< PreviousCOME SLEEP WITH ME 110124 DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL SUKHUMVIT BANGKOK: DOUBLE THE JOY 126 WYNDHAM GRAND NAI HARN BEACH PHUKET: FROM BEAUTY TO SERENITY 128 BEST WESTERN SENAYAN: YOUR GATEWAY TO JAKARTA'S BEST EXPERIENCES COME SLEEP WITH ME 112 ANANTARA KOH YAO YAI RESORT & VILLAS: GRANDEUR ESCAPE 114 LE MÉRIDIEN PHUKET MAI KHAO BEACH RESORT: WHERE ELEGANCE HARMONISES WITH TRANQUIL SUNSETS 116 DOUBLETREE BY HILTON SEOUL PANGYO: SUPREME STAY IN SEOUL 118 BEST WESTERN PREMIER AGUNG RESORT UBUD: AN INVITATION TO SERENITY IN UBUD 120 CLUB MED KIRORO GRAND: WHIMSICAL WINTER 122 DEVASOM KHAO LAK RESORT: ESCAPE TO THE ABODE OF ANGELS 111112 COME SLEEP WITH ME113 If a movie like “Cast Away” used Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas as its location, it would totally not be a surprise if the protagonist did not even bother trying to return to mainland! Text by Urasa Chittamvanich GRANDEUR ESCAPE ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ After sitting in the boat shuttle on the aquamarine ocean for about 40 minutes, we docked at the jetty of an extensive island covered in verdant foliage. As the resort buggy took us through a winding lane, the resort eventually revealed itself to our eyes. Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas sits on a prime, secluded beachfront location with a foyer facing the serene ocean in the horizon. We were immediately at ease. The lobby had warm and earthy hues with marine life playfully interwoven in the modern décor. We were served a refreshing welcome drink with a basket of babin, the local sweet made of coconut and flour by a local community, which we snacked on with delight. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Anantara Koh Yao Yai Resort & Villas spans over 27 acres of land that has been beautifully landscaped. Even the roofs of the beachfront villas are covered with grass and plants, making them a paradisiacal sight. Our room was a superb split-level Sea View Pool Penthouse (366 sqm) that came with private butler service. Although I was told that the main attraction of the penthouse was the panoramic views of the ocean that guests can soak in wherever they stand, I say it is the gorgeous, luxurious interior with spacious ANANTARA KOH YAO YAI RESORT & VILLAS 88/8 Moo 4, Koh Yao Yai Subdistrict, Koh Yao District, Phang Nga, Thailand 82160 T. +66 76 675 888 E. kohyaoyai@anantara.com W. www.anantara.com/en/koh-yao- yai-phuket ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The boat shuttle runs on a scheduled basis, thus guests should check that timetable prior to booking their flights in order to avoid a long waiting time at Laem Sai pier instead of being on the long stretch powdery beach in front of the resort. rooms from the kitchen to the dining room, and bedroom with dressing room and bathroom featuring a bathtub with ocean view. A striking design highlight was the glass bottom infinity pool on the upper level from which we could see the living space below – that was awesome! We had a blast in that penthouse. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Pakarang is the all-day restaurant and where to find the extensive breakfast buffet and contemporary Thai dishes at other times of the day. Diners may choose either outdoor or airconditioned seating, either option with a picturesque vista of the ocean. I enjoyed a lunch of Southern Kao Soi, Tod Mun Kung with Almond, and Somtum with Grilled Prawn very much. Beach Restaurant offers a stylish setting, both indoor and outdoor as well, and a menu offering the catch of the day as well as dry-aged steaks with tasty fries and condiments, plus specialty sushi and thin- crust oven baked pizza. During weekends, there’s a live band at the lawn which enhances the already-mellow ambience. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ I spent three days there and still didn’t get to enjoy every spot of the spacious and gorgeous guestroom! I shall return for sure...114 COME SLEEP WITH ME Unlock the door to tranquillity and opulence at Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort, which seamlessly blends European- style sophistication with the serene coastline of Phuket. This destination resort introduces a fusion of elegance and natural beauty, inviting you to experience a realm of relaxation and luxury. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ A swift 15-minute car ride from Phuket International Airport transported me to this island haven along the island's tranquil northwest shore, and charming flower-draped staff greeted me warmly. Nestled upon the WHERE ELEGANCE HARMONISES WITH TRANQUIL SUNSETS115 LE MÉRIDIEN PHUKET MAI KHAO BEACH RESORT 81 Moo3, Tumbol Mai Khao Amphur, Thalang, Ban Mai Khao, Phuket, Thailand T. +66(0) 76 603699 E. rsvn@lemeridienmaikhao.com FB. Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort W. lemeridienphuketmaikhao.com soft, golden sand of Mai Khao Beach, the sophisticated resort is perfect for couples, families and groups. With Sirinat National Park at its doorstep and devoid of shops that dot the other beaches, the resort feels like a serene tropical escape. Tranquil pine trees enhance the sense of relaxation. The resort boasts 244 contemporary rooms and suites, each with a balcony or terrace overlooking lush gardens, a sparkling pool or the glistening sea. Families can enjoy the outdoor lagoon pool, children's pool and kids' club, while everyone else can partake in activities such as morning yoga and aqua aerobics. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ An attentive staff ushered me to the resort's grandest guestroom, a spacious Two-Bedroom Suite (111 sqm) on the ground floor featuring a private pool and an expansive balcony overlooking the main pool area. The contemporary suite exuded elegance with touches of the local culture, such as a headboard adorned in hand- painted batik art depicting the essence of Phuket, and a meticulously crafted wardrobe made of bamboo. A coffee machine awaited to kickstart my mornings. The generously proportioned bathroom boasted modern amenities including an automatic toilet seat. After an invigorating workout in the 24/7 fitness centre, which offered scenic views of the lush garden, I returned to my suite room to relish an evening dip in the private pool and then sipped a glass of wine. The light control master worked without a hitch – a single click extinguished every light, even in the bathroom and closet, sparing me the hassle of navigating the spacious room to turn them off individually. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Throughout my stay I enjoyed the array of F&B outlets here led by Executive Chef Apisit (Bomb) Chaichana, renowned for clinching victory in the Iron Chef Thailand competition. I began my day with a visit to The Nook, a casual café, offering light bites, refreshing drinks and locally-inspired snacks, along with a menu of diverse comfort foods and a superb selection of craft coffees. I also delighted in the enticing flavours at J's, which serves international and Thai cuisine with a distinct Phuket flair. I highly recommend the Phuket Lobster Noodles Sunrise here, a Phuket lobster seared with herb butter and paired with robust and spicy Thai southern-style Mi Sua Rice noodles. The superb flavours testify how Chef Bomb deserves his award-winning status on Iron Chef Thailand. One late afternoon I headed to Ocean Kitchen, which offers laidback Mediterranean dining by the poolside and beachfront, for the Chai-Yo Hour (happy hour) until 5.00 pm and followed that with a huge meal of seafood, a wood-fired pizza, prime grilled meat and a healthy salad. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ I must admit my desire to return home paled after a night here! The idyllic ambiance that envelops this place, the delightful meals, invigorating morning aqua aerobics sessions followed by a workout in the gym, dips in my private pool and then a soothing massage at the Explore Spa – all this epitomised the perfect vacation for me, when I can pamper myself with a myriad of services and facilities, and find myself rejuvenated at the end of each day. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ My suite’s private pool did not quite offer the level of seclusion I had expected from the pathway leading to the beach just in front of the suite, as the trees surrounding the pool were not tall enough. This, of course, will not be a problem once they have grown taller.116 COME SLEEP WITH ME At the heart of Korea’s Silicon Valley sites DoubleTree by Hilton Seoul Pangyo, ready to serve all travellers both business and staycation. It targets “unpretentious comfort-seekers who appreciate being taken care of and value human connections”. Text by Urasa Chittamvanich SUPREME STAY IN SEOUL ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ The first full-service upscale hotel in Seongnam, DoubleTree by Hilton Seoul Pangyo sits a short 10-minute drive to Pangyo Techno Valley with its IT and medical industries, and a distance of 58 km from Incheon International Airport and 16 km from Gangnam Station in southern Seoul. Still, it is surrounded by nature with most rooms showcasing a mountain view, and the colour palette is neutral and muted, inspired by the lush foliage surrounding the property. I was welcomed warmly in high-ceilinged lobby where an efficient staff completed my check-in in no time at all. I was told that the hotel consists of a total of 432 hotel rooms and 162 residences, and offers and indoor swimming pool, sauna, outdoor tennis court, a screen golf range as well as the largest state- of-art banquet facility in the area – basically, everything one would really need for a happy stay, be it for business or leisure. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ I was happy seeing ceiling-to-floor windows in my Premium Corner Room (43 sqm), with a view of foliage on the grounds. The abundant natural light that came into the room was welcoming and set me at ease. The separate cloak room was located opposite the washroom which was behind a solid wooden sliding door. The in-room facilities were of premium quality. I enjoyed the scented Crabtree & Evelyn amenities, and soaking in the tub while overlooking the verdant view. DoubleTree by Hilton Seoul Pangyo is truly a good “home away from home” in Pangyo, I assure you.117 warm cookie welcome, I received a welcome message in my guestroom written in my own language. Additionally, the staff knew about my upcoming birthday. Such personal touches and warm hospitality elevated my stay and impression of the hotel. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The automatic light in the cloakroom kept turning off while I was still unpacking; I must have been taking too long. I had to exit and then re-enter the cloakroom to turn it back on. DOUBLETREE BY HILTON SEOUL PANGYO 26 Baekhyeon-ro, Bundang-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea 13553 T. +82 34 678 5500 F. +82 31 678 5600 W. DoubleTreebyHiltonSeoulPangyo.com ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Demeter keeps all guests very satisfied with its buffets, though it offers an à la carte menu as well. You’ll find local and international options to keep your stomach happy all day long. Do watch out for complimentary bites of local “Comfort Food” as well, which aim to nourish the soul. Mine was a bowl of Doenjang Jjigae, a stew which was hearty and filling. On a higher note is Nyx, the sleek rooftop bar and bistro offering tasty fusion bites and a panorama of the city. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The Ambassadors of Feel Good Moments (assigned staff) did a marvellous job making me feel comfortable and welcome from check- in till check-out. In addition to the signature 118 COME SLEEP WITH ME Discover the enchanting fusion of timeless tradition and modern luxury at Best Western Premier Agung Resort Ubud, ensconced in lush surroundings that invite relaxation and total enjoyment. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya AN INVITATION TO SERENITY IN UBUD ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Ubud, at the heart of Bali, Indonesia, draws everyone in with its rich tapestry of local life. Uncover the essence of Ubud's culture and traditions from the comfort of Best Western Premier Agung Resort, which sits just beyond Ubud, with modern charm ensconced by jungle and offering 75 guestrooms. Enjoy the tranquillity in the resort, and explore the nearby Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Monkey Forest, and more with complimentary transportation to and from the heart of the island. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Picture this: a terraced swimming pool nestled at the heart of the resort, a sun-soaked haven for guests to unwind. The pool offers a direct view of lush greenery including coconut palms swaying gracefully, creating a serene ambiance. I'm swept away by the island vibe here. As I’ve opted for a Deluxe Pool View Room, I'm treated to the calming view both inside and out. My guestroom is fully equipped with all the comforts, and I find bliss on the balcony sipping hot tea and soaking in all the tranquillity. No wonder this is a top choice for guests from Asia and the Middle East.119 ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Every meal is delightful and convenient, with a restaurant, bar and café onsite. Taman Lotus Restaurant offers a wide range of local and international dishes from breakfast starting at 6.30 am until 11.00 pm. Enjoy the vibrant array and flavours of Balinese food and desserts, and don’t be afraid to try something new! Taman Tirta Pool Bar offers a relaxed outdoor venue, while Taman Sari Coffee Shop invites you to unwind with afternoon tea delights. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ One thing that sets this resort apart is the daily dose of complimentary activities which immerse guests in aspects of Balinese culture, from Balinese dance lessons and crafting Canang Sari (an offering) to morning strolls through picturesque countryside and rejuvenating yoga sessions. Whether travelling solo, with a partner or an extended family, this is one of the premier resorts in Ubud that caters to diverse preferences with its facilities and amenities. It's this promise of an enriched cultural experience on a daily basis that I’ll return for. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ No complaints, just happiness! BEST WESTERN PREMIER AGUNG RESORT UBUD Jl. Sri Wedari No.99, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia T. +62 361 2091 700 E. gm@bwpremieragungubud.com W. bestwestern.comNext >