Travel Aggregator (July 2021) by WebBeds Asia Pacific

JULY 2021

APAC Newsletter

Reader’s Choice: The Most Desired Destinations in Asia Pacific ~ Page 6

Golden Escapes in Olympic Host Cities ~ Page 26

Rediscover Phuket, Thailand’s Paradise Island ~ Page 64

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 the July edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the travel trade in Asia Pacific! The Olympic torch will be lit in Japan this month, and to celebrate this major global event we take a look at the Asian cities that have previously hosted the Games. Are you feeling the Olympic spirit? We’ll highlight attractions that showcase sporting excellence in Tokyo, Beijing, PyeongChang and Singapore. Also in this edition, we reveal the results of our readers’ survey! Earlier this year, we asked you to tell us which destinations you’ve missed the most during lockdown. Now, you can find out which places topped the poll. We’ll also profile Asia Pacific’s emerging hotspots, based on WebBeds’ internal booking data and market intelligence. In the second part of this feature, we look at up-and-coming destinations in Australasia. As the “Phuket Sandbox” gets underway in Thailand, we offer some travel suggestions in this popular Thai island, and our regional culinary tour continues with the latest part of the “Essential Flavours of Asia Pacific” feature. Finally, we take a first look at Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne, the spectacular new themed retreat in Vietnam. And of course, we’ll provide all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds in Asia. Enjoy the read!

EILEEN TOK Vice President, Commercial Technology Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com KRISTY LEE Lead Research Analyst Kristy.Lee@webbeds.com JINTANA PORNTANAPAT General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com VINCENT LEUNG Managing Director, Hong Kong, Philippines & Japan Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com JOY HUANG Managing Director, China Joy.Huang@webbeds.com LINDA KIM General Manager, South Korea Linda.Kim@webbeds.com ASHUTOSH DOGRA General Manager, India Ashutosh.Dogra@webbeds.com JOHN STUCCI President, Pacific John.Stucci@webbeds.com JOY ZHOU General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com

KS Sun President, Asia Pacific WebBeds To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to apac-marketing.webbeds.com/aggregator

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.

@WebBedsAPAC

Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics

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C E N TA R A M I R A G E R E S O R T M U I N E

Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne

NEWLY OPENED

C E N TA R A M I R A G E R E S O R T M U I N E

Families will soon have a new destination to stay and play on Vietnam’s southeast coast, with the launch of Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne, a spectacular “Explorer’s Playground” themed retreat. Located in Binh Thuan province, 220km from Ho Chi Minh City, this 984-key resort is centered around a Spanish Mediterranean-style waterpark, with tiered pools, a sailing ship, slides, a lazy river, cliff-jumping rock and more. Accommodation ranges from Standard Rooms and Premier Pool Access options to one-to-three bedroom Pool Villas, with a minimum room size of 44 square metres. A fantastic range of facilities includes entertainment zones, family lounges, playgrounds, a bowling alley, karaoke rooms, a yoga studio, fitness centre and two spas – one for adults and one for kids. Multiple F&B options will include Vietnamese, Thai and international restaurants, a pool bar and tapas bar. The resort will also be a venue for events, with a ballroom, function rooms and an outdoor amphitheater. Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne will become the second Centara Mirage-branded resort in the world, following Centara Grand Mirage Resort Pattaya, one of Thailand’s top family destinations.

READER'S CHOIC

THE MOS DESIRED DESTINATI

c a P a i s A n i

ST D IONS

cific

Earlier this year, we asked you, our esteemed readers, to tell us which Asia Pacific destinations you’ve missed the most during lockdown, and which will be at the top of your travel bucket list when borders reopen. Now, we’re ready to reveal the results! Pleasingly, the study showed that there is still a strong appetite for travel. It seems that you can’t wait to pack your bags again, when it is safe to do so. But where will you be going? Here are your top destinations…

JAPAN

Readers’ Vote: 33%

Reasons to Visit: Culture, Seasons, Food

RUSUTSU

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

RUSUTSU Nestled on the northern island of Hokkaido, Rusutsu is famous for its fresh mountain air, stunning scenery and outdoor activities. In the summer, the hills provide the perfect setting for hiking and mountain biking, while golf courses and water parks allow different ages to play their own way. Then, as snow blankets the peaks, the area transforms into one of Japan’s top winter sports resorts, with ski runs and plenty of deep powder snow covering three mountains.

RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL & CONVENTION

WHERE TO STAY

RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL & CONVENTION This exceptional upscale resort has something to keep every guest entertained, whatever time of year they visit. In the winter, ski-in/ski-out facilities provide instant access to 37 courses for skiers and snowboarders, while the onsite onsens are wonderful places to unwind. When the weather warms up, golfers can tee off on a choice of courses, all with breath-taking views. There is also a theme park, restaurants, shops, swimming pool and more.

THAILAND Readers’ Vote: 20%

Reasons to Visit: Good Value, Beaches, Shopping

PA T TAYA

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

PATTAYA In recent years, Pattaya has transformed into an international tourism destination with activities for all ages. Easily accessible from Bangkok, this vibrant seaside town is blessed with sandy beaches and idyllic offshore islands, such as Koh Larn. Sensational shopping is available at malls such as Central Festival and Pattaya Terminal 21, kids can make a splash at world-class water parks, and Thailand’s authentic culture can be discovered at the Four Regions Floating Market.

M A S O N PA T TAYA

WHERE TO STAY

MASON PATTAYA This stunning seafront hotel is part of the new wave of design-led resorts being introduced to the Pattaya area. Nestled on a peaceful beach in Na Jomtien, 15 minutes from the city centre, this contemporary hotel combines cutting-edge architecture and state-of-theart amenities. Guests can stay in a collection of stylish sea-facing pool villas, enjoy spa treatments, grab a coffee at the espresso bar, cool off in the sky pool, and dine at the beachfront restaurant.

AUSTRALIA Readers’ Vote: 13%

Reasons to Visit: Nature, Vibrant Cities, Food

MELBOURNE

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

MELBOURNE Australia’s “Garden City”, Melbourne is a charming metropolis that embraces the great outdoors, while also being filled with attractions. Soak up the natural charm of the Royal Botanic Gardens or take a drive down the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles, the spectacular offshore stacks. Foodies will be richly rewarded with fresh, local produce and over 3,500 restaurants in the city, and the Yarra Valley wine region is just a short drive away.

PA R K R O YA L M O N A S H M E L B O U R N E

WHERE TO STAY

PARKROYAL MONASH MELBOURNE For guests who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city centre, PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne is set in a peaceful science and education hub, giving it a pleasantly suburban feel while also being easily accessible. Visitors can stay in a choice of wellappointed rooms and suites that offer a connection to local culture, and the adjoining M-City complex features an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness centre and Pilates studio.

TAIWAN Readers’ Vote: 13%

Reasons to Visit: Nature, Nightlife, Culture

TA I P E I

WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS

TAIPEI Taiwan’s gateway city, Taipei is the place where most explorations of the island begin and end. The soaring Taipei 101 tower makes an instant impression, but there are plenty more things to see and do in this vibrant metropolis. Spend a day in the hills and hot springs of Yangmingshan, visit the ancient Longshan Temple, or discover the treasures of the National Palace Museum. Then as the sun sets, savour sizzling street food at the famous night markets.

ARTREE HOTEL

WHERE TO STAY

ARTREE HOTEL The first boutique hotel by Caesar Park Hotels & Resorts, arTree is designed as a natural sanctuary where guests can experience environmentally-conscious stays. Situated near Taipei 101 and the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, this modern hotel features a series of themed guest rooms (Orient, Forest, Lovestone, Sand and Rock), with organic materials creating a sense of tranquility. The Forest Restaurant is an inspiring setting to refuel before or after hitting the city.

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Important: We recommend you confirm all guidance with official government sites and check with your travel insurance issuer. Your travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against government advice. Please note: This information is provided by a third party, Sherpa, and is meant for informational purposes only. WebBeds (including any of our trading brands; Sunhotels, JacTravel, Totalstay, FIT Ruums, Lots of Hotels, DOTW, Umrah Holidays International) is not responsible for its accuracy. Given how quickly the travel requirements are evolving, you should not rely solely on this tool in making travel arrangements and should confirm the accuracy of any government guidance, restrictions, or requirements. By using this tool, you acknowledge you have read this note and agree to our site’s terms of use and privacy policy. Where the information above is not provided in your local language, neither WebBeds nor Sherpa is responsible for any translation that you or a third party (e.g. Google Translate) carry out on such information.

GOLDEN ESCAPES I N O LY M P I C H O S T C I T I E S Asia Pacific has a long and proud Olympic heritage. Having first hosted the Games 65 years ago, the Summer, Winter and Youth Olympics have returned to the region a further eight times – with more in the planning. After the upheaval of the last 18 months, there is no better time to celebrate the Olympic values of friendship, solidarity and fair play. To celebrate the start of Tokyo 2020 this month, WebBeds is inviting travellers to uncover Asia’s rich Olympics traditions at former host venues all across the region.

T O K YO 2 0 2 0 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S

TOKYO 2020

Summer Olympics

When Tokyo 2020 opens on 23rd July, the Japanese capital will become the first Asian city to host the Summer Oly

able to attend, there are plenty of attractions that will get guests in the Olympic spirit. The Japan Olympic Museum National Stadium is surrounded by a green park that is also the outer garden of the Meiji Jingu Shrine.

T O K YO 2 0 2 0 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S

ympics twice. While international spectators will not be

m features two floors of exhibitions, while the rebuilt Tokyo

PA R K H O T E L T O K Y O

WHERE TO STAY

PARK HOTEL TOKYO Park Hotel Tokyo is a truly stunning place to stay. Check in at the 25th floor atrium, which soars 10 floors to the glass ceiling, then unwind in artinspired rooms and suites, and dine in a choice of dramatic venues, overlooking the city. The Olympic Stadium is just a 13-minute subway ride away.

THE KNOT TOKYO SHINJUKU

WHERE TO STAY

THE KNOT TOKYO SHINJUKU Overlooking Shinjuku Central Park West, this elegant boutique hotel reflects contemporary Japanese design and international amenities. The rooms and suites exude minimalist chic, while the casual lobby and lounge area invites guests to chill out at any time of day. A series of events, including art exhibitions, enable guests to soak up the spirit of the city.

P Y E O N G C HA N G 2 0 1 8 – W I N T E R O LY M P I C S

PYEONGCHANG 2018 Winter Olympics

Nestled in the mountains just 150km from Seoul, PyeongChang is the pristine place to get away from the city – whe

plenty of opportunities for hiking and the Alpensia Sports Park features fantastic facilities, including a Ski Jump Ob

A three-storey museum has been created at the stadium in PyeongChang where the opening and closing ceremon

P Y E O N G C HA N G 2 0 1 8 – W I N T E R O LY M P I C S

ere or not you are into winter sports. The summer provides

bservatory with panoramic views of the rolling hills.

nies took place.

KENSINGTON HOTEL PYEONGCHANG

WHERE TO STAY

KENSINGTON HOTEL PYEONGCHANG Unwind amidst an enchanting landscape of gardens and mountains at Kensington Hotel Pyeongchang, a French-themed five-star hotel. The luxurious facilities leave nothing to be desired, with indoor and outdoor pools, a large kids’ play area, impressive restaurants and much more, all nestled amid 6.7 hectares of manicured gardens. One suite also has an Olympic theme.

M AY H I L L S R E S O R T

WHERE TO STAY

MAYHILLS RESORT Whatever time of year you visit PyeongChang, Mayhills Resort promises the perfect place to stay. Located close to the Olympic park, this five-star hotel offers skiing in the winter months, including equipment rental, and water parks in the summer. Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites, work out in the fitness centre, or chill out in the spa and sauna.

S I N G A P O R E 2 0 1 0 – YO U T H O LY M P I C S

SINGAPORE 2010 Youth Olympics

The first-ever Youth Olympic Games were held in Singapore in 2010, and also marked the first time an Olympics ha

momentous occasion by building the Youth Olympic Park which houses a collection of art installations by local you

Sports Hub was also designed to allow visitors young and old to learn the Olympic values and trace Singapore’s jou

S I N G A P O R E 2 0 1 0 – YO U T H O LY M P I C S

ad been hosted in Southeast Asia. The Lion City marked this

uths. The Singapore Youth Olympic Museum located at the

urney towards hosting the event.

M A R I N A B AY S A N D S

WHERE TO STAY

MARINA BAY SANDS An iconic landmark on the Singapore skyline, Marina Bay Sands is also directly linked to the Youth Olympic Park via the Helix Bridge. Guests can take the MRT to the Singapore Sports Hub, which is just three stops away, or explore a wealth of attractions within the hotel, including the spectacular SkyPark Observation Deck with its incredible infinity pool.

PA R K R O YA L O N B E A C H R O A D

WHERE TO STAY

PARKROYAL ON BEACH ROAD Just one stop away from the Singapore Sports Hub on the MRT, PARKROYAL on Beach Road is a great base for Olympic enthusiasts. A collection of contemporary rooms, club rooms and suites are available at this upscale hotel, along with four exceptional restaurants and bars, a fitness centre, outdoor pool and the St. Gregory spa.

B E I J I N G 2 0 0 8 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S

BEIJING 2008 Summer Olympics

The Beijing Games were truly breath-taking. As the eyes of the world fell on China, the host nation rose to the occas

venues, to the sporting action which saw 130 Olympic records broken, this was an Olympics like no other. Today, vis Forbidden City and Summer Palace with visits to the famous Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube.

B E I J I N G 2 0 0 8 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S

sion. From the amazing opening ceremony and iconic

sitors to the Chinese capital can combine their trips to the

CHAO SANLITUN BEIJING

WHERE TO STAY

CHAO SANLITUN BEIJING Showcasing the upbeat vibe of Beijing’s trendiest district, CHAO Sanlitun is designed as a place where guests can connect with the culture of the city. The interiors are luxurious but laid-back, the ambience is avant-garde, and regular activities allow all visitors to uncover the city’s art scene. The Bird’s Nest is only 20 minutes away.

THE LEGENDALE HOTEL BEIJING

WHERE TO STAY

THE LEGENDALE HOTEL BEIJING Discover European elegance in the heart of Beijing at the Legendale Hotel. This five-star property puts guests on the doorstep of many ancient attractions and modern shopping precincts. Everything about this impressive hotel exudes opulence and indulgence, from the soaring 17-storey atrium to the 19th Century French antiques and the Imperial-style landscaped gardens.

EXPLORE

Asia Pacific’s Emerging

TOURIS M HO TS P O TS Australasia The global pandemic has turned the travel industry upside down. As international borders remain closed, a new generation of tourism destinations is emerging. By analysing our internal booking data and monitoring market intelligence, WebBeds has found a growing trend towards breaks in secondary cities and less built-up areas, including those with plenty of outdoor space. Following the recent launch of the quarantine-free “travel bubble” between Australia and New Zealand, we take a look at the locations in Australasia that are attracting interest among domestic and regional travellers…

A D E L A I D E , AU S T R A L IA

WHERE TO GO

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA South Australia’s capital is casual, compact and easy-to-explore. From shopping on Rundle Street and dining at Adelaide Central Market to cultural discoveries at museums and galleries, including the world’s largest display of Aboriginal artefacts, there is plenty to see and do in this laid-back city. Chill out at the beautiful beaches or treat your taste buds at the Barossa Valley wine region, which is just an hour’s drive away.

A D E L A I D E , AU S T R A L IA

EOS BY SKYCIT Y

WHERE TO STAY

EOS BY SKYCITY This brand-new hotel forms part of SkyCity, a striking architectural icon that also houses restaurants, bars and a casino. Behind the gleaming glass façade, guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites, including the spectacular Grace Villa, soothe their senses in the spa and fitness centre, or chill out above the city at the Leisure Deck, with its outdoor pool and rooftop dining destination.

EOS BY SKYCIT Y

DA RW I N , AU S T R A L IA

WHERE TO GO

DARWIN, AUSTRALIA The largest city in Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin is great for guests who want to get away from the world. Head out and explore the breathtaking scenery of the Kakadu National Park, take a boat trip to the Tiwi Islands, and learn about the ancient indigenous culture with a visit to rock art “galleries”. Back in the city, Mindil Beach Sunset Market is a superb place to shop and dine.

DA RW I N , AU S T R A L IA

OA K S DA RW I N E L A N HOT E L

WHERE TO STAY

OAKS DARWIN ELAN HOTEL Perfectly positioned in the city centre, overlooking the sea, Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel features a collection of self-contained one- and two-bedroom apartments with modern amenities and private balconies, making them ideal for travellers seeking plenty of personal space. Onsite facilities include an outdoor pool, gym and restaurant, while Darwin’s main dining and entertainment areas, including the Waterfront Precinct, are just moments away.

OA K S DA RW I N E L A N HOT E L

COOK ISLANDS

WHERE TO GO

COOK ISLANDS The Cook Islands are simply heavenly. A collection of 15 pristine Polynesian islands, fringed by powdersoft sands and aquamarine lagoons, there is surely nowhere better to get away from it all, relax in style and even reignite your romance. Dreamy days can be spent chilling out on the beach, taking a boat tour, or learning more about this idyllic destination with a bike ride or cultural show.

COOK ISLANDS

S A N C T UA RY R A R O T O N G A – O N T H E B E A C H

WHERE TO STAY

SANCTUARY RAROTONGA – ON THE BEACH For travellers seeking the ultimate tropical island retreat, Sanctuary Rarotonga – On The Beach is the perfect choice. This adults-only resort offers a collection of thatched villas nestled directly on the white sand, overlooking the bright blue Aroa Lagoon. Couples can spend endless days together in paradise, swimming in the pool or sea, dining at the Bluewater Bar & Grill, or unwinding at the spa. Simply sublime.

S A N C T UA RY R A R O T O N G A – O N T H E B E A C H

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND

WHERE TO GO

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND The world’s adventure tourism capital, Queenstown is an outstanding option for guests who want to experience the great outdoors. Soak up the spectacular scenery of New Zealand’s South Island, hike through the hills and enjoy adrenaline-fueled activities, such as bungee jumping, mountain biking and skiing. Then, when the sun starts to set, head into town and savour New Zealand’s famous fresh produce at the local restaurants.

QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND

H I LT O N Q U E E N S T O W N R E S O R T & S PA

WHERE TO STAY

HILTON QUEENSTOWN RESORT & SPA Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, overlooking The Remarkables mountain range, Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa is a low-rise five-star retreat that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Guests can stay in rooms and suites with large windows that offer panoramic lake views. The heated pool and spa are wonderful places to relax and the Wakatipu Grill combines world-class cuisine with beautiful vistas.

H I LT O N Q U E E N S T O W N R E S O R T & S PA

INDIA AUSTRALIA Must-try Dish: Lamington ----------------------------------Many countries have their favourite dessert, but few are important enough to have their own national day! Every year on 21st July, Australians celebrate the Lamington – a soft buttery sponge cake, coated in chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut. These sweet treats were named after Lord Lamington, former governor of Queensland, and are now enjoyed all across the country at all times of year.

Must-try Dish: Pav Bhaji ----------------------------------India has a wide variety of street food dishes, but pav bhaji is a must-try treat for any visitor to Mumbai. This spiced vegetable curry served with a bread roll was originally created as a quick and easy lunchtime dish for textile mill workers, but it has become a favourite for manual labourers and office workers alike. This vegetarian delicacy is perfect for all palates.

WebBeds’ culinary tour continues this month, with the latest part of the “Essential Flavours of Asia Pacific” feature. To uncover the authentic culture of any destination, it’s important to eat like the locals. Each destination has its own signature dishes, but which do you need to tick off your bucket list? This month, we’re showcasing a selection of delicacies from Australia, India, Malaysia and Taiwan…

TAIWAN Must-try Dish: Bubble Tea

MALAYSIA

----------------------------------Is there a more trendy drink in the world today

Must-try Dish: Nasi Lemak

than bubble tea? Originated in Taiwan in the

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

1980s, it has gained fresh fame among youngsters

Every famous food needs a backstory, and

who love to gather in cool cafés, sip cups of iced

according to folklore, nasi lemak was first created

milky tea and suck up tapioca pearls through

when a girl accidentally spilled coconut milk into

broad straws. The bubble tea industry is such

a pot of boiling rice! This beloved dish of fragrant

big business that it is expected to be worth a

rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves,

staggering US$4.3 billion by 2027!

served with sambal, eggs, nuts and anchovies, was once named as one of TIME Magazine’s “10 Most Healthy International Breakfasts”.

REDISCOVER PHUKET Thailand’s Paradise Island

Phuket is one of the world’s most popular resort destinations, with a wealth of tropical attractions including sandy beaches, world-class water sports, soothing spas, exceptional restaurants, and much more! Unfortunately, the “Pearl of the Andaman” has been off the tourism agenda for the past 15 months. But from 1st July 2021, international travellers will be welcomed back to the island following the launch of the “Phuket Sandbox”. This innovative initiative will allow overseas visitors to stay in Phuket quarantine-free if they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. To celebrate this, WebBeds has crafted an immersive multi-day itinerary that encompasses the island’s most iconic attractions!

D AY O N E

VISIT THE BIG BUDDHA Start your Phuket adventure with a trip to one of the island’s most important and revered landmarks. Perched on a hill in the south of the island, The Big Buddha is a 45-metre-high seated Buddha statue, which provides a perfect spot for spiritual reflection, or simply to take selfies and soak up the spectacular views, which stretch out to sea.

EXPLORE OLD PHUKET TOWN Phuket is famous for its beach resorts, but this intriguing island is also a haven of cultural heritage. The best place to uncover this rich backstory is Phuket Town, where you can stroll past classical buildings, explore Sino-Portuguese architecture, visit traditional temples, learn about the past in museums, and rub shoulders with the locals in quaint cafés. Take a break and drop in at Go Benz, a simple streetside eatery that received a “Bib Gourmand” rating in the Michelin Guide! A variety of dishes are available, but a steaming bowl of rice porridge will provide all the energy you need for the afternoon or evening ahead.

WEEKEND BONUS – LARD YAI SUNDAY STREET MARKET If you’re visiting Phuket Town on a Sunday, you’ll be able to experience the electric, eclectic atmosphere of Lard Yai, the weekend street market. At least 30 stalls are set up along Thalang Road, selling a wide variety of local products ranging from handmade pottery and quirky jewellery to sizzling street food, in a vibrant alfresco atmosphere.

D AY T W O

ENJOY BEACHFRONT BLISS After your day of discovery, it’s time to chill out and enjoy sun, sea and sand. Hidden away on the west coast between Patong and Karon, Freedom Beach is wonderfully secluded with powdersoft sand and crystal-clear water that’s great for snorkelling. With no motorised water sports, you can simply sit back and enjoy endless hours of pleasure in this tropical paradise. Take a break from the beach and treat yourself to a soothing spa treatment. No trip to Phuket is complete without a Thai massage, but a moisturising aloe massage could be ideal after a day in the sun.

SNAP STUNNING SUNSETS AT PROMTHEP CAPE Phuket’s southernmost point, Promthep Cape is a pretty peninsula that promises panoramic views at sunrise and sunset. Take your camera to capture the last moments of the day, as the setting sun casts dramatic colours across the sea and sky. Then head to Bukito by Promthep Cape Restaurant for an alfresco seafood dinner.

D AY T H R E E

ETHICAL ENCOUNTERS AT GREEN ELEPHANT SANCTUARY PARK The elephant is Thailand’s most revered animal, and you can experience these majestic creatures up close at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park. Located close to Surin Beach, this ethical fourhectare attraction helps to rehabilitate elephants that have endured a life of hardship. A morning tour will let you feed, bathe and interact with these gentle giants.

DISCOVER PHUKET’S BUDDHIST HERITAGE AT WAT CHALONG Wat Chalong is a must-visit attraction for anyone with an interest in Thailand’s Buddhist culture. Dating from the early 19th Century, this is the largest and most-visited Buddhist temple in Phuket, famed for its amazing architecture, dazzling artworks and 60-metre-high chedi, which is said to house a fragment of bone from Buddha himself.

SOAK UP THE BOHEMIAN VIBES AT CHILLVA MARKET As the evening falls, Chillva Market is a cool place to come and rub shoulders with Phuket’s hipsters. Located in Phuket Town, this trendy market features a variety of stalls selling chic retro fashions, cute handicrafts and more. Live performances make this a great place to hang out.

Under the Phuket Sandbox, international guests can enter Phuket if: - They have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. - They stay in a SHA Plus certified hotel or resort. - They stay in Phuket for at least 14 nights before visiting any other Thai province. For more information about the Phuket Sandbox, please click here or check out the WebBeds COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Tool for up-to-date information.

D AY F O U R

TAKE A BOAT TO CORAL ISLAND Just off the south coast of Phuket, Koh He (or Coral Island) is an idyllic destination where you can unwind amid an exotic landscape of white sand and turquoise sea. Enjoy exhilarating water sports such as parasailing at Long Beach, or go snorkelling to come face-to-face with shoals of iridescent fish at Banana Beach.

MIX A MOJITO AT CHALONG BAY RUM DISTILLERY Phuket’s Chalong Bay Rum Distillery uses naturally-grown sugarcane to craft its international award-winning rum, which is famous for its distinctive taste, aroma and purity. Take an insightful tour around the distillery and discover the secret of this fine spirit, before learning how to mix the perfect mojito! For families, the distillery’s non-alcoholic sugarcane juice and homemade syrups are delicious treats for kids.

SIP A DELICIOUS SUNSET COCKTAIL The award-winning Baba Nest could be Thailand’s most scenic rooftop bar. Perched at the tip of Cape Panwa in southeast Phuket, this spectacular sky lounge lets you chill out and enjoy breath-taking ocean views while sipping cool cocktails.

WATCH A FAMILY-FRIENDLY CABARET SHOW Thailand is famous for its colourful cabaret shows, and Phuket Simon Cabaret in Patong provides a fabulous family-friendly option. All ages will be dazzled by the dramatic dances, clever choreography and glamorous costumes. This extravagant evening is a wonderful way to end your immersive exploration of Phuket.

H O T E L R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S

AVISTA GRANDE PHUKET KARON – MGALLERY BY SOFITEL Nestled in the lush hills overlooking the ocean, Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery by Sofitel promises elegant seafront escapes and world-class services. Discover attractive Sino-Portuguese design and spacious accommodation including pool access rooms, family options and stunning suites. Sparkling swimming pools, a sublime spa and a selection of dining options, including a steakhouse and romantic rooftop restaurant, make this is a truly striking place to stay and soak up the idyllic island ambience.

ISLAND ESCAPE BY BURASARI For an exclusive island escape, leave Phuket behind and unwind on Koh Maphrao (“Coconut Island”) – a tiny tropical islet just off the coast. Fully integrated into this secluded setting, Island Escape by Burasari is an exceptional five-star resort that promises the highest levels of luxury and tranquility. Four zones create options for different types of travellers, with rustic-chic rooms, private pool villas, lagoon pools, zip lines, beachfront restaurants and more, creating magical memories for every guest.

Explore more hotel recommendations in Phuket

H O T E L R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S

THE VIJITT RESORT Centred around an elegant Thai villa, The Vijitt Resort showcases the authentic charm and grace of Phuket. Nestled on the south coast at Rawai Beach, this natural retreat blends seamlessly into its environment, with swaying palms and verdant lawns sloping gently towards the sea. Stay in a choice of luxurious villas, including private pool options, dine at a choice of restaurants, unwind at the V Spa or enjoy authentic local activities such as yoga, Thai boxing and even rubber tapping.

TWINPALMS PHUKET If you’re seeking an intimate island escape, Twinpalms Phuket is a stylish place to stay. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this contemporary boutique retreat is surrounded by sparkling pools and ponds, just steps from Surin Beach on the island’s sunset coast. Stay in a choice of pool access rooms, duplex suites and penthouse villas, plunge into lagoon pools, chill out at the trend-setting beach club, and dine at a choice of impressive restaurants.

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WELCOME TO PESTANA CR7 IN NEW YORK! PURE LIFESTYLE IS OUR PERSONALITY! A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PESTANA HOTEL GROUP AND CRISTIANO RONALDO

DISCOVERING NEW YORK The Pestana CR7 Times Square is a cosmopolitan hotel centrally located in midtown Manhattan. Faithful to a sophisticated, vibrant and ever-connected sporty lifestyle, the hotel is the ideal starting point for those who don’t want to miss out on the action of the city.

The Pestana CR7 Times Square combines comfort, friendly service and state-of-the-art digital services. Extra doses of energy and a feeling of well-being are essential for anyone in New York.

REASONS TO CHOOSE: Lifestyle hotel offering complimentary High Speed Internet Prime location, steps away from Times Square Healthy food and creative drinks 338 W 39th Street, NY 10018, New York sales@fitruums.com | @pestanacr7