A beloved recipe, a personal narrative, and some kitchen creativity propelled Adeline Toh from her home kitchen to the spotlight at the first-ever Thermomix® TasteMaster Cook-Off 2026, hosted at Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) Plaza on August 15. She was named Singapore’s inaugural Thermomix® TasteMaster after her Indonesian Soto Ayam impressed the judges with its rich, flavorful broth and the touching story behind it: a heartfelt birthday tradition started by a close friend of 25 years, who lovingly prepared a comforting bowl of Indonesian Soto Ayam annually on Adeline’s birthday without fail. A Winning Dish with a Story at Its Heart Ten finalists from the Thermomix® community were evaluated on creativity, flavor, execution, and their ability to convey the personal story behind their dish. The judging panel included Christine Wong, General Manager for Vorwerk Singapore and Malaysia; award-winning chef-artist Janice Wong; and culinary creators Lennard Yeong and Javier Tan. “I am incredibly honored to be named Singapore’s first Thermomix® TasteMaster,” said Adeline Toh. “Being part of the Thermomix® community has given me the confidence to explore and be more creative in the kitchen. Seeing a recipe that means so much to me resonate with the judges and the audience is something I will always cherish. I hope it inspires other home cooks to share their own stories at the table.” Christine Wong remarked that the winning dish embodied the spirit of the competition. “The Thermomix® TasteMaster Cook-Off 2026 was designed to celebrate the people and stories that make home cooking so meaningful. The beauty of having an all-in-one kitchen appliance that alleviates the stress of cooking is that everyone can express their creativity and passion through their culinary creations, just as Adeline brought to life a dish that felt deeply personal.” For Janice Wong, the most compelling dishes demonstrated how creativity and emotion can enhance one another. “A memorable dish should evoke feelings as well as flavors. Adeline showcased a clear perspective, thoughtful execution, and a genuine connection to the story behind her Indonesian Soto Ayam. That balance gave the dish its own identity.” Lennard Yeong noted that the finalists exemplified the resourcefulness of today’s home cooks. “There was a genuine curiosity in how the finalists approached familiar ingredients and recipes. They were willing to experiment without losing sight of why the dish mattered to them, and with the convenience of Thermomix® TM7, they could spend less time on preparations and focus more on exploring new flavors and bringing their stories to life.” Javier Tan, also known as @bakeomaniac, added that the cook-off made culinary creativity feel accessible. “The finalists reminded us that memorable food doesn’t have to start in a professional kitchen. It can begin with a simple craving, a family memory, or the desire to create something special for someone. When home cooks have the confidence and tools to try, simple ideas can become dishes people remember.” Bringing Endless Possibilities to Every Kitchen The cook-off was the highlight of Thermomix®’s week-long roadshow, featuring live cooking demonstrations, interactive activities, and exploration of the Thermomix® TM7. The event showcased how guided recipes, automated preparation, and multiple cooking functions can simplify everyday meals while giving home cooks more freedom to experiment. The strong turnout highlighted the enduring importance of home cooking in Singapore as more than just a practical aspect of daily life. Every meal is an opportunity to shape what comes next. With a Thermomix® TM7, aspiring home cooks from various backgrounds can experiment with new ideas, celebrate traditions, and create cherished memories in the kitchen. “We are thrilled to see so many Singaporeans embracing home cooking. The success of our first-ever Thermomix® TasteMaster Cook-Off 2026 reflects the meaningful role food plays in connecting people, preserving memories, and sharing stories,” added Christine Wong. “Through our Feeding Possibilities brand platform, we aim to help more people feel capable and inspired in the kitchen, whether they are recreating a family favorite, exploring a new cuisine, or writing the next chapter of their own food story.” The Thermomix® experience continues at physical stores at The Cathay and Parkway Parade, where visitors can learn how the all-in-one smart cooking appliance can simplify everyday cooking while unlocking new culinary possibilities. https://vorwerk.com.sg/

Originally opened in 1901 as the Grand Métropole Hotel, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi stands as Vietnam's most renowned luxury hotel, merging French colonial elegance with contemporary five-star amenities across 358 rooms and suites in two distinct wings. Sofitel Legend now includes five hotels, each more splendid than the previous, located in stunning and culturally-rich destinations worldwide: Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, and Sofitel Legend People's Grand Hotel Xi'an. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is marking its 125th anniversary with a diverse array of immersive experiences throughout 2026. This milestone celebrates a timeless heritage while looking toward the future, showcasing the hotel’s enduring elegance, French art de vivre, and its iconic status as a living legend of Hanoi. Under the theme “125 Years of a Legend,” these celebrations combine culture, artistry, entertainment, gastronomy, and hospitality to enhance experiential luxury in the capital. The Metropole’s “Live the Legend” experience includes a series of curated stays, along with inspired gastronomic and wellness journeys, designed to immerse guests in the heritage and glamour of Hanoi’s Grande Dame. “We are thrilled to open a new chapter in the Metropole’s legendary story,” said George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. “For 125 years this hotel has been the beating heart of Hanoi — witnessing history, welcoming the world, and setting the standard for refined hospitality. This anniversary allows us to honour that remarkable legacy while inviting guests to experience the timeless soul of the Metropole in fresh, unforgettable ways as we look confidently to the future.” Historical Perspectives The Hotel Metropole building in Hanoi was inaugurated in 1901. 1901: Established by French investors Gustave-Émile Dumoutier and André Ducamp as the Grand Métropole Hotel, it was the largest in Indochina at the time. Colonial era to 1950s: Became a gathering place for writers, artists, diplomats, and royalty, hosting guests like Graham Greene, Somerset Maugham, and Charlie Chaplin. War years: During the Vietnam War, it housed 11 embassies and three UN agencies, earning the nickname “Embassy House”; a bomb shelter was constructed on-site. Post-war decline and revival: After a challenging period, the hotel was rejuvenated in the early 1990s under Accor, initially as Pullman Metropole, later affiliating with Sofitel. 2009: Became the first Sofitel Legend property, forming the cornerstone of Accor’s collection of historic luxury hotels. 2023–2024: The Heritage Wing underwent a 21‑month extensive renovation, reopening with updated rooms and suites while maintaining its colonial charm. Rooms & Suites The hotel features 358 rooms and suites divided between two unique wings: the historic Heritage Wing and the neo-classical Opera Wing (added in 1996). Heritage Wing (original 1901 building) comprise of 103 guest rooms and suites after renovation, including: 54 Luxury rooms 40 Grand Luxury rooms 6 Metropole Suites 3 Legendary Suites named after Graham Greene, Somerset Maugham, and Charlie Chaplin. The Décor combines French colonial architecture with Vietnamese elements: high ceilings, wooden floors, period furniture, and Indochine-style details and the rooms include Sofitel MyBed mattresses, modern technology, and luxurious bathrooms; some feature bathtubs and separate showers. We were pleasantly surprised on the design and maintenance of this hotel, exuding elegance and refined aesthetics in the entire tapestry of this heritage hotel. We stayed at a Grand Luxury Room, and it exudes a refined sense and blend of colonial heritage and contemporary five‑star comfort, with spacious interiors, elevated service privileges. Sitting in the historic Heritage Wing and measuring 37 sqm, the interiors balance French colonial sensibility with Vietnamese touches: dark wood furniture, hardwood floors, neutral tones, and period details such as a teak ceiling fan, lacquer boxes with sweets, and blue‑and‑white porcelain accents. The Art Deco–style marble bathroom, featuring a walk‑in shower and a modern Japanese washle, together with a pull-out stylized mini-fridge cladded in orange with unique lighting was delightful. The welcome snacks, drinks, small gifts and fruits were interesting as it portrayed the seasons and flavor of the month and a sense of personalized care. Our bed was lush, exceptionally comfortable, with a pillow menu available to tailor support and firmness. Soundproofing is strong, contributing to a quiet, restful atmosphere even in a central location. The Opera Wing (1996 extension) comprise of 236 guest rooms, 18 suites, and 1 Grand Prestige Suite (up to 176 m²), offering a more contemporary, neo-classical style. It is typically favored by business travelers and tour groups; rooms are generally larger and more modern in finish while retaining heritage motifs in public areas. Club Metropole benefits are available for Grand Premium rooms and suites, with access to a private lounge, all-day refreshments, afternoon tea, evening cocktails, and dedicated butler (Majordome) service. Guests in premium categories (Grand Luxury, Grand Premium, suites) benefit from 24‑hour Majordome (butler) service, private check-in, and exclusive lounge privileges. ‘Live the Legend’ Stay Experience Guests can indulge in understated luxury and create cherished memories with the "Live the Legend Experience," a stay inspired by the Metropole's 125-year history. This package features a sumptuous daily breakfast buffet for two, a refined Vietnamese lunch at Spice Garden for two, and an exclusive Path of History (and bomb shelter) tour led by the hotel's resident historian. Additional perks include guaranteed early check-in from 11am, late check-out until 2pm, and a complimentary upgrade to the next non-suite room category, subject to availability. The offer is available for bookings and stays until Sept. 30, with a minimum stay of two nights required. Hotels Amenities present include: Le Spa du Metropole: A full-service spa with 8 treatment suites (including 2 couples’ suites), steam bath, and a menu combining Thai/Vietnamese therapies with French skincare; open daily 10:00–22:00. Heated outdoor swimming pool nestled in lush gardens, with sun loungers and poolside service. Fitness centre with modern equipment; yoga classes and personal training available. Additional facilities: sauna, steam room, hot tub/Jacuzzi, beauty salon, gift shop (La Boutique), gourmet deli/patisserie (L’Epicerie), meeting rooms, and 24‑hour room service. Signature experiences include historical bunker tours, cooking classes, walking tours, and cultural talks. Full-service meeting rooms ‘Sensations Orientales’ Wellness Journey Drawing inspiration from ancient Oriental rituals and the timeless elegance that has characterized Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi for 125 years, “Sensations Orientales” presents a distinctive sensory experience where Eastern traditions merge with French sophistication. This exclusive 90-minute ritual at Le Spa du Metropole starts with a body exfoliation using a rich enzymatic gel, followed by Sothys’ Digi-Esthétique® techniques that combine acupressure with refined modeling movements from both Eastern and Western traditions. Warm notes of amber and myrrh, along with flowing massage gestures, provide profound relaxation and rejuvenation, concluded with a special gift to extend comfort at home. The treatment is available now through the end of the year. Food & Beverage Offerings The Metropole offers three restaurants and three bars/cafés, each with its own unique identity and the 125th Anniversary draws it's inspiration to deliver unique experiences for their guests. ‘Carnet de Voyage’ at Bamboo Bar Bamboo Bar introduces the enchanting "Carnet de Voyage" cocktail series, inspired by a 1920s journey through Indochina and beyond, as imagined for André Ducamp, the Metropole's co-founder and first "directeur." Visitors can follow his route while relaxing by the pool, savoring skillfully crafted cocktails that combine exotic flavors with the allure of a past era. Timeless French Dining at Le Beaulieu Celebrated for its culinary brilliance, outstanding service, and extraordinary wines - expertly crafted in both taste and presentation - Le Beaulieu, the "Grand Dame of 1901," is considered the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy a unique 3-course set menu featuring century-old classics like Lobster Bisque and Crêpe Suzette, served with guéridon service. These recipes have been handed down through generations of chefs, originating from the restaurant's early days. Legendary Cocktails and Le Burger ‘1901’ at Club Bar Le Club Bar honors taste and nostalgia by offering signature cocktails inspired by cultural icons and past hotel guests such as Charlie Chaplin, Graham Greene, and the Metropole’s co-founder André Ducamp. Patrons can now savor a unique addition to the Legendary Cocktail Collection menu, “The Last Telegram,” and enjoy the “1901” Burger, a sophisticated creation that combines French elegance with high-quality ingredients, certainly a must-try! Golden Era ‘Pho’ at Spice Garden Spice Garden, the Metropole's upscale Vietnamese restaurant, prepares a flavorful pho broth over 125 hours, using a recipe inspired by the culinary traditions that thrived at the hotel in the 1920s. The dish is served with Wagyu beef, a gold leaf short rib, and features a dramatic tableside pouring. This is more than just pho; it embodies a living piece of Hanoi's history and culinary essence. Metropole Liquid Chapters at angelina Angelina, the cocktail lounge, whisky bar, and restaurant, has introduced the “Metropole Liquid Chapters,” a unique menu celebrating significant historical events at the hotel. The cocktails feature “1901,” which pays tribute to the Metropole’s illustrious start; “1968,” inspired by the wartime bunker located beneath the hotel; and “2026,” highlighting a new era of Hanoi nightlife. The 125th Anniversary Collection Building on the Metropole's 125-year heritage, La Boutique and the gourmet deli and patisserie L’Epicerie present a selection of Metropole-branded items and exclusive special editions. These elegant souvenirs enable guests to bring a piece of the legend back with them, while the Metropole’s e-vouchers offer a convenient way to gift legendary Metropole experiences for any occasion. Breakfast in a Heritage Setting Breakfast at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is a combination of it's heritage setting, generous variety, and the ability to tailor the morning to either a refined French or vibrant Vietnamese mood. We got a genuinely bicultural breakfast rather than a generic international buffet: French/European side: viennoiserie (croissants, pain au chocolat), artisan breads, smoked salmon, charcuterie, cheeses, eggs Benedict variants, ricotta pancakes, French toast. Vietnamese side: pho (beef, chicken, vegetarian), rice porridge, banh cuon, banh mi, fresh spring rolls, green papaya salad, grilled fish, fried rice, noodle soups, and even egg coffee and I tasted the Ban Be Be, a Halong bay delight with mantis shrimp. We started the day with a light, European-style pastry-and-coffee ritual and also a hearty, local bowl of pho and herbs—both executed at a high level. We enjoyed the flavorful smoked salmon and cheeses, along with a well-made eggs Benedict, pancakes, and French toast, fresh juices, smoothies, and a good coffee program which we especially like which is the Vietnamese coffee (black or with condensed milk), and a range of teas. 125th Anniversary Exhibition: A Journey through Time Since 1901 The inaugural exhibition, marking the start of the series, opened in June at the Heritage Wing, located within the hotel's original 1901 building, and the Opera Wing, showcasing a visual homage to the Metropole's timeless elegance and lasting legacy. It includes rare photographs from early 20th-century colonial Indochina through periods of conflict up to the present day. Throughout the year, the hotel will reveal additional exhibitions, thoughtfully curated to celebrate its 125th anniversary. Through painting, mixed media, and photography, these exhibitions honor the artistic legacy of the Indochine era, Hanoi's rich cultural heritage, and the enduring spirit of Vietnamese life that continues to inspire today. Le Petit Journal and Metropole History Book The hotel introduces Le Petit Journal, its exclusive bi-monthly newspaper that highlights the finest moments, exclusive updates, and legendary experiences at the Metropole. Guests can also delve into the Metropole History Book, which is an archive of untold stories and significant milestones of both the property and the city, available at La Boutique or through their E-Shop. For more information or reservations, please contact Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi at +84 24 3826 6919, email metropolehanoi.info@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi 15 Ngo Quyen Street Hanoi, Vietnam 10000 Phone: +84 (0) 243 826 6919

This August, Singapore’s Chinatown will be transformed into a vibrant celebration of food, heritage, and craftsmanship as Qixi Fest 2026 (七夕乞巧嘉年华) makes its highly anticipated return. Taking place over two weekends from August 15 to 23, 2026, at Kreta Ayer Square, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to rediscover the people and traditions behind the flavours that have shaped Singapore's rich culinary history. Reimagining a Centuries-Old Tradition The Qixi Festival (七夕节), widely celebrated across Asia on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, is deeply rooted in the romantic legend of the Weaver Girl (织女) and the Cowherd (牛郎). Historically a time to celebrate artistry and wish upon the stars for skillful hands, this year's festival reimagines the ancient tradition through the universal language of food. Themed "匠味传愿 Crafting Flavours That Inspire," the fourth edition of Qixi Fest shines a spotlight on the artisans and culinary practitioners who have tirelessly preserved Singapore’s food legacy across generations. Organised by Bridging Generations, a Singapore-based heritage social enterprise, and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board (STB), the event aims to reinforce the city's status as a compelling destination for culture and historic exploration. "This year’s edition of Qixi Fest, themed around culinary craftsmanship, brings together heritage, creativity and community," said Ms Guo Teyi, Director of Leisure Events at STB. "Presenting our traditions in fresh and imaginative ways, the celebration reinforces Singapore as a compelling destination for arts, culture and heritage, and encourages further exploration of the historic district of Chinatown." A Landmark Culinary Collaboration A major highlight of Qixi Fest 2026 is its historic collaboration with two esteemed industry pillars: the 150-year-old Ku So F&B Association Singapore and the 105-year-old Foochow Coffee Restaurant & Bar Merchants Association. Together, these associations bring over 250 years of collective culinary expertise to the festival ground. This partnership not only showcases the techniques behind favorite local dishes but also honors the quiet dedication of the kopi brewers and chefs who continue to shape the nation's food culture today. Festival Highlights: What to Expect Visitors can look forward to a dynamic lineup of immersive experiences that celebrate the artistry behind traditional food: Become 食神 (God of Culinary): This interactive exhibition allows visitors to explore traditional culinary techniques, including knife skills, wok mastery, hand-pulled noodles, sugar sculpting, and flavour pairing. Participants will also uncover the well-guarded secrets behind brewing authentic Nanyang kopi. Nanyang Breakfast Challenge: Making its inaugural debut, this live competition will take place on August 22. Five finalists will compete for the title of Nanyang Breakfast Champion and a share of over S$1,000 in cash prizes. Qixi Banquet Under the Stars: Scheduled for August 19, this exclusive, one-night-only dining experience requires advance reservation. Renowned master chefs have curated a special menu that seamlessly blends traditional Chinese culinary artistry with Singapore's distinct Nanyang flavours. Preserving the Passion on the Plate For the organizers, the festival is about much more than just tasting good food; it is about honoring the human element behind every meal. Lynn Wong, Founder of Bridging Generations, emphasizes the heart of the initiative: "Behind every iconic Singapore flavour is a story of craftsmanship passed down through generations". She hopes visitors will leave the festival inspired to look beyond the dish in front of them and gain a deeper appreciation for the passion that continues to shape Singapore's culinary identity. Event Details: To experience the stories, traditions, and flavours shaping Singapore’s culinary heritage, visitors can register for complimentary festival tickets at eventbrite.sg/qixi-fest-2026. For more information, visit qixifest.com.

Food lovers in Singapore are in for a treat as Pan Pacific Singapore’s award-winning buffet restaurant, Edge, proudly brings back its highly anticipated "Heritage of Penang" dining experience. Running from August 12 to September 20, 2026, this exclusive dinner buffet celebrates the rich and vibrant flavors of Penang's legendary food scene right in the heart of the city. A Gathering of Culinary Legends Executive Chef Andy Oh and his culinary team have invited four celebrated Penang hawker veterans to showcase the signature dishes that have made them beloved household names. Chef Toon Chin Hye: The Founder and Head Chef of Ah Soon Fried Oyster brings over 40 years of experience to Edge. He will be serving his acclaimed Fried Oyster Omelette, a dish that has earned both local and international recognition. Chef Tan Pow Lai: As a Master Artisan and Wholesaler of Tan Kee Poh Piah, Chef Pow Lai draws on more than five decades of craftsmanship. Guests can enjoy his Fresh Hand-made Popiah, famous for its delicately hand-rolled skins. Chef Tan Kim Chong: A highly respected figure in authentic Nyonya cuisine, Chef Kim Chong brings bold and aromatic flavors to the buffet. His offerings include Nyonya Otah, Nyona Curry Kapitan, and Nyonya Perut Ikan. Chef Kong Chee Thiam: Specializing in traditional Southeast Asian street desserts, Chef Chee Thiam prepares his signature Apam Balik, also known as Min Jiang Kueh. This beloved treat has drawn a loyal following at Penang's Northam Beach Café for over ten years. Executive Chef Andy Oh's Tributes Complementing the guest chefs' masterpieces, Executive Chef Andy Oh is serving his own culinary tributes to the island's hawker heritage. Diners can indulge in his signature Penang White Curry Noodle with Pork Blood Curd, which features a rich coconut broth, regional house-made sambal, prawn, cuttlefish, cockles, and taupok. Another highlight is his Char Kway Teow, stir-fried over intense heat to deliver savory wok hei in every bite. The extensive menu also features a wide array of classic Penang favorites and sweet treats: Savory Delights: Nyonya Mango Kerabu, Loh Bak (Five-spice Pork Roll), Char Moi (Wok-fried Porridge with Crispy Pork Belly), Assam Pedas Fish with Lady Finger, Too Kar Chor (Braised Pork Trotter with Black Vinegar), and Inchi Kabin. Desserts: Muah Chee, Penang Tau Sar Piah, Durian Crepe, Penang Cendol, and pickled nutmeg. The Best of Both Worlds: International Fare If you are craving variety, the "Heritage of Penang" runs alongside Edge’s extensive international buffet. The spread includes hearty classics like Classic Osso Bucco, Pan-seared Sustainable Salmon with Fennel Purée, Seafood Bouillabaisse, and Slow-roasted Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding. To finish your evening on a sweet note, the pastry team offers a Raspberry Rose Gâteau, Cherry Almond Strudel, Lemon Pistachio Cake, and a Cream Cheese Pecan Brownie. Event Promotion Details at a Glance Details Information Dates 12 August to 20 September 2026 Time Available for dinner from 6:00pm to 10:00pm Pricing (Adult) $118++ per adult (Includes free flow of soft drinks) Pricing (Child) $59++ per child (Includes free flow of soft drinks) To secure your spot for this delicious cultural journey, reservations can be made by calling +65 6826 8240 or emailing dining.ppsin@panpacific.com. RM Verdict: 9.1/10 - We will return again for sure for this lovely authentic Penang spread.

Amara Singapore is a refined, recently renovated hotel situated in the heart of the Central Business District on Tanjong Pagar Road. Ideal for both business professionals and leisure travelers, the property provides a modern, luxurious atmosphere just a two-minute walk from the Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Beyond its comfortable accommodations, the hotel is widely recognized as a premier culinary destination, housing a diverse collection of award-winning dining and nightlife venues under one roof. Accommodations & Amenities: The hotel features 389 modern, air-conditioned guest rooms, a relaxing Balinese-style swimming pool on the sixth floor, a spa, and a 24-hour fitness center. Exceptional Dining: Home to 10 distinct on-site restaurants, culinary highlights include Michelin-recommended Cantonese and Sichuan fare at Peony Jade, authentic royal Thai dishes at the long-standing Thanying, and premium Japanese omakase at Sushi Yujo. World-Class Nightlife: Guests can unwind at Jigger & Pony, a celebrated bespoke cocktail bar located on the property that consistently ranks near the top of Asia's 50 Best Bars list. Business & Event Facilities: The hotel offers extensive meeting spaces, including a massive pillar-less Grand Ballroom equipped with a 7.6-meter LED video wall, making it a popular choice for large corporate gatherings and weddings. We decided to do a staycation over the National Day long weekend at the Executive Club room. Amara Singapore first opened in 1986 and I remember the grand but dated design of the lobby and interior when I first visited the hotel as a kid with my parents. It recently underwent a comprehensive, phased renovation that began in October 2023. The extensive redesign, led by hospitality design firm Studio HBA, upgraded its public spaces, lobby, and all 389 guest rooms, with the final transformation officially completed and unveiled in late 2024. The transformation is stunning and the interior is now chic and contemporary, featuring clean lines, natural wood elements and calming green accents. We were assigned the Club room on the 17th floor which is the Club floor where the Club Lounge is located. Space & Comfort: The rooms are thoughtfully laid out, complete with a separate living area and an L-shaped sofa or tan chaise lounge where you can unwind. We had a plush King bed, positioned across from a 55-inch smart TV with screencasting capabilities. The Bathroom: A major highlight of the Club Room is the inclusion of both a rain shower and a bathtub (note: standard rooms often lack a tub). The bathroom features beautiful handmade porcelain tiles, a bidet, and premium bath amenities by Appelles Apothecary and Lab. Sustainability: Amara has made a conscious effort to be eco-friendly. There are no single-use plastics, and the room includes a filtered drinking water tap and power-saving motion sensors for the lights and air conditioning. Booking a Club Room granted us access to The Club on Level 17, which significantly enhances the value of our stay. The lounge is an elegant, exclusive space with stunning skyline views. Our Club perks included: Food & Beverage: A personalized, complimentary breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10:30 AM. In the evenings (5:30 PM to 7:30 PM), complimentary evening cocktails and canapés are served. In-Room Perks: The non-alcoholic mini-bar in our room is complimentary and replenished daily. We also got a Nespresso machine and TWG tea sachets. Convenience: Enjoy complimentary laundry service (two pieces daily) and late check-out at 2:00 PM (subject to availability). After checking in, we went straight to The Club for evening cocktails, before our dinner appointment at a restaurant nearby. There was a fine selection of house and sparkling wines, beer and standard spirits, but we were pleasantly surprised that a Singleton 12 years single malt was available. A single malt, yes, not any cheap blended house whiskey. The food spread included some hot and cold canapes, savoury bites and dessert. For breakfast, we had a choice to dine at The Club or the main restaurant Element on the lobby level. We went to survey both choices, and eventually decided to have our breakfast at Element restaurant. The Club Breakfast The Club offers a smaller intimate spread compared to Element restaurant but had a couple of exclusive items like smoked salmon, nasi lemak and meat balls in a quieter setting. Element Restaurant Breakfast The Spread: It is a fairly large, classic hotel-style buffet. There was a wide variety of Western and Asian breakfast staples, including: Hot Stations: Eggs made-to-order, congee, noodles, dim sum, and a rotation of local Singaporean dishes. Continental: A variety of freshly baked breads, pastries, yogurt, cereals, and seasonal fruits. Beverages: Self-service coffee machines, a selection of juices, and tea. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Amara Singapore is currently hosting a special "Bites of Nostalgia High Tea" featuring treats made with MILO®. The experience is designed to spark childhood memories by blending comforting local Singaporean flavors with creative MILO-infused desserts. The Details Location: Cafe Oriental (Level 1, Amara Singapore). Dates: August 7, 2026 – September 13, 2026. Pricing: $68++ for 2 Adults $21++ for each child under 12 years old Timings: Weekdays: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM Weekends & Public Holidays: Two seatings are available (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM & 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM) Since we were staying there, we decided to try out the high tea before checking out. What's on the Menu? The menu is a curated mix of savory local favorites and decadent sweet creations: Savory Bites: Includes elevated local classics like Chilli Crab with Mantou and Hae Bee Hiam Kueh Pie Tee. MILO® Sweet Treats: The star of the show features custom creations like a MADE WITH MILO® Financier and a Sesame Peanut Rice Ball infused with the classic malt flavor. We would like to express our sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the Amara team for taking good care of us during our stay. Gordon the GM, Deirdre and Jin Mei from Marcoms, Azreen the Reservation Manager, Gino the Duty Manager, Ashraf, Keith and Limin from Front Desk, Valerie from The Club, Jacky and Kai Yong from Element restaurant, and last but not least Lisa and Nuru. We will be back for sure.

Situated in the heart of Tiong Bahru, Magpie is the creative home of chef Eliot Thomas, a New Zealander with Fijian roots and a career forged across Sydney, London, the Mediterranean and Asia. Thomas's cooking philosophy, which he describes as "borderless soul food", is grounded in seasonal, regional produce and shaped by a lifelong curiosity about culture, memory and the stories food can tell. Since opening in Singapore, Magpie has earned a devoted following for its changing menus, warm hospitality and a kitchen that takes both its ingredients and its influences seriously. We decided to drop by on a weekday evening to check out their food and wow it was packed with a full house! We were presented with a focused and specialized menu, so while we perused the food options we decided to have a pre-dinner drink by ordering a Drappier Carte D'Or champagne, and we were pleasantly surprised to be served the champagne in a Grabriel Glas, one of the best hand-blown wine glasses on the market today. The thinness of the glass and stem, when you put it to your lips, arouses your senses and elevates the flavours and structure of the champagne. And to add, they don't serve the champagne in a traditional champagne flute, but a tapered shape glass to allow the bubbles and complexity to evolve in the glass. This type of glass is my favourite and I use these when I entertain guests at my home with similar Zalto glasses. We started with some starters - Curried Fish Croquettes ($28 for 3 pieces), and Ceviche with Passionfruit, Corander and Coconut ($$34). We must remark that the croquettes were spot-on with the taste and execution, and the Ceviche was very fresh and juicy. For the mains, we had the W-Black Wagyu ($62), Market Fish Tuna ($52) and Dry Aged Gooralie Pork ($68). Chef Eliot came over to our table to explain his story and inspiration behind these dishes and his cooking style. The marbling and fat-to-meat ratio on the pork was well balanced and just right on the sweet spot. The wagyu just simply melted in our mouths and still paired well with our champagne and green curry and maitake. To end off the night on a happy sweet farewell, we had the Warm dark chocolate with Cinnamon ice cream, chili mousse and almond biscuit ($18). And the seasonal peach sorbet ($14) for each of us. Overall RM Verdict: 8.8/10 Reasonable price, excellent food and awesome service. Will we return? Yes absolutely that goes without saying! Magpie Singapore 57 Eng Hoon St, #01-88 Singapore 160057 Tel: +65 8223 4930 (Whatsapp preferred) www.magpie.city www.instagram.com/magpiesingapore/ hello@magpie.city Operating Hours: Friday to Sunday from 12.00pm to 3.00pm Tuesday to Thursday from 6pm till late

This October 2026, Singapore will host 25,000 attendees, 500 exhibitors, 300 speakers, and 1,000 side events, drawing the global crypto industry to the city. TOKEN2049, the largest crypto event in the world, is returning to Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on October 7–8, bringing together 25,000 attendees from over 7,000 companies across 160 countries. The initial 100 speakers have been announced, featuring Shayne Coplan, Founder and CEO of Polymarket; Jeff Yan, CEO of Hyperliquid Labs; Adena Friedman, Chair and CEO of Nasdaq; Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton; Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization; Raoul Pal, Co-Founder and CEO of Real Vision; and Tom Lee, Managing Partner and Head of Research at Fundstrat. This year’s event will heavily focus on institutional participation, with senior leaders from BlackRock, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Nasdaq, NYSE, CME, and Franklin Templeton expected to attend. TOKEN2049 will occupy all five floors of Marina Bay Sands, creating a festival-like atmosphere with content, networking, wellness, live experiences, and its renowned hospitality. TOKEN2049 Singapore is unique because it turns an industry conference into an immersive, city-scale Web3 festival. Its appeal lies not just in the speakers or crypto discussions, but in the atmosphere: Marina Bay Sands becomes a temporary global marketplace where business, technology, luxury hospitality, food, entertainment and networking operate together. During TOKEN2049 Week, over 1,000 events, including conferences, hackathons, investor gatherings, meetups, and networking receptions, will take place throughout the city. Other significant events in Singapore that week include the Digital Asset Summit Asia, Sui Basecamp, the Network State Conference, the Milken Institute Asia Summit, and the Forbes Global CEO Conference, all set against the backdrop of the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix. Alex Fiskum, Co-Founder of TOKEN2049, stated: “As our Dubai event shifts to 2027, our primary focus this year is on Singapore. We’re experiencing significant interest, with over 70% of the exhibition floor already booked. In the coming weeks, we’ll introduce new tracks and formats as we expand the institutional aspect of the program. We eagerly anticipate welcoming everyone back to TOKEN2049 this October for the year’s largest industry gathering.” The 2026 agenda will also include the second edition of TOKEN2049 Origins, a 36-hour hackathon, and the return of the NEXUS Startup Competition, with registrations and applications for both programs exceeding last year’s numbers and reaching into the thousands. This year’s finalists will be evaluated by top venture capital firms Dragonfly, Multicoin, and Maelstrom. TOKEN2049 Singapore is unique because it is far more than a cryptocurrency conference: it combines a global Web3 industry summit, a high-energy lifestyle festival, and an enormous citywide networking week in one of the world’s most efficient business destinations. Happy Bird tickets are currently on sale for a limited period, with TOKEN2049 Singapore expected to sell out before the event. Limited opportunities for exhibition and partnership are still available. For tickets and more information, visit TOKEN2049 Singapore.

The Invisible Signature: How Maison 21G Paris Is Reimagining Luxury Hospitality Through Scent Maison 21G Paris and the New Art of Bespoke Hotel Scent Design Discover how Maison 21G Paris creates bespoke scent identities, sustainable amenities, spa rituals and retail collections for luxury hotels around the world. A guest may forget the colour of the curtains. They may not remember the name of the flower placed beside the bed. Yet years later, one breath can bring everything back: the cool marble of the lobby, the hush of the corridor, the warmth of the room at sunset. Scent has this rare power. It does not simply decorate a space. It enters memory. This is the territory explored by Maison 21G Paris, the Haute Perfumery house founded by Master Perfumer Johanna Monange. Across the world, she works with hotel owners, general managers and creative marketing teams to compose something no catalogue can provide: an olfactory identity that belongs entirely to one property. Not a fragrance borrowed from a familiar brand.Not an amenity found in dozens of hotels.A scent with a soul, created from the soul of the hotel itself. The End of Scented Sameness in Luxury Hotels For many years, luxury hotels relied on established beauty brands to signal prestige. The name on the bottle was meant to reassure the guest. But true luxury has changed. Today, the most discerning hotels no longer want to offer what can be found everywhere. They want to express their own world: their architecture, destination, culture, local ingredients and traditions, values and personality. A hotel in the mountains should not smell like an island resort. A heritage palace should not share the same olfactory language as a ultra contemporary City Hotel. Each property deserves a signature as distinctive as its address. Maison 21G Paris helps hotels move beyond scented sameness. The process begins with listening… Johanna Monange personally immerses herself in each project she accepts. She studies the property, its landscape, its local ingredients and traditions, and the emotions it wishes to inspire. She listens to the stories of the founders, the ambitions of the general manager and the subtle details that make the hotel unlike any other. A local flower may become the heart of the fragrance. A forest, coastline, spice market or architectural material may inspire its texture. Sometimes the starting point is a memory. Sometimes it is a vision of the guest experience yet to be created. Every project is approached as a work of Haute Perfumery: with instinct, discipline, curiosity and passion. A Scent That Lives Through the Entire Hotel A signature fragrance becomes truly powerful when it is not confined to one place. Maison 21G Paris designs a complete sensory journey, allowing the hotel’s olfactory identity to unfold naturally from arrival to departure. The first encounter may begin in the lobby, where professional scent diffusion creates an immediate feeling of place. The fragrance is present but never overwhelming. It moves through the air like an invisible welcome. In another corner, a sculptural Reed Diffuser becomes part of the décor. At night, a giant scented Candle may bring warmth and movement to the space, transforming the atmosphere as the day softens into evening. In the guest room, the same fragrance can appear through Shampoo, Conditioner, Shower Gel, Body Lotion and Hand Wash in a beautiful ceramic dispenser. The bathroom is no longer filled with generic plastic amenities. It becomes an extension of the hotel’s design language. Every vessel can be created around the property’s codes: its colour palette, monogram, gold foil, materials and level of refinement. Ceramic, Glass, Aluminium are selected not only for their appearance, but for their function, durability and environmental impact. The guest experiences one coherent story, told through scent, texture, material and ritual. Sustainability Without Compromise For Maison 21G Paris, sustainability is not an afterthought. It is considered from the first creative discussion. Luxury hospitality must now answer a more demanding question: how can beauty endure without generating unnecessary waste? The answer lies in thoughtful design. Refillable dispensers should replace disposable miniature. Durable Ceramic, Glass and Aluminium vessels are created to remain in the room and be replenished. Recyclable PET offers a lighter and more practical solution for properties with specific operational needs. The aim is never to make sustainability feel austere. A refillable dispenser can be sculptural. A responsible material can still feel precious. A more efficient system can also strengthen the guest experience. Maison 21G Paris brings together environmental responsibility and visual desire with its in house creative studio and team of sourcing engineers, proving that sustainable luxury should not feel like a compromise. It should feel like progress. The Poetry of the Bedroom Turndown The most memorable hotel moments are often the quietest. A room prepared for sleep.Soft light.A relaxing scent on the pillow. A natural mosquito repellant to sleep in peace. Maison 21G Paris creates bespoke turndown rituals designed to care for the guest at the end of the day. A Pillow Mist can become a gentle invitation to rest. A natural mosquito repellent can offer comfort in tropical destinations while remaining natural and sensorial. Bath Salts, pulse-point oils or small fragrant ceramic objects can transform the room into a private evening ritual. These gestures are practical, but they are also emotional. They tell the guest: we have thought about your comfort, your sleep and the way you will remember this night. A More Personal Spa Experience The spa offers another opportunity to make fragrance deeply human. Instead of presenting one standard massage oil, Maison 21G Paris can create a bespoke massage menu in which guests choose an Essential Oil according to how they wish to feel. Ginger may bring warmth, energy and a sense of renewed circulation. Sandalwood can encourage stillness, grounding and deep relaxation. Rose offers a softer, more nurturing ritual, traditionally associated with beauty and care for mature or dry skin. The guest is no longer selecting only a treatment. They are choosing an intention. This small act of personalisation changes the entire experience. It invites conversation with the therapist, deepens emotional engagement and creates a ritual that feels unique to both the guest and the hotel. Taking the Memory Home The relationship between a guest and a hotel should not end at checkout. Maison 21G Paris helps properties transform their signature scent into a retail collection that guests can take home: Reed Diffusers, Candles, Room Sprays, Pillow Mists, perfumes, Ceramic scented objects or elegant dispensers filled with the hotel’s Hand Wash or Body Lotion. These products are more than souvenirs. They are emotional keys. A Candle relit at home can recall a dinner beneath the stars. A Reed Diffuser can bring back the quiet of a suite overlooking the sea. A Body Lotion can revive the intimacy of a morning ritual far from everyday life. For the hotel, this also creates a meaningful new revenue stream. Instead of selling a product available elsewhere, it offers something exclusive: a fragment of the property’s identity. The hotel’s scent becomes part of its commercial value, its storytelling and its long-term relationship with the guest. From Creative Vision to Global Delivery Behind every poetic idea lies an exacting process. Once the olfactory direction is defined, the Maison 21G Paris in-house design studio develops the full visual universe. Bottles, boxes, pouches, dispensers, candles and decorative objects are designed to respect the hotel’s brand guidelines while expressing its individuality. The engineering and sourcing teams identify the most appropriate vessels, pumps, caps, brackets, Ceramics and packaging solutions. Each product is filled, assembled and inspected with the attention to detail expected by luxury hospitality. Then comes the final, often invisible stage: delivery. Fragrance products must travel through complex international regulations. Maison 21G Paris manages dangerous-goods logistics and coordinates shipments across borders, ensuring that the creative vision arrives safely at the hotel. From the first conversation to the final box, one team carries the project through. A Global Journey for the Maison 21G Paris Team and Its Founder—One Exceptional Hotel at a Time Maison 21G Paris is now creating bespoke sensory identities for an expanding portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across several continents. The demand for its 360-degree scent design expertise continues to grow, as more hotel owners and general managers seek an olfactory identity that is entirely their own. Its international hospitality portfolio includes the prestigious Raffles Sentosa, the refined Laurus, a Luxury Collection Resort, the iconic Hotel Le Pralong in Courchevel, the idyllic Luura Hotel Villas on the Greek island of Paros, the historic Rockliffe Hall Castle in the United Kingdom, the distinctive Point Hotel on Australia’s Gold Coast, the fashionable Faraway Hotels in the United States, the architecturally elegant Hotel Drisco in San Francisco, the trendy Kimpton Hotel in China Sanya, the extraordinary A’ila Resorts in the majestic bay Saint Lucia with the first TheLifeCo Hotel opening, and an exquisite new five-star Swiss-Belhotel property in Zanzibar. Requests for the bespoke Maison 21G Paris experience are increasingly numerous, yet every project is selected with care. Each destination offers a new source of inspiration, and the founder and her team carefully curate the hospitality projects it accepts to preserve the creativity, precision and personal attention that true luxury demands. A complete development typically unfolds over approximately six months. Every detail is considered, from the first olfactory consultation and the sourcing of local Ingredients to the design of the vessels, amenities, guest rituals and retail collection. It is a genuine luxury-development journey, driven by innovation and brought to life with passion by the entire Maison 21G Paris team. For founder and Master Perfumer Johanna Monange, every destination speaks its own olfactory language. A tropical resort may call for airy Marine Notes, luminous Solar Woods and local botanicals. A mountain retreat may inspire Fir Balsam, Cedarwood, Moss, Leather and a veil of smoke. A sophisticated city hotel may seek something more intimate, textured and quietly seductive, perhaps blending Tea with creamy Sandalwood. Johanna Monange approaches every project with the same essential question: What should this hotel make its guests feel—and what memory should remain long after they have returned home? What should this hotel make people feel? The answer is never repeated and unique. Beyond the Hotel Room The Maison 21G Paris experience can also become something guests create for themselves. Through private Ateliers de Création, hotel guests, VIP clients and corporate groups can discover the language of perfumery and compose their own fragrance in some luxurious hotel like Raffles or Bahah Reserve Resort in Indonesia. These experiences offer hotels a rare form of entertainment: cultural, personal and deeply memorable. They also give hotel teams new activity to share. Maison 21G Paris can train staff to lead the workshops with guests, speak about its Ingredients and communicate the inspiration behind it. The fragrance then becomes more than a product. It becomes part of the property’s culture. From a Scent for You to a Scent for Your World Maison 21G Paris began with a simple but radical belief: everyone deserves a scent that feels personal. Over seven years, that philosophy has expanded. Today, the house creates not only a scent for an individual, but a scent for a brand, a restaurant, a beach club, a spa or an entire hotel. Its creations now travel through lobbies, bathrooms, treatment rooms, boutiques and homes. Its iconic Reed Diffusers, Dual Crayons, scent ancillaries Capsules, refillable amenities and decorative objects allow one olfactory identity to live in many forms. Yet the heart of the work remains unchanged. It begins with human connection.It is shaped by craft and passion.It is carried by emotion. The Future of Luxury Is Invisible, Unforgettable—and Sustainable The future of hospitality will not be defined by what guests see alone. It will be defined by what they feel, what they remember and what they carry with them. A scent diffused through the lobby.A refillable Ceramic vessel in the shower.A Pillow Mist waiting beside the bed.An Essential Oil selected in the spa.A Candle taken home as a memory. These details form something larger than a collection of products. They create the invisible soul of the hotel. Maison 21G Paris is helping a new generation of owners and general managers move beyond familiar brands and create sensory identities that are more personal, more emotional and more sustainable. Because the most powerful luxury is not always seen. Sometimes, it is breathed in. And remembered forever. Related articles: https://www.maison21g.com/articles/why-luxury-hotels-are-investing-in-bespoke-signature-scents-to-build-their-brand-identity https://www.maison21g.com/articles/luxury-team-building-bespoke-perfume-workshops-by-maison-21g-paris https://www.maison21g.com/articles/the-untapped-potential-of-scent-marketing-for-your-brand

As Singapore prepares for the National Day long weekend, West The Sale is back from 6 to 10 August 2026, offering five days of outlet shopping with exclusive rewards and discounts of up to 90% at IMM and Westgate. Now in its sixth year, this annual event provides shoppers with more savings opportunities through Early Bonus Savings, Triple Rewards for Triple Value, and Spend & Savour promotions. Shoppers can earn up to $100 in eCapitaVouchers at IMM, $30 in eCapitaVouchers at Westgate, bonus brand eVouchers via the CapitaStar app, and dining rewards throughout the event. With over 100 outlet brands at IMM and more than 120 dining options across both malls, West The Sale is a one-stop destination for those looking to enjoy great deals, delicious food, and quality time with family and friends during the National Day weekend. "West The Sale has become a key retail event that shoppers eagerly anticipate each year. Celebrating its sixth edition, we're thrilled to introduce even more brands while continuing to offer shoppers greater value and memorable experiences at both IMM and Westgate. Whether visitors come for outlet shopping, to explore new dining concepts, or to spend time with family and friends during the National Day period, we hope they enjoy all that our malls have to offer," said Chew Hock Chye, General Manager of IMM, Westgate, & Lot One. IMM also introduces five new brands, further enhancing Singapore's largest outlet mall with a broader selection of options. Shoppers can now explore internationally recognized brands including HOKA, known for its maximalist performance running shoes; Champion, the American sportswear brand famous for pioneering the reverse-weave sweatshirt; Li-Ning, a leading Chinese performance sports brand; Hunter, the British brand renowned for its handcrafted waterproof boots since 1856; and Sam Edelman, the globally recognized American footwear brand celebrated for its contemporary and fashion-forward designs. The shopping experience goes beyond retail, offering a variety of dining options for those looking to recharge between purchases. With new dining additions at IMM, BYD by 1826—the electric vehicle brand's lifestyle café concept—extends the BYD lifestyle experience, offering specialty coffee and all-day café favorites in a modern setting. Joining the lineup is Battercatch, one of Singapore's few halal fish and chips restaurants, known for its beach-inspired interiors and freshly prepared seafood, making it a perfect stop for shoppers needing to refuel throughout the day. Nearby, Westgate enhances the shopping experience with a curated selection of family-friendly retail, fashion, beauty, and dining options, providing visitors with even more reasons to spend the National Day long weekend in the west. Together, IMM and Westgate offer a seamless shopping and dining experience for families, fashion enthusiasts, and lifestyle seekers alike. West The Sale Promotions | 6 to 10 August 2026 Shop, save and enjoy even greater rewards during West The Sale, with exclusive CapitaStar rewards and dining privileges available across IMM and Westgate. ● Enter reward code on the CapitaStar app from 27 July to redeem exclusive brand eVouchers worth over $800 (eVouchers valid for redemption from 6–31 August. Limited to the first 100 in-store redemptions per eVoucher, unless otherwise stated.) ● Spend $80 at IMM or Westgate and enjoy 10% Cashback in STAR$® at participating F&B outlets. (Limited to the first 1,200 redemptions. Limited to one redemption per member per day. STAR$®rewards are capped at $500 per transaction and apply to the first eligible F&B transaction only.) IMM Spend and be rewarded with up to $100 in eCapitaVouchers. ● Spend $400: Receive a $50 eCapitaVoucher (Limited to the first 200 redemptions per day from 6–7 Aug and first 300 redemptions per day from 8–10 Aug. Limited to one redemption per member per day.) ● Spend $700: Receive an additional $50 eCapitaVoucher (Limited to the first 400 redemptions. Limited to one redemption per member per day.) Westgate Shop your favourites and enjoy exclusive rewards. ● Spend $250: Receive a $30 eCapitaVoucher (Limited to the first 150 redemptions per day from 6–7 Aug and first 250 redemptions per day from 8–10 Aug. Limited to one redemption per member per day.) For more on West The Sale 2026 promotions, kindly visit website

Bhaya Soul provides an outstanding level of privacy with just 20 spacious cabins on a large ship, designed specifically for small groups and is the newest addition to the Bhaya Cruise family's fleet of vessels. The cozy environment guarantees personalized service and unrivaled peace, with every aspect carefully designed to deliver a harmonious mix of sophistication, cultural artistry, and environmentally-friendly design. Luxury is best personified when it transforms into a deep and personal experience. As we set off on a tranquil journey to nurture our spirits and reconnect with the natural world, Bhaya Soul guided us through untouched landscapes, allowing us to uncover the hidden culture of Halong Bay, engage with local communities, and forge meaningful connections while enjoying moments of peace and introspection. With a focus on intimacy, we embarked on this journey through tranquil waters, guided by a wellness-centric cruising concept. We indulged in personalized spa treatments, relaxed with a complimentary mini bar stocked with a variety of choices, and relished the exquisite Vietnamese Halong Bay cuisine. Unique excursions enriched our exploratory adventure, and gourmet dining rounded off this bespoke journey, designed to satisfy our every wish. Bhaya Soul’s commitment to sustainability was reflected in its eco-friendly design and use of locally sourced materials, honouring the art of traditional craftsmanship. Every element onboard demonstrated deep respect for Halong Bay’s natural and cultural heritage. We could also participate in conservation efforts, ensuring that our journey contributed to protecting the environment and supporting local communities, especially on Cat Ba Island. 3 Day 2 Night Experience In July 2026, we embarked on an awesome cruise with the Bhaya Soul to discover the natural symphony of Halong Bay, a World Heritage site on a wellness voyage. Throughout our cruise journey, we were indulged at every turn, as this exploratory cruise was thoughtfully crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Bhaya Soul’s 3-day-2-night programme is a boutique wellness cruise through Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay, combining quiet sailing, kayaking, cave exploration, village visits, mindful activities, elevated dining and time for relaxation. The cruise departs from Tuan Chau International Marina at approximately 12:00 noon on Day 1 and disembarks at 10:00 am on Day 3. The route takes us through Tuan Chau Marina, Ba Ham Lake, Lan Ha Bay, Viet Hai Village, Cua Van Floating Village, Tien Ong Cave and Ha Long Bay. It was an intimate, wellness-oriented and cruise designed for slow pace rather than a highly programmed sightseeing itinerary. With approximately 35 crew members, Bhaya Soul took us through a series of kayaking, sustainable cycling, cave meditation, a floating-village excursion, herbal foot ritual, wellness treatment, heated pool, sunset drinks, stargazing and squid fishing, with full-board onboard dining, combing Vietnamese culinary influences with refined Western techniques. Day 1: Hanoi to Lan Ha Bay Morning transfer and embarkation Our transfer limousine coach arrived at Ly Quoc Su, in the Hoan Kien area, to pick us up and the journey took 3 hours, with a rest stop along the journey and arrived at Tuan Chau International Marina for boarding. We were greeting by our Journey Host Concierge, Hill (or Hieu) who would be our personal butler for the next 48 hours, and quickly briefed on expectations and the afternoon's itinerary. The cruise begins with: Welcome drink, including sparkling wine. Introduction to the crew and cruise briefing. Cabin check-in and time to settle into the suite. Lunch while sailing towards the Ba Ham Lake area, we call it "a lunch in a moving cinema" as the accompanying limestone karst island landscapes fill the serenity and calmness of the Bay during this captivating lunch. Accommodation : Suite Cabin We checked into our Signature Suite on the Main deck, was briefed by Hill on the facilities, amenities and mini-bar options, alongside our King bed, private balcony, sun loungers, ocean-view bathtub, just gorgeous! The ship’s main facilities include an indoor lounge, outdoor lounge, restaurant, wellness area, Horizon Lounge, pool bar, sun deck and heated pool. Suites are equipped with air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, minibar, television, towels, bathrobes and VIP bathroom amenities. Just stunning! Our Lunch comprised of an appetizer of Tempura soft-shell crab & green mango, super fresh and tasty, and also a Charcoal-grilled Ha Long octopus with XO sauce - tangy yet crunchy and served with Mediterranean-style grilled vegetable ratatouille and garden pickles. We had a Bhaya-style grouper with brown rice noodles & Vietnamese glazed dressing, that was distinctly from the Ha Long Bay, and a Ha Long coconut mousse with sun-kissed orange to complete a delicious meal (we were famished as we didn't have time for breakfast) Day 1: Afternoon Excursion - Viet Hai Village After lunch, the cruise continues towards Viet Hai Village, a small community situated within Cat Ba National Park. The village is surrounded by jungle and mountains, with local livelihoods traditionally linked to farming, fishing and self-sufficient living. One can choose to explore the area by either: Bicycle, for a more active and immersive experience (for fit and strong, adventurous folks) Electric cart, for a gentler and more comfortable ride (perfect for folks like me), especially during the warmer months of June to August, so we took this, and went through a nice, cemented pathway and passed through 1-2 tunnels to reach the peak of Cat Ha village commune There were sufficient guides from the Bhaya crew to take us on the tour, ensuring our safety and comfort level, and they bothered to fetch cold towels with them, so we were refreshed after the long electric cart journey - that's called personal service! The excursion offers an opportunity to observe local village life and learn about Bhaya Cruises’ community initiatives, which included the "Bhaya Community Farm" and "Save the Langurs". We were informed that very few places have langurs in Vietnam, aside from Cat Ba Island, Ninh Binh and Danang. At Bhaya Café, we enjoyed rural and mountainous views across the surrounding fields, often with water buffalo grazing nearby.. and the tour programme included: A sharing session on the culture and lifestyle of the Cat Ba community A demonstration or hands-on preparation of bánh cuốn, a traditional northern Vietnamese rice-roll dish. A tour around the ancient houses and the heritage amenities within these enclaves - complete with yesteryear's TV screens, radios, cooking tools and storage jars! Sufficient time to take photographs and appreciate the rural landscape, roads, fruit trees and vegetation and buggys (only form of transportation mode on this island) Day 1 Wellness and leisure onboard After returning to Bhaya Soul, we were scheduled for a complimentary wellness experience comprising: A 10-minute herbal foot ritual. A 30-minute wellness treatment focused on the head, shoulders and feet. Flexible treatment time slots, subject to availability, and we booked ahead to ensure we could have the slots that we want... Truly enjoyable experience, and I liked that pampering feel for my aching feet, from my therapist Tra. We also spent the afternoon in the heated, four-season swimming pool, on the sun deck and also relaxed in one of the ship lounges. The pool is intended more for relaxation than active swimming, with panoramic views across the bay. Our five-course dinner came with a nice refreshing local Halong Sapphire Premium beer, and it commenced with an Amuse Bouche, splendid tender duck confit with rustic charm and xen garden vegetarian summer rolls, a solid thick Herbed pumpkin soup with ocean clams, love this dish and a Phuc Trach Pomelo salad with seared Nha Trang tuna. We could choose either the Grilled northwest lamb chops with Phu Quoc pepper & essence of fish sauce served with grilled potato & vegetables for our main course or the Herb-grilled lobster zucchini roll with black sticky rice risotto, charred vegetables & green pepper sauce, so we chose both, to get some variety and also it's great for taking instagram shots! Dessert arrived in the form of a crème brûlée with coconut panna cotta, and it was presented meticulously in a cute egg shell design! I have tasted many Vietnamese restaurants over the past decade in Vietnam and I would attest that Chef Long's curation and menu/ingredient design is one of the very best that I have encountered! Rosette Media Tasting Rating : 9/10. Well Done! Day 1 Evening: Sunset and meditation As the light softens over the limestone landscape, cocktails and gourmet canapés are served in the lounge or around the pool deck. The evening then continues with dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and a Vietnamese-inspired gastronomic approach. The day concludes with a “sleep well” meditation session beneath the stars, and the session lasted a good 45 minutes, I was truly well meditated after the process and I felt so relaxed when I went straight to bed afterwards. Guests may retire to their suites or, subject to conditions and crew arrangements, participate in night-time stargazing or squid fishing, and we did some of that squid fishing after dinner, before the meditation session and it was fun! Day 2 Lan Ha Bay to Ha Long Bay Day 2 is the most varied part of the itinerary, combining a land-based community visit to Cat Ba Island (a truly heritage destination spot on a remote island, and the largest one in the Ha Long - Lan Ha Bay area), scenic cruising and a cultural excursion on the water. The morning begins around Tien Ong Cave, located on Cai Tai Island in a quieter part of Ha Long Bay. The cave is known for its limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, as well as archaeological interest, and a mindful walking meditation session was commenced at 6am, to bring the wellness lovers to see this beautiful setting. This was followed by a satisfying buffet breakfast, comprising of both International and Vietnamese breakfast fare, and we like the array of Vietnamese main dishes especially the carrot-beef stew broth, Bo Kho, just immaculate! I had 3 helpings! There was the Ha Long seafood noodle soup, truly tasty; steamed rice rolls with Ha Long squid cake and we ordered sunny side-up eggs, Waffles (mixed fruits, chocolate, or strawberry sauce), Bircher muesli (original or with jam & yogurt), a "Bánh mì" station that is served with egg, pork char siu, pork cinnamon terrine, pâté, cucumber, pickled vegetables (papaya, carrot), and fresh herbs, I much prefer those in Saigon.. and we also had the choice of a Bhaya Soul combo breakfast, which is a set of 3 dishes: Ha Long seafood noodle soup, steamed rice rolls with Ba Long squid cake, and Vietnamese bread, perfect! Day 2 Morning Excursion - Cua Van Floating Village The afternoon excursion visits Cua Van Floating Village, one of Ha Long Bay’s best-known floating communities. The area reflects generations of fishing families whose lives have historically been connected to the bay, and we hear stories of their encounters with nature; the livelihoods encircle around breeding marine fishes like grouper, copia and red snappers in submerged floating cages, primarily focusing on high-value fish species suited for the bay's sheltered waters. We went around Cua Van by traditional rowing boat operated by local residents, and a lady rowed our boat, as we experienced the calm and serenity of this local Vietnamese floating village. The route passes floating homes and offers views of daily activity on the water, with uncles, aunties, kids, babies and dogs, full water village life. The Cua Van Floating Culture Center provides context on the community’s history, maritime traditions and way of life. We also visited the Ha Long Pearl Farm (otherwise know as Tung Sau locally); it is a floating aquaculture and jewellery-making centre in a secluded part of Ha Long Bay, near Vung Vieng Fishing Village. It gaves us an insight into the cultivation of Vietnamese saltwater pearls—from raising oysters and implanting nuclei to harvesting, grading and crafting the finished gems, as our tour guide at the pearl farm took us through the paces of the entire oyster harvesting process. Tung Sau Pearl Farm is particularly worthwhile for travellers interested in craftsmanship, jewellery, aquaculture and Vietnamese coastal culture. It is a working pearl-production environment presented through a guided visitor experience and complements the broader Ha Long Bay experience by adding a human and artisanal dimension to the karst scenery: the bay supplies the environment, while the farm demonstrates the patience, technical skill and natural uncertainty behind each finished pearl. Day 2 Cruising and Onboard Lunch After Cua Van, we returned to Bhaya Soul for lunch while the ship continues through the bay. The schedule deliberately leaves space for rest, allowing us to use the pool, lounge, sun deck or wellness facilities instead of moving directly from one excursion to another. We had a beetroot and potato soup with forest herbs, served with pan-seared scallop, followed by a fennel & kale symphony with nuts, cheese and Parma Ham. Relished in tangy mulberry sauce, our slow-cooked duck breast was a delight with creamy sweet potato, and lightly pickled artichoke buds. A Ha Long Sunshine Delight was served as dessert in the form of a Lemon curd tart with meringue and mango caviar. Day 2 Late Afternoon : Ba Ham Lake Ba Ham Lake lies in a quieter area near the boundary of Ha Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Its setting is characterised by enclosed lagoons, narrow passages, calm emerald water, limestone formations and dense vegetation. The main excursion is a kayaking experience through the Ba Ham area. Depending on sea conditions and the operating schedule, we can paddle through sheltered waterways, explore the surrounding karsts and pause at a private beach. Those who prefer not to kayak can generally use the time to relax onboard or enjoy the beach setting. This balance is central to the Bhaya Soul concept: the second day provides cultural discovery, but also sufficient downtime for guests who want the cruise to function as a restorative retreat. Day 2 Dinner Time Dining is presented as refined Vietnamese cuisine with Western techniques, using local seafood, seasonal produce, fresh herbs and organic vegetables where possible, a testatment to Chef Long's culinary prowess. The culinary style is balanced rather than aggressively “detox”: meals remain celebratory and restaurant-like, but with lighter preparation and a clear focus on freshness and nutrition, and best use of local-sourced ingredients. For our multi-course Vietnamese-inspired dinner, we had the special Luffa Gourd Soup with Seared Shrimp & Almonds, along with the Garden Greens with Smoked Duck Breast and Mint Dressing. We chose the Grilled Australian Angus beef tenderloin served with potato and herb mash, grilled vegetables and red wine reduction sauce as well as the Pan-seared seabass with tamarind glaze and fennel-saffron milk foam, just exquisite! A Citrus and pistachio entremet was prepared for our dessert, along with our fave Ha Long Sapphire Beer! Day 2 Evening: squid fishing and stargazing After returning to the ship, the evening is intentionally unhurried. We can dine onboard, enjoy the bay after dark and join the crew for squid fishing beneath the stars. Stargazing by telescope may also be available, depending on weather, visibility and the departure-specific programme. We were gestured for a training session on chanting 1,2.3 zo, a Vietnamese way of enjoying the local rice wine delight and cheering each other to good spirits and health, between the crew and all the ship's passengers and guests! Fantastic! I had another night meditation session before going to bed! Day 3 Tien Ong Cave - Early-morning mindful walk & Disembarkation The final morning also begins around Tien Ong Cave and an enjoyable mindful walk meditation. Guests move slowly through the cave chambers, taking in the natural formations and the stillness of the surroundings. We then returned for breakfast which was excellent as always! Check-out and onward transfer Disembarkation was scheduled for approximately 10:00 am at Tuan Chau International Marina. Some guests arranged a return transfer to Hanoi or Noi Bai International Airport through the arranged transfer shuttle service from Bhaya Cruise, but we headed onwards to Hai Phong, to experience the vibe of Vietnam's third largest city! Experience Quotient The greatest feature of Bhaya Soul is its perfect blend of gentle adventure and tranquility. Activities like kayaking, exploring caves, visiting beaches, and touring floating villages offer a sense of exploration, while private balconies, a pool, spa treatments, and meditation sessions ensure the schedule remains relaxing. The scenery serves as the emotional core of the experience. The limestone karsts, calm emerald waters, cave interiors, and the shifting light at sunrise and sunset create a naturally reflective atmosphere. My most cherished moments are the serene ones: morning exercises on the deck, leisurely meals with a view of the bay, relaxing in the pool while the boat is anchored, or observing the landscape from a private terrace. The attentive and friendly crew, the elegant vessel, comfortable cabins, exquisite meals, peaceful ambiance, and the feeling that the cruise is more of a retreat than just a sightseeing tour are standout features for me. Bhaya Soul’s 3-day, 2-night cruise is best experienced as a luxury wellness retreat with sightseeing, rather than merely a sightseeing cruise with spa services. Its charm lies in the combination of a small, stylish vessel, top-notch dining, peaceful routes, private outdoor spaces, and a thoughtfully designed program of meditation, treatments, and gentle exploration. For a first-time visitor to Ha Long Bay seeking comfort, privacy, and a rejuvenating pace, the two-night itinerary is far more satisfying than a hurried overnight cruise. For guests desiring a clearly defined wellness schedule (as I am not a first-time Halong Bay visitor), I found that the standard 3D2N voyage is better suited for those who wish to blend spa time and mindfulness with flexible leisure, fine dining, and cultural excursions. Accolades We would like to thank the following folks for adding a magical touch to our memorable and charming cruise experience, including Hill - our Personal Butler, Concierge and Host, Henry - Cruise mgr, Will and Huy - Asst cruise mgr, Simon - Guest Relations, Long - head chef, Tra & Giang - Spa therapists and Sofia - F&B attendant, as well as the entire crew of Bhaya Soul! Information and Booking https://bhayacruises.com/halong-bay-cruises/3-day-2-night-tour