< Previous10 CONCIERGE WHAT'S HOT ABar Rooftop, located at Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen's Park, invites you to explore the essence of Bangkok through its new collection of 12 signature cocktails. Each drink has been inspired by historic districts and local attractions to capture the city's diverse flavours and culture. Let your taste buds discover the vibrant tales of Bangkok with imaginative cocktails such as a 60-Baht-Ticket- Or-So, a tribute to Chinatown's Rama Cinema, or the cosmopolitan Import Export inspired by Bang Rak's Old Custom House. ABAR ROOFTOP'S 12 SIGNATURE COCKTAILS12 CONCIERGE WHAT'S HOT Hilton Okinawa Miyako Island Resort is the first Hilton property on Miyako Island. It boasts 329 rooms, four restaurants and bars, five swimming pools, a spa, Kids’ Club and a rooftop chapel. Situated in the captivating Twuriba area, the resort offers panoramic views of the Miyako Blue Sea and Irabu Bridge. With its strategic location just 15 minutes from Miyako Airport and a short flight from Tokyo Haneda or Osaka Kansai Airports, visitors can enjoy the island's lush landscapes and coral reefs year-round. From authentic Italian dining at ISOLETTA to unwinding at YUNAI Rooftop Bar, Hilton Okinawa Miyako Island Resort is set to captivate both local residents and global travellers with its hospitality and abundant amenities. Varana Hotel Krabi has opened its doors as an eco-friendly haven for global travellers seeking wellness and rejuvenation. The hotel, a sibling to the renowned Tubkaak Krabi Boutique Resort, offers minimalist luxury rooms, five distinctive restaurants, a sports complex and an array of wellness facilities including an Olympic-size swimming pool, spa and onsen. Set on a picturesque hillside estate beside the Andaman ocean, Varana Hotel Krabi presents a holistic wellcation experience complemented by quality food options sourced from local and organic ingredients. Just 45 minutes from Krabi International Airport, Varana Hotel Krabi is a transformative getaway for mindful travellers. NEW ULTIMATE SUSTAINABLE WELLCATION DESTINATION IN KRABI HILTON DEBUTS LUXURIOUS OKINAWA MIYAKO ISLAND RESORT13 Malaysia's latest airline, MYAirline, has introduced its first international route, Kuala Lumpur-Bangkok with daily flights. MYAirline operates Airbus A320-200 aircraft from Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA2) and the airline is proud to say it is the first Malaysian carrier to serve both Bangkok airports, Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang, with plans to expand its routes in the future to other Thai airports including Phuket, Krabi and UNVEILING THE RITZ-CARLTON'S FUKUOKA The iconic brand has made its mark in Southern Japan by opening The Ritz-Carlton Fukuoka, on Kyushu Island. Perched atop Fukuoka's tallest tower in the commercial district, the hotel offers stunning views of Genkai Sea and the surrounding hills. With restaurants showcasing local ingredients and culinary traditions, the hotel provides a gateway to Japan's captivating culture and culinary scene. Positioned adjacent to the trendy Tenjin district and within reach of key transportation hubs, the area is a 15-minute drive or public transportation journey to Hakata Station, Hakata Port, or Fukuoka Airport, linking the city to Tokyo. This opening reinforces The Ritz-Carlton's commitment to offering its legendary luxury service in Japan. Bhutan has extended its tourist incentives by reducing the daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) by 50% until 2027. This reduction, from USD 200 to USD 100 per person per night, aims to support sustainable tourism and projects funded by the levy. Children aged 6 to 12 will pay USD 50, while those under six are exempt. The change recognises tourism's economic role and will be effective from September 1, 2023, for four years. Refunds for excess SDF payments will be available, ensuring Bhutan remains a unique, responsibly managed travel destination. MYAIRLINE LAUNCHES FIRST DAILY INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT TO BANGKOK Chiang Mai. The airline's commitment to affordable travel and quality service is highlighted with its modern interiors and sustainable, fuel-efficient pre-reclined seats for passengers. BHUTAN EXTENDS TOURIST INCENTIVES14 CONCIERGE WHAT'S HOT Café Wolseley's popular pop-up at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel's Parichart Court has been extended until 31 December 2023 so diners may continue to enjoy the acclaimed London restaurant’s fine European cuisine, blending British heritage with European cafe elegance. To celebrate the pop-up’s extension, a set menu featuring more favourites of the London flagship restaurant will be available from now. Diners can indulge in a three- or four-course meal and enjoy dishes like Norwegian Salmon Gravlax, and Pan-Seared King Scallops in Champagne Butter Sauce. This extension is highlighting Café Wolseley's appeal beyond London and making it a must-visit culinary stop in Bangkok. Regal Hotels International proudly introduces its new brand, Regala Hotels, with the official opening of Regala Skycity Hotel in Hong Kong. Located within SKYCITY near Hong Kong International Airport, this exquisite hotel boasts 1,208 guestrooms, three delectable dining establishments, and expansive event spaces. Its strategic location, surrounded by key transportation links, positions it as the premier choice for both business and leisure travellers. With the addition of the Regala Skycity Hotel, Regal Hotels International's portfolio now comprises 17 exceptional properties in Hong Kong and mainland China. CAFÉ WOLSELEY'S CAFÉ WOLSELEY'S POP-UP IN BANGKOK POP-UP IN BANGKOK IS EXTENDEDIS EXTENDED Ventisi Pasticceria & Zing in Centara Grand at CentralWorld has unveiled its latest creation, The Grand Butter Croissant. Crafted with finesse using only the finest ingredients, the croissant's generous butter content creates its signature irresistible flakiness, a delicate open crumb and rich buttery scent. Whether for breakfast, a snack or a sweet ending, The Grand Butter Croissant is an unparalleled indulgence not to be missed. CENTARA GRAND'S CENTARA GRAND'S GRAND BUTTER GRAND BUTTER CROISSANT TAKES CROISSANT TAKES PASTRY DELIGHTS PASTRY DELIGHTS TO NEW HEIGHTSTO NEW HEIGHTS REGAL'S NEW REGALA REGAL'S NEW REGALA SKYCITY HOTEL TAKES OFF SKYCITY HOTEL TAKES OFF IN HONG KONG. IN HONG KONG. 15 Den Kushi Flori, renowned as a "must-visit" gem of a restaurant in Tokyo, has made its debut in the recently-renovated Erawan Bangkok. The Bangkok branch upholds the restaurant's authenticity with 100% imported Japanese ingredients for an authentic touch and will blend Japanese and French culinary highlights in its signature style. Led by Chef Susumu Shimizu, who is renowned for earning the Michelin star at the Japanese branch, the Bangkok outpost offers five-course lunches and seven-course dinners presenting a distinctive fusion of flavours and expertise. TOKYO'S TOKYO'S ACCLAIMED ACCLAIMED DEN KUSHI DEN KUSHI FLORI DEBUTS FLORI DEBUTS IN BANGKOKIN BANGKOK Introducing Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport, WorldHotels' latest addition in Tokyo, Japan. Boasting 1,557 exquisitely- designed rooms across 12 distinct categories and complemented by versatile event spaces and an array of culinary delights, this opulent oasis redefines luxury. Conveniently positioned beside the airport, it guarantees a seamless travel experience and easy access to Tokyo's treasures via the monorail. As part of the WorldHotels Collection, it is also included in the renowned WorldHotels RewardSM loyalty program, offering exclusive privileges to enhance your stay. TOKYO AIRPORT’S TOKYO AIRPORT’S PREMIER STAYPREMIER STAY16 CONCIERGE SPECIAL DEALS ♥ ♥ ♥ WHERE: The majestic fjords, glaciers and mountains of South Greenland WHAT: Sail and soar the Alpine Arctic with Quark Expeditions, the global leader in polar adventures. The 11-day Greenland Explorer itinerary offers unprecedented opportunities to explore the fjords, embark on heli-hikes, and witness the grandeur of the second-largest ice sheet in South Greenland. Guests will indulge in the spectacular Northern Lights, and experience Viking culture at the Kujataa UNESCO World Heritage Site. | PERIOD: Now until fully booked. | PRICE: Starting from USD 10,040 per person. Book now and get 20% off. CONTACT: T. +1 (866) 256-7299 | E. socialmedia@quarkexpeditions.com | W. quarkexpeditions.com/expeditions WHERE: Sirimahannop, by the Chao Phraya River WHAT: Celebrate your love in style with a romantic six-course dinner set for sharing as you gaze out at the shimmering Chao Phraya River. The dinner set commences with a Half-Dozen Oysters and is then followed by House-Cured Dill Salmon, Norwegian Tea-Smoked Duck Breast, and Pan-Fried Atlantic Halibut Steak, before ending with a beautiful Cherry Tart. PERIOD: From now until 30 December 2023, between 16:00 – 22:30 daily. | PRICE: THB 2,900++ per couple CONTACT: T. +66 (0) 2 259 5999 | E. sirimahannop@marriott.com. | W. sirimahannop.com | L. @Sirimahannop WHERE: The Brasserie, Waldorf Astoria Bangkok WHAT: Indulge in The Brasserie's new two-course lunch sets for delicious French-inspired midday meals. Crafted by skilled chefs they showcase the likes of Smoked Duck Salad, Chicken Cordon Bleu, Grilled Salmon and more. PERIOD: The lunch set is available during 11.30 am – 2.30 pm daily from now onward. PRICE: Starting at THB 850++ per person CONTACT: T. +66 (0) 2 846 8888 | E. bkkwa.fb@waldorfastoria.com | W. waldorfbangkok.waldorfastoria.com18 DIA DE LOS MUERTOS, MEXICO (31 OCT. - 2 NOV.) Experience Diwali, the dazzling “Festival of Lights”, celebrated in India and cherished by millions worldwide. This radiant spectacle heralds the victory of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil. Over five enchanting days, homes will be illuminated with Diwali oil lamps, candles and decorative lights, casting a spellbinding glow. The sky will be set ablaze with fireworks, and streets adorned with vibrant rangoli. Families come together during Diwali for special prayers, feasts and an exchange of gifts. This is a festival of unity and renewal that weaves cultural and spiritual significance according to ancient Hindu tradition, with its date varys each year in accordance with the Hindu lunar calendar. Get ready for the annual bird festival in Tingtibi, located in the Zhemgang district of Bhutan. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, this area is home for over 500 bird species including rarities such as Pallas's Fish Eagle and the Rufous- Necked Hornbill. This three-day event is a magnet for bird enthusiasts, offering bird- watching hikes as well as local delicacies, fly- fishing and river rafting, and cultural performances such as mask dances and traditional music. Don't miss the chance to enjoy both birding and a window into the unique culture of Bhutan. CONCIERGE DATEBOOK FESTIVALS Raise your steins and join the world's biggest beer bash at the Oktoberfest in Germany! For 18 days you can immerse yourself in massive beer tents with lively Bavarian music, spirited folk dancing, thrilling rides, and a tempting array of lip-smacking German brews and classic treats. Embrace the festive spirit, don traditional Bavarian outfits and cheers to a global gathering that brews pure joy! Immerse yourself in the lively festival of Dia de los Muertos, the colourful Mexican celebration also known as the Day of the Dead, which honours the departed! During this event, towns will be blanketed with colour and love as families craft stunning altars embellished with treasured photos, candles, flowers and the favourite dishes of their loved ones. During this unique occasion, spirits of the departed are believed to reunite with their families, and cemeteries are transformed into symbols of remembrance by beautifully adornment of graves. The parades overflow with music, dance, and traditional delights in an embrace of life's cyclical nature, with heartfelt reverence. OKTOBERFEST, MUNICH (16 SEP. - 3 OCT.) DIWALI, INDIA (12 NOV.) BHUTAN BIRD FESTIVAL ZHEMGANG, BHUTAN (13-15 NOV.)Bhutan's annual Royal Highland Festival is scheduled for 23-24 October 2023, in the picturesque village of Laya, located in the Gasa district and nestled at an elevation of 3,800m above sea level. Gasa, in the far northwest, boasts majestic mountain peaks, diverse wildlife, and abundant medicinal plants. The festival's aim is to honour and safeguard Bhutan's highland cultures, showcasing the unique traditions, attire, and lifestyle of the Layap people. Accessing the festival is an adventure itself, involving a drive, hike, or even a helicopter option. This vibrant cultural extravaganza attracts both local and international tourists to Bhutan's stunning highlands. Get into the festive spirit in the enchanting world of Christmas music with the Bangkok Combined Choir and Orchestra (BCCO) this December! BCCO is all set to captivate your senses with its annual celebration, 'Händel's Messiah and Christmas Concert 2023,' taking place on 17th December at Thailand Cultural Centre. The event kicks off with heartwarming Christmas classics, followed by the iconic oratorio, Messiah, all under the baton of maestro Charunee Hongcharu. Free admission but please reserve your seat at TicketMelon, and for additional details, visit the Bangkok Combined Choir and Orchestra's Facebook page. HAPPENINGSHAPPENINGS BHUTAN'S ANNUAL FESTIVAL SET TO ENCHANT IN LAYA VILLAGE (23-24 October) BCCO'S FREE MAGICAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT (17 December) Next >