TRAVEL TREND: A HEALING JOURNEY TO THE EAST
TOP GEAR_Vietnam Special
TOP 7 ON-VACATION CHRISTMAS MENUS 201
Tet Holiday experience in Vietnam from foreigner living in Vietnam “Art de NoEl” by Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort Loy Krathong Festival 14-16th, November 2016
GREETINGS
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From the desk of Andy Carroll Global Head of Marketing & Sales – Exotic Voyages It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you back to the 12th edition of our luxury magazine Travel in Style. As autumn set in, we are enjoying some of the most magical time in Hanoi and merrily awaiting the holiday season of the year. In this issue, we will take you on a journey of different emotional states, much like the autumn itself, which hopefully will somehow quench your wanderlust. Whether you are looking forward to the delicious festive cooking or finding a different holiday vibe in the mysterious Asia, we have something in store for you! In travel in style section, we explore some of the latest travel trends around the world. If you are seeking inner peace and tranquil experience then a healing journey through Asia is most fitting. Meanwhile, golf lovers will be delighted to know that Vietnam is shaping up to be new dream golf destinations, as more academics ad courses are opening soon. We also take you back in time to 2008 and join the BBC’s Top Gear trio as they discover the beauty of Vietnam and its people. Popularized by this show, Hai Van pass now attracts droves of travelers (armed with selfie sticks) to soak in the breathtaking view of the mountain and coast. In food experiences, food lovers will have the chance to learn about the top 7on-vacation Christmas menus in Asia. Also for those with a more delicate taste, you can learn about the art of drinking flowering tea. As the holidays upon us, find out more about how Asian celebrate theirs. In Asia insight, we will take you to the mesmerizing lantern festival of Thailand, Loy Krathong. And while we are it, why not relive the incredible Vietnam Tet holiday experience through the lens of a foreigner. If you are traveling to Asia this Christmas, then you are in luck as we have the list of the perfect hotels for you. With that, we conclude the 12th issue of our luxurious magazine and are off to see the gorgeous Hanoi autumn. Our sincere thanks to all of your support and we look forward to seeing you in one (or more) of our destinations. Andy and the Exotic Voyages team
TABLE OF CONTENTS Travel in Style
5 7 10 14 18 20 24
Food Experiences
27 28 32
Asia Insight
35 36 40 44 46
Trendy Travel: A Healing Journey To The East La Residence Hue - An enchanting stay by the bank of iconic Huong River Article for Golf tour How Mobile Technology has Revolutionized Business Travel THE HAVEN Bali Seminyak, Bali Ulitmate Escapes revealed TOP GEAR_Vietnam Special
TOP 7 ON-VACATION CHRISTMAS MENUS 2016 Flowering tea-the art of drinking tea
Tet Holiday experience in VN from foreigner living in VN “Art de Noël” by Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort Festival of Lights Our favorite hotels for Christmas holiday in Asia
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CONTENT
TRAVEL I N S T Y L E It’s all about NEW! New hotels. Hot destinations. Trendy activities and experiences. Be inspired by our latest travel ideas and inspirations
Trendy Travel:
A Healing Journey To The East
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sia is a continent where religion is an ever-present vital part of everyday life. A journey of healing, both body and mind, to the East seems like a very fitting story. After all, yoga and meditation, among many other spiritual practices, were invented in Asia. The fact is that more and more travelers are seeking for tranquil experiences in Asia away from the hustle bustle of their daily lives.This trend is even more apparent as travel industry has been developing rapidly in this region. More than ever, travelers have better choices of accommodations, food and transportation; and most importantly
more choices of spiritual activities open up to them. If such a journey excites your inner self, then you will love what’s in store for you. Here are some of the best experiences, both in general and spiritually, that you can find in your journey East. Get A Magic Tattoo in Thailand Perhaps this opening might be too strong for some people, but if you are up for getting a new tattoo, this is a whole next level. Ajarn Noo Kanpai, a Sak Yant (Thai Magic tattoo) master, was famously known for inking Angelina Jolie. To date, she has visited three times GREETINGS
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and received several of Thai Yantra Tatoos. This is delicate art as the master applies the tattoo directly to the skin without the use of any pattern. Hence, you will never find two tattoos exactly the same. After each tattoo is done, the master will follow with incantations and prayers for blessings. Sak Yant tattoo is believed to be magical, bringing its bearers protection and good fortune. Alms giving in Luang Prabang, Laos The Buddhist Alms Giving ceremony is one of the most scared Lao traditions. As the sun rises in Luang Prabang, around 200 monks depart from various temples to gather for their daily meal. The locals wake early to prepare the food and wait quietly at the roadside to give their gift. This tradition dates back to the 14th century. This peaceful and spiritual ceremony gives you an opportunity to experience the local life in Laos. While you are encouraged to be involved in the ceremony, remember there are some unspoken rules; most importantly shoulders, chests and legs must be covered in modest clothing as a mark of respect. 8
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Meditation and Kungfu Practice in Mount Wudang, China No other place better to learn the way of the first and tai chi than the Mecca of Taoism, Mount Wudang of Hubei province. For Kungfu enthusiasts seeking alternative to the Shaolin Temple, then Wudang is perfect. There are plenty to take in rather than Kungfu itself though. The daily rountine includes Taoist scripture chanting at dawn, training sessions of Wudang Tai chi and meditation in the morning and afternoon and early evening Taoist lecture. You also get to enjoy the serene natural beauty around this mountain and refreshing vegetarian foods. Visit the temple of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh in Hue, Vietnam Tu Hieu Pagoda’s tranquil setting and picturesque location amidst pine forest makes it a worthwhile stop in Hue. This is where one of the international Buddhism’s leading figures – Thich Nhat Hanh – ordained. He entered Tu Hieu in the 1940s at the age of 16 and by 1960s he was one of the most active Buddhist voice in the world stage. At around 10AM and 4PM, the monks here can be heard singing hymns and praying in front of Buddha, which can only be described as heavenly. Originally built in the 19th century, the pagoda received royal patronage shortly after and it was subsequently extended. Apart from the main building, the pagoda contains a half moon lake, a courtyard and graves for the king’s eunuchs. --------------For those who are looking for the chance to soak up Asian cultural elite, the lesson of self-healing and nurture doesn’t lie in what they do, but also where they do, and stay. Built from the ground, to become an outstanding name in hospitality industry of Southeast Asia, Secret Retreats is the team-up of passionate individuals, working hard together and offering the authentic experiences of luxury stay in Asia. From the up-high mountainous region of Chiang Mai, to the beautiful shoreline of holy island Bali, Secret Retreat has featured a range of beautiful boutique hotels and resorts, opened front of Asia culture lovers various choices of properties that perfectly fit the theme of spiritual travel. Every beautifully-designed hotels and villas from Secret Retreat’s properties brings the authentic feels of Asia, blended in every single ornaments and decoration at place. Far more than that, be a guest of these hotels, you are given yourself free to a space called ‘well and delight Asia’, where bunches of healthy and interesting practices all await. Wake up early and join a traditional yoga class, with the wonderful beach-front view, go for one hour or two learning to cook Asian local dishes, or even just take a leisure walk through the coastal strings with your loved one, enjoy that romantic sunrise. All that sounds enough for a leisure trip full of senses and emotions? Still, the story continues… Obviously, Secret Retreat is a trusted name when we look for a lesscrowded and genuine place to stay in Southeast Asia. Some of the most popular properties from them include Marauk U Princess Resort, Myanmar; Golden Buddha Resort , Reverie Siam and Rachamankha, Thailand; The Samar Villas & Resort in Cambodia, etc. ------When it’s all said and done, wherever you go or stay in Asia, there are many things to discover. Whether it’s the serene beauty of nature, sacred traditions, hidden cities, religious practices, mountainous hill tribes, or unspoiled beaches; you will likely to have a tranquil, peaceful and memorable journey like nothing you’ve experienced before.
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La Residence Hue - An enchanting stay by the bank of iconic Huong River
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et in a 2ha site on the banks of the mesmerizing Perfume River, with 200-metre-long views along the river, La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa, MGallery by Sofitel has the perfect location right in the heart of the city. The grounds have outstanding views overlooking both the Ancient Citadel and the Forbidden City, providing the perfect location to explore the nearby treasures. The building itself has a history almost to match the enchanting city in which it sits. The hotel has been constructed around the renovated 1930s Art Deco building, which was the official residence of the French governors in central Vietnam until 1954, a bustling Command Centre for the Americans in the 1960s and a hospital that nursed North Vietnamese soldiers during the Tet Offensive. All the restored rooms have a different set up and decoration which reflects the French architects working there between 1910-1954.
After 1975 the building was used as the office of the house of representatives of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam when the original structure was enlarged. And this most recent project has involved the renovation of the building, in keeping with the original Art Deco design, creating one unique hotel complex that combines Vietnam’s past, present and future. La Residence is thus an architectural mix of the old and the new; sensitively designed annexes extend the original mansion to 122 rooms and Suites with the grounds and atmosphere impossible to find elsewhere in Vietnam. At the heart of the hotel is an Art Deco masterpiece that weaves the hotel’s past into your present. It evokes a certain dreamy nostalgia. The hotel’s principal designer, Brigitte Dumont de Chassart, is a Parisian who built on the Art Deco bones of this building with Art Deco decor that take people on a journey back in time. TRAVEL IN STYLE
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La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa, among many boutique hotels in the collection of MGallery by Sofitel, is a dedication to lovers of life, literature and culture. Each MGallery hotel stands as a gateway into another world – be it a bygone era, a hidden haven or a spectacular natural landscape. Being a part of it, La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa is comprised not only the fascinated history and having hosted historic figures or iconic poets and authors, but also is stunningly renovated and re-designed, utterly unique in the city it inhabits. Walking among the hotel’s bowed façade, long horizontal lines and nautical porthole windows, you’ll hear whispered through the halls, echoed in the artful design and layered into the details of signature dishes and cocktails. High ceilings, hardwood terrazzo floors, and striking balconies are complemented by opulent, old world touches like louvered shutters, Art Deco light fixtures and furnishings, and reproductions of paintings by colonial era French and Vietnamese artists – when sipping ricard in the Le Governeur lobby bar, keep an eye up for the curving mural depicting rural scenes from colonial-era life by French artist Roland Renaud.
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La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa is where you uncover the past and savor the present; become a part of the story and get ready to tell your own tale. The hotel is the owner of many prestigious awards worldwide: - Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Award Best Hotels in Southeast Asia 2014 & 2015, Top 15 Hotels & Resorts in Southeast Asia 2015 - T+L 500 World Best Hotels 2014 & 2015 by Travel + Leisure Magazine - World Luxury Hotel Awards winner 2013 & 2016 For the special celebration of festive seasons in Vietnam, La Residence welcomes guests to the Gala Dinner on 24th December. Have your relaxing time staying in the hotel and take part in several beautiful shows and activities such as tradition Vietnamese lion & dragon dance, Christmas lightning event, classical pianist performances by the renowned Hue artist, and so forth.
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vietnamnew dream golf destination
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G
OLF IN VIETNAM, It’s a relatively new sport although there have been one or two courses for quite a long time but this has developed substantially for the last of 10 or 15 years with new stars appearing with resort style course particularly in Danang - a popular destination, spreading out to most of corners of Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City is also basked with new golf courses, Hanoi too not to be outdone has several stand out new golf course, so Vietnam so far has just under 40 courses at the moment, which is not a lot for a country of 95 million people but considering when it was 10 years ago, it’s not bad. And it is targeted for 109 golf courses within next year 2017, so Vietnam is promised to become a true golf destination. Travel – Golf Industry Golf is generally a high-expense type of tourism; the tourists are quite expectant, so when they’ve come, all the parts of hospitality are involved, and because golfers are generally traveling a lot and
spending well, Luxury Travel Company are bringing in very good high demand customers, which benefits everybody! With the right development of tourism and the right attitude and mechanism in place, we’re starting to see a bigger flow of golf tourists. Because it’s a new destination. Everybody’s done Bali, Phuket so Vietnam is the one golfers are looking at now and why not, it really has it all! I don’t think you necessarily need more golf courses to become a top class golf destination, what is needed is the concentrating of being a good quality golf destination when you start to have too many golf courses, it can dilute the quality to golfers. It’s more on the quality and everything in Vietnam supports golf, because it’s not just golfers coming here, they also want to explore the countries unique history, scenery and of course try the bars & restaurants across Vietnam. Vietnam has a plethora of golf course that you would look to enjoy. Some below are the ones we think you should test your skills at when you travel to Vietnam.
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1. The Bluffs Ho Tram Golf Strip The Bluffs Ho Tram Golf Strip is located 80 miles southeast of Ho Chi Minh city in Ba Ria – Vung Tau on the southern Vietnamese coastline, The Bluffs is a new course designed by Greg Norman, lies on a coastal plateau and hotels are routed around towering seaside sand dunes, with fairways constructed on sandy loam soil affording good drainage and excellent turf conditions. The Bluffs Ho Tram Golf was evaluated one of the most unique golfs experience in the world. On its inaugural “open” none other than Sergio Garcia walked away with the title and a big smile! 2. Da Lat Palace Golf Club Da Lat Palace Golf club is situated in the elevated hill station of Dalat, was established in 1922, the year in which the elegant Langbian Palace Hotel was completed by the French administration. Here is a pleasant place with the average annual temperature is 18 degree Celsius. The climate is a boon to golfing visitors from around the world. It’s the top - rated course in Vietnam due to the excellent layout, many elevation changes, and for the bent grass greens. In fact, it’s the only course in South East Assia with bent grass tees, fairways and greens. 3. Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club Located 45 kilometers from central Hanoi, Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club is made up of two contrasting 18-hole courses – the Sky Course and the Lake Course. Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club was awarded in 2015 as both the best championship course in Vietnam and the 5th best course in Vietnam. This was the only Hanoi golf club to receive such notoriety. Both courses were designed by Korean architect, Mr. Ahn Moon Hwan of Bori Golf Design. The public assessable Sky Course is surrounded mainly by natural Vietnamese jungle and is suitable for golfers of all abilities. Fairways and green complexes are more generous and errant shots are not punished so severely. Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club is managed by IMG which helps keep course conditions, facilities, and operations well-running throughout the year. After a round, golfers can enjoy a cast array of food at the clubhouse restaurant which looks out over the golf course.
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4. Da Nang Golf club Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Danang Golf Club was designed in the true spirit of the game - blown-out bunkers, firm and fast fairways. It is being recognized as one of the 15 best golf courses in the world by USA golf magazine. It lies in close proximity to two of Vietnam’s most historic destinations - UNESCO World Heritage sites Hoi An and Hue - and offers breathtaking views of the Marble Mountain, East Sea and Cham Islands. The Danang Golf Course is a unique golf challenge that every golfer will enjoy. 5. King’s Island Golf Resort It is located in Dong Mo, Son Tay, not far from Hanoi central, about 45 km outside of Hanoi. It’s a King Island golf club with Scenic Mountain and lakeside view. This golf course have the mountain course and the lake course, the golfer must be amazed because views are spectacular, with the majestic Ba Vi mountain range providing a stunning backdrop to the man - made lake, while the Red River Valley stretches into the distance. 6. Vinpearl Nha Trang Golf resort This is Vietnam’s first 18-hole international standard golf course on an island, is a championship masterpiece carved into the natural beauty of Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang – voted one of the 30 most beautiful bays on earth by Forbes magazine. The golf course is situated in its own picturesque valley with views of only the natural surrounding beauty, lush green grass, and above all, the gorgeous blue ocean of Nha Trang Bay. The varying challenges have been specially created to test both professionals as well as amateurs. TRAVEL IN STYLE
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How Mobile Technology has Revo Business Travel
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olutionized
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ith modern technology, business travel has become even more convenient for everyone. However, it has also become the justification for some companies to cut-back on costs spent on business trips for their employees since most business transactions nowadays can all be done online. Looking at the brighter side, with the advancement of mobile technology, being out on long business trips abroad is no longer a hindrance to the smooth operations of any business. All our office emails, business reports and client presentations can now be done via our high-tech mobile gadgets that all have high speed internet and data connectivity. Video conferencing anytime is no longer an issue since we all have Skype on Mobile or Facebook Video. Viber calls and phone messenger applications like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp or Line are readily available for instant communication requirements regardless of geographical location. Business travel has changed so much throughout the decades, made even more possible with the entry of budget carriers worldwide. Same day return flights often required by business travelers have been accommodated by carriers with the opening of early morning/dawn flights and “red eye” (midnight) flights so that the work day can be maximized efficiently. Even baggage requirements of frequent business travelers have also been taken into account by airlines who now offer fares with hand carry luggage only at discounted rates. Airline frequent flyer programs have improved member benefits including dining offers, car rentals and other travel-related benefits. Online flight and hotel booking mobile phone applications are available for
immediate business trip requirements – every change in the trip itinerary can be done with a single click of a button on one’s mobile device. Hotels have also created a new category – business hotels or boutique hotels – have proliferated globally to address this need for basic hotel commodities by business travelers; and loyalty programs have been developed for corporate clients to attend to their regular travel needs who also extend special discounts. Another interesting development is the proliferation of premium business centers, not just at the airports, but also in the CBD areas where one can catch up on work while relaxing at prestigious business lounges or private office suites with high-speed Internet, free-flowing coffee and tea, as well as document printing/scanning facilities. Meeting rooms for small or big groups are also available for hourly or daily use. In Asia, one of the finest providers of this unique service is CEO SUITE that has 19 premium business centres in the CBD areas of Singapore, Jakarta, Makati, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Hanoi, Seoul, Shanghai and Beijing. Indeed, everything you need is just there, making it a seamless journey for businessmen who need to travel the globe regularly. As a jetsetter, you know what you need whenever you travel and as long as you have your mobile phone working, plus, all the apps you require to book a flight, a hotel, a car rental, etc., you are all set for the whole calendar year. Just make sure, you also get to insert some leisure time along the way to make the journey less exhausting and more meaningful. By: Chary Francisco CEO SUITE Regional Marketing Director
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THE HAVEN Bali Seminyak, Bali Ulitmate Escapes revealed
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he beautiful collection of 17,500 colorful islands in the Indonesian archipelago creates a world of real wanderlust in Southern Asia. Bali, a small yet enchanted island among them, stands out in its extraordinary nature and lushness. This so called ‘Island of the God’ is known for the diverse landscapes of coral reef, ancient temples, wild jungles and even active volcanoes. For the first timers of this holy island, we would like to recommend a trusted luxurious property to stay, the Haven Bali Resort. On the side of the stunning coastlines of Seminyak area lie a structure of traditional contemporary style, real close to some of the most famed beaches of the island, and offers the unbeatable Bali sunset view as well as the chance to soak up the idyllic tradition of local lifeline. In its three-in-one concept of hotel, suite, and villa, The Haven Bali consists of over 150 units of accommodation, all looking toward the shimmering water of the Indian Ocean, and opens the door of tropical breath-in every day you stay at place. Equipped with state-of-the-art indoor facilities, Haven Rooms are the preferable choice of couples who wish for a private and convenient getaway, while Haven Suites and Villas, guarantees to bring the new meaning of paradise holiday to family guests. TRAVEL IN STYLE
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All 93 Haven hotel rooms plus 3 Junior Suites are crafted for both holiday and business travelers, ready to spoil every guest with spacious living room, pantry, private balcony desk and luxurious bathroom. The Haven also provides additional room amenities upon request to enhance your in-room experiences at The Haven Bali Seminyak. The Haven Suites come in 89 units, which are a collection of self indulgence with greenery view and tantalizing natural scent of Bali. Take your time to relax in a space of absolute privacy, with the 2 trendy swimming pools and 1 additional children pool. Haven Suites has the convenient access to Haven hotel, and shopping paradise of the area. But still you want something more than that, like making a great escape from the ordinary life. In this case, we highly recommend the villa options of The Haven, and of course, the paradise comes at a price. However, now you will be served at hands by careful and friendly private butler right at place. Just relax and enjoy the feeling of being immersed in the tropical lagoon that Bali’s nature has brought to you and your beloved ones. Haven Bali Resort represents itself as a pioneer of luxury Asia lifestyle, vibrant yet serene at heart. Leaving your lovely rooms and pool view, by a short walk through the ever-famous Seminyak beaches, you are now welcomed to Bali’s hippest nightlife. Chic shopping strips, urban dining and party venues, along with the antique sites of local and pagodas create a distinctive mixture of the old and the new Bali spirits.
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TOP G Y
Vietnam
es, yes, it’s very sad that the original Top Gear has reached its untimely and unfortunate end…However, in 2008 the 3 lads explored Vietnam and I dare say it made for one of the best episodes of Top Gear ever! Each were given 15 million dong (roughly $1000) to spend on their travel companion to get them to Northern Vietnam. What a journey it was! 8 days, 1000 miles, Ho Chi Minh City to Halong City…Tense.
The first task was to reach Dalat from Saigon. So, what did the gang get up to in Dalat? Well, when you’re in Dalat you must drink Vietnamese beer, eat snake meat and take vodka shots….containing snake blood. Richard Hammond refused, but James May and Jeremy Clarkson seemed to enjoy themselves! After Dalat, they set off the beach town of Nha Trang. This is such a beautiful place with some of the best beaches in the world. It’s a perfect place to relax. They rode their bikes on the beach and even met a deaf veteran who drew out his experiences fighting in the war, on that very beach! In Vietnam you’ll meet so many lovely people with amazing life stories, and they’re glad to share! Onto the Imperial City of Hue next, this ancient city carries such a heavy history of the war that’s so interesting to learn! To get to Hue however they had to travel through Hai Van Mountain Pass which they dubbed as one of the most perfect roads to drive in the world, as it’s so long and deserted. Why not rent a bike in Vietnam and see for yourself? Explore the gorgeous scenery like the cast of Top Gear! In Hue they visited the Hue Citadel and Imperial City. This is was the site of the infamous Battle of Hue during the Tet Offensive whereby the Viet Cong launched a series of attacks in various locations against the American soldiers. It was in Hue they decided they wouldn’t make it Halong in time….DUN DUN DUN!
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GEAR
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So they cheated. As all good sportsmen do! They decided to get a 13 hour train to Halong! These train experiences are quite unique, and should you have the opportunity, you should definitely experience one! Sleeping in little cabins with beds, it’s quite extraordinary! I’m pretty sure Hammond would have been quite comfortable in the beds; however, Clarkson probably had great difficulty, being a human measuring tape! Once they disembarked from the train, they then realized they had boarded the wrong one…They were now in the bustling capital of Hanoi. They didn’t spend a long time in Hanoi as they had to spend the day riding towards Halong. But, Hanoi is a place that shouldn’t be over looked! Here is where you’ll find in well known old quarter, 36 streets of cafes, shops and street restaurants. You’ll also be able to take a leisurely walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and go to rooftop bars and see many historical sites! Finally, at the break of dusk they had arrived. What a view they must have arrived to too. Halong Bay is one of the most beautiful sights anyone could see. Over 3,000 Limestone Mountains surrounded by a bed of clear water…It’s simply amazing. Even with the snags the gang may have hit throughout their incredible journey, Clarkson summed up their experience in Vietnam with “It’s hard to sum it up really. Perhaps that’s why people when they get back from this place always say the same thing, Vietnam: You don’t know, man! You weren’t there!” – Vietnam is an experience so great, you should experience it yourself. RECREATING TOP GEAR’S GLORY DAYS - 16 DAYS 15 NIGHTS Saigon - Da Lat - Nha Trang & Ninh Van Bay - Hoi An - Hue - Hanoi - Ha Long Bay Follows the footsteps of BBC Top Gear’s Trio on their motorcycle tour, going through beautiful coastlines from the south to the north of Vietnam,learn something from historical sites and monuments of Vietnam. Email us to: inquiries@exoticvoyages.com for tour details
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FOOD E X P E R I E NC E S Taste the world in your way Dining experiences by gourmet travelers. Sharing addresses for good food and authentic gastronomy.
TOP 7 ON-VACATION CHRISTMAS MENUS 2016:
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Want to check them out? INGLE BELL, KITCHEN SMELLS AND FEASTING ALL THE WAY: THE SEASON OF GIVING AND EATING IS RIGHT UPON US AND WITHOUT ANY DOUBT, OUR MOUTHS ARE WATERING WHILE CHECKING THIS AWESOME LIST.
1. Best hotel feast Celebrate this special time of the year on the banks of the Chao Phraya River – The River of Kings at the Peninsula Bangkok For festive fun and elegant dining both combined, head to the Peninsula Lawn & River Café Terrace on Christmas Eve in the very civilized surrounds of the Peninsula Bangkok. Loaded with over-the-top cakes, fruity and chocolate fountains, seafood platters, this restaurant is the place to indulge the Christmas fantasies of everyone. The offerings of Christmas gala dinner held annually at the Peninsula are just enough for your big festive appetite. This extravagant multiplecourse dinner is expected to be accompanied by 12-piece orchestra and contemporary Thai performances. Does it sound overloaded yet? with foodies and merriments…
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2. Best family-style dinner
Celebrate this special time of the year on the banks of the Chao Phraya River – The River of Kings at the Peninsula Bangkok For festive fun and elegant dining both combined, head to the Peninsula Lawn & River CafÊ Terrace on Christmas Eve in the very civilized surrounds of the Peninsula Bangkok. Loaded with over-the-top cakes, fruity and chocolate fountains, seafood platters, this restaurant is the place to indulge the Christmas fantasies of everyone. The offerings of Christmas gala dinner held annually at the Peninsula are just enough for your big festive appetite. This extravagant multiple-course dinner is expected to be accompanied by 12-piece orchestra and contemporary Thai performances. Does it sound overloaded yet? with foodies and merriments‌
3. Best dinner for two
Love is in the air, with the Christmas glittering and singing, something romantic blends in your holiday in a very natural way. Find a corner at Cocotte, savor the lovely delicacies of experienced chef from food-obsessed Hong Kong, then give your honey a wine-tainted kiss before the midnight bell rings. The classic seven-course dinner at Cocotte allures guests with duck breast with black currant sauce, poached lobster, along with many more delightful meals to be served. FOOD EXPERIENCES
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4. Best festive treat At Sailing club bar and restaurant, Nha Trang Three-course set menu from the Sandals Kitchen starts with salmon gravlas in lemon vinaigrette, crostini and caper, continues by crispy lamb chops and fresh rosemary served with roast potatoes, finally ends with rum raisin ice-cream. Ticket fee is included to join Christmas beach party featuring international DJ’s, live music, fire and dance shows celebrating till the dawn.
5. Best Christmas dinner with a view Enjoy EON 51’s fine dining at the highest spot of Ho Chi Minh City Located up on the 51th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower, the tallest building of the city, the sky-high luxury restaurant Eon 51 features the international and Vietnamese cuisine in the atmosphere of year-end infinite celebration. Enjoy the sumptuous delights of traditional Christmas feast of grilled beef dressed in cherry blossoms, broiling spiced turkey, and Christmas pudding for the sweet ends while take the chance to savor the broad selection of wines from reputable wine-producing regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire Valley, Rhone Valley and so forth.
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6. Local-inspired Christmas dinner- Cambodian gourmet Malis, a high-end Cambodian restaurant whose mission is to boost the local cuisine, now ranks No 1 in 10 best private dining restaurants in Cambodia from Trip Advisor’s travelers’ updates. For this Christmas Eve, the restaurant brings to us its most featuring menu set of 4 courses. Wild mushroom soup is followed by festive roast turkey salad with lotus root and snow flower as two warm-up steps. Then succulent roast turkey with a delicious Kroeung, asparagus stuffing and crunchy Ambok rice crust, served with its juice for extra flavor, ends with Nom Kor with chestnuts and tea or coffee. The ingredients and herbs are not of common popularity between us, promising an authentic Cambodian dining experience that we’ve never had before.
7. Best traditional Christmas feast
The ‘La veille de Noël’, a four course degustation dinner of a traditional Provençal dessert buffet has been created by Three Michelin-starred chef, Jean-Michel Lorain to become the most appealing Christmas dinner that actually brings the authentic Christmas treat in Bangkok. The menu includes Chablis wine-marinated salmon with razor clams, caper berries, plus sea urchin cream, savoy cabbage and winter turkey roulade served with glazed chestnuts and sweet potato. The dessert is a yellow mustard grain light jus. Also one glass of sparkling wine is included in this fabulous meal at J’aime, U-Sathorn, Bangkok.
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A
utumn, the season of blissful harvest in Asia has come right at the windows. The clouds seem to and flow further, yet, the sun feels like shining stronger, giving all it has to lighten up the atmos
For flower lovers around the world, autumn seems to be a great inspiration to visit many Asian cou Japan, Thailand, China, known for their spectacular flower viewing in the autumn.
However, what’s more fun with flowers? Our culinary tour in this issue is about to take you to experience a very interesting and healthy drin from Asia, the blooming tea, or flowering tea.
Why is it called blooming tea? You’ve probably heard and tried the flower tea, whose materials instead of dried tea leaves, are petal you know, flowering tea is of something even more special, and more beautiful. Flowering tea is made of one or more dried flowers wrapped together to shape into a small bulb and drying. The secret is revealed only when we pour the water into a cup with a flower bulb inside. Wait to bulb grows as surprisingly it will gently expand and unfurl into something like a blooming flower. Now pod of sea creatures, ready to enjoy!
Originally originated from China, also the hometown of green tea, now blooming tea is known and a larger and larger part of the world for its unique features and health benefits.
Here we share the artistic collection of flowering tea from some of the best blogs about this tea arou
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Afternoon tea in one of the most elegant dining rooms of the city.- Boston Globe
Blooming tea, a great drink to boost the immune system and reduce blood sugar levels.- Serving Joy Blog
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Flowering tea is the art of drinking tea.- Beautiful Now Blog
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ASIA INSIGHT Dive deep to listen to the sounds, catch the sights and feel the soul of Asia. A close-up look into Asia’s local life, sharp insight of customs, religion, culture and the rhythm of life and spirit
A Tradition Tet Experie
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nal ence T
et is a very special time in Vietnam. It is the celebration of the Lunar New Year, in the Western World it’s better known as Chinese New Year, which is celebrated at the same time. However, this festival is called Tet in Vietnam and it’s the most important time of the year. As I live in Vietnam for 2 years already and have a Vietnamese girlfriend I had the great experience of celebrating the Tet festival in a traditional Vietnamese family, in my opinion certainly the best way! But what is happening at Tet? This is no time like any other of the year. You can even compare it in many ways to Christmas, it’s the most important time for families to get together. This leads to many things: - First of all, traffic before Tet gets crazy, as everybody needs to go out and buy many things for the holidays. You will be surprised, as you see a lot of people driving around with kumquat trees or branches with peach blossoms on the back of their motorbikes. These can be compared to the western Christmas trees. - Second, you have to count on shortage of a lot of products in supermarkets before the festive week. Basically everything is closed for one week; therefore people buy everything on stock to be prepared for the week. - And 3rd of all, everybody returns to his/her hometown to celebrate with the parents and the rest of the family. As of this, the big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are nearly empty, as most people moved to these cities in the past decades, while the families still live in the countryside. If you visit one of the big cities during Tet be prepared: You will hardly see any people and only very few shops are open, it feels like a ghost town. Tet in Vietnam is a very interesting experience.
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These three things describe how you experience Tet if you come here as a visitor. However, if you have insight into a family, Tet is a very different experience. While as an outsider you hardly see anyone and you have to search to find food, in a family the opposite is the case. You will meet a lot of people and it’s hard to eat all the food you get served! New Years Eve we spend with the closest relatives, the parents, grandfather, uncle, aunt and cousin of my girlfriend. There is a lot of food involved. You have lunch, dinner and a midnight meal. The food is very heavy. A traditional dish fir Tet is Banh Chung, also sometimes called Banh Tet. This is a heavy rice cake with green beans and pork. But no matter how often you say you are full, you will still get more! Dress code: Don’t wear black or white, best during the whole first week of Lunar New Year! Black means bad luck, while white is a symbol for death. Best are bright colors, preferably red or yellow. The younger generation doesn’t really care about this anymore, many older people take this serious, and so do I! It’s always good to show respect to the culture and traditions, and this is a very nice one I think. Similar to the western New Year there is a big firework at midnight, so everybody goes outside to watch it. On the way back home we stopped at a temple to pray for the relatives, as you can see this is also similar to Christmas. When you return to the house another important time has come! The first person that enters the house after midnight is the one who is responsible for everything that happens in the next year, no matter if good or bad. You better think twice if you want to do this and you shouldn’t enter as the first person anyway unless you are invited to do so by the house owner. Usually it is decided well in advance who is the one to enter the house first. Last year I was invited to do so, a great honor that showed me that I’m very welcome in the family. Then it’s time for eating again. Also the presents are exchanged, however these are not really presents but “lucky money”. For this, you best use new notes fresh from the bank, you put them in a red envelop. The amount
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depends on the relation and the status of the person. I always ask my girlfriend how much to put in it, as I don’t want to upset anyone by accident. The next few days are very similar, you visit a lot of family or what is called family. Close friends Vietnamese usually call cousin, aunt, uncle or even brother and sister as well, so I was sometimes unsure who really is a relative and who isn’t. And everywhere you sit together, drink to the New Year and have a lot of food! A traditional Tet indeed is a very interesting experience and I’m already looking forward to this year’s festival. New Years Eve is on Sunday 7th of February, on Monday the Lunar year of the Monkey starts! So make sure you don’t wear black or white and take care who enters your house first! You can blame him/her for everything afterwards!
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“Art de Noël”
by Sofitel Angkor Phokee
E
ach year, Sofitel Hotels and Resorts around the world are transformed for the festive season in a unified theme “Art de Noël”. Local flavors are fused with rich French traditions for a truly magnifique celebration of Christmas and the New Year. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort is once again delighted to announce a very exciting array of events this year in the vibrant city of Siem Reap, Cambodia. Festivities will begin on the 18th of December with the annual Ginger Bread House decorating activity taking place. Children are invited to prepare and design their very own ginger bread house for only US$18 nett per person with the assistance of our welcoming ambassadors. With the lead up to Christmas, the resort will be transformed into a Noël wonderland with festive decorations and visits from Santa Claus. Our renowned French Restaurant Mouhot’s Dream will welcome guests on Christmas Eve for a six course degustation dinner with a glass of Champagne for only USD 80 per person plus taxes and service charge. This truly special event will include spectacular dishes such as seared sea scallops and sumptuous turkey breast, to name a few. A Grand Christmas Eve buffet will also be offered in our international restaurant, The Citadel, with an
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indulgent offering including Fines De Claire oysters from France and homemade smoked salmon, from USD 80 per person plus taxes and service charge. Live music will deck the halls and create a jolly atmosphere throughout the evening. On Christmas Day, we will celebrate with a Brunch de Noël at The Citadel. A rich offering will be provided with live cooking of seafood, noodles, premium cuts of meats and desserts. This lavish brunch with flowing Champagne certainly creates a festive
ethra Golf and Spa Resort
atmosphere. Packages excluding wines start at US$45 per person plus taxes and service charge. Throughout the resort’s magnificent six hectares of gardens and colonial buildings, it will surely be a merry holiday for all. Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort will welcome the New Year with a compelling evening of entertainment and dining. Our poolside will be transformed into a spectacular space for guests to enjoy a memorable New Year’s Eve Dinner. The buffet will include a generous offering sourced from around
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the world, starring Alaskan king crabs and Fine de Claire Oysters, along with premium cold cuts, live cooking stations and a sweet temptation buffet for only USD 180 nett including a welcome glass of Champagne. Performers from the internationally acclaimed Phare Circus will provide exciting entertainment throughout the evening as we count down the minutes to 2017. The Phare Circus is renowned for being Cambodia’s most highly rated entertainment group, and we are very excited to once again welcome these talented performers for an evening of theater, music and dance. Make this festive season an enchanting time for your family with sublime dining and vibrant entertainment at Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort. With World Heritage sites on our doorstep and truly memorable Art de Noel events throughout the festive season, our address is the perfect choice for a truly wonderful celebration with your loved ones.
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R
egarded as one of Asia’s most beautiful holidays, Loy Krathong attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year to visit Thailand. Here, they immerse themselves in the magical and enchanted ambiance. So, what is Loy Krathong? Loy Krathong is a traditional festival celebrated throughout Thailand; however, the best place to witness the festival is Chiang Mai, the only place where travelers can see the flying lanterns.
Its dates vary year by year, in 2016, it will fall on November 14th and last for 3 days. During these days, locals along with travelers will release thousands of beautiful lanterns onto rivers and the clear night sky. There are also many other activities to behold especially in Chiang Mai. Why do travelers love Loy Krathong so much? The marvelous scenes of lanterns floating on rivers or ascending onto the clear night sky An exciting carnival atmosphere with numerous
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activities going on such as traditional dance, lantern-making contest, even beauty contest Weatherwise, November is the perfect month to visit Thailand thanks to cool temperature and the night is very clear. Why NOW is the time to book? Loy Krathong is one of the biggest cultural festivals throughout the year in Asia. It is estimated that before June half of the hotel rooms in Chiang Mai for Loy Krathong are booked. Two months before the festival even begins, 81% of the rooms are booked. Thus, to ensure that you will get a good room with reasonable price for an event of this magnitude, early booking is the key. Exotic Voyages have come up with a fantastic package that: - Allows travelers enjoy the best of this awe-inspiring event - Loy Krathong Festival on 14-16th, November 2016 - Brings out nothing but the best of Thailand travel, both North and South, both culture and beaches Email us to: inquiries@exoticvoyages. com for the last minute bookings this year.
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OUR FAVORITE HOTELS FOR CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY IN ASIA 46
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C
hristmas might not be a typical holiday in most Asian countries, however many big international-influenced cities, like Bangkok and Saigon, have been so far succeeded in adopting festive tradition from the other side of the world. In the recent years, Christmas celebration is steadily gaining popularity in Asia. It’s becoming more common that on the streets you would see many restaurants and offices, decorated in Christmas theme during this time of year. When the night comes, the churches and cathedrals are the hippest spots in the areas. Visitors, pilgrims, and much larger parts of non-pilgrims all gather for the rituals, then look for somewhere to celebrate over the night. There are few places that celebrate a cozier, putup-your-feet Christmas than some most fascinating cities in Asia. Here we bring to you some great suggestions of stay for Christmas holiday in Asia. Wish you and your beloved ones have a merry Christmas! Park Hyatt Saigon After reopening in 2015, this top luxurious hotel of Saigon now has a new look, featuring the signature French-colonial feels and sophisticated sanctuaries. This year, the season of giving is all made merrier at this top luxurious hotel of Ho Chi Minh city. Bring festive flair, come and enjoy the magic of holiday while dining and indulging in a range of treats. The hotel is located in 2 Lam Son Square, District 1 which is at the same district with the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral of the city. The Peninsula Hong Kong Once voted as one of top 10 best cities in the world to spend Christmas by CNN Travel, Hong Kong has always been a favorite destination of travelers during year-end occasion. In the Peninsula Hong Kong, the spirits of luxury and graceful warmth fit the city’s Christian festive feels. Stay at the hotel not only allows guests to explore Hong Kong in its by-gone era inspiration of historical landmarks, but also re-live the glamour of travel, savor the best of the East and the West delicacies, and live in the world of Santa Clause from
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magnificent artifacts on display around the hotel. Mandarin Oriental Bangkok Mandarin Oriental is a very interesting name in the list of best hotels to stay during Christmas because of its riverside location, where you might think not having the easy access to Christmas favorite points of the city. However, you still can make your chance to change that way of thinking, through a ‘Christmas lights’ walking tour along the legendary Chao Phraya River. The hotel has been so successful in maintaining its unique charms, combining the calm of the river in between the fascinating noises of nearby points of massive interests. Hotel Metropole Hanoi Built in 1901 by 2 private French investors, Hotel Metropole Hanoi in its colonial style quickly became a rendez-vous point for colonial society in the first half of the century. Nowadays this hotel is maintained as the official hotel for press and visiting VIP’s. Staying guests of this hotel are able to visit many eventful grounds within walking distances such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the cathedral of Hanoi. Don’t forget to catch a show at the magnificent Opera House nearby during your stay this Christmas. Raffles Le Royal Phnom Penh In the heart of intoxicating city Phnom Penh, the hotel represents a true getaway for royalty of
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Cambodia. Graced through the years by former U.S First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and statesman Andre Malraux, Raffles Phnom Penh truly understands the term of ‘legendary service’. Itbrings the royal spirits from the other side of the world to Cambodia, and become the favorite stay of family guests in Cambodia. A Christmas family escape, enjoy the feeling of home away from home, with extravagant international delicacies served, does that sound interesting enough to go for? The Peninsula Bangkok The Peninsula Bangkok is the combination to perfection of old world charms and Thai culture. During Christmas Eve and festive year end season, this elegant hotel are decorated by itself, and the sparkling lights from the other side of the river, where city’s main attractions are located. Yet, no time for worries, the hotel has private shuttle boat to bring you there in such a short time. Get ready to experience Christmas in the way you’ve never done before at the Peninsula Bangkok, the peninsula of joy, giving and unification. The Reverie Saigon Provide one-of-a-kind modern lifestyle up to the world standard, the Reverie Saigon is rising as a star in the hospitality industry by its exceptional concepts in interior Italian architect and comforts. Noted as the highest hotel of the city, the Reverie offers the best sweeping view of Saigon, looking towards Saigon River as well as the busiest streets of the city. Top-shelf bar of the hotel will certainly become the vantage point on Christmas night celebration, featured by European inspired dining of Christmas Eve.
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A: Suite 226, ATS Hotel, 33B Pham Ngu Lao St., Hanoi, Vietnam T: (844) 39 33 62 60 F: (844) 39 33 62 61 E: inquiries@exoticvoyages.com 52
GREETINGS