Before our stay, a mention of ‘The Sukhothai’ evoked images of celadon tableware, perfectly crisp linen, and price tags that would only be appropriate for very special occasions. As it turns out, only one of those is false. Designed by hospitality guru Adrian Zecha (Aman), interior designer Ed Tuttle and Australian architect Kerry Hill (who…
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Tea, tales and tipples — A guide to Dadaocheng, Taipei
At first glance, it’s business as usual in Dadaocheng, Taipei’s oldest district — but over the past few years a slew of exciting new concepts have popped up in the historical Japanese-era shophouses lining the streets. Look past the Chinese apothecaries and dry goods wholesalers, and you’ll see what the buzz is about. We’ve collected…
Read MoreThe Okura Prestige — Tokyo vibes in the heart of Bangkok
Entering the tall atrium of the Okura Prestige in Bangkok will likely evoke a slight sense of confusion. With its kimono-clad staff and subdued Japanese design it looks and feels like you’ve just dropped big bucks on a posh stay in the heart of Tokyo, but you’re actually positioned at a plum location on Bangkok’s…
Read More48 Hours in Hong Kong
Thanks to a top-notch airport and affordable direct flights from many cities throughout the region, Hong Kong is the perfect city for a quick weekend away. Fly in on a Friday evening, and fly out two days later for a laid-back weekend of world-class shopping, great food, and fantastic scenery. We’re sharing some of our…
Read More11 unique Vietnam souvenirs that don’t suck
We’re not saying that you shouldn’t buy that conical hat for a dollar from that friendly lady at the market (although we will be quietly judging you if you proceed to prance around town with it) — but just know that there are so many more interesting souvenirs to bring home from Vietnam. Here are our favorites,…
Read MorePretty in Pink — A Guide to Jaipur, India
You’ll find plenty of pink hues around India’s ‘Pink City’, but actually – Jaipur is a riot of colors. From crumbling forts to some of the country’s savviest concept stores, we’re giving you the lowdown on where to eat, shop and sleep in Jaipur. First things first: the Jaipur highlights We’re never big on ‘must-see’…
Read More7 India Souvenirs for Design-savvy Travelers
If your idea of a ‘unique India souvenir’ is a Ganesha trinket or a cheap hippie bag, then read on. We’ve scoured India’s best concept stores and design studios to pick some of our favorite gifts to bring back home. ‘Sar: The Essence of Indian Design’ book Indian households harbor a wealth of interesting objects:…
Read More5 New reasons to visit Bangkok Chinatown
Bangkok’s Chinatown is going through a renaissance. After the first wave of glitzy cocktail bars and Instagram-appropriate cafes opened their doors in surrounding areas like Soi Nana and Talad Noi, recent months have seen new spots setting up shop much closer to Chinatown’s bustling center, Yaowarat. From a Hong Kong-style ice cream parlor to a…
Read MoreWhen in Jaipur, get your picture taken
“Hello! Hello! Old Camera!”. We usually bolt in a different direction when a street-side tout starts shouting at us, but upon seeing Mr. Chand and his vintage camera just outside Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, we knew we’d be in for something good. The camera is a piece of history. Manufactured in Germany in the 1860s, the…
Read MoreVernacular Frenzy — 11 Everyday India Souvenirs
India’s best souvenirs aren’t found in gift shops and craft markets, but in places where the locals do their everyday shopping. From household items to kitchen utensils, we selected some of our favorite finds. Where to find it Most of these items are some common, you’re bound to find them before you even start looking.…
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