< Previous30 THE BUZZ HAPPY HOLIDAYS IN GOOD HANDS “THE PURPOSE OF LIFE IS TO BE HAPPY. THE TIME TO BE HAPPY IS NOW. AND THE PLACE TO BE HAPPY IS HERE.” – GERARD BLITZ, CLUB MED FOUNDER– Text by Urasa Chittamvanich31 There’s no better holiday than one where you can sit back and relax, knowing you are in good hands with an all-inclusive package. Club Med has been redesigning vacations since 1950 with one clear goal in mind – to deliver happiness, peace of mind and complete freedom to each and every of their guests without boundaries of age or language. Today, the group consists of nearly 70 beach and mountain resorts worldwide. I have long been a fan of its approach, having experienced Club Med holidays myself in beach locations such as Phuket, Bali, and the Maldives, and in mountain resorts such as Tomamu, Kiroro in Hokkaido and now, Lijiang, China. I can affirm that until you experience a Club Med holiday, you will never realise just how joyful and carefree a holiday can be! The all-inclusive Club Med approach covers accommodation, all meals and drinks, use of common facilities and access to numerous group activities, although some customised activities such as a guided tour to a nearby town will be at an extra cost. Guests are able to check the daily group activity schedule which shows in detail the what, when, where, how and suitability for different age groups, so they can then plan their day according to their mood and personal preferences. Do note that some activities require enrolment a day before e.g. ski lessons as well as diving tours, and that some require a capability test prior to the activity e.g. swimming for snorkelling trips. Safety is a top priority across all the resorts. Whichever group activity you choose, your utmost fun is guaranteed every time as they’re conducted by multi-cultural Club Med Great Organizers, aka “GOs” . 32 THE BUZZ At each resort, the main restaurant offers international buffets with local touches, and dishes are rotated daily so guests will not start encountering the same dishes until they stay longer than a week. The all-inclusive holidays include all drinks, including wine, with buffet meals. Some resorts also offer speciality restaurants which require advance reservation – do check if they are included in the package or at an additional cost. I recall a very comforting (included) meal at The Ogon at Club Med Kiroro where hot-pot was served with fresh catches from the sea, as well as the tasty yakiniku at (included) Haku, at Club Med Tomamu. If you’re holidaying at Club Med Kiroro, do not miss the Hokkaido SoftServe ice cream with vast array of condiments – it’s so delicious that I’m certain you’ll want to end every meal with a serving! Guests will never have a dull evening with bars, evening entertainment and special happening nights, and energetic GOs keeping things in full swing and in high spirits. Normally, the evening entertainment kicks off with a performance from the Mini Club Med, by those children who had rehearsed during the day and are ready to show their new talents to family members. Their enthusiasm and sparkling eyes always reveal how much of a good time they have had. Later in the evening, the GOs will take to the stage and perform in variety shows – showcasing skills such as acrobatics, dancing, comedy and more! They work really hard as energetic GOs during the days and as professional performers during the evenings. 34 Speaking of younger guests, Club Med ensures all their resorts offer a perfect playground for youngsters of all age groups. The Mini Club Med was founded as far back as 1967 to develop children’s activities according to age as well as skillsets. They are divided into three age groups (4-5 years, 6-7 years and 8-10 years), and the daily activities organised by the GOs will vary according to four themes: Expression, Arts and Crafts, Culinary Arts and Sports. Some of the attributes that children will grow during Club Med holidays are creativity, team spirit, curiosity and autonomy. With such marvellous vibes from the splendid locations, impressive food and drinks offered all day long, fun activities, inviting guestrooms, well-taken-care-of children and delightful staff, Club Med holidays are truly joyful and carefree, and I’m always ready and happy to return again. THE BUZZdivana spa@divanathailanddivanathailandwww.divanaspa.com Experience our timeless signature program Ayurvedic Rose Glamour Discover Your Sanctuary at the Globally Award-winning Spa. Book Your Experience Now. Escape into the Elegance of Relaxation and Rejuvenation Escape into the Elegance of Relaxation and Rejuvenation THE BUZZ 10 NEW HOTELS TO HERALD Get ready to book your next voyage, as we unveil eight newly-launched hotels and resorts around the world to mark the return of travel since the end of the pandemic. From exotic coastal escapes to urban retreats, these luxurious hotels and resorts stand as testament to the resurgence of the art of travel, and promise unparalleled guest experiences that redefine the art of hospitality. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya THE REVIVAL OF TRAVEL 3637 2 1 Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi - Rebirth of a Legend Hanoi, Vietnam Design: Meticulously refurbished to showcase traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with vibrant colours, bespoke comfort and advanced technology. Facilities: The 103 guestrooms and suites boast luxurious features such as Italian marble bathrooms, hand-tufted carpets and contemporary artwork. Highlight: Dive into the legacy of this hotel where each corner whispers tales of royalty, renowned writers and Hollywood icons. The Heritage Wing, which dates back to 1901, has been rebirthed with a timeless ambiance that seamlessly blends tradition with modernism, and the suites pay homage to illustrious former guests like Charlie Chaplin. Aman Nai Lert Bangkok – A City Oasis of Elegance Bangkok, Thailand Design: Renowned architect Jean-Michel Gathy has ensured the 36-storey Aman Nai Lert Bangkok stands as a symbol of timeless sophistication. Facilities: Comprising of 52 suites and 39 exclusive residences, Aman Nai Lert Bangkok boasts facilities ensuring a high level of privacy including concept dining and a 1,500 sqm Aman Wellness centre. Highlight: Experience a haven where heritage meets opulence and Aman's legendary service, nestled in the century-old tropical garden of Nai Lert Park. This Aman city hotel promises an unrivalled blend of luxury and world-class hospitality. 1 238 4 3 THE BUZZ Casa de las Artes - Madrid's Literary Haven Madrid, Spain Design: Nestled in the historic Las Letras district, Casa de las Artes is the reimagination of the former Hotel Madrid Atocha which brings a modern transformation while also paying homage to Miguel de Cervantes, the literary giant of the Spanish Golden Age. Facilities: The 137-room hotel boasts an innovative restaurant-theatre concept, a cosy library, a private cinema room, a thermal pool under a glass roof and a fitness centre. Versatile meeting rooms cater to elegant gatherings. Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong - Playful Urban Vibes Bangkok, Thailand Facilities: The communal lounge, Library & Plug- In area, invites guests to work, socialise and unwind. Sleek guestrooms blend functionality with edgy details such as elephant heads as coat pegs. Moxy Grab + Go offers 24/7 snacks, while Moxy Bar & Restaurant serves fusion cuisine and the rooftop bar promises sunset cocktails against the cityscape. Think motion- activated LED lights, keyless entry and a pink boxing bag in the gym. Highlight: Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong sets the stage for a vibrant stay-and-play vacation in the heart of Bangkok with colourful elements reflecting the city's spirit. Design: Infused with youthful energy, Moxy Bangkok Ratchaprasong marks the brand's debut in Thailand. The 504-room hotel in downtown Bangkok features a vibrant urban design inspired by the legendary Scala Cinema and Thai mythology. Highlight: In tribute to Miguel de Cervantes and the Cervantes Society, every room here includes an engraving by Gustave Doré created for the 1869 edition of "Don Quixote". Guests may thus soak up the spirit of Don Quixote and Cervantes's literary legacy infused in every corner with charm. 3 439 6 5 Tivoli La Caleta Tenerife Resort: Timeless Glamour Tenerife, Spain Penang Marriott Hotel: Coastal Luxury and Exceptional Facilities Penang, Malaysia Design: A seamless blend of contemporary elegance and comfort, upscale amenities and 223 rooms with city or Andaman Sea views. Facilities: Guests can enjoy the outdoor infinity pool with a sun deck, the Greatroom which is the indoor central hub for socialising, a fully- equipped fitness centre, and steam room. M Club provides an elevated experience for Marriott Bonvoy elite members, while families will appreciate the Kids Club on Level 4. Highlight: The hotel's central location on Gurney Drive provides convenient access to Penang's lively attractions. The grand pillarless ballroom and versatile function rooms are perfect for opulent weddings, corporate events and conferences. 5 6 Design: Tivoli Hotels & Resorts debuts in Spain with Tivoli La Caleta Tenerife Resort, a five-star retreat featuring 284 renovated rooms and suites designed by award-winning architect Melvin Villarroel. Earthy tones, design furniture and high-tech comforts create a chic and calming ambiance. Facilities: The resort boasts three heated pools including an adults-only pool. Dining is curated by chefpreneur Olivier da Costa, offering global options at Seen Beach Club, Yakuza, and Guilty. Guests in suites enjoy VIP perks including à la carte breakfast and poolside delights at La Caleta lounge. Highlight: The resort offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, lush gardens and easy access to explore the Canary Islands' cultural and natural wonders. Located on Costa Adeje's Shoreline, and only 15 minutes from Tenerife South International Airport.Next >