A Personal Update from Paradise: Enhancing Your Reef House Experience in Palm Cove

The Reef House Adults Retreat

Tucked along the palm-lined shores of Tropical North Queensland, The Reef House Adults Retreat continues to refine the art of relaxation. This boutique adults-only sanctuary in Palm Cove has long been celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, personalised hospitality and rejuvenating coastal escapes.

In a recent update shared with guests, the retreat revealed a series of thoughtful enhancements designed to elevate comfort while preserving the charm that has made The Reef House one of the most beloved luxury accommodation experiences near the Great Barrier Reef.

These improvements form part of the property’s ongoing commitment to ensuring every Rejuvenation Escape delivers rest, relaxation and the rare gift of uninterrupted “me time”.

Thoughtful Upgrades Designed for Relaxation

The latest upgrades at The Reef House focus on enhancing both comfort and aesthetics throughout the property. Guests returning to the retreat will notice several elegant improvements that blend seamlessly with the property’s classic Queenslander style.

One of the most noticeable upgrades is the beautifully refurbished spotted gum hardwood flooring in the Brigadiers Lounge. This warm, natural timber leads effortlessly into the retreat’s recently curated Wine Room, creating an inviting setting for relaxed evenings and intimate tastings.

Adding further character to the space is a handcrafted wooden staircase in the Brigadiers Lounge. This architectural feature enhances the timeless ambience that guests have come to associate with the retreat.

Guest comfort has also been prioritised with 38 upgraded bathrooms now featuring modern walk-in showers. These improvements provide a contemporary level of luxury while maintaining the retreat’s elegant, understated aesthetic.

Enhanced Poolside Serenity in Tropical North Queensland

The Reef House Adults Retreat

Relaxation is central to the Reef House experience, and the outdoor spaces have received special attention. Slate repairs have been completed around the pool area, ensuring a polished and comfortable environment for guests enjoying the tropical climate of Palm Cove.

New sunlounges and umbrellas have also been introduced, offering the perfect setting for leisurely afternoons beside the water. Whether reading a book, enjoying a refreshing drink or simply soaking up the warm Queensland sunshine, the upgraded poolside area creates a true sense of holiday indulgence.

At the heart of the retreat remains its signature Mineral Pool, a tranquil oasis that continues to shimmer beneath the tropical sky. The pool remains one of the most relaxing features of the property, inviting guests to unwind, float and embrace the slower pace of paradise.

Preserving the Character of an Iconic Adults Retreat

While these enhancements introduce modern comfort, they have been carefully designed to preserve the distinctive character of The Reef House. The property remains dedicated to providing an authentic adults-only sanctuary where guests can disconnect from everyday stress and reconnect with themselves.

Located just steps from the beachfront at Palm Cove and within easy reach of the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient rainforest landscapes of Tropical North Queensland, the retreat offers travellers the perfect base for both relaxation and exploration.

For couples, solo travellers and anyone seeking a restorative coastal escape, The Reef House continues to deliver a timeless blend of luxury, tranquillity and personalised hospitality.

With these latest improvements now complete, the team looks forward to welcoming returning guests and first-time visitors to experience the enhanced comfort of this tropical sanctuary.

Plan Your Escape to The Reef House Adults Retreat

The Reef House Adults Retreat
99 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove, QLD 4879, Australia
Phone: +61 7 4080 2600
Email: reservations@reefhouse.com.au
Website: https://reefhouse.com.au

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

A New Era of All-Inclusive Luxury Arrives in Bali with the Opening of Paradisus by Meliá

Paradisus by Meliá Bali

Paradisus by Meliá Bali has officially opened, introducing Paradisus, the luxury, all-inclusive brand from Meliá Hotels International, to Asia for the first time. Located in Nusa Dua, the southern coast of Bali, Indonesia, the resort brings a new style of elevated, experience-led approach to all-inclusive travel, centred on rest, connection and personal wellbeing.

Gabriel Escarrer Jaume, Chairman & CEO, Meliá Hotels International says: “Bali holds a special place in Meliá’s history, having been home to our first international hotel in Asia more than four decades ago. Today, we are proud to see that legacy evolve with the opening of Paradisus by Meliá Bali, the first Paradisus in the region, located within one of the island’s most established beachfront destinations.

“This resort represents a new way of experiencing a destination many travellers globally feel they already know. Through thoughtful design, cultural immersion and a sense of ease created by our all-inclusive approach, Paradisus by Meliá Bali invites guests to discover a deeper, more connected side of the island, one that allows each guest to define wellbeing in their own way.”

Paradisus by Meliá Bali

Guided by the brand’s Wellness Designed by Destination philosophy, Paradisus by Meliá Bali draws inspiration from the island itself, integrating local traditions, natural surroundings and a sense of balance into the guest experience. The approach focuses on simplicity and ease, giving guests the space to reconnect with themselves, with others, and with the rhythm of Bali.

The resort features 492 luxury suites, including seven private garden villas, alongside four pools, eight dining venues and three bars, all surrounded by tropical gardens overlooking the Indian Ocean. It offers a balance of space, privacy and choice, complemented by tailored experiences for different travel styles and individual definitions of wellbeing.

Luxury all-inclusive, reimagined

Paradisus by Meliá Bali offers a fresh take on all-inclusive travel. The experience is built around flexibility, allowing guests to dine, unwind and explore on their own terms, without the need to plan or coordinate day-to-day details.

The all-inclusive offering includes accommodation, dining across all restaurants, daily poolside snacks, 24-hour room service, and a mini bar replenished daily with select beverages. A range of premium alcoholic drinks are also available throughout the resort at a discounted rate.

Paradisus by Meliá Bali

Beyond these inclusions, guests staying on an all-inclusive basis also benefit from the resort’s Destination Inclusive® program, a signature Paradisus concept that offers curated experiences both within and beyond the resort, shaped by Bali’s culture, natural beauty and way of life. These include cultural experiences available to all guests, such as the Devan Show at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre, which showcases Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage through traditional dance and music. Adults only experiences include curated cultural and spiritual activities in villages such as Belulang near Mount Batukaru, offering a deeper engagement with local traditions and the natural environment.

Daily in-house activities include cultural experiences such as Lontar writing and traditional Balinese dance, encouraging balance, relaxation and mindful movement. Younger guests are also encouraged to take part in Balinese arts and crafts such as Janur (decorations made from coconut leaves,) kite making, and fish and duck feeding.

Distinct spaces for different travel styles

A key feature of Paradisus by Meliá Bali is the introduction of purpose-designed spaces that allow guests to shape their stay around how they want to relax, stay active or spend time together.

Paradisus by Meliá Bali 

Paradisus by Meliá Bali’s seven luxurious villas, including five one-bedroom and two two-bedroom options, are designed for guests seeking a more elevated and private retreat. Each villa features a private pool, outdoor dining area and open-air shower, complemented with exclusive amenities such as a Balinese rattan bag, sarong, hat, and yoga mat. Villa guests can also enjoy a bespoke sunset cruise experience, culminating in a private catamaran dining experience on the ocean.

The Reserve offers an adult-only (16+) retreat, with dedicated rooms and suites, access to a private beach and pool areas, personalised arrival and departure services, and exclusive dining spaces for guests seeking a quieter experience.

Family Concierge provides a premium experience designed for families, with spacious suites, in-room amenities, access to an exclusive beach area, a family-friendly restaurant, and a dedicated exclusive check-in area that includes a children’s playground, along with full access to the resort’s daily activities.

Teenage guests (13-18) are also catered for with Teens Club, offering a range of engaging activities and entertainment. Families can also enjoy the Aquazone water park and slides, plus a range of sports facilities and a karaoke room.

Paradisus by Meliá Bali features a grand ballroom designed for destination weddings and large celebrations, along with eight meeting rooms suitable for private and corporate events, supported by the largest LED screen in the Nusa Dua area.

Wellness inspired by Bali

Wellness is a central part of the Paradisus by Meliá Bali experience, shaped by Bali’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.

Paradisus by Meliá Bali 

Guests have access to a daily menu of wellness activities for all ages - from yoga, breathwork, sound baths and meditation to a range of sports and facilities including free use of tennis, futsal, padel, and basketball courts, a 24-hour fitness centre with personalised training, a golf simulator, and non-motorised water sports such as paddleboarding, surfing and kayaking.

The YHI Spa provides a tranquil escape within the resort, with a selection of treatments set in a lush garden environment. Featuring 12 treatment rooms, a circuit pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and dedicated relaxation areas, the spa is for guests to unwind and recharge, whether for a brief visit or a more immersive wellness journey.

A global gastronomy experience

Paradisus by Meliá Bali 

Dining at Paradisus by Meliá Bali spans a wide range of cuisines, with eight restaurants, three bars and a local coffee shop.

All-day dining at Malva showcases local and international dishes in a relaxed garden setting, while Peseta draws on the brand’s Spanish heritage with traditional recipes, tapas and Spanish wines. Kanna Beach Restaurant offers South American–inspired cuisine and fresh local seafood in a beachfront location.

Additional dining options include Samira, serving Middle Eastern flavours inspired by classic Arabian cuisine; Tokimeku, offering Japanese specialities including sushi and robatayaki; and Arum, which pairs Indonesian cuisine with daily Balinese cultural performances.

Sante offers an elegant dining experience dedicated for The Reserve guests (adults only), while The Shack provides casual poolside snacks and light bites. The resort’s three dedicated bars, The Ginger Bar, The Mixton Bar, and The Deck Beach Bar offer premium cocktails and beverages throughout the day and the evening.

Availability and pricing

All-inclusive rates start from AUD$640 per night for two adults, with taxes and service charges included.

To mark the resort’s opening, guests who join the Meliá Rewards program can receive up to 25% off when booking directly via melia.com.

For more information or to book, visit melia.com or on social media at @paradisusbali.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Celebrate the Festive Season in Luxurious Style at Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel

Christmas Eve Buffet

This festive season, experience a Christmas and New Year like no other at Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel, an ultra-exclusive five-star resort located on the stunning central coast of Vietnam. With its collection of opulent villas designed by Europe’s leading interior design studios, this resort promises an unforgettable escape for couples, families, and friends looking to create magical holiday memories.

As the first and only resort in Vietnam to offer such luxurious, designer-crafted villas, Villa Le Corail elevates every aspect of the festive season. From private dining experiences to bespoke services, this is the ultimate destination for those seeking to celebrate in style, comfort, and sophistication.

Designer Villas to Elevate Your Festive Getaway

Villa Le Corail boasts an impressive range of villas, each designed with impeccable taste and furnished by Europe’s top designers. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a multi-generational family holiday, these spacious and beautifully appointed villas offer the perfect setting for every occasion.

Gran Ocean Villas feature stunning interiors crafted by renowned designers, such as Roberto Cavalli and Minotti. The Feroce Villa, for example, is a masterpiece of Italian design with rosewood coffee tables, goose-down cushions, and natural marble dining tables, perfect for those seeking the finest in luxury. Meanwhile, the Vitesse Villa is inspired by the elegance of a luxury superyacht, featuring Connery leather sofas and luxurious furnishings from Minotti.

For those seeking ultimate relaxation, the Lush Villas offer one to three-bedroom accommodations, complete with private plunge pools, large terraces, and expansive seafront BBQ areas—ideal for intimate gatherings or family celebrations. The Lagoon Villas, designed for larger groups, offer up to four bedrooms and can accommodate up to eight guests. These villas provide all the amenities of a luxury home, including designer bathrooms, 400-thread-count cotton sheets, bespoke toiletries, and private pools, all with stunning views over Fairy Mountain Bay.

Every villa is designed to offer absolute comfort and privacy, complete with dedicated butler service, personalized in-villa wellness treatments, and options for private dinners. Whether you're unwinding after a busy day or celebrating a special occasion, these villas set the stage for a truly unforgettable experience.

Festive In-Villa Dining Experiences

Villa Le Corail is offering a selection of exclusive in-villa dining experiences throughout December, allowing guests to indulge in festive feasts from the comfort of their luxurious accommodations. The Coral Dreams Barbecue (available daily from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm) is a standout offering, featuring a selection of premium meats and fresh seafood, all grilled to perfection. This experience, priced at VND 2,000,000++ per adult and VND 1,000,000++ per child, is complemented by seasonal side dishes and carefully selected wines.

Throughout the holiday season, guests can also enjoy a variety of festive dining experiences at the resort’s restaurants. The Coral Dreams Afternoon Tea at Theia Bar & Lounge offers a refined afternoon indulgence, while Hispania, the resort’s acclaimed Spanish restaurant, will present an 8-Course Chef’s Degustation Menu. For those craving Japanese cuisine, Shibui will showcase a Coral Dreams Omakase Dinner, offering an exquisite selection of dishes prepared with the freshest local ingredients.

A Magical New Year’s Eve Celebration

As 2024 draws to a close, Villa Le Corail will host a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at Hispania, complete with a dazzling Countdown Party. Guests will enjoy a gourmet feast, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the sea at midnight—making for a truly magical way to ring in 2025.

For younger guests, there will be special kids’ menus and festive activities throughout the holiday season, ensuring that guests of all ages can enjoy the festivities to the fullest.

Luxury Packages for an Unforgettable Stay

In-villa BBQ

Villa Le Corail’s villa package offers the ultimate way to enjoy a holiday escape in luxury. Starting at just USD 950++ per guest for a two-night stay in a Gran Ocean Villa, this package includes daily breakfast, return airport transfers, a mixology master class, two meals at the resort’s signature restaurants, and a five-hour private yacht excursion.

This all-inclusive package is the perfect way to enjoy the resort’s unparalleled luxury and exclusive experiences. Whether you’re celebrating the holiday season with family, friends, or a special someone, Villa Le Corail offers an experience that will be remembered for years to come.

Make this Holiday Season Unforgettable

As Beatriz Avila, General Manager of Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel, beautifully puts it: “The festive season is a wonderful time of year to relax and reconnect with those we love. We are delighted to offer our guests the opportunity to make their end-of-year escapes truly unforgettable with our stunning designer villas, world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences.”

From intimate romantic getaways to large family gatherings, Villa Le Corail provides the perfect setting for every type of festive celebration. With its luxurious villas, world-class dining, and a range of curated experiences, this stunning resort on Vietnam’s central coast promises an unparalleled way to welcome the New Year in absolute luxury.

For more information and to book your festive stay, visit Villa Le Corail, A Gran Meliá Hotel.

Meliá Chiang Mai Celebrates ‘Slow Travel’ with Long-Stay Perks

Mai The Sky Bar

As an increasing number of travellers embrace ‘slow travel’, Meliá Chiang Mai is offering a host of benefits ranging from discounts on spa and dining to access to its executive lounge.

For stays of seven days or more, the urban hotel’s “Travel Slow in Chiang Mai” package affords guests daily 20% discounts on YHI Spa treatments, minibar items, laundry, and food and beverage at the hotel’s two restaurants, two bars, lobby lounge and in-room dining.

Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish origins and celebrating Spain’s famed gastronomy, Meliá Chiang Mai’s dining landscape features restaurants Mai Restaurant and Bar and Laan Na Kitchen, bars Mai The Sky Bar and Tien Pool Bar, and lounges Ruen Kaew and The Level Lounge; the latter a 21st-floor executive lounge with panoramic views of the city.

Featuring seven treatment rooms designed in an underwater theme and a Thai herbal sauna and steam, YHI Spa uses ancient Asian healing wisdom combined with modern wellness techniques. Its broad spectrum of treatments includes massages, body scrubs and wraps, facials, hydrotherapy, manicures and pedicures.

Guests staying in The Level Room categories, including The Level Premium Room, The Level Premium Corner Room, The Level Suite and The Level Presidential Suite, also enjoy exclusive access to 21st floor The Level Lounge, which offers all-day snacks and beverages accompanied by panoramic vistas of the city and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west.

The executive lounge’s amenities and experiences include a private breakfast service from 7-10.30am, afternoon tea from 2.30-4pm, and cocktails and canapes for adults only from 5-7pm.

Tucked under the hotel’s 22nd floor 360-degree rooftop bar Mai The Sky Bar, the highest bar in Chiang Mai, The Level Lounge is a visual marvel. Guests enter the venue under an arch that pays homage to a nearby temple. In a salute to Chiang Mai’s Bo Sang Umbrella Village, large installations of illuminated umbrella ribs cling to the ceiling. Various artworks of umbrella canopies hang on the walls, such as those made from antique Chiang Mai textiles.

Fresh complimentary fruits in the room on arrival and a late check-out until 2pm are also among long-stay benefits.

“If you want to stay in one place for longer on your travels, Chiang Mai is the ultimate slow travel destination due to so much to see and do, ranging from the Old Town and incredible Buddhist temples to bustling markets and then elephant sanctuaries and night safaris,” said Meliá Chiang Mai’s general manager Marc Selinger.

“Our ‘Travel Slow in Chiang Mai’ experience encourages travellers and digital nomads to make the most out of their time in this charming historical city and its reinvigorating mountainous surrounds with all sorts of pampering perks at our hotel.”

Guests staying for two weeks or longer also receive one-time access to Mai The Sky Bar and a cocktail on the house.

Meliá Chiang Mai is located on the lively Charoen Prathet Road by the River Ping and Night Bazaar. With a design that pays homage to contemporary aesthetics and Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture, Meliá Chiang Mai is located six kilometers from the Chiang Mai International Airport, near an array of tourist attractions including the Old Town with its ancient moat and red-brick walls and the city’s oldest temple Wat Chiang Man.

“Travel Slow in Chiang Mai” can only be availed via direct bookings, melia.com, and corporate bookings. To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

Sky-High Thai-Inspired Afternoon Tea for Two Celebrates Woodcraft

Thai-inspired afternoon tea

Meliá Chiang Mai’s signature restaurant, Mai Restaurant and Bar on the 21st floor, has launched a Thai-inspired afternoon tea for two that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming Baan Tawai Wood Carving Village.

The dining experience’s savory treats includes spicy prawn salad, Kao Soi croquettes, and ‘Miang Kham’, comprising betel leaf, caramelized filling, dried shrimps, coconut flakes, nuts and herbs. Black sesame scones with Chiang Mai mulberry jam, Thai tea macarons, fruit tartlets and mango ice pops are among the afternoon tea’s sweets.

Inclusive of a selection of fine teas or coffee, afternoon tea is presented in a vintage tea cabinet crafted at Baan Tawai, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage of woodcraft. Situated in Hang Dong District, the village is a community renowned for its wood sculptures. Visitors are encouraged to rummage around its markets and interact with wood carvers whose skills have been handed down the generations.

An intimate fine-dining restaurant serving contemporary Northern Thai dishes accompanied by spectacular vistas, Mai Restaurant and Bar is a visual marvel that lends itself to indulging simple, delectable bites during a catch-up with friends, perhaps before an evening event. Guests enter the venue under an arch that pays homage to a nearby temple. In a salute to Chiang Mai’s Bo Sang Umbrella Village, large installations of illuminated umbrella ribs cling to the ceiling. Various artworks of umbrella canopies hang on the walls, such as those made from antique Chiang Mai textiles.

Under the stewardship of award-winning executive chef Suksant Chutinthratip (Billy) and sous chef Karn Phojun, the restaurant is focused on its ‘360° Cuisine’ concept designed to minimise waste and carbon emissions. Under the program, the chefs craft dishes using produce from the hotel’s nearby organic gourmet farm partnerships with Seed and Rong Khum, and use every part of each ingredient possible before leftovers are returned to the farm as compost.

Priced at THB 999 net per set for two people, the afternoon tea is available daily from 2-4.30pm until September 30 this year.

For more information and reservations, call +66 (0) 52 090 603 or email mairestaurant@meliachiangmai.com

Luz bar a popular addition to the Bangkok skyline

Bangkok Luz Bar 

Success stems from a reliable recipe, it’s a global thing in all industries especially hospitality.

Six main ingredients make up the food serving secret. Quality, service, atmosphere, ambiance, outlook, and surroundings. The new Bangkok LUZ Bar double ticks all these boxes.

Perched on the 33rd floor of the INNSiDE by Meliá hotel in Bangkok, a three-minute walk from On Nut BTS Skytrain station and a swift lift to the 33rd floor reveals the Bangkok Luz Bar the cities latest addition to the Bangkok skyline. With 270-degree views of the city lights, a bar kitchen, a comfortable seat viewing area, and a transparent infinity pool (guests on 33 can view the swimmers on 34 above from the bottom of the pool) This new contemporary properties two top floors have all the ingredients for a great get together and to enjoy a superb culinary journey through Spain.

Bangkok Luz Bar 

Greeted by the duty hostess we were introduced to the kitchen and waiting staff and the new chef, Juan (nickname Nacho,) a native of Madrid well qualified to prepare the delectable Spanish Tapas offerings on the menu. He was happy to explain the art of preparation as he served six appealing dishes and suggested appropriate accompanying beverages.

Offering authentic tapas, Spanish wines, beer on tap, cocktails and signature sangrias, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar is a big hit with locals and tourist. The popular new menu includes 30 dishes. Tuna tartare with cold tomato soup, seabass sashimi with spicy pickled chilli sauce, and salmon with mango and passion fruit dressing are among the Chef’s Tapas Selection dishes. highlighting a variety of local Thai ingredients combined with Spanish flavours. My pick was the combination of salmon with mango and passionfruit washed down with a 2021 Pata Negra Verdejo (Spanish Verdelho) was taste tingling.

Bangkok Luz Bar 

Signature dishes include grilled octopus with mashed potatoes, paprika and Extra Virgin olive oil, a 350-gram grilled Australian Ribeye steak, homemade fries, piquillo peppers and Padron peppers, truffle. Three desserts including crispy Spanish churros. “Luz means ‘light’ in Spanish, and since the hotel’s debut in July 2023, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar has become the essence of Spanish culture and cuisine which keeps getting brighter and brighter on Bangkok’s skyline with a new menu of irresistible choices,” said hotel general manager Aarron Nelson. LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar is open daily from 4pm until midnight. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is the newest member of an eclectic collection of urban and beach INNSiDE hotels in 14 different countries across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Situated at 1472 Sukhumvit Road, the new On Nut hotel is a 30-minute drive from Suvarnabhumi Airport and close to Bangkok’s largest convention centre, BITEC.

For further information, see LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar’s menu https://linktr.ee/luzbangkok_tapasbar [1] and to make a booking, visit https://www.tablecheck.com/en/innside-by-melia-bkk-luz-bangkok-tapas-bar/reserve/ 

*Written by John Savage

Hotel Volunteers Help Restore Chiang Mai’s Biodiverse Forest Ecosystems

Meliá Chiang Mai’s staff have helped regenerate more than seven acres of seasonally dry tropical forest in Thailand’s mountainous north, planting more than 4,350 trees of species typical of the region’s natural forest ecosystems.

In partnership with Chiang Mai University’s Doi Suthep Nature Centre and Forest Restoration Research Unit, the hotel’s volunteers have painstakingly conserved and restored forest within Doi Suthep-Pui National Park – Chiang Mai’s green backdrop and premier natural tourist attraction.

In addition to tree-planting, Meliá Chiang Mai staff also collected tree seeds in the natural forest, raised tree seedlings in nurseries, weeded around planted trees, applied fertilizer and monitored the survival and growth of the planted trees. Activities took place at Ban Pong Yang Nai, the Huay Kaew-Wang Bua Ban Nature Study Trail, Mon Cham and Doi Suthep Research Tree Nursery.

“Home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2000 species of ferns and flowering plants, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park is akin to the lungs of Chiang Mai,” said Meliá Chiang Mai’s general manager Marc Selinger. “All of these activities by our dedicated volunteers are carefully researched and planned, to ensure proper forest-ecosystem restoration, aiming to recover the structure, biodiversity and ecological functioning of Chiang Mai’s original forests.”

The restoration efforts have seen the team help raise and plant tree species characteristic of the park’s original forest ecosystems— including Adenanthera pavonina, Syzygium cumini and Terminalia bellirica.

The hotel’s volunteers are planning to embark on further restoration activities in the national park throughout 2024. They started working with the university’s subsidiary units in June 2022 to regenerate forest, as part of Meliá Chiang Mai’s ongoing “Meliá Go Green” initiative. Such activities align with the sustainability strategy of the hotel’s owner, Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group Asset World Corporation (AWC). AWC’s strategy aims to raise awareness of climate change and achieve carbon neutrality, while also contributing to the community in meaningful ways.

Towering over Chiang Mai’s River Ping and bustling Night Bazaar in Thailand’s mountainous north, Meliá Chiang Mai is situated six kilometres from Chiang Mai International Airport on vibrant Charoen Prathet Road, close to a broad spectrum of tourist attractions, markets and Buddhist temples. With a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture with a contemporary flair, the hotel comprises a striking 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building. Its jewel in the crown is its rooftop Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in the city – sitting majestically on the 22nd floor with a glass bridge commanding 360-degree views as far as the eye can see.

To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

‘The GALLERY’ Helps Improve the Lives of Thai Communities

Meliá Chiang Mai has unveiled a social enterprise that promotes talented Thai designers, artists and craftsmen to ultimately help communities in need and preserve Thai culture.

Underpinned by the concept of “Giving Art, Art of Giving”, The GALLERY, situated in the hotel’s lobby, sells an exquisite array of accessories such as handbags, wallets, silks, children’s toys, and home décor items including ceramic bowls and cups made by Thai designers and artists.

All profits from the sale of the handmade items contribute to further artistic endeavors in disadvantaged communities and help preserve and promote local culture, particularly the skills indigenous to over 40 communities across Thailand. The communities surround properties owned by Thailand’s leading integrated lifestyle real estate group Asset World Corp Public Company Limited (AWC), which established The GALLERY.

Some of the items on offer are accompanied by a “Meet the artist” story behind the piece. A handbag with a striking floral pattern, for example, includes young female artist Fhasai’s story: “Fhasai was born with Autism Spectrum Disorder and she finds peace and joy in painting beautiful floral choreographies.” The GALLERY also includes other products crafted by local artists in Northern Thailand communities such as ‘GHOM LANNA’, a home decoration made from bamboo and inspired by traditional Lanna lanterns.

“Our team feels rewarded to do our bit to help increase much-needed opportunities among Thai artisans to showcase their artwork to a broader audience and promote arts and culture among our hotel’s guests,” said Meliá Chiang Mai’s general manager Marc Selinger.

Based on the mission of “Building A Better Future”, The GALLERY was established by Meliá Chiang Mai’s owner AWC to showcase Thai artisans’ work. AWC’s efforts are in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 8 to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”.

In addition to Meliá Chiang Mai, AWC has rolled out The GALLERY at 17 more of its hotels including the new INNSiDE By Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, which debuted in July 2023 in Bangkok’s emerging On Nut neighbourhood.

Towering over Chiang Mai’s River Ping and bustling Night Bazaar in Thailand’s mountainous north, Meliá Chiang Mai is situated six kilometres from Chiang Mai International Airport on vibrant Charoen Prathet Road, close to a broad spectrum of tourist attractions, markets and Buddhist temples. With a design that pays tribute to Chiang Mai’s charming history and culture with a contemporary flair, the hotel comprises a striking 22-floor tower fronted by an adjoining seven-floor podium building. Its jewel in the crown is rooftop bar Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in the city – sitting majestically on the 22nd floor with a glass bridge commanding 360-degree views as far as the eye can see.

To contact Meliá Chiang Mai or to make a booking, email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com, call +66 52 090 699 or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm.
* Jade Bilowol at jbilowol@balconymediagroup.com

Wellness excursion hotels in Asia

TIA Wellness Resort, Da Nang, Vietnam

TIA Wellness Resort, Da Nang, Vietnam 

The TIA Wellness Resort, located along Da Nang’s coastline offers excursions to local sites, bringing in a wellness twist. 

These include: 

• Breathe, a meditation practice at Linh Ung Pagoda and the towering Lady Buddha statue
• Flow, a hike in the sacred Marble Mountains and Tai Chi by the tranquil caves up top 
• Nourish, an organic village excursion and healthy cooking class, and 
• Create, a traditional and mindful Vietnamese calligraphy experience. 

Da Nang is a coastal city in central Vietnam known for its sandy beaches and history as a French colonial port.

The Palace Hotel Tokyo, Japan

The Palace Hotel Tokyo, Japan

The current Japanese Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan's Imperial Family, is located on the former site of Edo Castle, a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls in the centre of Tokyo. The five-kilometer moatside runs alongside the Imperial Palace gardens and the Palace Hotel Tokyo encourages guests can book a privately guided, two hour jogging tour or three-hour cycling tour around the iconic Imperial Palace running route. There is also is a private 90- minute kayaking excursion along the Sumida River, revealing Tokyo’s origins as a city borne of water. 

www.en.palacehoteltokyo.com

Tanah Gajah, Bali 

Melukat, a water purification ceremony, is a core element of Balinese life and for visitors is a chance to explore the spiritual side of the Island with a cleansing ritual believed to wash away bad spirits and purify the body and soul. Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, guides guests through the process, assisting them with the correct attire (a Balinese Kebaya and sarong) and then performing the ceremony within the sacred temple grounds within the resort. 

www.tanahgajahubud.com/en 

Banyan Tree Krabi, Thailand 

Banyan Tree Krabi, Thailand 

Krabi, on southern Thailand’s west coast, offers craggy, sheer limestone cliffs, dense mangrove forests and more than a hundred offshore islands. Beach destinations include the Phi Phi Islands and Railay Beach, accessible only by boat and a prominent rock climbing spot. The Khao Ngon Nak National Park, has a panoramic viewpoint offering views of the surrounding islands in the Andaman Sea. Banyan Tree Krabi offers hiking up Naga Mountain and a Forest Bathing walking tour in the tropical forest. 

www.banyantree.com/thailand/krabi 

Alma Resort, Vietnam

The Alma Resort’s excursion A Day for Yourself offers guests a daylong combined wellness and cultural immersion by local partner Zazen Travel, with a mud bath and hot spring with Chinese herbs and the Truong Son Handicraft Village with artworks by skilled local artisans. 

www.almaresort.com 

Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, Vietnam 

The Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion is known for its healthy dining and multi-day wellbeing retreats in central Vietnam. The resort has introduced a Healing Yourself Retreat with 4- day and 6-day options, encouraging guests to spend meaningful time in nature, nurturing their mind, body and soul. The retreat includes a soak in a natural hot spring and Japanese onsen baths, along with adventure activities such as a zipline and high-wire course. Excursions into the surrounding forest include hiking, bicycling and a rejuvenating session of forest bathing, mindful yoga sessions, meditation (including water meditation, walking meditation, chakra healing meditation and rainbow shower meditation) and qigong. www.fusionhotelgroup.com/albawellnessvalley/en/homepage/ 

Meliá Chiang Mai, Thailand 

Meliá Chiang Mai, Thailand

Meliá Chiang Mai takes guests onto a 250-acre gourmet organic farm to meet farmers and learn more about sustainable farming and healthy eating. Under the hotel’s 360° Cuisine programme, its kitchen works closely with SEED Sustainable Farm in San Sai District, sourcing ‘farm to plate’ organic produce that travels only a short distance before ‘plate to farm’ food waste returns to the farm as fertilizer. Participants have the chance to feed the animals, walk through the farm with a guide to learn about the cultivation of Meliá Chiang Mai’s fruits, vegetables and herbs as well as SEED’s Pharm traditional herbal medicine garden, and rummage through a garden maze. 

www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai 

* Colin Hinshelwood at colin@balconymediagroup.com

An Lam Retreats brings in the new concept of meeting and event in nature

Clean nature is considered a natural catalyst that
 quickly recharges the body's energy

In recent years, the emphasis on improving mental health and the need to connect with nature has led businesses to combine meetings with vacations. Among the venues, An Lam Retreats stands out with two resorts located amidst nature, offering unique meeting and vacation experiences.

“Healing” Meeting at An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay

An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay is a perfect choice for companies planning to combine meetings and vacations. Located on a secluded peninsula, offering ultimate privacy and tranquility, the resort provides a perfect hideaway for sensory and unique experiences that foster individual connections, stimulate creativity, and enhance the collective strength of individuals.

Breaking away from the traditional norms of ordinary meetings and events, An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay offers a truly exceptional experience that goes beyond professional events and connects people with nature. A long list of entertainment and well-being activities that challenge self-courage, promote sustainable development, and strengthen team spirit awaits guests, taking them on a journey of focus and discovery.

From yoga by the deck, meditation under the moonlight, and trekking to An Lam Point, to sunset cruises on the catamaran, bespoke dining experiences, and coral diving, An Lam Retreats Ninh Van Bay always promises an exceptional stay.

“Green” Meeting at An Lam Retreats Saigon River

One of the exciting experiences is a 25-minute speedboat ride along the Saigon River to reach An Lam Retreats Saigon River. Departing from Bach Dang Wharf, the retreat’s charming white boat glides on the water, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city. The novelty and beauty of the scenery on both sides of the river captivate visitors, creating an atmosphere of ease and friendliness that brings individuals closer.

An Lam Retreats Saigon River, affectionately called the “tropical garden,” impresses with its shaded green spaces, charming wooden paths, and gentle, winding vines. The retreat’s “green” aspect is also reflected in its simple, environmentally friendly design that respects and preserves the natural values, such as old trees and time-worn stones.

Offering five different open areas to cater to various scales of meetings and events, the retreat creates an inspiring atmosphere where guests are free from their ordinary thought process, and all possibilities are wide open. At An Lam Retreats Saigon River, there are no limits to the creativity one can experience. It could be a cooking competition led by the chefs, utilizing ingredients from the retreat’s organic garden, or a customized tea break featuring a green and healthy menu. Starting a new day with a meditation and breath session conducted by the retreat’s Indian Yogi would be one of the interesting experiences that guests can expect.

With the changes of business trends, the concept of “meeting & event” has already moved to the next level. Wellness, nature and unlimited creativities have no longer been add-on services but, at An Lam Retreats, they are becoming the core of guest experiences. In a world with increasing focus on health and inner peace, An Lam’s has consciously designed its spaces, activities and meeting options with this in mind.

* Source: Saigon Times - english.thesaigontimes.vn
Tags: #An Lam Retreats, #Ninh Van Bay,

KENNEDYS TRAVEL PRIZE TAKES OFF

The Kennedy Foundation, which rewards the very best of Australian journalism, is very proud to announce that yet another sponsor has stepped up to support our Kennedy Awards program.

We welcome an international partner, Bamboo Airways, to the Kennedys.

Bamboo Airways will provide return flights to Vietnam for the winner of this year’s Outstanding Travel Writing award category while we welcome back long-time Kennedy supporter Melia International Hotels, who will again provide superb accommodation to the winner this year at their luxury 5-star hotel in Hanoi. What a prize!

Ms. Duong Thi Thu Huong, Bamboo Airlines Marketing & Communication Director, said;

"It is of great importance to honour the excellence and contributions in the field of journalism, and The Kennedy Awards' organisers have undoubtedly done amazing work. Bamboo Airways also looks forward to further collaboration opportunities with The Kennedy Foundation in promoting excellent aviation services to passengers in Australia and worldwide."

While Melia International Hotels Global Sales Director Randall Lui said;

“The Foundation is a free and independent media that supports the public interest, underpins a healthy democracy and acts with the highest ethical principles. It is our honour to sponsor the Kennedys.

Our partnership is to expand the Kennedy spirit over our 500 hotels worldwide to - celebrate their inclusiveness, independence, and respect for the past and for fostering the next generation of the nation's finest journalists.”

Bamboo Airways are relatively new to the skies and already have built an outstanding record.

Established in 2017, they are the first private airline in Vietnam to achieve a customer satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5. They’ve also won Best Cabin Crew in Asia, the Most Improved Airline in Asia, ranking 15th among the World's Best Regional Airlines and second among Asia’s Best Regional Airlines.

Entries in the 2023 Kennedy Awards are now OPEN and close on July 1.

Visit the entry site HERE.

The Kennedy winners will be announced at the gala event on August 18 at Royal Randwick.

FOR ALL THE DETAILS, VISIT THE KENNEDY FOUNDATION WEBSITE.

*Source: Anna Magnus, General Manager, THE KENNEDY FOUNDATION
E anna@kennedyfoundation.org.au            W kennedyfoundation.org.au

Meliá Chiang Mai Celebrates First Anniversary with Array of promotion and New Dining Experiences

Meliá Chiang Mai

Meliá Chiang Mai is turning one this April, offering a variety of exciting new experiences to mark the milestone including a purple-themed afternoon tea, roast dinner buffet and spa journey dedicated to coconuts.

The first five-star hotel to open in Chiang Mai since the onset of the global pandemic, Meliá Chiang Mai debuted on 10 April last year, signaling a huge vote of confidence at the time in the future of the mountain city’s tourism landscape.

A new afternoon tea for two available daily from 2pm - 5pm at Ruen Kaew Lounge will make a splash with purple from 1 April until 30 June 2023. Crispy butterfly pea flowers with purple hummus, lavender mousse with mirror glaze and purple potato mont blanc are among the visually compelling savoury and sweet treats served with a selection of teas or freshly brewed coffee as part of “Summer Purple Afternoon Tea”. Special price is THB 999 net per set inclusive of a selection of teas or freshly brewed coffee for 2 persons. (The normal price is THB 1,245 net per set)

Replete with slow-roasted beef tenderloin, whole roast chicken, and braised lamb shanks, Laan Na Kitchen will host the “Friday Roast Dinner Buffet” on 28 April, 26 May, and 30 June 2023 from 6pm - 9.30pm. Anchored by roast carvery stations, the buffet also includes a live pasta station and chemical-free side dishes featuring fresh organic produce from local farmers. The buffet is THB 799 net per person.

During the second quarter of 2023, 21st floor Mai Restaurant & Bar will serve a four-course ‘360° Cuisine’ Thai set menu daily from 6pm - 10pm with new dishes crafted by a thoughtful cooking process that involves sourcing organic produce from the hotel’s nearby farm and using every part of each ingredient possible before food waste is returned to the farm as fertilizer. New dishes include Makreau thed consommé comprising farm-grown tomato with pearl summer squash, Hung Ley curry style pulled pork lasagna with pomelo peeled coconut cream sauce, and a warm, overripe banana cake with mixed nuts butter scotch for dessert. Priced at THB 1,400 net per person.

From 1 – 10 April 2023, other promotions to mark the first anniversary include Laan Na Kitchen providing a 50% discount on its breakfast buffet from 6am - 10.30am for walk-in guests, making it THB 383 net per person (normal price is THB 765 net per person), and a complimentary bottle of Spanish sparkling wine for 10 guests who celebrate a special occasion at one of the hotel’s banquet venues.

To celebrate the hotel’s first anniversary, YHI Spa is offering a new package dedicated to coconuts designed to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. ‘Coconut Pampering’ begins with a 60-minute coconut body polish to exfoliate dead skin cells and soften the skin, followed by a 60-minute aromatherapy massage with virgin coconut oil to prevent dry skin and protect it against aging. A warm cup of YHI's coconut charcoal tea rounds out the treatment. The 120-minute Coconut Pampering package is THB 2,950 net per person and available daily at YHI Spa from 10am to 10pm from 1 April – 30 June 2023.

Meliá Chiang Mai

YHI Spa will also discount its 60-minute aromatherapy massage from THB 1,766 net to THB 1,366 net per person from 1 – 30 April 2023.

For more information and reservation, please contact +66 52 090 699 or email reservation.chiangmai@melia.com

*Source: Vipasiri Napawongdee, Director of Marketing Communications, MELIÁ CHIANG MAI vipasiri.n@melia.com

Meliá Koh Samui introduces The Ultimate Romantic Lover at YHI Spa

Meliá Koh Samui, voted among Thailand’s ‘Top 20 Resorts’ in 2021 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, introduces The Ultimate Romantic Lover, a wellbeing recovery for couple available at YHI Spa from 1 February - 31 March 2023.

The Ultimate Romantic Lover begins with a hands-on basic massage tip for your partner in the tranquil YHI Spa sanctuary, allowing you to take a little Melia Koh Samui bliss home with you to tide you over until your next visit. Relax with 15 minutes of Thai herbal blended steam before the therapist gets underway to gently scrub the skin with an exquisite rose scrub for 45 minutes, followed by a 60-minute aromatherapy massage with the scent of rose essence oil. A warm cup of YHI's herbal tea rounds out the treatment perfectly.

The 2.45-hour Ultimate Romantic Lover treatment prices THB 4,999++ per person and THB 8,999++ per couple and is available daily at YHI Spa from 9am to 8pm from 1 February to 31 March 2023.

Situated on the second floor above the beachfront resort’s main lobby, YHI Spa offers private facilities including two double spa suites each featuring a shower and bath, two single spa suites, an infrared sauna, Thai herbal steam room and hydrotherapy shower. Therapists also offer treatments by the pristine sands and aquamarine waters of Choeng Mon Beach for guests who prefer the outdoors.

For more information and reservations, please contact at 077 938 899 or e-mail kantima.chompoolad@melia.com.

*Source: Vipasiri Napawongdee, Cluster Director of Marketing Communications, MELIÁ KOH SAMUI
vipasiri.n@melia.com
83 Moo 5, Choeng Mon Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84320 Thailand, M: +66 (0) 81 414 5955

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort Welcomes Lunar New Year With Array of Festivities

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort will ring in the Year of the Cat with a smorgasbord of vibrant dining experiences, traditional Tet merriment, and outdoor pursuits to foster quality family time.
Prched on Ho Tram Beach, an easy commute from Ho Chi Minh City, the resort’s Tet program from Jan. 18-28, 2023 is packed with indulgent buffets and a la carte menus, beach bonfires with marshmallow roasts, outdoor cinema nights, kayak racing, lion dancing, calligraphy giving, lantern floating, morning excursions to ‘Monkey’s Temple’ Truc Lam Chan Nguyen and more.

Ho Tram’s “place to be”, Breeza Beach Club will host its vibrant ‘Ho Tram Seafood Market’ to a backdrop of live chill-out music on Lunar New Year’s Eve, Jan. 21, and Jan. 28. Crabs, squid, grouper, snapper, shrimp, mussels, snails, clams, and scallops caught from local waters that day will be displayed in large bamboo baskets. Diners choose whether to have their seafood grilled, wok-fried or steamed, topped off with a selection of accompaniments.

Breeza will also host Steak Night on Jan. 20 with menu options including striploin, rib eye, beef tenderloin and Black Angus tomahawk steaks. Surf ‘n’ Turf Night on Jan. 22 and 24 affords a selection of grilled premium beef cuts and fresh seafood, and Gala Seafood Buffet on Jan. 23 offers lobster, prawns, clams, sentinel crab, shellfish, squid and more. On Jan. 25, Breeza’s Savory Seashell Night’s a la carte shellfish selection will include crabs, lobster, prawns, clams and oysters. Throughout the Tet program, Breeza will open a bar by Ho Tram Beach’s white sands and aquamarine waters.

Anchored with fresh seafood, local specialties, and international cuisine, buffet dinners held at the resort’s Sasa restaurant throughout the Lunar New Year program are themed ‘Dolce Vita’, ‘Roast Carving Buffet’, ‘BBQ Seafood’ and ‘Japanese Twist’ and accompanied by a live band.

To celebrate the first day of the Lunar New Year, January 22, Dolce Vita will brim with Italian favourites including antipasto, freshly made pizza, pasta, salad and decadent desserts including a Dolce & Gabbana cake. Packed with roast beef, pork rack, pasta, noodles, salads and more, the Roast Carving Buffet will be held on January 23 and the BBQ Seafood, underpinned by an assortment of fresh seafood accompanied by meats including pork and beef ribs and sausages, on January 24. A wide assortment of sushi, fresh sashimi, ramen and grilled or pan-fried Japanese favourites will underscore the Japanese Twist buffet on January 25 and 28. Held from 5.30-10pm, each buffet dinner’s price starts at VND 1,299,000++ per adult and VND 850,000++ per child from four to 11 years old, with additional free-flow beverage options on offer.

Vietnamese restaurant Muoi, that recently reopened following a four-month makeover, will serve its new ‘Taste of the Sea’ menu dedicated to live seafood including lobster. The revamped restaurant’s changes include a new open kitchen, an open bar and array of fish tanks that showcase the new menu’s seven live seafood options lobster, grouper, pomfret, clams, sentinel crab, prawns and turgid Venus shell. Live seafood is sourced from local fish markets. To mark Tet, Muoi will craft Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist priced at VND 999,000++ per dish from January 23 to 25.

The resort’s Tet program includes lantern making, conical hat painting, Tet ornament, calligraphy, flower making craft, coconut leaf craft, tote bag painting, and bracelet making workshops for all ages.

In addition to cooking classes for making sticky rice cake ‘banh Tet’ and other Tet foods, watermelon eating challenges will be staged by the resort’s 1491-square-metre pool with direct access to the beach. Outdoor activities range from traditional games such as ‘Monkey Bridge’ to recreational pursuits including shore fishing, slow bike racing, and tennis and table tennis tournaments.

The Kids Club will keep children entertained with trying on traditional costumes, hopscotch, shuttlecock kicking, mandarin square capturing, coloring, painting and craft activities.

The resort’s YHI Spa is also offering a 10% discount on manicures and blow-dry hair treatment.

Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort

A 152-room and 83-villa property, five-star Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort features a host of world-class facilities such as three restaurants including a beach club, a swim-up bar, coffee shop, 20-treatment room spa, an executive lounge The Level Lounge, ballroom and conference facilities, kids club, gymnasium, gift shop and more. The contemporary rooms, suites and villas afford unencumbered views of the ocean, lush gardens, lakes and swimming pools. The Level Villas guests enjoy access to The Level Lounge and The Level Pool, and a range of bespoke privileges including private check-in and check-out, complimentary afternoon cocktails and snacks, pillow menu and much more.

For more information about Meliá Ho Tram Beach Resort, visit www.melia.com, email info@meliahotram.com or call +84 (0) 254 3789 000.

*Source: Jade Bilowol | Account Manager | Balcony Media Group | +61.416.719.281 |
Skype: jade.v.davis | jbilowol@balconymediagroup.com | www.balconymediagroup.com

Meliá Chiang Mai Celebrates the Month of Love

Meliá Chiang Mai

Cupid has aimed his bow at new urban hotel Meliá Chiang Mai, enticing couples with a ‘Pink Valentine’s Afternoon Tea’ for two and a ‘Valen-Thai’ romantic set dinner.

The Pink Valentine’s Afternoon Tea for two is available daily at the hotel’s first floor Ruen Kaew Lounge from 1 - 28 February 2023 between 2pm-5pm and is THB 999 net per set. Valentine’s Salmorajo shots with prawn skewers, golden fried potato-sausage balls with light aioli and brava sauce, mini burgers, mini strawberry sandwiches, classic Basque-style burnt cheesecake, churros with warm strawberry dipping sauce and Lychee ice popsicles are among savoury and sweet treats coupled with a selection of fine teas and freshly brewed coffee.

On Valentine’s Day, Mai Restaurant & Bar, the hotel’s 21st floor signature restaurant that offers spectacular views of Chiang Mai city by night, will serve the ‘Valen-Thai’ romantic set dinner for two accompanied by a live violinist. Craft by executive chef Suksant Chutinthratip (Billy) and sous chef Karn Phojun, the four-course dinner starts with ‘Love’s Samplers’ of tasting size portions of three different delicacies before dried squid in seasoned consommé with pork ravioli and plums. The main course is a choice between a secret recipe of angus beef steak on braised beef cheek curry with butterfly peas flower rice or baked banana leaf-wrapped king salmon with spicy tomato relish, fish sauce brined mushrooms and sticky spring roll, followed by red velvet tres leches cake for dessert.

Valen-Thai is available at Mai Restaurant & Bar on 14 February 2023 from 6pm – 10pm. Priced at THB 3,500 net per couple, the dinner includes a glass of sparkling rosé wine and selection of fine teas or Spanish coffee. For further information or to make a booking, call 052 090 603 or email fb@meliachiangmai.com.

*Source: Vipasiri Napawongdee, Director of Marketing Communications, MELIÁ CHIANG MAI vipasiri.n@melia.com 46, 48 Charoenprathet Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand M: +66 (0) 81 414 5955

Chiang Mai’s Tallest Rooftop Bar Debuts at Meliá Chiang Mai

Meliá Chiang Mai

The first five-star hotel to open in Chiang Mai since the global pandemic’s onset has launched a 360-degree rooftop bar affording awe-inspiring views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west.

The highest bar in Chiang Mai, aptly named Mai The Sky Bar, is perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor.

The city’s most happening venue serves an array of authentic Spanish tapas and pinchos including Galician-style octopus with smoked paprika, fried creamy house-made ham croquettes, smoked salmon on crusty baguette slices, and skewers with pickled pepper, anchovies and green olives. Fluffy fried fish cake with cucumber and mint salsa, grilled prawns with smokey green chili relish and grilled pineapple, and desserts such as a seasonal fruit platter with Thai-style spicy-salty sugar, wild honey and lime are among menu items.

The bar offers a vast selection of beverages, including imaginative cocktails that reference Chiang Mai’s forests and mountains such as ‘Bosque de Chiang Mai’ comprising whisky, cinnamon, cranberry juice, lime, honey and pasteurized white egg, and ‘Misty Hill’ with Irish whisky, Triple Sec, pineapple juice, basil leaves, lime juice and sugar.

Thai and international DJs spin Spanish and Latin music from 8pm Thursday to Sunday. Destined to be “the place to be” in Chiang Mai, the bar will host monthly themed parties throughout 2023 featuring guest artist line-ups.

In a nod to Chiang Mai’s rich culture, bamboo throughout the venue pays homage to the region’s hill tribes.

As the hotel’s main attraction, a significant amount of the rooftop bar’s business so far has been local, making it a prime place where the Meliá brand interacts with the local community.

Open daily from 4pm to 12am, Mai The Sky Bar is a prime vantage point from which to take in Chiang Mai’s sunsets. Dishes are priced from THB 120 and drinks from THB 70. Daily and monthly food and beverage promotions will be on offer.

In-house guests receive complimentary access to the bar, situated above the hotel’s executive lounge and signature restaurant. Tickets for outside guests are THB 250 per person, which can be used as a credit to enjoy food and drinks during their visit.

For more information or to make a reservation, please call 052 090 600, email fb@meliachiangmai.com or visit https://www.melia.com/en/hotels/thailand/chiang-mai/melia-chiang-mai/index.htm

Opened on April 10 this year, Meliá Chiang Mai draws on Meliá’s Spanish origins and celebrates Spain's famed gastronomy. The hotel’s dining landscape encompasses Mai The Sky Bar and Tien Pool Bar, Mai Restaurant & Bar and Laan Na Kitchen, and Ruen Kaew and The Level Lounge.

*Source:Vipasiri Napawongdee, Director of Marketing Communications, MELIÁ CHIANG MAI
vipasiri.n@melia.com    M: +66 (0) 81 414 5955
46, 48 Charoenprathet Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand

Meliá Chiang Mai’s YHI Spa Welcomes New Year With ‘Spa Indulgence’ Experience

 YHI Spa at Meliá Chiang Mai

The new YHI Spa at Meliá Chiang Mai, an urban hotel that opened in the heart of Chiang Mai in April this year, will start 2023 on an indulgent note.

From 1 January – 31 March 2023, YHI Spa is offering the 90-minute “Spa Indulgence” treatment for a special price of THB 2,000 net per person, down from the normal price of THB 2,800 net per person.

The treatment starts with an aromatherapy massage, based on pure high oryzanol rice bran oil complemented with aromatic lemongrass and lavender essential oils, followed by the application of a herbal compress massage ball.

The aromatherapy massage’s gentle palm pressure and effleurage techniques are designed to stimulate the parasympathetic nerve system, improve blood circulation and reduce muscle pain. The lemongrass and lavender essential oils have numerous health benefits including reducing inflammation, easing muscle cramps and cleansing and nourishing the skin. A centuries-old Thai massage technique, the herbal compress massage ball stimulates the lymphatic system and soothes injuries.

Meliá Chiang Mai’s YHI Spa features seven private treatment rooms, designed in an underwater theme, as well as a Thai herbal steam and sauna and a separate room for pedicures. YHI Spa’s professional therapists use ancient Asian healing wisdom combined with modern wellness techniques in a full range of body treatments, from massages and scrubs to wraps and facials.

For more information and reservations, please contact at 052 090 699 or e-mail YHIspa@meliachiangmai.com

*Source: Vipasiri Napawongdee, Director of Marketing Communications, MELIÁ CHIANG MAI
46, 48 Charoenprathet Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50100 Thailand
M: +66 (0) 81 414 5955  vipasiri.n@melia.com