JULY 2021 - Reader's Choice: The Most Desired Destinations in Asia Pacific - Sunhotels
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JULY 2021 APAC Newsletter
Reader’s Choice: The Golden Escapes in Rediscover Phuket,
Most Desired Destinations Olympic Host Cities Thailand’s Paradise
in Asia Pacific ~ Page 26 Island
~ Page 6 ~ Page 64
FOREWORD
WEBBEDS ASIA PACIFIC
KS SUN
President, Asia Pacific
Koksheng.Sun@webbeds.com
CYNDI NG
COO
Cyndi.Ng@webbeds.com
BERNARD CHIONH
CFO
Bernard.Chionh@webbeds.com
CHERYL CHEANG
Vice President, Marketing
Cheryl.Cheang@webbeds.com
EILEEN TOK
Vice President, Commercial Technology
Eileen.Tok@webbeds.com
FOREWORD
KRISTY LEE
Welcome to the July edition of Travel Aggregator, WebBeds’ newsletter dedicated to the Lead Research Analyst
Kristy.Lee@webbeds.com
travel trade in Asia Pacific!
JINTANA PORNTANAPAT
The Olympic torch will be lit in Japan this month, and to celebrate this major global event General Manager, Thailand and Indo-China
Jintana.Porntanapat@webbeds.com
we take a look at the Asian cities that have previously hosted the Games. Are you feeling
the Olympic spirit? We’ll highlight attractions that showcase sporting excellence in Tokyo, VINCENT LEUNG
Beijing, PyeongChang and Singapore. Managing Director, Hong Kong,
Philippines & Japan
Vincent.Leung@webbeds.com
Also in this edition, we reveal the results of our readers’ survey! Earlier this year, we asked you
to tell us which destinations you’ve missed the most during lockdown. Now, you can find JOY HUANG
Answer 10 simple questions
Managing Director, China
out which places topped the poll. We’ll also profile Asia Pacific’s emerging hotspots, based Joy.Huang@webbeds.com
on WebBeds’ internal booking data and market intelligence. In the second part of this
feature, we look at up-and-coming destinations in Australasia. LINDA KIM
to earn 100 bonus FIT Points
General Manager, South Korea
Linda.Kim@webbeds.com
As the “Phuket Sandbox” gets underway in Thailand, we offer some travel suggestions in
this popular Thai island, and our regional culinary tour continues with the latest part of ASHUTOSH DOGRA
General Manager, India
the “Essential Flavours of Asia Pacific” feature. Finally, we take a first look at Centara Mirage Ashutosh.Dogra@webbeds.com
Resort Mui Ne, the spectacular new themed retreat in Vietnam.
JOHN STUCCI
Stay tuned for upcoming quizzes to
President, Pacific
earn more points.
And of course, we’ll provide all the latest news, photos and exclusive offers from WebBeds John.Stucci@webbeds.com
in Asia.
JOY ZHOU
General Manager, Singapore and Malaysia
Enjoy the read! Joy.Zhou@webbeds.com
Take the Quiz >
KS Sun
President, Asia Pacific
WebBeds
@WebBedsAPAC
To catch up on any past editions of Travel Aggregator, simply head to
apac-marketing.webbeds.com/aggregator Not a FIT Rewards member? Join now and access these exclusive member benefits for FREE.
Tokyo 2020
ABOUT TRAVEL AGGREGATOR Summer Olympics Earn points when you book Use points to redeem a Receive exclusive promotions
Travel Aggregator is the monthly newsletter published in-house by WebBeds Asia Pacific. Created
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updates from WebBeds Asia Pacific, including our news and developments, plus exciting offers from
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2
C E N TA R A M I R A G E R E S O R T M U I N E C E N TA R A M I R A G E R E S O R T M U I N E
Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne
NEWLY OPENED
Families will soon have a new destination to
stay and play on Vietnam’s southeast coast, with
the launch of Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne, a
spectacular “Explorer’s Playground” themed retreat.
Located in Binh Thuan province, 220km from
Ho Chi Minh City, this 984-key resort is centered
around a Spanish Mediterranean-style waterpark,
with tiered pools, a sailing ship, slides, a lazy river,
cliff-jumping rock and more. Accommodation
ranges from Standard Rooms and Premier Pool
Access options to one-to-three bedroom Pool Villas,
with a minimum room size of 44 square metres.
A fantastic range of facilities includes
entertainment zones, family lounges, playgrounds,
a bowling alley, karaoke rooms, a yoga studio,
fitness centre and two spas – one for adults and
one for kids. Multiple F&B options will include
Vietnamese, Thai and international restaurants, a
pool bar and tapas bar. The resort will also be a
venue for events, with a ballroom, function rooms
and an outdoor amphitheater.
Centara Mirage Resort Mui Ne will become the
second Centara Mirage-branded resort in the world,
following Centara Grand Mirage Resort Pattaya, one
of Thailand’s top family destinations.
4 5
READER'S CHOICE
THE MOST
DESIRED
DESTINATIONS Earlier this year, we asked you, our esteemed readers,
s i a P a c i fic
to tell us which Asia Pacific destinations you’ve
in A
missed the most during lockdown, and which will
be at the top of your travel bucket list when borders
reopen. Now, we’re ready to reveal the results!
Pleasingly, the study showed that there is still a
strong appetite for travel. It seems that you can’t
wait to pack your bags again, when it is safe to do
so. But where will you be going? Here are your top
destinations…
JAPAN
Readers’ Vote: 33%
1
Reasons to Visit: Culture, Seasons, Food
RUSUTSU RUSUTSU RESORT HOTEL & CONVENTION
WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS
RUSUTSU
Nestled on the northern island of Hokkaido, Rusutsu is
famous for its fresh mountain air, stunning scenery and
outdoor activities. In the summer, the hills provide the
perfect setting for hiking and mountain biking, while
golf courses and water parks allow different ages to
play their own way. Then, as snow blankets the peaks,
the area transforms into one of Japan’s top winter
sports resorts, with ski runs and plenty of deep powder
snow covering three mountains.
WHERE TO STAY
RUSUTSU RESORT
HOTEL & CONVENTION
This exceptional upscale resort has something to
keep every guest entertained, whatever time of
year they visit. In the winter, ski-in/ski-out facilities
provide instant access to 37 courses for skiers and
snowboarders, while the onsite onsens are wonderful
places to unwind. When the weather warms up,
golfers can tee off on a choice of courses, all with
breath-taking views. There is also a theme park,
restaurants, shops, swimming pool and more.
10 11
THAILAND
Readers’ Vote: 20%
2
Reasons to Visit: Good Value, Beaches, Shopping
PA T TAYA M A S O N PA T TAYA
WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS
PATTAYA
In recent years, Pattaya has transformed into an
international tourism destination with activities for
all ages. Easily accessible from Bangkok, this vibrant
seaside town is blessed with sandy beaches and idyllic
offshore islands, such as Koh Larn. Sensational shopping
is available at malls such as Central Festival and Pattaya
Terminal 21, kids can make a splash at world-class
water parks, and Thailand’s authentic culture can be
discovered at the Four Regions Floating Market.
WHERE TO STAY
MASON PATTAYA
This stunning seafront hotel is part of the new wave
of design-led resorts being introduced to the Pattaya
area. Nestled on a peaceful beach in Na Jomtien, 15
minutes from the city centre, this contemporary hotel
combines cutting-edge architecture and state-of-the-
art amenities. Guests can stay in a collection of stylish
sea-facing pool villas, enjoy spa treatments, grab a
coffee at the espresso bar, cool off in the sky pool, and
dine at the beachfront restaurant.
14 15
AUSTRALIA
Readers’ Vote: 13%
=3
Reasons to Visit: Nature, Vibrant Cities, Food
MELBOURNE PA R K R O YA L M O N A S H M E L B O U R N E
WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS
MELBOURNE
Australia’s “Garden City”, Melbourne is a charming
metropolis that embraces the great outdoors, while
also being filled with attractions. Soak up the natural
charm of the Royal Botanic Gardens or take a drive
down the Great Ocean Road to the Twelve Apostles,
the spectacular offshore stacks. Foodies will be richly
rewarded with fresh, local produce and over 3,500
restaurants in the city, and the Yarra Valley wine region
is just a short drive away.
WHERE TO STAY
PARKROYAL MONASH
MELBOURNE
For guests who want to avoid the hustle and bustle
of the city centre, PARKROYAL Monash Melbourne
is set in a peaceful science and education hub,
giving it a pleasantly suburban feel while also being
easily accessible. Visitors can stay in a choice of well-
appointed rooms and suites that offer a connection
to local culture, and the adjoining M-City complex
features an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness centre and
Pilates studio.
18 19TAIWAN
Readers’ Vote: 13%
=3
Reasons to Visit: Nature, Nightlife, CultureTA I P E I ARTREE HOTEL
WEBBEDS RECOMMENDS
TAIPEI
Taiwan’s gateway city, Taipei is the place where most
explorations of the island begin and end. The soaring
Taipei 101 tower makes an instant impression, but there
are plenty more things to see and do in this vibrant
metropolis. Spend a day in the hills and hot springs of
Yangmingshan, visit the ancient Longshan Temple, or
discover the treasures of the National Palace Museum.
Then as the sun sets, savour sizzling street food at the
famous night markets.
WHERE TO STAY
ARTREE HOTEL
The first boutique hotel by Caesar Park Hotels &
Resorts, arTree is designed as a natural sanctuary where
guests can experience environmentally-conscious stays.
Situated near Taipei 101 and the Sun Yat-Sen Memorial
Hall, this modern hotel features a series of themed
guest rooms (Orient, Forest, Lovestone, Sand and Rock),
with organic materials creating a sense of tranquility.
The Forest Restaurant is an inspiring setting to refuel
before or after hitting the city.
22 23COVID-19 TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TOOL INFORMATION & ADVICE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Use our COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Tool to find out more about travel advisories, including regulations, and safety and health guidelines for destinations around the world so you can plan ahead. Find out more > Important: We recommend you confirm all guidance with official government sites and check with your travel insurance issuer. Your travel insurance may be invalidated if you travel against government advice. Please note: This information is provided by a third party, Sherpa, and is meant for informational purposes only. WebBeds (including any of our trading brands; Sunhotels, JacTravel, Totalstay, FIT Ruums, Lots of Hotels, DOTW, Umrah Holidays International) is not responsible for its accuracy. Given how quickly the travel requirements are evolving, you should not rely solely on this tool in making travel arrangements and should confirm the accuracy of any government guidance, restrictions, or requirements. By using this tool, you acknowledge you have read this note and agree to our site’s terms of use and privacy policy. Where the information above is not provided in your local language, neither WebBeds nor Sherpa is responsible for any translation that you or a third party (e.g. Google Translate) carry out on such information.
GOLDEN ESCAPES I N O LY M P I C H O S T C I T I E S Asia Pacific has a long and proud Olympic heritage. Having first hosted the Games 65 years ago, the Summer, Winter and Youth Olympics have returned to the region a further eight times – with more in the planning. After the upheaval of the last 18 months, there is no better time to celebrate the Olympic values of friendship, solidarity and fair play. To celebrate the start of Tokyo 2020 this month, WebBeds is inviting travellers to uncover Asia’s rich Olympics traditions at former host venues all across the region.
T O K YO 2 0 2 0 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S T O K YO 2 0 2 0 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S
TOKYO 2020
Summer Olympics
When Tokyo 2020 opens on 23rd July, the Japanese capital will become the first Asian city to host the Summer Olympics twice. While international spectators will not be
able to attend, there are plenty of attractions that will get guests in the Olympic spirit. The Japan Olympic Museum features two floors of exhibitions, while the rebuilt Tokyo
National Stadium is surrounded by a green park that is also the outer garden of the Meiji Jingu Shrine.
28 29PA R K H O T E L T O K Y O THE KNOT TOKYO SHINJUKU
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO STAY
PARK HOTEL TOKYO THE KNOT TOKYO
Park Hotel Tokyo is a truly stunning place to stay. SHINJUKU
Check in at the 25th floor atrium, which soars
Overlooking Shinjuku Central Park West, this
10 floors to the glass ceiling, then unwind in art-
elegant boutique hotel reflects contemporary
inspired rooms and suites, and dine in a choice of
Japanese design and international amenities. The
dramatic venues, overlooking the city. The Olympic
rooms and suites exude minimalist chic, while the
Stadium is just a 13-minute subway ride away.
casual lobby and lounge area invites guests to chill
out at any time of day. A series of events, including
art exhibitions, enable guests to soak up the spirit
of the city.
30 31P Y E O N G C HA N G 2 0 1 8 – W I N T E R O LY M P I C S P Y E O N G C HA N G 2 0 1 8 – W I N T E R O LY M P I C S
PYEONGCHANG 2018
Winter Olympics
Nestled in the mountains just 150km from Seoul, PyeongChang is the pristine place to get away from the city – where or not you are into winter sports. The summer provides
plenty of opportunities for hiking and the Alpensia Sports Park features fantastic facilities, including a Ski Jump Observatory with panoramic views of the rolling hills.
A three-storey museum has been created at the stadium in PyeongChang where the opening and closing ceremonies took place.
32 33KENSINGTON HOTEL PYEONGCHANG M AY H I L L S R E S O R T
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO STAY
KENSINGTON MAYHILLS RESORT
HOTEL PYEONGCHANG Whatever time of year you visit PyeongChang,
Mayhills Resort promises the perfect place to stay.
Unwind amidst an enchanting landscape of
Located close to the Olympic park, this five-star
gardens and mountains at Kensington Hotel
hotel offers skiing in the winter months, including
Pyeongchang, a French-themed five-star hotel. The
equipment rental, and water parks in the summer.
luxurious facilities leave nothing to be desired, with
Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites, work
indoor and outdoor pools, a large kids’ play area,
out in the fitness centre, or chill out in the spa
impressive restaurants and much more, all nestled
and sauna.
amid 6.7 hectares of manicured gardens. One suite
also has an Olympic theme.
34 35S I N G A P O R E 2 0 1 0 – YO U T H O LY M P I C S S I N G A P O R E 2 0 1 0 – YO U T H O LY M P I C S
SINGAPORE 2010
Youth Olympics
The first-ever Youth Olympic Games were held in Singapore in 2010, and also marked the first time an Olympics had been hosted in Southeast Asia. The Lion City marked this
momentous occasion by building the Youth Olympic Park which houses a collection of art installations by local youths. The Singapore Youth Olympic Museum located at the
Sports Hub was also designed to allow visitors young and old to learn the Olympic values and trace Singapore’s journey towards hosting the event.
36 37M A R I N A B AY S A N D S PA R K R O YA L O N B E A C H R O A D
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO STAY
MARINA BAY SANDS PARKROYAL ON
An iconic landmark on the Singapore skyline, BEACH ROAD
Marina Bay Sands is also directly linked to the
Just one stop away from the Singapore Sports
Youth Olympic Park via the Helix Bridge. Guests
Hub on the MRT, PARKROYAL on Beach Road is
can take the MRT to the Singapore Sports Hub,
a great base for Olympic enthusiasts. A collection
which is just three stops away, or explore a wealth
of contemporary rooms, club rooms and suites
of attractions within the hotel, including the
are available at this upscale hotel, along with four
spectacular SkyPark Observation Deck with its
exceptional restaurants and bars, a fitness centre,
incredible infinity pool.
outdoor pool and the St. Gregory spa.
38 39B E I J I N G 2 0 0 8 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S B E I J I N G 2 0 0 8 – S U M M E R O LY M P I C S
BEIJING 2008
Summer Olympics
The Beijing Games were truly breath-taking. As the eyes of the world fell on China, the host nation rose to the occasion. From the amazing opening ceremony and iconic
venues, to the sporting action which saw 130 Olympic records broken, this was an Olympics like no other. Today, visitors to the Chinese capital can combine their trips to the
Forbidden City and Summer Palace with visits to the famous Bird’s Nest stadium and Water Cube.
40 41CHAO SANLITUN BEIJING THE LEGENDALE HOTEL BEIJING
WHERE TO STAY WHERE TO STAY
CHAO SANLITUN THE LEGENDALE
BEIJING HOTEL BEIJING
Showcasing the upbeat vibe of Beijing’s trendiest Discover European elegance in the heart of Beijing
district, CHAO Sanlitun is designed as a place at the Legendale Hotel. This five-star property puts
where guests can connect with the culture of the guests on the doorstep of many ancient attractions
city. The interiors are luxurious but laid-back, the and modern shopping precincts. Everything
ambience is avant-garde, and regular activities about this impressive hotel exudes opulence and
allow all visitors to uncover the city’s art scene. The indulgence, from the soaring 17-storey atrium to
Bird’s Nest is only 20 minutes away. the 19th Century French antiques and the
Imperial-style landscaped gardens.
42 43EXPLORE
Asia Pacific’s
Emerging
T O U R ISM H O TSP OTS
Australasia
The global pandemic has turned the travel industry
upside down. As international borders remain
closed, a new generation of tourism destinations is
emerging. By analysing our internal booking data
and monitoring market intelligence, WebBeds has
found a growing trend towards breaks in secondary
cities and less built-up areas, including those with
plenty of outdoor space.
Following the recent launch of the quarantine-free
“travel bubble” between Australia and New Zealand,
we take a look at the locations in Australasia that are
attracting interest among domestic and regional
travellers…A D E L A I D E , AU S T R A L IA A D E L A I D E , AU S T R A L IA
WHERE TO GO
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA
South Australia’s capital is casual, compact and
easy-to-explore. From shopping on Rundle Street
and dining at Adelaide Central Market to cultural
discoveries at museums and galleries, including
the world’s largest display of Aboriginal artefacts,
there is plenty to see and do in this laid-back city.
Chill out at the beautiful beaches or treat your
taste buds at the Barossa Valley wine region, which
is just an hour’s drive away.
46 47EOS BY SKYCIT Y EOS BY SKYCIT Y
WHERE TO STAY
EOS BY SKYCITY
This brand-new hotel forms part of SkyCity,
a striking architectural icon that also houses
restaurants, bars and a casino. Behind the
gleaming glass façade, guests can stay in
spacious rooms and suites, including the
spectacular Grace Villa, soothe their senses in
the spa and fitness centre, or chill out above the
city at the Leisure Deck, with its outdoor pool
and rooftop dining destination.
48 49DA RW I N , AU S T R A L IA DA RW I N , AU S T R A L IA
WHERE TO GO
DARWIN, AUSTRALIA
The largest city in Australia’s Northern Territory,
Darwin is great for guests who want to get away
from the world. Head out and explore the breath-
taking scenery of the Kakadu National Park, take
a boat trip to the Tiwi Islands, and learn about the
ancient indigenous culture with a visit to rock art
“galleries”. Back in the city, Mindil Beach Sunset
Market is a superb place to shop and dine.
50 51OA K S DA RW I N E L A N HOT E L OA K S DA RW I N E L A N HOT E L
WHERE TO STAY
OAKS DARWIN
ELAN HOTEL
Perfectly positioned in the city centre, overlooking
the sea, Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel features a
collection of self-contained one- and two-bedroom
apartments with modern amenities and private
balconies, making them ideal for travellers seeking
plenty of personal space. Onsite facilities include an
outdoor pool, gym and restaurant, while Darwin’s
main dining and entertainment areas, including the
Waterfront Precinct, are just moments away.
52 53COOK ISLANDS COOK ISLANDS
WHERE TO GO
COOK ISLANDS
The Cook Islands are simply heavenly. A collection
of 15 pristine Polynesian islands, fringed by powder-
soft sands and aquamarine lagoons, there is surely
nowhere better to get away from it all, relax in style
and even reignite your romance. Dreamy days can
be spent chilling out on the beach, taking a boat
tour, or learning more about this idyllic destination
with a bike ride or cultural show.
54 55S A N C T UA RY R A R O T O N G A – O N T H E B E A C H S A N C T UA RY R A R O T O N G A – O N T H E B E A C H
WHERE TO STAY
SANCTUARY
RAROTONGA –
ON THE BEACH
For travellers seeking the ultimate tropical island
retreat, Sanctuary Rarotonga – On The Beach is the
perfect choice. This adults-only resort offers a collection
of thatched villas nestled directly on the white sand,
overlooking the bright blue Aroa Lagoon. Couples can
spend endless days together in paradise, swimming in
the pool or sea, dining at the Bluewater Bar & Grill, or
unwinding at the spa. Simply sublime.
56 57QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND
WHERE TO GO
QUEENSTOWN,
NEW ZEALAND
The world’s adventure tourism capital, Queenstown
is an outstanding option for guests who want
to experience the great outdoors. Soak up the
spectacular scenery of New Zealand’s South Island,
hike through the hills and enjoy adrenaline-fueled
activities, such as bungee jumping, mountain
biking and skiing. Then, when the sun starts to set,
head into town and savour New Zealand’s famous
fresh produce at the local restaurants.
58 59H I LT O N Q U E E N S T O W N R E S O R T & S PA H I LT O N Q U E E N S T O W N R E S O R T & S PA
WHERE TO STAY
HILTON
QUEENSTOWN
RESORT & SPA
Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, overlooking The
Remarkables mountain range, Hilton Queenstown
Resort & Spa is a low-rise five-star retreat that blends
seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Guests can
stay in rooms and suites with large windows that
offer panoramic lake views. The heated pool and spa
are wonderful places to relax and the Wakatipu Grill
combines world-class cuisine with beautiful vistas.
60 61WebBeds’ culinary tour continues this month, with the latest part of the
“Essential Flavours of Asia Pacific” feature. To uncover the authentic culture of
any destination, it’s important to eat like the locals. Each destination has its
own signature dishes, but which do you need to tick off your bucket list?
This month, we’re showcasing a selection of delicacies from Australia, India,
Malaysia and Taiwan…
TAIWAN
INDIA Must-try Dish: Bubble Tea
Must-try Dish: Pav Bhaji -----------------------------------
AUSTRALIA -----------------------------------
MALAYSIA Is there a more trendy drink in the world today
Must-try Dish: Lamington Must-try Dish: Nasi Lemak than bubble tea? Originated in Taiwan in the
India has a wide variety of street food dishes,
----------------------------------- ----------------------------------- 1980s, it has gained fresh fame among youngsters
but pav bhaji is a must-try treat for any visitor to
Many countries have their favourite dessert, but Every famous food needs a backstory, and who love to gather in cool cafés, sip cups of iced
Mumbai. This spiced vegetable curry served with
few are important enough to have their own according to folklore, nasi lemak was first created milky tea and suck up tapioca pearls through
a bread roll was originally created as a quick and
national day! Every year on 21st July, Australians when a girl accidentally spilled coconut milk into broad straws. The bubble tea industry is such
easy lunchtime dish for textile mill workers, but
celebrate the Lamington – a soft buttery sponge a pot of boiling rice! This beloved dish of fragrant big business that it is expected to be worth a
it has become a favourite for manual labourers
cake, coated in chocolate sauce and rolled in rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, staggering US$4.3 billion by 2027!
and office workers alike. This vegetarian delicacy is
desiccated coconut. These sweet treats were served with sambal, eggs, nuts and anchovies, was
perfect for all palates.
named after Lord Lamington, former governor of once named as one of TIME Magazine’s “10 Most
Queensland, and are now enjoyed all across the Healthy International Breakfasts”.
country at all times of year.REDISCOVER
PHUKET
Thailand’s
Paradise Island
Phuket is one of the world’s most popular resort
destinations, with a wealth of tropical attractions
including sandy beaches, world-class water sports,
soothing spas, exceptional restaurants, and much
more! Unfortunately, the “Pearl of the Andaman” has
been off the tourism agenda for the past 15 months.
But from 1st July 2021, international travellers will be
welcomed back to the island following the launch of
the “Phuket Sandbox”.
This innovative initiative will allow overseas visitors
to stay in Phuket quarantine-free if they have been
fully vaccinated against COVID-19. To celebrate
this, WebBeds has crafted an immersive multi-day
itinerary that encompasses the island’s most iconic
attractions!D AY O N E D AY T W O
VISIT THE BIG BUDDHA ENJOY BEACHFRONT BLISS
Start your Phuket adventure with a trip to one of After your day of discovery, it’s time to chill out
the island’s most important and revered landmarks. and enjoy sun, sea and sand. Hidden away on the
Perched on a hill in the south of the island, The west coast between Patong and Karon, Freedom
Big Buddha is a 45-metre-high seated Buddha Beach is wonderfully secluded with powder-
statue, which provides a perfect spot for spiritual soft sand and crystal-clear water that’s great for
reflection, or simply to take selfies and soak up the snorkelling. With no motorised water sports, you
spectacular views, which stretch out to sea. can simply sit back and enjoy endless hours of
pleasure in this tropical paradise.
Take a break from the beach and treat yourself
EXPLORE OLD PHUKET TOWN
to a soothing spa treatment. No trip to Phuket
Phuket is famous for its beach resorts, but this is complete without a Thai massage, but a
intriguing island is also a haven of cultural moisturising aloe massage could be ideal after a
heritage. The best place to uncover this rich day in the sun.
backstory is Phuket Town, where you can stroll
past classical buildings, explore Sino-Portuguese
architecture, visit traditional temples, learn about
the past in museums, and rub shoulders with the
locals in quaint cafés.
Take a break and drop in at Go Benz, a simple
streetside eatery that received a “Bib Gourmand”
rating in the Michelin Guide! A variety of dishes are
available, but a steaming bowl of rice porridge will
provide all the energy you need for the afternoon
or evening ahead.
WEEKEND BONUS – LARD YAI SNAP STUNNING
SUNDAY STREET MARKET SUNSETS AT PROMTHEP CAPE
If you’re visiting Phuket Town on a Sunday, Phuket’s southernmost point, Promthep Cape is a
you’ll be able to experience the electric, eclectic pretty peninsula that promises panoramic views
atmosphere of Lard Yai, the weekend street market. at sunrise and sunset. Take your camera to capture
At least 30 stalls are set up along Thalang Road, the last moments of the day, as the setting sun
selling a wide variety of local products ranging from casts dramatic colours across the sea and sky. Then
handmade pottery and quirky jewellery to sizzling head to Bukito by Promthep Cape Restaurant for
street food, in a vibrant alfresco atmosphere. an alfresco seafood dinner.
66 67D AY T H R E E D AY F O U R
ETHICAL ENCOUNTERS TAKE A BOAT TO CORAL ISLAND
AT GREEN ELEPHANT Just off the south coast of Phuket, Koh He (or Coral
SANCTUARY PARK Island) is an idyllic destination where you can
The elephant is Thailand’s most revered animal, unwind amid an exotic landscape of white sand
and you can experience these majestic creatures and turquoise sea. Enjoy exhilarating water sports
up close at the Green Elephant Sanctuary Park. such as parasailing at Long Beach, or go snorkelling
Located close to Surin Beach, this ethical four- to come face-to-face with shoals of iridescent fish
hectare attraction helps to rehabilitate elephants at Banana Beach.
that have endured a life of hardship. A morning
tour will let you feed, bathe and interact with MIX A MOJITO AT CHALONG
these gentle giants. BAY RUM DISTILLERY
Phuket’s Chalong Bay Rum Distillery uses
DISCOVER PHUKET’S naturally-grown sugarcane to craft its international
BUDDHIST HERITAGE AT award-winning rum, which is famous for its
WAT CHALONG distinctive taste, aroma and purity. Take an
Wat Chalong is a must-visit attraction for anyone insightful tour around the distillery and discover
with an interest in Thailand’s Buddhist culture. the secret of this fine spirit, before learning how to
Dating from the early 19th Century, this is the mix the perfect mojito! For families, the distillery’s
largest and most-visited Buddhist temple in non-alcoholic sugarcane juice and homemade
Phuket, famed for its amazing architecture, syrups are delicious treats for kids.
dazzling artworks and 60-metre-high chedi,
which is said to house a fragment of bone from SIP A DELICIOUS SUNSET
Buddha himself. COCKTAIL
The award-winning Baba Nest could be Thailand’s
SOAK UP THE BOHEMIAN most scenic rooftop bar. Perched at the tip of Cape
VIBES AT CHILLVA MARKET Panwa in southeast Phuket, this spectacular sky
As the evening falls, Chillva Market is a cool place lounge lets you chill out and enjoy breath-taking
to come and rub shoulders with Phuket’s hipsters. ocean views while sipping cool cocktails.
Located in Phuket Town, this trendy market
features a variety of stalls selling chic retro fashions, WATCH A FAMILY-FRIENDLY
cute handicrafts and more. Live performances CABARET SHOW
make this a great place to hang out.
Thailand is famous for its colourful cabaret shows,
and Phuket Simon Cabaret in Patong provides
Under the Phuket Sandbox, international guests can enter Phuket if: a fabulous family-friendly option. All ages will
- They have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
be dazzled by the dramatic dances, clever
- They stay in a SHA Plus certified hotel or resort.
- They stay in Phuket for at least 14 nights before visiting any other Thai province. choreography and glamorous costumes. This
For more information about the Phuket Sandbox, please click here or check out the WebBeds COVID-19 Travel Restrictions Tool for up-to-date information.
extravagant evening is a wonderful way to end
your immersive exploration of Phuket.
68 69H O T E L R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S H O T E L R E C O M M E N DAT I O N S
AVISTA GRANDE PHUKET KARON
– MGALLERY BY SOFITEL THE VIJITT RESORT
Nestled in the lush hills overlooking the ocean, Centred around an elegant Thai villa, The Vijitt
Avista Grande Phuket Karon – MGallery by Sofitel Resort showcases the authentic charm and grace
promises elegant seafront escapes and world-class of Phuket. Nestled on the south coast at Rawai
services. Discover attractive Sino-Portuguese design Beach, this natural retreat blends seamlessly into
and spacious accommodation including pool access its environment, with swaying palms and verdant
rooms, family options and stunning suites. Sparkling lawns sloping gently towards the sea. Stay in a
swimming pools, a sublime spa and a selection of choice of luxurious villas, including private pool
dining options, including a steakhouse and romantic options, dine at a choice of restaurants, unwind at
rooftop restaurant, make this is a truly striking place the V Spa or enjoy authentic local activities such
to stay and soak up the idyllic island ambience. as yoga, Thai boxing and even rubber tapping.
ISLAND ESCAPE BY BURASARI
TWINPALMS PHUKET
For an exclusive island escape, leave Phuket
behind and unwind on Koh Maphrao (“Coconut If you’re seeking an intimate island escape,
Island”) – a tiny tropical islet just off the coast. Twinpalms Phuket is a stylish place to stay. A
Fully integrated into this secluded setting, Island member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this
Escape by Burasari is an exceptional five-star contemporary boutique retreat is surrounded
resort that promises the highest levels of luxury by sparkling pools and ponds, just steps from
and tranquility. Four zones create options for Surin Beach on the island’s sunset coast. Stay in
different types of travellers, with rustic-chic a choice of pool access rooms, duplex suites and
rooms, private pool villas, lagoon pools, zip lines, penthouse villas, plunge into lagoon pools, chill
beachfront restaurants and more, creating out at the trend-setting beach club, and dine at a
magical memories for every guest. choice of impressive restaurants.
Explore more hotel recommendations in Phuket Explore more hotel recommendations in Phuket
70 71WELCOME TO
PESTANA CR7
IN NEW YORK!
PURE LIFESTYLE IS OUR PERSONALITY!
A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN PESTANA HOTEL GROUP AND CRISTIANO RONALDO
DISCOVERING NEW YORK
The Pestana CR7 Times Square is a cosmopolitan hotel centrally located in midtown Manhattan.
Faithful to a sophisticated, vibrant and ever-connected sporty lifestyle, the hotel is the ideal starting
point for those who don’t want to miss out on the action of the city.
The Pestana CR7 Times Square combines comfort, friendly service
and state-of-the-art digital services.
Extra doses of energy and a feeling of well-being are essential
for anyone in New York.
REASONS TO CHOOSE:
Lifestyle hotel offering complimentary High Speed Internet
Prime location, steps away from Times Square
Healthy food and creative drinks
338 W 39th Street, NY 10018, New York
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