JET STAKE
Etihad takes 24 percent US$379m stake in Jet Airways as Indian FDI rules ease. Jet also bags more Heathrow slots.
COURTING HK
Courtyard by Marriott comes to Shatin, Hong Kong with its funky few-frills futuristic feel and meeting space for 430.
LION ROARS
Following the AirAsia model, Indonesia’s Lion Air is spending US$45bn on 1,000 aircraft to service Australia through various partnerships.
WHYS OF WIFI
An airline survey of 4,883 travellers by Holiday Extra shows 84% would rather do without WiFi than pay more. Good on them.
WEST TO EAST
Best Western has secured its first 189-room hotel in Yangon near Kandawgyi Lake and is renovating the property.
KING IS DEAD?
Kingfisher has resubmitted plans with the Indian civil aviation authority to resume operations. It has invited Etihad and others to take equity.
VEXING VISAS
India’s Ministry of Tourism is seeking to introduce Visas on Arrival for nationals of 15 countries at two more airports – Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
WHO’S CHICKEN?
China’s domestic airlines have whipped off chicken from inflight menus as McDonald’s cuts chicken nugget prices to boost sales.
GAREDENING
Hilton Garden Inn comes to Hanoi with a small and breezy downtown offering. |
-
-
Sixty more reasons to say “I do”
You’re married, the party’s over, and you need to find a bag, or bin, for that expensive wedding dress. Well, don’t toss it away. There’s a solution. Join the wild at heart and young and restless at The Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa for a small indulgence delightfully termed “Trash the Dress” or, sometimes, “Rock the Frock”. This is a fun photo shoot for guests wishing to “create a masterpiece” or just general havoc in the name of young love, re-utilising their wedding wear, this time on the beach, underwater, atop a tree but, alas, not chasing the new mother-in-law with a chainsaw. The package starts at US$450 for 60 shots that your dad can be proud of. www.hilton.com
-
High tea in India with mad dogs and Englishmen
In the Indian Himalayan retreat of Shimla where once “only mad dogs and Englishmen” came out in the noonday sun, a special offer from The Oberoi Cecil, perched in a secluded corner of the mall promenade. This old-world confection will set nostalgia pulses racing and provide an invigorating location for romantic, or digestive, post-prandials and Raj recollections. This is luxury in the pines and works well for couples as well as families. Until 15 July, 2013, book a double with breakfast at Rs10,950 for a two-night stay and from 16 July until 30 September, 2013, at Rs10,250, and Rs9,500 for a three-nighter. That’s rates per night. Also expect roundtrip transfers from Shimla railway station and 15 percent off on spa treatments.www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_thececil/
-
Sand in your shoes - who's for Hoi An?
Why fork out for holidays when hotels are lining up to offer them free? On the sunrise coast of Vietnam along storied China Beach, a "Buy Three Pay Two" offer from the Hyatt Regency Danang Resort & Spa valid until 19 December, 2013, for a minimum two-night stay. This new beach playground is a 20-minute drive from the reborn old silk town of Hoi An and there are distractions aplenty within striking range, from marble mountains and caves to golf greens and more. danang.regency.hyatt.com
-
Style tips for Bangkok's east
From the spanking new 17-room river fronting Sala Rattanakosin Bangkok, an opening promotion of a "1 plus1" 5-31 May, 2013, and 30 percent off for stays in June and July. Most rooms offer water views looking out at Wat Po from the less ruffled eastern banks of the Chao Phraya River. The Bangkok boutique hotel serves up contemporary lux with virginal white tones set within charcoal walls and clean straight lines. www.salaresorts.com/rattanakosin/
-
A superior experience in Hong Kong
At the brand new Hotel Pennington by Rhombus smack in the heart of Causeway Bay's neon shopping and bustling street markets, a new reason to visit Hong Kong - a "Summer Package" for a Superior at HK$1,298 with daily breakfast, complimentary WiFi, free mini-bar, complimentary shoe shine and more. You'll need to stay a minimum two nights to avail of this rate. Rate valid from 1 May to 31 August, 2013. www.hotelpennington.com.hk
-
Crowning weekend in Hanoi
Just 30 minutes from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, a “Weekend Special” from Crowne Plaza West Hanoi, starting at US$92 per night with breakfast for two. There is a cancellation penalty. This comes with a “best price” guarantee. Find anything cheaper and your first night is free. Can’t complain about that. Get digging. The deal is applicable for Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. On other days, try the “Business Package” starting from US$119 with a one-way airport pick-up. Rates are valid through 2013. www.crowneplaza.com
-
Extended sunrise over Sanur
At the swish new Regent Bali, Sanur, a launch rate from 1 July, 2013, of a "Stay Three Nights, Pay Two Nights" till 27 December, 2013. At the very end of the Sanur strip in a traditional residential part of the island, the resort catches the sunrise and serves up a beachfront pool raised above the sands. This offer is valid for all room categories and can be extended as a stay six nights and pay for four etc. The stays include breakfast on all days including the complimentary ones. www.regenthotels.com
-
Bali’s 50 steps to success
Slip on your power tie – or pumps – and head to the Nikko Bali Resort and Spa, where the “Meet You There” MICE package runs till 30 June, 2013. Book at least 50 rooms, a full-day meeting and a dinner function, and enjoy a buffet of perks: room upgrades for up to 10 rooms, three complimentary rooms, airport transfers for four VIP guests, a 20 percent discount on additional food and beverage charges. How’s that for an elevator pitch? www.nikkobali.com
-
Seychelles: have money will spend
From Raffles Praslin Seychelles in the azure, unruffled western reaches of the Indian Ocean, a bit more than a sun tan for the intrepid with muscle wallets. A four-night "Body and Soul" experience in a luxury villa with private pool involves spa therapies and treatments ranging from massage and scrubs and wraps to the more exotic, employing "therapeutic grade pearl powder" and hot seashells. It's a long hop from Asia but a quicker flight from the Middle East or Europe. Expect to fork out 895 euros for two adults per night (minimum four night stay) with the modest burden of a few more taxes. Have money? Spend it. www.raffles.com/praslin/
-
Slow boats to nowhere
From 22 July, 2013, a new slow boat to nowhere in Burma. The Orcaella from Orient-Express debuts in Myanmar with Yangon to Bhamo cruises on the Ayeyarwady River. Think 11-days afloat visiting temples and monasteries. There is Chindwin River schedule as well. Of the 25 river-facing cabins, 17 are suites with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Older ship Road to Mandalay has been operating river cruises in Myanmar for over 17 years. www.orient-express.com
-
Suite sweeteners in Shanghai
Design hotel The PuLi wants suits in suites and will put its money where its mouth is. So, for a limited period, a “Buy-One-Get-One-Suite” promotion. Rooms are minimalist but stylishly awash in DVDs, flat screen tellies, Bose sound, Nespresso gizmos, WiFi and, yes, 300-thread-count linen to ensure baby-bottom stays. Pick up a complimentary breakfast, one-way airport transfer, daily pressing or laundry for three items (not counting your wife or kids) and free internet. www.thepuli.com
-
Positively glowing in Bangkok
Dodge the weekend crowds and head to Bangkok for a workday reprieve with the “GLOWing Weekday” promotion from 169-room GLOW Pratunam. Till 30 September, 2013, book a superior room between Monday and Thursday at a discounted rate, and enjoy complimentary breakfast and WiFi. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to the Shibuya 19 mall – just an elevator ride away. From Bt2,500. www.zinchospitality.com
-
Mad math heads to Malaysia
Dunno about the shrunken heads but visitors can try out the clear water, coral reefs and eye-popping white beaches of Borneo with “Mid-Year Madness Deals” from Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa. The secluded, 48-villa hideaway on Gaya Island is offering an array of discounts: there’s the “50 percent off 2 nights” promotion, where second and third nights are half off till 30 June, 2013; or the “Pay 4, Stay 5” and “Pay 8, Stay 10” deals, available till 31 October, 2013. Breakfast and visits to the nearby Marine Ecology Research Centre are complimentary, as usual. www.bungarayaresort.com
-
A couple of things about Phuket
Ready to heat things up? Check out the romantic “Relax and Retreat” package from Centara Villas Phuket, located on Karon Beach. Stay in one of the villas for at least four nights before 31 October, 2013, and expect daily sunset cocktails, 20 percent off dining and couple spa treatments, and a 20 percent discount on wedding functions. Phuket just got HOT. From Bt5,200. www.centarahotelsresorts.com
-
Beat the heat in Vietnam
Experience the peace, quiet and cool pine forests of Vietnam with the “Sublime Summer” package from Edensee Resort & Spa till 30 June, 2013. When you stay two nights, you’ll enjoy views of Tuyen Lam Lake from your 40sq m Mimosa Superior room, roundtrip airport transfers, 30 percent off spa treatments, and dinner for two each night complete with chilled glasses of Riesling wine. From D3,800,000. www.dalatedensee.com
-
HK will steal hearts and dollars
Whether you’re in town for work or play, Hong Kong has a way of stealing both your heart and dollars. Both are easy pickings whether you’re prowling back alleys or sauntering through the islands. Now, from Hong Kong’s Regal Hotels a chance to tarry longer and really get that 20 megapixel camera clicking. Stay at any of their seven properties scattered around the city for a week, two weeks or longer. Monthly rates from HK$20,800. www.regalhotel.com
-
Understanding rituals in Singapore
After that hectic workaday scramble, if you were too late for the Christmas “snow” on Orchard Road, there’s still time for the healing touch in the form of the “Spa Ritual” package from the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore. Available till the end of 2013, the package includes an overnight stay in a Premier Ocean Room, daily breakfast, welcome tea, and a two-hour “Time Rituals” treatment. Don’t worry if you nod off after. Check-out isn’t till 6pm. From S$620 for one guest, S$940 for two. www.mandarinoriental.com/singapore/
-
Only one way to beat Bangkok traffic
Don’t let that diabolical traffic scare you off. The City of Angels is well worth a visit, especially if it means a stay in the Siam Hotel. Designed by Bill Bensley, the unique, 39-room property is offering a “3 for 2” package till 31 October, 2013. That’s stay three, pay two, plus a few added benefits: daily breakfast, free WiFi, butler service, and private boat transport to Sathorn Pier from where the BTS SkyTrain can whisk you away to any part of the city in air-conditioned comfort. From Bt16,149. www.thesiamhotel.com
-
They call it barefoot luxury
Keen to get some sand between your toes or show off that Brazilian wax job? Book before 14 May, 2013 to get 30 percent off at the stunning Conrad Maldives for stays until 31 December, 2013. Yes, you do need to book for a few days and you will need to thump down a 30 percent non-refundable deposit. But, with that out of the way, jet off to a true blue lagoon with in-your-face coral, sunset dhoni sails, superb atmosphere and service in luxury villas. The sand between your toes is free. conradhotels.hilton.com
-
A wonderful Singapore fling
Skip the city grind and head straight for the sandy beaches of Sentosa Island. The 240-room W Singapore, a trendy new face in Sentosa Cove, opens with an “Ultimate Getaway” package till 31 December, 2013. Book a Wonderful Room, and snag a host of goodies: daily breakfast, two signature cocktails at the WooBar, S$50 of spa credit, a W Symmetry CD packed with cool tunes, and complimentary parking. From S$368, inclusive of sunshine and celebrity run-ins. deals.whotels.com
-
Murder and mayhem in Malaysia
You won’t find the butler or Mrs Peacock, but amid the tranquil tea plantations of the 56-room Cameron Highlands Resort, a whodunit is afoot. Experience the “Murder Mystery in the Misty Mountains”, a ’60s-themed plot revisiting Jim Thompson's suspicious disappearance. The game takes off with character assignments, a meet-and-greet and a hunt for clues. Prices start from RM$4,500 for groups of 20 to 35, and include event management, emcee and photography. www.cameronhighlandsresort.com
-
Phnom Penh puppet primer
History hounds will appreciate “A Journey Through Khmer Culture” from Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh. Spend two nights before the end of 2013, and enjoy a Femme Fatale cocktail on arrival, daily breakfast, visits to the National Museum and Royal Palace, tours of Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields, lunch at Lotus Blanc, a puppet workshop, a dance class, and dinner on your suite’s terrace. From US$665. Heading to Angkor Wat? Continue to soak up culture with a similar package from Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. www.raffles.com/phnompenh
-
More for less in Lion City
Next time you head to Singapore, check out this family-friendly package from Traders Hotel, Singapore. Two-night stays before the end of the year will receive S$100 in credit to spend at one of the city’s best attractions. Think Universal Studios, Gardens by the Bay or the world’s largest oceanarium, Marine Life Park. From S$240 per night. www.shangri-la.com/singapore/traders/
-
Suite escape to Atlantis
You may not unearth the mysterious underwater city of legend, but you’ll still make a splash at Atlantis, The Palm with a buy-one, get-one-free “Amazing Suite Offer” offer till 31 May, 2013. Spend two nights in a Terrace Club, Executive Club or Regal Club Suite and expect a complimentary third night with an upgrade to the Imperial Club, plus a tour of Dolphin Bay. From Dhs1,900. www.atlantisthepalm.com
-
Singapore revs its engine
Get your need for speed fix with the “F1 Hosting Package” from Marina Bay Sands. Book by 30 June, 2013, for two evenings of September “Night Race viewing” in the F1 Suite. For up to three hours per night, you and 10 fired-up friends can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the circuit, light canapés, beer and wine. The package alone is S$5,158, and you can couple it with a stay in a Deluxe Room for S$579 per night. After all that revelry you will need a place to sleep. www.marinabaysands.com
-
Sony style for suits in HK
Jet-setting suits can keep costs down with the “Business Package” at Cosmopolitan Hotel. Have your next corporate retreat in this colourful hotel and take advantage of daily breakfast, free WiFi, HK$120 to spend on laundry service, and “networking hours” with free flow cocktails. Those who book the Sony 3D Entertainment Suite can unwind with games galore, while the Osim Massage Suite offers a head-to-toe massage chair for weary workers. Rooms from US$155; suites from US$349. www.cosmopolitanhotel.com.hk
-
Hoi An for Hong Kong trippers
Have a Hong Kong ID? You’re in luck. The Nam Hai Hoi An is offering a “Romance in Style” retreat that’s exclusively for HKSAR escapees. Till 31 October, 2013, couples will enjoy a buy-two, get-one-free offer, where the third consecutive night is on the house. Lovebirds can also expect a 60-minute spa treatment for two, a love bath ceremony, daily breakfast, return transfers, and a late check-out at 4pm. From US$650 per night. www.ghmhotels.com/en/nam-hai-vietnam/
-
Keep it private in the Maldives
Whether you’re looking for a rowdy celebration or a secluded getaway, do yourself a favour and cast away to the Banyan Tree Madivaru. Situated on the North Ari Atoll – about a 30 minute seaplane ride from Male – the lux retreat is offering a “Private Island” package till 30 September, 2013. The six tented pool villas can accommodate up to 18 people, and the package includes all meals, a personal villa host, and excursions. From US$9,420 per night for six pool villas. www.banyantree.com/en/maldives_madivaru/
-
A cabin in Kabbinakad?
Near the southwest coast of India you’ll find quiet Kabbinakad, home to foothills, waterfalls and the luxurious cabins of The Tamara Coorg. Steal away for some fresh air, with the “Weekend Break” promotion. Book two nights before the end of 2013 and enjoy a Suite Cottage or Luxury Cottage, all meals, complimentary minibar, free WiFi, a guided plantation tour, yoga and a bird-watching walk. From Rs18,000 per night. www.thetamara.com
-
Five reasons to swing by Guangzhou
To celebrate its fifth anniversary, the Ritz-Carlton, Guangzhou is going all out with its “Perfect Ritz-Carlton Memories” package. Till 31, December 2013, enjoy a Ritz-Carlton Suite, private butler, golf date with General Manager Andrew Rogers, private cocktail cruise for 10, “The Epicurean Journey” through the hotel’s restaurants, two hours of spa treatments for two, breakfast, private car service and monogrammed bathrobes to take home. From Rmb85,555. www.ritzcarlton.com
-
Good things come in threes
Tucked away on secluded Mai Khao beach, the atmosphere at SALA Phuket Resort and Spa is a far cry from the Patong stag parties. Aimed at jet-setting lovebirds, the romantic retreat is offering a “3 Night Beach Break Booking”. Reserve before 31 October, 2013, and experience complimentary transfers, daily breakfast, Thai set dinner for two, late checkout, and a choice between a half-day island tour or a 60-minute spa treatment for two. From Bt6,000. www.salaresorts.com/phuket/
-
Why planning pays off in the PRC
Just 15-20 minutes from Beijing Capital International Airport, EAST, Beijing is a modern business hotel equipped with top-notch facilities for both work and play. The property is offering an “Advance Purchase” deal till 31 August, 2013. Book at least seven days in advance and receive 15 percent off best available rates; 21 days ahead, save 25 percent. For once, some incentive to plan ahead. From Rmb938. www.east-beijing.com
-
Tokyo VIP trundle in style
Want to explore Tokyo but overwhelmed by the matrix of metros? You’re in luck. Available till 30 June, 2013, the “Explore Tokyo in Style” package from Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo includes a two-night stay, two hours’ use of a private luxury car with chauffeur, breakfast at Piacere or The Lobby Lounge, complimentary upgrade, late 3pm checkout, and free WiFi. A great location near the Ginza and close to the historic red-brick Tokyo Station. From Y71,000. www.shangri-la.com/tokyo/
-
The bottom line in Saigon
Wheelers and dealers will appreciate the “Residential Meeting Package” from 305-room Intercontinental Asiana Saigon. Book a half or full-day meeting package before 31 July, 2013 and score a Deluxe Room, welcome cocktails and canapes, one complimentary pressing per day, and one free room for every 20 booked. From US$175 per person. www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/
-
Asia’s surf and turf holidays
Passing through Manila? Look for pre-opening rates from Holiday Inn & Suites Makati (April 2013). Starting from P5,100, the deal includes free WiFi and breakfast. More of a beach bum? Speed over to Thailand, where the Holiday Inn Express Phuket Patong Beach Central opens its doors with “Special Opening Rates” from Bt1,999 till 31 October, 2013. www.holidayinn.com
-
Huzhou waterside wagers
Personal butlers. Enviable views of Taihu Lake. Floor-to-ceiling windows. Make your next corporate chat feel like a vacation with the “Meeting to Motivate” package from Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort. Get down to business in a Salon Function Room and expect “Scent to Inspire” aromas, bottomless coffee and snacks, lunch, 50 percent off LCD projector rental, a cocktail hour, and 10 percent off spa treatments. Book by end of 2013. From Rmb530 per person. deals.sheraton.com/Sheraton-Huzhou-3414/
-
Triple the fun in Thailand
Between the Full Moon parties and the colourful coral reefs, the Gulf of Thailand is full of surprises. Take the Villa Maroc Resort, Pranburi, for example. Inspired by Moroccan architecture, this unique getaway offers a “Triple Twenty Treats” promotion till 31 October, 2013. Book two nights and bag 20 percent off rooms, food, and treatments at Sherazade Hammam & Spa. From Bt13,600 per night, including WiFi and breakfast for two. www.villamarocresort.com
-
Thailand trysts with the elephants
Vintage verandahs. Tropical gardens. Clawfoot tubs. With its “Endless Romance” promotion, the historic 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai is the perfect place to stoke the fire. Available till 31 October, 2013, the deal includes two nights in a Rajah Brooke Suite, airport transfers, daily breakfast, champagne, a three-course dinner with wine on your terrace, a rose petal bath, personalised bathrobes, a two-hour spa package, and a full-day Elephant Life Experience outing. And if you get sick of snuggling? Plug into free WiFi. From Bt50,300. www.137pillarshouse.com
-
Why pinstripers pick Hong Kong
Corporate cats can choose from a variety of promotions at Renaissance Harbour View Hotel Hong Kong. Book at least 10 nights with the “Long Staying” deal and enjoy daily breakfast, and 20 percent off food, laundry and the business centre. Travelling with colleagues? The full-day “Meeting Package” includes two coffee breaks and a lunch from HK$780 per person. www.marriott.com
-
Hangzhou wet ’n’ wild meetings
Surrounded by calming water and lush landscapes, Banyan Tree Hangzhou may have just what you need to jumpstart those creative juices. Book at least eight rooms for two nights with the “Extraordinary Meetings By the Wetland” package, and your corporate clan will enjoy a choice of three add-ons, such as a free upgrade, 25 percent off rooms, free-flow beverages, Rmb200 in spa credits per guest, or a group outing to the Xixi Wetland Park. Till 30 June, 2013. www.banyantree.com
-
Hong Kong romance to the rescue
In the doghouse after Valentine’s Day? Make amends with the “Romance Package” at Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui. This lifesaver runs till the end of 2013 and includes a 3pm checkout, flowers, champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, breakfast, and a six or seven-course dinner. Just like that, you’re in the clear. Phew. That was a close one. From HK$4,450. hongkong.tsimshatsui.hyatt.com -
Easy as 1-2-3 in Macau
Legends never die. Honour the King of Pop with the “MJ Legend At Sofitel” package from Sofitel Ponte 16. Stay in a Superior Room and receive HK$300 dining credits, HK$50 to spend at the MJ Gallery, and a buy-one, get-one-free drink deal at MJ Cafe. From HK$1,805. Practice your Thriller dance moves in the gilded and glittering MJ Mansion for an extra HK$2,200. www.sofitelmacau.com
-
Samui’s belle of the ball
Koh Samui kicks off 2013 with a new face: Vana Belle, a Starwood luxury property with 80 plush suites and villas. Book the “Alluring Getaway” package for two nights before 15 July, 2013 and enjoy a third free, plus complimentary daily breakfast. Can’t swing three nights? Try the “Escape into Luxury” package, which includes breakfast and Bt2,000 dining credit per night. From Bt18,000. exclusives.lc.com/Vana-Belle-Koh-Samui/
-
Thai caves, cooks and candles
If a staycation doesn’t cut the cake, steep limestone cliffs and island hopping should do the trick. Book the three-night “Rayavadee Romance” honeymoon package from Rayavadee Krabi resort, and enjoy daily breakfast, a bottle of champagne, a candlelit dinner in a limestone cave, a 75-minute couples’ massage, an outing to Bamboo Island, a Thai cooking class... and so on. Seven-night stays include a private, full-day snorkelling tour around Phi Phi Island. From Bt67,200. www.rayavadee.com
-
HK meets help the bottom line
With brand new, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong can accommodate all kinds of events, from small meets to all-out galas. Till 31 December, 2013, book a full-day meeting package from HK$780 per person, minimum 12 people. Snag discounted group bookings, too, from HK$1,850, minimum 10 rooms. Fair warning: skyline views make it hard to keep heads out of the clouds. www.hongkong.intercontinental.com
-
Wired meets in Shanghai
To celebrate the Rmb6 million renovation of the superlative Summit Room – a swish rosewood and marble meeting space wired with iPad controls, mobile TVs, a LCD4000 projection system, you get the gist – The Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai is offering the “Summit Meeting Package” through 2013. Starting from Rmb880 per person, the deal includes two themed coffee breaks, a customised lunch menu, butler service, and free WiFi. Add breakfast for Rmb280 or evening cocktails for Rmb300. www.shangri-la.com/shanghai/pudongshangrila/
-
Sri Lanka romp for newlyweds
Tied the knot but not sure where to spend the real celebration? If beaches, private dining, infinity pools and giant bathtubs sound up your alley, book the five-night “Honey Moon Package” from Saman Villas. Expect a 100-minute romantic couples’ treatment, one in-suite breakfast, a six-course dinner plus sparkling wine on arrival. Sorry slow pokes, you’ll need to provide a photocopy of your marriage certificate that’s no more than a month old. Rates from US$380. www.samanvilla.com
-
Why penguins head to Jimbaran Bay
Bali newcomer, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran, has opened its doors along the southwest coast’s Jimbaran Bay. The highlights of this family-friendly addition to the scene include a 1,300sq m saltwater lagoon pool and the Penguins Kids Club. To ring in the new property, and the New Year, Le Meridien has cooked up a “Discover Offer”, which includes one-way transfers, daily breakfast, daily US$25 in resort credits, and, if applicable, double Starpoints. From US$219. deals.lemeridien.com/Le-Meridien-Bali-Jimbaran/
-
Wet and wild on Koh Phangan
Full Moon parties are a blast, but there is more to the powdery beaches of Koh Phangan, Samui, Thailand. Book the “Five Night Discovery Package” from Rasananda Villa Resort & Spa before 31 May, 2013 and enjoy daily breakfast, boat transfers, and a private full-day tour packed with six activities. This is not your average walking tour – think elephant trekking, zip lining, archery and snorkelling. A bowl of homemade coconut ice cream ends the day. Save room for seconds, and time for the beach. From Bt8,200. phangan-rasananda.anantara.com
-
Bali: Kuta has a new kid on the block
Bali welcomes a fresh face this December, The Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. Nestled between the Beachwalk shopping hub and Kuta Beach, the 203-room Sheraton christens its spot of sand with an introductory “Experience Sheraton” promotion. Till 30 June, 2013, US$225 per night will buy a deluxe room, one-way transfer, daily breakfast for two, and US$25 in daily resort credit. deals.sheraton.com/Sheraton-Bali-Kuta-Resort
-
Business gets a boost in Macau
Why not hold your next corporate event in Macau, where baccarat tables are the new water coolers? Book the Grand Lapa’s “Business Plus” deal before June 2013 and capitalise on free room upgrades, breakfast, free WiFi and, most importantly, easy access to casinos. Did someone say coffee break? From HK$1,508. www.mandarinoriental.com/grandlapa/
-
Vietnam coffee with a difference
If your back feels like a knotted tree trunk, you may want to sit up – and not just for posture’s sake. The Dalat Edensee Resort & Spa is offering 30 percent off all La Roseraie spa treatments to resort guests. That means discounts on signature body treatments, such as the traditional Vietnamese massage, aromatherapy revival and the Dalat coffee body scrub using local beans. We’re more relaxed just thinking about it. www.dalatedensee.com
-
Cambodia jungle ramble for less
You don’t have to be an archaeologist to appreciate the wonders of Angkor Wat’s massive stone temples. Get the inside scoop with a private tour guide as part of La Residence d’Angkor’s “Angkor Escape” package. Additional perks include airport transfers, daily breakfast, one three-course dinner, picnic lunch during your temple tour, and biweekly meditation sessions led by local monks. From US$325 per night, minimum three nights. www.residencedangkor.com
-
Going, going, Goan holiday
The lights of Diwali are hardly in the rear view, but it’s never too soon to plan your next holiday. With paragliding, diving and an all-inclusive “Romance” deal, Goa’s Royal Orchid Beach Resort sounds awfully appealing. From Rs16,000, couples enjoy a Royal Suite, private plunge pool, candlelit dinner on the beach, champagne breakfast in bed, and spa treatment for couples. www.royalorchidhotels.com/royal-orchid-resort-galaxy-goa/
-
Less is more in Jaipur
Want to know what it feels like to live in a palace? Bask in classic Mughal architecture, watch the clouds pass by the Aravalli hills while you soak in the pool, or sit down for a tea tasting at the Fairmont Jaipur’s tea lounge Anjum. To celebrate Fairmont Hotels & Resorts first hotel in India (open 9 August, 2012) the 199-room Fairmont Jaipur will offer a one-night launch offer starting at Rs9,999 till the end of August. The special includes buffet breakfasts, meal credits worth Rs3,000, and a complimentary room for children. Extend your stay and receive a 50 percent discount on the second night and another round of complimentary breakfast. What more? The hotel offers outdoor excursions such as hot air ballooning, elephant rides and village walks at an additional cost. www.fairmont.com/jaipur/
-
Himalayan highs at low prices
Fresh air. Towering peaks. Starry skies. The Chalets Naldehra, India, offers all this and more as part of its summer package. Tap into your inner outdoorsman and snag a Swiss-style pinewood cabin with all modern fixings – tea and coffee maker, an indoor swimming pool, spa, golf course, and table tennis facilities. The yodelling is free. Relax in your Jacuzzi at night after an exciting white-water rafting trip, or horseback adventure. Two-night packages start at Rs14,990 and include a welcome drink, breakfast buffet and complimentary cake served in your room. Children under six can tag along for free, but expect an additional fee for the ’tweens. www.chaletsnaldehra.com
-
To swing or spa in Hua Hin?
To golf, or to spa? If this is a question you ask yourself, fret no more. You have plenty of time to do both at Hotel de la Paix Hua Hin. Book its “Stay, Play and Pamper” package with a friend or partner, and you can practice your swing with two 18-hole rounds of golf. Then return to the hotel where a two-hour Spa Indochine massage for two will stretch and oil any sore muscles away. Pay from Bt34,700 for a Horizon suite, or Bt37,700 for a Garden Terrace Suite, and get free breakfast and minibar daily. There’s also complimentary WiFi throughout the resort, and if you’re not relaxed enough, take advantage of the 20 percent discount on subsequent spa treatments. www.hoteldelapaixhh.com
|
