< Previous120 COME SLEEP WITH ME121 Step into the oasis that is La Festa Phu Quoc, by Hilton’s Curio Collection, set on an island that’s often rated one of the top in Asia. You’ll find yourself a front row seat to mesmerising sunsets, with each day offering a new palette of colours across panoramic ocean views. Inspired by the allure of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, La Festa Phu Quoc promises to spark your imagination and reawaken the romance of travel. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya A MEDITERRANEAN DREAM ON PHU QUOC ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The hotel’s facilities and amenities exceeded every expectation. With its breathtaking views and location within Sunset Town, a stay here is not just a getaway but days filled with unforgettable moments. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The breakfast buffet is a feast with freshly- cooked Vietnamese noodles to oven-baked pizzas to bánh mì and much, much more. Be warned that this smorgasbord of deliciousness will have you putting on a kilo or two! ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ La Festa Phu Quoc graces the southern coastline of Phu Quoc within Sunset Town, the entertainment destination of year-round artistic shows, culinary delights and more. Upon arrival, you're greeted by eye-catching buildings, a grand clock tower and elegant statue fountains adorned with flowers. Step into the magnificent lobby with its retractable skylight roof that dazzles. Through expansive glass windows, the breathtaking Kiss Bridge awaits and at nightfall, fireworks light up the sky, which will be visible from your room's balcony. With a five-minute walk you can reach top-rated attractions like the Hon Thom Cable Car Station, Kiss of the Sea show, Kiss Bridge and much more, making every moment of your visit extraordinary. The resort is just 25 minutes from the airport. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ With 197 guest rooms across 13 categories including Classico, Amalfi Duplex, and King Amalfi Ocean View Suite, the resort invites you to enjoy its Mediterranean-inspired interiors LA FESTA PHU QUOC Sunset Town, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Vietnam T. +84 297 3525 555 F. +84 297 3544 999 E. pqcpq_hotel@hilton.com IG. lafestaphuquoc W. www.lafestaphuquoc.com complemented by a breathtaking ocean view with the iconic Kiss Bridge. Bedding is plush and amenities are thoughtful, including a chic beach bag and a beautiful floppy hat perfect for capturing Instagrammable moments by the sea. Rejuvenate at the resort’s eforea spa with a soothing Sibin Stones Massage or Saigon Heritage treatment that is rooted in Eastern healing traditions. Be sure to pack your favourite swimsuit for the infinity pool and terrace as you watch the sunset paint the sky over Kiss Bridge. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ La Festa Phu Quoc offers four distinct dining venues to keep guests satisfied. Enjoy Italian and Mediterranean flavours at Mare through simple yet utterly delicious dishes. Relax at La Capri Beach Club with a cocktail in hand and your feet in the sand. Indulge in afternoon tea or evening drinks accompanied by live piano music at Il Salone, set in a palazzo-inspired space. Drop into The Merchant for a delightful buffet featuring live cooking stations. 122 Text by Urasa Chittamvanich SLEEK CITY STAY COME SLEEP WITH ME Whether you are in Fukuoka for business or for pleasure, the Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-Minami will provide cosy and practical accommodation in the buzzing neighbourhood of Tenjin.123 BEST WESTERN PLUS FUKUOKA TENJIN-MINAMI 3Chome, Haruyoshi, Fukuoka-Shi, Japan 810-0003 W. www.bestwesternasia.com ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Best Western Plus Fukuoka Tenjin-Minami is located in Fukuoka's downtown area of Tenjin which buzzes with retail malls, restaurants and vibrant nightlife. It is adjacent to cultural sites such as Maizuru Park, Kego Shrine and the Fukuoka Art Museum, offering the ideal combination of convenience, activities and culture. Tenjin-Minami Station (Nanakuma Line) is just a five-minute walk away, while Tenjin Station (Kuko Line), which provides easy access to Fukuoka Airport, is a short eight minutes away. The hotel itself sits on a small alley off the main road, hence there is no problem with traffic noises. The check-in staff communicate well in English and complete the process in a snap; I was quickly on the way to my guest room. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ This newly-built hotel features 236 contemporary room in four categories: Superior Room, Triple Room, Quadruple Room, and Deluxe Twin (designed also for wheelchair accessibility). For an added level of security, keycards must be used to use the lift. The guest rooms are modern with clean lines and good use of space—a feature especially valued in Japan where hotel rooms can be compact. Rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV, working station, free Wi-Fi, a mini fridge and comfortable bedding. The bathroom with bathtub is compact but equipped with everything one would need for a short stay. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ For an additional cost, the hotel provides a breakfast buffet in the restaurant on the ground floor between 7-10 am which offers traditional Japanese dishes along with western favourites. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The downtown location of the hotel is excellent with the pick of entertainment, shopping, dining and wining—including all the yatai (food stalls) in the evenings—within walking distance. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ The carpeted corridors are not convenient for guests, who need to carry their luggage to/ from their guest room by themselves.124 COME SLEEP WITH ME For a sense of sabai, a quiet beach with generously-sized pool villas and friendly resort staff, SAii Koh Samui Villas is the refuge for you. Text by Jenjira van der Linden SAii KOH SAMUI VILLAS and quiet, and groups looking to book out a resort for a special occasion. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ The 52 pool villas range from 80 to 100 sqm in size and have airy, contemporary interiors with décor made from local natural materials. Each villa can accommodate up to three guests. The bathing area is spacious with a rain shower, egg-shaped bathtub and two washbasins. Outside is a sundeck with a daybed and private pool measuring 3.5 m in length, or else 8 m in a Deluxe Pool Villa, enclosed behind high walls and greenery for privacy. Guests are encouraged to load the resort app for all the information they may need and to communicate with resort staff. My favourite is a Deluxe Pool Villa, which is 100 sqm in size with a longer pool. A Beachfront Pool Villa may not be the biggest in size at 80 sqm, however guests will love hearing gently ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ In Thailand you often hear the word sabai, meaning “relaxed“ or “comfortable“ and referring to a person’s state. Sabai can be found at SAii Koh Samui Villas, located in Hanuman Bay on the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand. The all-pool-villa resort is located on quiet Choeng Mon Beach and geared towards guests aged 12 years and up. A light refurbishment has given a fresh look, and soon to be launched is a concept beach club with extensive F&B offerings. Together with the friendliness of the staff, SAii will appeal to couples and friends who appreciate space lapping waves whenever they open their door and taking just a few steps to feel soft sand under their feet. 125 SAii KOH SAMUI VILLAS 63/182 Moo 5, Bophut Koh Samui, Suratthani 84320 T. +66(0) 77 914700 E. rsvn.samui@saiiresorts.com W. www.saiiresorts.com/kohsamui/ villas ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ A brand-new beach club with extensive F&B services will soon be launched. Details are not available at the time of print, however these will build upon current offerings highlighting both Thai and Mediterranean cuisines. Expect dishes that focus on organic ingredients and fresh produce, such as Seafood Linguine with truffle flavour and white wine sauce; Spaghetti Kee Mao Talay or stir-fried spaghetti with seafood and hot basil; Pla Tord Yam Mamuang or deep-fried seabass with young mango and chilli dressing. As for dessert, Roti Foi Thong with Thai tea ice cream remains a big hit. On the drink menu expect thirst-quenching tropical cocktails and mocktails plus New World and Old World wines – worth trying are those from local vineyard Monsoon Valley. For recreation, guests may like to book a Thai cooking class or unwind at Lèn Spa, lèn meaning “play” and referring to the locals’ love for fun and humour – the treatments have a fun twist in categories such as Adventure, Culture and Relaxation. There is the resort’s infinity pool, a 24-hour gym, water sports including kayaking and snorkelling in the bay, and island-hopping by longtail boat (Koh Madsum, aka locally as “Pig Island” for its curly-tailed residents, is a popular choice as well as Koh Tan). Attractions just a short ride away include Chaweng Beach for nightlife, Fisherman’s Village, Central Festival Koh Samui for shopping, and other beaches. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ The quiet surroundings, spacious villas and high level of privacy. Also, SAii is a good choice to book out (minimum 45 villas) for a beachside party or corporate offsite. Lastly, from August to October Samui is less rainy compared to the western side of the Gulf of Thailand. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ Insect repellent spray was not provided in the villa. It should be pointed out to new guests to bring the keycard along when they use their private sundeck, or they’ll get locked out!126 With divine Grand Reserve pool villas where you can roll out of bed and into your private pool, plus much more to delight in, Santiburi Koh Samui beckons those seeking tropical island bliss. Text by Jenjira van der Linden SANTIBURI KOH SAMUI ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Koh Samui tends to attract travellers seeking exclusivity, including gourmands. Some fly there directly, while others fly to Surat Thani instead for its renowned oysters before renting a car and heading to the island. Ranked the 13th best resort in Thailand by Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards 2024, Santiburi Koh Samui offers inviting suites and villas, the luxury of space and well-honed staff. It is also the only resort on the island that has held Green Hotel ‘Gold’ status for two consecutive years. ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ The 96 welcoming guest rooms with mostly COME SLEEP WITH ME wooden floors and private balconies are bright with natural light. Furniture is immaculate and the décor is contemporary. Bathrooms are modern with toiletries made using local oils like rice bran and scents like lemongrass. The extensive room service menu impresses with offerings including Thai street food, Black Angus grilled cuts and the best of local spirits. I thoroughly recommend a Grand Reserve Pool Villa (250 sqm) where you can literally roll out of bed and into your private pool! The bathing area is spa-like with double washbasins set well apart, rain shower and standalone bathtub. For families I recommend a Two-Bedroom Duplex Suite (105 sqm) with its separate bathrooms, balconies and front doors but inner connecting door. The idyllic beachfront villas vary from 80 to 206 sqm. The Beachfront Pool Villa, which enjoys the highest level of privacy, has its own sala (pavilion) with a peaceful ocean view.127 SANTIBURI KOH SAMUI 12/12 Moo 1, Maenam Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84330 T. +66 (0) 77 425031 E. info@santiburisamui.com W. santiburisamui.com ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ The Beach House & Bar This al fresco spot with ocean view is popular for lunch and dinner. Dine on Mediterranean and Thai favourites, seafood platters on ice, grilled seafood and imported steak accompanied by bubbly and fine vintages. Sala Thai at Santiburi Putting a spotlight on Surat Thani’s culinary heritage, the 100 Miles Dining Program sources its ingredients within a 100-mile radius. Seafood and meats including four-generation wagyu are prepared with refinement and innovation, then paired with Thai-inspired drinks and fine wines. At Vimarnmek, you’ll never get bored of breakfast. The extensive buffet includes cheeses and cold cuts, freshly-baked items with gluten-free options, healthy egg-white frittatas or similar, and comforting made-to- order dishes both Thai and western. The Pool House is perfect for a casual bite and thirst- quenchers like smoothies, beers and cocktails. The Lounge is a good spot to retreat to for a cup of tea or a pre-dinner drink – try a signature Thai-inspired mocktail or cocktail. ✿ Recreation ✿ There is plenty to do for every family member. The Santiburi Junior Camp has indoor and outside facilities for youngsters, and organises daily activities such as making animal masks and dance lessons. Parents can look forward to a date night, or two! Santiburi Spa offers relaxation, as well as the nature trail that winds throughout the property. To burn off energy, enjoy water sports off the 300-metre-long beach, plus the comprehensive sport complex with tennis court, Muay Thai ring, football field, fully- equipped fitness centre including new Techogym treadmills, mountain bikes, ping pong table and more. On Thailand’s second- largest island there’s more to do further afield, such as an excursion to Ang Thong National Marine Park, or to golf. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ Every family member will find their tropical island bliss here, aided by the resort staff with well-honed hospitality skills. Samui is also less rainy August-October compared to the western side of the Gulf of Thailand. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ I did not find an intercom in my Grand Reserve Pool Villa, so whenever someone rang the front gate bell I had to go outside.128 For the young and young at heart seeking more than just a place to stay, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is a fresh take on urban hospitality. As Thailand’s first INNSiDE hotel, it offers a seamless blend of work and play, creating a haven for curious minds and modern travellers. Whether you want to connect or disconnect, this hotel provides the perfect balance for those who crave an experience that’s as inspiring as it is relaxing. Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya ABOVE THE CITY’S PULSE ✿ SETTING THE SCENE ✿ Nestled in the trendy On Nut neighbourhood, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is well-positioned for both convenience and exploration. Just 30 minutes from Suvarnabhumi International Airport and a short walk to BTS station On Nut, the hotel offers easy access to Bangkok’s downtown districts like Thong Lor, Ekamai and Asoke. The hotel’s design draws inspiration from Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks including Wat Pho, Sanam Luang and the Giant Swing. Modern minimalism meets cultural storytelling here, with works by local artists featured throughout the property from on the walls to merchandise and even staff uniforms. Designed with flexibility in mind, INNSiDE understands today’s traveller doesn’t want to choose between leisure and productivity and so here, you can rest, recharge and reimagine in a vibrant, community-driven space. COME SLEEP WITH ME129 INNSIDE BY MELIÁ BANGKOK SUKHUMVIT 1472 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, Thailand T. 02 340 5499 E. innside.sukhumvit@melia.com IG. innsidebangkok FB. Innside by Melia Bangkok Sukhumvit W. www.melia.com/en/hotels/ thailand/bangkok/innside- bangkok-sukhumvit ✿ GETTING COMFORTABLE ✿ My stay in a Townhouse City View Suite was very comfortable. Measuring 40 sqm, the space combined elegance with functionality and featured a king-size bed, a living area with sofa and dining table, and a bathroom connecting the living and sleeping areas. It was the thoughtful details that made the difference: a Marshall Bluetooth speaker for your favourite tunes, a Dyson hairdryer for a touch of luxury, and a city panorama that was Instagram-worthy. The rooftop infinity pool is a true showstopper. Inspired by Bangkok’s Giant Swing, its circular design creates a striking focal point while its glass floor adds a playful edge as you can see the bar on the floor below as you swim! By day, the pool offers unobstructed skyline views and by night, it transforms into a social hub with music, cocktails and a lively crowd that feels like a private rooftop party. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the 24-hour gym equipped with everything you need to keep your routine on track. ✿ DINING OPTIONS ✿ INNSiDE boasts two distinctive dining outlets. Days start at The Kites Eatery with a breakfast buffet where Thai comfort food meets international favourites. The standout Beef Cheek Kra Pao served with fragrant jasmine rice is a must-try. For a homestyle Thai lunch, opt for a Pinto Lunch Set with four courses presented in a colourful, traditional tiered lunchbox. As the sun sets, head to LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar on the 33rd floor for a taste of Spain. With a 270° city view, vibrant ambience and a DJ spinning tunes on weekends, it’s a nighttime magnet for the neighbourhood. Spanish flavours with a creative twist are showcased, such as Pulpo a la Parrilla (grilled octopus with paprika potatoes and mango purée) and Gambas al Ajillo (sautéed prawns with garlic and chilli). For lighter bites or just cocktails, visit the Open Living Lobby Lounge or the Giant Swing Pool Bar, where their refreshing snack and drink menus will keep your energy high all day. ✿ WHY I’D RETURN ✿ What sets INNSiDE apart is its sense of community. From the friendly staff to the sociable guests, there’s an infectious uplifting vibe that makes you feel instantly relaxed. My three-day stay was so enjoyable that I didn’t leave the hotel—and I didn’t feel like I missed anything. With its inviting vibe, curated experiences and great amenities, this is a hotel I’ll gladly return to again. ✿ ONE OR TWO QUIBBLES... ✿ If there’s one thing I’d wish for, it’s a larger poolside deck to make lounging more comfortable. But honestly, that’s a small trade- off for the unique design and panoramic view the rooftop offers.Next >