Try your hand at winemaking at the Ultimate Barossa Wine Experience

Winemaking in the lap of luxury at The Ultimate Barossa Wine Experience…

Australian wine industry continues its ‘hurray’ moment with yet another specially curated wine experience, designed to draw in the more discerning of oenophiles from all corners of the world. Yes, we’re talking about The Ultimate Barossa Wine Experience, a one-of-a-kind, luxurious wine journey into the heart of one of South Australia’s famous wine-producing regions, Barossa.

Offering the best of what the wine region has to offer, the seven-day package includes luxury accommodation in a boutique hotel, all meals, transport and even a helicopter tour of the vineyards. The highlight, however, is a winemaking session with Andrew Quin, the chief winemaker of the renowned Hentley Farm. Guests can experiment with grape varieties, vintages, blends to come up with their own unique wines, complete with a personalised label. All this for a mere price of HK$1.9 million. It’s a deal, we say!

Street Eats: Top 3 places to sample the best Taipei street food

It’s no secret that the Taiwanese capital of Taipei boasts some of the best culinary treats in Asia. But any visitor eschewing its more humble offerings in favour of fine dining fare is missing out on some truly delightful gastronomic treats. Even if you are short on time, we highly recommend you try these top three hotspots to sample the best Taipei street food.

*Yonghe Soy Milk King is the morning go-to for Taipei street food*

Breakfast: Yonghe Soy Milk King

Part of a chain that spans across the entire city, Yonghe Soy Milk King serves up the best local breakfasts for the adventurous foodie. As its name suggests, it specializes in soy milk, both sweet and savoury – the latter served with countless condiments reminiscent of Chinese congees. Other must-tries include you tiao (Chinese-style deep-fried savoury churros), shao bing jia dan (flaky bread with an omelette filling), and fan tuan (warm sticky rice wrapped around pork floss or other fillings).

Taipei Fish Market serves delicious seafood — *Taipei Fish Market serves fresh and delicious seafood at bargain prices*

Lunch: Taipei Fish Market

Given that the Taipei Fish Market was completely renovated in 2012 and now occupies a fancy, air-conditioned building, it’s doesn’t quite meet the category of ‘Taipei street food’. But we highly recommend this classed-up venue as it serves some of the freshest and tastiest seafood fare in the city – and at bargain prices. And there’s even outdoor seating on the fringes of the market to enjoy your newly-bought meals.

Rao He Market offers countless Taipei street food offerings — *Rao He Market boasts countless Taipei street food offerings*

Dinner: Rao He Night Market

Taipei is famous for its night markets, and Rao He Night Market ranks as one of the best. Throngs of vendors line the entirety of Rao He Street, offering everything from grilled squid and deep fried sweet potato balls to pan-fried xiao long bao (soup-filled pork dumplings). If you’re in the mood for more hearty fare, try one of the teppanyaki restaurants along the outer edges of the walkway. Make sure you come with an empty stomach, because you won’t be disappointed with the variety of Taipei street food on offer.

Must-see Museums: Three of the hottest Amsterdam museum hotspots

When thinking of Amsterdam, one may be forgiven for conjuring up images of milkmaids in clogs, Edam cheese and windmills. But in fact, the Dutch city is something of a hotspot when it comes to art and historical sights. Here are some must-see museums to visit while you’re in The Dam.

*The sprawling Rijksmuseum tops our list of must-see museums in Amsterdam*

Rijksmuseum – For artworks by Dutch masters

Perhaps the best-known among Amsterdam’s must-see museums, the Rijksmuseum boasts a veritable treasure trove of collective works from Dutch masters painted at the height of its artistic Dutch Golden Age. A total of 8,000 pieces are on display here, with highlights including The Night Watch by Rembrandt, The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer and The Meagre Company by Frans Hals. If you attempt a visit here, come early and head straight to the Gallery of Honour on the second floor to see these exemplary pieces.

The Night Watch by Rembrand is the highlight of the Rikjsmuseum collection — *The Night Watch by Rembrandt is the highlight of the Rikjsmuseum collection*

Van Gogh Museum – For an intimate look at the artist’s works and life

Almost directly adjacent to Rijksmuseum is the Van Gogh Museum, dedicated to the life and works of Vincent Van Gogh. Opened in 1973, it boasts the largest collection of the artist’s paintings and correspondences in the world. Just last year, it had over 2.3 million visitors, making it Amsterdam’s most popular museum by far. Highlights here include The Potato Eaters, Sunflowers and a series of his most well-regarded self portraits.

*Van Gogh Museum boasts the biggest collection of Van Gogh artworks in the world*

Anne Frank House – For the WWII history buff

The unassuming office building where Anne Frank, the famous young Jewish diarist, lived in hiding with her family during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam, is now the home of Anne Frank House. The original annex where Frank and six other occupants resided in cramped quarters for over two years is still Here, visitors can expect a sombre exhibition on the persecution of Jews during the war, as well as the annex where Frank and six other occupants managed to live under the Nazi radar for two years.

*Anne Frank House houses the annex where Anne Frank hid from Nazi invaders*

Pro Tip: Make sure you reserve your tickets online well in advance of your trip if you want to skip the long queues at the door

3 unforgettable road trips to add to your travel bucket list

Road trips are well and truly underrated. Not only can they be more convenient then air travel (if properly planned) and offer just as much adventure (if not more), they are also a great way of saving money, which you can then spend on lavish accommodation and thrill-seeking adventures.

For some inspiration, check out our roundup of the top 3 unforgettable road trips to add to your bucket list.

For epic views: Ring Road, Iceland

Duration: 8 -14 days
Distance: 1332km

A driving holiday around Iceland’s Ring Road offers widescreen views of its cinematic landscapes that will have you making comparisons to the Game of Thrones and Lord of Rings. It is recommended that you spend a minimum of eight days to allow enough time to see all the sights and to plan lots of exciting activities.

Highlights:

The popular Golden Circle route will take you to Thingvellir (Þingvellir) National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.

Moving away from the South to the east, you will be surrounded by nothing but nature and wilderness. You may even drive a few hours without seeing as much as another car.

Along the way you will be enamored by glacial rivers, snow-capped mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls and lush green meadows. Before you have a chance to soak it all in, you will turn a bend and face a landscape of lava fields. Behind every twist and turn, expect the unexpected!

When it comes to road trips, Ring Road is high on the list, filling your quota of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling activities.

For oenophiles: Route 62 South Africa

Distance: 850 km
Duration: 7 days +

Voted the best road trip in the world by CNN in 2017, the scenic route route meanders between Cape Town, Outdshoorn, the Garden Route and Port Elizabeth. Offering wildlife, great food, fine wines and plenty to do, this is one of the road trips that offers something for everyone.

Highlights:

Begin the iconic journey from Chapman’s Peak Drive in Cape Town which provides spectacular views around the mountainside between Hout Bay and Noordhoek.

Highlights include the hotel mineral springs and private Roman baths at the Warmwaterberg spa that are perfect for relaxing aching muscles after long hours of driving.

To get your blood pumping, enjoy a hike on the classic Donkey Trail, which takes you on an extraordinary journey over the Swartberg Mountains.

Route 62 makes up part of the world’s longest wine route with over 65 wineries situated along the way. From small, up-and-coming winemakers to larger, more established wine farms and cellars, this road trip is sure to please the finest of wine aficionados.

For the nature lover: Great Ocean Road, Australia

Duration: 3 to 4 nights
Length: 243 km

The Great Ocean Road is one of the most famous road trips in the world. It comes as no surprise then that road trippers can expect to witness mountains, oceans, rainforests, dramatic cliffs, lighthouses and national parks, of which are home to kangaroos, penguins, koalas and more!

Highlights:

Among the top highlights is Bells Beach which rose to fame after the famous surf movie, Point Break. While it wasn’t actually filmed here, it still attracts surfers from near and far.

Nature lovers should make a stop at the Great Otway National Park, covering rugged coastland, beaches and the mountains of the Otway Ranges. After taking plenty of pictures at the 3 cascades of Triplet Falls, take a walk through the Boardwalks leading to the rainforest at Maits Rest. For unrivalled views of Australia’s Shipwreck Coast, be sure to add in a visit to the Cape Otway Lighthouse.

Last but not least, travel onwards to the breathtaking Twelve Apostles. Here, you will marvel at the collection of limestone stacks towering 65 metres above water, which were once connected to the mainland cliffs.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a map, book a car and get planning a memorable adventure on one of the world’s most stunning road trips.

Text: Hira Desai

Take to the skies with Balloons over Bali at The Chedi Club Ubud

Lush green landscapes, sprawling forests and awe-inspiring sunrises are just a few of the things that come to mind when one pictures Ubud, the famous town of Bali. At luxury GHM hotel, The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud, you can witness all this and more during its recently launched Balloons over Bali experience.

Nestled across five hectares of beautifully landscaped pristine gardens and vast rice fields, The Chedi Club Ubud is the perfect spot from which to explore the cultural heart of Bali. Featuring twenty private villas and suites designed in a traditional Balinese style of architecture and infused with a contemporary flair, the once-private estate provides a luxurious home-away-from-home for discerning travellers.

Explore the local villages by foot with your very own private butler, cycle through the endless fields or enjoy a class of yoga while being surrounded by nature.

For those looking to explore Ubud in a more unique way, The Chedi Club Ubud is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take to the skies with its newly launched Balloons over Bali adventure, available until November.

Anchored at 23 metres high, the exciting new ballooning opportunity is a one-of-a-kind on the Island of the Gods and the first such initiative launched by a resort.

“Bali’s got it all – beaches, temples, volcanoes, rice paddies, puppets, dancers, sacred forests – but no balloons,” said the general manager of The Chedi Club Ubud, Deasy Swandarini. “A balloon is exactly the way to see Ubud from on high.”

Hop into the cosy wicker basket as you take to the skies with each flight climbing 50 metres above the resort’s rice fields, floating at the end of a tether. Now, soak in the views of Mt. Agung in the near distance, the expansive rice fields below, the forests of Ubud and the 5-hectare estate of Hendra Hadiprana, now The Chedi Club.

As the sun rises, witness the beams of light appear from behind the shadows of the palm trees, slowly illuminating the skies and the ludicrously green terrain.

“You might capture the same images with a drone, but seeing it with your own eye is something else entirely,” said Swandarini.

Choose from one of three flights scheduled at dawn, late afternoon or early evening and just after moonrise, and set sail with a maximum of two adults and two children (under 12), as well as a certified pilot, though total guests weight cannot exceed 230kg.

Lasting between five and seven minutes, each morning and afternoon trip will include a scrumptious breakfast or afternoon tea for two (US$150), while the final flight of the day will conclude with a three-course dinner for two adults (US$200).

Enjoy the peace and serenity of the surroundings while devouring the exquisite flavours showcased by Executive Chef Dean Nor. Offering an array of traditional Balinese and Indonesian favourites alongside Western classics, each dish is made from ingredients that are hand-picked from the hotel’s very own organic garden or local markets to ensure the maximum freshness.

So if you are looking to plan something special for your upcoming holiday to Bali, look no further. Balloons over Bali can be one of the most adventurous activities and is perfect for couples and families alike. Share a romantic moment with your loved one or explore the world from above with your little ones as you witness the breathtaking views of Bali’s most famous landscapes at The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah Ubud.

For more information, visit: www.ghmhotels.com/en/tanah-gajah/experiences/

Text: Hira Desai

Pastel Planet: Our roundup of the five most colourful places on earth

From multi-coloured lamp-lit streets of Hoi An to a beautiful blue city in Morocco, here’s our countdown of the top five most colourful places in the world.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Every street and building in Chefchaouen in Morocco is coloured in some shade of blue, as in Islamic culture, blue symbolises wealth and happiness. The city was closed off to foreigners for 500 years, but now it welcomes travellers into its blue paradise with open arms. Blue is indeed the warmest colour here as it reflects the importance of the nearby Ras el-Maa Waterfall from where citizens get their drinking water.

Hoi An, Vietnam

While Hoi An is romantic with its 18^th century wooden buildings, street food and narrow alleys, the true highlight is the beautiful coloured lanterns that line every street. Perfectly blending elements of Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese cultures, the lanterns and lamps of every size, shape and colour hang over the streets, illuminating the special rustic charm that characterise Hoi An.

Jaipur, India

No list of colourful places can be complete without featuring Jaipur, the Pink City of India. All forts and historical buildings in this ancient city are painted with a terracotta pink colour, which is especially produced from calcium oxide and is extremely durable in the arid desert conditions of Jaipur. What was originally a welcoming gesture by Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II to please British monarch Prince Albert in 1876 still continues to draw throngs of guests every year to this desert city.

Painted Desert, Arizona, the US

It’s difficult to imagine deserts as colourful places, but the Painted Desert in Arizona is a multi-coloured exception to the rule. Deriving its name for the multitude of colours like lavender, orange and pink, it is a vast expanse of hillocks and buttes that stretch for over 160 miles. This massive sandstone formation is also brushed in places with brick red and golden yellow, which changes colours during different times of the year.

Bo Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa

Bo Kaap in Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods with lots of restaurants and bars. What stands out, however, is its rows of coloured houses. The houses are a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, standing in distinctive multi-coloured rows on cobbled roads. Of all the other colourful places on this list, Bo Kaap’s history is perhaps the most inspiring. All the houses in this neighbourhood were originally white, but when slaves were allowed to buy their own houses, they coloured them in the brightest of hues to mark their freedom of expression.

If all these colourful destinations have you daydreaming, click here to plan your next vacay with Flight Centre.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Sri Lanka: Born Sri, live Sri and beauty surrounds you…

Famed for its vivid landscapes and classic ruins, Sri Lanka – the Pearl of the Indian Ocean – also boasts stunning beaches, friendly locals and, of course, an abundance of its famous tea. Yet for many years, it’s been somewhat overlooked thanks to a 26-year-long civil war.

Now, nearly 10 years after peace broke out, this island nation is back on the travel agenda of many of the better-informed tourists. While, over to the North, the country’s Cultural Triangle has suffered near-death-by-Instagram, the South has retained much of its mystique. Indeed, a trip from the Central Province to the far(ish) South coast provides a far more satisfying and singular experience.

Any such venture off the track more beaten should definitely take in Madulkelle, a picturesque tea plantation set close to Kandy, the country’s sweet-as-it-sounds former capital. In order to fully explore this delightful setting, it’s best to book into the Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge, tucked neatly into the Knuckles Mountain Range some 1,000 metres above sea level.

As you wake to the sounds of the region’s exotic birdlife stirring, you can look out across majestic mountains, verdant valleys and rolling tea plantations, all yours to explore. This, though, is best done in the company of an experienced guide. Only then can you be sure you’ll take in the most tropical trails, swim below postcard-ready waterfalls and navigate your way through some occasionally dense forestry.

Trekking southwards from Madulkelle takes you to Nuwara Eliya, the city at the heart of the mighty tea industry in Sri Lanka. Much-loved during the British colonial era, a hint of times imperial is still more than apparent at one of the true local landmarks – the Grand Hotel. Built in 1828 in a style elegant enough to befit the residence of Sir Edward Barnes, the then-governor, this manor house has retained much of its colonial-era look.

For those keen on tea, book a tour of the Pedro Tea Estate. Here you will be expertly guided through the whole tea-making process – from cultivating and grading to dispatching to the world’s breakfast tables. Don’t forget to also take in the estate’s coruscating Lovers Leap Waterfall.

For an, arguably, more authentic encounter with the surrounding Hill Country, it’s well worth taking the Ella-bound train. Be sure to book your tickets in advance if you want to secure seats with the best views, a privilege that sees you perfectly placed to watch the region’s sari-clad tea pickers hard at work.

Upon arriving in Ella – a tiny town some 200km from the capital – take a minute or two to watch the local trains pass majestically over the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Again a colonial construct, given it is set nearly 3,100 metres above sea level, it is difficult to conceive of the hard work that went into dragging so much rock, stone and cement to such an altitude.

Next, it’s time to head South yet again – ideally in air-conditioned comfort – as the coast beckons and your sand and sea quota is, as yet, unfilled. Heading for Tangalle, one of the South Coast’s less-frequented resorts is probably advisable, particularly during the high season.

Blessed with one of the most extensive bays in Sri Lanka, its maritime charms were once fought over by the Brits and the Dutch. Today, several well-preserved buildings – notably the Dutch Fort, the Rest House and the Court House – remain as clear reminders of the European interlopers of yesteryears.

Beyond its past, this is the ideal spot to look to the immediate future, with dawns and sunsets in Sri Lanka never better framed than by the seemingly endless sands of the nearby Goyambokka beach. Suitably spiritually refreshed, you can sustain your meditative mood with a spot of whale-watching over at Mirrissa, the South Coast’s largest fishing port.

In the age of over-tourism, Sri Lanka has retained an innate authenticity. Coupled with its natural beauty and cultural delights, this makes the island nation an intriguing option for the more discerning vacationer.

A word of advice, though, with the Sri Lanka Tourism Board hopeful of attracting five million tourists a year from 2025 onwards, that innate authenticity may not linger all that much longer.

Text: Hira Desai
Images: AFP, Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge

5 new must-see attractions in Dubai

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, Dubai is continuously to surprise the world with something new and unique to explore. From new rides and attractions to neighbourhoods and safaris, check out our list of 5 new must-see attractions in Dubai.

The Dubai Frame

5 new must-see attractions in Dubai — Image courtesy of Dubai Frame

Measuring 150 metres high and 93 metres wide, The Dubai Frame offers unbeatable 360 degree views and is one of the newest landmarks to grace the city this year. Located in Zabeel Park, the experience takes visitors on a journey through time to discover old Dubai, present Dubai and future Dubai. Worth 160 million Dhirams and expected to attract two million people annually, its no surprise that tickets are selling fast.

For more information, visit www.thedubaiframe.com

XLine Dubai Marina

If you’ve heard of XLine on the Dubai Fountain, get ready for the sequel, XLine Dubai Marina. With twice the distance, double the lines and lasting for twice the duration, the world’s longest urban zip line is perfect for those seeking adventure. At 1km, the zip-ride offers end-to-end views of the iconic marina and is available for those aged between 12 to 65 years.

If you’re ready to hang tight and fly like Superman, book your tickets at www.xdubai.com/xline/

La Mer

While the laidback beachfront neighbourhood of Meraas opened a while back, more and more restaurants, outlets and experiences are opening up every day. For those looking to relax and unwind, book a private cabana at Sea Breeze, La Mer’s relaxing sandy beach front and unwind with beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf and city skyline. Alternatively, opt for some family fun at Hawa Hawa, an outdoor inflatable playground originating from Japan. With two unique dunes and seven peaks, family and friends can enjoy some low-impact, high-intensity fun together.

For more information, visit www.lamerdubai.ae

Dubai Safari

Explore the Arabian, Safari, African and Asian village at the Dubai’s new wildlife park. Drive through the hippo exhibit and the baboon canyon or meet Asia’s only great ape. Alternatively, the Kids Zoo is a perfect environment for children to play and learn about animals. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, why not arrange a hands-on experience where you can feed a Giraffe or witness Cheetah’s speed?

To find how you can arrange a fun-filled day at Dubai Safari, visit www.dubaisafari.ae/en

Jumble

Are you ready to jumble? Get together with your family and friends for a visit to the world’s first Urban Maze. You will work together to solve a series of physical and mental challenges as you progress through a unique, unconventional and completely whacky gaming experience.

If you think you’ve got what it takes to beat the Jumble, visit www.jumble.ae

If you’ve been inspired to take a trip to Dubai, look no further because Emirates, the largest international airline in the world, invites Hong Kong travellers to explore Dubai with special discounted fairs.

Economy Class fares start from HKD 3,910 while Business Class fares start from HKD 25,280. Tickets can be booked until 18 July 2018, and with travel dates from 14 July till 30 November 2018, travellers will have the flexibility to plan ahead for their dream visit (Blackout dates and terms and conditions apply. Fares exclude applicable surcharges and taxes).

From Hong Kong, Emirates operates four daily flights to Dubai, including three daily flights on Emirates’ flagship A380 aircraft and one daily flight on Emirates’ Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.

Emirates passengers can also take advantage of exclusive offers and discounts with the popular My Emirates Pass programme from now until 31 August 2018.

For more information, visit www.emirates.com/hk/english/or click here for further offers.

Text: Hira Desai

Experience haute cuisine and more on the sea with Dream Cruises’ Taste the Dream

Dream Cruises brings haute cuisine to the seas with a culinary extravaganza titled Taste the Dream – Wine and Dine at Sea, a fine-dining showcase by six of Asia’s most famous chefs.

From June to November 2018, guests who book the ‘Taste the Dream 2-Night Weekend Escape Cruise’ package availing suite accommodation in The Palace will be treated to limited-edition tasting menus specially created by this choicest selection of chefs. The six celebrity chefs who make their cruise debut on World Dream are Alvin Leung, triple Michelin-star expert in molecular gastronomy, Chan Kwok Keung, world champion at the Chinese Cuisine World Championship, Vicky Cheng, the youngest chef to receive a Michelin star in Hong Kong and a master of French-Chinese fusion cuisine, Christian Yang, globe-trotting food lover, Wan Tat Kong, member of the International Jury Committee, World Association of Chinese Cuisine, and Martin Yan himself, the famous host from the award-winning cookery show Yan Can Cook.

But the Dream Cruises’ truly dreamy offerings don’t end there. The Palace itself – World Dream’s concept of a ship within a ship – offers 154 beautiful suites with butler service and private dining and lounge areas, among other inclusive benefits. There’s something for everyone on the ship, from amusement park for kids and VR games for geeks to yoga classes for the fitness-minded and state-of-the-art spas for those looking for unadulterated relaxation.

For more information on Taste the Dream – Wine and Dine at Sea, click here.

Text: Suchetana Mukhopadhyay

Ferretti Yachts celebrates 50th anniversary in Venice

Ferretti Yachts, that renowned Italian purveyor of luxury boats fit for royalty and Hollywood icons alike, staged a jaw-dropping birthday bash in Venice to celebrate its 50th anniversary last weekend.

The extremely exclusive gala dinner was hosted at the Doge’s Palace, a venue usually inaccessible to the public. VIP guests came dressed to impress, and were treated to amazing aeronautical gymnastics courtesy of the Frecce Tricolori, the legendary acrobatic arm of the Italian air force, as well as a beautiful parade of Ferretti Yachts models in the waters directly in front of the historic Palazzo.

The evening culminated in a tantalizing dinner served in the main hall of the palace, the first such gathering to be allowed within this hallowed space since the late 18th century, when the last Doge died. Taking place of pride in the expansive room was famed artist Tintorini’s Il Paradiso, the largest canvas oil painting in the world.