TREASURED PLACES,TREASURED MOMENTS

home of thetastemakers
Epicurean heavenat The Starhill Dining

spanishpanacheAsia welcomes its
initial trio of AC Hotels

ethereal
debut

Introducing Japan’s
first Ritz-Carlton Reserve

BORN IN LE BRASSUSRAISED AROUND THE WORLDrobertocoin.com

LOVE IN VERONA COLLECTIONROBERTO COIN

CONTENTSCONTENTS

life events

life feature

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AC Hotels debuts in Malaysia
with a launch party at its
Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa property.

The Melbourne Marriott’s central
location makes it the ideal nexus to
see the city’s iconic spots on foot.

15

70

Berry Bros & Rudd, Britain’s
oldest purveyor of wine and spirits,
holds a whisky masterclass at
Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur.

Make the most of Queensland’s
famous sunshine and explore thecity by kayak on the Brisbane River.

72

life on the cover

Discover the landmarks around
Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotelat a leisurely pace by bicycle.

44

16

The Starhill Dining promises a new andelevated gastronomic experience thatwill fuel your imagination, right in theheart of Kuala Lumpur.

40

life feature
26

AC Hotels by Marriott makes its
Asian landfall with a trio of properties in
Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kuantan.

32

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur elevatesthe art of afternoon tea with its very own
certified tea sommelier.

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Pangkor Laut Resort’s grandest suite isnamed after the legendary Italian tenor
Luciano Pavarotti.

38

The rich tapestry of heritage in Malaysia’s
historic state is proudly celebrated at
The Majestic Malacca.

34
8

76

Japan’s powder mecca of Niseko
welcomes the country’s first
Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the form ofHigashiyama Niseko Village.

44

Tanjong Jara Resort’s Spa Village
invites couples to go on a restorative
journey once reserved for royalty.

58

Lounge by the poolside and indulge
in deliciously healthy eats at
The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui’s
Sea Salt Shack.

62

Dine as the Romans did at celebrity
chef Guy Grossi’s Italian restaurant at
The Westin Perth.

life style
48

The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s
elegant decor and JW Marriott
Kuala Lumpur’s fresh vibes set thestage for a stylish examination ofboth hotels.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur’sthoughtfully designed spaces andcentral downtown location make it
the perfect meeting place.

32

The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s
new guest attraction offers a city
insider’s – and history buff’s –view of how a muddy estuary
evolved through the directconfluence of colonial powers anda certain Queen Victoria.

74

The Great Room Lobby and Bar
at The Hague Marriott offersa smorgasbord of delicious
international dining choices.

CONTENTS
life feature
80

The Glasshouse welcomes a bespoke
limited-edition whisky available at all
five of YTL Hotels’ UK properties.

84

The beautiful garden spaces atMonkey Island Estate instil an air ofromance and serenity.

84

88

The Townhouse at The GainsboroughBath Spa offers four floors of
indulgence in the heart of Bath.

92

Experience the historic charm ofThreadneedles Hotel. Once home
to London, City and Midland Bank,
it now houses Marco Pierre White’s
Wheeler’s Oyster Bar and Grill Room.

96

London-based book clubs
meet at The Academy once amonth, honouring the hotel’sliterary connection.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

There’s plenty to eat, see and do at
Cameron Highlands Resort. Examine
vintage artefacts at a nearby museum,
go for a hike in the misty Mossy
Forest or enjoy a picnic in a tea
plantation – our guide has it all.

portfolio of life104

The world of YTL Hotels.

10

a note from tan sri ( dr ) francis yeoh
CONSULTING MANAGING EDITORIZAN YUSUFF WILSONEDITOR-IN-CHIEFKENNETH TAN (k.tan@imv.com.sg)

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

ART
Junior Art Director PENN EY CHEE
Designer ELLYN YEOCONTRIBUTORSERIC IAN CHAN, JUNE MONG, RENYI LIM, SHALINI YEAP, WEI-YU WANG

PRODUCTION
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
Sales Director VENIS LOO (v.loo@imv.com.sg)
Sales Manager XANA LAI (x.lai@imv.com.sg)

FINANCE & ACCOUNTS
Finance Manager SOH HUI YING (h.soh@imv.com.sg)
Finance Executive NADIA ZUHARI (n.zuhari@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 SCHLIPPEO

On our cover this issue is the first stage of the transformationof The Starhill, Malaysia’s first luxury shopping centre. The
Starhill, Home of the Tastemakers, will offer the best ofexperiential retail in an intimate boutique environment ofelegance and sophistication. Shoppers will enjoy a refinedhome-like ambience that is infused with warm hospitality andstylish aesthetics.
We are proud to introduce to you The Starhill Dining, acollection of captivating dining and entertainment concepts.
These bars and restaurants, which include returning favourites
Shook! and Luk Yu Tea House, celebrate culinary sophistication,bringing to diners fresh, seasonal and globally inspired
dining experiences with a diverse spread of gastronomic
creations served by the Tastemakers, each with a uniquefood programming.
All these experiences await you in your next exploration withYTL Hotels. We hope that these places and moments become
forever treasures and it is this which we hope to deliver to you
through your stays with us.

ur ethos of Treasured Places, Treasured
Moments is a poignant reminder of ourcollected memories. Those familiar with ourproperties may recall the times when they
were taking the waters in Bath, enjoying
Hokkaido’s delicious seafood at one of our
Niseko Village hotels, observing the flight of the hornbills at
Pangkor Laut Resort or decompressing under the practised
hands of a masseuse at the Spa Village of The Ritz-Carlton,
Koh Samui.
All these and many more experiences are still to be hadwith new additions to YTL Hotels’ properties. In the wintry
wonderland of Hokkaido, YTL Hotels is welcoming the first
guests to our newly opened Higashiyama Niseko Village,
a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – the first in Japan and one of only
five Ritz-Carlton Reserves in the world. Its desirability as a
Ritz-Carlton Reserve has to do with its ethereal location where
the oneness of nature meets with refinement in hospitality.
Even better is its year-long availability across all seasons,which promises a new discovery inside and outside the resort
on your every return.
A little closer to home, we are proud to have the first trioof AC Hotels in Asia. Boasting Spanish roots and a Europeansoul, AC Hotels celebrates style with a classic, modern touch,ensuring guests enjoy a stay filled with warm service, signature
moments and thoughtful, upscale amenities in Kuala Lumpur,
Kuantan and Penang.

life events

life events

fit for a prince
royally appointed purveyor of wine and spirits berrybros & rudd debuts its classic range of blended
single malt whisky at hotel stripes kuala lumpur.

Berry Bros & Rudd, Britain’s oldest wine andspirit merchant, invited local whisky aficionados
to fall in love with the brand’s classic range of
blended single malts at Man Tao Bar, Hotel
Stripes Kuala Lumpur. The purveyor worked
with a range of Scottish distilleries to create
their interpretation of a classic Speyside, Islay and a sherrycask whisky, with these three bottles forming the core of theline. The Speyside whisky’s golden liquid has a bouquet ofhoneyed fruit, citrus and soft wood and notes of citrus in themouth. The Islay – representing the region’s renowned peaty
whiskies – leaves a creamy sweetness and a long lingeringsmoky finish on the palate. Completing the trio, the sherrycask whisky is a caramel-coloured whisky with a bold sherry
prominence on the nose and a long sweet finish.

the perfectly
precise hotel

For more information on Man Tao Bar visit stripeskl.com

For more information visit ac-hotels.marriott.com

14

Photographs by Fady Younis.

F

ounded in Spain, AC Hotels has launched in three strategic locations
across Malaysia. Nicknamed ‘the perfectly precise hotel’, AC Hotels is
now in Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa, Penang Bukit Jambul and Kuantan
City Centre. The new hotel brand is the result of a partnership between
Marriott International and YTL Hotels, with the two companies having
ambitious plans to bring an AC Hotel to every state in the years to come.
Spain’s ambassador to Malaysia, H.E. José Miguel Corvinos Lafuente, was present at
the launch to express his eagerness for guests to experience true Spanish hospitality. Asa taste of what’s to come, AC Kitchen prepared a smorgasbord of Spanish delicacies,
such as paella and empanadas, as well as Roselle – the hotel’s signature non-alcoholic
beverage made of soda water, roselle, lemon and orange juice.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

From left: Peter Gassner (regional
vice president of hotel development
Asia Pacific, Marriott International),
H.E José Miguel Corvinos Lafuente(Spain’s ambassador to Malaysia)
and Mahmoud Skaf (area generalmanager of Marriott International
and YTL Hotels).

Photograph by Faylasufiyah.

ac hotels launches in malaysia, promising guest-driven
hospitality and european-inspired designs tailored to
the needs of sophisticated business travellers.

15the starhill dining promises a new and elevatedgastronomic experience that will fuel yourimagination, right in the heart of kuala lumpur.
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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

home of thetastemakers

Centred in The Starhill - Home of the Tastemakers, The
Starhill Dining celebrates culinary sophistication at its mostelegant, with a diverse spread of gastronomic creations servedby its signature restaurants and bar. The Starhill Dining fuels
the imagination through a collection of captivating dining andentertainment concepts. Diners certainly can look forward to
rediscovering the city’s most riveting dining and entertainment
destination hotspot, stylishly reinvented right in the heart of
Bukit Bintang.
While regulars can look forward to rediscovering old
favourites like Shook! and Luk Yu Tea House, the new additions
within the space – namely, Mari*Star, a caviar seafood bar/lounge run by the operators of Marini’s on 57, and The Alchemy

hile it has always been a repository ofendless lofty epicurean experiences,
the new Starhill Dining seeks to takethe Kuala Lumpur culinary scene
to new heights when it opens thisDecember. Inspired by the energyof the city, as well as global food trends and traditions,each restaurant at The Starhill Dining is defined by its own
contemporary design, reimagined cuisine and a commitment
to take diners on a multi-sensorial, gastronomic journey likeno other. The unique food programming at The Starhill Dining
is interpreted by its very own Tastemakers, vivid storytellers
who possess a wealth of expertise in their own fields.

life on the coverlife on the cover

Above: Shook! 118 will offer acornucopia of fresh ingredients
cooked a la minute at its various live
action stations.
Opening spread: the Infinity Roombridges The Starhill Dining withJW Marriott Kuala Lumpur.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE– are set to enhance the overall experience. While the former
will open in 2021, The Alchemy will start concocting gin
botanicals for every season from December.
The Alchemy serves a taste of Manhattan with the New
Yorker Afternoon Tea, offering a Big Apple twist that eventraditionalists of this time-honoured British past-time can’t resist.
This New York-perfected rendition of the three-tiered heritage
will offer a scrumptious selection of sandwiches, savouries,
scones and desserts.
Even as you venture across the globe through The Alchemy’s
extensive gin collection from different corners of the world,
there’s a carefully planned process behind the bar. Its beverage
programme reflects passion and dedication to the alchemy offlavourfully inventive and artfully presented drinks. Here, you
can taste the seasons with exceptional concoctions, where
gin takes centre stage through craft cocktails, from the classic
negroni and Juniper Sling, to innovative cocktails inspired by
the revolving four seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Oenophiles, meanwhile, will rightly wax lyrical at thesuperlative offerings of The Cellar. A happy triumvirate of awalk-in cellar, an extensive wine list and a dedicated sommelier,
The Cellar scores the highest points for its collections. It takes
pride in stocking collections of highly sought-after wines,
including Napa Valley’s undoubted star Opus One, and an
exclusive vertical collection of the largest and finest Château
Mouton Rothschild of every consecutive vintage from 1945
to 2005.
The Starhill Dining will also house the city’s most desired
private event spaces, with three exceptional venues designed
to cater for events of all sizes. Be it an intimate networking
session, a social gathering or bespoke celebration, you
can easily find a suitable space to connect and entertain in
exclusivity here in either The Living Room, Shook! 118 or Club
Chinois. And far from the average catering fare, events at The
Starhill Dining are made exciting with tailored menus by the
dedicated gourmet Tastemakers.
Apart from Shook! and Luk Yu Tea House, the popular Jogoya
restaurant and Tarbush Lounge, well-known for its fine Arabic
cuisine, are also making a return. Of course, it is more thanjust a simple matter of resuming business for these returning
outlets. Shook!, for instance, has reinvented and transformed
itself into the dining and entertainment destination hotspot
for Kuala Lumpur’s tastemakers, movers and shakers. Witha contemporary yet timeless interior that is stylishly inviting,the revamped Shook! is set to burnish its legacy even further.
Master chef Mohan Deligganu is confident it will continue toshine, offering guests an immersion into the lifestyles of the
Tastemakers and fuelling their imaginations with its diverse
spread of gastronomic creations.
“Redefining flavours from around the world, Shook! willbring to you fresh, seasonal and globally inspired gourmet
experiences, as well as local delicacies now expertly amplified,”
he says.
Chef Mohan – a top 12 finalist in Season 11 of MasterChef UK:
The Professionals – also highlights some signature elements

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

life on the cover

life on the coverlife on the cover

Previous spread: Luk Yu Tea
House stays true to Chinese
heritage with Hong Kong dim
sum as well as Cantonese andChiu Chow specialities amid achinoiserie-inspired interior.
Following spread: the Living
Room is Shook!’s swish spacefor private dining and curated
menu presentations.

22

Explore the gastronomic world of The Starhill Dining on
thestarhilldining.com

23

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEThis and facing pages: diners
will discover a new gastronomy
theatre and comforting
familiarity at the revamped
Shook!, which returns with an
exciting line-up of tastemakers
and a pleasing repertoire of
Malay and Western cuisines aswell as a grill menu.

sum, home-style Cantonese specialities oozing with wok hei,as well as oodles of noodles. “We are also collaborating with
Chiu Chow cuisine master chef, Alex Au of the famous Pak Loh
Chiu Chow restaurant, and will feature signature dishes fromhim, where time-honoured Chiu Chow recipes and cooking
techniques are preserved, featuring a selection of signaturesthat are packed with traditional flavours,” says chef Jun.
Having led the team at Luk Yu Tea House for the past six
years, chef Jun continues to find great satisfaction at being
able to create the much-loved dim sum and Cantonesestyle dishes that guests have come to enjoy at this notablestalwart for Chinese cuisine. “I also enjoy the opportunity togive a modern touch to time-honoured recipes at Luk Yu Tea
House to keep guests’ palates yearning for more. My latest
partnership in the kitchen with chef Alex is also an exciting
collaboration that will ensure that Chinese cuisine continues
to be well preserved, and further elevate us as the choicedestination to experience a vibrant chorus of Cantonese andChiu Chow flavours in the heart of the city.”that he feels epitomise Shook!’s different aspects, including
the harmoniously balanced flavours of Enak’s authentic Malay
cuisine; as well as the classic surf and turf.
The experience at Shook!, he assures, “will be lively andengaging as diners taste flavours from around the world, froma classic grill reinvented to feature the best meat cuts andthe best steaks in town to flavours that are distinctively Malay
with a thoughtfully curated menu of age-old recipes that havebeen passed down through generations”.
Looking forward to welcoming regulars back to Shook!, chef
Mohan says: “Diners can opt for a theatrical dining experience
with our interactive kitchen or luxuriate in our intimate private
dining room, and discover distinctive ingredients sourced
from purveyors both local and around the world, authentically
prepared and immaculately presented.”
Luk Yu Tea House, meanwhile, will unveil an excitingtransformation that includes a reinvented menu to complement
the stylish chinoiserie-inspired interiors, with its commitment
to realising a poetic Chinese heritage. According to its
Tastemakers, chef Jun and chef Leong, the dining experience
will take on a new dimension with a redefined menu of nostalgic
and comforting Chinese cuisine that transcends provinces.
Look out for yum cha staples in the form of Hong Kong dim

life feature

life feature

new in town
ac hotels by marriott makes its asian landfall
with a trio of properties, in kuala lumpur,
penang and kuantan, all of which embody thebrand’s ethos of being perfectly precise.
Words by SHALINI YEAP

life featureFthe experience fresh and modern across the markets where it
operates. Balancing details and services in a seamless package,
the hotels promise flexible open spaces, intuitive design anda minimalist approach by removing clutter and unwanted
extras such as in-room marketing. In that, its embrace of the
Perfectly Precise tagline is most apropos, delivering a smart
proposition for guests who want to detach themselves fromthe chaos of travel.
Asia welcomes AC Hotels by Marriott with a triple fanfare in
the concurrent opening of three Malaysian properties in Kuala
Lumpur, Penang and Kuantan. With the conversion of existing
hospitality properties by YTL Hotels, Malaysia becomes thefirst Asian destination to offer the AC Hotels experience.
The three properties flagged as AC Hotels are AC Hotel
Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa, AC Hotel Penang Bukit Jambul andAC Hotel Kuantan City Centre which, naturally, also fall under
the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programme for points collection
and redemption. The same success cues of AC Hotels are
realised in this trio of Malaysian properties with their marked
design-led approach and contemporary content – the productof AC Hotels’ European soul and Spanish roots.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

ollowing the opening of the first AC Hotels
property in Madrid, Spain by Antonio Catalan
in 1999, a series of impressive introductions in
Europe and North America shone the spotlighton this relative newcomer to the hospitality
scene. By 2011, AC Hotels had joined MarriottInternational with its founder Catalan serving as CEO of
AC Hotels by Marriott. Its sensational rise as a hospitality
brand has seen AC Hotels birthed in global cities and iconic
locations such as Times Square in New York City, Paris, Istanbul,
Venice, Mexico City and Cape Town. In its country of origin, a
total of 55 properties are flagged as AC Hotels, representing
roughly a third of the 159 AC Hotels by Marriott properties
worldwide. “Hotels should serve as an escape, an oasis fromthe mundane,” Catalan says of the brand he founded two
decades ago.
That founding philosophy is reflected in the AC Hotels’
frictionless experience of “providing guests with everything
they need and nothing they don’t”. In the same way that savvy
travellers enjoy new-age alternatives such as e-hailing rides
and co-working spaces, the objective of AC Hotels is to keep

life feature

Above: AC Rooms
are designed togive travellers the
freedom to use thespace as they see fit.
Right: the meeting
spaces at the three
hotels are designed
to be inviting andcollaborative.
Facing page:
guests can relax
in the welcoming
AC Lobby.

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life feature
CURATED EXPERIENCES
Business travellers will appreciate the AC Lounge, which offersa perfect backdrop for creative meetings, with artful touches
providing a contemplative mood as the day segues into relaxed
evenings. They can wind down at the daily AC Hour, where
the signature Roselle mocktail – a nod to Malaysia’s national
flower – is served. In a recall of AC Hotels’ origins, travellers may
also kick back with Spanish vintages and a food menu inspiredby tapas. An ever-revolving roster of Malaysian-inspired
tapas are paired with the burgers, classic fish and chips, anda choice of churros and crème catalana as sweet endings. In
this harmonious space, the lounge and its accompanying bar
become the kinetic centre of the hotel for guests seeking a chic
space in which to unwind.
This interplay of thoughtful design carries into the rooms
where a fuss-free philosophy emphasises modern, modular
appointments for clean lines. Rooms offer an airy ambience,with woody elements that add warmth and intuitive lighting
controls to maximise relaxation throughout the day. Eachroom’s minimalist yet precise fit-out ensures guests have all
the essentials.
Mornings are done right at AC Kitchen, which is redolent
with the delicious scent of quiche, frittatas and freshly baked
croissants. An artisanal approach to its international breakfast
spread – which includes the indispensable Malaysian favourite,
nasi lemak – provides the sense of a family kitchen. Guests arewelcome to take control of their mornings, while those in ahurry may avail themselves of the AC Lounge’s 24-hour Grab
& Go menu, which runs the gamut of fruit jars, sandwiches,
pastas and Valenciana paellas. To work it off, AC Fitness offersa fully equipped gym with free weights, cardio machines andan outdoor pool.
Meanwhile, the function spaces by AC Meetings are a studyof how design influences moods and inspiration. A fit-out of
purposeful, rhythmic cues provides conducive, collaborativeand good-looking spaces with plenty of free surfaces andmodern classic seating that invite productivity. Again, minimalist
interiors promote harmonious vibes – that sense of calm is a
key mood that epitomises AC Hotels – transporting minds on
creative tangents.

Above: AC Hotel Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa’s 400-seat banquet room.
Below: enjoy a lazy afternoon at the hotel’s many cosy nooks,
such as its library.
Facing page: the lobby offers a timeless yet modern feel.

Photographs by Mango Loke.

For more information, visit ac-hotels.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEAT THE CENTRE OF IT ALL
All three AC Hotels in Malaysia share a great commonality: astrategic location. At AC Hotel Kuala Lumpur Titiwangsa, its
proximity to the sprawling Lake Gardens and mass transit points
means that work and play are within easy reach, while helping
you avoid the city’s traffic snarls. For a bit of retail therapy, themain shopping precinct of Bukit Bintang is only a short hop
away. The hotel’s immediate vicinity is also a treasure trove ofgastronomic delights, exuding a quaint neighbourhood feelingamid a bustling metropolis.
At AC Hotel Kuantan City Centre, guests can escape theurban jungle and enjoy the laid-back charms of the town, fromits local cuisine to the sparkling waters of Teluk Cempedak,a popular beach destination located a mere five kilometresaway. Up north, adventures of a culinary nature await guests
at AC Hotel Penang Bukit Jambul with a cornucopia of street
food that has seen the island earn its global renown among
gastronomes. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed city ofGeorge Town is steeped in culture and history, providing
unique and signature moments in the same vein as that which
AC Hotels strives to deliver at every turn of a guest’s stay.

life feature

fancy a cuppa?

the ritz-carlton, kuala lumpur elevatesthe art of afternoon tea with its very own
certified tea sommelier.
Words by KENNETH TAN

Blife featuree it jasmine, oolong or Earl Grey, the delicious
teas served at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur’s
famous Ritzy Afternoon Tea go beyond theordinary. Its signature tea is a blend of green
oolong with a delicate creamy palate, while aselection of tea’s grand classics run the gamutof English Breakfast, Classic Orange Pekoe and Heaven & Earth,with the last of the lot being a tart sencha with the sweetnessof strawberries and kiwis.
The hotel’s lobby lounge invites one to spend languid
afternoons in the comforting ambience of floral decorations,plush sofas and lilting music. And just as you are about to sink
into your next reverie, a steaming pot of tea arrives to deliver
new sensations.
Enter Sally Cheah, whose two decades at the hotel beganwith gourmet cakes, desserts and beverages. Her passion in
the art of afternoon tea led her to the grand tea houses ofParis, London, Tokyo and Singapore, where she observed thefiner points of afternoon tea traditions. This training included
a sojourn in Mumbai, where she obtained a TeaMaster Silver
certification as a tea sommelier from the owner of Ronnefeldt
Teehaus, whose teas are served at the The Ritz-Carlton,
Kuala Lumpur’s afternoon teas. As manager of The Lobby
Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur, Cheah is a regularsight for guests who partake of its famed three-tiered assortmentof savouries and sweets. Its finger sandwiches are a recall of The
Ritz London Book of Afternoon Tea, with accompanying pies
and quiches. Then there are its scones, baked within an hour ofservice so as to be served warm and fresh, served with Devonclotted cream.
The tea easily complements the array of handcrafted bites,with aromas released together for a flavourful symphony. From
the Earl Grey, one gets a hit of bergamot, while the jasmine
tea possesses the perfumed nose of its namesake, conferringa relaxing finish to a lemon éclair or Breton fruit tart. The rangeof handcrafted desserts from the afternoon tea also includes
highlights such as opera cake, strawberry cheesecake, Victoria
sandwiches and vanilla millefeuille.

Sally Cheah, TeaMaster at The Lobby Lounge,with a selection of the decadent delicacies and fine teasthat is served during the hotel’s Ritzy Afternoon Tea.

Reserve your afternoon tea experience at
The Ritz-Carlton, Kuala Lumpur by calling +603 2142 8000.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Meanwhile, more robust flavours of tea such as Sweet
Honeybush and other black teas – Spring Darjeeling (harvested
in spring from the Himalayas’ southern slopes), Imperial puerh (best when infused in boiling water), and spicy Masala
Chai – highlight the umami and spice of the savoury teatime
components. From the scotch eggs and chicken pie to theegg mayonnaise and smoked salmon sandwiches, the right tea
pairing will bind the flavours with a liquid alchemy to create a
new journey of gastronomy and tea appreciation. To finish, one
could enjoy the fruit-infused teas of soft peach with a nose ofbourbon vanilla, or perhaps, a relaxing peppermint or a Fujian
white Pai Mu Tan tea – plucked by hand before the leaves open
to evoke the freshness of white peonies.
Perhaps there is some wisdom that makes tea the second
most widely consumed beverage in the world (after water). “Itsinherent benefits and interactive qualities also have a positiveeffect on people’s moods and overall health,” muses Cheah,
adding: “and that makes it a popular choice in the afternoon,
for those who have to eat their dinner sober.”life feature

meet and greet
unique and well thought-out spaces at thecentrally located hotel stripes kuala lumpur
are perfect for hosting events.
Words by SHALINI YEAPThe Snug on level 2 is a unique and inspiring
multifunctional space for one-of-a-kind events.

P

For more information, please visit stripeskl.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

lanning and hosting an event can be an arduous
task, but with Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur,
everything is attended to with precision and to
your satisfaction. The hotel is very stylish, with all
the given comforts one expects from a memberof Marriott’s coveted Autograph Collection.
However, it is the hotel’s approach to event hosting that truly
sets it apart.
The Snug, a multifunctional space, is ideal for meetings,
product launches, private dining and parties. Its strippedback walls are customisable and the talk-show style layout andcouches lend possibilities to the different types of events thatcan be hosted here. Its unique Meet & Gym package redefines
work meetings with a creative twist. Wellness and relaxation
may not typically be associated with work-related meetings,
but Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur is pushing the envelope in thisregard. The package includes a refreshing glass of Kamunting
Fizz at Man Tao Bar, next to the rooftop pool, and gym accessto re-energise after a long day of work.
Be it an intimate wedding on the rooftop with unobstructed
views of downtown KL or a brainstorming session at Studio
S/T/R/I/P/E for that big, new project, the hotel’s events teamwill be happy to assist. That top-notch service, coupled with
one-of-a-kind event spaces and hard-to-resist packages,
makes Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur a more than compelling
choice for any kind of event.

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live likea legend
find out why the lategreat luciano pavarotti
fell in love withpangkor laut with thisultimate experience.
Words by ERIC IAN CHANW

You and your partner will also enjoy a nice long pampering
session at the award-winning Spa Village Pangkor Laut, where
you will feel your woes ebb and moods improve. You wouldn’t
be able to remember the last time you felt this relaxed andat peace.
To see the beauty of the island that moved Pavarotti,
take a private sunset cruise for two on an oriental junk. And
as the sun slowly sinks into the horizon, spare a few seconds
to remember the legend who inspired all this. You wouldn’t
be faulted for wanting to utter the same words Pavarotti said
about Pangkor Laut, “This is really paradise”.

The stylish two-bedroom
Pavarotti Suite is set atop
a hill in an ancient rainforest.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

hen world-renowned tenor Luciano
Pavarotti first set foot on Pangkor
Laut, he was almost moved to tears
by the beauty of the island. “This isreally paradise,” said the big man
with the bigger voice.
As a United Nations Ambassador for Peace, Pavarotti later
returned to Pangkor Laut Resort to perform at the Concert for
Peace at the Asian Global Peace Forum held on the island.
The legend also officially launched Spa Village Pangkor Laut,calling it a miracle. Just as Pangkor Laut made an impression
on Pavarotti, his larger-than-life personality and energy has
similarly made an impact on the resort.
To honour this great man who dedicated his life tohumanitarian works and promoting peace, Pangkor LautResort dedicated its best suite to him. The Pavarotti Suite is as
exclusive as it is elegant, set high on a hill in the rainforest. The
242-square-metre space consists of two bedrooms decorated inwarm wood tones with plush furnishings. The vast suite featuresa luxurious lounge area with a spectacular view of the forest andthe sea from its balcony. The suite also has a giant open-roofedbathroom, where washing up becomes an experience in itself.
A stay in the Pavarotti Suite is now even more attractive. A
new two-night experience by Pangkor Laut Resort will makeyou feel like a superstar, much like the legend himself.
The Pavarotti Experience includes private helicoptertransfers for two from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport to theresort and back. When you arrive, you are welcomed with abottle of Italian red wine to put you in the right mood.
Aside from having all your meals exquisitely prepared andserved at the resort’s restaurants, the experience also gives
you a romantic evening of private dining on the sandy beach.

For more information, please visit pangkorlautresort.com

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the majestic malacca lets you immerse
yourself in the historical and culturalrichness that is unique to the state.
Words by SHALINI YEAP

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For more information visit majesticmalacca.com

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

splendours by
the malacca rivern 2008, the city of Malacca was declared a UNESCOWorld Heritage site, and to commemorate this,has gazetted April 15 as its state holiday. The city’s
unique architectural and cultural treasures – a
nonpareil townscape in this part of Asia – led to the
UNESCO heritage committee’s decision.
Colonial buildings and centuries-old architecture are common
sights in Malacca. State-wide, there is a drive to protect andrepurpose these historical structures, and the buildings thatare successfully conserved will stand out and be admired forgenerations. The Majestic Malacca is one such building.
As soon as guests step into the grand, white building thatis The Majestic Malacca, they will feel the presence of thecity’s glorious past throughout the hotel, from the original
1920s porcelain tile floors of the Straits Settlement mansion– a distinctively Peranakan aesthetic – to its helpful kebayaclad staff.
The friendly staff will gladly show you to the bar that’s tuckedaway at a corner of the lobby. There, ask the bartender for a
Tanqueray’s Malacca Gin and sit back to marvel at the amazingly
well-preserved building, while sampling the exclusive limitededition tipple. Opposite the bar, stairs lead to The Mansion
where authentically and delicately prepared Kristang cuisine
is served. These dishes are from the small but tight-knit
Portuguese-Eurasian community, descendants of Portuguese
settlers in the 16th century for whom Malacca was its prized
outpost in the spice trade. Kristang delicacies are not easilyfound in restaurants, but they are an important nod to thediverse communities that call Malacca home.
Then, retire to the hotel’s luxurious guestrooms completewith teak furnishings and rich draperies that hark back to theglory days of the old city.
Sit on the plush silk-upholstered chaise lounge and gazeout at the river, sipping tea and letting your imagination takeyou to the heydays of the port city teeming with Chinese junks
and spice-laden vessels coming ashore from all over the world.

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Words by KENNETH TAN

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

a wanderthrough timethe majestic hotel kuala lumpur’s new guest
attraction offers a city insider’s – and history
buff’s – view of how a muddy estuary evolved
through the direct influence of colonial powers
and a certain queen victoria.

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life featureuch ink has been spilled on Kuala
Lumpur’s (KL) built heritage, and evenmore gigabytes on the Internet. The
capital’s historical details are profusely
shared online, like the tiniest pixels of an
8K Ultra HD screen when what you reallywant to see is the whole picture, for real.
To begin to know KL is to be close to its heart, and theonly way in is on foot, preferably with someone who grew up
hugging its pavements as a boy, loving the city as it yielded up
to him its innermost secrets.
Enter the ebullient Sharezal Abdul Wahid, director ofconcierge at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, history buff andsage storyteller on The Majestic Colonial Walk. We’ll follow
him on this auspicious morning and feel the mighty morphingenergy of one of Southeast Asia’s most fecund cities, where
the past resounds into the present.
Exempli gratia: Sharezal attended Victoria Institution (VI),the secondary school founded in 1893, partly seeded bysurplus funds to commemorate the golden jubilee of Britain’s
Queen Victoria. One of VI’s original 12 trustees and founders
was Loke Yew, the tin miner and philanthropist. Loke Wan Tho
was his youngest son, whose estate built the original Hotel
Majestic in 1932, the national heritage building that is now
part of The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.
We steam into the city and Sharezal tells us we’re on KL’s
historic mile; Jalan Sultan Hishamuddin was once Victory
Avenue, named for the Allies’ success over the Central Powers
in World War One, thousands of kilometres away in the cold,
shell-shocked and bloodied European trenches.

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And because KL was the exotic equatorial outpost of the
Empire’s global export operations; the destination invariably
became a plum posting for expats, fizzing like colonial
primordial soup. A hop, skip and jump away from The Majestic
Hotel is Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, which was completed in1910 to replace Resident Station (so named for its proximity to
the residence of the British High Commissioner). Its architect
was the prolific Brigadier General Arthur Benison Hubback,who was at the time the British architectural assistant to thedirector of public works. Hubback deftly proceeded to blend

Clockwise from facing page, top: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur’s director of concierge Sharezal Abdul Wahid introduces guests
to the historical wonders of the Malaysian capital via The Majestic Colonial Walk; the walk takes one to the meeting point of theGombak and Klang rivers, which led to the name Kuala Lumpur (the Malay phrase for ‘muddy confluence’) and the Hubback-designed
Masjid Jamek; Victoria Fountain, meant to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897, was belatedly raised in 1904 and isbackgrounded by Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad, which served as the government offices in its earliest conception.

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communities below, with institutions such as Government
Offices (1897, now Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad), Municipal
Office and Town Hall (1904, Panggung Bandaraya), FMSR
Central Offices (Muzium Tekstil Negara) and Selangor Club(1910, Royal Selangor Club), which came with the customary
British playing field. Remarkably, this is only a partial viewof Hubback’s many evolving works, as we cross the road toMedan Pasar, into the now achingly hip Jalan Sultan, identified
by Kwai Chai Hong (Demon Lane) and former cinema REXKL.
But did you know about Madras? And, oh yes, where Ella
got hitched?
Before we wend our way back just in time for a Majestic
Afternoon Tea, Sharezal has revealed for us immaculate
courtyards out of The Thousand and One Nights and how theMethodist Girls School inspired him to keep on walking. There
isn’t space here to give the game away, but he might let on if
you ask.

Neo-Moorish, Mughal, Indo-Saracenic and Neo-Saracenic
styles into the catchall Indo-Gothic architecture that was derigueur across India and crown colonies stretching eastwards.
Rail was the 5G broadband network of its era, and this station
was its dominant platform, delivering people and commodities
to and from Malaya’s ports and beyond.
Malaysia’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman, choseto build Masjid Negara, the National Mosque, opposite thetrain station, says Sharezal, to shelter weary travellers as they
arrived in the new capital city. Masjid Negara’s design teamcomprised Baharuddin Abu Kassim, Hisham al-Bakri andHoward Ashley from the Public Works Department. Its original
early-1960s architecture remains fresh even now, a testament tothe values of the nascent country and both a progression andcounterpoint to the glorious Indo-Gothic works by Hubback.
Which brings us to the muddy confluence of the Klang
and Gombak rivers at Masjid Jamek (Jamek Mosque; 1909,
Hubback). Sharezal casts his gaze across from Dataran
Merdeka: imagine, if you will, how a higgledy-piggledy humanconurbation of traders, clansmen, fortune hunters and outliers,
would have arisen around the banks of the current River ofLife project, clearly visible from the strategic and defensible
vantage point of what is now Bukit Aman, where the British had
established themselves. They would attempt to bring Westernindustrial and clock-like order to the freewheeling, flexi-hours

The Majestic Colonial Walk is available to in-residence guests on
Saturdays and Sundays, from 10.15am to noon, inclusive of tea. Pleasebook 24 hours in advance.
For more information, please visit majestickl.com

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Photographs by Marcus Wong/MV Perspective.

Previous spread: a bird’s-eye view of the rich colonial-era architecture surrounding The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

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life featurecrowning
glory

using ancient malay healing traditions,spa village tanjong jara’s signature couples
spa experience takes guests on a restorative
journey that was once reserved for royalty.

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Words by RENYI LIM

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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Spa Village Tanjong Jara’s unique restorative
Malay treatments have been handed downfrom generation to generation.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

he fusion of cultures woven into the richtapestry of Malaysia’s history can be seen in
the country’s distinctive architecture, fashion,
food, and, as a visit to Spa Village Tanjong Jara
will prove, its healing rituals as well. Collected
within the intimate complex of structures,
gardens and pools that make up the award-winning Spa Village
Tanjong Jara are treasured traditional Malay healing methods
selected for their authenticity and therapeutic potency.
The half-day Couples Spa Experience provides an illuminating
taste of the pre-wedding treatments typically lavished on a
Malay bride and bridegroom. The dual series of special bodytreatments are rooted in ancient Malay customs, reflecting the
pomp and pageantry of the traditional wedding ceremony as
the couple is transformed into the King and Queen of the day– or Raja Sehari in Malay.
A holistic approach towards the couple’s mind, body andspirit runs through the entirety of the experience. Ladies begin
the Dandan Puteri Tujuh programme with a detoxifying fullbody Urutan Gamelan massage, using oil scented with soothingjasmine and tropical magnolia. A hair cream bath, known as
Ikal Mayang, may have its origins from Malay princesses who
kept their crowning glories silky and glossy with a concoctionof coconut oil, rice paddy stalks and pandanus leaves.
A herbal body scrub of turmeric and galangal is applied
to the face and body, gently removing dead surface cells andencouraging the radiance beneath to shine through, after whicha fragrant Bersiram milk bath awaits. Exotic flower buds andpetals are cast into the pearlescent water as the milk nourishes
and smooths the skin, just before the lady is guided into a sauna
scented with jasmine and rosewater, emerging later glowing
and utterly uplifted from the steam.
Gentlemen embark on their Panji Alam journey with Urutan
Panglima – a warrior’s massage – which restores their body’s
structural alignment and flexibility by using deep tissue strokes
to manipulate the fascia and increase blood circulation. For
hair and body, the Ikal Cuci hair conditioning treatment andthe Boros Akar scrub harness the power of Malaysian herbal
roots, lending protection to the scalp, enlivening muscles andcoaxing skin back to its former firmness with a series of thoroughrubbing strokes.
Sinking into a bath infused with kaffir lime and fenugreek,
this herbal spice soak strengthens and sculpts the body,
preparing it for the herbal oil steam bath – an unbeatablerelaxing sauna session made more effective by a penetrating
blend of essential oils. As the finale, the couple is served herbal
tonic drinks – hers, an anti-ageing recipe of scented roots andflower buds, and his, a root tonic brewed in an earthen pot
and sweetened with jungle honey – while they bask in the utter
relaxation that comes only from Spa Village Tanjong Jara’s
royal treatment.

For more information please visit tanjongjararesort.com

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Left: black sequinblazer, by Longchamp;
white floral print
pants, by Alexis at
M Pavilion, Pavilion
Kuala Lumpur.
Right: gold evening
dress with neck tie, by
Monique Lhuillier at
M Store Pavilion,
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

two to tango
Words by TIEN CHEW
Photography by TOMMI CHU FROM BLINK STUDIO
Styling by SARAH SAW

the ritz-carlton, kuala lumpur’s elegant decor
meets with the jw marriott kuala lumpur’s fresh
vibes in a stylish examination of both hotels.

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Off-white high neck button blouse, by Zimmermann at Club 21, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur;
dark green high waist pants with leather belt, by Salvatore Ferragamo; Saddle bag, by Dior.

Black blazer, by Bottega Veneta;
Montaigne waist pouch, by Dior.

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life featureLeft: light pastel blue
lace and chiffon capedress, by Self-Portrait atClub 21,
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Right: black-and-white
striped blazer dress
with belt, by Alexis at M
Pavilion, Pavilion Kuala
Lumpur; Capitana blackleather with diamantéheels, by Manolo Blahnik.

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Models: Lili N / Wu Models and Patrycja Kasek / Icon Model Management.

Goddess dress, by Moschino; white floral print blazer, by Alexis at M Pavilion, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur;
Diva Marie Jane Bucket ostrich feather bag, by Christian Louboutin; Gold Merinda Block strap heels, by Stuart Weitzman.

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

Blue, teal and fuchsia wrap top
and pants, both by Diane von Furstenberg.

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Make-up by Celin Chin. Hair by Mei Choi. Photographer assisted by Mango.

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Coral dress, by AQ/AQ
at M Pavilion, Pavilion
Kuala Lumpur.

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life featuresalt andthe seathe sea salt shackat the ritz-carlton,
koh samui presents a
delicious range of dining
options for those who wanta balance between healthy
choices and a heartyvacation indulgence.
Words by RENYI LIM

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

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Savour delicious Thai and international favourites at Sea Salt Shack.

T
THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

toasted almonds – and Chao Lay avocado toast, which arrives
topped with lump crab, Peruvian peppers and green mango.
If it’s a taste of the sea that you’re after, Hawaiian-style pokébowls provide a refreshing combination of raw fish, sushi riceand moreish accompaniments like local mango and edamame.
Otherwise, make a beeline for the build-your-own savoury
bowl centre, where you can select six ingredients to be tossed
together. Grilled grain-fed beef tenderloin, marinated tofu or
white tiger prawns go very well, for instance, with fresh corn,candied walnuts, a yuzu-miso dressing, and – best of all – agenerous handful of crispy chicken skin.
The fun doesn’t stop once the sun goes down on
Wednesdays because this is when Sea Salt Shack rolls out thesunset seafood beach barbecue – an altogether more lavishspread. Along with a raw seafood bar, a seared-to-order mini
crab cake station, a paella of the week (cooked over an openfire), a raw seafood bar and a sushi and sashimi display, there’s
a selection of charcuterie, cheese and antipasti to whet guests’appetites. Gourmands will rejoice at the sight and taste of thebutcher’s block carving station that showcases barbecued
chicken and braised short ribs. And with a wood fire grill thatsears rock lobster, sea bass and local mussels to perfection,
this will certainly be the dinner to beat.

he salty sea air, it is said, does wonders forthe appetite. Perhaps that’s why guests havebeen flocking to The Ritz-Carlton, Koh Samui’s
Sea Salt Shack – a laid-back beachside eaterythat sits on the edge of Southern Thailand’s
coastline, overlooking the country’s only
ocean swimming pool. After a morning spent paddling in
the beachfront infinity pool or stretched out, cat-like, on a
deckchair, hunger pangs naturally follow. Take a walk acrossthe beach to Sea Salt Shack, where you can dine under the
shade of a large beach umbrella.
An enticing selection of detoxifying juice blends,
smoothies and poké bowls sets Sea Salt Shack as the ideal
spot for lunch. Those who like to keep their meals light will get
their fill of fresh fruits and vegetables. This nutrition-focusedmenu of juices and smoothies makes rehydration a pleasure,starting with Cu-Co Loco Crazy Ghost. This cooling mix ofcoconut water, cucumber, romaine lettuce and spinach comes
packed with vitamins, protein and iron, and paves the way toattain that sought-after healthy holiday glow.
Diners can select three types of seasonal fruits or fresh
berries to make their own smoothies or opt for the highfibre, potassium-rich Almond Booster – a blend of almondmilk, Thai bananas, peanut butter and cacao nibs. It’s a tasty
accompaniment to Sea Salt Shack’s Dark and Sweet açai bowl
– with its dark chocolate chunk inclusions, Greek yoghurt andFor more information visit ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

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Photographs by Michael Choo and Thom.

Words by RENYI LIM

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as the romans dohead chef stefano pingue explains how garum,
the westin perth’s signature restaurant, now offersa scintillating taste of rome through fresh
western australian produce.

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For more information visit westinperth.com

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ucked within the historic Hibernian Hall in
Perth City’s East End is a little corner ofRome. Garum is a collaboration between
Australian chef Guy Grossi (popularly known
as Melbourne’s Italian emperor) and The
Westin Perth. Despite the fact that this osteria
is separated from the Italian capital by a distance of over 13,000
kilometres, Garum has done well melding ancient Roman
techniques with modern Roman classics since it opened in 2018.
“Indeed, we face a tyranny of distance to Europe, where thevariety of raw materials is absolutely unmatched,” agrees headchef Stefano Pingue. “However, what we lack in proximity toRome, we more than make up for in the exquisite fresh produce,meat and seafood available here in Western Australia. We arean Italian restaurant, but the specific characteristics of ancient
Roman cuisine are unusual, so it’s a process of research anddiscovery as to how to combine the traditional flavours withthe best seasonal produce that Western Australia has to offer.
“Some of my favourites include Fremantle octopus, scallops
from Geraldton, duck and quail from Wagin, Angus sirloin
steak from the Great Southern region and our signature Arkadylamb – I could go on!” At the time of writing, Pingue has justput the finishing touches on Garum’s new à la carte menu
and fans of the restaurant are aching to know what has madethe cut. “I try to do as much research as possible to remain
within the realms of ancient Roman cuisine – Garum’s guiding
philosophy,” he explains.
“Many different nationalities and influences have passed
through Italy during ancient times and it is often necessary to
dig a little deeper to understand the true roots of the recipes.
We’ll definitely keep some of our signature dishes, including ourever-popular Arkady lamb, but there will be some movementin the menu that reflects the changing seasons.” One thing’s
for certain, though – the famous breakfast that has guests at
The Westin Perth and brunch devotees flocking to Garum willremain a fixture.
This formidable spread brings out the glutton even in those
who would normally show restraint. Those who’ve tasted
Garum’s breakfast will attest that they’ve rarely savoured better.
As Pingue puts it: “Guy has always been adamant that he does
not want to offer the same breakfast as many luxury hotels. Ourconcept is based on the traditional Italian-style breakfast calledtavola fredda e tavola calda, which translates to ‘the cold table
and the hot table’. You have a large selection of hot and cold
dishes which are changed seasonally, along with the delicious
à la carte breakfast menu.
“We strive to maintain the same high standard every day
thanks to our amazing team, who all work together with thesame enthusiasm for providing interesting, delicious and uniquebreakfast offerings that we can be proud of – not only for hotel
guests, but for anyone who’d like to experience something alittle out of the ordinary.”

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hot totrot
here’s why staying at
melbourne marriott hotel,
central to the australiancity’s must-see landmarks,
makes for a fantastic holiday.
Words by RENYI LIM

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where gold bullion was once stored during the gold rush era.
Don’t miss its extremely entertaining ongoing exhibition,
Wayward Women?, about 10 infamous Victorian women who
made a name for themselves between 1894 and 1904.

here’s no chance of missing Melbourne Marriott
Hotel – superbly located on the corner where
Exhibition and Lonsdale Streets meet, it reallyis at the centre of everything. The five-star
hotel’s prime position within Melbourne’s CBD,or central business district, means that it’s ahop, skip and a jump away from the Victorian capital’s mostpopular history, culture, shopping and nightlife destinations.
If your boots are made for walking and you feel like taking inthe sights of the city on foot, here are some interesting places
to amble to – and it won’t take you more than 20 minutes.

PRESGRAVE PLACE (12 MINUTES AWAY)
If you’re not in the mood for rubbing shoulders with tourists
but still want a dose of street art, Presgrave Place, close to
Melbourne’s fashion precinct, is peppered with intriguing threedimensional works. There are sculptures, dioramas, framed
images and even Banksy-inspired rats perched on the bricks
to enjoy.

STATE LIBRARY VICTORIA (7 MINUTES AWAY)First established as the Melbourne Public Library in 1854, this isAustralia’s oldest public library and one of the first free public
libraries in the world. Exhibitions, talks, and guided tours – bothpaid and free – are frequently scheduled here. While there,
take a peek into the magnificent octagonal, six storey-high La
Trobe Reading Room.
THE VICTORIAN ARTISTS SOCIETY (9 MINUTES AWAY)
Within this American Romanesque building, erected by architect
Richard Speight in 1892, The Victorian Artists Society provides
a home to the state’s avant-garde artists of the future. Eagerart collectors will enjoy dipping into the public gallery, whilebudding artists can attend an untutored life drawing class.

COOKS’ COTTAGE (17 MINUTES AWAY)
The charming heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens are worth awalk, but within the garden is a cottage built by the parents ofBritish explorer, Captain James Cook. Originally constructedin Yorkshire, England in 1755, it was transported to Melbourne
by Sir Russell Grimwade in 1934 and painstakingly rebuilt brickby brick – a considerable labour of love.

THE OLD TREASURY BUILDING (10 MINUTES AWAY)
Instantly recognisable as one of Melbourne’s finest 19th-century
structures, the Old Treasury Building hosts the original vaults

For more information, please visit marriott.com/melmc

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Photograph by Harumi Suzuki.

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINEFLINDERS STREET STATION (16 MINUTES AWAY)
Should a native Melburnian instruct you to meet them
‘under the clocks’, they’re referring to the row of 13 clocks
above the main entrance of Flinders Street Station. They’vebeen an icon for the city since they were installed in 1909.
Today, the station serves as a popular meeting place, even in
the age of instant messaging.

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life featuresimplyspectacularmake the most of queensland’s famous sunshine
and explore the city by water as you kayak along
the brisbane river.

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at Mount Stanley, wends through the city with curves that are atonne of fun to navigate and offer a myriad of sights.
In the 19th century, when Brisbane was a penal colony, thenatural bend in the river (known by some by its Aboriginal
name ‘Maiwar’) presented an enormous challenge for any
would-be escapees. Today, those meanders are part of the
Brisbane River’s charm as evidenced by the many cruise boats,water bikes, paddleboards and kayaks on the water on any
given day.
Riverlife – an Australian company with over 15 years ofexperience in leading guided adventures in Brisbane –specialises in kayak tours, offering day tours as well as a slightly
more sophisticated kayak, wine and grazing experience.
Although Riverlife hires kayaks to those who are confident
enough to do some solo paddling as well, it’s far morememorable to join one of its group tours, which are led by afully qualified guide.
First-timers needn’t be anxious as the guide will takeeveryone through a safety briefing before dispensing tips
and tricks on how to kayak. The tour then proceeds either
downstream towards Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge or upstream
to the South Bank, depending on the tide times. Before long,
you’ll be marvelling at sights such as the Queensland Maritime
Museum, Kangaroo Point Cliffs and a shipwrecked steamshipcalled Myora, which has been peeping out from the riverbank’s
mangroves at low tide since it was abandoned there in 1956.

Top: the Brisbane River offers a multitude of outdoor adventuresand leisure activities.
Above: a view of Story Bridge from Brisbane Marriott’s executive
guest rooms, which also includes access to its 26th-storey lounge.
Facing page: experience the thrill of being on the water
surrounded by Brisbane’s urbanscape.

It’s simple enough to traverse Brisbane by foot, butwhat about putting your arms to use and getting amarkedly different view of the city instead? A mere
six minutes away from the centrally located Brisbane
Marriott Hotel, you find Riverlife Adventure Centre.
From here, you can access the adventures on the
Brisbane River – the longest river in south-east Queensland –which runs through the centre of the Australian state’s capitalcity. This serpentine river, which originates some 350km away

For more information please visit brisbanemarriott.com

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Photograph by Tourism and Events Queensland.

Words by RENYI LIM

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cycling the city
the strategically located sydney harbour
marriott hotel makes visiting nearby must-seesa breeze and it’s carbon-emission-free too.
Words by SHALINI YEAPTTHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

here’s something sublime about exploringa place by bicycle. You can pedal throughpicturesque countrysides, along quaint quiet
laneways or down modern busy streets. Cycling
is indeed the perfect way to be in the thickof the action and soak in the vibrancy of thesurroundings and the energy of the people. Time slows down
during these two-wheeler adventures, which makes this form of
unhurried sightseeing a true pleasure, particularly when you’restaying at the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel.

STROLL THROUGH A VICTORIAN ARCADE
With stained glass windows, intricate carvings and stunning
domed ceilings, the elaborate Romanesque-style Queen Victoria
Building – Australia’s largest arcade – is not your ordinary retailspace and, indeed, quite the sight to behold.

VISIT AN ART AND ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
A stone’s throw away from the hotel is the iconic Opera House.
Catch a show or simply marvel at this 20th-century architectural
masterpiece by the edge of blue waters.

COSY UP TO NATURE
An oasis in the city, the Royal Botanic Gardens spans 30 hectares
and is home to an impressive collection of more than 27,000
plants from around the globe. This is the oldest botanic garden inAustralia and also the country’s oldest living scientific institution.

GET ACQUAINTED WITH HISTORY AND CULTURE
A few minutes by bike will take you to the exhibitions at theMuseum of Contemporary Art or to the Museum of Sydney.
While there, you will learn more about the city and its occupants.

RIDE ACROSS ICONIC BRIDGES
Could a trip to Sydney possibly be complete sans a visit to the
Harbour Bridge? From the cycleway across the Bridge, you canenjoy a leisurely ride via the Kent Cycling Causeway that passes
the Pyrmont Bridge all the way to the Anzac Bridge. Here, you
can reward yourself with lofty views over Johnstons Bay.

For more information please visit sydneyharbourmarriott.com.au

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life featurefor yourpleasure
enjoy dutch hospitality at its finest at thehague marriott’s great room lobby and bar.
Words by TIEN CHEW

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For more information, visit thehaguemarriott.com

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he Hague, South Holland’s capital, is famous
for its hospitality, and welcomed 17.4 million
tourists last year. Many of these visitors stayat The Hague Marriott Hotel for its proximity
to the picturesque 11-kilometre Scheveningen
beach and the World Forum convention centre
and theatre, not to mention the numerous museums, attractions
and royal palaces all within walking or cycling distance.
At the hotel’s heart is the Great Room Lobby and Bar, asocial and business hub designed to allow guests to integrate
dining, entertainment, and informal meetings into one seamlessspace. Here, purposeful zones with complimentary Wi-Fi satisfy
the needs of business travellers and holidaymakers alike.
Comfortable seating in a lounge atmosphere encourages guests
to relax, read, and enjoy a handcrafted cocktail from the adjacentbar, while the dining area is ideal for savouring selections fromthe Great Room menu.
When late afternoon sets in and early evening arrives,
the Great Room Lobby becomes a bustling haven for thoseseeking respite and refreshment. Small parties can cosy up
with sharing plates, running the gamut from Japanese shrimp
tempura and Spanish gambas in garlic oil to French beef stew
and Chinese spring rolls. If it’s something local you’re after,order a Dutch favourite – bitterballen – a bite-sized beef andgravy meatball croquette best enjoyed with a cool beer.
These finger foods also go superbly well with the bar’s
speciality cocktails, such as the refreshing Scheveningen Sunset– a mix of Bacardi rum and Havana three-year-old rum, orange
juice nectar and grenadine. Another must-try is the hotel’s
twist on a classic, The Gallery Mimosa – a sugar crust-rimmed
concoction of cava, orange juice and grenadine – which makes
an invigorating sundowner. A range of Starbucks coffee is alsoavailable to enjoy on the premises or on-the-go.
For a heartier bite, there’s the Marriott Burger – a 200gram flat top beef patty topped with cheddar, bacon, tomato,
pickles, lettuce and homemade sauce – or the Marriott Chicken– a Peruvian-style grilled chicken with tomatillo, country bread
and a spicy green chilli sauce. The Great Room’s mushroom
risotto, cooked with seasonal vegetables and nuts, and beetand ricotta salad with orange supremes and a honey rosemaryvinaigrette, make for delicious meat-free alternatives.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent tonka bean crèmebrûlée topped with chocolate ice cream or the beloved
Dutch citroencake, a traditional lemon cake served with white
chocolate earth and a herbaceous basil ice cream for balance.

kachoufuugetsu
japan’s powder mecca of niseko welcomesthe country’s first ritz-carlton reservein the form of higashiyama niseko village.
Words by KENNETH TAN

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Above: The reception offers a warm welcome for guests.
Below: The 1,162 sq ft Yotei Suite affords a panorama of the wintry outdoors.
Facing page: Yukibana’s serene ambience is augmented by the calming soft glow of its expressive light fixtures.

present today in the resort’s beverage portfolio that includes
inviting après-ski cocktails served at the resort’s Ume Lounge.
With the help of the resort’s experts, the fascinating facetsof Kachou Fuugetsu are within easy reach. This assortmentof masters of their realms includes the Do San and theHigashiyama Reservists. The Do San is a trusted and dedicatedservice expert who personifies the Reserve service for each
guest at Higashiyama Niseko Village. Aptly named in honour of

The powder hounds at Higashiyama Niseko Village will enjoy
their own private locker where warm ambient air circulates todry ski gear and boots after a day in the snow. A host of guest
services provides a hassle-free experience to hitting the slopes,with priority lane access to the main gondolas, equipment
waxing and tuning services, experienced physiotherapists
on-call for any injuries or massages, as well as ski-in/ski-out
access to the slopes connected to the network of chair lifts
that transport you right to the peak of Mount Niseko Annupuri.
From here, you have all of Niseko’s deep powder backcountry
ski trails for your choosing.
Back at the resort, a fitness centre equipped with state-ofart cardio and weight training machines helps you get in form.
Following all that activity, the spa beckons with its signature
shiatsu massages as does its onsen, with therapeutic waters
drawn deep from thermal springs and piped in at 42 degrees
Celsius. All around, the nature-inflected attractions at Niseko
are weaved into the tapestry of your Higashiyama Niseko
Village experience, with seasonal Haskap (blue honeysuckle)
berries – a fruit traditionally consumed as a health elixir by theindigenous Ainu of Hokkaido – to the use of essential oils at
the spa: lavender in summer and mint in winter. And in all this,that sense of Kachou Fuugetsu is synced to your inner being,
bringing forth natural revelations in an extraordinary place.
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve opens
for guests in December 2020.

an intimate knowledge of the local environment and naturalwonders that make Niseko such a remarkable destination. These
local experts have been skiing and snowboarding thesemountains, cycling these roads and running these trails
for years; their deep understanding includes relationships
with and access to Niseko’s surrounding farms and the famed
produce that is coveted by Japan’s best chefs, as well as themost unique onsen where the volcanic mud provides an elixir
for the skin.
For the epicureans, the itamae at the cedar counter-topped
Sushi Nagi becomes the gateway for you to uncover the bountyof the seasons through its Hokkaido gastronomic odyssey;
expect prized hairy crabs in summer, sea urchin in autumn,
and year-round Kuroge steaks and prime cuts, derived fromthe Japanese Black, one of the most prized breeds of local
cattle. A particularity in this area is the coveted Yukinoshita(under-the-snow) vegetables, where produce is harvested justafter first snowfall, thereby allowing it to reach its optimal levelof sweetness.
Of course, the allure of the 2,191 acres of ski terrain isnever too far away, or, if you may prefer, skiing, sledding,snowshoeing and snowmobiling. These winter adventures
begin with mornings at Yukibana, where handcrafted pastries
and creative local and international breakfast offerings set
you up for the day. Then you step out into the wonderland ofsnow, in one of the world’s most celebrated powder territories.
Here, the confluence of geography, ambient temperaturesand elevation has led to the Niseko powder phenomenon –a triumvirate of snow quantity, consistency and quality unlike
anywhere else in the world.

For bookings, visit ritzcarlton.com/higashiyamanisekovillage

the locale and its history, Do San means a person of Hokkaido.
The Do San add cultural value to the Reserve experience bysharing their love of place and are storytellers who look fororganic opportunities to share local knowledge and traditions.
The Do San oversee every aspect of your stay through thissingle touchpoint. Always available but never intrusive, the Do
San ensure that your needs are anticipated and met in a waythat is seamless and seemingly effortless.
The Higashiyama Reservists are select experts for themountain orientation programme, curated exclusively for guestsof Higashiyama Niseko Village. Higashiyama Reservists have78

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he Japanese phrase Kachou Fuugetsu wascoined around the 15th century and directlytranslates as ‘flower, bird, wind, moon’. Its
deeper meaning, however, reflects a near
universal concept in which you discover
yourself through experiences in nature; in the
joy and happiness attached to the passing of seasons – froman autumnal breeze to a pale winter moon. More than half amillennia later, this idea of going back to nature to heal andrefresh remains as appealing, if not more so, as ever.
Kachou Fuugetsu becomes the keystone at the newly
opened Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve,
the first Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Japan. Located at the baseof Mount Niseko Annupuri, which is part of the larger Niseko
United ski area, the resort is composed of 50 luxurious rooms
and suites, and is set amidst the stunning geography of
Hokkaido’s western province. Here, the changing of seasonsconfers a unique quality and colourful kaleidoscope to
Higashiyama Niseko Village, which is open throughout theyear, with Mount Yotei providing a magnificent background.
This ethereal location, and its varied sense of discovery andadventure, is what qualifies the resort as one of only five
Ritz-Carlton Reserves in the world, joining the likes of Zadun
in Los Cabos, Mexico; Dorado Beach in Dorado, Puerto Rico;
Phulay Bay in Krabi, Thailand; and Mandapa in Bali, Indonesia.
At Higashiyama Niseko Village, the sense of oneness withnature is mirrored by the earthy tones of its reception, where
black teakwood stack stones and Vic Latte stones combine
for a warm welcome. From this point on, your communionwith nature is never far away, with the sight of gorgeous snow
trails through your room window, to the refreshing taste of
the in-residence spring water. This spring water received royalacclaim in 1954 during a visit by the emperor, who hailed thewater as ‘kanro’ or sweet as the dew. Its secret lies in its origins
as melted snow, purified across decades through the mineralrich earth of Mount Yotei. The same pristine spring water islife feature79

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life featurein good spirits
the glasshouse adds to its collection witha bespoke ytl hotels limited-edition whisky.
Words by WEI-YU WANG

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The Snug is a favourite among
regular guests of The Glasshouseas the place to unwind.

For more information, visit theglasshousehotel.co.uk

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THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETHE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINETL Hotels now has a whisky to call its own, fora little while at least, as it is a limited editionof just 150 bottles. These are of Adelphi
Glenborrodale Batch 6, a blended malt fromone of Scotland’s most acclaimed whiskybottlers and a specialist in matters of rare
malts. The full run of Glenborrodale Batch 6 consisted of 1,496
bottles, and the 150 labelled specially for YTL Hotels are the lastavailable. The eight-year-old blended malt, which is a dark gold,
is drawn from two sherry butts and delivered at 46 per cent ABV.
The tasting notes are evocative of a creamy sweetness that isbest described as a summer Scottish breakfast with butteredoatcakes and heather honey. Flavours include dark cherry, whitepeach and kiwi fruit compote, and hazelnut spread on welltoasted drop scones.
Its winning qualities are its depth in flavours which are finely
honed, maintaining a balanced nuance without overpowering
the palate. A distinct lack of peat makes it more approachable
for novices and connoisseurs, with the absence of smoke
making it an easy and enjoyable dram at The Glasshouse
Hotel, which is where one finds this rare elixir.
The Glasshouse in Edinburgh is a whisky destination in its own
right, known for the whisky-themed naming of its 17 suites. Itsbar, The Snug, is home to an impressive collection of over 160
Scotch malts, which one can enjoy by the bar’s fireplace. The
hotel’s association with Adelphi began when The Snug’s drink
offerings were mapped out. The Snug, which has become thecheerful heart of this hotel with the façade of the 170-year-old
Lady Glenorchy church, has benefited from the Scotch whisky
passion and tradition of its neighbours, including Antonia andAlex Bruce from Adelphi who enjoy a burnished reputation in
the whisky world as experts in the art of bottling Scotch whisky.
As a result, the hotel found its spiritual link to Scotch andthe resulting whisky – which bears the YTL Hotels name on
its label – shares many values with the hotel group; a familyrun business focused on producing a world-class product andlasting memories.
The new YTL Hotels whisky may be found behind the bar at
all five of its UK properties, which include The Academy andThreadneedles in London, The Gainsborough Bath Spa, andMonkey Island Estate, Bray. The Glasshouse, however, remains
a premier destination to sample this dram with bona fide whisky
experts on hand to illuminate and advise. “My preferred way todrink it is with a wee bit of ice, allowing the flavour to develop
and change as it melts and the water infuses with the whisky,”says hotel general manager Tom Gibson. “Needless to say, myfavourite spot is in a warm cosy environment, like The Snugwith its welcoming fireplace!”life feature

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floral fancy
the secret to monkey island estate’s charmlies in its thoughtfully designed gardens.
Words by TIEN CHEW

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inspired by the healing rituals of the monks who once lived in
the area. The calming corridor features a mixture of coneflowers,
bonesets, Culver’s root, yarrows and golden oats, which comeinto full effect every summer. These botanical beauties act asvisual cues, preluding the spa’s array of treatments and therapies
that harness the power of ancient remedies, British organic
products and the gentle sound of the River Thames.
Surrounding The Temple, where most of the guest rooms
are situated, are more hydrangeas, only this time with purple
vervains and white phlox plants, while slender Italian cypress
trees grow alongside them. Here, the outdoor seating areais the perfect spot for relaxing or even sipping a cup of tea.
Sitting here at sunset can be an especially heady experience.
With the fading light and the perfume of blooms, you cannot
help but be at ease and marvel at the spectacular display ofnature’s beauty.

For more information please visit monkeyislandestate.co.uk

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Clockwise from far left:
The Fishing Temple wascommissioned by the 3rd Dukeof Marlborough from early
18th-century Palladian architect
Robert Morris; Golden Oats –so-called for resembling oats inappearance – frame the walkway
to the spa; white hydrangeas andphlox flowers offer a calming
view from the guest rooms; allacross the island, one discovers
nature’s floral riches.

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hen you reach Monkey Island Estate,
its soothing atmosphere immediately
takes over. This private seven-acrecountryside retreat in the village ofBray is just over an hour from London,a distance that is far enough to leavebehind the city vibes and welcome life at a more leisurely
pace. The property is influenced by nature and wildlife by theRiver Thames, where walnut, chestnut and lime trees surroundthe island, lending it some privacy, while thoughtfully placed
flowerbeds paint the landscape in an assortment of colours.
The island houses two Grade I-listed buildings, structuresof historical importance which are protected. The Pavilion
and The Temple were built by the Duke of Marlborough in
1723 as a fishing retreat. These buildings have now been
repurposed to house guest rooms and suites, ballroom andevent spaces, a bar and a brasserie. The estate’s new owners,
YTL Hotels, commissioned Dorking-based Adding Value
Design to create new gardens that would offer a romantic andsensory experience for guests. The result is a stunning vistaof traditional herbs, flowers, trees and perennials, perfectly
complementing the historic buildings.
Rectangular yew-hedged beds filled with white and green
hydrangeas and blue agapanthus contrasted by pleachedhornbeams flank the path leading up to The Pavilion. Throughout
the gardens, flower beds add a dramatic flair through the cleveruse of colour and block planting amidst the sprawling lawns.
A prairie-style winding walkway takes guests to The Floating
Spa, a bespoke traditional barge that is the setting for the spa

Previous spread: the beautifully
landscaped gardens ofMonkey Island Estate.

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life featurepure
relaxation

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the townhouse at the gainsborough bathspa offers four floors of indulgence inthe heart of bath.
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life featuret the UNESCO World Heritage Site thatis the city of Bath, a new addition to its
famed The Gainsborough Bath Spa hotel
offers guests an opportunity to holiday instyle. The Townhouse is an elegant fourstorey Georgian property that combines the
comfort of a private home with the established world-classservice of its adjacent five-star hotel – The GainsboroughBath Spa.
Just as the ancient Celts found solace in the curativemineral-rich waters of Bath, so too should you, with private
access granted to the historic Cross Bath, the sole reserve ofguests at The Townhouse. Cross Bath – a designated Grade
1-listed building, draws its waters from limestone aquifers
located at a depth of nearly 3,000 metres, where geothermalenergy emanating from the Earth heats the water to between
64 and 96 degrees Celsius.
What was then a sacred site for the local goddess Sulis– who was regarded by the Celts as a representation of thethermal springs – was transformed when the Romans arrived
circa 43 AD and built proper baths. The Romans duly named
this spa town – as it were – Aquae Sulis in her honour. Over
time Cross Bath, which was the exact site, has seen various
iterations; as the foundation for St John’s hospital in 1180 toa bathing pool for royalty and eventually, a historical edificeby Thomas Baldwin, known to the world as the 18th-century
architect of the city of Bath.

Photograph by Ferla Paolo.

The four-storey
Townhouse is a seamless
blend of classic style andcontemporary comfort.

And of course, with all of the hotel facilities available to you,one need only to book an appointment at the Spa Village Bathto enjoy its sensational personalised aromatherapy treatments
after a day out, a chance to make the best out of your day and,even perhaps, your year.
To book, contact reservations@ytlhotels.co.uk
or visit thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

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In the present day, guests checking into The Townhousewill be welcomed with a complimentary bottle of champagne,
fresh flowers and daily turndown service. Three bedrooms
furnished with a king, queen and single bed accommodate
up to five guests. Inside The Townhouse, guests will discovercharming interiors with a treasure trove of authentic Georgian
antiques. Among the highlights are its silk linens and curtains
found in the master suite, and a copper bathtub.
A fully equipped modern kitchen, six-seat dining area,lounge and outdoor patio cater to your every whim. You
may elect to whip up delicious feasts for the family, to dinein residence, replete with gorgeous chinaware. Or perhaps toenjoy drinks with friends in the vibrant drawing room, where a
Bang & Olufsen television and accompanying sound systemlets you catch the latest movies and sporting events.
Next door, one finds the three AA Rosette-awarded Dan
Moon at The Gainsborough Restaurant with the chef’s always
inventive seasonal menus ranging from savoury cheeses andfresh fruit to an exotic use of Asian flavours: yuzu, sesameand kelp.
With much of Bath within walking distance of The
Townhouse, one needn’t worry about being bored. A
knowledgeable concierge team is on hand to plot your ideal
day; be it traipsing through Roman archaeological sites,
sampling its cornucopia of gastronomy from Michelin-starredestablishments to satisfying street food, or exploring the city’s
famed countryside by bicycle, boat or in a hot air balloon.

a london
getaway

a bank heist, oysters & steak and a roman girl.
who knew that a luxury weekend at
threadneedles hotel could be sodelightfully decadent and scrumptious?
Words by JUNE MONG

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The Champagne Bar occupies the area of the old buildingthat was once the main banking counter.

Occupying an entire floor, the 125sqm Penthouse offers a time-traveller’sview of London, from classical Wren churches to 21st-century skyscrapers.

hreadneedles Hotel, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is a fivestar boutique property in London’s financial district that was formerly
the London City and Midland Bank. Inside, there is a beautiful stained
glass dome in the foyer that dates back to 1856, an old-school bar
with lots of ambience and a heart-stoppingly grand restaurant with
Grecian columns and a menu by Marco Pierre White. I stayed in the
Livingstone Suite on the second floor and was delighted to find in the cosy sittingarea a chilled bottle of Veuve Clicquot, a bar of handmade chocolate with a 19thcentury image of the bank foyer, and a copy of Nicholas Booth’s account of the 1873
bank heist, called The Thieves of Threadneedles, on the coffee table. But what took
the cake was the witty voucher for a complimentary glass of wine at the Champagne
Bar in the form of a City Bank credit note!
After changing into something smartly casual, I decided to visit the Bar for a drink
before dinner. The impressive wine list and cocktail menu meant that I had a Grey
Martini and a Chaplin all before dinner.
I was called to my table when it was ready and the buzz of dinner conversations
and the clinking of glasses made me scan the menu with famished eyes. Bad boy chef
White had managed to be true to the legacy of Wheeler’s Oyster Bar and Seafood
restaurant as well as entice a discerning diner with his take on modern British dining(without the hype). I started with half a dozen Colchester oysters with a glass of Gavi

di Gavi, followed by a creamy plump stone bass on a bed of perfectly braised fennel
and rich lobster sauce. The Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc went with the stone bass
like velvet gloves on a lady’s hand. Dessert was rich burnt custard richly spiced withvanilla seeds. After my meal, I drank an espresso martini as a homage to the English
crème brûlée.
The next day, a brisk walk around the neighbourhood took me past The Scalpel
to Leadenhall Market, where Harry Potter scenes were filmed (I now understood
why there was a copy of a Harry Potter novel in my suite) and back again to theGherkin. I wanted to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Roman Girl who was buried in
the fourth century AD where the Gherkin skyscraper now stands. The remains of this13- to 17-year-old were discovered in 1995 when excavation was being done for theNorman Foster building.
Walking back to Threadneedles Hotel that afternoon, I was peckish from mystroll and looked forward to my afternoon tea beneath that beautiful glass dome.
So if you’re a little tired of life, a stay here will revive your spirits and reignite yourappreciation for the good life.

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For more information, please visit hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

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The aptly named The Library at The Academy provides the perfect creative spacefor small meetings and intimate gatherings in the heart of Bloomsbury.

literary activities shine a light on
the academy hotel’s bloomsbury connection.
Words by JUNE MONG

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Once a month, local book clubs, such as the London chapterof the Girly Book Club, meet at The Academy in the evening tohave a book discussion over cocktails. You can find out whensuch meetings are held by enquiring at Reception.
There is also a carefully curated selection of Englishlanguage classics with the theme of travel to be found in The
Library next to the lobby. These Penguin clothbound editions
include Wide Sargasso Sea, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Odyssey, Gulliver’s
Travels and Villette. The Academy embraces the love of travel
and invites its guests to dip into these well-loved literary
masterpieces. The characters – be they Huck Finn sailing up
the Mississippi River on his raft, Alice tumbling down the rabbit
hole into Wonderland or Lucy Snowe moving to Villette to be an
English teacher – are all motivated by their love of adventure.
The Academy also hosts book launches and author readings,
and offers a special guided walk through Bloomsbury.
A luxury hotel with literary credentials? It’s academic, Watson.

Hive Books at a generous discount.

For more information, go to theacademyhotel.co.uk

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an academic
luxuryW

hen the hammer and drills fellsilent after careful renovations,five Georgian townhouses on
Gower Street reopened in 2018
as The Academy Bloomsbury.
It was always this Small Luxury
Hotel’s plan to do justice to its literary heritage. Who knows? A
hundred years ago, a former resident could have walked past
Virginia Woolf’s home on Gordon Square or might even haveattended her famous Thursday evening gatherings.
If you are staying in one of the hotel’s 12 suites, you’ll finda beautifully designed copy of one of Woolf’s novels in yourroom with a personal note from the hotel.
The Academy supports independent booksellers through apartnership with Hive Books by selecting a Book of the Month,which is displayed in the lobby for guests to browse or borrowfor the duration of their stay. Hotel guests are also encouraged
to follow in the footsteps of The Academy by supporting
independent bookshops and purchasing a few books fromlife moments

life moments

12 things to
do in cameron
highlands
the appeal of cameron highlands is
its temperate weather and its small-town
charm. here are 12 experiences that thishamlet on the hills offers, all of which you
can do easily when you book a stay at thecharming cameron highlands resort.
Words by ERIC IAN CHAN

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1. MEET THE COLONIAL PAST AT THE
JIM THOMPSON TEA ROOM
Fifty-three years later and the disappearanceof American businessman Jim Thompson stillleaves lingering questions. The one certainty
is that Thompson used to have his tea at thecolonial mansion – now Cameron Highlands
Resort. What better way to spend the day thanhaving good lunch eats or teatime treats with adose of mystery?

3. ENJOY THE SERENITY OF THE
MOSSY FOREST
The Mossy Forest is exactly what the name says. Thisfamous forest walk is ideal for those without a lot oftime, stamina or the right pair of shoes. Inside, it iscool and misty, with trees draped in thick moss, heavy
with dew. Pay the small fee to admire the ecosystem
up close while walking on a deck.

5. ADMIRE MASTER CARVINGS AT
THE MAH MERI ART GALLERY
This is a unique collection of the Mah Meri, a group of indigenous
people who live on Carey Island, which is a 90-minute drivefrom Kuala Lumpur. The Mah Meri are well-known for their skill
in turning abstract folklore into beautiful and tangible wood
carvings that are incredibly tactile, as you’ll be able to see atthis gallery.

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6. PICK A PACK OF PRODUCE AT
THE FARMS
There is good reason visitors to Cameron Highlands
flock to fruit farms; they can be quite fun, even with thecrowds. Go to bigger farms so you needn’t use yourelbow to get to the succulent strawberries. Alternatively,
visit lavender farms where you’ll get to sample purple
ice cream made from the blooms.

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2. TAKE A STROLL ON THE JIM THOMPSONMYSTERY TRAIL
Did Thompson get lost that March afternoon in 1967?
Did he fall? Cameron Highlands Resort’s resident
naturalist Madi will answer your questions while hetakes you on a forest walk close to where Thompson
was last seen. Madi is not only knowledgeable about
the Thompson case, but is also an expert on local flora.

4. APPRECIATE HISTORY THROUGH VINTAGE
ARTEFACTS AT TIME TUNNEL MUSEUMThis museum takes visitors from post-war Malaya to the 1980s
by showcasing vintage collectibles and artefacts. To allow
for a better understanding of life back then, some items are
displayed in context. Look out for the old wooden house, sit at
the mahjong table and let your imagination do the rest.

life moments

10. RELAX INTO A DREAM STATE AT
THE SPA VILLAGE
Spa Village Cameron Highlands is the sanctuary you’relooking for if its relaxation that you want. Using produce fromthe forest and knowledge from the Orang Asli, treatments
here focus on rejuvenating your senses and well-being. Get
the signature tea bath to soak your troubles away.

7. GO ON SERENE NATURE WALKS
Have the forest to yourself by exploring lesserknown trails. Parit Falls and Sungai Pauh are trails
where you would see a wider variety of plant life
and, if you are really lucky, spot a small woodland
creature. Cameron Highlands Resort can customise
an enjoyable walk for you, just ask.

11. STAY IN FOR AN EVENING OF JAZZ
Stephen Ooi, the resident pianist at Cameron Highlands
Resort, plays contemporary jazz from memory and toys
with the arrangement while he is at it. Performing familiartunes from greats such as Frank Sinatra and Johnny
Mathis, Uncle Stephen brings an air of classic flair thatslowly drifts through the lobby.

12. GET THE CHILLS AT LATA ISKANDAR
This waterfall is typically the last stop for visitors as it is closer tothe foot of the highlands. Go past the crowds that congregate
at the souvenir shops and fruit stalls, and go in for a walk. Wet
your toes in the cold mountain water and relish in the tinglingthat quickly follows.

8. HAVE A MEMORABLE PICNIC IN A TEA PLANTATION
Aside from seeing how tea goes from farm to pot, a visit
to the BOH Tea Centre also gives you an opportunity to see
hills covered by lush tea bushes. As a special treat, guests
of Cameron Highlands Resort can arrange for a delightful
experience – a picnic in the plantation.

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9. EXPERIENCE HOT POT GOODNESSAT GONBEI
The cool weather is a great excuse to indulge in hot
pot. Gonbei at Cameron Highlands Resort serves anelevated hot pot, one that comes with choice meats,
fresh seafood, just-harvested greens, springy noodles
and rich soups. Dinner at this semi-al fresco restaurant
will always lead to lively conversations and boutsof laughter.

Photographs by Fady Younis.

For more information, please visit cameronhighlandsresort.com

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this luxurious resort is set on a private
tropical island on the straits of malacca.
villas either fringe the hillside or are
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.

gayaislandresort.com

pangkorlautresort.com

tanjongjararesort.com

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.

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located in kuala lumpur’s golden triangle
business district, this stylish luxury hotel isconveniently positioned for upscale shopping,dining and entertainment. it is home to an awardwinning spa, and gourmands will be delighted by
the indulgent afternoon tea experience as wellas li yen’s stellar chinese cuisine.

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

hotel stripes is malaysia’s second autographcollection hotel. it combines a modern vibeand historical references to its location in
one of kuala lumpur’s oldest neighbourhoods.
with contemporary guestrooms and suites,
the hotel is a convenient base to explore themalaysian capital’s many attractions.

ritzcarlton.com/kohsamui

ritzcarlton.com/kualalumpur

jwmarriottkualalumpur.com

stripeskl.com

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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.

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the starhill dining celebrates culinary sophistication, bringing to diners fresh, seasonal andglobally inspired dining experiences with a diverse spread of gastronomic creations served by thetastemakers, each with a unique food programming. the starhill dining’s collection of captivating
dining and entertainment concepts includes shook!, kl’s choice restaurant that continues tofuel the imagination; luk yu tea house that embraces a poetic chinese heritage; the alchemy
featuring gin botanicals for every season; the popular jogoya restaurant; and fine arabic cuisine
at tarbush lounge.

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.

thestarhilldining.com

spavillage.com

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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

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black volcanic sand, the majestic mount agung,the deep blue of the indian ocean and themystical balinese way of life come together instyle at spa village resort tembok, bali. locatedin the north of the island, the resort is a havenof wellness, where guests can enjoy all thebenefits and pleasures of spa life in tranquil
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.

thesurinphuket.com

spavillageresort.com/tembokbali

majesticmalacca.com

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.

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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.

theglasshousehotel.co.uk

hotelthreadneedles.co.uk

theacademyhotel.co.uk

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.

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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 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.

thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk

muse-hotels.com

ytlhotels.com

westinperth.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.

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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.au/melmc

marriott.com/sydmc

brisbanemarriott.com

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.

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higashiyama niseko village, a ritz-carlton reserve, sets a communion with nature with every elementof the experience. hokkaido’s seasons transform the unique landscape, setting the scene for
unforgettable adventures into the soul of niseko. the first ritz-carlton reserve to grace japan,
higashiyama niseko village resides at the base of mount niseko annupuri, with panoramic viewsof mount yotei and the surrounding mountain ranges. embrace a new level of bespoke luxury inhokkaido with the exquisite refinement of a ritz-carlton reserve to return to each day.

the main pulse of niseko village lies at its heart, where paved intimate walkways are flanked bycontemporary 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.

ritzcarlton.com/higashiyamanisekovillage

niseko-village.com

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located in kuala lumpur, penang and kuantan, malaysia’s ac hotels feature a modern harmonious
design where guestrooms and flexible, open spaces are optimised for a comfortable and effortlessstay. with a contemporary approach to business and leisure, facilities include the ac lounge,
which is ideal for creative meetings, and where drinks and tapas selections inspired by local
flavours are served throughout the day.

ac-hotels.com

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ZAIDAN
meet the lead designer of the starhill.

NOW LAUNCHEDA COLLECTION OF APARTMENTS AND DUPLEX PENTHOUSESBENEFITING FROM LUXURIOUS INTERIOR DESIGN,
24/7 CONCIERGE AND WELLNESS AMENITIES. ENJOY
STUNNING VIEWS OF LONDON AND WALKING DISTANCE
TO THE VIBRANT KING’S ROAD.

“I LOVE WORKING
BEHIND THE SCENES
TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL,FUNCTIONAL SPACES THATGIVE LIGHT AND LIFE TO
EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES.”

THE YTL LUXURY MAGAZINE

A

graduate from Texas Tech University in Texas,
USA, Zaidan Tahir began his foray into thedesign world as an architect in the States,
cutting his teeth at a number of notablefirms. In 1995, he decided to return to his
homeland of Malaysia and began practisingin local outfits. Here, he discovered his insight and talent forinterior design, with landmark projects such as The Majestic
Hotel Kuala Lumpur, The Majestic Malacca and Cameron
Highlands Resort.

As the principal of Duoz, Zaidan has brought the firm togreat heights and though it is relatively new, being establishedfor less than 10 years, it has received multiple awards fromMIID (Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers) with its winning
designs published worldwide.
Zaidan’s approach in design begins with identifying thearchetypal artistic elements that are innately associated withthe site – using the space and the vision of the client as a
guide before merging it with his own contemporary, clean
approach. His works are often fresh and vibrant, with an ode
to the nostalgic.
His vast experience in the design world, from designing
hotels locally to those in Thailand and the UK, has inspired his
vision for The Starhill Dining, where a complete re-conceptionof the space sees a modern, contemporary look applied tothe establishment. From wall accents to the floor tiles, eachelement of the various restaurants has been thoughtfully
designed to reflect its unique identity.

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prices from £750,000
REGISTER YOUR INTERESTDOMINIC HEATON-WATSON
REN 12272 +601 043 89 169
DOMINIC.HW@MY.KNIGHTFRANK.COM

Knight Frank Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Co. No. 585479-A), Suite 10.01, Level 10, Centrepoint South,
Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia +603 228 99 688
Project Approval Number: LPEPH/FE/027/2020 (KL). Price correct at time of going to print. Computer-generated image is indicative only.

Proud to be a member of theBerkeley Group of companies