Whether you’re flying to Hong Kong or staying in during the holiday, a staycation is the best way to relax, recharge, and get pampered. With so many luxury hotels in town, you’ll never run out of some truly amazing options. We argue that staycations are here to stay whether it’s for the residents or tourists coming to the city. Find out which hotels in Hong Kong have the best Christmas staycation packages.

While you may have already booked tickets to one of the many amazing Christmas holiday destinations this month, you may still need a pre-vacation warm-up. Or if you have just returned to Hong Kong and looking for a getaway to recover from the vacation blues, a staycation is the answer. From packages that have amazing gourmet options like the one at Cordis to lavish spa treatments at Four Seasons, and cultural experiences offered by Alva Hotel by Royal, Hong Kong has nailed staycation. After all, it has been offering it regularly since the pandemic. Regardless, a rejuvenating stay in Hong Kong is what we all deserve, especially this Christmas. So, pack your bags and book your next Christmas staycation. See our top picks of the best ones in town.

Don’t miss the best Christmas staycation packages in Hong Kong 

SET AMIDST MACAU’S prestigious waterfront sits a sanctuary of pure respite, ready to be your gateway to the most thrilling peninsula in Asia over the festive Chinese New Year 2024 period.

Mandarin Oriental, Macau is a lavish city centre haven that blends the best of the West with the warmest Eastern hospitality.

Award-winning accommodations

The sole property in Macau to claim a coveted Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2023, this five-star hotel serves as an oasis of tranquillity in the vibrant city’s hustle and bustle while ideally situated at the heart of the action.

Step into a world of grandeur as Mandarin Oriental, Macau invites you to welcome the Year of the Dragon in unparalleled style with its Chinese New Year 2024 promotion, promising an unforgettable experience for two.

Explore 213 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites with endless waterfront views inside the five-star hotel’s doors. At mealtime, sample a superb melding of East meets West cuisine where two cultures collide at Vida Rica Restaurant, sip a signature cocktail while savouring the views at Vida Rica Bar, or enjoy indulgent sweets at The Mandarin Cake Shop or afternoon tea at the Lobby Lounge.

For those looking to elevate their stay further, visit the state-of-the-art fitness centre, heated outdoor swimming pool or book a treatment at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Macau, which provides soothing and revitalising treatments for face, body and spirit. 

The heart of Macau

Perched on the magnificent Macau waterfront, this five-star haven offers breathtaking vistas of serene Nam Van Lake, majestic Macau Tower and the expansive South China Sea. Offering a contemporary waterfront retreat untethered from the confines of the bustling metropolis, this non-gaming urban getaway redefines luxury in Macau.

Discover paradise on the Macau Peninsula, where history, culture, and excitement meld seamlessly. Mandarin Oriental, Macau offers direct access to the epitome of luxury shopping at the renowned One Central. The hotel is also ideally located a mere five minutes from the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal, 10 minutes away from Macau International Airport and fifteen minutes from the Border Gate, providing easy access to all the Greater Bay Area offers.

Renowned as the “Las Vegas of Asia” and known as a city that never sleeps, Macau boasts a wealth of attractions and entertainment to delight travellers of all ages. Begin an auspicious 2024 by heralding the Year of the Dragon with an unforgettable retreat at Mandarin Oriental, Macau.

Available from 1 to 25 February 2024, the Chinese New Year 2024 promotion package tantalises guests with a sumptuous breakfast for two at Vida Rica Restaurant or the Lobby Lounge, a generous late check-out until 3pm (based on availability), and an exclusive Chinese New Year welcome amenity kit. Guests can also access additional benefits by signing up as fans of Mandarin Oriental.

For more details and reservations, please call +853 8805 8822 or email momac-reservations@mohg.com.

Article Sponsored by Mandarin Oriental, Macau.
Images courtesy of Mandarin Oriental, Macau.

Discover pristine Centara properties, including breathtaking beachside and mountain retreats, with up to 35% savings.

AS 2023 COMES TO CLOSE, Centara Hotels & Resorts extends a warm invitation to guests across Thailand and beyond seeking unforgettable family getaways filled with blissful moments and exceptional perks. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of luxury as the award-winning brand presents its enticing ‘Linger for Longer’ promotion. Indulge in an extended stay at any of their renowned resorts, spread across six extraordinary brands and encompassing an astounding 50 properties in 8 exquisite destinations.

Let the enchanting surroundings of each destination revitalise your spirit, leaving you feeling rejuvenated, reenergised, and ready to embark on a thrilling journey into 2024.

With addresses in the most desirable destinations in Southeast Asia, Japan, the Indian Ocean and Middle East, Centara continues to build its reputation on exceptional service and gracious Thai-style hospitality. From contemporary city centre locations to far-flung tropical locales, each property offers the chance to linger and enjoy delightful gastronomy, family-friendly facilities and a collection of indulgent spas. 

Love to Linger

Book your long-term stays to get the exciting promotion that provides up to 35% savings on stays at an extensive choice of pristine Centara properties in Thailand, including Phuket, Samui, Krabi, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Trat, Rayong, Koh Chang, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Mae Sot, Udon Thani, and Hat Yai. The offer also extends to certain addresses in Vietnam, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Dubai, with special room rates starting at THB 640++ per night.

Indulge in the allure of extraordinary destinations with minimum stays for the promotion depending on the desired destination. Choose from tranquil beachside retreats or serene mountain escapes, each offering a range of options. Embrace the freedom to craft your dream escape with minimum nights ranging from 2, 5, 7, 10 or 14 nights, providing ample time to unwind and explore.

Enjoy a delightful choice of rooms only or rooms with extensive breakfasts included, enhancing each morning’s delight. Plus, up to two children can stay for free when you complete your booking before 20th December 2024.

Discover a captivating selection of enchanting rooms, suites, and private villas tailored to fulfil your every desire. Let Centara Hotels & Resorts curate an unforgettable journey into the heart of your destination, where hidden treasures await the discerning traveller.

Booking Direct is Best

To enjoy even more unique privileges, make your booking using your Centara The1 membership, which provides an additional 15% discount when you log in before booking. Not yet a member? Sign up for free. 

Additional benefits are also available when you book directly with your property of choice. From a Best Rate Guarantee to 10% off food and drinks and a choice of early check-in or late check-out, you’ll love each exclusive privilege provided by Centara Hotels & Resorts. 

The Linger for Longer offer is good for stays booked through 20th December 2024.

Article Sponsored by Centara Hotels & Resorts.
Images courtesy of Centara Hotels & Resorts.

Vibrant art, tantalising cuisine and indulgent pampering rule at Raffles at Galaxy Macau.

ESCAPE TO LUXURY AT THE NEWEST Raffles Hotels & Resorts location in vibrant Macau. The legendary hospitality brand recently unveiled its approximately 450 elegant suites at Galaxy Macau integrated resort, bringing its signature blend of indulgence and personalised service to the popular holiday destination. 

Beyond plush accommodations, this upscale oasis tempts guests with one-of-a-kind culinary and design collaborations and a stunning art collection that celebrates local culture and Raffles’ rich international heritage.

The new architectural landmark, located on the resort’s east promenade, also boasts enormous LED screens that can be seen across Macau and a glass airbridge connecting its two towers — both offering breathtaking panoramas.

Since Raffles has set the standard for luxury since 1887, expect indulgent amenities like Michelin-level dining and delectably original signature cocktails.

The grand opening, planned for later this year, will fully showcase this new jewel in Raffles’ crown, unveiling signature dining, the delightful bar and revitalising spa.

Stunning East-Meets-West Design

Experience rich cultural heritage at Raffles’ lavish new location. The relaxing retreat immerses guests in the storied Raffles tradition through spaces inspired by a 14th-century merchant’s treasure-filled residence and finished with intricate glasswork, hand-crafted crystal chandeliers and fine Italian white Statuario marble.

Subtle geometric peacock motifs flow throughout the property — from the etched glass of the lobby’s ceiling to inside the suites — calling to mind luck, beauty and royal connections by including the stunning bird.

Blending ancient allure with modern amenities, Raffles Macau is a masterclass in East-meets-West style. Beyond aesthetic splendour, Raffles’ legendary service shines with private butlers in classic uniforms catering to your every need. Plush suites draw on old-world elegance supplemented by every modern amenities.

An Artfully Imagined Retreat

An artful sanctuary awaits in the lobby of Raffles at Galaxy Macau, an art-filled garden where nature and design intertwine seamlessly. Lushly sustainable, this space — filled with 90 trees, 50,000 shrubs, and countless blooming flowers — celebrates the seasons through a curated collection of artworks honouring Asia’s unmatched beauty.

Curated in Singapore, the art collection includes a large-scale metal tulip duo titled “In Bloom,” by Dutch sculptor Joris Kuipers, alongside the 222 porcelain magnolias of “Evergreen,” by Chinese artist Chen Chun Hua. The ethereal glasswork of “Relationship,” by Bulgarian Latchezar Boyadjiev, is complemented by the metal snowflake components of “Festive Times” and the changing lights of “Kaleidoscope,” both by Singaporean creator Sun Yu-Li.

World-Class Culinary and Cocktail Offerings

Indulge in European afternoon tea traditions served with brand-worthy flourishes at Raffles Lounge & Terrace, where Éclair Trolleys wheel through the space proffering delicacies, while the Champagne and Oyster Bar adds bubbly decadence beneath a 15-metre chandelier dripping with 500,000 crystals. 

Chef de Cuisine of Raffles Yorick Soh Chin Chiang curates all-day dining for discerning palates as a live pianist sets the atmosphere. As you wait for your refreshments, gaze on the dazzling “Green Art Wall,” where 30,000 LED lights merge with hundreds of plants to create a phenomenal effect. 

Looking ahead to the most anticipated highlights of the opening later this year, guests can anticipate some exciting world-class collaborations reflecting the best in culinary and design of the region. Chef and Sushi Master Masaaki Miyakawa, one of the only 5 Three-Star Michelin Sushi Chefs in Japan, will helm a new signature Sushi restaurant for Raffles at Galaxy Macau. As no Raffles would be complete without its own local adaptation of the brand’s historic Long Bar, Macau’s is set to be a very unexpected and modern take on the 108-year-old heritage gin bar, and is being designed by the luminary Joyce Wang, with a cocktail curation, including an official Macau Sling, to be created by a collaboration with noted 50 Best Bars legend, Antonio Lai.

An Indulgent Stay in a Luxury Destination

Raffles’ new address in the prestigious Galaxy Macau helps to cement the resort’s reputation as Asia’s premier entertainment destination. The sprawling 1.1 million sqm complex thrills with eight award-winning luxury hotels offering over 5,000 rooms, suites, and villas, over 120 dining options, from Michelin-level to street food, and Galaxy Promenade with over 100,000 sqm of luxury shopping from 200 brands.

It also boasts a 75,000 sqm Grand Resort Deck. Here, adventure awaits with the world’s longest 575-metre Skytop Adventure Rapids, the largest Skytop Wave Pool, delivering up to 1.5-metre waves, and a 150-metre pristine beach. 

Large-scale events like conventions, conferences and concerts find their home at the 40,000 sqm Galaxy International Convention Center and 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena.

Blending storied tradition with modern excitement, Raffles at Galaxy Macau delivers a one-of-a-kind travel experience encompassing art, cuisine, amenities and more in the vibrant Galaxy Macau integrated resort.

For more information on the Curated Journeys in Raffles at Galaxy Macau, please visit www.galaxymacau.com/hotels/raffles-galaxy-macau

Article sponsored by Galaxy Macau.
Images courtesy of Galaxy Macau.

Be whisked away on a captivating culinary adventure at Ayatana, where flavours dance on your palate and vibrant colours and aromas enchant your senses.

STEP INTO A REALM where the best of Thailand and Japan come together at the new Dusit Thani Kyoto. Enveloped by the charm of the magical Japanese city, this luxury hotel is an urban sanctuary melding the heritage of Kyoto and Ayutthaya. 

The hotel provides the chance to experience a rare union of Japanese architecture and the lavish Thai influences that define the Dusit Thani brand. As you gaze upon graceful chedi and pagoda-inspired silhouettes, a fascinating cultural narrative begins to unfold.

With 147 beautifully designed guest rooms, this new property sits 850 metres from JR Kyoto Station in the atmospheric Hongwanji Monzen-machi district. 

Indulge in captivating history, distinctive design, and unmatched cultural immersions, including modern Thai and Japanese fine dining and unique healing rituals. 

Among the hotel’s many highlights, Ayatana stands out. The signature fine-dining restaurant was founded by esteemed chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones. The duo are renowned for their exceptional culinary talents, showcased at their former Michelin-starred Bo.lan restaurant in Bangkok, which served meals focused on seasonal and sustainable elements.

Journey Through the Senses

Be transported to a world of sensory marvels as you enter Ayatana, an oasis of refined dining. Enriched by the wisdom of Buddhist philosophy, Ayatana shares a culinary journey that incorporates sight, sound, scent, taste, touch, and mind to guide gastronomy to new heights.

At the entrance, a warm welcome awaits with a traditional Japanese fan infused with enchanting essential oils. As you pass through the serene courtyard garden, your eyes feast on nature’s wonders. Before savouring the upcoming culinary delight, partake in a traditional hand-washing ritual using water infused with organic Thai herbs. Reflecting the changing seasons, the water temperature is refreshingly cool in summer and pleasantly warm in winter.

Seasonal Delights

A culinary odyssey unravels with the first bite, expertly prepared and served in the open kitchen and paying tribute to Kyoto’s rich bounty with fresh auberges adorned with Thai green chilli. Next, take a seat and immerse yourself in the exquisite storytelling of Ayatana. Experience five amuse-bouches inspired by Shojin Ryori — the traditional dining style of Japanese Buddhist monks — centred around seasonal vegetables and mountainous plants. These simple ingredients promote balance and renewal for body and soul.

The number five holds significance in Buddhism, and Ayatana’s chefs marvellously infuse it into each of these small bites. From five distinct flavours (sweet, salty, bitter, sour, umami) to five colours (green, red, black, yellow, white) and five cooking techniques (grilled, smoked, steamed, boiled, raw), discover dishes presented in unique combinations that evolve with the seasons. Simply refer to the paper’ culinary compass’ presented upon arrival to learn more about each bite or ask the expert staff to explain their sensory stories.

Family-Style Homage to Thailand

Let your culinary exploration continue as Ayatana presents a refined yet inviting tribute to the Thai dinner — served in traditional family style commonly known as Samrub. Lose yourself in delightful flavours with a compelling ensemble of six delectable dishes. Revel in organic rice, vibrant salads, authentic curries, sizzling stir-fries, delicate steamed delicacies, nourishing soups, and an assortment of relishes that ignite the taste buds. Ayatana is also amongst the few restaurants in Japan that makes fresh handpressed coconut milk to make their dishes truly authentic. 

After this epicurean indulgence, cleanse your palate with unforgettable coconut cream-based morsels from Kati, the renowned dessert atelier of Dusit Thani Kyoto and conclude your taste adventure with Thai-inspired wagashi, a traditional Japanese confection paired with Ayatana’s exclusive organic green tea cultivated at our very own Dusit Tea Plantation, nestled in the historic “Wazuka-cho,” a flourishing production area with an 800-year legacy of Uji Tea cultivation.

As your Ayatana journey nears its crescendo, surrender to tranquillity as the enchanting tones of a singing bowl guide you into a realm of enhanced digestion and serene revitalisation.

Soulfully Sustainable

Ayatana follows the practices of Dusit’s Tree of Life sustainability program, committing to operating as sustainably as possible. Ayatana creates authentic Thai cuisine by sourcing from local artisanal farms around Kyoto to reduce carbon footprint while retaining authenticity by importing items such as palm sugar, fish oil, and organic coconut cream from Thailand. 

Additionally, Dusit supports Ayatana’s produce needs through collaboration with Ohara Farmy and Dusit Farm, just 20 minutes from the city centre.

Ayatana exemplifies a harmonious sanctuary nestled beside a peaceful courtyard garden. Meaningful details resonate at Ayatana, from gentle lighting to tastefully designed seating and tableware reminiscent of Japanese philosophies like kintsugi and wabi-sabi. Ayatana invites diners to relish their harmonious cuisine in this memorable, inspiring environment.

For more information, please visit dusit.com/dusitthani-kyoto/dining

Article Sponsored by Dusit Thani Kyoto.
Images courtesy of Dusit Thani Kyoto.

Thought-provoking art melds with flowing spaces at this vibrant new lifestyle offering 

A VIBRANT RHAPSODY AWAITS at the newly opened Andaz Macau, the latest lifestyle offering at luxurious integrated resort Galaxy Macau.

Andaz Macau sets the stage for extraordinary local experiences, tailor-made to unveil the wonders of an illustrious destination to busy business travellers and curious vacationers alike. 

With a collection of thoughtful and unscripted services, guests discover rich storytelling at every turn — from thought-provoking art installations to flowing social spaces made for mingling with guests and locals. 

The Macau address is the latest, greatest and largest property in the Andaz portfolio, with over 700 rooms and suites across two towers. 

But it’s not just the size that makes this new haven truly remarkable. At each step of the journey, Andaz Macau spins a cohesive tale of the city’s rich tapestry of diverse culture.

Informed by Macau’s UNESCO-protected East-meets-West architecture, every corner of the new hotel pulsates with the vivid hues and reimagined forms of everything from Portuguese buildings to vintage maritime harbour ships, providing a true sense of place.

See Macau from its Centre

Allow the authentic spirit of Macau to envelop you — even from inside the hotel’s colourful walls. Perched between the picturesque neighbourhoods of Old Taipa Village and Coloane, guests effortlessly catch firsthand glimpses of life in magical Macau.

Set in the heart of the renowned Galaxy Macau — an integrated resort of over one million sqm of luxury hotels — the new hotel sits beside world-class shopping, endless indulgences, top-rated entertainment and more than 120 dining options — including Michelin-starred offerings and the local delicacies of Broadway Macau and Broadway Food Street. 

For MICE travellers, Andaz Macau grants effortless access to Asia’s most advanced MICE destination, the Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC), and the magnificent 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena. 

Refreshing Rooms

A symphony for the senses awaits inside Andaz Macau’s 715 rooms and suites. Each is a sanctuary where artistry meets imagination to craft tales of the neighbourhood.

Feel cocooned in the immersive charm of interconnected bedrooms, bathrooms and lounges outfitted in forest greens and earthy orange hues in homage to nearby Coloane island’s lush landscapes.

Locally sourced amenities in the bathroom and authentic regional snacks in the minibar complete the experience. 

Culinary Cultures Converge

A world of dynamic culinary destinations awaits at Andaz Macau. Guests are transported on a sensory journey, savouring the authentic flavours of Macau alongside timeless dishes from around the globe. 

The vibrant pulse can be felt as soon as you step out onto the sixth floor, where guests are welcomed into a flowing space that connects Andaz Kitchen, Andaz Studio and Andaz Bar into a trifecta of indulgence and social connectivity.

Enter Andaz Kitchen through wooden archways adorned with Portuguese mosaic azulejo tiles that vividly evoke the city’s European heritage. The all-day dining hub offers live-action cooking displays where Portuguese and Macanese neighborhoods intertwine. Taking design cues from Macau’s old shophouses, each room reflects the unique character of the culinary experiences waiting inside.

Quench your thirst for more at Andaz Bar, an open and inviting haven adorned in teal and orange — a captivating ode to Macau’s maritime history. Sip on visionary cocktails or try local Macau craft beers.

Venture further inside to explore the intimate Andaz Studio, a multi-function, flexible space designed to be a “room within a room.” With the ambience of a library, the room’s bookcases transform into discrete doors that reveal and conceal spaces for impromptu events.

The Art of Living 

Art is central to telling tales at Andaz Macau. So, it’s not surprising to discover a range of engaging installations around the hotel. 

Guests are immediately drawn into “Landscapes Interlaced,” an intricate, large-scale piece in the lobby that tells the tale of Macau through a multilayered photograph that intermingles scenes of day and night against the city skyline. Nearby, spend a moment contemplating graceful sculptures made with hand-painted Portuguese tiles.

Take a transformative multi-sensory journey at Macau Steps, an immersive sensory melange of chromatic colours, captivating sights, and melodic sounds. Dynamic digital displays narrate modern-day Macau at the bottom while referencing the natural Macau of the past at the top.

Of course, the main gathering spaces on the sixth floor are also a rife playground for artistic explorations. Eye-catching multimedia and multi-sensory experiences sit alongside visual and installation art, each working in synchronicity to bring the city’s high-energy, modern vibe indoors. 

Blending Portuguese and Chinese influences through inspired art, design and cuisine, the new Andaz Macau offers culturally immersed, locally-tailored experiences for guests seeking Macau’s diverse narratives.

T+L Tip: For a limited time, you can immerse yourself in this vibrantly luxurious ode to the city at a special rate, with covetable complimentary extras! The Andaz Macau “Experience the Real Macau Opening Package” includes:

• One-night Distinctively Experience rooted in local art and culture
• Macanese breakfast buffet for two at Andaz Kitchen
• Two-day access to Grand Resort Deck* (free shuttle bus to Galaxy Macau)
• Macau Tour open-top bus tickets for two
• A “Taste of Macau” souvenir
• Two bottles of local craft beer at Andaz Bar
• Redeem 2 Portuguese egg tarts at Andaz Kitchen
• Free Minibar
  Booking Period: From now until December 31, 2023
  Stay Period: From now until December 31, 2023

*Subject to opening period and weather conditions

Make your reservations direct here: https://www.galaxymacau.com/offers/hotels/experience-real-macau-opening-package/

For more information on this vibrant new lifestyle offerings, please visit www.galaxymacau.com/hotels/andaz-macau

Article sponsored by Galaxy Macau.
Images courtesy of Galaxy Macau, unless otherwise noted.

Japan is home to a host of pet-friendly hotels that are rolling out the red carpet for you and your four-legged — and sometimes feathered — friends. Think: wagyu room service, cakes in their images, pup-sitters, souvenir sweatshirts, and more. 

IT’S HARD LEAVING YOUR FOUR-LEGGED friend at home! Thankfully, a rising number of hotels are welcoming furry and feathered (and sometimes even scaly) family members – and as it turns out Japan has a great selection of swish petcation destinations. True to their pro-pup personalities elsewhere in the world, the IHG and Hilton families have several pet-friendly hotels in Japan between them, but if you’re a fan of the world’s top-end brands, your luxury cat or dog will have plenty of high-threadcount beds and fine dining to choose among.   

Here are 9 pet-friendly luxury hotels in Japan: 

Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo  

The Pet Friendly Room Plan that allows you to relax in the company of your cat or dog during your stay. Rooms are kitted out with a Searly bed, food mat, feeding bowl, training tray, dry sheets or sand toilet box. There’s also the option to order an in-room cage, dog stroller and even a sweatshirt as a souvenir to take home. 

Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo  

Conrad Tokyo 

Rightfully earning a Paws of Luxury moniker, your precious pooch can lap up the room service menu, which features mouth-watering treats including steak tartare, pumpkin risotto, cobb salad, barley soup and soy-milk pudding. There’s even an indulgent dessert of banana cake crafted with natural ingredients such as beet sugar, soy milk, maple syrup and wholesome fresh fruit.  

Conrad Tokyo 

Hilton Nagoya 

Let your pampered pooch or kitty enjoy the high life in this striking skyscraper, where bone-shaped bagels and fish-bone cookies are provided on arrival. Alternatively, spoil them with room service where a dedicated menu for pets offers five-star treats that take in Japanese beef loin steak with tuna, tomato rice, green pea and pumpkin mash, and chicken meat with vegetable jelly and rice flour sables. 

Hilton Nagoya 

Hilton Okinawa Sesoko  

Indulge in a beachfront petcation on Sesoko Island, where no animals are left in the dog house. Pets are in for a real in-room treat with an expansive doggy dining menu on offer. Spoil your canine companion with choice cuts of Agu pork loin, roasted tuna, and chicken rice omelet. The menu provides the perfect balance of protein and seasonal vegetables to keep your pet in shape.  

Hilton Okinawa Sesoko  

InterContinental Hotel Tokyo Bay 

The entire eighth floor of this hotel is dedicated to dogs, with a devoted reception area for you to check-in and out with your furry friend in tow. (Bravo, InterContinental Japan: this smart move makes the hotel equally friendly to those who show up without a pet!) Don’t forget to explore the corner lounge next to the reception area, where you can relax with your pooch while soaking up sumptuous vistas of Tokyo Bay with a complimentary soft drink.  

InterContinental Hotels Tokyo Bay 

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo 

Whether feathered or four-legged, let your precious pet be pampered from the moment you check-in. In your room, you’ll find plenty to keep your ani-family members entertained, with food and water bowls, a blanket, pet bed, and toys all provided. Tasty treats also abound on a dedicated pet menu, with the option to dine together. (If you decide to channel Lady and the Tramp, please, please share it with us on social!) 

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo 

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo  

Share the luxurious experience at Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo with your four-legged friend as the hotel’s pet plan is of the highest rank. A priceless pet menu serves the finest treats for your canine companion, including Wagyu beef and chicken breast. You can even order doggie cakes individually designed from a photo of your dog.  

Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo  

Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay 

While dogs are barred from the main building, the Sheraton’s Park Wing is home to dog-friendly rooms that come complete with various dog amenities and room service. There’s even a dedicated dog lounge where you can treat your pooch to a pamper session, with shampooing and grooming services. There is also a dog cabin service where canine-loving staff can take care of your pride pooch while you’re exploring the city or visiting Tokyo Disney Resort.  

Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay

The Peninsula Tokyo  

Check your prized pet into pup heaven at The Peninsula Tokyo. The hotel makes sure all of its guests receive five-star treatment, with a comfortable bed designed by P.L.A.Y. (‘Pet Lifestyle And You’), water bowls provided and a dog menu in rooms. The concierge team is also on hand to direct you to local dog-friendly restaurants, café and parks. There’s also a dog walking service if you get caught up in vacation fun.  

The Peninsula Tokyo 

Lede image courtesy of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo

The charm of two ancient capitals intertwine in Kyoto’s historic heart.

THE NEW DUSIT THANI KYOTO bridges the cultures of Thailand and Japan to transport guests into the enduring centre of the magical Japanese city.

The luxury hotel is the second offering in Japan from Thailand’s Dusit Hotels & Resorts. The property offers an inviting urban sanctuary that weaves fascinating history with unique design and unforgettable culinary and wellness traditions drawn from two distinctly intriguing cultures.

Guests discover modern Thai and Japanese gastronomy alongside ancient therapeutic arts and holistic serenity rituals from both cultures to create an elevated experience that offers a panoramic view of Kyoto – all while providing opportunities to create unique memories in the historic city. 

Prime and Peaceful Location

Dusit Thani Kyoto delivers its heartfelt service to Japan’s ancient capital in Kyoto’s lively Hongwanji Monzen-machi district. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk — or 850 metres — from JR Kyoto Station’s central exit, making it perfect for exploring the best of the destination’s ancient and modern offerings. 

The prime location in a peaceful residential area allows guests to explore local neighbourhoods not often seen by visitors while still providing the opportunity to luxuriate in a city-centre oasis with elevated offerings and everything in easy reach.  

Dual-Culture Design

Drawing from the legacies of Kyoto and Ayutthaya, Dusit Thani Kyoto artfully melds Japanese architecture with opulent Thai touches. 

Graceful chedi and pagoda-inspired silhouettes harmonise to create unique cultural storytelling from the moment guests step into the grand lobby. 

Inside, 147 beautifully appointed guest rooms flow into inviting communal spaces — including spacious event venues for up to 240 guests, an indoor pool and a modern fitness centre — with elegant design references. Outside, serene courtyards meet flawless gardens and reflect the tranquillity of both ancient cities. 

Authentic Dining Experiences

Culinary wonders await at Dusit Thani Kyoto, where tantalising options can be found at every turn.

The star of the show is fine dining speciality restaurant Ayatana, founded by chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones, the creators of Thailand’s former Michelin-starred Bo.lan. 

Celebrated for their artistry with authentic Thai fare heavy on seasonal and sustainable elements, Ayatana takes guests on a flavourful tour through a sensory dining tribute to Thai and Japanese culinary traditions. 

This dining experience pairs perfectly with the sweet surprises at Kati, a dessert atelier reimagining Thai sweets. Further epicurean adventures await at Kōyō, where an interactive Chef’s Table, pays homage to Japan’s seasons, a refined Tea Salon, fashionable lounge The Gallery, and stylish craft spirit bar Den Kyoto.

Drawing from the rich histories of Japan and Thailand, Dusit Thani Kyoto fuses traditional touches with modern flair to create indulgent stays, delectable fare and captivating cultural moments.

Experience Dusit Thani Kyoto with stays starting from JPY 50,600 per night for two in Deluxe Room. Reserve your stay on www.dusit.com/dusitthani-kyoto

Article Sponsored by Dusit Thani Kyoto.
Images courtesy of Dusit Thani Kyoto.

If you haven’t been to Unzen Onsen, near Nagasaki, you’re missing out on one of the hottest under-the-radar towns in Japan. Come with us to this little spot in Kyushu, where the bubbles blurb, the ancient pines tower, and the tomatoes are served singularly and cold. It’s primal healing through hot lava.

IT’S 7 A.M. IN Unzen Amakusa National Park, about 50 kilometers from Nagasaki on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japan’s four main islands. I’m half asleep still but somehow power-walking with a group of tracksuit-wearing Japanese strangers over a volcanic landscape that’s burping gaseous steam and bubbling gray mud. Our guide’s morning enthusiasm is high—and borderline criminal. 

This wasn’t just basic power walking. It was Jigoku style—Hell Power Walking! Fitting, since the network of snakelike boardwalk trails was the only thing separating me and my powerwalk posse from scalding hot steam vents and hissing fumaroles fed from a lava lair deep below us. One snoozy misstep and it’s sayonara. 

In Japan, these volcanic areas are aplenty and often called “Jigoku” (hell). What made Unzen’s so different was its almost electric-green lushness and, as I would later learn, its dedication to nature, with sign-posted trails listing local flora and fauna. 

To be honest, 7 a.m. power walking isn’t my normal jam. I’m more of a last call for breakfast kind of guy. But I’d been on the road in Japan for a few weeks overindulging nightly on marbled yakiniku, sake, and 7-Eleven snacks, which I began referring to as “R&D,” and it was turning me soft and plump. So I was grateful for the chance to burn off some fat and partake in some onsen and wellness, which Unzen is all about. 

The sleepy microtown itself is home to about a dozen restaurants, thankfully none of them like the smokey sake dens I’d been hanging out in. I walked up and down the town’s main drag in about 10 minutes and wondered what I would do there for two nights. A few shops sold onsen eggs, local yuzu koshu paste and numerous salts and lotions. There were refreshingly no tourist buses or groups anywhere in sight, an increasingly hard find in Japan. 

Earlier, I’d checked in at the Hoshino Kai Unzen (from JPY13,000 per person per night), a 51-room hotel that opened in November of 2022 and is decorated with stained-glass art, a reminder of the region’s Christian heritage. It overlooks the spectacular volcanic landscape. The hotel’s acid sulfuric onsen water, rich in acidic hydrogen sulfide, was a highlight. I disrobed and stepped into my private balcony onsen, where I soaked before dinner while watching the steam puffs rise and evaporate into the sky like ghosts. Later at their public onsen, a basalt pool surrounded by ferns and trees, I watched the lanterns reflected in the rippling water and listened to melodic and piercing bird calls echo from the surrounding forests. I could feel myself sinking into a state of deep relaxation— the kind of state you don’t realize you need to be in until you’re in it. 

There’s something magical and healing about these volcanic areas. I felt it on Etna, in Iceland, and on Hawaii. Knowing that a tsunami of orange molten lava could cascade into town any minute adds an excitement to the drudgery of the everyday, but also makes you appreciate the delicacy of life. 

It also makes food taste amazing. The restaurant choices in Unzen are limited, but what I had was outstanding. At Kai, I feasted on lobster and beef shabu shabu made with a daishi of flying fish broth and daidai, a bittersweet local citrus that burst with flavor thanks to the lava. Simmered whelk, a pot of spongy pumpkin tofu, and a slab of dense foie gras with dried persimmon rounded out the meal. Visits to local joints were also rewarding. At Kinugasa Cafeteria I ordered hiyayakko, a cold block of mineraly tofu garnished with black soy, fresh ginger, katsuobushi flakes, and spring onions. I also ordered a single cold tomato, which turned out to be a highlight—lightly salted, bursting with tomato flavor, and carved ornamentally into a rose. 

Best of all were my hikes in the area, home to several trails including one starting at Manmyoji Temple, dating back to 700 AD. Along the trail were 88 moss-encrusted statues and three needled pine trees, rumored to have been first planted here by famed monk Kobodaishi, who brought Buddhism to Japan in the 9th century AD. Another brought me around aquamarine Oshidorino Pond, where Daikokuten Magaibutsu (a stone carved Buddha with mysterious and allegedly ancient origins) is etched into a giant rock. I walked the sun-dappled trail for a few hours one quiet spring afternoon and enjoyed it all to myself.  There was nothing hellish about this Jikogu. But maybe sometimes you need to go to hell to truly reach heaven. 

Lede image by pnphotos/Getty Images.

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