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Banyan Tree Samui Weaves Sustainable New Partnership With Local Artisans

 Banyan Tree Samui, one of Thailand’s leading beachfront resorts, has announced a partnership with T.A.I Studio, bringing a collection of handwoven bags and baskets from Phatthalung in southern Thailand to the resort’s onsite boutique, Banyan Tree Gallery Samui. The collection is made from krajood sedge and banana tree fibre — materials grown and gathered in Phatthalung — transformed by combining traditional weaving and production methods with contemporary design. T.A.I Studio was founded by husband-and-wife Nick and Sai Rawling as a way of connecting these existing materials, skills and making traditions with luxury hospitality. Today the studio works alongside a network of growers, weavers and specialist makers around Phatthalung, with different hands contributing weaving, hand-loomed cotton, embroidery, leatherwork and finishing. “When these traditions are thoughtfully integrated into contemporary hospitality, something else becomes possible,” said Rawling. “Visitors encounter a...
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Shanghai Watch Introduces the Originate · Fangyu Collection

For mechanical watch enthusiasts who appreciate structural design and historical narrative, Shanghai Watch has introduced a compelling new series: the Originate · Fangyu Collection (致敬·方隅).Drawing its blueprint directly from the historic architecture of The Bund City Hall Plaza, the Fangyu collection brilliantly translates urban landmark geometry into a wearable, contemporary form.    Design & Architectural DNA At the heart of the design concept is the building's enclosed courtyard and unique profile. The name Fangyu echoes the guiding design philosophy: “The Great Square Has No Corners.” The Case: A compact 38mm square silhouette crafted from 316L stainless steel. It balances defined edges with subtly curved corners, offering a structured look that never feels rigid or harsh on the wrist. The Dial: Features fine decorative textures pulled straight from details within the historic Shanghai building. This is complemented by slender baton markers, neo-classical sword-shaped ...

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Unveils Newly Refurbished Opera Wing

 Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has unveiled a refreshed expression of its neo-classical Opera Wing, marking a new chapter in the storied hotel’s ongoing evolution during its ‘125 Years of a Legend’ celebrations. “The Opera Wing has always captured the graceful neo-classical spirit of the Metropole. This refurbishment carefully preserves that character while introducing a brighter, warmer and more contemporary residential feel for today’s guests,” said George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. The refurbishment breathes new life into the Opera Wing’s corridors, lift landings and accommodation across its Premium and Grand Premium Rooms and Prestige Suites. While carefully preserving the wing’s neo-classical character and authentic timber finishes, the transformation introduces lighter palettes, refined fabrics, renewed furnishings and enhanced in-room comfort. New carpets, tailored curtains and refined details – including pearlescent mosaic bathroom fini...

Casio G-SHOCK Continues Its Pink Ribbon Commitment with the New GMA-S2100PR-4A

 This October, Casio continues its commitment to supporting breast cancer awareness with the launch of the new G-SHOCK GMA-S2100PR-4A, the fourth G-SHOCK watch created in support of Pink Ribbon campaigns. Based on the GMA-S2100 line, the timepiece features a soft pastel pink colour scheme that brings a simple yet thoughtful expression to everyday style. A pink ribbon-shaped indicator on the inset dial at the 9 o’clock position adds a meaningful touch to the design, symbolising the Pink Ribbon movement and its message of breast cancer awareness. The all-pink aesthetic combines everyday beauty with a subtle reminder of the importance of the cause. Through the GMA-S2100PR-4A, Casio highlights the significance of early detection, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, while sharing a common vision with Pink Ribbon to build a world where everyone can be healthy, be free to be themselves, and never be held back by illness. During Pink October, G-SHOCK will continue to support the move...

Pink with Purpose at Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpurf

 This Pink October, Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur brings a little more meaning to the afternoon with its Pink October Afternoon Tea. Bringing together vibrant savouries and delicate artisanal sweets, the experience invites guests to gather, share and savour while supporting a cause that extends beyond the table. Created in support of breast cancer awareness, the Pink October Afternoon Tea combines Torito’s vibrant culinary character with a selection of refined sweet creations. From the Peruvian Japanese savouries by Chef Sergio Porras, Chef de Cuisine at Torito, to the delicately crafted pink-hued desserts by Chef Tony Hoyle, Executive Pastry Chef of Banyan Tree Kuala Lumpur, each element brings its own character to the experience. Together, they create an afternoon designed for meaningful moments shared with family, friends and loved ones. Adding purpose to the experience, a portion of the proceeds from every Pink October Afternoon Tea will be contributed to the National Cancer Society...

Foie Gras Phở and Abalone on the Menu at The Anam Mui Ne’s New Fine-Dining Pop-Up

Foie gras phở consommé, chargrilled abalone and pan-seared turbot with lotus-seed purée are among highlights of The Anam Mui Ne's new fine-dining pop-up, where just eight guests take their seats of an evening. Launched at The Indochine Restaurant, the intimate experience is staged every Tuesday and Thursday from 6-10pm in a private space adjoining the restaurant’s outdoor terrace. With just four tables accommodating a maximum of eight guests, the setting gives the resort’s chefs a stage for more ambitious and experimental cooking in an unusually intimate alternative to traditional resort dining. At the helm is Chef Le Huu Nghia, who has crafted two five-course tasting menus, based on seasonal ingredients, by coupling European techniques with Asian influences. The menus unfold as a progression of contrasting flavours, textures and temperatures, with optional curated wine pairings accompanying the journey. Tuesday's menu begins with a nori tart with salmon belly tartare, salmon r...

Emirates Elevates Global Travel in 2026 with Fine Wines, New Lounges and Expanded Partnerships

 Emirates is continuing to strengthen its global travel offering in 2026, with a series of developments spanning its onboard experience, international partnerships, cargo network and premium airport facilities. From introducing prestigious wines and Champagnes at 40,000 feet to expanding its global collaborations and investing in new lounges, the Dubai-based airline is placing greater emphasis on both connectivity and the overall passenger journey. A Stellar Wine Cellar Takes to the Skies For travellers who appreciate the finer details of flying, Emirates is introducing a new selection of Champagnes and fine wines across its cabins in 2026. Among the prestigious labels joining the airline's collection are Dom Pérignon Vintage 2017 and Château Mouton Rothschild 2003. Emirates is also introducing its first English sparkling wine, Wiston Estate Brut NV, adding another dimension to its extensive onboard beverage programme. The scale of Emirates' wine programme is particularly impre...