Banish the blues with a quick escape to these amazing Asian cities. Cheap, easy and quick they qualify for a long weekend escape of that much-needed short break. From food, fashion to fantastic attractions, there’s something for every kind of traveler at this spectacular destinations. We have the ultimate travel guide to suit any occasion.
Ho Chi Minh City: Windsor Plaza Hotel
With ancient wonders and a thriving cafe culture, Ho Chi Minh City popularly known as Saigon is a must-visit in Asia. It has continued to retain the authenticity of its traditions despite the rapid urbanization. There’s no better place to stay than the Windsor Plaza Hotel. It’s located in the heart of the city’s most colorful and vibrant areas. It’s proximity to the airport, central business districts and many major tourist sites make an ideal location for your stay.
You can book a seat on the hotel’s hourly shuttle for a free lift to Chinatown markets and District 1’s famed attractions or dine at any of the three award-winning restaurants of the hotel property overlooking stunning views of the city. There are 376 rooms and suites to choose from and you can opt to relax in the swimming pool or jacuzzi after a long day. Don’t miss a visit to the Reunification Palace, Bến Thành market and Bitexco Financial Tower. Snag a pair of free binoculars and scan the cityscape for the Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon River, and Saigon Central Post Office.
Windsor Plaza Hotel 18 An Duong Vuong, Ward 4, District 5 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam +84 28 3833 6688, www.instagram.com/windsorplazahotel_saigon
Chengdu: The Temple House Hotel
Immerse in Chinese culture while visiting Chengdu and stay at The Temple House Hotel. The 100-room hotel and its 42 adjoining serviced apartments form an integral part of the city government’s conservation project to preserve the surrounding heritage buildings next to the thousand-year-old Daci Temple. If that’s not yet amazing, prepare to be captivated by the modern design with the traditional Chengdu architectural elements of timber, brick and step stones. You’ll be greeted by elegant bamboo trees set in a beautifully restored hundred-year-old Chinese courtyard building, the first one was built in the Qing Dynasty.
Nestled in the Chunxi Road Commercial District, it’s easy to make your way around the magical city whether for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Stop by the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base that is connected to the urban area via Panda Avenue. The Panda Museum has a wealth of precious exhibits and it is a must-see destination in Chengdu. Stop by the Wu Hou Shrine of Chengdu for some historical knowledge and cap off your day at The Temple Café.
The Temple House Hotel No. 81 Bitieshi Street, Jinjang District, Chengdu, China, +86 28 6636 9999, www.thetemplehousehotel.com
Taipei: Mandarin Oriental
Taipei is one of rising stars in Asia. The capital of Taiwan is considered a high-technology city amidst an interesting culture, architecture, and history. Discover the local culture and warm hospitality of this beautiful city and stay at the prestigious Mandarin Oriental, Taipei.
Decked in grandeur and luxury from the moment you enter, you’ll be surprised to know that it houses more than 1,700 art pieces, from renowned artists, stunning antiques and sculpture designed by the award-winning artists, such as Lee-Hyo, Kim Chan and Zhu Wei, the worlds most renowned contemporary Chinese ink painter. It is located in the heart of the city on Dunhua North Road, Taipei’s main boulevard renowned for its vast canopy of trees.
There are 256 gorgeous guest rooms and 47 suites, designed with classic inspiration and contemporary touches. All rooms and suites are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, luxurious marble bathrooms, and walk-in closets. Dine in any of the restaurants and bars showcasing innovative concepts and topnotch cuisine. They have an awarding-winning spa concept with holistic signature treatments. Don’t leave without a taste of their renowned tea at The Jade Lounge.
Mandarin Oriental Taipei No. 158 Dunhua North Road, 10548 Taipei City, Taiwan, +886 2 2715 6888, www.mandarinoriental.com
Tokyo: Palace Hotel Tokyo
Tokyo is a city full of wonders. Japan’s capital is one of the world’s most populous and thriving metropolis. They say a visit to the city changes your perspective on so many things in life. Explore the many shrines and parks scattered across the city or experience the quirky and futuristic themes at popular robot cafes, Tokyo is such an intriguing place to visit.
Which is a good place to stay at, that is iconic as well as convenient? Choose from any of the 290 rooms at Palace Hotel Tokyo, we say. A prestigious brand of hospitality, the property’s theme draws deeply from the country’s history, culture, and art. The hotel’s singular moat-side setting across from the Imperial Palace gardens is a 3.5-square-kilometer green space in the heart of the city. It highlights the skyline that surrounds every single guestroom, its spa and nearly all of its restaurants and bars.
Mere steps away is Marunouchi Naka Dori, a tree-lined shopping street tantamount to New York City’s Madison Avenue and London’s Bond Street. Boasting of culinary masterpieces, there are 10 restaurants to fill up your bellies not to mention the one Michelin-starred restaurant Amber Palace.
Palace Hotel Tokyo 1-1-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan, +81 3 3211 5211, www.palacehoteltokyo.com
Bangkok: Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit
It’s a perennial favorite among holidaymakers, offering everything from gorgeous nature, adventures to the fascinating culture and delicious food, Bangkok is undoubtedly, a holiday hotspot in Asia. The vibrant city is known for ornate shrines and bustling street life. Travel by boat in the Chao Phraya River flowing past the Rattanakosin royal district, home to opulent Grand Palace and its sacred Wat Phra Kaew Temple. Make sure to visit the Wat Pho Temple and on the opposite shore, Wat Arun Temple with its steep steps and Khmer-style spire.
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit is accessible to many areas in the city. The luxury hotel is near the Jim Thompson House Museum and the Grand Palace. Choose from a bright range of accommodations, city views and themed suites with private gardens, hot tubs, and personal butlers. All include free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibars and coffeemakers for your convenience. There are a total of seven restaurants and bars, including an al fresco cafe and a restaurant where guests can dine in the dark. It’s quite an unforgettable experience.
Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Bangkok, 250 Sukhumvit Rd, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Khet Khlong Toei, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand, +66 2 649 8888, www.sheratongrandesukhumvit.com
