The Postcard Mandalay Hall
The Postcard Mandalay Hall

The Postcard Hotel with Singapore Airlines announces their partnership to provide a rewarding experience to KrisFlyer members.

The collaboration allows the Airline’s loyalty members to earn 2000 KrisFlyer miles, while also enjoying an exclusive launch offer of an additional complimentary night when staying for 3 nights at The Postcard Hotel. With approximately 6 million members, KrisFlyer has evolved into a leading rewards program with a lifestyle-centric focus.

Offering unparalleled luxury at its boutique hotels across India, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, The Postcard Hotel provides an experience that pushes the boundaries of traditional hospitality.

“The Postcard Hotel and Singapore Airlines are united by a shared vision of providing unparalleled excellence and exceptional service to their consumers,” said Kapil Chopra, founder and CEO, The Postcard Hotel. “This collaboration merges the expertise and unwavering dedication of two brands celebrated for their commitment to crafting unforgettable moments.”

With a surge in inbound leisure traffic from Southeast Asia in 2022-2023, this collaboration is perfectly timed to meet the growing demand for remarkable and enriching travel experiences.

The Palace on the French Riviera reopens its doors for a new season. Nestled in the hilltops of Vence, this Oetker Collection Masterpiece Hotel is an exceptional setting steeped in Provençal elegance. The property’s gastronomic restaurant, Le Saint-Martin, features exceptional views extending all the way to the coastline from its terrace, to enjoy alongside the refined dishes of Michelin star chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois.

Surrounded by century-old olive trees and fragrant Ronsard roses, the outdoor restaurant, L’Oliveraie, is open from June until the end of August. The menu presents an array of delicious options for lunch, including grilled meats, pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, sun-drenched salads and a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

In this picturesque setting, ‘Les Estivales’, a festive summer evening event will be held featuring live music by Merry Mood. Guests will indulge in a delicious buffet of light and lively Provençal specialties prepared for the occasion by chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois. The chef will be joined by several local artisans presenting their products to complete the gourmet menu with rotisserie meats, cheeses, craft beers, produce and specialties from Nice designed to delight even the most discerning taste buds.

For a mouth-watering finish, Pastry chef Tanya Colella will present a buffet of delicate sweets.

‘Les Estivales’ will take place on June 8th and 21st, July 6th and 20th, as well as August 3rd, 17th and 31st 2023 — a must-do on the French Riviera this summer.

A luxury vacation is incomplete without indulgence, and for an absolutely relaxed holiday, it’s only fair to pamper all the senses with gorgeous food, views, sounds, and aromas. For those who swear by a nice dip in the water, lavish pools are the best place to relax and enjoy the best of natural as well as man-made views from afar. The infinity pools are popular add-ons in premium properties, hotels, and resorts that accentuate the architecture of the place and add a classy vibe with natural or man-made vistas stretching boundlessly.

While the optical illusion of an endless boundary adds a sense of thrill, the visual experience of overlooking a spectacular view with a delish cocktail from an infinity pool is a great idea for a leisure trip. To explore such soul-enriching experiences in India head to these gorgeous properties and catch the view from the luxurious pools for spectacular landscapes.

Brij Lakshman Sagar

Ensuring a zero-kilometer concept, the lavish Brij Lakshman Sagar is located in the rustic belt of Raipur and takes inspiration from the rural lifestyle of Rajasthan by providing an oasis of luxury in the middle of the wilderness. The property offers a stay with their 12 independent cottages, all built with locally sourced natural materials and come with an attached private pool for a refreshing dip. The unique experiences and a hand-carved infinity swimming pool atop a hill make up for the parched, rocky terrain of the region where one can discover distinctive ways to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy the endless views of green mountains and try to hear the animal voices from afar for a thrilling experience in the wild.

The Wildflower Hall, Shimla

The Wildflower Hall, an Oberoi Resort in Shimla is one of the summer favourite destinations for discerning tourists. Located at 2,515 metres above sea level, the hotel is known for its unique location and experiences in the hills. Surrounded by cedar forests within the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary, a stay in this hotel transports you to a world of serene and calm in the lap of nature. One of the most popular spots in the hotel is its temperature controlled indoor pool which has amazing views of the snow covered peaks and never-ending green forests that offer a magical experience.

Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort

The Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, located in Parwanoo, offers a luxurious escape amidst the majestic Shivalik Ranges. With its 5000 feet elevation, the resort is surrounded by lush green mountains, making it the ideal destination for those seeking both peace and adventure. Moksha is known for its Ayurvedic spa, cable car, infinity pool, stunning views, and culinary experiences that are unforgettable. The gorgeous all- weather pool here comes with extraordinary views of the mountains that can help you revitalize your mind and spirit. Also, it’s a perfect spot to witness the sun set beyond the horizon.

Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur

Taj Lake Palace on Lake Pichola is one of the most beautiful palace hotels in India Influenced from the Mughal architecture, the magnificent palace is built of white marble with gardens, fountains, Jharokhas and landscaped courtyards.

The swimming pool at the hotel offers the most instagrammabe views of Lake Pichola, with a setting featuring the heritage mango tree, two jacuzzis, blooming bougainvilleas and thikri work – an experience that is truly palatial and royal.

Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kerela

Kumarakom Lake Resort nestles on the serene banks of the Lake Vembanad, the vast stretch of tranquil, emerald green backwaters, in one of India & popular holiday spots, Kerala. Sprawling across 25 acres of lush greenery, the resort exudes the charm of Kerala & true heritage while offering a complete range of New Age amenities for a luxuriously comfortable stay. Luxury rooms, villas and suites accompanied with stunning swimming pools and Ayurvedic spas are some of the top highlights of this gorgeous property. The large, tranquil pool at Kumarakom Lake Resort presents the vivid illusion of being a part of the shimmering lake. In the freshness of the mornings or the cool breezy evenings, the poolside offers the perfect antidote for tired limbs after a hectic day of leisure.

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa in Gulmarg is at an elevation of 8,825 feet in the Pir Panjal range of the majestic Himalayas. Spread over seven acres in a pristine pine valley, it offers breathtaking views of snowcapped Affarwat peaks.

The resort features a stunning all-weather, temperature controlled indoor pool in its wellness block that provides the perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing holiday. This experience is unmatched as it brings the views of snow-capped peaks against bright blue skies.

Evolve Back, Kabini

Located at the edge of the Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks in Karnataka and bordered by the Kabini River on two sides, Evolve Back, Kabini offers sweeping panoramic vistas.

The picturesque resort features an exclusive Infinity pool that overlooks Kabini Reservior where you can casually spot wild animals taking a dip or a splash in the water. We highly recommend a sunset dip in the pool especially after a long adventurous safari to unwind yourself.

Conrad Bengaluru

At the 24 stories property Conrad Bengaluru, located above the busy Central Business District, the luxurious suites come with picturesque views of Ulsoor Lake. The hotel also features among the largest, most elegant meeting and event spaces in the city, five eclectic dining options, the signature Conrad Spa and an infinity pool for business and leisure travellers. The rooftop restaurant Tiamo is one of Bengaluru’s go-to destinations for sundowners, overlooking the stunning views of the city. It offers a serene space of comfort and is situated at the edge of the infinity pool with great views of the city and Ulsoor Lake. In the evening, the al-fresco dining space and rooftop views from the pool are perfect to unwind.

Raas, Jodhpur

RAAS Jodhpur, a fusion of modern and ancient styles is an awe- inspiring 15th-century fort looming 400 feet above the Jodhpur skyline. The boutique hotel’s outdoor pool overlooks the stunning Mehrangarh fort. This view gets even more beautiful and magical after the sundown when fort and everything around is lit up.

There’s definitely more to INJA than meets the eye.
There’s definitely more to INJA than meets the eye.

Before you make a beeline for Delhi’s latest toast of the town – the INJA Restaurant – be prepared for an unexpected and immersive food experience. Perhaps, the unique blend of Indian and Japanese flavours presented on an Instagrammable platter is one the key reasons that garners instant fame to the newly opened venture by Dubai-based Atelier House Hospitality, but there’s definitely more to INJA than meets the eye.

Culinary delights: Taking the IN from India and JA from Japan, INJA is an unlikely marriage of the two standout cuisines re-imagined by Chef Adwait Anantwar. To create something extraordinary, the chef fused the essence of Indian cuisine with Japanese ingredients and cooking techniques to create some bold, piquant, and exceptional dishes with flavor profiles that are hard to forget.

Alaskan King Crab Raj Kachori
Alaskan King Crab Raj Kachori

There are some very quirky creations on the menu like the Suzuki okinamasu with 7 days fermented mango achaar, Shiso leaf tuna and pomelo chaat, udon noodles with khashi curry, gobhi 65 Maki rolls, and Shorse maach donabe pot. Whereas, the signature dish Lobster Rassam Chawanmushi (a smooth egg custard served with buttery spicy lobster in drumstick rasam masala) and King Crab Raj Kachori (Alaskan king crab, avocado, and greens topped with mango chutney in a crispy kachori priced) are noteworthy innovations.

Delish drinks: A good meal is incomplete without great drinks, and the cocktail menu here doesn’t disappoint. The signature cocktails by mixologist Kumar Mangalam are inspired by Japanese flavours.

Boshi Smash inspired by Japnese flavours.
Boshi Smash inspired by Japnese flavours.

The Inja Secret Tea, Lychee Gondhoraaj Martini, Ume Highball, and Kaanji are some interesting drinks that go very well with the eclectic food.

Décor: One of the most striking things about the place is the mélange of two culturally varied themes represented in blends of blue, green, and gold. Designed by acclaimed international designer, Samar Zakhem, the influences are primarily from the Japanese minimalist aesthetics using natural elements like stone and wood furniture with shibori-style textile artwork on the wall. The brass cutlery sets, dimly lit mini lamps on the table, and subtle gold hints in the interior add a sense of grandiosity.

Location:  So here’s the thing about the capital – the more exclusive, the better it is. This brings us to the location and capacity of the restaurant – currently, the restaurant has a 72 cover (both indoor and outdoor) at The Manor hotel, where Indian Accent once was located before moving to the Lodhi.

Ambiance and hospitality: In the ever-changing food business, to be bourgeoisie with pricing, location, and exclusivity is not enough to succeed. A lot of effort can go waste if hospitality and warmth are not added in the correct measure. At INJA, the trained staff ensures to welcome you with a big smile and makes the experience seamless by patiently explaining every dish that comes to the table. A bonus is groovy music that plays in the backdrop making it a perfect dining experience.

If you are all set to go on this luxurious gastronomical quest, don’t forget to make a reservation as this restaurant only gets alive once the sun goes down.

***

Address: The Manor Hotel, 77, Mathura Rd, Friends Colony West, New Delhi

Operational Hours:
7:00 PM to 11:00 PM – Dinner
7:00 PM to 1:00 AM – Bar
Closed on Tuesdays
For reservations, call +91 8130805333

Masked dance in the courtyard of Thimphu Dzong

The Kingdom of Bhutan reopens its borders to international guests following the Covid-19 pandemic. With this, the country unveils new national brand ‘Believe’ and creates a whole new identity to inspire a new vision of the future to its citizens. The result reflects Bhutan’s character and landscapes, history and ambitions: bold, vivid, richly storied and utterly distinctive – rebranding it for a new future for its people and guests to seek different travel experiences.

The country also rolled out a new tourism strategy which focuses on three key areas: enhancements to its sustainable development policies, infrastructure upgrades, and the elevation of the guest experience.

Enhancements to Bhutan’s sustainable development policies

Bhutan would raise its Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) from $ 65 to $ 200 per person, per night, which will go towards projects that support Bhutan's economic, social, environmental and cultural development.

Guests from India are levied a SDF of Rs. 1200 per person per night, which will remain in effect for two years.

The fees raised will fund national investment in programmes that preserve Bhutan’s cultural traditions, as well as sustainability projects, infrastructure upgrades and opportunities for youth – as well as providing free healthcare and education for all. For instance, some of the Sustainable Development Fee funds go towards offsetting the carbon footprint of visitors by planting trees, up skilling workers in the tourism sector, cleaning and maintaining trails, reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and electrifying Bhutan’s transportation sector, among other projects.

As a country that is vulnerable to the effects of climate change (experiencing melting glaciers, floods and unpredictable weather patterns), Bhutan will also be stepping up its efforts to maintain its status as one of only a handful of carbon-negative countries in the world – in 2021, Bhutan sequestered 9.4 million tonnes of carbon against its emission capacity of 3.8 million tonnes.

Infrastructure upgrades

In line with this, the government used the period during the COVID-19 shutdown to upgrade roads, trails, temples and monuments around the country, upgrade public bathroom facilities, organise clean-up events, enhance the standards and certification process for tourism service providers (such as hotels, guides, tour operators and drivers). Employees across the tourism industry were required to participate in up skilling programmes to focus on enhancing service quality.

Elevation of the guest experience

The new SDF brings with it a certain expectation when it comes to standards of quality and service to enhance the guest experience – whether that is through the quality of services received, the cleanliness and accessibility of our infrastructure, by limiting the number of cars on the roads, or by limiting the number of people who visit the sacred sites.

Bhutan government would also work with tourism partners to upgrade the itineraries that guests can experience in the country – to help showcase the very best that Bhutan has to offer.

The revamp of Bhutan’s tourism comes amid a widespread ‘transformation project’ rolled out across the country, from the civil service to the financial sector. The changes are geared towards developing Bhutan’s human capital by equipping the population with more proficient skills, knowledge and experiences.

Spread across almost a 70,000 square feet state-of-the-art spa, Moksha is one of the most thoughtfully planned wellness destinations in India.

If you have been looking for a nearest luxury wellness escape from Delhi’s hustle bustle and its pollution, Moksha Himalaya spa resort is an ideal place for you. Situated just 4 hours away by road from Delhi, in Parwanoo (near Chandigarh), Moksha makes it a very convenient get way.

As you reach Parwanoo, the resorts cable car receives you at the base, and transports you to a world that gives you a sense of belongingness while detaching you from the outside world. This quaint establishment, Moksha, which is almost at an elevation of 5000 feet above sea level is amidst the stunning Shivalik ranges that inspires oneness with the nature.

You feel a noticeable dip in the temperature and a sudden change in the ambience as you soak in the beauty of the place. The air up there is nippy, smells of crackling autumn leaves and of chilly wind blowing down the Himalayas.

Spa Haven

The property has been designed to give wellness as its focal point. Spread across almost a 70,000 square feet state-of-the-art spa, Moksha is one of the most thoughtfully planned wellness centers in India where each treatment room overlooks the valley and offers one-of-its-kind wellness experience.

Each treatment room at Moksha overlooks the Himalayas.

Though the retreat is grounded in Ayurveda, and offer therapies based on age old practices, you can also opt for their western contemporary spa therapies which are equally good. A must try experience is their Turkish Hammam. An ancient wellness therapy, with coordinated four hand massage followed by sauna and steam.

Turkish Hammam, an ancient wellness therapy, with coordinated four hand massage is a must try experience.

Moksha also crafts personalised therapies and activity programmes, to cater to individual needs and health goals, if required.

The Stay

The beautifully laid-out resort houses 62 rooms, each with an open sit-out offering breathtaking views of the valley, a rare thing to find in a mountain property.

The suites are expansive, almost 900 sq feet, highlighted with wooden detailing on the roof and walls and equipped with all the modern facilities, including a bathtub and shower that face out into the Shivalik range.

If you are planning to travel with family or a group of friends, go for their presidential suite or royal suite that offers personal butler and jaw dropping sunset views.

Presidential suite at Moksha Spa Resort.

You could unwind at all-weather infinity pool and open air jacuzzi as you witness the sun set beyond the horizon. The evenings can be spent by the bonfire on the terrace, listening to good music while enjoying your cocktails.

The nature lovers could opt for treks of differing intensities, walking along age-old village pathways winding artistically through the lush forests, breathing in the fresh crisp air infused with the aromas of the Pine, Oak, Champa and Rudraksha trees.

Food

Food is one of the reasons why the guests keep coming back to the resort. The resort has a fine dining multi- cuisine restaurant that offers progressive Indian, Chinese, Italian and other International cuisines. While everything tastes good here, one must try their traditional Himachali thali that includes local dishes of the region, giving you that local flavour. The chefs, Gautam Kumar and Pritam take into account guests personal preferences and go out of their way to make their food palette satisfied.

The traditional Himachali thali is a must try at Moksha.

So whether you want a vacation just for relaxing amidst nature or you want to experience a well-appointed wellness retreat, Moksha has got you covered. It’s a super relaxing and super-luxurious escape from a modern-day life

By Nivi Shrivastava 

The best way to know someone is to travel with them to unexplored destinations, and what better occasion than Valentine’s Day? Whether you are newlywed, an experienced rock-solid pair or a couple in the making, a romantic trip in the month of love should be on your annual calendar to strengthen the bond and passion. For the last-minute planners, here are some fabulous options to choose from and surprise your better half on the day of love.

Kaudia Estate, Kanatal

The snow-covered hills and pine-fragrant air is an ideal destination for couples planning to rejuvenate and rekindle love. At the Kaudia Estate, a luxury homestay in Kanatal, Uttarakhand, plan a romantic holiday with your partner to discover the best views of Himalayan sunrise and sunsets in the region. An offbeat and unique destination surrounded by lush cedar forest, rows of blossoms, and an exotic view of the valley, the resort-style property is exclusive and perfect for couples who wish to spend time in natural surroundings. Surprise your partner with an unforgettable dinner under the starry skies with a bonfire and  barbeque, and live music for Valentine’s Day at this beautiful destination.

Six Senses Fort Barwara

From picturesque views of the forts and palaces to lush green landscapes, Rajasthan makes for the most royal destination. To experience the royal charm of Rajasthan and experience the wildlife safari, heritage, or a movie night under the stars, plan a trip to Six Senses Fort Barwara. The historic property features two restaurants, a bar and lounge, 30,000 sq ft Six Senses Spa and fitness center, and 48 beautifully appointed suites, including five marquee suites with stunning views. Couples can also book signature massages, Ayurvedic treatments, nurturing facials, mindfulness practices, and personalized wellness programs based on the preventative principles of Eastern medicine and result-oriented Western influences for a relaxed holiday.

W, Goa 

If beaches are your fun space, there’s nothing better than Goa. Head to W Goa and be inspired by the vibrant culture and free flowing energy of the town. W Goa captures the rustic and dramatic landscape of Goa as well as its cosmopolitan, multi-cultural vibe, injecting Vagator with the exuberant spirit. Take it easy, party or simply take a dip in the pool to enjoy a relaxed vacation. Soak in the V Day vibes with the carefully crafted Aphrodisiac menu, infused with diverse flavor notes, along with a candle –lit dinner, and more.

The Kumaon, Uttarakhand

 Plan a sweet escape to the hills and answer the call of the mountains with an unforgettable, romantic retreat in the heart of the Himalayas. The Kumaon sitting atop a ridge, surrounded by the sanctity of the Nanda Devi Range, boasts of diverse experiences where one can disconnect with the tangible workings of the world and reconnect with each other. For your Valentine, plan a romantic date with a gorgeous candlelight set up under the stars, a cozy dinner in the library, or at the gourmet restaurant that sits in a cantilevered structure of floor-to-ceiling glass with undisturbed views of the Himalayas.

Six Senses Vana, Dehradun

Six Senses Vana
Six Senses Vana

Whether you are a couple or single, give yourself a gift of self-love this Valentine’s Day. Disconnect from everyday life and cherish self-love and care in the untouched foothills of the Himalayas. Book a minimum 4-night stay to enjoy the special week of self-love offer for an exceptional wellness experience. From Rose themed décor to making your body scrub, dosha churnas, face mask, to a strawberry-themed breakfast buffet, Six Senses Vana brings to you a week-long self-care retreat, from February 7 to February 14. One can indulge in self-love, exploration, and rejuvenation with a well-balanced week of transformative experience.

The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra 

What’s more romantic than Taj Mahal, the world’s most exquisite testimony to undying love. To rekindle the romance in an unforgettable backdrop and unparalleled hospitality, head to the Oberoi Amarvilas. Inspired by Mughal palace designs; with fountains, terraced lawns, reflection pools and pavilions, this property is as luxurious as it gets. Dine under the clear blue skies and enjoy the iconic view of the Taj on a romantic getaway with your beloved.

Brij Gaj Kesri, Bikaner

Soak in the grandeur of the royal living at this manor house in the heart of Rajasthan. From an intimate dinner setup at the poolside, a heritage tour of the city, or a sundowner on the dunes. A must-try is the chef’s special traditional Rajasthani delicacies, a feast for two.

Suryagarh, Jaisalmer

Explore the one-of-a-kind immersive getaway and savour the romantic dinner set up under a canopy of open skies and endlessly twinkling stars that transport you to a wonderful world of romance. The soothing Sufi evenings and some divine fare will make Suryagarh Jaisalmer a perfect Valentine’s getaway for you and your beloved. The hotel has thoughtfully and meticulously curated the trails and experiences like the Thar Dinner at Celebration Gardens, Dinner on the Dunes, Breakfast with Peacocks, Sundowners etc.

Pic courtesy: Amanwella

Sri Lanka’s National Carrier and oneworld member, SriLankan Airlines, extends its closest neighbor, India an invitation to explore the island’s beauty, with the launch ‘Dil full of Sri Lanka,’ a range of holiday packages.

‘Dil full of Sri Lanka,’ is a collection of hearty island charms, carefully curated by the Airlines’ leisure arm, ‘SriLankan Holidays’ to capture the most fascinating facets of Sri Lanka including cultural vibrancy, ecological beauty, and the inherent hospitality of its people. It presents a range of itineraries and experiences that appeal to visitors of different travel interests, with an unbelievable ‘buy one get one free’ offer.

The journeys are mapped in such a way to take the travellers through the most attractive holiday getaways such as Dambulla and Kandy of central Sri Lanka, and Galle, Bentota and Colombo of the South.

Sri-Lanka
Saminda Perera, general manager marketing, SriLankan Airlines, Komal Seth, director Linkin Reps and Richard Nuttall , CEO SriLankan Airlines at the launch of the Campaign, Dil full of Sri Lanka.

The packages, each, typically created for 2 persons and can be extended to accommodate up to 8 travellers, starting with 3 nights with customised requests.

The packages come with attractive rates, and are inclusive of return airfare, hotel accommodation (bed and breakfast) on twin sharing basis featuring Sri Lanka’s best of the hospitality industry. Currently, the Airline connects nine Indian cities to Colombo with 84 flights a week — 19 flights out of Chennai, 12 out of New Delhi, 10 out of Cochin, 9 out of Mumbai, daily flights out of Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore and six times a week out of Trivandrum.

For details of the campaign, visit srilankan.com.

L’Apogée Courchevel
L’Apogée Courchevel

It’s that time of the year when everyone is in the mood to splurge and relax with their family and friends. From luxury wildlife resorts, and splendid desert safaris to ski vacations and pristine beach getaways, the list of customized holiday experiences gets fancier this year as The Luxe Café brings you the best of hotels and resorts to book for a perfect year-end. Usher in the New Year with oodles of style and party at these award-winning destinations for the ultimate holiday experience across the world.

Wild glamping at Aman-i-Khas

At the exclusive Aman-i-Khas resort in Rajasthan, experience the traditional royal hospitality and generosity of spirit that warms the heart. Pair this with extraordinary Aman-curated festive programmes and you have the perfect balance of ingredients for making this festive season a memorable one. On Christmas and NY eve, enjoy an evening with a small group of musicians over a lip-smacking gourmet “Khas Khana” – a special dinner served by your personal server. Wake up to a ‘Picnic Barbecue Lunch’ to get the best of a winter afternoon, under sweet sunshine and in the company of nature.

Ski vacay at L’ Apogée Courchevel

If budget is not your worry and you want to join the crème de la crème club, think of a fabulous ski vacation in the idyllic French village Courchevel. This is where you hob knob with international celebrities and catch the best of the festive season in the luxurious winter wonderland. This winter, the festive season’s glistening magic is set to descend upon L’Apogée Courchevel as the famous Oetker Collection’s Palace in the Alps reopens its doors on 16 December 2022 for a season full of glamour and celebration. The hotel’s Christmas and New Year’s Eve programme of festivities is always eagerly awaited, and this year’s promises excitement, delight and merry-making for all.

Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough Hotel

Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough, London
Christmas in Residence at The Lanesborough, London

To get the best of winter festivities, head to London to celebrate a very English Christmas at your Regency home away from home. Available as a one, two or three-night experience, your stay at the hotel includes your very own Christmas tree in your room or suite, complimentary in-room English breakfast every morning, and a sumptuous five-course Christmas Day lunch. To make it fancier, opt for chauffeur-driven car transfers to St. Paul’s Church in Knightsbridge for evening service on Christmas Eve and iconic London shopping landmarks such as Harvey Nichols and Hamleys.

Vitamin Sea at the Soneva Maldives

Soneva Jani Maldives
Soneva Jani Maldives

If you are planning an extravagant, highly personalised and a serene getaway to kick start 2023 in an ultra-luxury island, there’s nothing better than a Maldivian vacation. At Soneva Maldives, you can book a holiday to create a lifetime of precious memories and rare experiences. Enjoy exquisite dining from Michelin-starred chefs, festive feasts, world-renowned wellness specialists, sporting legends, and an exciting holiday programme for children of all ages, as well as a special visit from Santa himself in the plush Maldivian landscape.

Arabian nights at Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Make the end of the year truly unforgettable for your loved ones with exceptional celebrations at the luxurious Arabian palace, offering incredible views to watch the record-breaking fireworks show. Kick off the festive season with carol singers at the hotel’s Christmas special, and party at the Lexington Grill & Bar with a special dinner and wine pairing. You can also book a private Cabana Brunch for the special holidays and relax in the lap of luxury in true Arabian style.

Wellness retreat at Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand

Chiva-Som - Taste of Siam & Outdoor Pool - Sunset
Chiva-Som – Taste of Siam & Outdoor Pool – Sunset

If your New Year’s resolution includes a transformative wellness journey for your body and soul, choose a relaxing destination like Chiva-Som Hua Hin in Thailand to celebrate the festive period with inspiring and uplifting activities. From fundraising dinners to welcoming the arrival of the Year of the Rabbit with a rock n’ roll-themed New Year extravaganza, enjoy the best of Thai hospitality at this luxury property. Relish the best of gastronomy featuring premium and locally sourced ingredients, and showcasing the two master chefs’ distinct cooking techniques, while maintaining the resort’s signature of both nutritious and delicious wellness cuisine. Tourists can explore the local mangrove reserve while surrounding themselves with the healing qualities of nature. On Christmas Eve, guests are invited to join a barbecue dinner at the beachfront Taste of Siam, accompanied by carol singing by local hill-tribe children. While on the NYE, enjoy a fabulous poolside party over wellness cuisine and the groovy rock and roll theme.

IHCL played host to the culinary master & his two-starred Michelin restaurant La Villa Lorraine as part of its rendezvous series

The culinary soiree showcased his signature flavours paired with a handpicked selection of beverages.

The epicurean celebration was a classic showcase of world-class cuisine amidst the conversations and interactions with the culinary maestro – Yves Mattagne, who specialises in seafood presentations, contemporary world cuisine and eclectic gastronomical experiences.

Chef Yves Mattagne

The curated menu featured signature flavours such as Tiger Shrimp – melon, watermelon, cassis, chili pepper & lime; Flamed Hamachi – oyster, Granny Smith, cucumber, shio, wasabi; Scallops – nappa cabbage, coral, combava; Lamb – harissa, smoked eggplant; and delectable vegetarian creations such as Flamed Avocado – plankton, daikon, red shiso, cucumber; Green Asparagus – wild mushrooms, yellow wine sauce, caramelized onions; Smoked Eggplant; Guyot Pear – cardamom, red wine, macadamia.

Earlier this year, Chef Yves Mattagne and Taj Mahal came together for a similar culinary soirée in Delhi and Mumbai. After the success of the collaboration, IHCL was delighted to collaborate with Chef Yves Mattagne and present a special Rendezvous where Chef unraveled the culinary secrets of a contemporary world as he recreated the spirit of La Villa Lorraine at The Chambers.

“I am so pleased to be on this special tour to India and create exclusive dining experiences and make more wonderful memories at two of the iconic Hotels of IHCL – The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai and Taj Mahal, New Delhi. My team and I feel very welcome and happy to have this culinary collaboration with The Chambers and showcase our signature flavours from La Villa Lorraine,” said chef Mattagne.