across borders: 10 days in Beijing & North Korea
Spend 10 days exploring two of the most enigmatic destinations of East Asia – Beijing and North Korea. Upon arrival in Beijing, you will be greeted by a professional local English-speaking guide and transferred to the hotel. The next day, visit Tiananmen Square, the largest square in the world and known as ‘the gate of the heavenly sky’. Afterward, visit the Forbidden City, which was the political centre from 1420A-1911 and has 9,999 different rooms and was the residence of the last two dynasties. In the afternoon, enjoy a hutong tour by rickshaw including visiting a local home. A hutong is an ancient city alley or lane typical in Beijing, built during the Yuan (1206-1341), Ming (1368-1628) and Qing (1644-1908) dynasties. On the third day, drive to The Great Wall at Mutianyu, which was built in 1569 and rebuilt in 1988. There is a cable car up and down or slide down is included. The main purpose of the wall was to protect China against the invaders coming from Mongolia and Manchuria. Afterwards, return to Beijing and visit The Summer Palace, which was built as a birthday gift from the Emperor Qianlong to his mother in 1752. End the day with a boat ride at Kunming Lake with the backdrop of Longevity Hill. On day four, it’s time to travel across borders to North Korea. Fly from Beijing to Pyongyang. After transferring to the hotel, enjoy a welcome dinner at Koryo Hotel. After breakfast the next morning, explore Pyongyang with stops at Kim Il Sung Square, a foreign language bookshop, the Grand People’s Study House and the Tower of Juche Idea, which is a memorial tower built to congratulate Kim Il-Sung on his 70th birthday. Built in 1982, the tower and its surrounding ancillary buildings occupy a total area of 150 thousand square metres. After lunch, walk around Moran Hill and Mangyongdae Native House, then go to the Mangyongdae Schoolchildren’s Palace to experience a special art performance. The next day, drive to Mt. Myohyang (178 kilometres) to visit the International Friendship Exhibition displaying over 100,000 precious gifts from political parties, heads of state, social circles and politicians from five continents of the world to Comrade Kim Il-sung. The other halls display gifts for Comrade Kim Jong Il. In the afternoon, visit Pohyon Buddhist Temple and hike to the Sangwon Hermitage. On day seven, return to Pyongyang and enjoy a short rest at the tea house before continuing to Nampho. After lunch, visit the West Sea Barrage, Kanso mineral water factory and Chongsan Cooperative Farm then return to Pyongyang for the evening. The following day, drive to Kaesong (160 kilometres) and visit Panmunjom. Panmunjom is located in the central and western part of the Korean Peninsula, July 27, 1953, the Korean Armistice Agreement signed here, Panmunjom is famous in the world. After the Korean Armistice, North and South Korea built 24 buildings in the “Joint Security Zone” about 800 meters in diameter. It is located 5 km south of the 38 degree north latitude line and 8 km southeast of Kaesong. After lunch, visit the Concrete Wall, Mausoleum of King Kyonghyo (the 31st king of the Koryo Dynasty) and Koryo History Museum. Enjoy dinner in Pansanggi and spend the night at Kaesong Folk Hotel. On the ninth day, after breakfast, walk from the hotel up to Chanam Hill then make your way back to Pyongyang. Visit the Mausoleum of King Tongmyong and the Monument to Three Charters for National Reunification. After lunch, visit the International Football School and Monument to Party Foundation then walk along Ryomyong Street. In the evening, savour a farewell dinner. On the final day, fly back to Beijing for your onward departure. For reservations, please contact us at reservation@cn.diethelmtravel.com.
Bhutan’s mystical mountains and spirituality
Embark on a journey to Druk Yul – or Bhutan, “The Land of the Thunder Dragon” – to witness breathtaking landscapes dotted with ancient temples, historic sites, and remote towns and villages. Throughout the week, delve into Bhutan’s remarkable culture, rich with traditions and customs, through visits to some of the country’s icons like the National Library, the National Museum and the Textile Museum. Spend some time in Punakha, the old capital, and take a drive through its picturesque valley where you’ll observe the fertile farmland and follow the serene Mo Chu river. Finally, visit to one of the most sacred monasteries, the Takstang Goemba, offering unparalleled views of the Himalayan scenery and furthering your understanding of the Buddhist traditions at the core of Bhutanese life. https://www.diethelmtravel.com/packages/7-days-journey-to-druk-yul-3/
Souvenirs & Holiday Shopping in Southeast Asia
Just in time for those who need to do some Christmas shopping while spending the holiday season exploring Southeast Asia, we’ve put together a list of our favourite handicraft and artisan centres to shop. While your clients will undoubtedly discover a bounty of souvenir shopping for themselves wherever they roam, this shortlist includes organisations that we’re proud to support because of their commitment to preserving heritage crafts and supporting artisans. Turquoise Mountain – Myanmar Turquoise Mountain is a global organisation dedicated to restoring national heritage sites and craft traditions. In Myanmar, their work focuses on helping preserve traditional techniques and connecting artisans with international markets. Shop elegant gems and jewellery for which Myanmar is famed, discover the history and heritage woven into their traditional textiles, or marvel at the intricacy of the handcrafted woodwork. Artisans Angkor – Cambodia Artisans Angkor’s slogan succinctly captures their dual missions “caring for the past, crafting for the future.” What started in the 1990s as a vocational training centre focusing on traditional Cambodian crafts has since become one of Siem Reap’s largest employers, with showrooms and boutiques near Angkor Wat and in the capital of Phnom Penh. Visitors to Siem Reap can shop from an extensive collection of silver jewellery, hand-loomed silk, lacquer tableware, art and more online as well. Ock Pop Tok – Laos The Laos-based organisation Ock Pop Tok was created by women and continues to be run by women to preserve heritage Lao textiles and bring economic benefit to local artisans. Over the past 18 years, a small shop selling one woman’s assorted of textiles and garments has grown into a network of more than 78 artisans, three shopfronts, a cafe and various education programmes. Learn about the ethnic groups of Laos through their fabric traditions and shop clothing, handbags, home goods by women all over the country. Ock Pop Tok has three shops in Luang Prabang and also sells online. Craft Training Centres – Sri Lanka In Galle, you’ll find a number of craft centres supported by the rural crafts council. With programmes teaching everything from how to work with bamboo, lace, leather, wood and more, the array of quality goods available for purchase will astonish. Sri Lankan artists are famous for their skills in working with terracotta, silver, brass, wood and bone. As such, common products on offer include ceramics, sculptural carvings and remarkable jewellery. You can often find these beautiful products for very reasonable prices. Textile work is also very popular here, so keep your feelers out for deals on batik garments, hand-woven lace and baskets. Hot Boutiques in Hanoi & Hoi An – Vietnam Vietnam’s shopping scene is as varied as its landscape. But two places in particular are hotspots for shopaholics: experience the laid-back charm of Hoi An and the cosmopolitan hustle of Hanoi through their incredible boutiques, markets and tailors. Ha Truong – Owned by Vietnamese fashion designer Ha Truong, this shop features unique clothes that fit a variety of body types. Apricot Gallery – Lacquer paintings by Dinh Quan abound in this lovely space, in addition to works by other local artisans. Things of Substance – Come here for light clothing perfect for hot weather. This boutique specialises in Eastern-inspired cotton and linen attire. Hanoi Moment – Beautifully displayed lacquer pieces and porcelainware are on show here. [showimage url1=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/XMasGift.jpg” url2=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/XMasGift-2.jpg”]
new dining hot spots in Luang Prabang and Vientiane
Luang Prabang The restaurant scene in Luang Prabang never sleeps. Here are a range of fantastic foodie hits from the newest establishments in town: Popolo (on Kounxoau Road) invites you to enjoy the beautiful décor, relaxed vibe and delicious homemade Franco-Italian influenced dishes and some Asian fusion to boot. At Bistro Pastis the menu changes every week. At this Provençale Bistro the atmosphere and location is both cosy and unique, as the chef hosts you in the back garden! Dedicated to using fresh ingredients, you are guaranteed quality, delicious food and a great wine selection at Bouang (meaning spoon in Lao). Located on the main street, this Asian eatery encourages conscious eating and a sustainable ethos. One of the signature dishes is the Buddha Bowl full of healthy raw veg. Other dishes include gnocchi green curry, stuffed peppers and delightful desserts! Pha Khao Lao is in Ban Aphay, just a short walk from Wat Visoun. Serving wonderfully flavourful soups and a great range of authentic local Lao and Thai dishes. The staff here are friendly, the atmosphere convivial and a new large decking area out back allows you to enjoy your meal al fresco. Paste at the Apsara (Kingkitsarath Road) brings Luang Prabang its first Michelin-starred restaurant. Chef Bee Satongun showcases the historical layered flavours of Lao cuisine. Through building on the recipes of the great Phia Sing while retaining a creative twist, the chef creates dishes such as crunchy fermented rice balls with sour sausage, kaffir lime zest, red curry paste, river weed and rose pepper leaf. Vientiane The evolving restaurant tableau in Vientiane is one to dine for. ‘Slow Food’ pioneer Doi ka Noi (Sisangvong Road) is a gem of a restaurant under the guidance of owner and chef Noi. As the first Laos member of the world renowned Slow Food movement, Noi presents food that uses fresh seasonal local produce based on a deep respect for traditional Lao recipes and that means dishes are bursting with flavour. The menu changes daily and serves up 7 or 8 dishes based on what is freshest and available, including organic vegetables from the backyard garden. La Cage du Coq (Hengbounnoy Street, Ban Haysok) is a French gastronomic brasserie. The signature dish is duck breast stuffed with foie gras. The bistro is a popular weekend brunch spot serving a variety of meat and fish dishes (duck, lamb, chicken, tilapia and salmon) with an accompanying sauce and side dishes that include pumpkin flan and seared spiced tofu. 3 Merchants (Crowne Plaza Samsenthai Road) allows the rich history of the food of Indochina to tell its own stories. You find that the dishes from Cambodia (sach moun), Laos (laap), Malaysia (Penang chicken red curry), Thailand (Massaman curry) and Vietnam (luc-lac), are matched to the themed décor of the restaurant. Here you find the heritage of local identities presented through fresh ingredients and authentic flavours.
crafts for a cause in Luang Prabang
As a popular destination for cultural travel, Southeast Asia lets few visitors depart its lands without a suitcase full of handicrafts and souvenirs. At the prices typically offered in street stalls and craft centres, local crafts are impossible for visitors to resist and these handicraft traditions are an important part of the region’s heritage. While you can find handicrafts practically anywhere on the streets from Bagan to Bangkok and beyond, there’s one Luang Prabang handicraft destination in particular that we can’t recommend enough due to the quality of their offerings and the important work they do to support local artisans and preserve cultural heritage. The Laos-based organisation Ock Pop Tok (www.ockpoptok.com) was created by women and continues to be run by women to preserve heritage Lao textiles and bring economic benefit to local artisans. Over the past 18 years, a small shop selling one woman’s assortment of textiles and garments has grown into a network of more than 78 artisans, three shopfronts, a cafe and various education programmes. Now travellers can discover the textiles of Laos, crafted into clothing, handbags and home goods by women all over the country, at three distinct shops in Luang Prabang and online. These colourful and intricate fabrics represent the traditions of the country’s more than 15 different ethnic groups. Though shopping here can be a bit pricier than haggling with your average street vendor, you can shop assured that, not only are you getting the finest of traditional crafts, but that the organization is committed to fair trade and ethical practices, channelling profits to where they will do the most good for the local communities. Supporting an organisation like Ock Pop Tok and taking home their beautiful art and designs also means preserving Lao’s regional and ethnic handicraft traditions for generations to come. For more information, please contact us at info@la.diethelmtravel.com. how to shop responsibly in Asia
say hello to Vientiane & Luang Prabang via helicopter
From liftoff to touch down, a helicopter ride never fails to excite one’s senses…even more so when experienced in a foreign destination! While in Laos, exclusive helicopter tours allow travellers to witness spectacular, captivating scenery from above. Lush tropical jungles, cascading waterfalls, mystical temples and flowing rivers amidst dynamic karsts – all these hidden gems and more await with certified helicopter journeys taking off from the capital city of Vientiane and the culture-rich Luang Prabang. Vientiane City Tours Helicopter city tours leaving from a helipad at Wattay International Airport range from 15 – 30 minutes and include transfers from your hotel along with breathtaking views of the city and beyond. 15 minutes Fly over: Mekong River Chao Anouvong That Luang Wat Patuxay Monument Wat Sisaket Hor Phra Keo Temple Presidential Palace 30 minutes Fly over: Friendship Bridge Buddha Park Mekong River Chao Anouvong Wat That Luang Patuxay Monument Wat Sisaket Wat Hor Phra Keo Presidential Palace 30-minute VIP tour 30-minute sightseeing tour in your own private helicopter Detailed narration of flight path and commentary Champagne upon touchdown A complimentary gift to remind you of your experience 4-Day Active Vientiane Explore the serene Buddhist monasteries and other local city attractions in Vientiane, Asia’s most laidback capital. This 4-day tour carefully balances cultural and adventurous activities whilst providing a luxurious experience, ranging from leisurely explorations of the city by bicycle to taking in a splendid birds-eye-view of the capital in a private helicopter ride. On the third day of the journey, a VIP helicopter tour will provide you with deluxe service including Champagne on liftoff and a knowledgeable guide who will share details of your flight path. Begin by flying over the gorgeous city and then land to visit Vang Sang or the ‘Elephant Palace’, a rarely visited ancient site where Buddha images are carved in the rock. Reboard the helicopter and fly over Nam Ngum, the largest body of water in the country, formed by the Nam Ngum hydroelectricity complex. Fly over the dam and impressive lake, which is dotted with emerald green islands for a total flight time of 70 minutes. 5-Day Taste of Luxury Luang Prabang Magical and charming, Luang Prabang has preserved its longstanding reputation as a stronghold of Lao culture with its splendid natural scenery and sense of timelessness. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Town, enjoy a luxury 5-day journey that explores the natural beauty of the colonial town and its surroundings. Visit the ancient Vat Xieng Thong monastery, browse the collections in the National Museum, cruise the down the mighty Mekong River on a luxurious riverboat and wander through a bustling Night Market sure to entice your senses. On the second day, after a morning spent exploring in town, the afternoon continues with a 30-minute helicopter tour featuring sky-high views of the city and surrounds. Starting from a helipad at the new VIP terminal at Luang Prabang International Airport, the private helicopter flies above the Mekong River allowing guests to gaze upon Tham Ting Cave, Pha Tae Ke Botanical Gardens, Kuang Si Waterfall, Phousi Hill and the Luang Prabang Golf Course. You will also see the national treasures of Wat Xienthong, Wat Mai, Wat Aham and the National Museum from the lofted perspective. To learn more about these luxurious Laos offerings, please contact info@la.diethelmtravel.com.
discover life along Luang Prabang’s rivers with unique cruises
From Laos’ cultural heart of Luang Prabang, set off on a journey by river to catch a closer glimpse of the destination’s many sides, be they spiritual, mystical or natural. Four river cruises down the Mekong or Nam Khan bring you closer to the heritage of Laos. Luang Prabang lies at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers. The current of culture here flows as deep and strong as the waters, and it’s no wonder this former capital of Laos has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site. With gilded temples, crumbling colonial mansions and the stunning Royal Palace, there is timeless beauty in the old treasures of this city. Yet Luang Prabang is a place not trapped in time, life flows on, even if it usually is at a slower pace than elsewhere outside this serene bubble. For a taste of Laos, enjoy a journey through old and new, from the city centre to the countryside surrounds, propelled by the mighty flow of its mother rivers. These river cruises from iMekong can be enjoyed separately or together for spectacular sightseeing and an experience you’ll never forget. Alms at Dawn Days begin early in Luang Prabang as hundreds of saffron-robed monks who call the historic city home parade through the streets collecting alms and dispensing blessings. The city’s many temples remain at the heart of daily life and this tradition is truly a sight to witness. Board an early morning river cruise from Luang Prabang to Ban Don Kao, watching the landscape come alive in the magical light of dawn. Catch a glimpse of the monk’s processions from the water as you arrive at your riverside destination. Your hostess will meet you at the water’s edge and guide you to where you will join the time-honoured ritual of almsgiving, or tak bat. Learn the history of this Buddhist tradition and the significance of earning merit, or bun, and how these beliefs play a part in Lao life. Afterwards, enjoy your own breakfast on the scenic banks of the Mekong. Enjoy scrumptious bites and tea or coffee while watching the sun burn away the last tendrils of mist and the sky come alive a vibrant blue. After you’ve had your fill of breakfast and the beautiful setting, board your boat for the return journey to Luang Prabang for the rest of your day’s sightseeing and adventures. [showimage url1=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Discover-life-along-LP_Alms.jpg” url2=””] Sunset Serenity Alternatively, celebrate the close of another day with a spectacular sunset cruise along the majestic Mekong. Water is truly the lifeblood of any city and along the banks of this mighty waterway, you’ll witness the hum of activity that signals the day’s coming to an end. At dusk, board an all-inclusive river cruise to take in the panoramic views from the water. To one side, see the bursts of pink, orange and gold as the sun casts its grand finale behind scenic hills in the distance, and on the other side, enjoy the sight of the city gilded in the light of magic hour. Enjoy chilled beer Lao or a refreshing glass of wine along with canapes and other refreshments as you relax into your seat and enjoy the sights slowly passing by on the riverbank. Bask in the quiet of the evening or turn up the energy and enjoy onboard karaoke as day fades to night. [showimage url1=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Discover-life-along-LP_Sunset.jpg” url2=””] Journey to Mystical Pak Ou Climb aboard a wooden boat to escape the city’s bustle and connect with the natural and cultural heritage of Laos. On this journey, you will discover the mystical caves of Pak Ou – a liminal space where worlds blend and collide. The world’s tenth longest river and home to a biodiverse ecosystem rivalled only by the Amazon, the Mekong River offers many gifts to those who live on its shores. At the village of Ban Muang Kham, discover the tradition of harvesting riverweed, known locally as khaipen. This nutrient-rich local delicacy makes for a popular appetiser which you can sample on your tour of this rural hamlet. Afterwards, head on to the day’s main event, a journey to the fantastic Pak Ou caves, also known as Tam Ting. An ancient site of spiritual significance, it is here that traditional animist beliefs have merged with Buddhist practices in a spectacular way. These natural caverns are lined and decorated with stupas, shrines, carvings and over 4,000 wooden figures of Buddha. A testament to Lao craftsmanship through the ages, some of the icons date back a hundred years or more, and you will marvel at the harmonious blend of manmade construction and natural embellishment. Enjoy lunch on board as you slowly cruise down the Mekong back to Luang Prabang. [showimage url1=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Discover-life-along-LP_Sunset.jpg” url2=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Discover-life-along-LP_KSFalls.jpg”] See the Soaring Kuang Si Falls For those who are interested in experiencing the natural rather than the spiritual, on this day trip guests can journey by boat down the Mekong to a rural village and visit the spectacular Kuang Si Waterfalls. In the late morning, join the buzz of activity along the riverbank and board your boat which will whisk you away to the traditional Lao Loum village of Ban Sing. The Lao Loum are one of the country’s ethnic majorities, and the village is the perfect place to discover the essence of Lao life. Wander between traditional stilted houses and feast your eyes on the beauty of the rural landscape. From the village, journey overland to see what will surely be a highlight of, not just your day’s adventure, but your entire Lao visit, the majestic Kuang Si Waterfalls. From the jungle-covered hilltops spills a crystal clear stream of water which tumbles down limestone shelves into aquamarine pools at the fall’s base. Swim in these crisp spring waters and enjoy a picnic lunch. Your journey is not yet over, however, travel on by road to your last stop of the day, the Pha Tad Ke Botanical Gardens. After your afternoon
getting to know the headhunters of Borneo
With tremendous seafaring skills and an aggressive reputation, Borneo’s Iban people used to be known as Sea Dayaks during the colonial period. They were also known as something else – headhunters – slaughtering their enemies and then preserving their skulls to bring good fortune. The infamous tribe was believed to be the strongest and most fierce of the Dayak people expanding their tribe through warfare. Today, though the headhunting days are long over, the Iban have still preserved many of their traditional rituals and beliefs while living in remote longhouses in Sarawak. Unique festivals, colourful dances and distinctive tattoos are still practised but now curious travellers have the opportunity to meet and stay with the Iban for a memorable experience and cultural exchange. 2-Day Lemanak Iban Longhouse Adventure The Lemanak River in Sarawak, Malaysia is home to several traditional longhouses of the Iban tribe – the formidable former headhunters of Borneo. On an exclusive 2-day tour, guests can travel from Kuching to the more remote Lemanak stopping at exceptional points of interest along the way, such as a vibrant local market in the town of Serian and a pepper farm, before reaching the river. Providing an extraordinary setting of drooping trees hanging over the water, the revered Lemanak River acts as the Iban’s highway as they navigate the waters using traditional longboats. Travellers board one of these boats and head upriver to arrive at a Ngemah Iban longhouse where they’ll meet members of the Iban tribe. In the evening, guests learn more about the community’s culture and traditions as they sound their gongs and perform a traditional war dance in full ceremonial regalia. After relaxing and observing life in the longhouse (visitors are often invited to try their hand at using a blowpipe or take a short jungle stroll) a friendly meal is served and shared by all. Following this, rice wine flows and the remainder of the evening is spent surrounded by the chatter of friends and families before spending the night in the simple accommodation of the longhouse. Awaking in the longhouse to the sounds of the jungle, travellers get to see the Iban people go about their daily tasks before heading down to the river and boarding a longtail boat with a guide and a couple of Iban tribesmen. A cruise downriver passes beautiful rainforest scenery and other longhouses before, weather permitting, the Iban cook a delicious meal in the comfort of a local farm hut steaming the traditional dishes within bamboo tubes on an open fire. After lunch, it’s time to return to reality and back to Kuching. Do’s & Don’ts Remove your shoes and leave them outside before entering the longhouse. Feel free to take photos while inside the longhouse but do keep in mind that it’s always polite to ask permission first and respect the family’s privacy by avoiding snapping pictures of babies or women while in sarongs. Get ready to accept offerings of food and drink. Participate! Trying out the local dance moves, not to mention the rice wine, will add another layer of understanding to the exclusive experience. For more information on these boating experiences and more or requesting for an online Diethelm Discovery Magazine, please simply contact us anytime at inbound@my.diethelmtravel.com.
discover incredible dining in Kuala Lumpur
Saint Pierre Kuala Lumpur One of Singapore’s finest Michelin-starred restaurants known for its Contemporary French cuisine with Asian-Inspired elements, Saint Pierre, has opened in Kuala Lumpur’s W Hotel. Its superlative cuisine, beautiful interiors and team of talented chefs have escalated the restaurant into the echelons of international accolades. The restaurant is also the only establishment and restaurant in Singapore being accorded membership to the world-renowned Relais & Châteaux, a collection of 600 of the world’s best restaurants and hotels. Guests at Saint Pierre Kuala Lumpur can now expect three menus. The ‘Classic’ offers five courses which will be all the signature dishes, the ‘Discovery’ menu will offer eight courses omakase style that highlights seasonal ingredients while the ‘Adventure’ menu will be a 12-course opus that comprises the entire menu of Saint Pierre. Address: ADDRESS: Saint Pierre, L8, W Kuala Lumpur, 121, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Hours: 11:30 – 15:00 hours (lunch) Wednesday – Sunday, 18:30 – 23:00 hours (dinner) Tuesday – Sunday Website: https://www.saintpierre.com.my/about Nobu, Menara KLCC Nobu is a world-famous, Michelin-starred restaurant franchise. The artful fusion of traditional Japanese techniques and ingredients with spicy elements of Peruvian cuisine has made Nobu one of the most sought-after names in the fine dining sphere. The popular celebrity hangout now has a location on the 56th floor of KLCC. Address: Level 56, Menara 3 Petronas, Persiaran Kuala Lumpur, City Center 50088 Hours: 12:00 – 14:00 hours (lunch) on weekdays, 18:00 – 22:30 hours (dinner) daily Nobu Lounge hours: Happy Hour 18:00 – midnight daily Website: http://www.noburestaurants.com/kuala-lumpur Babe, Damansara Heights Helmed by Japanese-American chef Jeff Ramsey, this restaurant claims to be the first ever restaurant in Malaysia started by a Michelin-starred chef. Specialising in ‘Japas’, a fusion of Japanese flavours into traditional tapas, Babe advocates ‘fun dining’, as opposed to fine dining, to give patrons a unique experience every time they step into their doors. When dining at Babe, you’ll be served with 15 Japas dishes that evolve daily, according to what the chef has been cooking up in the kitchen. The menu at Babe offers an exquisite mix of flavors, textures and temperatures, promising an unparalleled multi-sensory dining experience. Address: 11th Floor, Work @ Clearwater, Changkat Semantan, Damansara Heights, Kuala Lumpur Hours: 19:00 hours onwards, every Tuesday-Sunday Website: http://babe.com.my Mak’s Chee Authentic Wonton, One Utama Hong Kong’s world-famous wanton noodles are served at Mak’s Chee Authentic Wonton in One Utama. Their noodles are as authentic as can get, seeing as the owner of Mak’s Chee’s grandfather-in-law is the actual inventor of Cantonese wanton noodles – now that’s something big to live up to! The original branch in Hong Kong has been officially recognised by Michelin and given a nod by the Bib Gourmand. Address: Lot LG 311D, One Utama, Bandar Utama, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Hours: 11:00 – 22:00 hours daily Website: http://www.makschee.com Pang’s Kitchen, Taman Desa Pang’s Kitchen is a Chinese food restaurant bearing a Michelin star that has opened an outlet here in Malaysia. It’s the first foreign branch of this popular Hong Kong eatery, so us Malaysians should feel flattered! Specialising in traditional Chinese cuisine, but with a gourmet twist, Pang’s Kitchen @ Voizsup in Taman Desa is on par with its Hong Kong counterpart, as made sure of by their original outlet’s owners. With a menu spanning over 150 dishes, it would be almost impossible to not find something you’d enjoy from this revered eatery! If you’re planning to come for dinner, make sure to come early or book a reservation. Address: Level G1, Wisma Miramas, No.1, Jalan 2/109E, Taman Desa, Jalan Klang Lama, 58100 Kuala Lumpur Hours: 11:00 – 22:00 hours daily Website: https://www.facebook.com/pangskitchenatvoizsup/ Taka by Sushi Saito, St. Regis KL This Japanese restaurant is a branch of Sushi Saito in Tokyo, with three Michelin stars to their name and a rumoured 6-month-long waitlist to get in. Head chef of the Tokyo branch, Takashi Saito, is the youngest sushi chef to have been awarded such an honour of three Michelin stars. Ingredients will be airflow into the country three times weekly, and the menu here will be the same as what will be served in Tokyo itself. But with such prominent distinction and accolades, their price tags will be just as high of course. Be prepared to fork out upwards of RM1000 per person for dinner! After all, they’re not touted ‘the best sushi restaurant in the world’ for nothing! Address: St. Regis Hotel, No. 6 Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur 50470 Hours: 12:00 – 15:00 hours (lunch), 18.00 – midnight Tuesday – Sunday Website: http://www.stregiskualalumpur.com/dining-japanese-saito-tenkuni Din Tai Fung Din Tai Fung is another dim sum restaurant that has made its rounds across the globe, with over 100 outlets worldwide. It was even named one of the top 10 best restaurants by The New York Times! And with accolades such as those, it’s no surprise that one of their branches in Hong Kong has been awarded the esteemed Michelin star. Don’t worry though, their quality of food is standardised among all outlets, so you’ll be sure to be eating Michelin-level food when dining there. Famed for their signature xiao long bao, drop by one of their branches in KL to try out their world-class fare for yourself! Available at several outlets nationwide. Website: http://www.dintaifung.com.my
a fun family stay at Anantara Hoi An Resort
With two toddlers in tow, An’s family had a blast eating their way through one of Vietnam’s most enchanting ancient town: Hoi An. While this wasn’t my first time to Hoi An, it was the first time for my two young daughters and, I’m happy to say, they loved it! When travelling with kids, my necessities now for family holidays are short, direct flights and tot-friendly locations, preferably with kids’ clubs and other child-friendly amenities and activities. The charming Hoi An and a stay at Anantara Hoi An Resort fit the bill so we booked a 5-day getaway. Scenically positioned on the banks of the Thu Bon River, Anantara Hoi An Resort is a unique retreat in the historic Vietnamese port town that’s been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1999. Designed with French, Dutch, Chinese and Japanese influences that reveal Hoi An’s cultural diversity, split level rooms and suites open onto porches with comfortable daybeds overlooking either the river or garden courtyard. And whilst it’s not completely geared toward families, it does have a lovely swimming pool located in its own riverside courtyard and a kid’s activity corner. The girls had no complaints! We stayed in an Anantara River View Suite with a separate living room area and view of Thu Bon River. The suite was spacious, bright and uncluttered which made it both welcoming and calming – it definitely felt like an escape from home. I personally loved the sunken bathtub and separate rain shower, complete with Elemis lotions and potions, while my little ones adored the large balcony with two swinging daybeds. They were also delighted with the never-ending stream of cupcakes that awaited them in the room courtesy of the friendly F&B manager, Van. Hoi An is known for its delicious culinary options and the resort did not disappoint. An expansive buffet breakfast was served at the first-floor Lanterns restaurant, where you could linger at a riverview table over pastries, freshly squeezed juice, cold cuts and eggs-to-order, or a steaming bowl of Vietnamese pho. There are light bites, such as spring rolls, salads and pizza, at the poolside Reflections bar or high tea at the Hoi An Riverside Restaurant. The food was amazing paired with excellent service from Van, a greeting from her every morning made our stay even more special! She also recommended new dishes for us to try during our visit: hoanh thanh chien (crispy wonton with chop suey topping) and Banh Mi Phuong (Madame Phuong’s Vietnamese sandwiches). The dinner menu at Anantara Hoi An Resort focuses on local dishes, such as the legendary cao lau noodles, alongside steak and seafood. The riverfront setting made it the perfect place for a happy hour cocktail too before dinner, but actually my girls couldn’t get enough of ordering room service – it thrilled them every time! The resort’s manager, Hai, was also exceptional. She offered to take my family for a walk to explore more of Hoi An beyond the old town. The photos from this walk are my most cherished ones of the entire trip. (Also, there are rows of tailoring shops nearby the resort, so if it’s a couple of new dresses you’re after or a suit for the hubby at a great price, don’t miss out. Check with the resort staff for best advice on where to go.) We had a wonderful time throughout our stay and I would encourage anyone to visit Hoi An with their kids. Anantara Hoi An Resort also has convenient interconnecting rooms for large families and children under four years old stay free. Extra beds for 4- to 12 year-olds and over-12s are an additional charge. There are also plenty of activities for children and a babysitter on request. If you’re after sun, culture, sea and a relaxing time for the entire family, you won’t be disappointed while staying at Anantara Hoi An Resort! To learn more about current offers at Anantara Hoi An Resort through Diethelm Travel Vietnam, please contact sales@vn.diethelmtravel.com. [showimage url1=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Anantara-Hoi-An-Blog01.jpg” url2=”https://dth.stagingurls.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Anantara-Hoi-An-Blog02.jpg”]