Industry News

Jumeirah Bali Expands Beyond Resort Villas With Introduction of Exclusive New Residences
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Jumeirah Bali Expands Beyond Resort Villas With Introduction of Exclusive New Residences
Jumeirah Bali proudly announces the expansion of its luxury accommodation portfolio with the introduction of exceptional new One- and Three-Bedroom Residences. Set against the dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu and offering direct access to the pristine Dreamland Beach, these residences are a masterful blend of Indonesian tradition and contemporary luxury, designed to provide the ultimate retreat for couples, and multigenerational groups.  Photo credits: Jumeirah Bali Upon arrival, guests are greeted by the sophisticated artistry of Javanese wood carvings, crafted using a time-honoured painting technique. These elements, blended with the architectural philosophy of Geoffrey Bawa's 'tropical modernism', foster a profound harmony between the villas and lush surrounding landscape.  The One-Bedroom Residence – a secluded haven perfect for couples or small families – features a private pool set within vibrant gardens, offering an oasis mere step from the sandy white shores and crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean. The Three-Bedroom Residence – 1,600 square metres of curated, light-filled living space designed for families and groups – blends luxurious interiors with lush gardens and a tranquil pool area, crafting an unparalleled setting for memorable gatherings with loved ones.   Photo credits: Jumeirah Bali Each residence is infused with design elements inspired by the Majapahit empire, bringing Bali's rich historical tapestry to life through intricate carvings and serene landscaping. Masterfully crafted by the renowned designers at Denniston, known for their commitment to contextual and innovative design, this thoughtful integration of history and nature with sleek modern aesthetics ensures a truly immersive experience that is both deeply rooted in cultural heritage and resolutely forward-looking.  “Our new residences are designed to encapsulate the essence of Balinese beauty and cultural depth,” comments Ram Hiralal, General Manager at Jumeirah Bali. “They offer more than just luxurious accommodations; they serve as a majlis, a gathering place where global culture and connections thrive, ensuring that each stay resonates deeply with both the heart and spirit.”  Guests of these residences will enjoy complimentary daily breakfast, exclusive beach access, full use of the fitness centre, entry to the Peafowl Kids Club, and participation in wellness activities such as yoga and meditation.  They will also enjoy discreet and comprehensive butler service including in-villa check-in for a seamless arrival.   This launch meets the growing demand for private, luxurious accommodations, whilst reinforcing Jumeirah Bali's philosophy of blending heritage with modern sophistication. 
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The Lux Collective Unveils Visionary Global Expansion Plans for 2025 and Beyond
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The Lux Collective Unveils Visionary Global Expansion Plans for 2025 and Beyond
The award-winning Mauritian-born global luxury hotel operator The Lux Collective has announced its expansion plans for 2025 and beyond, with new openings in the pipeline for China, Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Group's brand of boutique and purpose-led properties SALT will debut outside of Mauritius with two openings in China, whilst The Lux Collective's flagship luxury brand LUX* will launch in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, as well as growing its presence in Africa with a futuristic, opulent safari-camp in Botswana. At the helm of this highly anticipated next chapter is The Lux Collective's new Chief Executive Officer Olivier Chavy, who is paving the Group's strategic presence in burg eoning travel destinations across the globe, and cementing its position as a trailblazing industry disruptor. Photo credits: The Lux Collective SALT brand expands outside of Mauritius for the first time In Q2 2025, The Lux Collective will debut SALT of Anji in China, providing a gateway into the lush natural beauty of Anji County, a tranquil region known for its prized white tea and bamboo forests. Launched in 2018, SALT offers a humanistic approach to hospitality - connecting modern explorers to meaningful travel experiences, sustainability and local communities. As travellers increasingly seek emerging destinations to reconnect with nature and escape the crowds, Anji offers beautiful landscapes and preserved culture, just a 2.5-hour drive from Shanghai. Designed by renowned South African architect Peter Rich, SALT of Anji is inspired by Catalan architect Gaudí's imaginative use of natural stone and ele ments to create showstopping structures. The sustainability-focused resort features 108 guestrooms and villas, with contemporary interior design to complement the building's stone aesthetic. It has a scenic outdoor pool, themed restaurants and an elegant SALT Equilibrium spa centre.  Continuing SALT's journey in China, SALT of Mount Siguniang will launch in 2027, located in a Tibetan village in the Sichuan province on the doorstep of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Mount Siguniang National Park. The first international property to open in this protected area of natural beauty, the resort will grant unparalleled access to magnificent peaks and emerald forests, being part of Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries. LUX* expands its presence with the first hotel management agreement in Southern Africa - LUX* Xinii Mababe, Botswana Growing the LUX* footprints, the Group ventures further into new destinations in the Africa continent, following the successful opening of LUX* Marijani Zanzibar in Tanzania in July last year. The Lux Collective and Diamond Power Pty Ltd have officially inked a hotel management agreement to operate and manage a new project - LUX* Xinii Mababe in Botswana. An exclusive destination into the untamed natural surroundings of Mababe, LUX* Xinii Mababe is home to diverse wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, zebras, elephants and giraffes, as well as lions and leopards. Inspired by Botswana's cultural heritage, the resort's minimalistic architecture will be sustainably designed. All 26 lodges each features a centrepiece emulating striking African trees, rooting each lodge to the land. The symbolic roof structures honour the Okavango Delta's indigenous Hambukushu tribes, also known as rainmakers of Okavango. Their distinctive funnel shape mirrors that of Hambukushu fishing baskets, while the conical design of each roof uses local materials and age-old conservation methods to harvest rainwater.   Lyndon Jones, Founder of Diamond Power Pty Ltd and Owner of Xinii River Camp project in Botswana, remarks, "Recognised for its excellence and innovation in the global hospitality industry, our like-minded collaboration with The Lux Collective aims to make LUX* Xinii Mababe an unrivalled destination for opulent safari and wellness experiences, with thoughtful architecture and design inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Botswana and the Okavango. Our shared goal is to create a truly immersive and luxury wildlife experience through unique accommodation, culinary and wellness offerings for future guests whilst respecting the surrounding natural environment.” This successful collaboration has been facilitated by International Tourism Investment Corporation Ltd (ITIC), London-based global advisory boutique firm, which serves as the Transaction and Financial Advisor for this project. Photo credits: The Lux Collective LUX* debuts in the Middle East and grows presence in Asia Flagship luxury brand LUX* will launch in the Middle East for the first time in Q4 2025 with LUX* Al Bridi and LUX* Al Jabal in Sharjah, UAE. Recognised as the 'Culture Capital of the Arab World' by UNESCO for its culture, art and history, Sharjah boasts an array of museums, mosques and cultural sites; including the Al Madam ghost town, enveloped by desert. A modern 45-key boutique-style resort overlooking the Gulf of Oman with jagged mountains, LUX* Al Jabal will offer exclusive access to a private beach, world-class dining options, a restorative LUX* ME Spa and opportunities for cultural immersion. Located in the wilderness, LUX* Al Bridi will open as a contemporary sanctuary of 35 luxurious safari-style tented retreats, created to resemble sand dunes, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. On its doorstep is a wealth of experiences including dining in the wild, dune surfing, and four-wheel drive excursions to stargazing under the Arabian sky.  In Asia, LUX* brand will also debut in Vietnam with the country's and the region's first overwater resort - LUXNAM* Phu Quoc in Q2 2026, a private paradise in the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve, tucked between dense jungle and idyllic beaches on the northern tip of Phu Quoc island. Inspired by the Maldives' iconic overwater resorts and overseeing panoramic seaviews, the 116 villa-only modernistic resort includes 99 overwater villas and 17 landed residences. The resort's design with its LUX* ME Spa and specialty restaurants will reflect the best of island living, highlighting locally-crafted and traditional materials with a minimalist touch. In Q3 2026, luxury urban resort LUX* Guangzhou will launch in Huangpu District, Guangzhou City, providing an oasis of calm in this fast-paced metropolis. Located in two skyscrapers comprising the luxurious resort and residences, LUX* Guangzhou boasts unobstructed views of the city, a variety of dining destinations and a sensory LUX* ME Spa.  “As the CEO of The Lux Collective, I am delighted to lead the Group on another exciting phase of global expansion and strategic growth. The Lux Collective is a dynamic and pioneering home-grown Mauritian brand which puts people, exceptional service and extraordinary experiences first. The latest projects for LUX* and SALT will provide gateways to fascinating and emerging travel destinations such as Anji, Mababe, Phu Quoc and Sharjah, enabling travellers to delve authentically into the unique identity of each region. We are thrilled to announce LUX* brand's first opening in Botswana and look forward to putting LUX* Xinii Mababe on the map as an ultra-luxury safari and wellness destination. Designed with sustainability in mind and expected to open in Q1 2027, this futuristic project will draw in travellers from all over the world to this alluring location. We believe luxury and environmental stewardship must coexist for every resort we open and focus is on creating positive impact while delivering luxurious hospitality and meaningful experiences with a sense of place,” comments Olivier Chavy, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective. The Lux Collective's global openings in 2025 and beyond mark a new exciting chapter in the luxury hospitality space, building upon its renowned brands' goals to provide the modern travellers with authentic experiences in awe-inspiring destinations.
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Hyatt announces plans for Andaz Jakarta Sudirman
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Hyatt announces plans for Andaz Jakarta Sudirman
Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with PT Central Sudirman Development, for the first Andaz hotel in Jakarta, Indonesia. Slated to open in early 2028, the hotel will be an integral part of Two Sudirman Jakarta, a mixed-use two-tower development poised to be amongst the tallest skyscrapers in the country. Located in the heart of the central business district, the hotel will be the first Andaz-branded urban hotel in Indonesia complementing Andaz Bali, a resort that opened in 2021. Andaz Jakarta Sudirman will join Hyatt’s growing portfolio of 14 properties operating under the Alila, Andaz, Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Place and Hyatt Regency brands in Indonesia. “We are excited to work with PT Central Sudirman Development for the first time on these plans to bring the imaginative and self-expressive ethos of the Andaz brand to Jakarta,” said David Udell, group president, Asia Pacific, Hyatt. “Hyatt has had a brand presence in Indonesia for over 50 years. We are committed to thoughtful growth of our brands as we strengthen our position in the luxury, lifestyle, leisure and wellbeing space.” “We are delighted to announce our collaboration with Hyatt and the introduction of the prestigious Andaz brand to Jakarta through our Two Sudirman Jakarta development,” said Hendra Lubis, President Director of PT Central Sudirman Development. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to delivering a world-class destination that combines luxury, innovation, and authentic local experiences. With Andaz Jakarta Sudirman, we aim to create a landmark that not only enhances Jakarta’s skyline but also enriches the city’s hospitality offerings, setting a new standard in urban living and hospitality excellence.” Construction has begun for Two Sudirman Jakarta, which is centrally located along Sudirman Street, the main street of Jakarta’s central business district. The development will have convenient access to MRT (Jakarta Mass Rapid Transit), LRT (Light Rapid Transit) and direct connectivity to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport through the Airport Rail Link, enabling travelers to seamlessly get around the city. The two towers will consist of residences, food and beverage outlets, retail spaces and offices. Andaz Jakarta Sudirman will occupy the 40th to 72nd floors of Tower A, offering sweeping city views. The hotel’s interiors, including the 198 hotel rooms and 167 serviced apartments, will be designed by Tokyo-based Design Studio Spin. Guests can look forward to the signature Andaz Lounge, a fitness center, an outdoor pool, meeting rooms, an all-day dining venue, a bar, and a specialty restaurant on the top floor.
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Award-winning Alma Resort Launches “Alma Amore” Experience
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Award-winning Alma Resort Launches “Alma Amore” Experience
Vietnam’s Alma Resort, named the top resort in Southeast Asia in this year’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, has introduced a romantic package replete with a private candle-lit dinner for two on the beach, floating breakfast, and a couple’s massage. With rates starting at USD 170 net per night, the “Alma Amore” package includes a VIP welcome with sparkling wine and local artisanal chocolate-dipped fruits, daily international breakfast for two, daily sunset cocktails at Beach Bar affording panoramic views of Long Beach, and a nightly turndown service with romantic surprises. One picture-perfect floating breakfast is also included for couples staying at a pavilion with its own private pool. Vietnam’s Alma Resort Cumulative benefits include a 60-minute “Couple’s Indulgence” signature spa massage at Le Spa, a romantic candle-lit dinner for two on the beach and a Vietnamese cooking class for minimum stays of two nights, three nights and four nights respectively. Other Alma Amore perks include round-trip airport transfers, unlimited access to daily wellness activities, the fitness center and sports facilities as well as resort-wide high-speed Wi-Fi, and late check-out until 6pm. The “Paradise of Love” romantic dinner for two comprises a set-up of a candle-lit table on the sands of Long Beach with a private chef and waiter. Featuring highlights from the nearby ocean, such as oysters, prawns and lobster, the intimate five-course meal comprises salad, soup, fresh oysters, rose sorbet to clean the palate, a main of either ‘surf and turf’ grilled beef steak and prawns or baked half lobster thermidor, and dessert. The dinner includes a bottle of red or white. Vietnam’s Alma Resort As part of the Vietnamese cooking class at Atlantis, held at Alma’s beachfront restaurant Atlantis, the couple learn recipes that have been handed down the generations. Together they cook quintessential Vietnamese dishes including bò lá lốt (ground beef wrapped in betel leaves), chả giò tươi (fresh spring rolls) and phở (Vietnamese soup with bone broth, rice noodles and meat). Alma has been called out as the top resort in Southeast Asia, the No. 2 resort in Asia and No. 9 resort worldwide in this year’s Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. The US-based publication announced the winners of its World’s Best Awards on July 9, with Alma scoring 99.2 on the awards’ 100-point survey. The World’s Best Awards are widely considered to be one of the two most important awards in the worldwide hospitality industry. Alma Amore is valid for stays until March 2025. To contact Alma or to make a booking, please visit alma-resort.com, call +84 258 399 1666 or email info@alma-resort.com.
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Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Unveils Property Refresh
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Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Unveils Property Refresh
Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection, a premier resort nestled in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, today debuts a significant redesign effort that redefines back-to-nature luxury and sensibility in the Southeast. In collaboration with renowned design firm, Chad Dorsey Design, the renovation introduces fully refreshed public spaces, a new signature restaurant, Leatherflower, as well as two brand new Mountain Top Tree House Suites, representing the ultimate in elevated accommodations overlooking the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection The Lodge The heartbeat of the property, the Lodge is a regal structure with several welcoming gathering spaces that Chad Dorsey has reimagined with designs that blend casual sophistication with the warmth and hospitality synonymous with the Southeastern region that Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection calls home. Drawing from his roots in eastern Tennessee, Dorsey brings an understanding of the region's charm, and ethos as an outdoor, nature-based escape. "Inspired by elements that define a quintessential Virginia inn, we maintained the property's spirit and warmth throughout the common areas by blending elements that are reflective of local tradition," said Chad Dorsey owner of Chad Dorsey Design. "The use of warm textiles and details such as American quilts regionally inspired by Kyle Bunting, mix with contemporary touches throughout the spaces to align with the resort's world-class amenities." The Lodge's new Great Hall has refined interiors with custom furnishings that work together with antique pieces. In the Study, a custom desk and built-in bookshelves feature locally sourced artwork, books, and artifacts for guests to peruse as they engage with the guest service team. The room is encased by Pierre Frey wallcoverings in rich marigold hues, illustrating the dense Virginia forests and timeless landscapes of the region. A two-story space with views of the rolling fairways and Blue Ridge Mountains, The Great Hall, serves as the primary gathering place for guests. The new interiors showcase a blend of antique, American, European, and custom furniture. Plaid and floral fabrics add depth and texture, while handcrafted wooden mantels encasing two fireplaces create inviting focal points, for gathering, sharing stories and making new memories in Virginia's Highlands. Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection Culinary Innovations The introduction of Leatherflower, the property's newest farm-to-table restaurant, anchors the enhancement project. Recently awarded the Best of Award of Excellence among Wine Spectator's 2024 Restaurant Awards, Primland's signature restaurant embodies the best of Virginia's culinary scene with a design that conveys the whimsical spirit of the South. A bespoke epicurean journey through the tastes of Southern Appalachia, Leatherflower, much like the native Clematis flower that inspired its name, features dishes deeply rooted in the bounty of the land. Open daily for breakfast and dinner, the restaurant is helmed by Executive Chef Zach Long and offers seasonal menus that showcase ingredients from the property's farm and greenhouse, as well as local mills, farms and suppliers. Menu highlights include sorghum lacquered quail with smashed purple sweet potato and collards, breaded Cheshire pork cutlet and grass-fed dry-aged Niman Ranch ribeye. Thoughtfully designed, exposed beams, floral grasscloth wallcovering, and expansive windows frame the stunning landscape views of the 18-hole championship-caliber golf course. Finely detailed furniture, including elegant dining tables and upholstered chairs and banquettes, reflects a high appreciation for artisanal craft, and invites guests to revel in panoramic views of the majestic mountains beyond through intimate seating arrangements. Vibrant patterns in blue, green, coral, and cream capture the spirit of the outdoors, and abundant greenery provides continuity with the flora outside, immersing guests in this unique culinary experience. New Mountain Top Tree Houses Finally, the completion of two new Mountain Top Tree Houses marks a significant addition to the resort's luxury suite accommodations. Built into the trees and perched above the Dan River Gorge, the new Tree House suites overlook the Kibler Valley with sprawling views of the breathtaking vistas and abundant wildlife surrounds. Custom programming and dining experiences curated exclusively for these private treetop hideaways invite guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying modern amenities. With these latest design transformations, Primland, Auberge Resorts Collection continues its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and comfortable luxury defined by its Blue Ridge, Virginia roots.
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Viva Resorts by Wyndham Launches Viva Pro Rewards Program for Advisors
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Viva Resorts by Wyndham Launches Viva Pro Rewards Program for Advisors
Viva Resorts by Wyndham announced the launch of the Viva Pro Rewards Program, a game-changing initiative designed to deliver rewards for  travel advisors when booking stays at their all-inclusive resorts. Launched in May 2024, this program is already making waves among travel advisors in the U.S., Chile, Colombia, Peru and Puerto Rico with plans to expand to more markets worldwide. Viva Resorts by Wyndham The Viva Pro Rewards Program offers travel advisors incredible flexibility and the opportunity to earn rewards instantly. With a simple application process and the ability to cash commissions anytime, advisors have flexible options for redeeming their points. They can choose between cash, Amazon gift cards, or all-inclusive stays at any Viva Resort by Wyndham. Notably, opting for hotel stays lets advisors use their points at 1.5 times their value, offering the best deal. "We created the Viva Pro Rewards Program to give back to the travel advisors who have been such an integral part of our brand and growth," says Gilda Noboa, Viva’s director of sales & marketing. "This program offers them the flexibility to use their rewards whenever and however they want, making it thoroughly different from what other brands offer." Viva Resorts by Wyndham The process to join the Viva Pro Rewards Program is straightforward and user-friendly. First, travel advisors register at www.vivaprorewards.com, providing valid credentials and keeping essential information all in one place. Once verified, they enter the details of their bookings made through traditional tour operators.  Each advisor is able to access their bookings through dedicated profiles, making it easy to see just how much they are earning. The system then automatically calculates and updates the rewards earned from each booking. Points are easily accessible and can be redeemed at any time, giving advisors the chance to enjoy the fruits of their hard work whenever they choose. For more information on the Viva Pro Rewards Program and to start earning today, visit www.vivaprorewards.com or contact Viva Wyndham’s support team at prorewards@vivaresortsusa.com.
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Burgers Reign Supreme at The Anam Cam Ranh’s “Burger Day”
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Burgers Reign Supreme at The Anam Cam Ranh’s “Burger Day”
The Anam Cam Ranh’s casual dining hangout Beach Club has introduced an irresistible dining experience dedicated to the quintessential comfort food, the humble burger.  Every Monday from 12-3pm on the resort’s beach lawn overlooking Long Beach’s white sand and aquamarine waters, the Beach Club’s chefs fire up their barbecues for “Burger Day”, offering diners a choice of four delectable burgers. The “Char-grilled Beef Banh Mi” is a Vietnamese baguette with char-grilled lemongrass and chili beef, coriander, pickles and beef jus. The “Wagyu Beef Burger” comprises a Wagyu beef patty, cos lettuce, tomato, pickles and garlic mayo sauce. The “Crispy Chicken Burger” features deboned crispy chicken thigh, cos lettuce, tomato and thousand island sauce. For a Vietnamese take on a burger, the “Char Siu Banh Mi” is a Vietnamese baguette with pork meatloaf, grilled char siu, herbs, pickles and BBQ sauce. The “Char-grilled Beef Banh Mi” is also a Vietnamese baguette with char-grilled lemongrass and chili beef, coriander, pickles and beef jus. Every Monday from 12-3pm on the resort’s beach lawn overlooking Long Beach’s white sand and aquamarine waters, the Beach Club’s chefs fire up their barbecues for “Burger Day”, offering diners a choice of four delectable burgers. Each burger is priced at 380,000 VND and accompanied with fries, a fruit bowl and either a soft drink or Saigon Beer. “Burgers are the best, particularly when they are what we call real burgers,” said The Anam Group’s group general manager Laurent Myter. “In a far cry to the scourge of fast food, at The Anam Cam Ranh we make the burger buns and baguettes fresh from scratch, the meat is quality - juicy and tender - and the likes of lettuce, tomatoes and coriander are farm-to-table fresh.” For further information or to make a booking, visit www.theanam.com, email info.cr@theanam.com or telephone +(84) 258 398 9499.
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Aman Residences Tokyo, first standalone branded residences of Aman Group
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Aman Residences Tokyo, first standalone branded residences of Aman Group
Aman Group has officially revealed its first standalone branded residences, the Aman Residences Tokyo designed by Yabu Pushelberg. Currently operating 35 properties around the world, the Aman Residences Tokyo is the first of its kind. The latest residences in Japan’s capital sits in Tokyo’s tallest residential building, the Mori JP Tower by Pelli Clarke & Partners. The completed project is a part of the Azabudai Hills development and towers over the city at 1,066 feet. Blending Asian and European influences, Yabu Pushelberg brings its hospitality prowess to the residences to create a “quiet but strong” addition to the group’s offerings. Aman Residences Tokyo Co-founder Glenn Pushelberg “We wanted to convey a clear, powerful personality that remains true to the Aman brand.” The residences include 91 fully serviced residences, each with its own private entrances and dedicated elevator. The luxurious and private experience begins immediately, with each residence having its own grandiose entry and soaring ceiling heights and usable square footage. The residents will enjoy exclusive hotel-like amenities that include communal spaces like a lounge, bar, private dining room, tea room, library, reading room, media room and games room. It also features its own Aman Spa as well as a 25 m indoor pool, sauna, steam and relaxation room alongside a gym and two treatment rooms. The residences also include a public art collection curated by the Mori Art Foundation. Aman Residences Tokyo is the first to open amongst 13 other branded ones set to expand to Bangkok, Beverly Hills, Miami and Niseko.
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Renowned Mixologist ‘Takes Over’ Chiang Mai’s Highest Rooftop Bar
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Renowned Mixologist ‘Takes Over’ Chiang Mai’s Highest Rooftop Bar
Meliá Chiang Mai’s jewel in the crown, 360-degree rooftop bar Mai The Sky Bar, will welcome an award-winning bartender next month to concoct an imaginative selection of Thai-inspired cocktails. Benz Naphat Boonmamuang, a.k.a “Mr B”, who hails from Chiang Mai and has been recognized among Thailand’s top mixologists, will “take over” Mai The Sky Bar on Friday August 2 from 7pm until midnight. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas Perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor, Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in Chiang Mai – offers spectacular views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas. Mr B, the beverage and bar manager at Anantara Chiang Mai’s Brit Bar at 1921 House, has more than a decade’s experience of mixology under his belt. He has been recognised in the prestigious “World Class Thailand” Bartender of the Year Awards, named the second runner runner-up in the 2024 awards and a finalist in 2023. He was also the first runner-up at the Giffrad West Cup this year and a finalist in the Dewar’s Highball Challenge last year. His Thai-inspired cocktails on offer during the takeover include a highball cocktail dubbed “Poy Luang”, which means a grand celebration featuring a lively procession dominated by the sounds of the gamelan. Paying homage to traditional drinking customs where alcohol is typically consumed with pickled fruit, the cocktail features a homemade wild apple sparkling juice - made from wild apples, galangal and citron grown by the Doi Ang hill tribe community in Chiang Mai’s Fang District - mixed with Johnnie Walker Black Label Whiskey. The cocktail is garnished with plum-soaked citron wrapped in edible plastic; a nod to the world’s need to reduce plastic use. Mr B has been recognised in the prestigious “World Class Thailand” Bartender of the Year Awards, named the second runner runner-up in the 2024 awards and a finalist in 2023. He was also the first runner-up at the Giffrad West Cup this year and a finalist in the Dewar’s Highball Challenge last year Mr B’s selection of cocktails complement Mai The Sky Bar’s menu featuring dishes underpinned by local sustainable and organic farming. Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish roots, the city’s most happening venue’s vibrant menu serves a variety of tapas and pinchos, grazing boards and desserts under sections dubbed “Para Picar”, “Tableros” and “Postres” respectively. Mai The Sky Bar’s resident DJ will spin commercial house music, afrobeats, pop and dancehall tunes from 8pm. Entry to Mai The Sky Bar for Mr B’s takeover is THB 250 net per person, with credit towards food and drinks. For further information or to make a reservation, email maiskybar@melia.com or call +66 52 090 600.
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