of Lights', an art piece depicting a wind chime-inspired chandelier created by an architect named Keiko Miura from Japan. Completely handmade, each glass piece resembles an interpretation of light and the whole assembly took one year to perfect.

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Rooms have been modernised with a very futuristic, monochrome design. If you're lucky, you'll nab a panoramic view of Kuala Lumpur from your bathtub. Look out also for nods to Kuala Lumpur in the art and decor. Marble floors, contrasting textures and patterns give the rooms a very stylish finish.

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Food is always the order of the day. In-room dining here is very pricey so you'll want to eat out, or experience the best of culinary at the hotel itself. Favola was our favourite restaurant, serving authentic Italian cuisine with a menu of Venetian and Sardinian dishes.

While you're here, Prime is known for serving some of the finest imported steaks which are halal certified from Australia, and you can't check-out without trying the the hotel's signature eclairs available at Latitude 03.

The Prestige traveller will love the exclusivity of the Le Méridien Club Lounge on the 33rd floor, with access sole for Platinum members and guests with room bookings inclusive of club lounge access. Club Lounge privileges include all day refreshments, usage of the private meeting room, and daily laundry credit with amenities include an open kitchen and shower rooms.

Could use a staycation? Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur is now offering a weekend staycation package inclusive of late checkouts at 4pm, 50% off food and beverages at Pool Bar & Grill@8, and if you're lucky, free upgrades.

The post Weekend staycation: Le Meridien Kuala Lumpur appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Casanova’s island becomes a haven for art this year. Visitors to the iconic Belmond Cipriani in Venice are in for a treat as the luxurious hotel turns its historic gardens into a unique open-air art gallery to celebrate the 58^th Venice Biennale. 

The unassuming yet highly picturesque Giudecca Island was once the hunting grounds of Italy’s most prolific lovers. Now, it is the setting of the very exclusive and internationally acclaimed Belmond Cipriani. And it is amongst these romantic environs that the island-hotel is opening its elegant restaurants and extensive gardens to showcase a selection of celebrated artwork by world-renowned sculptors and artists. Given the rich diversity of the art on display, it’s clear that this oasis for art lovers encapsulates the theme of the Biennale: ‘May You Live in Interesting Times’. [inline_related_article article_id="40068"]

And interesting times they are, indeed. Especially in the Casanova Gardens where famous artists Roberto and Rodolfo Guarnieri will conduct alfresco art classes for guests at the hotel. These group or individual sessions will teach participants ancient painting techniques with a modern sensibility. This is quite the treat, considering the exalted status enjoyed by the Guarnieri brothers in art circles around the world. In fact, one of their stunning masterpieces, the sailing-inspired “Dreams of Regatta”, greets guests at the first point of embarkation onto the property.

The curated experience at the Cipriani is completely immersive, thanks to several sculptures and paintings that have been displayed in and around the hotel. These include artwork by Igor Mitoraj, Pablo Atchugarry, Julio Larraz and Enzo Fiore — four prominent artists whose works are part of the Contini Gallery, a highly reputed Venetian collection of galleries. The idea behind this spread-out arrangement is to inspire conversation and creative debate across every nook and corner of the property.

And so, the two huge canvases by Enzo Fiore, placed on either side of the library just off the lobby, express two perspectives of the Grand Canal. Made using natural materials such as moss, leaves, roots, cement, stones and insects, the paintings bring an evocative realism to the scenes.

Guests entering the Michelin-starred Oro restaurant will be greeted by the “Flower Storm, over Sappho’s House”, a canvas by Julio Larraz, which references Surrealism and the Spanish painting techniques of the 17th century. The eyes of the diners here may also be drawn to the lagoon outside and the strategically perched Ikaria, a striking two-winged bronze sculpture by Mitoraj. [inline_related_article article_id="45803"]

This affair with air continues beyond the walls of the Belmond Cipriani, as well. The Guidecca Art District — founded by curators Pier Paolo Scelsi and Valentina Gioia Levy — sprawls across the island, showcasing a range of contemporary works by several artists. Guests can take a stroll down the many streets and explore the projects, exhibitions and events planned around the theme: ‘Take care of your garden. Cultivating a new humanism’. Over 60 artists, including Yoko Ono, Kendell Geers, Kazuko Miyamoto and Moataz Nasr — will display their work here through 20 exhibitions.

All the artwork on display at the Belmond Cipriani can be purchased; prices are available on request.

The post Art finds a new home at the Belmond Hotel Cipriani for the 58th Venice Biennale appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

The St. Regis Hong Kong has officially opened its doors on Harbour Drive in Wan Chai and is now accepting reservations -- but before you book that lavish staycation, here's what you need to know about this new luxury hotel.

[caption id="attachment_138882" align="alignnone" width="767"] A full view of The St. Regis Hong Kong's exterior.[/caption]

1. The Heritage

The St. Regis brand was founded by John Jacob Astor IV in 1904, when he opened the very first St. Regis in New York City's most exclusive residential area. Thought to be the richest man in America at the time, he was still onboard the Titanic when it sank in 1912, but only after helping his pregnant wife into the last lifeboat. What he left behind was a legacy that lives on today at over 40 properties around the world, and is where traditions of the Gilded Age meet modern luxury and style.

[caption id="attachment_138883" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The living room of the Presidential Suite in The St. Regis Hong Kong has impressive views of the harbour.[/caption]

2. Interior Design

Acclaimed Hong Kong architect and designer André Fu has created the interiors of the 27-storey hotel using his vision to combine a classic style with contemporary elegance. The result is an understated luxury that feel timeless, with pops of colour and signature design elements to reflect the diversity of the city.

3. The Rooms

The St. Regis Hong Kong offers a total of 129 rooms -- 112 guest rooms and 17 signature suites to be exact -- that range from 538 to 2,583 square feet. Guests can opt for a Deluxe guest room or even the Presidential Suite, all of which feature wood flooring, sumptuous textures, and marble bathrooms in a bright and relaxing space. What’s more, in-room check-in is available for all rooms and suites.

[caption id="attachment_138884" align="alignnone" width="1024"] The Grand Deluxe room at The St. Regis Hong Kong.[/caption]

4. The Butler Service

All rooms come with complimentary butler service. We’re talking about personalised service that is available 24 hours a day. It’s a St. Regis trademark after all, and now it can be experienced for the first time in Hong Kong, so you'll be able to sit back while your butler helps you unpack, presses your suit, brings you tea and cupcakes and packs it all up again at the end of your stay. The Hong Kong flagship will also introduce eButler chat -- where guests can contact their Butler through an app or through a dedicated line, email, WhatsApp and WeChat.

5. The Dining Experiences

Guests can experience three different styles of gastronomy at The St. Regis Hong Kong. This includes French fine-dining at L’Envol, where esteemed French chef Olivier Elzer will offer curated lunch and dinner menus, and Cantonese cuisine at Chinese restaurant Rùn, which is spearheaded by award winning chef Hung Chi-Kwong. Not forgetting afternoon tea, The Drawing Room will offer an indulgent experience (along with a menu of international fare) in this stunning space as well as on the adjoining Astor Terrace.

[caption id="attachment_138881" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Behind The St. Regis Bar is a bright mural that reflects a part of the city.[/caption]

6. The St. Regis Bar and the Canto Mary

Set to be Hong Kong’s new hotel bar of choice, The St. Regis Bar offers a craft cocktail menu in addition to over 800 wine labels and more than 100 champagnes. And if that wasn’t enough reason to go, there's the hotel’s signature cocktail since 1934: The Bloody Mary. Here, it's been given a Cantonese twist with dried tangerine peel, five spices and Kowloon soy sauce, and you can enjoy it with live jazz in the bar every evening.

7. A Sparkling Sabrage

There’s nothing like celebrating with champagne, and The St. Regis Hong Kong is right there with you with one of their signature traditions: the nightly sabrage, a sword ceremony to open bottles of champagne that dates back to the battles of Napoleon. So who are we to argue -- cheers!

The post 7 Things You Should Know About The St. Regis Hong Kong appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.