North American Wonders: Must-See Destinations for Your Next Trip https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk Asia's ultimate online guide to luxury living. From dining and drinking to style, fashion, travel and more, Lifestyleasia.com is the essential lifestyle destination for affluent Asia-based readers. Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:03:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.8.4 https://images.lifestyleasia.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/12/05125923/cropped-favicon-32x32.png North American Wonders: Must-See Destinations for Your Next Trip https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk 32 32 Here’s what we know about Sphere, the Las Vegas dome with the world’s largest video screen https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/msg-sphere-las-vegas-features-cost-other-details/ Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:03:07 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/?p=1894720

Las Vegas’ new eye catching landmark, Sphere, has taken the media by storm with its giant red moon-like dome. Here’s what we know about it so far.

Located off the Las Vegas Strip and east of the Venetian resort, Sphere, as it is popularly called, is a massive entertainment venue which has been the talk of social media because of its exterior dome. It looks like a black extraterrestrial object on the ground in the daytime.

But when night falls, the spherical structure turns into one of the world’s largest screens with visuals that enthral anyone who sees it from kilometres away on the ground or from the sky.

The Sphere stands 111.5 metres tall and is 157.2 metres in diameter. It isn’t exactly a complete circle but seems like a huge globe breaking out of the ground.

According to several media houses, Sphere is the world’s largest spherical structure, surpassing Sweden’s Avicii Arena, which measures 110 metres in diameter.

All about Sphere: Features, cost and what it is for

The inside of Sphere

The Sphere
Image: Courtesy of Tomás Del Coro/CC BY-SA 2.0/Wikimedia Commons

Inside the massive globe-like structure is an 18,500-seat concert theatre. Alternatively, it can accommodate 20,000 standing audiences.

The interior has a 16K wraparound LED screen, the world’s highest resolution of its kind, which rises to a height of 76.2 metres. It nearly surrounds the entire audience, forming a 14,864-square-metre canvas.

Over 160,000 speakers ensure that everyone inside the gigantic Sphere can enjoy the same level of clear audio irrespective of where they are seated.

The experience becomes even more immersive with 4D machines imitating wind, temperature and even scent effects based on what is happening on the stage or the screen. Additionally, 10,000 seats at the venue are haptic seats which vibrate to the effects on the screen.

The sci-fi-like exterior

While the interior certainly promises the finest entertainment experiences, the exterior has already caught the attention of the world with creative vistas so enchanting that the running joke is that it may cause a traffic situation on the roads from where the gigantic globe is visible.

The unique showcases include the opening displays for the Fourth of July celebrations — the American flag, an eyeball, a basketball and then the Earth. 

The visuals that Las Vegas, and by extension, the world has seen since 4 July on Sphere is because of 1.2 million hockey puck-sized LEDs all over the exterior of the structure. For comparison, a hockey puck (used in Ice hockey) measures 3 inches in diameter.

Just like the interior, the exterior screen is also the world’s largest of its kind. At 53,883 square metres, it is certainly a gigantic electronic billboard, a cinematic screen or even an art canvas — whichever way it is to be presented.

For instance, generative artificial intelligence (AI) artist Refik Anadol became the first artist to “paint” his digital artwork Machine Hallucinations: Sphere on the massive titantron of the spherical exterior. 

The entire lighting system is programmable to show on a very wide scale whatever the artist, advertiser, sponsor or performer wants to. Its scale makes the visuals on the screen incredibly captivating, creating the perfect science fiction moment.

‘U2:UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere’ and other events at Sphere

The inaugural event at Sphere will be U2’s UV Achtung Baby concert on 29 September. The first show will also act as the opening of the venue itself to the public. The concert, which revolves around the group’s acclaimed 1991 album Achtung Baby, will see a series of 25 shows staged at the same venue through December.

“Most music venues are sports venues. They’re built for sports – they’re not built for music. They’re not built for art,” U2’s Bono in an interview for Apple Music, adding, “This building was built for immersive experiences in cinema and performance … you can’t come here and see an ice hockey game.”

U2’s The Edge said in the same interview that Sphere is “light years ahead of everything that’s out there.”

Besides U2’s shows, the venue will play host to exclusive screenings of Darren Aronofsky’s film Postcard From Earth, visuals of which will be shown on the vast screen of the globe starting 6 October.

Sphere is on the street circuit for the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix from 16 to 18 November, one of the most expensive races of 2023. Motorsport fans will get to see their favourite drivers, such as Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, zip past the massive structure.

According to reports, the arena will primarily host live concerts and indoor sports events such as boxing and mixed martial arts.

Who built Sphere and how much did it cost?

Sphere at The Venetian Resort was formerly known as MSG Sphere after its builder, Madison Square Garden Company. Reports suggest that DEMAG CC-8800, the world’s fourth-largest crawler crane, was used in its construction. Assembling the crane alone took 18 days.

The weight of the dome, constructed using 2,700 tonnes of steel, is around 13,000 tonnes. The surface area measures 20,440 square metres.

A total of USD 2.3 billion was spent on Sphere’s construction.

(Hero and Featured images: Courtesy of Cory Doctorow/CC BY-SA 2.0/Wikimedia Commons)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What does U2 have to do with Sphere?

Irish rock band U2 will open Sphere to the public with their concert on 29 September.

– How long will U2 perform at Sphere?

U2 will be at Sphere through December 2023, performing 25 shows.

– What U2 video was filmed in Las Vegas?

U2 recently shot the video for their new single, “Atomic City,” in Downtown Las Vegas.

The post Here’s what we know about Sphere, the Las Vegas dome with the world’s largest video screen appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

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Meet Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest Royal Caribbean Cruise https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/sea-you-later-icon-of-the-seas-is-the-largest-royal-caribbean-cruise/ Tue, 18 Jul 2023 08:24:57 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/?p=1884771

Two to three years ago, travelling was virtually impossible. Heck, we were not even allowed to travel within the country or leave the house, for that matter. During these cloistered times, responsible avid travellers and those who seek solace abroad found themselves in a state of despair; the ambiguity of the future pulverised more than just the economy. After months following the implementation of the strict travel restrictions, a light shone ever-so-subtly at the end of the tunnel. Frowns became smiles when Royal Caribbean launched the Cruise to Nowhere – a remedy that could satiate the thirst for travel whilst adhering to the regulations.

Then, it seemed like a temporary solution that would be obsolete as soon as the COVID-19-related border measures lifted. No one would have predicted the rise in popularity of cruising post-pandemic.

[Hero and Featured Images Credit: Icon of the Seas / Royal Caribbean]

While the Cruise to Nowhere did indeed cease operations when air travel returned in full force, this concept of a cruise vacation started receiving quite the traction, with many noticing the beaucoup benefits.

“During the pandemic, our Cruise to Nowhere sailings in Singapore were extremely popular, giving local residents the chance to experience our ships as the destination and enjoy the wonders of cruising with Royal Caribbean despite not including ports of call. Many first-time Singaporeans got hooked on the cruise experience due to the mix of adventure through activities such as rock-climbing, bumper cars and iFly as well as relaxation at the Vitality Spa and adult’s only solarium,” Royal Caribbean’s Vice-President and Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Angie Stephen, says in an exclusive interview.

“Think of cruise as a product. It allows you to pursue hedonism during your commute,” Pinnacle (top-tier) member of the Norway-founded, Miami-based cruise line, Vensen Wong highlights in a separate discussion. “Not to mention, it gives you the best of both worlds; during port days, you get to explore the city. It’s almost like a floating hotel that takes you from city to city, country to country, which makes cruising ideal for revenge travelling.” Indeed. After all, revenge travelling is all about travelling excessively to compensate for lost time during the pandemic.

When talking about the other benefits of cruising, Stephen mentions that “cruising makes it simple for guests to experience the region they are holidaying in; guests only have to pack and unpack once, there’s no time spent between flights and air transfers, and there’s minimal to no planning required beforehand – the cruise takes care of it all.”

Wong shares the same sentiments. “It’s the ideal vacation for those who want an exciting adventure without having to put in the work. Your meals, destinations and activities can be booked in advance with a few simple clicks on just one site,” he says. “It also promotes transparency as the prices, to be stated upon making your bookings/reservations, are fixed and aren’t subjected to changes. The prices of the services are also readily available online, which allows the patrons to properly budget his/her expenditure.”

Diving deeper into the perks of cruising, the 21-year-old mentioned that cruises are a good way to meet people from all walks of life. “It encourages bonding to a certain extent. While activities are abundant onboard, there are days during my voyages when I crave human interaction and just want to chill out and have a conversation.” With everything – ranging from dining and activities to luxurious amenities – just a stone’s throw away, it is evident that convenience is also a key USP.

Icon Of The Seas

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s largest undertaking to date, surpassing its Spectrum of the Seas cruise in size, further challenges the notion of conventional travelling with unprecedented features. Set to launch in late 2023, ahead of its January 2024 debut in Miami, the paragon of an inclusive, family- friendly luxury cruise places the needs of all travellers at the forefront.

“Icon of the Seas is an evolution from the other iterations. We take note of our customers’ feedback and use these data to afford better experiences,” says Michael Bayley, CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “We strongly believe that the Icon can offer the best holiday. It is a bold statement to make, but I’m confident. We have a legacy to upkeep.” Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, adds, “With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love. From the moment they [patrons] step onboard, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.”

Whether the said family vacation means getting away as a family, couple or friends, Icon’s all-encompassing line-up features a variety of firsts and next-level favourites that promises to entertain people from all walks of life (even fans of the traditional vacations and solo travels).

A First-Of-Its-Kind Combination Of Different Vacations

Whether it’s a beach retreat, resort escape or theme-park adventure, there are adrenaline- pumping thrills, cutting-edge entertainment, unrivalled ways to chill with countless ocean views and pools, and a blend of more than 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options to tantalise guests.

With five new neighbourhoods within the eight, each destination aptly titled based
on its theme, the latest cruise “creates a vacation that makes all that possible in one place for the thrill-seekers, the chill enthusiasts and everyone in between, without compromise,” mentions Bayley.

At Thrill Island, home to the largest waterpark at sea, vacationers can test their limits, scale new heights and reach top speeds with six record-breaking slides, including the industry’s first open free-fall slide and cruising’s first mat-racing duo, to name a few. Daredevils are also encouraged to “live on the edge” at Crown’s Edge, where they can swing 47 metres above the ocean.

On the other hand, Chill Island champions peace and relaxation, housing four of the seven pools onboard, each with prime ocean views: the vibrant Swim & Tonic, the line’s first swim-up bar at sea; Royal Bay Pool, the largest pool at sea; Cloud 17, an adults-only retreat; and the serene, infinity-edge Cove Pool.

Following the theme of serenity, the Hideaway, a neighbourhood 41 metres above the ocean, marries the good vibes of beach clubs with the uninterrupted ocean views only a cruise can offer. At the heart of it, the first suspended infinity pool at sea – surrounded by a multilevel sun terrace with whirlpools, a variety of seating and a dedicated bar – seamlessly blends into the backdrop of blue sky, creating a sense of endless water to swim in. For young families, Surfside makes a simultaneous play for adults and kids possible; grown-ups can soak up the breathtaking sceneries at the Water’s Edge Pool as they keep an eye on the kids at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. Just steps away are a myriad of dining options, the signature carousel, an arcade, and Social020, a facility only for teenagers.




Finally, the fan favourite AquaDome is perched at the top of Icon, where guests can take in wraparound ocean views and an awe-inspiring waterfall as they enjoy a bite or drink. By night, it becomes a vibrant place great for a night out, complete with restaurants, bars and the cruise line’s marquee aqua shows at the next-level AquaTheater that takes artistry and cutting-edge technology to new heights, with features like a transforming pool, four robotic arms and state-of-the-art projection.

That’s not all the updates, though. Royal Caribbean’s penchant for innovation continues to permeate through its signature neighbourhood. A grander Royal Promenade features its first floor-to-ceiling ocean views, with more than 15 restaurants, cafes, bars and lounges; a lusher and livelier Central Park has more entertainment and ways to dine; and the largest Suite Neighbourhood is four decks of luxury, offering a multilevel suite sun deck – The Grove – that has a private pool, whirlpool and dining, and a two-storey Coastal Kitchen. More returning favourites include experiences like new takes on mini golf at Lost Dunes, rock climbing at Adrenaline Peak, and Absolute Zero, Royal Caribbean’s largest ice arena, as well as dining venues such as Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar on the Royal Promenade and the Asian-inspired Izumi in Central Park.








And needless to say, the rooms are thoughtfully designed for every type of vacationer, from solo travellers to large families. A party of eight can opt for the three-storey high Ultimate Family Townhouse, complete with its own white picket fence, mailbox, in-suite slide and butler (aka Royal Genie).

Sailing year-round with seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations from Miami, Icon will visit Royal Caribbean’s top-rated private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas, where adventurers can create their ideal vacation day. In-store is everything thrill and chill, from Thrill Waterpark’s 13 waterslides, including North America’s tallest; to Coco Beach Club, featuring The Bahamas’ first overwater cabanas; and Up, Up & Away, a helium balloon adventure. When Icon arrives, the cruise line will debut the island’s adults-only oasis, Hideaway Beach, with an expansive pool, private cabanas with pools, and unmatched views of the ocean hues. Vacationers will also visit Caribbean gems like Cozumel, Mexico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Roatán, Honduras.

Sold?

No doubt, Icon of the Seas is an architectural marvel and makes a good case for vacation on sea over land. As one who always stands by the latter, I can’t deny that the facilities of cruises are enthralling. Intrigued by this modern way of a holiday, I could foresee myself making a booking once the opportunity arises. My only gripe is the potential turbulence onboard.

This story first appeared on Augustman Singapore. 

The post Meet Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest Royal Caribbean Cruise appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

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So they just opened a new fine dining restaurant for dogs called Dogue https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/dogue-first-fine-dining-restaurant-for-dogs-in-san-francisco/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:00:15 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/?p=1850752 fine dining for dogs dogue

No, this isn’t clickbait. No, April Fool’s didn’t come early. There’s an actual fine dining restaurant for dogs, and we don’t know how to take it. It looks amazing though, not gonna lie. Here’s everything we know about Dogue San Francisco.

Opened on 25 September 2022, this restaurant has a wide range of delectable dishes for dogs. From gorgeous pastries, ‘Dogguccinos’ and even a wholesome and nutritious three-course meal for your pet, this is a delicious one-stop destination for your furry friend. Treat your four-legged canines to a luxurious gourmet meal at Dogue in San Francisco’s Mission District. It is the first fine-dining restaurant for dogs in the US.

[Hero and featured image credit: @dogue.sf/ Instagram]

Here are all the details about Dogue and what it offers

What’s on the menu?

Dogue fine-dining US restaurant for dogs
Image credit: dogue.sf/Instagram

The French patisserie-inspired fine-dining restaurant welcomes dogs and their parents to a vibrant space, featuring brightly coloured walls and a dedicated menu only for your furballs to lap up.

Some delightful treats include savoury options like the green Spirulina and Pulled Pork pastry, which is created with raw unfiltered honey and organic lemon. Pooches can also try “Red Rose,” which has pastured cream, beetroot powder and wild antelope heart.

Rose-shaped cakes with a wild venison hearts filling, table-side chicken mushroom soup and goosebump waffles are also part of the menu, which may change to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Portions are larger than bite-sized and start from USD 15 (approximately THB 573).

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dogue (@dogue.sf)

Taking things a notch higher, the place also serves a special three-course menu every Sunday. Priced at USD 75 (approximately THB 2,865), it is part of the restaurant’s Bone Appétit Cafe service. The menu keeps changing, and dishes are prepared to provide fresh wholesome goodness to the dogs.

The current menu comprises pastured chicken and organic chaga mushroom soup appetiser, an organic chicken skin waffle with a coconut-charcoal custard. The main course includes grass-fed steak tartare with a quail egg and organic broccoli sprouts.

About Dogue

The place is owned by Rahmi Massarweh, a professional French cuisine chef who believes fresh raw foods work best for canines and provide them with all the natural nutrients they need.

He says, “Dogue is our mission to change the lives of as many dogs as we can. Feeding fresh, seasonal, quality whole food one meal at a time.”

The idea of opening such a high-end pet restaurant came to him in 2010 when he and his wife Alejandra brought in their first dog — a nearly 14-kg, 10-week Old English Mastiff, and named him Grizzly. They wanted their pup to be the happiest and started feeding him what was recommended by breeders and pet shop owners. After a week, it was quite clear that he didn’t like his food. So, the owners realised no pet enjoys eating the same dry, crunchy, bagged or canned food every day.

Massarweh started experimenting and preparing wholesome foods with fresh seasonal produce and in 2015, began selling them in small batches. Gradually, Dogue, a grand human-grade dog food joint, was born.

Other eateries offering dog food

At Dogue, dogs become the main guests, and all dishes are prepared only for them. However, there are several other cafes and restaurants in the US providing meals for both humans and their pets.

While pets are allowed to dine on the open patio at Lazy Dogs, The Block in Minneapolis serves pet dishes like turkey meatloaf and pup burgers and has a year-long dog-friendly ‘Pawtio’ with heated floors.

This article first appeared on Prestige Online Thailand

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A first look at the extravagant Cheval Blanc Hotel Los Angeles https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/lvmh-cheval-blanc-los-angeles/ Wed, 08 Apr 2020 06:48:52 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/?p=1760898 Cheval Blanc Los Angeles

The Cheval Blanc brand is inarguably the LVMH Group’s most swanky brand. And with properties spanning France, Switzerland, and the Maldives, it has now unveils some details of its first ever property in North America.

There’s no shortage of luxury hotels to choose from if you’re a high roller in Los Angeles; and yet it seems like newcomers are always trying to muscle in on the turf of well-established haunts like the Beverly Wilshire or Hotel Bel-Air. Except in this case, the newest face on the block isn’t some cookie cutter collection of bungalows — it’s a Cheval Blanc hotel.

Cheval Blanc Los Angeles
(Image source: Peter Marino Architect)

The project marks Cheval Blanc’s first foray into the United States and — in line with the brand’s stated goal of offering ‘”new residential experiences in the world’s most exclusive destinations” — is being developed as a 115-room property, that will sit at the intersection between Rodeo Drive and Little Santa Monica Boulevard.

“LVMH has a long and successful presence on Rodeo Drive”, said Bernard Arnault, the group’s Chairman and CEO, in an announcement late last week. “We look forward to expanding our role in the city with this exceptional new destination.”

Cheval Blanc Los Angeles
(Image source: Peter Marino Architect)

For this expansive project, Cheval Blanc called on long-time LVMH collaborator Peter Marino, who previously designed the multi-faceted Louis Vuitton flagships in Seoul, London and (naturally) on Rodeo Drive. The New York architect — notable for his comments about how “[the aesthetics] of all hotels in LA are just a little tired” — approached the property’s construction with a humanist eye, incorporating French and SoCal themes in the building materials and colour palette. Site-specific artworks — another signature aspect of Marino’s collaborations with LVMH — are also set to play a starring role.

Unlike many of its adjacent competitors, the Cheval Blanc Los Angeles will not include any conferencing or ballroom facilities. The brand’s emphasis on seclusion and luxury with a residential twist has manifested as a private club, two swimming pools (one of which doubles as a private penthouse) and what are being touted by local real estate types as some of the biggest rooms in Hollywood. The site cost half a billion US dollars alone, according to LVMH America CEO Anish Melwani. The Cheval Blanc Los Angeles is projected to open sometime in 2025.

To learn more, visit Cheval Blanc Hotels online.

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Hong Kong

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6 hotels in Mexico City every design lover needs to check out https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/hotels-in-mexico-city/ Fri, 13 Mar 2020 04:31:26 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/?p=1758282

It’s hard not to fall in love with colourful Mexico City. 

Once an Aztec civilization which was then colonised by Spain, the megacity has moved away from its complicated past to become Mexico’s cultural, financial and political capital. A walk through the city’s bustling downtown area will give any visitor a glimpse to its past, from pre-Hispanic and colonial-era splendour to modern skyscrapers.

Apart from its history, art and design also take precedence in this mega capital. Mexico City sees faithful followers of Frida Kahlo to devoted enthusiasts of Luis Barragan’s style coming to its shores yearly, and with some of the most impressive art galleries in the Americas paired with awe-inspiring contemporary architecture, it’s hard not to see why. 

The city’s love for aesthetics finds itself in its hotels too. With so many establishments for tourists to choose from, competition is fierce amongst the hoteliers. Architects and designers are heavily relied on to make sure each property stands out from one another, resulting in an eclectic mix of styles that add to the city’s colourful design. 

In case you’re overwhelmed with choices, read on for our list of the comfiest, most beautiful beds in town.

[Feature image credit: Emir Saldierna/Unsplash]

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Singapore

1
Nima Local House Hotel

Four elegant suites are housed in this the charming building of Nima Local House Hotel. As its name suggests, the property finds itself located within an actual house, and positions itself in the romantic neighbourhood of Roma. Cosy interiors and soft fabrics in every part of the establishment create a home away from home ambience, and the friendly service provided by the staff makes it even better.

There may be no in-house restaurants, but you just pop by the reception for some local expertise and guidance to the best eats in town. If you really do feel like staying in, authentic Mexican cuisine can be whipped up upon request.

Address
Colima 236, Col. Roma Norte Ciudad de México CP 06700

Phone
+52 55 7591 7175
Website

2
La Valise Mexico City

A stay at La Valise Mexico City is akin to one in a private house. The 20th-century French-style townhouse is discreet, stylish and extra serene, fashioned with local Mexican furniture and art. The boutique property is home to three suites, each designed to provide an oasis of ultimate relaxation for guests.

Each suite is a blend of contrasting elements of Europe and Mexico: from hardwood floors to geometric mosaics and Mexican pink walls. Modern amenities such as L’Occitane bath products and Nespresso coffee machines are also readily available to the modern traveller. For the ultimate experience, book a night at La Terrazza, the largest suite on the highest floor. It comes with a beautiful plush bed that can be slid all the way out to the terrace, making it a night under the stars you will never forget.

Address
Tonalá 53, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Phone
+52 55 5965 2585
Website

3
Condesa DF

It’s easy to see why Condesa DF is such a popular option amongst travellers who come to Mexico City. It makes itself home in a 1928 French neo-classical building, which was listed as cultural heritage by the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes. The property’s interior was helmed by Paris-based designer India Mahdavi, who, inspired by the work of Mexican architect Luis Barragán, created a tranquil and restful lodging. Some of the hotel’s previous guests include Natalie Portman, Viggo Mortensen and Alfonso Cuarón.

Each of the 40 charming rooms and suites are fashioned in hues of green, cream and chocolate brown, spiced with indigenous Mexican touches. The design-led space is made complete with high-quality cotton bed linen, large fluffy towels and powerful showers with Malin+Goetz toiletries. The rooftop terrace is a great place to be, as it is fitted with a bar for nighttime tipples and restful spa area for tired guests.

Address
Av. Veracruz 102, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Phone
+52 55 5241 2600
Website

4
Las Alcobas

Although Las Alcobas is part of Starwood’s Luxury Collection, the hotel’s intimate service and thoughtful design style make it stand out from the other chain hotels in the area. Most think they’ve gotten the wrong address the first time they’re here: the property is housed in a glass that is reminiscent of an old-school shopping mall. Inside, however, is a world of a difference. Its contemporary spiral staircase, modernist-influenced decor, and muted hues are all signatures of famed interior design duo George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg.

35 stylish rooms and suites make their home in Las Alcobas, each designed in classic greys, blacks and whites for a sleek finish. Goose-down beddings and custom rosewood furniture are but some touches that make each night an incredibly comfortable stay, and the natural soaps from Manos que Curan are a nice detail to have as well. Peckish guests can find themselves in two different dining options, serving Mexican and International menus.

Address
Av. Pdte. Masaryk 390, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Phone
+52 55 3300 3900
Website

5
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City

Set around a verdant courtyard, Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City is a classy accommodation just two kilometres from the Museo Nacional de Antropologia and one kilometre from Chapultepec Park. Those who are in the area for some serious sightseeing or perhaps a stuffy business meeting or two will find the establishment’s prime location exceptionally convenient.

Each of its 240 rooms and suites is immaculately fashioned, decorated in a calm contemporary aesthetic. Suites add antiques that are unique to the region, as well an additional living area. All rooms come with beautiful courtyard or city views. Apart from two restaurants, Four Seasons Mexico City is also home to a cafe and a newly established cocktail bar, which sees a good crowd, especially on the weekends.

Address
Av. Paseo de la Reforma 500, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Phone
+52 55 5230 1818
Website

6
Hotel Carlota

Guests looking for a truly unique night in Mexico City can find themselves in Hotel Carlota. The hotel’s design seems almost brutalist, with a cold, dark grey industrial exterior and elements like the escape-style staircases and balcony entrances.

Each of its 36 rooms harkens back to the same neo-industrial style, which is toned down slightly with the use of warm lighting and wood materials. Pieces of original Mexican art are featured in all rooms as well. Feeling hungry? Join the other guests downstairs at the hotel’s sister restaurant, an alfresco dining area that serves modern Mexican dishes, pasta and salads.

Address
Río Amazonas 73, Col. Renacimiento, Cuauhtémoc, 06500 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Phone
+52 55 5511 6300
Website

The post 6 hotels in Mexico City every design lover needs to check out appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

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10 luxury hotels in Miami for your next trip to the West Coast https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/luxury-hotels-miami/ Thu, 14 Nov 2019 08:00:40 +0000 https://lifestyleasia.com/bk//?p=733536 Fontainebleau Miami

Is there anything as iconic as the palm trees that line Ocean Drive in Miami as you ride along in a cabriolet with the wind in your hair? Of course there isn’t.

Whilst many Americans may make fun of Florida, there’s no denying that there’s something very cool about the beachside retreat. Between Latin culture and a relaxed way of life, there’s plenty do and enjoy in Miami. From swanky hotels right on infamous Miami Beach, over to eco-friendly resorts and glamorous retreats, here we’ve put together a list of our favourite luxury hotels in Miami. Whether you’re planning a trip to the American West Coast soon or are simply looking for some travel inspo, these luxe escapes definitely bring that Miami heat.

This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur.

You might be heading to a holiday destination known for its vices, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still practice a sustainable holiday. Luckily, there’s 1 Hotel South Beach – luxurious, eco-conscious, and stylish. The bedding is made of organic material, there’s a 900-metre wall that’s filled with 11,000 local plants growing on it, and even paper brochures have been done away with, replaced by apps. There are 426 rooms on the resort with a zen vibe thanks to the handiwork of design firm Meyer Davis. Dine at Habitat, the sea-to-table restaurant with furniture made of reclaimed furniture. There’s also a boot camp-style gym in the hotel grounds as well as a Soul Cycle spinning studio – pretty apt, if you ask us. 

 

Those looking to seek respite from the crowds thronging Miami Beach will find respite in Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, just 30 minutes away. The rooms are expansive and all come with views of the ocean or Intracoastal Waterway. As for pools, most hotels have two – at Acqualina, there are four and all boast oceanfront views. There are two fine dining restaurants on the property: Il Mulino New York for sumptuous Italian fare and AQ Chop House for modern American cuisine. 

 

Perhaps booking a hotel by the beach isn’t your cup of tea – you prefer being in the thick of things, the centre of the hustle. Then the EAST Miami is the best pick for you, located in the heart of Miami’s financial district. It’s perched on the top floors of the Brickell City Centre building, boasting 352 rooms and a giant pool deck comprising two pools. The entire look and feel of the place is sleek, modern, and a contemporary blend of east-meets-west. The in-house Uruguayan restaurant Quinto La Huella is a must-visit, a sister outlet of Uruguay’s well-known Parador La Huella restaurant.

 

As with any EDITION hotels around the world, the Miami Beach EDITION is just as stylish. Even the location of the hotel is trendy, located at mid-beach just north of South Beach, where all the upscale restaurants and bars are. At the Miami Beach EDITION, you’re not just here to sleep after a night of partying. There’s an ice skating rink, a bowling alley, and a myriad of nightlife options with five drinking and dining establishments on its property. 

 

Also another result of Morris Lapidus, the gleaming curved structure of the Fontainebleau hotel was apparently what sparked the entire “Miami Modern” style – you can’t miss it on the Miami Beach. Looking at it, you probably wouldn’t have guessed that it debuted in the 1950s. However, the hotel underwent a $1 billion refurbishment in 2008, hence it’s still one of the hottest properties in the city now. There are 1,500 rooms, four restaurants, and one of Miami’s swankiest clubs: LIV. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot some celebrities lounging by the pool. 

 

Need a touch of old Hollywood glamour in your life? The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club is offering just that, and an elegantly understated one as well. Boasting a star-studded clientele with the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill back in the 1930s when it was just known as The Surf Club, this hotel still remains one of the ultimate places to be seen in Miami. Now taken over by The Four Seasons, the grounds have been extended to include a gleaming 12-storey glass tower. The restaurants are also world-class: there’s The Surf Club by Thomas Keller and Le Sirenuse Miami from the owners of the namesake hotel in Positano.

 

 

Getting to the Mandarin Oriental, Miami feels like entering your own private island thanks to its location on a man-made island accessible by a short bridge from the mainland. Even the shape of the hotel has been designed to look like the brand’s logo — it’s that fancy. The hotel also boasts a gorgeous view of Biscayne Bay and comes with a 15,000 sqft spa designed to pamper you from top to toe. Be sure to book yourself a spot in the in-house restaurant La Mar by Gaston Acurio – serving one of the best Peruvian fares in the city.

 

This massive beachfront resort was originally designed in the 1950s by celebrated architect Morris Lapidus, but despite the revamp, plenty of original features and structures have been retained. Beyond that, the refurbishment also includes some contemporary facets, making the Nautilus by Arlo a truly captivating luxury resort. The pool is one of the star features of the place: it’s a heated saltwater pool overlooking the beach and is a large one at 2,000 sqft. 

 

This resort is the epitome of a private sanctuary of tranquillity – it’s no wonder big stars such as Madonna and Beyonce love coming here. As its name suggests, the resort has plenty of Asian influences, evident by the dark teak wood fittings, palm trees, and pagoda-style structures. The hotel comprises two buildings – one is a historic Art Deco building where the hotel rooms are, while the other is a 40-storey tower with is mostly residential. The latter is where the famed Ocean Suites are, boasting sweeping ocean views and handmade Swedish DUXIANA beds that are absolutely heavenly. 

 

As any St. Regis hotel would be, the Bal Harbour Resort in Miami sumptuous. This sprawling, 227-room luxury resort is gilded in Art Deco opulence, designed by the legendary Yabu Pushelberg. Sip on your complimentary glass of champagne upon check in and be prepared to take on the four restaurants, two large oceanfront pools, Remede spa, and more. The fact that it’s adjacent to the Bal Harbour shopping street makes this stay all the sweeter. 

 

The post 10 luxury hotels in Miami for your next trip to the West Coast appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

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10 luxury hotels in Miami to kick back, relax, and indulge in https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/travel/north-america/10-luxury-hotels-in-miami-to-kick-back-relax-and-indulge-in/ Wed, 13 Nov 2019 12:45:13 +0000 https://www.lifestyleasia.com/bk/uncategorized/10-luxury-hotels-in-miami-to-kick-back-relax-and-indulge-in/ luxury hotels in Miami

Americans may make fun of Florida, but truth be told, there’s nothing quite as iconic as the palm trees that line Ocean Drive in Miami. Whether you love it or hate it, everyone wants to be there – and where better to be seen than in one of these luxury hotels in Miami? 

From swanky hotels right on Miami Beach to eco-friendly resorts and luxe retreats oozing with glamour (most are even frequented by celebrities), these luxury hotels in Miami will ensure that your time here is an excellent one. 

You might be heading to a holiday destination known for its vices, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still practice a sustainable holiday. Luckily, there’s 1 Hotel South Beach – luxurious, eco-conscious, and stylish. The bedding is made of organic material, there’s a 900-metre wall that’s filled with 11,000 local plants growing on it, and even paper brochures have been done away with, replaced by apps. There are 426 rooms on the resort with a zen vibe thanks to the handiwork of design firm Meyer Davis. Dine at Habitat, the sea-to-table restaurant with furniture made of reclaimed furniture. There’s also a boot camp-style gym in the hotel grounds as well as a Soul Cycle spinning studio – pretty apt, if you ask us. 

 

Those looking to seek respite from the crowds thronging Miami Beach will find respite in Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, just 30 minutes away. The rooms are expansive and all come with views of the ocean or Intracoastal Waterway. As for pools, most hotels have two – at Acqualina, there are four and all boast oceanfront views. There are two fine dining restaurants on the property: Il Mulino New York for sumptuous Italian fare and AQ Chop House for modern American cuisine. 

 

Perhaps booking a hotel by the beach isn’t your cup of tea – you prefer being in the thick of things, the centre of the hustle. Then the EAST Miami is the best pick for you, located in the heart of Miami’s financial district. It’s perched on the top floors of the Brickell City Centre building, boasting 352 rooms and a giant pool deck comprising two pools. The entire look and feel of the place is sleek, modern, and a contemporary blend of east-meets-west. The in-house Uruguayan restaurant Quinto La Huella is a must-visit, a sister outlet of Uruguay’s well-known Parador La Huella restaurant.

 

As with any EDITION hotels around the world, the Miami Beach EDITION is just as stylish. Even the location of the hotel is trendy, located at mid-beach just north of South Beach, where all the upscale restaurants and bars are. At the Miami Beach EDITION, you’re not just here to sleep after a night of partying. There’s an ice skating rink, a bowling alley, and a myriad of nightlife options with five drinking and dining establishments on its property. 

 

Also another result of Morris Lapidus, the gleaming curved structure of the Fontainebleau hotel was apparently what sparked the entire “Miami Modern” style – you can’t miss it on the Miami Beach. Looking at it, you probably wouldn’t have guessed that it debuted in the 1950s. However, the hotel underwent a $1 billion refurbishment in 2008, hence it’s still one of the hottest properties in the city now. There are 1,500 rooms, four restaurants, and one of Miami’s swankiest clubs: LIV. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot some celebrities lounging by the pool. 

 

Need a touch of old Hollywood glamour in your life? The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club is offering just that, and an elegantly understated one as well. Boasting a star-studded clientele with the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Winston Churchill back in the 1930s when it was just known as The Surf Club, this hotel still remains one of the ultimate places to be seen in Miami. Now taken over by The Four Seasons, the grounds have been extended to include a gleaming 12-storey glass tower. The restaurants are also world-class: there’s The Surf Club by Thomas Keller and Le Sirenuse Miami from the owners of the namesake hotel in Positano.

 

 

Getting to the Mandarin Oriental, Miami feels like entering your own private island thanks to its location on a man-made island accessible by a short bridge from the mainland. Even the shape of the hotel has been designed to look like the brand’s logo — it’s that fancy. The hotel also boasts a gorgeous view of Biscayne Bay and comes with a 15,000 sqft spa designed to pamper you from top to toe. Be sure to book yourself a spot in the in-house restaurant La Mar by Gaston Acurio – serving one of the best Peruvian fares in the city.

 

This massive beachfront resort was originally designed in the 1950s by celebrated architect Morris Lapidus, but despite the revamp, plenty of original features and structures have been retained. Beyond that, the refurbishment also includes some contemporary facets, making the Nautilus by Arlo a truly captivating luxury resort. The pool is one of the star features of the place: it’s a heated saltwater pool overlooking the beach and is a large one at 2,000 sqft. 

 

This resort is the epitome of a private sanctuary of tranquillity – it’s no wonder big stars such as Madonna and Beyonce love coming here. As its name suggests, the resort has plenty of Asian influences, evident by the dark teak wood fittings, palm trees, and pagoda-style structures. The hotel comprises two buildings – one is a historic Art Deco building where the hotel rooms are, while the other is a 40-storey tower with is mostly residential. The latter is where the famed Ocean Suites are, boasting sweeping ocean views and handmade Swedish DUXIANA beds that are absolutely heavenly. 

 

As any St. Regis hotel would be, the Bal Harbour Resort in Miami sumptuous. This sprawling, 227-room luxury resort is gilded in Art Deco opulence, designed by the legendary Yabu Pushelberg. Sip on your complimentary glass of champagne upon check in and be prepared to take on the four restaurants, two large oceanfront pools, Remede spa, and more. The fact that it’s adjacent to the Bal Harbour shopping street makes this stay all the sweeter. 

 

The post 10 luxury hotels in Miami to kick back, relax, and indulge in appeared first on Lifestyle Asia Bangkok.

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