Travel Aggregator (February 2022)

FEBRUARY 2022

APAC Newsletter

Step Into a World of Colour

Fall in Love with Asia Pacific’s Idyllic Islands

The Timeless Charm of Asia’s Heritage Hotels

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FOREWORD

WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC KS SUN President, Asia Pacific Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com CYNDI NG COO Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com BERNARD CHIONH CFO Bernard.Chionh@webbeds.com CHERYL CHEANG Vice President, Marketing Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com

FOREWORD Welcome to this month’s edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the travel industry in Asia Pacific!

February is known as the “Month of Love” so this edition is dedicated to the romance of travel. Asia Pacific is home to many of the most dreamy destinations on Earth, so we reveal a collection of exotic islands and romantic resorts that are sure to fan the flames of passion, from the Andaman Sea to the South Pacific. And if you want to recapture the grace and glamour of a bygone era, our feature on Asia’s finest heritage hotels will transport you back to a golden age of exploration.

Wherever you travel, make sure you stay in style! We’re proud to introduce the 2022 Hotel Lookbook, our annual curated collection of the finest hotels and resorts on the planet!

As winter draws to a close and the world starts to warm up, many parts of Asia Pacific are bathed in a kaleidoscope of colours. This month, we want to brighten up your travels by showcasing the region’s most vibrant blue, green, gold and red landscapes. Mother Nature’s palette never fails to stimulate the senses and excite emotions, so let us inspire you with a world of colour.

Much of Asia is currently welcoming the “Year of the Tiger” with spectacular celebrations and family

CHUA CHUN KIAT Vice President, Commercial Strategy Chunkiat.Chua@webbeds.com EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indochina Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI Managing Director, Pacific, India & Indonesia John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com

feasts, so we take a look at the traditional foods of Chinese New Year and how they symbolise health, wealth and prosperity. Finally, you can catch up with all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia Pacific.

VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com

We’re all looking forward to a better year ahead, and WedBeds would like to wish all our readers a very happy Lunar New Year!

Enjoy the read!

KS Sun President, Asia Pacific

@WebBedsAPAC

WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.com/aggregator The Fullerton Hotel Singapore

ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created especially for our travel trade partners and clients, this informative newsletter will include the latest updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from our partners, a selection of the hottest hotel deals, and much more!

If you’d like to be featured in the next issue of Travel Aggregator, please email Travel.Aggregator@fitruums.com. Alternatively, for marketing partnerships with WebBeds Asia Pacific, please email marketing@fitruums.com.

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Step Into a World of Colour The natural world is the most spectacular show on Earth. Prettier than any painting and more eyecatching than anything on screen, the colours that surround us are vivid, vibrant and highly emotive.

From breath-taking blues and luscious greens to golden browns and ruby reds, Mother Nature’s technicolour palette never fails to stimulate the senses. As the world starts to open up again, this is the perfect time to broaden your horizons and brighten up your world!

BLUE HALAVELI ISLAND, MALDIVES Got the blues? The mesmerising colours of the Maldives will bring joy to your heart. At Halaveli Island in the North Ari Atoll, the beauty of nature is brought into focus as brilliant turquoise lagoons blend into the azure ocean and cyan sky. Spend dreamy days relaxing on pure white beaches while gazing out over the cerulean sea, before heading out onto the sparkling waves to enjoy water sports and diving down to discover the enthralling underwater world.

C O N S TA N C E H A L AV E L I M A L D I V E S

WHERE TO STAY

CONSTANCE HALAVELI MALDIVES

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Soak up the ever-changing blue hues of the

including the 86 pool villas (with 57 perched over

Maldives from Constance Halaveli, the five-star

the lagoon), white sandy beaches, waterfront

private island resort in the North Ari Atoll. Shaped

restaurants and the exquisite Constance Spa. For a

like a traditional Maldivian boat, this blissful retreat

truly immersive experience, North Ari features some

offers endless ocean views from every angle,

of the best dive sites in the Maldives.

C O N S TA N C E H A L AV E L I M A L D I V E S

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GOLD AL QUDRA LAKES, DUBAI The golden sands of Dubai always shimmer in the sun, and they seem to shine even brighter when contrasted against the deep aquamarine of the Al Qudra Lakes. This desert oasis offers an elegant escape from the sleek silver skyscrapers of the city and lets you get back to nature with a series of eco-sensitive activities. This is also the perfect place to watch the burning orange sun as it sets over the horizon.

G H AYA G R A N D H O T E L & A PA R T M E N T S

WHERE TO STAY

GHAYA GRAND HOTEL & APARTMENTS Ghaya Grand Hotel & Apartments is a contemporary

by activities, including retail malls, golf courses,

five-star hotel that offers myriad ways to relax in

theme parks and gardens. Unwind at the tennis

style. Located at Dubai Production City, close to

court, gym, temperature-controlled pools, spa and

Expo 2020 and just 20 minutes’ drive from Al Qudra

salon, or dine at a choice of exceptional restaurants.

Lakes, this 765-key property is surrounded

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G H AYA G R A N D H O T E L & A PA R T M E N T S

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GREEN TEGALLALANG RICE TERRACES, BALI Green is the colour of natural vitality; a reflection of the health and wellbeing of a destination.

Situated in the heart of Bali, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces are a multi-layered tapestry of emerald and jade that sparkles and shines in the tropical sun. This ancient UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape has been farmed in the traditional style for centuries. Surrounded by verdant jungle, it is the perfect place to unwind and feel at one with the world.

A L AYA R E S O R T U B U D

WHERE TO STAY

ALAYA RESORT UBUD

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Nestled in enchanting Ubud, the cultural centre

features 106 bright and spacious rooms, a serene

of Bali, Alaya Resort reflects the idyllic ambiance

riverside spa, gym and outdoor pools. Sip cool

of the “Island of the Gods”. Overlooking shining

cocktails in the Bamboo Bar or dine at a choice of

rice paddies, swaying palms, lush forests and a

restaurants including the elegant Cerita Mansion, a

cascading river, this refined low-rise retreat

preserved heritage house.

A L AYA R E S O R T U B U D

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RED ULURU, AUSTRALIA The “Red Centre” of Australia is an extraordinary, otherworldly landscape. With deep crimson soil so vivid that it is visible from space, this is a region that inspires the senses. At the heart of this remote region, Uluru stands as Australia’s most iconic natural landmark and a deeply spiritual symbol of indigenous culture. The shades of the rock seem to shift throughout the day, culminating at sunset when it transforms from rich ochre to intense red.

E M U WA L K A P A R T M E N T S

WHERE TO STAY

EMU WALK APARTMENTS

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Leave your footsteps in the red earth of Australian

equipped kitchens and living areas with plush

heritage at Emu Walk Apartments. After a rewarding

furnishings and flatscreen TVs, and stay connected

day exploring Uluru, which is just 20km away, chill

with complimentary Wi-Fi. Indigenous artworks

out in a choice of one- or two-bedroom upscale

by Raymond Walters adorn an open dining area,

apartments with modern amenities, such as well-

which overlooks the endless, ancient landscapes.

E M U WA L K A P A R T M E N T S

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FALL IN LOVE WITH

Asia Pacific’s Idyllic Island Is there any more romantic setting on Earth than a tropical island? Blessed with pure white sands, sparkling seas and kissed by the warmth of the sun, these dreamy destinations allow couples to unwind together, far from the outside world. Asia Pacific is home to many of the world’s most exotic islands, each of which has its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront break or an exhilarating adventure, every couple can find their own personal haven of romance and tranquility.

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JEJU ISLAND

JEJU ISLAND SOUTH KOREA

With its spectacular landscape of volcanic peaks, lava tubes and wild forests, Jeju is a dramatic island destination that casts a spell on all who visit. Enjoy an unforgettable hike through the wilderness and discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed natural wonders with your partner, or simply relax at a blissful beach resort. South Korea is currently open to fully-vaccinated travellers via the South Korea-Singapore Vaccinated Travel Lane. Find out more from WebBeds.

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THE SHILLA JEJU

WHERE TO STAY

THE SHILLA JEJU

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The Shilla Jeju is the ideal base for activity-packed

treks, sunset yacht tours, horseback rides and

island escapes. This five-star resort’s dedicated

even mandarin orange picking. Back at the

G.A.O (Guest Activities Organizer) can offer

resort, cosy cabanas, sparkling swimming pools, a

unforgettable experiences for couples who want

soothing spa and three outstanding restaurants

to explore the wonders of Jeju, such as wilderness

set the stage for romantic moments.

THE WE HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY

THE WE HOTEL The WE Hotel seamlessly blends contemporary five-

wonders, and the shimmering seas beyond, are

star hospitality with the unspoiled scenery of Jeju

perfectly framed by panoramic glass windows

Island. This premium health resort is surrounded

that wrap around the hotel. Couples can also

by the beautiful forests of UNESCO-listed Hallasan,

enjoy invigorating hydrotherapy treatments at the

the highest peak in South Korea. These natural

spa, with its enchanting outdoor treatment areas.

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KOH SAMUI

KOH SAMUI THAILAND

Koh Samui is an exotic island jewel, lined with pristine beaches, beautiful bays and lapped by turquoise seas. But this famous destination offers much more than just sun, sea and sand; visitors are blessed with a wide range of activities and adventures, including lively walking streets and outdoor markets, temples, water sports and much more. Samui will reopen on 1st February for (almost) quarantine-free travel.

Find out more from WebBeds.

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B A N YA N T R E E S A M U I

WHERE TO STAY

BANYAN TREE SAMUI

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Banyan Tree Samui is a romantic retreat that

resort blends world-class facilities such as the

sweeps you off your feet and carries you into a

Banyan Tree Spa and seafront restaurants with

luxurious world of wonder. Nestled in a private

unmistakable local touches. For the ultimate

cove, amid lush gardens and gently swaying

romance, ask the resort to set up a beachfront

coconut palms, this breath-taking all-pool villa

dining experience.

S I L A VA D E E P O O L S P A R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

SILAVADEE POOL SPA RESORT Silavadee Pool Spa Resort is a mesmerising five-

the surroundings. Stay in spacious standalone

star resort that elevates the word “luxury” to a

villas with private infinity pools, achieve

whole new level. Perched on a secluded clifftop

complete serenity at the Silavadee Spa, or

with sweeping views of the glittering gulf, this

dine at Sun, Moon and Star, the celestial trio of

romantic resort appears to blend seamlessly into

waterside restaurants.

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L A N G K AW I

LANGKAWI M A L AY S I A

Unwind in the Malaysian paradise of Langkawi, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that exudes eco-friendly charm. Much more than just a beach resort, this archipelago of 99 islands houses some of Southeast Asia’s oldest rock formations, ancient rainforests, mangroves and waterfalls.

This makes it a dream destination for couples who want to get away from the world together. The Langkawi Travel Bubble is now open for fully-vaccinated travellers. Find out more from WebBeds.

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B E R J AYA L A N G K AW I R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

BERJAYA LANGKAWI RESORT

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Berjaya Langkawi Resort offers exceptional island

ocean. The large lagoon pool shimmers in the

escapes amid lush rainforest, yet only steps away

sun, while the soothing Taaras Spa is an organic

from the soft sands and crystal clear seas. The

sanctuary of tranquility. Couples can share

chalet-style rooms are ultra-romantic, especially

engaging activities such as sunset mangrove

the spectacular suites perched on stilts above the

tours, night safaris and more.

P E L A N G I B E A C H R E S O R T & S PA

WHERE TO STAY

PELANGI BEACH RESORT & SPA Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa is an enchanting five-

arranged in a series of clusters and connected by

star retreat nestled directly on the fine sands of

winding pathways. Spend endless days bathing

Cenang Beach. Designed to look and feel like a

in the sea or pools, cycle out to explore the local

traditional Malay village, or “kampung”, this low-

area, or stimulate your senses in the Pelangi Spa.

rise resort showcases 51 individual wooden chalets

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PHU QUOC

PHU QUOC VIETNAM

Vietnam’s “Pearl Island” is appropriately named; its unspoiled beaches and azure seas seem to sparkle like jewels in the tropical sun. Guests can spend laidback days relaxing on the shore or enjoying world-class water sports. For spectacular views of Phu Quoc, the exhilarating Hon Thom Cable Car transports riders almost 8km over the sea to idyllic offshore islands. Then, as the day ends, find a serene seaside spot to sit back and watch the spectacular sunset.

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NOVOTEL PHU QUO C RESORT

WHERE TO STAY

NOVOTEL PHU QUOC RESORT Novotel Phu Quoc Resort is perfectly positioned

unwind in the inviting outdoor lagoon pool amid

on Truong Beach, one of the island’s most

a landscape of palm trees. Sip cold drinks at

beautiful stretches of sand, yet also only 10

the Ocean Bar and take fantastic photos while

minutes from the airport and 25 minutes from

watching the sunset with your partner.

the town of Duong Dong. During the day,

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RADISSON BLU RESORT PHU QUO C

WHERE TO STAY

RADISSON BLU RESORT PHU QUOC Radisson Blu Resort Phu Quoc is a spectacular

experiences or embark on a jungle trek in Phu

oceanfront retreat that promises a full range

Quoc National Park, home to a wealth of exotic

of five-star facilities and a private beach –

flora and fauna. At the end of a rewarding day,

the ultimate setting for exclusive island escapes.

enjoy rooftop cocktails at Aura or memorable

Head to Turtle Island for stunning snorkelling

meals at Avenue.

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VITI LEVU

VITI LEVU FIJI

Fiji’s largest island is a haven of adventure for couples. Easily accessible via Nadi International Airport, this South Pacific paradise features a collection of romantic resorts and plenty of attractions and activities, from water sports on the ocean waves and snorkelling on coral reefs to jungle trekking, horse riding, golf and more. Fiji currently offers quarantine-free travel to fully vaccinated tourists from its “Travel Partner” countries. Find out more from WebBeds.

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OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH RESORT

WHERE TO STAY

OUTRIGGER FIJI BEACH RESORT Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort promises authentic

Bebe Spa Fiji, cool off in the pool and swim up

Pacific island hospitality with a collection of

to the bar, then enjoy afternoon canapés at the

thatched “bure” bungalows set among 40 acres of

mountainside Kalo Kalo Bar, and dine in style at

lush gardens and palms, overlooking the ocean.

the adults-only Vahavu Bistro. Simply sublime!

Enjoy a couple’s therapy at the award-winning

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VOLIVOLI BEACH RESORT

WHERE TO STAY

VOLIVOLI BEACH RESORT Volivoli Beach Resort is a fantastic four-star boutique resort can make the arrangements. The luxury retreat that offers heartfelt Fijian hospitality and

villas set the scene for wonderfully romantic

an extensive array of activities. Whether you fancy

stays, including upscale amenities and private

scuba diving, dolphin watching, hiking in the

swimming pools – ideal for couples who want to

highlands or a secluded picnic, this family-owned

relax and reconnect with each other.

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DISCOVER THE WORLD'S MOST INSPIRING HOTELS & RESORTS

2022 HOTEL LOOKBOOK When you start travelling again, make sure you stay in style!

WebBeds is proud to introduce the 2022 Hotel Lookbook, our curated collection of the world’s finest hotels and resorts. This year, we want to inspire you with an expanded selection of 50 fantastic places to stay all around the world, including Asia Pacific, Europe, the Americas, Middle East and Africa!

From blissful beach resorts and refined upcountry retreats to grand heritage hotels and smart urban boutiques, this is a celebration of outstanding hospitality in every part of the planet.

Get inspired now >

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Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi

NOVOTEL ABU DHABI GATE HOTEL

PARK HYATT ABU DHABI HOTEL AND VILLAS

Amsterdam

Bali

Bangkok

SOFITEL LEGEND THE GRAND AMSTERDAM HOTEL

FURAMAXCLUSIVE OCEAN SEMINYAK

WALDORF ASTORIA BANGKOK

Beijing

Bodrum

Brussels

LEGENDALE HOTEL BEIJING

bE PREMIUM BODRUM

HOTEL AMIGO

DISCOVER THE WORLD'S MOST INSPIRING HOTELS & RESORTS

Busan

Cairo

SIGNIEL BUSAN

DUSIT THANI LAKEVIEW CAIRO

Doha

Doha

Dubai

ALRAYYAN HOTEL DOHA, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

BANANA ISLAND RESORT DOHA

CARLTON AL BARSHA HOTEL

Dubai

Florida

Grand Baie

PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI

NAPLES GRANDE BEACH RESORT

LUX* GRAND BAIE RESORT & RESIDENCES

Grindelwald

Guangzhou

Hong Kong

ROMANTIK HOTEL SCHWEIZERHOF

LN GARDEN HOTEL, GUANGZHOU

THE FULLERTON OCEAN PARK HOTEL HONG KONG

Ibiza

Istanbul

Istanbul

AGUAS DE IBIZA GRAND LUXE HOTEL

MIDTOWN HOTEL ISTANBUL

THE MARMARA TAKSIM

View 2022 Hotel Lookbook Now >

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DISCOVER THE WORLD'S MOST INSPIRING HOTELS & RESORTS

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Kyoto

Las Vegas

HOTEL SENREN KYOTO HIGASHIYAMA KIYOMIZU

PARK MGM LAS VEGAS

London

Los Angeles

Makkah

THE GANTRY, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON

WALDORF ASTORIA BEVERLEY HILLS

MAKKAH CLOCK ROYAL TOWER, A FAIRMONT HOTEL

Marrakech

Melbourne

Miami

KENZI ROSE GARDEN

OVOLO SOUTH YARRA

MR. C MIAMI - COCONUT GROVE

Milan

New York City

Palma de Mallorca

GRAND HOTEL ET DE MILAN

1 HOTEL CENTRAL PARK

IBEROSTAR SELECTION LLAUT PALMA

Paris

Pernambuco

Phuket

HOTEL DU COLLECTIONNEUR PARIS

NANNAI MURO ALTO

AMARI PHUKET

DISCOVER THE WORLD'S MOST INSPIRING HOTELS & RESORTS

Playa del Carmen

Praslin

FAIRMONT MAYAKOBA

CONSTANCE LEMURIA

Punta del Este

Raa Atoll

Ras Al Khaimah

THE GRAND HOTEL PUNTA DEL ESTE

THE STANDARD, HURUVALHI MARJAN ISLAND MALDIVES RESORT & SPA

Riviera Nayarit

Riyadh

San Francisco

CONRAD PUNTA DE MITA

HILTON RIYADH HOTEL & RESIDENCES

HOTEL RIU PLAZA FISHERMAN'S WHARF

Seoul

Singapore

Sorrento

THE SHILLA SEOUL

THE CLAN HOTEL

GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR VITTORIA

Tokyo

Toronto

Vienna

THE PRINCE PARK TOWER TOKYO

FAIRMONT ROYAL YORK

GRAND FERDINAND

View 2022 Hotel Lookbook Now >

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THE TIMELESS CHARM OF

ASIA’S HERITAGE HOTELS The late 19th and early 20th centuries were a golden age of exploration. As global travellers began to discover the wonders of Asia, some of the world’s most elegant hotels were created to welcome them, blending the culture of their destination with international standards of hospitality. Many of these heritage hotels are still greeting guests today, providing exceptional experiences and paying homage to an elegant bygone era.

In this edition of Travel Aggregator, we uncover the iconic Asian hotels that recapture the romance of travel.

VIETNAM

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VIETNAM

E S T 1 901

SOFITEL LEGEND METROPOLE HANOI Ever since it opened in 1901, the Grand Métropole Hotel (as it was originally named) has been the most prestigious address in Hanoi. With its exquisite French colonial design, this five-star hotel has witnessed many historical events. Renamed the Thong Nhat Hotel (“Reunification Hotel”) after Vietnamese independence, its bomb shelter protected guests during the war. This was uncovered in 2011 during a renovation of the famous Bamboo Bar! Today, under Accor’s Sofitel Legend brand, the hotel offers some of Hanoi’s finest guest experiences, with 364 luxurious rooms and suites, three exceptional restaurants and the award-winning Le Spa du Metropole.

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M A L AY S I A

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M A L AY S I A

E S T 1 906

THE EDISON GEORGETOWN The Edison Georgetown has been on a remarkable journey since it was first commissioned in 1906.

Located on Lebuh Leith, one of Penang’s earliest streets, it was created as a mansion for Yeo Wee Gark, a wealthy Hakka tycoon, and showcases many of the classical architectural features of the era, such as its grand white façade, marble flooring and Peranakan tiles. The building was used as a Japanese administrative centre during World War II, before being transformed into a hotel. Following a sensitive renovation, this elegant boutique hotel now blends contemporary style with the spirit of the past in UNESCO World Heritage-listed Georgetown.

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SINGAPORE

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SINGAPORE

E S T 1 919

THE FULLERTON HOTEL SINGAPORE Standing proudly on Singapore’s waterfront, The Fullerton was always destined to be an iconic landmark. Conceived in 1919 to celebrate the city’s centenary, Governor Sir Laurence Guillemard said he wanted to create “a monument worthy of the city”. He certainly succeeded. With its neo-classical design and grand colonnades, The Fullerton has served as the General Post Office and housed the offices for the Governor of Singapore. Having witnessed World War II and Singapore’s independence, it now stands as a National Monument. This 400-room five-star hotel blends historical grace with worldclass facilities, including waterfront restaurants and a stunning spa.

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SYMBOLIC FOODS SPRING FESTIVAL OF THE

CHINESE DUMPLINGS

FISH

jiăozi, 饺子

yú, 鱼

-----------------------------------

-----------------------------------

Dumplings are said to represent prosperity and

Fish is an important element of every family’s

wealth because their shape resembles the tael, an

Lunar New Year feast, as it signifies abundance

ancient Chinese currency. Commonly filled with

and unity. For added symbolism, the fish should

pork, beef or shrimp, along with vegetables such

be served whole with the head and tail attached,

as bamboo shoots, napa cabbage and onions,

to represent a fortuitous beginning and an

and served with ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil and

affluent end to the year. The dish is often steamed

garlic, these bite-sized delicacies should be eaten

and served simply with soy sauce and garnished

during the first meal of the Lunar New Year.

with green onions.

Dating back over 3,500 years, Chinese New Year is one of the world’s most traditional and time-honoured festivals. From red envelopes to hanging lanterns, this enchanting time of year is steeped in symbolism. Even the food is meaningful; if you’re preparing a feast to celebrate the “Year of the Tiger”, don’t miss these auspicious dishes to ensure good health, wealth and fortune for the year ahead.

MANDARIN ORANGE jú, 桔 -----------------------------------

STICKY RICE CAKES nián gāo, 年糕 ----------------------------------One of the most famous dishes of the Spring Festival, nian gao is a sticky cake made from glutinous rice flour, which is said to represent success. In Chinese characters, the cake’s name sounds like “growing higher”, which suggests prosperity and promotion. It can also symbolise the growth of children and should be an essential part of any Lunar New Year feast.

Symbolising riches and good fortune because of its bright, vibrant orange colour, and a name that sounds like the Chinese word for “auspicious”, it is little wonder that mandarin oranges have become an essential part of the Spring Festival’s culinary culture. Often served at the end of a meal or presented as gifts to relatives, their shape and colour also signify health and wealth.

F eb r ua r y 20 22

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