R&C2012

Our Innkeepers’ Guide to Discovering Asia 2012-2013 Greater China, Japan, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia Malaysia, Singapore, Bali, India & Sri Lanka

Escape for an extra night* with American Express American Express Centurion and Platinum Cardmembers enjoy complimentary night* and exclusive privileges when they stay at participating Relais & Châteaux hotels throughout the world.

Whether it’s the allure of an opulent Seventeenth Century Château near the vineyards of Burgundy, a beach house in Bali, or a romantic break on a country estate nearer to home, you’ll enjoy it even more with a special welcome.

It’s just one more reason to experience the unique character and art de vivre of a Relais & Châteaux escape.

Centurion Privileges

• Stay 3 Pay 2 or Stay 4 Pay 3 • VIP welcome on arrival • Discovery Privilege: Wine Tasting, a cookery class, golf or spa privilege for example.

Platinum Privileges

• Stay 3 Pay 2 or Stay 4 Pay 3 • VIP welcome on arrival

In addition, enjoy a Suite Experience** at selected properties at 15% discount

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*Offers apply on a consecutive night’s stay . **Suite Experience is applicable on a Suite room type booking and discount applicable based on rack rates. Offers valid in a selection of participating properties for all reservations made with the American Express® Centurion Travel & Lifestyle Service or The Platinum Card Service. Offers may not be combined with other promotions. Reservations must be made at least 72 hours prior to arrival and are subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. Offers are subject to the booking and cancellation conditions of each individual property. Offer valid 3 for stays up to 30th December 2012. American Express International, Inc. and the business establishment(s) reserve the right to change the terms & conditions at any time without prior notice.

SECTION

index

INDEX PAGE

Information and Reservations

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A word from the Chairman of the Board of Relais & Ch창teaux

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A note form the Editor

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The World of Relais & Ch창teaux

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Journeys in Greater China

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Journeys in Japan

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Journeys in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia

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Journeys in Malaysia, Singapore

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Journeys in Bali

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Journeys in India

190

Journeys in Sri Lanka

228

Photo Credits

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Village of Serralunga d’Alba - Alt. 421 m. a.s.l.

Located at an altitude of over 400 meters overlooking the village of Serralunga, the soil on the south-eastern slope has a high clayey marl content, producing wines packed with extract, alcohol and bouquet, while the south-west slope has sandy infiltrations which lighten the structure, making it more suitable for the production of fragrant white wines.

Information and reservations Discover and book Relais & Châteaux properties 1) Internet www.relaischateaux.com 2) By calling our Central Reservation offices. you are calling from the following countries, please dial:

Europe France Austria, Benelux, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland & United Kingdom Spain Italy Russia, Kazakhstan Ukraine The Americas United States, Canada Spanish-speaking South America Brazil Mexico Asia-Pacific Japan China Hong Kong Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia Thailand & other Asian countries India Australia New Zealand

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La Morra, Barolo, Monforte d’Alba e Serralunga d’Alba

Visit our Maisons des Relais & Châteaux *€0.15/min ** Toll-free numbers ***0.15 CNY/min (number available in China only) 0 825 32 32 32 * 00 800 2000 00 02 ** +34 93 317 66 33 +39 02 6269 0064 +7 495 969 33 31 +7 727 250 85 68 +38 044 272 50 67

France 58/60 rue de Prony, 75017 Paris

information and reservations

Vineyard Boscareto in Serralunga d’Alba

rc-paris@relaischateaux.com

UNITED KINGDOM 10 Beauchamp, Place London SW3 1NQ rc-uk@relaischateaux.com

NORTH AMERICA 10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022 rc-usa@relaischateaux.com

1 800 735 2478 ** +54 11 4326 3861 +55 11 3255 2324 +52 55 5705 1717 +81 3 5472 6789 4000 860 658*** 800 905767 ** 1 800 733 2460 ** +66 2258 5060 1 800 222442 ** 1 300 121341*** 0800 540 008***

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Dear Friends,

Appreciation through perfection.

Appreciation through perfection.

If your heart’s desire is to experience something new at every step of your journey, you have chosen the finest way in the world to travel—Relais & Châteaux.

SCHOTT ZWIESEL is the world market leader in top-class bars, Offering more than just a collection of charming hotels and gourmet restaurants, the 518 Relais hotels and restaurants. Patented Tritan®crystal glass is&brilliant, Châteaux properties in 60 countries provide an opportunity to celebrate all the senses. These Maîtres de Maison and Grands Chefs strive towards excellence, as seen in the meticulous attention highly break-resistant and dishwasher safe. Deliver perfect funcpaid to every single detail and their passion to present the sophistication of a particular place with tion and distinctive design.

SCHOTT ZWIESEL is the world market leader in top-class bars, hotels and restaurants. Patented Tritan®crystal glass is brilliant, highly break-resistant and dishwasher safe. Deliver perfect function and distinctive design.

a word from the CHAIRMAN

A word from the Chairman of the Board of Relais & Châteaux

great effect.

You have in your hands a guide featuring the finest hotels and restaurants in Asia. Just imagine— 32 destinations and 39 opportunities to dine and relax in opulent surroundings.

SCHOTT ZWIESEL - Partner and Official Wine Glasses of the WGS 2009, 2010 and 2011.

SCHOTT ZWIESEL - Partner and Official Wine Glasses of the WGS 2009, 2010 and 2011.

Do take some time to learn about the different Relais & Châteaux properties by reading what the Chefs have to say about their cuisine and about the measures the Innkeepers are taking to protect the environment. Every property is unique. We hope you enjoy every second that it takes for you to draw up your itinerary—with Relais & Châteaux, you are sure to find your dreams.

The glass of the professional.

Appreciation through perfection.

8 ZWIESEL ASIA PACIFIC PTE LTD 40 Club Street, Singapore 069419. tel : + 65 6324 2931 fax : + 65 6324 2932

www.schott-zwiesel.com

Jaume Tàpies, Chairman of the Board Relais & Châteaux— All around the world, unique in the world

The glass of the professional.

Appreciation through perfection.

ZWIESEL ASIA PACIFIC PTE LTD 40 Club Street, Singapore 069419. tel : + 65 6324 2931 fax : + 65 6324 2932

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Elizabeth Soriano It is with great pleasure that we introduce to you here our latest edition of Our Innkeepers’Guide to Discovering Asia. Editing this annual Relais & Châteaux guide has been a wonderful journey—I never cease to be fascinated about what these Innkeepers have to say about their unique properties and the special places in which they reside.

This year’s guide features 39 properties in 32 destinations around Asia.

Twelve are located in culturally enriching, diverse Japan. We are also pleased to present to you our four repetition in my opinion - latest or new members is sufficient situated in Beijing, Yunnan, Taichung and Pha Nga. “Surrounded by nature, this is a beautiful, peaceful mountain. It brings you a certain kind of inner warmth and happiness that can never be experienced in a city, ” muses Ms Liu Xiangyun of Jingmai Brilliant Resort & Spa in Yunnan. At Wanakarn Beach Resort & Spa, Mr Frode V Sund paints another delightful portrait: “Thaimuang is a brand new location on Thailand’s tourist map. All new to the eye, everything here is untouched and unspoilt—the scenery, the lush vegetation, the never-ending white beaches...”

This year, we have delved a bit further to share with you some of our Innkeepers’ environmentally sustainable business practices and how they advocate their local community. Socially conscious Ahilya Fort in Maheshwar uses solar power, reverse osmosis and UV water purification to eliminate thousands of plastic water bottles, and riverboats powered by oars, not motors. In Fort Cochin, Malabar House also uses solar power.

“We use as little plastic as possible, and use terracotta containers, recycled paper bags and cloth bags instead… We also extend support to Raksha, a local institution for the mentally challenged. All the candles and paper bags used in our hotel are purchased from this school, ” reveal Joerg Drechsel and Txuku Iriarte.

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Joining hands with the non-profit organisation Shark Savers, we have also included an easy-to-spot logo next to the properties that “ban the fin” and have rather than “to not serve” shark’s fin soup.

Though each property is unique, these Innkeepers all share yet another common thread that binds them together— the will, desire and determination to make a difference to our fragile planet.

What is life really, without wonderful food? At Le Moût in Taichung, Grand Chef Lanshu Chen’s passion is to present every ingredient in its best possible form. Simultaneously offering an intellectual and feminine touch, you can feel her heart and soul in every single dish. Grand Chef Yoshinori Shibuya, of La Bécasse in Osaka shares: “If you like fish, just ask me which fish I was able to find at the market that day. Or, if you are fond of game, come visit me in the wintertime and let me know how you like to eat it and I will prepare it for you.” Besides Relais & Châteaux’s Grand Chefs, around the world, every single Relais & Châteaux hotel serves up delectable, enticing cuisine.

Hence this year, we have included more information in our guide in a dedicated section titled Cuisine du Cœur. As Chef Tadaaki Nakano from Hotel Anaga divulges: “All our products are regional.

We make everything from scratch—ham, bacon, pickles, jam—all of it is made right here in our kitchen.” These are but a few delicious words to savour throughout this guide.

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

A note from the Editor

Mr Altaf Chapri captures the spirit of Kerala’s Neeleshwar Hermitage by noting: “Designed to heal and soothe the soul, our guests always leave feeling incredibly relaxed—a piece of magical Malabar seems to depart with them.” Though these words were meant for just one special place, they nevertheless truly encapsulate all of Relais & Châteaux’s tranquil, serene properties and the welcoming, quiet attention they evoke.

We look forward to you being our treasured guest here in Asia.

Elizabeth Soriano Editor www.ihearapop.com

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What unites these very different places is a fellowship of remarkable people who share a common passion for life, for hospitality and for service. Relais & Châteaux is neither a chain, nor a vcorporation. We are an association made up of fiercely independent hoteliers, chefs, restaurateurs and hosts. Each one of us, in our own way, expresses a love for our unique place on earth and our desire to let you savour life at its fullest through that destination. We are united by what make us different. And yes, while each Relais & Châteaux property is unique, what distinguishes us as a whole is our collective commitment to a timeless tradition of personal hospitality. This makes all the difference to our guests.

The road to happiness In 1954, when Relais & Châteaux began in France with eight individual properties banding together along the scenic route from Paris to Nice, the ultimate expression of the association was their connection to a “route du bonheur”—a road to happiness. And so it is today. Every property is a superb reflection of its immediate surroundings. Each is a wonderful “base camp” for excursions to delve into the region’s character. At the same time, each property is linked to the others, serving as a stepping-stone in an ever-expanding voyage of discovery that now spans the globe.

The soul of the Innkeeper The personal presence of your host—including the palpable presence of his or her personality and vision in every aspect of the property—is the sine qua non of Relais & Châteaux.

Without this personal touch, no amount of quality or luxury will suffice. It cannot be mass-produced. It can only be hand-made, created anew each day, each moment, with every guest. We call this spirit of hospitality “the soul of the innkeeper”, and it pervades all our properties, whether they are actual inns or not.

“Innkeeper” is a somewhat old-fashioned term, but the rare and precious values it evokes are timeless.

You will recognise these values in the generous attention of your host—be it the chef, owner, or Maître de Maison. A Relais & Châteaux “Innkeeper” is one whose life and work are inseparable from their establishment, who manifests a generosity in sharing what they love with others, and who inspires their staff to amplify that passion in a deep and abiding sense of welcome.

The soul of the Innkeeper is embodied in an actual person, but it is also more—it is an experience of belonging that you will feel in every aspect of your visit, wherever you go within the world

The World of Relais & Châteaux

The World of Relais & Châteaux

Welcome to our fellowship

of Relais & Châteaux.

You may find one place that is truly yours, a destination of choice that becomes a singular or regular part of life’s journey. Or, you may choose to follow a suggested “route du bonheur” as a way to discover and savour the true character of a new part of the world. Or, you may prefer to map your own journey of discovery. However you choose, you will find that the world of Relais & Châteaux is an experience of place made richer through its people, and an experience of people unique to their place. Consider this guide your passport to friendship. There is no better way to discover the world.

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To eat and drink is a necessity of life, but to eat and drink well is to engage in the true art of living.

Fine food, wine and drink are at the heart of every Relais & Châteaux experience. It is also at the heart of who we are and how we welcome you to the places that we love. Here, you will find hotels that pride themselves on their kitchens, out-of-the-way restaurants that offer rooms for those who travel far to dine there, and exceptional restaurants that stand alone and stand above. No matter where the property is situated, you will always find astonishing cuisine. Within this fellowship are famous chefs who have reigned for decades at the very pinnacle of their art, Grand Chefs whose names dominate all world rankings.

There are thrilling young stars who are exploring new landscapes of culinary excellence, and there are chefs whose simple, meticulous art will transform your evening.

These storied chefs each approach their art in their own way as a celebration of all the senses, drawing on the unique character and culture of the region, the freshness and quality of the day’s produce, their own creativity and consummate technique. Whether in a vineyard or a wine cellar, on a picnic at the edge of civilisation or at a refined table, you will experience not just the exceptional quality of the food, but the transformative quality of an entire experience orchestrated for your pleasure. Our cuisine is meant to evoke memories and create new ones—touch points of a life lived well.

www.grandmarnier.com

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About Relais & Châteaux

The World of Relais & Châteaux

Celebrated cuisine

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What is it that you are seeking? Through these pages and through our website at www.relaischateaux.com , you can connect with what you care about most. Perhaps it is to mark one of life’s great moments in a celebration that all your invited guests will remember forever. Perhaps it is to discover new corners of the globe or savour new tastes just down the road. Perhaps it is to unhook from life’s pressures to revitalise the mind and body. Perhaps it is to steal a few moments for a romantic interlude. Perhaps it is to pursue your passion for golf, fishing, photography, wine, gardening, art, skiing or any number of other interests. Whatever it is that moves you, as you turn these pages, we hope it will help to take you on the next step in your journey.

About Relais & Châteaux

The World of Relais & Châteaux

Follow Your Passions

We eagerly anticipate the pleasure of welcoming you.

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Greater China

GREATER CHINA

Beijing JE Mansion PEK

Pingyao Jing's Residence TYN Pingyao Railway Station

Journeys around

Shanghai

Chengdu

Greater China

Le Sun Chine Family Li Imperial Cuisine PVG SHA

CHINA

Taipei Kunming

SHANGHAI PINGYAO BEIJING PU'ER TEA MOUNTAINS

MYANMAR

Jingmai Brilliant JHG

Hanoi

LAOS

Guangzhou Macau

Villa 32 TPE Le Mo没t

Hong Kong

TAIWAN

La Pousada De Sao Tiago MFM

HAINAN

MACAU BEITOU AND TAIPEI TAICHUNG

THAILAND

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VIETNAM

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PROPERTY

DESTINATION AIRPORT

FERRY

TRAIN STATION

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In the 1930s Shanghai prospered to become a golden age city, a centre of commerce and a shining, stylish example—one of the few places where East truly met West. Known as the “Paris of the East”, this fleeting moment of time—1930s Shanghai—lived on in the West in the form of Hollywood-style legends, and in the East as carefully and quietly preserved memories among the Chinese families who had known it.

Today, the world once again has its eyes set on mainland China’s most flourishing city.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering China.

A word from the Maître de Maison Chen Le of Le Sun Chine If you ask me for 100 reasons why I love Shanghai I can easily list more than 100—its rich history, people, cuisine, urbanisation, storied tales and magnificent nightlife, to name but a few. Most of all, in this charming city, you will find a rare mix of cultural footprints from across the globe.

It is the same here at Le Sun Chine. Our staff hails from all over China, and the world. We are here to share the true Shanghai experience because Shanghai is truly much more than just a city in China.

At Le Sun Chine, you will find a world—a small world that is far greater than just a Shanghai colonial style home.

My Secret Place The French Concession is indisputably one of Shanghai’s highlights. You can spend hours wandering the narrow alleyways within this attractive area. Completely different than the skyscraper-ridden streets of much of Shanghai, it is lined with Chinese parasol trees, heritage villas, and chic cafés and boutiques—a cosy way to spend an afternoon, or more.

GREATER CHINA

Greater China

Shanghai

My Landiao No. 411 Wukang Road, Shanghai This shop sells Guizhou Miao minority ethnic handicrafts.

Casa Pagoda No. 15-17 Taikang road, Shanghai Airport: Shanghai has two airports, Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hong Qiao International Airport (SHA).

Showcasing a unique combination of European and Asian flare, this culturally mixed concept shop sells furniture and accessories.

Qibao Old Town Here, visitors can glimpse at traditional ancient Chinese architecture. In particular, the old streets present an extensive assortment of snacks, something that we Shanghainese locals consider to be the contemporary treasures of Shanghai.

Restaurants My favourite two places to eat xiaolongbao (dumplings) are Wan Shou Zhai and Fu Chun Wan Shou Zhai, No. 123, Shan-Yin Road, Hong-Ko district Fu Chun, No. 650,Yu-Yuan Road, Jing-An district

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Ivan Li of Family Li Imperial Cuisine

Moments of Celebration We like to think of our spa, yoga retreat and gym as a renewal centre for tired souls. Our recreational facilities include all the resources needed to refresh your body and mind, and provide total relaxation. Enjoy being pampered with a wide range of aromatic and therapeutic spa treatments that feature either European or traditional Chinese techniques, visit our 20 metre lap pool, or enjoy some yoga in a peaceful environment. Our attentive staff will ensure that you leave us refreshed, renewed and with a new sense of vitality.

Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city with a rich history and culture, a city full of dreams and challenges. I am proud to be a part of this beautiful city’s development.

Family Li Imperial Cuisine is located in the city’s oldest and smallest park, Huangpu Park at the Bund. In the park, our guests like to visit the Monument to the People’s Heroes and the Bund Historical Museum. Taking a picture at the nearby Garden Bridge (Waibaidu Bridge) is also a favourite activity. This park has been featured in many films and television series. It is also a favourite place for lovers and tourists. Guests always like to explore the history, romance and culture of the old Shanghai at the Bund.

If they wish, here guests can enjoy a romantic candle light dinner on their balcony. Our two experienced bartenders are also always on hand to provide a creative cocktail or afternoon tea in the peaceful, relaxing Sun lounge sanctuary.

Cuisine du Coeur At our graceful, art-inspired restaurant, Lilac Family Cuisine offers diners an opportunity to savour traditional Shanghainese specialties with a modern flair. Born in Shanghai, Executive Chef Johnny Gu selects only the freshest ingredients to prepare our in-house signature specialties including: grandmother pork braised in a brown sauce, and traditional Shanghainese smoked fish.

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My Secret Place The spectacular view at the Bund, where you can enjoy the old Shanghai along the west bank of Huangpu River while facing the modern sky-rise development on the east, I simply cannot stop falling in love with this amazing place.

Having a drink while soaking in this stunning vista is my favourite way to relax.

GREATER CHINA

Greater China

A word from the Grand Chef

Tianzifang is another place close to my heart. At a glance, it looks to be a mix of old and refurbished brick houses.

Many artists and local designers have set up boutiques and laid- back cafés here making it a popular area to visit.

The Yishanghai Art Museum is hidden there, too. The rich artistic and cultural atmosphere attracts me so much that I just cannot help but to visit time and time again. www.shanghai.cultural-china.com My favourite place to eat soup dumplings (xiaolongbao) is a special place called Nanxiang Xiaolongbao. It is located in Yu Yuan.

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Itinerary around Greater China

A taste of Shanghai Visit Shanghai’s famous Yuyuan Garden and sense the China of yesteryear. The traditional garden is home to exquisite flora, exotic rocks and wondrous scenic views. Then, sample some authentic Shanghainese cuisine, especially its famed steamed dumplings known as xiaolongbao. In the evening, head to the symbol of Shanghai—the Bund—and walk along Zhongshan East Road or take a boat cruise along the Huangpu River to view the numerous city landmarks along its banks.

GREATER CHINA

Shanghai

Moments of Celebration The black and gold décor flawlessly depicts the Family Li spirit—a perfect place for small group celebrations. At Family Li Imperial Cuisine every table is situated in a private room, replete with an attendant to ensure an exclusive dining experience. The dishes are served one by one with a pre-amble in any number of languages on the traditional cooking methods and 100 percent natural ingredients used.

Dining at Family Li Imperial Cuisine is not just about enjoying delicious food, but also an opportunity to experience a truly prestigious indulgence. It is an ideal place to bring your loved ones or important guests to share a luxurious dining experience.

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Ivan Li : “I believe in naturalism and possess a strong passion for Chinese imperial cuisine’s culture. I create new recipes, but I never create them for the sake of creating.

Using contemporary ingredients and traditional cooking methods, my dishes are healthy and authentic. All of my creations come from my heart.”

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Greater China

Itinerary around

Shanghai

Shanghai More discoveries Another glimpse of the past can be seen at Zhujiajiao. Here, visitors can explore the old streets showcasing Ming and Qing period architecture, and observe the local customs. Zhujiajiao is noted for its typical southeast China archaic water country scenery—an old town exuding peace and tranquility.

GREATER CHINA

Itinerary around

See one of the world’s tallest buildings, Shanghai World Financial Centre (SWFC). Located in Pudong you can take a ride up to one of the three observation decks and enjoy panoramic city views.

Art and culture day To learn about Chinese history and culture, visit the Shanghai Museum. It houses over 120000 cultural relics including myriad ancient artworks. Within easy walking distance, discover the elegant Shanghai Grand Theatre, which stages musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music concerts, and international and indigenous Chinese operas.

bars, cafés and restaurants. It is also home to a museum called Wu Li Xiang, which houses old furniture from the 1920s.

Or, explore the popular French Concession. Established in 1849, it is laced with cafés, restaurants, art galleries and chic boutiques. Its unique architecture is a wondrous blend of European style buildings with added Chinese flair.

If you prefer to shop, Nanjing Road is deemed China’s premier commercial street. This pedestrian street is lined with hundreds of shops, and is home to Shanghai’s first department store, Yong An Department Store, Shanghai No. 1 Department Store, and Shanghai Provision Store. Antique seekers can browse the plethora of fantastic antique shops selling myriad treasures on Old Shanghai Street while lovers of art explore the art galleries and studios in Shanghai’s blossoming art district M50. Alternatively, Tianzifang, situated on Taikang Road, is an old street dotted with art studios, Chinese handicraft shops, boutiques and restaurants.

Shanghai Museum Blending old and new Shanghai, get a taste of cultural 1920s Shanghai at Xin Tian Di. The fashionable pedestrian street is composed of old stone gate residences known as shikumen and modern architecture. It is filled with galleries, boutiques,

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www.chinamuseums.com

Shanghai Grand Theatre www.culture.sh.cn

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Le Sun Chine

No. 6 Lane 1220, Hua Shan Road, Shanghai (Chang Ning state), 200052, China T: + 86 21 5256 9977 • F: + 86 21 5256 9972 sunchine@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/sunchine

No. 500 Zhongshan Dong Yi Road (Huangpu Park), Shanghai, 200002, China T: + 86 21 5308 8071 • F: + 86 21 5308 8072 imperialcuisine@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/imperialcuisine

HOTEL 17 suites Open all year

RESTAURANT Lunch time 11am - 2pm Dinner time 5.30pm - 9.30pm Open all year

AIRPORT HongQiao Airport - 10 km Pudong Airport - 50 km

TRAIN STATION Shanghai railway station 6.5 km HongQiao railway station 15 km Shanghai South railway station 9 km

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Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Restaurant

Family Li Imperial Cuisine

GREATER CHINA

Greater China

Relais & Châteaux property in Shanghai

AIRPORT HongQiao Airport - 17 km Pudong (Int'l) - 40 km

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Pingyao is a small ancient town in central Shanxi Province with a rich history dating back some 2,700 years when it was first built during the reign of King Xuan (827-782 BC) in the Western Zhou Dynasty.

Even to this day, the town looks much the same as it did when it was one of China’s biggest trading and financial centres in the late Ming and Qing dynasties. Well-preserved, and home to hundreds of historical buildings, sites and ancient ruins in and around the majestic ancient walled town, it is small wonder that Pingyao is a listed UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering China.

Airport: Taiyuan Wusu Airport (TYN).

Train service is also available to Pingyao via the Pingyao Railway Station.

A word from the Maître de Maison Muhammad Syukur (Achmad) of Jing’s Residence My Secret Place About an hour and 30 minutes by car from the ancient town of Pingyao, there is an old authentic village, which has a 400---year---old pagoda and temple.

Around it there is a reservoir surrounded by stunning mountains and villages. I love to hike around on the trails and then have a simple lunch next to the pagoda.

It is very spiritual and serene. Then, I like to walk around the village to see the locals and how they live their daily life. It is a magical sight that never ceases to overwhelm me—a veritable throw back in time.

There are no words to describe the feeling one has when you come to Pingyao.

This historical town is the last remaining piece of history that we have left from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is imperative that we preserve its ancient culture, so that we can pass it on to future generations.

GREATER CHINA

Greater China

PingYao

Pingyao has some wonderful shops selling unique items. Three of my personal favourite places to buy some of Pingyao’s treasures are: Mr Ju’s shoe making shop on North Street, Mrs Deng’s Paper cutting shop on East Street and Mr Reng Feng’s lacquerware shop on South Street. They all sell wonderful things.

Mr Ju’s Shoe Making Shop No. 31 North Street, Pingyao, Shanxi T: +86 354 568 3999 Mrs Deng’s Paper Cutting Shop No. 39 East Street, Pingyao, Shanxi T: +86 354 568 6408 Mr Reng Feng Lacquerware Shop No. 194 South Street, Pingyao, Shanxi T: +86 1399 456 2015 or +86 1340 344 9785

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Itinerary around Greater China

GREATER CHINA

PingYao

Grand Ice T10

Cuisine du Cœur Shanxi’s unique provincial cuisine, which is based on a varied noodle culture, is well-worth exploring. There’s an old Shanxi saying: “A ball of dough can be turned into hundreds of different types of noodles.” This is no exaggeration says Chef Theo.

Moments of Celebration Guests really enjoy our meticulously renovated courtyards, which reflect the residence’s unique character. Natural materials, including high wooden windows, create a sophisticated, yet relaxing and peaceful environment. Another highlight, guests love to indulge in a romantic candlelight dinner in the restaurant, which faces Pingyao's celebrated East Street.

Serving tantalising regional cuisine, including local specialties such as Pingyao beef and Pingyao noodles, the ambiance is really quite memorable.

30ml Grand Marnier 20ml T10 20ml Fresh lemon Juice 20ml Ginger&Lemongrass Cordial ( Bottle Green ) 100ml Orange & Lotus Flower Tea ( Twinning’s ) 20ml Soda Water Pour the GMCR, T10, Cordial and cold Tea in a shaker, fill with ice, shake vigorously, strain into an Highball filled with cube ice and top with Soda Water. Finish with an Orange Wedge.

Orange & Lotus Flower tea: infuse the bags between 3-5 minutes to obtain a strong flavour but check for not too much bitterness.

Pingyao Ancient City After a delectable breakfast, hop on a bicycle to see Pingyao’s main attraction, Pingyao Ancient City. Encircled by a six---kilometre centuries---old long wall, which includes six major gates and 72 watchtowers, the city has changed little over the past few centuries. Home to some 40,000 residents, Pingyao Ancient City houses many shops, residences, temples and other historic structures.

shops selling food, snacks, paintings, furniture, calligraphy and souvenirs. Shoppers will delight in some of the unique local handicrafts found here. Pingyao is particularly famous for its lacquerware, paper cutting, batik and handmade cloth shoes.

Information on local handicrafts:

Highlights include: the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, China’s first bank that is now a museum; the old county Government office known as Yamen; the magnificent Temple of the City God; and the main commercial street Ming-Qing Street. On the latter, one will find myriad traditional

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www.jingsresidence.com

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PingYao

16 East Avenue, Pingyao Shanxi, 031100, China T: + 86 354 5841000 • F: + 86 354 5841211 jing@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/jing

Wang’s Compound and Shanxi Opera After breakfast you shall leave on a short excursion to see Wang’s Compound. Located in Jingsheng Town, the vast and impressive residence was built between 1762-1811 by the descendants of the Wang Family. Known as the “forbidden city of Shanxi”, the impressive complex includes 123 large and small courtyards, and a staggering 1,118 rooms. Then, you will enjoy a picnic lunch before returning back to the hotel for a rest. In the evening, you will get the opportunity to watch a riveting, indigenous Shanxi Opera performance presented by a talented local troupe. Famous at the imperial court in Xian during the Tang Dynasty, in addition to operatic acting and singing, Shanxi Opera also includes acrobatics and other special effects. It is a thoroughly entertaining, exhilarating and not to be missed experience.

Relais & Châteaux property in Pingyao

Jing’s Residence

GREATER CHINA

Greater China

Itinerary around

HOTEL 19 rooms Annual closure 10 January - 28 February

Qiao’s Compound and Ancient Temples After breakfast you shall leave to see another nearby wonder and an essence of Chinese folk culture, Qiao’s Compound, which lies in the beautiful and richly endowed Jinzhong basin.

Greatly admired and a very special artistic treasure, it is one of Shanxi Province’s 10 best attractions. Portrayed many times in cinematography, Raise the Red Lantern, which was directed by Zhang Yimou, was also filmed here. After lunch, other important cultural relics including the millennium old Shuanglin Temple and the Zhenguo Temple can also be visited.

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AIRPORT Taiyuan (TYN ) - 90 km TRAIN STATION Pingyao Railway Station - 8 km

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Dating back three millennium and one of the four Great Ancient Capitals of China, today Beijing is not only a political centre, it is also a great city with a profound history, and deep rooted culture.

In the capital city of the People’s Republic of China and its environs, one will find a bounty of historical treasures, imperial palaces, exquisite temples, soothing traditional gardens, and so much more. The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Tiananmen Square, the Great Wall, and all of Beijing’s myriad modern delights await discovery. Here, in this cherished Chinese city, JE Mansion warmly welcomes you.

Note: for most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering China.

Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

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As a Chinese man, I feel proud and lucky that I was born in this historic capital, which is just so full of cultural heritage. I also feel fortunate that I have been able to be a part of China’s booming development. By planning and constructing JE Mansion, I have, in my own way, had the wonderful, golden opportunity to express my love for Chinese culture and deep desire to continue to promote its magnificent past.

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A word from the Maître de Maison Kang Jianyi of JE Mansion

Beijing

My Secret Place The Beijing Hutongs (ancient city lanes) are a must-see whilst in Beijing. They offer a wonderful opportunity to glance at Beijing’s world of yesteryear. Whilst visiting these Hutongs, you cannot help but feel the city’s dramatic changes vis-à-vis the evident traditional lifestyle and traditional culture found there. The Hutong in Houhai is my ultimate favourite place to go and glimpse at the former Peking lifestyle. It has the oldest water area, mansions once owned by princes and other famed people, temples, and the time-honoured with a Drum and Bell towers, too.

It is full of everyday life—the best place to experience and learn about the life of old Beijingers.

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In order to get a true impression of Beijing, it is recommended to allow for three days to visit this fascinating city.

A day outside the city To truly make your visit complete and memorable, hire a private car and driver, and spend the first day taking an excursion to visit The Great Wall, and Ming Tombs. The Great Wall, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretches thousands of kilometres, and is the world’s largest manmade structure, visible even from the moon. Near to Beijing, there are several Great Wall sections to visit: Badaling, Huanghuacheng, Mutianyu, Jiankou, Gubeikou, Jinshanling and Simatai. While Badaling is the most popular, it also the most frequented. Mutianyu is less crowded and recommended. Both have a cable car to get you to the top, and in Mutianyu you can take a toboggan back down on a slide. On your return journey to Beijing, stop to see the imperial tomb site Ming Tombs, where 13 Ming emperors are buried.

Cuisine du Coeur

Moments of Celebration Presented in four major styles, the Chinese restaurant at J&E Mansion offers the essence of imperial Chinese cuisine, prepared by the descendant of Empress Ci Xi’s cook. Here, there are a total of 16 Chinese style private rooms in which to savour delectable cuisine in an exclusive ambiance, whilst enjoying the beauty of the natural environs.

Specialising in imperial cuisine, Chef Zhao Guangyou is a descendant of cooks that once prepared meals for the royal family. Imperial cuisine is a complicated cooking process, requiring much dedication in order to achieve its ultimate and delicious flavours. To name but a few, our chef’s signature dishes include: braised pork meatballs; Buddha jumps over the wall; and braised prawns with hoisin sauce.

After a rest, enjoy a dinner and sample Beijing’s most indigenous dish—Peking duck. Hung from a hook then roasted in roaring heat over burning wood, the duck will arrive to your table sliced, along with its usual sides. Wrap the duck slices into a thin pancake or sesame bun, top it with onions and hoisin sauce, and enjoy. It is truly sublime.

A day of sites, shopping and culture Spend the day visiting three top attractions, all of which are just near to each other—Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. Most known for its 1989 protests that sadly ended in tragedy that same year, Tiananmen Square, the world’s largest public square, is home to several buildings including: the Tiananmen Tower, the Monument to the People’s Heroes, the Great Hall of the People and the Mao Zedong Memorial Hall.

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BEIJING

Just nearby, The Forbidden City is the best-preserved imperial palace in China and the largest ancient palatial structure in the world. Surrounded by a wide, deep moat and a 7.9 metres high wall, it houses 9999 rooms. The Forbidden City was built during the Ming Dynasty in the early 1400s. Divided into two parts, for over 500 years this UNSECO World Heritage site was the Emperor's and his household’s domain, and the political centre

Quan Jude (Peking Duck Restaurant) www.qmquanjude.com.cn/index.aspx

The beautiful 50000 square metres lawn is also ideal for interpreting romance. Sculpturing eternity, it is especially wondrous to sit in the garden in the summertime while having a drink and listening to lovely music—paradise.

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West Garden Honglingjin Park Chaoyang Beijing 100025 (Chaoyang District) - China T: + 86 10 5139 8739 ; F: + 86 10 5139 8739 jemansion@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/jemansion

of Chinese government. In this magnificent cluster of buildings, one will also find the Palace Museum, which contains a treasure trove of cultural artefacts and relics. Next, move on to see the Temple of Heaven. Built in the 1400s and another UNESCO World Heritage site, its three main Taoist buildings and landscaped architecture are a true, and magnificent testimony to its time.

Relais & Châteaux property in Beijing

JE Mansion

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The afternoon can be spent looking for some unique, traditional Chinese handicrafts, including China’s famed cloisonné.

Alternatively, visit the Dashanzi 798 Art District located off the airport expressway. Previously a cluster of inactive military factories, it is now an artsy area filled with modern art galleries, art studios, bookstores and cafés.

In the evening, head to wonderful Wangfujing Street. Oriental Plaza contains myriad shops and food stores. Just a short walk away is Snack Street. Here, one will find a long stretch of vendors, selling a wide array of indigenous foods, snacks and sweets. It is a one--of--a--kind experience in which to imbibe Beijing’s culture.

A glimpse at more of Beijing Start your day off at The Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site containing a treasure trove of ancient arts, magnificent structures, and imperial garden masterpieces.

Afterwards, head to Beijing Laoshe Teahouse. Culturally enriching and entertaining, in this teahouse, which is named after the famous author Laoshe, visitors can watch one of its traditional Chinese folk art performances, sip delicious Chinese tea, and enjoy imperial snacks and local cuisine.

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HOTEL 19 rooms Open all year Airport Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) - 22 km Railway Stations Beijing South Railway Station - 30 km Beijing Railway Station - 25 km

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Filled with famous tea valleys, tropical rainforests and natural landscapes, Yunnan’s autonomous prefecture, Xishuangbanna, is home to numerous minorities including the Dai people. Meaning “mysterious wonderland in dreams” in Dai and the gateway to southern Yunnan, Xishuangbanna, with its culturally enriching customs and tropical climate, is a wondrous place to discover year round.

Straddling the flowing Lancang River, between Pu’er city and Xishuangbanna, Jingmai Brilliant Resort & Spa is situated in Lancang County. Rich and mysterious, here, visitors can witness thousands of hectares of tea gardens, and learn about its profound 2000--year--old Pu’er tea history, and tea culture.

A word from the Maître de Maison Xishuangbanna Gasa International Airport (JHG) 110 km – Connection through Kunming (KMG)

Note: A visa is required for most visitors to China.

Liu Xiangyun of Jingmai Brilliant Resort & Spa Surrounded by nature, this is a beautiful, peaceful mountain. It brings you a certain kind of inner warmth and happiness that can never be experienced in a city.

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Pu’er TeA Mountains (Yunnan)

My Secret Place Culturally enriching, besides learning about the origins of Pu’er tea, and savouring its different types, here, visitors can make their very own tea, which will have their own signature and production date on it. It is a precious souvenir to bring home.

In the glorious sunset, a time when the villages in the Jangmai Mountain are lit up, a candlelit dinner facing the valley is a truly special moment. Imagine sitting in a tea garden and savouring delicious delicacies, whilst watching and listening to the singing and dancing under a starry sky.

It is a unique and romantic experience.

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Cuisine du Coeur

Moments of Celebration Brilliant Spa offers five Lahu style pavilions, which are scattered in the organic tea garden, and connected to each other by wooden decks. Using Pu’er tea products and adhering to ancient Chinese wellness principles, it is a magically relaxing place in which to unwind and restore.

Forming part of their culture, all of the Jingmai Mountain minorities are wonderful singers and dancers. After the 18th century missionaries introduced them to the guitar, these local people composed Lahu holy songs. Listening to these villagers sing the Happy Lahu and Hunting Song is a touching moment for everyone.

Planet & People

Jingmai Mountain is a natural backyard and supplier for us, providing wonderful organic products including: vanilla, banana flower, ferns, cress, fennel, herbs, spices and vegetables. For meat, we have a special kind of little black pig called wax gourd pig and a local Camellia chicken.

Chef Victor Zhou: “Besides preparing organic tea cuisine, one of my local specialties is stewed chicken with mushrooms and crab-like plants. The secret ingredient is the crab-like plant, a Chinese medical herb, which is cooked with a Camellia chicken that has been raised in the tea garden. Carefully stewed, it is very nutritious. Another one of my signature dishes is roasted cod with cedronella and pumpkin. It is a healthy dish endowed with fragrant Thai flavours.”

Jingmai Mountain is under the management of Brilliant Group. Our thousands of Pu’er tea hectares acres are well protected. All production procedures including tea planting, picking and processing have met the European Union’s organic and sanitation standards. We also organise regular training for tea farmers, and supervise the protection of the tea garden’s ecology.

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A tea experience at Brilliant Pu’er Tea Fazenda Combining traditional style with modern architecture, in this beautiful manor-style building with floor-to-ceiling windows, 5000 tons of top grade Pu’er tea is produced here yearly. Inside this tea factory, visitors can learn everything about the process of making tea, from picking and transportation, to tea making, packaging and storage.

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Pu’er Tea Mountains

A tea garden tour Cloaked in marvelous clouds at 1000 to 1700 metres above sea level, Jingmai Mountain is a pleasure to visit year round.

Originally cultivated by the local Bulang and Dai people, it is here where one will find the world’s largest preserved ancient tea plantation. There are nine villages on the mountain, and unique historical sites include: the Golden pagoda, the thousand hand Avalokitesvara tree, the Dapinzhang ancient tea garden, a Buddhist temple, the Bulang octagonal tower, age old cypress trees, and an ancient tea horse pass. Guided by one of our hotel butlers, it is an exceptional sightseeing experience, ending with either a farm style meal or a traditional Lahu afternoon tea.

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HuiMin Village – Lancang County Pu’er City – Yunnan Province- China T: + 86 8 7975 25666 • F: + 86 8 7975 25333 teaestate@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/teaestate

Pu’er Tea Mountains A day exploring Ximeng Guided by one of our hotel butlers, this mysterious forested region is well worth exploring. Home to the native Wa tribe who worship the god of nature and believe that everything has a spirit, its highlights include: Mongshu Dragon Lake, Likan Warterfalls, the Shigang Li cliff paintings.

Relais & Châteaux property in Pu’er Tea Mountains

Jingmai Brilliant Resort and Spa

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Fish in a Dai Village Spend a morning fishing in a Dai minority village, then enjoy the afternoon under the blue sky and white clouds by the tea garden pool.

Lancang Sunday market Every Sunday, all of the native ethnic groups come to this weekly market to trade the wonderful produce that comes from this rich and abundant land. Located on Minzu Road, it is a great place to sample the local specialties and glimpse at local folk customs.

Xishuangbanna Xishuangbanna is like a shining pearl in southern China.

Some of its top attractions include: the Botanic Garden of Tropical Plants, Manting Park, Ganlan Ba (Olive Plain), the White Feilong Pagodas, and Wild Elephant Valley.

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HOTEL 30 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Xishuangbanna – Jinghong (JHG) - 110 km

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Johnson Chan of Pousada de São Tiago Bordering China’s Guangdong Province in the north, and facing the South China Sea in the east and south, like Hong Kong, Macau is a Special Administrative Region (SAR). Once a Portuguese colony, today it encompasses historical charm, modernism, beautiful sights, 24-hour entertainment and a wide selection of exquisite gastronomy. Attracting a multitude of visitors each year, its increasingly rapid recreational industry growth has also made Macau a self-styled “Las Vegas of the East”.

Airport: Macau International Airport (MFM)

My Secret Place A nice meal is all I ask for after a long day of work, or when with family. The Lisboa Hotels Complex, in the heart of Macau, offers a variety of gourmet restaurants—from noodle bars to three-star Michelin restaurants. There is always something there that will suit your fancy and mood. Moreover, shared by 15 restaurants, the Lisboa Hotels Complex’s award winning wine cellar boasts over 8,200 labels. As a big fan of Chinese cuisine, I highly recommend The Eight.

Its innovative dishes and impeccable wines ensure an incredible experience, replete with a uniquely elegant and creative touch.

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A word from the Maître de Maison

Macau

For over four centuries, the fortress of São Tiago da Barra stood guard over the entrance to Macau’s Inner Harbour—a bulwark against invaders, and a welcome landmark for international traders, adventurers and scholar-missionaries.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, many fine baroque churches were built in Macau. They still glorify Macau today. Among them is the small Chapel of St. James, erected in the Barra Fort in 1740. Dedicated to São Tiago, the patron saint of the Portuguese army, a statue depicting him in military uniform was placed above the altar. Legend tells that the soldiers at the fort believed that at night São Tiago would leave the chapel to patrol the ramparts and inspect his troops because every morning there would be mud on his boots. Hence, every day a soldier was assigned to polish the boots to make them gleam. Further, it is said that the patron saint once thumped an indolent soldier on the head with his sword. To this day, São Tiago’s myth is still celebrated at the chapel every 25 July.

Pousada de São Tiago stands on the foundations of the fort, echoing its rich history. Revealing its Iberian heritage, the terrace recalls the Mediterranean, with a white-tiled floor and scattered tables under umbrellas. The view, however is pure Orient. The channel, which the fort was previously built to defend, was dredged and enlarged in the 1880s, and is now a calm sea lane between Barra Point and the hilly green islands of China.

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As one of the world’s top entertainment destinations, filled with exquisite gastronomy, for a full Macau experience, one definitively needs to linger here for at least three days.

Dining Robuchon au Dôme

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Macau

Formerly Robuchon a Galera, this three-star Michelin restaurant, has now relocated to the pinnacle of Macau and been renamed Robuchon au Dôme. Enjoy the epitome of fine dining at Robuchon au Dôme, where culinary artistry is met with the finest wines, impeccable service, and a décor to match.

The Eight Serving contemporary Cantonese and Huaiyang cuisine, The Eight opened at the Grand Lisboa in 2007. This two-star Michelin restaurant’s lavish interior was conceived by renowned Hong Kong designer Alan Chan, whose design concept is based on traditional Chinese elements including goldfish, which represent energy and the number “eight”, which signifies wealth. Diners can choose from over 50 dim sum selections at lunch or indulge in classic dining with an elegant and creative touch in the evening.

Moments of Celebration

Cuisine du Coeur

Originally a fortress built by the Portuguese in the early 17th century, our hotel is not only known as a charming historical landmark, it is also an ideal place for exclusive occasions and events. We organise intimate weddings and other special ceremonies in the Chapel of St. James. Our guests also love savouring the authentic Spanish cuisine at our restaurant La Paloma, which overlooks the picturesque expanse of the harbour.

Under the supervision of the esteemed Executive Chef Hector Costa Fernandez, La Paloma offers classic modern Catalonian cuisine, and is particularly recognised for its rich variety of seafood dishes. The fine-dining Spanish restaurant also serves exquisite authentic Spanish cuisine including paella and indigenous Spanish products like Iberian ham.

Don Alfonso 1890 Don Alfonso 1890 opened in Macau at the Grand Lisboa in 2007. Here, world-renowned Chef Alfonso Laccarino shares the original flavours of his generations-old, two-star Michelin restaurant in Southern Italy. The restaurant conveys a sense of classic elegance, accented with chandeliers and landscape paintings reminiscent of Southern Italy, and serves understated but exquisite Southern Italian cuisine.

Grand Lisboa - Dining www.grandlisboahotel.com

Take a ride in our Bentley through town to visit Macau. Our limousine service caters to your every need, and offers total comfort and convenience no matter where you wish to go.

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Macau

Shopping

Macau Giant Panda Pavilion

Established in 1992, New Yaohan was Macau’s first shopping arcade. Located in the heart of Macau, it is within easy access to major attractions and entertainment. This famous arcade offers everything from food and fashion to housewares, electronics and beauty salons.

Visit the Macau Giant Panda Pavilion on the island of Coloane to see and feel the magic charm of Kai Kai and Xin Xin, the pair of Giant Pandas that arrived from Chengdu in December 2010. They bring endless joy to visitors, especially children.

www.newyaohan.com

Spa

HOTEL 12 rooms Open all year

After a long day, there is simply nothing like an excellent massage to help alleviate stress. Designed to enhance your spirit and tantalise your senses, the Lisboa Spa by CLARINS offers a wide range of innovative spa treatments and state of the art facilities—an idyllic space in which to relax.

Grand Lisboa Hotel – Leisure & Facilities

AIRPORT Macau International Airport (MFM) - 15 km

St Paul’s The great ruined façade and staircase of St. Paul’s Cathedral is Macau’s most revered landmark. Adjacent to the famous Monte Fortress and the Macau Museum, the cathedral is rich in baroque ornamentation but with classic oriental characteristics. First constructed in 1580, sadly, a severe fire in 1835 left its full splendour behind. Adding intrigue to the area, today the alleys in the vicinity of St. Paul’s are filled with vintage furniture shops selling traditional Chinese antiques, perfect for browsing for unique treasures.

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Avenida da Republica - Fortaleza de São Tiago da Barra Macau, China T: + 853 2837 8111 • F: + 853 2855 2170 saotiago@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/saotiago

www.macaupanda.org.mo

Relais & Châteaux property in Macau

Pousada de São Tiago

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www.grandlisboahotel.com

Other Attractions: A-Ma Temple Guia Fortress Grand Prix Museum Kun Iam Temple (Temple of the Goddess of Mercy) Macau Museum of Art www.artmuseum.gov.mo

FERRY Macau International Ferry Terminal - 3 km

www.macaumuseum.gov.mo

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A word from the Maître de Maison Debbie Tai of Villa 32 Eco-friendly, Beitou has all the aesthetics—myriad culture, wonderful hot springs, and diverse and unique sites—all await your discovery.

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Beitou

One of Taiwan’s capital city’s 12 districts, Beitou is situated in northern Taipei. Beitou’s valley is shaped like a witch’s cauldron: long ago its original inhabitants named it paktaaw, meaning “witch”. Beitou is a sinicized version of this name. Beitou is also home to the famous Yangmingshan National Park, a lush park that unfurls from the slopes of an extinct volcano, studded with steamy white and green sulfur hot springs.

Located just 30 minutes by car from the centre of Taipei, for almost half a century Beitou has attracted those seeking to indulge and immerse themselves amid nature, and soak in its wondrous hot springs.

Nowadays, travellers can also reach Beitou from the city centre via the very convenient MRT red line.

Filled with mystical legends—Beitou beckons.

Airport: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

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My Secret Place I love to take a short stroll by Thermal Valley, one of Taiwan’s eight great natural wonders, to immerse myself with the sulfuric streams of steam that curl up from the mountains’ hot springs. It is simply a marvellous place to relax and meditate, made even more splendid in the spring during the cherry blossom season.

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Beitou Moments of Celebration

A day of discovering

Villa 32 provides the perfect venue to mark any special occasion or celebration. We will endeavour to ensure no detail is overlooked to make it memorable and exclusive. After all, celebrating should never be limited to certain formations.

Cuisine du Coeur

Offering crisp, clear air, white clouds, stone-grey walls, voluptuous greenery, shade trees, beautiful flowers, and soothing hot springs, Villa 32 preserves Taipei’s last bastion of ultimate leisure in a wondrous setting amid nature. The experience starts from the moment you arrive when your personal butler greets you with a

From inside Villa 32, gaze out from the floor-to-ceiling windows and marvel at the gorgeous view showcasing an open-air terrace adjoined by our artistic Italian restaurant. Here, Chef Jimmy Chen indulges guests’ taste buds to the fullest with his endless culinary creations. Featuring authentic Italian flavours, he selects the freshest seasonal ingredients including oysters, white truffles, sea urchin and lobster, and transforms them into

wonderful cup of our house blend osmanthus black tea.

magical, harmonious dishes.

Wake up early to beautiful birdsong and enjoy a delicious breakfast, surrounded by water and springs, and fragrant aromas emanating from the 100-year-old maple and camphor trees. Afterwards, take a walk to Thermal Valley to explore one of the eight natural wonders in Taiwan.

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After lunch, let your personal butler arrange for a guided tour of the founder’s wine cellar. Akin to boutique wine museum, one of the rarest wines in this exquisite collection is a large bottle of Mouton Rothschild 1945. The collection also contains a vintage Château Lafite 1784, preserved for over 200 years in a handmade bottle, and a 1.5-litre bottle of Château Cheval Blanc 1947 that was once heralded as one of Bordeaux’s “most perfect products of the century”. Then, head to The SPA to relax and restore before embarking on a feast of vision, sense and taste at the Restaurant.

Explore Beitou Should you have an interest in volcanic geology, after breakfast take a ride up to Geothermal Valley and see the area’s sulfur fumaroles and hot springs. Or, visit the wonderfully restored Beitou Hot Springs Museum to see the detailed exhibits throughout its 12 rooms and the distinctive Roman-style bathing pool. From there, you shall continue up to Zhongshan Road to see Plum Garden. Once the residence of famed calligrapher Yu Youren, today this traditional Japanese timber structure houses a fine exhibit.

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Beitou Explore Beitou Your next stop will be to see the lovingly preserved Japanese temple, Puji Temple. Walking up the flight of stone steps, you simply cannot help but to admire the Japanese architectural mastery and the instant tranquillity it exudes. Continue uphill towards Sulfur Valley and you will arrive at the Taiwan Folk Arts Museum. Its main attractions are its classical Japanese-style courtyard and expansive banquet facility. It also hosts exhibits on early Taiwanese life and culture, and offers wonderful tea ceremony classes to give visitors a glimpse back in time. Then, you can savour an exquisite Japanese lunch in the museum’s restaurant.

Taiwan Folk Arts Museum: www.folkartsm.org.tw After a rest, you can take an afternoon hike along one of the trails or enjoy one of the hot springs amid lush nature in the famous Yangmingshan National Park. Beitou not only encourages you to discover its hot springs, but also its tasty indigenous cuisine.

Here, you can savour some of Beitou’s local street food and snacks, found in and around Beitou’s local market.

A day in Taipei Enjoy a cosy breakfast in bed and then begin your day of exploring downtown Taipei. Take a taxi to Beitou MRT station and experience Taipei’s popular rapid transportation system.

Your first stop will be to see trendy Hsin-Yi district, filled with splendid shopping centres and trendy gourmet eateries. Next, take a ride up to the 89th floor of Taipei 101 and marvel at the world-famous observatory’s 360-degree panoramic views.

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Taipei 101: www.taipei-101.com.tw A new dining experience: Located on level four of the Taipei 101 building. Taipei 101 recently added a new and wonderful dining option called S.T.A.Y. A collaborative effort between Villa 32 and Chef Yannick Alléno, this restaurant has already become one of the most important benchmarks for inspiring and stylish French dining in Taipei.

Whilst here, do not miss visiting one of the world’s best museums, the National Palace Museum. It houses the world’s largest collection of Chinese artefacts, some of which date back 5,000 years. Displays are rotated every three months.

National Palace Museum: www.npm.gov.tw

Shopping: The Holiday Jade Market / Ximending / Shilin Night Market

Relais & Châteaux property in Beitou

villa 32

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Number 32, Zhong Shan Road, Beito District.

T: + 886 2 6611-8888 • F: + 886 2 6611 3000 villa32@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/villa32

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HOTEL 5 Rooms Open all year AIRPORT Tao Yuan International Airport (TPE) - 43 km TRAIN STATION Taipei - 12 km

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A word from the Grand Chef Lanshu Chen of Le MoÛt Besides hiking in the nearby hills, the Natural Science Museum is a must-see tourist attraction, offering diversified and enriching learning opportunities. We also have many famous and exciting night markets, which truly showcase Taiwan’s food culture and daily life. Here in Taichung, visitors can embark on a fun-filled culinary adventure to sample some delicious and authentic Taiwanese cuisine whilst enjoying shopping for some local items.

My Secret Place

A slower-paced but fun-filled city, Taichung lies in the west-central part of Taiwan. Thanks to its sunny climate and friendly, relaxed lifestyle, it is a pleasant place to visit anytime of the year.

Taichung is also a good base in which to explore many of central Taiwan's cultural and natural attractions, including the old town of Lugang, the spectacular Sun Moon Lake, and the revitalising forest parks of Sitou and Shanlinshi. Once you have recharged amid nature, enjoy beautiful hot springs, spas, bustling markets, and myriad teahouses and restaurants.

When I am free from work, I love to drive alone to Dakeng to experience a fun hike, lunch, or a relaxing soak in a hot spring house. The air there has grassy aroma and seems cooler. Far from the noisy city streets, there is a meditative ambiance found amidst these woods. It is so comforting and revitalising to walk along the trails on a sunny day. The beautiful lush green trees, calming breeze and the view from the top of hill are simply breathtaking.

Moments of Celebration There is so much in life worth celebrating, and Le Moût provides the perfect setting in which to celebrate your special moment. Our vintage chandeliers and classic furnishings, replete with crisp white table linens and exquisite porcelain, propose a prestigious but tranquil ambiance. Alongside warm, friendly hospitality and gifted sommeliers, your dining experience here promises to be extraordinarily unique.

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Taichung

Inspired by the spirit of “Terroir,” our Chef Lanshu Chen prepares French Haute Cuisine with the finest local produce. Pursuit of perfection is the philosophy at Le Moût, and Lanshu’s passion is to present every ingredient in its best possible form. Her creativity is charming and original. Whether it is the contrast between verbena and aioli in a prawn dish, or the harmonious sweetness of corn and grilled eel to accompany veal’s tongue, her cuisine is all about finesse and balance. Simultaneously offering an intellectual and feminine touch, you can feel her heart and soul in every single dish.

Airport: Taichung International Airport (TXG) Railway: Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) Taichung Station

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Taichung

Taichung Dakeng

Reconnect with Nature

Evening Reverie

Jianguo Market

Dakeng means the “great depression”, referring namely to its 350-metre wide valley. There are over 30 different tree species in this area. As summer turns to autumn, Dakeng takes on a magnificent yellow and orange appearance. While walking through the valley, one can hear the sounds of autumn blending with the secluded valley stream in perfect rhythm. The enticing scenery and peaceful atmosphere is almost impossible to describe in words. It is magical.

Taichung is located near several recreational areas.

Nearby, there is a large water park that is especially enticing during the hotter summer months. The picturesque mountains, and lush plains in Puli Country and Nantou County are both within an hour’s drive from the city, and the coast is a mere 30 minutes away by car.

There is no lack of choice for enjoying local delicacies in Taichung. Abundant noodle shops and street vendors sell everything from exotic to indigenous fare. Walking through the city streets, visitors will also come across an array of other cuisine possibilities including: Indian, Japanese, Indonesian and Western food.

No. 224, Jian-Guo Road, East District

After exploring its nostalgic wooden walkways, here one will find numerous wonderful luxury spa houses in which to calm the body and mind, whilst feasting one’s eyes on nature’s beauty.

Arts & Museums National Museum of Natural Science 1 Guanchien Road Open: 9am-5pm (closed Mondays)

Gaomei Wetland Situated on the south bank of the Dajia River estuary, Gaomei is one of Taiwan’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. It is also the largest grass and swamp coast wetland in Taiwan. Filled with abundant wildlife and plants, this area is especially known for bird watching, but lovers also come here just to watch the sunset.

Feng Chia Night Market This is Taichung’s largest night market. It is located next to Fengjia University, an area where one will find all the city’s fancy boutiques. The market is also home to many restaurants and vendors serving local cuisine. The crowded streets and the enthusiastic atmosphere is definitively one of Taiwan’s most characteristic scenes.

Yizhong Street This popular night market caters more to the younger crowd, with an emphasis on low prices and a casual ambiance. Its streets, lanes and alleys are filled with trendy shops and vendors selling myriad fashion items, accessories and food.

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Second Market No. 87, Sec. 2, San-Min Road, Central District

Traditional Markets Forming an intricate part of Taiwan’s culture, traditional markets here are ubiquitous. In them, vendors sell everything from fresh produce, to everyday household items and clothing.

Many also are home to restaurants and beverage shops.

Xiang Shang Market Ln. 218, Sec. 1, Xiang-Shang Road, West District

A top attraction, this enormous and elaborate science museum has interactive exhibits, a life sciences section, a botanical garden, an earthquake museum, global culture, environment museums, and more.

National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts 2 Wu Chuan West Road, Sec.1 Open: 9am-5pm (closed Mondays) This large and spectacular modern art museum features numerous rotating visual exhibits . It also has a wonderful dedicated children’s area. Admission is free.

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Greater China

Relais & Châteaux property in Taichung

Le MoÛt

No.59, Cunzhong St. Taichung 403, Taiwan T: + 886 4 2375 3002• F: + 886 4 2376 0753 lemout@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/lemout

RESTAURANT Tuesday to Sunday lunch 11.30 am– 2.30pm Dinner 6.00 pm- 10.00pm Closed all day on Monday and Chinese New Year AIRPORT Taichung International Airport (TXG) - 20 km TRAIN STATION (HSR) Taichung Station - 9 km

ASIAN GUESTS WELCOME DESK - TOURIST TAX REFUND SERVICE - ENGLISH, THAI, BAHASA, MANDARIN SPEAKING STAFF PRIVILEGED WELCOME & VIP SERVICE - FASHION SHOW - WINE CELLAR - GOURMET STORE & RESTAURANTS 64

GALERIES LAFAYETTE - 40, BD HAUSSMANN 75009 PARIS. METRO: CHAUSSÉE D’ANTIN-LA FAYETTE - TEL.: +33 (0) 1 42 82 87 47 Open Monday through Saturday from 9.30 AM to 8 PM - Late opening every Thursday until 9 PM. asiandepartment@galerieslafayette.com galerieslafayette.com

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JAPAN

JAPAN

Journeys around

JAPAN

JAPAN Destination

PROPERTY

AIRPORT

TOKYO IZU-HAKONE MATSUMOTO

Minakami Beniya Mukayu KMQ

MINAKAMI KANAZAWA KAGA KANSAI (OSAKA-KOBE)

Bettei Senjuan

Kanazawa Kaga

Matsumoto Izu-Hakone

Tobira Onsen Myojinkan MMJ

Gora Kadan Asaba

Awaji-Shikoku Anaga Kokin Aoyagi TKS

Kansai (Osaka-Kobe)

Tokyo

Hotel de Mikuni Sant Pau NRT HND

Kobe Kitano Hotel La BĂŠcasse Kashiwaya KIX

AWAJI-SHIKOKU 66

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A word from the Grand Chef Kiyomi Mikuni of HÔtel de Mikuni

Situated in a bay bearing the same name, the capital of Japan is a sprawling, modern and bustling metropolis. Spread out over 23 districts, although Tokyo is filled with endless high rise buildings, it nevertheless still maintains a rich cultural heritage. In particular, the Imperial Palace bears testimony to Tokyo’s exceptional history and unique traditions.

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japan

TOKYO

I was born in Hokkaido in northern Japan, in a family with seven children. My father was a fisherman and my mother worked on a farm. When I was a child, I always enjoyed cooking for my family and I wanted to make it my career. I first started cooking professionally in Sapporo, then Tokyo, and later I spent nine years working in Switzerland and France. Even after 40 years, my passion for cooking has never waned. My cuisine is French, but I also look to create umami, Japanese cuisine’s basis for taste. My kitchen is also always open to guests.

Airport: Narita International Airport (NRT), Haneda Airport (HND)

Cuisine du Coeur Assimilated with nature, here we serve Cuisine Naturelle, highlighted by products from Kyoto, Hokkaido, and other places in Japan. Recently, I came to know about these age old vegetables called edo-yasai that used to be cultivated long ago in and around Tokyo but were later abandoned. Today, thanks to my farmer friends, these excellent produces are slowly being revived.

Moments of Celebration If you happen to be joining us for a special occasion, we will be delighted to make you a special cake with any message you wish to write on it.

My Secret Place The nearest train station from my restaurant is JR Yotsuya Station. To reach us, take a pleasant stroll via the garden that is situated in front of the main gate of Geihinkan, a national guest house for VIPs from abroad. There, you can glimpse at the splendour of Geihinkan, an imitation of Versailles, through the grille. I also love the back lanes in Kagurazaka. There were once many Geisha houses there.

Some still exist to this day. This quarter is also dotted with many small Japanese restaurants.

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A word from the Grand Chef Yosuke Okazaki of sant pau

TOKYO Mingeikan Japan Folk Crafts Museum

Our restaurant is situated in Nihonbashi, a district for merchants and studios for traditional Japanese handicrafts that date back to the Edo era. In the centre of Nihonbashi, halfway between the famous Chuo-street that connects Ginza and Nihonbashi, one will find the building Coredo Nihonbashi - our restaurant sits in its annex. Our two-level restaurant is adorned with wonderful contemporary Spanish artworks. Here, you can almost feel Catalonia’s breeze.

Housed in a lovely traditional Japanese building, this museum has over 17000 items in its collection including: ceramics, pottery, woodblock prints, textiles, and more. There is also a lovely boutique selling folk art items made by craftsmen hailing from all over Japan. www.mingeikan.or.jp

Jog around the Imperial palace A popular activity in Tokyo is to jog around the Imperial Palace. Along the pleasant five-kilometre course, you will pass numerous scenic spots including: the Imperial Palace Public Square, Takebashi, and the famed Chidorigafuchi, which is home to magnificent cherry trees that blossom in early April. www.city.chiyoda.lg.jp/english/e-guide/jogging.html

Kawagoe Located in Saitama Prefecture, Kawagoe is just 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo. This historical town has a definitive Edo era atmosphere. The old storehouses are its main attraction, highlighted by the wooden time bell tower, Toki-no-kane, which still rings four times a day. Stop for lunch at Taiyouken. Housed in a historical building, the cuisine there is youshoku, western style cuisine intermixed with a bit of Japanese flare. www.koedo.or.jp/foreign/english

A day in Kamakura From the late 12th century until the early 14th century, Kamakura was the political centre of Japan.

Sometimes called the Kyoto of Eastern Japan, today, this small city remains a popular attraction.

It is filled with temples, shrines and historical buildings including: the spectacular bronze Great Buddha, Engakuji Temple, Tokeiji Temple, Kenchoji Temple and Kamakura’s most important shrine Tsuruoka Hachimangu. Take a stroll along the charming street Komachi-dori and peruse the many souvenir shops, cafés and restaurants. Serving traditional Japanese fare, highlighted by Shojin and vegetarian dishes, Hachinoki, located close to the Tokeiji Temple and Kita Kamakura Station, is highly recommended. www.japan-guide.com/e/e2166.html

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japan

Itinerary around

My Secret Place Here in Nihonbashi, besides all the department stores and world famous fashion boutiques, there are also many typical artisanal boutiques, which sell traditional crafts and items that date back to the Edo era.

At Ozu Washi, for example, visitors can learn about the art of Japanese paper making. Just near to Ozu Washi is Edoya. Highly praised in Paris and Hollywood, Edoya sells all kinds of different types of brushes—hair brushes, brushes for shoes and clothing, make-up brushes, and more. Ibasen is another wonderful shop that sells gorgeous fans. Take a short stroll and visit these shops before coming to dine in our restaurant. Ozu Washi www.ozuwashi.net/index.php

Cuisine du Coeur Our dishes are exactly the same as the ones served at Sant Pau in Sant Pol de Mar in Catalonia. Although we use a lot of local produce, we do import some products from Spain in order to faithfully re-create Carme Ruscalleda’s dishes, which reflect San Pol de Mar’s abundant produce from both the land and sea.

Moments of Celebration If you happen to be celebrating your birthday, a wedding anniversary or another important occasion, just let us know in advance and we can reserve our 560 square metres main dining room for you. We also have a small private room that can hold up to six persons. Enjoy an aperitif or sip a cold glass of cava at the bar or in our relaxing café.

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HÔtel de Mikuni

1-18 Wakaba, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0011 - Japan T: + 81 3 33 51 38 10 • F : + 81 3 32 25 13 24 mikuni@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/mikuni

Coredo Nihonbashi Annex,1-6-1 Nihonbashi Chuo ku ,Tokyo 103-0027 - Japan T: + 81 3 3517 5700• F : + 81 3 3517 5701 santpautokyo@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/santpautokyo

RESTAURANT Closed on Sunday evening and Monday

RESTAURANT Closed on Monday

ANNUAL CLOSING From 30 December to 3 January AIRPORT Tokyo Narita (Int'l) - 80 km Tokyo Haneda (Int'l) - 10 km

Relais & Châteaux property in Tokyo

SANT PAU

japan

japan

Relais & Châteaux property in Tokyo

ANNUAL CLOSING 1st January AIRPORT Tokyo Narita (Int'l) - 80 km Tokyo Haneda (Int'l) - 15 km TRAIN STATION Tokyo Station - 0.5 km

TRAIN STATION Yotsuya - 0.2 km

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A word from the Maître de Maison Miwako Fujimoto of Gora Kadan

Izu and Hakone both form part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The Izu Peninsula is known for its hot springs, coastlines, beaches, scenic mountains, diving and views of Mount Fuji.

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japan

izu-hakone

My property was once the former holiday retreat of the imperial family Kanin-no-miya. Rich in history, here you can feel nature’s breeze and calm, and entertain your eyes and palate with our beautiful Kaiseki dishes prepared with hand selected Japanese ingredients. We have three wonderful hot spring sources, which offer guests a pleasurable moment of deep healing. Everything here evokes the essence of Japanese beauty—we welcome you with pure Japanese hospitality.

Nestled amid a mountainous landscape, replete with lakes and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is located on the site of an old volcano that caved in almost 3000 years ago. To this day it still has residual activity, generating smoky, sulfur wisps and hot springs that feed the onsen. Besides its hot baths, Hakone is also known for its lovely walking trails.

Railway: 1.5 hours from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Hakone-Yumoto Station and 2 hours from Tokyo station to Shuzenji Station on Izu Peninsula.

My Secret Place The Hakone Open-Air Museum is just 300 metres from my hotel. Over 100 contemporary and modern sculptures are displayed in this 70000 square metres park. For superb views of Mount Fuji, visit Owakudani or Ashinoko Lake. I also enjoy visiting the shrine located along the shores of Ashinoko Lake. Surrounded by forests, it is a serene place in which to recharge the soul.

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Our property is situated in the famed, nostalgic Shuzenji Onsen village. We hope our guests enjoy the authentic Japanese atmosphere, and especially our noh theatre located in our graceful garden. Several times a year, we also organise traditional Japanese performances in this theatre.

Itinerary around

izu-hakone

Enjoying a spa treatment in a traditional Japanese style interior overlooking our theatre, is a very memorable moment. A world of fanstasy in autumn and on the night of September’s full moon, we also stage traditional musical performances there.

Cuisine du Coeur

My Secret Place I love to visit Shigetsuden. One of the oldest wooden buildings of its kind in the region, this pavilion was built by Masako Hojo, the mother of the 2nd shogun of Minamoto clan, so that she could pray for the soul of her departed son who was assassinated in Shuzenji in the early 13th century.

I also always enjoy taking a stroll around my hotel on the bamboo walkway, stopping along the way at Tokko-no-yu, the hot springs located alongside the Katsura River that were discovered 1200 years ago. I like to soak my legs in the water. It is such a peaceful moment.

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Visit Hatajuku and stop at the centuries old teahouse, Amazakejaya to enjoy some tea and Japanese sweets. This village is also famous for its traditional Japanese parquetry (yosegi-zaiku). There are several shops here where one can stop and browse these wonderful handcrafted boxes, trays and other items.

Moments of Celebration Weddings here are very special. The bride is escorted by her father on a Japanese flat-bottomed wooden boat to the noh theatre where the groom awaits her. After the wedding ceremony, we enhance the magical moment with a traditional musical theatre performance called Nogaku.

“Local products enrich our purely regional cuisine.

Some of Chef Shigekazu Noto’s signature dishes are: Gusokuni of Ise-ebi lobster cooked in its shell; deep-fried Tenaga-ebi langoustine; steamed abalone steeped in sake; bamboo sprouts fried with Nanori rock seaweed. In the early summer months, I like to prepare charcoal grilled Ayu (river fish) scented with bamboo leaves and vegetable ice creams including pumpkin, eggplant, and manganji pepper.”

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A word from the Maître de Maison Aiko Asaba Asaba

Izu-Peninsula Filled with hot springs, this area has many small fishing villages located along the beautiful coastline, and, in the centre, there are typical mountainous rural villages. Notable tourist towns include: Shimoda, Numazu, Mishima, Yugawara and Yushima. Stop and have lunch in Mishima at a unagi (eel) restaurant. A local specialty, these freshwater eels come from Mount Fuji’s pure water sources. Sakuraya, which is close to the Mishima Taisha Shrine, serves delicious unagi. Another special local product here is wasabi, which can only be cultivated in clear streams. Many wasabi farms are located in and around Amagi.

Enjoy an excursion to Lake Ashinoko or to the sulfur hot spring valley, Owakudani. Both offer beautiful views of Mount Fuji.

There are also many hiking trails along the old Tokaido Highway starting from Lake Ashinoko. Some of these trails are paved in stone and are lined with lovely Japanese cedar trees.

Take a beautiful, rural five-kilometre walk whilst passing by the local rice paddy fields in Shuzenji to Okunoin to visit the famous temple where the priest Kobodaishi trained in his youth. Other activities in Shuzenji include: visiting a strawberry farm, learning how to make tofu, or trying your hand at Japanese paper making. Besides visiting the local temples, the autumnal chrysanthemum festival and the plum garden, filled with plum blossoms in February, are also recommended.

Hakone area The Hakone Open-Air Museum is just a 10-minute walk from Gora Kadan. It contains over 100 sculptures by Picasso, Henry Moore, Rodin and other celebrated masters.

For a month, starting in mid-June, this area’s gorgeous blooming hydrangea is a site to behold.

Visitors can take the mini train to either Tonosawa or Yumoto, followed by a 20-30-minute walk along the path to the AmidaIj Temple to see the hydrangea. Behind the temple, there are also many stone Buddhas. Even if it is not the hydrangea season, this temple is always a very nice place to visit.

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GORA KADAN

1300 Gôra, Hakonemachi, Ashigarashimogun, Kanagawa pref.

250-0408 - Japan T: + 81 460 82 3331• F: + 81 460 82 3334 gora@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/gora

3450-1 Shuzenji Izu-shi Shizuoka-Ken 410-2416 - Japan T: + 81 558 72 70 00• F: + 81 558 72 70 77 asaba@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/asaba

HOTEL 23 rooms – 14 suites - 2 villas Open all year

HOTEL 12 rooms - 5 suites Open all year

AIRPORT Tokyo Haneda (Int'l) - 100 km Tokyo Narita (Int'l) - 170 km

AIRPORT Tokyo Haneda (Intl) - 130 km Tokyo Narita (Intl) - 200 km

TRAIN STATION Gora – 0.4 km

TRAIN STATION Shuzenji – 3 km

Relais & Châteaux property in Izu-Hakone

asaba

japan

japan

Relais & Châteaux property in Izu-Hakone

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Located in the heart of Japan, Matsumoto, sits at the foot of the Japanese Alps. Surrounded by nature, a fine architectural heritage and gourmet traditions, Matsumoto has the third highest number of sunny days in the country. Showcasing the summits of the Japanese Alps to the west and the high mountain plateau of Utsukushigahara to the east, the town exudes a feeling of complete harmony with nature.

Famous for its national treasure, the Matsumoto Castle that was built in the 15th century, Matsumoto is also known for its tasty buckwheat soba noodles, which are a local specialty.

Railway: Matsumoto is easily accessible from Tokyo by train, a mere 2.5-hour journey from JR Shinjuku station to Matsumoto station via the express Azusa train.

A word from the MaĂŽtre de Maison Momoyo Saito of Tobira Onsen Myojinkan

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matsumoto

We have been here for the past 80 years and living here since I got married. Each day I drive the short distance from the centre of town to our ryokan, yet I never cease to be fascinated by the beautiful surroundings. Arriving at Matsumoto Station and boarding our shuttle bus that will take you up to Japan’s rural mountains to our onsen is such a picturesque journey. Upon arrival, guests change into a yukata-kimono and enjoy our different types of baths just like the gods who came down here on a dragon and discovered the hot springs of Tobira Onsen so long ago.

My Secret Place Our ryokan is situated in a quasi-national park. The wellmaintained walking trail around the hotel is the best way to immerse oneself in the silent beauty and scenic surroundings. Guests are also more than welcome to visit our farm and bring along a box lunch. In Matsumoto, our local people believe that the Yohashira Shrine is a special place that grants wishes—especially wishes for a happy marriage.

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Itinerary around japan

Planet & People

Moments of Celebration Here at our ryokan, we can arrange for you to have a tea ceremony to learn how to serve and drink tea in the simplest way. Japanese floral arranging known as ikebana and Kimono dressing are other wonderful ways to experience traditional Japanese culture.

We are proud of our natural surroundings and have the Green Key international tourism eco-label. We use a shuttle bus to/from Matsumoto Station and rent out electric cars to reduce carbon dioxide.

We use food scraps to make fertilizer on our farm.

Recently, we have also started a wall-greening project, which is good for purifying the atmosphere and keeping the interiors of our premises cool in the summertime.

City of Matsumoto Our hotel shuttle bus departs every morning at 9h30 and 11h00, and returns from Matsumoto Station at 3.15PM and 4.30PM respectively, offering guests the perfect opportunity to explore Matsumoto.

Just 10 minutes by foot from the station, visitors can glimpse at the local black and white warehouses called kura. They are situated in the Nakamachi District, which was once the city’s commercial centre. Many of these traditional warehouses are now shops offering charming items including: porcelain, furniture, arts and crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Here, one will also find Marumo, an inn-café adorned with traditional furniture. It is open from 8h00 to 20h00.

For lunch, visit Hikariya. Divided into two sections by a small but well-maintained Japanese garden, one side of this historical building serves Japanese cuisine, the other French fare.

Hikariya: www.hikari-ya.com

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matsumoto It takes a half day but the Japan Ukiyo-e Museum is a must-see attraction whilst in Matsumoto. The private collection contains around 100,000 Japanese woodblock prints known as ukiyo-e. It is really quite a fascinating place to visit.

Japan Ukiyo-e Museum www.ukiyo-e.co.jp/jum-e/index.html

Our chef will be delighted to prepare a box lunch for you to take and enjoy a picnic whilst admiring the panoramic views of the Japanese Alps at Utsukushi Gahara Kogen. To get there, simply take our shuttle bus in the morning to Matsumoto Station.

From there, you can take a public bus to Utsukushi Gahara. The journey along the picturesque highway takes about 1.5 hours.

City of Matsumoto www.welcome.city.matsumoto.nagano.jp

After lunch, take a short 10-minute walk to the castle. It is best seen in the afternoon when the sunlight hits the façade from the west. Visitors can browse around the castle’s interiors and climb to the top of the donjon. Visiting hours are from 8h30-16h30.

Cuisine du Coeur Although it is unusual, here at our ryokan, we have three completely different dining experiences. One serves traditional Kaiseki cuisine, another offers modern Japanese fare and the third is French. Chef Masahiro Tanabe, who is licensed in macrobiotic cuisine by the Kushi Institute, prepares wonderful dishes made with organic vegetables from our farm and regional produce.

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Tobira Onsen Myojinkan 8967 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto-shi 390-0222 (Nagano-ken) - Japan T: + 81 263 31 23 01 • F: + 81 263 31 23 45 myojinkan@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/myojinkan

Relais & Châteaux property in Matsumoto

Tobira Onsen Myojinkan

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japan

Itinerary around Kamikochi, Tsumago, Magome We highly recommend taking an excursion to Kamikochi, a most beautiful walking trail nestled along a river. The best time to visit this area is from late April to mid-November. An ideal itinerary is to walk from Taisho Ike (lake) to the Kappa Bridge. The journey will take over three hours, but along the way, you can stop for a wonderful lunch at the Kamikochi Imperial Hotel. There are also some other small restaurants that adjoin a souvenir shop at the Kappa Bridge.

Kamikochi: www.kamikochi.or.jp Also intriguing are the two ancient post towns, Tsumago and Magome, which contain wonderfully preserved traditional houses along an ancient highway. Both towns are home to many restaurants set in traditional houses. In Tsumago, visitors should sample gohei-mochi, a kind of grilled rice cake that is seasoned with a sweet walnut based sauce. Tawaraya and Yamagiri are two recommended restaurants in which to try this delightful dish.

Tsumago: www.tumago.jp/english/index.html

HOTEL 30 rooms - 15 suites Open all year AIRPORT Tokyo Narita (Int'l) - 300 km Nagoya Chubu - 200 km TRAIN STATION Matsumoto - 16 km

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A word from the MaĂŽtre de Maison Hidehiro Kubo of Bettei Senjuan My ryokan is situated in a small, secluded hot spring village called Tanigawa, just five minutes from the famous Minakami hot spring town. This is a deeply natural environment nested in the mountains. I was born here. As a child, one of my favourite pastimes was to go skiing at one of many ski resorts on Mount Tanigawa. I realise now how happy I am that there is really nothing here except nature and an abundant amount of hot springs. It is just so peaceful.

My Secret Place I am interested in architecture and so our ryokan has a definitive contemporary Japanese style and feel. I often visit the Tenichi Museum that was designed by Junzo Yoshimura. Inside, there are many wonderful paintings by Kishida Ryusei, Umehara Ryuzaburo, Saeki Yuzo, Aoki Shigeru and other Japanese masters. It is only a 30-minute walk from my ryokan. There are many well maintained walking trails here, too. For skiers, the closest resort is White Valley.

It is only two kilometres from my onsen and the most famous one Tenjindaira is just nine kilometres away.

Situated at the foot of Mount Tanigawa, Gunma Prefecture has a total of 15 onsen towns. Minakami is one of the most popular ones. The most famous ski resort here is Tenjindaira. People love to go rock climbing there in the summertime too. Bungy jumping and rafting are also popular activities.

Railway from Tokyo: 80 minutes by Shinkansen on the JR Joetsu line to Jomokogen or 2 hours from Ueno Station to Minakami by JR Express.

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minakami Moments of Celebration We invite guests to star gaze in the summertime or watch the fireflies in June. Depending on the time of year that you visit, we may ask you if you would like to learn how to make a New Year’s Japanese glutinous rice cake (mochitsuki), try your hand at calligraphy, or myriad other unique activities.

Onsen

Mount Haruna / Haruna Lake

Just like the Japanese people, guests are encouraged to go onsen hopping. A few onsen are just a 10-minute walk from our hotel. Others are only five minutes away by car. Almost all of them have open-air baths. For lunch, we recommend: La Biere, a Napolitan pizzeria, Maruyoshi, a soba noodle restaurant, and Ashima that has a special rice curry dish.

Here, visitors can take a cable car from the lake up to the top of the mountain to enjoy the dynamic views.

Nikko If you are here to celebrate something special, just let us know in advance. Some surprise will be waiting for

This UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with temples and shrines, is located 110 kilometres from our hotel. Along the way, you can stop to visit an onsen, hike on a wooden walkway amid nature, and stop to have lunch at Takaiya. Specialising in yuba (tofu skin), this restaurant has private dining rooms and a beautiful garden.

you when you arrive.

The mountains around There are many ski resorts in this area including: White Valley (2 km), Oana (5 km), Okutone Ski park (7 km), Tenjindaira (9km). In summer, Tenjindaira is especially good for hiking.

Ikaho This typical onsen town has a nostalgic atmosphere, and contains souvenir shops, sweet shops and other little boutiques. Ikaho is also home to the Takehisa Yumeji Museum, dedicated to the famous illustrator of the same name that passed away in 1934. www.yumeji.or.jp

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Itinerary around

Takasaki Takaski’s highlight is its famed market located inside the Daruma-ji Temple. The temple is named after the famous priest, Daruma, who founded the Zen sect of Buddhism in the 6th century. Daruma is still worshipped to this day, symbolised by a red, round shaped paper doll. People keep these Daruma dolls inside their home because they believe they make dreams come true. Sold in various sizes, hundreds of thousands of people come here each year to buy a Durama doll in this temple’s market. Also unique, here at this temple, a priest will also play music for you to remove a specific misfortune.

Daruma-ji Temple: www.daruma.or.jp Rafting in Minakami: www.topminakami.com Gunma Prefecture tourism: www.wind.ne.jp/g-kanko Tenjindaira ski resort: www.tanigawadake-rw.com/gelande

Cuisine du Coeur We prepare dishes using regional ingredients including: Joshu beef, Iwana fish that dwell in clear streams, and Ginhikari, which is a selectively bred local rainbow trout. Our vegetables come directly from our farmer in Kyoto, Mr Kato.

Dinner and breakfast are served in private dining rooms. We have the same amount of private dining rooms as we have guest rooms.

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Bettei Senjuan

kanazawa-kaga

614, Tanigawa, Minakamimachi Tone-gun 379-1619 (Gunma) - Japan T: + 81 278 20 41 41 • F: + 81 278 72 18 60 senjuan@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/senjuan

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japan

Relais & Châteaux property in Minakami

Bordered by the Saigawa River and Asano River, and deemed one of Japan’s prettiest cities, Kanazawa abuts the Japanese Alps and overlooks the Sea of Japan. Filled with a rich heritage and clustered around a remodelled feudal castle, Kanazawa was once ruled by Samurais for more than three centuries. The town centre, containing old Samurai homes made of wood and dirt, and geisha houses also has a rich tradition for painted silks used to make kimonos called kaga-yuzen. Kanazawa is also home to Kenrokuen park, one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan and a popular attraction with visitors to the city.

Kaga is home to many onsen hot spring towns including Yamashiro.

Railway: 2 hours from Kyoto or 25 minutes by train from Kanazawa to Kaga Onsen staion.

HOTEL 17 rooms – 1 suite Open all year AIRPORT Tokyo (Int'l) - 198 km Narita (Int'l) - 250 km TRAIN STATION Minakami - 3 km Jomokogen - 13 km

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A word from the Maître de Maison Sachiko Nakamichi of Beniya Mukayu My ryokan sits on the top of a hill that once belonged to the Yakuoin-Onsen-ji Temple, which was erected more than 1000 years ago. Affiliated with medicine, this area was once known as a place for studying how to heal the body and spirit. Our ryokan offers a time for healing, meditation, yoga and relaxation, and our spa uses products made with medicinal herbs and hot spring water.

Cuisine du Coeur

My Secret Place

Moments of Celebration

The Yakuoin-Onsen-ji Temple and the Hattori Jinja Shrine are situated at the lower part of the hill where our ryokan is. We have a secret passage that leads down to the centre of Yamashiro and to the entrance of a sacred place that is enclosed by giant 600-year-old trees. It is very therapeutic and the walking track is well maintained. In the springtime, you can spot many kinds of wildflowers along the way too.

My husband is a master of tea ceremony. Just ask us if he is available to invite you to have an authentic tea experience in our tea pavilion, amongst the trees in our Japanese garden.

Chef Yoshinori Kinomoto: “Here, we mainly serve Kaga style kaiseki, using local fresh seafood, rice cultivated from Hakusan Mountain’s pure water and seasonal local vegetables. Our dishes come served on Kutani porcelain made by Seika Suda, Shunzou Masaki and various kinds of shellfishes. Summer brings Noto oysters and abalones, Autumn brings wild mushrooms & amaebi shrimps. In Winter, I enjoy making duck meatball casseroles and cooking snow crabs. This tasty crab is one of the greatest wintertime treasures provided by the Sea of Japan. I am proud to highlight this rare delicacy in our cuisine.

These dishes come served on fine locally crafted dishes such as Kutani porcelain and Wajima or Yamanaka lacquer ware.”

Our Horin Dining is ideal for special family events or special occasions such as wedding, honeymoon or anniversary. The Zen interiors blend in perfect harmony with the view of our red pine trees in the garden. Here, guests can enjoy Kaga kaiseki cuisine or our special courses, Bitochi kaiseki, Sushi kaiseki course which should be the most memorable one during your stay in Japan.

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55-1-3 Yamashiro-Onsen Kaga-shi 922-0242 (Ishikawa-ken) - Japan T: + 81 761 77 13 40 • F: + 81 761 76 13 40 beniya@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/beniya

kanazawa-kaga

Relais & Châteaux property in Kanazawa-Kaga

Beniya Mukayu

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Itinerary around

Yamashiro Onsen Town There are many places to visit around here. Most can be reached by foot. Visit the most famous Kutani porcelain master, Seika Suda’s atelier. You will be fascinated by his five-coloured (blue, red, yellow, green and purple) creations. He will be delighted to show you his works.

Rosanjin Kitaoji once lived here and he too learned how to make Kutani porcelain. Well versed in cooking, ceramics, painting, calligraphy and other traditional Japanese arts, Rosanjin often visited Yamashiro. Eventually, he bought a home here. Called Iroha Soan and open to the public, even though it has been more than 50 years since Kitaoji died, the house remains exactly as it was when he was alive.

In the centre of the town, for a light meal, there are several wonderful soba restaurants.

City of Kanazawa It is only a 40-minute train ride from our town to Kanazawa. We can also arrange a chauffeured car for you to discover the Samurai culture. Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Park and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art are all located in the same area. Kenrokuen park is a true highlight. as it is one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. It takes about two hours to enjoy all its beauty. Stop to have a rest at Shigure-tei. Designed for tea ceremony, this traditional Japanese house is a fine example of authentic Sukiya design. Showcasing feudal culture, the museum was designed by the famous Japanese architects, Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa.

Just like Kyoto’s Gion, there were once many Geisha houses in Kanazawa’s Higashi Chayagai, where guests could enjoy dinner and traditional entertainment. A few are still in operation and special packages for tourists are available. The main street is filled with beautiful old houses on both sides.

Some of these homes are open to the public. Strolling along the back streets, lined with old shops, is a wonderful way to experience the life of yesteryear.

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Gokayama There are two villages, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, Gokayama and Shirakawago. Gokayama is about 1.5 hours away by car. The view of the hamlet with farmhouses featuring thatched roofs is simply wonderful. Yohachi and Arai are good places to go for tea or a meal, and Sho is a coffee shop.

This village’s specialty is yomogi soba, buckwheat noodles made with mugwort (chrysanthemum weed).

HOTEL 16 rooms – 1 Suite Open all year AIRPORT Komatsu - 15 km TRAIN STATION Kaga Onsen - 4 km

www.kagaworld.or.jp/yamashiro_global www.kanazawa21.jp www.kanazawa-tourism.com www.gokayama.jp/english

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During the 6th century, Osaka started to flourish, continuing to grow, prosper and expand, especially during the industrial revolution. Although much of the city was destroyed during WWII, there are nevertheless still many old buildings and monuments that remain, including the oldest officially administered temple in Japan, Shitennoji Temple, which was founded in 593AD by Prince Shotoku.

Just a 30-minute journey by train from Osaka, and also forming part of the Kansai region, is Kobe. Offering its own exotic charm, the port city’s prefecture is also home to Japan’s finest castle, Himeji Castle.

Airport: Kansai International Airport (KIX) Osaka and Kobe are both an hour away via the airport bus.

My hotel is only two kilometres from the mountains situated in the north and the sea in the south. Here in Kobe, visitors can glimpse at the old foreigners’ residences called ijinkan in Kitano, visit Chinatown, shop and enjoy different nightspots.

Rich in local products from both the land and the sea, at my

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A word from the Maître de Maison and Grand Chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi of Kobe Kitano Hotel

kansai (osaka-kobe)

hotel we serve delightful French cuisine.

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi: “Kobe is so rich in products from both the sea and the mountains. Besides Kobe beef, my personal favourites are: poultry grown in a natural environment, game, mushrooms and the local Akashi sea bream.”

My Secret Place

Moments of Celebration

Kobe is very famous for its old sake cellars. Many of them are just 20 minutes away from Kitano and some are owned by my friends. There, visitors can learn about how to make and brew sake, and sample the various kinds too, of course.

Highlighted by cuisine prepared by our Grand Chef Yamaguchi, we can arrange a very original and special bridal ceremony at our court terrace. We also have a partnership with a wonderful salon, which uses a special hand technique.

A line in an old Japanese song states: “Okamoto for plum, Ikuta for cherry, and the best for pine is Minatogawa”. Ikuta Shrine is a must-see in early April during the cherry blossom season. It is only a few minutes' walk from the hotel. Each year, my family and staff always enjoy having a picnic under those blossoms. This shrine also attracts people year round, as it is reputed for its power to evoke good encounters with others, both in marriage and friendship.

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I was born in Osaka. When I was a child, I loved to help my mother out in the kitchen. I later moved to France to cook with Paul Bocuse, Alain Chapel and other Relais & Châteaux master chefs.

Finally, here I am back in Osaka with my own restaurant. Besides my à la carte choices, I love to prepare special dishes for my guests. If you like fish, just ask me which fish I was able to find at the market that day. Or, if you are fond of game, come visit me in the wintertime and let me know how you like to eat it and I will prepare it for you. Although our cellar is filled with wonderful French wines, I never forget sake lovers.

A word from the Grand Chef Hideaki Matsuo of Kashiwaya Twenty years ago I succeeded my father’s restaurant. At the time I was studying physics at my university, so the thought of becoming a chef was not at all on my mind. At the same time though, I was simply fascinated by tea ceremony, especially its multiple elements. Meaning hospitality, motenashi refers not only to meals but also to simply enjoying a cup of green tea.

Moments of Celebration For special occasions, we have private rooms, which can accommodate up to 12 guests. Depending on the time of year, we also have special seasonal dishes. In the wintertime, for example, it might be a game dish, and of course, we also always feature both black and white truffles to highlight the end of the year.

My Secret Place

Cuisine du Coeur

My favourite district in Osaka is Shinsekai. Similar to Pigalle in Paris, it is home to many small restaurants offering Osaka’s soul food—okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), takoyaki (octopus) and kushikatsu (deep fried kebabs).

Visitors need to come visit and see for themselves just how delicious these delicacies look and taste. The nostalgic and chaotic atmosphere here is terrific too. www.shinsekai.ne.jp

Chef Yoshinori Shibuya: “Osaka has been a town filled with merchants for centuries. All of the best products can always be found here. Every morning, I select what I deem to be the most superior produce available that day and cook them for my guests. I particularly enjoy preparing dishes made with ingredients that come from the sea.”

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A word from the Grand Chef Yoshinori Shibuya of La BÉcasse

Housed in a residential area in Osaka, my restaurant is a ryotei, a restaurant in a typical Japanese house with private dining rooms. Although I like to be creative with my food, I never deviate from Japanese cuisine’s framework. One of my signature dishes is grilled tilefish that has been marinated with shrimp salt. If you come to visit us for the first time, please do try this dish.

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Hideaki Matsuo: “In Osaka, nothing is missing in terms of fresh produce. Our menu changes every month.

I always strive to add some element of surprise for our guests, and give them something extra special. At the end of their meal, we always serve each guest a cup of Matcha green tea, to be sipped and enjoyed without worrying about the manner.

Moments of Celebration Conforming to Japan’s traditional calendar and its different seasons, our menu changes regularly, and to enhance these menus, we also change the hanging scrolls, flowers, dishware and other decorative objects.

Should guests have a special occasion to celebrate, upon request we will gladly create an exclusive menu or a private dinner for them.

My Secret Place One of Osaka’s most vibrant areas is the Kuromon Ichiba market. Also called the kitchen of Osaka, here one will find everything to sate the stomach.

Just 20 minutes from my restaurant is the Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. I love to go there and stroll in the lovely gardens. www.expo70.or.jp/e/

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kansai A day in Osaka

A day in Kyoto

Osaka’s city centre is filled with shopping centres, malls and department stores. For antiques or arts and crafts, Oimatsu Street in the Kitashinchi District close to Osaka Station is the best place to go to. To glimpse at the city’s daily life, visit Ebisubashisuji Street. Close to Nippombashi Station, Kuromon Ichiba is one of Japan’s most famous shopping malls, an ideal place to learn about Osaka’s famed food culture. For okonomiyaki, Le Butatama is just one kilometre from Nanba. For yakitori, Ayamu-ya is less than a 10-minute walk from JR Osaka Station. After sampling its many different chicken skewers, you can end your meal with yakionigiri (roasted rice ball).

Easily accessible from both Osaka and Kobe, Kyoto is one of the world’s best-preserved cities. Home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, a guided tour of this city is recommended. Some of its top attractions include: the priceless Nijo Castle, the fantastic views at the magnificent Kiyomizu Temple, the thousands of bright red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine and the famed Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji).

Visitors can meander around the narrow lanes in the historic Higashiyama District to glimpse at the Kyoto of yesteryear. There are many small shops selling pottery, souvenirs, crafts and local food, as well as cafés and restaurants here too.

Situated in a vast park and surrounded by a moat, Osaka Castle, with its gorgeous donjon, is a not-to-be-missed attraction.

A designated National Treasure, Sumiyoshi-Taisha Shrine is Osaka’s most famous shrine. Surrounded by lush grounds and built in 593AD, Shitennoji Temple is Japan’s oldest officially administered temple. The Osaka Museum of History is also fascinating, and Universal Studios Japan™ is just 20 minutes from town. One of the world’s largest aquariums, Osaka Aquarium is also a top attraction.

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Itinerary around Osaka Castle www.osakacastle.net

Osaka Museum of History www.mus-his.city.osaka.jp

Universal Studios Japan™ www.usj.co.jp/e/

Osaka Aquarium www.kaiyukan.com

A day in Kobe Visit the ijinkan or residences built by foreigners in the hillside district, Kitano. Offering a blend of western design and Japanese architecture, some of them are now open to the public. A few have been converted into museums and others are now designated cafés or restaurants.

To enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner, guests should dine in a ryotei. Meals are served on a low table in a private tatami matted dining room. In the Gion area, Kikunoi and Wakuden Kodaiji are highly recommended. Each of these restaurants also has a more casual venue with counter seating: both are located close to Shijo.

Kobe City Museum www.city.kobe.lg.jp/culture/culture/institution/museum/

Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets www.premiumoutlets.co.jp

Driving to Mount Rokko with its panoramic city views and the Seto Inland Sea is breathtaking. Stop at the Rokko Hotel to have a lunch or a cup of tea whilst admiring the superb views. The route from there to the north is connected to Arima Hot Springs. Famous for its silver and gold coloured waters, Arima Hot Springs is Japan’s oldest hot spring town. Many hotels welcome day visitors to enjoy an onsen bath.

Kyoto sightseeing bus www.kyoto-regulartourbus.com

Himeji Castle www.himeji-castle.gr.jp

Akashi, located just the west of Kobe is famous for its Akashi-yaki. A popular dish, small balls are made from wheat and eggs with octopus in the centre, which are then dipped into a clear broth.

There are many small restaurants in Akashi in which to sample this dish including Kimuraya is located just 200 metres from the Akashi Station.

Besides its famed sake, every year during the first two weeks in December, the Kobe Luminarie attracts millions of people from all over the world. This spectacular light festival features hundreds of thousands of hand painted lights. It is a definitive symbol of revival from the destruction caused by the 1995 earthquake.

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Kobe Kitano Hotel

3-3-20, Yamamoto-dori, Chuo-ku 650-0003 Kobe (Hyogo-ken) - Japan T: + 81 782 71 37 11• F: + 81 782 71 37 00 kitano@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/kitano

Ginsenyokobori Bldg. 1F,4-6-2, Koraibashi Chuo-ku Osaka 541-0043 (Osaka-shi) - Japan T: + 81 6 4707 0070• F: + 81 6 4707 0027 becasse@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/becasse

HOTEL 23 rooms - 7 suites Open all year

RESTAURANT Closed all day Sunday & one MOnday per month

AIRPORT Kansai International airport (Intl) -73 km Kobe national airport - 9 km Osaka National Airport - 36 km

TRAIN STATION JR Sannomiya station - 1 km Hankyu Sannomiya station - 1 km JR Shinkansen Shinkobe station - 2 km

Relais & Châteaux property in Kansai

La BÉcasse

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Relais & Châteaux property in Kansai

ANNUAL CLOSING Eight days in January and eight days in August AIRPORT Kansai (Int'l) - 30 km TRAIN STATION Osaka - 2 km

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2-5-18 Senriyama-nishi, Suita-shi 565-0851 Osaka- Japan T: + 81 6 63 86 22 34• F: + 81 6 63 86 95 89 kashiwaya@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/kashiwaya

awaji-shikoku japan

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Relais & Châteaux property in Kansai

Situated on the east side of the Seto Inland Sea and studded by myriad islands, Awaji is this area’s largest island. Connected to Kobe in the north by the world’s largest suspension bridge and to Tokushima in the south by another suspension bridge, Awaji is remote and preserved. Legend tells that the God Izanagi and Goddess Izanami created Awaji together after they stirred the sea.

Apart from its wild beauty and renowned crafts including incense and clay tiles, Awaji is also the birthplace of the Japanese puppetry theatre known as ningyo joruri. Filled with lush rice paddy fields, Shikoku is known for its temples and other Buddhist monuments.

RESTAURANT Closed all day Sunday & National Holiday

Airport to access: the area: Kansai International Airport, 2-hour drive, or Tokushima National Airport, 30-minute drive.

Railway: Shinkobe station, 1-2-hour drive

ANNUAL CLOSING From 1-7 January and 13-16 August AIRPORT Kansaï (Int'l) - 60 km Osaka National Airport - 9 km TRAIN STATION JR Osaka - 8 km JR Shin Osaka - 4.5 km

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Cuisine du Coeur We have two restaurants here. One is French, the other Japanese. Besides the seafood caught from just in front of our hotel, Chef Tadaaki Nakano uses vegetables cultivated on the island including Awaji’s famous sweet tasting onions, and milk from a local farm. “All our products are regional. We make everything from scratch—ham, bacon, pickles, jam— all of it is made right here in our kitchen.”

It has been 25 years since we opened our hotel in this scenic, fishing village on the Southwest part of Awaji. The people here are very proud of their history and cultural roots. Facing the Seto Inland Sea, which is dotted with small islands and the Naruto whirling current, I hope my hotel will provide a heavenly, relaxing escape.

My Secret Place The hamlet of Anaga is just a five-minute walk from our hotel, where one can glimpse at the friendly local people’s lives. We also have boats so guests can explore the sea.

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Remember Burma ( aka Pegu Club n10 ) 40ml Tanqueray 10 20ml Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge 10ml Yuzu Juice 1 Dash Fee Brothers Plum Bitters Pour all the ingredients in a shaker, shake vigorously with ice and double strain in a chilled Tanqueray Coupette. Garnish with an Orange Zest twisted over the drink.

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A word from the Maître de Maison Sadao Iue of HOTEL Anaga

Moments of Celebration We like to offer guests a happy surprise, so if it is your birthday, we may play some music for you on an antique music box. We can also arrange for you to witness a traditional puppetry play performance. Naturally, other special requests are always welcome.

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A word from the Grand Chef Hirohisa Koyama of Kokin Aoyagi The powerful, dramatic view from my restaurant is heavenly.

Here, you can see the Naruto Strait, the Onaruto Bridge and the fierce, whirling current. I moved here five years ago from Tokushima because I wanted to serve authentic cuisine amid this fantastic setting.

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Hirohisa Koyama: “One of my favourite local products is a type of sea bream called naruto dai. It comes from the Naruto Strait. I love to use it for sashimi. You need to cut the fish quite thinly though, in order to maximise its texture and taste.”

Moments of Celebration Let us know if you are here to celebrate a special occasion.

On New Year’s Day, you can also help us make mochitsuki, a traditional Japanese rice cake made with sticky rice. In the spring, when the cherry blossoms are in bloom in our garden, we also have a Hanami garden party. Hanami means “admire cherry blossoms”.

My Secret Place Watching the constantly changing whirling current under the bridge is an incredibly exciting experience.

Make a wish at the Oasahiko Shrine, one of the region’s most sacred places. I also love the Otsuka Museum of Art. Located just four kilometres from our hotel, it is the world’s first ceramic board art museum, showcasing over 1000 reproductions of Western art masterpieces.

Otsuka Museum of Art www.o-museum.or.jp

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awaji-shikoku On Awaji Island

Tokushima on Shikoku Island

Explore Awaji starting from the north in a chauffeured car. Visit the contemporary Honpukuji Temple designed by Tadao Ando, highlighted by its flat oval shaped roof featuring a lotus pond. Your next stop will be to Izanagi Jingu, where it is said that the creator of Japan, Izanami is enshrined. This shrine is deemed one of the most sacred places of Shintoism. There, you can ask to have a private purification session. Moving south, you will enter a Zen world at Gyokuseikan. This museum contains fascinating Japanese Zen related paintings. If you are interested in industry, you can visit a roof tile art studio and make your own roof tiles or other items with traditional kawara clay. Awaji is famous for its incense. Make your own incense at Baikundo, a highly regarded Japanese incense atelier. See the monkeys at the Awajishima Monkey Center. The daughter of the family that takes care of these monkeys can allegedly communicate with them. Not far from the monkey centre, there is a special place where each January and February you can see a plethora of daffodils blooming along the seaside slope, all the way down to the sea.

It is here on this island that the greatest Buddhist priest Kobodaishi, also known as Kukai, was born in 774AD. There are 88 temples here that are popular with pilgrims of priest Kobodaishi. For ohenrosan pilgrims, this island offers a once-in-a-lifetime dream. These pilgrims are easily recognisable, as they are dressed in white. The starting point of the 88 temple pilgrimage begins at Ryozenji Temple, where one can purchase the traditional white costume, stick, hat and notebook to be signed and stamped at every visited temple. The 15th temple called Kokubunji Temple is set in a beautiful garden in a lovely rural environment.

The whirling current is a definitive highlight in Awaji, best seen in the spring. Take a cruise to the current’s edge, perhaps even with a bottle of champagne.

Tokushima’s most exciting annual event is Awaodori. Held for four days from 12-15 August, this folk dance festival pays homage to the Japanese people’s ancestors. Every street in Tokushima is filled with dancing teams called ren that come from all over Japan. Throughout the year, visitors can head to the top of Mount Mayuyama to Awaodori Kaikan to watch a ren folk dance and enjoy the beautiful views. Awaodori Kaikan www.awaodori-kaikan.jp

Awajishima Monkey Center www.monkey-center.com

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Visit the sumptuous former estate of Okumura, a 19th century ai no yakata (indigo dying) merchant. Now a well maintained museum, visitors can also try their hand at indigo dying and make a handkerchief.

Aizumicho Historical Museum www.town.aizumi.tokushima.jp/kanko/ainoyakata

Mima City’s Wakimachi District in Tokushima Prefecture is famous for its beautiful street lined with old houses built in the udatsu style, which uses a built fire-preventative structural element.

Mima City www.city.mima.lg.jp Tokushima tourism www.awanavi.jp

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Hotel anaga

1109 Anaga, Minamiawaji-Shi Hyogo-Ken 656-0661 - Japan T: + 81 799 39 11 11 • F: + 81 799 39 11 91 anaga@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/anaga

1-1 Aza-Nakayama, Oshimada, Seto-cho, Naruto-shi, Tokushima 771-0367 - Japan T : + 81 88 688 1155 • F: + 81 88 688 1152 aoyagi@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/aoyagi

HOTEL 40 rooms – 4 suites Open all year

RESTAURANT Open all year

AIRPORT Kansai (Int'l) - 160 km Tokushima - 26 km TRAIN STATION Shin Kobe - 90 km

Relais & Châteaux property in Awaji-Shikoku

kokin aoyagi

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Relais & Châteaux property in Awaji-Shikoku

AIRPORT Kansaï (Int'l) - 170 km Tokushima - 20 km TRAIN STATION Shinkobe - 100 km Ikenotani - 17 km Tokushima - 27 km

HELIPAD N 34° 16’ 12” - E 134° 40’ 15

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Journeys around

Thailand, Laos & Cambodia

Luang Prabang

LAOS

Satri House LPQ

Rachamankha CNX

Vientiane

LAOS Destination

THAILAND

AIRPORT

Siem Reap

CAMBODIA

Heritage Suites Hotel REP

PHILIPPINES

Phnom Penh

Ho Chi Minh City Phang Nga Wanakarn Beach Resort & Spa

Koh Samui The Scent Hotel USM

Phuket

The Pavilions, Phuket HKT

LUANG PRABANG

MALAYSIA MALAYSIA

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PROPERTY

VIETNAM

Bangkok

The Eugenia BKK

CHIANG MAI BANGKOK KOH SAMUI PHANG NGA PHUKET

SIEM REAP

Hanoi

Chiang Mai

THAILAND

CAMBODIA

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MYANMAR

BRUNEI 115

Chiang Mai is Thailand’s second-largest city and its northern gateway. Founded in 1296 by King Mengrai as the cultural, religious and political centre of the kingdom once known as Lanna Thai, the walled city was once home to the royal palace, noble houses and important temples. Though modified by subsequent rulers, the moat that encircled the original city still stands. After two centuries of Burmese occupation, Chiang Mai was revived during the reign of King Rama I in 1796. Today, this provincial capital seduces tourists with its luxury boutiques, cultural attractions and fine hospitality.

Airport: Chiang Mai Airport (CNX)

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A word from the Maître de Maison Paul Henry Walker of Rachamankha “Chiang Mai is a really unique place, very much on the tourist trail with all the convenience that affords but with the warm, welcoming atmosphere of those rare unspoilt secret spots we all search for when we travel. It is a place still very much in touch with its past, a wonderfully rich living culture, sincerely warm and friendly people, beautiful weather without extremes year round, ancient traditions and festivals that punctuate the year with colour and wonder, a lush fertile region that provides for a delicious and very varied cuisine, what can I say, it’s more of a lifestyle than simply a destination.’

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CHIANG MAI

My Secret Place “I know a place where you can own an elephant for a day, The Patara Elephant Farm is a place, not known to many, that I would recommend very heartily. I brought my sister and son once; it is a unique, incredible experience where we each cared for an elephant for one day and so wonderful that I could share such a moment with my family, too.”

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Cuisine du Coeur

Planet & People

Just like our diverse guests, there are so many varied experience possibilities in Chiang Mai, yet one thread that touches everyone who comes here is Chiang Mai’s true appreciation of life’s beauty. This is celebrated in Chiang Mai’s myriad annual festivals, its vibrant art scene and the people’s love of good food.

A Lanna native, Chef Tiwa Kumrapith enjoys sharing his culinary heritage with our guests. His menu for two showcases family recipes of unique and rare dishes from Tai-Yai, Myanmar and Lanna cuisines.

Our goal from the start has been to explore Chiang Mai’s rich heritage, and demonstrate that it can be sustainable and still has a practical relevance. At the expense of local traditions and cultures, there is a trend towards homogeneity in Asia. Our philosophy has been to steer away from this and give visitors a true sense of place, a chance to touch and experience our regional cultures. From dance to fine arts to puppetry, Rachamankha sponsors many types of artists.

We work very closely with Chiang Mai University’s Fine Arts Department and we hold many art functions at the hotel.

On a practical level, we also actively recycle, buy almost exclusively from local growers and suppliers, and employ 100% locally.

Moments of Celebration Most of our staff have been with us since we opened so family spirit is key to Rachamankha. As with all families, we enjoy celebrating and often host parties or events freely open to guests and locals alike. From Lanna performance art, concerts of traditional music to art nights of local artists’ works, celebrating and helping to promote and preserve our rich cultural heritage is very important to us.

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CHIANG MAI

It is fair to say that three days in Chiang Mai is just not long enough to see all that the city and surrounding province has to offer. Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of options—from world-class golf to soft adventure, to the more sedate and traditional experiences including: artisanal shops, temple tours, cooking classes, massages and spas. Ideal for half or full day excursions, we can arrange private cars with drivers, replete with multilingual guides.

A day with the elephants Long the symbol of Thailand and until just 50 years ago Chiang Mai’s “family car”, the inner moat road here was once reserved exclusively for elephants. A major tourist activity in Chiang Mai, there are several ways to get up close to these magnificent beasts. Observe them passively in their natural habitat in an elephant sanctuary, www.elephantnaturepark.org or own an elephant for a day, learn how to ride bareback, bathe your elephant and take it on a trek through the jungle www.pataraelephantfarm.com For families, there are also elephant camps where you can enjoy elephant shows, see them paint, bathe and take a short elephant ride seated on a howdah (elephant seat).

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CHIANG MAI

CHIANG MAI There are as many options for experience in Chiang Mai as there are differences in preferences of our guests but one that runs as a thread touching all of our guests is an appreciation of the beauty of life. This is celebrated in the many festivals in Chiang Mai’s calendar, the vibrant art scene in the city and in the love of all things food.

A trip to the Burmese border There are two routes one can take from Chiang Mai to the Burmese border—the Chiang Dao route or the Doi Saket route. Both are equally scenic.

Flight of the Gibbon

Art

Golf

Located two thirds of the way up Suthep Mountain to the west of the city, this is Chiang Mai’s most revered temple and famous landmark. The pagoda in its centre contains some of the relics of the Lord Buddha. The temple is visited throughout the year by thousands of tourists and Buddhist pilgrims from all over the world.

Flight of the Gibbon www.treetopasia.com is a unique zip line canopy tour through pristine, 1500-year-old rainforest outside of Chiang Mai. 18 platforms, skybridges and lowering stations connect 2km of zip lines that take you through different layers of the rainforest canopy. A unique full day trip in gorgeous scenery.

Chiang Mai has a vibrant, burgeoning art community. Rachamankha has very close ties to the city’s main university fine arts department. We sponsor many art shows and young artists, and some of the local artists’ contemporary works decorate the hotel. Guests are always invited to join in the art functions at the hotel and we also arrange ‘meet the artist’ trips where guests can take a look at the artist’s studio and learn a little about how their works are created.

Our golfing guests particularly enjoy these courses. All are within an hour’s drive from Rachamankha.

Mae Jo Golf Club Chiang Mai www.maejogolfclub.com Highlands Golf Club Chiang Mai www.chiangmaihighlands.com Royal Chiang Mai Golf Club www.royalchiangmai.com

The temple is accessed by climbing a steep Naga (serpent) staircase comprising 304 steps, but you can also ascend on a funicular railway. The views are fantastic and the temple is particularly beautiful.

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It is fair to say that 3 days in Chiang Mai is just not long enough to see all that the city and surrounding province has to offer. Chiang Mai offers a wide variety of options from world class golf through soft adventure to the more sedate and traditional, such as shopping from Chiang Mai’s many artisans, temple tours, cooking classes and massage or spa.

Doi Suthep Temple

According to legend, an auspicious elephant selected the temple’s site. The story goes that a monk named Sumana placed half of a Buddha relic onto an elephant’s back and set it loose. It was decided that when the elephant stopped walking, a temple would be built on that exact spot to house the relic. The elephant began climbing the mountain and finally paused. And so it was at that spot where King Kuna built Wat Prathat Doi Suthep in 1388.

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Itinerary around

Shopping Chiang Mai has long been the home of artisans of many mediums. The city has a long history, almost 700 years of ceramic making, silversmithing, woodcarving and fabric weaving. There are so many options for shopping, many still within the original communities that founded the crafts in Chiang Mai from textiles, silk to cotton, tailored or traditional weavings; jewellery, precious stones and silverware both antique and modern; furniture and wood carvings of a superlative standard and the ubiquitous hilltribe handicrafts are too numerous to mention.

Cooking

Trekking

There are many cooking schools in Chiang Mai offering half and full day courses in Thai and Lanna (Chiang Mai) cooking. Our two favourites are Cooking at Home, their website is

The city borders two national parks, Suthep and Inthanon, home to Thailand’s highest mountain. Consequently the province offers excellent guided mountain trekking of all grades. There are also some great 4WD routes and off-road motorcycling.

Treks can be single or multiple day routes, private or with a group. Many of these treks can also take in remote hilltribe villages and forest temples, a chance to step back in time.

www.cookingathome-chiangmai.com

and Baan Thai Cooking School, their website is www.ThaiCookerySchool.com

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Rachamankha

6 Rachamankha 9, T. Phra Singh, A. Muang Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand T: + 66 53 904 111 • F: + 66 53 904 114 racha@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/racha

BANGKOK Although most people know the capital of Thailand as Bangkok, the Thais usually call their capital city Krung Thep, which is an abbreviation of the royal name given

by King Rama I, in 1782, when it became the country’s capital. At the turn of the 19th century, Europeans began settling here, and by 1860 many trade treaties had been founded with the occident, helping to increase the city’s rapid growth.

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Relais & Châteaux property in Chiang Mai

Today, dynamic Bangkok is a major gateway to Southeast Asia and one of the world’s most visited cities. Possessing one of Asia’s richest historical, cultural and architectural heritages, this influential city of contrasts buzzes with life—day and night.

HOTEL 22 rooms 2 two-bedroom suites Open all year

Welcome to the “City of Angels”.

Airport: Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

AIRPORT Chiang Mai (CNX) - 5 km TRAIN STATION Chiang Mai - 8 km

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A word from the Maître de Maison Ariane Schneider of The Eugenia Filled with unique treasures and collectibles, the Eugenia evokes a colonial era atmosphere—a serene heritage abode tucked away in the “City of Angels”. Simply step into the lobby and you will instantly get a feeling of the enchanting East of yesteryear—a

Moments of Celebration The Eugenia instantly evokes a cosy sense of “coming home”—an emotion like no other. Each of the well appointed suites features antique furniture and fittings. The four-poster beds, settees, dressers and desks are all unique vintage pieces, as are the light switches and light fixtures.

Even the bathtubs are made from hand beaten copper and aluminum alloy. It is really a very special haven.

time when life was conducted at a much slower pace.

My Secret Place I can never get enough of the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market. Divided into 27 sections containing more than 15000 stalls selling goods from every part of Thailand, it is one of the world’s largest markets. I always enjoy spending time there.

Indulge your senses at the Karmakamet Tea Shop, located at Central World. Sip and enjoy a delicious pot of tea or coffee, and peruse their line of original aromatic candles, dreamy oils and incense.

Karmakamet www.karmakamet.co.th

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Cuisine du Cœur Chef Montep Kamonsilp: “the earth generates food, and people use these products to create their own cooking styles, which become a part of their culture. Though I use classic cooking techniques, I like to blend them with my grandmother’s cuisine, in order to simplify it somewhat, and give my dishes a natural taste combined with unusual flavours.”

Planet & People For the past seven years, all the water in our hotel has been heated by two sets of solar panels located on the roof, which take advantage of Bangkok’s year round sunshine. The Eugenia was the first hotel in Bangkok to acquire this kind of solar power.

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BANGKOK

BANGKOK

Explore the Rattanakosin District

A day for the senses

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre

Start the day at the National Museum, Thailand’s national treasury of art and archaeology. The largest museum in Southeast Asia, its exhibits include both traditional and contemporary works by past and present artists. Then, head to the nearby Grand Palace, home to the Emerald Buddha, deemed Thailand’s most important temple. Take plenty of time to ponder at the imagination needed to give rise to this ethereal royal complex that was built by King Rama I in the 1780s.

Start your day at 8am with a Thai Cooking class at Amita. The waterside Thai cooking school offers an exciting hands-on learning experience to teach you how to prepare traditional Thai dishes in an herbal garden setting. After lunch, you will be transferred to visit the Pathumwan district. Your first stop will be to see Jim Thompson’s House. Nestled in a tropical garden and a reminder of the days of yore, this complex of six traditional teak homes from around the country houses his splendid art collection. It is a true testament to this American businessman’s desire to preserve Thailand’s

www.bacc.or.th/aboutus/mission

After an indigenous “street food lunch”, you will make your way to the city’s oldest temple complex, Wat Po to see the immense reclining Buddha. Round off the afternoon with a wondrous massage at the famous Wat Po’s Traditional Thai Massage School.

regional art and culture, and revive its silk industry. Then, walk up to the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC) also known as the “Guggenheim meets a shopping mall”. For shoppers, visit the Siam Paragon, the up-scale shopping and entertainment complex. For lovers of inexpensive clothing and technology goods, just in front is the MBK, and a few minutes’ walk on the other side of the road, the Panthip Plaza sells myriad software items and gadgets.

To finish the day in a romantic way, have a drink at the Amorosa to enjoy the sunset over the Wat Arun, the stunning Temple of the Dawn and the Chao Phraya River.

Discover more of Bangkok Along several parts of the Chao Phraya River you can rent a long tail boat and take a one hour boat tour along the canals. Ask the captain to drop you off at the Memorial Bridge. From there you can take a stroll to see the fresh market, Pak Klong Talad and then proceed to the colourful Flower Market, which sells all kinds of orchids and floral temple offerings. Afterwards, hail a tuk tuk and ask the driver to take you to the main street in Chinatown, Yaowarat Road. It a sprawling, neon-lit enclave of tiny lanes filled with fabulous food and incense-shrouded Chinese shrines. Enjoy a delicious local lunch and then take a walk along Soi Yaowarat 6.

Afterwards, you can take a taxi to Charoen Krung Road to visit the downtown old western quarter with its neoclassical edifices and antiques shops. A drink at The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s most illustrious hotel, is the perfect place to unwind for a while in

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Weekends If your stay in Bangkok coincides with a weekend, you simply cannot miss seeing one of the biggest street markets in the world—Chatuchak Weekend Market. Located 30 minutes north of central Bangkok, this sprawling market has everything from home decorations and antiques to clothing, local handicrafts, and much more. Also only open on Saturdays and Sundays, Bangkok’s floating market, Taling Chan is definitively worthy of a trip. Take a canal tour along the klongs and soak in the surroundings. There, you will also get to witness a traditional Thai musical performance while you enjoy some delicious som tam (papaya salad).

A few more tips - for Spa: During their stay, our guests always delight in being pampered with delectable massage. Oasis Spa is located very near to The Eugenia on Sukhumvit soi 31. www.oasisspa.net - for Thai Cuisine: Bo.lan, located on Sukhumvit Soi 26, the spacious, well-designed restaurant serves genuine Thai cuisine using age-old Siam recipes. www.bolan.co.th

a wonderful atmosphere.

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THE EUGENIA

KOH SAMUI

267 Sukhumvit 31, Wattana, 10110, Bangkok T: + 66 2 259 9017-9 • F: + 66 2 259 9010 eugenia@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/eugenia

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, bordering the South China Sea, Koh Samui is Thailand’s third largest island. Once a respite for fisherman, this charming island is filled with white sandy beaches, crystal blue waters, lush green vegetation and friendly people. Most of all, Koh Samui is a place where you can go to, totruly relax and unwind.

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Relais & Châteaux property in Bangkok

There are many fun-filled activities to enjoy here that run the gamut from elephant trekking and mountain bike riding, to myriad water activities.

Welcome to the “Coconut Island”.

Airport: Koh Samui Airport (USM).

HOTEL 12 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Suvarnabhumi (BKK) - 35 km TRAIN STATION Hua-Lumphong - 8 km

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Koh Samui is filled with nature—rich with unspoiled surroundings. The Coconut Island is such a peaceful and tranquil place. Here, in our secret world at The Scent Hotel, we provide an elegant setting reflecting the past, intermixed with nature’s scents—a wonderful interlude in which to repose amid nature and the sea.

My Secret Place If you love the beach, Bophut Beach is the place. It is so calm. I love to take one of the hotel’s kayaks and paddle to explore the nearby seashores. It is a very peaceful moment, where I feel in harmony with the sea.

Another special place is our very own HHOMM Spa. Providing peace, tranquillity and calm, there is simply nothing like having a sensual treatment with the purest and finest aromatherapy products in this hidden little gem.

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A word from the Maître de Maison James Hang of The Scent Hotel

Moments of Celebration As the hotel’s name suggests, beautiful aromas that inspire serenity form part of the experience here. When guests arrive, they are given a choice of which scent they should like to have during their stay. Derived from ancient Chinese recipes, these incredible bathroom amenities come from our shop, Karmakamet in Bangkok. We have two signature scents. The Embrace, blends Indian coconut oil with Chinese orange blossom to form a sweet, deep and obscure Asian scent. The moon and romance always go together in Asia, hence the name of our other signature scent, Moon Shadow. Combining jasmine, frangipani and sandalwood, it recalls the unforgettable smell of Asian nights.

Karmakamet shops: www.karmakamet.co.th HHOMM Spa believes that scents can evoke nostalgic memories and bring you to another world. HHOMM Spa helps to bring back these memories by celebrating the concept of the “Reminiscent Living”.

Visit the local market and purchase your fresh ingredients with our chef, who will then show you how to blend them together to create a delicious meal. Learning the secrets of authentic Thai cuisine makes for a wonderful momento to bring back home to share with loved ones.

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Cuisine du Cœur Chef Jutamas Theantae (Som) : ”I believe perfection lies in looking at all the little details. I love to share my passion for cooking by preparing Western fare influenced with elite Asian products found mostly throughout Thailand and Southeast Asia. One of my popular signatures dishes is my blue crab dumplings, served with a galangal infused velouté and local vegetables.”

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Koh Samui

Koh Samui

Exploring Koh Samui

A day at Angthong National Marine Park

Restore your energy with a delicious breakfast before heading out to explore the island in your private chauffered jeep. Your first stop shall be to the Big Buddha Temple. Revered by locals, the impressive statue stands 15 metres high. Next, you can head to Chaweng View and soak in the beautiful vistas of Chaweng Beach and the sea, before heading to see the strange rock formations at Grandmother and Grandfather Rock. Then, visit Huatanon, a multi-cultural fishing village and home to Thai Buddhists, Muslims and Chinese Thais. Afterwards, stop to see Koh Samui’s sacred mummified monk at the Kunaram Temple before heading to relax and swim at Namuang Waterfall No. 1. Enjoy an authentic Thai lunch at T.K. Restaurant, then see the century old fruit trees in the agricultural centre. If you prefer, take an exhilarating elephant trek through the jungle. Then, you can do a little shopping and pick up some souvenirs. You shall arrive back at the hotel just in time for cocktails.

Located northwest of Koh Samui, this marine park comprises 42 limestone islands, encircled by coral bands and surrounded by shallow waters. Flanked by secluded beaches, these islands are covered with forests that are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, and caves. Explore the mainland, snorkel in the crystal clear waters amidst the coral reefs, go kayaking, or take a cruise to Talay Nai on a longtail boat to see the emerald green lagoon.

Discover Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Nicknamed “Turtle Island” because of its shape, Koh Tao is home to beautiful shallow waters, terrific beaches and wonderful landscapes. Its pristine coral reef is a haven for divers and snorkelers. Near to Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is famous for its diving and snorkelling. You can even feed the fish by hand while you are here.

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Other activities ◊ Golf: Santiburi Samui Country Club ◊ Horseback riding on the beach ◊ All-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides through tropical jungles ◊ Cable car ride over lush forests .. Mountain bike riding / Hiking / Fishing / Water skiing T.K. Restaurant Thong Krut, 30/5 Moo 5, Tambon Taling Ngam

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THE SCENT HOTEL

phang nga

58/1 Moo 4, Bangrak Beach, Bophut, Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320,Thailand T: + 66 77 962 198 • F: + 66 77 960 123 karmakamet@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/karmakamet

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Relais & Châteaux property in Koh Samui

Located just north of neighbouring Phuket, Phang Nga is a province with two essential elements— land and sea. Filled with national parks that border magnificent scenery and immensely different attractions, it is also home to two groups of islands, Surin and Similan. Attracting divers from around the world, these islands are renowned for their beautiful unspoiled beaches and spectacular underwater scenery. Although Phang Nga Bay is extremely sheltered, it is ideal for sea canoeing expeditions to explore the many intriguing caverns containing their own eco-systems.

HOTEL 13 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Samui (USM) - 3 km

Today, the quiet village of Thai muang is beginning to lure discerning travellers and honeymooners. Dotted with rubber and palm plantations, this coastal area is full of birds, mammals and scenic waterfalls, and its pristine coastline features one of Southeast Asia’s longest and most beautiful un-spoilt white beaches.

Phuket International Airport (HKT).

Airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT).

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Planet & People

Thai muang is a brand new location on Thailand’s tourist map. All new to the eye, everything here is untouched and unspoilt—the scenery, the lush vegetation, the never-ending white beaches…

Wanakarn has a completely closed reverse osmosis water system that continuously circulates to provide safe water. Greywater is also fully treated before it is released. All the hot water in each of the guest villas comes from solar roof panels.

Further, during Wanakarn’s construction, the utmost care was given to the existing trees. Any tree that needed to be moved was replaced with three mature trees, which we had planted in different locations around the property.

Warm and friendly, the local residents here are always smiling.

These smiles are truly genuine and from the heart. Wanakarn is honoured and privileged to present our wonderful little paradise to travellers in search of the unseen.

My Secret Place Considering our location, my secret place is right here. After spending a marvellous day on the white powdered sandy beach, graced by gentle rolling waves, one of my favourite ways to spend a late afternoon is to paddle up the river to observe the flora and wildlife.

The river is narrow in its turns. Bamboo drifts along in the water. Birds of all colours curiously tilt their heads. A group of water buffalo splash into the water for a cooling bath. Geckos and monitor lizards rest lazily on shaded rocks. It makes you appreciate the moment and everything around you—an incredible experience.

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A word from the Maître de Maison Frode V Sund of Wanakarn

Moments of Celebration One of Thai muang’s grandest moments can be found right here at Wanakarn. Fronting our Twin Waters Restaurant is a large terrace with panoramic ocean views. A sandbank separating it from the river runs gently 20 metres from the terrace. Covered by horizontally spanned sails that offer an inviting, shady respite from the hot sun, the terrace is furnished with oversized sofas and rocking chairs. Enjoy your favourite cocktail, sink into the generously stuffed pillows and let yourself drift away as you wait for the sunset. What makes our sunsets so spectacular is that they are actually twin sunsets because the sandbank is low enough, and the river wide enough to reflect the sparkling sunset on both the ocean and the river. It is truly a special moment of celebration, and it happens almost every day of the year.

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Ratchaneeporn Dapachutisan (Chef Jib): “I specialise in a fusion of Thai French/Italian cuisine, but with an emphasis on always bringing out the true flavours of Thai herbs and spices. Two of my signature and award-winning dishes are: snow fish sprinkled with black truffles served with a yellow curry sauce reduction, accompanied by fresh lychees in a mini vol-au-vent (puff pastry), and a spicy Wagyu beef salad made with Thai herbs and red grapes. It is very important to me to always communicate directly with our guests. If they wish to eat something that is not on our menu, I can altar a dish or create new ones as well. I am also always available to take them to visit the local markets, and when we get back I will give them a complimentary cooking lesson with the products that we picked out together at the market.”

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phang nga

48/2 Moo 3, Baan Pordang 82120 Thai muang (Phang Nga), Thailand T: + 66 76 584 300 • F: + 66 76 584 305 wanakarn@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/wanakarn

Phang Nga offers an abundance of sightseeing excursions, from beautiful waterfalls requiring a trek through the jungle to access, to slow and gentle elephant rides, monkey safaris or turtle hatching experiences, to hundreds of temples and almost 200 national parks. Worldclass diving and snorkelling in the nearby islands, horseriding on an endless white sand beach, and canoeing in Phang Nga Bay around the majestic limestone formations are other possibilities. In the Thai muang area you will also find the Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Muang National Park. Covering an area of 72 square kilometres, this national park is also home to several beautiful waterfalls.

Relais & Châteaux property in Phang Nga

wanakarn

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Links www.thaimuang.com www.tourismthailand.org/where-to-go/cities-guide/destination/phang-nga/ www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phang_Nga_Province www.similans.net/

HOTEL 15 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Phuket Intl. (HKT) - 45 km

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A word from the Maître de Maison Jean-Christophe Nager of The Pavilions, Phuket Flanked by warm turquoise waters, Phuket is Thailand’s only island province and its most visited destination. A whirl of colour, its natural resources, rocky peninsular, limestone cliffs, white powdery beaches, tranquil broad bays and tropical forests make it one of Southeast Asia’s crown jewels.

There are many ways to enjoy the day here. Phuket has a lot more to offer than just its natural sea heritage, glistening sand, blue skies and world-renowned diving sites. Sino-Portuguese architecture casts its spell, too, delighting travellers who visit the Old Town. There are also many islands to discover, just a short boat trip away including: coral islands to the south; the Similan Islands in the northwest, and the Phi Phi Islands to the southeast, catering to snorkelers and scuba divers.

All these characteristics make Phuket a truly unique destination.

Welcome to the “Pearl of the Andaman”.

Airport: Phuket International Airport (HKT)

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PHUKET My Secret Place

Naturally, Phuket is famed for its beaches, but we also enjoy offering opportunities to show visitors some of its contrasting jungle aspects. There are many hikes and trails to choose from here. Some can be challenging, yet rewarding.

For those who want a more relaxing, indigenous experience, there are stunning spots like the Bang Pae waterfall. Situated a little north of our resort and part of the national park, there are walking trails, a waterfall, which is more impressive in the wet season, and a gibbon (a type of ape) rehabilitation sanctuary. The latter is a royal project, established to successfully rehabilitate white-handed gibbons back into their natural habitat and end the demand for the illegal use of them as tourist attractions or pets.

At the waterfall’s entrance, there is a quaint, family-run Thai restaurant that serves tasty, reasonably priced Thai fare with a smile. Overlooking a small lake and filled with echoing sounds from the nearby jungle, you really do feel immersed in the tropics in this special place.

Phuket is an ideal destination for all walks of life. The resort island offers everything from rustic hideaways to upscale luxury living. Not only is it ideal for holiday revellers, it makes for a perfect home. We have everything at our fingertips—western infrastructure, magnificent beaches and a great tropical climate. There are also myriad dining options, offering everything from quaint Italian eateries in bustling Phuket Town to the most delicious local Thai fare served from a cart on the side of the street.

Just like Bangkok, Phuket is now a melting pot of languages, varied cultures and people. A highly regarded tourist destination, it nevertheless remains quintessentially Thai. Evidence of this can be seen in its plethora of annual festivals, including: Loy Kratong, the exquisite festival of lights; Songkran, the Thai New Year where tourists and locals alike have fun splashing each other with water to cool down from the April heat; and the most colourful festival of all, the Phuket Vegetarian Festival, where visitors can marvel at some adventurous local traditions, including brave locals walking on hot coal.

Phuket is the place to enjoy the best that Thailand has to offer—sun, sea, delicious cuisine and of course, Thai smiles.

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PHUKET Moments of Celebration

A day of culture

A marriage made in heaven—we are committed to ensuring that all special moments in our resort are memorable.

Tour the island and visit Phuket’s revered landmark, Big Buddha, and Promthep Cape, which offers sweeping panoramic views and other top lookout points. En route you will see other cultural attractions including Wat Chalong, Phuket’s most beautiful and renowned monastery that is famous for its half buried golden Buddha. During your tour, you shall also visit historic SinoPortuguese Old Town to gaze at its century-old architecture, enjoy an authentic local meal, and get the opportunity to browse the myriad shops selling everything from clothing, handicrafts and antiques to art and Thai silk.

Time spent at The Pavilions, Phuket is ideal for couples at any juncture—the ideal place to enjoy those insatiable first stages of attraction, stunning for vows, just the thing for rekindling buried sparks, a premier destination for honeymooners, and flawless for celebrating longevity and lifelong partnerships.

Offering pure indulgence and intimacy, we are ever delighted to arrange special touches, whatever the occasion—weddings, anniversaries, honeymoons or birthdays—any reason is fine by us.

Lemongrass&Vanilla Cosmo Glass: Martini Garnish: Lemon zest twist Method: MUDDLE lemongrass in base of shaker.

ADD other ingredients, SHAKE with ice and fine strain into chilled glass.

5cm Lemongrass stem (chopped) 25ml Ketel One Citroen vodka 35ml Grand Marnier 35ml Ocean Spray cranberry juice 25ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice 10ml of Vanilla Syrup

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A day on Koh Phi Phi After breakfast, you shall depart from the hotel to the marina, where you will board your speed boat to visit Phi Phi Islands, famous for its soaring limestone cliffs and crystal blue waters. The boat journey to these islands will take about one hour. You will arrive at Phi Phi Don Island, and visit Loh Loh Dalum Bay to relax and snorkel at Monkey Beach. Afterwards, you shall cruise to Phi Phi Lei to view the Viking Cave, Pi Lei Cove and Maya Bay, where The Beach was filmed, and relax at your leisure. You shall then proceed on to Nui Bay and see Camel Rock where you can also snorkel and swim. Your next stop will be at Bamboo Island, where you will tuck into a delicious picnic lunch on the beach. Your last stop before heading back to Phuket will be at Hin Klang Reef for more snorkelling and swimming, amidst its abundant marine life. You shall arrive back at the Pavilions, just in time for cocktail hour.

Cuisine du Cœur Chef Alec Gordon Lomas : ”Most of my dishes are Pacific Rim inspired—California style cuisine with elements of Mexican, Mediterranean and Japanese flavours. I use top quality ingredients, both local and organic, for guests who want simplicity and comfort done well. We are pretty flexible in that we can do a really fancy wine dinner, then turn around and grill BBQ ribs or make a bowl of ramen—all done with pleasure and equal respect.”

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PHUKET

Discover Phang Nga Bay

Elephant trekking through the jungle

After breakfast, you shall depart from the Pavilions to go to the marina and board your speedboat.

You shall enter Phang Nga Bay and cruise to the spectacular Phanak Island. Put on your head torch and walk through this magnificent hidden sea cave to see these amazing limestone formations.

Afterwards, you shall visit James Bond Island, where The Man with Golden Gun was filmed. Next, you shall proceed to Thalu Island, known for its giant stalactites, caves and limestone cliffs to enjoy a guided sea kayaking tour of the area. Then, you shall cruise to the Sea Gypsy Village and enjoy a delicious Thai and seafood lunch at a waterside restaurant. After lunch, you shall cruise to Naka Island to swim and relax at your leisure, before heading back to the marina. Perfectly chilled cocktails will be waiting for you upon your return to Pavilions.

All terrain vehicle (ATV) tours through plantations and the forest

Watersports The endless list of abundant water activities found in Phuket includes: deep sea fishing, speed boat rentals, jet skiing, parasailing, windsurfing, sailing, sea kayaking through caves and whitewater rafting.

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31/1 Moo 6 Cherngtalay, Thalang, 83110 Phuket, Thailand T: + 66 76 31 76 00 • F: + 66 76 31 76 01 phuket-pav@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/phuket-pav

Golf There are three notable golf courses in Phuket: Mission Hills Golf Course www.missionhillsphuket.com Blue Canyon Country Club www.bluecanyonclub.com Laguna Phuket Golf Club: www.lagunaphuketgolf.com

Relais & Châteaux property in Phuket

The Pavilions, Phuket

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HOTEL 49 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Phuket International (HKT) - 25 km

Other Thai cooking class Cultural theme park Phuket FantaSea: www.phuket-fantasea.com

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A word from the Maître de Maison Magnus Olovson of Heritage Suites

My Secret Place You should not miss seeing Beng Mealea, a gorgeous temple set in a tropical forest. It is less than an hour’s drive from the hotel and often very quiet—a true jewel.

For evening dwellers, a fantastic cocktail at the small intimate bar Miss Wong and dinner at Touich, lost on back streets are musts. Then again, spending a half-day on a quad (ATV) riding through villages and rice paddies is the best and most exciting way to discover the truly magnificent countryside.

Nestled between rice paddies and stretching along the Siem Reap River, the small and lively provincial capital of Siem Reap is the gateway to the famous temples of the millennium-old Khmer Empire. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the archaeological park encompasses dozens of temples including Bayon, Banteay Srei and the legendary Angkor Wat. It is indisputably Cambodia’s most impressive attraction and one of the world’s greatest treasures. Unlike many ancient monuments, the stunning remains of Angkor are unspoiled by over-development. Though many visit the major temples, it is still possible to escape the throngs of tourists to explore and discover another side to Angkor.

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CAMBODIA

cambodia

Siem Reap (Angkor Wat)

After having lived an hotelier’s life in various cultures across the globe, working daily and closely amid the Cambodian people is a wonder to me. Our lovely and lively town is the key to Angkor, but so too are its people and bustling countryside.

From the first Khmer kingdom, founded in the 9th century AD until the migrations of the 15th century, Angkor was the capital of the Khmer state, covering the major portion of Southeast Asia.

Today, Siem Reap is the gateway to visiting Angkor. Previously a cluster of old villages, it first developed around pagodas and later underwent more substantial growth during the French colonial era. The Khmer, colonial and Chinese architectural styles found here form its unique and magical atmosphere.

Planet & People Featuring a wealth of treasures, sceneries and indigenous culture, and hosted by the most unimaginably friendly and hospitable people, Siem Reap deserves far more than passing by for only a couple of days.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering Cambodia and can be obtained upon arrival into Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (REP).

Our community action focuses heavily on actively supporting the local Sala Bai Hotel School. The school aims to provide vocational hospitality training to some of the most poverty-stricken young Cambodians in a unique, competent and engaging manner, particularly young women. These students now represent about half of our staff. www.salabai.com

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Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Cuisine du Coeur

Moments of Celebration

The freshness and variety of our unique, local produce, including the amazing Mekong lobster and fresh seafood from the Gulf of Thailand, combined with the ancient culinary traditions of the Kingdom, are the primary focus of both our menus and cooking classes. “I love sharing little Khmer cooking secrets with guests and indulging them with tasteful, discoveries” says Chef Boun Vibol.

Here in Siem Reap, the end of November features the fantastic Water Festival, celebrating the reversal of the Tonle Sap River’s course. For three full days, the Khmer New Year in mid-April brings its ceremonies, local celebrations and parties too, of course. More quietly, and any day, let us arrange for you to have your own traditional Buddhist Monk Blessing, a true memory for life, or simply, an intimate candle -lit dinner by our romantically fire-lit pool.

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Sunrise over Angkor Wat, Elephant ride & Angkor Thom Head to Angkor Wat to watch the sunrise with your personal tour guide and learn about the most famous and magnificent temple built in the early-mid 12th century, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Built by King Suryavarman II, it is considered to be the masterpiece of Khmer architecture and art. Then, enjoy a delicious breakfast by the waterside. Afterwards, you will take a short stroll to South Gate and embark on an elephant ride to the Bayon temple. The monkeys along the way might even greet you. Here, you will visit the ancient royal capital of Angkor Thom.

After lunch and a rest, you can explore the temples at Small Circuit, the most famous one being Ta Prohm. Overtaken by jungle and vines and despite many parts of the temple now crumbling to the ground, it is one of Angkor’s most picturesque and memorable temples.

Shoppers will delight in some of the unique treasures to be found here. Angkor Artwork, situated 500 metres off Angkor High School Road, showcases paintings and curios made with traditional Cambodian techniques. Mekong Quilts, a non-profit organisation that aims to provide sustainable and rewarding employment to underprivileged Cambodian and Vietnamese women at #5 Sivutha Boulevard, sells stunning handmade quilts, home accessories and other items. Women looking for some beautiful silk clothing should not miss Eric Raisina’s haute couture or Jasmine Boutique, both in the same complex on Pokambor Street.

Mekong Quilts: www.mekong-quilts.org Jasmine Boutique: www.jasmineboutique.net Artisans D’Angkor: www.artisansdangkor.com Angkor National Museum: www.angkornationalmuseum.com

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Heritage Adventures Heritage Suites has its very own highly knowledgeable tours and adventures organiser. Personalised itineraries and experiences range from a simple Angkor Wat afternoon to a luxury jungle camp for up to 60 guests. Miss Teka and her Heritage Adventures associates will suggest, organise and follow through on every step of your desired voyage.

Heritage Adventures: www.heritage-adventures.com Enquiries: info@heritage-adventures.com

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Wat Polanka, Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia T: + 855 63 969 100 • F: + 855 63 969 103 heritage@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/heritage

Siem Reap (Angkor Wat) Banteay Srei – Banteay Samre – Big Circuit

Jungle adventure

After breakfast you will depart to explore Banteay Srei Temple, the gem of Yajnavaraha, and often called the jewel of Khmer art. On the return journey you shall stop to see Banteay Samre. After lunch and a rest you can head out to view the impressive temples situated at Big Circuit: Preah Khan, Neak Pean and Ta Som.

After breakfast you will depart in a private 4x4 Land Cruiser for a two-hour drive up the trailing Kulen Mountain. Your first stop will be to view the large Buddha on top of the Pagoda, replete with a magnificent waterfall. You will then proceed 30 minutes further by car through the jungle on a bumpy road to reach a very special hidden place on the top of the mountain called Elephant Park. It will take you 20 minutes to walk through the tropical forest to reach the sculpted elephant. Afterwards, you will return to the waterfall for a delectable picnic lunch with ample time to swim and rest. You will be back at the hotel at around 5.00PM just in time to join us for our cocktail hour.

We also highly recommend the experience of witnessing the life of the people in the floating villages.

At 4.30PM you will head to the lake for a sunset boat cruise aboard our beautiful luxury handcrafted riverboat, with exquisite wooden decking and scatterings of comfortable cushions. At Chong Kneas Village you will see floating houses, a floating hospital and the Crocodile & Fish farm. As the sun starts to set with soft jazz playing in the background, sip a glass of Champagne and watch the red and orange hues dance across the rippling water. It is just an amazingly unforgettable sunset.

Relais & Châteaux property in Siem Reap

Heritage Suites Hotel

CAMBODIA

cambodia

Itinerary around

HOTEL 26 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Siem Reap (REP) - 8 km

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Luang Prabang LAOS

LAOS

A word from the Maître de Maison Lamphoune Voravongsa of Satri House I aim to show the rest of the world, the beauty of Laos— the indigenous lifestyle of its people, its simplicity, elegance and sense of grace. Here, I am back in the midst of an ancient civilisation—a place where one gives their heart and in return finds peace and inner fulfillment.

Get up early to see the sunrise. Walk around, find a spot where you are comfortable, be it in a pagoda, by the Mekong River, or next to the old houses situated in the centre of town, and think about what your life is all about—it is the best celebration you can have with your inner self. This can be repeated at sundown. Enhanced by a spectrum of colour, it will remind you how formidable nature is.

My Secret Place

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Luang Prabang is located in north-central Laos, along the Mekong River, about 425 kilometres north of the country’s capital, Vientiane. For much of its history, this town was the seat of kings. Indeed, by the time King Setthathirat moved his government to Vientiane in 1563, Luang Prabang had already been the capital for some 800 years. Surrounded by nature and the heart of Lao culture, Luang Prabang is filled with monasteries, monuments and distinctive traditions. Beautifully poised at the foot of the high, rocky

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mountain Mount Phousi, it exudes a romantic atmosphere, and though most of its buildings are not very old, they have a distinctly French colonial flair.

Note: A visa is required prior to entering Laos and can be obtained upon arrival into Luang Prabang Airport (LPQ)

Laos is a relatively fresh destination point in Asia. I am always excited to explore new places and do new things. I love to take my bicycle around town to learn about Luang Prabang’s rich history.

I never cease to marvel at its striking architecture and surroundings. Luang Prabang, with all its temples and pagodas, is truly a place where you can each give a little of yourself in your own way. In exchange, you will find that you get a lot in return.

When I want to find solace and moderate, I take a boat and go to a small temple on a little island in the Mekong where I can be alone with nature. It is a special place where I can find myself again and cleanse my spirit.

My favourite afternoon activity is to take a slow boat across the Mekong River to visit the Pa Tad Ke Botanical Gardens, followed by a visit to Ban Chan Pottery Village. From there, I walk through a local village and climb the steps to the top of Vat Chomphet and watch the sunset over Luang Prabang from the other side of the river. Whenever I do this, I depart feeling fully sated and complete.

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Moments of Celebration

Cuisine du Coeur

In Luang Prabang, there are many special occasions, which are held throughout the year including: the three-day Lao New Year celebration held each April, the colourful Water Festival, and the enchanting and very spiritual Light Festival. The local people also celebrate many personal occasions. Traditional dancing, music and celebration of life in this part of the world call for cultural and social exchange. I encourage guests to participate in one of these magical festivities.

Our restaurant is located in what was once the childhood home of Prince Souphanouvong, the resistance leader known as the “Red Prince” who later became the Lao People’s Democratic Republic’s first president in 1975. Chef Vilai has created a menu that includes both Lao and French cuisine, as well as dishes that were once favoured by the prince. Madam Lamphoune Voragonsa has strong childhood memories, so she is always adding new dishes that remind her of the past onto the menu as well.

Perhaps what is most serene about Luang Prabang are its ubiquitous saffron clad monks. Wake up before dawn to witness them walking in single file along the streets to collect their alms for the day from the local people, sometimes followed by a fleet of fluttering white butterflies overhead. Whether you wish to participate, or simply watch this daily ritual—it is an exceptionally Zen, spiritual encounter found nowhere else.

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Luang Prabang

Planet & People Luang Prabang is growing quickly, but unfortunately in terms of academics this is not the case for all the children here. In an effort to combat this issue, Madam Lamphoune has founded a local school. To help prepare these children for the future, the school’s programme also includes French and English classes, which will help to benefit them later on in life. Well received in the community, each day here in the school, we watch about 50 children not only getting a good education, but gaining self-confidence, too.

LAOS

LAOS

Itinerary around A day with the local Lao people For a unique shopping experience, hop on a bicycle and take a 10-minute ride to visit the authentic Phosy Market, located on the main road. Stroll about the colourful stalls and witness the true flavour of the Luang Prabang people’s lifestyle.

Board a traditional riverboat and take a cruise up the Mekong River to visit the famous Pak Ou Caves, which house thousands of statues paying tribute to Lord Buddha. Next, you shall visit Ban Xang Hai, a village famous for its Lao Lao distilleries.

They have been making this traditional rice alcohol for more than 2000 years. You will then have lunch in a local restaurant overlooking the Mekong River. Walk around Ban Pak Ou, a small Laotian fishermen’s village on the Mekong River and continue to Ban Muang Keo, where you will see the production of coloured fabrics, woven on simple weaving looms.

Exploring Luang Prabang is easily done on foot or by bicycle, though you can take a local tuk-tuk or an air-conditioned car. The small city’s main sites lie along its peninsula, formed by the Mekong River and Nam Khan River.

Spiritual encounters Visit some of Luang Prabang’s most magnificent sites starting with Wat Xieng Thong. Deemed Luang Prabang’s most beautiful temple, the Sim (main chapel) is a classic example of Luang Prabang temple architecture with roofs that sweep low to the ground. Next, see Vat Visoun. Its highlight is its impressive stupa. For some outstanding city views, climb Vat Phousi hill or visit Vat Mai. Built in 1796, Vat Mai is famous for the main chapel’s five-tiered roof.

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057 Photisarath Road Ban Thatluang, Luang Prabang, Lao People's Democratic Republic T: + 856 71 253 492 • F: + 856 71 253 488 satri@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/satri

Luang Prabang National Museum

Restaurants

Formerly the king’s palace, here one can view the royal family’s collection of personal artefacts including photos, musical instruments, and gifts they received from foreign countries.

Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre: This small, private museum’s exhibits showcase texts, photographs and various objects sourced from villages throughout northern Laos.

L'Elephant: Located in the heart of town, this classic French bistro is one of Luang Prabang’s best restaurants.

Local handicrafts Kopnoï: Respecting fair trade principles and meaning “little frog”, this boutique sells handmade Lao handicrafts made from natural materials.

Relais & Châteaux property in Luang Prabang

Satri House

LAOS

LAOS

Itinerary around

www.elephant-restau.com

Tamarind: This restaurant serves both traditional and creative modern Lao cuisine, and also offers cookery classes. www.tamarindlaos.com

Other Activities Mountain biking / Hiking / Fishing / Canoeing

www.kopnoi.com

HOTEL 15 rooms 10 suites Open all year AIRPORT Luang Prabang (LPQ) - 5 km

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Malaysia & Singapore

MALAYSIA & SINGAPORE

Journeys around

Malaysia & Singapore MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR PULAU TIOMAN

SINGAPORE

Medan

MALAYSIA

DESTINATION

PROPERTY

AIRPORT

FERRY

Kuala Lumpur Pulau Tioman

Villa Samadhi KUL

SINGAPORE

Japamala Resort TOD Mersing

MALAYSIA Kuching

Saint Pierre SIN

INDONESIA INDONESIA

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MALAYSIA

KL has a lively nightlife scene, and a fascinating art and performance culture, which blends contemporary, and traditional styles from many backgrounds. For sport enthusiasts, there is also a wide range of sporting activities featuring state-of-the-art facilities.

The architecture in KL is somewhat eccentric—one hundredyear-old mansions and awe-inspiring sky scrapers lie within metres of each other. Treat your taste buds to Kuala Lumpur’s extremely varied cuisines— the food here is a tasty adventure in itself. Above all, KL is a shopping haven, offering everything from street side trinkets to haute couture.

Welcome to radiating KL. Airport: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)

Federico

MALAYSIA

Let the capital of Malaysia’s warmth embrace you as you lose yourself in its unique blend of tradition, cross cultural influences, old world charm and new world-sophistication. Explore its nooks and crannies and you will discover captivating sights, sensational sounds, aromatic smells and fantastic people.

Affectionately known as KL, Kuala Lumpur is a remarkable cultural melting pot filled with Chinese, Malays, South Indians, East Malaysian ethnic groups, Sikhs and a large expat community. Each community has its own festivals, food, music, art and fashion, but they influence each other’s cultures too.

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A word from the Maîtres de Maison Federico and Maple Asaro of Villa Samadhi

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia has been my home for the last 37 years. It is here where all my passions were born: my love for the sea, my fascination with local traditions and beliefs, especially the intriguing Thaipusam festival...my absurd addiction to durian and my deep appreciation for nature and rustic beauty.

It was here in KL that I first started to build my business, which catapulted many successes that followed. I am a “kampong boy” at heart —an Italian who also speaks Manglish.

Maple Born but not bred in Malaysia, I have grown attached to KL where I live my dreams in living colours.

KL is the place where I met and married the love of my life, the stage where I have danced my way to great success and the only city on earth where I feel like a champion whenever the zoo’s animals come under my personal care. There is really no place quite like MY home.

Our Secret Place Magick River is located an hour outside of KL. We love to go there because it is easy and fast to get to. We eat our packed lunch with our feet in the water while we watch our dogs play. Magick denotes the power of imagination. This river and its surroundings is the ancestral home of an aboriginal tribe called “Temuan” that for countless generations guarded the rainforest and the sacred sites within this area known as Pertak Ulu Selangor.

We also love to mountain bike through the hilly recluse behind the national zoo in the jungle. We usually finish our ride with a refreshing dip in the gentle rapids of the waterfall. It is also a great playground for our pet dogs that love to take a cool swim and play fetch.

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MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA

Philosophy Moments of Celebration Villa Samadhi for KLites, is “an immediately accessible respite to restore soul into your exhausted self”. Perfect for weekends or short getaways to reinstate the rhythm of life and get away from everyday dramas, Villa Samadhi is an irresistible celebration of food, space and harmony, just minutes away from the city centre.

Spicy Earl Grey Sour 30 ml Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge 25 ml Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice 15 ml Earl Grey & Honey Syrup 25 ml Egg White 2 dashes Cardamon Bitters 20ml Tanqueray Gin Method: Dry Shake/Shake with Ice and double strain Glass: Coupe Garnish: Grapefruit Twist

Cuisine du Coeur Indulge in a gastronomic journey through Malaysia and Italy by sampling the delectable cuisine created by the culinary team at Villa Samadhi. Popular favourites from the Chinese, Indian and Malay communities are featured alongside renowned Italian influenced dishes in order to provide a truly inventive and unique dining experience.

In the heart of the Malaysian capital, Villa Samadhi is an intimate, one-of-a-kind recluse nestled within a quiet upscale residential locale. This elegant villa-in-a-room concept retreat, houses an exquisite collection of 21 neo-Asian private rooms, clustered around a large lagoon pool. Furnished with tech-amenities, plush beds, over-sized plunge tubs and romantic balconies, some villas have private gardens and others are equipped with kitchens, perfect for private chef-cooked in-room dining.

Villa Samadhi’s full Asian flavour flair and harmony is best described as a charming enclave in the heart of an urban jungle—an immediate respite in which to restore one’s soul.

Nature Concepts Holding a deep respect for nature and a sincere love for natural beauty, the owners who built Villa Samadhi wished to create an environment for people that truly enjoy a natural tapestry.

All the timber here was salvaged from abandoned and old ‘kampung’ (village) houses, and the liberal use of bamboo and other local natural materials was sourced and bought from the ‘Orang Asli’ (indigenous tribes in Malaysia). Further, the bamboo and wood carpentry was all done on-site by Villa Samadhi’s own craftsmen, and all made by hand—its doors, bamboo clad room and many pieces of furniture.

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8 Jalan Madge, 55000 Kuala Lumpur (Wilayah Persekutuan), Malaysia T: + 603 2143 2300 • F: + 603 2142 0027 samadhi@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/samadhi

Kuala Lumpur Shop until you drop Bukit Bintang is KL’s shopping and entertainment district. It is the city’s most prominent retail belt and home to many landmark shopping centres including Starhill Gallery and Pavilion, Suria KLCC, designer boutiques, alfresco cafés and swanky bars. Central Market and Petaling Street in Chinatown are also popular shopping areas.

Starhill Gallery www.starhillgallery.com Pavilion www.pavilion-kl.com Suria KLCC www.suriaklcc.com.my

Menara Kuala Lumpur (The KL Tower) Jamek Mosque (Masjid Jamek) Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park

Relais & Châteaux property in Kuala Lumpur

Villa Samadhi

MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA

Itinerary around

Golf Golf enthusiasts will find myriad golf courses in and around KL. Here are three excellent choices.

Kuala Lumpur Golf & Country Club (KLGCC)

Wet market trip with Chef Thiti Pasar (market) Chow Kit is one of Kuala Lumpur’s most indigenous wet markets. Trading starts as early as 5am when local restaurant and street food stall owners arrive to purchase their fresh produce. Although the produce prices are fixed, people here nevertheless never tire of trying to haggle. This market’s early morning sights and sounds are a very lively way to start your day.

www.klgcc.com

Royal Selangor Golf Club www.rsgc.com.my

Kelab Darul Ehsan (Taman Tar, Ampang) www.berjayaclubs.com

Other Petronas Twin Towers www.petronastwintowers.com.my

HOTEL 21 suites Open all year Airports Kuala Lumpur International Airport - 70 km Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) – 75 km

National Museum (Muzium Negara) www.muziumnegara.gov.my

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Train station Kuala Lumpur Central Railway Station - 12 km Ampang Park Station (Rapid KL LRT) – 1 km

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Pulau Tioman MALAYSIA

Tioman is blessed with an idyllic archipelago of marine habitats.

It is also the gateway for numerous migratory sea mammals including manta rays, whale sharks and on occasion, even killer whales. Though there have been sightings of manta rays passing through the resort’s beach front as the monsoon season closes in, dolphins are frequently sighted throughout the year from our pier. Dolphins are also often spotted on Coral Island, a popular snorkelling area located just 45 minutes from the resort.

MALAYSIA

A word from the Maîtres de Maison Federico and Maple Asaro of Japamala Resort

Do nothing at all and simply let your surroundings do it for you.

Tioman Island is not a new island trail discovery. Far from it, it has long been regarded as a sanctuary for sailors and weary travellers plying the South China Sea between China, India and the Spice Islands of Indonesia. Maritime records also show that the island once served as a protected harbour, offering shelter and welcoming comfort from the fierce seasonal winds and high seas. In more recent times, Tioman Island became one of the first Malaysian islands to gain international acclaim for its natural beauty and azure seas.

The mythical origin of this magical island has a charming tale that elucidates the island’s seafaring history. A magical dragon princess was once said to have spread her wings to fly from China to join her beloved prince in Temasek (now known as Singapore). Yet along the way she became completely enchanted with the warmth and splendid waters of the South China Sea. So enamoured with its bounty and beauty was she, this princess decided to cease her journey to join her beloved preferring to turn herself into the dragon-shaped island that is now called Tioman...a beautiful tale of love and myth to describe this veritable oasis.

Our Secret Place A spectacular underwater garden lies just 100 metres off the resort’s shore. Our house reef is home to an array of tropical fish, stingrays and turtles. Thriving colourful soft and hard corals adorn the reef’s walls, which plunge down over 15 metres amidst crystal clear turquoise waters. Snorkelers can either swim to the reef from the jetty or access it from the beautiful, powdery white sandy beach. Magnificent marine life will accompany you on the experience. It is truly an unspoiled underwater wonder.

Airport: Tioman Airport (TOD) Ferry service is also available from East Maylasia’s mainland at Mersing

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Pulau Tioman Cuisine du Coeur

Philosophy

The culinary team at Japamala Resort is made up of a mélange of nationalities and cultures, evident in the cuisine that they passionately prepare. Accents of Thai, Indo-Chinese and Malay cuisine are served using only the freshest ingredients, all sourced from within the region. Here, guests can relish true recipes hand-picked by our Indo-Chinese and Malay chefs.

Japamala is best described as an “eco-luxe” resort, an unadulterated way of life. While ultimate relaxation is an elusive commodity for many, one can truly succumb to the healing effects Japamala imparts through its holistic blend of sumptuous gourmet delights, the intimacy generated here between man and nature, unique spa experiences and unprecedented hospitality.

Planet & People Japamala is all about conservation. Indeed, the entire property was built using only recycled wood bought from dilapidated houses in and around the peninsula. It took us five years to build because we did not use any heavy machinery as that would not only have compromised the land but scared away the wildlife, too. During construction, we did not cut down a single tree nor did we import any foreign plants onto the island, preferring instead to allow the jungle to create its own natural landscape.

Further, a big percentage of our staff today is made up of orang asli (natives from the jungle), which sadly, due to logging, have been displaced from their natural habitat. At Japamala, we train them in all aspects of the hospitality industry in an effort to give them alternative employment.

Our deepest passion, though, is for the sea and marine life. We assist turtle hatcheries on the island and maintain our reefs surrounding Japamala. As a result, today Japamala's reefs house some of the island’s richest proliferation of marine life.

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MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA

Itinerary around

Discover fantastic cuisine in uncompromising environs. Each of the two restaurants features tantalising dishes to sate every gourmand. Tamarind Tioman Restaurant sits on the beachfront and serves outstanding Thai and Indochinese cuisine. MandiMandi Restaurant, built above the water on the pier, is open to the sun and the stars, and offers Italian and Western fare, BBQs and a wide range of creative and exotic beverages, which are served all day long.

Moments of Celebration Japamala is Tioman Island’s sole boutique resort. Small and exclusive, it comprises 13 rooms, which are hidden amidst 11 acres of lush tropical rainforest.

Charming Malay village-style villas and chalets are positioned in the most breathtaking spots. In true seclusion, it is flanked by a quiet beach sought after by nature-lovers, lovers and those yearning to simply indulge in a quiet interlude.

Nature Concepts Japamala is nestled amidst natural streams, steep cliffs and towering boulders. Some of the rooms sit on stilts. While these chalets offer the most fascinating crystal-clear South China Sea views, those hidden up in the trees also bestow an exceptional sense of freedom and calm. In an effort to be kind to our planet and reduce the carbon footprint made by man, Japamala also fully endorses responsible tourism.

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Pulau Tioman

Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman (Pahang Darul Makmur), Malaysia T: + 609 419 7777 • F: + 609 419 7979 japamala@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/japamala

Scuba diving An official marine park, Tioman Island has become a praised haven for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. Numerous nearby islands dot this stunning archipelago—each is a simple day trip away: all hold the promise of majestic aquatic wonders. The best months to dive in the region are from March to October.

Relais & Châteaux property on Tioman Island

jaPaMala resorT

MALAYSIA

MALAYSIA

Itinerary around

PADI Courses Open Water, Advance, Rescue, Instructor,Dive Master certification Dive courses can easily be arranged. PADI certification typically takes about three days, offering a new beginning for a lifetime of adventure opportunities.

Kayaking Paddle for approximately 800 metres towards a deserted powdery white sandy beach. Or, if you are in the mood to explore kayak further afield to a mangrove.

Other activities abound.

Use JapaMala as your jump-off point for: ◊ Fishing (from dawn until dusk) ◊ Island hopping ◊ Kayaking ◊ Snorkelling ◊ Jungle trekking ◊ Rock climbing ◊ Romantic gourmet picnic ◊ Surfing (during monsoon season only) Surfing trips to various parts of the island can also be organised, but do remember to bring your own boards.

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hotel 13 rooms Open all year airPort Tioman (TOD) - 3 km FERRY Mersing

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Singapore Singapore

The people here are so nice—always smiling, educated, polite and gentle. This modern city is an exciting urban jungle. People are well travelled and everyone speaks English. Singaporeans know more about food, wine, foie gras and cheese than any other country in the region because they have been exposed to it. The only downside is that we not produce anything. We import everything. Singapore is also a rare city in that here we have all the luxury boutiques, but if you dig a little and visit places like Arab Street, you can find all these old streets and ethnic shops that go back to the roots of Asian culture as well. The weather too is fantastic. Unlike other countries in Southeast Asia, Singapore does not have a monsoon season. It is just so beautiful to live in a place where it is 30 degrees all year long.

Situated just one degree from the equator, at the very southern tip of Malaysia, Singapore is a throbbing island city-state. Officially the Republic of Singapore, the thriving, meticulously clean modern metropolis, which still holds steadfast to its distinctive Asian roots, attracts millions of visitors each year that come from all around the world to shop, eat, and experience tropical Singapore’s diverse culture and phenomenal attractions.

Make a wish at the world’s largest fountain in Suntec City, the Fountain of Wealth, or soar to new heights on the world’s tallest observation wheel, the Singapore Flyer. Whet your appetite in myriad settings that range the gamut from authentic hawker stalls to outstanding fine dining establishments showcasing tantalising cuisines from around the globe. Play a round of golf on one of the island’s spectacular championship courses, or treat yourself to an indulgent massage in a dreamy spa. Shoppers will delight not only the in world’s finest designer boutiques found here, but also in the incredible selection of handicrafts and treasures that come from all over Asia, from silk and antiques, to household items, furniture, art, curios, jewellery, silverware and linens.

Entertainment, day or night, abounds—Singapore has it all. Welcome to the roaring Lion City.

Airport: Changi Airport (SIN)

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SINGAPORE

A word from the Grand Chef Emmanuel St roobant of Saint Pierre

My Secret Place I like to ride my bicycle along the river, which is right near where I live. The 10-kilometre loop takes about an hour and goes around Great World City, the Esplanade and back. It is magnificent because there is no traffic, and if you like, you can stop and spend some time in the little shops and cafés along the way. I do it every morning at about 7.30am. People know me, so they always wave. It is really a wonderful way to start my day.

Whenever chefs come from out of town, I love to take them to the Spice Garden in Fort Canning. In this garden, which dates back to the 1820’s, you can view over 100 types of plants, trees and herbs. Scratch the bark off the cinnamon trees and soak in its deep aroma, pick an aromatic leaf off a lime or curry leaf tree, and see all different kinds of ginger, chilli and other plants as you wander along the heritage trail.

Another special place to me is Samy’s Curry on Dempsey. It has been there for more than 20 years. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, it is really such a great, casual place to go for a relaxing weekend lunch. www.samyscurry.com

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Singapore Moments of Celebration Our multiracial society has four official languages, and people from all over the world live here, yet somehow our little corner of the world manages to dwell in peace and harmony. Naturally, because of its diverse cultures, the cuisines here are endless. No matter what your mood or appetite, we have every type of food imaginable—from Chinese, Malay, Indian, French, Australian and Belgian to Japanese, Italian, Spanish, Thai, Indonesian, Vietnamese or Korean. It is really quite hard to miss all the good fare found strewn throughout this island state—it is everywhere. It is part of our soul.

Cuisine du Coeur My cuisine is ingredient based. We spend a lot of time and energy sourcing organically grown regional products.

We try to keep it as simple as possible as far as cooking is concerned.

Saint Pierre serves French cuisine with an inspirational modern twist, highlighted by elegant sophistication. We want our guests to enjoy exquisite food in a luxurious, modern setting with a distinctly special ambience. A few of our signature dishes include: pan–fried foie gras with caramelised apple and aged port sauce; miso braised black cod; and our enticing flourless Belgian chocolate cake.

A day of fun at Sentosa

A day of culture around 'Little India'

Sentosa is an enthralling themed park island. The abundance of activities here include: Universal Studios Singapore®, Underwater World, Songs of the Sea, luge rides, Skyride (cable cars), beaches, restaurants, bars and golf.

This is a colourful ethnic quarter with rich cultural elements. If you have never been to a wet market before, Singapore’s largest one, Tekka Market, is located on Serangoon Road. If you have time, stop to see what may well be the world’s most schizophrenic shopping mart. Open 24 hours a day and just near to Tekka Market, Mustafa sells every possible item you can think of. Imagine thousand dollar watches lying side by side in glass cases next to ten dollar ones. It is simply the most incredible store, though it is often very crowded.

Mustafa www.mustafa.com.sg

www.sentosa.com.sg

The Singapore Flyer Get a 30-minute panoramic bird’s eye view of Singapore on the world’s tallest observation wheel in one of the 28 air conditioned capsules that soar to 165 metres. www.singaporeflyer.com

SINGAPORE

Singapore

Itinerary around

Around Chinatown Perhaps best appreciated in the evening when all lit up, lively Chinatown is divided into four main districts: Kreta Ayer, Telok Ayer, Tanjong Pagar and Bukit Pasoh. Its significant monuments and cultural heritage buildings include: the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Thian Hock Keng Temple and Chinatown Heritage Centre.

A cruise along the Singapore River Take a short 30-minute evening bum boat ride along the Singapore River, and marvel at the city landmarks, quays, bridges and mesmerising cityscapes.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens In a bustling city, nothing quite matches a short interlude for some peaceful serenity. This can be found within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1859, a short stroll around the lush tropical rainforest, ginger garden, or tranquil orchid garden that houses thousands of different orchid species will instantly ease stressful minds. It is a magically quiet and blissful reprieve from chaotic urban life. www.sbg.org.sg

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Singapore

Singapore Integrated Resorts and Casinos

In case it rains

Shopping along Orchard Road

Singapore’s two integrated resorts offer far more than just gaming facilities. Featuring celebrity chef restaurants, bars, lounges and exclusive boutiques, they are both veritable playgrounds for adults. The Skypark, on the 55th storey of Marina Bay Sands’ ship in the sky, is also very worthy of a peek at sunset for a drink. The views are magnificent, and just outside Marina Bay Sands, Wonder Full, the free light and water show held each evening, is spectacular.

Do not let a tropical rain shower impede upon discovering Singapore. Though these thundering tropical storms can be sonorous, they are really quite magical and a cooling reprieve to tropical heat— nowhere else does rain tower down like it does in Singapore. That said, these rainstorms are, for the most part, usually short-lived, just a brief interlude before the clouds clear and the sun begins to shine once again. If you happen upon a rainstorm, there are plenty of intriguing indoor activities to keep you entertained, including Singapore’s wide array of museums and small, unique art galleries.

Singapore is world famous for its myriad shopping. Featuring innumerable malls and retail outlets, you could easily spend weeks without seeing them all. If time is limited, then simply visit its highly acclaimed, buzzing Orchard Road—Singapore’s main shopping street. It is lined with dozens of malls, designer boutiques, restaurants, bars and lounges.

Resorts World Sentosa www.rwsentosa.com Marina Bay Sands www.marinabaysands.com

SINGAPORE

Singapore

Itinerary around

Note: If you happen to be in the market for a new watch, Singapore is one of the world’s leading watch trading centres, offering some of the world’s finest limited edition timepieces at competitive prices.

Shows, concerts and other entertainment Esplanade www.esplanade.com/index.jsp Spa Botanica: www.spabotanica.com

Museums National Museum of Singapore www.nationalmuseum.sg Asian Civilisations Museum www.acm.org.sg Peranakan Museum www.peranakanmuseum.sg

Ion Orchard: www.ionorchard.com Takashimaya department store: www.takashimaya-sin.com Kinokuniya bookstore: www.kinokuniya.com.sg Paragon shopping complex: www.paragon.com.sg

Singapore Art Museum www.singaporeartmuseum.sg Art Science Museum www.marinabaysands.com/artsciencemuseum

Up close with the wildlife Singapore zoo www.zoo.com.sg Night Safari www.nightsafari.com.sg

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Singapore

Relais & Châteaux Grand Chef Restaurant

Saint Pierre

3 Magazine Road, #01–01 Central Mall, Singapore, 059570 T: +65 6438 0887 • F: +65 6438 4887 saint–pierre@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/saint-pierre

RESTAURANT Mon to Fri lunch 12pm - 3pm Mon to Sat dinner 7pm - midnight Closed all day Sunday & public holidays

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MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) Exit “Clark Quay” airport Singapore (SIN) - 21 km

BALI

BALI

Journeys around

BALI Destination

PROPERTY

AIRPORT

Surabaya

INDONESIA JAVA BALI La Villa Mathis

Denpasar

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The Pavilions, Bali DPS

LOMBOK

SUMBAWA

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A word from the Maître de Maison Kang Il Soon of The Pavilions, Bali After living here for 11 years, I am still fascinated by Bali’s culture. The vast majority of the Balinese people are Hindus and almost every one of their actions has some sort of religious connotation.

If you happen to be in Bali during a full or dark moon, you can witness some of their wondrous religious ceremonies held all throughout the island.

The Pavilions, Bali is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Sanur. You can walk to the beach in five minutes, and shops and restaurants are also very close by.

Moments of Celebration

Cuisine du Coeur

A scattering of flower petals in your private pool and candles make for an intimate and romantic candlelight dinner—the perfect way to spend the

"Visitors to Bali should not miss sampling one of the island’s most famous dishes, bebek betutu. Also used as offerings in some religious ceremonies and rituals, it comprises an array of ingredients (shallots, garlic, lemon grass, lime leaves, candlenut, ginger, fresh turmeric, kencur root, black peppercorns, chillies, shrimp paste and salt) that are blended together and mixed with coconut oil, then spread onto a whole or half duck, which is then wrapped tightly in a banana leaf and steamed for about 30 minutes. Our version is magnificent."

evening with your beloved.

Lying between Java and Lombok, in the westernmost end of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali is Indonesia’s premier tourist destination. Home to mostly Balinese Hindus, Bali is celebrated for its highly developed arts—dance, sculpture, painting, metalwork and music.

Bali is undisputedly idyllic—its name alone conjures up all the exoticism and splendour of a dream destination. Surrounded by beaches, and filled with rice terraces, jungles, mountains and temples, replete with a rich and vibrant culture, it is a veritable cocooned oasis. Discover the unique history of a people who have lived on this island for over a thousand years that have transformed hospitality into an art form.

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Welcome to the Island of the Gods.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering Indonesia and can be obtained upon arrival into Denpasar International Airport (DPS).

My Secret Place My secret place is Batu Karu, located in the western part of Bali. It is a small temple with no access for large vehicles, so normally it is very quiet.

I like to walk around and enjoy a delicious moment of solitude.

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BALI Bali offers an endless array of activities that cater to every desire, mood and taste. The following are just a few of the Island of the Gods’ possibilities.

Nine years ago we came to Bali for our honeymoon. The journey changed our lives—the magic of the island, the kindness of the Balinese people, the marvellous landscapes. We thought to ourselves: “Our lives must be here”. Seven years ago, with the creation of Villa Mathis, our dream came true.

Cuisine du Coeur

For me, Bali’s most beautiful and well-preserved rice field terrace is on the road to Jatiluwih. A true throwback in time, nothing has changed there over the centuries. Try to get lost in the mountain, pass through traditional villages and you will find the remarkable Batukaru Temple situated at the foot of the mountain. Do not forget to try the famous kopi luwak (coffee) along the way.

Our kitchen team takes pride in presenting guests with food as one would expect from home, but with elevating Asian notes. We highly recommend our signature dégustation menu showcasing in particular: seafood bisque, gaspacho served with a salted mint sorbet, and boneless chicken breast coated with a salmi sauce—savoured either in our restaurant Nuits Baroques, or in our intimate, candlelit gardens. Another pleasurable experience is to have a grilled seafood dinner on the beach in Jimbaran. You choose the place, pick your live mahi mahi, squid, snapper or lobster, and by the time you finish your cocktail, your seafood will be grilled and ready to eat.

La Villa Mathis is the perfect place to propose to your soulmate, the ideal spot to celebrate your wedding anniversary or even get married. Entrust your desires for this very special moment and we will do our best to realise your dream.

Guests enjoy taking one of the hotel bikes to explore the neighbouring village, and the nearby Melanting Temple and Pulaki Temple. They also like to visit the world famous sunset at Bali’s trendiest lounge bar KU DE TA. We drive them there in our shuttle in under ten minutes.

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Serenity at the temples

My Secret Place

Moments of Celebration

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A word from the Maître de Maison Bruno Beguin of La Villa Mathis

Have a special spa treatment in our spa cave or in one of our garden Balinese bales and end the day with a dégustation menu wherever you like. We can even set up one of our four gardens just for you, so that you can have a very intimate and romantic poolside candlelight dinner with your loved one. Everything is possible… you dream it and we will make it unforgettable.

Bali’s myriad temples are indigenous only to this island. If you have never visited one, it is truly a spiritual and enlightening experience. There are a plethora of temples strewn throughout the island including the Kehen (God of Fire) Temple south of Bangli, which was built in the 11th century and Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Temple, located above the Petanu River in Ubud, portraying both Hindu and Buddhist elements.

A day with the artists in Ubud Johan Rudolf Bonnet and Walter Spies. Visit some of the lovely art galleries selling original artworks by the local artists that dwell and work in this artistic community. Visit the Blanco Museum and get an inkling of a foreign artist Blanco’s interpretation of Bali, or see the young and creative Indonesian artists' exhibits at the Agung Rai Gallery.

Ubud has a permanent exhibition of so many things besides art, including local handicrafts, cloth items and silver. It is really lovely to just walk around the streets, bargain a bit with the local vendors and stroll around the Monkey Forest. If you get hungry, the best restaurant in Ubud is Chef Chris Salans’ Mozaic.

Artsy Delights www.ubud.com Agun Rai Gallery www.agungraigallery.com Blanco Museum www.blancomuseum.com

There are three major temples in Bali: ◊ Besakih, the Mother temple of Bali, nestled along the slopes of Mount Agung in eastern Bali, is Bali’s largest, most significant and holiest temple. ◊ Uluwatu Temple, known as Bukit, is perched atop an impressive limestone cliff that overlooks the Indian Ocean and inhabited by many monkeys. ◊ Tanah Lot Temple is built on a rock overlooking the sea on Bali’s west coast. It is a popular place to see at sunset, though it is often very crowded.

For a truly remarkable, spiritual experience, ask any of the staff in our hotels if there is an impending Hindu ceremony at their village’s temple. They will be delighted to have you witness and share one of their exceedingly intimate Hindu experiences.

Restaurant in Ubud Mozaic www.mozaic-bali.com

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Iitinerary around Shopping enchantment in charming Seminyak/Legian

Underwater wonders Take a snorkelling or diving excursion to discover the thriving underwater world on Menjangan Island. Considered one of the world’s top dive sites, it features steep walls, which fall to between 30-40 metres in depth, filled with marine life.

Spend your afternoon exploring the gorgeous little boutiques in one of Bali’s most charming areas. Notable items to purchase include: furniture, linens, jewellery, clothing, textiles, batik, pottery, curios, household items, coffee, vanilla beans, handmade soaps, bath salts, incense and aromatic oils. Afterwards, you can dine in one of the many wonderful restaurants offering myriad cuisines that are strewn along the main road.

Discover the magic of Kintamani Village

Nusa Lembongan

A day on the golf course

Located in the east part of Bali, this village has magnificent views of the colossal crater, smoky Mount Batur and simmering Lake Batur. If you want to have lunch, there are a lot of good

Depart from Benoa Harbour in the morning on a fast boat, or take a leisurely cruise across the Badung Strait to Lembongan Island to spend the day sailing, and enjoying myriad watersport activities including banana boat rides, kayaking and snorkelling.

Visitors can also take a village and seaweed tour.

Play a round of golf on Indonesia’s highest mountain golf course. Situated in Bedugul, the dramatic Bali Handara Kosiado Golf Club 18-hole championship course is surrounded by rolling mountains, crater lakes and age-old forests.

Another scenic golf course is Nirwana Bali Golf Club. Designed by Greg Norman, it is built over the cliffs and is near to the Tanah Lot Temple.

Bali Safari and Marine Park

Bali Handara Kosiado Golf Club: www.balihandarakosaido.com Nirwana Bali Golf Club: www.nirwanabaligolf.com

restaurants there that overlook the stunning crater.

Sunrise trek on Mount Batur Wake up in the very early pre-dawn morning hours and head to Kintamani, located at an altitude of 1,200 metres. There, you will hike with your local guide for two hours to the summit (1,717 metres) to reach the main crater just in time to witness the volcanic landscape sunrise. It is simply extraordinary. If weather permits, you will even be able to see Mount Agung and the sea. Then, you will climb down around the back of the crater.

Afterwards, you may wish to jump into the nearby hot springs

Located in Gianyar, this is a one stop wildlife conservation and cultural destination. www.balisafarimarinepark.com/

Other activities Surfing, Hiking, Mountain bike riding, Yoga classes, Balinese dance performances, Volcanoes (Agung and Batur) Lakes (Lake Tamblingan and Lake Batur)

before heading back for a rest.

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The Pavilions, Bali

Jalan Danau Tamblingan No. 76, Sanur 80228, Bali, Indonesia T: + 62 361 288 381 • F: + 62 361 288 382 bali-pav@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/bali-pav

HOTEL 23 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Denpasar (DPS) - 18 km

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81 Jalan Bumbak Umalas, Bali, Indonesia T: + 62 361 4733311 • F: + 62 361 4733312 mathis@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/mathis

Relais & Châteaux property in Bali

LA Villa Mathis

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BALI BALI

Relais & Châteaux property in Bali

HOTEL 17 rooms Open all year AIRPORT Denpasar (DPS) - 20 km

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INDIA

INDIA

New Delhi

Journeys around

India

NEPAL

Jaisalmer The Serai JSA Chandan Railway Station

Sawai Madhopur Sawai Madhopur Junction JAI Sher Bagh

Jaipur

Ranthambhore National Park

Maheshwar

Kolkata

Ahilya Fort IDR

JAISALMER AND THAR DESERT (RAJASTHAN) RANTHAMBHORE NATIONAL PARK (RAJASTHAN)

MAHESHWAR (MADHYA PRADESH)

INDIA

Mumbai

BLR Sheryas Retreat

Bangalore BANGALORE (KARNATAKA) MALABAR COAST (KERALA)

Chennai

Malabar Coast Neeleshwar Hermitage IXE

Fort Cochin

The Malabar House COK

FORT COCHIN (KERALA)

Destination

SRI LANKA 190

FERRY

PROPERTY TRAIN STATION

AIRPORT HELICOPTER

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Jaisalmer and thar desert INDIA

Jaisalmer is situated in the Indian state of Rajasthan, in the heart of the Thar Desert.

For centuries, it sat at the heart of trade routes connecting Africa, Egypt, Persia and the Arab lands to the Orient. Later, when it became a stopping point along the Silk Route, linking Europe to China and the Far East, Jaisalmer embraced a rich blend of varied civilisations, races and creeds.

Jaisalmer is home to the state’s oldest inhabited fort, founded in 1152 by the scion of the Bhati Rajputs, Rawal Jaisal. Containing a palace, many finely sculptured Jain temples and ornate houses, today, this desert citadel still stands guard to India’s Western Desert, just as it has for almost a millennium.

Airport: Jaisalmer Airport (JSA).

Railway: Chandan Railway Station is just four kilometres from The Serai. The major railway station, Jaisalmer is located 50 kilometres away. There are several trains offering daily railway service from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur and other cities. The Serai will be happy to assist you in providing transfers.

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A word from the Maître de Maison Jitin Sahni of The Serai The opportunity to host guests at The Serai has by far been the most enriching experience of my life. Most professionals can only wish for the surroundings, which combine to become my workplace and home, at The Serai. To contemplate the arrival of a new day, in the midst of this beautiful, peaceful wilderness of scrubland and desert, which daily witnesses pristine sunrises and sunsets, is an inspiration that fills me with joy.

Welcome to India’s “Golden City”.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

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Jaisalmer Jaisalmer Fort Moments of Celebration

Cuisine du Coeur

The Spa at The Serai is set in a walled garden, created by Raison d’Etre, one of the world’s leading spa therapy companies.

Expertly trained, our therapists offer a unique combination of treatments, specially designed to suit specific needs. Local plants, herbs, spices, and even sand from the Thar Desert are blended together to provide a natural product that is both uplifting and healing. As the day draws to dusk, there is simply nothing like witnessing the changing colours of the sky in the serene embrace of a massage.

Chef Satish: “Here at The Serai, we offer an eclectic choice of authentic Indian cooking, exciting Asian cuisine and fine Western recipes. All of our salads and herbs come from our organic vegetable and herb garden, and we encourage guests to wander over and select their own particular favourites. Besides international dishes, the dinner menu also offers Indian cuisine inspired from India’s royal heritage.”

Rajasthan’s desert folk musicians known as the Manganiars’ entrancing music is another highlight. These nomadic bards, with a documented history dating back more than 1000 years, sing odes and paeans as old as Jaisalmer itself on ancient, melodious instruments. It is a magical symphony.

The Jain Temple, inside the fort, is a fascinating and unique piece of architecture. Its pyramid-like shape suggests an early fusion between Egyptian and Indian styles, born out of the early trade once conducted here between these two civilisations.

Planet & People We believe we should give back to the community. At least twice a year, we organise veterinary camps to treat about 1000 cattle, and free health camps for our neighbouring villagers. We donate to schools to provide basic amenities including tanks for drinking water. Employing mostly locals, we train our staff in our in-house hospitality school. We also practices organic gardening, encouraging neighbouring farmers to do the same. In an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, besides using LED lights, The Serai’s swimming pool has a state-of-the-art filtration system, which allows us to conserve precious ground water.

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Jaisalmer Fort is Rajasthan’s oldest inhabited fort. Its distinctive local sandstone gives it the charismatic hue that has led to it being called the “Golden Fort”. Once the guardian of the trade routes that linked east to west, today it is the last citadel on the frontiers of India’s Western Desert. Rawal Jaisal, the scion of the Bhati Dynasty that ruled Jaisalmer at its inception, began building this fort in the mid 12th century, completed by his son.

Within its walls, it cradles winding cobbledstone streets, and numerous temples and townhouses, which are almost as intact today as they were when they were first built.

Local artisans and craftsmen still ply their trades here, just as they have done for centuries. Fabrics, leatherworks and handcrafted wooden artefacts are sure to catch the discerning eye. Other local handicrafts include: the famous jooties (sandals), bags made out of antique fabrics and fine handwoven shawls.

A day around The Serai Arrive at The Serai, Jaisalmer, a luxury desert camp and spa set on a hundred acre estate of indigenous desert scrub. Unwind in your own private heated plunge pool under the blue sky of the desert, or take a camel ride up the dried-out riverbed. After a sundowner on your verandah, follow the lantern -lit path for a private bush dinner in the scrubland, warmly welcomed by the melody of the local musicians and the aromas emanating from a delightful Rajasthani meal served by a campfire.

A day of exploring After tucking into some delicious eggs benedict and freshly baked croissants by the infinity pool, replete with commanding wilderness views, you shall depart for your guided Jaisalmer tour. There, you shall explore the maze of narrow lanes and the intricate stonework of the seven interconnecting Jain temples within the Jaisalmer Fort’s walls. Visit your guide’s home for a cup of freshly brewed masala chai (tea) and then walk through the colourful and busy market. It will lead you to Patwa-ki- Haveli, Jaisalmer’s most magnificent haveli (private mansion), showcasing spectacular views of the fort. Finish the day by the Gadi Sagar Lake, surrounded by ancient temples.

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The Serai, Bherwa Chandan District, Jaisalmer, 345 001, Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), India T: + 91 11 4606 7608 • F: + 91 11 4165 5052

Jaisalmer

serai@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/serai

An afternoon in the desert and shrines

Desert National Park

While away the morning by the pool and indulge yourself with a The Serai Signature Massage at the SUJAN Spa or some reflexology by the pool. Or, take a stroll down to our organic vegetable and herb garden.

The landscape of the Desert National Park is dominated by rolling sand dunes and scrub covered hills. The park is home to myriad wildlife including: desert foxes, Chinkaras (Indian gazelles) and blackbuck. The area also has a large population of resident and migratory birds including the Great Indian Bustard, Rajasthan’s state bird.

In the late afternoon, depart on one of our custom-made open gypsy vehicles through the desert. Along the way, you shall pass through local villages and perhaps spot some Chinkaras.

You will then take a camel ride through the dunes and enjoy a sundowner with your favourite drink. You will return for a sumptuous dinner in the heart of the camp, illuminated by candles and lanterns, surrounded by water channels, under the star-lit sky.

Bada Bagh

Other sites around Jaisalmer Ludhurva Ludhurva is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer and an important pilgrimage site for the Jain community, replete with the magnificent Jain temple, Toran. This temple’s ornate arches at the main entrance and splendid carvings are intriguing, but the main attraction within this temple is the kalpataru (Divine Tree).

Relais & Châteaux property in Jaisalmer

The serai

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This fertile oasis, situated along the banks of an artificial lake, is a renowned location. Much of the city’s fruit and vegetables are grown here. Surrounded by dense trees, here one can also witness the royal cenotaphs, highlighted by beautifully carved ceilings and equestrian statues of the former rulers.

HOTEL 21 tents Closed 1 April- 31 August AIRPORT Jaisalmer (JSA ) - 55 km TRAIN STATION Jaisalmer - 50 km

Wood Fossil Park, Akal Located on Barmer Road, this park contains relics from the Jurassic period, a time when the whole Thar region was still lying deep under the sea. These fossils date back 180 million years and are a perfect representation of the Thar Desert’s geological history.

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Ranthambhore National Park INDIA

The settlement of Ranthambhore has a recorded history dating back 1200 years, albeit some sources credit it with a 5th century foundation. Regardless of its age, Ranthambhore National Park derives its name from the massive fort that straddles its centre. Rising out of the ancient Aravalli Hills, it is deemed the world’s oldest hill range.

Today, Ranthambhore is famous for the wild Royal Bengal tigers that roam within its forests, and the majestic landscapes in which these sensational beasts dwell.

Comprising the world’s largest wild tiger habitat—this is the best place on earth to view these captivating cats.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

My Secret Place Ranthambhore National Park beholds some of the most mesmerising and stunning landscapes I have ever seen. Some of these vistas are relatively unknown—by virtue of their wilderness, some are simply often overlooked. One such forested valley is the Qualji Game Reserve. Lying along the southern boundaries of Ranthambhore, this area overlooks the Chambal River. Beyond it, one can see the timeless plains of central India. The forest itself has a substantial diversity of wildlife including: tigers, leopards and bears. One can easily spend the whole day exploring this phenomenal habitat. It is truly a treasured spot.

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A word from the Maître de Maison Alessandra Sikand of Sher Bagh For me, Ranthambhore represents an invaluable part of India’s natural heritage. Living in and around this critically endangered habitat is a precious and rare experience. The unique combination of history and wildlife that exists in these forests makes Ranthambhore even more special. During the early 12th century, Ranthambhore was a junction for armies, traders, princes and chroniclers, yet to this day it still continues to inspire travellers. No one who has seen a wild tiger in its natural element will ever forget that magical moment.

The abundance of birdlife in and around the forests also makes Ranthambhore a bird watcher’s haven. Many of our guests flock to see the annual migrations of birds that fly here from as far as Siberia and central Asia. Set amidst the woods, one can also marvel at the medieval pleasure palaces, cenotaphs and follies, which were built over centuries by emperors and princes. There is simply nothing more riveting than to see a big cat sprawled up upon one of these monuments—it is a memory that shall last a lifetime.

Airport: Jaipur Airport (JAI)

Railway: Sawai Madhopur Junction is just 12 kilometres away. There are several trains offering daily railway service from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Jodhpur and other cities.

Private plane/helicopter: There is an airfield in Sawai Madhopur, 14 kilometres from Sher Bagh and a helipad just 4 rather kilometres away. Sher Bagh will be happy to assist you in chartering a private plane or helicopter.

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Ranthambhore National Park Cuisine du Coeur Chef Harbir Singh Jolly: “All of our meals here are prepared with fresh produce that comes from our organic vegetable and herb garden, and farm. My food reflects the eclectic cuisine of an authentic 1920s jungle camp. I prepare English breakfasts with fresh farm eggs, and luncheons comprising soups, salads, and light Anglo Indian cuisine. After a drive in the jungle, there is little that is more comforting than an authentic Rajasthani dinner derived from recipes that hail from North India’s royal houses and rustic jungle fare prepared in outdoor clay ovens served and eaten around a crackling campfire—rustic jungle fare prepared in outdoor clay ovens that are surrounded by forests. I am also always happy to teach curious guests how to cook a particular dish and give them a private cooking lesson.”

Moments of Celebration

Our camp is bordered by the national park on nearly every side and the environs blend seamlessly into the surrounding forests. From fauna to birdsong—not forgetting the lush greenery within our private forest— everything at Sher Bagh reflects the pristine habitat that surrounds it.

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Subtle and private enclaves dot the campsite wherein guests may choose to relax with a book or simply doze off with one of our signature cocktails. The Library Bar, resonant of a colonial lounge, located on the first floor of our main lodge, is a perfect spot in which to unwind in between game drives or at the end of the day. Portraits of the tigers we have shared our lives with over the years adorn the walls of the main lodge.

Sher Bagh is a perfect, sonorous retreat for nature lovers, and those seeking tranquillity amidst India’s diverse and colourful experiences.

AAt Sher Bagh, we are conscious of the enormous responsibility that comes with the privilege of living on the edge of one of the world’s most magnificent national parks. In myriad ways, for more than a decade, Sher Bagh has contributed to Ranthambhore and its surrounding areas. Creating employment opportunities for the local community is the best way to preserve the bordering eco system. Consequently, the vast majority of our staff come from Ranthambhore National Park’s neigbouring villages. Sher Bagh has also donated vehicles to help the forestry department carry out its conservation roles. We help them to track animals that have strayed out of the park and take part in the annual tiger census. We have also dug wells within the park to help with drought prone areas.

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Ranthambhore Fort is one of Rajasthan’s largest and oldest forts. Towering above the canopy of Ranthambhore’s forests, it is truly exceptional. For over a millennium, it has withstood the might of imperial armies and potential conquerors, yet seldom has it been taken by force. The interiors are dotted with temples and tombs, making it a popular pilgrimage site for worshippers of the Hindu God of prosperity, Ganesha. Though now sadly nearly in ruins, its palaces still recount the magnificence of its historic imperial lifestyles. An excursion to the Fort with our handpicked guides is truly a not-to-be missed-experience.

Smoky Masala Breakfast Martini Glass: Martini Garnish: Cucumber (floated) Method: Shake all with ice & double strain into chilled cocktail glass.

20ml Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge 40ml Ketel One 5ml Talisker whisky 5ml Lime juice 1bsp Masala jam - mace, anise, clove, cardamom

Around the Camp Sher Bagh is one of India’s first and finest luxury tented camps. Our canvas 1920s tents were built to the exact specifications of the hunting tents once used by the Maharajahs and Viceroys during the heyday of the British Raj. Each was handstitched by expert tent makers and furnished with authentic furnishings. Arboreal lanterns adorn pathways and a campfire is lit every night. Guests can also relax at the Spa or around the pool.

Surrounded by acres of wild grasses under a star-lit sky, the camp is famous for its outdoor dining.

Guests eat off silver-plated thalis (plates), whilst engaging in the day’s jungle gossip. For those looking to spend a more private evening by themselves, the campsite also has other dining choices.

The cuisine at Sher Bagh combines sumptuous western lunches with traditional Indian dinners.

Live cooking—where guests are invited to participate—encapsulates camp life and is one of the most relaxing ways to round off a day spent in the jungle. In the distant night, one can even occasionally hear the roaring of a tiger or the sounds of myriad creatures that dwell in the forest.

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Ranthambhore National Park

Sherpur, Khiljipur, 322001, Ranthambhore (Rajasthan), India T: + 91 11 4617 2700 • F: + 91 11 4165 5052 sherbagh@relaischateaux.com www.relais.com/sherbagh

Relais & Châteaux property in Ranthambhore

Sher Bagh

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Itinerary around A day of culture Guests can embark on another day of game driving or elect to do an excursion to see Ranthambhore Fort in the morning, taking just one game drive in the afternoon. The day may be interspersed with a visit to the local village women’s cooperative to examine and purchase their local crafts. Other local attractions include the Surwal Lake, which at certain times of year attracts a large number of migratory birds. Guests are also always invited to visit the Sher Bagh Farm, and its organic herb and vegetable garden.

hotel 12 tents Annual Closing 1 May - 31 September airport Jaipur (JAI) - 170 km

A day with the nature and the tigers Depart for a morning game drive into the Ranthambhore National Park, accompanied by one of our expert guides and a tiffin breakfast. The safari usually takes about three to three and a half hours. Return to camp for a delicious meal and a rest before embarking on your afternoon safari.

Return to camp for sundowners or tea before unwinding in front of the evening campfire.

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train station Sawai Madhopur - 12 km

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Maheshwar INDIA

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A word from the Maître de Maison Prince Shivaji Rao Holkar of Ahilya Fort My father, the last Maharajah of Indore, wanted me to keep the pace of life at Ahilya Fort leisurely, and offer our guests an oasis of calm and repose. As a chef, gourmet and author of a cookbook on recipes from the Maharajahs’ palaces, I like to personally oversee the kitchen to insure an authentic taste and experience.

My Secret Place Maheshwar is a prominent site for Hindu pilgrimages with dozens of temples lining one of India’s most sacred rivers, the Narmada River. I like to walk down to the riverside and stroll along India’s most beautiful ghats and watch the ritual bathers.

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Flanked by the banks of the sacred Narmada River, in the Indian State of Madhya Pradesh, in the Khargone district, Maheshwar dates back 4,000 years. The town is as ancient as the Indus Valley civilisation.

made Maheshwar her capital. She ruled it for over 30 years, and was highly regarded throughout the land, as her state was peaceful and prosperous despite it being a turbulent period in Indian history. She is also honoured throughout India for rebuilding many important Hindu temples, which had previously been destroyed during the reign of Mughal Emperor, Aurangzeb.

In 1601, Maheshwar came under Akbar’s rule where he built the town’s fort. Later, in 1741, the Mughal rule came to an end and in 1766, Maharani Ahilya Bai, the queen of the Holkar Dynasty,

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

Airport: Indore Airport (IDR)

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Cuisine du Cœur

Moments of Celebration The Sacred Water Festival This popular festival on the banks of the mighty Narmada River features three special nights of classical music and cultural performances beside the moonlit river against the stunning backdrop of thousands of oil lamps.

Various parts of the three-day event take place at different areas. Whatever the setting, the experience is inspiring and truly unique. Whether observing from the ghats in front of the temple, from a boat on the river or from up in the majestic 250-year-old fort, it is one of India’s most dramatic venues. Lectures with music and dance demonstrations in the mornings also provide guests with a unique insight into lesser-known aspects of traditional Indian music and dance—and a rare opportunity to interact with performers.

Chef Kalyan Singh : “No one in my family was a professional cook. For many years I was a commis for the Maharajah's chef, Raja Ram, but he would never let me actually cook. I was only allowed to chop vegetables for the Indian dishes. When Raja Ram passed away, the Maharajah asked me to take over.

I was scared and ran away, but the Maharajah persuaded me to return. He taught me everything I know—both Indian and world cuisine. My favourite dishes are: kid and vegetable biryanis; chilled, smoked aubergine soup; smoked river fish on a bed of organic rocket leaves; and Thai duck soup.”

The Narmada River and Hindu holy sites

Omkareshwar

Ancient texts tell us that the Baneshwar Temple, which sits in the middle of the river, is the centre of the Universe—the axis that connects the earth with the polar star. Except during the monsoon season, the river is calm and peaceful year round. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, unpolluted waters, then get back on the boat with a cup of tea and watch the sun set.

This island temple is one of India’s most famous and ancient Shaivite shrines, and one of its holiest cities.

Sahastradhara After passing Maheshwar, the Narmada River becomes more turbulent due to its obstructing rocks. Legend tells that a demon once tried to capture this river by blocking its path, but the River Goddess Narmada broke through the barrier by dividing the river up into small streams, so she could continue on her journey towards the Arabian Sea. Sahastradhara means “thousand streams”, and here one can either bird watch or swim in the lovely waterfall.

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Excursion to Mandu Stretching for 13 kilometres, Mandu is a marvellous example of Islamic architecture, set amidst forests and ravines. Thought to have been founded in the 6th century, Mandu became famous during the 14th-15th century when it became the capital of the Muslim Malwa kingdom.

Planet & People Ahilya Fort is committed to being environmentally friendly and socially conscious. We use solar hot water in the kitchen and laundry, and reverse osmosis and UV water purification, thus eliminating over 3,000 plastic water bottles. Our farm and kitchen gardens are organic.

Our riverboats are powered by oars, not motors.

We also support the Ahilya School, started by Prince Richard for weavers' children, and have worked with UNESCO to create a Heritage Walk in Maheshwar.

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Ahilya fort

Ahilya Wada, Maheshwar 451224, Western Nimar, Madhya Pradesh, India T: + 91 11 4155 1575 • F: + 91 11 4155 1055

Bangalore INDIA

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Relais & Châteaux property in Maheshwar

ahilya@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/ahilya

Located in South India and the capital of the state of Karnakata, Bangalore boasts an abundance of flowering trees, lakes and parks. Previously a sedate British cantonment, today Bangalore, also known as Bengaluru, has spread far beyond the mud fort and four towers constructed by Kempegowda in 1537. Indeed, its booming economy and racy lifestyle has metamorphosed this once sleepy town into one of India’s fastest growing cities.

A city of contrasts, Bangalore has much to offer—a rich cultural heritage, historic monuments, traditional arts, yoga, spa experiences, and exotic cuisine. Welcome to the “Garden City”.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

HOTEL 11 rooms 1 Luxury tent

Airport: Bangalore International Airport (BLR)

ANNUAL CLOSING From May 16 to June 6 AIRPORT 95 km TRAIN STATION 95 km

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India is the birthplace of yoga, hence there are a multitude of options for those interested in learning this ancient, holistic way of life. To me, Shreyas is special because although it is a dedicated yoga retreat that encompasses a meditative and spiritual aspect, it is also an elegant, luxurious sanctuary. Karnataka is the birthplace of Pattabhi Jois, the founder of Ashtanga Yoga. What better place to begin your yoga journey than here with us at Shreyas? Our vision at Shreyas is to offer a haven, so that people can step off the carousel of every day hectic life to reflect and re-examine it on a larger scale—priorities, goals, choices made and relationships formed. Here, one can discover inner peace and contentment.

My Secret Place To further explore the region, following your stay at Shreyas, you can discover beautiful cities and ancient towns in regal style aboard the Golden Chariot Luxury Train. It is an exceptional experience.

Named after the famous Stone Chariot in Hampi, this luxurious train, featuring 18 thematically designed coaches and 44 fully equipped cabins, will take you back in time—unveil empires, unlock priceless treasures and unravel ancient secrets. Departing from Bangalore, the epic journey travels through Mysore, Kabini, Shravanabelagola, Belur, Halebidu, Hampi, Badami, Pattadakal and Goa— making conversation along the way with more than 1600 years of history.

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A word from the Maître de Maison N. Balaji of Shreyas Retreat Moments of Celebration Every meal at Shreyas is a celebration—an elegant feast for the eyes and the palate. Not only are the table settings a visual delight and a surprise every time, so are the venues.

Beautiful, flickering candles reflect upon sparkling mirrors, flowers are arranged in vases and strewn on the tables, all set at different picturesque alfresco spots around Shreyas with soothing music playing in the background—by the infinity pool, by the antique caravans, around a roaring bonfire, in the gardens, sheltered under the shade of the Machan trees. Each meal is consumed following our traditional Vedic chanting ritual, performed to invoke Annapurna, the Indian Goddess of Nutrition.

The most popular of all activities at Shreyas is spending time in the agricultural and herb gardens to get your hands and feet dirty with nature.

Cuisine du Coeur

Shreyas does not use any chemical-based fertilisers, insecticides or pesticides. Most of our food comes from our garden—our vegetables, fruit, herbs and rice. We also have milking cows that are fed organic fodder to provide organic milk. The drinking water in all guest rooms Planet & People comes in insulated flasks to avoid the use of plastic Our community service exercise is a bottles. This water is purified via our in-house favourite activity amongst our guests. They pick filtration plant. Greywater undergoes a reverseherbs and vegetables from our organic garden or osmosis process and is used to water the procure them from the nearby town. Once the ingredients lawns. Solar energy panels are a source of are collected, they help our chefs to cook a traditional, power wherever possible here. Also econutritious meal and transport it in a tractor to serve the food friendly, all of the scrubs and masks on banana leaves to children at a local school or orphanage. in our spa are freshly made from Guests also spend time singing and playing games with the products taken from our organic, children, or teach them a rhyme. The whole experience is chemical and preservativean opportunity to find the fulfillment that arises from a free garden. simple act of humility. It also provides a glimpse into these simple, hardworking villagers' lives, people who typically work long days in order to earn their daily bread.

Chef Rame Gowda: “My vegetarian meals vary daily, ranging from local delicacies to tandoori delights, intermixed with continental fare—all prepared with freshly picked vegetables and herbs from our organic garden. Minimising fats and sugars, my recipes have been adapted to be healthy in order to complement the retreat’s Yoga and Ayurveda practices. My personal favourites are: smoked tomato and lemongrass soup; mixed sprouts salad; palak paneer with roti (cottage cheese with spinach and Indian bread); and the famed Indian dessert carrot halwa (pudding).”

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A day of wellness

City excursion and shopping trip

Upon arrival, our Naturopath and Ayurvedic doctors will take you through a wellness consultation, and suggest customised asanas (Yoga postures), meditations, diet and spa treatments that will suit your needs best.

Take a guided tour of Bangalore to see its major sites and do a bit of shopping along the way. The following are some of the city’s

Dawn at Shreyas begins by walking amid the gentle rustling of the coconut trees, birdsong and the crisp cool breeze to the openair yoga pavilion for a morning group yoga session. The Hatha yoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa sessions’ deep relaxation, meditation and breathing techniques are customised to every level of experience, interest and competence. We will also introduce you to the science of sound meditation—Mantra chanting. Held daily, it is one of the most efficacious forms of yoga. Mantra chanting creates sound vibrations that can purify negative emotions including fear, anger and jealousy, leaving love, peace, happiness and other positive emotions behind.

In the afternoon, you can indulge with a healing and rejuvenating Thai or Balinese massage, or test your batting skills in our cricket nets against BOLA, our professional bowling machine. Guided bicycle rentals to tour the nearby villages, temples, lakes and forests, along with a picnic lunch, can also be arranged.

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top attractions. www.karnataka.com/tourism/bangalore

A day to discover Mysore

Guests will also visit elaborately carved and colourful temples, a trademark of Southern India, and are welcome to participate in an aarti—an Indian ritual involving offering prayers and obeisance to the Divine, presided over by a priest. This traditional ritual is performed daily at sundown at all temples.

A day of giving

Afternoon village tour and temple visit

The Community Service Programs at Shreyas are an attempt to share a fulfilling experience and to feel the joy of giving.

Further, our specially designed programme, The Joy of Giving, encompasses contributions including everything from providing books and writing supplies to schools to building rainwater harvesting tanks in the villages.

After your morning wellness rituals, spend the afternoon on a guided tour of the nearby villages to witness their simple lives, homes and customs. Shreyas is fully committed to the welfare and development of these villages and their people—every one of our staff comes from one of these local villages.

Take a cooking session class and learn how to prepare delicious vegetarian dishes to share with your loved ones back home.

We even have a cookbook titled Soul Food, which makes for a fantastic memento.

Take a day trip to the “City of Palaces”. Mysore, or Mahishur as it was once called, traces its history back to the mythical past, when Goddess Chamundeshwari of Chamundi Hills killed the wicked buffalo-headed demon, Mahishasura. Located 140 kilometres from Bangalore, Mysore enchants with its quaint charm, rich heritage, magnificent palaces, beautiful gardens and sacred temples. Not to be missed is the Mysore Palace, once the residence of the royal family of the Wodeyars, and Jaganmohan Palace, now an art gallery showcasing 19th century paintings and miniatures.

Excursion to Belur, Halebid and Sravanabelagola Take a day trip to these three sites, famous for their architecture, temples and imposing 18-metre statue of Lord Gomateswara.

Belur: World famous for its temples, this small town is located on the banks of River Yagach and was the early capital of the Hoysala Empire. The main attraction here is the Chennakeshava temple complex, dedicated to Lord ‘Chennakeshava’ (Vishnu).

Halebedu: Situated 215 kilometres from Bangalore, here one will find some of the best examples of Hoysala architecture in the ornate Hoysaleswara and Kedareswara Temples.

Shravanabelagola: Located 140 kilometres from Bangalore, this area is home to one of the oldest and most important Jain pilgrimage sites and the world’s tallest monolithic statue—the 18 metre statue of the naked Lord Gomateswara.

Bangalore Palace: Built in 1887 during the Wodeyar Dynasty, this palace is similar to medieval castles found in Normandy and England. Its interiors boast elegant woodcarvings and Tudorstyle architecture.

Tipu’s Palace: This palace was constructed by Hyder Ali, completed by his son Tipu Sultan in 1791. Called “The Envy of Heaven”, it is made mostly of wood with intricately sculpted arches and exquisite minarets.

Vidhana Soudha: A city landmark, this state legislative and secretariat building was built in 1956 in the Neo Dravidian style with local granite.

Attara Kacheri: This magnificent building was constructed in 1867 in the Gothic style of architecture and is the state High Court.

Bull Temple At Basavanagudi: Built for Nandi, the sacred bull, the vehicle of Lord Shiva, this is one of the city’s oldest temples.

Cubbon Park: Lieutenant General Sir Mark Cubbon laid out this beautiful 250-acre park in 1864. Today, it also features a children’s amusement park and a doll museum.

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shreyas@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/shreyas

Relais & Châteaux property in Bangalore

shreyas retreat

INDIA

Santoshima Farm, Gollahalli Gate, Nelamangala, Bangalore, 562123, India T: + 91 (0) 80 2773 7102/3 • F: + 91 (0) 80 2773 7016

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Lalbagh Gardens: Built in 1760, this sprawling park is situated south of the city. Inspired by the crystal palace in London, a highlight is its Glass House, which hosts the famous annual flower show held every August. www.lalbaghgardens.com Taj Nrityagram: Founded by the late Odissi dancer, Protima Gauri, this dance village at Hessarghatta offers classical dance (Bharatanatyam, Kathak and Odissi) choreography, philosophy, music, mythology and painting.

Bannerghatta National Park: About 22 kilometres from Bangalore, this natural forest is home to many endangered animal species including bison, leopard and wild boar. It is also an important corridor for elephants migrating between the Eastern and Western Ghats.

Shopping: Notable items to buy here include: Karnataka’s traditional silks, sandalwood and rosewood carvings, pottery, incense sticks and sandalwood oil.

HOTEL 11 rooms 1 Suite Open all year round

Other Bandipur National Park: This is one of India’s best-known wildlife reserves.

Coorg: Located 252 kilometres from Bangalore and dubbed the “Scotland of India”, this beautiful hill station in the Western Ghats has misty hills, lush forests, acres of tea and coffee plantations, orange groves and breathtaking views.

Airport 48 km TRAIN STATION 35 km

Hampi: Dotted around hills and valleys there are over 500 monuments in this UNESCO World Heritage site including: beautiful temples, palaces, remains of aquatic structures, ancient market streets, royal pavilions, bastions, royal platforms and treasury buildings.

Aihole: Known as the “Cradle of Indian Architecture”, this famous area has over 100 ancient temples scattered around the village. Not to be missed is the Konthi Temple Complex.

Badami: Sitting on a hill, this site is famous for its four cave temples carved out of sandstone.

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Shopping Notable items to buy here include: Karnataka’s traditional silks, sandalwood and rosewood carvings, pottery, incense sticks and sandalwood oil.

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north kerala, malabar COAST

A word from the Maître de Maison

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Altaf Chapri of Neeleshwar Hermitage My Secret Place I really enjoy trekking in Ranipuram. Located about 48 kilometres from Hermitage, Ranipuram is a hill station in Kerala’s Kasaragod district. It is simply marvellous to wander through this little explored area and absorb all the surrounding nature. It is also a fantastic place for bird watching. I always return from there feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Another personal favourite spot of mine is Wayanad. Tucked away up in the Western Ghats and Blue Mountains, this hilly spice district houses a number of enchanting tea plantations. This pristine green land is also home to some of the world’s most admired wildlife including: elephants, bison spotted deer, tigers, leopards, bears and wild boar that roam freely amidst stunning orchid and tall bamboo plantations. If you are very lucky, you may even spot a rare bird called a Blue Beard Bee-eater while you are here.

A precious jewel awaiting discovery, Malabar, also known as Northern Kerala, is nestled along the southwestern shores of India. Featuring isolated beaches fringed by coconut plantations, uncrowded inland waterways and lush hillside spice gardens, here, an undisturbed rhythm of life is set against the immensity of the Arabian Sea. Behind Malabar’s lavish coconut groves and rice paddy fields lies another Kerala—far different and much more concealed than what one would suspect. The simple country people that inhabit this area’s life is dominated by their gods. Their lives are regulated by an almost incalculable number

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of varied festivals and rituals, which for them bring the human world into harmony with the Divine. Malabar is a place that reveals its treasures slowly.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

Airport: Mangalore International Airport (IXE)

Due to Malabar’s historical open-mindness, which has embraced new thoughts and different opinions for centuries, today the cuisine in this part of India is still very varied.

One of our specialties at Hermitage is to serve indigenous local Malabar dishes not usually found in other hotels, as well as mouthwateringly fresh fish, which we buy daily from our local fishermen. Under the tutelage of our resident chefs, we also conduct regular cookery classes. This way, guests not only get to savour marvellous food while they are here, they also get to learn how to prepare a special meal to share with loved ones back home. It is a very special memento.

Neeleshwar radiates tranquillity—a genuine utopia where serenity softly unfolds. Away from the main tourist trail, this is Kerala at its most organic. Hermitage encapsulates the essence of authentic India—her friendliness, hospitality and philosophy.

Comprising 16 cottages designed to recall a fisherman’s hut, we capitalise on our small boutique size by addressing all our guests by name and adding in other little personalised touches, nourished by the quiet attention that is so inherent in Kerala’s culture. Designed to heal and soothe the soul, our guests always leave feeling incredibly relaxed—a piece of magical Malabar seems to depart with them.

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malabar COAST Cuisine du Coeur Chef Tony prepares cuisine from the land of spices—an amalgam of indigenous Malabar taste and Indian flavours, combined with a magical touch of rich spices from Kerala’s Western Ghats. “The abundance of coconut, and freshly caught fish and seafood here is an absolute paradise for fish lovers. A wide variety of local vegetables from organic farms also find their place on my menus.”

Moments of Celebration The singular experience at Hermitage commences from the moment you arrive at our retreat. Each guest is welcomed with an aarti (Hindu custom), a beautiful flower garland and ice cold coconut water, followed by a gentle orientation walk to introduce the atmosphere found within this tranquil haven that embraces wellness.

Beneath Malabar’s modern veneer lies a traditional world in which the energies of the ancient human spirit are still very much alive—evoked in temples and village shrines showcasing countless magnificent rituals.

This is also an ideal place to celebrate special occasions, be it a honeymoon, wedding anniversary, or any other significant moment in your life.

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Planet & People

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In an effort to be kind to our planet and reduce the carbon footprint made by man, Hermitage fully endorses responsible tourism. Yet human beings are not the only creatures that like the peaceful atmosphere here. Malabar has a very rich bird As our Neeleshwar life, home to over 340 bird species. We even have “parrot gardens mature, bird life astrologers”—roadside fortune-tellers who read your here is slowly increasing. We future with the help of a tame green parakeet. The are planting more trees and shrubs, bird picks up a card from a special deck of tarotwhich we hope will attract even more like cards, and gives it to the astrologer who feathered friends. Early morning by interprets it according to the questions the beach or around the lagoon is the best that you ask. place to see them. Binoculars and bird books are available to use, and our lifeguard Prasanth is happy to help guests to spot some of them. A trip up the lagoon in our canoe will also reveal many more species that are too shy to come out into the open.

Commence your day with a spiritually uplifting yoga class, followed by breakfast at our restaurant Meenakshi. Glimpse at the dolphins frolocking in the sea, and lookout for the regional bird of prey known as a Brahminy Kite. Also delightful, the area around the lagoon is filled with Kingfishers, Green Bee-eaters and other birdlife including: sunbirds, white-eyes, mynahs, wagtails, coucals and woodpeckers. Afterwards, you can explore the nearby local market, temples, centuries old Bekal Fort, and traditional fishing villages where boats and nets are made and repaired. In the afternoon, you can have an unhurried Ayurvedic massage at the spa, or a take a leisurely stroll along the long golden stretch of beach in the company of no one, save for an occasional fisherman passing by.

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malabar COAST

Neeleshwar Dist. Kasaragod, Malabar Northern Kerala 671314, India T: + 91 467 2288876-78 • F: + 91 467 2287500 neeleshwar@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/neeleshwar

Relais & Châteaux property in Malabar

Neeleshwar Hermitage

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Itinerary around A day for the senses After another yoga class, you may wish perhaps to sample a typical south Indian breakfast in our restaurant Annapurna, surrounded by lush tropical gardens. Afterwards, you can either take one of our cooking classes or enlighten your body, mind and spirit with a meditation course (courses range in length from two to four days). In the afternoon, you can visit the Goddess Snake Temple and then embark on a gentle houseboat cruise through the tranquil backwaters.

A day at the temple After yoga and breakfast, you will take a two-hour drive a drive to see the Mutupam Temple. The highlight there is its wonderful Theyyam dance performances. Upon your return in the afternoon, you can have a holistic Ayurvedic treatment, explore the nearby hinterland on a bicycle, or simply relax by the infinity pool that overlooks the Arabian Sea.

HOTEL 18 cottages ANNUAL Closure June-July AIRPORT Mangalore (IXE) - 95km TRAIN STATION Neeleshwar - 4 km

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Fort Cochin

A word from the Maîtres de Maison

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Hailed “God’s Own Country”, vibrant Cochin, now known as Kochi, is situated on India’s extreme southwest coast in the Indian state of Kerala. Often deemed the gateway to exploring Kerala’s splendid diversity and beauty, Cochin is flanked by the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Once an important spice trading centre during the 14th century, Cochin is a fascinating city steeped in history.

Welcome to Kerala—the tropical land of coconuts.

Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is required prior to entering India.

The Malabar House

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Joerg Drechsel and Txuku Iriarte of

If you are looking for a beautiful journey unlike any other visit to India, you will find it here. Our search ended in Kerala, but really the journey had just begun. We learned how to realise our dream—the dream to offer more than just the comforts of an exotic hotel in India. Our aim is to showcase the best of Kerala’s culture and art in a contemporary yet timeless setting, combined with the charm and wit of its people to create truly exceptional experiences.

The Malabar House is located in the heart of historical Fort Cochin. Home to a carefully curated collection that highlights Kerala’s composite culture, and a passage between East and West, it is ideally positioned for sightseeing, shopping and backwater cruises. Jew Town, with its vast curio and antique market, is just a few kilometres away. Vembanad Lake can be reached by car in just one hour.

Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK)

Our Secret Place Instead of using the national highway on our way from The Malabar House to our houseboat discovery, we like to travel along the old coastal road where the backwaters meet the sea.

Passing through fishing villages, one can follow the daily life of the fishermen, the markets and see the small workshops where they produce their canoes. Then, we float off into endless shades of green on the houseboat to absorb the beauty of silence, laughter and smiles along the water channels. It is very special.

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Fort Cochin Planet & People

Cuisine du Coeur Chef Justin and his team are the driving force behind our award winning restaurant Malabar Junction. A crossroad between tradition and innovation—southern Indian cuisine blended with a hint of western influence—it creates the ground for discovery and rediscovery. Our wine lounge is also a magical setting in which to sample some of India’s new emerging wines.

Moments of Celebration Kerala always seems to wake up to a new day that celebrates some kind of special festival.

Every community is different, and has its own particular celebrations and centre of worship.

Each celebrates life in a different way. No matter what one’s religious persuasion is, it is simply fascinating to witness the different customs and traditions found here in Kerala.

We want to enrich your life by offering a multitude of experiences that enhance all of one’s senses, provide a comfortable environs, impart a bit of new knowledge for those who are curious and help you to celebrate all of life’s joys. Every day spent with us is an invitation to share special moments.

Your body needs more than just food. Our Kalari ayurvedic massage rejuvenates and heals. Pamper your senses, tone your body and enjoy a relaxing insight into this ancient spa technique.

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At The Malabar House we advocate socially and environmentally sustainable business practices.

Our aim is to bring a positive benefit to society, through high quality services, economic growth, environmental protection, community involvement and employment. We conduct eco-friendly workshops with our staff. We have solar panelling on the roof for solar power, and strong efforts are given to improve waste management. We use as little plastic as possible, and use terracotta containers, recycled paper bags and cloth bags instead. We also grow our own organic fruit and vegetables.

Further, we also extend support to Raksha, a local institution for the mentally challenged. All the candles and paper bags used in our hotel are purchased from this school. www.rakshasociety.org

A day of cultural enrichment Start your day with a typical southern Indian breakfast before heading to see Mattanchery, once a main spice trading centre. Today, you can still find the colourful and aromatic spices in the surrounding warehouses and trading places, including pepper and turmeric. This area also has a small but fantastic contemporary art scene, highlighted by some interesting and notable art galleries. After visiting Mattanchery Palace, also called Dutch Palace, you can see India’s oldest Jewish Synagogue and stroll through Jew Town where the ancient Jewish people once did their trading. Now home to antique shops that line its narrow lanes, this area invites you to discover some of its hidden treasures. Along the way you may wish to stop for lunch and sample some indigenous thali cuisine or local seafood before heading back to the hotel for a rest.

In the afternoon, you can embark on a walking or cycling tour to visit the nearby Chinese fishing nets and the historic 15th century landmark St. Francis Church. Fort Cochin is a colourful neighbourhood showcasing a rich blend of Dutch, Portuguese and English architecture. Stop to view one of India’s best design and lifestyle shops, Cinnamon, and browse some of the other local shops.

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1/269 Parade Road, Fort cochin, Kerala, 682001, India T: + 91 484 221 6666 • F: + 91 484 221 7777

Fort Cochin

malabar@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/malabar

Relais & Châteaux property in Fort Cochin

the Malabar house

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Cruising the backwaters After breakfast you will depart to Vembanad Lake, India’s longest lake. The journey takes just one hour by car. At purity, you can spend some time relaxing by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment in the spa and have a delectable lunch on the picturesque lakefront.

In the afternoon, you will board our ecological houseboat discovery and begin your overnight cruise through the lake that leads to Kerala’s backwaters. Exploring its labyrinth of waterways, which weave through villages set amidst lush vegetation, it is one of Kerala’s most enchanting experiences—a place where land and water are inseparable. www.malabarhouse.com

In the old town Hill Palace Museum, Thrippunithura Built in 1865, this palace’s complex houses 13 galleries showcasing oil paintings, murals, 19th century paintings, manuscripts, sculptures, inscriptions and coins belonging to the Cochin royal family.

Pareekshith Thampuran Museum This Kerala style building houses 19th century oil paintings, old coins, sculptures and Mughal paintings.

Santa Cruz Basilica This Roman Catholic cathedral is one of Kerala’s finest and most impressive churches, and a historical centre endowed with gothic architecture.

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Cherai Beach Located on Vypin Island, just 25 kilometres from Cochin, this 15-kilometre long golden beach is one of the few places where one can experience the lagoon (poyil) and ocean separated only by a few hundred metres.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre Set along the southern banks of the Periyar River, this is one of Kerala’s largest baby elephant rescue and training centres

HOTEL 16 rooms 1 suite Open all year AIRPORT Cochin (COK) - 45 km TRAIN STATION Ernakulam Junction - 12 km

Useful links www.keralatourism.org www.malabarhouse.com/discovery-backwater-cruises/index.html www.malabarhouse.com/purity-muhamma/spa.html

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SRI LANKA

SRI LANKA

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Bangalore

BOGAWANTALAWA VALLEY

Chennai

Destination

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AIRPORT

Fort Cochin

SRI LANKA Colombo

Bogawantalawa Valley Ceylon Tea Trails CMB

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Bogawantalawa Valley SRI LANKA

My Secret Place Dawn is a special time for me in this valley. Imagine the early morning air, fresh with dew and the scent of highland flora and fresh tea. Sitting in the Castlereagh bungalow garden, and glimpsing the sun rising to herald the start of a new day above the banks of the lake as it shimmers on the water, is wondrous. I try and savour the first golden rays of dawn each morning over a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea, enjoying the peace and quiet before the birds awaken and the life of the valley begins.

Deemed the “Jade Pendant of the Indian Ocean” by the world’s most famous explorer Marco Polo, historic and colourful Sri Lanka has been praised for centuries. In this diverse tropical island nation, visitors can experience archaeological sites, pristine national parks where elephants and leopards roam, ancient cities and temples, dense jungles, gleaming white sandy beaches, and immense tea and spice plantations.

Nestled in central Sri Lanka, Bogawantalawa Valley—fondly known as the Golden Valley of Tea—is home to rolling green hills, plantation bungalows, and exquisite scenery.

Ceylon Tea Trails is where my heart is. I don’t have a favourite bungalow. I love them all. Here, it is a different life, a different era and it is completely out of this world. Listen to birdsong, trickling streams and whispering breezes, and understand the life of a planter as it was a hundred years ago.

SRI LANKA

A word from the Maître de Maison Suneth Kudaliyananage of Ceylon Tea Trails

Located on working tea plantations, Ceylon Tea Trails offers its guests not just a holiday but an experience that will be indelibly etched in their memory. There are trails between the bungalows, trails to escape to and hideaway trials where you lose track of time. Ultimately the best thing about Ceylon Tea Trails is that you do not need a plan- just do as you wish, whenever you feel like it.

delightful ambiance enriched by authentic period furnishings and exquisite cuisine.

The bungalows are anywhere from 4 to 15 kilometres apart.

Each is marked with scenic trails, which lead from one to the other, hence the name Tea Trails. Trekking along the tea trails takes you through the heart of Ceylon’s magical tea country.

Airport: Colombo International Airport (CMB)

Here, at 1200 metres above sea level lies Ceylon Tea Trails, comprising four charming olde worlde tea planters’ bungalows, which were built between 1890 and 1939 to house British tea estate managers in the days of the Raj. Infused with a refreshing and decidedly gourmet atmosphere, each villa offers a taste of gracious living complemented by dedicated butler service, and a

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Note: For most foreign visitors, a visa is now required prior to entering Sri Lanka, which can be obtained online. www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa

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Itinerary around SRI LANKA

Planet & People Ceylon Tea Trails has always been eco-minded. We support sustainable farming and purchase ingredients from small local farms and artisanal producers. Not only does this help to drive the local economy, it also minimises the carbon footprint.

The Tea Experience

SRI LANKA

Sri lanka Spend the morning or afternoon with Ceylon Tea Trails’ Planter in Residence, Andrew Taylor. A direct descendant of the Scotsman, James Taylor, who introduced tea to Sri Lanka in 1867, he will show you first hand the age-old tea making process. First, follow the trail of the planters of old Ceylon, as they trekked through the dense jungle looking for the best slopes on which to plant tea. Then, watch the tea pluckers as they pick two leaves and a bud with deft hands. Afterwards, visit the factory to observe how the leaves are dried and where the all-important conversion to make black tea occurs. The tour ends with a delightful tea tasting.

Walking Trails

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Cuisine du Coeur

Moments of Celebration

Born and raised in Sri Lanka, with extensive training in both France and Japan, after being exposed to Dilmah teas, Chef Wajira Gamage was inspired to experiment with tea-based recipes. His dedicated tea gastronomy menus include some of the following divine delights: earl grey sorbet, cinnamon tea poached pears, lamb rump steak crusted with mint tea, tea smoked fish, and ginger tea crème brulée.

Ceylon Tea Trails is an unforgettably romantic experience with olde worlde charm. A surprising number of guests decide to celebrate a wedding anniversary or propose to their sweetheart here. Our dedicated staff works hard to ensure every detail of our guests’ special occasion is perfect in every way.

Hike up Adam’s Peak For keen walkers, the four to five-hour trek to the top of Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka's highest mountain at 2,243 metres, is an unforgettable experience with incredible views. The peak has been an object of worship and pilgrimage by kings and commoners for centuries. Ceylon Tea Trails is the ideal base camp for a dawn expedition to climb the famed peak and is only a mere 45 minute drive away from the bungalows, so the perfect place to prepare then recover and rejuvenate at afterwards.

Explore the sacred city of Kandy In celebration of tea, Ceylon Tea Trails has revolutionised the way this healing and invigorating plant can be used as an ingredient. A meal here entails a multi-course menu highlighting a variety of teas that prove tea can stand

The walking is idyllic, suitable for all ages and levels. Experienced guides will lead you to stunning vantage points, waterfalls, colourful Hindu kovils (temples) and shrines set amongst the emerald plantations, and take you to a fantastic picnic lunch spot. Bird lovers will delight in the 89 bird species found here.

Exploring the area on a bicycle is also an enjoyable experience, where you can cycle your way up and down tea trails, ride along glassy lakes, pass historical churches and re-fuel with high tea at one of the bungalows en route.

Steeped in history, this centuries old royal capital city is a must-see whilst in Sri Lanka. Highlights include: the legendary Temple of the Tooth (the sacred tooth of the Buddha), the Kandy National Museum, and the Royal Botanical Garden, Peradeniya.

alone as an ingredient.

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SRI LANKA

Sri lanka

teatrails@relaischateaux.com www.relaischateaux.com/teatrails

The Cultural Triangle Five of Sri Lanka’s seven UNESCO World Heritage sites are located in this area.

Relais & Châteaux property in Sri Lanka

CEYLON TEA TRAILS

SRI LANKA

Tea Trails Pvt. Ltd. 46/38a Nawam Mawatha, Colombo 2, Sri Lanka T: + 94 11 230 3888 • F: + 94 11 230 3999

Itinerary around

Adventure excursion Set off for Sigiriya (Lion Rock) to climb this UNESCO World Heritage site. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is famous for its frescoes, intricate irrigation systems, exquisite gardens with royal baths and mesmerising views. Otherwise, explore the cave temples in Dambulla showcasing stunning, statues, carvings, murals and paintings.

Sights A visit to an ancient city Take an excursion to see Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Both of these ancient cities are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Featuring incredible ancient architecture, Anuradhapura dates back some 2500 years. Showcasing both Sinhala and Indian characteristics, Polonnaruwa houses the historic remains of royal palaces and temples.

Adam’s peak www.sripada.org Temple of the Tooth www.daladamaligawa.org Museums in Galle and Kandy www.museum.gov.lk Galle Literary Festival www.galleliteraryfestival.com

Shopping Head down South Only in Sri Lanka can one visit the area containing the world’s highest density of leopards within a square kilometre and the world’s largest marine mammal, the blue whale, in a single day.

- Whale watching at Mirissa Mirissa has caught the cetacean world’s attention, and with the whale watching industry in its fourth season it is perfect place to view the spectacle of the largest a sea mammal in the wild.

- Safari in Yala National Park.

The park’s main attraction are its elephants, but it is also home to water buffaloes, water monitors, lizards, Sambar deers, monkeys, leopards and plethora of bird species.

Barefoot: www.barefootceylon.com Paradise Road: www.paradiseroad.lk Odel: www.odel.lk/kandy

HOTEL 8 rooms 9 suites Open all year AIRPORT Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport - 160 km TRAIN STATION 14 km

Explore Galle Fort Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this well-preserved historic fort is still a living monument, lined with narrow streets displaying its Dutch heritage. Walk around to browse the courtyards, galleries, cafés and shops selling antiques, spices, clothing, jewellery, and more.

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CREDITED PHOTOGRAPHERS : ©Hermitage, ©Images, A.C Clunies-Ross, Adrian Dorst, Adrian Houston, AGBs - Fotostudio Eisenhut & Mayer, Ahmed Afrasheem & Hussain Shiham, Alain Kahouane, Alain Machelidon, Alain Noel, Alessandro Schinco, Alexander Hamilton, Alexander Ortner, Alois Pribil, Andreas Biesenbach, Andreas Obernauer, Andrew Bradley, Andrew Clark, Andrew Clunies-Ross, Andrew Mc Kenna, Anthony Holder, Antoine Maillon, Antonio Santini, Apicius, Arnaud Frisch, Arnaud Spani, Arnsbourg, Arzak, Atelier do Sul, Atelier Jolyot, Ateliers Apicius, Attic Fire, Auberge du Père Bise, B. Kommenda, B. Preschesmisky, B. Winkelmann, Balmecci, Barry Moore/Photogenic, Bart Van Leuven, batt-huber.

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Reimer, The Fat Duck, Thomas Loof, Thomas Schauer, Thomas Schnabel, Thomas Widelberg & Finn Stale Felberg, Tillman Franzen & Mark Hillesheim, Tim Beddow, Tim Severson, Tim Turner, Timothy Armes, TMK, Tomaso Awerbuch, Tower Estate, Tower Lodge, Trevor Bunderud, Tuca Reines, Tylle Barbosa, Uly Weber, Urs Klyver, Vaughn Perret & Charles Leary, Vertige Photo, Vicente Guasch, Villa La Vedetta, Vincenzo Lonati, Vittorio Sciosia, Von Essen Collection, W. Zumbeller, Warren Jagger, wowe, Wu Gang, Xavier Mignant, Yan Martin, Yann Arthus Bertrand, Yayo Galiana, YDO Sol Images, yurbn, Laurent Benoit, Mike Toy, Alan Curtis, Serge Detalle and last but not least. Relais & Châteaux® thanks all the advertisers.

Special thanks to: Tourism Macau, © Gunther Deichmann (Cambodia), Tourism Authority of Thailand, Heiner Orth, Jon Purcell, Olaf Krueger, Daniel Nadelbach and Philippe Charlot.

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Sharks are more valuable than shark fin soup.

SILVERSEA ALL-INCLUSIVE LIFESTYLE

Six Ships.

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All-Inclusive Indulgences.

Tens of millions of sharks are killed each year, primarily for shark fin soupi. Shark populations have been decimated worldwide, with some population declines of 90% or more in just a few decadesii.

Sharks, at the top of the marine foodweb, are vitally important to the healthy balance of the oceans’ ecosystemiii.

Recent surveys in Hong Kong and among Chinese Americans in California show a majority are now ready to turn away from shark fin soupiv.

Shark Savers thanks Relais & Châteaux for allowing us to reach their readers and customers about the devastating impact that demand for shark fin soup has on our ocean environment.

Learn more: www.sharksavers.org/sharkfinsoup

Clarke et al. 2006 | ii Myers and Worm 2003, Ferretti et al. 2008, Robbins et al. 2006 |

iii

Bascompte et al. 2005, Myers et al. 2007 |

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• In-suite bar with your beverage preferences

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For more information or to book your ocean-view suite contact your travel professional or call Silversea Asia +65 6223 7066, Silversea Australia & New Zealand +61 2 9255 0600 or Silversea Japan +81 3 5405 9213.

Sharks and our oceans are more valuable than soup.

Please, don’t order or accept shark fin soup on your travels. i

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silversea.com iv

Bacon-Shone and Sadvoy 2011; Monterrey Bay Aquarium, May 2011

large photo © Mary O’Malley; inset photo © Shawn Heinrichs

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