Food is one of our basic needs, but cooking is also an art, and fine dining at fantastic restaurants is one of the most luxurious experiences you can have. However, not all restaurants are made equal, and there are absolutely restaurants you should avoid like the plague and others you should make a beeline for. It takes time and experience to build the instincts that can spot a restaurant’s quality, but nobody wants to waste their money and time on a meal that is not worth it, so here are a couple of tips to help you find the perfect restaurant. Use the Internet In the modern and digital age, we have almost unlimited information available right at our fingertips, so we really have no excuse to walk in blindly anywhere. Use social media, Google, Instagram, or any other tool to find a restaurant that appeals to your tastes and style. If you take a look at https://www.koreandinnerparty.com/, you’ll see what they have to offer, their opening and closing times, what the menu looks like, etc. Also, do not forget to check out reviews to see what other people have to say about their past experiences with the restaurant, so you do not just fall for good marketing. First Impressions Matter Yes, you should not judge a book by its cover, but it can certainly give you an idea of what you can expect inside the book, and first impressions do matter. If the restaurant is not well maintained, the exterior looks unkempt, the interior looks grimy, and the tables are greasy, you probably will not be witnessing any MasterChef levels of cooking. But if the tables shine, the cutlery is pristine, the waiters are attentive and professional, and the exterior is carefully maintained, the chances of you having an incredible time will naturally be a lot higher. Size of the Menu If the menu is like 20 pages long and has a dozen variations and varieties for every continent on the planet, it is a dead giveaway of a restaurant you should stay clear of. No self-respecting and high-class kitchen in the world can churn out such a huge quantity of dishes without making heavy compromises on the quality and attention they pay to each dish. Go for one that is focused; you are much more likely to get succulent Italian cuisine at a restaurant that specializes in Italian cuisine than at an Arab restaurant, it’s logical. Book Early This is more of a tip for yourself, but the early bird catches the worm, and the early booker gets the best seats and timings. Once you have settled on a restaurant, do not wait days or weeks to book your table, and contact them promptly instead, ensuring you catch the timeslot you want and the tables you prefer, especially if it is a bigger occasion like a family dinner party.  Nobody wants to have an evening they regret, and especially in situations where you need everyone to have a great time, like a dinner party, it is imperative you choose the restaurant carefully.

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Laguna Lang Co’s vivid constellation of dining stars has just been enhanced by an upgrading of the Korean cuisine at the resort. A skilled chef with a strong track record of creating authentic Korean food has been appointed to impart expertise. This input is sure to be appreciated by Korean golfers seeking an authentic taste of home, with numbers surging at the integrated project’s championship layout, a Sir Nick Faldo Signature Design. The integrated project in Central Vietnam encompasses a wealth of alluring flavours across its two award-winning resorts — Banyan Tree Lang Co, and Angsana Lang Co — as well as its acclaimed golf course where another enticing accommodation option, Laguna Parkside Residences, is just steps from the 18th hole. Cuisines on offer include Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Mediterranean, Italian, and many more. Now, with the heightened focus on Korea, golfers and other guests can sample delicious cuisine as presented by a chef with experience of working at top Korean restaurants around the globe. “The new chef is bringing another dimension to the dining options for golfers and other guests,” said Stephen Banks, Director of Golf at Laguna Golf Lang Co. “Korea is a huge market for us. Indeed, it has become the leading source market for Vietnam as a whole. We realized that we had to up our culinary game to keep our Korean guests happy. And the fact that guests of every nationality can now enjoy truly delicious Korean food means that it is a win-win situation for everyone.” The upgraded Korean cuisine is far from the only culinary initiative keeping golf guests well fed and happy at Laguna Golf Lang Co. The recent introduction of an “on-course” menu means that golfers can order from a range of gourmet snacks and light meals that can be delivered to them during play. Options range from filled banh mi (Vietnamese baguette) to Korean stir fried beef belly and bibimbap (a classic Korean mixed rice dish). “Whether you are out on the course or relaxing in our clubhouse Golf Café, you are not going to go hungry!” added Banks. The recent developments on the culinary front are enhancing Laguna Lang Co’s already strong reputation as a world-class dining destination. There are a total of ten dining and lounge outlets across the integrated property. These include the beachfront Azura, where Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood can be savoured to the soundtrack of gently lapping waves; The Water Court, a place to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine; and Saffron, Banyan Tree’s signature Thai restaurant which, at Lang Co, is perched on a hilltop with stunning sea views. Guests can also enjoy a range of customised culinary experiences, encompassing everything from romantic in-villa dining to candlelit meals on the pristine 3-kilometre-long beach alongside Laguna Lang Co.

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Convergence - The Folding of Korean Bojagi Wrapping - Seoul Fort Hill 2F, Fort Hill, 122-1, Dokseodang-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul - South Korea 24 February—16 April 2022 Do we find the spaces an extension of landscape or are these spaces stages of performance that have no engagement with perspectival space? I like to think neither can be denied, only simultaneously considered.  — Jason Martin, 2022 Jason Martin’s new series of works on aluminium mark his return to oil painting with brushes, a method the artist has not used for the past decade. A new phase in his ongoing exploration of painterly possibilities, these recent works are based on repeating inward movements with the brush that converge at a central point. He likens this to a ‘merging of place and time’ or a ‘threshold encounter’, as well as drawing parallels with the Korean tradition of bojagi wrapping. Continuously experimenting with new materials and methods, Jason Martin often develops his own tools, such as the combs used to shape dense striations of pigment in previous works. Created using traditional brushes, his most recent paintings exhibit a lightness of touch and delicacy of tone that set them apart from the thick impasto and highly saturated colours of earlier series. The aluminium pictorial grounds capture and reflect light, lending the paintings their radiant luminosity. The artist creates his own natural pigments and experiments with different combinations of colours, as in Untitled (Caribbean blue / Viridian) or Untitled (Titanium white / Fluorescent orange). The prevalence of white-based tones in these works contributes to their subtlety and clarity of colour, which is further emphasised by the soft feathering of the brushstrokes. Each work is structured by Jason Martin’s controlled, repeated brushstrokes that fold in towards a focal point at the heart of the painting. He describes this meditative act of convergence as bringing ‘outer movements into a suggested singularity’. In Renaissance art, the introduction of linear perspective resulted in compositions where all lines converge at a central vanishing point, creating the illusion of depth in figurative scenes. Jason Martin’s monochrome abstractions are informed by the traditions of figuration, a ‘paradox’ that he considers his ‘place of departure’. As he explains, ‘There is always a tension that I am challenged to identify in each work’, as ‘the spaces are neither imaginary nor depicted’. The square format of Jason Martin’s aluminium grounds, as well as the inward motion of his brushwork, recalls the folding of cloth typical of bojagi. In this traditional Korean textile technique, square pieces of cloth are skilfully constructed from fabric scraps and used as wrappings for gifts, special occasions or rituals. As the artist recalls, his interest in bojagi dates back to his residency in Japan: ‘At least 25 years have passed since I was entrusted with the safekeeping of a Japanese tea master’s kimono. Yamada Sohen from Kamakura left me this bojagi-wrapped kimono in London, but he has not yet retrieved this formal garment and I have never opened it to see what is inside, as I could never repeat the tied bow. There is a mystery to this that I do not want to risk losing if I were to upset this very precise and dignified shelter for a historical garment.’ Structured by complex relationships between the framing edges, colour combinations and brushed lines, these works become a reflection on the act of painting itself. Every detail of the surface texture draws attention to the physicality of the implied gestures that have defined them. The sinuous curves of the artist’s sweeping brushstrokes suggest a sense of flowing, continuous movement that animates the pictorial surface, leading the eye in towards the centre where all lines converge. In this way, Jason Martin’s paintings become an imaginary space, a mental landscape, an abstracted and mesmeric focal point for contemplation. About the artist In Jason Martin’s early works, while still a student at Goldsmiths in the 1990s, he manipulated striations of oil paint or acrylic gel on metal or Plexiglas grounds using a comb-like tool he created – a technique that he has refined throughout his career. This is used to create energetic ridges and furrows of pigment that can be read as extreme close-ups of a painterly brushstroke, drawing attention to the action and materiality of painting itself. His works are structurally varied, ranging from a thin glaze through which the metal ground gleams to sculptural reliefs with overlapping ridges and furrows. Born in Jersey in the Channel Islands in 1970, Jason Martin lives and works between London and Portugal. He first came to prominence through his inclusion in the legendary 1997 exhibition Sensation: Young British Artists from the Saatchi Collection at the Royal Academy of Arts, London, which established the Young British Artists (YBAs). In 2004, his work was included in the Monochrome exhibition at the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid, followed by major solo exhibitions at the CAC Málaga and Mönchehaus Museum, Goslar, Germany (2008); Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice (2009); and Museum gegenstandsfreier Kunst, Otterndorf, Germany (2016). A retrospective of his work from the past two decades was on view at SCHAUWERK Sindelfingen in 2017.

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Thaddaeus Ropac Seoul will open on 6 October 2021 with an exhibition of new works by Georg Baselitz, whose historic connection with the city dates back to his first institutional solo exhibition in Korea at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in 2007. On view for the first time, the twelve paintings and twelve drawings were created specifically with the opening of the new gallery space in Seoul in mind. One of the most important artists of our time, Baselitz shaped a new identity for German art in the second half of the 20th century and has had a profound influence on international art since 1960. The exhibition will coincide with the opening of the artist’s largest retrospective to date, at the Centre Pompidou, Paris. Despite the wanderings of missionaries, images have remained different in the world. But in Korea and in Germany, people tell each other similar tales. The art here and there are two great monuments. Quite incomparable, but magnificent. Today, pictures are faster than airplanes, and that is very exciting. —Georg Baselitz, 2021 With a unique and distinctive artistic vocabulary, Baselitz has continually renewed his practice through formal developments. In his works, the artist revisits motifs from his own extensive oeuvre, while integrating subtle references to art history that offer a reflection on the significance of painting itself.In his new series of large-scale canvases, Baselitz devotes himself to the motif of his wife Elke, whose image has occupied a prominent position in the development of his practice for over 50 years. The new works show the multipartite figure of Elke, abstracted yet sensuous, suspended in isolation in an undefined space. Baselitz abstracts and defamiliarises his subject, yet the representation preserves the composition’s expressiveness. In order to empty the form of its content, the artist has been inverting his compositions since 1969, thereby revolutionising a medium that was regarded as conventional. Through this novel format, his works navigate between abstraction and figuration. When painting Elke, this gesture also serves to disrupt any harmony or beauty that was likely to seep into the portrayal of a figure so familiar to him. In his choice of the exhibition title Hotel garni – the French name for a low-cost category of hotel – Baselitz references the scene of Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon through a characteristically humorous chain of associations. He is playful with words while summoning the confrontational composition and unconventional femininity of one of the greatest artistic achievements of his historic forebear. Not for the first time does his choice of title invoke Picasso, who is also referenced in Baselitz’s celebrated Avignon series, shown at the 2015 Venice Biennale. As early as the 1960s, during the course of his visits to Paris, he saw the works of Pablo Picasso, as well as those by Jean Fautrier, Jean Dubuffet, Eugène Leroy and Wols – works imbued with an existentialism that has impacted his own approach. The material aesthetics of these artists have continued to influence Baselitz’s practice ever since. In his most recent works, Elke’s dominating physical presence is presented to the viewer through the transfer of colour, introducing an element of chance into his compositions. This technique evokes associations with Andy Warhol’s series of Rorschach paintings and Blotted Line Drawings, while subtly alluding to German Expressionism, French Art Informel and the freedom of American abstract painting. In recent works that feature Elke, Baselitz introduces existentialist connotations, while engaging in the struggle of representation, the inescapability of subjectivity, and the representation of the self through a significant other. The artist comments: I have always struggled with the fact that something hinders me in my paintings. What has always hindered me – and that has now improved significantly – is the so-called ‘existential’. The fact that there is something within me that occupies me and that I cannot eliminate from the pictures. I’ve been trying to get out of this for a long time. 60 years now. And for the last 20 years, I must say, I’ve been quite successful. Eventually, it all worked out.

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If you are in Krabi, Thailand, and you have never tasted real Korean food, now you have a chance. It was Nina, Social Media Manager at Fantasia Asia who brought me to this restaurant/coffee shop right in the centre of Krabi Town. Seoul Sweet is inspired by Korean food and lifestyle. Its name is a bit of a misnomer since it is not a bakery, as the name may suggest.  Seoul Sweet sports a minimalistic decor that is quite appealing to the young public, who more and more is on the lookout for new food places. Their menu has classic Korean dishes like Tteokbokki (popular stir-fried rice cakes made from small-sized long, white, cylinder-shaped rice cakes), Gimmari (deep-fried Korean seaweed rolls, Korean street food that goes exceptionally well with spicy Tteokbokki), Kimbap (the most popular on-the-go meal in South Korea, seaweed rice roll filled with a variety of delicious fillings), fried rice with ever-popular Kimchi (a collective term for vegetable dishes that have been salted, seasoned, and fermented) and more. Let me tell you that the food is good and tasty. The portion sizes were big and very well priced, tasty and very light on the pocket. Their selection of drinks is quite good, with a number of signature shakes and smoothies that will impress you, and their sweets, especially the browny, are delicious.   The place is trendy and they run events and giveaways for lovers of everything South Korea, like complimentary stickers of NCT (acronym for ‘Neo Culture Technology’, a new boy group concept in South Korea). Gentle loudspeakers continuously broadcast Korean hits. Also to note that loudspeakers broadcast… Korean songs! Seoul Sweet concept is interesting, their menu is simple and dishes are easy to order. Food comes out quickly. Highly recommended! Maharaj Soi 10, Krabi Town, Krabi 81000 FB: https://www.facebook.com/seoulsweet.kbv/  They deliver take-aways via Food Panda Opening times 11:00 to 19:00

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Occupying the first and most prominent position on the Chinese Zodiac, the Year of the Rat is set to be one filled with good luck, wisdom and prosperity. In the spirit of joyful reunions and meaningful connections, WorldHotels – with a global offering of 300 luxury and upper-upscale hostels and resorts – has curated a list of WorldHotels award-winning restaurants for an unforgettable reunion dinner. With auspicious delicacies to ring in the new decade, the Lunar New Year menus will satisfy even the toughest food connoisseurs. Indulge in delectable dimsum at Wah Lok at Carlton Hotel Singapore With a smorgasbord of dim sum offerings and classic Cantonese dishes, celebratory meals at Wah Lok feature exquisitely crafted creations favoured by adults and children alike. Established in 1988, Wah Lok is a top dining institution in the foodie city, with loyal local fans and a plethora of awards. Sitting in the stunning Carlton Hotel Singapore, travellers can satisfy their local cravings with classic favourites such as the Baked Barbecue Pork Buns and Steamed Crab Meat & Egg White Dumplings. For groups of families and friends seeking an authentic reunion dinner experience, Wah Lok will also be offering a delectable CNY menu from 13 January to 8 February 2020. With an exquisite line-up of Oriental masterpieces, ring in the New Year with their signature Alaskan Crab Lo Hei and the traditional three-layer Longevity Poon Choi. Seek out authentic Cantonese delicacies at Jade River in White Swan Hotel, Guangzhou, China A landmark in Guangzhou for authentic Cantonese cuisine, the one Michelin-starred Jade River restaurant in White Swan Hotel is an all-time favourite among local gourmands and travelling patrons. An oasis of tranquillity amid the hustle and bustle of the city, White Swan Hotel offers a luxurious Lunar New Year experience. With delicately hand-crafted dimsum creations and signature Cantonese dishes, indulge in the restaurant’s Spring Festival dishes such as Roasted Suckling Pig, Sunflower Seed-fed Chicken, and Steamed Garoupa. The Spring Festival menu is available from 25 January to 8 February 2020. Taste award-winning dishes at The Emperor at Dorsett Grand Subang, Malaysia Named the Best Restaurant in Subang Jaya, The Emperor in Dorsett Grand Subang impresses with its spread of scrumptious Cantonese delights featuring contemporary twists. At the helm of the restaurant is Executive Chef Bryan Teh, who clinched the Gold with Distinction Award at Salon International De L’alimentation (SIAL) Shanghai 2019 for his epicurean creations. Chinese New Year specialty dishes such as Crispy Salmon Skin Yee San and Roasted Duck with Glutinous Rice can be enjoyed at The Emperor from 15 December 2019 to 8 February 2020. Savour mouth-watering steaks at A Cut Steakhouse in Ambassador Hotel Taipei, Taiwan For an alternative Lunar New Year celebration, A Cut Steakhouse offers the finest quality steaks, style and service for those seeking a quiet reunion with loved ones. A proud receiver of the Michelin Plate in 2018, A Cut Steakhouse in the Ambassador Hotel Taipei sources its A-grade cuts of meat from the United States and Australia while boasting a superb wine list. Be sure to also try the highly raved Tie Guan Yin Souffle to end off the perfect meal.  Reimagine French classics at Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul in Lotte Hotel Seoul, South Korea To start the Lunar New Year on a high, locals and travellers can indulge in a spectacular dining experience at Lotte Hotel Seoul. Sitting on the 35th floor, the eponymous Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant by internationally acclaimed Chef Pierre Gagnaire offers diners a fantastic view of the shimmering city and Bukhansan Mountain. Exuding French luxury, Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul is a refreshing change from the classic ten-course menus at Lunar New Year reunions. Serving artfully presented food made with 80% local ingredients, diners can look forward to the chef’s signature southern French cuisine and an impressive collection of over 250 wine labels. About WorldHotels Collection Newly relaunched, the WorldHotels™ Collection delivers proven soft brand solutions for a curated global offering of over 300 of the finest independent hotels and resorts. Founded by hoteliers dedicated to the art of hospitality, only WorldHotels curates the best independent properties around the globe, each reflective of the locale by offering intuitive service, and a refined sense of character.  WorldHotels’ proprietary ‘Start With Why’ philosophy helps each hotel identify their unique set of assets that distinguish and elevate their guest experience and revenue generation performance from the competition. Geared to both business and leisure travellers, the WorldHotels Collection is classified into three tiers allowing guests to select the offering that meets their needs: WorldHotels Luxury, WorldHotels Elite and WorldHotels Distinctive. For reservations or information on these WorldHotels award-winning restaurants, visit WorldHotels.com.

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As thrilling as ice fishing is, not everyone can easily get around to it. This is especially true when it comes to finding places worthy of going for it. Asia has a few locations where ice fishing can be practised.  No matter your expertise and knowledge, going ice fishing takes patience and dedication. Of course, knowing a few basics will certainly help you get your long-awaited reward sooner than expected which is what you should strive for in cold, long weather. Whether you are ice fishing for Bass, Northern Pike, Perch or Crappie, or any other type of fish for that matter, you must gather up some expert and useful ice fishing tips. Finding and reading about general techniques will help you make this hobby into a favourable and exciting sport, so read on… Ice fishing 101 First things first, ice fishing significantly differs from warm-water fishing. You need to safely approach your desirable location, in some cases, you might need to use a sled or four-wheel drive vehicle and good shoes. Upon arrival, pick the best spot to cut a hole through the ice. You can use ice auger that will drill the hole much faster and effectively. Many experienced fishermen set up a heating cabin next to their spot, other simple like to sit out on the open and wait patiently for their pray. For fishing itself, using a fish finder or depth sounder to search the hole for any fish activity is a smart thing to do, in that way you would know whether to stay on that spot or move on to the other. Use a small rod designated for ice fishing as well as a decent ice fishing reel, and preferably live bait. Consider using various jigs Most anglers lower their rods deeply under the ice and simply rely on the cone angle to detect fish. Since you are fishing under heavy conditions, you want to be sure whether you have detected a school of fish or came up dead, dark waters. The first useful technique is to use a quality transducer and then to try out different jigs. Tear-dropped shaped jog that hangs vertically in the water is the best one for ice fishing. If the fish had stopped biting, then you can move on to a jig that hangs horizontally. It is a known fact that fish use less energy during winter months and that they are generally less aggressive, so you can use transducers effectively and apply gentle and slow twirls of your rod. Steadiness and chumming is the key When you are striving to catch the fish in cold waters, you must be calm and steady at all times. As already mentioned, fish are not very mobile during winter so if you move your big often and jig too fast, a fish might let it go in order to preserve the energy. Therefore, one of the most useful tips is to be calm and steady in the first place. Another rather helpful tip that will undoubtedly give you some advantage over other ice anglers is chumming. This is a simple, yet nifty technique that might get lucrative results. Grind up some minnows or crush a few spikes or wax worms and drop them in a hole. Even though you are fishing in the ice water, fish can still be attracted to other fish feedings. Find the right technique As ice fishing requires steadiness and clear focus, staying in one spot for hours without any change won’t help you catch fish. Get a slip bobber to set the right depth of the line and see when the fish is giving any action. You can perform some classical ‘luring’ through your hole, and basically, use a brighter jig and look closely down your hole to lure the fish directly. Always aim to switch jigs, use different sizes of jigs and rods after there has been no activity within a few minutes. A small rod is perfect equipment for ice fishing as they are short and you can easily use it to move around the hole. You can keep your jig and rod at the same hight but changing movement, hight, and rotation from time to time will help you get the fish that are near the surface. The most popular location for ice fishing in Asia are South Korea (notably the Pyeongchang Trout Festival in the town of Jinbu-myeon), China (at the annual ice fishing festival in Jilin province) and Japan (Okkaido).  Dress appropriately, bring a comfortable chair, and always aim to get the top-notch equipment so that you can get the most out of this fantastic sport. 

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Singer-songwriters across Asia-Pacific are invited to submit their original compositions to Aloft Star Asia-Pacific from June 26 to July 31, 2018 to compete for the chance to record and digitally release their single through Universal Music Group Marriott International’s Aloft Hotels, in partnership with Universal Music Group & Brands (UMGB), the brand strategy division of Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, has launched the 2018 Asia Pacific edition of Aloft Hotels’ artist discovery competition Project: Aloft Star Asia-Pacific. Artists, bands and songwriters are invited to submit up to two original songs in video or audio format. This exciting contest shines a spotlight on the region’s incredible, undiscovered, and up-and-coming talents. The competition is open to entrants from countries in the Asia Pacific region. The countries are in five clusters spanning eleven markets: Australia, Greater China, India, South-East Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand) and South Korea. From the entries submitted, UMG will select five finalists (one from each cluster) for an all-expenses paid trip to Seoul, South Korea to battle it out in the grand finale to be held at Aloft Seoul Myeongdong on September 20, 2018. Each finalist will also receive 100,000 Rewards points redeemable for stays at participating Marriott International hotels around the world and other rewards. Starting today, unsigned musicians can enter for a chance to compete and win a grand prize that includes: Artist & Repertoire (A&R) mentoring from UMG, which includes advice on selecting a single to record, and expert guidance throughout the process A professional recording session with UMG and opportunity to release the single An accompanying music video to be produced and released by UMG This year’s Project: Aloft Star Asia-Pacific mentors include Indian singer and composer Salim Merchant, whose scores have appeared in 100 Bollywood films; award-winning Greater China singer and actress Rachel Liang; South Korean R&B performing artist SAAY; and Australian radio presenter Alex Dyson. Music fans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite artists or bands via a public vote from September 3 – 19, 2018. Three lucky voters who predict the winner and provide a reason why they picked them will stand a chance to win 50,000 Rewards points. “Aloft Hotels has always been the brand for music makers and music lovers, but now through our collaboration with UMG, we’re able to support emerging artists in a more meaningful way than ever before,” said Toni Stoeckl, Global Brand Leader, Aloft Hotels; and Vice President, Distinctive Select Brands for Marriott International. “The opportunity to record a single with one of UMG’s prestigious labels and receive dedicated mentoring from the best in the industry is very rare, and we’re so glad to be able to bring this chance to emerging talent all over the world.” Says Olivier Robert-Murphy, Global head of New Business at Universal Music Group: “UMGB is proud to partner Aloft Hotels for Project: Aloft Star Asia Pacific 2018. We love their shared ambition to discover and nurture original singer- songwriters across such a diverse and musically vibrant region. We’re thrilled to expand our global relationship with Marriott International in such a strategically important region for both companies.” Aloft Hotels has been an incubator for emerging musical talent for a decade. All Aloft Hotels around the world host regular live music evenings in their W XYZ® bars with local up-and-coming talent as part of the brand’s Live At Aloft Hotels music program. Aloft Hotels are in thriving music destinations, welcoming touring musicians with special discounted artist rates, the opportunity to use the WXYZ® bar as a performance space for free, and a musicians’ guide featuring everything from where to dine late-night after a gig, the best nearby affordable recording studio, to where to purchase guitar strings, and more to hit the right note for each stay. For more information, visit: www.projectaloftstarasia.com About Aloft Hotels  With more than 140 hotels now open in nearly 20 countries and territories around the world, Aloft Hotels, part of Marriott International, Inc., delivers a fresh approach to the traditional staid hotel landscape. For the ‘always on’ next generation of traveler, the Aloft brand offers a tech-forward

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Seoul, Korea – Marriott International today announced the opening of the 199-room Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Gangnam, the second Four Points hotel to open in the Korean capital city. Located strategically in the heart of Seoul’s upscale Gangnam district, the new Four Points Seoul, Gangnam features uncomplicated yet sophisticated spaces with modern design elements complemented by thoughtful service. “We are very happy to be opening the second Four Points by Sheraton hotel here in the exciting Gangnam district of Seoul, one of the most popular areas in South Korea for locals and visitors alike,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand and Marketing Asia Pacific, Marriott International. “The smart, independent traveler will appreciate the comfortable, relaxed ambience of the hotel and the team’s thoughtful service. Four Points Seoul, Gangnam will surely become a meeting place for locals to bond over craft beers on tap as part of the brand’s signature Best Brews™ program.” The new Four Points Seoul, Gangnam is conveniently located near major subway stations that are within walking distance to the hotel, providing easy access to top attractions throughout the city. K Star Road, which is also nearby, will provide the ultimate immersive experience for fans of K-pop culture. It is also a shopping and nightlife haven, just mere minutes away from the hotel. Gangnam Business District, Cheongdam Luxury Street, Beauty Clinic Street and Garuso-gil, popular for their upscale boutiques, galleries, restaurants and cafes, are all located near the hotel. The Four Points Seoul, Gangnam incorporates the Four Points style ethos – modern and practical, designed for the ultimate in comfort for business and leisure travelers. Each of the hotel’s 199 stylish guest rooms, including two penthouse suites, feature a 49-inch ultra HD TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, egg chair and a comfortable bed for a deep and restful sleep. Evolution, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, boasts modern interiors, a lively atmosphere and offers an à-la-carte menu as well as a full buffet prepared with freshly selected local ingredients. The private dining room is for intimate family gatherings or business dinners.  The Lounge & Bar is the perfect place to unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine, along with a selection of refreshing drinks, snacks and sweet desserts. Best Brews™, the brand’s signature beer program, invites guests to enjoy craft beers and authentic local flavors with fresh ingredients. Committed to improving productivity while on the road, Four Points Seoul, Gangnam offers everything business travelers need. The second floor has 106 square meters of meeting space which can cater to a variety of event sizes and needs. Each function room is equipped with the latest technology for a seamless experience. The hotel also features state-of-the-art fitness equipment for a great workout, as well as sauna facilities to soothe and pamper after a day’s work, sightseeing or shopping. “We are very proud to open a new Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Seoul, one of the most bustling cities in Asia,” said Jennifer Lee, General Manager, Four Points by Sheraton Seoul, Gangnam. “We strive to provide friendly, genuine service so guests can relax for a greater travel experience, whether they’re traveling for business or pleasure.” For more information, please visit http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=4224&language=en_US

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Seoul, South Korea – November 2, 2017 – Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, today marked a milestone with the grand opening of Le Méridien Seoul, the brand’s first hotel in Korea. Following a meticulous, multimillion-dollar transformation, Le Méridien Seoul debuts at the centre of the Gangnam district with a stunning contemporary art collection, distinct approach to design and bold ‘Destination Unlocked’ positioning. “Seoul continuously charms global travelers with its sophisticated style, thriving culinary culture and dynamic design,” said George Fleck, Vice President, Brand Marketing & Management, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts. “With a similar sensibility, we are delighted to debut Le Méridien in the heart of the city ahead of the 2018 Olympic Winter Games, inviting guests to savour the journey of discovering Seoul – whether visiting for business or leisure.” Le Méridien Seoul draws inspiration from both the brand – born in Paris during an era of glamorous travel – and the juxtaposition between the traditional and modern aesthetic of Korean design. Designed by award-winning architectural and interior design firm David Collins Studio, the hotel is at once grand and residential. With 336 thoughtfully-designed guestrooms and suites, the interiors layer natural materials, textiles and rich patterns. Its architecture boasts a reimagined colonnade that connects the public spaces of the hotel and anchors a bold atrium accentuated by a geometric grid pattern – connoting the iconic, mid-century French department store Le Bon Marché in Paris. From Sense of Arrival to the Signature Le Méridien Hub Large-scale local artwork created from traditional Korean Hanji paper creates a powerful sense of arrival for guests, which complements the contemporary design inspired by traditional Korean heritage throughout the public spaces. Decorative woven and knotted thread (an ancient technique known as maedeup) becomes woven metal; hammered metal tableware (Bangjja) becomes hammered metal door handles; and fine hand-stitched intricately patterned fabrics are reinterpreted for window treatments. Le Méridien Seoul has transformed the traditional lobby space into the brand’s signature Le Méridien Hub, which evolves from a bright and fresh coffee house by day, to a sophisticated cocktail bar by night.  At Latitude 37, guests can savour signature éclairs, light bites and illy coffee, expertly prepared by the hotel’s creative Master Barista, creating an experience that brings creative and curious-minded guests and locals together. Set amidst this design-forward space, guests enjoy music from French Bossa Nova band Nouvelle Vague, who curated the soundtrack for the hotel and all Le Méridien hotels across the world. Inspired Accommodations Each of the hotel’s guestrooms and suites features a sophisticated and subdued color palette, incorporating hues of green, blue and lavender to its finishes and furnishings, from the leather screens in a pojagi pattern that reference the hotel’s Korean heritage, to the textiles that give a cool and residential feel.  The open layout of each guestroom further reflects a refined ambiance through its finishes – dark eucalyptus timber, custom oak flooring, velvet upholstery, and rich fabrics, along with local artwork, books and low-level lighting. Each of the hotel’s 29 suites offers stunning views from bay window seating areas as well as a private terrace. The visual impact of the Presidential Suite is second-to-none. Designed as a duplex, the Presidential Suite features a high-level screen inspired by the work of French architect and mid-century designer Pierre Chareau, realized with eucalyptus and antique brass trims. The suite boats six rooms, including a show kitchen; living and dining spaces; and a stunning spiral staircase that leads to an upper terrace and outdoor dining area. Unlocking Art through the M Contemporary Art Centre Inviting guests and locals to unlock the destination through the lens of Le Méridien, M Contemporary Art Centre at Le Méridien Seoul is the largest cultural and artistic space amongst hotels in Korea, with a total of 1,157 square meters throughout the first floor. M Contemporary is comprised of three exhibition venues, M Lounge, and Mid-Century Bistro & Café. Adding to the immersive offerings, a LED media facade, exhibition space and a private gallery house professional collections, focusing on local culture and art that is authentic and inspiring. Guests staying at Le Méridien Seoul have complimentary access to M Contemporary to enjoy a unique cultural experience. Seoul: Cuisine, Culture and History Le Méridien Seoul offers innovative flavors and creative presentations through four culinary venues. Café Mid-Century and Chef’s Palette are all-day dining restaurants designed with Korean influences; while Elements & Lab24 – helmed by renowned Chef Edward Kwon – feature his diverse Asian cuisine and re-interpretation of Korean classics that are truly unexpected. “Le Méridien Seoul provides a creative platform for our travellers in a cosmopolitan setting that speaks to the culture seekers, art lovers and culinary enthusiasts,” said Martijn Sax, General Manager, Le Méridien Seoul. “Accentuated by unique features throughout the hotel and paired with our unrivaled service, we are confident that guests will revel in all that Seoul has to offer.” Other creative sites and an immersion into local culture are only a short distance from the hotel. Guests can explore the city’s nearby historical sites, including Seonjeongneung – UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bongeunsa Temple. Just a short walk away from main subway stations and 60 minutes by car from Incheon International Airport, Le Méridien Seoul is an ideal location for discovering Seoul’s rich culture and historic sites. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit http://www.lemeridien.com/seoul

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Le Méridien Seoul set to elevate South Korea hospitality scene with unique architecture alongside the brand’s distinct European flair. Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International today announced the signing of Le Méridien Seoul, set to be the first Le Méridien property in Korea. Owned by Cheonwon Ind. Co.,Ltd, the hotel with its distinctive European architecture intertwined with mid-century modern design is slated to open in September 2017. “We are thrilled to introduce the Le Méridien brand to South Korea,” said Mike Fulkerson, Vice President, Brand & Marketing, Marriott International Asia Pacific. “With Le Méridien’s brand promise of “unlocking a destination” for our guests through unique filters of discovery – culture, cuisine and coordinates, we look forward to offering curated experiences in this dynamic destination to the creative and curious-minded travelers.” A modern design approach has been taken by David Collins Studio, inspired by the fusion of mid-century sophistication with vibrant European charm, creating an ambiance that leads to artful discovery. This is evident with the structural concept of columns and beams that allow for large open floor spaces, further characterized by clean simplicity that is integrated with nature. Artwork can be enjoyed throughout the guest’s stay with eye-catching pieces visible at every turn. Le Méridien Seoul will feature 336 chic rooms, including 109 club rooms and 29 suites with access to the Club Lounge, offering refreshments throughout the day and exclusive spaces for socializing and working. The prestigious Presidential Suite is bound to become the most stunning in the city with a distinct mix of antique and modern furniture. The hotel is also anchored by the signature Le Méridien Hub, which reinterprets the traditional hotel lobby into a social gathering place built on the brand’s award-winning arrival experience and coffee culture. The fitness facilities and pool area will offer a tranquil respite from the hectic pace of the city, providing a space where guests can relax. Culinary finesse awaits guests at three distinct restaurants and bars, where they will soon experience the artistry of Edward Kwon, one of Korea’s top chef at Elements, a restaurant featuring Korean, Japanese, Chinese and halal specialties. A true discovery for visiting guests or locals, Chef’s Palette, an intriguing all-day-dining restaurant, will present a winter garden and outdoor terrace, while Latitude 37.3 will be a social hotspot as it transforms into a stylish cocktail bar by night. Creative meeting and event spaces at the hotel are all set to cater to exclusive social gatherings and business events featuring the latest technology and an abundance of natural light. The Da Vinci Ballroom, housed in the lower levels of the atrium hasthe capacity to accommodate up to 500 guests. For further discovery of art, guests may visit M Contemporary Art Center located on the second floor of the hotel. “We’re excited to establish a strategic partnership with Marriott International and bring the first Le Méridien to Korea,” said Yong Shin Jeon, CEO, Cheonwon Ind. Co.,Ltd. “We are proud to be developing a property with such distinct architecture and interior design, managed by a brand that will make a significant difference in the hospitality offerings in this city.” Located on Bongeunsa-ro, one of Gangnam’s major thoroughfares, Le Méridien Seoul is approximately 60 minutes by car from Incheon International Airport. The hotel allows for easy access to the COEX Convention and Exhibition Center, as well as the office district in Samsung-dong. It is also a great base for discovering Seoul’s rich culture and history, including UNESCO Heritage treasures and pursuing nightlife.

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The world’s third largest island of Borneo has an exotic and adventurous image with its impenetrable rainforests supporting a multitude of amazing plants and animals. Borneo is home to the two East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, Indonesian Kalimantan and the oil rich sultanate of Brunei. Sandakan, just two-hour’s flight from Kuala Lumpur or forty minutes flight from the state capital of Kota Kinabalu, appeals to travellers who want to get close to nature. Visitors can’t do this in Sandakan itself but the city is the base for regional wildlife excursions to various natural areas. Seeing Orang Utans at Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre on the outskirts of the city is the most accessible attraction while the dedicated will want to explore more remote areas. Sandakan’s city centre is worth visiting despite many of its historic buildings being destroyed by allied bombers near the end of World War II. After the war, Sandakan ceased to be the state capital and it moved to what was then called Jesselton but now Kota Kinabalu. Another grim reminder of the war is the Sandakan Memorial Park situated on the former Tamba Rimba Prisoner of War Camp on the outskirts of the city. The notorious camp is infamously known as the place where the ‘Death March’ commenced. This cruel exercise ended in Ranau with just six survivors from 2,434 prisoners who were forced by the Japanese through the jungle until few remained. Tucked away in the hills surrounding the port city is the home of one of the colony’s best known authors, Agnes Keith. It was here that she who wrote the book, Land below the Wind. Also located in the lofty heights of Trig Hill are several of the city’s leading tourist attractions. Puu Jih Shih Buddhist Temple on the summit above Tanah Merah shines in the early morning light. Built in 1987, it’s a dazzling red and gold structure adorned with threatening dragons and swastikas. Sandakan Central Market is one of Malaysia’s most colourful markets due to the presence of many local ethnic groups as well as itinerant Filipino and Indonesian workers. Some of these people live in one of several water villages that extend into Sandakan Bay. The city’s main attraction is the Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre located in virgin forest at Sepilok on the outskirts of Sandakan. It was established in 1964 to rehabilitate once captive or orphaned Orang Utans and viewing platforms provide an excellent location observe and photograph the animals in their natural setting. Visitors need to appreciate that Sepilok has been established to save and rehabilitate animals and that it is nota zoo. Three kilometres away, the Rainforest Discovery Centre is another area that is attracts visitors especially for its elevated rainforest canopy walkway high above the forest floor. Sighting animals is always difficult in the rainforest for many reasons but mostly be- cause many animals are small and camouflaged. Sepilok’s forests are home to many bird species and if the canopy signage is any indication, it is birds that you will mostly see here. However, you need to be very patient and, if possible, seek assistance through using binoculars. Many birds are most active at dawn and dusk so unless you can organize your visit at similar times, do not be too disappointed if you just see distant movement. Keen birdwatchers from around the globe flock to Borneo to get a glimpse of some 54 endemic species that call Borneo home. Further afield, it is possible to visit Turtle Island National Park and get close to turtles laying eggs. Back on land, the Kinabatangan River, centered on the village of Sukau, is two hours’ drive from Sandakan. The land adjoining the river sup- ports Malaysia’s largest forest-covered floodplain with most nature tours being focused on cruising along the Menanggol River. The brown waters of the Menanggol are only 30 meters wide and surrounded by a dense canopy of emergent trees and vines. Travelling up the river is like passing through a tunnel deep within the forest. Wildlife concentration here is probably one of the highest in Malaysia with the main attraction being Proboscis Monkeys who live in the riverine trees. From the comfort of small boats, visitors enter the monkeys’ habitat and, if lucky, observe them swinging from branch to branch. Found only on Borneo, the Proboscis Monkey is easily identifiable by its distinctive large red nose. The river is also a haven for monkeys, macaques, gibbons, crocodiles, civet cats, otters and an extensive bird list including hornbills. Eating Sandakan’s English Tea House and Restaurant could easily be the setting for a Somerset Maugham novel as diners can reminisce about the colonial past while dining on superb food and good wines in a magical setting. There are two dining options here – inside or under a garden gazebo overlooking a croquet green. Bermuda grass, the stuff you want to roll across, has been laid for the croquet green – yes, this is truly one of the last outposts of the Empire. Not surprisingly, English dishes dominate the house specialties – Shepherd’s pie, roast beef and, bangers and mash. For those who crave lo- cal cuisine, try the Borneo chicken curry and Tea House tandoori. The restaurant specializes in deliciously and unashamedly fresh scones, clotted cream and jam for morning or afternoon tea. Text & Images By David Bowden Published in Dreamcatcher Magazine, January/February edition 2017. Read online or download the pdf online for free HERE ! 

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The Rainforest World Music Festival this year has put up a plentiful schedule of musicians, with an impressively jam-packed schedule that included exhibitions, cultural shows and lots of performances. It has sadly come to an end, and when we sit and talk about the event, there were a lot of musical treats in store, but one of the most exhilarating performances was indeed the one by South Korean ensemble group Palsandae. THE ENSEMBLE Palsandae is acrobatic art performed by a dance troupe of 16 members. The troupe features Korean traditional music, acrobatics, dances and shamanic prayer songs, and their performances are rooted in a tradition of traveling music and dance troupes. This year was apparently the first time they manage to bring all of its members onto an international stage. Palsandae charismatic and shamanic male leader Kim Woon Tae, one of few in a group of near-all women, grew up traveling with a troupe and has a jazz background. THE MEANING Palsandae reproduces the traditional ‘sandae’ stage, which displays the essence of traditional Korean music and dance, and ‘pal’ means ‘eight’ or ‘whole’ in Korean when added to a name. THE MUSIC Palsandae breathtaking performances carry elements of improvisation and wild music that is at times very loud, ecstatic and steeped in spirituality. Their genre is a traditio nal farmers’ music called ‘nongak’, a deliciously cacophony played by double-headed janggo drums, clattering hand-held kkwaenggwari gongs, sogo hand drums, and the braying piri, a small bamboo oboe. Palsandae has a wide range of repertoire including shamanic prayer songs – ‘pansori’ – traditional storytelling songs, improvisational ‘shinawi’ ensemble music, and ‘pangut’, the highlight of its program featuring Master Kim Woon Tae’s Chaesang Sogo Dance. THE DANCES Palsandae is a show of weave acrobatics and dances with performers wearing traditional clothes and Chaesang hats with ribboned whirly gigs, a stunning extravaganza that they brought onto the main stage as in a circus performance. Leader Kim is most well-known for his Chaesang Sogo Dance, a dance that is quite popular. THE FOUNDATIONS The foundation of Palsandae’s mesmerizing performance is shamanism, but elements of the many other religions in Korea are brought in as an addition to the set of farmers’ music ably directed by Kim Woon Tae. TRADITIONS People familiar with Korea culture should recognize this iconic dance that has become a genre of traditional Korean dance. Palsandae are proud of their culture and carry down the tradition of Korea’s last nomadic ‘nongak’ troupe – literally meaning farmers’ music, Honam Yeoseong Nongak Dan (meaning Honam region’s female nongak troupe). ON STAGE Members of Palsandae walked down from the west area of the main stage and, quite in contact with the audience, performed a ritual to cleanse the concert space. During the fascinating act and the visually stunning stage of ‘pangut’, each performer played a percussion instrument while whirling and spinning ribbons on their ‘chaesang’ hats, expressing the continuous flow of life. A fascinating performance that dazzled the audience. There was a lot of improvisation, with dances adapted to the energy of the space in which it happened, and with costume changes made on stage for a programme that Kim created especially for the Rainforest World Music Festival and that will never be repeated. EMOTIONS Palsandae dazzled audiences with their energy level and an uplifting blend of traditional and party music, dazzling display of costumes, twirling dancers, and ritualistic chanting. The essence of the group is connecting with nature, people, the community and the environment, the perfect themes at the Rainforest World Music Festival. For us Palsandae was a new and mysterious thing that we treasure dearly thanks to good memories and great pictures and videos. FACTSHEET In the period of Joseon Dynasty, ‘sandae’ referred to the stage held at the palace for the most important figures at the time: the King and foreign ambassadors. Upon their arrival to the palace, the kingdom’s most talented performers put out a spectacular ‘sandae’. ‘Nongak’ old styles of farm and street music used to be predominated by male performers, among both professionals and amateurs, as in many other cultures most drummers are male. However a handful of professional female groups emerged and made great commercial successes during that time in agricultural Korea. Female ‘pungmul’ ensembles would roll into a town, set up a tent and present their circus-like shows. Director of Palsandae, Master Kim Woon Tae, started travelling with his father’s troupe Honam Yeoseong Nongak Dan at the age of seven, and soon became a child star. He then toured the world as a member of Little Angels and later with the famed Kim Duk Soo Samulnori group. Under Kim’s direction, Palsandae preserves and develops ‘honam udo’ region’s ‘pangut’, usually performed by eleven to thirteen members, with each performer playing a percussion instrument in ensemble while running, whirling and spinning ribbons on their ‘chaesang’ hats, and while the players keep on running in a circle. The Palsandae troupe is today supported by South Korean government funding, namely the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism of Korea and the Federation of Gyeonggi Cultural Center, and the more they perform internationally, the more recognition they are getting in their own country. Palsandae on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/palsandae Palsandae on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeC-nUnxJLg

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