Designed by internationally acclaimed designer Celia Chu and her visionary team at Celia Chu Design & Associates (CCDA), “The Artful Essence” is a remarkable 265-square-meter high-end apartment in Taipei that stands as a testament to their extraordinary talent and unwavering commitment to creating breathtaking designs. Surrounded amidst mesmerizing natural landscapes, this interior design masterpiece reflects Celia and her team’s innate ability to seamlessly integrate art, culture, and innovation, leaving a profound and enduring impact on all who have the privilege to experience their creations. Within this exquisite interior space, the homeowner’s love for artistic aesthetics harmoniously intertwines with thoughtful design elements carefully curated by Celia, resulting in a living environment that exudes a passion for the finer things in life. From the intricately inlaid walls and luxurious gold-leaf glass fireplace in the living room to the seemingly casual yet thought-provoking art installations strategically placed throughout, every detail reflects the extraordinary vision and talent of Celia and her team. “Art has the incredible power to transcend boundaries and touch the deepest parts of our soul. In ‘The Artful Essence’ apartment, we have curated a space where artistic splendour intertwines with unwavering elegance, creating an environment that nurtures and inspires. Each carefully chosen detail evokes a sense of tranquillity and invites contemplation. I believe that art should not only be admired but also experienced, and this apartment is a testament to that philosophy, ” shares Celia. A Symphony of Elegance and Artistic Splendor “The Artful Essence” apartment embodies artistic splendor, unwavering elegance, and sophistication in every aspect. The meticulous integration of the luxurious Tiffany Blue marble throughout the entire space effortlessly captivates the eye, bestowing a timeless elegance that permeates from exquisitely crafted living room cabinets to delicate tea table edges and artfully adorned corners of the guest powder room. This serene color hue evokes tranquility, refinement, and a touch of opulence, infusing every detail with beauty. Celia’s design seamlessly incorporates natural elements indoors, exemplified by the organic shapes of Preciosa’s bespoke “Garden Metamorphosis” chandelier in the dining room and kitchen. This concept extends to the walk-in closet and master bathroom, establishing a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior. As homeowners and guests’ journey through the apartment, strategically placed installation art sparks contemplation and evokes a range of emotions. Savouring Art and Tranquility Stepping into the living room, guests will be immediately captivated by the homeowner’s fervent passion for art, which takes centre stage in this heartwarming space. The focal point of the living room is an intricately crafted marquetry wall, painstakingly composed of dyed straw, showcasing mesmerizing patterns and textures that make a bold artistic statement. This remarkable feature sets the tone for the entire space, seamlessly merging with the opulent gold leaf glass-crafted fireplace. The tearoom in the apartment stands as a testament to the homeowner’s deep love for tea, transforming it into a remarkable artistic expression. It serves as a serene oasis where tea ceremonies become artistic performances, with the interplay of light, colour, and texture creating an ambience that elevates the tea-drinking experience. A hidden wine cellar within the apartment offers a sophisticated sanctuary for fine wine collectors, featuring an artfully designed bar table that enhances the wine-tasting experience. Adorned with an art piece of vibrant red lollipops, the bar adds a whimsical yet profound touch of artistry, inviting guests to savour both the wines and the exquisite interior design. The powder room features a meticulously designed Tiffany Blue marble wall adorned with intricate patterns and textures, thoughtfully arranged to create a visually captivating display, complemented by a green leather panel. Each piece of marble is carefully selected, enhancing the depth and intricacy of the composition. The leather panel provides a striking visual contrast against the organic patterns of the stone wall, exuding contemporary sophistication. When the door opens, the powder room reveals itself as an enchanting art room, inviting guests to immerse themselves in its captivating marvels. Where Artistry Meets Elegance in Every Detail At the pinnacle of grace and sophistication, the master bedroom seamlessly blends modern and classical design elements. Intricately designed wall panelling intertwines contemporary lines with timeless motifs, resulting in a visual masterpiece. Taking its rightful place at the heart of the room, an exquisite silver and gold leaf glass radiates nobility, gracefully welcoming the morning daylight. The shoe room and walk-in closet in the apartment embody the homeowner’s pursuit of practicality and elegance. Resembling the designed jewelry boxes, these spaces showcase accessory collections and garments, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes. The bathroom exemplifies the apartment’s meticulous attention to detail. With an artful bathtub as its centerpiece, crafted from the finest materials, the homeowner is enticed to immerse themselves in a world of splendor. The marble mosaic floors exude grandeur, while the mother-of-pearl wall mosaics add elegance and sophistication, completing the extraordinary ambiance of this opulent space. With Celia’s visionary touch, “The Artful Essence” project showcases unparalleled creativity, meticulous attention to detail, and a seamless integration of artistic elements. She not only enhances the living experience but also demonstrates a deep understanding of the environment and its purpose. Celia’s influence is woven intricately throughout, resulting in a project that is truly a testament to her artistic vision and expertise. https://www.celiachu.com/en/project/clients/artful-essence/taipei 

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When you think of cherry blossoms, Ueno Park, Himeji Castle and the slopes of Yoshino Mountain in Japan are some of the places that come to mind. But you can also get the full hanami experience at these spots outside of Japan. 1. Da Lat, Vietnam Thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom in Da Lat every January, dotting every corner of the hill town with flecks of pink. Home to serene lakes, rolling green hills and mist-covered valleys, the picturesque city is well worth the six-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City. Address: Lam Dong, Vietnam 2. Alishan National Scenic Area, Taiwan From March to April, your best bet of catching cherry blossoms in Taiwan is at the 41.5-hectare Alishan National Scenic Area. This is a great hiking spot, with signposted trails that will take you deep into the forest. From Taipei, the trip to the nature reserve will take around 4.5 hours but getting there is half the fun. Midway, you will hop on the Alishan Forest Railway, a century-old train that will take you on a scenic journey through mountain passes and lush valleys. Address: Alishan Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan 3. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore The Sakura Matsuri festival usually runs at the Flower Dome in March. Along with the chance to check out over 400 cherry and peach blossom trees against a backdrop of torii gates and traditional Gassho-style houses, you can enjoy cultural activities such as the Japanese tea ceremony. Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore gardensbythebay.com.sg 4. Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area, Taiwan At this national forest in Yilan, you can catch the tail-end of Taiwan’s cherry blossom season around late March. This is where you will find the Taipingshan white cherry blossom just past the Jancing Historic Trail. While you are there, make time to visit the mammoth 2,500-year-old Bailing Giant Tree or indulge in an invigorating soak at Jioujhihze Hot Spring. Address: Taiping Village, Datong Township, Yilan County, Taiwan 5. Chatuchak Park, Bangkok, Thailand From January to March, pink trumpet trees flower in Chatuchak Park. While not exactly the real McCoy, they are still a welcome sight in the concrete jungle that is Bangkok. If you want to check out actual cherry blossoms in Thailand, head to the northern part of the country, which has cooler climes that allow sakura trees to flourish. A popular viewing spot is the Khun Chang Kian Highland Agriculture Research Centre atop Chiang Mai’s Doi Suthep mountain. Address: Kampaengphet 1 Road, Chatuchak District, Bangkok

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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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Artyzen Hospitality Group, the company responsible for bringing innovative hotel brands to Asia, celebrates the opening of the inaugural citizenM hotel in Asia. Located in Taiwan’s cosmopolitan capital directly opposite the city’s historical site, North Gate, citizenM Taipei North Gate is within short walking distance to both Taipei Main Station and the Airport Express terminal, which offers an efficient 35-minute direct train to Taoyuan International Airport. Near to the popular shopping and tourist area of Ximending, the 267-key property boasts stunning Tamsui River views, contemporary design, efficient service and cutting-edge technology – all at a smart price. A significant milestone for the young and innovative Dutch hotel brand, the debut Asian property in Taipei is the eleventh citizenM hotel to open worldwide since its 2008 launch. A concept brought to life by award winning Dutch designers, Concrete, citizenM Taipei North Gate breaks the rules of traditional hospitality, with just one room category ingeniously designed around sleeping and lounging on the comfy, XL size bed. An intuitive and handy in-room tablet moodpad controls everything from the television and themed wake up alarms, to room temperature, blinds, and ambient lighting – leaving guests in charge to tailor their experience. A Living Room concept replaces the traditional ‘lobby’ – instead, guests walk into a stylish entrance area featuring an oak cladded iconic spiral staircase, a signature style citizenM cabinet filled with local items and souvenirs, books and inspiring art, and the latest collection of iconic Vitra furniture pieces. A welcoming space created for relaxing, socializing, working or reading, the Living Room of all citizenM properties offers guest’s a unique immersion into local culture and a homelike experience on arrival. High-tech kiosks enable a smooth and efficient one-minute guest ‘self check-in’ process – by the time the machine has programmed the guest’s personal RFID (Radio Frequency Identification Data) card, the room is ready to enter! All citizenM properties celebrate local culture – at citizenM Taipei North Gate, the exterior entrance wall presents a vibrant anime and pop culture art piece by Taipei’s up and coming local graffiti talent, ANO. The focus on art and style is prominent throughout the hotel, which includes works from famous Taiwanese photographer Chou Ching Hui’s ‘Animal Farm’ collection and Taiwan contemporary artist Hung Tung-Lu’s interactive art piece ‘Lightbox’. Other brand hallmarks featured in citizenM Taipei North Gate include a dynamic dining and cocktail space, canteenM, available 24-hours a day for hotel guests. Located on the first floor with outstanding city views through a large glazed façade, the bar is the lively heart of the hotel with beer on tap and Champagne and cocktails to order. The large open kitchen with kitchen island, high and low seating and tables, is located behind, serving fresh fare throughout the day in a laid-back dining environment. Barista made coffee and pastries are on hand for those waking up from a good night’s sleep, light sushi lunches, signature sandwiches and hot feasts are available for those wanting something more substantial, and a range of additional treats are offered throughout the day, including Asian cup noodle flavours topped with fresh tasty ingredients for the late night snackers! As trained baristas and mixologists, the hotel ambassadors play a proactive, versatile and multi-talented service role – always present and available to help guests with check in, provide travel tips, brew coffee or mix cocktails, providing a wholesome hospitality experience. Allan Yip, Vice-President of Marketing, Distribution and Brands at Artyzen Hospitality Group, says ‘Taipei is a very exciting city for us to launch the first citizenM in Asia. North Gate is a central and vibrant location full of good food, retail and culture, a perfect playground for the modern traveller and citizen of the world. We look forward to further regional expansion in 2018 – our next citizenM hotels will open in key gateway cities including Shanghai and Kuala Lumpur in Summer next year.’ Robin Chadha, Chief Marketing Officer at citizenM hotels in Amsterdam says ‘Following successful global expansion over the past decade and rapid growth in the USA and Europe in the last year alone, we are extremely excited to bring the citizenM brand to Asia. We are confident that our brand proposition of affordable luxury will resonate well with the modern Asian travellers.’ citizenM North Gate, No 3, Section 1, Zhonghua Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei Taiwan

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Their music has been described as “heavenly music that allows one to see the mountains and hear the breeze”. The Taiwu Ancient Ballads Troupe was formed at the Taiwu Elementary School in Taiwu Township of Pingtung County, Taiwan, situated near the sacred North Dawu Mountain. Their leader, Camake Valaule, began documenting ancient songs of the region that had previously only been handed down orally. This amazing tribe from Taiwan, inhabiting an ancient and sacred area of Taiwan, was voted as “Amazing Voice” by the Japanese NHK Network Programme, and not without reasons. I was lucky to participate once again to the Rainforest World Music Festival, which in its agenda showcases unique cultural and traditional music from all around the world. And this year, Taiwu Ancient Ballads Troupe was on the line up of performers thanks to a cooperation with the Taiwan Tourism Board. I was lucky enough, after the second day press conference at the festival, to manage to stop their leader, 38 years old Camake Valaule, who allowed me a few words. Camake is the teacher of Taiwu Elementary School in Taiwu Township, Pingtung, and he is a real indegenous people of Taiwan. As a member of the Paiwan tribe, he told me that a lot is expected from him. Apart from teaching physical education, he is in charge of teaching a   wide range of subject to local students such as Mathematic, Science, Chinese language, environment and history. Camake has a real passion in keeping his traditional culture alive, and this is reflected in the way he teaches it in the school, as he firmly believes the local children of Taiwan should get to know their culture better. He tells me that one of the unique things about the Paiwan tribe is that “each of the ballads is tightly related with the tribe and to familys’ history. Even love songs and chants used during ceremonies follow strict rules. Singing ballads is a way to let the children learn about themselves”. During his teaching times, he has started to form a group that plays and sings traditional music; members are children and kids from his tribe with an age range that spans from 5 to 28 years old. At the beginning of this project he has little expectations, but as the years passed their performances began to become well known to the people of Taiwan and not only. Taiwu Ancient Ballads Troupe has been performing for over 16 years and they have so far recorded two albums, and even winning some Taiwan Award. And as I talked to Camake through the help of his translator, Pei-Ti Huang, I realized the Paiwan people are not only amazing with their traditional culture and costumes, but are also very similar to the Dayak of Sarawak. Among the similarities are the beads, the woven clothes and also the patterns. Being a local, I believe that studying Asian tribes’ similarities is paramount to get to know our background and to realize that we are all related, from a time when Asia was a big lump of land, long before Taiwan became an island. In fact, Camake told me that his government, the Taiwan Aboriginal Government, has already sent representatives to Sarawak to study these similarities. Impressive. So in the end, what Japanese NHK Network said was true: the amazing voices of Paiwan’s Taiwu Ancient Ballads Troupe are amazing indeed. Check out their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/TaiwuAncientBalladsTroupe/?ref=ts&fref=ts

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Famous for hot springs and stunning scenery along the extensive coastline, Yilan County will introduce a new level of well-being with the opening of the The Westin Yilan Resort. Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott International, announced the opening of The Westin Yilan Resort, marking the brand’s first hot spring resort in Taiwan situated in the island’s northeast. Owned by Yilan Lealea Development Holdings Co., Ltd, The Westin Yilan Resort joins The Westin Tashee Resort, as the brand’s second hotel in Taiwan. “The opening of The Westin Yilan Resort not only expands the Westin brand’s footprint in the Greater China region, but also underscores the increasing demand among travelers to regain control of their well-being while on the road in line the brand’s new Let’s Rise campaign,” said Josef Dolp, Area Vice President, Greater China, Marriott International. “The Westin brand is on track to open another 12 hotels in the Greater China region in the next few years, joining the existing portfolio of 23 hotels in the region; and we are thrilled with the momentum.” The Westin Yilan Resort features 85 guest rooms and 6 luxurious pool villas, which are equipped with fresh, natural hot spring water giving guests the pleasure of enjoying private pool experience without leaving their room. The thoughtfully-designed resort feels residential and intimate, yet open and airy: designed with a biophilic-focus, suggesting that a connection to nature enhances well-being. Colors found in nature inspired the sophisticated palette coupled with natural materials and patterns that add textural layers to the interior design. “Only an hour drive from the Taipei metropolitan area, guests at The Westin Yilan Resort can have the best of both worlds – shopping and exploring the city and rejuvenating in nature, in one of the many hot springs in town,” said Tina Tang, General Manager of The Westin Yilan Resort.  “We look forward to introducing travelers to Westin’s signature wellness programs and amenities, created to empower our guests to rise and be their best selves on the road.” The Westin Yilan Resort’s lush landscaping and natural décor surrounds guests, whether they are indulging at the Heavenly Spa by Westin™, swimming laps in the pool, or powering up in the hotel’s expansive WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio.  For travelers who wish to take their fitness routines outdoors, the hotel features the brand’s signature RunWESTINTM program, offering guests a guided run – led by the hotel’s Run Concierge – through Yilan’s picturesque running trails.  The hotel also offers the Westin brand’s Gear Lending program in partnership with New Balance® – providing workout gear for guests so they can pack light and stay fit on the road. The Westin Yilan Resort features three dining venues that feature dishes from the SuperFoodsRx™ menu. The hotel’s signature all day dining restaurant Seasonal Tastes features a menu of fresh and healthy creations, as well as energizing fresh juices and smoothies. Celebrating Japanese cuisine through seafood, Mai presents a seasonal menu with fresh locally-sourced as well as imported produce in both its main dining area and private dining rooms. A more casual option, the Cafe Lounge offers innovative cocktails, afternoon tea and light snacks. The idyllic resort also features the Westin Family program, designed to cater to the way modern families travel: with a reinvented Kids Club concept, reimagined family experiences and more meaningful branded amenities for young travelers. Westin Family draws inspiration from nature to promote a sense of well-being, from interactive programming and thoughtful amenities to physical play spaces. Easily accessible, The Westin Yilan Resort is conveniently located just a 1.5hr drive from the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), an hour from the Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), or 20 minutes from the Yilan Railway Station. The Westin Yilan is offering an opening package at NT$9,500 net during weekdays and NT$11,500 net during weekends per night for a Deluxe Room, including breakfast and dinner for two, until June 30, 2017. For more information, please visit www.westin.com/yilan.

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VIDEO POST: Sanpuy Katatepan Mavaliyw is a taiwanese aboriginal coming from an ancient tribe. Sanpuy has been not only creating and prolonging aboriginal music, but also cultivating the new generation of the traditional music talents to let the world hear Taiwanese Aboriginal music. Sanpuy has won the Golden Melody Award’s Best Aboriginal Artist. Here Sanpuy at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2015.

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