Wanderlust Tips Team, Author at WANDERLUST TIPS • Page 181 of 191

Eastin Grand Hotel Saigon appointed new executive chef

(#wanderlusttips #eastingrandhotelsaigon) In endless efforts to bring and expand the authentic cuisine experience to guests, Eastin Grand Hotel Saigon has appointed William Ong as its new Executive Chef.

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Specialized in Modern European and South East cuisine over twelve years of culinary experience culled from his various posts in various hotels and restaurants, he believes in continuously refining the art of cooking through improvisation and experimentation.

Born in Singapore, Chef William started as an apprentice cook at the age of 16. As his creativity began to flourish, he started moving up through the ranks and was last employed at Novotel Bangkok Bangna Hotel as the Director of Food and Beverage cum Executive Chef. Before working in Thailand, he had been working in some other Asian countries: China, Oman and Japan. Chef William imparts the same coaching he has received and mentors the kitchen staff, encouraging them to engage their jobs with a sense of passion and ownership. This is the philosophy he lives upon everywhere he goes.

“Café Saigon – Our main restaurant will feature dishes inspired both by the Mediterranean and South East Asia region alongside a few carefully chosen Vietnamese specialties” said Chef Ong. “We will also feature a selection of prime cuts of meats and seafood cooked over an open flame on our hot stones grill. At the same time, we will have a selection of luscious offerings such as Wagyu beef, foie gras and lobsters. The concept will be ‘elegant yet simple’, focusing on the best possible ingredients and natural, organic keeping flavors.”

Understanding the vital role of chefs to bring the finest dining experience to guests, at Tung Garden, Eastin Grand Hotel Saigon has 30 year experience chef Chau Chan Fun with 4 Hong Kong chefs who bring to the table a unique menu ranging from sumptuous choice of delicacies in Dim Sum menu and A La carte menu from the Chinese tradition of gastronomy.

Eastin Grand Hotel Saigon

Add: 253 Nguyen Van Troi Str., Phu Nhuan Dist., HCMC.
Tel: (+848) 38449 222

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

London City Airport’s expansion plan gets approval

(#wanderlusttips #londoncityairport) The airport has received its planning permission for an expansion that will include seven new aircraft stands, a parallel taxiway and a passenger terminal extension.

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The expansion will enable the airport for bring in 6.5 million passengers per year by 2025. Last year, the airport welcomed a record-breaking 4.3 million passengers.

London City Airport is located at the Royal Docks and is the closest to central London among five major ones of the city. It’s about ten kilometres form the city centre, compared to Gatwick, which is 45 kilometres south of the city, or Heathrow, which is 32 kilometres to the west. Gatwick has been billed the most efficient single runway airport in the world, while Heathrow handles more international passengers than any other airport in the world.

However, London City Airport remains popular with business travellers, due to its proximity to the city centre. The changes will also open up opportunities for longer haul destinations like the Middle East, Turkey, Russia and the Eastern United States, according to a statement. London City Airport says the development will allow the airport to welcome quieter, next generation aircraft in addition to adding more space, more flights and more destinations.

Lonely Planet | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Parisian Macao to bring the Kingdom of Light to Asia

(#wanderlusttips #Parisianmacao #Eiffel) Macao which is known as the Oriental Las Vegas is going to turn to Asian Paris on September 13, when a Paris-themed casino and hotel opens with a half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower.

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The Parisian Macao casino and resort is located on the Cotai Strip, which refers to an area with multiple resorts and casinos, modelled after Las Vegas’ strip.

The new hotel features a “half-scale authentic recreation of the Eiffel Tower” which has observation decks that provide amazing views.

The hotel contains 3,000 guest rooms and suites, international restaurants, a spa, a themed water park, a 1,200-seat theatre and more. There is also a retail mall at the hotel, called Shoppes at Parisian, which “will offer the latest in fashion and couture in a setting reminiscent of the streets of Paris, with an eclectic mix of street artists and entertainers heightening the authentic experience”. The setting is designed to resemble the famous Paris street, the Champs-Élysées.

The hotel is a project of Las Vegas Sands and Sands China Ltd, which opened The Venetian Macao almost ten years ago. The Venetian Macao is modelled on the famous Venetian hotel in Las Vegas; however the Asian location is actually larger than the original and is the largest casino in the world. “Our goal to create a large-scale leisure and business destination in Macao, which started with the opening of The Venetian Macao nearly ten years ago, will be fully realized when The Parisian opens its doors in a matter of weeks,” said Sheldon G. Adelson, chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands and Sands China Ltd. “It’s unlikely another tourism development with the size and scope of the Cotai Strip will ever be achieved again.

Lonely Planet | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

42 hand gestures around the world

The language and cultural gap will be narrow if you know how to use your hands instead naturally. The “handy” infographic demonstrated 42 different hand gestures used in 14 countries, helping you to know better about people’s culture in the places you come to avoid misunderstanding.

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Lonely Planet | Wanderlust Tips

5 ideal hiding places for the 2016 summer

(#wanderlusttips) If you want to escape from the sweltering sun this summer and find a safe haven, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the immense ocean, or enjoy the cooling fresh air in the charming scenery of the mountains, the following 5 hotels and resorts are the ideal destinations for your vacation.

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1. Swiss-Belresort Tuyen Lam Dalat

Surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful blue lakes, Swiss-Belresort Tuyen Lam Dalat has 151 comfortable rooms and sits amidst charming and idyllic scenery. This is the ideal vacation destination for this summer. The resort is designed like a botanical garden with Anglo-Normand architecture, located within an 18-hole golf course. Its location allows you to easily travel to popular tourist destinations such as the Valley of Love, Prenn Waterfall, Emperor Bao Dai’s Summer Palce, Truc Lam Temple, Dalat Cathedral, and the Clay Tunnels. In the afternoon, you can take a walk along the hiking trails, learn about Dalat’s specialties in cooking classes, relax with yoga sessions, or enjoy European – Asian cuisine at the Swiss-Café Restaurant.

Swiss-Belresorts Tuyen Lam Dalat will give Vietnamese citizens an opportunity to enjoy a perfect holiday with its promotion program “Summer Escape”. For only 2,890,000 VND, you will get a 2-night stay in the deluxe mountain view room, along with other incentives such as complimentary breakfast, complimentary lunch or dinner, late check-out up to 3 p.m., 30-minute complimentary use of sauna and Jacuzzi, shuttle bus to and from Dalat city centre, in-room welcome amenities, and 15% off food & beverage and spa services. The program is available until October 31, 2016.

Address: Zone 7 & 8, Tuyen Lam Tourism Area, Ward 3, Dalat City, Vietnam
Tel: +84 63 3799 799
Website: www.swiss-belhotel.com

2. Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village

Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village is situated atop Ba Na Mountain, which is dubbed an Elysium at an altitude of 1,489 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by a complex of entertainment, tourism, shopping, indoor pool, restaurant, bar, and worship areas.

The hotel currently has 494 rooms divided into different types: Standard, Superior, Deluxe, Executive Suite, Family Suite, Royal Suite, all are elegantly designed in a neo-classical style. From your room, you can enjoy a view over the architecture of a 19th century French village, or the majestic Ba Na mountain.

With its convenient services and prime location, Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village promises to be a new vacation destination amidst the lovely scenery of Ba Na Mountain this summer.

During the Summer of 2016, Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village offers a special promotion: only 2,209,000 VND (99 USD) per night, with complimentary breakfast for two, complimentary use of indoor four seasons pool, fitness centre, breakfast for children under 12 staying with parents, and other incentives. The program is available until July 31, 2016.

Address: An Son Hamlet, Hoa Ninh Commune, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang City, Vietnam
Tel: +84 511 3799 222
Website: www.accorhotels.com

3. Fusion Maia Danang

Located at My Khe Beach, Fusion Maia Danang is the first beachfront resort in Asia with included spa and wellness packages, each guest will be guaranteed two treatments per day. The resort’s architecture is inspired by Hue Citadel, with minimalist yet sophisticated designs. All 87 villas are equipped with modern facilities, with private pool and garden.

In addition, Fusion Maia Danang is also the first resort in Asia with a private swimming pool for each area. Guests have the freedom to explore and experience the resort, with dining and recreational services.

Each villa is designed with wide windows overlooking vast open spaces, under the cooling green shades of bamboo trees. The low fences surround a charming garden filled with colorful and aromatic flowers. Private villas allow guests to be immersed in nature, making you more relaxed and comfortable.

Enjoy a different and refreshing summer at Fusion Maia Danang. For only 1,485 USD/2 people, you can enjoy a 3-night stay at a villa with private pool, complimentary breakfast anytime, anywhere, free spa treatments, free airport shuttles, etc. The program is available from now until June 30, 2016.

Address: Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Khue My Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang, Vietnam
Phone: +84 511 3967 999
Website: www.fusionmaiadanang.com

4. Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort & Spa

Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort & Spa is the first beach resort in Hue, located on the beautiful Thuan An Beach and next to Tam Giang Lagoon. This special location, along with the complex of villas and rooms, makes the resort feels luxurious, yet gentle and elegant. The design of every space inside the resort gives its guest a rustic and familiar feeling, a quiet and peaceful sensation of the Vietnamese countryside.

If you feel tired of the street noises and the bustling crowds in the city, this resort will be your paradise. The whirling sounds of the waves, the songs of the birds, or the cheers of the delighted fishermen docking their boats after a successful fishing trip, will be the sounds of nature waking you up in the morning, with the sunlight spreading across the horizon signifying the beginning of another exciting day.

The restaurant here is a wonderful combination between European and Asian cuisine and regional specialties. There will be an abundant source of energy for you to enjoy another peaceful day at Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort & Spa.

In addition, the ocean-view pool and bar inside the resort is where you can immerse yourself in the blue water, enjoy a cocktail, or unwind with a therapeutic massage at Le Cochinchine Spa. These will make for unforgettable experiences during your time here.

Located by the ocean in a green and airy space, Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort & Spa is not only a destination for leisure travel, but also a suitable choice for outdoor parties, team building activities, and the perfect place to host a romantic beach wedding.

At twilight, the ocean glistens romantically under the moonlight and candles adorn the dinner table accompanied by the sound of the wind, the waves bring in the salty taste of the sea, and the songs of the cicadas fill the resort’s garden. This will feel like a warm gift for you and your beloved.

During the Summer 2016, Ana Mandara Hue Beach Resort & Spa offers a special promotion, available from now until August 31, 2016. For only 1,940,000 VND++ per deluxe room, you can enjoy one night for 2 adults and 2 children under 6. The price includes the use of outdoor and indoor pool, shuttle bus to the city centre, and many other services. In addition, the resort also offers a 10% discount for mud baths and aromatherapy baths.

Address: Thuan An Town, Phu Vang District, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
Tel: +84 54 3983 333
Website: www.anamandarahue-resort.com 5.

5. Amankila, Bali

Rated one of the best resorts in Bali, Amankila is located in the city centre, an ideal start point to explore ancient Bali with its many temples and heritage sites. The palaces of Ujung and Tirtagangga inspire the resort’s design; its tables are made from coconut shells and surrounded by rattan wicker chairs.

The resort has 34 spacious villas with thatched roofs, making the space feel airy yet cosy. The villas offer a beautiful view of the hillside and plumeria and bougainvillea flowers. You will have a choice of accommodation, including the Indrakila Suite, which takes its name from the hill on which the resort is located, and Amankila Suite, which is bigger and offers private butler service.

The corridors of Amankika have a beautiful ocean view, and a highlight of the resort is the pool, which sits on a cliff. The pool is designed like a terrace, with water flowing from one step to another, creating a beautifully strange landscape.

Guests can enjoy Indonesian and Western cuisine at the main restaurant, sip afternoon tea by the pool, and eat lunch at the Beach Club. The Beach Club also hosts entertainment program at night-time, such as traditional Balinese dances and live music. There is also an outdoor bar with a thatched roof and filled with bamboo furniture.

From this peaceful oasis, you can go on to cultural excursions to visit local shrines, temples and water palaces, or participate in activities such as mountain biking and diving.

Aman Wellness recently launched their “Individual Wellness Immersions” package, in addition to the existing “Group Retreat Experiences” package. The individual package is available at every spa inside Aman resorts around the world. The treatment will deeply relax, purify and regenerate your mind and body, helping you feel pure and happy.

Address: Manggis, Bali, Indonesia
Tel: +62 363 41333
Website: www.aman.com/resorts/amankila

Trang Nguyen | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Raja Ampat: Diving paradise in Indonesia

(#wanderlusttips #Rajaampat #seadiving) The mesmerising beauty under the sea of Raja Ampat tranquil beach will make it the must-come attraction for tourists, especially divers who love to explore the colourful undersea life.

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Located off the Northeast of Bird’s Head Peninsula in New Guinea in the West Papua Province of Indonesia, Raja Ampat or the Four Kings is an archipelago with over 1,500 islands scattered around the four main islands Misool, Salawati, Batanta, Waigeo, and a smaller island called Kofiau. Raja Ampat Islands are part of the Coral Triangle, home to the greatest biodiversity on earth. It forms part of the new West Papua Province, which was formerly Irian Jaya. This area is mainly made up of docking ports for cruise ships.

With its pristine landscape and impressive ecosystem, Raja Ampat is among the world’s most beautiful diving spots. Diving enthusiasts need to visit this underwater paradise at least once in their lifetime. According to scientific research, the biodiversity in West Papua is greater than in other areas of the Coral Triangle stretching over Indonesia, the Philippines and Papua New Guinea.

With more than 1,200 species of fish, 600 types of coral and 700 species of molluscs, the underwater world of Raja Ampat is incredible. Visitors will feel as if they have travelled to an ancient time when diving freely between inhabited islands and enjoying nature in its purest form. The amount of creatures you encounter during a diving trip is overwhelming. In some areas, there are giant schools of fish, as well as sharks, rays and turtles. In areas close to the shore, you can wear goggles, go snorkelling and play with dolphins, and if you are lucky you might even meet a whale.

Due to the strong currents, scuba diving in Raja Ampat is not suitable for beginners. It is a spot for experienced divers. There are a few spots though inexperienced divers can go to with a diving coach. There are several famous diving spots: in the north there are Kri, Sel Pele, South Penemu and Waigeo island, in the centre is the Jef Fam Group of Islands and Manta Ridge, in the south of the archipelago there are Boo, Fabiacet and Farondi island.

Tourists do not have many choices when it comes to accommodation in Raja Ampat, because of its small population. The most common option is a cruise tour, with prices ranging from 2.800 USD (5 days) to 4.400USD (10 days), which includes a full range of services such as dining and diving training. You can choose from a selection of famous cruise tours including SMY Seahorse, Waow Indonesia, Mermaid I or Raja-Ampat Aggressor. Tourists can also book accommodation at resorts that offer diving courses such as Agusta Eco, Hamu Eco, Wicked Diving, Waiwo or Alter Native Stay. Prices range from 50 – 300 USD/night. The food offered here is mostly seafood and other Indonesian dishes.

Diving season in Raja Ampat lasts from October to April when weather conditions are favourable and currents weak. From Vietnam, tourists can fly to Indonesia’s capital city, Jakarta, and then fly or take a boat to Sorong Harbour. From here, the cruise or resort that you have booked will pick you up to begin a wonderful journey to Raja Ampat.

Minh Hang | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Emirates Airlines lauching new amenity kit using augmented reality

(#wanderlusttips #Emiratesairlines) Emirates airlines has announced that it has launched the world’s first interactive amenity kit in economy class. The bags, which include necessities like a toothbrush, earplugs and eye mask, use augmented reality technology to unlock immersive content on traveller’s phones.

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By using an app called Blippar, customers can scan the bag and unlock activities, music or health tips. The app is a “visual browser” that allows customers to point their mobile at a variety of objects recognised by Blippar to get more information and interesting facts. There will be updated content every six month for frequent travellers – though it’s unlikely to reach the heights of the popular augmented reality app Pokemon Go.

There are six different designs for the bags inspired by six regions in the company’s network, “Australasia, Latin America, Middle East, Africa, Europe and the Far East”. According to Emirates, it is the first airline to introduce the technology into amenity kits, “making it the world’s first interactive kit bags”. The bags will be available on Emirates’ flights starting in August. But, even if you’re not into augmented reality, the bags – which are made of water resident material and feature unique designs – can at least be reused.

Lonely Planet | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Fullmoon season of delicate delicacy at Pullman Hanoi

(#wanderlusttips #fullmoon #Pullmanhanoi) On the annual occasion of fullmoon season festival in the middle Autumn, Pullman Hanoi Hotel presents to its customers a fine selection of mooncakes.

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This year, the moon cakes of Pullman Hanoi will tease guest’s tastes with four unique flavours and recipes from the hotel’s own chefs: green tea, lotus, red bean, and taro. The boxes, hand draw paintings by the talented Vietnamese artist Mr. Vu Tuan Anh, are depicting this century old tradition with the dancing procession that brings back memories of one’s lovely childhood times.

There are three kinds of beautifully themed boxes giving the customers a wide range of choices. Box “Autumn” boasts 4 moon cakes of 100gram, priced at VND600,000 net, box “Moon” features 6 moon cakes of 100gram, priced at VND800,000 net and box “VIP” showcases 4 moon cakes of 150gram and 1 bottle of Merlot, priced at VND1,388,000 net. (10% VAT included).

A special offer will be applied when purchasing more than 10 boxes and additional 5% off on top for order before 1st August 2016. Cakes are available for sale in the hotel’s grand lobby.

Pullman Hanoi Hotel

Add: 40 Cat Linh Str., Hanoi
Tel: (+844) 37330688

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Great autumn-winter deal at Palm Garden Resort

(#wanderlusttips #Palmgardenresort #Hoian) To welcome the season of Autum – Winter, Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa Hoian has offered exclusive discount for any minimum 2 night stay booking.

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The discount is from 36% to 42% for accomodation allowing guest to stay in a cosy Superior Garden View room at VND2,496,000/night or in a classy and spacious Deluxe Garden View room at VND 2,610,000/night when guest book at least 02-night- stay.

The accommodation package includes buffet breakfast for 02 persons at Terrace restaurant, two discount voucher of 50% for body massage at Palm Spa, free use of sauna, steam-bath, Jacuzzi, fitness center, pool and private beach, complimentary round-trip airport transfer or a meal for two persons and many other services.

Set in five hectares of landscaped tropical gardens of palm trees and plants right along 220-meter stretch of famous Cua Dai Beach, Palm Garden Resort is a charming upscale beachfront 5-star retreat. The low-rise resort maximizes the tropical surroundings with a choice of two restaurants that overlook the sea and the Palm Spa which is nestled amongst the resort’s gardens.

Palm Garden Beach Resorts&Spa

Add: Lac Long Quan Street, Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.
Tel: (+84 510) 3927 927
Fax: (+84 510) 3927 928
Email: info@pgr.com.vn
Website: www.palmgardenresort.com.vn

Wanderlust Tips | Cinet

Ko Samui: Diving paradise in Thailand

(#wanderlusttips #Kosamui #Thailand) There are many ways to hide from the tropical summer heat. You can find refuge in the green valleys filled with grass and flora, the windy mountains, or the stunning yet tranquil beaches. For adventurers who love the ocean, why refrain from visiting some diving paradises in Vietnam and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries. Sea diving is one great way to delight your summer.

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Ko Samui is one of the biggest islands in the Gulf of Thailand. The island in Surat Thani Province is famous for its beautiful beaches shaded by coconut trees, dense forests and crystal-clear waters. It is also home to many luxurious resorts and exciting nightlife, attracting many visitors from all over the world.

There is little opportunity to be bored on Ko Samui simply because there is so much to explore and experience. In Na Thon and Mae Nam tourists can book day tours to Angthong National Marine Park in the Angthong archipelago. The archipelago is made up of over 40 small islands with majestic limestone cliffs, secret lagoons, caves, coral reefs, white sand beaches and green forests. The perfect backdrop for your photos.

The island has many beautiful beaches including Chaweng, Lamai, Bophut, Maenam and Lipa Noi. They are famous for their white sand, crystal clear water and lush greenery lending shade. Bring your favourite book, find a place in the shade and enjoy a relaxing holiday. Those who prefer physical activities can visit Nam Tok Na Muang waterfall in the centre of the island, about 12km from Na Thon. During rainy season, the majestic cascade falls down to reach the purple rocks, creating a unique natural pool. In the north of Ko Samui on a small rock island Wat Phra Yai temple houses a 15-meter Buddha statue, standing in the middle of the sky and the sea. Nearby, guests can visit Laem Wat Plai home to a giant 18-handed Buddha statue.

On Ko Samui, Scuba diving is a not-to-be-missed activity. It is an experience of a lifetime. In the main areas of the island, there are many training agencies and tour providers who offer scuba diving lessons and tours. Bophut has a number centres that have received good reviews on TripAdvisor, including Discovery Dive Centre TripAdvisor, CSI: SAMUI Dive School or The Dive Academy. When booking a scuba diving tour, visitors will get a training day at the centre, and will be accompanied by a diving coach throughout the tour. Prices of these tours range from 4,500 Baht to 13,000 Baht (2.8 – 8.1 million Vietnamese Dong), depending on the stops and length of the tour. Usually a boat takes divers from Ko Samui to the beautiful surrounding waters filled with coral reefs and marine animals around Koh Nangyuan or Koh Tao islands.

The best time of the year to visit Ko Samui is from December to June. The weather can get extremely hot from March to June. Currently, there is no direct flight from Vietnam to Ko Samui. Fly to Bangkok and from there with Bangkok Airways to Ko Samui. This trip can be expensive and a way to save money is to fly or take a bus to Surat Thani from Bangkok and take a ferry to the island.

Food on the island is cheap and delicious, including fresh seafood on the beach that you certainly should not miss. You can find affordable restaurants almost everywhere, or visit highly recommended restaurants like Dining on the Rocks, Sabeinglae or Five Islands. Stroll around Hua Thanon Market to enjoy local specialties.

There are three main areas with accommodation in Ko Samui: Chaweng, Lamai and Bophut. Hotels by the ocean are more expensive than those further inland, with differences ranging from 300,000 – 500,000 Vietnamese Dong per night. If the budget allows stay in a seaside resort at higher rates. Chaweng is the most exciting area featuring a beautiful beach and dynamic nightlife. Bophut is more quiet and peaceful, but in its Fisherman’s Village, the nightlife is not any less exciting. Lamai has many resorts and peaceful scenery, best for those who are looking to relax and unwind.

Minh Hang | Wanderlust Tips | Cinet