Table of Contents
EDITOR’S LETTER
PAGE 4: A NEW SEASON OF TRAVEL
SUN SEEKERS
WARM-WEATHER ESCAPES AND RESTORATIVE DESTINATIONS
PAGE 5: SECTION INTRODUCTION
PAGE 6–7: WALDORF ASTORIA RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
PAGE 8–9: SOFITEL KRABI PHOKEETHRA GOLF & SPA RESORT, THAILAND
PAGE 10–11: ROYAL HIDEAWAY CORALES RESORT, TENERIFE, SPAIN
PAGE 12–13: LOLOATA ISLAND RESORT, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
PAGE 14–15: THE GOLDEN RIDGE, SRI LANKA
BLEISURE
WHERE BUSINESS TRAVEL BECOMES LIFESTYLE TRAVEL
PAGE 16: SECTION INTRODUCTION
PAGE 17–18: GRAND COPTHORNE WATERFRONT HOTEL SINGAPORE
PAGE 19–20: ASCOTT KUALA LUMPUR JALAN PINANG, MALAYSIA
PAGE 21–22: CROWNE PLAZA HONG KONG KOWLOON EAST, HONG KONG
PAGE 23–24: LE MÉRIDIEN BANGKOK, THAILAND
DESTINATION DINING
CULINARY JOURNEYS WORTH CROSSING CONTINENTS FOR
PAGE 25: SECTION INTRODUCTION
PAGE 26–27: MYAZU RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA
PAGE 28–29: WINESTONE, SINGAPORE
PAGE 30–31: ÔMM MIXOLOGY, HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
CULTURAL IMMERSION
HERITAGE STAYS AND MEANINGFUL TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
PAGE 32: SECTION INTRODUCTION
PAGE 33–34: THE GRAND LUANG PRABANG, LAOS
PAGE 35-36: SOFITEL ABIDJAN HOTEL IVOIRE
PAGE 37: CLOSING EDITORIAL: UNTIL THE NEXT JOURNEY
FromtheEditor
Dear Readers,
March marks a subtle but powerful shift in the rhythm of travel. It is the moment when planning begins in earnest, when winter gives way to warmer horizons for some, and for others, the anticipation of a new season inspires a fresh perspective on where to go next.
In this issue of Reve Luxury Awards Travel Magazine, we present a curated selection of destinations that define the months ahead. From sun-drenched coastal retreats and refined island escapes to dynamic global cities and immersive cultural stays, this edition reflects the evolving landscape of modern luxury travel.
Today’s traveller seeks more than a destination. They seek experience, meaning and balance. Business journeys extend into personal escapes, culinary experiences become reasons to cross continents, and heritage properties offer a deeper connection to place. Luxury is no longer measured solely in indulgence, but in authenticity and intention.
Across four continents, the properties featured in these pages represent excellence in hospitality, design and service. Each has been selected not only for its setting, but for the experience it offers, whether that is restorative tranquillity, urban sophistication, cultural immersion or destination dining worth the journey.
As we continue to celebrate distinction through the REVE Luxury Awards, we remain committed to highlighting destinations and brands that elevate the art of travel and redefine what luxury means in a changing world.
We invite you to explore this issue, discover somewhere new, and allow your next journey to begin long before departure.
Warm regards,
SUN SEEKERS
Destinations where winter ends first
WALDORF ASTORIA RIVIERA MAYA
LOCATION: RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO
WEBSITE: WWW HILTON COM/WALDORFASTORIARIVIERAMAYA
Set along a secluded stretch of the Caribbean coast, Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya offers a retreat where nature and refinement exist in quiet harmony
Surrounded by mangroves and the soft rhythm of the sea, the resort feels intentionally removed from the pace of everyday life The atmosphere is calm and restorative from the moment of arrival, inviting guests to slow down and settle into a different sense of time shaped by sunrise, ocean light and warm coastal air.
Accommodation is designed to immerse visitors in the landscape Each of the resort’s rooms and suites faces the water, opening onto a private balcony complete with a soaking tub overlooking the shoreline Morning begins with the sound of waves and the glow of the Caribbean horizon, while evenings are marked by gentle breezes and starlit skies. The design balances elegance and comfort, allowing the setting itself to remain the focal point
Dining at the resort follows the same philosophy. Restaurants and bars offer a range of experiences, from relaxed daytime meals to refined dinners inspired by both regional and international cuisine. Indoor and outdoor spaces overlook the ocean, creating a natural backdrop that transforms each meal into an occasion. Flavours draw from the surrounding region while maintaining the precision and presentation expected of the Waldorf Astoria name.
Wellness forms a central part of the experience. The Waldorf Astoria Spa sits within lush greenery, creating an environment where nature and relaxation intertwine. Treatment rooms are located both indoors and outdoors, complemented by hydrotherapy facilities, a steam room and a sauna. Guests often begin the day with yoga at sunrise or spend quiet afternoons moving between pools and shaded pathways, allowing the setting to encourage rest and renewal.
Beyond relaxation, the resort offers opportunities for discovery. Curated activities connect visitors to the culture and traditions of the Riviera Maya, while nearby championship golf courses and coastal excursions provide variety for those seeking exploration. Personal concierge services further personalise each stay, arranging celebrations, private experiences and thoughtful details that shape memorable occasions.
Waldorf Astoria Riviera Maya is not simply a beachfront resort. It is a destination defined by atmosphere, where attentive service, natural beauty and carefully considered experiences combine to create a stay that feels both restorative and meaningful. Guests leave not only with memories of a place, but with the feeling of having truly paused, reset and reconnected with the purpose of travel.
LOCATION: KRABI, THAILAND
WEBSITE: WWW SOFITELKRABIPHOKEETHRA COM
Along the tranquil shores of the Andaman Sea, Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort presents a setting where elegance and nature meet effortlessly. Surrounded by tropical gardens and framed by Krabi’s dramatic limestone cliffs, the resort reflects a distinctive blend of French refinement and the gentle hospitality of southern Thailand. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, inviting guests to slow their pace and experience the rhythm of coastal living.
The resort’s recently redesigned signature rooms offer a retreat defined by comfort and detail. Interiors draw inspiration from French design while remaining in harmony with the surrounding landscape. Spacious layouts, handcrafted furnishings and private balconies create a peaceful space where mornings begin with natural light and evenings end with warm sea air. Thoughtful touches, including Sofitel’s renowned MyBed comfort and refined amenities, add to the sense of quiet indulgence.
At the heart of the property lies Thailand’s largest lagoon-style swimming pool, an expansive feature that winds through the gardens and becomes a focal point of the resort experience. Families and couples alike find space to relax, whether enjoying a calm afternoon beside the water or watching the changing colours of the sky at sunset.
Younger guests are welcomed into their own imaginative world at the Le Petit Prince Kids Club, where creative activities and guided play introduce a sense of discovery and adventure.
Dining is an essential part of the stay. Each restaurant offers its own culinary identity, from authentic Thai and Indian flavours at White Lotus to the classic Italian traditions of Ristorante Venezia.
Meals are thoughtfully prepared and served in elegant surroundings, transforming dining into an experience rather than a routine. The balance of international cuisine and regional influence reflects the resort’s cultural character.
Wellness is equally central to life at the resort. The Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane combines the aromas and rituals of Provence with traditional Thai healing practices, offering treatments that restore both body and mind. Guests may begin their day with yoga or tai chi, enjoy a traditional Thai massage, or simply unwind in the tranquil spa environment surrounded by greenery.
For those drawn to activity, the nine hole golf course provides a scenic challenge, winding past lakes and landscaped fairways between beach and hillside.
Excursions to nearby islands, hidden beaches and coral rich waters offer opportunities to explore Krabi’s remarkable natural beauty, while curated fitness and leisure activities keep each day varied and engaging.
Sofitel Krabi Phokeethra Golf and Spa Resort offers more than a tropical escape.
It is a destination shaped by atmosphere, service and cultural character, where refined European style and Thai warmth combine to create a stay that feels both elegant and deeply relaxing.
Royal Hideaway Corales Resort
LOCATION: LA CALETA, TENERIFE, SPAIN
WEBSITE: WWW BARCELO COM
On the southern coast of Tenerife, in the quiet enclave of La Caleta, Royal Hideaway Corales Resort rises above the Atlantic with a presence that feels both striking and harmonious. Overlooking a protected natural area and the open ocean beyond, the resort is defined by its remarkable architecture, inspired by the organic forms of coral and designed to echo the movement of the sea. Layered terraces and sweeping curves shape the structure, allowing light, air and panoramic views to become part of the guest experience from every angle.
Created by Tenerife based studio Leonardo Omar, the building resembles a modern cruise liner gently anchored to the coastline. Volcanic gardens surround the property, reflecting the island’s distinctive landscape and reinforcing a strong connection to place. Rather than imposing on its surroundings, the resort appears to grow naturally from them, blending contemporary design with the character of the Canary Islands.
Royal Hideaway Corales Resort offers two complementary ways to stay, each designed with a different travel style in mind. Royal Hideaway Corales Beach, an adults only retreat, focuses on tranquillity and privacy, offering a calm atmosphere suited to couples and those seeking uninterrupted relaxation. Royal Hideaway Corales Suites, by contrast, welcomes families and shared experiences, combining space and comfort with the same refined service and attention to detail. While both concepts share the resort’s facilities, each maintains its own identity and pace.
Gastronomy is a defining element of the experience. The resort has earned recognition as the hotel with the highest number of Michelin stars in Spain, establishing it as a true culinary destination. Restaurants celebrate local and seasonal ingredients while embracing creativity and innovation, transforming dining into one of the highlights of a stay.
Meals are not simply occasions, but carefully crafted experiences shaped by both technique and setting.
Throughout the property, the emphasis remains on wellbeing and meaningful moments. Terraces overlook the Atlantic horizon, inviting quiet mornings and reflective evenings, while carefully designed spaces encourage guests to reconnect with both their surroundings and their time away. Service is attentive yet unobtrusive, allowing visitors to move through the resort at their own rhythm.
Royal Hideaway Corales Resort represents contemporary luxury shaped by architecture, cuisine and atmosphere. It is a place where design and environment work together to create a destination that feels distinctive, balanced and memorable, offering travellers a refined experience deeply rooted in the spirit of Tenerife.
LOCATION: BOOTLESS BAY, NEAR PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
WEBSITE: WWW LOLOATAISLANDRESORT COM
Just a short journey from Port Moresby, Loloata Island Resort feels worlds away from the mainland. Set within the clear waters of Bootless Bay, the island offers a rare sense of seclusion where tropical landscapes and open sea horizons shape each moment of the stay. Arrival itself becomes part of the experience, as the city fades and the atmosphere shifts to calm, ocean air and the gentle rhythm of island life.
Accommodation reflects this connection to the water. The resort’s suites and villas are positioned either over the sea or along the shoreline, each designed to maximise views of the surrounding bay.
Guests wake to sunlight across the water and step directly onto the beach or private deck, creating a stay defined by proximity to nature. The setting suits both quiet escapes and celebratory occasions, with elegant event spaces and wedding venues overlooking the ocean.
Loloata is particularly known for its marine environment. The surrounding waters are home to numerous dive sites, where coral gardens, reef life and historic shipwrecks form part of a vibrant underwater landscape. A certified dive centre welcomes both experienced divers and beginners, while guided snorkelling excursions offer a gentler introduction to the island’s marine world. Encounters with colourful sea life become a highlight for many visitors.
On land, the pace remains relaxed but engaging. Guests may explore walking trails, kayak along the coastline or spend time on the beach, while the Sea Salt Spa offers restorative treatments inspired by local ingredients such as coconut, lemongrass and ginger. The balance between activity and tranquillity allows each traveller to shape their stay according to their own rhythm.
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, the resort remains accessible, making it equally suited to leisure travel, corporate retreats and special celebrations. Modern conference facilities and attentive service ensure that gatherings and events unfold effortlessly, framed by ocean views that transform even business occasions into memorable experiences.
Loloata Island Resort offers more than a coastal getaway. It provides a sense of discovery, where the natural beauty of Papua New Guinea meets thoughtful hospitality, creating an island retreat that feels both adventurous and deeply relaxing.
The Golden Ridge, Nuwara Eliya
LOCATION: NUWARA ELIYA, SRI LANKA WEBSITE: WWW THEGOLDENRIDGE COM
High above the plains of Sri Lanka, in the mist-covered hills of Nuwara Eliya, the Golden Ridge offers a retreat defined by elevation and calm. Situated more than seven thousand feet above sea level in the island’s highest town, the resort overlooks rolling tea country landscapes and distant mountain horizons. The air is cooler, the pace slower, and the surroundings naturally encourage rest and reflection.
The property is designed to embrace its setting. Spacious rooms and suites open onto sweeping hill country views, allowing guests to wake to drifting clouds and soft morning light across the valleys below. With just seventy eight rooms set across a peaceful hillside, the atmosphere remains intimate and tranquil, offering a welcome contrast to the coastal bustle often associated with Sri Lanka.
Dining at The Golden Ridge follows a thoughtful farm to plate philosophy. Ingredients are sourced locally and, in many cases, grown on site, supporting nearby communities while preserving the authenticity of regional flavours.
Traditional Sri Lankan dishes sit comfortably alongside international favourites, each served in relaxed surroundings that encourage guests to linger and enjoy the slower rhythm
Wellness is central to the experience. The spa provides treatments designed to restore balance, complemented by yoga sessions and quiet spaces overlooking the surrounding landscape. A heated indoor pool offers a particularly memorable setting, where guests can swim while mist drifts across the hills outside. The setting naturally promotes wellbeing, allowing visitors to disconnect from routine and
Beyond comfort, the resort maintains a strong connection to its community. Employment opportunities and local sourcing initiatives contribute directly to nearby villages, giving the property a meaningful presence within the region. Guests experience not only a place to stay, but a destination rooted
The Golden Ridge is more than a mountain hotel. It is a retreat defined by atmosphere, where cool air, expansive views and attentive hospitality combine to create a stay
BLEISURE
Where Work Meets Indulgence
GRAND COPTHORNE WATERFRONT HOTEL
LOCATION: NUWARA ELIYA, SRI LANKA
WEBSITE: WWW THEGOLDENRIDGE COM
High above the plains of Sri Lanka, in the mist covered hills of Nuwara Eliya, The Golden Ridge offers a retreat defined by elevation and calm Situated more than seven thousand feet above sea level in the island’s highest town, the resort overlooks rolling tea country landscapes and distant mountain horizons The air is cooler, the pace slower and the surroundings naturally encourage rest and reflection.
The property is designed to embrace its setting Spacious rooms and suites open onto sweeping hill country views, allowing guests to wake to drifting clouds and soft morning light across the valleys below. With just seventy eight rooms set across a peaceful hillside, the atmosphere remains intimate and tranquil, offering a welcome contrast to the coastal bustle often associated with Sri Lanka
Dining at The Golden Ridge follows a thoughtful farm to plate philosophy Ingredients are sourced locally and, in many cases, grown on site, supporting nearby communities while preserving the authenticity of regional flavours Traditional Sri Lankan dishes sit comfortably alongside international favourites, each served in relaxed surroundings that encourage guests to linger and enjoy the slower rhythm of mountain life
Wellness is central to the experience The spa provides treatments designed to restore balance, complemented by yoga sessions and quiet spaces overlooking the surrounding landscape. A heated indoor pool offers a particularly memorable setting, where guests can swim while mist drifts across the hills outside. The setting naturally promotes wellbeing, allowing visitors to disconnect from routine and reconnect with a gentler pace.
Beyond comfort, the resort maintains a strong connection to its community. Employment opportunities and local sourcing initiatives contribute directly to nearby villages, giving the property a meaningful presence within the region. Guests experience not only a place to stay, but a destination rooted in its environment and culture.
The Golden Ridge is more than a mountain hotel. It is a retreat defined by atmosphere, where cool air, expansive views and attentive hospitality combine to create a stay centred on restoration and quiet discovery
LOCATION: JALAN PINANG, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA WEBSITE: WWW DISCOVERASR COM
In the very heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, just moments from the Petronas Twin Towers, Ascott Kuala Lumpur Jalan Pinang offers a refined urban residence designed for the modern traveller. Positioned within the city’s financial and cultural district, the property places guests within walking distance of world-class shopping, diverse dining and corporate headquarters, while offering the privacy and comfort of a serviced apartment.
Designed for both short visits and extended stays, the residence features spacious apartments ranging from studios to three bedroom units. Each apartment is thoughtfully laid out to provide a sense of independence, complete with a private balcony, separate living and dining areas, and a fully equipped kitchenette. The atmosphere is residential rather than hotel like, allowing guests to settle in and experience the city at their own pace.
Comfort and functionality shape the interior experience. Smart entertainment systems, central air conditioning and well appointed en suite bathrooms create a seamless environment for business travellers and families alike. Whether staying for a week or several months, guests benefit from the convenience of daily housekeeping and attentive service that blends hospitality with discretion.
Facilities support both productivity and relaxation. A well equipped gym and outdoor swimming pool provide space to recharge, while the jacuzzi, steam room and spa offer restorative moments after a busy day in the city. Dedicated meeting rooms and a business centre cater to corporate guests, while curated cultural programmes introduce residents to Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant arts and lifestyle scene. Ascott Kuala Lumpur also welcomes families and long stay guests with thoughtful touches, including child friendly amenities and pet friendly options for those travelling with companions. The presence of on site conveniences such as a café, launderette and retail outlets further enhances the ease of urban living.
More than a place to stay, Ascott Kuala Lumpur Jalan Pinang offers a residential experience in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic capitals. It is a property that understands the evolving needs of today’s traveller, combining the independence of apartment living with the services and standards of an international hospitality brand.
Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East
LOCATION: TSEUNG KWAN O, HONG KONG
WEBSITE: WWW IHG COM/CROWNEPLAZA
Positioned above Tseung Kwan O Station and directly connected to the vibrant PopCorn shopping complex, Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East places guests at the centre of a city known for its energy and efficiency. Located between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, the hotel offers convenient access to business districts, exhibition venues and waterfront neighbourhoods, making it a natural choice for both corporate and leisure travellers.
The property’s elevated setting allows sweeping city views from its guestrooms and suites. Large windows frame Hong Kong’s skyline and surrounding hills, while interiors are designed with a contemporary style that balances comfort and practicality. Spacious bathrooms, ergonomic work areas and reliable high speed connectivity support productivity, yet the atmosphere remains welcoming for those simply exploring the city.
Dining reflects Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan character. Guests may begin the day with international selections at the all day restaurant, experience traditional Cantonese cuisine in an elegant setting, or end the evening at the rooftop steakhouse and bar overlooking mountain and sea views. The variety allows visitors to experience both local culinary traditions and global flavours without leaving the hotel.
Wellbeing is also part of the stay. A fitness centre and spa provide restorative treatments, while the twenty-five metre outdoor swimming pool offers a calm escape from the city’s pace. Between meetings or sightseeing, guests find moments to relax while still remaining connected to the vibrant surroundings.
The hotel is also recognised as a venue for large gatherings and celebrations. Its grand ballroom hosts conferences, events and weddings in a setting designed for both scale and elegance, reflecting Hong Kong’s role as an international business hub.
Crowne Plaza Hong Kong Kowloon East combines accessibility with comfort, offering travellers a base from which to experience one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. Whether visiting for business, shopping or exploration, the property provides a convenient and welcoming introduction to Hong Kong’s distinctive rhythm.
LOCATION: SILOM, BANGKOK, THAILAND
WEBSITE: WWW MARRIOTT COM/LEMERIDIENBANGKOK
In the vibrant Silom district, where Bangkok’s business energy meets its celebrated nightlife, Le Méridien Bangkok offers a refined urban retreat shaped by art, culture and contemporary design. Located on Surawong Road and within easy reach of the city’s major transit lines, the hotel places guests at the centre of one of Asia’s most dynamic capitals, while providing a calm and elegant space to return to at the end of the day.
The property is known for its creative character. From the moment of arrival, visitors are welcomed by curated artwork and playful design elements, including the iconic white dog sculpture in the lobby, setting the tone for a stay that blends sophistication with personality. Interiors reflect a modern aesthetic, balancing clean architectural lines with warm lighting and carefully selected details inspired by Bangkok’s street culture.
Guestrooms and suites serve as peaceful sanctuaries above the city. Large windows frame sweeping views of Bangkok’s skyline, where gilded temples stand beside contemporary towers. Spacious layouts, comfortable furnishings and thoughtful amenities provide an atmosphere suited to both relaxation and productivity. After a day of exploring markets, cultural landmarks or business districts, guests return to a setting that feels calm and private despite its central location.
Dining is a highlight of the experience. The hotel’s restaurants present a mix of local and international cuisine, reimagining classic dishes with a modern touch. Evenings often continue beside the outdoor pool overlooking the Mahanakhon Tower, where cocktails and city lights create an unmistakable Bangkok atmosphere. Bars and lounges encourage social connection, reflecting the city’s lively character.
Wellness forms another important part of the stay. A dedicated lifestyle floor includes a fitness centre, spa and relaxation areas, offering restorative treatments and quiet spaces above the busy streets below. Guests may unwind with a spa experience, enjoy the open air pool or simply pause to watch the sunset over the skyline.
Le Méridien Bangkok captures the spirit of its surroundings, combining artistic expression with attentive service and urban convenience. It is a hotel that invites travellers not only to visit Bangkok, but to engage with its culture, energy and creativity while enjoying a sophisticated place to retreat.
DESTINATION DINING
Flights Worth Taking for Dinner
MYAZU RIYADH
LOCATION: RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA
WEBSITE: WWW MYAZU COM
In the heart of Riyadh’s evolving culinary landscape, Myazu presents a dining experience that feels both contemporary and timeless Created as a home grown Saudi concept with international ambition, the restaurant brings together Japanese culinary tradition and modern global influences in a setting designed for the cosmopolitan character of the city. From the moment guests enter, the atmosphere is energetic yet refined, inviting conversation, connection and discovery
The design plays an important role in shaping the experience A softly lit interior combines deep blue tones with warm gold accents, creating an environment that feels intimate while remaining vibrant. Seating is arranged around an open kitchen, where chefs work with precision at the robata grill and sushi counter Guests can watch dishes take shape in real time, adding a sense of theatre to the evening and strengthening the connection between preparation and presentation
Cuisine at Myazu reflects careful attention to detail Ingredients are selected from global sources and prepared using traditional techniques, while flavours are thoughtfully adapted to suit the local palate Each dish is presented with an emphasis on balance, allowing both simplicity and creativity to be appreciated. The menu encourages sharing, turning dining into a social experience rather than a formal occasion
Music and lighting enhance the mood, creating a relaxed but lively atmosphere that evolves as the evening progresses. The cocktail bar and lounge seating areas invite guests to linger, whether beginning the night with drinks or continuing long after dinner. Service remains attentive and intuitive, delivered with a sense of hospitality that feels personal rather than structured.
Myazu is more than a restaurant. It represents a meeting point of cultures and culinary ideas, where East and West are interpreted through a distinctly Saudi perspective. For travellers and residents alike, it offers a memorable introduction to Riyadh’s modern dining scene and a reminder that cuisine can be both an art form and a shared experience.
LOCATION: STEVENS ROAD, SINGAPORE
WEBSITE: WWW MERCURE-SINGAPORE-STEVENS COM/DINING/WINESTONE
Set within the lush greenery of the Stevens enclave, Winestone offers a dining experience that is both approachable and thoughtfully refined. The restaurant brings together curated wines and robust, flavour-driven cuisine in a setting that feels relaxed yet intentional. It is a place where conversations flow as easily as the wine, and where each visit feels unhurried.
At the heart of Winestone is its celebration of wine culture. Carefully selected organic and bespoke labels line the dedicated retail wall, inviting guests to browse, discover and even take home their favourite bottles. This retail concept adds a sense of exploration to the experience, encouraging diners to engage with wine beyond the table. Whether enjoying a glass with lunch or selecting a bottle for dinner, the focus remains on quality and thoughtful pairing.
The menu is centred around generous cuts of meat, presented on rustic stone boards that enhance both flavour and presentation. Sizzling, tender and expertly prepared, each dish is crafted to complement the wine selection. The emphasis is on bold tastes balanced with finesse, creating a culinary experience that feels hearty without sacrificing sophistication
Behind the kitchen’s creative direction are chefs who bring both experience and personality to the table. Executive Chef Ken Chaw, with more than two decades of culinary expertise, infuses comfort cuisine with nuanced Asian influences, focusing on seasonality and depth of flavour. Alongside him, Chef William blends his multicultural heritage and international training into dishes that feel heartfelt and expressive. Together, their approach ensures that every plate carries both technical precision and warmth.
The setting reinforces the concept. Natural light filters through the greenery during the day, while evenings take on a softer, more intimate mood. The atmosphere remains vibrant without becoming overwhelming, making it equally suited to business lunches, relaxed dinners or celebratory gatherings. Winestone is more than a wine bar and restaurant. It is a social space shaped by craftsmanship, conviviality and a genuine passion for pairing. For those seeking an experience where good food, well chosen wine and easy conversation come together effortlessly, Winestone offers a welcoming table in the heart of Singapore.
Ômm Mixology
LOCATION: HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM
In a quiet corner of Ho Chi Minh City, Ômm Mixology redefines the cocktail bar as a place of storytelling and artistic expression. More than a venue for drinks, it is an immersive experience where flavour, craft and culture meet. Every element, from ingredients to presentation, is carefully considered, inviting guests to slow down and engage their senses in a different way.
The philosophy behind Ômm begins far from the bar counter. Its mixologists travel to farms and plantations, learning directly from growers and producers. By understanding the soil, climate and traditions behind each ingredient, they shape cocktails that reflect origin as much as technique. Fruits, herbs and botanicals such as lemongrass, lychee and star anise carry cultural associations and memories, transforming each drink into a narrative rather than a simple refreshment.
Craftsmanship is guided by master mixologist Shuzo Nagumo, whose experience across Japan and the United Kingdom bridges heritage and innovation. Traditional methods are combined with modern processes such as vacuum distillation, infusion and clarification. The result is a menu that feels both precise and imaginative, where familiar flavours are reinterpreted into something entirely new while maintaining balance and elegance.
The setting complements the concept. The bar functions as a contemporary art space, surrounded by curated artworks that encourage conversation and reflection. Guests sit among paintings and installations while watching cocktails prepared in an open bar, becoming part of the atmosphere themselves. Lighting remains soft and calming, allowing the focus to remain on both the drink and the moment.
Cuisine is equally important. Carefully prepared dishes, from seafood to refined meats, are designed to accompany the cocktails rather than follow them. Each pairing enhances the other, balancing sweetness, acidity and depth of flavour. Dining and drinking merge into a single experience that highlights the creativity of both kitchen and bar.
Ômm Mixology offers more than an evening out. It provides a dialogue between ingredients, art and people, where every glass carries a sense of origin and imagination. In a city known for its vibrant street culture, this intimate venue presents a different perspective on hospitality, one that celebrates craft, curiosity and connection.
CULTURAL IMMERSION
Travel That Stays With You
LOCATION:
LUANG PRABANG, LAOS WEBSITE: WWW MELIA COM
Set along the banks of the Mekong River, The Grand Luang Prabang offers a stay shaped by history, culture and quiet natural beauty. Located within the former Xiengkeo Palace estate, once home to Prince Phetsarath, the property stands in the UNESCO listed town of Luang Prabang, a destination known for its temples, traditions and spiritual atmosphere. Here, heritage is not a theme but a living presence woven into daily life.
The resort occupies expansive grounds filled with tropical gardens, lotus ponds and colonial era architecture. From its elevated position above the river, panoramic views extend across the water to surrounding mountains and forests. The setting feels serene and contemplative, allowing guests to step away from modern pace and enter a more reflective rhythm guided by nature and tradition.
Accommodation blends French colonial design with Laotian craftsmanship. Rooms and suites open onto balconies overlooking gardens and the Mekong, where mornings begin with soft light over the water and evenings close with warm sunset colours. The atmosphere is elegant yet understated, emphasising comfort and authenticity rather than excess.
Experiences focus on cultural connection. Guests may witness sunrise rituals along the river, explore nearby temples or discover local artisan traditions. Dining draws on Lao and Indochinese flavours, presenting regional cuisine in a setting that honours its origins. Each moment encourages a deeper understanding of place rather than a simple visit.
Wellness and relaxation remain central to the stay. A large swimming pool surrounded by greenery provides a peaceful retreat, while riverside spaces invite quiet reflection. The surrounding town offers further exploration, from historic monasteries and markets to nearby waterfalls and mountain viewpoints. The Grand Luang Prabang is more than a riverside hotel. It is a heritage retreat where preservation and hospitality exist together, offering travellers an opportunity to experience Laos through atmosphere, culture and meaningful connection.
The result is a stay that feels gentle, memorable and deeply rooted in its surroundings.
LOCATION: COCODY, ABIDJAN, CÔTE D’IVOIRE
WEBSITE: SOFITEL ACCOR COM
Overlooking the tranquil waters of the Ebrié Lagoon, Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire stands as one of West Africa’s most recognisable landmarks. Located in the Cocody district of Abidjan, the hotel offers an introduction to a city known for its creative energy, cultural heritage and cosmopolitan spirit. Here, contemporary Africa meets French elegance, creating an atmosphere that feels vibrant yet refined.
Guestrooms and suites are designed to embrace the surroundings, with floor to ceiling windows and private balconies framing views of either the lagoon or the city skyline. Interiors combine warm African influences with subtle French style, resulting in spaces that feel both welcoming and sophisticated. Thoughtful details and modern comforts provide a restful retreat after a day spent exploring the city.
Dining plays a central role in the experience. Across its restaurants and bars, guests can move between relaxed garden settings and elevated waterfront dining. Menus feature both local Ivorian specialities and international cuisine, reflecting Abidjan’s diverse cultural identity. An afternoon tradition inspired by the French custom of “le goûter” invites visitors to enjoy pastries, waffles and coffee, bringing a gentle moment of indulgence to the day.
Wellness facilities add to the sense of escape. The spa offers treatments in a peaceful environment, complemented by leisure spaces that allow guests to slow down despite the city’s lively pace. Whether relaxing beside the lagoon or enjoying the hotel’s recreational amenities, visitors find a balance between urban energy and quiet comfort.
The property is also a major destination for gatherings and celebrations, with extensive event and conference spaces that host international meetings, cultural events and weddings. Its scale and versatility make it a focal point for both business and social occasions in the region.
Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire is more than a place to stay. It is a gateway to the character of Abidjan itself, where creativity, hospitality and heritage come together beside the water. The result is a stay that offers both discovery and relaxation, capturing the essence of Côte d’Ivoire’s dynamic capital.
Until the Next Journey
Travel never truly ends at check-out.
It lingers in memory, in the taste of a dish discovered far from home, in the stillness of a sunrise over water, in conversations shared across continents. The destinations featured in this issue remind us that luxury is not simply a place, but a feeling shaped by culture, craftsmanship and connection.
As the season unfolds, may your travels be intentional, inspiring and unforgettable. We look forward to welcoming you again in our next edition.
