Kunthaville Launches the First Ceylonese Afternoon Tea in Singapore Savour the Taste of Ceylon and Finest Ceylon Tea since 1867 We had a tea meeting with Ms. Kuntha Chelvanathan, Founder and Chef Owner, who ingeniously designed the Tea Room all by herself, featuring custom-made rattan and teak furniture that exude understated elegance, and decided to try the Paris Rose Afternoon Tea one afternoon. So this tea tasting session Ceylonese style is the first ever in Singapore and it’s called the Kunthaville Afternoon Tea after the founder's name and they have it usually between 3.30pm and 5.30pm daily. I tried some Mini cupcakes infused with Kunthaville's Signature Paris Rose and Midnight Vanilla teas and also some pretty special Authentic Ceylonese delicacies, including beetroot cutlets, Jackfruit balls, vegan mutton rolls, Dutch Gundappams, chilli cheese toast which is a traditional snack found in Sri Lanka So I tried a few of their teas; first two are single varietals and the rest are blended.. we love the Rose and also the Vanilla.. Kunthaville White ...here is their tea plantation in Sri Lanka... Tasting Notes and Information Teas 1 & 2. Silver Tips and Golden Tips Pure Ceylon White Tea is the purest and most natural form of tea because it undergoes minimal processing, preserving its natural goodness. Silver Tips and Golden Tips are renowned for their rarity, purity, and unique flavours, earning them a legendary reputation over time. These teas are the most delicate among loose leaf teas, crafted entirely from tender spring buds at the tips of the tea plants, harvested from the pristine high-elevation mountains of Ceylon. They represent the highest grade of white tea, consisting entirely of newly sprouted leaf buds. What sets the two apart is a single additional step in the handling process after the buds are picked. In the case of Silver Tips, handpicked buds are allowed to dry under the tropical mountain sun, carefully supervised by experienced teamakers, making it the purest and least processed form of tea. On the other hand, Golden Tips undergo one extra step in the process: they are gently misted with the best golden brews of the estate while they bask in the sun. Although a seemingly simple step in principle, this process is labour-intensive and demands years of experience to master, which is why Golden Tips are even rarer and often more expensive than Silver Tips. 3. Paris Rose The most luxurious golden tips white tea infused with edible red rose petals, blue cornflowers and a hint of real strawberry essence. Rose petals are rich in antioxidants. 4. Moroccan Mint The rare and distinctive fusion of Silver Tips and Green Tea sprinkled with real mint leaves and marigold flower petals. 5. Midnight Vanilla Pure vanilla interlaced with the most luxurious Golden Tips and black tea pekoe, emboldened by corn flowers and marigold petals. 6. Snow-White Jasmine Pure white delicate and fragrant Jasmine flowers fused with the rare and unique composition of Silver Tips and Green Tea. Jasmine is inhaled to improve mood, reduce stress, and reduce food cravings. By knowing the tea process you appreciate the teas much more.. honestly.. While relaxing, guests can explore the history of the shophouse building and immerse themselves in the vibrant stories and traditions of Ceylonese culture. Kunthaville has curated an afternoon tea experience that transforms your visit into a cultural exploration and culinary celebration, making it perfect for food enthusiasts with adventurous palates, history buffs intrigued by stories of the past, or anyone seeking a unique culinary adventure. Housed in a century-old colonial-style conserved shophouse in the historic Little India district, Kunthaville is a multi-concept lifestyle and dining destination that offers Ceylonese fine-dining, Ceylon tea appreciation, and holistic wellness programs. The 55-seater restaurant pays homage to the culinary heritage of Ceylonese cuisine, drawing inspiration from diverse ethnic cultures and the influences of the Dutch and Portuguese, who once ruled Ceylon, the former name of Sri Lanka. It is a celebration of flavours, techniques, and natural, plant-based ingredients indigenous to Ceylon. Paying tribute to the architectural heritage of the 3,000 sq ft two-storey shophouse and the rich culinary legacy of Ceylonese cuisine and Ceylon tea dating back to 1867, Kunthaville offers an immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary in this historical and cultural precinct. The heritage shophouse features a charming covered porch and an entrance flanked by lush banana trees and outdoor patio garden tables and chairs, creating a tranquil atmosphere for your visit. The restaurant's interiors are a nod to the colonial era, with a captivating black and white design reminiscent of the times of British rule, just like British rule in Ceylon before it was renamed as Sri Lanka. Enter this welcoming haven where colonial-inspired interiors seamlessly blend with a sprawling feature wall filled with verdant foliage. In the Cocktail Lounge, you will find handpicked plush sofas of varying colours and designs, creating an eclectic and inviting atmosphere. Serving as a gathering place for well-heeled and discerning guests, the lower level boasts a distinctive bar counter adorned with intricately carved motifs reminiscent of Ceylon. Experience a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages that includes both classic and locally-inspired concoctions, featuring signature cocktails and Kunthaville tea. Dining in Kunthaville, which exudes the charm of yesteryears, you will feel the echoes of history resonating through the walls, inviting you to step back in time while savouring modern-day culinary delights. Kunthaville's culinary offerings pay heartfelt tribute to the rich heritage of Ceylonese cuisine, prepared with authentic recipes cherished over generations. Each dish tells a story, a narrative of flavours that reflects the vibrant history and tapestry of Ceylonese culture. Originating from the vibrant North and East regions of Sri Lanka, the culinary journey is enriched by the abundance of local produce. The fertile land yields an array of rice varieties, a variety of vibrant vegetables, fiery chilies, fragrant onions, and a medley of succulent fruits. Furthermore, the region boasts an abundant supply of coconut and palmyra palms, adding a unique richness to Ceylonese cuisine at Kunthaville. What sets Kunthaville apart is its commitment to plant-based Ceylonese cuisine that makes it stand out and resonate with global audiences. Catering to the growing trend among the local community and international visitors who lean towards plant-based preferences, it offers a contemporary twist on traditional dishes that celebrate the essence of these flavours while also honouring the rich culinary heritage of Ceylonese cuisine. For centuries, Ceylonesemenus have made use of wild and organically grown ingredients like jackfruits, mangoes,coconuts, bananas and beetroots and blending them with spices and herbs for varied flavours; this is pretty apparent when we partook for the Ceylonese snacks and hi-tea that came long with our menu. While Kunthaville features a carefully curated menu with signature dishes that harken back to the must-have favourites characterising Ceylonese cuisine, it is not just about food; it is alsoabout tea. The restaurant embraces the Ceylon Tea Plantation legacy, offering an exquisiteselection of Ceylon teas to complement the menu, providing guests with the ultimategastronomic journey. The exclusive tea selection of 10 varieties, deftly curated by Kuntha who tasted over 50 versions before handpicking the 10 that are now available at Kunthaville, is also a testament to this belief. From herbal infusions that calm the soul to rare, handpicked teas that invigorate the senses, Kunthaville offers a holistic journey for the health-conscious andwellness seekers. Kunthaville will regularly host lifestyle and wellness workshops for its guests. It is more than just a restaurant; it is a quintessential destination for celebrating life's special moments, be it dining, weddings, or events. Whether it's Deepavali, Christmas, a wedding celebration, or any other joyous occasion, Kunthaville is ready to help make these moments memorable with its special event offerings. For the current promotion, you can now enjoy the Flavours of Kunthaville Tea Tasting Experience (hosted by Founder and Chef Owner Ms Kuntha Chelvanathan, starting from 24 March 2024, 3 to 4pm (Once a fortnight) at Kunthaville. Highlights: Free Flow of Tea Tasting of 6 tea varieties for an hour, $25 per person For more information about Kunthaville, please visit kunthaville.sg Address: 18 Veerasamy Road, Singapore 207326 Facebook: kunthaville.sg Instagram: kunthaville.sg Kunthaville Opening Hours: 10am to 9pm

BYD Singapore, a pioneer in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, is proud their announce ground breaking partnerships with Charge+, ComfortDelGro ENGIE, Shell Singapore, SP Group and Volt Singapore. These collaborations between BYD and each Charge Point Operator (CPO) aim to provide attractive benefits to BYD retail passenger vehicle owners in Singapore through discounted electric vehicle charging rates. Key Highlights of the Partnerships: 1. Discounted EV Charging Rates: New BYD retail passenger vehicle owners with cars registered in 2024 are eligible to receive up to 20% discount on electric vehicle charging rates upon selecting one preferred CPO from BYD Singapore’s partner list. This list includes Charge+, ComfortDelGro ENGIE, Shell Singapore and SP Group. Additionally, both existing and new BYD retail passenger vehicle owners will get to enjoy a 5% discount from Volt’s charging facilities. This entitles new BYD retail passenger vehicle owners with cars registered in 2024 to enjoy two sets of discounts: • 20% discount from one of the four CPOs: Charge+, ComfortDelGro ENGIE, Shell Singapore and SP Group • 5% discount from Volt’s charging network 2. Effective Date of Discount: Charge+ initiated its discount program in January 2024, whereas the remaining four CPOs will commence their programs in April 2024. 3. Administration of Program: BYD Singapore's authorized Distributor, Vantage Automotive, and Dealers, BYD by 1826, Motor-East and Harmony Auto will oversee and facilitate this new discount program with their respective customers. Find out more about the discount with a visit to any of our BYD showrooms. 4. Commitment to Sustainability: Each partnership underscores the collective commitment of BYD Singapore and its partners to promote sustainable transportation solutions and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Singapore. Quotes from Key Stakeholders: Mr. James Ng, Managing Director of BYD Singapore and Philippines: "We are excited to collaborate with Charge+, ComfortDelGro ENGIE, Shell Singapore, SP Group, and Volt Singapore to offer discounted electric vehicle charging rates to new BYD retail passenger vehicle owners. These partnerships reflect our dedication to providing an exceptional ownership experience while advancing the adoption of electric vehicles in Singapore. Moreover, we aspire for this initiative to enable electric vehicle owners to fully appreciate the advantages of lower running costs while transitioning seamlessly into the “EV” lifestyle." Mr. Goh Chee Kiong, CEO of Charge+: “Our collaboration with BYD Singapore signifies a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering sustainable transportation. As the largest charging operator in Singapore today, we believe that our nationwide network can help to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and provide drivers with a more convenient charging experience. This partnership perfectly aligns with our vision of promoting sustainable mobility." Mr. Freddie Chew, General Manager of ComfortDelGro ENGIE: “As one of Singapore's largest charging networks, we are delighted to come together with BYD and their industry partners in this collaboration to enhance the proposition and benefits of switching to EVs as we collectively build a greener and more sustainable future for Singapore.” Mr. Doong Shiwen, General Manager of Shell Mobility Singapore: “Partnerships power progress, especially in electric mobility where it can propel us towards our goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. We are excited to collaborate with BYD, offering new BYD vehicle owners highly favourable rates and added value when they opt for Shell Recharge. This includes Shell GO+ points that customers can redeem for free vouchers at our Shell Select convenience stores, car washes at our island-wide Shell service stations, and more.” Mr. Dean Cher, Head of SP Mobility, a subsidiary of SP Group: “This partnership with BYD Singapore reinforces our commitment to driving the electrification of vehicles in Singapore. New BYD vehicle owners can look forward to discounts on their EV charging with us and the added convenience of the SP app, supporting their driving needs.” Mr. Lim Yong Wei, Executive Director of Volt Singapore, said, “Volt offers one of the most competitive charging rates in town and as part of our partnership with BYD, we are pleased to offer both existing and new BYD drivers a further discount of 5% on top of our current prices. As Volt continues to expand our charging network to serve more customers, our collaboration with BYD, which is among the fastest growing electric vehicle brands in Singapore, will help to accelerate the transition to cleaner transport options.” BYD is a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Founded in 1995 as a rechargeable battery maker, BYD now boasts a diverse business scope covering automobiles, rail transit, new energy, and electronics. From energy generation and storage to its applications, BYD is dedicated to providing zero-emission energy solutions that reduce global reliance on fossil fuels. Its new energy vehicle footprint now covers 6 continents, over 70 countries and regions, and more than 400 cities. Listed in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges, the company is known to be a Fortune Global 500 enterprise that furnishes innovations in pursuit of a greener world. For more information, please visit www.bydglobal.com.

KUALA LUMPUR, 11th March 2024 - In a world of mundane snack choices, Amazin' Graze breaks through the ordinary, offering an innovative approach that encourages thoughtful consideration. This Ramadan, elevate your Sahur experience by embracing the joy of health and empowerment with Amazin' Graze Granola. It's not just a breakfast choice; it's a gift of health, ensuring you kickstart your day with sustained energy to navigate the fasting period. As Raya approaches, Amazin' Graze invites you to celebrate the spirit of joy and togetherness by gifting the invaluable present of health. Choose Amazin' Graze Granola to empower your loved ones with a delightful blend of oats, fruits, and nuts—a thoughtful gesture that adds a touch of nourishment to their festive celebrations. Amazin’ Graze is excited to announce Savers Monday sales every Monday in March and April in Malaysia, offering up to 50% off storewide. Ideal for Raya Gifts and Sahur supplies, this limited-time event invites customers to explore premium snacks at unbeatable discounts. Don't miss the chance to elevate your snacking experience with Amazin’ Graze. Visit [website link] for details. Bundle A: Salam Raya | Ramadan & Raya Gift Box Embark on a journey of well-being this Raya with our Salam Raya bundle. Illuminate the lives of your loved ones by gifting them the perfect blend of health and happiness. Our meticulously crafted Amazin' Graze Granola, infused with oats, fruits, and nuts, embodies the essence of well-being. Delve into a delightful assortment, including Banana Bread Granola and Coconut Kaya Granola, as you share the nourishing Sahur experience. This bundle is more than a gift; it's a celebration of the season's spirit, complemented by a free RM8 / $5 voucher and a limited edition Raya gift box. Bundle B: Riang Raya | Ramadan & Raya Gift Box Celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with our exclusive Riang Raya bundle, designed to power your Sahur and spread the joy of health. Embrace the mornings with Amazin' Graze Granola and other delightful goodies—a perfect blend of oats, fruits, and nuts that transcends the ordinary Sahur experience. Dive into a variety pack featuring Dark Chocolate Brownie Chips, Blueberry Goji Granola, and more. This bundle is a testament to the festive season, accompanied by a free RM8 / $5 voucher and a limited edition Raya gift box, making it a truly joyful and health-packed celebration. Bundle C: Raya Mubarak | Ramadan & Raya Gift Box Extend the gift of health and nourishment to your loved ones this Raya with our Raya Mubarak bundle. Power your Sahur with the goodness of Amazin' Graze Granola, thoughtfully crafted to provide sustained energy throughout your fasting day. Each item in this bundle is carefully selected to add a touch of nourishment to their festive celebrations. From Banana Bread Granola to Peppermint Brownie Chips and Thai Chili & Lemongrass Hummus Chips, it's a perfect expression of love and well-being. This bundle comes with a free RM8 / $5 voucher and a limited edition Raya gift box, ensuring your celebrations are filled with joy and health. Choose Amazin' Graze's "Gift of Health" this season to convey your love, appreciation, and commitment to well-being. To order your Raya gift boxes, visit amazingraze.com.my

Das LOFT is a true gem that sits atop on the 18th floor of the SO/ Vienna, one can have a relaxed meal, breakfast, tea, brunch, exclusive drinks, delicious snacks and exquisite dinner, over sunrise or sunset with a holistic bird's eye view of the entire Imperial city of Vienna, truly an icon that all modern Viennese are talking about. Das LOFT Located on the 18th floor, Das LOFT is the culinary highlight. The restaurant as well as the bar are the real hotspots for connoisseurs and friends of innovative cuisine and drinks with a twist. Das LOFT offers a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the city. Das LOFT invites you to discover the imperial city of Vienna from a bird’s eye view. With a relaxed breakfast or brunch, exclusive drinks, delicious snacks and exquisite dinner, you can watch the sunrise and sunset. On the bar side you can experience a unique combination of exceptional crafted bar food and drinks with the high energy of the rooftop bar and lounge that makes us to the undisputed local favourite place to enjoy, entertain and celebrate the moment. The video screen at the top of the ceiling was truly apparent of it's finesse and modern tech feel, so you can truly have a wonderful experience looking out into the city of Vienna and also within the bar top floor as well, which gives a total emotive sensation that you are at the top of the world! At Das LOFT, the minimalistic interior design allows one to embrace and indulge in the energetic splendor of Vienna. In the night, the colourful ceiling of Pipilotti Rist merges into the sea of lights of the vibrant city and your heart beats to the sound of the DJ. The modern concept of Das LOFT is reflected in the creative menu with a distinctive twist. Always changing with the seasons, the menu features some classics with a modern approach. The bar food makes you want to have more and the desserts are sweet and savoury artworks on a plate that tell stories. The restaurant serves breakfast, brunch and dinner indoor with an unmatched view over the city. For starters we had the Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee Champagne, which was an excellent beginner, so refreshing, nice acidity, fulfilling bursting with lemon and begonia taste. The Bar had a new "food-centric" cocktail menu and they wanted me to try it badly so I did them the honour, and had the Strawberries and Greek Yoghurt, it was so very tasty with brand, strawberry muscat wine, which shone brightly in structure and acidity, along with honey, rooibos tea, lemon and greek yoghurt - honestly this is the best cocktail I have tasted in the past 5 years, so the Rosette Media rating for this Cocktail is 9.3/10 Next, I then tried the Cinque Terre Crostata, which was bursting with limoncello, vanilla, lime, champagne, lemon and coconut espuma. This was another classique so I can tell you that all their cocktails here are super amazing, innovative, taste like food, which means they exude taste, fulfilment and a strong finish. For the Bar Food, I tried the Soft Shell Crab which had a Bao Bun, Wasabi, Mayo and Trout Cavier, simply heavenly. Then I tried the Pork Belly with Kumquat, topinambur, sesame and sweet & sour sauce, and also had the wonderful Rib Eye, with truffle sauce, pommes and garlic mayo - so yummy, by this time, I was already very full! so much to eat and so fulfilling! With the great view and the good presentation of my meals, I wasn't sure which to focus on... At Das LOFT you can embrace a 360° view over the city and explore the most exciting landmarks of the city. At the restaurant, the old town and St Stephen’s Cathedral are within reach. From the Das LOFT Bar you have the perfect view to the colourful and playful Prater. Vincent & Marcela - Das Loft Bar Managers both played host to me on the bar side and on the restaurant side, with Das Loft bar host - Amelie giving me the most attention all evening, culminating in a wonderful experience to enjoy the cocktails, drinks and bar food one at the top of the world! Contact The LOFT Restaurant and Bar Praterstraße 1 1020 Vienna 18th floor of SO/ Vienna +43 1 90 616 8110 dasloft@so-hotels.com

A Masterpiece SO/ Vienna was built by French architect Jean Nouvel who conceived a work of art by blending its creation and history of Vienna into the sculpture and colour scheme of the hotels, white-grey-black notation takes reference from St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the colours of the roofing shingles of the Cathedral. The ceiling in the lobby shows the face of a woman from bottom up (eyes, nose and mouth) and the colourful ceilings form a strong contrast to the monochromatic facade and canvas of the hotel. Rosette Media Panel Rating : 9.5/10 (one of the highest in our rating score) Avant Garde meets Tradition With its stylish location near the Danube Canal, between the city center with the St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the bohemian 2nd district, the SO/ Vienna brings a touch of avant-garde to the Leopoldstadt with luxurious, fashionable guest rooms, unique dining experiences and the most breathtaking views of Vienna existing ambience. The spirit of inspiration and joy in creativity is clearly evident at SO/ Vienna. SO/ VIENNA is synonymous of Fashion and Design and is an immense and unique atelier for artists, designers and young talents of the Austrian and international scene with iconic art featured through the hotel. From the architectural masterpiece of Jean Nouvel, to the traditional tiles of Brüder Schwadron, the fabrics of the Wiener Werkstätten and the colourful ceiling installation of Pipilotti Rist. SO/ Vienna belongs to the Ennismore group hotel collection and is renowned for its immersive hotel experience with unmatched views over the city and the Danube Canal. Each floor and room by Jean Nouvel as well as each colourful statement ceiling by Pipilotti Rist tells a story about fashion and design. SO/ Vienna comprise 182 rooms and suites, Das LOFT (a rooftop restaurant and bar on the 18th floor - a separate posting will be covered on our media site on this), the SO/ Spa, a fitness area and indeed, the best views of Vienna. Formation The Kaleidoscope stretches from the ground floor to the 5th floor with fascinating light effects and reflections designed by Jean Nouvel – a concoction with lights and reflections, and this was evident when presented to me during my hotel tour. What I can see was the creation of the roof, that becomes oblique in form, weaving a tight, random pattern of parallelograms and lozenges, through a bevy of granited glass for transparence; displayed in variations of black to showcase their shadows, and the appearance-disappearance of changing faces based on the angle of light, forms and structure. A Fashion Statement From the very start, the SO/ hotel collection has embodied an innovative style, design and approach to luxury since 2011. SO/ is renowned for its fashion collaborations, partnering with celebrated local and international designers, who infuse their creative vision into the hotel’s identity. With bespoke spaces, sartorial signatures and experiences, each SO/ hotel reflects its destination’s innate culture and sense of style. They work hard to cement their relationships with the local fashion and creative lifestyle industries by hosting events that keep a stylish crowd coming back for more – from fashion week dinners, collection launches, media talks and exhibitions. This was apparent with the collaboration between SO/ Vienna and AlphaTauri (I saw them at the lobby) and this brand is the game-changing fashion enterprise founded by Red Bull, that fearlessly redefines the very essence of apparel. Driven by an unwavering commitment to push boundaries and redefine possibilities, AlphaTauri combines contemporary design with cutting-edge textile innovations and technologies, setting new standards in the industry. Rooms The concept of the rooms and suites incorporates the power of reduction to concentrate on substance with a minimalistic design and a non-color style. Each room has unmatched views over the city from other perspectives. Designed for open minds to explore the beauty of minimalism and avant- garde and created for a new art of travel, each room offers the stylish traveller Nespresso machines, Bose Sound Wave speakers. For a new kind of wellness in your room, indulge in their new and unique Urban Soul fragrance curated by the Saint Charles Apothecary. The views of the SO/ Cosy sweep over the Giant Ferris Wheel and the north of Vienna, over the impressive Vienna International Center or UNO City, and over the Viertel Zwei, the city’s future business district. The SO Lofty is for those who appreciate the finer things in life. A soft gray color scheme spreads over 80 square meters, creating a perfect harmony of color and form. This is a space that inspires open minds. An adjustable window means that everyone is free to create his or her own frame for the beautiful view of classical Vienna. A hotel room, like a home, is made up of more than four walls, and thus, the SO/ Comfy room where I stayed in, is made of pure luxury. A new dimension of velvety silk comfort is well juxtaposted with my writing desk with a spectacular view of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral - I could just gaze at this for hours, on end. I just love my room, with the entire view of Vienna City staring right at me, in the morning and evening, the pillows were plush, the bed so comfy, showers were nice and warm (I went to Vienna in winter), toiletries and the Urban Soul fragrance was so fragrant, service was impeccable, mini bar was free-flow with 3 types of juices and it came long with a nice welcome gift! A true Jean Nouvel statement is the SO/ Black Suite. The name already reveals the concept of the room. The experience offers a new sense of power and depth, an entirely different definition of space. A vision in black, white and gray, the SO/ VIP suite offers 180 square meters of grandeur and a 270-degree panoramic view of Vienna. The suite brings together minimalist design, home comforts and an elite lifestyle, creating a new dimension of luxury in the heart of Vienna. From the most comfortable ultra-large Hollywood bed, you can see the lights of the city and have the St. Stephen’s Cathedral within your reach. SO/ Spa An oasis of tranquility and relaxation right in the heart of Vienna and away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Conceived by Jean Nouvel, the 750 m2 luxury spa at the SO/ Vienna is a place that offers a variety of wellness, facial and body treatments, as well as massages from the “Designer Custom Made Facial” to the “Himalayan Salt Massage” or “The Urban Glow” treatment. The SO/ Spa awakens, rebalances and transforms body, mind and soul. The SO/ Spa offers two hammams, 2 whirlpools, 5 treatment rooms, a relaxation area and a panorama sauna with a view to the old town and the Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. Fitness The gym at the SO/ Vienna reflects Jean Nouvel’s idea of simple luxury. Gray, black, white – the eye can relax and we finally can focus on ourselves and our physical well-being. The love of design is also evident in the high-tech training equipment. Fitness enthusiasts will be guided by their modernity. After a strenuous workout, you can then dive into the jacuzzi, enjoy the pleasantly quiet atmosphere and really relax. Business and Meetings On the 4th floor of the SO/ Vienna is a more than 1100m2 space dedicated to working divided into 8 meeting areas, a foyer and our floating terraces. The flexible and adaptable spaces are open to collaborate with natural light and unique architecture. Sunrise Delight - The Breakfast so we enjoyed a lovely tasty breakfast that consisted of the best combination of buffet and à la carte to start my day perfectly; there was freshly brewed Illy coffee or Dammann tea of my choice along with fresh juices and homemade smoothies; an entire array of rread assortments from the Joseph bakery with butter and a selection of regional ham and cheese from Jumi from the 8th district. Also there was smoked fish variation from BlünEgg and sweet dishes of my choice together with seasonal fruits with yoghurt, Birchermuesli or homemade mueslis and of course a glass of SO/ with many Bubbles. I also had a choice of scrambled eggs, fried eggs or omelette, that came with options with ham, bacon, grilled tomatoes, grilled sausages, mushrooms, chive, cheese, bell pepper. Scrambled eggs are also available vegan and made with tofu. For one morning, I chose the poached egg in a glass, with bacon crumble, potato espuma and chives. Another morning, I tried the Eggs Vienna Royal which essentially was poached egg, toasted english muffin, marinated viennese cat fish and sauce hollandaise - so tasty! The grilled mushroom sausages came from Hut and Stiel and there was also Toasted Crust Bread that was essentially nice truffled mushrooms with vegan scrambled egg. Healthy breakfast consisted of WIENERWALD MUESLI comprising oatmeal, apricot, apple, plum, pear, seeds, or CHOCOLATE MUESLI with oatmeal, coconut flakes, almonds, hazelnuts, chocolate, BIO-GRANOLA with organic yoghurt, rolled oats, crunch, coconut flakes and hazelnuts. I did try the American pancakes with with maple syrup and nuts and you can see how beautiful it was - just delicious! For Smoothies, I tried the choice of either a Berry / Detox / Maracuja-Mango / Virgin Colad, so I chose the Berry. Review & Rating SO/ Vienna is by far, one of the best hotel stays that I have stayed in the past 10 years across Europe and Asia Pacific; the top 3 I can say… impeccable team members, wonderful GM Christian along with fantastic Tanya and Magdalena from Marketing along with helpful Florian from Rooms, amazing Ramona at Events, great Vincent and Marcela along with Danaris, wonderful Amelie, superb Natalie and Mihaela from the superb team at Das Loft.. and Anusha and Stefanie.. they make my stay memorable, the view was fantastic, the food and champagne.. quality distinctly amazing, Das Loft is indeed a top venue in the City of Vienna in Austria, Everyone is talking about this hotel; the SO Comfy room was superb sleek grey, so modern minimalist yet brilliantly functional, convenient and walking distance to Schwedenplatz, the central Graben area.. and also to the Bermuda Triangle.. impeccable with modern cool vibes! Experiential beyond belief! Highly recommended.. Distance Schwedenplatz // 260 m Tram 1, 2Metro U1, U4 Saint Stephen‘s Cathedral // 850 m Metro U1, U3 Central Station // 3,9 km 15 Minutes by metro (U1) Vienna International Airport// 18,7 km 29 Minutes by metro (U4) + CAT SO/ VIENNA Praterstraße 1 1020 Vienna +431906160 Web https://so-hotels.com/en/vienna/ sovienna@so-hotels.com so-vienna.com

Located on the 16th floor, the Nordic-designed Aurora Roof Top Bar offers stunning views of Vienna, which guests can enjoy while snuggling next to the open fire pit or listening to DJ sounds late into the evening. It is a modern swanky rooftop hangout for modern Viennese folks with sharing plates, craft cocktails & panoramic city views. One lovely evening, I dragged one of my best pals in Austria, Bernhard, who works with a well-know Austrian winery, Weinrieder, in Poydorf to join me for a catchup and chillax session at this amazing venue, a rooftop that faces the Belvedere Museum and well nestled in the heart of the 10th District in Vienna, that shares its presence along with the Park Apartments Am Belvedere and an entire commercial and residential enclave within Vienna, and one of the heaviest populated district in Vienna. In close proximity to Belvedere Palace, Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere showcases contemporary local art and design that immerse you in the history of Prince Eugene, as well as the city of Vienna. Their awareness of the precious yet limited resources of our earth have led them to develop environmentally friendly concepts, in both our cuisine and in the experiences we offer, as well as in their event planning. Their focus, therefore, is on sustainability and foresight, and this is pretty apparent in their main hotel, their lobby area and also in their Aurora Rooftop bar. Inspired by the word Aurora, the Northern Lights, the bar offers iconic, Nordic design, a warm, welcoming ambience with an open fireplace, and a spacious rooftop terrace with starlit views. The Rooftop Bar has its own entrance and lift that will take you directly to the 16th floor. From there you not only enjoy a unique view over Vienna, but also exceptional cocktail creations, inspired by the countries of Scandinavia; we sampled various different cocktails and also took in the scenic view of the Belvedere environs along with the commercial and residential buildings in this 10th District. The use of natural materials, such as various types of wood, and the warm ambience all reflect Nordic design. Details play an important part in every furniture piece, quality is evident in the different treatments of wood, integrated wardrobe and hidden technical features. The design, which features a soft colour palate of natural shades, frames a beautiful view over Vienna. Therefore, the hight of the furniture and design elements are thought out in a way so every guest has a beautiful view from any seating area outside. The bar resembles stacked wood outside a cabin and, with the seagull like lamps, it brings in a metaphorical breeze from the sea. The elegant modern ambience is complemented by the warmth the two fire places bring, one inside, one on the terrace. A fireplace must not be missed in any Scandinavian house, bringing warmth into dark winter nights. Through the designed layout of the sitting areas on the large terrace, the guests can enjoy the beautiful view over the city all year long. The same love for raw natural materials as in the bar overflows into the terrace and creates a warm cosy welcoming atmosphere. For the Bar Snacks, we had the Beef Carpaccio which came with truffles, shallots and almond; we also sampled the Red Prawn with Smoked Rice, Sesame and Yuzu Kosho' along came the Beef Chuck Sandwich with Caramelized Onion, Cheddar and Chipotle Mayo and also the Beef Tartare with Orange, Shallots and Sour Dough Bread - truly exquisite with that Norwegian influence and befitting for snack food at this lovely bar. A truly wholesome and holistic culinary experience! Aurora is truly chic and trendy in atmosphere and setting, and it has truly become one of Vienna's hot spots for fine drinks and great views. Usually surrounded with lounge tunes from DJs, the rooftop works great for afternoon or evening drinks and it was totally vibrant, very active and full of guests when we were there! Here's a nice shot of our host at the Aurora Rooftop Bar! For more details, pls preview the website here.. https://www.bar-aurora.at/Speisen-Getr%C3%A4nke?lang=en Aurora Rooftop Bar - Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere Address: Arsenalstraße 10, 1100 Wien, Austria Phone: +43 1 20577441234 Menu: bar-aurora.at Reservations: bar-aurora.at, thefork.at aurora@andaz.com

One lovely evening in February 2024, my Slovakian buddy Charles and me went to the classique Intercontinental Vienna for a wonderful Lebanese dinner, filled with food and drinks, at their newly-commissioned Restaurant Parlor - Taste of Lebanese by Khaled, and the time of our lives, as it was THE BEST Lebanese food experience that I have had in Europe, Middle East and Asia... truly authentic, tasty and marvellous in all departments of the taste, structure, flavor and umami departments. We knew that we were in for a fantastic treat, when IHG opened this option for us at this Lebanese venue delight. ROSETTE MEDIA TASTING PANEL RATING : 8.8/10 LEBANESE SPECIALTIES We immersed ourselves in the diverse flavours of Lebanon and got to experience a a culinary excursion at all new level as we dived into the amazing arrays of flavours in their traditional cuisine. We tasted a whole selection of authentic dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and a lot of love from the kitchen; all forms of Lebanese delicacies, from hearty mezze platters to succulent grilled dishes which truly chanted our senses. For them it's not just about food, but also about the joy of sharing and enjoying together, so we could distinguish this philosophy when we dined with them - truly hospitality-driven. For aperitif, we had a classique Lebanese Schnapps, called the Arak Ksarak which is made from Chateau Ksara; at 53%, it was immensely powerful but such a tasty liquer; and this went along very nicely with our glasses of Champagne from Mumm, Brut but nonetheless, so aromatic and fresh (although we should be having some Austrian Sekt instead - which is actually very good), but I wanted French today so,... For starters, we had a combination of both hot and cold starters which a typical flow in the schematic of things in a Lebanese restaurant; for the hot starters, we tried the Gefüllter Blätterteig which is a filled puff pastry, cheese, mint and olives and then we also sampled the FALAFEL which comprise of chickpeas, onio, cilantro and sesame sauce; honestly so good! For the cold starters we had a powerful variety comprising HUMMUS which is Chick pea puree with, sesame, then we had the MOUTABEL - a combination of eggplant puree and sesame with lemon, next was the MUHAMARRA which included Paprika, walnuts with sesame paste. Along came the LUBIEH BI ZEIT which is a combination of Green beans, freshly-grind tomatoes sauce and olive oil before serving us the WARAKINAB which are Filled vine leaves - such a smackeroo of taste buds with Lebanese umami with a clear taste structure, truly a comfort feeling of homely Lebanese home-cooked food style! Charles wanted the lamb as a main dish, so we ordered the MAWZAT GANAM which was a Lamb dish with Oriental rice - truly mouth-watering in all ways, and then we had the MASHAWI MUSHAKAL which is basically a Sauced Mixed grilled meat skewers (chicken, beef, lamb) vegetable rice with two kinds of sauce, so tasty and well done, one of the best I have had in a long time.. accompanying our main dish was this lovely Lebanese red wine, and I was pleasantly surprised of the quality and finesse of this 2017 Family Reserve from Chateuu Heritage, full of cherries and blackberries, the mid palate was intensely deliciously with hints of leather and spice and with a smooth finish. Dessert was the LIBANESISCHER TRAUM which is a Dessert variation consisting of a Mixed platter of desserts, and Charles truly loved this because he has a sweet tooth... and I thoroughly enjoyed the platter as well.. and then we enjoyed a cup of traditional Arabic coffee together with our dessert. The overall dining experience was totally comfortable, satisfying, exotic, special and memorable! Their cozy atmosphere was a hit for us, as we lingered for a long time, a hearty and truly convivial evening which I had with Charles and I am sure all diners will experience this with their friends, colleagues and families. An unforgettable taste of Lebanon! Thanks to Marko for taking so good care of me and Charles, we had a wonderful time at your restaurant, and it's the best Lebanese food I have eaten in my life, having lived around in many countries.. Restaurant Parlor - Taste of Lebanon by Khaled The InterContinental Vienna Lothringerstrasse 24 | 1030 Vienna vienna.parlor@ihg.com +43 1 711 22 110 www.restaurant-parlor.at

The Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery is a unique Boutique Hotel with its own distinctive charm and personality; located in the heart of Vienna, it is surrounded by impressive art and music venues. The Vienna Konzerthaus, State Opera, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Musikverein and Belvedere Palace - the new design of the hotel and restaurant was inspired by these cultural sites and have become a part of Vienna's enchanting history; the musical interpretation of these nearby attractions has captivated the imagery of the designers to innovate with musical instruments, facade and notes in the design of the entrance, lobby, dining rooms, corridors, meeting rooms and guest rooms, and we see this in full effort when we visited this lovely venue. The hotel is centrally located near many points of interest and attractions in Vienna and is easily accessible to an entire arragy of baroque buildings, Art Nouveau, museums and castles' the impressive Schönbrunn Palace, tranquil parks, gourmet terraces, classical theatres, restaurants and cafés are all nearby and Vienna is truly a timeless, classique and romantic destination. The re-organization of interior collections at this MGallery property incorporating musical genres stipulates a way of life in Vienna and streamlines wayfinding, creating additional seating and study areas, and entices visitors to rediscover the building’s awe-inspiring spaces, technical design and manifestation of Vienna's interpretation as a classique city! As shared by their Hotel General Manager, Boris Braun, a guest can "experience the combination of art, culture and sustainability at the Hotel am Konzerthaus" and also "be inspired by the story and be a star guest, spectator and actor - on stage and behind the scenes!" This hotel has a total of 208 rooms, 2 conference rooms for up to 80 guests and 2 board rooms and Patrick, the DOS, took me on a nice tour of the hotel, to see the lovely gym, the board room and also the Maestro suite, so gorgeous! I stayed at the Superior King Room, with an excellent view of the city! The room is super spacious and exudes charm, comfort and luxe. MGallery hotels have a distinctive and posh feel in a very modern and boutique-centric feel, which I always like, and the accommodation and stay was always comfortable, wonderful and restorative! The design of the public areas and the newly renovated rooms was inspired by the nearby cultural sites of The Vienna State Opera, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Musikverein and Belvedere Palace - all within walking distance from Konzerthaus. The Ringstraße boulevard is just a few steps away as well. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms offer satellite TV, a mini-bar with free mineral water, a bathroom with L'Occitane toiletries (which is consistent with all MGallery hotels around the world, and similar to the one that I have stayed in, at Ho Chi Min, Vietnam), and free tea and coffee-making facilities. The Hotel offers a free internet terminal, 24-hour room service, concierge and porter services, and a parking garage. The Karlsplatz and Stadtpark underground station are just a 5-minute walk away Breakfast was super easy going, fuss free, self-help to all the wonderful bread, pastries, cheeses of various formats and regions, fruit juice, milk, cereal, different varietals of jam, fresh fruit, ham, sausages and eggs served and cooked fresh in any format, that we like, a full buffet spread in the eclectic modern restaurant ; simply fantastic and satisfying with my choice of coffee, tea and fresh beverages. My heartfelt thanks to Boris and also Patrick for taking good care of me, during my stay and also the welcome package provided by Deborah and Seppi. Hotel Am Konzerthaus Vienna MGallery Address: Am Heumarkt 35/37, 1030 Wien, Austria Phone: +43 1 716160 https://all.accor.com/hotel/1276/index.en.shtml

Geo Connect Asia returns with 4th edition to unite ASEAN’s geospatial industry Over 100 companies, 70 speakers and 3,000 attendees from ASEAN and beyond are expected to attend this flagship trade event and conference The fourth edition of Geo Connect Asia (GCA), the region's leading trade event and conference for the geospatial, positioning and remote sensing industries, opens its doors today at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore. The two-day event brings together industry-leading companies, government agencies, institutions and up-and-coming startups to explore the impact of geospatial technologies in Southeast Asia and further their role in fueling economic growth and enriching lives. GCA 2024 is held alongside co-located shows Drones & Uncrewed Asia, Digital Construction Asia and the inaugural Marine & Hydro Asia, which focus on the latest technologies relating to unmanned aerial vehicles, digital construction, and hydrospatial challenges, respectively. Guest of Honour Edwin Tong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Law, addressed attendees during the opening ceremony, which was graced by notable attendees from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA); Land Transport Authority; Health Security Agency of the United Kingdom; Lands Department of Hong Kong; Open Geospatial Consortium; and the Geospatial Information Agency of the Republic of Indonesia. The burgeoning global geospatial information and technology market is forecasted to be valued at US$1.37 trillion by 2030, as advancements in remote sensing, location-based analytics and other geospatial solutions shape countless sectors such as construction, agriculture, environment monitoring, supply chain management and natural resource management. APAC is playing a leading role in the ecosystem's accelerating growth across the globe, with its industry projected to be worth US$216 billion by 2025. The convergence of geospatial technologies is weaving stronger connections between nations, through knowledge sharing and increasing collaboration to the shared challenges that go beyond geographical boundaries. Rupert Owen, Co-founder of Geo Connect Asia, said, “I am delighted to welcome the industry back to Geo Connect Asia. Following three successful editions, Geo Connect Asia and Digital Construction Asia 2024 bring together the brightest minds from the region and beyond to share proven solutions, and how they can help address some of the most pressing challenges of today. The launch of Marine & Hydro Asia adds hydrographic content to the overarching theme of ‘underground, land and sea to sky’, while Drones & Uncrewed Asia navigates exciting pathways.” Colin Low, Chief Executive of the Singapore Land Authority, said, “As the national geospatial and mapping agency, the Singapore Land Authority aims to drive collaboration between public and private agencies, as well as the community. Industry platforms like Geo Connect Asia foster innovation, empower individuals and businesses to leverage the transformative technologies not just for economic development, but to create smarter, geo-enabled outcomes for a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.” The Geo Market Place The GCA exhibition is back with an expanded floor space to showcase the widest range of geospatial and related technologies yet. These include spatial analysis software, satellites, remote sensors, mapping systems, laser scanners, unmanned vehicles, ground-penetrating radars, satellite communications services, UAV traffic management platforms, and many more. Leading exhibitors at the main exhibition showground include Trimble, Oracle and NavVis, and pavilions from Singapore and Thailand. Geo Connect Asia Conference The conference theme, “Geospatial Driven Impacts: Underground, Land and Sea to Sky”, captures the all-encompassing capabilities of geospatial solutions. With a stellar line-up of speakers across vectors, the programme will facilitate conversations between makers and users of these technologies to unleash their full potential. Notable speakers hail from AECOM, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), Lands Department Hong Kong, Petronas, and Portcoast (Vietnam), Ministry of Health Singapore, and GCA Strategic Partner Singapore Land Authority, among many others. Singapore Geospatial Master Plan (2024 – 2033) Spearheaded by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA) and Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the newly launched Singapore Geospatial Master Plan (2024 – 2033) will enable geospatial-enabled innovations tobenefit more segments of society, while addressing the complex challenges Singapore faces as an island-nation. Building on the first masterplan, this second iteration integrates land and marine spatial data development and charts the trajectory of national geospatial development for the next decade across terrestrial and maritime domains, towards the vision of Singapore as “A Leading Global Geospatial Hub” . At the Geo Connect Asia 2024 opening ceremony today, SLA and MPA unveiled several new strategic partnerships and key initiatives to expand the mainstream use of geospatial technology to benefit more citizens, enhance quality of lives and strengthen Singapore’s geospatial capabilities. Conference topics include: ●      The diagnostics of location in improving life quality ●      Nature-based solutions for future urban development ●      The promise of AI in construction technology: Industry transforming or a big fat fallacy? ●      Going global: how the Asia Pacific region is leading the way in autonomous aviation ●      Living on the edge: Building capacity and sharing to manage natural disasters ●      Geospatial drivers in speeding up the decarbonisation agenda ●      Mitigating risks to critical infrastructure assets ●      Closing plenary: Mainstreaming Geospatial: Harnessing geospatial innovation for healthcare, community, and sustainable development Sponsors & partners GCA 2024 is well supported by industry-leading sponsors, including fourth-time Platinum Sponsor Trimble and Sponsor AECOM. Strategic Partners include SGTech, GeoWorks and Singapore Land Authority, and Supporting Partners include ASEAN Flag; Association of Aerospace Industries Singapore; Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore; Aviation Research Centre; Temasek Polytechnic; CDAS Logistics Alliance; GS1 Singapore; Institution of Engineers Singapore; Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology; Open Geospatial Consortium; Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors; Singapore Institute of Building Limited; Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers; Smart Cities Network; Society of Project Managers; and Software Park Thailand. To see the programme, please Download GCA’s full conference programme For more information, pls feel free to review the website https://www.geoconnectasia.com/

30th Singapore International Piano Festival returns in June 2024 with renowned pianist Yeol Eum Son. Other performers at this year’s festival also include pianists Jin Ju, Ashley Wass and Mei Yi Foo. The 30th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival (SIPF), presented by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO), is set to take place from 6 to 9 June 2024 at the Victoria Concert Hall. Led by Artistic Director and Singaporean pianist Lim Yan, the SIPF is recognised as Asia's premier piano festival, showcasing international musical excellence annually. In line with previous editions, the festival will feature four solo recitals: South Korean Yeol Eum Son, widely acclaimed for her poetic elegance and timeless interpretations; Chinese rising star Jin Ju; UK-based Malaysian Mei Yi Foo, an avid new music advocate; and Briton Ashley Wass, former BBC New Generation Artist. Live Concerts by International Guests Hailed in China as among the greatest virtuosos of her country, Jin Ju will open the festival on 6 June. Praised by critics for her technical abilities and warm sensibility as well as the astonishing clarity of her narrative subtleties, she will perform a striking programme by three of the greatest composers for the piano: Brahms’s all-encompassing Fantasies, Chopin’s final sonata and the Diabelli Variations, a microcosm of Beethoven’s artistry. On 7 June, popular South Korean pianist, Yeol Eum Son makes her much anticipated return to Singapore. Witness her poetic elegance, expressive nuance and power to project bold, dramatic contrasts as she presents a thought-provoking programme of music from Beethoven, Bizet and Lizst. Described by Gramophone magazine as possessing “the enviable gift to turn almost anything he plays into pure gold,” Ashley Wass is the only British pianist to have won First Prize at the London International Piano Competition in 1997. Catch him in action on 8 June, as he performs Beethoven’s beautifully meditative Sonata No. 30, two Preludes and Fugues by Shostakovich and Franck’s Prélude, Choral et Fugue. Known for championing new music, UK-based Malaysian pianist Mei Yi Foo presents a fascinating exploration of 20th-century piano music on 9 June. A solo piano transcription of Ravel’s Ma Mère l'Oye, Bartok’s “fairly difficult” (his own words) Out of Doors Suite and Messiaen will share the programme with two contemporary composers: Luciano Berio's evocative and elemental Six Encores, and the extraordinary etudes of the preeminent South Korean composer Unsuk Chin. Masterclasses by International Guests In addition to its piano recitals, the SIPF will host two masterclasses offering attendees the chance to learn from renowned pianists. Mei Yi Foo, known for her collaborations with contemporary composers and teaching position at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, will lead the first masterclass on 8 June. This will be followed by a masterclass by Ashley Wass, Director of Music at the Yehudi Menuhin School and former BBC New Generation Artist, on 9 June. Attendees can anticipate invaluable insights from these esteemed musicians. Digital Concerts on Singapore Symphony YouTube Channel Membership This year’s SIPF will also feature the launch of two digital recitals via Singapore Symphony YouTube channel membership. The SSO will release works performed by award-winning American pianist Jonathan Biss and Malaysian-born pianist, composer, and conductor Tengku Irfan from their recitals in the previous edition. Patrons interested in viewing the digital recitals can join the Singapore Symphony YouTube channel membership for $2 per month, to access exclusive member content. For more information, visit youtube.com/singaporesymphony/join. Tickets for the 30th edition of the Singapore International Piano Festival will be on sale starting 8 March 2024, at www.pianofestival.com.sg.