Celebrity Life

Trust the pandemic-prescribed hiatus to get us even hungrier for more unique travel experiences.

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On the cards: watching jaguars in Brazil, an escape to Tuscany and sailing in style around Indonesian islands.

The post 6 travel industry insiders share their post-pandemic dream vacations appeared first on The Peak Magazine.

On the cards: watching jaguars in Brazil, an escape to Tuscany and sailing in style around Indonesian islands.

For more stories like this, visit www.thepeakmagazine.com.sg.

Travelling may not be on the cards right now but we can surely dream.

As travel restrictions remain, it seems my dreams of travelling have become more vivid; transporting me to scenes I've never seen or been to. From far flung cities and hidden kingdoms, to soft sandy beaches and ski slopes, my plans to travel are well and truly in action and I'm sure yours are too. Ahead, is my bucket list of dream destinations so that you may also feel inspired to dream and travel further, when we can.

1. Marrakech, Morocco

Offering a unique mix of history and traditions; landscape and nature; on top of its varied cuisine, the Red City is something of a hot spot for many to enjoy in luxury. Think balloon flights with champagne breakfasts, private treks through the Atlas mountains and even luxury camps in the deserts and dunes. Not to mention all the souk shopping and Moroccan food to indulge in.

2. Santorini, Greece

The iconic blue and white vistas, dramatic caldera landscapes and sunsets over the azure Aegean Sea, are but a few reasons to visit Santorini -- especially if you are a photography enthusiast. And we didn’t even get to the remarkable Hellenic wines or volcanic produce yet. So slow it down and head on over to this idyllic Greek island to inject a little Santorini magic in your lives.

3. Dubrovnik, Croatia

It might just be an unhealthy obsession with Game of Thrones, but we are all quite infatuated with Dubrovnik. Whether or not you recognise it as the set for King’s Landing, this picturesque city has it all. Look past the ancient medieval walls and go explore stunning architecture, gorgeous beaches, crystal waters, waterfalls and one of the most vibrant summer festivals in the Mediterranean together.

4. Negril, Jamaica

Most of us don’t need much convincing to head to the Caribbean, but if you were wondering why you should choose Negril in Jamaica -- picture yourself on the uninterrupted sand and turquoise waters of Seven Mile Beach, exploring lush jungles and the country’s most impressive waterfalls, and enjoying live reggae with rum cocktail in one hand and jerk chicken in the other. Negril, here we come!

5. Levi, Finland

Christmas almost always evokes a sense of magic and romance, so why not just create the same festive feels in Finland. Visit reindeers, go husky dog sledding and freestyle down the ski slopes, before snuggling up in a glass igloo whilst viewing the Aurora Borealis. 

6. Cappadocia, Turkey

As if discovering the surreal landscapes of fairy chimneys and cities carved in stone wasn’t enough. The number one thing to do in Cappadocia is bound to take your love to new heights, quite literally. One can enjoy spectacular views high up in a hot air balloon at sunrise -- a fairytale sight with hundreds of them dotted in the sky. It doesn’t get any more memorable than that.

7. Havana, Cuba

Havana is a destination for those who love all things retro. Drive a vintage car through the atmospheric streets lined with colourful wall murals, or discover the city’s unique architectural mix and you will be transported to a different era. Then wind down like a true local and salsa with your partner while sipping on mojitos until the sun goes down.

8. Bhutan

Take the scenic route to peace and serenity and you’ll end up in Bhutan -- the last standing Buddhist Kingdom in the World -- which is known to locals as Druk Yul, or Land of the Thunder Dragon. And it really is a mystical as it sounds, with its jaw-dropping landscapes, ancient monasteries and fortresses, it really is an adventure of a lifetime.

9. Amalfi Coast, Italy

If you're searching for la dolce vita, look no further. You'll find it on the Amalfi Coast. If the charming fishing villages or cascading cliffs over shimmering bays don’t get you, the fresh seafood and limoncello will. It’s also home to some of the best luxury hotels and restaurants in Italy, not to mention photogenic Positano and its well-known clifftop view.

10. Tel Aviv, Israel

It’s one of the most happening yet historic cities in Israel, and still so underrated. Not only will you find the oldest port in the world, sandy beaches, Bauhaus-style buildings, a myriad of museums, galleries, and a fantastic food scene, but the nightlife also gives Ibiza a run for its money. If you’re going to discover something together, let it be Tel Aviv.

The post Travel Bucket List: The 10 Destinations to Dream of Visiting Next appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

We’re seated on velvet cushions, our feet dipping into the cool water flowing along an irrigation channel beneath our picnic table. Overhead, olive trees soar, forming a perfect arch that provides respite from the desert heat. We’re at Dar Ahlam, a restored 19th‐century kasbah (citadel) overlooking the Atlas Mountains that’s roughly a four‐hour drive south from Marrakech. I note how perfectly the colours of our meal complement the surroundings, from the mint‐green crockery to the olive oil made here, the zucchini soup and the sprinkling of pistachios on our tomato salad. It’s clear that every detail has been meticulously considered.

[caption id="attachment_166660" align="alignnone" width="4480"] Tea-making at Kasbah Tamadot[/caption]

Our waiter, Ahmad, walks towards us, bearing dessert on a silver tray. “Are those apricots?” I ask him. Almost apologetically, he tells us they’re peaches before disappearing beyond the olive grove. Moments later, a rustle of leaves signals his return. With a wide grin and a flourish, he produces freshly plucked apricots.

Let’s rewind for a moment to our arrival in Marrakech, where on checking in at the impossibly beautiful Amanjena we discover that our rose‐hued pavilion -- inspired by the fabled reds of the city itself -- has been personalised with framed photos of our family. Our elegant dwelling is sprawling, with an outdoor minzha (gazebo) that could easily seat a dozen, a glittering emerald heated pool and a soothing petal‐strewn fountain.

With snow‐capped mountains as a backdrop and surrounded by date palms, Amanjena is a blissful retreat where, after our long journey, unwinding is the order of the day. I’m slathered in therapeutic argan oil and herbs at the spa, then settle into an oversize outdoor bed overlooking an ancient-style reflecting pool to enjoy live Moroccan music. When the mercury level drops, we retreat indoors to feast on tagine and tangia under vaulted ceilings and Moorish arches.

[caption id="attachment_166661" align="alignnone" width="5315"] Souk in Marrakech[/caption]

Magical though Amanjena is, we nonetheless venture beyond its confines and into the heart of Marrakech, whose red-walled medieval medina is crisscrossed by narrow lanes. A former imperial city, it’s a melting pot of Berber, Roman, French, Spanish and Arab cultures. The legendary souk is chaotic but compelling: we’re charmed by the heady aroma of spices, the stalls piled high with colourful fabrics and ceramics, leather babouches (heelless slippers) and brass lamps strung from ceilings, pedestrians sidestepping motorcyclists and vendors peddling an assortment of wares.

[caption id="attachment_166657" align="alignnone" width="2558"] Amanjena’s Heron[/caption]

Our guide introduces us to the 19th‐century Moorish Bahia Palace. Richly decorated with marble, stucco, cedarwood carvings and stained‐glass windows, the buildings are organised around lush gardens and shady courtyards. Next, we proceed to a historic walled quarter known as mellah, which was once home to the city’s Jewish community.

The next chapter of our journey takes us up into the awe‐inspiring High Atlas, where we’re headed for Kasbah Tamadot, Richard Branson’s luxurious mountain retreat. Nestled in a valley, it offers views of Toubkal, which at more than 4,000 metres is the highest peak in the Arab world. Immediately, I understand why Branson fell so much in love with the property that he bought it almost at once, eclectic contents and all.

[caption id="attachment_166655" align="alignnone" width="3456"] Bahia Palace in Marrakech[/caption]

Pleasant surprises await at every corner, from intricately carved doors to unique art pieces and tapestries, and a cobalt-blue pool filled with rose petals. The garden is equally alluring, but my favourite place to enjoy the fresh mountain air over a pot of mint tea is in a crisp white tent decorated with tasselled cushions and kilim rugs by a stunning infinity pool.

Our master suite is a private mini kasbah with a glorious terrace, and a view of the valley and river below. As expected, the service is impeccable. The staff cosset us with blankets, an allergy menu and an amazing tagine, then lead us to the bar in an opulent Berber tent for a nightcap.

But there’s more to do at Kasbah Tamadot than just relaxing. We shop at the Berber Boutique, which works with the Eve Branson Foundation to support local artisans, and there’s croquet on the lawn. The area is also a paradise for hikers, with ample opportunities to discover nearby Berber villages, where the culture hasn’t changed for centuries.

[caption id="attachment_166659" align="alignnone" width="6190"] The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site[/caption]

To the east at the edge of the Sahara lies the city of Ouarzazate, whose rugged surrounds have featured in countless movies and TV series. We could fly there but, feeling adventurous, decide instead to get there by road via the dizzying hairpin bends of the Tizi n’Tichka pass. As the mountains retreat behind us, the landscape changes from green meadows to a rocky desert. To the north of the city lies the fortified, earth-built village at Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a perfect example of southern Moroccan architecture. Here, we navigate narrow streets flanked by souvenir shops and climb up steps for sweeping views of the spot that served as the city of Yunkai in Game of Thrones.

Leaving Ouarzazate behind, we’re driven to Skoura, an oasis town that was once an important trading post. Crumbling kasbah dot the sunbaked land, the most famous being Kasbah Amridil, which is now a museum with a fascinating collection of artefacts and tools.

A dusty road takes us through a dry riverbed before we arrive at Dar Ahlam (“house of dreams”), a 200-year-old kasbah that’s our home for several nights. The rooms are all unique, except for the absence of locks and TVs. Ours has an outdoor courtyard, a fireplace and a reading nook, complete with its own library.

[caption id="attachment_166658" align="alignnone" width="2000"] Suite at Kasbah Tamadot[/caption]

Getting lost is part of the fantasy. You never quite know what to expect when you duck through tiny hidden doors, walk through moody passages or climb mysterious stairways. There are salons (separate ones for men and women), a library and -- my favourite find -- a rooftop bathed in the glow of the setting sun.

We look forward to mealtimes, an experience that’s always private, theatrical and wholly indulgent. There are no restaurants or menus -- and no rules either. “Anything is possible,” says the manager. “You can have dinner in your bathrobe if you wish.”

So we have a picnic on the lawn, with colourful sashes draped on trees and birdsong as an accompaniment. We also indulge in a dreamy, white-themed dinner in a garden softly lit by candle lanterns and floating tea lights, and with flowers dangling in mid-air. We’re left completely alone -- until, that is, the staff magically appear whenever we need something, as though they’ve read our minds.

[caption id="attachment_166662" align="alignnone" width="4961"] Desert Dining at Dar Ahlam's Nomad Camp[/caption]

One evening, we’re driven to Dar Ahlam’s Nomad Camp through mud-brick villages perched above the Valley of Roses, where we glimpse farmers, hidden rivers and rose plantations. Our arrival is perfectly timed for sunset and the staff, who’ve already erected a tent complete with a bedroom, dining area and bathroom, have prepared an evening meal.

We start with tea, then move on to canapés and cocktails before enjoying a Moroccan dinner in the great outdoors surrounded by lamps. With the stars twinkling above us and no other souls in sight, I savour the moment in this special corner of the world that feels as if it had been carved out just for us.

The post Marvellous Morocco: A Colourful Journey Through North Africa’s Maghreb 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.

[gallery size="full" ids="163630,163633,163631,163641"]

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.

[gallery size="full" ids="163628,163627,163629,163625"]

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.

Sitting at the edge of the Blade, a soaring dolerite column at the end of Cape Pillar, with Tasman Island bursting from the sea to the front, and the coastline advancing and retreating off to the right, can make a person feel very insignificant. At 300 metres above sea level in Tasman National Park, the Blade is the highest sea cliff in the Southern Hemisphere, a vertiginous landmark that irresistibly instils a humbling respect for and wonder of nature.

Naturally, it’s one of the highlights of the Three Capes Track, a four-day hike in Tasmania’s jagged southeast. When it opened to the public in 2015, the 48km trail with boardwalks and gravel paths was an instant hit, even though the only option for visitors was to stay in modern, functional national park huts and bring their own food.

That changed last year with the introduction of Three Capes Lodge Walk, which includes accommodation in the form of two luxurious eco lodges artfully hidden along the track that enable adventurers to enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery without sacrificing creature comforts. At the end of a day led by insightful guides, hikers can decompress in hot showers, nibble on canapés in front of a fire, enjoy freshly cooked meals accompanied by Tasmanian wine, and retire to rooms with large windows looking out to the forest.

My four-day hike traverses a heart-stirring trail that rises from sea level, taking in a cloud forest, undulating coastal heath and sheer-drop cliffs in a region rich with history. Dutch explorer Abel Tasman landed on the island in 1642, its first railways were built by convicts in the 1830s and Point Puer was the British Empire’s first boys-only prison, with inmates as young as nine years old. I learn all this during the first moments of the walk, as we slowly climb the hills above the official starting point of Denman’s Cove, a short boat ride from Port Arthur, itself a 90-minute drive from central Hobart.

[caption id="attachment_159498" align="alignnone" width="3983"] Cape Pillar Lodge[/caption]

With a maximum of 14 people allowed on the Three Capes Lodge Walk at a time, and the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service permitting only 48 hikers each night in the cabins for the normal route, the beautifully maintained trail is blissfully empty. Taking five years to build and requiring 18,000 helicopter flights to transport gravel, timber and other materials, it’s devoid of slushy sections and rocky terrain, making it passable year-round.

On an easy first day, my group strides past towering she-oaks, brown-top stringybark trees and silver peppermint bushes, with the occasional stop at benches made by design students. We see the outline of Cape Raoul, its shape broken because it was used for target practice by naval ships in the last century. In the autumn sun, the sky mottled with clouds, a light breeze on my face, and plants such as sword-grass and banksia everywhere, the setting feels almost Mediterranean.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Crescent Lodge, accessed by a faint trail off the main track. One of the three guides -- Charlotte, Josh and Gus -- arrived earlier to prepare some hors d’oeuvres of cheese, charcuterie, crackers and condiments, accompanied by Tasmanian wine.

Over these bites, we soon settle into the rhythm of old friends. Our enjoyment is amplified by a three-course dinner taken on a huge wooden table that includes lamb stew and panna cotta with mixed-berry coulis (the ingredients and drinks served are almost exclusively from Tasmania). After the meal comes a rundown of what to expect the following day, followed by more wine in front of a fire and some old-fashioned, digital-free conversation. I notice a possum outside sniffing at the lodge windows, eager to get inside to sample the amiable ambience.

[caption id="attachment_159500" align="alignnone" width="2448"] Soaring Dolerite Columns en route to The Blade[/caption]

The dark ash-coloured timber lodge took a year to build and is sealed with a fire-retarding coating. Plate-glass windows wrap around its main lounge, while terraced rooms and a separate Relaxation Pavilion are set among the trees. The lodge was planned with the environment in mind: showers use low-flow recycling systems so water isn’t wasted, solar panels and wind turbines help generate energy, and buildings sit on stilts to reduce footprints. Rooms feature large windows that can be opened to cool and ventilate the space, and the firm bed with soft sheets deserves a special mention as I fall into a deep slumber, serenaded by the haunting sound of wind whipping through trees.

The next day’s early start is preluded by freshly baked bread, smooth tangy yoghurt and crunchy granola. We set off in the clear morning air and I soon fall into the tempo of the walk’s pleasant metronomic crunch of gravel underfoot. We learn about epicormic growth and how fire helps the forest to regenerate (seed pods drop from trees when triggered by heat and smoke). At times, the guides point out the different flora -- candle heath, cheeseberries, dogwood, casuarinas, blanket leaf, snow gums, sassafras, stinkwood leaf, mountain pinkberries, a weird bush nicknamed bushman’s bootlace for its strong stalks -- and birds such as the flame robin, yellow-tailed black cockatoo and green rosella. I spot a fern covered in small water droplets, and as the sunlight hits it, it appears swathed in crystals.

The Tasman Peninsula, one of the guides explains, was created by epic tectonic shifts. As Gondwana pulled apart, magma rose, cooled and cracked, creating the vertical igneous dolerite. The trail passes through microclimates, including a section of cloud forest that feels like Tolkien’s Middle Earth with its huge boulders covered in moss and lichen.

[caption id="attachment_159497" align="alignnone" width="7360"] Three Capes Lodge walk[/caption]

The next two nights are spent at Cape Pillar Lodge, set on a zigzag walk above the track. The set-up is reassuringly similar to the first, except that it comes with a spa and on-site therapist. After a day of ambling, we settle in with some olives and pineapple cake, followed by a dinner of chicken pot pie with mushrooms, and some local riesling and pinot noir. My favourite spot is the pavilion, where I watch the sunrise each morning. The nascent light slowly illuminates the tall eucalyptus trees and coastline, firming up Cape Raoul’s shape with its strengthening rays. As I sit on the outdoor deck and warm up to the sounds of bees, birds and breeze, the feeling is transcendental.

By the third day, I’m able to identify Tasmanian laurel and pepperberry, though I continue to confuse black currawongs, an endemic bird species, with ravens. As we tread a boardwalk winding through undulating plains, our guide stops to discuss aboriginal history and explains how people have lived on the island for 40,000 years. We hug the coastline until the steep-cliffed Tasman Island comes into view. From the Blade, it’s a breathtaking sight -- the windswept, precipitous and forgotten outpost seems almost medieval in its austerity.

On the final day, a walk through a forest is immensely moving. The guides space everyone two minutes apart and ask us to walk in silence to better appreciate our surroundings. Devoid of distractions, I see how the fallen trees provide growth, marvel at the sculptural beauty of burned-out hollows and listen to the creak of branches in the wind.

The walk ends at Fortescue Bay, where a few of us swim in the bracing sea. After drying off and raising glasses of champagne for a farewell toast, we officially end the trip. In this place of inspiring beauty, my joy is doubled in the camaraderie of new-found friends.

The post A Walk on the Wild Side: Tasmania’s New Wilderness Trail Is Breathtakingly Beautiful appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Take a dip into our gallery to find the most beautiful pools from around the world; from geothermal baths in Iceland, to iconic infinity pools at luxury hotels, to secluded rainforest lagoons away from it all. Here are our top 10 cool pools worth travelling to and swimming in.

The post 10 of the World’s Coolest Pools to Dive into Right Now appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

With its splendid museums, historic palaces, leafy avenues, vast plazas and gourmet restaurants, all built on the site of an ancient Aztec capital, Mexico City has the verve and cultural panache to be mentioned in the same breath as the world's great cities.

When I mention my plan to spend a few days exploring Mexico City on my own, the general reaction is one of concern. What about safety? What about the warring drug cartels, ask friends and family. So by the time I check into my hipster hotel in the central historic neighbourhood of Zocalo, all my senses are on high alert. My first reassurance comes from the hotel clerk who laughs at my questions. “On some days, we have more cops than tourists on the streets,” he says.

Sure enough, in Mexico City, I find not just oodles of colour and culture (as expected), but also warmth and friendliness from the most unexpected sources. From the lady at the street market who leaves her stall unattended to take me all the way to the nearest train station. From the ticket seller at the Palacio de Bellas Artes who lets me in five minutes after closing time, simply because I’m leaving town the next day and can’t bear to miss this stunning museum. And from the young man at the taco stand who offers me generous tastings when I hesitate over unfamiliar ingredients such as huitlacoche (fungal growth on ears of corn) and nopales (the flesh of the prickly pear cactus).

[caption id="attachment_155079" align="alignnone" width="2832"] The Palacio de Bellas Artes.[/caption]

Even at first sight, Zocalo reminds me of Europe. The open plaza at the heart of the city was built by the Spanish conquerors over what was once the Aztec city of Tenochtitlán. The square is now lined with magnificent palaces that serve as the seat of local and national political administration, ruins from several centuries ago that once housed both religious temples and sacrificial sites, and a huge cathedral that eclectically marries architectural styles from different periods. In turn, these rub shoulders with bars and cafes that are buzzing with boisterous tourists, high on mezcal or life -- or quite possibly both.

[caption id="attachment_155081" align="alignnone" width="4016"] A Pegasus sculpture by Agusti Querol Subirats at the Palacio de Belles Artes.[/caption]

At my first stop, the Palacio Nacional, there are more than a dozen security guards in ceremonial uniform strutting about the premises. I imagine they are there to protect the important politicians who work in these offices. But the tourists who throng this 16th-century palace are not here for a glimpse of the Mexican president, but for a look at artist Diego Rivera’s vibrant murals that spread across the winding staircase and corridor walls of the Grand Courtyard building. Painted between 1929 and 1935, they showcase the ancient and modern history of Mexico. Gawping at the brilliance of these stories expressed through art, I’m once again struck by the fact that all this is available for free.

[caption id="attachment_155082" align="alignnone" width="4608"] A fresco by Diego Rivera in the Palacio Nacional.[/caption]

In fact, that defines my Mexico City experience in a nutshell: a wealth of artistic and cultural riches strewn right across the city. Some of them are hidden inside imposing, even intimidating, façades such as the white-marble, high-domed Palacio de Bellas Artes, where murals coexist with a concert hall, an arts centre and an architecture museum. And others, such as the Museo Frida Kahlo, halfway across town, are small and charming, drawing eager devotees and curious visitors alike. Popularly known as Casa Azul, this museum is an ode to the private life as well as the evocative art of the gifted but troubled artist who was married to Diego Rivera while pursuing a liaison with Leon Trotsky.

In this city, the air seems to be perpetually filled with the sounds of jazz and peppy salsa in equal measure. A walk along the pedestrian-only shopping street of Avenida Francisco I. Madero, or simply Madero, is a great way to get a sense of how locals eat, shop and shoot the breeze. [inline_related_article article_id="147519"]

Strolling along lazily one evening, I take quick detours into the lanes branching off the main avenue to admire the blue-and-white tiles on the outer walls of the Casa de los Azulejos mansion, and the grand staircases, gleaming marble floors and gilded dome ceiling at the 112-year-old Palacio de Correos de México -- even the main post office occupies a former palace in this city with a surprise at every corner.

All these apart, Mexico City’s greatest cultural offering is perhaps the Museo Nacional de Antropologia, a sprawling complex where an entire day is simply not enough to check out the priceless collections of Mexican and Latin American art and artefacts from across the centuries. The highlights here include the impressive Aztec sun stone, Piedra del Sol, which weighs nearly 25 tonnes, and a replica of the resplendent feathered crown of Aztec ruler Moctezuma II. The exhibits spill outside into the museum gardens, where ancient temples and piazzas have been recreated with great care.

In my short time in Mexico City, I also discover that food is as much a part of its cultural fabric as the art museums and the baroque cathedrals. Creative chefs who are giving traditional Mexican cuisine a global twist are considered artists in their own right, and are as revered as politiciansand poets. And as many people queue up in front of restaurants such as Enrique Olvera’s Pujol and Jorge Vallejo’s Quintonil, as along roadside taquerias and churrerias.

[caption id="attachment_155083" align="alignnone" width="4032"] Get the best churros at El Moro.[/caption]

Mexico City is a place to explore at your own pace. For the young and the restless, there are the mezcal dive bars and the sports stadiums, the hipster boutiques and the vegan cafes; for travellers who wish to savour the city slowly, there are the 150-plus museums, the public parks and gardens, and the gondolas in the Xochimilco borough.

People have been squabbling for a while over whether Mexico City is the next Paris or the next New York. Meanwhile, it marches on, heedless of these speculations, carving a stylish niche of its own in Latin America.

The post One of the World’s Great Cities, Mexico City Offers a Wealth of Artistic and Cultural Riches appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

By now you've no doubt heard about the highly anticipated remake of the beloved 1994 Disney movie The Lion King, which features highly lifelike, computer-generated visuals and a star-studded cast of voice actors including Beyoncé, Donald Glover, James Earl Jones and Seth Rogan. With the film's Hong Kong release happening this week (Thursday, 25th July), you might be feeling inspired to take a trip to meet the king of the beasts in real life on a wildlife safari. So whether you prefer a luxury excursion or unique expeditions off the beaten path, here are our top picks for the most incredible safari adventures to experience right now.

Scott Dunn’s Lion King Adventure

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The Safari: 7 days through Nairobi and Laikipia in Kenya (from HK$49,100 per person)

This adventure starts off at the iconic Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, where there are -- you guessed it -- plenty of giraffes. The fun part is that you can wake up with them poking their heads through the windows looking for breakfast. Afterward, you’re off to the untouched natural haven of Laikipia, where you’ll stay on the Borana Conservancy, which is home to Pride Rock and a rhino sanctuary and where you can jump on an open 4x4 vehicle or horse to explore the African bush. Finally, this safari will take you to one of Africa’s most famed reserves, Maasai Mara, to spot safari royalty otherwise known as the 'big five': lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and cape buffalos.

Singita’s Adventure to the South

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The Safari: 12 days through the South African bush, Cape Town and Antartica (approx. HK$523,435 per person)

This safari is probably the most unique of them all: With a series of wildlife encounters from South Africa to Antartica, it’s an adventure that takes you from the bush to the ice. It begins in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, where you’ll likely find wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, giraffes, zebras, leopards, cheetahs and, of course, lions. The next stop is more of an urban safari, where you’ll explore Cape Town’s food, culture and history before being whisked off by private jet to Earth's southernmost continent: Antartica. Here, you'll enjoy glamping at White Desert Antarctica’s Whichaway Camp before witnessing a rare spectacle: Emperor penguin chicks taking their first steps across the ice.

Finch Hattons and Mahali Mzuri's Flying Safari

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The Safari: 7 days through Kenya (price on request)

This dual experience takes you on not one, but two luxury safaris, the first of which is located in Tsavo West National Park, set around natural fresh water springs and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. During this more luxurious and relaxing safari, wildlife fans can enjoy spectacular views -- think impalas, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, lions and cheetahs -- before heading back to wind down at their camp spas and swimming pools. As you move on to Mahali Mzuri, meaning ‘beautiful place’ in Swahili and located in the private Olare Motorogi Conservancy, you'll have a front row seat to the rich wildlife on display and can have guided experiences led by local Maasai guides.

From Wildlife to Winelands with Ulusaba

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The Safari: 7 days from the Sabi Sand reserve to Mont Rochelle’s Vineyard (price on request)

Combining wine and wildlife, this safari takes travellers from Sir Richard Branson's private safari game reserve to the heart of the South Afria's winelands at Mont Rochelle. Located in the Sabi Sand reserve, the Ulusaba Hills offer a top vantage point that displays the surrounding terrain like no other, allowing for some incredible sightings. What’s more, the game drives come with experienced rangers and trackers to make the most out of your safari. After your adventure, you can unwind with a glass of new world wine in the Mediterranean-like climes of Mont Rochelle, where you can sit back and reminisce about your safari while sipping on their best vintages.

Track Lions on Foot with Warriors on Airbnb Adventures

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The Safari: 3 days through Nairobi (HK$4,023 per person)

Curated by Airbnb Experiences, which allows daring explorers to venture off the tourist trail, this safari is made for the real adventurers. Here, you can observe lions in their natural habitat while also helping conservation professionals conduct field work. Highlights include learning about African wildlife and local Samburu culture around an evening campfire, going on a ramble to encounter lions and other animals with a guide who personally knows the prides, and assisting the Lion Warrior Project, which employs Samburu warriors to help conserve, educate and ensure a future for Kenya's lion population.

The post Meet the Real Lion King on These Thrilling Safari Adventures 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.

Art and design lovers, be aware! These are the best travel destinations for the month of August.

In case you still haven’t planned your summer travel, here are a few ideas for the month of August. These design travel destinations are a great idea for all those who love to combine their love for travel with their love for design.

Continue reading Best Travel Destinations for Design Lovers at Luxxu Blog.