MALAYSIANHOSPITALITYFIRST CLASS ON OUR A350

BEGINS WITH US

As our most esteemed guest on board, we’ll make yourjourney more than just special
Dedicated check-in area. Exclusive, luxuriously-appointed place to unwind inside our Golden Lounge
before taking off. Private, enclosed seating with plush soft furnishings, which stretches into an 83-inch
fully-flat bed for a good night’s sleep. Great entertainment selection on a 24-inch screen to last yourentire flight.
Onboard Wi-Fi and extensive work surfaces that turn your cabin into the ideal office, if you need it to
be. The combination of delightful a la carte dining options and award-winning wine selection, whichtransforms your home away from home in the sky into a lavish restaurant. A bespoke His and Hers
amenity kit meanwhile will help to keep you rejuvenated at all times. Such is our attention, down to thesmallest of details.
But what makes your First Class experience with us truly second to none is the pampering, genuine
warmth and inimitable Malaysian Hospitality we’re known for – which nothing really compares.

#MalaysianHospitality

CONTENTS
LIFE ONTHE COVER
20

In warmer months, Niseko Village
offers opportunities to savour
nature’s bounty, with activities instore for families

20
LIFE EVENTS
16

28

Pink Jambu and Cheminahsayang
invigorate the traditional
weaving arts

LIFE FEATURE
28

18

Global jewellery phenomenon
Roberto Coin celebrates
its Malaysian launch with acharitable collaboration

32

After a dramatic refurbishment,
Shanghai at JW Marriott
Kuala Lumpur is again thecity’s go-to spot for standout
Shanghainese cuisine

32

Chilean Chef Francisco Araya is
enjoying a transformative culinary
career as he moves withinworld capitals

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

36

18

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samuiintroduces guests to Muay Thai,an effective fighting system andan ancient sport that hones one’s
agility and speed

40

40
8

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s
Colonial Café is bringing flavours
from the past into an elegant,modern setting

CONTENTS

LIFE FEATURE
44

Spa Village Malacca honours thelegacy of the Peranakans withtreatments grounded in theirholistic healing arts

48

44

Tanjong Jara Resort’s
Resident Naturalist
Captain Mokh on preserving thejungle’s ecosystem and the natural
beauty that surrounds the awardwinning property

52

In the heart of Kuala Lumpur,
Man Tao serves a menu as vibrantas the location and just as packed
with Malaysian flavour

56

Get acquainted with one ofGaya Island Resort’s best-loved
inhabitants, the proboscis
monkeys, which are found solely
on Borneo

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

LIFE SYLE
60

Cameron Highlands Resort sets
the scene for to-the-moment Boho
chic looks, inspired by the slow life
– and elegant afternoon tea

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CONTENTS
LIFE FEATURE
68

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali’s
School of Life programme, with its
focus on wellness, is designed tobalance mind and body

72

MUSE Saint Tropez is acelebration of its location’s
undeniable glamour and sunkissed natural beauty

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68

YTL Hotels expands its presencein the United Kingdom with two
additional properties in London
and Berkshire

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LIFE MOMENTS

Rich in natural wonders,
Pangkor Laut Resort continues
to capture the hearts of royalty,
movie stars and celebrities

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PORTFOLIO
OF LIFE

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The world of YTL Hotels

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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A Note from Tan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kenneth Tan (k.tan@imv.com.sg)

EDITORIALART

Editor Mark Lean (m.lean@imv.com.sg)
Chief Sub-Editor Jacqueline Danam
Editorial Assistant Allisa Noraini

Group Creative Director IMV Shabir Mahmood
Project Art Director Parvez Akiel Mahfooz
Picture Editor Kenny Nguyen
Designer Thao Truong

In the warmer months, Niseko
Village takes on a different but
no less compelling allure with its
wide range of outdoor activities,
excellent local produce andstandout cuisine. The area truly isa destination for all seasons andperfect for family holidays.

PRODUCTION

Production Manager Hilal Shahrul

CONTRIBUTORSDiana Hubbell, Merritt Gurley, Matt Leppard, Michael Yeoh, June Mong-Loftin,
M Wilson, YS Ting, Prestine Davekhaw, Law Soo PhyePRODUCTION
Prepress: Asiatype
Printer: Percetakan Zanders Sdn Bhd (205766A)
16 Jalan BK 1/11, Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong
Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

ADVERTISING SALES AND MARKETING

Sales Manager Xana Lai (x.lai@imv.com.sg)
Sales Manager Phoon Qian Yu (qy.phoon@imv.com.sg)
Accountant Michelle Koh (m.koh@imv.com.sg)

PRESIDENT

Michael von Schlippe

PUBLISHED BY

These properties, together
with YTL Hotels’ entire portfolioof hotels and resorts, highlight ourcommitment to deliver luxurious
experiences that continue toraise the bar on an international
scale, while remaining connected
culturally, historically, aestheticallyandemotionallytotheirrespective locations.
We hope you will soon discover— or rediscover — our special
brand of hospitality at our awardwinning hotels and resorts aroundthe world.

PRODUCED BY
Indochine Media Ventures Sdn Bhd
B-7-13A, Gateway Kiaramas
No. 1, Jalan Desa Kiara
50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEYTL Hotels & Properties Sdn Bhd
8th Floor, Yeoh Tiong Lay Plaza
55 Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

N

iseko
Village,located
at
the
foot
of
Mount
NisekoAnnupuriin Hokkaido, Japanisconsidered
one of Asia’s most exciting – andglamorous – winter destinations.
At YTL Hotels, we recognised thearea’s potential with developments
encompassing The Green Leaf
Niseko Village, Hilton Niseko
Village, Kasara Niseko Village
Townhouses, golf courses, a
Niseko Village Snow School, andan extensive infrastructure of ski
trails and lifts. With our upcoming
launches such as The Ritz-Carlton
Reserve, EDITION and W Hotel,
we – as well as the rising numberof travellers to the destination– continue to affirm this everexpanding potential.

In the United Kingdom, weare delighted to introduce The
Academy Hotel at the heart ofBloomsbury, London and Monkey
Island Estate in Berkshire, bothof which are members of theprestigious Small Luxury Hotels of
the World collection. The Academy
Hotel, located in London’s excitingWest End, is a well-positioned
base in the British capital with top
theatres, world-class shoppingand excellent restaurants juststeps away. Monkey Island Estate,situated on an island on theRiver Thames near Bray, reveals acharming property that is as scenic
as it is rich in history.

life eventsRoyal
WeavesPink Jambu and Cheminahsayang invigorate
the traditional weaving arts.
Words MARK LEAN

life eventsP

ink Jambu’s recent collaboration
with royal artisanal weaver
Cheminahsayang saw the launchof Tenun Reimagined, a dazzlingcollection of tenun shawls, atHotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur’s The
Snug. The artistry of tenun – the royal Malaysian
tradition of silk weaving – has a heritage datingback 300 years. Pink Jambu worked with Shan
Shan Lim, a graduate in woven textiles from
London’s Central Saint Martins. Lim configured
Tengku Marina Ibrahim’s nature-inspired designs
into a graph, which was then conveyed to
Cheminahsayang’s expert weavers, who brought
the designs to life. A range of scarves thatbeautifully match the 10 shawls has also beencreated. Proceeds are in aid of Viva Palestina
Malaysia, which assists the higher education
endeavours of 60 Palestinian students.

THE ARTISTRY OF TENUN – THE ROYAL MALAYSIAN TRADITION OF
SILK WEAVING – HAS A HERITAGE DATING BACK 300 YEARS.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Guests at the launch include those shown in the images clockwise from top left: Puan Rozini Amin, Dr Hamidah, Nur Hafizah (teamfrom Viva Palestina) and Puan Sri Norma; HE Maria Castillo Fernández, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the EU to Malaysia,
YM Tengku Marina Ibrahim (CEO Pink Jambu) and HE Frédéric Laplanche, Ambassador of France in Malaysia; Toh Puan Zulaikha
Sheardin and YAM Tengku Rahimah; YAM Tengku Aishah binti Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah and Datin Suliana.

life events

life events

A MALAYSIANFIRSTGlobal jewellery phenomenon
Roberto Coin celebrates its Malaysian
launch with a charitable collaboration.

E
Founded in 1996, Roberto Coin’s eponymous fine jewellery brand has found itself
to be a quickly rising star in the world of Italian jewellery.

Words KENNETH TAN

arlier this year, Starhill Gallery
welcomed the larger-than-life
personage of Roberto Coin, thefounder of the eponymous global
jewellery brand known for its
diverse collections. The occasionof his appearance was the unveiling of his firstboutique in Malaysia – a 150-square-metre
space dedicated to his iconic designs such as
the Pois Moi (awarded the Best Italian Collectionin the world), Black Jade, New Barocco, Princess
Flower, and many others.
In conjunction with this special day, Coinlaunched an exclusive pendant, limited to
38 pieces, to raise funds for the Society for
the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
Selangor. This move is typical of Coin, who
has been committed to corporate social
responsibility from the very start, with every
diamond used certified by the Kimberly Process
and compliance with the Dodd Frank Act that
requires all gold to be certified as originatingfrom conflict-free zones.
From above:
Christine Chin (Chairman of SPCA Selangor), Tan Sri Dr Francis Yeoh (Managing Director of YTL Corporation Bhd), Roberto Coin (President & Founder)and HE Cristiano Maggipinto, Italian Ambassador to Malaysia; the Starhill Gallery boutique.

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life on the coverlife on the coverfamilystyle
In the summer months, Niseko Village offers
opportunities to savour nature’s bounty, withactivities in store for families.

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life on the coverlife on the coverFrom awesome firework displays to traditional Japanese cultural showcases, Niseko Village offers something for every guest,
including those who can’t get enough of nature’s wonders.

F

Words KENNETH TAN

rom May to September, Niseko
promises sunny, cloudless days
and boundless opportunities tocommune with nature. This vista ofgreen and blue unfurls before youupon your arrival at Sapporo’s New
Chitose airport – the main transit point to theentire island of Hokkaido.

The solitary mountain, frequently ringed by clouds
from the nearby ocean, takes an even grander
prominence when you reach Niseko Village.
Here, Mount Yotei becomes the backdrop to thedelightful slew of outdoor diversions that lie inwait. Golfers would inevitably head for the Niseko
Village and Niseko golf courses; the former has

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At Niseko Village, accommodation choices range
from the modish Hilton to the relaxed ambience of
The Green Leaf, all the way to the spacious threebedroom townhouses of Kasara – all surrounded
by a resplendent landscape of natural wonders.
A Pure Super Passport enables you to haveunlimited access, within a day, to treetop trekking,cart exploration of the golf courses, gondola rides
and much more. Park Golf – a hybrid variation ofgolf and croquet unique to Hokkaido – is also
included in the Super Passport ticket.
In summer, afternoons remain mild and evenings
quite cool, making it ideal for nature rambles
around Niseko Village, which is perfumed bywoody, floral scents and redolent with birdsong.
Families seeking competitive-type activities may

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

The ensuing journey to Niseko takes you throughemerald forests and mountains in silent repose.
Don’t miss out on the chance to stop by the
fabulous rest station on the Nakayama mountainpass to enjoy quintessential Hokkaido novelties
such as age-imo (deep-fried potato balls) as wellas rollicking American country and western music
blaring over the speakers. This rest stop draws
visitors in the multitudes each year who cometo the vantage point to behold the magnificent
1,898-metre Mount Yotei.

topped the Japan’s Best Golf Courses category at
the World Golf Awards for three years running andthe latter is an Arnold Palmer-designed beauty
with a signature Par 3. Golf is a recurrent themeat Niseko Village, with plenty of amateur-level
tournaments held throughout the warmer months.
Other highlights on Niseko’s summer calendar
include trail runs, classic bike races and the town’s
Tanabata Fireworks Festival with a display of over
1,500 varieties.

life on the coverlife on the cover

MOUNTAIN BIKING ON THE TRAILS, WHITE-WATER RAFTINGAND ZIP LINE GUIDED TOURS WILL SET PULSES RACING.

The outdoors are truly great at Niseko Village,
which offers opportunities to explore on land and water
as well as amid the towering treetops.

request for treasure hunts to be set up – withdifficulty levels ranging from novice to expert.
Mountain biking on the trails, white-water raftingand zip line guided tours will set pulses racing,while horseback riding and hot air balloon rides
offer a different perspective of the bucolic
countryside. Slightly farther afield, one may
indulge in fruit picking at nearby orchards or visit
the legendary Yoichi whisky distillery.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Mount Yotei provides climbers and hikers with afull day’s workout: five hours are usually required
to reach the top, another two to circle the volcanic
crater and four hours back down. Summer is bestfor this activity because of the longer daylight
hours and the incentive of hiking among flowers
in bloom.
Another advantage of spending a summer at
Niseko is to experience its transformation into alarge greenhouse. As the breadbasket of Japan
with a food self-sufficiency rate of 200 per cent,
Hokkaido produces a myriad of tasty delights
such as dairy, sweet cherry tomatoes, eggplant24

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life on the coverlife on the cover

DURING THE NIKO NIKONISEKO VILLAGE FESTIVAL,LOCAL VENDORS SHOW UP
AT THE VILLAGE CENTRE
WITH FRESH HARVESTS,
WHILE CHILDREN ARE
ENTERTAINED WITH
CRAFTS AND GAMES.

Over at Niseko Village’s shopping and dining
precinct, The Crab Shack serves plenty of seafood
and meats, while Yang Shu Ten’s menu tantalises
with sushi, tempura and teppanyaki. The Flame, a
bar and lounge at Hilton Niseko Village, possesses
a cosy ambience of leather couches and warm

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lights where you can partake of the barbecued
cornucopia of summer’s bounty.
Meanwhile the adjacent golf course can be set up
with a Golf Paradise Party Plan – a seven-course
dinner paired with beer, sake, wines, whiskies andteas at the completion of a round of golf.
All of this feasting naturally leads to theunmissable onsen experience, available at both
Hilton Niseko Village and The Green Leaf. A dip
in these thermal waters as the day’s light wanes isthe panacea to sore muscles and a relaxing cap to
a perfect day.
For more information, please visit
www.niseko-village.com

27

Dining at Niseko
Village is a palate
pleaser with theocean’s bounty andlocal farmers’
fresh harvests.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

and seasonal seafood such as uni (sea urchin).
During the Niko Niko Niseko Village Festival, local
vendors show up at the village centre with fresh
harvests, while children are entertained with crafts
and games. The period between mid-August andOctober is when all of Niseko celebrates its annual
harvest. Amid the colourful autumnal foliage,families can easily enjoy outdoor barbecues andthe ubiquitous Genghis Khan lamb broiled in ashallow iron pan.

life feature

life feature

After a dramatic refurbishment, Shanghai at
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur is again the city’s goto spot for standout Shanghainese cuisine.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

a classic
returnlife featureJ

life feature

Words MATT LEPPARDW Marriott Kuala Lumpur is the
epitome of luxury and service at theheart of the city’s famous Golden
Triangle. Having recently undergone
major refurbishment, the hotel is now athoroughly modern establishment thatretains its considerable charms.

a bed of broccoli, the meat contrasting perfectlywith the vibrant green of the broccoli. Anotherworthy dish is the fried noodles with lobster,assorted mushrooms and truffle oil.

The mouthwatering array of dishes created by Executive Chinese Chef Wong Wing Yeuk (facing page) includes(clockwise from above left) black sesame dumplings in ginger syrup, braised Spanish pork with pine nuts and vegetables,
braised Wu Xi spare ribs, and fried noodles with lobster and truffle oil.

For dessert, the four black sesame dumplings
served in a hearty bowl of ginger syrup are
simply sublime.

Its signature Chinese restaurant Shanghai is a
study in Oriental glamour. The updated interior
reinterprets old-world elegance matched withmodern accents through its Chinese calligraphy
artworks and beautiful traditional paintings.

A range of teas and drinks can be enjoyed at diners’
tables with Chef Wong’s creations, although the
hotel’s refurbishment also saw the developmentof a separate bar area. This newest attraction is
now the perfect spot for diners who wish to taste
a selection of dishes including freshly prepared
noodles and dim sum with a glass of wine in alaid-back lounge setting.
The impressive lounge is configured in a semicircular seating arrangement with comfortablesofas, while a magnificent lighting centrepiecetakes pride of place in the middle of the bar. A
window looking out to Starhill Gallery as wellas idiosyncratic touches – an old gramophone
player, for example – make this the perfect place
to gather with friends before sampling Shanghai’s
talk-of-the-town cuisine.

Executive Chinese Chef Wong Wing Yeuk helms
the restaurant and brings to it his take on his
native cuisine. Diners looking for an immersive
culinary journey will delight in the braised Wu Xispare ribs, with chunks of meat that melt right off
the bone, or the superior fish maw soup with sea
cucumber, bird’s nest, mushrooms and shredded
chicken.Meanwhile, the braised Spanish pork
presents a generous slab of tender meat sitting on

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

One of the most sought-after spots in the city,
the establishment offers authentic Shanghainese
cuisine including a selection of dainty dim sum
bursting with flavour and a medley of other artfully
crafted dishes, such as exquisitely preparedsteamed meat dumplings.

For more information, please visit
jwmarriottkualalumpur.com

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WEST
MEETS
EAST
Chilean Chef Francisco Araya is enjoying atransformative culinary career as he moves
within world capitals.

Words KENNETH TANTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life feature

life feature“I THINK ULTIMATELY, COOKING IS ABOUT
FUN AND ENJOYMENT,” ARAYA SAYS.

An apprenticeship with Ferran Adriàof the gastronomic sensation El
Bulli made Chef Francisco Araya
aware of the philosophy behindcreating dishes. “There is acreative process of composing
the menu and you can see how this system is still
being employed by the El Bulli alumni whose
restaurants are currently ranked among the top in
the world.”

On a recent guest chef appearance at The Libraryat The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, Araya notedthat what he had done in Tokyo was to introduce
more Latin American flavours into his cuisine, at atime when the culinary landscape was still largely

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All of this was reflected in the degustation menu
he presented at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur.
The sensations of sea and shell began with theamuse bouche, a medley of dehydrated scallopand herbs, smoked celeriac egg, shrimp withtomato and watermelon, paired with a bright San
Feletto Prosecco Brut, with its aromas of pear,
nectarines and almonds.
Araya created a customised pandan financier
dessert, which he served with pandan ice cream
and the sweet and zesty Roustabout Late Harvest
Viognier wine. “I think ultimately, cooking is about
fun and enjoyment,” Araya says. However, on
weekends, he usually dines out with his girlfriend.
“We enjoy going out, meeting new chefs andmaking new friends. I love that.”

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Chef Francisco Araya
curated a stunningseven-course
modern European
meal showcasing
a fine selection ofseafood dishes at
The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur’s highly
anticipated Guest
Chef Dinner Series
2018 at The Library.

As for Araya, the Chilean native applied these
hard-earned lessons to great effect in the wakeof his 2008 attachment at El Bulli. He returned toSantiago where he served as executive chef of
the Spanish Cultural Centre and, in 2012, joined
forces with two other El Bulli alumni to open 81
Restaurant, an eight-seat restaurant in Tokyo,
crafting what was hailed as ‘borderless cuisine’.

Japanese with French inflections. “Today, Japanis so multicultural that it’s not difficult to find suchcuisine,” he says. His effort earned the restaurant
its first Michelin star in 2013.

For more information, please visit
ritzcarlton.com/kualalumpur

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life feature

life featurefighting
fit
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui introduces guests
to an effective fighting system and an ancientsport that hones one’s agility and speed.

Words MATT LEPPARD

Guests can discover a revered skill-based sport for a total workout
at The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui’s very own Muay Thai Gym.

L

An effective fighting system and intense exercise
programme, many of the world’s top fighters relyon Muay Thai training to get them ring-ready– after all, the art has been proven in actual
warfare. Known as ‘the art of eight limbs’ for its
use of fists, elbows, knees and shins, this martial

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art has its origins in a time when the kingdom ofSiam was caught up in battles with the Burmese.
Legend has it that a renowned Siamese warrior
was captured and had to spar to win his freedom.
He won and was pronounced a local hero, withhis fighting style referred to as Muay Boran or‘ancient boxing’. When King Rama V ascended thethrone in 1868, the sport became a way to harness
aggression during peacetime. With the support ofKing Rama V, a formal ring was established andthe modern Muay Thai was born.
Other than its practical application as a selfdefence system, Muay Thai’s quickfire flurry of
strikes and jabs makes it a total workout solution.
It hones strength and stamina and provides plentyof suppleness exercises. And at The Ritz-Carlton,
Koh Samui, The Art of Muay Thai engenders a true
spirit of community as it helps you channel yourinner warrior.
For more information please visit
ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

ocated along some of Thailand’s
most picturesque coastlines is theisland of Samui, and jet-setters whochoose to stay in pampered comfort
at The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui candiscover everything from sun-kissed
pools to wellness programmes. These include The
Art of Muay Thai – the perfect primer to a timehonoured fighting style. Few things exemplify
the heart of Thailand more than Thai boxing.
Any visit to an upcountry Thai home will show
you this. In dwellings and shophouses, audiences
gather around televisions to witness barrages ofpunches and kicks. Cities and towns also boast
their own rings around which frenzied audience
participation is almost a sport unto itself.

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AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, KOH SAMUI,THE ART OF MUAY THAI ENGENDERSA TRUE SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY – AND HELPSYOU CHANNEL YOUR INNER WARRIOR.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life feature

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culinary
evolution

Words MERRITT GURLEY

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThe Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s
Colonial Café is bringing flavours fromthe past into an elegant, modern setting.

life feature

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THE DISHES SHOWCASE THE SUBTLE BLENDOF TASTE PROFILES THAT ARE A PRODUCT OFA CENTURIES-LONG CULTURAL MESH.

E

ven an unassuming bowl of noodles can provide a window to thepast. Step back in time to a golden era of Hanainese cuisine atColonial Café. This restaurant tells a tale of colonial influence on
local cooking in its flavour-rich menu. Set in The Majestic Hotel
Kuala Lumpur, a carefully restored property originally built in 1932,
Colonial Café serves dishes that reflect Malaysia’s storied history.

When Malaysia was under British rule from the 18th to the mid-20th centuries,
there was an influx of Indian and Chinese migrants seeking employment in the
country’s rubber estates and tin mines. The Hainanese Chinese were among thelast group to migrate here. Opportunities in the mines had become scarce somany found themselves working as cooks in the homes of British colonists. The
cuisine that emerged from this arrangement – Hainanese Chinese chefs using
Malaysian ingredients and flavours to replicate classic British meals – was a wholly
new palate-pleasing innovation.

The ambience reflects the environment in which the recipes were conceived; theluxe mid-century decor complete with plush leather chairs, crisp white tablecloths
and timber panelling that provide the perfect backdrop for a peerless taste of
the past.
For more information, please visit
www.majestickl.com

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Colonial Café
recreates theatmosphere of thehalcyon days of theplanters of Malaya
and offers authentic
classical cuisine fromthe colonial era.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Dishes such as Hainanese Boiled Beef Soup – a fragrant mixture of sirloin, brisket
and back ribs afloat in an Asian-spiced beef broth, garnished with radish andsomen – and Hainanese Chicken Chop, cracker-crumbed deep-fried chickenwith a tangy spiced-onion gravy, showcase the subtle blend of taste profiles thatare a product of a centuries-long cultural mesh. The Hainanese chef who runs
the kitchen takes this rich foundation and gives it his own spin, continuing the
tradition of evolving the cuisine to delicious effect.

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HERITAGE
REVIVAL

The Spa Village at The Majestic Malacca honours
the legacy of the Peranakans with treatments
grounded in their holistic healing arts.
Words DIANA HUBBELL

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GLAZED PORCELAIN TILES, ORNATE WOODCARVINGS AND
OTHER AESTHETIC ACCENTS THROUGHOUT THE SPA PAY
HOMAGE TO CLASSIC BABA-NYONYA STYLE.

Spa Village Malacca is the world’s only spa to base its therapies on the healing heritage of the Baba-Nyonya or Peranakan culture –a unique combination of Chinese and Malay influences.

O

One of the most significant contributions that
the Peranakans brought to Malacca was theirextensive knowledge of traditional Chinese
medicine. For those hoping to experience these
healing traditions in a luxe setting, every elementof Spa Village Malacca draws deeply on the sameancient Peranakan wisdom. The extensive list of46

treatments makes use of indigenous ingredientssuch as lemongrass, pandan, coconut, guava
leaves, galangal and even ground bird’s nest.
Glazed porcelain tiles, ornate woodcarvingsand other aesthetic accents throughout the spa
pay homage to classic Baba-Nyonya style. Upon
entering the serene, light-filled space, guests arewarmly greeted by an attendant. As no two bodies
are quite the same, therapists often suggest abrief consultation to better understand a guest’s
individual needs. A simple questionnaire basedon Chinese traditional medical philosophy helps
establish which of the treatments will restore
balance to the body.
For those who suffer from muscle spasms andbackaches, a nutmeg-rice rolling massage canmake a world of difference.

At one point in the 17th century, nutmeg was morevaluable than gold and a vicious battle broke out
for control of the Banda Islands, a location withnutmeg in abundance. Plenty of nutmeg found its
way into Malacca and the hands of the Peranakans,
who prized it not only for its flavour, but also for
its healing properties.
These Peranakan treatments have been used for
hundreds of years and they continue to act as apotent antidote to the stresses of modern life.
In a sense, Spa Village acts as a living piece ofhistory. By preserving Peranakan heritage, The
Majestic Malacca ensures that their culture will
not be forgotten.
For more information please visit
www.majesticmalacca.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

f all the many cultures that
inhabited Malacca’s cosmopolitan
streets during its peak as aprosperous trading port, thePeranakans, who are also known
as Baba-Nyonya, left a particularly
prominent stamp on the city. Descended from
Chinese immigrants, these affluent traders set up
shop around the region from Penang to Phuket,
Singapore to Indonesia, bringing their distinctive
customs and cuisine along with them.

The enormous treatment rooms give a feeling of spaciousness and peace.

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IN THE
NATURALWORLD

Words MARK LEAN

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Tanjong Jara Resort’s Resident Naturalist
Captain Mokh speaks to YTL Life about preserving
the jungle’s ecosystem and the natural beauty thatsurrounds the award-winning property.

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he Jara Hill walk and Malay herbal
garden visit is led by the resort’s
naturalist Captain Mokh. As partof the popular PURE activities, theafternoon walk, which takes placefrom Monday to Saturday startingat 3.30pm, is an enjoyable and educational way
for guests to learn about the efficacious herbs
and plants popular with locals as well as theirtraditional way of life.
What will guests learn on the nature walk?
The walk is all about experiencing the coastal
rainforest, where most of the flora comprises palm
tree species such as coconut, sea mengkuang, hillmengkuang, lengkap and nibong, all of which arecommonly grown close to the seaside. There arealso hardwood trees such as meranti pasir, kapor,nyatoh, tembusu and dungun (from which thenearest town to the resort gets its name).
Which is your favourite part of the walk?
I find the pathway leading towards the herbal
garden fascinating. Here, one can find thedifferent habitats of flora ranging from resident
plants, migrated plants and mangrove plants.
Would you tell us about the plants grown in
the herbal garden?
Most of the plants grown in the area are the sameplants cultivated by the locals in their gardens at
home. Some of these plants are used for cooking.
These include curry leaf, lemongrass, clove,
pandan, kaffir lime, calamondin lime and varieties
of ginger plants such as red ginger, torch ginger
and galangal, turmeric, king salad (ulam raja),
pennywort (pegaga), betelvine leaf, hana plant
and roselle plants. Tongkat Ali, tea tree, noni
trees, citronella grass, cat whiskers, elephant footand rose cactus can also be found in the garden.
What about the wildlife that inhabits the area?
There are two species of monkey (long-tailed
macaque and leaf monkey), monitor lizards,
iguanas, tree lizards, sand lizards, geckos, snakes,
civet cats and 42 species of birds.

For more information please visit
www.tanjongjararesort.com

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Discover interesting facts about the local flora and fauna stillused by many of the nearby villagers in their daily lives on the
Jara Hill walk and Malay herbal garden visit.

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What makes this walk special?
The beauty of the landscape that melds thebeach with the surrounding area often amazes
guests. There is a lot of greenery, and the plants
close to the seaside look fresh and healthy. It is
gratifying to know that the jungle’s ecosystem isbeing preserved.

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In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, a rooftop bar isserving a menu as vibrant as the location andjust as packed with Malaysian flavour.
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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEMan TaoMagic

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Words MERRITT GURLEY

Chic, intimate, sophisticated and luxurious, Man Tao sets the scene for any celebration
with views across the city and beverage wizards who bring beer mixology to a whole new level.

Tneighbourhood of Jalan Kamunting. Smackin the centre of downtown Kuala Lumpur, thisurban section of the city was once a collectionof wooden buildings that were all destroyed byfire and flooding at the end of the 19th century.
In response to the calamity, the British colonialadministration made sure all future buildings wereconstructed of more durable materials, such as
brick and tile, so the brick shophouse architecture
here is quite distinct.

Pair the dazzling view with the bar’s selection ofcloud-light mantao buns, which are stuffed witha creative mix of fillings that reflect the Malaysian
melting pot. Try the mantao with ayam kunyit(grilled turmeric chicken), cucumber and romaine
lettuce; it is a testament to the power of fusion.

An iconic example is The Row, a restoration of
the Asian Heritage Row, with 22 shophouses
dating back to the 1940s now transformed into
restaurants, cafes, quirky shops and some of thecity’s best art galleries. Hotel Stripes is inspired by
the community’s history, culture and spirit. Man Taosits at its summit, bringing the neighbourhood’s
old-meets-contemporary charm to new heights.

The bar’s eclectic menu and laid-back vibe areright at home in Hotel Stripes and its surrounding

For more information, please visit
www.stripeskl.com

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oast to the high life at Hotel
Stripes’ Man Tao rooftop bar in
the centre of Kuala Lumpur. Thereis a sophisticated ease to this alfresco watering hole, where you
can sample potent cocktails while
you watch the setting sun paint the skyline shadesof pink. Then welcome nightfall with Rose Rose
I Love You – a winning blend of gin, red wine,
Tsingtao, grapefruit, elderflower and egg white– as the city lights surround you, twinkling in thereflection of the sprawling infinity pool.

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Get acquainted with one of Gaya Island
Resort’s best-loved inhabitants, the proboscis
monkeys, which are found solely on Borneo.
Words MATT LEPPARD

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PLIGHTlife featureT

he island of Borneo is a spectacular
jewel in the crown of the world’s
biodiversity paradises. Flora andfauna flourish in the protected
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park,
which provides an oasis of refuge
to some of the world’s most exotic species. Within
the park sits the stunning Gaya Island Resort.

But the noses and bellies serve an important
purpose: the former for visual communication andfor amplifying the vocal honks that signal danger,
and the bellies for housing digestive tracts thatallow the monkeys to break down the cellulose inleaves and to neutralise toxins.

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Gaya Island Resort’s Resident Naturalist takes guests out on the Proboscis Monkey Jungle Trail to the observation platform to try tocatch sightings of these beautiful primates, that happen mostly between April and early July.

Proboscis monkeys have few, if any, natural
predators, and it is humans that pose the biggest
threat to their existence. They are classified as
Endangered on the International Union for theConservation of Nature Red List, with the numberof monkeys having declined sharply over the last

The property boasts the Gaya Island Resort
Wildlife Centre, which offers the Seven Wondersof Gaya, an expedition of immersive ecosystem
experiences. These include wildlife sightings along

CONSERVATION EFFORTS AT THE GAYA ISLAND RESORTWILDLIFE CENTRE FOCUS AROUND PROTECTION OF THE
ISLAND’S PRECIOUS RAINFORESTS.
40 years. Habitat destruction is the biggest threat
to their survival.
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jungle-dense nature trails, a kayak mangrove tour
and educational programmes covering a gamut ofconservation efforts.

Conservation efforts at the Gaya Island Resort
Wildlife Centre focus around protection of theisland’s precious rainforests. And now, the Seven
Wonders of Gaya experience means that guests
can glimpse firsthand these wonderful creatures,
learn about their plight and, importantly, the fightto save them from extinction.

At the core of these are the centre’s efforts topreserve and maintain the habitat and populationsof proboscis monkeys, one of the island’s mostcelebrated inhabitants which are found only on
Borneo. The monkeys, known locally as monyetbelanda – which translates as ‘Dutch monkeys’ –are visually arresting because of their comicallylong noses and potbellies.

For more information, please visit
www.gayaislandresort.com

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the artof spring
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

As morning mists open up to sunny
afternoons, these to-the-moment Boho
chic looks are inspired by the slow life–and elegant afternoon tea.
PHOTOGRAPHY LOCK CHEE WEILOCATION CAMERON HIGHLANDS RESORTSTYLING MAX MAKPolka dot sweater;polka dot palazzo
pants, by MichaelMichael Kors.

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White shirt; pencil skirt, by Calvin Klein.

Black tank top; white linen trouser suit, by Michael Michael Kors.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEWhite chiffon dress with pleatedskirt; tote; sandals, by Dior.

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Model: Claudia D
Make-up: Deidre Chong
Hair stylist: Dylan Boon

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Orange and pink blouse; lace-cut
flared skirt, by Calvin Klein.

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Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali’s School ofLife programme, with its focus on wellness
including delicious healthful meals andrestorative massages, is designed to balancemind and body.

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A Sea of
Calm
Words MARK LEAN

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The resort’s spectacular natural environment,a picture of tranquility, and the graciousness of
its staff, most of whom live in the area, create asetting that encourages contemplation, far fromthe technology-inclined madding crowd. The
School of Life programme nurtures the bodythrough its healthful meals (both non-vegetarianand vegetarian) for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The property is located in Tembok (‘wall’ inIndonesian) that demarcated the territory of a king
who reigned in centuries past. In this secluded
corner of Bali, Spa Village Resort Tembok’s Schoolof Life programme takes place. The five-day/four-night adventure is led by life coach, holistic
practitioner and reiki master Savitri Talahatu.

The resort’s innovative spa treatments (five of
which are included in the School of Life itinerary)utilise garden-grown herbs; fruits, flowers andbotanicals; and a specially selected range ofenergy-building massage techniques which help
to invigorate the body and calm the mind. The
Three Point Supreme massage, for instance, uses
a combination of Indian and Balinese massage
styles. The treatment detoxifies and recalibrates
neural pathways through the therapist’s intuitive
acupressure skills. Then specially drawn nightbaths, including the nurturing mandi susu (‘milk
bath’) with volcanic clay and pandan leaves,guarantees a restful night and peace-filled sleep.

This immersive wellness journey is composed of
one-on-one consultations with Talahatu who thencustom-creates a series of activities that best helps
guests to achieve their goals. These objectives,
unique to each person, may include getting morein tune with one’s innate spirituality throughguided meditation activities, learning to makemore informed dietary choices for good health oreven cultivating a better work-life balance.

A SPECIALLY SELECTED RANGEOF ENERGY-BUILDING MASSAGETECHNIQUES HELP TO INVIGORATE
THE BODY AND CALM THE MIND.

For a total wellness reset, guests enjoy unlimited
servings of herbal teas such as chamomile,
peppermint, lemongrass, ginger and oolong;
nutritious water from freshly plucked coconuts;
and a morning ‘green’ shot of pure extracted
vegetables together with daily yoga classes.

For more information, please visit
www.spavillageresort.com

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ali’s mysterious northeastern coastis known for its black volcanic sand,an ancient fusion of Mount Agungand the Bali Sea. It is with the sandthat a stay at Spa Village Resort
Tembok begins. A known purifier ofnegative energies, the fine carbon-rich grains areused along with vibrant flower petals to cleanse
one’s feet, a ritual every guest at the spa resort istreated to upon arrival. In Balinese belief, the feet
acts as a conduit between the energy of the earth
and the self. Thus, washing the feet is considered
a way of purifying the self of any negativity that
may rise from the earth. This ritual is a perfectprelude to any treatment.

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The School of Life
programme supports
the path to renewal
with an integrated
schedule of healthy
life practices.

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THE
STARS
ALIGNED
MUSE Saint Tropez is a celebration of its
location’s undeniable glamour and sun-kissed
natural beauty.
Words MATT LEPPARDTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life featureThe name Saint Tropez conjures
up evocative images that recall
the golden age of Hollywood
glamour. Prior to its explosion
onto the map with Brigitte Bardot’s
1956 classic And God Created
Woman, the village was the haunt of artists likewriter Françoise Sagan. Stars like Rita Hayworthand Greta Garbo also graced the town with theirpresence and sampled the heady delights of thelocal nightspots.

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These days, those seeking to immerse themselvesin this perfectly storied paradise nestled in theheart of the French Riviera need look no further
than MUSE Saint Tropez. In keeping with thelegendary status of the town, this serene sanctuarypresents 15 well-appointed suites all named after
muses from the film and music worlds who foundinspiration in Saint Tropez.
It is here that guests can discover the Joséphine,named after jazz musician Joséphine Baker, andthe Sophia, following (naturally) Sophia Loren, who
was once a mainstay of the Riviera’s sun-drenchedbeaches. This outstanding suite is blessedwith expansive views of the hotel’s perfectly
manicured gardens. Meanwhile, the Edith, whichtakes its name from Edith Hancke, star of 1964’s
Holiday in St. Tropez, also offers a private bar for
intimate gatherings.
Guests looking for more space might want toconsider the Grace (Kelly) with its library andgarden on one level and spacious bedroom witha private massage area above. Here, the large
balconies offer views over a pine forest and thecerulean sea beyond. The largest suite is the Romy,
named after Romy Schneider, who starred in the1969 classic The Swimming Pool. This impressive
space measures a spacious 130 square metresand boasts two bedrooms, a private garden
with a pool, a private bath salon upstairs and ahuge terrace.
All guests will enjoy the range of upscale amenities
and facilities that the hotel offers, including
a shuttle service to the town to explore its
celebrated history. With a local culture that simply
opens up to immersion and a Mediterranean
climate to boot, who could ask for a more
perfect escape?
For more information please visit
www.muse-hotels.com

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Make a date with film icons such as (from top)
Brigitte Bardot, Romy Schneider and Sophia
Loren at the elegant MUSE Saint Tropez.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

THIS SERENE SANCTUARYPRESENTS 15 WELL-APPOINTEDSUITES ALL NAMED AFTERMUSES FROM THE FILM AND
MUSIC WORLDS.

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Sydney’s bustling waterways and theirubuquitous ferries offer picturesquesightseeing tours of the Harbour andneighbouring districts.
Words M WILSON

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FerriesAcross the
Harbourlife feature

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A short trip across the water will take you toCremorne Point where you can enjoy a lovely
foreshore walk, admiring the gardens, fabulous
vistas and federation architecture. Sophie’s
Lookout provides beautiful views of the harbour.
The ferry to Abbotsford will take you under thebridge and up the idyllic Parramatta River. Enjoya leisurely lunch at the renowned award-winning
Sydney Rowing Club, the oldest rowing club in
New South Wales.
The beachside suburb of Manly has been adraw for Sydneysiders since the 1800s. There isplenty to keep you busy here after the 30-minuteferry ride. Connecting the harbourside wharf tothe famous ocean beach is Corso, a pedestrianmall dotted with surf shops, boutiques, cafésand classic pubs. You could even catch a whalewatching cruise.

The Sydney Ferry will bring you to such iconic landmarks as the Macquarie Lightstation, Australia’s
oldest lighthouse, and the Sydney Rowing Club.
Facing page: Manly Wharf is an oasis of sensory and gastronomic delights
on the Sydney Harbour waterfront.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

ne of the most memorable
activities in Sydney is a ride on
a Sydney Ferry, those ubiquitous
green and yellow vessels thatstill ply the harbour as they havefor more than a century. Manyjourneys of discovery are available right at thedoorstep of the Sydney Harbour Marriott at
Circular Quay, gateway to many iconic attractions
and one of the city’s main transportation hubs. We
explore the five best short Sydney Ferry rides tosoak up that quintessential Sydney experience.
The picturesque Watson’s Bay was first establishedas the oldest fishing village in Australia. The ferry
travels past the city’s east foreshore offering great
views across the harbour. Pick a picnic spot andfeast on the famous fish and chips. Or stroll along
The Gap clifftop to Macquarie Lightstation.
Eclectic Balmain is located to the west of Harbour
Bridge and has terrific dining choices; you
could do a pub crawl or visit Balmain Market
on Saturdays.

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For more information and advice on any of thesejourneys, please see the Concierge at Sydney
Harbour Marriott. Visit marriott.com.au

MANY JOURNEYS OF DISCOVERY ARE AVAILABLE RIGHTAT THE DOORSTEP OF THE SYDNEY HARBOUR MARRIOTTAT CIRCULAR QUAY.
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From left: Threadneedles Hotel, The Academy Hotel, The Gainsborough Bath Spa.

YTL Hotels expands its presence in the United
Kingdom with two additional properties in
London and Berkshire.
Words JUNE MONG-LOFTIN80

YTL HOTELS IS SET TO CREATE MEMORABLESTORIES AND EXPERIENCES WITH ITSUNITED KINGDOM PORTFOLIO OF PROPERTIES.

M

alaysia’s Pangkor Laut Resort
captured the heart of Luciano
Pavarotti when he visited thislegendary gem of an island in
the Straits of Malacca. Since
then, YTL Hotels has become
renowned for its award-winning properties in Asiaand around the world, each of which has been
designed to match the uniqueness of its location
with superior blends of history, culture, nature,conservation, and of course, luxury.

Now, YTL Hotels is set to create similarly
memorable stories and experiences with its United
Kingdom portfolio of properties. From the ancient
Roman-influenced Bath to the capital of Scotland,
the rolling green acres of Berkshire, the dynamic
City of London and London’s glamorous WestEnd, these hotels are handpicked and carefully
curated to offer guests unparalleled luxury
experiences that are historically, aesthetically andemotionally connected to the cities and towns inwhich they are placed.

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HEART OFEMPIRE

Monkey Island Estate, The Glasshouse Hotel Edinburgh.

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THIS CLASSICAL BUILDING OF PORTLAND
STONE WAS BUILT IN 1856 FOR THE CITYBANK LTD, WHOSE LOGO CAN BE SEEN
ON THE STAINED GLASS DOME OVER THE
SPACIOUS LOBBY.

Threadneedles Hotel exudes grandeur in a thoroughly modern way amid the bustle of the
Square Mile.

staycationsin the cityof london

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThis classical building of Portland stone was built
in 1856 for The City Bank Ltd, whose logo can beseen on the stained glass dome over the spacious
lobby. Threadneedles Hotel’s provenance has
links to the Merchant Taylors’ Guild, one of the 12
great livery companies of the City of London from
the Middle Ages. The domed lobby (adjacent82

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he elegant Threadneedles Hotel, an
Autograph Collection Hotel in theCity of London is a well-kept secretamong seasoned travellers. This
19th-century architectural gem has
74 rooms, including two on the top floor with abalcony offering skyline city views.

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THERE IS A LOT TO RECOMMEND STAYING IN POSSIBLY THE
RICHEST SQUARE MILE IN THE WORLD.

ST PAUL’S CATHEDRAL IS A 15-MINUTE WALK AWAY AND
YOU HAVE A CHOICE OF THREE COLOURFUL LONDON
MARKETS IN THE VICINITY.

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There is a lot to recommend staying inpossibly the richest square mile in theworld. It is populated in the working
week with financiers and lawyers,and buzzing with the pulse of global
business. But if you walk down its
streets on a weekend marvelling at thearchitecture, there is quiet and peace.
And amazing room rates for weekend
stays. There is also the Romantic
Package that guests can purchasewhen booking a room, which includes
a bottle of champagne, exquisite PaulFor more information, please visit
www.hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

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Accommodation
at Threadneedles
Hotel is in a palette ofmuted tones, with anemphasis on natural
wood furnishings andsoft lighting.
Facing page, from top:
enjoy champagne andfreshly shucked oysters
at the Champagne bar;
the property sits inthe midst of London’s
financial heart.

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Young chocolates, and rose petals tosurprise a loved one. Its location is rightin the heady mix of the Royal Exchange
and the Bank of England, as well as
the former offices of the East India
Company. You will have no doubt thatyou are staying in what was once theheart of a great empire. After breakfast
on weekends, enjoy a leisurely stroll
around the vicinity. St Paul’s Cathedral
is a 15-minute walk away and you havea choice of three colourful London
markets in the vicinity: Spitalfields,
Leadenhall (a Harry Potter film location)and the foodie Borough Market.

to Marco Pierre White’s in-houserestaurant) is a great place to meetfriends, have a pre-dinner aperitif or
impress a client.

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Eclectic
Museums andthe Bloomsbury
Set

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t the gateway to London’s West End andin the heart of Bloomsbury, The Academy
Hotel, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of
the World, marries Victorian enlightenment
with Edwardian invention. There is possibly
no better collection of museums belonging to singular
gentleman explorers, architects and collectors than the ones
located within a black cab’s ride from The Academy Hotel.
The hotel has 50 freshly renovated guestrooms spread out
over the five Georgian townhouses it occupies, designed by
the celebrated Alexandra Champalimaud with a nod to thebreezy Bloomsbury style of the 1920s and 1930s literary set.

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Situated in the heart of Bloomsbury in London’s West End, The Academy comprises a collection of fiveGeorgian townhouses combined into one charming luxury hotel.

The beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites have been created by the New York-based, award-winningChampalimaud Design, with a contemporary take on townhouse living.

IF YOU CROSS GOWER STREET, THEN
TURN RIGHT ONTO MALET STREET, YOU CAN
BE ONE OF THE SIX MILLION VISITORS TO THE
BRITISH MUSEUM.
of Chinatown and the shops of Covent
Garden. The Academy Hotel is also rightaround the corner from Store Street
where you can find a coffee emporium,
an old school Italian trattoria, a coop supermarket, a Busaba Eathai
restaurant and the College Arms pub,a haunt of students and lecturers.
Breakfast and dinner is served in The
Refectory, while The Alchemy Bar is agreat place to gather for a drink. As you
sip on one of the bartender’s signature
cocktails, cast your mind back to therisqué era of the Bloomsbury set where
they lived in squares, painted in circles
and loved in triangles.

And when you tire of all this scienceand history, there are the musicals of
the West End, the exotic restaurants

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A visitor to London can get up-close
to a bead-net dress from 2400BC
at Petrie Museum, a 10-minute
walk from the hotel, then pop overto the Wellcome Collection to see
Napoleon’s toothbrush before hailinga cab to view an Egyptian sarcophagusof Pharaoh Seti I. And if you crossGower Street, then turn right onto
Malet Street, you can be one of the six
million visitors to the British Museum,created in 1753, the year physician andnaturalist Sir Hans Sloane passed away
and bequeathed his 71,000 objects toa organisation where today, anyone
could view them for free.

For more information, please visit
www.theacademyhotel.co.uk

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THE MONKEY BAR WITH ITS GARDEN TERRACE AND THE
WHISKY SNUG ARE JUST THE SPOTS FOR A DRINK TO CAP AMEMORABLE DINNER.

two Palladian follies on the grounds – a FishingTemple and a Fishing Pavilion for entertaining.
From 1840, this idyll was the haunt of politicians,
aristocrats, singers and writers.
The luxurious Monkey Island Estate, a memberof Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is one of
YTL Hotels’ two recent landmark openings in the
United Kingdom. Guests will once more be able
to enjoy long lazy days in the riverine luxury of
its 27 guestrooms and three suites designed byaward-winning New York-based Champalimaud

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Design. Want more intimate accommodation? Thenchoose from six private residences on the Estate,
three of which were once the stately homes ofcomposer Edward Elgar, Grand Prix racer Stirling
Moss, and Thunderbirds co-creator Sylvia Anderson:
namely Long White Cloud, Brook House and Sundial
Cottage. Design highlights include the cheeky
simian paintings on the ceiling of The Monkey Room.
Besides The Monkey Room and its tongue-in-cheekdecor, there is the Monkey Island Brasserie forlunch, afternoon tea or dinner with menus crafted by
Executive Chef Will Hemming. The Monkey Bar with

its garden terrace and The Whisky Snug are justthe spots for a drink to cap a memorable dinner.
Monkey Island Estate is the ideal base to visit
heritage properties such as Cliveden, Hambledon
Vineyard, Highclere Castle (where the BBC series
Downtown Abbey was filmed), the ornamented
Savill Garden as well as the royal haunts of Ascot,
Windsor and Eton.
For more information, please visit
www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThe British literary doyenne Rebecca
West described Monkey Island as,“a bright lawn set with many walnut
trees and…great chestnuts…and awhite house with a green dome risingin the middle of it…” in her debut novel Returnof the Soldier. West and her lover HG Wells werepart of the glittering social coterie from the turn ofthe past century who were guests at lavish parties
thrown on the eight-acre island. In 1723, Charles
Spencer, third Duke of Marlborough, acquired
the property. He was a keen angler who built

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Georgian
BeautyIt is hard to believe that visitors to Bathhave been coming here for more than
10,000 years for its thermal waters. The
city enjoyed a golden era of about 50 to
60 years as the pre-eminent bath town inEurope for frivolity and cures before the Romanbaths closed. It wasn’t until 2015 when The
Gainsborough Bath Spa opened after extensive
renovations of the former Bellott’s and Royal
Hospital Building, that discerning visitors had areason to return for the waters as private guests.
Within the heritage-listed limestone walls of thishotel with an elegance to match a city famed for
its Royal Crescent, are 99 bedrooms with views ofeither the courtyard or the city.

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Set beneath a
glass atrium, Spa
Village Bath offersa contemporary
perspective on thecity’s thermal
water heritage.

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THE GAINSBOROUGH BATH SPA
IS THE ONLY HOTEL SPA IN THE
UNITED KINGDOM WITH ITS OWN
THERMAL WATER SOURCE.

However, it is not all about bathing rituals if you are a guest;
dining at Dan Moon at The Gainsborough was one of myhighlights the last time I stayed here. Devon-born Daniel
Moon’s love of marrying seasonal produce in an eclectic
fusion menu, supported by a knowledgeable, attentive staff,
made it one of my meals of the season.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThe Ottoman sultans had their Turkish baths, the Moroccans
their hammams, Europe had its Vichy and Baden Baden
but The Gainsborough Bath Spa is the only hotel spa in the
United Kingdom with its own thermal water source. The Spa
Village at the property consists of three pools of different
temperatures, an ice chamber and treatment rooms. I highly
recommend the aquatic body treatments, one of which
combines yoga asanas and tai chi in a thermal water pool.

Originally built in the 1800s, The Gainsborough Bath Spa
occupies two Grade II Listed buildings with distinguished
Georgian and Victorian façades in the heart of the
UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For more information please visit
www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

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The Glasshouse Hotel is a standout among luxury boutique hotels and is considered one of the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

f it is good enough for Meryl Streep andJack White of the White Stripes, it is goodenough for me, I thought. Apart fromthe extra touches like the heated floors
in spacious bathrooms along with equallylarge bathtubs, a duck duvet light as a cloud,immense glass windows with a view of Calton Hill,and a wonderful menu of single malt whiskies inthe bar at The Snug, there was something you
can’t build, design or buy. It is the singularly
friendly, warm and genuine hospitality from the98

youthful, enthusiastic staff at The Glasshouse
Hotel Edinburgh, an Autograph Collection Hotel.
When the city’s weather is less than warm or
sunny sometimes, you can be assured that it willdefinitely be so in the welcome you will receive
here as soon as you arrive.
The neo-gothic facade of the 19th-century church
for Lady Glenorchy is ingeniously fused with amodernist metal-framed glass structure on theeast end of Princes Street. It is not a glass cube

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postmodern meets
neo-gothic

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THE COPPER FIRE PIT IN THE SNUG WHERE YOU CANORDER EXQUISITE WHISKY COCKTAILS IS A GREAT PLACETO BE IN THE WINTER.

building but glass features abound here, ranging
from the grand windows in The Brasserie andthe 77 guestrooms and suites, the semi-glass
staircase, various glass art pieces, and of course
the whisky bottles in The Snug bar. The copper
fire pit in The Snug where you can order exquisitewhisky cocktails is a great place to be in thewinter, and in the spring and summer the hotel

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From top: behind the historic facade is a newly renovated, modern and contemporary lobby; floor-to-ceiling windows offer
dramatic views from nearly every room.
Facing page: The Snug offers a selection of almost 100 exclusive whiskies and a range of indulgent cocktails.

offers picnics on the lawn of the two-acre rooftop
garden planted with juniper and lavender. This
makes The Glasshouse Hotel Edinburgh a hotel
in a city that welcomes visitors at all seasons of
the year.
For more information please visit
www.theglasshousehotel.co.uk

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12 Things to do
in 48 Hours at
Pangkor Laut Resort

Rich in natural wonders that encircle
the luxury property, this island continues
to capture the hearts of royalty,
movie stars and celebrities.

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Words MARK LEAN

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Clockwise from left:
embark on apleasurable
gastronomic journeywith The Chef’s
Kitchen Experience;
Ayurvedic oil therapy
purifies the body byeliminating the vitiatedinner principles ofthe body; uncover
the mysteries of theisland’s spectacularvirgin rainforest on a
guided jungle trek.

12.45PM Pick up cooking tips from the executive
chef and learn from his extensive knowledge of
exotic Asian herbs and spices with The Chef’s
Kitchen Experience. This gastronomic journey
includes a visit to neighbouring Pangkor
Island’s fishery, dried seafood markets, noodle
maker and floating fish farm. Returning to theresort, rejuvenate with a 45-minute Bath House
Experience before beginning your speciallycurated Southeast Asian cooking lesson.
2.30PM Get a personalised consultation with
Spa Village Pangkor Laut’s in-house Ayurvedic
specialist at the Ayurvedic Hut. This is followed bya recommended treatment such as Shiro Dhara,
where prescribed herbal oil is continuously poured
over the forehead along with the application of
medicated oil on the body to encourage an allenveloping sense of relaxation.

GET A PERSONALISED CONSULTATION WITH SPA VILLAGE PANGKORLAUT’S IN-HOUSE AYURVEDIC SPECIALIST AT THE AYURVEDIC HUT.

SIGN UP FOR THE RESORT’S COMPLIMENTARY YOGA CLASS, HELD ON
THE SPA VILLA DECK.
8.31AM Sign up for the resort’s complimentaryyoga class, held on the Spa Villa deck. With thewaters of the Straits of Malacca lapping below,
the invigorating session refreshes the mind
and energises the body. It is suitable for both
beginners and experienced yogis.

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From above:
Feast Village also
features a patisserie,café, chef’s table andwine cellar where
guests can purchasewines of their choice;regain physical andmental harmony byexploring the resort’s
yoga morning sessions
amid the fresh ocean
breeze and soothingsound of the waves.

9.40AM After working up an appetite, dig into thevast selection of buffet offerings at Feast Village.
Dine on staple dishes from the Asian kitchen, suchas piping hot noodles made a la minute, as well as
Continental favourites including tasty varieties ofcheese and pastries baked fresh.
10.35AM Step into a two-million-old rainforest on
one of Pangkor Laut Resort’s nature walks. Learn
from the resident naturalist about the species ofplant and animal life that inhabit the area. Guests
have options of a short 500-metre walk or a longer,
more immersive 2,400-metre walk.

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4.35PM Soak up some sun or read a book on theworld-famous Emerald Bay with its clear waters
and fine white sand.
7.10PM Romance is the order of the evening witha private candlelit dinner for two and a bespokemenu featuring dishes such as barbecued lobster.
The evening setting is like no other as you andyour partner have for your personal enjoyment,
the glittering stars above and the calming soundsof waves on the shore.
9.35AM Morning is the ideal time to energise themind and body with a tai chi quan session, which
is aimed to revitalise the body’s energy channels
and organs.
11.50AM Join the pool scene at The Royal Bay
Beach Club with its stunning infinity pool. For
lunch, dine on a selection of tasty Asian andWestern dishes, and test the bartender’s skills
as he creates signature cocktails to liven up an
already beautiful afternoon.

Emerald Bay is theplace to go if you’d
like to spend somequality time withyourself or a loved
one, or to take partin a morning
tai chi quan session.

SOAK UP SOME SUN OR READ A BOOK ON
THE WORLD-FAMOUS EMERALD BAY WITH ITS CLEAR WATERS AND FINE
WHITE SAND.

3.55PM Indulge in a pre-treatment Bathhouse
Ritual that comprises a footbath and footpounding; a Malay ‘circulating’ bath; a Japanesegoshi-goshi cloth cleansing followed by a dip
in a warm Rotenburu pool; and completed witha Shanghai Scrub. It is now time to enjoy Spa
Village Pangkor Laut’s signature Campur-Campur
treatment. Marrying Malay and Thai massage
techniques, the treatment indulges the senses
with touch, tone and aromatherapy as whiffs oflemongrass and pandan leaves, placed in herbal
pouches and applied along the body, fill the air.

Clockwise fromtop left:Spa Village BathHouse; Royal Bay
Beach Club;
Chinese lime chicken,
a signature dish at
Uncle Lim’s Kitchen;a sunset cruise.

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7.45PM Named after a chef who has been withthe resort since it opened, Uncle Lim’s Kitchen
serves authentic Hockchew dishes, a variationof Chinese cuisine prepared with ingredientsand products popular among the sea-faring
Chinese communities that live in the area. For amemorable dinner, taste some of the restaurant’s
standout dishes.

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6.45PM No stay at Pangkor Laut Resort is complete
without witnessing the sunsets the island is known
for. Join the resort’s Sunset Cruise – with a glassof wine in hand – and take in the beautiful vistas.

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This luxurious resort is set on a private
tropical island on the Straits of Malacca.
Villas either fringe the hillside or are gracefullybalanced on stilts over water. An award-winning
Spa Village offers world-class treatments
derived from Chinese, Indian and Malay healing
traditions.

Tanjong Jara Resort on the east coast ofPeninsular Malaysia embodies the essence of
Malay culture and traditions. Facing the South
China Sea and surrounded by the lush green
beauty of the local countryside, Tanjong Jara
Resort reveals a quieter but equally attractiveside to Malaysia.

Evoking the splendour, the romance and thenostalgia of one of Malaysia’s oldest hill
stations and its grand colonial heritage,
Cameron Highlands Resort with its luxurious
rooms and award-winning Spa Village is the bestplace to take in the area’s rolling hills, tea
plantations, rose gardens and strawberry farms.

www.pangkorlautresort.com

www.tanjongjararesort.com

www.cameronhighlandsresort.com

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Set within Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park,
Gaya Island Resort is a jewel located off thecapital of Sabah, Kota Kinabalu. Golden sandy
beaches and crystal-clear waters teemingwith marine life are compelling attractions,while its Spa Village offers opportunities tosample authentic Borneo-inspired healing andwellness therapies.
www.gayaislandresort.com

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Located in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle
business district, this stylish luxury hotel isconveniently positioned for upscale shopping,dining and entertainment. It is home to an awardwinning spa, and gourmands will be delighted by
the indulgent Afternoon Tea experience as well
as Li Yen’s stellar Cantonese cuisine.

ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

ritzcarlton.com/kualalumpur

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Located along Bukit Bintang Road at the heartof Kuala Lumpur, JW Marriott is ideal forbusiness and leisure travellers. With world-class
shopping malls nearby, this conveniently locatedhotel with its extensive range of facilities is oneof the city’s finest.

jwmarriottkualalumpur.com

Hotel Stripes is the second Autograph Collection
hotel in Malaysia. It combines a modern vibe andhistorical references to its location, one of
Kuala Lumpur’s oldest neighbourhoods. With
contemporary guestrooms and suites, the hotel
is a convenient base to explore the Malaysian
capital’s many attractions.

www.stripeskl.com

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Nestled within the embrace of a private sun-kissed
bay, The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui is surroundedby
oceanfront
beautyandquintessential
experiences that artfully reflect the Samui wayof life. This makes the beautiful property an
ideal setting to embark on wellness programmes,
cultural immersions or culinary journeys.

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Black volcanic sand, the majestic Mount Agung,the deep blue of the Indian Ocean and the mysticalBalinese way of life come together in style at Spa
Village Resort Tembok, Bali. Located in the northof the island, the resort is a haven of wellness,where guests can enjoy all the benefits andpleasures of spa life in tranquil surroundings.

Regarded as the cradle of Malaysian history,
Malacca in its heyday was a port-city that welcomed
spice traders, sultans and warriors. Soak up the
magic and the history at The Majestic Malacca,
the city’s finest hotel, built in the 1920s, andfurbished with interiors indicative of the city’s
rich culture.

Fully restored to its former glory, this elegant
1930s property marries history with world-classhospitality. Dining options include Hainanesefavourites at Colonial Café as well as aninteractive dining experience at Contango, while
the rooms are a blend of contemporary style andold-world finesse.

www.thesurinphuket.com

www.spavillageresort.com/tembokbali

www.majesticmalacca.com

www.majestickl.com

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Situated on Pansea Beach, one of Phuket’s
most private stretches of sand, The Surin
offers a perfect slice of Thai beach life. The
cottages and suites are built into a carefully
conserved landscape. From sumptuous cuisine towatersports, The Surin combines idyllic tropicalcharm with the warmth of Thai hospitality.

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This former Victorian bank has been transformed
into a discreet, boutique-style hotel, crowned byan elegant stained glass dome, an unexpected findin the city’s heart. The hotel exudes grandeur in athoroughly modern way, while service is polished; it’salso unpretentious amid the bustle of Square Mile.

Situated in Bloomsbury, The Academy Hotel
London comprises a collection of five Georgian
townhouses combined into one charming luxury
hotel. This rejuvenated 50-guestroom/suite
boutique hotel juxtaposes timeless glamour anda contemporary take on townhouse living.

Monkey Island Estate is located on a picturesqueisland in the River Thames in the historic villageof Bray, Berkshire. Set across seven acres, theproperty features 27 exquisite guestrooms andthree sumptuous suites, designed by the awardwinning New York-based Champalimaud Design.

www.theglasshousehotel.co.uk

www.hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

www.theacademyhotel.co.uk

www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThis luxury boutique hotel is considered one of
the best places to stay in Edinburgh, with cosy
contemporary interiors, warm Scottish service
and consistently spectacular views of the city
centre and Calton Hill from the hotel’s twoacre rooftop garden.

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www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

A glamorous and private hideaway in the southof France, MUSE Saint Tropez is all about thehigh life. Located in Ramatuelle and surroundedby forests of umbrella pines, this boutiqueproperty features just 15 suites, each of whichis named after famous ‘muses’. Make the hotel
your base to explore the sights, the sounds andthe delights of the Riviera.
www.muse-hotels.com

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An authentic Japanese machiya architectural setting interweaves the modern and the traditional
in a genteel village environment. Niseko Village offers shopping and dining options aplenty. Mere
moments from award-winning hotels, residences and lifts, its slopeside location allows for seamless
ski-in, ski-out access.

www.niseko-village.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThe Gainsborough Bath Spa offers the only
natural thermal spa within a hotel in the UK.
The hotel is a moment’s stroll from BathAbbey, the high street stores on Milsom Street
and the Roman Baths, which makes it a choicelocation from which to explore the city and its
nearby attractions.

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The Eastern & Oriental Express epitomises the
grandeur, luxury and romance of rail travelfrom a bygone era. Journey amid the trappingsof old-world opulence across three countries,
through the entire length of Peninsular
Malaysia, on a route connecting the Southeast
Asian metropolises of Singapore and Bangkok.

www.feastvillage.com

www.ytlhotels.com

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The Spa Villages celebrate the healing culture of the region in which each is built. Each spa village
has its own character and authenticity, honouring local healers and traditions that have been
passed down the generations.
PANGKOR LAUT I TANJONG JARA I KUALA LUMPUR I CAMERON HIGHLANDS I MALACCAGAYA ISLAND I TEMBOK, BALI I

HANGZHOU I BATHI

STARHILL I KOH SAMUI

www.spavillage.com

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Feast Village at Starhill Gallery is the first of
its kind in Malaysia. It offers unparalleled dining
experiences featuring 13 upscale restaurants
with an exotic array of cuisines ranging from
Asian to Mediterranean. The laneways of therustic Village and its ‘Time Tunnel’ take diners
on journeys of sensorial discovery.

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Each Australian Marriott hotel is situated within the central business district of its city andideally positioned to serve business and leisure travellers. The 563-room Sydney Harbour Marriott
is set in the heart of Circular Quay, overlooking the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The 186room Melbourne Marriott is close to the city’s theatre precinct, shopping districts and Chinatown.
Brisbane Marriott, with 263 rooms and four suites, is placed between Brisbane’s CBD and theFortitude Valley hub, close to shopping, riverside dining and the city’s commercial district andcultural attractions.

Embrace the new Vistana vibes in three choice locations across Malaysia. Experience friendly,
efficient service, be it at check-in or departure. The comfortable rooms come with practical amenities
that are suited to work or relaxation, plus there is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Relax
at Barista, the 24-hour coffee bar, and adjacent communications centre, Hub 247, for a quick
business breakfast, or sit down to fresh hot meals at Cafe. Vistana Hotels is always welcoming,
always connected.

www.vistanahotels.com
marriott.com

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EVERY LANDSCAPE, TIMELESSEVERY CULTURE, AUTHENTIC
EVERY EXPERIENCE, UNIQUEWE T A K E YOU
ON HOLI D A Y(AN D EVE RYWHE RE E LS E )SPA VILLAGE GAYA ISLAND
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SPA VILLAGE TANJONG JARASPA VILLAGE CAMERON HIGHLANDSSPA VILLAGE PANGKOR LAUT

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Extraordinary encounters, unique healing practices, bespoke services. Anchored in the principle of honouring the healing culture of the region
with modern approaches to health and well-being, Spa Village is more than just a place...it is a philosophy. For a private consultation, pleasecontact the YTL Hotels Travel Centre at +60 3 2783 1000 or email travelcentre@ytlhotels.com to handcraft your experience.

LUXURY SPAS BY YTL HOTELS

w w w.y t l h o t e l s . c o mwww.spavillage.com