Anantara Journeys Second Edition

TRAVEL

TRENDS

EXPERIENCE

TRAVEL

1,600KM OF TOPOGRAPHICAL WONDERS THAILAND

POST-COVID WORK-LIFE BALANCE & TRAVEL TRENDS

ENJOY THE JOURNEY IN CUBA & VIETNAM

EXPLORE MORE IN BRAZIL, ITALY & NEW YORK CITY

Welcome

welcome In late 2019 we published the first Journeys magazine, bringing readers on an inspirational journey of discovery that epitomised Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas’ singular brand of authentic luxury.

Now, in a much-changed world, we are delighted to welcome you to our second edition, where we travel beyond Anantara’s destinations and experiences to also uncover the worlds of Avani, NH Collection, nhow and Tivoli. Join us as we explore emerging travel trends and delve into some of this year’s most sought-after destinations, from the topographical wonders of Thailand to the rich cultures of Italy, Brazil and beyond.

publisher Comments & Suggestions: Please write in to Agency Fish Pty Ltd or email: anantara@

Advertising

Agency Fish

Minor Hotels

INTERNATIONAL

Editorial Team

Editorial Team

Julian Jordan

Stephen Peaple

Ian Johan Nel

julian.jordan@agencyfish.com

Editor

Director of Creative

THAILAND & SE ASIA

& Creative Director

Services

Nick Lyons

Julian Jordan

Fergal Barry-

nick.lyons@agencyfish.com

International Manager

Murphy

SINGAPORE & ASIA

Lindy Polmeer

Director of Marketing

Daryl Ng

Account Director

Content &

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in

daryl@jet-set-media.com

Karen Martin

Communications

any form without the express permission of the publisher in writing. Copyright © 2022/23

UK & EUROPE

Writer & Editor

Agency Fish/Minor Hotel Group. Agency Fish Pty Ltd, S3, 201 Carr Place, Leederville, WA

James Fisher​

Dawn Gibson-Fawcett

6007, Australia E&EO. www.agencyfish.com

james@luux-media.com

Writer & Editor

agencyfish.com. We may not always be able to enter into correspondence. Any opinion expressed is the honest belief of the author based on all available facts, but is not necessarily the view of Agency Fish, Minor Hotel Group, or its employees. Comments and facts should not be relied upon by the reader in taking commercial, legal, financial, or other decisions.

Articles are by their nature general, and readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information published within which may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. The publisher regrets that it cannot accept liability for any error or omissions printed, however caused. Journeys magazine is published for Minor Hotel Group Limited. All rights reserved. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged.

5

Contents

63

© Marcos Paulo Prado/unsplash

27 inspire

14 – Trends A post-pandemic world embraces new travel trends.

34 – Travel Dining by Design in Mauritius, fat biking in Abu Dhabi, and more.

18 – On Safari Elewana Collection.

36 – Dive Freediving, Maldives.

22 – Style Colour trends, orchid flower.

38 – Yoga Salute the sun, Vietnam.

26 – Style London in style.

40 – Snow & Ice City and ski, Salzburg.

28 – Explore Vintage cars in Cuba and The Vietage, Vietnam.

6

28

32 – Wellbeing Sri Lanka, Budapest, the Algarve.

42 – Instagram Moments in time from Instagram.

14 36 32

© Stephan Valentin/unsplash

8 – Snapshot Victoria Falls, Zambia and National Museum of Qatar.

Contents

© Panuson Norkaew/unsplash

44 54

40 travel

44 – Travel Unfold adventures along some of Thailand’s rich topographical wonders.

54 – Paradise Dreams Own a piece of paradise and share moments together with those close to you.

62 – Explore More Discover a trio of engaging destinations: Brazil, Italy and New York.

sundowner

© Colorfactoryco

72 – Sundowner Signature cocktails in Zambia and the Maldives.

70

72 7

Snapshot

8

Snapshot

VICTORIA FALLS ZAMBIA The awe-inspiring Victoria Falls was described in the 1800s by the Kololo tribe as ‘Mosi-oaTunya’ – ‘The smoke that thunders’.

Spanning 1,708m across the face, more than 500 million cubic metres of water per minute form an expansive curtain which plummets 100m (more than twice the height of Niagara Falls) into the zig-zag gorge below.

Guests at The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara can experience this force of nature in numerous ways – by helicopter or microlite from the air; by foot, horseback or quad bike on land; and by River Safari from the hotel’s jetty aboard specially designed boats that can zip through the rapids, and operate in shallow waters for breakfast, lunch and sunset tours.

9

© Iwan Ban

Snapshot

10

© Koichi Takada Architects / Tom Ferguson

Snapshot

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR DOHA, QATAR Public art and architectural beauty play key roles in the Qatari landscape and psyche.

Through its public art installations, the National Museum of Qatar aims to spark dialogue, inspire creativity, and establish a connection between art and the local community.

The striking design of the building itself, conceived by architect Jean Nouvel, was inspired by the desert rose – intricate crystal clusters that emerge from the ground, formed through a combination of wind, water and sand – which wraps around Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani’s original palace. The museum’s design seeks to connect the visitor with the desert and the sea with audio, visual and even aromatic experiences. nmoq.org.qa/en/

11

Snapshot

SEA MALDIVES ‘Unique’ is an often overused adjective, but at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas it’s undeniably apt. The world’s first underwater wine cellar – stocked by the resident Wine Guru with an award-winning selection that dates from 1795 to 2016 – leads to a dining space so inspiring you might forget to eat.

The seasonal degustation menu unfolds for breakfast, lunch or dinner and befits the location with specialities including Maldivian lobster and pan-seared Japanese wagyu.

The curved glass wall looks out onto a coral habitat under the conservation protection of Anantara’s Coral Adoption Programme. Guests can participate by planting coral at the reef nursery with the Resident Marine Biologist.

12

Snapshot

13

Inspire – Trends

TRAVEL TRENDS WHILE TRAVEL IS BOOMING AGAIN, THE PANDEMIC HAS CHANGED THE WAY WE LIVE AND WORK. WE EXPLORE SOME TRENDS THAT HAVE EMERGED POST-COVID.

As the world stood still, many of us turned our attention to seeking out experiences closer to home. Along with this renewed appreciation for the beauty contained within our own borders, we also became eager to spread our wings and adventure further afield. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and post-pandemic we are finally getting to embrace our love of travel once again.

The time we spent in lockdown has undoubtedly changed the way we travel, in many ways for the better. Ticking off those bucket-list experiences has taken on a new tone, with a growing focus on quality time with loved ones, genuine cultural engagement and reconnecting with the natural world.

Diving into the rich culture of a new destination is perfectly tempered by our heightened appreciation of the outdoors.

Where a walk was for a while the highlight of many days, now the chance

of once-in-a-lifetime experiences amid the world’s natural wonders holds fresh allure.

Having been allowed to flourish during the pandemic, dense forests, rippling streams and native wildlife are abundant. A true breath of fresh air awaits in a trip that combines the urban and the provincial, and outdoorsy is the next in thing.

This year, we’re finding ways to embrace a whole new kind of travel. Whether you have global connections to rekindle, new ones to discover or loved ones to bring along with you, the opportunities for adventure are endless.

Where you go is important, but who you go there with is what makes those special moments remain with you forever. And by combining a trip with the flexibility that remote work can bring, we can look fondly back on days spent at home on our laptops while bathing in the glow of a new adventure and a healthy work-life balance.

@emanuelly Collect beautiful

@anantaraspawellness

moments and create

Be among the first to

unforgettable memories,

experience a whole new

just like @emanuelly did

world of natural healing

when staying at

powers with Cannabis

@anantaraqasralsarab

Spa Journey at

“Say hello to our

#AnantaraSpa

four-footed friends on

©emanuelly

your desert excursions.” ​

14

Inspire – Trends

#FRIENDTRIPS

#BIGFAMILY

#DIGITALNOMAD

#GOLOCAL

After Covid restricted simple pleasures like meeting for dinner, and forced us to cancel long-awaited reunions, #friendtrips have become popular. Travelling with friends in a small, intimate group enables connection while enjoying experiences together.

At long last, big family gettogethers are back on the agenda.

Families are taking multi-room private residences, and seeking resorts with on-site luxuries and interconnecting suites and rooms, giving them time to reconnect outside the home.

While holidays give us time to step away from the stresses of work, there’s been a sharp rise in the number of digital nomads – people who are locationindependent and able to deliver their work remotely while expanding their horizons and contributing to local economies.

Travellers are cognisant of creating positive impacts on the communities they are visiting, from eating and shopping local, to immersing themselves into local cultural activities that directly give back to those communities.

#NATURE Embracing the vastness of the great outdoors has never been more enticing. This trend sits harmoniously with the wish to enjoy more sustainable experiences and locations.

Science has long told us of the many benefits of connecting with nature, such as lower cortisol levels, improved sleep and boosting your immunity.

So whether it’s a forest hike, a safari drive, dining under the stars, or simply listening to the natural rhythms of waves gently lapping the shore, ensure you take time to connect to nature.

15

Inspire – Trends

#WELLNESS Our pursuit of holistic wellness – which comprises health, fitness, nutrition, appearance, sleep and mindfulness – dates back thousands of years, referenced across religions that seek harmony with the mind, body and spirit, such as Buddhism and Taoism, as well as by the Ancient Greeks and Romans.

Today, it’s a US$1.5tr industry and set to grow at around 5-10% per year, and omnipresent as wearables and apps that help us monitor ourselves. When coupled with a holiday, a wellness break allows individuals to step away from daily life and immerse themselves into that most precious of commodities: time for oneself.

Comprehensive wellness screenings, conducted in luxury resort-style facilities, have become highly sought after. The offering

16

is a natural extension to the always popular day spa experience.

At the BDMS Wellness Clinic Retreat at Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, signature screening programmes are expertly tailored to the individual following a wide gamut of examinations and testing, such as hormone testing, fitness assessment, blood analysis, and a respiration check. Guests can also undertake DNA telomeres measurement and analysis, which offers key insights to help you properly plan for today and your future health, and forms a key element of the ‘prevention is better than cure’ ethos of BDMS’s health practitioners.

The credentials of BDMS (Bangkok Dusit Medical Services) speaks for itself.

They are Thailand’s largest operator of private hospitals with over 50 facilities

across Thailand and Cambodia, with the BDMS Wellness Clinic Asia’s premier healthcare facility.

INSIDE AND OUT Guests can also book in for beauty and aesthetic treatments, such as Advanced Deep Skin Nourishment, Juvéderm Fillers and personalised face creams; bespoke supplements created by the in-house Royal Compounding Pharmacy; and IV Drip treatments which boost immunity, balance inflammation and strengthen cells. BDMS offers five options, including the 30-60min aptly named Detox, which promotes health benefits related to cardiovascular, neurological, and immune systems, and helps to stimulate the production of collagen for overall skin health.

FROM CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE MONTREUX, SWITZERLAND

TO BANGKOK Discover The Longevity Hub

by Clinique La Prairie, at The St. Regis Bangkok Longevity, Wellbeing & Aesthetics: We invite you to experience our hyper-personalized protocols.

Dedicated to helping our guests lead longer, healthier and fuller lives, within our exclusive environment, we combine transformative health science with pioneering aesthetic and wellness solutions to enable you to embrace balance and longevity.

Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie The St. Regis Bangkok 159 Rajadamri Road, Pathum Wan District, Bangkok 10330 www.cliniquelaprairiebangkok.com

Travel – Safari

ON SAFARI ELEWANA COLLECTION OFFERS KENYAN AND TANZANIAN SAFARIS WITH A TWIST – LET’S STEP OUT OF THE 4WD

THE GAME DRIVE The classic safari game drive in an opensided, canvas-roofed Land Rover, complete with spotters’ seat up front, is one of Africa’s quintessential experiences, allowing uninterrupted views of the unfolding landscape and its inhabitants. Four wheel drive vehicles, built for the most demanding environments, have long played a central role in the safari experience. However, there are other enticing options available for Elewana Collection guests in both Kenya and Tanzania. Try these:

18

E-BIKE

ON FOOT

E-bikes are a perfect fit for exploring the rugged terrain of Laikipia in the 57,000 acre Loisaba Conservancy – which houses Loisaba Tented Camp, Loisaba Star Beds and Loisaba Lodo Springs. Guests are accompanied by guides and rangers on half-day, tailor-made excursions, making access to scenic vantage points a breeze.

Once there, stop to survey the land, while tucking into a scrumptious bush breakfast or evening sundowner.

The thrill of striding across the wide-open savannah is brought to life with your guide’s insights as you look for tracks, marks and droppings. Guides drawn from local communities, such as the Masai at Serengeti Pioneer Camp and Tarangire Treetops, and the Samburu at Loisaba, share their ancestral knowledge on the eco-systems of each area, the traditional uses of local herbs and plants, and how the seasons effect the land and its inhabitants.

Travel – Safari HORSEBACK Horse-riding is available at a number of Elewana Collection properties, with all abilities catered for at both The Manor at Ngorongoro and Loisaba Conservancy.

The stables include English thoroughbreds, Ethiopian ponies and other mix breeds, which are ridden using English saddles.

The horses are very relaxed and stay calm – even in close proximity to wildlife – offering a unique, visceral connection. Some safari rides, such as Lewa Safari Camp, are suited to more experienced riders.

CAMEL For a novel experience, why not try a camel ride? Lewa Safari Camp’s dromedary trio are led through the savannah by Samburu handlers as the evening draws in for a picturesque, though somewhat bobbling, experience.

BALLOON Being on safari in the Serengeti is a once-ina-lifetime adventure (that many repeat!).

Experiencing it by air is literally taking the adventure to another level. Ballooning is an almost soundless experience, other than the enticing roar of the jets which keep you at optimum height. Any wind will push you along at the same pace, so you neither feel it nor hear it. It’s possible to sail along, drone-like, over vast swathes of The Great Migration in the morning, then take a game drive and see those same animals cross the Mara River later the same day.

19

Travel – Safari

DIGITAL DETOX ON SAFARI A digital detox is not about leaving the smartphone behind; it’s about giving you the space to enjoy the moment.

Anyone who’s been on safari will know there are fleeting moments that you may never see twice – an elusive leopard dashing through scrub, a baby elephant’s cheeky run, a zebra leaping into the river – and you won’t be able to see (or post) those moments if you’re scrolling elsewhere.

20

Here are three simple digital detox tips: 1. Switch off push notifications The benefits of switching off email and not engaging in social media are welldocumented, but if you feel the need to stay in touch, do it in small doses. The more you step away, the better the wildlife experience will become, and the more present you’ll be. Being phone-free during meals is also a great way to detox.

2. Write and sketch A picture tells a thousand words. Write a thousand on what a game drive felt like for all the senses. Writing makes you focus, and brings about a more vivid recollection of events. Drawing – and it really doesn’t matter how good or bad you are – forces the mind to process information in multiple ways: visually, kinesthetically and semantically. Writing and drawing promote clearer, long-term memories.

3. Get tactile Kids at Elephant Pepper Camp get to build a camp fire, throw a rungu (throwing club), use a bow and arrow, and track wildlife. Children can also create casts from tracks they find, which make for unique souvenirs.

Join them!

HØVEL

SMYTHSON

BLACKWING

The carbon blade of the Høvel solid brass pencil plane whittles like a woodworker’s plane.

Høvel & leather sheath, US$90 makerscabinet.com

Nile blue Portobello sketchbook bound in durable Panama cross grain lambskin.

68 leaves of gilt-edged plain white wove paper.

US$355 smythson.com

The 602 is an icon. Japanese graphite, semi-hex shape, multi-lacquer finish and incense-cedar wood.

12-pack, US$27 blackwing602.com

Travel – Safari

BURBERRY Versatile checked wool and cashmereblend bomber-style jacket with dual zips and push-button pockets.

US$1,650 burberry.com

LEICA Legendary Leica optics with optimal colour fidelity, lightweight and compact. Choose 10x42 for safari, or 8x42 for birdwatching. Trinovid 10x42 HD binoculars. US$999 leica-camera.com

GHURKA Cavalier II No. 97 leather duffle. With timeless style and uncompromising quality, this rugged duffle bag will age beautifully with use. Vintage chestnut leather with cotton twill lining. US$1,995 ghurka.com

FENDI Crochet-knit cashmere-blend bucket hat with jacquard-woven ‘Zucca’ logo in ivory and camel. US$625 fendi.com

HERMÈS 100% silk double face scarf with handrolled edges. The first Hermès scarf that combines two scarfs in one. Tatersale en zigzag double face 90x90cm.

US$630 hermes.com

21

Inspire – Style

ORCHID FLOWER

ORCHID GURU PREM PEMATHILAKA

COLOUR TRENDS VIBRANCY IS BACK

Sri Lankan-born Prem has been cultivating orchids and landscaping for some four decades, and holds the beloved position of Orchid Guru at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, where he tends to 1,200 plus blooms.

The 25 orchid varieties under his care include Mokara (which can bloom yearround and are common as houseplants ); Dendrobium (which tend to form clusters of flowers along long stems); and Cattleya, which is the epitome of the fragrant scent we associate as ‘orchid’.

Orchid Flower was chosen by the world’s leading consumer trend forecaster, WGSN, as the Colour of the Year. This vibrant shade represents an energising intensity which effuses a sense of escapism and positivity. The saturated magenta hue with a purple base tone is popping up all over the latest fashion and beauty collections, while providing a welcome burst of colour throughout stylish interiors.

Along with the 1,200 plants within his blissful ‘workshop’ (above), Prem also propagated the 2,000 or so blooms around the island. He tends to his plants in many ways, including talking to them, as sound vibrations have a positive impact on plant growth.

Indeed, taking a tour with Prem, guests are encouraged to join in the soothing talking experience, while tea or chilled Champagne, is served among heavenly scents.

Anantara’s ‘Gurus’ offer in-depth knowledge to guests in their chosen field of excellence

22

Splashes of orchid pink in the Presidential Suite at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, Thailand (left), and at Anantara Angkor Resort, Cambodia.

Inspire – Style MARGOT MCKINNEY Purple sapphire orchid earrings. 18k yellow gold, purple sapphires 7.47cts enhanced with diamonds 3.66cts, pink sapphires 3.87cts, purple sapphires 1.46ct, orange sapphires 0.19cts, and pink tourmaline 0.28cts with a detachable pair of rhodolite garnet drops 12.94cts. POA margotmckinney.com

MULBERRY Mini Bayswater shoulder bag. Signature Mulberry silhouette with Postman’s Lock gold hardware, branded key fob and two top handles in pink heavy grain.

Soft gold interior.

US$990 mulberry.com

ROSANTICA Ghizlan Lumière mini-fringed tote.

Lustrous pink satin with a rim of crystals and layers of multicoloured fringing. US$740 rosantica.com

SIMPLE THINGS Alpaca double faced throw (108x130cm) in vibrant orange and deep pink from 100% baby alpaca wool.

Irresistibly soft and warm. US$380 simplethings.ie

GUCCI Baume à Lèvres – No More Orchids 2 Hydrating, lightweight, no-stick lip balm.

US$44 gucci.com

23

Inspire – Style

@nhow / #petsofnhow What’s your pet’s favourite treat? @nhowamsterdamrai

nhow Amsterdam RAI, (top) and nhow Berlin

VIP – VERY IMPORTANT PAWS Pets are given VIP status in all nhow hotels across the world. nhow is a bold hotel brand with interiors by the likes of Karim Rashid (nhow Berlin), Rem Koolhaas (nhow Amsterdam RAI), and Matteo Thun (nhow Milan). Each is inspired by the city it resides within, and offers unique elements to make your stay reassuringly surprising. nhow-hotels.com

LORD LOU The Amsterdam-based luxury pet brand’s Antoinette rounded dog bed. Hand-carved oak wood baroque feet, with superior resistant, high-grade furniture fabric in anthracite for the base and matching padded pillow. Hand-finished with over 100 brass upholstery nails. US$350 lordlou.com

24

VALENTINO

ANYA HINDMARCH

Garavani Rockstud Pet collar in fuchsia calfskin leather embellished with studs.

In three sizes. US$300 valentino.com

Project Earth for Nature regenerated-nylon dog poo bag charm with lobster-claw fastening. US$130 selfridges.com

Inspire – Style

LONDON IN STYLE

BATES NO.45 JERMYN ST Established in Jermyn Street in 1898, Bates is the definitive hatters. Warm wood shelves and glass-fronted cases display all manner of hats including fedoras, deerstalkers, trilbies, bowler hats, flat caps, and Panamas. The Superfino Panama – Bates’ finest artisanal Panama – is expertly hand-woven in Montecristo, Ecuador, then trimmed and blocked in Spain. Each hat takes about six months to create. US$3,900 bates-hats.com

J.M. WESTON NO.60 JERMYN ST

TURNBULL & ASSER NO.71-72 JERMYN ST

French master shoemakers since 1891, J. M. Weston’s Limoges factory creates exceptional footwear, such as the riding boots for the French Republican Guard, the 1948 classic Weston loafer, and these handmade espadrilles which are cut in perforated suede, and finished with traditional cord insole and rubber sole.

Wait and Sea espadrille, Limoges.

US$295 eu.jmweston.com

Holder of a Royal Warrant, Turnbull & Asser have been shirt-makers since 1885. Their James Bond Collection comprises pieces chosen for various movies, including Bond’s white dress shirt and bow tie in Casino Royale, and a number of elegant ties, which make perfect gifts.

Casino Royale dress shirt & bow tie US$485 Tomorrow Never Dies tie US$180. turnbullandasser.co.uk

26

Inspire – Style

JERMYN STREET LONDON Known as the London street for gentlemen’s sartorial elegance, Jermyn Street was first recorded in 1664 as ‘Jarman Street’ and houses dozens of speciality shops including art galleries, food and wine merchants along with Britain’s oldest cheese shop, Paxton & Whitfield (No.93), while perfumers Floris (No.89) still use display cabinets from the 1851 Great Exhibition.

However, it’s gentlemen’s attire for which Jermyn is famed. Hat, shoe and shirt-makers offer a fitting choice, and there are luxury goods brands to indulge upon. Many of the 64 buildings are owned by the Crown Estate, and previous residents include Italian silk merchant, Cesare Salvucci (1861), whose fine fabrics may have had some influence on its outfitting future.

AFTERNOON TEA

PICCADILLY ARCADE LONDON

BATTENBERG CAKE PICCADILLY

Two minutes’ stroll from The Wolseley is the covered courtyard of Piccadilly Arcade.

Within you’ll find specialty shops including The Armoury of St James’s, who specialise in military antiques, regimental brooches, and a unique selection of 18th-20th century exquisitely hand-painted, traditional toy soldiers in 1:32 scale, cast in white metal.

Quintessentially British, this intriguing little chequerboard cake wrapped in marzipan was created for Queen Victoria to celebrate the marriage of her granddaughter to Prince Louis of Battenberg in 1884.

The earliest recipe appeared in 1898, which called for nine squares, while the four squares have been in favour ever since.

The precision and delicate balance of flavours ensure this is a patisserie mainstay for The Wolseley, established in 2003 in a historic former bank building fronting onto Piccadilly. Their recipe, which takes three days to complete, is rich with pistachio, with the sponge cake soaked in syrup made with Wild Thyme honey, sandwiched together with homemade marmalade, then wrapped in colourful marzipan. thewolseley.com

27

INSIGHT

TAILORED TOUR

V or B?

CLASSIC CUBA VINTAGE CAR TOUR

Located on La Habana Bay, officially it’s called Havana, but the ‘b’ and ‘v’

When Cuba placed an embargo on importing US cars and mechanical parts, it unwittingly kicked off a now deeply-rooted Cuban love of classic cars, kept alive in various striations of rust and gloss. The streets of Old Havana are filled with mechanics using ancient parts (nothing gets trashed) along with a healthy dose of ingenuity and enthusiasm to keep old engines running.

A chorus of 40s and 50s Dodges, Plymouths, Studebakers, Chevrolets and Pontiacs play a vital cameo in the fabric of the nation, with Old Havana and Varadero the perfect cities to experience the cars and their owners first-hand. Many operate as taxis, while others can be hired for longer journeys around the city and further afield.

Take a day tour to the Orchid Botanical Garden, Soroa Waterfall, and Viñales tobacco fields, where fertile red soil – still ploughed by oxen – provides prized crops of leaves that are hand-picked, dried, and hand-rolled into cigars. The Viñales Valley scenery seems tailor-made for an open-top classic car, and can be enjoyed more intimately by taking a horseback excursion to explore more about the famed cigar region.

Back in the city, relish another wind-inyour-hair experience as you step inside a ruby-red ’53 Cadillac de Ville convertible, available by the hour, and wind along streets dotted with Colonial classic buildings (such as the 1928-built NH Collection Victoria La Habana Hotel), and kitschy art galleries, such as Cuban Art Factory. Then end the day at Hemingway’s favourite bar, the 200-year-old El Floridita for daiquiris (El Floridita invented them), a classic Cuban sandwich, and a cigar, all to a soulful backdrop of traditional and modern Latin American music.

sound the same in Spanish, where the alternate spelling originates.

The tobacco fields of Viñales.

28

© Stephan Valentin, Falco Negenman, Daniel Sessle, Martin Kleppe, Jeremy Bezanger, Aurelien Courtet/unsplash

Inspire – Explore

VERSATILITY REDEFINED.

www.mazda.co.id

THE NEW MAZDA CXḋ8

Inspire – Explore

TAILORED TOUR

VIETNAM VIA THE VIETAGE

Anantara Quy Nhon Villas.

30

MUST-TRY @timothylbroc/unsplash

Bar and fine dining inside The Vietage.

Transfers can sometimes feel a touch arduous, yet there are many journeys that can weave into your overall adventure with ease.

For a luxurious, sink-into-your seat encounter in Vietnam, board The Vietage – an exclusive private rail experience for just 12 guests, which provides the ultimate cross-country transfer for guests travelling between Anantara Hoi An Resort and Anantara Quy Nhon Villas (although you don’t have to stay in either resort to book).

The Vietage commences at the bustling French colonial port of Da Nang – a short drive from the charming heritage town of Hoi An – and winds its way along stunning countryside with coastal vistas afforded throughout Central Vietnam to the relaxing town of Dieu Tri. On the unhurried six hour journey, you’ll want to immerse yourselves in the history and culture with your fellow guests, as you dine on three courses of superb international cuisine infused with local flavours, such as Quy Nhon seafood with signature Nuoc Cham sauce, all served with effortless grace.

Sip fine wines and delicious teas, or order a signature cocktail from resident mixologist, Mr Quang, along the way. Guests will enjoy a head and shoulder massage before disembarking at Quy Nhon to Anantara Quy Nhon, where ocean and beachfront villas are nestled on a private cove between lush greenery and the ocean, and features include a cliffside jungle spa.

Nuoc Cham sauce Delightful salty, sweet and tangy dipping sauce made with varying amounts of zesty lime, lemongrass, chilli, fish sauce, a dash of vinegar and myriad optional ingredients in a variety of bright orange to deep brown hues is a must-try throughout Vietnam.

Jalur Sutera no. 23D, Indonesia 15143 www.bottegaartisan.com bottegaartisan

Inspire – Wellbeing

NATURA BISSÉ

Organic Beetroot Carpaccio.

SRI LANKA NATURE’S SPICE RACK For an unforgettable culinary journey in Sri Lanka, Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort offers a Harvest Table experience based on fresh, home-grown and sustainable ingredients, where menus are created around what’s picked from the garden that day.

Meet the chef for a guided stroll through the resort’s own zero-waste gardens and paddy field, where you will harvest fruit, vegetables, rice, herbs and spices to be prepared for lunch later. A local fisherman will arrive by boat through the mangrove river to bring his daily fresh catch for your main course, and the chef will then prepare your four-course meal in the custom-built muluthange, or kitchen, to be enjoyed in the rustic treehouse, accompanied with an organic wine or herbal drink.

32

©Lindsey Rivera/Hellojetlag.com

Diamond Well-Living Energizing Dry Oil hydrates and nourishes skin, with Vitamin E. 100ml.

US$60 naturabisse.com

Steam rises in the winter months, Szechenyi Baths.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY ENRICHING IMMERSIONS The mineral-rich water that bubbles to the surface in Budapest was as popular during the Ottoman Empire as it is today.

Visiting one of the city’s nine medicinal baths is a must, with the largest and most popular of them all the 1913-built Szechenyi Baths, located in City Park, the largest green space in the Hungarian capital, just 10 minutes from Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel.

Open every day of the year – and especially popular on national holidays – the Baroque Revival labyrinthine complex includes 18 indoor and outdoor geothermal pools, water jets, and saunas, as well as a range of massage treatment options.

Szechenyi attracts vast numbers of visitors; if you want a quieter experience, head for the Ottoman-era Rudas Baths, which boast indoor octagonal baths built under Pasha Sokollu Mustafa in the 16th century, as well as a strikingly modern style rooftop hot tub with sweeping views.

THE ALGARVE, PORTUGAL SIGNATURE SPA Portugal’s picturesque Algarve region offers a bounty of natural elements to soothe and rejuvenate, including invigorating sea salt blends, polished seashells to stimulate blood flow, and massage oils based on delicious scents such as pomegranate. Embrace a natural approach to relaxation during two sensory journeys at Tivoli Spa: Tivoli Detox Journey (150 minutes), and the Tivoli Sea Essence 80-minute massage, which can be enjoyed at the Tivoli Carvoeiro Algarve Resort and Tivoli Marina Vilamoura Algarve Resort.

Both spas utilise organic beauty products by Natura Bissé, voted world’s best spa brand four years in a row.

Inspire –Travel

DINING BY DESIGN ANANTARA IKO MAURITIUS RESORT & VILLAS Mauritius is known for its eclectic cuisine drawing on influences from around the globe. And what better way to savour the flavours of this island paradise than an unforgettable experience on a Mauritian beach? Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas offers curated dining experiences in romantic locales.

Choose from a cosy nook in the tropical garden, a seafront spot (pictured), or a ‘secret dining’ experience in a secluded hideaway set further back amongst filao trees adorned with fairy lights. You can choose from one of five special menus. For an authentic local experience, the Mauritian Flair menu includes gato piment (split pea and chilli fritters) and a Mauritian prawn curry cooked in a spicy, tangy sauce with aubergine. A dedicated chef, butler and sommelier ensure that your evening is magical.

34

Inspire – Travel BEST BEACH IN THE WORLD

LEMLEM BEACH-CHIC

Choosing a ‘best beach’ is highly subjective – do you prefer an oasis of solitude, or one where you can wave a hand for an aperitif ? Condé Nast Traveller recently listed their top beach, which is located in the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique.

Six islands, formed from deposits of the Save River over millennia, give the archipelago its shimmering sandbar beauty.

At 3km long but just half a kilometre wide, Santa Carolina, the only rock island within the group, can be accessed for day trips.

The pristine waters are protected and house abundant species, including resident dugongs. The two largest islands are Bazaruto and Benguerra, with the Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort offering an oasis within this oasis.

Supermodel Liya Kebede started LemLem to preserve traditional weaving jobs in her native Ethiopia. The slow fashion dayto-night beachwear brand now creates responsibly and sustainably made pieces locally in Ethiopia, Morocco and Kenya.

Sisu triggered metallic striped, cotton-blend gauze midi dress.

US$517 lemlem.com

MISSONI Degrade print high-tech fabric swim shorts with multiple pockets, elasticated waist and velcro closing.

US$405 missoni.com

ABU DHABI FAT BIKING Explore the awe-inspiring beauty of the Empty Quarter on two wheels at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara.

Located near Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Oasis, part of the iconic Rub’ Al Khali, the resort provides guests with the opportunity to hop on specially adapted fat bikes designed for the sandy terrain. Thrill-seekers can climb steep dunes and descend at full speed against an unparalleled backdrop, while those looking for a slower pace can take the time to soak up the breathtaking vistas.

35

Inspire – Dive

ROLEX The Oyster Perpetual Submariner is referred to as ‘the watch that unlocked the deep’. Launched in 1953, the same year as two other iconic diving watches, Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Barakuda and the Zodiac Sea Wolf, this watch was built on the technical mastery of the 1926 Oyster – the world’s first waterproof wristwatch – to take Rolex to the ocean’s depths.

This latest generation remains faithful to the original.

Rolex Submariner Date, 41mm, with green (or black) rotatable bezel and solid-link Oystersteel bracelet, designed to be worn over a diving suit.

US$10,100 rolex.com

AUDEMARS PIGUET

EXPERIENCE FREEDIVING MALDIVES Entwined with the cultural heritage of the Maldives, freediving allows the adventurous to explore life beneath the waves, free of the restraints of scuba diving. Guests at Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort can benefit from expert training at the Maldives’ first PADIcertified freediving centre.

Freediving instructor Antoine Perretti explains how to prepare and what to expect. “We try to achieve the lowest heart rate possible, so avoid consuming coffee and sugar or eating too much right before freediving. Yoga and meditation are perfect preparations,” he advises.

Participants first learn some theory, including breathing techniques, yoga movements and stretching to prepare for the dive.

Next, you find out how long you can hold your breath while static and swimming in the pool. Finally, you head to the ocean.

“You can freedive as long as you want and as deep as you can, as long as you stay in the safe zone. However, you’ll be amazed by what you can see in the first 10m: turtles, sharks, rays, lots of different fish and corals. When you freedive you become part of their world.”

The octagonal Royal Oak is the brand’s largest collection, with the Offshore Diver editions offering a sportier feel and the additional prominent pushpiece at the 10 o’clock position.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver, 42mm, is powered by a new movement, Calibre 4308, and viewed via glareproof sapphire crystal.

This stunning timepiece is available in a variety of colours, including a distinctive soughtafter orange dial with Méga Tapisserie pattern, featuring white gold hour-markers and matching rubber strap.

Around US$26,000 audemarspiguet.com

Audemars Piguet’s Méga Tapisserie pattern.

36

Conquer The World with Visionary Innovation

canon.indonesia

CanonIndonesia

Canon.Indonesia PLEASE ENSURE THE PRODUCT YOU BUY IS THE OFFICIAL LICENSED ONE WITH A GUARANTEE CARD FROM PT DATASCRIP

Inspire – Yoga

DIOR X BIRKENSTOCK Tokio mule with greige nubuck calfskin upper embellished with adjustable back strap, reinforced toe in tonal rubber, cork sole, and sculpted rubble outsole with Dior Oblique and Bones motif.

US$1,100 dior.com

RAG & BONE Hollis cropped distressed Fair Isle wool-blend, relaxed turtleneck sweater.

US$630 rag-bone.com

CHLOÉ Woody small leathertrimmed linen-canvas tote with colourful stitching.

26cm wide.

US$1,100 chloe.com

EXPERIENCE SALUTE THE SUN

SHAY

From hatha, ashtanga or vinyasa yoga on the edge of a canyon in Oman at sunrise, to Thai hermit yoga overlooking the Andaman Sea in Phuket, Anantara offers a range of yoga styles and some unique locations in which to practice.

Guests at Anantara Quy Nhon Villas in Vietnam can take part in a morning yoga and meditation practice at the base of the Banh It Cham Towers, perched atop a hill with panoramic countryside views.

The wellness journey package continues back at the resort with a Tibetan singing bowl awakening and holistic treatments.

Boho Collection 18k rose gold rainbow eternity ring with diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and multicoloured sapphires, totalling 11cts.

US$5,140 shayjewelry.com

38

We create places where people feel they belong.

The Wolseley Hospitality Group comprises some of London’s best-loved restaurants with venues in the West End and local neighbourhoods.

T HE D EL AUNAY C OUNTER

www . thewolseleyhospitalitygroup . com

Inspire – Snow & Ice BOTTEGA VENETA New creative director Matthieu Blazy reimagines the brand’s intrecciato weaving for this ‘Cassette’ padded mirrored leather bag.

US$3,900 bottegaveneta.com

CHANEL CITY AND SKI, SALZBURG

Celebrating 100 years of the iconic fragrance named after Coco Chanel’s favourite number, the Eternal No.5 ring is set with a central diamond (0.25cts) and 19 diamonds (0.2cts) in 18K white gold.

US$8,200 chanel.com

With five ski resorts nearby, including the dual peaks of St Johann, the thermal baths and skiing at Bad Hofgastein, and arguably the most beautiful ski town in Europe, Kitzbuhel, you can combine a city-ski break at NH Collection Salzburg City hotel. The hotel is in the Andräviertel area, which offers a younger, funkier take on a city famed for beautifully-coloured baroque facades and Mozart. Schranne, the farmer’s market, is held each Thursday, plus there’s cult coffee from Café Wernbacher, and shopping in abundance to be enjoyed along both Getreidegasse and Linzergasse, along with plentiful mountain views.

CELINE Sleek, studded ski goggles embellished with silver studs and black and white webbing. US$630 celine.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Oriona 100 rubbertrimmed quilted metallic shell ankle boots with 100mm heel.

US$1,395 christianlouboutin.com

40

MONCLER Celebrating Moncler’s 70th anniversary, the Maya 70 Short Down Jacket in metallic nylon is the first to be released with the brand’s inaugural NFT on their app.

US$1,980 moncler.com

Inspire – Instagram @avani_hotels Located within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, @avaniluangprabang is best explored by foot just like @msforeveronvacation. @nuriagonzalez Grazie mille! the Duomo exactly 5 minutes walking – collaboration @nhcollection.

@tivolihotels As the sun goes down, the finest cocktails and vibes are served overlooking the ever charming Lisbon @skybarlisboa.

42

@te2ngkub Shake things up with some tasty cocktails from the @avanisamui Beverage Truck. The perfect treat in island paradise.

Inspire – Instagram @anantaradubai One of our suggestions of the top things to do on and around the Palm Jumeirah in the dynamic city of Dubai. @anantaradubai @skydivedubai @channa_khum exits @anantarabophut in style and is all set for the week after rejuvenating at our tropical hideaway.

@anantarajabalakhdar The inspiring @zainab.aleqabi creating unforgettable moments and sharing them with you.

@anantara_hotels Discover the best things to do in Amsterdam at @anantarakrasnapolsky.

43

Thailand Section header

44

Thailand

1,600km of Wonder FROM TOWERING KARSTS AND COLOURFUL SEAS TO ROLLING HILLTOPS AND INTERCONNECTED WATERWAYS – WE UNFOLD ADVENTURES ALONG SOME OF THAILAND’S RICH TOPOGRAPHICAL WONDERS. WORDS BY DAVID LUEKENS

C

enturies ago in Siam, foreign and its landlocked neighbour, Laos, travellers marvelled at towering celebrated independence 17 years later. cliffs of limestone, crystal turquoise Few wild tigers remain, and even the seas and dense jungles blanketing farthest-flung outposts are now accessible the mountains. They navigated by roads, railways and airports. Yet the a confusion of waterways that nourished one topography of these countries continues to of the most productive agricultural basins evoke adventure, just as it did for those early JUST AS THE RIVERS MEANDER FROM on the planet. So enchanted by the land travellers. and the people, some decided never to leave. and Avani hotels offer a NORTH TOAnantara SOUTH...

Back then, travelling in the region usually plethora of trips and activities that evoke this involved a methodical – and somewhat ‘golden age’ of travel. From the northern Thai mythical – journey by river or sea. When the and Lao mountains to the majestic Mekong water became too shallow for boats, voyagers River and the sublime islands of the south, continued on foot, often employing elephants each property was designed not only for or water buffalo to carry their cargo. Along maximum comfort with a graceful aesthetic, the overgrown trails, confronting a wild tiger but also to make it easy for guests to engage was a constant worry. with the surrounding landscapes and the Much has changed over the past century. people who call them home.

Siam updated its name to Thailand in 1932,

45

Thailand

46

Thailand

Elephants at the tip of Thailand Conical mountains form the southeastern foothills of the Himalayas amid the relatively cool climes of northern Thailand, where our journey begins. Draped in jungle and dotted with terraced rice paddies and tea farms, the highest Thai peaks reach above 2,500m.

Switchback lanes curve up and down many of their slopes, affording vistas of layered ridgelines.

Mist yawns off the hilltops as we lace up our boots for ‘Walk with Giants’, a programme that introduces guests to elephants in a humane way at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort.

Set near Thailand’s northernmost point, the property stretches to both the Ruak River within shouting distance of Myanmar, and the Mekong River across from Laos.

The camp is home to some 20 elephants rescued from street begging, illegal logging and abusive tourist sites, and now cared for by the non-profit Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation. Two of the residents, 17-year-old Da and 43-year-old Pum Pui, meaning ‘Plump Belly,’ have developed a touching relationship, says camp manager Laddawan ‘Ou’ Yonthantham.

“Da worked as a street-begging elephant in the city from the age of three,” she explains.

“Pum Pui also worked in street begging and was hit by a car, leaving her with a painful limp. Both are very scared of cars and trucks, and now they’re inseparable. If a car passes nearby, they trumpet back and forth as if to say, ‘I’m here with you! Don’t be scared!’”

We step into one of the resort’s extraordinary Jungle Bubbles as chillier air welcomes the twilight. Elephants freely saunter past our bubble’s circular shell made of stiff, high-tech polyester – so transparent that we feel like we’re outside while enjoying luxurious comforts within. After dark, we lie back and gaze halfway across the Milky Way, or so it seems.

Taming the Golden Triangle The borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar merge in this remote region, which was notorious for drug smuggling well into the 1980s. Back then, Thailand’s late King Bhumibol led a social outreach campaign that persuaded many hill tribes in the area to give up on growing opium and start cultivating alternative high-value crops, such as roses, arabica coffee, oolong tea and strawberries.

Affording tremendous views from its 1,389m hill station, Doi Tung now exemplifies this remarkable transition.

To reach it, jump in a sidecar attached to one of Anantara Golden Triangle’s Royal Enfield motorcycles, or ride in one of the classic Jeeps or tuk tuks.

47

Thailand

Loy Pela Voyages offer luxury barge cruises with personal chefs for up to eight guests that connect vibrant Bangkok with the rich history of Ayutthaya.

Where the Nam Ou (Ou River) and Mekong River meet,

The Kamu village of Ban Houy Phalam, along

Mekong Kingdoms cruises offer a range of river cruising

Pak Ou caves are filled with Buddha statues along the

the Mekong River, houses traditional weavers

options, including the beautifully-appointed, exclusive

winding staircases.

and scarf makers.

two-cabin, 41m Gypsy.

48

© Dominic Trier/unsplash, @southtownboy

Thailand

A Buddha head overgrown by a Banyan tree

A 100m pool sits within the central garden at

The 95m-high Big Buddha at the Wat Muang temple,

in the Ayutthaya historical park.

Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel.

Ang Thong, about 40km from Ayutthaya.

Down the Mekong

The watery cradle of Thai civilisation

From its origins as frigid water dripping off Tibetan glaciers to its final leg in the steamy delta of southern Vietnam, the 4,350km Mekong River has anchored civilisations for millennia in what we now know as Thailand, Laos and beyond. For more than 2,700km, the two countries share this life-bringing river.

We step aboard the 41m converted rice barge, Gypsy, from Huay Xai, Laos, located only 70km from where we dozed in Anantara’s elephant bubbles. Aboard we watch life pass us by as it has since time immemorial; an elderly woman’s iron pot steams out the scent of lemongrass as her companion uses a pestle to pound green papaya with fermented fish sauce, fresh lime juice and chillies, as chickens cluck nearby.

In Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city that brims with restored French-Colonial architecture and exquisite temples, we sip local Lao coffee amid the languid lanes. The city served as the capital of the once-powerful Lan Xang kingdom, we learn, from the 14th to 16th centuries.

In stunning mosaic, sculpture and lacquer, traces of Lan Xang artistry are everywhere.

With a heritage ambience that fits seamlessly into the heart of the old town, the balconies of the Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel provides a perfect vantage point to enjoy the dusk light as it casts a tropical glow over the golden spire of nearby Phou Si, the ‘sacred hill.’ Lan Xang monarchs once climbed its slopes to bow before gilded images of the Buddha.

As our journey through the dense jungles and the main artery of Thailand draws to an end, we settle into the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort and watch banana-shaped longtail boats zip across a bustling stretch of the Chao Phraya River. After a pleasurable talk with the concierge, we find ourselves cruising on a guided boat tour the next morning.

We find that an older way of life persists among the many khlongs, or canals, that reach west from downtown Bangkok into the Thonburi part of town. Donning a straw hat, a woman rows her sampan over to our longtail boat to offer a bundle of fresh bananas. Boat vendors like her are still relatively common in Thonburi, even as skytrain stations now overshadow the khlongs in places.

“Some families still take their kids to school by boat,” says Waiyawit ‘Diamond’ Thongserm, a Khlong Guru employed by Anantara. He points out households where the families produce fish sauce, shrimp paste and pickled vegetables, accounting for the powerful scents that grab the air. From the drooping stoop of one house, a boy tosses rice kernels to the catfish.

Back at the resort we climb into a luxury barge, the Loy River Song, and churn up the Chao Phraya River to Ayutthaya. From the 14th century to 1767, when a Burmese invasion forced the Siamese to move their capital 80km south to Bangkok, Ayutthaya stood as one of Asia’s largest cities. Its skyline of twinkling gold spires impressed many early travellers.

Two more rivers – the Lopburi and the Pasak – meet the Chao Phraya to encircle Ayutthaya’s riverine island, where the ruins of palaces and religious monuments tower beside modern Thai markets and schools.

Old teak houses, Buddha images, mosques, churches and Chinese shrines combine to hint at the cultural diversity that defined this city centuries ago.

Jumping in one of Ayutthaya’s signature frog-shaped tuk tuks, we head out of town to climb the 14th-century Chedi Phu Khao Thong. From the upper platform of this towering cone-shaped edifice, we gaze over bright-green rice paddies dissected by khlongs. In the distance, water buffalo relax as white herons drive their long beaks into the mud. A farmer naps, his bare feet protruding from a thatched hut.

To round off the day, we lie down for a Thai massage – an ancient healing method recognised by UNESCO in 2019 as ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.’

Carefully applied pressure releases bodily stress as we reflect on how, in the landscapes we’ve seen, a sense of continuity reaches through time.

49

© Engin Akyurt, Vagabiond , Andrzej Suwara/unsplash

Thailand

Above: James Bond Island is accessible by day trip.

Left: Koh Mae Koh lagoon.

Right: Some of the 42 protected islands, collectively known as Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park. ‘Ang Thong’ means ‘Golden Bowl.’

50

Thailand

Clockwise: Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort; Infinity pool at Avani+ Samui Resort; Longtail boat at Avani+ Samui Resort.

Into a karst archipelago Our journey now takes us from land to sea, yet the presence of towering jungles and densely-packed greenery remain a constant in our vista, if only to throw cooling shade while relaxing.

Off the large island of Koh Samui in southern Thailand, the wind pulls our chartered sailboat into a magnificent chain of 42 protected islands, collectively known as Ang Thong or ‘Golden Bowl’. Cliffs begin to dwarf our boat, concealing sea caves as a school of angelfish saunter past.

We dig our toes into powdery coral sand before ascending to a viewpoint set over a lagoon, rimmed on all sides by vertical limestone. Here in the lagoon of Koh Mae Koh, the water shines like molten emerald and jade.

These karst massifs originated as coral reefs, we learn, which petrified into limestone after tectonic movements thrust them above sea level more than 200 million years ago. They were once part of a colossal reef system that splotched the region from modern Sumatra to southern China. Look closely – ancient seashells and marine fossils are still embedded in the rock.

Back on Koh Samui we enjoy the private plunge pool fronting our sleek villa at Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort. After watching sunrise over the Gulf of Thailand the next morning, we hop in an open-topped Jeep and rumble past rubber trees lined up in neat rows amid the island’s rolling inland groves. A coconut falls with a plunk, freed from its branch by the salty breeze.

51

Thailand

Avani+ Khao Lak Resort (left) A family of False Clown Anemonefish

©Richard Whitcombe/Shutterstock

(Amphiprion ocellaris), Similan Islands

Meeting the sea turtles Venturing over to the west coast of Thailand’s portion of the Malay Peninsula, the last of our adventures await, this time beneath the sea.

We check into the Avani+ Khao Lak Resort for a sunset-facing outlook along a stretch of the Andaman coastline that immediately soothes us to the bone.

Occasionally visited by nesting leatherback sea turtles, an endangered species that ranks as the world’s largest turtle, Khao Lak’s golden sands extend for miles before disappearing into vast mangrove forests, which can be explored by kayak.

Stepping onto the beach that fronts our pool villa, we spot a family in the distance building sandcastles on an otherwise empty stretch of sand.

Snorkels in hand, we hop in a speedboat and cruise out to the Similan Islands,

52

a petite archipelago where silky white sand embraces crystalline water that is ideal for diving and snorkelling. On Koh Miang we hike up to a boulder, known as Donald Duck Rock, that appears to balance atop a cliff and affords a dazzling view of boats and snorkellers dotting the Andaman below.

Along with many other Thai islands that have been folded into Thailand’s 26 national marine parks, the Similans’ officially protected status keeps them safe for wildlife.

Dusky leaf monkeys swing through undisturbed forests, where you might also spot a rare Nicobar pigeon or collared kingfisher.

For many visitors, the vibrant underwater world is the highlight. Ranging in colour from hot pink to ice blue, coral grows in the shapes of mushrooms, bubbles and brains amid reefs

that extend throughout the island chain.

Hunting the tropical fish are black-tip reef sharks, leopard sharks and the largest shark species of all, the whale shark. Fortunately, all three of these species are just as gentle as the green sea turtles that swim past slowly, delighting our group of snorkellers.

From winding through hilly jungles by motorbike and sidecar to greet elephants, to cruising the vast rivers by barge, longtail boat and khlongs that connect ancient cultures and bustling cities, to the white sand and turquoise invitation the oceans offer above and below the horizon, this topographical journey is complete.

Thailand

HOUSEBOATS AND BARGES

© Tan Kaninthanond/unsplash, Try_my_best/Shutterstock

In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, wooden houseboats once sat moored to the riverbanks as permanent, mobile residences.

Common in their day, they made it easy for occupants to catch fish, take baths and do laundry using the water flowing beneath their feet. A step up from the houseboat in terms of size was the rice barge (pictured), typically a teak vessel with a broad sloped bow, wide storage belly and cabins on deck for the merchant and crew. Though houseboats and rice barges have all but disappeared, the waterborne ways they represent remain an important aspect of Thai culture.

BANG KOK OR BANG KOH?

SPIRIT OF THE LONGTAIL BOAT

MANY FACES OF THE TUK TUK

Thai people refer to their capital city as Krung Thep Mahanakorn, meaning ‘Sacred City of Angels,’ but the older name, Bangkok, has stuck among foreigners. Many historians believe this name combines bang, meaning ‘village close to water,’ with makok, an olive-like fruit that is known to have grown in the area long ago. Khlong Guru Diamond suggests an alternative view, pointing out that a canal dug in the early 16th century shortened the path of the Chao Phraya River and created a riverine island, or koh in Thai. Part of Thonburi today, the original settlement that materialised on this island might have called itself Bang Koh, ‘Village of the Island.’ Over centuries of mispronunciation by foreigners, this easily could have resolved into the name, Bangkok.

Found in various parts of Thailand and Laos, most of these slender and agile vessels are powered by modified truck engines attached to long steel tails with propellers at the end. To steer, drivers use their own strength to glide the tail through the water.

Some longtail boats, or rua hang yao in Thai, are made from the sturdy wood of the thong takien tree, in which a feminine spirit is believed to dwell. This spirit is thought to transfer into the bow of each finished boat, explaining why colourful ribbons are often tied there in her honour. The best longtail boats are so sturdy that, with regular maintenance, they can keep cutting the waves for a century or more.

Not all of these motorised tricycles, the signature road vehicles of Thailand, are made equal. In Bangkok they come compact with a seat for three passengers behind the driver. In the northeast they’re powered by the front half of a motorcycle, complete with chopper-style handlebars.

In Ayutthaya and parts of the south, the tuk tuks resemble frogs with bulging fronts.

Sukhothai flips the design, placing passengers up front and drivers seated behind. Larger four-wheeled tuk tuks with seating on two sides, fitting up to six passengers, are common in Phuket and Hua Hin. Then there are the personalised modifications, from thumping sound systems to flashing lights and imaginative paint jobs. No trip to Thailand would be complete without a tuk tuk ride.

53

Paradise Dreams Section header

Paradise Dreams OWN A PIECE OF PARADISE AND SHARE MOMENTS TOGETHER WITH THOSE CLOSE TO YOU. WORDS BY KAREN MARTIN

54

Paradise SectionDreams header

Layan Residences

by Anantara

55

Paradise Dreams

W

ith the world open to travel, guests are exploring with a renewed appreciation for what it means to spend quality time with family and friends.

An increasing number of people are opting for a fresh take on family-friendly getaways: owning a piece of paradise to call home – and sharing it with those close to them.

Over the events of the past couple of years, there’s been a palpable sense of isolation away from family and friends which has given many a renewed appreciation

56

of how time is precious and the importance of sharing travels and creating memories with our nearest and dearest. Multigenerational trips are enjoying a resurgence as extended families are seeking locations to experience together. The extended family holiday is about finding a place to gather with loved ones, in an idyllic location away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Holidays with friends are no different.

Connecting with friends has been prioritised and group trips provide the perfect opportunity to make new memories under

Paradise Dreams

Layan Residences

by Anantara Wake up to panoramic views of the Andaman (left), and enjoy intimate private dining (right).

the same roof. These ‘friendtrips’ involve minimal planning and instead focus on the company you keep. The heart of this style of togetherness holiday is the residence itself, serving as a base from which to explore, before returning to restore and reconnect.

In addition, the rise in remote working means more and more people are now choosing to split their time not only between the office and home, but also with a holiday destination or second home.

This recent shift in the way we live, work and play has resulted in an emerging demand

for second properties in family-friendly locales. Buyers are looking for exclusive holiday homes that accommodate multigenerational families and customisable living spaces that fit the needs of a growing family – but with the added benefits of offering a spacious sanctuary to couples and small families while enjoying myriad luxuries of five-star resorts within their private spaces.

Just as important is the draw to be closer to nature, with an abundance of outdoor space and opportunities for adventure experiences nearby.

57

Paradise Dreams

The elegant living space in the four-bedroom, two-storey villa leads out to an expansive deck and infinity pool.

Desaru Coast A perfect example of such a location, which is included in Time magazine’s 2021 list of World’s Greatest Places, is Malaysia’s Desaru Coast on the Malay Peninsula. It has emerged as a desirable off-the-beaten-track destination for travellers and property buyers alike, lauded as “an ambitious new resort area offering some of Malaysia’s most coveted luxury bolt-holes”.

So what does owning a residence offer?

Anantara Desaru Coast Residences are nestled into the contours of the land, with 20 three- and four-bedroom residences designed as luxurious family-friendly sanctuaries ranging in size from 288m2 to 597m2 . The serene private infinity pool is the focus point of each property, leading out to scenic ocean views, wide open spaces and easy access to a range of outdoor activities.

Outside, lush gardens are filled with native foliage to enhance privacy and create a sense of tranquil seclusion, and flat ‘green’ roofs allow for local flora to grow across the top and integrate within the landscape.

58

Inside, the design employs a timeless aesthetic that pays tribute to local traditions and culture. Interiors make use of natural materials and colours – a matte beige stone floor, brown and grey wood, and textured fabric that evokes the hues and textures of Desaru Coast’s sandy beaches and palm trees.

The area’s coastal heritage and historic roots as a fishing village provide further inspiration, with furniture and decorative elements that hint at fishing nets, the deep cerulean blue of the ocean and weathered wood. Indeed, the residences come fullyfurnished with customisable living spaces.

Owning a residence offers the comfort and permanence of home coupled with the exceptional management, maintenance and amenities of a five-star resort, such as the beachside Sea.Fire.Salt. restaurant, elevated Observatory Bar, resort swimming pools and the Anantara Spa. As well as the resort’s facilities, owners have access to private, on-demand services from the resort’s chefs, sommeliers, butlers and wellness practitioners. That means big get-togethers can be completely taken care

of, with private yoga sessions and inresidence spa treatments the day after.

Desaru Coast itself offers a variety of family-friendly experiences ranging from world-class golfing at The Els Club’s two championship courses and family fun at Adventure Waterpark – one of the largest waterparks in the world – to scenic coastal cycling trips to Sedili or to Batu Layar Beach, as well as kitesurfing, sport fishing and other watersports off Desaru Coast Beach.

The area’s rich biodiversity lends itself to a variety of nature experiences, including encounters with endangered wildlife in Sedili Wetlands; eco tours, hiking and bird watching at the Sungai Belungkor Forest Reserve – home to a quarter of the world’s mangrove species; and sunset excursions at Kota Tinggi Firefly Park, which runs through a protected firefly habitat.

Within easy reach from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur by land and air, Desaru Coast is an hour’s drive from Malaysia’s Senai International Airport. The recent opening of the Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal connects

Paradise Dreams

A view of white sands and cerulean waters beyond the 45-hole golfing paradise designed by golfing legend, Ernie Els – The Els Club (above), Desaru.

Sumptuous dining room leading to the infinity pool at the four-bedroom Beach Residence, Desaru.

Spa treatments at Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas (below).

the destination to Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, further boosting travel from and to Singapore, Indonesia and beyond.

Anantara Desaru Coast Residences are the latest in a portfolio of residences available for ownership. Anantara’s first residences in Phuket, Thailand garnered not only accolades, but also set the tone for multiple ownership opportunities. Now this rich portfolio includes further residences in Phuket as well as Bali and Dubai.

Owners have the option of putting their property into a flexible, resort-managed rental programme when not in residence.

Travel by private jet More than the backdrop to an ultimate Instagram selfie, what better way to travel together than by private jet?

Travelling to and from your destination is an integral part of the holiday experience and chartering a private jet elevates your entire trip.

As well as benefits such as avoiding multiple queues at airports, private aviation is overall a much more personal and comfortable experience.

Renowned for its bespoke services to its private jet charter clients, MJets provides each of its guests an intuitive, discreet and impeccable experience. mjets.com

59

Paradise Dreams

DESARU IN DETAIL Arranged on one level, the open-plan layout of the three-bedroom villas connects three en-suite bedrooms with living and dining spaces and the expansive deck and infinity pool. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow plenty of natural light and stunning views.

Three-Bedroom Pool Villas Set over one level, all the bedrooms are en-suite in this elegant open-plan villa which maximises the balance of spacious indoor-outdoor living with a total of 841m2, including 288m2 of interior space. Floor-toceiling windows bring in bountiful natural light, while wide doors invite residents to the expansive deck and infinity pool.

Four-Bedroom Pool Villas The four-bedroom terrace villas offer the option of single or two storey living; two-storey villas feature separate entrances for the ground and upper living spaces.

The ground floor features three en-suite bedrooms and a spacious indoor-outdoor living and dining area, as well as a private wellness room equipped with a treadmill and spa-grade massage bed – which could also be converted into an office, home cinema or an additional bedroom.

Upstairs is the opulent master bedroom and a vast entertainment space comprising a dining room and lounge, a mini theatre and a library, boasting 180˚ views of the ocean. Beachfront four-bedroom villas boast direct beach access.

Owners and residents enjoy full access to Anantara Desaru Coast Resort & Villas’ multi-award-winning gourmet restaurants, spa and leisure facilities, including the elevated Observatory Bar offering 360˚ views of the resort and ocean, as well as an extensive range of top vintages and spirits, and imported cigars. anantaradesaru-residences.com

60

Paradise Dreams

LUXURIOUS RESIDENCES IN BALI & PHUKET

BALI, INDONESIA

PHUKET, THAILAND

Elevated on stilts above the banks of a river valley overlooking lush tropical forest, Anantara Ubud Bali Villas is home to 15 luxurious one- and two-bedroom residences, each with its own private swimming pool.

Located only 20 minutes from Phuket’s international airport, Layan Residences by Anantara is a boutique collection of 15 private pool villas ranging from 1,695m2 to 3,195m2.

Each has been uniquely designed in contemporary Thai style and features one-of-a-kind panoramic views of the Andaman Sea.

Elegantly furnished, accentuated by indigenous details and bathed in light, the spacious living and dining space flows directly out to the deck and the en-suite bedrooms open out onto the infinity swimming pool, with unobstructed views over the forested hillside beyond.

The villas are within walking distance of the five-star facilities of Anantara Ubud Bali Resort and minutes away from the cultural and natural treasures of Ubud. anantaraubud-residences.com

Top: Avadina Hills by Anantara.

Below: Infinity pool and yoga studio, Layan Residences by Anantara.

Next door on 40 acres of land, Avadina Hills by Anantara offers 11 ultra-luxury residences ranging in size from 2,452m2 to 3,373m2. Elegantly minimalist, the design draws inspiration from the Japanese heritage of co-developer Kajima.

All villas feature one or two expansion floors for additional guest suites and bespoke wellness or entertainment spaces, fully customisable to suit each owner’s lifestyle.

Management, maintenance and services are provided by the adjacent five-star Anantara Layan Phuket Resort and its residential team. Amenities include a private beach and beach club, Thai and international fine dining, award-winning Anantara Spa, kids’ club, helipad and boat tender drop-off point, as well as wellness facilities comprising swimming pools, a fitness centre, tennis court and Muay Thai boxing ring. layanresidences-anantara.com avadinahills.com

61

Explore More

62

Explore More

Explore More DISCOVER THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SMELLS OF A TRIO OF DESTINATIONS – BRAZIL, ITALY AND NEW YORK – WITH ENGAGING ITINERARIES AND DELICIOUS DINING DESIGNED TO DELIGHT.

© Arno Partissimo, Marcos Paulo Prado/unsplash

WORDS BY KAREN MARTIN & STEVE PEAPLE

63

© @calcadaourbanoide, @angelodalbo, @donamariquita, Jonathan Borba/unsplash

Explore More – Brazil

64

Explore More – Brazil

BRAZIL

W

hat better country to kick off a celebration of travel than with the contagiously joyous Brazil? Our Brazilian trip takes us on a culinary journey, from the fine dining and street eats of São Paulo to the authentic Afro-Brazilian culture and food of Bahia.

Clockwise: Maní restaurant; Bahia coastline; Vatapá tasting paddle at Dona Mariquita, Bahia; Eclectic street eats at Calçadão Urbanoide.

São Paulo With a plethora of high-end restaurants and signature regional dishes by celebrated Brazilian chefs, vibrant São Paulo is known as the Latin American capital of fine cuisine.

In the high-end Jardins area, acclaimed restaurant D.O.M. (Rua Barão de Capanema 549) boasts two Michelin stars and a long-standing spot in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Famed for his 12-course ‘Maximus’ tasting menu, renowned chef Alex Atala incorporates traditional Brazilian ingredients into all his dishes, such as jambu, a flowering herb that has a cooling effect on the mouth, and tucupi, a sauce made from the juice of the manioc root.

In the nearby leafy Jardim Paulistano district, Maní (Rua Joaquim Antunes 210) serves up contemporary cuisine rooted in Brazilian ingredients with Asian and European influences. With one Michelin star, the sophisticated creations of multi-awardwinning chef Helena Rizzo include peixe na folha de bananeira, fish in banana leaf, served with coconut, chillies, plantain and tucupi sauce.

A bit further out, in a northeastern district of the city, Mocotó (Avenida Nossa Senhora do Lorêto 1100, Vila Medeiros) is well worth the journey. Founded by Zé Almeida in the 1970s and now run by his son Rodrigo Oliveira, the restaurant specialises in northeast Brazilian classics, such as baião de dois, a rice and beans dish roasted with coalho cheese, sausage, bacon and jerked beef.

At the other end of the scale, São Paulo also offers up an unmissable array of delicious street food. There are vendors all over the city but Calçadão Urbanoide just off Rua Augusta is a great place to start for an eclectic mix of street eats. Coxinha (deep-fried croquette of shredded chicken and cheese in breadcrumbs) and pão de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread) are two of the most popular light bites.

A short walk away, in the Jardins neighbourhood, Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo Hotel is the ideal base to explore all the city has to offer before retreating to the hotel bar on the 23rd floor for an unmatched view of the São Paulo skyline.

Now that you’ve had a taste of Brazil’s largest and most diverse city, it’s time to head north to the state of Bahia, known for its deep African roots.

Bahia Bahia’s Afro-Brazilian culture permeates everything from the music and art to the architecture and cuisine.

Here, in Brazil’s former capital Salvador – known as the ‘capital of joy’ due to its week-long Carnival celebrations – you’ll find Baianas, Afro-Brazilian women who have historically sold food on the streets of the city since colonial times. Be sure to try the acarajé, a type of fritter made with mashed black-eyed peas.

The Bahia region is also the best place to sample moqueca baiana (Brazilian seafood stew) prepared with garlic, onions, peppers, parsley, tomato paste, coconut milk and dendê (palm) oil, then served with white rice, often cooked in coconut milk.

Other Bahian dishes to try include a similar but thicker and spicier dish with peanuts called vatapá, and bobó de camarão, made with prawns mixed in a paste of manioc, dendê oil, and coconut milk.

Bahia’s beauty A stay at Tivoli Ecoresort Praia do Forte Bahia, north of Salvador, will allow you to experience the vibrancy of the city before retreating into the natural beauty of Bahia, close to the Atlantic Forest reserves, whale-watching areas, coral reefs and beaches where sea turtles hatch.

Experiences available at the hotel include a buggy tour across the Sapiranga Reserve, quad biking the Pajuca River trail, a speedboat tour of the Itacimirim tidal pool, and whale watching (between July and October).

65

© lecesarine.com / Mikita Yo, Andrea Cairone/unsplash

Explore More – Italy

66

Explore More – Italy

ITALY

N

eapolitan ice cream is the ideal metaphor for exploring a trio of Italian experiences. Our journey takes in Milan, Firenze (Florence) and the Amalfi Coast, which is a short skip from Naples – home of that fabulous creamy delight.

Milan Known as Italy’s fashion and finance capital, Milan is also revered for its regional cuisine, with many recipes that go back centuries being just as popular today.

Dating back to the 12th century, one of Milan’s oldest traditional dishes is cotoletta alla Milanese, a tender veal cutlet coated in crispy breadcrumbs and fried in butter.

Ossobuco (marrowbone) is another typical delicacy of Milanese cuisine.

It’s traditionally prepared with gremolada, a finely-ground paste of sautéed parsley, garlic and lemon zest, and often served with risotto alla Milanese, another iconic local dish made with saffron.

Learn to cook ossobuco, risotto alla Milanese and more with a local, certified home cook while in Milan. Cesarine (cesarine.com) offers cooking classes and tasting sessions in a local family home, and every ‘Cesarina’ creates their own menu to showcase their regional and family recipes.

Once you’re fully sated, NH Collection Milano CityLife offers a comfortable and stylish place to rest your head. Perfectly reflecting the city’s mix of traditional and modern, the newly opened hotel in the CityLife district was formerly a church.

Many of the original features have been tastefully retained and are beautifully complemented by new installations, such as the rooftop swimming pool, which provides panoramic views over the city.

Florence Moving south from the Lombardy region down to Tuscany, Florence (or Firenze in Italian) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and regarded as the cradle of the Renaissance.

Said to be the oldest hotel in Italy, NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa in the historic heart of Florence is a fusion of old and new. Set in a 16th-century building incorporating a 13th-century tower, many of the rooms feature stunning frescoes and restored pieces from the 19th century. The Torre Monalda Suite is set in the historic tower with panoramic views over the city.

With a nod to the past, much of modern Florentine cuisine is still very earthy and rustic. Dishes are often simple but prepared with care, and local and seasonal produce

All truffle experience Experience truffle hunting and cooking in the heart of Tuscany at Savini Tartufi headquarters, about 45 minutes’ drive from Florence. Beginning in the Savini museum, you’ll discover the Savini family’s truffle history from the 1920s until today. You’re then taken out to the woods where you’ll see the relationship between the truffle hunter and their loyal master truffle dog. Once the search is complete it’s time to head back inside for a cooking class, where the chef will teach you how to use both fresh and preserved truffles in a few classic dishes.

The tour culminates with lunch, allowing you to taste some of the produce and fresh truffles of the season. savinitartufi.it

67

© Josh Hild, Jackie Jabson/unsplash

Explore More – Italy

play an important part. Truffles from Tuscany – among the most sought after in the world – are used in many signature Florentine dishes, and different varieties grow in different seasons.

The marzuolo (spring truffle) can be found between January and April; the scorzone (summer black truffle) usually somewhere between June and November; and the prized white truffle from around September to December.

It’s these truffles, along with locally sourced porcini mushrooms and fresh pasta, that make up one of the most ubiquitous dishes in Florence – tagliatelle funghi porcini e tartufo.

However, the most famous signature dish in Florence is probably bistecca alla Fiorentina, or Florentine steak. The large T-bone traditionally comes from Tuscany’s ancient breed of cattle, the Chianina.

It’s grilled over charcoal, seasoned very simply and is meant to be shared.

Amalfi Coast Further south now and onto another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast – best known for its spectacular views, picturesque villages, and, of course, its cuisine.

Scialatielli all’amalfitana is a seafood pasta dish usually featuring clams, mussels, prawns and/or cuttlefish, and prepared with scialatielli, a special pasta variety from the Amalfi region resembling a shorter, thicker tagliatelle.

But it’s not only seafood dishes that the region is known for. Another traditional recipe, bucatini alla caporalessa, hails from Positano and consists of bucatini pasta (a thicker, hollow spaghetti) with aubergine, provola cheese, peeled tomatoes, olives, capers, basil, and grated Parmigiano Reggiano.

If you want to take an authentic taste of the region home with you, Amalfi Heaven Gardens (amalfigardens.com) offers

a farm-to-table cooking class experience, where you can hand-pick fresh ingredients and create a four-course meal before sitting down to enjoy it with a glass of local wine or Amalfi Coast limoncello. Recipes are emailed to you after the class so you can recreate them at home.

Just along the coastline from here is an unmissable place to stay. A former 13th-century Capuchin monastery, NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi enjoys a dramatic location on a cliff edge overlooking the famous coastline along with a fascinating history.

NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi.

68

© Andre Benz/unsplash

Explore More – New York

NEW YORK

Y

ou could spend a lifetime in New York and still not see it all. We base ourselves in Midtown Manhattan along Madison Avenue, which runs parallel between 5th and Park.

With nods to the golden age of advertising, NH Collection New York Madison Avenue was voted North America’s most ‘Instagrammable’ hotel in 2022 by Luxury Travel Advisor – quite likely due to anything from its stylish lobby and designer rooms to its photogenic cocktails. With tall windows and high ceilings, exposed brick walls and on-trend sputnik light fittings, the penthouse terrace suites are the most Insta-worthy.

Located at Madison Avenue and 38th Street, the hotel is about as central as it gets.

The century-old building is within walking distance – and New York is a superb city to enjoy by foot – to some of Manhattan’s main attractions, such as the Empire State Building, Times Square and the theatre district, including Broadway.

Go big For some, a visit to the Big Apple wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the atmosphere of a live sports event. New York is one of the few regions in the country that has one or more teams in every major sports league – with 11 teams in total spanning baseball, basketball, football, hockey, and soccer.

Catch an NBA game with the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden or the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. The NBA also has the G-League, where you can see the players of the future battle it out. Baseball is synonymous with the USA, and you can get an insider’s tour and watch an MLB game with the New York Mets at Citi Field, NYC, or the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.

For a fix of NFL, the 82,500 capacity MetLife Stadium, while technically in New Jersey, is home to both New York Jets and New York Giants, and offers stadium and behind-the-scenes tours.

Delightful dining The Infatuation offers well-written, insightful restaurant reviews across the world, but New York is where they started. Quirky specifics such as ‘eat & drink with your dog’ sit alongside neighbourhood-specific recommendations of white table fine dining, rooftop bars, BBQ restaurants, and the latest food trends. theinfatuation.com

69

Explore More – New York Clockwise: Color Factory ball pit.

Mmuseumm, New York’s smallest, most interesting space.

Harlem Pizza Co. uses locally sourced, seasonal produce.

Go small While the city is justly famed for its huge Broadway theatrical shows, and world-class large-scale museums, there’s a plethora of smaller exhibition spaces that offer superb experiences. Start with the very smallest – Mmuseumm – a quirky ex-freight elevator turned white box, which displays simple artifacts that explore modern humanity.

Next, head to Soho for the immersive Color Factory, which engages the full spectrum of senses, then wander over to the nearby New York City Fire Museum, which houses historic artifacts along with personal stories. In Tribeca, grab a selfie in front of the Firehouse, Hook & Ladder Company 8 building, used in all the Ghostbuster movies.

For a delightful entrée into New York’s diverse food culture, head to the Museum of Food and Drink (MoFad), which celebrates the myriad cultural and societal diversities that inspire New York’s food scene.

70

©Halrem Pizza

© Color Factory

© Mmuseum

@harlempizzaco

MoMA Store The MoMA Store at the Museum of Modern Art in Midtown Manhattan is a superb place for gifts, all beautifully designed.

NY Yankees baseball cap.

Chosen as one of 111 exhibits for the exhibition, Is Fashion Modern?

US$58 The Keith Haring Lovebox connects to WiFi so you can send messages and photos to someone you love from anywhere in the world via your smart device.

US$189

© Bushwick Collective

Explore More – New York

Harlem’s soul food

Street art, Bushwick Collective.

From its humble beginnings in the

Go by foot Taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture and history of a place. In New York, Free Tours

by Foot (freetoursbyfoot.com) offer pay-whatyou-like tours of the city led by expert local guides. Here are three of our favourites: Bushwick Collective street art tour The neighbourhood of Bushwick in Brooklyn has become known for its evergrowing graffiti and street art exhibition, the Bushwick Collective. It was founded in 2012 by Joseph Ficalora to transform the industrial streets into a safe and hip outdoor gallery with constantly changing aerosol murals. You can navigate the area yourself, or book on a tour if you’d like to learn more about the artists and artwork.

Lower East Side food tour Once an immigrant and working-class neighbourhood, Manhattan’s Lower East Side is known for its blend of cultural diversity and rich history, and is best known for having once been a centre of Jewish culture. On this tour you’ll stop at different delis, bakeries and other eateries that chart the global influences on the neighbourhood through its food while your guide fills you in on the fascinating history of the area.

Harlem walking tour Harlem caught the public’s attention in the 1920s with the Harlem Renaissance – an explosion of African-American culture, particularly the creative arts. On this tour, discover jazz clubs, theatres, and soul food restaurants tucked away among old brownstones and learn about Harlem’s history as you stroll the streets where Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and other cutting-edge Harlem Renaissance players put American music on the world map.

southern United States, the history of soul food tells a story of resilience.

Signature dishes include fried chicken, ribs, collard greens, potato salad, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, smoked ham hocks and peach cobbler. Sylvia’s Harlem Restaurant on Lenox Avenue/Malcolm X Boulevard is an iconic culinary must-visit for foodies. She’s been serving up authentic soul food for more than 50 years, including Gospel brunch Sundays, live music Wednesdays and love on a plate at all times. sylviasrestaurant.com

71

Sundowner

SUNDOWNER ZAMBIA For a taste of Zambia’s local history and natural wonders, Travellers Bar at The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel

by Anantara offers a signature cocktail menu inspired by the country’s culture, traditions and wildlife.

Be sure to try the ‘Big Tree’, named after the largest baobab in Zambia. The tipple is made with Mundambi Gin – produced by the New Harbour Distillery in Cape Town especially for the hotel and infused with the native Mundambi flower – expertly blended with Campari, sweet vermouth, blackberry, and baobab bitters.

72

SUNDOWNER MALDIVES The classic G&T enjoys many twists across the world, from Australia’s Fossey’s Kaffir Leaf Gin, which imbues tropical flavours from Asia with citrus and florals, to English-countryside inspired Chase Distillery’s Rhubarb & Bramley Apple Gin. Pick from a curated selection of some 40 different gins at the Manzaru poolside bar at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas, including Isle of Harris sugar kelp infused gin and their Cucumber-Basil Fizz (pictured) made with London Dry Gin, Thai basil, cucumber water, lemon, honey and soda.