The Sober October movement encourages people to switch their cocktails for mocktails for the month of October. To support those who want to abstain, a number of hotels and resorts around Asia have created innovative drink menus sans spirits. We’ve highlighted several in the round-up below Trading Hops for Herbs For the month of October The Hari Hong Kong is rolling out a special drink selection sans spirits at The Lounge and The Terrace. Guests will have more than a dozen carefully-crafted mocktails to choose from with the limited-time Sober October menu. The popular Japanese flavour of yuzu adds a citrus spark to a number of the concoctions including the Virgin Bellini that incorporates peach, lemon, and yuzu and Itadakimasu, which blends Genmaicha with yuzu and ginger. Seedlip, a non-alcoholic spirit made of herbs, adds substance to drinks like the N108, a blend of Seedlip Garden 108, shiso, elderflower and grapefruit. Prices range from HKD48 – HKD98 per drink. Non-Alcoholic Slings Raffles Cambodia has launched two exclusive non-alcoholic cocktails ahead of Sober October, reflecting the luxury hotel brand’s commitment to healthy living. At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap, near the iconic Angkor archaeological sites, the “Virgin Grand Angkor Sling” reimagines the classic 1915 Long Bar cocktail from Raffles Hotel Singapore. This alcohol-free version blends Lyre’s London Dry, pandan and galangal syrup, lime juice and fresh pineapple juice, topped with soda water, delivering a tart yet earthy twist on the traditional sling. It’s available at the hotel’s iconic Elephant Bar. In the Cambodian capital, Raffles Hotel Le Royal introduces the “Phnom Penh Sling,” a vibrant mocktail combining Lyre’s London Spirit, elderflower syrup, grenadine, fresh lime juice and pink guava juice for a refreshing mix of floral, citrus and tropical flavors—ideal for mindful indulgence. It’s also served at Elephant Bar. Wellness That Looks Like a Highball Alma Resort, on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh peninsula, has introduced a whole menu of healthy mocktails, perfect for sipping poolside during the day or under the stars at night. One standout is the Pear Chrysanthemum, a sophisticated wellness mocktail that combines traditional herbal medicine with modern nutritional benefits. This unique blend features pear chrysanthemum tea, known in traditional Chinese medicine for its cooling properties and ability to reduce inflammation. The tropical pineapple juice provides digestive enzymes and vitamin C, while fresh lime juice adds immune-boosting citrus bioflavonoids and aids in detoxification. The herbal chrysanthemum base offers natural antioxidants and compounds that may help lower blood pressure and support liver function. The effervescent soda water makes it a healthy, hydrating alternative to sugary drinks. Collagen and Colada A major drink menu revamp earlier this year resulted in two-dozen new drinks in play at TIA Wellness Resort, all of which pack a serious well-being punch. The overhaul extended to the mocktail menu with the creation of tipples like the Designated Appletini and the Zero Proof Margarita, so guests can still enjoy some of their favorite drinks without the hangover. However a deeper dive into the resort’s menu yields all kinds of surprises, like their microbiome-focused Matcha Soda with spirulina or a Peppermint Soda with pea flower. There’s also a Collagen Colada, a blend of coconut, pineapple and collagen. If you’re looking for a night cap, how about a mind calming offering like a Lavender Reishi Latte. Prices range from VND90,000 – VND180,000 per drink. Health is Wealth Azerai Resorts in Vietnam is embracing healthy living during Sober October with special offers, and a “mocktail of the day”. At Azerai La Residence, Hue in the former imperial capital, guests can rejuvenate and refresh with the “Spa & Sober October Combo.” Book any 60- or 90-minute spa treatment and enjoy a complimentary mocktail from the hotel’s Sober October Mocktail Menu, with colorful highlights like the “Tropical Sunrise” and “Hue Grapefruit Sparkler.” From Oct. 1-31, the hotel is offering a Happy Hour special: “Buy 1, Get 1 Complimentary.” Meanwhile, on Vietnam’s southern coastline, Azerai Ke Ga Bay has rolled out a delicious “mocktail of the day” menu, featuring pours like “Summer Cooler,” made with lime juice, beetroot and pineapple; and “Verte,” with pandanus leaves, ginger, lemongrass and honey. The all-suites-and-villas beachfront resort, located a comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City on a new highway, also offers a selection of nutrient-rich green smoothies and sparkling kombuchas. Mindful Mixology by the Beach Meliá Pattaya Hotel is championing mindful indulgence this Sober October with a vibrant collection of signature alcohol-free cocktails. The Pattaya Pulse, a refreshing blend of butterfly pea juice, apple juice, watermelon syrup, and lemon, captures the colours of the Gulf of Thailand in a glass. For something tropical, the Tropical Layover layers pineapple juice, coconut cream, and vanilla syrup, finished with a splash of mango juice, evoking the relaxed rhythm of coastal life. Guests can also opt for the Rosy Reverie, where pomegranate, rose, and citrus notes meet fresh fruit for a fragrant and uplifting experience. Served at Lay Beach Club, these mocktails highlight Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s commitment to wellness and family-friendly hospitality. Mocktails and Jazz Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi‘s stylish Le Club Bar, with its 1920s-inspired elegance, has introduced an exclusive curated mocktail menu with fresh local ingredients just in time for Sober October. Enjoy the Passion Tropical, Hanoi Sunset, Mango Green Tea, Up Country, or classic Virgin Raspberry Daiquiri, each served in elegant glassware. These non-alcoholic cocktails, crafted with fresh ingredients like mango, lychee, pineapple and Vietnamese honey, offer a healthy option along with a refreshing taste. As night falls, live jazz enhances the intimate ambiance, making Le Club Bar a top choice for a sophisticated, alcohol-free evening. Fresh n’ Cool in Bangkok Escaping the hustle n’ bustle and humidity of the Big Mango for a few moments, a sunset mocktail on the rooftop bar of INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is a stellar way to cool down in the Thai metropolis. At the 34th floor LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, a selection of non-alcoholic concoctions reflecting the fruity flavours of Thailand awaits. First up is the INNSiDE Bloom,...

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The highest bar in Chiang Mai, Meliá Chiang Mai’s MAI The Sky Bar, has launched a quartet of experiences accompanied with chilled out live acoustics to make weekdays as anticipated as the weekend. Perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor, the 360-degree rooftop bar affords sweeping views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas. Dubbed “stylish weekday hangouts above the city skyline, where good drinks, bold vibes and sunset stories come together”, the new “Sky High Evenings: Rooftop Rendezvous at MAI The Sky Bar” weekday promotions are staged Monday to Friday until September 30 this year: “Beer Madness” on every Monday and Tuesday from 6-8pm offers free-flow Chang Draught Beer at THB 699 net per person. “Charcuterie Wine Glass Toppers” are served on Wednesdays from 6pm-midnight. A glass of red or white wine is artfully topped with a charcuterie set replete with saltara thera cheese, chorizo, Catalun and serrano cold cuts, dried prune and apricot, green and black olives, and a red grape for THB 650 net per glass. “Aperol Spritz Lover” every Thursday from 6-8pm is a buy two Classic Aperol Spritzes and get one free affair. “Mystery Drink Nights” on Fridays from 6pm-midnight entail the mixologists crafting a surprise cocktail at the special price of THB 400 net per glass. Live instrumentalists play chilled acoustic sets from Sunday to Friday from 6.30-8.30pm. On Saturdays, a house DJ spins the decks from 7-9pm. Surrounded by glass balustrades that give way to vistas of Chiang Mai at sunset and by night, the bar is characterised by ambient lighting and contemporary Lanna décor. Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish roots, the bar menu plates up a variety of tapas and pinchos, grazing boards and desserts. Local sustainable and organic farming underscore a variety of dishes. In addition to cold cuts, the menu features mixed grill skewers, croquetas, fresh summer rolls comprising vegetables in fresh spring roll wrap and sweet tamarind dip, and salmon tiradito with mango passion fruit dressing, avocado mousse and pickled onion. Rich chocolate mud cake with berry compote and biscotti, and a jar of tiramisu with creamy sweetened milk and lady fingers are among the dessert options. The dishes are designed to be accompanied by the bar’s vast array of spirits, cocktails, mocktails, wines, beers, coffees, signature tea concoctions, smoothies and shakes, fresh juices, and soft drinks. For further information or to make a reservation, email maiskybar@melia.com or call +66 52 090 600.  Prices are inclusive of a 10% service charge and 7% government tax.

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Her Highness Princess Chansita Norodom, a member of Cambodia’s Royal Family, will participate in an exclusive afternoon tea experience at the historic Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. The princess, a granddaughter of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk and the niece of the current monarch of Cambodia, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni, is a Raffles Cambodia Ambassador who has been widely praised for her work benefiting the community, including both local charities and organizations around the world. The extraordinary ‘Raffles Royal Afternoon Tea’ will be held on Sept. 28 from 2:30 p.m. The set includes Khmer delicacies such as yellow-bean and rice cake stuffed with freshwater lobster; pumpkin custard; a Cambodian rice cake crepe; egg yolk in syrup; steamed rice cake stuffed with pork; palm fruit cake with coconut; rice flakes with Takeo lobster; stick balls with sesame seeds; golden pork floss bread; and almond cake. Priced at $35++, the set includes an optional glass of Champagne for $15++. The 92-year-old luxury hotel on the doorstep of ancient Khmer archeological sites in Siem Reap was named one of the world’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ by Travel + Leisure in April for a third-straight year. It originally opened as a rest stop for archeologists and adventurers exploring the kingdom of Angkor Wat, which is today one of the world’s most popular UNESCO World Heritage sites. For more information on Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, or to make a booking for the exclusive Raffles Royal Afternoon Tea, please call +855 23 982 598 or visit www.raffles.com/siem-reap/. ABOUT RAFFLES     Raffles Hotels & Resorts boasts an illustrious history and some of the most prestigious hotel addresses worldwide. In 1887, Raffles Singapore set the standard for luxury hospitality, introducing the world to private butlers, the Singapore Sling and its enduring, legendary service. Today, Raffles continues this tradition in leading cities and lavish resort locales, enchanting travellers with meaningful experiences and service that is both gracious and intuitive. Connoisseurs of life choose Raffles, not merely for its aura of culture, beauty and gentility, but for the extraordinary way they feel when in residence with Raffles. Each Raffles, be it Paris, Istanbul, Dubai, Warsaw, Jakarta or the Seychelles, serves as a venerated oasis where travellers arrive as guests, leave as friends and return as family. Raffles is part of Accor, a world-leading hospitality group consisting of more than 5,100 properties and 10,000 food and beverage venues throughout 110 countries.

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Nestled at the northern corner of tranquil TubKaek Beach in Krabi Province, southern Thailand, Kredkaew Bar, the open-air beachfront venue at Banyan Tree Krabi, has unveiled a fresh array of cocktails for connoisseurs to savour at this idyllic sundowner venue. The new menu was unveiled last week, following on from the news that Kredkaew Bar’s resident bartender, Dawadee Songprasert, affectionately known as “Dao”, recently won the Makro Thailand Creative Drink Challenge 2024, beating a host of mixologists from the southern Thai region. Dao’s winning cocktail, or more correctly “mocktail”, was the Sang Aroon — her own creation — a stirred blend of homemade palm sugar, coconut sugar, lemongrass, ginger syrup, pandanus juice and ginger ale. She has now added the magic ingredient of Thai rum, resulting in a sweet lip-smacking finish. Like the Sang Aroon, all the new cocktails are infused with local fruits and herbs, and many of the new concoctions take their names from Thai literature or, more broadly, from ancient Sanskrit where Hindi epics such as the Ramayana have passed down into Siamese folklore over hundreds of years. The Suwanna Hong, meaning “Golden Swan”, is a more viscous but sweet mix of Jim Beam, Amaretto, homemade cinnamon syrup and orange juice. Served in a stemmed martini glass, the new Tiger’s Eye cocktail is a favourite with the ladies — a delectable composition of Vodka, Triple Sec, lime juice, fresh passionfruit, jasmine syrup and Prosecco. Of course, all travellers to Krabi recall the ever-popular dessert Sticky Rice & Mango. The mixers and shakers at Kredkaew Bar have redefined this flavour in cocktail style — the Khao Niao Mamuang, a creamy combination of Thai sugarcane rum, coconut cream and mango, truly a Thai sensation if ever there was one. These cocktails and more can be sipped, savoured and celebrated at Kredkaew Bar, Banyan Tree Krabi, which is open 11am to 11pm daily. For more information about cocktails & drinks at Kredkaew Bar, call +66 075 811 888 or email: kredkaew-krabi@banyantree.com The Resort Tiered into a lush hillside facing westward towards the Andaman Sea, Banyan Tree Krabi offers 72 pool suites and villas, among them seven two-bedroom options, one three-bedroom villa, and a majestic seven-bedroom beachfront Presidential Villa. Facilities include two restaurants, a beach club, a kids’ club, a fitness centre, meeting rooms, and — in keeping with Banyan Tree’s wellness branding — a rainforest-themed spa. Banyan Tree Krabi was recently recognised in the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, voted No 4 resort in Thailand.

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Cafe Wolseley Bangkok will wrap up its Bangkok pop-up on September 5th, marking a successful year of serving up British and European cuisine at Anantara Siam Hotel. Britain’s Café Wolseley in Bangkok One of London’s best-loved restaurants, the iconic ‘The Wolseley’, is bringing its distinguished European fare to Bangkok. Combining British heritage with European grandeur, diners can expect classic Wolseley dishes alongside contemporary additions, with creations from Scotland, England, Germany and Hungary. Café Wolseley in Bangkok is helmed by chef David Stevens, Group Executive Chef at The Wolseley Hospitality Group and former Head Chef at The Wolseley in London. Since its opening, Cafe Wolseley Bangkok has been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, drawing patrons with its authentic menu and elegant atmosphere. Café Wolseley Bangkok has expressed gratitude to its customers for their unwavering support, stating that their patronage has been instrumental to its success. As the countdown begins to its final day, the restaurant invites food enthusiasts to savor the opportunity to experience its culinary offerings one last time in Bangkok. Café Wolseley is located in the Parichart Court at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, open from Monday to Saturday for lunch from 12.00pm to 2.30pm and Monday to Sunday for dinner from 6.00pm to 10.30pm. For more information or to make a reservation, please call +66 2 126 8866 or email dining.asia@anantara.com

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Meliá Chiang Mai’s jewel in the crown, 360-degree rooftop bar Mai The Sky Bar, will welcome an award-winning bartender next month to concoct an imaginative selection of Thai-inspired cocktails. Benz Naphat Boonmamuang, a.k.a “Mr B”, who hails from Chiang Mai and has been recognized among Thailand’s top mixologists, will “take over” Mai The Sky Bar on Friday August 2 from 7pm until midnight. Perched on Meliá Chiang Mai’s 22nd floor, Mai The Sky Bar – the highest in Chiang Mai – offers spectacular views of the Ping River to the city’s east and famed Doi Suthep Temple on the mountaintop to the west. The remarkable venue features rooftop terraces at varying heights, with a spectacular glass bridge connecting the bar’s highest seating areas. Mr B, the beverage and bar manager at Anantara Chiang Mai’s Brit Bar at 1921 House, has more than a decade’s experience of mixology under his belt. He has been recognised in the prestigious “World Class Thailand” Bartender of the Year Awards, named the second runner runner-up in the 2024 awards and a finalist in 2023. He was also the first runner-up at the Giffrad West Cup this year and a finalist in the Dewar’s Highball Challenge last year. His Thai-inspired cocktails on offer during the takeover include a highball cocktail dubbed “Poy Luang”, which means a grand celebration featuring a lively procession dominated by the sounds of the gamelan. Paying homage to traditional drinking customs where alcohol is typically consumed with pickled fruit, the cocktail features a homemade wild apple sparkling juice – made from wild apples, galangal and citron grown by the Doi Ang hill tribe community in Chiang Mai’s Fang District – mixed with Johnnie Walker Black Label Whiskey. The cocktail is garnished with plum-soaked citron wrapped in edible plastic; a nod to the world’s need to reduce plastic use. Mr B’s selection of cocktails complement Mai The Sky Bar’s menu featuring dishes underpinned by local sustainable and organic farming. Drawing on Meliá’s Spanish roots, the city’s most happening venue’s vibrant menu serves a variety of tapas and pinchos, grazing boards and desserts under sections dubbed “Para Picar”, “Tableros” and “Postres” respectively. Mai The Sky Bar’s resident DJ will spin commercial house music, afrobeats, pop and dancehall tunes from 8pm. Entry to Mai The Sky Bar for Mr B’s takeover is THB 250 net per person, with credit towards food and drinks. For further information or to make a reservation, email maiskybar@melia.com or call +66 52 090 600.

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Thailand’s first INNSiDE by Meliá hotel is joining forces with the head chef of a creative tapas bar in Vietnam to showcase a seven-course menu designed to take diners on a culinary pilgrimage across Spain. INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar will welcome Bryan D. Ceron Serrano, Capos Hanoi’s head chef, on May 8 and 9, to craft the degustation menu with optional wine pairing. Priced at THB 2290++ per person, with wine pairing an additional THB 1600++ per person, the menu starts out with ‘Hamachi ceviche’ comprising Hamachi fish, charcoal watermelon, and tiger milk, ‘Matrimonio gazpacho’ with black & white anchovy, charcoal pepper, cold tomato soup, and ‘Huevos rotos’ featuring slow cook egg, wild mushrooms, chorizo, and straw potatoes. Highlights of the menu include ‘Pulpo a la brasa’ comprising charcoal octopus leg and kimchi mash potato foam, ‘Suquet de pescado’ made of red grouper, fish soup, potatoes, and clams, and ‘Carrillera’ including slow cooked beef cheek, sticky rice cake, and coconut. Dessert ‘Tarta de queso’, passion fruit basque cheesecake, rounds out the menu. Chef Serrano will host two sessions per night, from 6pm and 8pm, accompanied by LUZ’s views of both Bangkok’s city skyline … and the bottom of a transparent swimming pool. “We believe that food has not only the power to pack a punch on the senses but also transport people to different places,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. “Sharing his unbridled enthusiasm for Spanish cuisine from Capos Hanoi, Chef Bryan D. will take diners on a remarkable culinary journey.” Born in Quito, Ecuador, Chef Serrano credits his lifelong “gastronomic curiosity” to his mother and grandmother: “They are the two great inspirations to which I turn when creating new dishes.” His family, who “always celebrated important events around a huge table sharing food”, moved to Madrid when he was seven, inspiring his life-long love affair with Spanish cuisine. At 19 years of age, he embarked on a career that included stops in Michelin-starred restaurants Texture and Hide in London. Before his current post at Capos Hanoi, he worked as head chef of Vaso Bangkok. Offering authentic tapas, Spanish wines, beer on tap, cocktails and signature sangrias, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar offers a dynamic variety of local Thai ingredients and influences embellished with Spanish flavours. By night INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s 34th floor, featuring a pool bar, transparent infinity pool, and rooftop terrace dotted with outdoor lounges, sunbeds and a compelling contemporary interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing, all become an upper-floor extension of 33rd floor LUZ. In a spectacle unlike any other in Bangkok, tapas bar guests on the 33rd floor peer into the bottom of the infinity pool and can watch fellow guests swim laps. The tapas bar’s design, including its striking angled lines and cabling, pay tribute to Bangkok landmark Rama VIII Bridge. Seats for the seven-course menu on May 8-9 are limited. Call to book in advance on +66 2 340 5499 or email luz@innsidebangkok.com

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The Anam Mui Ne, an Indochine-era inspired resort in Vietnam’s popular beach town Mui Ne, has opened a quaint new bar that pays homage to the intimate Saigon bars of yesteryear. The 1.2 hectare resort, which is the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) portfolio’s only Vietnamese property, this month unveiled the new watering hole, aptly dubbed Saigon Bar, on some of the resort’s most inspiring ground overlooking Mui Ne beach. Adjacent to the resort’s 266sqm saltwater infinity swimming pool and immaculate lawn, Saigon Bar is situated at the other end of the beach to Lang Viet Restaurant & Bar, bookending the resort’s best view over the waterfront. Softly lit with caged lanterns and candles, the bar is fashioned from hardwood sourced from sustainably cultivated forests in Vietnam’s Nam Dinh province and bedecked with customized encaustic tiles, evoking an atmosphere of old-world elegance. Fronted by a grey cobble-stone terrace with a handful of outdoor wooden bar tables flanked by rattan stools, Saigon Bar’s interior is home to cozy rattan chairs clustered in semi-circles and a bar featuring woodwork that took craftspeople months to complete. Greenery cascades down the bar’s exterior from wooden plant boxes fastened to a balcony above. The bar’s shelves are lined with all sorts of boutique spirits from Vietnam and around the world, such as Ho Chi Minh City-based Lady Trieu’s craft gins including ‘Dalat Flowerbomb’, ‘Mekong Delta Dry’, ‘Hoi An Spice Road’ and ‘Sapa Citrus Tea’. Saigon Bar’s extensive drinks menu includes an array of spirits, beers, wines, signature cocktails, large cocktails shared between four people and “choose your own” mojitos, daiquiris, and margaritas. Surprises including ‘The Anam Penicillin’, comprising Whisky Glenmorangie 10, whisky Famous Grouse, whisky Laphroaig 10, chamomile infused Quinta do Noval 10 Tawny Port, clarified lemon juice, honey and ginger syrup, and ‘Smokey Frangipani Blossom’ made up of Frangipani infused Haku vodka, Ricard, apple juice, celery juice, clarified lemon juice and maple syrup. Vietnamese coffee, milk shakes, loose green and black leaf teas, freshly squeezed juices, home-made iced teas, and kombucha with all sorts of health benefits concocted on the resort’s grounds are also on offer. In addition to ‘smoothie bowls’ packed with different fruits, the bar also serves tapas including the likes of a cheese and charcuterie platter, a grilled prawn salad, beef satay skewers, and salted and spicy crispy pork skin. The selection of desserts ranges from ice-cream and sorbet to chocolate raspberry cheesecake and bubble tea panna cotta. “Our Saigon Bar may be new but when you set foot inside, you feel like you’re stepping back in time, to a charming bar in bygone Saigon’s labyrinthine alleyways, where the atmosphere is almost as palpable and the unique beverages and tapas we’ve concocted,” said the resort’s manager Ye Chang Sheng (Peter). For further information or to make a booking, visit.theanam.com, email info.mn@theanam.com or reservations.mn@theanam.com, or telephone +(84) 252 628 4868

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Towering over Bangkok’s trendy On Nut neighbourhood, INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit’s awe-inspiring rooftop tapas bar has crafted an exciting new menu, accompanied with views of both the city … and the bottom of a transparent swimming pool. Offering authentic tapas, Spanish wines, beer on tap, cocktails and signature sangrias, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar’s new menu takes diners on a culinary pilgrimage across Spain, with a dynamic variety of local Thai ingredients and influences embellished with Spanish flavours. The vibrant new menu comprises 30 dishes across four sections; ‘LUZ Tapas’, ‘Chef’s Tapas Selection’, ‘LUZ Signature’ and ‘Momento Dulce’. The LUZ Tapas section items range from white Spanish anchovies cured in vinegar, and ‘Gazpacho’ tomato and capsicum cold soup with olive oil, to a ‘La Tabla’ of Spanish cured meats and cheese – Iberico ham, chorizo, fuet, Manchego and Maho cheese. 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. LUZ 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, and creamy rice with wild mushrooms, beetroot and optional truffle. Three desserts including crispy Spanish churros with rich chocolate sauce round out the menu. By night the hotel’s 34th floor, featuring a pool bar, transparent infinity pool, and rooftop terrace dotted with outdoor lounges, sunbeds and a compelling contemporary interpretation of Bangkok’s Brahman structure The Giant Swing, all become an upper-floor extension of 33rd floor LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar. In a spectacle unlike any other in Bangkok, tapas bar guests on the 33rd floor peer into the bottom of the infinity pool and can watch fellow guests swim laps. The tapas bar’s design, including its striking angled lines and cabling, pay tribute to another iconic Bangkok landmark, Rama VIII Bridge. “‘Luz’ means ‘light’ in Spanish, and since our hotel’s debut in July last year, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar has become a beacon of Spanish culture and cuisine which keeps getting brighter and brighter on Bangkok’s skyline with a new menu of irresistible choices,” said the hotel’s general manager Aarron Nelson. LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar is open daily from 4pm until midnight. In addition to drawing on Meliá’s Spanish origins and celebrating Spain’s gastronomy, the hotel’s dining landscape taps local roots with fresh, colourful Thai cuisine. The chefs at all-day dining venue “The Kites Eatery”, open from 6.30am-11pm, serve up central, northern, north-eastern and southern Thai cuisine a la minute using quality ingredients sourced from local farms. 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 — designed for those with curious minds who have a fluid lifestyle when it comes to work and leisure. Situated at 1472 Sukhumvit Road, the new On Nut hotel is a 30-minute ride from Suvarnabhumi Airport and close to an array of services and attractions suited to business and leisure travellers including the On Nut BTS Skytrain station and Bangkok’s largest convention centre, BITEC. For further information, see LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar’s menu https://linktr.ee/luzbangkok_tapasbar and to make a booking, visit https://www.tablecheck.com/en/innside-by-melia-bkk-luz-bangkok-tapas-bar/reserve/

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Tokyo Confidential announces the inaugural “Christmas Confidential,” a festive celebration taking place throughout the month of December in partnership with Woodford Reserve Bourbon. Popping up on the recently opened Azabujuban bar’s 10th floor roof, Christmas Confidential will run from now and finish on December 30, Wednesdays through Sundays from 6 – 12am. Adding to the bar’s already stunning views of Tokyo Tower, Christmas Confidential brings the cozy holiday vibes with mini fireplaces, heated blankets and Christmas décor. Founder Holly Graham and Head Bartender Wakana Murata have created four cocktails for the occasion, putting a Tokyo Confidential spin on nostalgic Christmas flavors (¥2000 each). Available hot or cold, the Pandan Nog adds an Asian twist to the indulgent classic with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Diplomatico Mantuano, pandan, amazake, egg and Christmas spices, while the Gingerbread Old Fashioned infuses a hint of seasonal spices with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, gingerbread syrup and bitters. Warm up with the Kentucky Coffee with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Okinawa brown sugar, coffee and chilled cream, or the hot Vino Navidad with red wine, Brandy and mulling spices. In addition to the drinks, Christmas Confidential nods to Japan’s festive tradition of fried chicken for Christmas by serving up comfort dish TCFC (¥2000), fried chicken with ranch dip and house pickles created by two Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Calvert, who has curated the food menu for Tokyo Confidential. For the ultimate high-brow, low-brow pairing, opt to add a bottle of Champagne and caviar bump (¥15,000). As usual, Christmas Confidential is no reservations, so PULL UP FESTIVE UP and ring in the season Tokyo Confidential style. Minimum spend of ¥6,000 per person. About Tokyo Confidential Tokyo Confidential is a cocktail bar celebrating high contrasts and delightful chaos. With stunning views of Tokyo Tower from the bar’s balcony and rooftop space, Tokyo Confidential’s ethos is a nod to the iconic landmark that has served as a beacon of communication for the city. Drawing inspiration from a house party that gets suitably rowdy, Tokyo Confidential offers warm hospitality and a home for everyone. The bar serves as an escape from the confines of society, allowing guests to forget life’s pressures and be their true selves, where they can feel fancy in an unpretentious manner.  For more information, visit www.tokyoconfidential.com or follow on Instagram @tokyoconfidentialbar.

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Pioneering German winery, Weingut Meyer-Näkel, will be hosting a one-of-a-kind dinner in Bangkok in collaboration with 2-Michelin Star Restaurant Sühring on 5th December 2023, as part of an international tour to showcase the “Lost Barrels” wines, an inspiring and ultra-exclusive set of 9 vintage 2020 Pinot Noirs with only 280 bottles per wine. Third-generation owners, sisters Dörte and Meike will be presenting the unique set of 9, each with different stories and tasting notes, accompanying an immaculate set of dishes created by Thomas and Mathias Sühring. German Pinot Noir Pioneers  Spanning across more than 20 hectares of prime vineyards in the Ahr wine region, which is derived from the Celtic word “Aha” meaning water, the Meyer-Näkel family vineyard in Dernau produces elegant, spirited and straightforward Pinot Noirs, characterised by the minerality of the slate and a well-integrated acidity that perfectly reflects the unique flavour profile of the Ahr region soils. Dating back to 1950, Willibald Näkel, grandfather of the sisters and founding owner of the vineyard, pioneered the dry vinification of red wines and Werner Näkel, father to Dörte and Meike, took the winery’s vision one step further and established a whole new style of Pinot Noir in the Ahr Region, thereby becoming one of the most important winemaking personalities in Germany. Today, Dörte and Meike continue to pursue the same goal of bringing out the Ahr region’s wonderful terroir in mineral and fruit-driven wines of incomparable quality. The Ahr Flood and a New Beginning  In 2021, the Ahr wine region was destroyed by the flood of the century. Overnight, everything the family had worked for, including their entire 2020 vintage, was swept away by the raging waters while they clung onto a tree for eight excruciating hours. By a pure stroke of luck a few days later, the sisters chanced upon a barrel of Meyer-Näkel Pinot Noir. A symbol of hope, trust and courage. In total, nine 2020 vintage barrels, made from grapes grown in the region’s grand and premier crus, were retrieved and comprise the “Lost Barrels” Collection. In this world tour, Dörte and Meike hope to share their amazing story and showcase the phenomenal Ahr region wines into the international spotlight with all 9 “Lost Barrels” Wines. The World Tour kicked off in Berlin, Germany on 18th November 2023, in collaboration with Chef Tim Raue, featured in Netflix’s Chef’s Table, and his 2-Michelin starred Tim Raue Restaurant, which ranked No. 40 in World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2023. The second leg of the Lost Barrels World Tour will be happening on 5th December 2023 at Restaurant Sühring in Bangkok, Thailand. Guests can look forward to an exceptional night full of inspiration, hope and pure culinary delight and tickets will be available to purchase viaregistration of interest at www.Lost-Barrels.com. As the “Lost Barrels” Wines are rare and incredibly unique in their story, they are available for purchase through a reservation process only. Wine enthusiasts may visit www.Lost-Barrels.com for an opportunity to participate in the reservation process for the exclusive wines.

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Introduction to Chinatown Singapore Originally designated as an ethnic enclave for the early Chinese settlers back in the 19th century, Chinatown has come a long way from its humble and ragged origins to become a modernised cultural hangout amidst its historical façades. From luxurious hotels to upscale restaurants and bars, to local street eats and age-old temples, you will find an amalgamation of past and present here, with something interesting for every type of visitor. Where to Stay PARKROYAL COLLECTION Pickering is an eco-friendly garden concept experience nestled within Chinatown, promising to offer guests a luxurious green retreat from the concrete jungle of Singapore. Take a refreshing swim at the outdoor infinity pool overlooking the city or hop over to the Urban Farm, home to over 50 varieties of vegetables, fruits, herbs and edible flowers that are used in various capacities at the hotel.   Mondrian Singapore Duxton is a new hotel establishment making a big splash with its stylish and luxurious approach. Equipped with a rooftop terrace and pool overlooking the eclectic skyline of shophouses and skyscrapers, the hotel even boasts several restaurants and bars that seek to enhance your vibrant dining and drinking experience.   Looking for something with a more localised flavour and charm? Hotel 1900 is a boutique hotel comprising of a few adjoining, four-storey traditional shophouses that effuse a historical atmosphere. Located just 100m from the Chinatown Street Market, the hotel works as a fantastic base for your adventures in the precinct.   Alternatively, check out the Heritage Collection on Pagoda, a “Digital Hotel” concept with mobile self check-in conveniences and close proximity to everything in Chinatown. Enjoy amazing loft apartments with high ceilings and spacious design for a unique stay.   What to See Embark on the complete Chinatown experience and hit up the popular spots in the area. Follow the self-guided official Chinatown Walking Trail that takes you to 11 amazing stops in the vicinity, bringing you the best the location has to offer, from temples to cafes and its amazing streets. Don’t forget to shop for souvenirs, enjoy the tasty grub and more at Chinatown Street Market! Alternatively, head up to the Trails of Tan Ah Huat for a different perspective while you take in the sights and history of Chinatown on a guided bicycle tour, reliving the 1920s through the lens of the character Ah Huat.   Visit the majestic Tang-style Chinese Buddha Tooth Relic Temple that houses the tooth relic of the historical Buddha. Take some time to explore the temple and museum with free weekly-guided tours, learning more about the vast collection of artifacts it holds as well as its intricate architecture. Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore‘s oldest Hindu temple built in 1827. Take in the vibrant and intricate sculptures around the gopuram and temple walls. If you are lucky, you might even get to witness a ceremony and procession taking place during your visit! The streets of Chinatown are lined with various Chinatown Mural Art pieces along its walls, showcasing bits of history and heritage closely intertwined with the area. The colourful and vibrant murals bring alive the culture and legacy of the neighbourhood, perfect for your next Instagram-worthy moment. Some highlights are the Letter Writer and Lantern Festival murals by artist Yip Yew Chong, depicting traditional scenes one would witness back in the days in Chinatown. What to Do For a traditional tea experience, make your way to the Yixing Xuan Teahouse renowned for its premium selection of Chinese teas. Book yourself onboard their tea appreciation workshop and learn more about traditional Chinese tea in knowledge and preparation. If you gained a newfound passion after the session, gift yourself some high-quality tea wares and tea for your enjoyment at home. Take part in a kokedama class at this specialty plant shop, Little Big Garden, where you can have an amazing experience learning how to create your own ‘moss ball’. Bring your creations home at the end of the workshop or buy a few more from their fantastic selection to complement your home.   Enjoy a traditional Chinese Opera performance imbuing multiple art forms like music, song and dance while you sip on some tea at the Chinese Theatre Circle. Catch the opera performers in their elaborate costumes and see if you can differentiate between a male or female character in the story.   What to Eat Stroll over to the bustling Chinatown Complex, where you’ll find a plethora of hawker stalls serving some of the best local delicacies for reasonable prices. Feast yourself with hot favourites like laksa, chicken rice and xiao long baos to snacks and desserts like popiah and chendols. With such a wide variety of tasty food options here, you will definitely be making a return trip here. Check out our favourites: Hawker Chan soya sauce chicken rice and Ann Chin Handmade Popiah!   For a true taste of Singaporean coffee culture and traditional taste, stop by Nanyang Old Coffee to enjoy a classic cup of kopi or kopi-o, a localised coffee beverage with a distinct roasted taste. Savour a traditional breakfast experience by completing your meal with kaya butter toast and soft-boiled eggs.   This cafe spot, Nakey, serves up some delectable artisanal sourdough creations like chewy bagels and fluffy doughnuts. Whether you’re looking for a full meal or a small bite, grab a seat and you will find yourself munching away at their fresh bakes, perhaps even with a pistachio latte to pair with.   Awaken your inner wizardry powers as you recharge at The Wizard’s Brew. This whimsical café serves a delightful, themed menu, including magical potions and spellbinding treats like a flaming cauldron!   Enjoy an intimate and memorable dining experience at the 2-Michelin Star Cloudstreet, a fine dining establishment that offers a contemporary and innovative culinary journey that beautifully combines flavours and artistry.   What to Drink Under the constant barrage of heat from the Singapore weather, you might want to...

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Anchored by a picture-perfect swimming pool, Meliá Chiang Mai has introduced Tien Pool Bar with a design that pays tribute to some of Chiang Mai’s most famous landmarks including Tha Phae Gate. Situated on the second floor of the hotel, on the lively Charoen Prathet Road by the River Ping and Night Bazaar in the heart of Chiang Mai city, Tien Pool bar is open daily from 10am until 7pm. With a 28-seat capacity, the bar’s stools, outdoor sofas and sunbeds make the most of the hotel’s outdoor pool with striking tiling that makes for a contemporary interpretation of textile patterns the locals call “teen jok”. Similar patterns are also evident on the exterior façade of the hotel visible from the bar. Its distinctive red brickwork references Chiang Mai’s venerable landmark Tha Phae Gate. As the east entrance to the Old Town, the gate was designed to protect Chiang Mai from invaders. Arch-shaped mirrors behind the bar’s counter are nods to 700-year-old Buddhist temple Wat Umong, also known as “Tunnel Temple”. Tien Pool Bar’s gardens draw inspiration from the picturesque Royal Flora Ratchaphruek. The bar’s menu includes the ‘Triple Decker Sandwich’ comprising fried breaded chicken, bacon, lettuce, fried egg and aioli on dark rye bread. The ‘Plant-based Burger’ features hummus, tomatoes and gherkins on a sesame bun accompanied with potato wedges, and the ‘Cheese Burger’ is made up of a grilled beef patty topped with melted cheese served with caramelized onions, gherkins and French fries. The ‘Seasonal Fruit Platter’ with wild honey, Greek yogurt and lime is part of the hotel’s sustainable ‘360° Cuisine’ program. Under the program, the hotel works closely with local farmers to help them improve sustainability and encourage ethical production to make communities and the overall food system more resilient. The pool bar also serves fresh juices, smoothies and shakes, soft drinks, beers, mocktails, cocktails, and wines including organic and vegan wines. Royal Flora Ratchaphruek’s colourful flowers inspire the bar’s selection of imaginative cocktails such as ‘Meliá Blossom’, comprising lychee juice, lime juice, cherry blossom syrup, and grenadine, decorated with coral vine flowers. Priced at 350 THB (USD 10.20) per cocktail, “Coco Cooler” is a special promotion on offer until June 30 this year. Served in a coconut shell, Coco Cooler features rum, banana liquor, caramel syrup, coconut milk, pineapple juice, and lime juice. 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

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