Seasoned Chef at Thailand’s First INNSiDE Hotel Pays Tribute to Spain

Aug 20, 2024 events

Juan Ignacio García Racionero, the Spanish chef de cuisine at INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, will celebrate his native country’s “unique way of life” with two remarkable “Taste of Spain” events.

Juan Ignacio García Racionero

On Friday September 6 and Saturday September 7 this year, the Madrid-born chef, who oversees INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s signature LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, will take over Hua Hin Marriott Resort & Spa’s seafront restaurant Big Fish & Bar to orchestrate a four-course feast with optional wine pairing.

He honed his craft in some of Spain’s finest kitchens, working at one Michelin-starred Saddle as well as Diverxo, recognized in the top three ‘World’s 50 Best Restaurants’ in 2023, and acclaimed restaurants El Jardin De La Marquina and Montellen. His decade-long experience as a chef includes stints at restaurants Puerta 57, Café Pino, Restaurante La Chans and Rios De Luz, and hotels including Morlans Hotels and Globales Don Pedro in Mallorca.

To be held from 6pm onwards and priced at THB 3,500++ per couple for food only or THB 4,900++ per couple including a full wine pairing, the “Taste of Spain” dinners will feature Chef Racionero’s most popular dishes at LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar.

The dinner starts out with appetizers such as traditional jamón croquettes, lime-smoked sardine with Pipirrana salad, pani puri with cured Hamachi sashimi and roasted peppers, and crispy layered potato with truffled egg yolk and Idiazabal cheese.

After octopus and shrimp paella, diners can choose between two main courses; Iberian pork cheek with Spanish sauce, mashed potatoes and vegetables, or sea bass fillet with Bilbaina sauce, shallots and bok choy.

A selection of desserts such as Basque cheesecake, Catalan cream mille-feuille with passionfruit, rice pudding with spicy strawberries, and Spanish leche frita (fried milk) will round off the dinner.

As part of the optional wine pairing, beverages include sparkling white Sangria, rose wine, classic dry sherry, aromatic white wine, red wine, oxidative aged dry sherry, crisp white wine and a dessert cocktail.

“The ‘Taste of Spain’ events are my personal way of paying tribute to Spain’s unique way of life, where we celebrate the simple pleasures in life such as Spain’s famed gastronomy, along with the likes of spectacular sunsets and chilled out music,” Racionero said. “It’s a privilege to share my passion for Spanish cuisine, an extraordinary cuisine, in what promises to be a truly immersive experience that takes diners on a culinary pilgrimage of Spain.”

For more information about “Taste of Spain” and reservations, please call +66 (0) 32 904 666, or email huahinrestaurants@marriott.com.

LUX* South Ari Atoll Partners with The Clay Studio Maldives for a Pottery Pop-Up

Article published at: December 26, 2024
Article tag: ideas

LUX* South Ari Atoll Partners with The Clay Studio Maldives for a Pottery Pop-Up

The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort - LUX* South Ari Atoll is excited to announce a partnership with The Clay Studio Maldives to bring a pottery pop-up to its Junk Art Studio, starting 20 December 2024. This collaboration introduces a hands-on creative activity to the resort’s vibrant programming, providing guests of all ages with a chance to embrace their artistic side while supporting a local Maldivian business. Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll The pottery experience includes a diverse schedule of workshops such as wheel-throwing, hand building, and the popular “Paint a Pot” sessions. Tailored options for children and private sessions for couples and families are also available. Each class is led by skilled artisans and designed to inspire creativity while offering an engaging activity for participants. John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative: "We are delighted to bring this hands-on pottery experience to our guests, in collaboration with The Clay Studio Maldives. As a resort that celebrates creativity and connection, this partnership allows families to create meaningful memories while supporting local artisans." Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll The launch coincides with the resort’s festive celebrations, which include a variety of traditions, dining experiences and activities designed to create an unforgettable holiday experience. This announcement follows the resort’s recent accolade as "Best for Families" at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards For Excellence 2025, underscoring its reputation as a leading family-friendly destination. For resort activities and pottery workshops, please visit Festive Programme. To secure the relaxing holiday bookings, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.

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A New Chapter of Wellness at Amilla Maldives' Javvu Spa With the Introduction of AMRA Skincare

Article published at: December 26, 2024
Article tag: wellness

A New Chapter of Wellness at Amilla Maldives' Javvu Spa With the Introduction of AMRA Skincare

Javvu Spa at Amilla Maldives invites guests to discover an elevated realm of rejuvenation with the introduction of AMRA, a renowned skincare line rooted in nature and perfected by science. This carefully curated collection is now woven into the spa's bespoke treatments, reflecting Amilla's commitment to mindful wellbeing and sustainability. Photo credits: Amilla Maldives Blending the healing power of the island's indigenous ingredients with AMRA's advanced formulations, AMRA Signature treatments at Amilla Maldives are designed to leave guests feeling renewed and deeply nurtured. Highlights include The Amilla Signature Journey by AMRA, which incorporates gold and vitamin C exfoliation, green caviar rhassoul mask, as well as a 24ct gold stone massage and a gold and green caviar facial to ease tension, refine skin and enhance deep hydration (USD 570 or approx. GBP 450, 180 minutes). Providing guests with a restored sense of balance, the AMRA Olfactory Sound Bath Experience combines cleansing foot rituals, aura misting, personalised facial and hair treatments, sound baths and chakra massage (USD 590 or approx. GBP 465, 180 minutes). To ensure each treatment resonates with AMRA's philosophy, Amilla's Javvu Spa therapists have undertaken an immersive training programme led by AMRA experts. This hands-on experience enhanced the team's understanding of AMRA's innovative techniques and unique formulations, and ensures their ability to deliver personalised, transformative treatments for guests. “With AMRA as our skincare partner, we are very excited about the variety of face and body treatments we will be offering our guests,” said Narelle McDougall, General Manager of Amilla. “The introduction of AMRA compliments our ethos of creating serene, nurturing experiences that reflect the natural beauty of Amilla and the surrounding ocean.” Photo credits: Amilla Maldives Each AMRA product is crafted featuring rare botanicals, precious minerals, and pure oils designed to nourish the skin and soothe the soul. This blend of nature and purpose aligns with Amilla's dedication to preserving the island's tranquil surroundings while providing memorable moments of connection and care. Guests are invited to explore the new offerings at Javvu Spa, where every treatment is a sensory journey—a moment to pause, unwind, and reconnect. Key Points: Javvu Spa introduces the AMRA skincare range, offering treatments infused with nature's finest ingredients. Spa therapists have undergone tailored training to perfect their expertise in AMRA techniques and products. This partnership underscores Amilla's ongoing dedication to sustainability, wellness, and thoughtful care.

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