TREASURED PLACES,TREASURED MOMENTS

renewedelegance

the house of
the rising sun

the other sideof bathThe refreshed Li Yen at
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur

Hinode Hills in Niseko Village
brings new skiing luxury

Insider secrets at
The Gainsborough Bath Spa

POIS MOI & CLASSIQUE PARISIENNE COLLECTIONS | robertocoin.com

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

life events

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YTL Hotels and Marriott Internationalsign agreements to expand theirportfolio of Malaysian hotels.

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E&O Express partners with Save Wild
6KIGTUVQETGCVGCOGOQTCDNGCTVƂNNGF
journey from Thailand to Singapore.

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Experience unique his and hers
Nyonya-inspired spa treatments only
available at The Majestic Malacca.

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Hinode Hills sets new levels of luxury inthe ski paradise that is Niseko Village,
Japan, offering ski-in and -out access to
Mount Niseko-Annupuri’s famed trails.

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life feature26

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life style

A smorgasbord of east coast delights
awaits at Tanjong Jara Resort’s
evening bazaar Taste of Terengganu.

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The beautiful Emerald Bay at
Pangkor Laut Resort promises
leisurely afternoons of sun,sea and sand.

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Unwind to the tune of a carefully
crafted drink and live acoustic musicat Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur’s
Man Tao Bar every alternate Saturday.

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The ultimate island getaway of
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samuihas everything you need for aromantic escapade.

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At Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali,spotting majestic dolphins from awooden boat called a jukong provides
an unforgettable experience.

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Monkey Island Estate is a couple’s
paradise, with many secluded spots
primed for romantic moments on theseven-acre private island.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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Retrace famed actress
Dame Judi Dench’s Wild Borneo
Adventure at Gaya Island Resort witha special seven-night experience.

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The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’saward-winning Chinese restaurant
Li Yen relaunches with renewed
elegance and new Hong Kong and
Chiu Chow specialities.

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur
welcomes a new chapter in its long
history of celebrations – The Canopy.

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Cameron Highlands Resort’s
cool weather makes it ideal for a
spot of afternoon tea, Sunday roast
or gourmet hot pot.

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The Hague Marriott has played hostto an array of important meetings andevents, thanks to its attentive staff andworld-class amenities.

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Explore the famous literaryneighbourhood of Bloomsbury andits heritage of British authors andintellectuals with The Academy’s
Writer’s Walk.

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Pay tribute to Scotland’s national poet
Robert Burns at The Glasshouse withpoetry, whisky and haggis.

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Threadneedles’ Dome Lounge is theideal place in London to partake in thequintessential English afternoon tea.

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Uncover the secrets of Bath beyond its
top attractions, all within easy reach of
The Gainsborough Bath Spa.

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Embark on an epic road trip to
the Great Ocean Road from
Melbourne Marriott, set in the heart of
the CBD.

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life moments

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

The Westin Perth’s thoughtfully
designed spaces marry inspirationsof Western Australia’s beauty withcosmopolitan sensibilities.

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JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur is close toa wide range of the city’s most
exciting food destinations, cultural
attractions, famed sights andentertainment venues.

94+PFWNIGKPICUVTQPQOKECNƂPFUacross three spectacular locations atSydney Harbour Marriott Hotel.

portfolio of life98

The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui’s
Spa Village celebrates the vibrant
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The world of YTL Hotels.

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a note from tan sri ( dr ) francis yeoh
EDITOR-IN-CHIEFKENNETH TAN (k.tan@imv.com.sg)

EDITORIALI

Editor TIEN CHEW (t.chew@imv.com.sg)
Chief Sub-Editor JACQUELINE DANAM

ART
Project Art Director REBECCA CHEW
Junior Art Director PENN EY CHEE
Designer ELLYN YEO
Picture Editor KENNY NGUYENCONTRIBUTORSCHRISTOPHER TUCK, DANIEL LEE, GWEN ONG, JASON TAN,
JUNE MONG-LOFTIN, RENYI LIM, SHALINI YEAP, TAN JYY WEIPRODUCTION
Production Director ANNA TSIRELNIKOVAPrepress FAR EAST OFFSET
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)

PUBLISHED BY

PRODUCED BY

YTL HOTELS & PROPERTIES SDN BHD
8th Floor, Yeoh Tiong Lay Plaza
55 Jalan Bukit Bintang
55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

INDOCHINE MEDIA VENTURES SDN BHD
B-7-13A, Gateway Kiaramas
1 Jalan Desa Kiara
50480 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEPRESIDENTMICHAEL VON SCHLIPPE

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powder snow is found, our premier skiing destination– Niseko Village – welcomes its newest addition to thefamily. The highly anticipated luxury apartment hotel
Hinode Hills occupies a prime position, offering direct
ski-in ski-out access to Mount Niseko-Annupuri’s
famed trails, as well as a host of ski services available at theproperty. Strategically located adjacent to the Upper Village
Gondola, it provides the convenience of mobility around themountain with easy lift access. At Hinode Hills, we are delighted
to offer guests a truly integrated and seamless experience. Aspart of the Niseko Village resort, guests will enjoy a wide variety
of diverse dining and retail venues, world-class facilities andindoor and outdoor attractions.
Over in Australia, lazy days by the beach, delicious barbecues
and the great outdoors, beckon. Take a road trip from theMelbourne Marriott to The Great Ocean Road in a convertible,
or perhaps indulge in a night of gastronomy at the Sydney
Harbour Marriott’s chef-hatted Silvester’s. At The Westin Perth,
you may luxuriate in the hotel’s stylish award-winning aesthetics,
with its inviting contemporary interiors recalling Western
Australia’s diverse natural landscape.
Equally exciting experiences are found across our portfolio of
Malaysian properties. The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur welcomesa refreshed Li Yen, the award-winning Chinese restaurant of 22
years which now boasts an exquisite redesign, reminiscent ofa gracefully blossoming garden. The restaurant continues to
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collection of authentic Chinese classics curated in harmony
with the seasons. At the private island getaway that is Pangkor
Laut Resort, the secluded Emerald Bay promises sun, sea andromantic candlelit dinners framed by kaleidoscopic sunsets.
Should your travel itinerary take you eastwards, you may retrace
Dame Judi Dench’s Wild Borneo Adventure at Gaya Island
Resort in Sabah where she explored the wonderful marine life
off the shores of the tropical island and took great interest in
our conservation programmes on land and sea.
We look forward to welcoming you to a YTL Hotels
property soon.

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life events

growingstrong
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of AC Hotels – Craig Smith, Dato' Mark Yeoh
and Rajeev Menon.
$GNQYVJGQHƂEKCNUKIPKPI
ceremony of Moxy KL Chinatown and
JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur’s extension.
Facing page: Moxy KL.

marriott international and ytl hotels
sign agreements for new developments inkuala lumpur, malaysia.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

An extension of the Happening Hotel – JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur– and a new development – Moxy KL Chinatown – are currently indevelopment after an agreement between Marriott International
and YTL Hotels. “Our 24-year relationship strengthens witheach deal and there are certainly more in the pipeline. We haveimmense commitment and dedication to make an even greater
mark on the world when it comes to Malaysian hospitality,” said Dato’ Mark Yeoh,
YTL Hotels’ Executive Director. The new Moxy KL Chinatown will feature 368 chic
CPF EQPVGORQTCT[ TQQOU DCTU CPF NQWPIGU C UYKOOKPI RQQN ƂVPGUU EGPVTG CPFmeeting rooms catered to young travellers. JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur, on the other
hand, will see the addition of 162 rooms, making for a grand total of 740 rooms after
completion. YTL Hotels and Marriott International will also introduce AC Hotels for
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across the country – Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kuantan. The urban lifestyle brandembraces European design and style.

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all aboard thetiger express
the eastern & oriental express
teams up with save wild tigers to create
a memorable art-inspired journey.

Above: Jacky Tsai, Ping Coombes, Victoria Tang-Owen, Simon Clinton,
Kim Jones, Mel Blatt and Jaime Winstone.
Facing page: Tiger Express crossing the River Kwai Bridge.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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uxury train Eastern & Oriental Express partnered with the global
charity initiative Save Wild Tigers to create Tiger Express,
YKVJ VYQ ECTTKCIGU IKXGP C VKIGT ƃCKT D[ $TKVKUJ%JKPGUG CTVKUVJacky Tsai. The artist, who created Alexander McQueen’s iconicƃQTCNUMWNNWUGFCFGUKIPVJCVHWUGFVTCFKVKQPCN'CUVGTPCTVKUVKE
techniques with Western imagery, creating an original style that
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over six days, visiting the River Kwai Bridge, Kuala Kangsar and the Lion City,GPFKPIYKVJCPCTVCWEVKQPD[6UCKCPFC;6.*QVGNUJQUVGFCTVGZJKDKVKQPQH
 RJQVQU HTQO VJG '[G QP VJG 6KIGT GZJKDKVKQP JGNF CV 4Q[CN #NDGTV *CNN KP
London in 2018.

life on the cover

house of therising sun
hinode hills, niseko village’s
latest luxury hotel addition, offers
direct ski-in and -out access to some of
the world’s most breathtaking
powder slopes.
Words by TIEN CHEW

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Hinode Hills’ Lobby Lounge provides welcome respite
after skiing on the world-famous slopes.
Facing page: immerse yourself in therapeutic waters at the hotel’s in-house onsen.

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STAY
At the base of Mount Niseko-Annupuri lies new luxury
accommodation. Named Hinode Hills in homage to the risingsun (‘hinode’ means ‘sunrise’), this 79-room hotel has beenEQPƂIWTGF VQ QHHGT FKTGEV UMKKP CPF QWV CEEGUU VQ 0KUGMQVillage’s famed trails. The property is strategically locatedadjacent to the Upper Village gondola, providing guests witheasy lift access around the mountainside. Hinode Hills realises

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the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy in aesthetics, where one
discovers an organic beauty in imperfections and the wisdomof nature. The result is an elegant setting that is contemporary
yet retains an authentic Japanese charm.
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one-, two- or three-bedroom suites – all providing picturesqueviews of the beautiful Niseko countryside. Room sizes range fromthe 38-square-metre deluxe room to a sprawling 148-squaremetre three-bedroom suite. Each bedroom has its own en-suitebathroom. Suites include living, dining and kitchen spaces forguests looking for a home away from home, complete with adishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer. All rooms are
CNUQGSWKRRGFYKVJJKIJURGGFYKTGNGUU+PVGTPGVJKIJFGƂPKVKQPTV and Bluetooth music speakers.
At Hinode Hills, the wide range of on-site amenities includes
an in-house onsen, restaurant, lobby lounge with featureƂTGRNCEG ECT RCTM CPF EQORNKOGPVCT[ UEJGFWNGF UJWVVNG
transfers to Hirafu and Kutchan. For a fee, overnight ski andsnowboard waxing services, in-room physiotherapy and childminding services can be provided. For those partial to cooking,
Hinode Hills can provide a fully stocked kitchen throughout
your stay. Should you like to venture beyond Niseko Village,the 24-hour concierge will assist with ground arrangements andsightseeing tours.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

here’s something magical about Niseko
Village, Japan’s premier ski paradise which
attracts domestic and international travellers
by the droves. As the snows fall on the slopes,
the skiing cognoscenti head for the allure of
Niseko’s tailored trails, snowpacks, naturally
formed halfpipes and white forest glades. In winter, every climb
and descent on Mount Niseko-Annupuri (1,308 metres) offers
stunning views of the dormant neighbouring volcano Mount
Yotei, Hokkaido’s equivalent of Mount Fuji.
The greater Niseko United area – of which Niseko Village isa part – boasts 2,191 acres of skiable terrain. Here, some of thelightest and driest snow in the world can be found, originatingfrom snow clouds transported by the Eurasian continent’s
seasonal winds and warm currents off the Sea of Japan.

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life on the coverlife on the cover

PLAY
There’s much to do at Niseko Village. First-timers and thoseneeding a refresher in all things ski- and snowboard-related
may head to Niseko Village Snow School for private lessons.
The little ones aren’t left out either with the Niseko Kids Snow
School tailored to provide daycare and ski lessons to children
aged one to six.
Niseko Village is part of Niseko United – a veritablewonderland of four interlinked resorts. This skiing mecca isspread out across 48 kilometres of groomed slopes, 70 runs,
29 lifts and gondolas, 11 gates to the backcountry and an
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Niseko Village’s carved trails cater to beginner, intermediate
and advanced skiers and snowboarders, all directly accessible
from Hinode Hills. Beginners are able to ski on certain bends
and inclinations named after staple Japanese foods: the short
250m Jagaimo (potato) decline, the 500m Konbu (edible kelp)
tilt at the top, and the longer yet gentler 850m Misoshiru
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deep plunge that is Namara (Hokkaido dialect for ‘extreme’)and the cheekily named 250m Don’t Blink dip to get theadrenaline pumping.
While skiing may take up a majority of your winter vacationin Niseko Village, Hinode Hills’ concierge can arrange for
equally stimulating alternatives. Explore the pristine mountainon a fast-paced snowmobile tour or subscribe to a morelaidback view on the back seat of a snow raft. You may also
opt to be whisked across the shimmering snow on a reindeerled sled or embark on a guided snowshoe tour.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINERESTFor après-ski relaxation, take a cue from the Japanese andhead to the hotel onsen to let the warm mineral-rich waters
rejuvenate your aching muscles. Guests of Hinode Hills may
also avail themselves of the onsen at neighbouring Hilton
Niseko Village and The Green Leaf Niseko Village, both with
their respective charms. The Hilton’s is the more modern of
the two, with two bathing areas: an indoor bath on the upper
level and a spacious outdoor bath. The Green Leaf’s, on theother hand, is more traditional, set against boulders and pinetrees covered by snow. In a nation with approximately 30,000
onsen, there’s plenty to explore, with a tour of famous local
hot springs via scheduled shuttle bus transfers originatingfrom The Green Leaf from December to March.
For a more hands-on experience, there’s Wakka Spa at
the Hilton, which has achieved a top 10 placing among spas
in Japan. The spa’s name is derived from the native Ainu
language meaning ‘water’ and specialises in relaxing therapies
and massages as well as beauty and facial treatments. The
beauty of Hinode Hills is that guests may cross-sign andcharge therapies and their meals at either The Green Leaf or
Hilton in Niseko Village to their own accounts.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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Cosy up with a book and a coffee in a
one-bedroom suite while you soak inthe surrounding beauty.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

RELAX
Hokkaido’s famed produce and ingredients take centre stage
at the village – a collection of restaurants, bars and designer
boutiques which forms the social nexus of this destination.
Dine on the freshest seafood at The Crab Shack, named forits prominent marketplace display and restaurant vibe which
imitates a Hokkaido boathouse. Here, grilled or steamed
Japanese snow crabs and juicy scallops from nearby waters
are served alongside the local delicacy – jingisukan (Gengkhis
Khan) – a grilled lamb dish with meat so fresh you eat it rare,with an array of vegetables and a dipping sauce of soy, fruits
and garlic.
Another must-try Hokkaido speciality is soup curry – a heartybroth of herbs and spices cooked with meat and vegetables.
At Two Sticks, the village’s modern izakaya, this local staple
receives a sub-continental twist, with Indian spices infused into a
mixture of local potatoes, eggplant, peppers, pumpkin, mizuna
leaf and egg in the creation of its tandoori chicken soup curry.
Miso ramen – which originated from the island of Hokkaido andis now famous the world over – and yakitori skewers, paired witha glass of hot sake, are also fantastic options.
Yang Shu Ten, a casual family restaurant serving classic
Japanese fare, is your best bet for all things sushi, sashimi,
tempura and teppanyaki. Multi-course meals are a speciality
here, giving you a culinary snapshot of produce from thelocal terroir.
Retail therapy is also available in the form of Boot Solutions
and Otaru Taisho Glass Palace. The former sells an extensive
range of ski- and snowboard-related merchandise, and also
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footwear. The latter is equipped with intricate glassworks
that hail from the nearby port city of Otaru, which turned tomastering glassware after the herring industry declined in
the 1950s.
For a dose of local art, two destinations – The Green Leaf
Niseko Village and Hilton Niseko Village – provide creative
insight. Sapporo-based artist Emi Shiratori’s hand-drawn
graphic murals, inspired from the natural beauty of the region,
grace the rooms and public spaces of The Green Leaf. At the
Hilton, the Hokkaido Art Gallery in the lobby displays uniquely
designed products from local skilled craftsmen, supportedwith art events throughout the year.

For more information, please visit www.hinodehills.com

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life featureof timelessness
and grandeur

Words by SHALINI YEAP27

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

introducing the canopy, a new chapter inthe majestic hotel kuala lumpur’s long
history of celebrations.

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For more information, please visit www.majestickl.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

ew places know how to host a celebration orthrow a party quite like The Majestic Hotel
Kuala Lumpur. Its long list of events, dating all theway back to 1932, is testament to this reputation.
For generations, the iconic building has
witnessed many a celebration, each spectacularin its own right. The opening of its glamorous Roof Garden
event space, The Canopy, marks another chapter in a longstanding history of celebrations done right.
Bathed in natural light on Level 4 of the Tower Wing,
the versatile and highly customisable venue overlooks thebeautiful historical mile of Kuala Lumpur with the city’s classic
landmarks. The sheer elegance of the entire space – from
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shades of cream – renders it perfect for weddings, parties
and gala receptions. Beyond its air of sophistication, it isalso technologically equipped to host corporate meetings,
conferences and product launches.
Here, the unrivalled attention to detail that is synonymouswith The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is a given, down to theƃQTCNUGNGEVKQPU#HVGTCNNYJCVKUCEGNGDTCVKQPYKVJQWVDGCWVKHWNDNQQOUVQEQOOGOQTCVGVJGQEECUKQP!9QTMKPIYKVJƃQTKUVUYJQVCMGITGCVRTKFGKPGXGT[ETGCVKQPVJGƃQYGTUHQTGCEJGXGPVwill be customised to the most exacting brief, staying true to the
JQVGNoUTGRWVCVKQPQHEQOKPIWRYKVJNGIGPFCT[ƃQTCNFKURNC[UThe Canopy can comfortably seat between 50 and 200 guests
with seating options from theatre, banquet and classroom tocluster. Guests will be served an array of exceptional cuisine
VJCVGPVKEGUVJGUGPUGUVJTQWIJVJGƃCXQWTUQHEQNQPKCN/CNC[C# DGURQMG EQNQPKCNKPURKTGF OGPW KPƃWGPEGF D[ JKUVQT[ CPFan East-West mix of palates can be crafted to suit any need;presented in this charming venue it is truly the icing on the cake.
When it comes to hosting a celebration, The Majestic Hotel
Kuala Lumpur’s approach is akin to weaving an intricate tapestry.
Each detail, from the hospitality and decor to culinary delights
CPFƃQYGTUKUCPKORQTVCPVVJTGCFCPFVQIGVJGTVJG[HQTOCTKEJ
tapestry of unforgettable moments. This commitment enables
guests to focus on what truly matters – enjoying the celebrations
worry-free and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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taste
of terengganu
tanjong jara resort’s weekly
friday feast showcases terengganu’ssoul foods in the lively mannerof a night bazaar.
Words by DANIEL LEE

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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KEGRCEMGFYKVJEQTPRGCPWVUTGFDGCPUCPFLGNN[sRTQXKFGUCUYGGVGPFKPIVQCUWORVWQWUHGCUV(QTOQTGKPHQTOCVKQPRNGCUGXKUKVwww.tanjongjararesort.com

Photographs by Soo Phye.

Nasi minyak IJGGƃCXQWTGFTKEG YKVJCPCUUQTVOGPVQHFKUJGU(CEKPIRCIGICOGNCPOWUKEUGVUVJGOQQF

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life featureseasidebliss

emerald bay, nestled at one endof the private island getaway that ispangkor laut resort, offers a havenof powder-fine sand, glistening waters
and a two-million-year-old rainforest.
Words by TIEN CHEW

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life feature

life featureSerenity comes in the form of Emerald Bay, a slice ofbeach heaven situated on the western shore of the
300-acre private island that is Pangkor Laut Resort.
With its breathtaking view of the Straits of Malacca,
you are afforded all the pleasure in the world toenjoy a truly peaceful holiday.
Only paces away from the beach lies Chapman’s Bar, named
for the heroic British colonel-cum-naturalist Spencer Chapman,
known for behind-enemy-lines exploits on the island during
World War Two. To honour his memory, Pangkor Laut Resort
organises an annual race called The Chapman’s Challenge,
encompassing a 3.8-kilometre road run, a 2.4-kilometre sprint
through the rainforest and a one-kilometre swim around Emerald
Bay’s shimmering waters. For a more relaxing immersion into
Mother Nature, guests may join the resident naturalist who will
guide them through the bay’s adjacent rainforest in search of
long-tailed macaques and oriental pied hornbills.
Open from 11 in the morning until eight in the evening,
Chapman’s Bar serves a mix of casual Asian and Westernspecialities. There’s the option to dine al fresco at tables inthe shade, though the most popular choice for many are thetables on the inviting beachfront. Order Kaliamas’ banana leaf
rice curry for a taste of Malaysia, a hearty meal featuring a
selection of curries, rice, vegetables, and pickles named after
the resort’s veteran chef who has served in its kitchens for two
decades, right up till today. Other crowd pleasers include a\GUV[UGCHQQFRCFVJCKCP'PINKUJUV[NGDGGHDWTIGTCPFƂUJand chips made using freshly caught local sea bass. To beat
the heat, Chapman’s Mango Mania – fresh mango, coconut
ice cream, toasted coconut and passion fruit sauce – provides
CHTQUV[ƃCXQWTHWNTGNKGH
To experience Emerald Bay’s natural splendour more
intimately, private dining experiences are available on request.
Couples looking for a romantic escapade will appreciate theƂXGEQWTUGUGCHQQFUWPUGVFKPPGTQPVJGDGCEJYKVJCPGCTD[DQPƂTGCPFVKMKVQTEJGUUGVVKPIVJGUEGPG

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

For more information, please visit www.pangkorlaut.com

Photographs by Soo Phye.

#DQXGƂUJCPFEJKRUBelow: Mango Mania sundae.
Facing page: Kaliamas’ banana leaf rice curry.

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A

where
eagles soar
gaya island resort offers avignette of dame judi dench’s
wild borneo adventures.
Words by KENNETH TAN

Tucked amidst protected
mangroves, sheltered coral
reefs and curled aroundthe pristine sandy coastof Malohom Bay rests
Gaya Island Resort.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

ctress, artist and author Dame Judi
Dench has left an indelible mark on theentertainment industry, running the gamut
QH $TKVKUJ VJGCVTG VGNGXKUKQP CPF ƂNO 6JGlatter has included, memorably, a glassceiling-shattering turn as M, the head of theSecret Intelligence Service and superior to a certain Mr Bond,C TQNG UJG JGNF YKVJ FKUVKPEVKQP KP GKIJV $QPF ƂNOU CETQUU
two decades from Goldeneye to Spectre. Along the way, she
has also picked up an Academy Award for best supporting
actress for Shakespeare in Love and numerous BAFTAs, while
parlaying her fame to become patron of over 180 charities.
Her recent two-part ITV documentary, Judi Dench’s Wild
Borneo Adventures, takes a decidedly different spin in her
storied career, as she journeyed to the state of Sabah – locatedon the north-eastern tip of Borneo – to discover its myriad
natural wonders. Describing it as “the most extraordinary timeof my life”, Dame Judi explored rainforests which have stoodin place for 130 million years, from when dinosaurs still roamed
the Earth.
The same age-old rainforests also exist on Gaya Island, aquick 15-minute hop from Jesselton Point at Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah’s capital. Over 80 per cent of the island is gazetted
as a national park as part of the larger Tunku Abdul Rahman
Marine Park which, as a result, has helped preserve its
PCVKXGRQRWNCVKQPUQHƃQTCCPFHCWPC1PKVUGCUVGTN[UJQTGU
Gaya Island Resort – a member of Small Luxury Hotels of
the World – became a stopover for Dame Judi, where she
participated in the resort’s various conservation programmes.
Stepping off the boat at the Gaya Island Resort pier, guests
will quickly fall into the jungle’s rhythmic pace, with the morning
warbling of birdsong, afternoon riffs from mangrove cicadas andan evening cacophony of wildlife which occupies the rainforest
canopy. All around the resort, a sense of theatre pervades; amonitor lizard doing languid laps in the stream as its speckled
DCPF KU ƃGEMGF D[ UWPNKIJV C OQVJGT NQPIVCKNGF OCECSWG
grooming her youngling as it impatiently waits to rejoin its
monkey friends at play. Up overhead, a white-bellied sea eaglesoars towards its treetop eyrie, with its white breast indicating
its relative youthfulness (adults develop brown patches).
“This jungle is beyond my wildest dreams. Around every
corner there’s always an extraordinary creature,” Dame Judiremarks in her documentary. At the nearby mangrove forests,
where the resort’s senior naturalist Justin Juhun leads morning
mangrove kayak tours, one is likely to spot the great egrets,horseshoe crabs and even the Oriental pied hornbill. The
entire experience is almost surreal, with the journey into themangroves taking guests through a natural amphitheatre carved
out by running streams and time. In here, the air is cooler andricher as mangroves have proven to be 10 times more effectiveat recycling carbon and producing oxygen versus the rainforest.
Juhun also leads the morning nature walks which takeguests deep into the “mother forest” of Gaya Island, where
the shy and endangered proboscis monkeys are occasionallyspotted. The trail wends through towering hardwood trees
CPFCFKXGTUKV[QHƃQTCHTQOUVTCPINGTƂIUCPFGNQPICVGFTCVVCPto vermillion-coloured fungi.

Back at the resort, hourly boat transfers to Tavajun Bay – atranquil strip of beach nearby – reveal the Gaya Island Resort
Marine Centre helmed by the resort’s marine biologist Scott
Mayback, who specialises in coral restoration and turtle rescue.
Over the past six years since the centre’s establishment, Mayback
and his team have overseen 20 turtle rescues and undertaken
the planting of over 1,200 coral slabs on the seabed.
The coral planting which Mayback conducts kicks off witha guided snorkelling exploration for guests who will thenemerge from the waters with bits of coral that will become
the foundation of new reefs. These fragments – which growat a pace of two centimetres per year – are then attached to a
concrete slab to encourage greater multiplication of the reefs
over time – one of the most important breeding habitats forƂUJ RTQXKFKPI TGHWIG HQT QXGT  RGT EGPV QH CNN OCTKPG NKHG
With the crystal clear waters of Gaya Island conducive to thegrowth of corals, Mayback is also experimenting with microfragmentation of corals to accelerate reproduction rates up to
47 times to re-establish reefs around the island.
At one end of the resort, the Spa Village Gaya Island, enrobed
by the rainforest’s greenery, is a great way to let all of the outdoor
adventures sink in, with massages and natural therapies designed
to soothe and relax. And, of course, there’s the plethora of dining
options at the resort ranging from its Feast Village, where one
is served a perfectly grilled tuna steak with hints of pepper andsalt, to the Japanese-styled Omakase, which offers a chef’s table
and shabu-shabu under the evening skies. At the Pool Bar andLounge, lazy afternoons are ably complemented by the bossa
nova sounds of Cecilia Dale and a choice of international andlocal favourites, from pizzas and tuna tataki to a curry laksa andbanana fritters, paired with a deliciously cold glass of wine.

For more information or to make a dining reservation, please visit
www.gayaislandresort.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Gaya Island Resort’s seven-night Wild Borneo Adventure package
showcases the multifaceted elements of these incredible outdoor
adventures inclusive of accommodation in one of its charming villas
with daily breakfast, two 50-minute couple’s massages, a mangrove
kayak excursion, snorkelling exploration and coral planting with theresident marine biologist, guided nature walk and night walk with theresident naturalist, and scheduled speedboat transfers as well as anadditional return transfer for a day trip to Kota Kinabalu.

Dame Judi Dench and conservationist
David Mills stayed at Gaya Island
4GUQTVFWTKPIVJGƂNOKPIQHJudi
Dench’s Wild Borneo Adventure.

6JKURJQVQYCUUJQVFWTKPIƂNOKPIQHp,WFK&GPEJoU9KNF$QTPGQ#FXGPVWTGq #VNCPVKE2TQFWEVKQPUq

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an acoustic
affairgood vibes are all around at
hotel stripes kuala lumpur’s man tao bar
where the libations are handcrafted,
the mood laid-back and the living is easyamid acoustic band performances at its
fortnightly man tao unplugged.
Words by SHALINI YEAPTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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A selection of creative cocktails are available at Man Tao Bar.

W

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

hen it comes down to the nitty-gritty that sets a nightlife
venue apart from the rest, Man Tao Bar at Hotel Stripes
Kuala Lumpur ticks all the boxes. From its unobstructed
views of downtown Kuala Lumpur – best enjoyed witha carefully crafted drink in hand – to live acoustic musicsetting the mood, this nook-inspired rooftop bar has all
the makings of a relaxing urban escape and then some.
Live bands take the stage twice a month for what is known as Man Tao Unplugged,
upping the ante of this chic hangout spot that exudes a laid-back charm. These
acoustic performances are anticipated as much as the bar’s weekly happenings,
which are Ladies Night on Thursday, Thank G[in] it’s Friday and The Longest Hour on
Saturdays. Come 9pm every second and fourth Saturday of the month, live acoustic
music complements the relaxed atmosphere as guests settle in for a nightcap, toraise a tipple (or two) to the weekend or simply to kick back for the evening.
At each event, guests can look forward to hearing fresh, new sounds belted out
by up-and-coming talents. The musical performances further accentuate the relaxedambience at Man Tao Bar while guests indulge in some delicious concoctions by
expert mixologists – making it the preferred venue in which to unwind with friends
or for entertaining.

For more information, please visit www.stripeskl.com

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unlike any otherthe majestic malacca’s unique his andhers spa treatments.

Words by GWEN ONG

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

a couples’ therapy

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

For more information, visit www.majesticmalacca.com

48

Photograph by Luca Tettoni.

The Majestic Malacca is a sight to behold with its colonial façade andnostalgia-tinged courtyard. It occupies one end of the quaint Jalan
Bunga Raya in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Malacca City, on thebanks of the famous Malacca River which enabled this city to becomea bustling 15th-century entrepot of great importance, a crossroads
between India, the Arab world and China in a world gone by.
Step through The Majestic Malacca’s doors and you’ll be hit by a wave of thepast, that of the 1920s, when Malacca famously hit its zenith as a Straits Settlementwith the rise of the Straits Chinese or Peranakan, and their belle époque of culture,
cuisine, architecture and language.
The careful restoration of this 1920s Straits Settlement mansion has ensured itUVKNNDGCTUVJGQTKIKPCNRQTEGNCKPVKNGƃQQTKPICPFVGCMYQQFƂVVKPIUVQFC[8GPVWTGCNKVVNGHWTVJGTKPCPF[QWoNNƂPF[QWTUGNHKPVJGOQFGTPYKPIYJGTGVJGIWGUVTQQOUCPFUWKVGUCTGNQECVGF$WVƂTUVCPCYCTFYKPPKPIURCDGEMQPU
It’s been said that a visit to The Majestic Malacca is not complete without a trip
VQ 5RC 8KNNCIG /CNCEEC 9KVJ [QWT RCTVPGT [QW OC[ KPFWNIG KP C WPKSWG EQWRNGoU
spa session unlike any other. Called Peranakan Signature Experiences, the therapies
here draw on the healing heritage of the local Baba-Nyonya culture. Treatments areprescribed according to a person’s cool or warm energies with an assessment done
based on a questionnaire to determine what your body lacks. It’s a great three-hour
escape when both of you are in need of a relaxing pick-me-up.
The Peranakan Signature Experiences’ Suam Suam Panas is meant to soothe‘cool’ bodies, while the Shiok Shiok Sejuk has warming properties – both essentiallyto help balance out your energies. It is believed that the age-old practices and theuse of indigenous ingredients can do wonders to cleanse, replenish and reinvigorate
the body and mind.
Each treatment begins with a pre-spa custom that takes inspiration from theelaborate Peranakan wedding ceremony in which guests are soothed with a calming
hair care ritual. Sit back and enjoy as the therapist indulges you with a hair wash,
scalp massage and hair combing; a prelude of the pampering to come.
The warming Suam Suam Panas experience starts off with a body scrub using
Malacca palm sugar and honey, followed by a hair mask infused with fragrant pandan
coconut. The relaxing factor goes up tenfold with the nutmeg-rice rolling massage
which helps to reduce body aches and ‘wind’. The rolling motions are especiallygood in easing the tension from the back and shoulders. A bird’s nest facial with
tapioca mask ensures you leave the spa with glowing skin.
For the Shiok Shiok Sejuk experience, the treatment entails a body scrub withyoghurt and guava leaves and a hair mask with limau kasturi and yoghurt. Then
comes the unique egg rolling therapy in which you will undergo a form of deep
tissue massage as the therapist rolls warm hard-boiled eggs over you. This helps
to loosen tight muscles, release excess heat from the body and relax the mind. The
session ends with a bird’s nest facial with starfruit mask.
After the treatment, take a moment to unwind at the relaxation lounge and sip on
hot Malacca fruit tea. The traditional Peranakan Chinese daybeds bathed in sunlight
UVTGCOKPIKPHTQOVJGƃQQTVQEGKNKPIYKPFQYURTQXKFGVJGRGTHGEVTGURKVGHQTCNC\[afternoon together with your other half.

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a repast amid
the rolling hills
on mist-strewn hills, one finds an invitation
to savour an exemplary smorgasbord atcameron highlands resort.

Words by TAN JYY WEITHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life featureS

traight out of a storybook, the delightful Cameron Highlands Resort
provides guests with a cosy highland getaway for all seasons andoccasions. Its colonial air and artful touches charm you with nostalgic
elegance. The cherry on top? The multi-faceted dining options, whichtake you on a voyage of the senses, from British fare of English roast andƂUJCPFEJKRUVQCOGFNG[QH#UKCPƃCXQWTUKPENWFKPIVJCVRGTGPPKCNEQNF
weather favourite – hot pot.
HOT POT AT GONBEI%QQN GXGPKPI CKT CPF C UVGCOKPI JQV RQV ƂNNGF YKVJ FGNKEKQWU KPITGFKGPVU OCMGU
dinner at Gonbei the right meal for the right place. Cooking around a heated pot ofbroth at the resort’s semi-al fresco restaurant is a delight, particularly on rainy days
and cool highland evenings.
Start by personalising your hot pot broth to your liking, choosing from thevegetarian, Japanese seafood or Tom Kha Gai base, the latter comprising chicken,
coconut milk, lemongrass and chilli. Once the pot starts to bubble, add your selections
from the buffet of the freshest local produce featuring vegetables harvested from the
CFLCEGPVHCTOUUWEEWNGPVUGCHQQFRTKOGOGCVUCPFPQQFNGU#PFQHEQWTUGVJGTG
are a variety of condiments and garnishes for you to season your meal as desired,
CPFCƂPGUGNGEVKQPQHFGUUGTVUHQTCUYGGVGPFKPITHE JIM THOMPSON TEA ROOM
0COGF CHVGT VJG #OGTKECP YJQ JGNRGF TGXKVCNKUG VJG 6JCK UKNM KPFWUVT[ VJG
Jim Thompson Tea Room is famous for its old-world charm that hearkens back to acolonial plantation lifestyle decades ago. While the restaurant does serve a tempting
à la carte lunch menu, many come for afternoon tea. The essentials are made fresh
VQQTFGTFGNKECVGƂPIGTUCPFYKEJGUQXGPDCMGFUEQPGUUGTXGFYKVJENQVVGFETGCOand strawberry jam made from the highlands’ famous berries, and your selection of
VJGƂPGUVVGCUHTQOVJGCTGC
THE ROAST REVIVAL
The Dining Room serves a hearty roast on Saturdays, perfect to warm you up in
the lush highlands. It’s an elevated experience as roasts go and in true fashion of
honouring tradition, the resort’s kitchen team prepares a quintessential English roast
carved by their expert chefs right by your table. Enjoy this classic meal with the usual
VTKOOKPIUsTQCUVRQVCVQGUITGGPUCPFRWFFKPIUsKPEQTRQTCVKPIVJGƂPGUVRTQFWEG
for which Cameron Highlands is known.

For more information or to make a dining reservation, please visit
www.cameronhighlandsresort.com

52

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEPRIVATE DINING EXPERIENCES
Picture this: being whisked away to a secluded spot in the verdant BOH tea plantation,
where a sumptuous picnic spread awaits you. Here, you will enjoy both savoury andsweet treats amid fragrant tea bushes, with a personal butler topping up your glass
while you gaze out onto the endless rows of greenery.
Perhaps an intimate four-course dinner set in the privacy of the garden gazebo
is more your fancy? Savour the fresh highland air and tranquillity as each course isserved which, depending on the season, could include signature delights such as
seafood terrine or prawn bisque.
;QWEQWNFCNUQEJQQUGVQFKPGD[VJGETCEMNKPIƂTGRNCEGQTGXGPKPVJGEQOHQTVQH
your room balcony.

life feature

li yenblossoms withrenewed elegancelife feature

the relaunched li yen at the ritz-carlton,
kuala lumpur unveils an exquisite
redesign reminiscent of a gracefulblossoming garden.
Words by TIEN CHEW

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L
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

i Yen, The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s awardwinning Chinese restaurant of 22 years, introduces
a fresh new look and concept curated aroundfour pillars: quintessential Chinese cuisine, theƂPGUV*QPI-QPIFKOUWOCWVJGPVKE%JKW%JQY
dishes, and classic barbecued roast specialities.
The 170-seat restaurant offers seven stylish private rooms that
can accommodate groups of between eight and 30 diners.
An elegant livery of gold, bronze, brown and cream with jadehighlights forms Li Yen’s new colour scheme, embracing stylishchinoiserie aesthetics. Scattered throughout the restaurant
CTG ƃQTCN OQVKHU QH EJGTT[ DNQUUQOU OCIPQNKCU CPF RGQPKGU
reaching towards the heavens, evoking a calming oriental
ambience. This sense of tranquillity is especially evident during
lunch, when glass panes draw in natural light to lend warmth
to the dining hall.
6JGMKVEJGPKUNGFD[GZGEWVKXGEJGH#NGZ#WC*QPI-QPI
native who hails from the city’s renowned Pak Loh Chiu Chow
restaurant. To seek inspiration for Li Yen’s new menu, chef Auvisited his hometown, collaborating with celebrated chef Paul.CWoUVYQ/KEJGNKPUVCTTGF6KP.WPI*GGP%JKPGUGTGUVCWTCPVCV
6JG4KV\%CTNVQP*QPI-QPIp+NGCTPVVJGCTVQHETGCVKPICHGYQH6KP.WPI*GGPoUURGEKCNKV[dishes and incorporated them into our new menu, especiallythe roasted barbecued specialities,” says chef Au. “All dishesfeatured in the new menu are carefully thought out, tried andtested to perfection by my team and me. We only use thefreshest and most premium ingredients to ensure we deliver56

GZEGRVKQPCNFKUJGUGCEJVKOGTGƃGEVKXGQHQWTCKOQHUGTXKPIauthentic Chinese classics.”
New signatures from Li Yen, while they may look deceptively
simple, are actually laboriously crafted. Take the steamed crab
claw with egg white and Chinese rice wine for example, where
small changes in timing and temperature are meticulously
measured and adjusted to ensure a silky steamed organic egg
custard base. The claw of a Vietnamese mud crab (selected forits sweetness and meatiness) is then gently cooked and servedwith its shell removed, crowning the egg.
#PQVJGTHCXQWTKVGVJGFQWDNGDQKNGFEJKEMGPUQWRYKVJƂUJ
maw and young coconut, uses a 30-day-old coconut to createa nourishing symphony of sweet and savoury. The coconut’s
inherent sweetness complements Li Yen’s superior soup stock(a closely guarded secret recipe) and is boiled for hours to
CEJKGXGKVUFGUKTGFƃCXQWTU
6JG *QPI -QPI FKO UWO JGTG KU CNUQ RTCKUGYQTVJ[ YKVJ
inventive dishes such as steamed Wagyu beef siew mai withdried scallops and crispy rice nest wrapped in cheong fun (riceroll) making excellent additions to the menu. “I take great pridein ensuring that every piece is perfectly crafted with attention todetail,” says chef Tan Tiong Guan, Li Yen’s dim sum chef. “I’malways monitoring the culinary scene and changing trends tosee how we can introduce unique dishes in our monthly dim sum
specials, where unique and seasonal dishes are only available
for limited periods.”
For more information, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/kualalumpur

Photographs by Sean Wong.

Steamed crab claw with egg white and Chinese rice wine.
Facing page: steamed siew mai with BB abalone and caviar.

life feature
On her: wedding dress byAnovia SS18 collection.
On him: white tuxedo suit byAnovia Men’s Classic collection.

samui
sensations
the island paradise that is the ritz-carlton,
koh samui is the ultimate getaway on theeastern coast of thailand. here, lavishly
designed suites and villas, secluded
beaches, a spa village and more await.

Words by TIEN CHEW
Photography by ANOVIA BRIDAL
Styling by ANOVIA BRIDALTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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Evening gown by Anovia
Designer collection.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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On her: wedding dress byAnovia Designer collection.
On him: burgundy suit byAnovia Men’s Tailored collection.

On him: white tuxedo suit by Anovia Men’s Classic collection.
On her: evening gown by Anovia Designer collection.
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEOn her: evening dress by Anovia SS18.
On him: black tuxedo suit byAnovia Men’s Classic collection.

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On him: shirt and pants byAnovia Men’s Classic collection.
On her: wedding dress by Anovia SS18 collection.

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The secluded Ultimate Pool Villa highlights Thai aesthetics, with
luxuriously appointed contemporary and elegant interiors. Enjoy
panoramic views of the Gulf of Thailand from a cliff-top location as
you relax with your beloved in your own private pool.

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in searchof dolphinsa traipse through books tothe black sand beachesof spa village resort tembok, bali.
9QTFUD[ JASON TAN

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CPF 5WNCYGUK VQ VJG PQTVJ 9JKNG FQNRJKPU CTGPoV FKTGEVN[OGPVKQPGFKPThe Malay Archipelago, there are references toYJCNGTUCPF9CNNCEGOWUVJCXGDGGPCYCTGQHVJGODGECWUGYGMPQYFQNRJKPRQFUUVKNNTGIWNCTN[CRRGCTKPVJGWPRQNNWVGF
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pURGEKOGPUQHPCVWTCNJKUVQT[KPCNNq &CTYKPYQTMGFQPJKUVJGQT[HQT[GCTU 6JCPMHWNN[HQTUEKGPVKƂEFKUEQXGT[XCEWQWU +PVGTPGV VKOG JCF [GV VQ DG KPXGPVGF 9CNNCEG YCUQVJGTYKUG C RTQNKƂE YTKVGT CPF DQNFN[ C UGGMGT QH VJG QTKIKPQH EQPUEKQWUPGUU YJKEJ YGUVGTP OCVGTKCNKUV UEKGPEG UWEJ CU
GXQNWVKQPCT[VJGQT[EQWNFCPFUVKNNFQGUPQVGZRNCKP'ZRNQTKPI YJCV KU PQY /CNC[UKC +PFQPGUKC $QTPGQ CPF2CRWC 9CNNCEG PQVGF VJCV CPKOCNU FKHHGTGF KP VJGKT HGCVWTGUFGRGPFKPIQPYJKEJJCNHQHVJGCTEJKRGNCIQVJG[ECNNGFJQOG(QTOQTGKPHQTOCVKQPRNGCUGXKUKVwww.spavillageresort.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEOPVJGPQTVJGCUVGTPEQCUVNKPGQH6GODQMKP$CNK[QWƂPFVJGDWEQNKE
5RC8KNNCIG4GUQTV6GODQM$CNKVWEMGFDGJKPFCVJKEMGVQHDCODQQHTQPFU # NKVVNG YC[ KP DGHQTG VJG TC[U QH VJG UWP YCTO VJG YCVGTUYJKEJ NCR CV VJG TGUQTVoU EQCUVNKPG [QW ENKOD KPVQ C YQQFGP VYQseater jukong CPF RWUJ QHH HTQO VJG XQNECPKE DNCEM UCPF DGCEJ QH
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of Moby Dicklife feature

life feature

delightful daysby the thames
drift on a cloud of romancein the english countryside atmonkey island estate.
Words by DANIEL LEE

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life featureM

onkey Island Estate, located in the quaintvillage of Bray on Thames, enjoys the sortof setting you might imagine for lovers.
On the picturesque seven-acre private
isle, two Grade 1-listed heritage pavilions
hold several centuries’ worth of history andmemories, having been a favoured retreat for monarchs, nobility
and artists.
With this property lovingly restored and revived by New
York-based Champalimaud Design and YTL Hotels, the scene
is set for a dreamy couples’ getaway with the evocative Island
Romance package, tailored around the estate’s exquisite locationin the countryside.
Upon checking in to their choice of room the couple
could ostensibly let the magic of the estate take over – witha complimentary bottle of champagne waiting to commence
festivities. One could also pull out the stops and book The
Wedgewood Suite, the grandest accommodation on theestate, with a historic ornate Wedgewood blue ceiling andviews of the Thames. It comprises a master bedroom with aseparate seating and dressing area and en-suite bathroom.

life feature

As evening descends, cosy up to a pre-dinner gin-spiked
JQVEJQEQNCVGCVQPGQHVJGGUVCVGoUƂTGRKVUCNQPIVJGTKXGTYKVJ
ready-to-roast marshmallows. For dinner, guests may dine at
The Monkey Island Brasserie and savour classic British fare suchas an aged sirloin steak from the grill or Fisherman’s Pie – ahearty smoked haddock, salmon, béchamel cooked mussels,
VKIGT RTCYPU CPF OCUJ FKUJ VJCV VTWN[ ITCVKƂGU $[ XKTVWG QH
location, guests are also in walking distance of two of the four
restaurants in the United Kingdom that have three Michelin
stars – Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and the Roux brother’s
Waterside Inn – should they fancy a night out.
Guests may also choose to add a couples’ therapy session
at the hotel’s one-of-a-kind Floating Spa, moored off the island.
Then, perhaps a private boat tour to visit nearby landmarks.
Among these are Windsor Castle and its namesake Great Park– ideal for a leisurely afternoon stroll. A little bit further andyou are rewarded by the charming market town of Henley-OnThames, home of the highly anticipated annual Henley Regattaand Henley Festival.
For more information, please visit www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

Below: The Floating Spa.
Facing page: The Wedgewood Suite.

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the placeto meetthe hague marriott – the largest hotel
in den haag – is ideally primed to hostinternational conferences forthe likes of global leaders.
Words by GWEN ONG

T

For more information, visit www.thehaguemarriott.com

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Above: the hotel’s meeting rooms aredesigned to draw in natural light.
Facing page: The Hague Marriott.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

he Hague, or Den Haag, is one of the Netherlands’ most culturally
diverse cities with a population of 500,000 composed of over 100 ethnic
groups. Its distinct and stately character is drawn from its position
as the home to the royal family and seat of the Dutch government.
The Hague is also best known as the International City of Peace andJustice, and Binnenhof lays claim to being the world’s oldest Houseof Parliament still in use, with its origins as a 13th-century Gothic castle. Since the late
19th century, this coastal city has played an integral role in diplomacy and international
affairs, hosting a number of peace conferences and court hearings.
In the midst of this illustrious atmosphere dedicated to international relations andworld order is The Hague Marriott – the largest hotel in the city. Located between
the city centre and Scheveningen beach, the hotel’s enviable location allows guests
to take in the beautiful views of the city’s skyline and coast. There are 306 rooms on
VJG RTQRGTV[ KPENWFKPI  UWKVGU GCEJ DGFGEMGF YKVJ NCXKUJ COGPKVKGU DGƂVVKPI C
modern traveller.
When it comes to hosting conferences, The Hague Marriott has 24 adaptable
meeting spaces spanning over 2,200 square metres, including a ballroom and numerous
meeting rooms and suites. Whether it’s a gathering for 12 or a conference for 500
delegates, the hotel delivers stylish, commodious spaces and professional service.
Its private garden provides the perfect backdrop for receptions, corporate parties,
NWPEJQTVGCDTGCMUYJKNGKVUGZGEWVKXGNQWPIGQPVJGPKPVJƃQQTQHHGTUCRCPQTCOC
of the nearby beach.
With its excellent facilities and attention to detail, the hotel has gained a reputation
for being the perfect venue for professional events, having also played host to a
UGTKGU QH JKIJRTQƂNG 7PKVGF 0CVKQPU OGGVKPIU 2QUVEQPHGTGPEG 6JG )TGCV 4QQO
Lobby & Bar is the de facto venue to socialise with fellow delegates and colleagues
QXGT JCPFETCHVGF EQEMVCKNU YJKNG 6JG )CNNGT[ 4GUVCWTCPV QHHGTU KPVGTPCVKQPCN CPF
local choices.

life feature

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into
the heartof literarybloomsbury
the academy recommends thiswriters’ walk for guests todiscover the squares, gardens
and streets of bloomsbury.
Words by JUNE MONG-LOFTIN

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M

y two favourite rooms at the Small Luxury Hotels
property The Academy are the Alchemy Bar
and the Library. Both are beautifully moodyand designed by New York-based designer
Alexandra Champalimaud, whose dark green
tropical leaf walls and monkey wallpaper is
inspired by the Bloomsbury set.
The neighbourhood of Bloomsbury – in which The Academy
is situated – was developed by an aristocratic family as an upperclass residential neighbourhood. It soon became an intellectual
hub based around the British Museum, British Library and.QPFQPoUƂTUVWPKXGTUKV[*GTG6JG#ECFGO[JQVGNTGEQOOGPFU
the Writers’ Walk for guests to discover the squares, gardens
and streets which attracted pioneers, radicals and reformers aswell as poets and artists such as Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf,
painter John Millais, suffragist Emmeline Pankhurst, biologist
and the author of The Origin of Species Charles Darwin andeminent economist John Maynard Keynes.

life feature

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A statue of Mahatma Ghandi at Tavistock Square.
Facing page: Russell Square Park.

students in spring and summer. But its association with Oscar
Wilde is a melancholic one. Wilde was born in Dublin in 1854
and moved to London in 1878 determined to achieve stardom.
The stunning terraced building at 31 Russell Square was where
9KNFGURGPVJKUƂPCNPKIJVKP.QPFQPDGHQTGOQXKPIVQ2CTKU
never to return to England again. Stand and take it all in before
retreating to the shady trees of Russell Square garden to readone of his famous plays.

78

End your Writers’ Walk on Lamb’s Conduit, a partly
pedestrianised stretch of Bloomsbury which has nothing to
do with woolly lambs. It is named after the wealthy William
Lambe, who built a conduit, or pipe, here to supply the City
with spring water. The street became fashionable in the 19th
century when Charles Dickens was a local. Today there are
two Victorian pubs, one called The Lamb and the other The
Perseverance, both pulling pints to this day. The Lamb still has‘snob screens’ which are frosted glass partitions at eye-height
so prudish middle-class drinkers in the 19th century could drink
in privacy without being judged.
After such a long but lovely walk you might want a nicelong drink yourself, either here or back at the Alchemy Bar at
The Academy. If it’s the latter, best call a black cab to whisk
you back.

Roger Fry. Vanessa lived here after she married Clive Bell but
both conducted love affairs with others in the house! In number
51 Gordon Square writer and biographer Lytton Strachey, whowrote Eminent Victorians, lived here in a ménage a trois withpainter Dora Carrington and her husband Ralph Partridge.
Now keep your eyes peeled for a leafy and quiet squarethat is a guarded local’s secret. This is Tavistock Square,
where a statue of Mahatma Gandhi, a cherry tree planted toremember the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and a bustof Virginia Woolf lie. Woolf lived in the square during the 1920s
and 1930s, and ran Hogarth Press alongside her husband
Leonard. Tavistock House – if you can spot it – is important asCharles Dickens’ home where he wrote Bleak House (1853),
Hard Times (1854) and A Tale of Two Cities (1861).
Russell Square is one of the largest green spaces in$NQQOUDWT[ CPF KU QHVGP ƂNNGF YKVJ VJG EJCVVGT QH WPKXGTUKV[For more information, please visit www.theacademyhotel.co.uk

79

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

friend of Virginia Woolf, Lytton Strachey, Aldous Huxley and
DH Lawrence – held regular ‘Thursday evenings’ here in theyears following 1908. These gatherings were attended bymany members of the Bloomsbury Group.
Nearby is the imposing art deco Senate House, which wasused as the ‘Ministry of Information’ by George Orwell in his
dystopian novel 1984. During World War Two, Bloomsbury
suffered severely in the Blitz of the autumn of 1940.
Senate House was hit nine times by bombs but withstoodthe onslaught.
From Bedford Square, make your way to Gordon Square
where number 46 was the childhood home of Woolf, Vanessa
Bell, Adrian Stephen and Thoby Stephen from 1904 to 1907.
Like Lady Morrell, they too, held Thursday evenings of recitals
attended by Thoby’s Cambridge friends such as Leonard
Woolf, Lytton Strachey, Clive Bell, Duncan Grant, Keynes and

BLOOMSBURY WRITERS’ WALK
Start at Gower Street where The Academy is located. The
street is named after Lady Gertrude Leveson-Gower, who in1737 became the second wife of Bloomsbury landowner Lord
John Russell. Look for 110 Gower Street, which Charles Darwin
rented in 1838 for his young family. He nicknamed the property
Macaw Cottage because of the gaudy colours of the walls andfurniture. Darwin developed his theory of natural selection inthis house and his children, William Erasmus and Anne, wereborn here.
Ten years later in 1848, the Pre-Raphaelite brotherhood wasfounded by John Millais (together with Dante Gabriel Rossetti)
in his parent’s house on Gower Street as a reform movement tocounteract the current artistic style of the period.
Next, pop down to number 44 Bedford Square where thesocialite Lady Ottoline Morrell – lover of Bertrand Russell andlife featureH
scotland’s national poet robert burns
is celebrated on 25 january with haggis,
poetry and whisky.
Words by JUNE MONG-LOFTIN

80

For more information on The Glasshouse Edinburgh and Burns
Supper, please visit YYYVJGINCUUJQWUGJQVGNEQWM

81

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piping the haggis

a dram of single-malt whisky selected to complement the maincourse of the evening.
One of the highlights of the evening will be the timehonoured tradition of ‘piping’ the haggis. Guests are invited
to stand as the haggis is brought in, usually by the chef on alarge dish, while a bagpiper leads the way to the main table
where the haggis is laid down. It is traditional for the bagpiper
to play #/CPoU#/CPHQT#o6JCV, 4QDDKG$WTPU/GFNG[ or6JG5VCT1o4QDDKG$WTPU while the haggis is brought in. Burns
loved haggis so much he wrote a long poem dedicated to thedish and it ends with these lines:‘You powers, who make mankind your care,
And dish them out their bill of fare,
Old Scotland wants no watery stuff,
That splashes in small wooden dishes;
But if you wish her grateful prayer,
Give her [Scotland] a Haggis!’#V6JG)NCUUJQWUGVJGJCIIKUYKNNDGRCKTGFYKVJVJGƂPGUV
local whisky from the hotel’s extensive collection of almost
160 Scotch whiskies. After dinner guests will be invited foran evening of Ceilidh dancing in the Calton Suite, which has
breathtaking views across the city.
Burns would approve of dancing and music to celebrate hisbirthday; after all he wrote #WNF.CPF5[PG, that evergreen New
Year’s Eve song that is still sung today.

e may have lived 200 years ago but there’s
no denying that Robert Burns is the poster
boy of Scottish identity. He grew up in the
Scottish countryside in Alloway and thishelped him to write evocatively about natureand to speak eloquently to the common
person. He began writing as a young lad while working on his
father’s farm, penning love odes to local farm lassies. But it
YCUJKUƂTUVEQNNGEVKQPQHRQGVT[ECNNGF2QGOU%JKGƃ[KPVJG
5EQVVKUJ&KCNGEV, that took the Scottish literary world by storm.
It was published in 1786 and was sold out within a few weeks.
He wrote in the Scottish vernacular and chose themes likelove, family and everyday life which anyone could identify with,inspiring writers like Irvine Welsh (of 6TCKPURQVVKPI fame) andsingers like Bob Dylan. Today his face graces banknotes andhis writings have been translated into 40 languages.
As the national poet of Scotland, Burns is celebrated on
25 January in the famous Burns Supper which revolves aroundhaggis, whisky and recitals of his work. It is traditional at a
Burns Supper for his poem #6QCUVVQVJG.CUUKG to be recitedwhere he writes that although Mother Nature created menƂTUVUJGRGTHGEVGFVJGRTQEGUUYKVJYQOGPThe Glasshouse Edinburgh is putting on a celebration forthe bard’s birthday to salute his life and poetry with an eveningof festivities in the hotel’s Brasserie, complete with Scottish
bagpipers and traditional haggis.
As your host for the evening, The Glasshouse will servea three-course dinner in the Brasserie, regale guests withtraditional speeches and haggis piping, and toast the poet with

life feature

life featurethequintessential
english afternoon
let the hustle of london’shistoric financial district fade awaywith a decadent afternoon tea served bywheeler’s of st james’s at threadneedles
hotel, an autograph collection hotel.
Words by TIEN CHEW

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

For more information, go to www.hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

82

2JQVQITCRJD[*CTWOK5W\WMKT

he Dome Lounge, the former Victorian banking hall and beatingheart of Threadneedles, has witnessed its share of power lunches
and tête-à-têtes since its revival as a discreet boutique hotel. From
VJGOQOGPVQHGPVT[VJGƂXGUVCTRTQRGTV[oUITCPFGWTKURCNRCDNGIKXGPVJCVKVJCURNC[GFJQUVCUCDCPMKPIJCNNVQVJG%KV[QH.QPFQPoU
power brokers and business elite since its inception in 1856. In thepresent day, natural light envelops the lounge through its iconic hand-painted
stained glass dome, revealing low leather chairs, Corinthian pillars and ornate
decorative mouldings.
$GVYGGPVJGJQWTUQHCPFƂXGKPVJGCHVGTPQQPOCP[RCTVCMGKPVJG
great British tradition at the Dome Lounge – afternoon tea – created by/CTEQ2KGTTG9JKVGoU9JGGNGToUQH5V,COGUoU6JGTGUVCWTCPVUKVWCVGF
adjacent to the lounge, is known throughout London for its rigorous
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YQTNFoUQNFGUVCPFƂPGUVƂUJDTCPFqCNUQFCVKPIDCEMVQ
All tea sets come with the essentials; at the bottom of this threetiered throne are a selection of traditional sandwiches, available on
white or granary loaf with unsalted butter. The classics are all present:
VWPCCPFOC[QPPCKUG9KNVUJKTGJCOYKVJ%QNOCPoUOWUVCTFEWEWODGTand cream cheese, egg and cress, and coronation chicken.
/QXGWRCVKGTCPF[QWoNNƂPFHTGUJN[DCMGFUEQPGUUGTXGFYKVJENQVVGF
ETGCOCPFDGTT[RTGUGTXGU#UGNGEVKQPQHRCUVTKGUsOCECTQPU5CEJGTVQTVG
CPFECTTQVECMGsETQYPVJGVQRƂPKUJGFYKVJNGOQPEJGGUGECMGCPFUGCUQPCN
fruit on the side. Although your choice of tea or herbal infusion will mellow
VJKPIUQWVCPQRVKQPCNƃWVGQH8GWXG%NKESWQVEJCORCIPGCNUQUGTXGUCUCJKIJN[effervescent refreshment.

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life feature

life featuretapping into
secret baththis english city has lots of sublime
stories to tell beyond its top attractions.

MUSEUM
Owned by YTL Hotels, The Gainsborough upholds the
JGTKVCIG QH VJG JQURKVCNKV[ EQORCP[ 6JKU KU TGƃGEVGF KP VJGeclectic menu crafted by executive chef Dan Moon, as well as
the soft-touch hospitality and the orient-inspired spa menu.
So it makes perfect sense that the boutique-sized Museum of'CUV #UKCP #TV UJQWNF DG [QWT ƂTUV UVQR KP [QWT GZRNQTCVKQPof the hidden sights of Bath. The museum’s curator is Nicole
Chiang, who has worked at the Fitzwilliam in Cambridge andthe National Palace Museum in Taipei. Based near the Royal
Crescent, the Museum of East Asian Art is very likely the only
museum in Britain dedicated to the arts and cultures of easternand Southeast Asia. It opened in 1993 as an education charityand features thousands of objects from the region. Some of its
Chinese art dates back to 5000BC, many of which belonged
to its founder Brian Elney, a long-time resident of Hong Kong
who started collecting in 1955.

Words by JUNE MONG-LOFTIN

ath is easily one of the prettiest cities inEngland, an Anglo-Saxon bauble with links to
Roman history and set with stunning Georgianarchitecture like gems on a jewelled map. Most
visitors to the city would have bookmarked its
top attractions to visit as soon as they arrive.
Give it time and Bath becomes all the more wondrous,
yielding insider secrets that will make your interlude in the city
extremely worthwhile.
When the famous 18th-century English painter and84

he was inspired by Brunel’s railway, Georgian architecture
CPF 4QOCP JKUVQT[ %QCVG YCU QPG QH $TKVCKPoU OQUV RTQNKƂE
labyrinth designers.
If you are in Bath between May and September, hire a
car to visit Somerset Lavender Farm for its Healing Garden,
4QUG#TDQWTCPFQXGTƂXGCETGUQHNCXGPFGTDNQQOU+VKUCP
unforgettable sight to see bees humming over 50,000 lavender
plants as they collect pollen to make honey. The farm shop andcafé is also open from November to the middle of December.

HISTORYOn Claverton Down overlooking Bath is an 18th-century folly
which looks like a castle but is really just a beautiful façadeof two circular turrets and a pointed stone arch built in 1762.
Called Sham Castle, it is an ideal spot from which to admire
the spires of the city.
Do make a stop at Bath Abbey and climb the 200-plus stepsof the tower to see the various levers and pulleys as well as thebells that ring the hours in Bath.

TASTE
If you want to taste the ‘gelato of dreams’ then pop over toSwoon Gelato in Kingsmead Square in the historic centre. It
won the top prize at Great Taste Awards 2019 for its nocciola
gelato made from hazelnuts grown at a small property inPiedmont, Italy.
You may not associate the city with hops Bath-based
Electric Bear Brewing Company makes craft quaffs such as
IPAs, pale ales, sour beers, stouts and porters. You have to try
the coffee- and chocolate-infused beers as well as the mangosour beers. The taproom is open every Friday and Saturday,
and on Sundays in spring.

SHOPPING
There are countless bookshops dotted around this city oflearning and one of the best independent booksellers is
Topping & Company Booksellers, with more than 45,000
VKVNGUQPVJGJCPFOCFGYQQFGPUJGNXGUUGVQPQCMƃQQTUCPF
reachable by rolling ladders.
NATURE
Near The Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel is Pulteney Bridge
and Beazer Garden Maze. When the late former diplomat,
and alleged spy, Randoll Coate designed the garden in 1984,

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

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B

portraitist Thomas Gainsborough moved to Bath with hisfamily, he set up home in the Royal Crescent and lived nextdoor to the Duke of Bedford. Named after the artist, The
Gainsborough Bath Spa Hotel is perfectly situated on the cuspof the city centre, making it easy to explore the little-known
gems of Bath and just as easy to nip off in a chauffeured car
to visit Somerset Lavender Farm 30 minutes away. But more
about this later.
Below is our thumbnail guide to our favourite places in Bath– all deliciously diverse.

Above: The Gainsborough Bath Spa classic room
and The Gainsborough Restaurant.
Facing page: Pulteney Bridge.

life feature

the gift of thegreat ocean roadfeel the summer wind in your hair as
you cruise along the great ocean road,
an australian national heritage-listed
243-kilometre stretch of road along
the south-eastern coast of victoria.

Words by JASON TANTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

life featureA

Right: Elements Bar at
Melbourne Marriott Hoteland Triplet Falls.
Below: Shipwreck Coast.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

re we there yet? Yes, we are. On the Great Ocean Road,
the journey is the destination. Spectacular natural beauty
beckons you out of your vehicle at every other turn to inhale
the views. How rare; a road well-travelled that leads to arediscovery of the old ways, on foot.
This 243-kilometre ribbon of tarmac between forest andsea is carved from the rugged coast of southwest Victoria, Australia. It runs
from Torquay near Melbourne to the town of Allansford in the Western Districtof Victoria.
It was built, astonishingly with no use of heavy machinery, by soldiers who
had fought in World War One as part of their rehabilitation into civilian life.
Sometimes suspended from ropes, they chiselled away at sheer cliffs in chillwind and rain with handheld tools in honour of fallen comrades. The Great
Ocean Road has been aptly described as “a permanent memorial to those
YJQFKGFYJKNGƂIJVKPIKP9QTNF9CT1PGECTXGFKPTQEMq
It is a testament to the enduring foundations of a public-spirited infrastructure
RTQLGEV CPF CMKP VQ C PQVHQTRTQƂV ETQYFHWPFGF UQEKCN GPVGTRTKUG QPEG
a function of government). Like the Internet today, the Great Ocean Road
connected Victoria’s remote coastal communities with the rest of the country. It
was made toll-free just four years after it opened, in 1936, when it was handed
over to the state government by the eponymous trust set up to fund it.
Alderman Howard Hitchcock, then mayor of Geelong, the city near where
the road begins, is credited as the road’s prime mover. With a director’svision, he ran the project in service of the repatriated ex-servicemen and saw
in Australia’s great outdoors a tourist destination to rival the French Riviera’surbane charms and California’s iconic coastal routes, then also being built.
Thus the ex-soldiers’ gift to the community that welcomed them back is one
that keeps on giving. Call it the multiplier effect. The Great Ocean Road stands
remarkably intact against the weight of domestic and international tourists.
We suggest to walk, bike or surf softly this way:r Book a stay at Melbourne Marriott Hotel, a luxurious property ideally
set in the heart of the CBD. Take some time to explore Melbourne’s
iconic landmarks, fashion hub, gastronomy nexus and nightlife
hotspots, then rent a car in the heart of the city to embark on yourGreat Ocean Road adventure. Ask the hotel to pack you a picnic forthe road.
r Once you’re on the road, stop between Lorne and Apollo Bay; there
are sheer drops from the road into the Bass Strait and Southern
Ocean, with waves from the Antarctic to match.
r The Great Otway National Park’s temperate rainforest has waterfalls,
gorges and bridges across treetops.
r The Great Ocean Walk is 91 kilometres of beaches, forests and someof Australia’s highest sea cliffs.
r Sow and Piglets is what the 12 Apostles used to be called. Their fewerthan-12 limestone formations, up to 15 stories high, were carved out
and collapsed by the sea.
r This explains how Shipwreck Coast came to be called, where some
200 vessels came to grief.
r Get to Lake Elizabeth at dawn to spot elusive platypuses from theboardwalk that runs around the lake.

life feature

For more information, please visit www.marriott.com/melmc

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a
heavenly
stay
the westin perth’s tastefulinteriors marry inspirationsof western australia’s
natural beauty withcosmopolitan sensibilities.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Words by TIEN CHEW

life feature

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Photographs by Michael Choo, Peter Bennett.

Above: the executive suites are modern and spacious.
Facing page, below: deluxe double room.

92

As you enter The Westin Perth, the hotel’scommitment to living well becomes
immediately evident. This emphasis on
well-being and restoration is communicatedthrough thoughtfully designed spaces,
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through the design and décor of its public areas, and eachof its 368 guestrooms. Whether you’re seeking a moment of
respite at Bodhi J spa or sitting down to contemporary Romancuisine at Guy Grossi’s Garum, the ambience is one that easily
complements your moment.

For more information, please visit www.westinperth.com

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The colours used throughout the property are a soothing
mix of warm neutral tones – beige, cream and sandstone –contrasted by darker detailing such as leather and mahogany,a nod to the state’s landscape. Designed by Melbourne-based
BAR Studio to express the philosophy of a Perth residence,
the hotel’s aesthetics intentionally forsake the modish vibesof an international hotel to instead create a homely feel withcosmopolitan sensibilities. Enhancing that original feeling ofWestern Australian casual luxe at The Westin Perth are over
2,000 pieces of artworks, curated by Art Duo consultants Ilana
Rabinowitz and Sonja Brouard. A majority of these works
depict dramatic landscapes of Western Australia and there are
original pieces from local artists.
The entry-level deluxe rooms at The Westin Perth are
IGPGTQWUN[UK\GFGXGPD[ƂXGUVCTJQVGNUVCPFCTFUOGCUWTKPI
a spacious 42 square metres. All rooms come with The Westin’s
signature Heavenly Bed, designed with a plush, pillow-top
construction for comfort and support. In the bathroom, a walk-in
rain shower and bathtub, replete with PABA-, paraben- and dyefree White Tea amenities, promise relaxation and reinvigoration
after a long day.
At the upper end of the spectrum is the one-bedroom
Executive Suite, which comes with lounge and study areas, witha cavernous 152 square metres in which to luxuriate. Guests of
VJG'ZGEWVKXG5WKVGCPF%NWDƃQQTUOC[CNUQCXCKNVJGOUGNXGU
of the Executive Club Lounge for gourmet breakfast spreads,
evening cocktails and canapés, as well as a selection of winesand beers as they enjoy a splendid view overlooking the pool.
Hibernian Place, a 2,000-square-metre communal space in
the CBD that The Westin Perth calls home, further extends thisarchitectural artistry. A rooftop garden, manicured lawns, stylish
stone and timber furniture, and a host of attractive amenities
make the location a multi-faceted hotspot for private andcorporate functions. Hibernian Place is also home to trendy
eateries, such as the Middle-Eastern rooftop restobar Hadiqa,
Offshoot coffee roastery by Mary Street Bakery and Japanese
whisky bar Goody Two’s.

life feature

life featureunder
one roof
in a city renowned for
its feats of gastronomy,
the sydney harbour marriott
hotel offers three spectacularestablishments in one location.

Words by TIEN CHEW

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life featureS

ydneysiders have it good, thanks to the city’s
buzzing culinary scene bolstered by the presenceof numerous world-renowned chefs. The Sydney
Harbour Marriott Hotel, located in the tourist
hotspot of Circular Quay, is home to three of theEKV[oUICUVTQPQOKEƂPFU5KNXGUVGToUUGTXGUOQFGTP
Australian fare from breakfast to dinner, Three Bottle Man iscafé by day and cocktail bar by night, and Customs House Bar
is one of Sydney’s oldest pubs.
Award-winning Silvester’s, run under the Bocuse-trained
Parisian chef Raphael Szurek, boasts high ceilings, grand spaces
and an open kitchen, orchestrating fresh takes on modern

Australian cuisine. Szurek brings with him Michelin-starredsensibilities from his time across Europe, Asia and Oceania,
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produce to create exciting dishes. On the lunch and dinner
menu, creations such as squid carbonara and house-smoked
JKTCOCUG MKPI ƂUJ XKG HQT CVVGPVKQP YKVJ VJG HQTOGT OCFG
using house-made guanciale and quail egg and the latter with
Yarra Valley salmon roe and crème fraiche. The restaurant alsocommands a robust wine list, featuring over 100 sommeliercurated premium Australian and international vintages.
Three Bottle Man offers a trendy café scene and an al fresco
laneway dining experience. The restaurant’s name comes fromlife featurecommunal tables, you can enjoy shared plates of beer-batteredfries and buttermilk fried chicken, the ideal companions to a
frosty pint. Over 20 beers (from boutique to international) areavailable on rotation. The three cheese and bacon burger –Angus beef, Brie, blue, Emmental and chipotle aioli on a brioche
bun – is best paired with a tart cocktail like Let Me Entertain
Yuzu, a mix of tequila and agave with yuzu and passion fruit.

Australian architect and politician William Pitt, a nod to thethree bottles of liquor he was known to take with him on his
travels. Here, at LUX Restaurant & Bar Awards 2018 “best allday dining destination”, custom-blended coffee and healthy
breakfast and lunch options are served under sunny blue skies.
At night, the ambience segues into a more sophisticatedspace, one that speaks of bespoke cocktails made using
Australian spirits, local craft beers, charcuterie boards andsharing platters.
The Gastropub Customs House Bar, extending into Macquarie
Place Park, lays claim to over 160 years of history. Here, inthe open-air beer garden replete with hanging gardens andwww.sydneyharbourmarriott.com.au

Customs House Bar.

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Three Bottle Man.

life feature

life feature

waltz of
WKHÁRZHUV
thailand’s native flowers play a starring rolein the ritz-carlton, koh samui’s signature spa
village treatment, blessed flowers.
Words by RENYI LIM

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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life feature

Blessed Flowers.
Facing page: Spa Village Koh Samui.

For more information, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

100

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEUJQTVsDWVTGHTGUJKPIsUWTRTKUGVJG5QPIMTCP5JQYGTTKVWCNKPURKTGF D[ VJG CPPWCN 5QPIMTCP HGUVKXCN YJKEJ VCMGU RNCEGduring the Thai New Year. Mirroring the joyful throwing of water
for which the festival is famous, guests are liberally splashed
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tendrils and rose petals have been strewn.
*CXKPI CYCMGPGF VJG UMKP TGPFGTKPI KV VCWV CPF UOQQVJthe last traces of exfoliating scrub are washed away and thetreatment shifts to the massage bed at the opposite end of
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in Thai healing practices and the Blessed Flowers treatment
OCMGUHWNNWUGQHVJKUJQNKUVKECRRTQCEJD[KPVTQFWEKPIYCTOƃQYGTKPHWUGFEQORTGUUGUCUCYC[QHHWTVJGTJ[FTCVKPIVTCXGNYGCT[UMKPCPFUQQVJKPIVKTGFOWUENGU
5VTQPITJ[VJOKEUVTQMGUIWKFGVJGƂPCN CPFOQUVTGNCZKPI 
RCTVQHVJGVTGCVOGPVsVJGƃQYGTDCNCPEGOCUUCIGsHQNNQYKPIthe path paved by the hot poultices as the spa therapist
YQTMU CYC[ CV GCEJ IWGUVoU MPQVU CPF UQTG URQVU 9KVJ VJGHQEWUHCNNKPIUSWCTGN[QPVJGDQF[oUGPGTI[OGTKFKCPUIWGUVUGOGTIGYKVJCPGYN[FKUEQXGTGFHGGNKPIQHJCTOQP[sQPGVJCVJCUQRGPGFWRYKVJKPVJGONKMGCƃQYGTKPHWNNDNQQO

Photographs by Soo Phye.

Woven into the fabric of Thailand,
especially its customs and traditions,
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charming form of communication
VJCVoUTGƃGEVGFCV6JG4KV\%CTNVQPKoh Samui. Newly arrived guests at
the resort, for instance, are greeted with an intricately crafted
wristlet of magenta frangipani blossoms and white jasmine,YJKNGCPGZRGTVVGCOQHQPUKVGICTFGPGTUGPUWTGUVJCVVQRKCTKGU
CPFDTKIJVN[EQNQWTGFƃQYGTDGFUTGOCKPRNGCUKPIVQVJGG[G
Within the extensive domain of Spa Village Koh Samui, the
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treatments, reverentially referred to as Blessed Flowers. Not
only is it a celebration of Koh Samui’s abundant natural gifts,
but it also highlights the vivid colours and sensory fragrances of
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in local rituals and beauty regimens.
$NGUUGF (NQYGTU VCMGU RNCEG KP QPG QH VJG 5RC 8KNNCIGoU
eight treatment suites. Outstretched upon a tiled, cushioned
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XGTCIGNCPFRCRC[CDCUGFHTWKVGP\[OGUsCNNOKZGFVQIGVJGTQPVJGURQVD[VJGURCVJGTCRKUVVQCNNQYHQTOCZKOWOGHƂECE[#RRNKGFFKTGEVN[VQVJGUMKPVJGEQPEQEVKQPGZHQNKCVGUCPF
OQKUVWTKUGUUKOWNVCPGQWUN[NGCXKPIIWGUVURGVCNUQHVCPFTGCF[VQDGENGCPUGFDGPGCVJVJGJQTK\QPVCNUJQYGT6JGPEQOGUC

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life moments

life moments

12 things
to do aroundjw marriottkuala lumpur
the jw marriott kuala lumpur, famously known
as the happening hotel, is located close to aplethora of exciting attractions, foods andsights in malaysia’s capital. here’s everything
you need for a memorable stay at the bustlingentertainment, food and retail districtof kuala lumpur.

Words by CHRISTOPHER TUCKTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

102

1. DISCOVER THE CITY’S BEST HAWKER FARE
IN ONE PLACE.GUUVJCPCƂXGOKPWVGYCNMHTQOVJGJQVGNKU.QV*WVQPIYJKEJHGCVWTGUCFKXGTUGEQNNGEVKQPQHUVCNNUYKVJVJGDGUVJGTKVCIGJCYMGTHCTGKPVJG-NCPI8CNNG[CPFDG[QPF%NCUUKE/CNC[UKCPDTCPFUTCPIGHTQO5QQPI-GGC*CMMCUV[NG-WCNC.WORWTDGGH
PQQFNGUVCNNFCVKPIDCEMVQVQ2GPCPIDKUEWKVNGIGPF)JGG*KCPIYKVJQXGT[GCTUQHGZRGTKGPEGDCMGFKPVQGCEJƃCM[RCUVT[#PFVJCVoUQPN[VJGVKRQHVJGKEGDGTI

2. DIY BATIK$CVKMVJGVTCFKVKQPCNETCHVQHFGEQTCVKPIENQVJD[WUKPIYCZCPF
F[GVQETGCVGXKDTCPVRCVVGTPUJCUCVKOGNGUUCRRGCNKP/CNC[UKCPHCUJKQP#V#KPPC#TVYQTMKP%GPVTCN/CTMGVCJCPFKETCHVCPF
UQWXGPKTJWDDWKNVCUCYGVOCTMGVKPXKUKVQTUECPVT[VJGKT
JCPFCVNGCTPKPIVJGCTVQHDCVKMRCKPVKPIMGGRKPIVJGTGUWNVQHVJGKTNCDQWTU

life moments

3. UNCOVER CHINATOWN’S HIDDEN GEMS
.QQMRCUVVJGJWUVNGQH2GVCNKPI5VTGGVoU%JKPCVQYPDW\\CPF
[QWoNN ƂPF C EQNNGEVKQP QH EQPVGORQTCT[ GUVCDNKUJOGPVU YKVJVYQRNCEGUUVCPFKPIQWVt/GTEJCPVoU.CPGCPF256JG
HQTOGTKUCP#UKCPHWUKQPTGUVCWTCPVCPFECHÅCFFKPI/CNC[UKCPƃCKTVQKPVGTPCVKQPCNHCXQWTKVGUUWEJCUPCUKNGOCMRCPECMGUCPF
EJKEMGPUCVC[VQTVKNNCU6JGNCVVGTKUCEQEMVCKNDCTVJCVKPHWUGUVJG EJCTO QH %JKPCVQYP CPF DQNF 5QWVJ 'CUV #UKCP ƃCXQWTUKPVQCNEQJQNKERQVKQPU

4. SWIM WITH THE FISHES
7PFGT VJG KEQPKE 2GVTQPCU 6YKP 6QYGTU NKGU #SWCTKC -.%%
C  USWCTGHQQV QEGCPCTKWO YKVJ QXGT  FKHHGTGPVCSWCVKE CPF NCPF ETGCVWTGU +H [QWoTG C EGTVKƂGF FKXGT [QWECP GPTQN HQT C URGEKCN FKXG GXGT[ /QPFC[ 9GFPGUFC[ CPF5CVWTFC[KPCOKNNKQPNKVTGVCPMRWVVKPI[QWKPVJGVJKEMQH
ƂXGFKHHGTGPVURGEKGUQHUJCTMUCPFXCTKQWUFGGRUGCETGCVWTGU

6. DINE IN A MIDDLE-EASTERN BAZAAR#TQOCUQHURKEGUCPFOGCVUKPXKVKPIN[YCHVVJTQWIJVJGFQQTUQH
6CTDWUJ)QWTOGVCTGUVCWTCPVFGUKIPGFVQKOKVCVGVJGHGGNQH
C/KFFNG'CUVGTPDC\CCT.QECVGFQPVJGWRRGTITQWPFƃQQTQH
,9/CTTKQVV-WCNC.WORWTFKPGTUECPGPLQ[CNCTIGCUUQTVOGPVQHFKUJGUUWEJCUDKT[CPKDCDCIJCPQWUJHCNCHGNUUCODQUCUCPFOQTGDWHHGVUV[NG

104

7. DISCOVER KL’S INDIE ART SCENE
6JG QNF <JQPIUJCP DWKNFKPI KP -CORWPI #VVCR JCU DGGPTGHWTDKUJGFVQJQWUGCICNNGT[VTGPF[ECHÅUCPFCPKPFGRGPFGPVCTVUCPFTGUGCTEJJWD*GTG[QWoNNƂPFIGOUNKMGOWUKEUVQTG
6CPFCPI4GEQTFUDTGCFJCXGP6QOO[.G$CMGTCPFCNNOCPPGTQHMPKEMMPCEMUCPFCTVYQTMUURTCYNGFCETQUUXCTKQWUNQVU

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

5. CLIMB CRAGS NEAR A HOLY HINDU TEMPLE$CVW%CXGUVJGNKOGUVQPGQWVETQRVJCVUGTXGUCUVJGUKVGQHC*KPFWVGORNGCPFUJTKPGFQWDNGUCUCTQEMENKODKPIFGUVKPCVKQP#XCTKGV[QHGZVTGOGURQTVUEQORCPKGUQHHGTENKODKPIVQWTUCV
$CVW%CXGUYKVJEQWTUGUETCHVGFCPFUWRGTXKUGFD[EGTVKƂGFKPUVTWEVQTUKFGCNHQTDQVJDGIKPPGTUCPFUMKNNGFENKODGTU#HVGTCTKIQTQWUENKODFQPoVHQTIGVVQUVQRCVVJGVGORNGVQCFOKTGRCKPVKPIUQH*KPFW)QFUKP4COC[CPC%CXG

life moments

life moments

8. HIKE IN THE CITY’S FOREST RESERVE(QTCFQUGQHITGGPGT[VJG$WMKV0CPCU(QTGUV4GUGTXGKURGTHGEVHQTCOQTPKPIUVTQNN2QUKVKQPGFTKIJVPGZVVQCPQVJGTEKV[KEQPt-.6QYGTtVJGTGPCOGF-.'EQ(QTGUV2CTMKUQPGQHVJGQNFGUVTCKPHQTGUVTGUGTXGUKPVJGEQWPVT['PVTCPEGKUHTGGCPFCOKZQHECPQR[YCNMUCPFJCPIKPIDTKFIGUOCMGHQTITGCVUPCRUJQVU

10. VISIT THE WORLD’S LARGEST FREE-FLIGHT WALK-IN
AVIARY-.$KTF2CTMHQWPFKPVJGJGCTVQHVJGEKV[EQPVCKPUQXGT
NQECNCPFHQTGKIPDKTFUCETQUUURGEKGU6JGRCTMKUFKXKFGFKPVQHQWT\QPGUQXGTCETGUQHXCNNG[VGTTCKPCPFKUDWKNVVQ
GPEQWTCIG ENQUGWR GPEQWPVGTU YKVJ C XCTKGV[ QH DKTFU HTQORGCEQEMUVQJQTPDKNNU

106

2JQVQITCRJUD[6JG-WCNC.WORWT2GTHQTOKPI#TVU%GPVTG#SWCTKC-.%%
6QOO[.G$CMGTCPF25

12. END THE NIGHT WITH A DRAM AND A CIGAR,9(KTGJQWUGKUCPQRWNGPV[GVECUWCNURCEGYJKEJURGCMUQHNGCVJGTWRJQNUVGTGF HWTPKUJKPI FCTM YQQF RCPGNNKPI YCTONKIJVKPI CPF C OCTDNG DCT VQR GXQMKPI ENCUUKE DCT XKDGU #
TQDWUVNKUVQHRTGOKWOURKTKVUCPFENCUUKEEQEMVCKNUtKPENWFKPIC JQWUG /G\ECN t CTG DGUV GPLQ[GF YKVJ C EKICT KP JCPFCXCKNCDNGHTQOVJGQWVNGVoUQYPEWTCVGFEQNNGEVKQP(QTOQTGKPHQTOCVKQPRNGCUGXKUKVwww.jwmarriottkualalumpur.com

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

9. TASTE AUTHENTIC XIAO LONG BAO
5JCPIJCKTGUVCWTCPVCV,9/CTTKQVV-WCNC.WORWTEGNGDTCVGU [GCTU CU QPG QH VJG EKV[oU ƂPGUV RNCEGU VQ UCORNG VJG5JCPIJCKPGUGFGNKECE[ZKCQNQPIDCQ*GNOGFD[CDQPCƂFG
5JCPIJCKPGUGEJGHVJGTGUVCWTCPVoUGZVGPUKXGOGPWEQPVCKPUQXGTFKUJGUCPFFKOUWOQHHGTKPIVJGRTQOKUGQHTGRGCVGFXKUKVUVQUCORNGVJGGPVKTGNKUV

11. SWAY TO THEATRICAL SPLENDOUR
6JG-WCNC.WORWT2GTHQTOKPI#TVU%GPVTG -.2CE KUJQOGVQVJGEKV[oUXKDTCPVCTVUEQOOWPKV[UKVWCVGFKPVJGCETGRTKXCVG
EQOOWPKV[ RCTM QH 5GPVWN *GTG NKXG RGTHQTOCPEGU UWEJ CU
FCPEGVJGCVTGRNC[UQRGTCCPFOWUKECNCEVUEQOGVQNKHG

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

this luxurious resort is set on a private
tropical island on the straits of malacca.
villas either fringe the hillside or are
gracefully balanced on stilts over water. anaward-winning spa village offers world-class
treatments derived from chinese, indian andmalay healing traditions.

tanjong jara resort on the east coast of
peninsular malaysia embodies the essence ofmalay culture and traditions. facing the southchina 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.gayaislandresort.com

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 teeming withmarine life are compelling attractions, while
its spa village offers opportunities to sample
authentic borneo-inspired therapies.

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

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 wellas li yen’s stellar cantonese cuisine.

located along bukit bintang road at the heart ofkuala lumpur, jw marriott is ideal for businessand leisure travellers. with world-class
shopping malls nearby, this conveniently locatedhotel with its extensive range of facilities is oneof the city’s finest.

hotel stripes is the second autograph collection
hotel in malaysia. it combines a modern vibe andhistorical references to its location, one ofkuala lumpur’s oldest neighbourhoods. with
contemporary guestrooms and suites, the hotel
is a convenient base to explore the malaysian
capital’s many attractions.

ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

ritzcarlton.com/kualalumpur

jwmarriottkualalumpur.com

www.stripeskl.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

nestled within the embrace of a private sun-kissed
bay, the ritz-carlton, koh samui is surroundedby oceanfront beauty and quintessential
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.

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

black volcanic sand, the majestic mount agung,the deep blue of the indian ocean and themystical balinese way of life come together
in style at spa village resort tembok, bali.
located in the north of the island, the resort
is a haven of wellness, where guests can enjoy
all the benefits and pleasures of spa life intranquil surroundings.

regarded as the cradle of malaysian history,
malacca in its heyday was a port-city thatwelcomed spice traders, sultans and warriors.
soak up the magic and the history at the majesticmalacca, the city’s finest hotel, built in the
1920s, and furbished with interiors indicativeof the city’s rich culture.

fully restored to its former glory, thiselegant 1930s property marries history withworld-class hospitality. dining options include
hainanese favourites at colonial café as well as
an interactive dining experience at contango,
while the rooms are a blend of contemporarystyle and old-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 surinoffers a perfect slice of thai beach life. thecottages and suites are built into a carefully
conserved landscape. from sumptuous cuisine
to watersports, the surin combines idyllic
tropical charm with the warmth of thaihospitality.

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

this former victorian bank has been transformed
into a discreet, boutique-style hotel, crowned
by an elegant stained glass dome, an unexpectedfind in the city’s heart. the hotel exudes grandeur
in a thoroughly modern way, while service ispolished; it’s also unpretentious amid the bustle
of square mile.

situated in bloomsbury, the academy hotellondon comprises a collection of five georgian
townhouses combined into one charming luxury
hotel. this rejuvenated 50-guestroom/suite
boutique hotel juxtaposes timeless glamour
and a 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 41 exquisite rooms designed by
the award-winning new york-based champalimaud
design as well as six private residences.

www.theglasshousehotel.co.uk

www.hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

www.theacademyhotel.co.uk

www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk

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this luxury boutique hotel is considered oneof the best places to stay in edinburgh, withcosy contemporary interiors, warm scottish
service and consistently spectacular views of
the city centre and calton hill from the hotel’s
two-acre rooftop garden.

portfolio of life

portfolio of lifea 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’.

the heart of the village is niseko vilage’s main pulse where paved intimate walkways are flanked
by contemporary shopping and dining options. just moments from niseko village’s award-winning
hotels, residences and lifts, its slopeside location allows for seamless ski-in, ski-out accessbetween mountain adventures and indoor diversions. both modern and traditional interweave,
evoking a genteel lifestyle at the village with its authentic japanese machiya architectural setting.
après-ski is excitingly redefined at niseko village.

www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

www.muse-hotels.com

www.niseko-village.com

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the 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.

portfolio of life

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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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 peninsularmalaysia, on a route connecting the southeast
asian metropolises of singapore and bangkok.

the 368-room westin perth is located in therevitalised east end of perth known as thehistoric heart of the city, close to shopping
malls, elizabeth quay and the vibrant swan
river precinct. the hotel is the cornerstone ofhibernian place, featuring a lively and eclectic
mix of bars, cafés and restaurants.

www.ytlhotels.com

www.westinperth.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 havebeen passed down the generations.

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

portfolio of life

the 563-room sydney harbour marriott is set
in the heart of circular quay, overlooking
the harbour bridge and opera house. guests
will find themselves near dining, fashion andentertainment hotspots. the sydney harbour
bridge, opera house, the rocks and hyde parkare all moments away.

the brisbane marriott, with 267 rooms and suites,
is ideally placed between brisbane’s cbd and thefortitude valley hub. with a stunning backdropof the brisbane river, story bridge, kangaroo
point cliffs and city skyline, the hotel is close
to shopping, riverside dining, the commercial
district and cultural attractions.

centrally located near the hague city centre
and the north sea coast, the hague marriott
hotel features contemporary style with a warm
ambiance. 306 comfortable and spacious rooms
and suites are thoughtfully appointed withstylish design accents and complimentary wi-fi.
many of the city’s attractions are located nearby.

marriott.com

marriott.com

marriott.com

www.thehaguemarriott.com

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the melbourne marriott is centrally located,close to the city’s theatre precinct, shopping
districts and chinatown. featuring world-classservice, all 186 well-appointed rooms and suites
are modern and elegant. facilities include
a heated indoor pool, gymnasium, signature
restaurant and vibrant lounge.

portfolio of life

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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 practicalamenities that are suited to work or relaxation, plus there is complimentary wi-fi throughout thehotel. 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

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