Sunday, 24 March 2024

Trisara Entices Remote Workers With Long-Stay Rates

Trisara, one of Thailand’s finest resorts, is capitalizing on Phuket’s reputation as a hub for remote working courtesy of special long-stay rates on its signature residences.

Its “Stay Longer, Save More” deal entitles guests to an exclusive discounted rate with extra benefits if they stay a minimum of four or seven nights. The additional benefits include daily breakfast, return airport transfer, complimentary use of non-motorized water sports equipment, complimentary daily outdoor activities as part of Trisara’s “Move in Nature” wellness program, and THB 2,500 in Wellbeing credits per bedroom each night, redeemable for activities including massage and beauty therapies, personal training, and yoga and meditation.

"Trisara offers the quintessential workation experience, seamlessly blending serene luxury with productive tranquility,” said Kittisak “Kitt” Pattamasaevi, the CEO of Montara Hospitality Group, the owners of Trisara. “It provides the perfect backdrop for focused work and rejuvenating relaxation. Our residences’ seamless integration of modern amenities and natural beauty ensures that every moment of your workation is both productive and fulfilling.”

Thailand has emerged as one of the world’s top countries for remote working in recent years thanks to its high-speed internet connection, excellent quality of life and diverse and rich culture. Indeed, it ranked as the third-best destination on the planet for attracting digital nomads according to a survey conducted last year by online resume builder Resume.io.

With its range of paradisical qualities including show-stopping beaches, MICHELIN-worthy restaurants like PRU and its sister restaurant JAMPA, other dining venues like Cielo and Seafood at Trisara, and a warm, welcoming climate, Phuket is near the top of the list as a choice for remote workers in Thailand.

And Trisara is staking its claim as a workation option for well-heeled professionals courtesy of its new deal allied to attributes such as exclusive lifestyle services including private chef and butlers.

Perched directly over the property’s private bay, Trisara’s collection of residences - which range in size from two-bed units to multi-bedroom configurations—rank among the most spectacular in Thailand.

Expansive suites, sea-facing verandahs, and extensive swimming pools are prominent in the residences’ blend of indoor and outdoor spaces that lend themselves to intimate gatherings.

Each residential villa is cared for by a dedicated maid and chef who prepare home-cooked Thai and Western dishes on demand and by request.

Its signature two-bedroom villas, for example, offer exclusive access to an 18-metre infinity pool.

The largest of the residences is Villa Sawan, an eight-bedroom “resort within a resort”. Home to ocean-facing views, lush gardens, and use of a cove with a private beach at the foot of the property, Villa Sawan is the ultimate exclusive escape. Take a dip in the Andaman Sea or unwind by swimming laps in the 25-metre swimming pool. Staff are available and on-call throughout the stay. The villa also features a home cinema, a well-equipped gym, and spa facilities.

With privacy guaranteed, the residences are also perfect for special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, marriage proposals or celebrations with extended family or with groups of friends.

"Working at Trisara is more than just a change of scenery; it's an invitation to be inspired,” added Pattamasaevi. “For remote workers, productivity flourishes as effortlessly as the palm trees sway in the tropical breeze. Meanwhile, our residences allow larger groups to connect in unique residences with harmony with nature, allowing for a sense of reconnection, privacy, and the ultimate in luxury relaxation.”

Minor Hotels Marks Sustainability Milestone as 20th Property Earns Green Growth 2050 Platinum Certification

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort is the 20th Minor-operated
property to earn Green Growth 2050 Platinum Certification.
Minor Hotels has achieved a new milestone in its vision for sustainable hospitality, with 20 of its properties earning the prestigious Green Growth 2050 Platinum Certification.

The achievement underscores Minor’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility across its global operations, which span 56 countries.

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort in Thailand became the 20th property operated by Minor to achieve the Platinum certification, scoring 90% or more across a rigorous assessment of environmental, social, and cultural measures set by the Green Growth 2050 Global Standard.

It joins 19 other Anantara, Avani and NH Collection properties operated by Minor to earn the top-tier certification, including several others in Thailand, as well as Maldives and UAE.

With an extensive evaluation encompassing over 450 sustainability indicators, Green Growth 2050 represents one of the travel industry’s most thorough frameworks for measuring sustainability. Minor Hotels has set Gold certification or above as a minimum requirement for all Anantara and Avani hotels.

John Roberts, Group Director of Sustainability & Conservation for Minor Hotels, said: "This milestone is more than just a number; it's a symbol of the journey we've embarked on towards sustainability and the positive impact we're striving to make on the planet and its people. Achieving our 20th Green Growth 2050 Platinum Certification showcases our commitment to not only meet but exceed the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility. We are proud of this achievement and remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable tourism."

Developed in alignment with international benchmarks — encompassing the key statutes of the UN Global Compact, UNEP Green Economy Principles, UN Declaration of Human Rights, ILO Labour Standards, and UNWTO Ethics in Tourism — the Green Growth 2050 Platinum certification reflects the comprehensive approach taken by Minor Hotels to ensure its properties foster positive impacts on their surroundings and communities.

Anantara Chiang Mai Leads Way in Responsible Tourism

Anantara Chiang Mai Resort achieved the top-tier certification after excelling in areas ranging from sustainable design and construction to operations and resource conservation. The resort’s innovative tropical architectural design by Kerry Hill maximises natural ventilation and shade, significantly reducing energy consumption.

Efforts towards the elimination of single-use plastics, the implementation of a comprehensive waste management system, and the recycling of greywater for irrigation further exemplify the property’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Another key area Green Growth 2050 measures is social and community impact. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort has made notable contributions to social and community development by creating local employment opportunities, as well as by supporting Chiang Mai’s artisans and farmers.

Pitak Norathepkitti, General Manager of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, commented: “Minor Hotels places the utmost importance on working in harmony in the communities we operate in. At Anantara Chiang Mai Resort, we are dedicated to our presence being a positive, and to preserving all that is uniquely charming about this destination for future generations.

“We constantly implement the latest energy-saving technologies as they arise, and partner with local suppliers to minimise our carbon footprint. With this Green Growth 2050 Platinum recognition, our guests can now take comfort in the fact that they are engaging in the highest level of responsible tourism when they stay with us.”

Minor Hotels has also committed to becoming a net-zero organisation by 2050 and set intermediate goals of reducing energy and water intensities and carbon dioxide emissions.

Saturday, 23 March 2024

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Launches Afternoon Tea for International Women’s Month

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the iconic luxury heritage hotel on the doorstep of ancient Khmer archeological sites, has introduced an exclusive new ‘Khmer Afternoon Tea’ to celebrate the female artisans of Angkor.

The tea service, served throughout March for International Women’s Month, features traditional delicacies and local favourites in classic combinations of sweet and savoury, and pays homage to Cambodia’s rich culinary heritage and the contributions of female artisans in Siem Reap.

The Khmer Afternoon Tea is being offered in partnership with MANAVA, a local social enterprise that produces beautiful accessories and homeware made from locally harvested rattan. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the Khmer Afternoon Tea will be donated to families living in Krobey Riel Village in Siem Reap.

The menu includes bites categorized as ‘Street Stalls’, such as local baguette with chicken, pork terrine and pickled vegetables; coconut and spring onion rice pancakes with coconut sauce; and fresh vegetable spring rolls with lime and chili dressing. ‘Sweets’ include taro and sago coconut pudding; palm sugar and coconut dumplings; and yellow bean cake. ‘Ancient Traditions’ include glutinous roasted rice cake and slow-cooked local banana with palm sugar caramel. And ‘Local Produce’ features seasonal Siem Reap fresh fruit and a fresh juice of the day.

The bite-sized treats are served alongside a selection of premium-quality teas and coffees.

For more information on Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, or to make a booking, please call +855 23 982 598 or visit www.raffles.com/siem-reap/.

SPA InterContinental Introduces Exclusive Spa Package Promises an Unforgettable Journey of Transformation and Relaxation

SPA InterContinental, a haven for rejuvenation and wellness at InterContinental Bangkok, is thrilled to introduce the Sincere Summertime Wish Spa Package, an extraordinary offering designed to transport guests into a realm of unparalleled indulgence and serenity.

Embark on a 150-minute transformative journey that pampers the senses and restores balance to the mind, body, and spirit. The Sincere Summertime Wish Spa Package is carefully curated to provide an experience like no other, combining luxurious treatments to create a holistic and rejuvenating escape.

The journey begins with a 30-minute White Tea Clay Scrub, specifically crafted for normal-to-mature skin types. This gentle yet invigorating scrub exfoliates, absorbs excess oil, and clears impurities, unveiling fresh, radiant skin that prepares you for the ultimate relaxation ahead.

Continue the odyssey of tranquility with a 75-minute Body Oil Massage. Let the skilled therapists at SPA InterContinental melt away muscle tension and promote profound relaxation, leaving you with a renewed sense of well-being.

Cap off this extraordinary experience with the timeless allure of the 45-minute Gua Sha Facial. Immerse yourself in the ancient Chinese technique known for its ability to boost circulation, illuminate the skin, and refine pores, leaving you with a luminous, youthful glow that echoes the radiance of summertime.

The Sincere Summertime Wish Spa Package is priced at THB 6,500 net and is available daily at SPA InterContinental from 1st April to 30th June, 2024, between 09.00 and 23.00 hours. This exclusive offering is a limited-time opportunity to embrace the essence of summer and elevate your well-being.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact InterContinental Bangkok at SPA.bkkhb@ihg.com or by calling +66 (0) 2 656 0444 or visit intercontinental.com/bangkok.

Friday, 22 March 2024

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

VGC Clubs Step Up to the Plate For Major Tournaments

Laguna Lang Co, one of Asia’s most expansive integrated resorts,
has proved its credentials as a stage for big events as
the home hub for the Faldo Series Asia Grand Final
  • World Lefthanded Championship and Faldo Series Final prove Central Vietnam’s event credentials

Central Vietnam’s pedigree as a stage for major golf occasions will once again be showcased next month as it plays host to two top-level events.

First up in April is the 2024 World Lefthanded Golf Championship, which unfolds over three of the region’s signature golf clubs between 7 and 13 April.

Focus will then turn to Asia’s bright young talent later in the month when Laguna Golf Lang Co, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, stages the 15th Faldo Series Asia Grand Final.

“Central Vietnam is proving that it has all the ingredients to be considered as a top destination for tournaments in Asia,” said Gary Dixon, general manager at Ba Na Hills Golf Club, one of the driving forces in the Vietnam Golf Coast, a destination marketing effort linking the region’s signature clubs.

“Many destinations around the world were in the running to host the 2024 World Lefthanded Golf Championship. But Central Vietnam won out due to its selection of top-class golf clubs as well as its diverse culture, luxury lodging and great range of off-course activities for golfers and their families.”

In recent years Central Vietnam has emerged as a hub for golf in Southeast Asia thanks to layouts designed by luminaries including European legends Faldo, Luke Donald (Ba Na Hills Golf Club), and Colin Montgomerie (Montgomerie Links), as well as other huge names like Greg Norman and Robert Trent Jones Jr.

And the destination will be firmly in the spotlight during April as it proves its credentials as a big-time player when it comes to hosting top-level events.

The World Lefthanded Golf Championship has made some familiar pitstops since its debut outing in 1979, when it was played in Sydney, Australia. Over the years it has been staged at prestigious clubs including PGA National in Florida and Scotscraig and Monifieth in Scotland, both British Open qualifying courses.

And Central Vietnam will be the latest illustrious stage for the tournament in April when 250 participants from nations around the globe will battle it out over three of the region’s signature clubs—one being Ba Na Hills Golf Club—as they bid for the crown.

The event will be swiftly followed by the equally eagerly anticipated Faldo Series Asia Grand Final, which takes place at the end of April.

The final, the culmination of the Asia leg of the world’s most celebrated junior circuits, promises to be a spectacular celebration of emerging regional golf talent. It will see the best young golfers from around the region battle it out over the award-winning Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design at Laguna Golf Lang Co for the crown of Faldo Series Asia champion.

“I could not be more excited to be returning to Central Vietnam for another Faldo Series Asia Grand Final”, said Faldo, who attends Faldo Series Grand Final events and will jet into Vietnam in April. “I expect nothing short of a thrilling showdown. The course always produces a spectacular showcase, and I'm excited to welcome back all the players for what I expect to be a truly memorable occasion.”

The forthcoming big events once again highlight Central Vietnam’s incredible potential as a golf destination: a fact reflected not just by its championship clubs, but also by its enviable infrastructure.

“It’s a significant boost for the region to be able to attract events of this calibre,” stated Le Vo Hoang Van, the club manager at Montgomerie Links, where Colin Montgomerie has integrated traditional design features into an enticing course layout. "Nowhere else in Asia offers golfers such a remarkable cluster of world-class championship courses conveniently situated near an international airport.”

Thursday, 21 March 2024

Zadro Agency wins global competitive pitch, securing IAPCO advocacy project

Felicity Zadro, Founder and Managing Director, Zadro
Zadro Agency, a leading integrated branding and communications agency has won a global competitive pitch and been selected by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) to lead its advocacy campaign.

IAPCO provides the only international accreditation for professional conference organisers and has members in 45 countries.

This win underscores Zadro's position as a leader in the association and business events industries and their commitment to delivering unparalleled results for clients on local and international stages.

Felicity Zadro, Founder and Managing Director, Zadro Agency, attended the 54th IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Ljubljana, Slovenia at the beginning of the month, marking the first step in this exciting new partnership for Zadro Agency.

"We are thrilled to have been chosen as the communications partner for IAPCO’s advocacy strategy. To kick off the partnership at IAPCO’s Annual Meeting was a great way to be immersed in the community and hear first-hand from members and partners about the difference IAPCO accredited PCOs make to clients,” said Zadro.

Martin Boyle, CEO, IAPCO, reflected on the appointment of Zadro Agency following the competitive pitch.

“Our tender process was robust, and the final selection involved multiple parties. We needed to ensure we made the right decision and aligned with a partner that would not only be able to deliver the results we require, but also had an excellent reputation in the industry.

“We were delighted to appoint Zadro and look forward to working with their team to delivery our advocacy strategy to ensure that we achieve our ambitious goals in the years ahead,” said Martin.

Founded in 2007, Zadro Agency has built a reputation for delivering strategic, creative, and results-driven brand solutions across a diverse range of industries. From strategy and marketing to public relations and design, the agency's integrated approach has consistently yielded impressive outcomes for its clients.

Thailand to host A1-level Korat Expo 2029

The 2029 International Horticultural Expo or “Korat Expo 2029” will be held from 10 November 2029 to 28 February 2030, and prior to that, the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 will be held from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027.

The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has approved the rights for Thailand, a registered candidate, to host the 2029 International Horticultural Expo or “Korat Expo 2029,” which will be held from 10 November 2029 to 28 February 2030 in Nakhon Ratchasima.

Following the approval of AIPH, Thailand is required to make the submission to Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) for the consideration and complete approval in becoming a Certified License Host of the A1 Level Exposition.

This A1-level Korat Expo 2029 is expected to attract 2.6-4 million visitors.

The proposed theme for Korat Expo 2029, “Nature and Greenery: Envisioning the Green Future,” is set to spotlight Thailand’s natural marvels, cultural diversity, and expertise in sustainable horticultural and agricultural technologies.

The announcement of the approved rights for Nakhon Ratchasima as a host destination was made during the Spring Meeting 2024 of AIPH in Doha, Qatar on 6 March 2024.

The Thai team attending the meeting to make a final round of the country presentation was represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Nakhon Ratchasima province and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Previously, at the AIPH Spring Meeting 2022 hosted at Expo 2020 Dubai in UAE, the AIPH also approved category B International Horticultural Expo for Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026, to be held from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027. It will be held at Nong Dae Wetland, Kut Sa Sub-district, Mueang District, Udon Thani, under the theme “Diversity of Life Connecting People, Water and Plants for Sustainable Living”. The event is expected to attract 3.6 million visitors.

In 2006, Thailand hosted horticultural expo in Chiang Mai, the first global exposition in the country’s northern region, and was awarded gold medal for outstanding achievement.

Wednesday, 20 March 2024

Tourism Authority of Thailand announces inaugural collaboration with Tourism Cares

The "Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel FAM with Thailand" brought 14 representatives from various tourism industry sectors to discover meaningful experiences such as engaging with local Thai business operators and communities in Bangkok and Krabi, from 6-14 March 2024.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is excited to announce its inaugural partnership with Tourism Cares, a US-based non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing sustainability within the travel and tourism industry. This collaboration stems from a strong belief in the travel sector’s ability to create positive social, environmental, and economic impacts.

Focused on advancing Thailand’s tourism sustainability, TAT has implemented various initiatives to realise its Sustainable Tourism Goals (STG). Examples include standardisation programmes such as STARS, CF Hotels, Green Leaves, and Thailand Tourism Awards (TTA), aimed at motivating Thai suppliers to incorporate sustainable practices.

Within the US Market, TAT has partnered with Tourism Cares, an organisation that has been a catalyst for positive change for more than two decades. They bring together global stakeholders in the tourism industry to contribute to the well-being of local communities through various initiatives, including programming, education, and resources.

Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, said “TAT is delighted to collaborate with Tourism Cares, as we share the common vision that travel can offer meaningful experiences for travellers and the people and communities they visit. By becoming a destination partner of Tourism Cares, we believe that Thai tourism businesses will gain valuable insights into the preferences of US travellers when it comes to sustainable trips. This partnership will enable us to enhance our offerings and better meet the needs of these conscious travellers.”

In 2023, Thailand welcomed approximately 930,000 US travellers, an increase of 112% (post covid) from the previous year. US travellers seek a unique experience that profoundly connects with local communities.

In 2024, TAT anticipates that the country will accrue a combined tourism revenue ranging from approximately 1.54 to 1.92 billion Baht from the international market and 0.86 to 1.08 billion Baht from the domestic market as part of the base case scenario.

To help the travel trade and sustainably minded travellers quickly source a list of vetted, sustainable organisations making positive social and environmental impacts in destinations, TAT has collaborated on the Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map of Thailand by adding 15 Impact Partners, with more to come. The Map can be viewed at https://www.tourismcares.org/thailand.

Mr. John Sutherland, Senior Director of Community Impact at Tourism Cares, expressed enthusiasm about the organisation’s venture into Southeast Asia, marking this as a significant collaboration with Thailand. He recognised Thailand’s prominent position in the region’s sustainability efforts and highlighted the potential observed during the recent Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel FAM with Thailand.

“Throughout the past week, we actively interacted with local authorities, individuals, and communities, fostering meaningful exchanges of ideas to ensure that travel is used as a force for good. The partnership between Tourism Cares and TAT is poised to introduce sustainable Thai products and services to the U.S. markets to help positively impact Thailand’s people and places.”

From 6-14 March 2024, TAT and Tourism Cares organised the “Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel FAM with Thailand.” Together, they brought 14 representatives from various tourism industry sectors to Thailand, offering them meaningful experiences such as engaging with local Thai business operators and communities in Bangkok and Krabi.

TAT Deputy Governor, Mr. Cheawsamoot emphasised that “by placing sustainability at the heart of our strategies, a sustainable trip as this would not be possible without a means of sustainable transportation.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Delta Air Lines and Korean Air for a second consecutive year after the Feel Thailand with Delta Air Lines campaign launch in 2022. The accessibility for US travellers to Thailand through the initiative made travel seamless and lessened the stress often accompanying an international journey. This year, we are advancing our efforts to ensure that this accessibility evolves into a more responsible mode of travel for every customer’s journey.”

Mr. Andrew Kim, Director of Sales for Korea and Southeast Asia at Delta Air Lines, expressed “We view sustainability not as an option but as a way of life. Individuals do not need to trade luxury for sustainability, as we smoothly integrate both. We are enthusiastic about extending our partnership with Thailand and take great pride in having Thailand as an integral part of our Delta Sustainability Program.”

Following the announcement of the collaboration between TAT and Tourism Cares, an educational session was held at the Peninsula Bangkok Hotel for a Thai audience of business operators in the tourism sector. The agenda featured a presentation by Tourism Cares and a panel discussion on “Crafting a Sustainable Thailand Trip Tailored to the US Travel Market,” led by key figures from the public and private sectors of the tourism industry. The session concluded with a networking opportunity for FAM participants and Thai suppliers.

New vegan menu launched for corporate events at The Calyx

Moroccan lentil vegetable pie
The Calyx, situated within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and renowned for its breathtaking botanical displays and commitment to environmental stewardship, proudly announces the launch of its new vegan, plant-based menu.

This culinary initiative not only underscores The Calyx's dedication to sustainability but represents a significant milestone in the evolution of event catering towards zero-waste and plant-based practices.

The new dishes include:
  • Roasted eggplant & tahini pannacotta, rye pumpernickel, toasted macadamia (vn)
  • Moroccan lentil vegetable pie
  • Tofu steaks, tahini sauce, quinoa, seasonal vegetables
  • Triple chocolate brownie, cacao, walnuts, dates, coconut, raspberry gel, chocolate sorbet

Astrid Renigeris, Sales Manager at The Calyx has seen a surge of interest for vegetarian and plant-based menus recently at events.

“The Calyx is at the forefront of this movement, setting a new standard for eco-conscious gatherings. The new menu, crafted in collaboration with our esteemed on-site caterer Laissez-faire Catering, embodies the principles of zero-impact and plant-based dining, aligning seamlessly with the Botanic Gardens of Sydney's ethos of environmental responsibility.”

“We believe that every event should be a celebration of sustainability and innovation," says Renigeris. "Our new plant-based menu not only satisfies the palate but also reflects our commitment to supporting wholesome options for our guests as well as a healthier planet."

From a food and beverage perspective, The Calyx's menu promises an interactive culinary experience, featuring fresh, seasonal, and brightly coloured plant-based dishes.

Drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings of the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, the menu highlights locally sourced ingredients – including vegetables harvested from family-owned farm, Pitt Town Bottoms in the Hawkesbury - and emphasises the importance of knowing where our food comes from.

Other locally sourced ingredients include activated charcoal and quinoa gluten-free bread from Botany-based, Nonie’s Bread.

Sara Flaksbard, General Manager of Laissez-faire Catering added: "The launch of our plant-based menu is a testament to our dedication to not only providing exceptional dining experiences but also to educating guests about healthy living and the importance of sustainability.”

Situated amidst the lush greenery of the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, The Calyx serves as the perfect backdrop for this sustainable food experience. With its green oasis and commitment to horticultural excellence, The Calyx offers an unparalleled setting for events that celebrate nature and community.

For more information about The Calyx, visit the website here.