Winter Escape: Exploring the beautiful Japanese Alps of Nagano

The ancient-modern cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto tend to dominate the itineraries of travellers seeking out the Land of the Rising Sun, but for the more intrepid adventurer, Nagano Prefecture could be just the ticket. Located in the central mountainous region of Honshu, the country’s largest island, its main city of Nagano is the highest prefecture capital in Japan. Lying some 245km from Tokyo, it can easily be reached by Shinkansen in about 90 minutes.

Situated at the confluence of the Chikuma and Sai rivers and enveloped by towering mountains, Nagano’s unique landscape offers a plethora of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery and hot springs. Beyond the charms of this 377,000-strong city itself, however, are the historic towns and world-class skiing resorts that punctuate its surrounds, so base yourself here and venutre out each day to explore. Here, we highlight some of the most visit-worthy sights of Nagano in winter.

On Piste
The powdered peaks surrounding Nagano are not just for show. In fact, roughly 80 ski resorts lie in the vicinity of the city that hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics. Each year, thousands upon thousands of avid skiers of every skill set descend upon the region to take part in the thrilling winter sport.

One of the best spots to bring your skis is Hakuba Goryu Snow Resort, which offers well-groomed slopes of various difficulties with ski-lift access, rental gear, and an adjacent plaza packed with dining options. In addition to bunny slopes and sledding, there are also indoor and outdoor play areas to keep the little ones amused for hours.

Spring Fever
After a full day of skiing, a dip in one of Nagano’s many natural hot springs will tend to your sore muscles and provide rejuvenation. If you’re an onsen purist, make sure to include Nozawaonsen – just an hour northeast of the city – on your itinerary. This small town boasts a staggering 30 different springs, and life in the village very much revolves around Japanese bathing culture.

If you’re not in the mood to splurge out on some of the pricier options, Nozawa even offers a handful of free onsen, including Ōyu Hot Spring, which is located near the centre of town, and is famous for the wooden, Edo-style architecture of its bathhouse. Along the way, sample some of the snacks sold by street vendors, including fresh oyaki – buns with vegetable stuffing that are steamed using the piping hot water of the local onsen.

Bathing Apes
Nagano’s onsen hotspots are not limited to Nozawa. Roughly 30km to the south lies the Jigokudani Monkey Park, one of the prefecture’s most popular tourist attractions, which also boasts a number of trails for keen hikers. Here, waterproof footwear are advised as the paths can get quite muddy.

In addition to steaming springs and spectacular vistas of the snow-dusted peaks, the park – as its name suggests – affords visitors the opportunity to cosy up to the indigenous monkeys, which are known to share a hot-spring dip alongside their homosapien guests.

Also Read: Kiroro in Northern Japan may be the finest ski resort you’ve never heard of…

Crow Castle
Roughly an hour south of Nagano lies the stunning Matsumoto Castle, a government-listed national treasure. Care has been taken to preserve its original form, so the 30m-high, six-storey structure stands almost identical to when it was first raised in the late 16th century. The black-and-white façade calls to mind a bird taking flight, hence it has been fondly dubbed ‘Karasu-jo’, or ‘Crow Castle’ by locals.

While the castle grounds are free to wander year-round, they appear particularly picture-perfect in the snow. If you visit during peak season, you may even be able to jump on one of the free guided tours. The surrounding area is also well worth exploring, as the town boasts its own brewery and a downtown bar where weary travellers can rest their feet and sip a pint or two.

Ice Cool
With the majestic Crow Castle as its backdrop, the Matsumoto Ice Sculpture Festival is another major Nagano attraction during the winter season. An annual event that is usually held in late January or early February, the festival spans a weekend, during which visitors can watch amateur and professional sculptors alike carve beautiful ice sculptures of all sizes.

The main competition begins at 6pm, when participating teams are given 12 hours to complete their frozen works of art, with the winners announced the following morning. The festival is also a welcome excuse, if any were needed, to overload on regional culinary treats, down copious amounts of sake and mingle with the locals in a convivial atmosphere.

Enter the Ninja
Ninjas hold a special place in Japanese culture. The deadly, fleet-footed covert agents of feudal times were instrumental in waging surprise attacks. Today, their military relevance may have disappeared, yet they still capture the imagination, as seen in myriad movies and TV shows.

Kids Ninja Village, a small ninja-related theme park set amid the forest of Nagano’s Mount Togakushi, is designed to educate a new generation on the ancient warrior art. Some of this ‘ninja training’ requires an additional fee, but it’s worth the expense to watch your wannabe spies try their hand at blow darting or shooting throwing stars (shuriken). There are also two mansions, brimming with labyrinths, trapdoors and contraptions, that will have visitors of all ages on edge.

The nearby Togakure Ninpo Museum is interesting, too, with showcases of tools and weapons once used by the Togakure school of ninja, as well as photographs of the black-shrouded assassins practising various warfare and infiltration techniques. The museum also features a Ninja House, which may look like an ordinary building but reveals an interior of secret doors, passages and traps.

Sharing the same compound is the Museum of Togakushi Folklore, which exhibits tools, clothing, receptacles and furniture used by the local inhabitants of yesteryear for whom Nagano’s breathtaking snowy mountains and exhilarating hot springs were simple, everyday pleasures.

Also Read: Travellin the ancient Nakasendo Trail

A spectacular wonderland in Svalbard, Norway

Imagine living in complete darkness for two-and-a-half months each year without ever once catching a glimpse of sunlight. This is the reality of the 2,500-odd souls inhabiting Norway’s Svalbard – or to be more precise, Spitsbergen, the largest and sole permanently populated island of the nine in the archipelago. Located roughly 1,050km from the North Pole, its Arctic location means that during the summer it bathes in the ‘midnight sun’, a geographical phenomenon in which the sun hovers above the horizon continuously for more than 75 days. Conversely, in the depths of winter, ‘polar night’ occurs, where darkness descends on the region for a similar period of time.

Why, then, do so many people head to this remote, frozen area? The answer lies in its veritable treasure trove of outdoor experiences. Embodying a year-long snowy wonderland aesthetic, Svalbard boasts some of the most incredible scenery, amazing wildlife, majestic mountains, immense glaciers and beautiful fjords in the world. And, of course, it is one of the best places to take in the dazzling spectacle of the Aurora Borealis, otherwise known as the Northern Lights.

Interestingly, despite being under Norwegian sovereignty, the archipelago is governed by the Svalbard Treaty of 1920 and is treated as a separate entity. This means that Norwegians need to travel here with an ID card, and for anyone else, a passport. It’s also customary to remove your shoes when entering most establishments – a tradition that dates back to the settlement’s coal-mining days as a way to prevent coal dust from being tracked into buildings.

It’s also said that you can’t be born or die in Svalbard, though this is not entirely factual. Local pregnant women will travel to the mainland about three weeks prior to delivery to give birth there, while it is forbidden for a body to be interred in Svalbard soil due to the permafrost. However, longtime inhabitants who have made significant contributions to the community may be granted an exception and have their remains cremated and then buried.

Without further ado, let’s dive into the top sights of this picturesque Norwegian region.

Polar Base
Most visitors will make Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen’s biggest town and the administrative heart of Svalbard, their base. Tucked in a valley along the shores of the Longyearelva river, it is ringed by stunning snow-capped mountains, glaciers and even frozen waters during the winter. Since the archipelago environs have a bigger population of polar bears than humans, many areas are zoned off with a warning sign, and it’s not uncommon to spot one meandering through the streets. Here, you can find Svalbard Church, the northernmost church in the world, as well as Svalbard Brewery, similarly the world’s northernmost maker of craft beer.

“Areas are zoned off with warning signs, and it’s not uncommon to see polar bears meandering through town”

Exploring Within
Two indoor attractions in Longyearbyen may pique the interest of lovers of the great outdoors. The first is the Svalbard Museum, which lays out the region’s history, geology and wildlife, as well as the highlights of the various settlements that punctuate its acreage. For wannabe adventurers fascinated by the intrepid explorers who have headed even further north from the town, the North Pole Expedition Museum is a must. Visitors can pore through a large collection of newspaper clippings and posters on past expeditions, and brush up on the history of polar exploration.

Also Read: Krast Country: Guilin, China’s stunning ode to Mother Nature

Abandoned Mine
Just to the north of Longyearbyen lies Pyramiden, a town founded in 1910 by Sweden before being sold to the Soviet Union in 1927 as a mining settlement. It was named for the pyramid-shaped mountain that towers over the area and was home to 1,000 hardy souls during its ’80s heyday. However, the Russian state-owned mining company, Arktikugol, closed all operations in 1998 due to dwindling coal prices and the ever-increasing challenges of extracting the fossil fuel. Today, Pyramiden counts various wildlife – arctic foxes, seabirds and the occasional polar bear, to name but three – as its main residents, and a visit here is like stepping back into the past, since its original buildings and mining infrastructure remain in situ.

“All offer beautiful vistas of frozen stalactites and stalagmites, and you may even stumble upon a frozen dinosaur fossil”

Campfire Lights
A short drive out of Longyearbyen, you’ll find Camp Barentz, located right below the last operating coal mine at the foot of the Breinosa mountain. Here, cosy wooden cabins are available to guests, and the menu features local delicacies such as reindeer stew. Its remote location makes it the perfect place to take in the Northern Lights and learn more about the green veils of light that hover in the skies from expert guides. Wildlife spotting is also handy, with Svalbard reindeer, grouse, foxes and even the occasional polar bear roaming through the site.

Ice Palaces
Svalbard’s glaciers – which cover roughly 55 percent of the archipelago – contain endless passages formed by melted waters that create fascinating ice caves for visitors to meander through. Caves change year to year depending on how waters melt, but tour operators deftly lead you through these ancient ice formations while you don a headlamp, crampons and a helmet. Hiking difficulty can vary, from easy walks to challengingly steep climbs, but all offer beautiful vistas of frozen stalactites and stalagmites, and you may even stumble upon a frozen dinosaur fossil if you’re lucky.

Snow Trails
Given that Svalbard is pretty much a year-long winter wonderland, it’s no surprise that outdoor sports are a must for the active holidaymaker. Whether it’s hiking up the glaciers, skiing down their slopes, showshoeing through the valleys or simply exploring the arctic landscape via snowmobiles, adventurous visitors are left spoilt for choice. However, a unique activity here – and a big draw for animal lovers – is dog-sledding. With your four-legged friends doing all the work, you can sit back and take in the majesty of Svalbard’s frozen vistas regardless of the season, although it’s particularly recommended during the winter, when you can observe the glorious Aurora Borealis overhead.

Also Read: Puerto Perfecto: Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan

Text: Tenzing Thondup

Hongkong Jet x Amanpuri: Fly out to Phuket for a quarantine-free wellness getaway

Hongkong Jet, Hong Kong-based world-class private jet company, is thrilled to announce the launch of its collaboration with Amanpuri, Aman’s flagship property and holistic wellness centre located on a private headland in Phuket’s west coast.

Summer is off to a great start in Phuket as the city reopens and welcomes international vaccinated visitors for quarantine-free travel from 1^st July, 2021. Hongkong Jet is pleased to fly you to the stunning Sandbox and offer you an exclusive experience at Amanpuri.

Inclusion:

Charter service to Phuket International Airport
Luxury roundtrip airport transfers between Phuket International Airport and Amanpuri
3-night stay at Amanpuri
Daily breakfast at Buabok restaurant
Daily 2-course lunch at Buabok (Thai) or Arva (Italian)
Daily 3-course dinner at Buabok (Thai) or Arva (Italian)
Daily Kanom Krok Thai style afternoon tea
Daily replenishment of the minibar
Daily 60-minute holistic massage
A Sunset drink at the Bar or Lounge, once per stay
Complimentary use of selected non-motorized water sports equipment’s including kayaking, paddle board, hobie cat, snorkelling gears and body board
Quarantine arrangements

Terms & Conditions:

The exclusive package is applicable for international travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 with a vaccine registered with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) or approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) no less than 14 days, but no later than 1 year before the travel date.
Travellers must depart from countries/regionswith a low to medium risk of SAR-CoV-2 virus as announced and constantly updated by the MoPH. And they must have already stayed in the said countries/regions no less than 21 days before the travel date.
Unvaccinated children under 6 years of age are allowed when travelling with fully vaccinated parents or guardians
Unvaccinated children between 6 years old and 18 years old (Rapid Antigen Test on arrival is required)
Travellers who have a history of COVID-19 infection must be fully vaccinated no less than 14 days before the travel date;
Travellers must have a medical certificate with an RT-PCR laboratory result indicating that COVID-19 is not detected issued no more than 72 hours before departure;
Travellers must have a COVID-19 health insurance policy with a minimum coverage of US$100,000.
Travellers who are qualified and equipped with the required documents are required to submit an application for the Certificate of Entry (COE) via www.entrythailand.go.th
Other guidelines from Tourism Authority of Thailand applied for travelling to Phuket.
Exclusive experience at Amanpuri is minimum 3-night stay.
Quarantine arrangements are subject to the policies of countries/regions of disembarkation and designated quarantine hotel availability.
The exclusive package is subject to availability and is not combinable with any other exclusives.
The following percentages of the On Demand price will be charged should the booking be cancelled:

o From booking – 35%

o 15 – 1 Days prior to departure – 85%

o 24 hours prior to departure/ No show– 100%

Daily lunch is based on one starter & one main course or one main course & one dessert per person and excludes beverages. Not applicable for Japanese, barbecues or special events.
Daily dinner is based on one starter, one main course and one dessert per person and excludes beverages. Not applicable for Japanese, barbecues or special events.
Daily Kanom Krok Thai style afternoon tea is served at the hotel pool side from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Sunset drink is once per stay and per person. Sunset drink as per resort’s selected cocktail menu.
60-min holistic massage included is from Amanpuri Holistic treatment menu only.
One return transfer between PhuketInternational Airport and Amanpuri per booking.
If there is any inconsistency or conflict between the English and Chinese versions, the English version shall prevail.
In case of any dispute, Hongkong Jet reserves the right of interpretation to the extent permitted by the applicable law.

Contact Team for more information via charter@hongkongjet.com.hk or +852 3126 1026.

Plaza Premium Group’s Mei Mei Song on Covid-19 challenges faced by the aviation industry

The sky’s no longer the limit for leading airport-lounge operator Plaza Premium Group, as Mei Mei Song steers their global brand of luxury and convenience to train journeys, too.

What is the story behind the Plaza Premium Lounges? How did it all start?
In the ’90s, my father [globetrotting Malaysian entrepreneur Song Hoi-see] found it frustrating that international airports were not equipped with functional places for economy-class travellers to utilise their time efficiently between long-haul flights. A safe place, accessible to all, to rest and unwind, prepare for meetings before hopping on the next flight – perhaps for a fee; there was a clear gap in the market for that kind of experience. An opportunity came when both Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur were building new airports, and he pitched the idea of a pay-per-use lounge for all travellers to the authorities. After a lot of initial hiccups, the world’s first independent lounge opened at the Hong Kong International Airport in July 1998. We’re going to celebrate our 25th anniversary soon.

Gafencu_people_feature_mei-mei-song-plaza-premium-1 — Scarf, top and pants by Shanghai Tang; Heels by Mach & Mach, courtesy of Lane Crawford

After starting your career in the media, you are now Global Brand and Product Transformation Director at Plaza Premium Group. Was it always your plan to join the family business?
I studied economics and politics [at the University of Edinburgh] and toyed with the idea of becoming a politician. But I grew up in the aviation space, and airports always fascinated me. The passion that my parents have for the business is truly inspiring, and it rubbed on to me. The exact moment I knew I wanted to join the family business was when I was travelling to London for Fashion Week. I was scheduled to land at 5am and had back-to-back meetings at 9am, 10am and 11am, but the hotel check-in wasn’t until 3pm. I desperately wanted a place to shower and freshen up before the start of a workday. I wanted to jump into the family business and expand it so people could fully utilise their long layovers and benefit from a calm, luxurious lounge environment.

What have you learned from working with your father who is credited with transforming the global air-travel experience?
My father started this business from scratch through relentless hard work, grit and determination. He brings a strong foundation and the viewpoint of a different generation to the table. Everyone wants to succeed but does sustainability fit into your growth plans? Do you put customers’ needs ahead of everything else? One of the most important things he taught me was how to be a good leader, and that founding a successful business is not enough. How you conduct that business and the strength of your vision and values are key.

Gafencu_people_feature_mei-mei-song-plaza-premium-8 — Sweater by Joseph; Skirt by Pleats Please Issey Miyake; Heels by Giuseppe Zanotti

How challenging has Covid-19 been for a company in the business of aviation?
Extremely challenging. It’s no secret that aviation has been the hardest hit global industry in this crisis. At one point, travel came to a complete halt – 95-percent of our lounges were closed. That said, as a business we are agile, dynamic and entrepreneurial, and we took this period to revamp, regroup and reinvent. How you rise from adversity is very telling of the nature of your company. So, we took this opportunity to rebuild and recentre ourselves. We are currently at 230-plus lounges and by 2025 our goal is to have 550 lounges around the world.

“I’m most pumped about our foray into train lounges – people are increasingly travelling by rail and sea, and that’s an untapped market for us”

As a mother of a three-year-old, how did you balance work and the home front at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic?
It was hard for everyone during this period. But I’m very grateful for the incredible family support, a tight network of mums, friends and even amazing colleagues. It’s not easy for parents to do the balancing act of work and home on their own, especially at a time of global crisis. It really does take a village, doesn’t it?

Gafencu_people_feature_mei-mei-song-plaza-premium-4 — Dress by Maje, courtesy of The Outnet; Heels by Gianvito Rossi

What is the reality on the ground for the travel industry right now? Are Plaza Premium’s lounges fully functional?
Economic recovery is slowly setting in for our industry. The road is long, but the silver lining is the rising vaccination rate – as that picks up, we see an upswing in air travel. Factors like the length of quarantine and government policy in different countries also play a role in getting travel back on its feet, but as far as Hong Kong is concerned, the last two months have seen a massive uptick in travellers. We are a busy transit hub and university students from China are now flying back and forth. The European markets are on the road to recovery as well – the UK, Finland, the US and Canada have all experienced a surge in leisure travel and this is an encouraging trend.

Any upcoming projects you’re excited about?
We’ve just opened a lounge in Africa, which is an exciting development and a first for us on the continent, so growth possibilities are endless. China is touted to be the world’s biggest air travel market in the next decade and we have strong expansion plans there. I’m most pumped about our foray into train lounges – not everyone travels by air; people are increasingly taking rail and sea routes and that’s an untapped market for us. We’ve launched two premium train lounges in China – it’s a game-changing opportunity and a new benchmark of hospitality in the travel sector.

Gafencu_people_feature_mei-mei-song-plaza-premium-5 — Blazer by Paule Ka, courtesy of Lane Crawford; Dress by Pleats Please Issey Miyake; Heels by Bottega Veneta

Will travel ever rebound to pre-Covid levels?
Travel has changed, for better or worse. Many aspects of it might have changed for good. Expectations around health and safety are at the forefront. People want a digital, seamless, touchless experience when they travel. As technology blurs the work-life boundaries, ‘bleisure’ travel (blending business and leisure) is a rising trend – conducting business from a beach in Bali or extending a work trip for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. We’re optimistic about travel picking up again, but a lot depends on vaccination rates and how quickly governments roll back travel restrictions and open borders.

“Founding a successful business is not enough. How you conduct that business and the strength of your vision and values are key”

You are an avid traveller. What’s your favourite holiday memory?
I am not your average traveller. I love airports, stopovers and transits – rootless, functional places without identity and a confluence of different identities and cultures. One time I did Singapore, Abu Dhabi, New Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Dubai and London in seven days, just to visit all our lounges. That’s my most memorable, exciting travel memory.

And your least favourite travel memory?
Once I became a mother and resumed my robust travelling schedule with an infant in tow, I realised that services and facilities are not geared towards young mums. It was frustrating not to have diaper changing stations, feeding rooms and kids’ rooms when you need them the most. That’s when we made systemic changes to include a kids’ room, highchairs and children’s cutlery in all our lounges. We also have changing tables in men’s toilets as well as women’s because dads are now doing the parenting, too.

Thank you.

Interview by: Nikita Mishra; Photographer: Jack Law; Videographer: Kingsley Lau; Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma; Hair & make up: Joenny Lau; Location: Plaza Premium Lounge (Near Gate 35, Departures) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)

Karst Country: Guilin, China’s stunning ode to Mother Nature

The forest of sweet osmanthus trees.” This is the literal meaning behind the name of Guilin, the second-largest city in the southeastern Chinese province of Guangxi. And, if you could visit the area during the opening weeks of October, you would be greeted with a charming metropolis awash in pretty, flowering trees.

Even without this annual autumnal event, however, the city’s inherent charms, iconic jagged-peak karst mountains, verdant rice fields and meandering river landscapes have long held intrepid travellers under its thrall. This is perhaps unsurprising given the more laid-back, convivial atmosphere found here as compared to other major Chinese cities, in spite of being home to some 4.7 million residents.

Interestingly, Guilin was the first metropolis to develop a tourism industry after the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, and the intervening decades have seen its stunning geography attain almost mythical status. Children’s textbooks across the country proclaimed that ‘Guilin’s landscape is the best under heaven’, and the poetic mantra of ‘By water, by mountains, most lovely Guilin’ only added to its innate allure.

But the city’s roots stretch far back; it was established by Emperor Qin Shi Huang (of Xian Terracotta Warrior fame) during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). Thanks to its proximity to the Li River and its location in a fertile agricultural valley, it remained a key centre of trade and administration through the centuries.

Fast forward to the late 1900s, when modernisation and strong economic growth saw Guilin adopt all the hallmarks of a developed Chinese city, albeit with a more sedate atmosphere due to its stunning natural beauty. In spite of a sprawling urban landscape and a population of more than 1.1 million, Guilin’s natural endowments still amaze.
Thanks to this dichotomy, its most popular sites can be split into two categories. The first encompasses the many retail, dining and leisure hotspots found within its acreage. The second, unsurprisingly, reflects its jaw-dropping geographic beauty, including the surrounding majestic karst peaks. As an interesting aside, Star Wars fans may recognise these mountains as the setting for Kashyyyk, the Wookie home world in Revenge of the Sith.

Getting to Guilin was a breeze in pre-Covid times, thanks to the country’s super-efficient, high-speed railway system – the city is less than three and a half hours by bullet train from Hong Kong. More than 60 million people descended upon the metropolis in the first six months of 2019 alone, representing a 20 percent year-on-year increase. So, what exactly is there to see and do in Guilin? Read on to discover our top picks of the city’s many marvellous sights.

Li River Cruises
Cruising between Guilin and the nearby resort town of Yangshuo along the picturesque Li River is a must for any visitor. Not only does it afford the best vistas of the craggy karst towers – whose imaginative names include Green Lotus Hill, Schoolboy Hill and Snail Hill – it also transports sightseers back to simpler times.
Pass grazing water buffalo, fishermen floating atop traditional bamboo rafts, farmers working rice fields and a plethora of charming villages along the 83km (52-mile) trip.
Tour guides offer a narration of regional fables and romantic tales as you sail downstream, and some cruises even proffer local delicacies such as Sanhua wine. First wetting whistles sometime in the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279) or even earlier, this popular, historic tipple is distilled using rice and the pure waters of the Li.

Reed Flute Cave
Stretching beneath the southern shoulder of Guangming Hill, some five kilometres from Guilin, is Reed Flute Cave. Named for the reeds that cluster at its mouth – used to fashion traditional flutes and pipes – this 240m-deep, 500m-long cavern is home to dramatic underground karst formations: stalactites, stalagmites, stone pillars, curtains and the like. A popular tourist destination since the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), its modern incarnation has been fitted with walkways and coloured lights that bequeath the cave with an almost mystical appeal.

Tea Time
Every location in China boasts its own prized local tea leaves, and Guilin is no different, offering such varietals as monk fruit tea, osmanthus flower tea, Li River silver needle white tea and Longji tea. The latter is grown along the scenic Longji Rice Terraces, home to another tourist attraction in its own right – the Huangluo Red Yao Village. Home to a branch of the Yao ethnic tribe, it holds the Guinness World Record for the number of inhabitants sporting startlingly long hair – some women boast manes measuring more than two metres in length.

Back to tea and the Guilin Tea Research Institute, located just to the northeast of the city, draws a crowd thirsting for knowledge of their daily drink. Spread across plantations of some 100 acres, the site is home to a staggering 250 varietals and produces 42 tonnes of tea leaves annually. Here, connoisseurs not only learn the differences between the various prized shrubs, but also how tea is picked, processed and brewed.

Sun and Moon Pagodas
While Guilin is famed first and foremost for the spectacular beauty of its environs, the city itself is not lacking in memorable sights. Take, for instance, the Sun and Moon Pagodas, two Buddhist pavilions that rise from the waters of Lake Shanhu. Perhaps Guilin’s most instantly recognisable man-made landmark, the former is the world’s tallest bronze pagoda, rising up to 41m, while the marble monolith of the Moon Tower tops out at 35m.

Originally erected during the Tang Dynasty, the pagodas were carefully reconstructed in 2001 using historical records and are connected by an underwater tunnel – giving visitors a unique view of the lake. By night, they are illuminated by a kaleidoscope of lights that form unique geometric patterns, punctuating the exteriors and interiors in sharp relief. Unsurprisingly, this is one of the city’s most photogenic sights, surely second only to those unforgettable karsts.

A unique ocean-going yachtcation with Lantau Yacht Club

With panoramic views of the South China Sea in the backdrop, Discovery Bay’s newly revitalised Lantau Yacht Club is serving up an idyllic and unique staycation package for a romantic getaway or a relaxing ocean-going adventure with the family.

Relish in a refreshing seascape away from the bustling city by hopping on your yacht to the premium club house’s first and one-of-a-kind yachtcation — a more private, safe and exciting experience from the typical high-rise hotel stays and city crowds.

Discerning yacht aficionados and ocean-lovers can explore the many natural wonders and yachting hot spots around the beautiful Lantau Island and the resort style residential community Discovery Bay, before ending the day moored at the newly revitalised marina to enjoy an idyllic and special vacation on board.

Provided impeccable service and exclusive access to the premium club house, guests can indulge in a fine wine and dine 4-course meal with complimentary sparkling wine at Caffè Napoli, while enjoying the facilities within, as well as slew of other perks around the resort town of Discovery Bay.

Lantau Yacht Club Yachtcation Package:

Price: From HK$2,200
(Prices may vary according to the lengths of yachts and choices of menus)

1 Overnight Wet Berthing on your yacht with Complimentary WiFi
4-course dinner for 2 with complimentary sparkling wine at Caffè Napoli
Free use of tennis courts and shower facilities
15% off on Spa Treatments at Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong
15% off on best available room rates at Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong
2 complimentary transfers within Discovery Bay
Discovery Bay DIY Tour with DB Shopping Directory and Hiking Guidebook Provided

For reservation and enquiry:
(852) 2987 9591 / member.service@lantauyachtclub.com

For more information:
www.lantauyachtclub.com

Puerto Perfecto: Puerto Rico’s capital, San Juan

Clear blue skies, stunning beaches, gorgeous vistas across azure waters… yes, the Puerto Rican capital of San Juan ticks all the boxes for a perfect Caribbean getaway. On top of these undeniably attractive offerings, however, the city boasts a plethora of historical sites, a vibrant culture, and enough shopping, dining and nightlife to keep you entertained whether you’re staying for a weekend or a month.

Interestingly, San Juan was originally the name of the island; explorer Christopher Columbus christened it ‘San Juan Bautista’ in honour of John the Baptist upon discovery in 1493. When the main settlement, on the Atlantic coast in the north, was officially founded by Spanish conquistador Juan Ponce de León in 1521, his compatriots called it Puerto Rico (rich port). Much confusion between the two names ensued, and ultimately the appellations were switched, with San Juan becoming the name of the city, and Puerto Rico the island.

In more contemporary times, San Juan established its place on the must-visit list of tourists from all over the world. Yet, come 2017, the island was hit by a devastating Category 5 hurricane, bringing its budding tourism industry to a screeching halt and overturning the lives of the capital’s 335,000 residents. Thankfully, restoration efforts have revived the city, and with the pandemic easing, the country is open to travellers. In anticipation of the long-awaited moment when we can readily fly the skies and sail the seas, we highlight the must-visit spots that should feature on every intrepid explorer’s itinerary.

Barrio Browsing
Located along the northern wall of Old San Juan – the historic centre of the city – La Perla is a colourful shanty town dotted with a kaleidoscope of brightly-hued houses. Occupying a 600m stretch adjacent to the sprawling Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, it was once an unsavoury area inhabited by prostitutes and poor migrants from the countryside. Thankfully, recent gentrification has breathed new life into neighbourhood, and countless eateries – where you can sample such local delicacies as fresh ceviche or mofongo (mashed plantain) – and retail spots now line its streets, taking advantage of uninterrupted ocean views. The multicoloured barrio’s transformation to true tourist attraction occurred in 2017, when it featured in the video of Despacito, Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee’s smash summer hit.

Heritage on High
For history buffs, Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal are musts. Commonly known as El Morro, the former was built upon a prominent promontory half a millennium ago as a military citadel to defend the then-Spanish colonial city. Today, it serves a decidedly less strategic purpose: the UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of San Juan’s most iconic tourist destinations, attracting more than two million visitors annually. Exploring all of El Morro in a single visit would be impossible, but a guided tour will showcase the main highlights. You can also meander through the fort’s recreated barracks, kitchens and other areas, or stop by the lowest level to appreciate the grandiosity of the structure – all while snapping a photo or two.

Fort of Call
Further down the coast, adjacent to the eastern gate of Old San Juan, lies Castillo de San Cristóbal, the second of the city’s historically important military structures. It is considered to be the largest Spanish fortress ever built in the New World, encompassing a staggering 27 acres of land, replete with moats, booby-trapped bridges and tunnels, and soaring 150ft-high walls upon completion in 1783. Today, the castillo presents no less an impressive sight, and houses a period-accurate recreation of the military barracks, fascinating military archives, an educational museum and stunning city views.

Gothic Glory
Located in the heritage neighbourhood of Old San Juan, the Iglesia de San José isn’t just a fantastic example of 16th-century Spanish Gothic architecture, it’s also one of the oldest churches to be built in the Americas. It was constructed in 1532 by the Dominican Order of monks, and then acquired by the Jesuits in 1865. A mammoth US$11 million restoration initiative has just returned the monastery – which had suffered extreme structural damage over the centuries – to its glory days; it reopened this March after 25 years of work.

Rum Dos
As the headquarters of the second-largest rum producer in the world, Casa Bacardi is a particular favourite for San Juan sightseers. Pre-Covid, the plant – which is also the world’s largest rum distillery – drew a quarter of a million visitors every year. While that number may have dropped in recent months, it nevertheless remains a strong draw for alcohol aficionados keen to explore the centuries-old distillation method behind Bacardi’s spirits, as well as sample such iconic cocktails as the coconut-fronted piña colada. Tourists also have the opportunity to purchase special reserve rums that are sold exclusively at the factory.

Sip, Savour, Salsa
No trip to the Puerto Rican capital would be complete without indulging in some of its world-famous nightlife. And no place embodies San Juan’s invigorating post-sunset entertainment scene like La Placita de Santurce. Located a stone’s throw from Old San Juan, the two-storey La Placita – built a century ago as a market square – still remains a traditional farmer’s market by day. But come evening, it transforms into a thumping outdoor club. Rub shoulders with locals as you salsa to live music, sample local delicacies at the various restaurants, or pick up a pint at one of the late-night bars. For a more upscale experience, the neighbourhood of Condado boasts a range of swanky clubs, lounges and rooftop bars, many of which are open late enough for party-goers to greet the sunrise as they down their final tipple.

Rainforest Roam
As a change of pace from the urban jungle of San Juan, venture out for the hour’s drive to El Yunque National Forest and soak up some island scenery. As the only tropical rainforest within the borders of the United States – Puerto Rica is an unincorporated US territory – the 28,000-acre park boasts an incredibly diverse ecosystem featuring hundreds of exotic animal and plant species. For the more sedentary visitor, no trip would be complete without stopping by the Yokahú Observation Tower. Summon the energy to climb up 98 steps and its summit, at an elevation of 1,575ft, offers picturesque panoramas of the verdant hills and cerulean sea – a must for any budding photographer or Instagrammer.

(Text: Tenzing Thondup)

Burn fat during your lunch hour? W Hong Kong makes that possible

Most of us have stubborn fat pockets on our body we tend to fixate on. If no amount of carb-conscious, clean diets, yoga classes, spin sessions or HIIT workouts are tightening those post-baby belly rolls, or entering the wrong side of 30s is coming in the way of a perky bum – worry not because non-invasive body shaping tools are screaming success the world over. No scalpels, needles or cuts are involved here but a friendly reminder that the technology is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, instead it’s considered complimentary to your workout gains.

Intrigued? Keep scrolling, we’ve got all the lowdown…

Get abs over lunch

There are lots of non-surgical fat blasting options in the market that are pretty cool but the advantage of the Muscle Up Fat Down Body Shaping Program at W Hong Kong is its duality – not only does it implode fat cells at a fast rate, but simultaneously sculpts muscles as well for a more defined, tighter look. Company-sponsored studies have found that one session is equivalent to a massive 20,000 squats, sit-ups, leg curls or bicep extensions – depending on the target area.

The muscle stimulation and the metabolic boost is pretty game-changing. It’s impossible to get a similar kind of high-intensity, focussed contraction in any other form. The premise of the slimming treatment on offer at W Hotel is too good to be true – drop the pounds, build definitive muscle by simply strapping on a device for 30 minutes. Abs in your lunch hour, who doesn’t like the sound of that?

The session is quick, effective and absolutely fuss-free. The response is rapid – unlike other fat loss tools where you have to wait months to notice any hint of an outcome – even a single session on this machine has noticeable results. The full-on wow results require more sessions and commitment. The premise of the slimming treatment on offer at W Hotel is too good to be true – drop the pounds, build definitive muscle by simply strapping on a device for 30 minutes. Abs in your lunch hour, who doesn’t like the sound of that?

Who is it for?

People who are close to their target weight and struggling with a few key areas – abdominal or butt fat, love handles, flabby arms or new mums dealing with diastasis recti (abdominal separation that is common in pregnancy). And finally, for those suffering from sore backs from prolonged periods in front of the computer.

You don’t have to stick to one area of stubborn fat, consult with the specialists at W Hong Kong and customise a package for arms in one session and abs the next. But remember a program like this is a good starting point to get a toned silhouette and not a replacement for exercise and a healthy lifestyle. Eventually a balanced lifestyle will help you maintain the amazing results you get from these sessions.

The price for The Muscle Up Fat Down Body Shaping Program is HK$1,950+10%/session/part or HK$18,000 net/15 sessions.

Viewing Valletta, the capital of Malta

Lapped by the azure waters of the Mediterranean, some 80km off the southern coast of Italy, lies the oft-overlooked country of Malta. This may partly be due to its diminutive size – its borders encompass just 316sq.km – and also its tiny population (at last count, there were just over 500,000 souls in residence). Malta is officially the world’s 10th smallest country, yet, in spite of its pint-sized stature, it has played a strategic role in international affairs and conflicts since it was first settled back in 5900 BC.

The archipelago was colonised by the Phoenicians in 800 BC, followed by the Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs and Normans, then acquired as part of the Sicily isles and converted to Christianity by 1249. It was nearly three centuries later, though, that its modern incarnation began. In 1530, Charles V of Spain handed Malta to the Order of the Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem – also known as the Knights Hospitalier, soon to be dubbed the Knights of Malta.

Following the Great Siege of 1565 – a four-month ordeal when the Ottoman empire attempted and ultimately failed to conquer the nation – the Maltese emerged bloody but unbowed, and in dire need of stronger fortifications. The high, barren and rocky peninsula of Mount Sciberras was deemed ideal for this purpose and, a year later, the foundation stone was laid for a new capital, Valletta – named after the Knights of Malta’s Grand Master Jean Parisot de la Valette, who had led his troops to victory during the siege.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and Malta – now a British colony – was once more plunged into turmoil with the onset of World War II, suffering a second, more prolonged siege at the hands of Fascist Italy and Nazi Germany. Once again showing its tenacity, it not only withstood the onslaught, but also ultimately played a key role in helping Allied forces stymie further expansion by the Axis powers.

Today, following post-war building restoration and the country’s independence, Valletta has become a major tourist attraction proffering a plethora of historic sites, majestic military fortifications and stunning geography. Boasting a quaint charm and brimming with friendly locals, any visit to this diminutive city is sure to be memorable, thanks in no small part to these must-visit attractions…

Also Read: Summer travel on the cards? Luxury hotels to book around the world

Grand Master’s Palace
Perhaps one of Valletta’s most significant monuments, the Grand Master’s Palace was originally commissioned by Grand Master Fra’ Pietro del Monte in 1571 and used as the main palace for all successive Grand Masters until the Order left the country in 1798. Today, part of the building has been converted into the Presidential Palace and the office of the Maltese president, while the rest has opened its doors as a public museum.

Featuring long hallways and beautifully appointed state rooms replete with works of art, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported back to the Order’s heyday. No visit would be complete without stopping by the Palace Armoury, one of the world’s most important military repositories, which displays a variety of the knights’ splendid armour and weapons dating back to the 15th century. It’s a telling reminder that these were no ordinary soldiers, but rather wealthy, aristocratic warriors who could afford the very best equipment that money could buy.

St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Although the façade of St John’s Co-Cathedral may seem somewhat plain, this venerable structure was once regarded as the physical manifestation of the wealth, importance and influence of the Knights of Malta. Built from 1572-77 in honour of John the Baptist – the patron saint of the Order – it is regarded as one of Valletta’s most iconic sights.

Upon stepping inside, visitors are immediately greeted with opulent, flamboyantly Baroque interiors that stand in stark contrast to its rather unembellished exterior. All eyes, though, will surely first be drawn to the church’s beautiful gilded walls and stunning ceiling paintings. In the Oratory, meanwhile, lies its most iconic artwork, The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, painted by renowned Italian painter Caravaggio. Also gracing the cathedral are eight chapels, each reflecting different regions where the Order had a presence. Highlights here include another Caravaggio masterpiece – Saint Jerome Writing – in the Chapel of the Langue of Italy, and the Chapel of the Langue of Aragon.

Upper Barrakka Gardens
Located at the highest point of Valletta’s 16th-century fortification walls, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer a verdant reprieve from the city below. Lined with peaceful gardens, fountains and archways, its prime position also affords magnificent panoramas of the Grand Harbour. The lower levels of the gardens where the former bastion can be found are lined with old military cannons; the area is still used for ceremonial events. Be sure to stop by here at noon to catch the daily salute performed by members of the Malta Heritage Society dressed in authentic British Artillery uniforms.

Grand Harbour
Though Malta’s days of warring are now a distant memory, evidence of its military prowess can still be seen at the Grand Harbour – the original site of the aforementioned Great Siege of 1565. Once, this enormous space could dock an entire flotilla of battleships yet still fend off invaders by closing off the harbour entrance. The massive fortifications, cannons and defence towers are still present today, though the waters are now dotted with cruise liners and commercial ships. Semi-circular in shape, it spans not just Valletta’s coastline but also a series of little towns, including Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea, the three original settlements of the Knights of Malta, whose sights can be savoured by guided tours.

There’s plenty to keep you occupied within Valletta’s stretch of the waterfront, however, as many of the Baroque buildings along Marsamxett Harbour – once used as warehouses to store grain, vegetables and fish – have been lovingly restored and transformed into chic eateries and shops. The waterside promenade is fringed with shady palms, and a stroll here as the sun glints off the sea is perhaps the most pleasurable way to take in the Maltese capital’s many charms.

Also Read: Hong Kong travel rules for the vaccinated

Hong Kong travel rules for the vaccinated

Staycations and glamping under the stars are all cool but if there’s a chance at the real deal – board a plane, jet set to a fancy destination or just relive the holidays of the past – will you not jump at the opportunity?

From Mauritius, Switzerland to Portugal – several countries have opened their borders to inoculated Hong Kongers, albeit with stipulations. Prepare your passport and vaccination record, and if a Group B or a Group C country is on your travel radar, quarantine time could be slashed to just seven days. Here are the rules:

Countries which qualify for a shortened quarantine

Starting from June 30, fully vaccinated Hong Kongers who arrive from Group B (high-risk), C (medium-risk) countries and Taiwan, will be allowed to quarantine in a designated hotel for seven days if they present:

Negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, carried out in less than 72 hours prior to boarding, and
Positive antibody test from a recognised laboratory carried out in Hong Kong in the last three months

Fully vaccinated passengers from Group D – Australia and New Zealand – can make use of the seven day isolation period without the need of an antibody test.

Group B includes, Japan, Canada, Singapore, Vietnam, United States amongst others and Group C are all other countries except China which are not in Groups A1, A2, B or Group D. Australia and New Zealand are the only Group D places.

On top of the above requirements, passengers will have to undergo two COVID-19 tests during their quarantine period, and a further three tests on the 12th, 16th and 19th day thereafter.

Also read: Vaccine incentives – What’s up for grabs, who qualifies and who is left out

Countries which are open to double vaxxed Hong Kongers

1. Switzerland

Carry COVID-19 vaccination records, proof of negative nucleic acid test and sign an entry form before arrival and you’re all set to enjoy the Alpine villages and the most unreal nature backdrops. Check the latest rules before landing but as of now, there is no quarantine requirement for vaccinated Hong Kongers.

2. Mauritius

Fully vaccinated Hong Kongers can make the most of water villas at this breezy getaway with a negative PCR test at the airport and proof of vaccination. Till the end of September, this island paradise allows travellers to book a ‘hotel holiday’ where they can use all the hotel amenities and relax on the beach for a period of two weeks. If time and budget permits you to stay more than a fortnight, you’re free to roam on this island paradise. Rules for vaccinated passengers will relax further from October so keep a tab at their official website.

3. Germany

Germany recognizes vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency which includes Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Moderna. If you fulfil this criteria then complete the digital entry registration, undergo mandatory testing or provide an antibody test as a proof of immunity to enjoy a quarantine-free holiday here. Read updated details here.

4. Spain

Spain was in one of Europe’s strictest lockdowns in the spring of 2020. Battered in both the number of infections and casualties, the country bounced back for the summer of 2020 but again entered a strict lockdown from November 2020 to May 2021. The restrictions have now eased and as of June 7, fully vaccinated travellers can enter this laidback country with just the proof of vaccination and other details registered on the Spain Travel Health website.

5. USA

Travel to America is a bit tricky to navigate. At the moment, vaccinated individuals are allowed to land in the country and roam around without quarantine but restrictions can vary from state-to-state. By and large, Hong Kong is on the ‘safest level’ of COVID-hit countries in the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list.

6. Belize

This tiny Central American country has the most stunning Mayan ruins, turquoise waters and diverse coral reef’s. Carry a proof of negative Covid-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of travel and proof of vaccination completed at least two weeks prior to travel to soak in the lush landscape. Complete the Belize Health App within 72 hours upon arrival. Further details can be explored here.

7. Greece

One of the most popular holiday destinations, Greece is welcoming double vaxxed travellers with a negative PCR test but COVID-19 cases there are on the rise. At the time of publishing the story, more than 2,600 positive cases were recorded in a single day and several countries have raised red flags for travel to this country. If Greece is still on your itinerary, fill up the Passenger Locator Form before arrival.

8. Thailand

Thailand has the same travel requirements as most countries but keep a tab on the news before booking your stay here. Even though travel is open, the country is battling its worst COVID-19 wave since January 2020. Infections and deaths are both on the rise and unless travel to this island nation is absolutely essential, we’d say, avoid.

9. Georgia

Fully vaccinated travellers have zero restrictions before travelling to Georgia and no quarantine requirement on landing. Even though Hong Kong government does not have travel warnings in place, given the recent spate of COVID-19 cases here, the US CDC recommends avoiding all unnecessary travel to this beautiful Caucasin country.

10. Seychelles

Currently this gorgeous island nation has no quarantine or travel restrictions for vaccinated travellers. The vaccination rate in the local population has been as high as 71%, clearly they’ve reached the herd-immunity threshold for COVID infections.