< Previous120 Nothing beats a hassle-free family or couple’s holiday at Club Med, and nothing can top the imposing Club Med Kiroro Grand set amidst the softest powdery snow of Hokkaido, Japan, which recently opened its doors. Text by Urasa Chittamvanich WHIMSICAL WINTER ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ “Tadaima…” I said to myself as we landed at Chitose Airport on Hokkaido. The Club Med shuttle bus counter was conveniently located near to the exit, and the staff there had all the information needed. Soon after, the next scheduled shuttle bus took us through the town and headed up the mountain, while the scenery quickly turned all white. Club Med Kiroro Grand, sitting on a blanket of snow, has a grand exterior that revealed warmth and some liveliness once we stepped inside the lobby. The super-high ceiling was adorned with a crystal chandelier, and I noticed the natural elements that added playfulness to the interior such as the garden-like carpet, touches of wood and a fluffy Sumenaka (which is the local bird of this area) in flight. The check-in process was completed in no time by the efficient and very friendly staff, and I soon had a Club Med locket tied on to my wrist which would act as the key to my guestroom, to lockers and also as my personal credit card while here – very convenient indeed! ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ My Superior Room was very comfortable and armed with everything one would need on a winter holiday. The best thing about it was the view of the snowy landscape. Paying attention to the small details is always proof of excellence, I told myself after having a hot bath and noticing that the centre of the mirror somehow did not fog up and showed my reflection. I have no idea how that’s possible but I did try it twice and the outcome was the same. Bravo! In line with the tradition of Club Med, there were abundant activities to enrol in during my stay. There was even a Mini Club Med for smaller visitors, organised very well with play groups divided according to age, so parents can enjoy worry-free skiing while their children mingle and have fun with others, learn how to ski, practice for a performance on stage, and more! The ski pass given to me permitted unlimited gondola trips to the Asari summit, a surreal and pure white winter wonderland. On the morning I wanted to stop feeling like Elsa from “Frozen”, I was able to do a half-day trip to Otaru for a glimpse of a bygone era and enjoy the local scene. COME SLEEP WITH ME121 CLUB MED KIRORO GRAND 128-1 Aza-Tokiwa, Akaigawa-mura, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido, Japan 046-0593 W. clubmed.co.th/r/kiroro-grand/w ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Yoichi is the main restaurant here and where you head to for convenience, as the extensive international buffet always hits the spot. My much-loved spot was a table by the window, overlooking the white scenery and snow showers. Always on offer was an extensive selection of comforting Western, delicate Japanese, rich Chinese dishes and much more, as well as a children’s menu. The all-inclusive accommodation package covered self-serve drinks as well as wines and beers, with more selective choices available at the Yotei Bar throughout the evenings. The package also generously applied to one of the three specialty restaurants onsite – The Ogon, offering hotpots with fresh Otaru seafood, Hokkaido meat and vegetables. The other two specialty restaurants, The Ebisu (for sushi) and The Kaen (for yakiniku), are offered for guests wanting more selective dining options at an extra cost. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ There’s no place like a Club Med resort for a seamless and fun holiday. You need to try it for yourself to understand the real meaning of “seamless” where language is not a barrier and “all-inclusive” really means that, at a high standard. Club Med Kiroro Grand’s location is so unique and I had the utmost fun every day with so much to keep me entertained from day to night. There’s really something for every taste and age. Speaking of snow, the quality of it here has been declared as one of the best in the world, thus Club Med Kiroro Grand will remain at the top of my winter vacation list! ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ It’s impossible to eat in moderation when you are at Club Med Kiroro Grand, as the extensive buffets are so inviting and every dish and drink is of high quality. The food offerings do rotate daily, thus if you are staying for less than a week there is no chance that you’ll see the same choices on parade – except for the Hokkaido soft-serve ice cream, which happened to be my favourite sweet treat! Thanks to the ski and snowboarding classes as well as the fully-equipped fitness centre, I managed to bid adieu to this snowy heaven without too many calories piled on!Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya ESCAPE TO THE ABODE OF ANGELS COME SLEEP WITH ME Welcome to Devasom Khao Lak Resort, where the word “Devasom”, derived from Sanskrit, evokes the charm of an angelic abode. Nestled amongst a hypnotising Khao Lak seascape, the Devasom stands as a luxurious beachfront landmark celebrated for its charismatic appeal, authentic hospitality and many awards. Here is a place to rest after exploring the captivating culture and natural beauty of the tropical island. ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Devasom is nestled between the pristine shores of Khao Lak's breathtaking sunset beach, a renowned destination in Asia, and the serene waters of a natural lagoon. The resort's architectural inspiration was drawn from the seafaring civilisation that once thrived along the maritime Silk Route in Southern Thailand over 1,000 years ago. With 69 luxury guest rooms, pool suites and beachfront villas, each offering captivating sea views, you'll be transported to a world reminiscent of opulence from the 6th and 7th centuries. Nearby, you'll discover attractions such as the picturesque Phang Nga Bay, scenic National Parks, waterfalls and have easy access to the enchanting Similan Islands by speedboat. For a glimpse into local traditions, explore the nearby Takua Pa old town. The Devasom is 122DEVASOM KHAO LAK RESORT 79 Moo 3 Khuk Khak Beach, Takuapa, Phang Nga, Khao Lak, Thailand 82220 T. +66 (0) 82 258 9977 LINE. @devasomkhaolak E. rsvn.khaolak@devasom.com W. devasom.com/khaolak located just over an hour’s drive from Phuket International Airport and with shuttle buses offering convenient transportation to the nearby Khao Lak town centre. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Nestled in its tranquil setting, the resort offers a range of amenities including an infinity- edged pool, a beachside grill and bar, a wine cellar, a spa and a fully-equipped gym. Families will be happy with the entertainment provided at the dedicated Kids’ Club. Guestrooms are luxuriously spacious with a Seaside Grand Deluxe at 54 sqm, a seaside Pool Paradise Suite at 105 sqm, and a Beachfront Pool Villa at 150 sqm. For ultimate indulgence you can reserve the Devasom Sky Villa, which is a two-bedroom Panoramic Oceanfront Pool veteran of 22 years on the Thai culinary scene, this restaurant is a magnet for those seeking authentic local dishes that also support local communities. An alternative dining option is Devasom Beach Grill and Bar, a beachfront outlet offering a fusion Mediterranean menu featuring top-quality meat and local seafood. Whether you're a discerning traveller or a culinary enthusiast, both restaurants promise satisfaction. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ I did not just enjoy rest and relaxation at the “abode of angels” but also fully embraced the Devasom Experience, resulting in a vacation experience that will be forever stamped in my memory. I savoured culinary delights and participated in different group activities such as yoga and meditation sessions in serene spots, a Kanom Krok cooking class, a guided tour of the resort's own spice route, and handicraft and garland-making classes. I even explored the nearby waterways by paddleboard, and joined a bicycle tour of nearby coconut plantations, local villages, temples and mangroves. All these experiences made it easy for me to fall in love with this part of southern Thailand and Devasom Khao Lak Resort, which is precisely why I can't wait to return. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ Staying during the rainy season may result in some disruptions as many activities and attractions take place outdoors. However, don't let rain deter you from relishing the serene atmosphere indoors. Penthouse measuring 430 sqm boasting the most breathtaking panoramic ocean view. During my stay in a Seaside Junior Suite, I soaked in the spa tub on my expansive balcony every day while enjoying the glorious vista of the natural lagoon and beyond it, the Andaman Sea. By the way, there was an indoor bathtub as well with a generously-sized shower area stocked with natural salt scrubs and milk baths to provide an indulging skincare experience. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ At Takola Thai Restaurant, a three-time Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient from 2021 to 2023, savour time-honoured recipes of southern cuisine including favourites like Thai Green Curry with Almond Milk. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Polkrit Innurak, a 123124 COME SLEEP WITH ME A staycation is always a great idea to quickly refresh your spirits, especially when all the convenience will come with a snap of your fingers. This is true at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sukhumvit Bangkok! Text by Urasa Chittamvanich DOUBLE THE JOY ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ The bright lobby, with its modern colour palette, welcomed us warmly while the ceiling with arches conveyed a touch of exoticism. The check-in process was completed efficiently, and our welcome was completed with a signature warm DoubleTree cookie which immediately put a smile on our faces. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Our suite was spacious and designed cleverly for maximum function; the living area, for example, had a relaxed sofa set that could be used for a small and more casual meeting. A solid door separated this from the bedroom to provide privacy. The spacious bathroom was equipped with everything you would need and a bit more, while the bed was so very inviting and comfortable. An Espresso machine was provided as well, leading to pleasurable moments sipping a cup of brew while taking in the city skyline.125 DOUBLETREE BY HILTON HOTEL SUKHUMVIT BANGKOK 18 1 Sukhumvit Soi 26, Khlong Ton, Bangkok, Thailand 10110 T. +66(0) 2 649 6666 E. bkkss.info@hilton.com W. www.hilton.com/en/hotels/ bkkssdi-doubletree-sukhumvit- bangkok/ ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ Dee Lite welcomed us with a cheerful retro décor and long Thai à la carte menu. Diners may choose to dine outdoor or indoor, closer to the open kitchen and free-standing juice and barista bar. Authentic Thai dishes are guaranteed here while the friendly and professional staff are at hand to ensure your meals proceed smoothly. In the mornings, Dee Lite is transformed into a breakfast buffet line with numerous international options offered alongside local. For a change of place, poolside Mosaic serves up charcoal-grilled dishes as well as popular Thai and Western classics. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The “Do Good Feel Good” activities organised by the hotel staff were motivating and also a great way for foreigners to participate in beloved Thai rituals. We joined a Somtum Cooking Class and a Lotus Folding Class during our stay, and enjoyed both to the max. The prime location in the heart of Sukhumvit’s business and leisure neighbourhood is also key. The hotel is a short 300 m. walking distance from mega retail malls, a verdant park as well as the BTS network. The night city scene through the ceiling-to-floor windows unveils lit-up skyscrapers, a view that is dynamic. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ I turned on my laptop at the stylish working table only to realise that the lighting in the guestroom was too warm to facilitate hours of working. It was then that I decided I might as well fully relax and enjoy the comfortable ambience and all the facilities at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Sukhumvit Bangkok to the fullest.126 COME SLEEP WITH ME127 Introducing Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket, a newly-opened resort on Phuket that is positioning itself as a premier medical wellness destination. Step into a world where enhancing your inner radiance takes centre stage, guided by the experts in the Plenary Wellness Center located onsite. This is about medical wellness, offering a diverse range of aesthetic treatments, and post-treatment you can retreat to your guestroom cocooned in tranquillity, revitalise yourself with nourishing cuisine, engage in a range of wholesome activities, and be nurtured by devoted staff. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya FROM BEAUTY TO SERENITY adventures and relish the selection of coffees, pastries, cakes, and cocktails at KOPI Bar, the sunken lobby lounge. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The presence of the Plenary Wellness Centre within the resort transforms it into a holistic haven, and I had one of my best holiday experiences. The centre offers an extensive range of aesthetic and anti-aging medicine treatments such as Botox, facial lifting, vitamin drips, body firming, as well as physical therapy, health checkups and allergy tests – so the allure for me is being able to enhance my aesthetics from head to toe, combined with the pleasure of the resort which provided complete relaxation and post-treatment recovery. I felt that my inner radiance and outward charm were amplified here and so the pull to return is irresistible! ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The resort isn't beachfront and its location requires a longer trip from Phuket International Airport. However, once there I found that everything I would want was thoughtfully provided onsite and I did not want to exit the resort grounds. ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Nestled on the southwestern tip of Phuket's Andaman coastline, Wyndham Grand Nai Harn Beach Phuket beckons with its tranquil charm. Just a short stroll away lies the breathtaking Nai Harn Beach, a haven of powder-white sands and crystal-clear azure waters, offering one of the most serene beach experiences. Surrounded by lush rainforests and a picturesque lagoon, the resort captures the essence of natural beauty. Conveniently located 45 km from Phuket International Airport, it also grants easy access to notable attractions like Phromthep Cape and Patong Beach. Stepping into the unique lobby, shaped like a coconut, I was enthralled by its high ceiling adorned with graceful swimming dolphins. The coral feature lighted in shades of blue and green enveloped me in an underwater ambience. The resort boasts 10 pools mirroring the diverse islands of Phuket. Notably, the main floor's colour mimics Nai Harn Beach's sands, while the pools mirror the hues of the surrounding ocean, creating a harmonious fusion with nature. WYNDHAM GRAND NAI HARN BEACH PHUKET 15/328 Moo.1, Soi Naya, Rawai, Muang, Phuket, Thailand 83130 T. +66 (0) 76 606 255 LINE. @wyndhamgrandnhb E. info@wyndhamgrandnaiharn phuket.com W. wyndhamgrandnaiharnphuket.com ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Comprising a total of 353 rooms, including 77 pool access rooms and 44 suites with views overlooking the lush garden, tranquil lagoon or inviting pool. As a swimmer, I opted for a pool access room, a partially secluded oasis shared only with four other rooms. The pool came equipped with an array of adorable giant flamenco and unicorn floats, perfect for sun-soaked relaxation and leisurely reading. My guestroom was very well-appointed with a modern and spacious design. I admired the smart toilet in the bathroom, yet what truly stood out was the bed – an oversized 7x7 foot bed, rare to find anywhere. Even when my roommate moved it was barely perceptible, and I slumbered totally undisturbed. I also appreciated that organic detergent was used to launder all bed linen at the resort, ensuring hypoallergenic comfort. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ A diverse range of dining options await. From refined modern Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine to captivating Middle Eastern flavours, the resort’s offerings cater to every palate. The After Beach swim-up bar invites you to sip on refreshing beverages while savouring freshly- made pizza – a perfect way to unwind beside the pool. If you're inclined towards healthier options or have a preference for vegetarian fare, I wholeheartedly recommend Sofya. This new Middle Eastern restaurant uses an abundance of vegetables with wholesome ingredients and condiments, and less oil. The restaurant also offers live music and mesmerising belly-dancing. Embracing sustainable practices, the hotel boasts its own farm under the Wyndham Green Project, cultivating fresh herbs and vegetables that promise both flavour and organic goodness. You can take a respite from sun-soaked 128 Welcome to Best Western Senayan, where the allure of a prime location meets the embrace of city style. Here is your gateway to vibrant Jakarta offering convenience, a modern design and comforts. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya YOUR GATEWAY TO JAKARTA'S BEST EXPERIENCES ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Perfectly positioned in the heart of Jakarta's prestigious and bustling Senayan district, Best Western Senayan is a business hotel that provides unrivalled convenience and easy access to all the capital offers. Surrounded by high-rise buildings housing diplomatic, business and financial institutions, this hotel offers 137 modern, minimalist guest rooms with top-notch malls, high-end residences and the central business district only minutes COME SLEEP WITH ME away. It’s also the ideal base for leisure guests, offering proximity to upscale shopping malls like Plaza Senayan and Senayan City, and Gelora Bung Karno, the country's premier sports complex. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ Enjoy a stylish urban guestroom in Standard, Executive, or Family size. Their modern design with wooden furnishings 129 BEST WESTERN SENAYAN STC Senayan Jalan Asia Afrika Pintu IX, Gelora Senayan, Jakarta 10270, Indonesia T. +62 814 1340 8294 E. ecom@bwsenayan.com W. bestwestern.com will make you feel right at home, and the absence of a window actually heightens the sense of cosiness (windows are not permitted in order to preserve the building's character, in line with government regulations). Each are designed for both work and relaxation. There are also versatile meeting spaces for your business needs, ideally set up for meetings, presentations and seminars. The staff are polite and helpful. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ At Chill In Cafe, you'll find a full-service restaurant offering a mix of Indonesian, Asian and international dishes to satisfy every preference. Halal options are also available. The restaurant is open from breakfast to dinner, and offers both buffet and à la carte options. During my stay I relished the opportunity to sample Indonesian delights including desserts and fruits, all very delicious. It marked my first experience with salak, the exotic Indonesian fruit native to Java and Sumatra, also known as "snake fruit" due to its uniquely textured skin. I enjoyed discovering a number of new foods here. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ Best Western Senayan offers an ideal location from where to go out and enjoy the dynamic city, be it for work or leisure. With plenty of dining options including famous street food right at your doorstep, cravings will always be satisfied. And whether you're looking for bargains or luxury shopping, guests can conveniently indulge in retail therapy to their heart's content! ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The one minor concern during my stay was the small step leading to the bathroom, which I needed to consciously navigate in order to avoid tripping. Aside from this, my overall experience at Best Western Senayan was satisfactory and I’d happily return for its city style and convenience.Next >