LUXE TRAVEL
MAGAZINE
Culinary Love &
Tranquil Retreats VOL. 27
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CONTENTS
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AQUA SPA
LATITUDE 98 RESTAURANT
FEATURED INTERVIEW
LILAWADEE SPA BY L’OCCITANE
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MAKI-SAKI BOUTIQUE SPA
FEATURED INTERVIEW
SEASKY RESTAURANT
PEARL SPA
40 IN THE NEXT EDITION...
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AQUA SPA THAILAND
Stepping into the realm of Aqua Spa, the allure lies in a philosophy seamlessly intertwining the grace and rejuvenation inherent in water with the profound essence of ‘Jivana’ - a whispered promise of eternal vitality that gently guides individuals back to life’s inherent abundance. Within this opulent sanctuary, guests embark on a transformative journey steeped in mindfulness and renewal, where the timeless flow of water serves as a wellspring of inspiration. The mission at Aqua Spa is to facilitate a reconnection with Jivana, employing the subtle energies of water to forge a deep communion with the present moment and the fluid nature of life itself. With each bespoke aqua-inspired treatment, thoughts effortlessly drift to a place of serenity, leaving patrons refreshed and attuned to the calming cadence of nature.
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This serene haven, Aqua Wellness Spa, encapsulates the pure essence of water, presenting a selection of treatments that not only nourish but also invigorate the senses. It is within these luxurious confines that individuals rediscover the pulsating current of life, rekindle their inner wellspring of vitality, and awaken to the luminous clarity and boundless joy inherent in existence.
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Provided by Aqua Spa
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LATITUDE 98 RESTAURANT THAILAND 8 l FEBRUARY 2024 l Vol.27
Nestled within the luxurious confines of Latitude 98 Restaurant, the culinary experience unfolds as a symphony of indulgence, presenting a lavish gourmet buffet breakfast, alongside exquisite lunch and dinner offerings. This opulent dining destination seamlessly marries Thai-infused cuisine with a global palette, delivering a culinary journey that transcends borders.
Under the skillful hands of expert chefs, the menu at Latitude 98 is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a feast for the senses. The discerning patron is invited to explore the diverse beverage menu, meticulously curated to provide the perfect complement to each exceptional dish.
Operating hours at Latitude 98 extend from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM, offering a seamless transition from the sun-kissed mornings to the enchanting evenings. The breakfast service, a pinnacle of indulgence, unfolds between 6:30 AM and 10:30 AM, promising a culinary journey that transcends mere sustenance to become a celebration of exquisite flavors.
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Provided by Latitude 98 Restaurant
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A SYMPHONY
OF INDULGEN
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NCE
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PEARL SPA KHUN KUNG Spa Manager
In this captivating interview, we delve into the world of Khun Kung, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in the spa industry. As the mastermind behind the serene haven that is Pearl Spa at Avista Grande Phuket Karon-Mgallery, Khun Kung shares her profound passion for curating not just services but unforgettable experiences of joy and rejuvenation. Her commitment to blending traditional Thai elegance with modern luxury sets Pearl Spa apart, making it a celebration of Phuket’s rich cultural heritage. Join us as we explore the inspirations, innovations, and personal touches that make Pearl Spa a sanctuary for tranquility and indulgence. Can you tell us about your background and how you became involved in the spa industry? What inspired you to pursue a career in managing spas? With a career spanning over 15 years in the spa industry, Khun Kung finds her true calling in the smiles and contentment of her clients posttreatment. Her journey in this field is driven by a deep-rooted passion, a desire not merely to offer services but to curate experiences of joy and rejuvenation. At Pearl Spa, the flagship spa at Avista Grande Phuket Karon-Mgallery, Khun Kung has meticulously shaped a sanctuary—a tranquil oasis where her expertise and heartfelt engagement with every client intertwine, ensuring that the spa is more than just a destination; it’s a haven of peace and happiness for everyone who visits.
What are your favourite aspects of Pearl Spa? Khun Kung was born and raised in Phuket, and Pearl Spa is a testament to her roots, seamlessly blending the island’s iconic Sino-Portuguese architecture into its design. This choice reflects a deep-seated reverence for Phuket’s heritage, making the spa not just a place for relaxation but a celebration of Phuket’s cultural identity. Expanding on the vision for Pearl Spa, the brand recently launched Madame Perle’s Salon de Beaute at Avista Grande Phuket Karon Mgallery, a modern echo of Phuket’s first beauty salon in its golden age of tin barons and merchants from Europe and China. This new salon merges Thai elegance with European flair, offering high-class beauty services and a curated selection of cosmetics, providing an immersive cultural and beauty experience on the shores of Karon Beach.
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This cultural storytelling and reliving of Phuket’s heritage are Khun Kung’s favorite aspects of Pearl Spa. She has recently introduced exclusive packages that harmoniously blend the spa treatments of Pearl Spa with luxurious beauty services offered at Madame Perle’s Salon de Beaute, such as shampoo and blow-dry or nail painting, offering a comprehensive pampering experience. This innovative approach not only pays homage to the region’s heritage but also redefines the essence of luxury pampering, leaving guests with a deeply enriched and memorable experience that captures the heart and spirit of Phuket’s storied past. How would you describe the ambience and atmosphere at Pearl Spa? At Pearl Spa, the atmosphere is an artfully crafted haven of peace. The gentle glow of soft lighting, the subtle scents that fill the air, and the elegant pearl-shaped chandeliers come together to forge an environment of serenity and rejuvenation.
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Elements of Sino-Portuguese design, from antique cabinets to intricately designed window screens, infuse the space with timeless elegance. Here, every detail contributes to a harmonious experience of calm and renewal, making Pearl Spa more than just a spa; it’s a sanctuary where beauty and tranquility reign. What elements contribute to creating a tranquil haven for guests? Every detail is meticulously crafted for your relaxation. Soft lighting, plush furnishings, and soothing scents set the stage for a serene atmosphere. Natural elements seamlessly blend with quiet spaces, providing a retreat from the afternoon sun. Enjoy gentle background music as skilled therapists offer rejuvenating spa services. Whether it’s the calming design, personalized attention, or wellness programs, each element contributes to an oasis of peace. Escape the everyday and immerse yourself in a sanctuary designed for your tranquility.
How does Pearl Spa invest in the training and development of its staff to ensure they stay updated with the latest spa techniques and trends? Pearl Spa invests in the continuous training and development of its staff through regular workshops, in-house training, external certifications, attendance at industry events, collaboration with product brands, performance reviews, and a collaborative work environment to ensure they stay updated with the latest spa techniques and trends. What do you believe sets Pearl Spa apart from other spas in the area? Pearl Spa distinguishes itself from local competitors with its unique blend of offerings. Our signature treatments, notably the Pearl Infused-Essential Oil massages, offer an unparalleled, rejuvenating experience. Furthermore, our dedication to sustainability is evident in our choice of Phutawan, locally sourced sustainable products from northern
Thailand, highlighting our commitment to both guest wellness and environmental stewardship. This combination of innovative spa services and ecoconscious practices defines our exceptional and thoughtful approach to guest care. Can you share some of the most rewarding moments or achievements in your career as the manager of Pearl Spa? Managing Pearl Spa has been a journey filled with notable milestones, chief among them being our sustained top-ranking on TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best and our accolades from the World Luxury Spa Awards. These achievements reflect our unwavering dedication to service excellence, customer delight, and staying ahead in the wellness industry. The continuous stream of positive feedback and prestigious recognitions are pivotal to enhancing our spa’s esteemed standing and success.
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What is the vision for Pearl Spa in the future? Are there any expansions or new developments on the horizon? How do you envision Pearl Spa evolving in the coming years? Looking ahead, Pearl Spa envisions a future of growth and innovation. Inspired by Phuket Old Town’s inaugural beauty salon at the turn of the century, we’ve introduced Madame Pearl’s Salon de Beaute to Avista Grande Phuket Patong Mgallery, marking the first step in our expansion journey. Next, we’re set to captivate the hearts of Old Phuket Town with a Pearl Spa & Café on the famous Thalang Road. This strategic move aims to broaden our reach, immerse ourselves in the local culture, and welcome new patrons into our world of bespoke wellness experiences.
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As we conclude this insightful interview, it becomes evident that Khun Kung’s dedication to creating a haven of peace at Pearl Spa transcends mere management—it is a labor of love. From seamlessly incorporating Phuket’s heritage into the spa’s design to introducing innovative beauty services at Madame Perle’s Salon de Beaute, Khun Kung’s vision for Pearl Spa goes beyond expectations. Her commitment to continuous staff training, sustainable practices, and the pursuit of excellence has garnered prestigious accolades and set a new standard for spa experiences. With exciting expansions on the horizon, Pearl Spa’s future promises to be a harmonious blend of growth, cultural immersion, and the continued creation of bespoke wellness experiences for its patrons.
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LILAWADEE SPA BY L’OCCITANE THAILAND Within the enchanting world of Kupu, a meticulously curated menu of wellbeing and beauty rituals unfolds, each artfully delivered with modern expertise to lavish attention on the body, mind, and spirit. This haven of serenity is an embodiment of luxury, where signature rituals, inspired by the idyllic landscapes of Provence, delicately address the impacts of contemporary living. The use of natural ingredients and the intuitive art of touch elevate these experiences to a sublime level of indulgence.
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Provided by Lilawadee Spa by L’Occitane 22 l FEBRUARY 2024 l Vol.27
L’OCCITANE extends a gracious invitation to a Provencal retreat, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in a sensorial holistic journey that embodies the essence of the brand. This opulent spa beckons guests to a true escape into the realms of wellbeing, transporting them to the sun-kissed soils of the South of France. In this haven, every moment is crafted to offer an authentic and luxurious experience, promising a retreat that rejuvenates both the body and the soul.
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MAKI-SAKI BOUTIQUE SPA SOUTH AFRICA
Nestled a mere 100 meters from the enchanting Pearl Bay beach in Yzerfontein, Maki-Saki Boutique Spa unfolds as an exclusive and uniquely luxurious haven, redefining the essence of relaxation against the backdrop of sweeping sea views and a tranquil setting. This hidden gem seamlessly marries self-catering accommodation with the allure of an onsite boutique spa, elevating it to a pinnacle of luxury. The self-catering unit, a sanctuary of opulence, features three beautifully decorated bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a comfortable lounge/dining area. A wooden deck with breathtaking sea views becomes the idyllic setting for sundowners or cocktails, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the lap of luxury. The spa experience at Maki-Saki begins with the embrace of a welcoming Jacuzzi and a heated indoor splash pool, setting the stage for indulgent pampering in two therapy rooms. Here, amidst serene surroundings, guests rejuvenate mind, body, and soul in an atmosphere of unparalleled tranquility. 24 l FEBRUARY 2024 l Vol.27
Maki-Saki stands as a beacon of distinction by offering an on-site boutique gym, exclusively available to its discerning guests, catering to those who seek a holistic retreat that encompasses both relaxation and fitness.
Tailored for couples, families, and friends alike, Maki-Saki promises an unforgettable vacation experience, where every moment is crafted to reflect the epitome of luxury and rejuvenation.
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Provided by Maki-Saki Boutique Spa
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LUANA & FRED TWO HELICOPTER PILOTS WHO LEFT THE COCKPIT TO TRAVEL THE WORLD
@pilotluana
Embark on an enchanting journey with Luana and Fred, two Brazilian souls whose trajectory from skilled helicopter pilots to passionate world travelers is as captivating as the destinations they explore. In this exclusive interview, the dynamic duo shares the extraordinary story of their transition from the cockpit to the globe-trotting lifestyle, propelled by unforeseen events, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Luana and Fred divulge their most cherished travel moments, reveal the most romantic destinations that have left an indelible mark on their hearts, and offer insightful advice for couples contemplating long-term travel together. With a commitment to sharing their adventures through their mentorship program and a burgeoning goal of visiting every country, Luana and Fred invite readers to join them on their unparalleled expedition across the world. Can you share a brief overview of your journey from a being helicopter pilots to world travellers? What inspired you to leave the cockpit and embark on a global adventure together? Fred and I are both Brazilians, born and raised. It all started when we worked for a helicopter company in Whistler, Canada. At that time, we were invited to be ambassadors for the Whistler Tourism Board to share unique activities the city offered from an immigrant perspective. Traveling has always been a passion of ours, and through the tourism in Whistler, we were able to explore more of Canada. As we started sharing our travels more professionally, we fell in love with the idea of doing it for a living. However, our priority and dream were still to continue flying helicopters. That changed when COVID happened, leading to our layoff and the expiration of our work VISA. Due to these circumstances, we decided to move to Europe and pursue a career in digital marketing.
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Could you share one of the most memorable moments you’ve had while traveling as a couple? It’s hard to pick just one. Fred and I often say, “we have lived 80 lives in just one.” As full-time travelers, we’ve experienced so many things that we could never have imagined. Here are a few examples that come to mind: a movie under the stars in the Maldives, renewing our vows in Capri, watching the Aurora Borealis from our igloo in Finland, observing penguins in their natural habitat in Antarctica, playing golf during sunset in the Seychelles, riding a camel in Jordanian deserts, a balloon flight in Cappadocia, visiting Petra just the two of us in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, watching the fountains at Burj Khalifa during a romantic dinner at the Armani Restaurant, diving with sharks without a cage in Hawaii, flying a helicopter to a 1000-year-old ice cave, having dinner at the foot of a volcano in Bolivia, and so on.
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Focusing on Romantic spas and restaurants this month, do you have a favourite romantic spa or restaurant from your travels that stand out in your memory? The most romantic spa was at Raffles Maldives, where there was a glass floor, and we could see marine life passing by while relaxing. That was so unique! Can you highlight a few romantic destinations that have left a lasting impression on both of you? Are there any specific places that you would recommend for a romantic getaway?
most romantic hotel in the world! We’ve been there three times, and it’s unbelievable how everything is so well planned. We are huge fans of the property! How are you planning on spending Valentine’s day this year? Do you have any special plans? To be honest, not yet. We will be in Brazil during Valentine’s Day this year, but I have a confession to make. Fred and I don’t usually celebrate these big dates because, for us, they “force” you to be romantic or do something special just one day of the year. For example, we don’t usually exchange gifts on Christmas. Instead, we prefer to surprise each other on a random day! We think that’s a hundred times more romantic than on a day people are expecting something.
The Maldives and Seychelles. These two were the most romantic places we have ever been to. They offer everything from private dinners on the beach to movies under the stars or picnics on sandbanks where you feel completely alone on an island.
Do you have any bucket list destinations that you’re eager to explore together in the future?
Also, Chalet Al Foss in the Italian Alps is probably the
Yes! So many, I would say. But off the top of my head,
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Tahiti and Japan are two big names on top of our list! What advice do you have for couples considering long-term travel together? It was one of the best decisions of our lives. We loved flying helicopters, but we love being full-time travelers even more! Maybe we’ll get a chopper to travel in the future, who knows? Haha. But make sure you two are amazing partners before you commit to it. Fred and I have always spent 24/7 together, and we love it! However, we have heard about couples that can’t stay that long together, and the thing is, you will spend a lot of time just with the two of you. So make sure you guys are good at doing that before you start traveling the world. One thing we guarantee: it’s a life like nothing else. :) Do you have a favourite travel photo that holds a special place in your hearts? Well, we have taken a lot of pictures for IG; after all, it’s our full-time job. However, our favorite photos are the selfies we take with our phones to register a memory. Fred’s sister says it’s “normal people’s pictures” haha. She says that because our IG pictures are usually a big production, and although we love the results, it’s true that we are usually posing when we take them. Completely different from the selfies on our phones, which are just for the two of us to see and remember.
What’s next for Luana and Fred in terms of both travel and personal goals? We are now focusing on visiting new countries we have never been to. Quite often, we repeat a lot of countries because we identify with them, but this year we are going to try to visit new countries and learn about new cultures. Our goal is to visit all countries one day. Are there any upcoming projects or adventures that your followers and our readers can look forward to? Yes! We have just launched our first Mentorship program this week, and this is something we are focusing on this year: to teach others the first steps to do what we do - to be able to travel the world as a full-time job. Adventurewise, we want to start planning a visit to all countries. We might start with Europe and Asia this year, so whoever is reading this and would like to follow us along, we would love to have you onboard traveling with us! Vol. 27 l FEBRUARY 2024 l 31
SEASKY RESTAURANT THAILAND 32 l FEBRUARY 2024 l Vol.27
Perched at the edge of the beach, with a captivating vista of the Andaman Sea, SeaSky Restaurant at Layana Resort & Spa emerges as an epitome of refined dining for those seeking a romantic and luxurious culinary experience. SeaSky beckons guests to indulge in an ambiance of elegance, offering the choice to dine in stylish interiors or bask in the al fresco charm of a beachside setting. This all-day dining venue transcends traditional boundaries, serving a culinary symphony that includes breakfast, modern Thai delicacies, and light Mediterranean cuisine. The menu delights with seasonal and daily specials, culminating in an exquisite Afternoon Tea presentation featuring homemade sweets and savouries that elevate the dining experience to an art form.
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Discerning patrons can complement their culinary journey with a wide selection of carefully curated wines and Thai craft beers, enhancing the sensory pleasures of the SeaSky dining experience. In this haven of gastronomic delight, Layana Resort & Spa crafts an atmosphere where every moment is an ode to luxury, romance, and the art of savouring life’s most exquisite flavours.
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Provided by SeaSky Restaurant
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PEARL SPA THAILAND Upon entering the tranquil sanctuary of the multi-awardwinning Pearl Spa, guests are seamlessly transported to a realm of opulence inspired by the iridescence of ocean pearls. This luxurious haven, a masterpiece of tranquillity, is adorned with subtle Sino-Portuguese motifs and delicate accents of light wood, creating an ambiance of refined elegance. At Pearl Spa, the dedication to crafting an unparalleled experience is evident in the harmonious blend of ageold techniques and contemporary treatments. The respite offered through therapies like Traditional Thai Massage and Aromatherapy invites patrons into a state of profound relaxation, where every moment becomes an exquisite pause in the tapestry of well-being. The commitment to excellence is woven into every detail, from the intricate window screens in the spa’s reception area to the coral-shaped chandelier that graces the space. The treatment rooms further unfold as doorways, offering a reinterpretation of the mystical Sino-Portuguese touch that characterizes Phuket’s rich heritage. Pearl Spa extends a graceful invitation to unwind, rejuvenate, and embark on a sensory journey that promises to leave guests feeling refreshed and revitalized, prepared to embrace the world with newfound energy and tranquillity. Within these walls, time stands still, and each moment becomes a precious pearl in the journey of well-being, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary to epitomize the extraordinary.
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EACH MOMENT BE
A PRECIOUS PE
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ECOMES
EARL
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IN THE NEXT
EDITION... BOARDROOM GRANDEUR
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n the next issue unravel the epitome of opulence in business and conference hotels. From executive suites to high-tech meeting spaces, explore the intersection of luxury and productivity, redefining the corporate experience with our curated selection of prestigious destinations.
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TO OUR COLLABORATORS
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