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41 Articles

In a recent news article on businesstraveller.com, we reported that business travellers in Asia were the most likely to forego adding leisure travel to their business trips. According to the study, by travel management company Egencia, this was due to employees worrying that their boss would disapprove. While I can understand people grimacing at the term “bleisure”, the concept, surely, is to be welcomed with open arms. There’s a tide of change in the way we view the work/life balance, driven by the millennial vanguard. Dismiss them as entitled snowflakes if you like, but I think they’re right: work hard, yes, but play hard too. Nobody is at their most productive if they’re burned out, stressed and anxious. As the saying goes: a happy employee is a good employee. Besides, I’ve long…

THIS ISSUE’S PICKS

CHANNEL CROSSING As the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge prepares to open, we reveal its record-breaking features and the anticipated boost for the region (page 28) JUMBO FUTURE? The B747 “Queen of the Skies” looks set to relinquish her crown, and what will become of the “game-changing” A380? (page 42) BOOK DIRECT Skimping on the cost of hotel rooms by booking via online travel agents could cost you in the long run, says columnist Derek Picot (page 62) TIME TO SHINE Luxury models, pioneering concept watches and how to invest in growing your own timepiece collection without paying the market price (page 52)…

THIS ISSUE’S PICKS

CATHARINE NICOL A former editor of AsiaSpa magazine, Catharine Nicol continues to be a devoted follower of the latest wellness trends and is an authority on all things spa-related. In this issue, she rounds up hotels in Singapore that offer the best of both worlds for business travellers looking for quality down time during their stay; page 34 JEREMY TREDINNICK Jeremy Tredinnick is consulting editor of Business Traveller Asia-Pacific. During more than 35 years of travel he’s observed some epic arguments between travellers on planes (and trains and automobiles), but fairly quickly learned to hold his own temper in closed-in spaces. In this issue he discusses the many flashpoints for onboard fury; page 64 JAZREEN DEBOO Jazreen Deboo is a freelance journalist and regular contributor to Business Traveller India, writing about the latest trends in…

REGIONAL REVAMP FOR SIA

SINGAPORE AIRLINES has unveiled its new regional business class product, debuting on the world’s first Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner aircraft, which the airline took delivery of in late March. Based on the Stelia Opal model, the new seats offer direct aisle access with a staggered 1-2-1 layout and 76-inch (193cm) fully flat beds. The staggered format allows the footwell to be positioned directly in front of the seat, rather than to the side as in its other business class seats. Singapore Airlines has 49 B787-10 Dreamliners on order that, along with its medium-haul Airbus A350s, will form the entirety of its regional fleet. singaporeair.com…

REGIONAL REVAMP FOR SIA

PARADISE CLOSED

THE PHILIPPINES’ President Duterte has branded popular holiday island Boracay “a cesspool” and ordered it be temporarily closed down while sewage facilities are built and illegal structures torn down. From April 26, the area became a no-go zone for tourists, and airlines and ferries have suspended their services to the destination. Famed for its picture-perfect White Beach, Boracay attracted more than two million visitors in 2017, earning the country over US$1 billion in revenue. To enforce the unpopular decision, riot police have been drafted in to keep tourists away, and residents of Boracay will be required to carry new identity cards.…

PARADISE CLOSED

KING OF THE JUNGLE

ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS has opened a luxury retreat in the forests of Luang Prabang, in north-central Laos – just a ten-minute drive from the airport. Surrounded by waterfalls, rivers and lush vegetation, there are 23 guestrooms including luxury tented villas. A highlight of the property is the Great House, with a grand open-air terrace and large daybeds overlooking the beautiful vista. Guests can experience Laotian farm-to-table dining and dishes influenced by the cuisine of historic royal courts at the on-site restaurant. rosewoodhotels.com…

KING OF THE JUNGLE

MAGNIFICENT MOTORS

MORE THAN 90 vintage and classic cars will be on show at the Fullerton Heritage Precinct this summer. The three-day Fullerton Concours d’Elegance (June 29–July 1) is a celebration of the iconic Fullerton Building’s 90th anniversary. Formerly Singapore’s General Post Office, the grand dame is now home to The Fullerton Hotel. Classic car lovers can salivate over beauties such as a 1934 Austin Seven Ulster Special, 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II and 1967 Lamborghini Miura. The festival will also feature gala dinners, live music performances, art and cultural exhibitions, workshops, family activities, luxury yacht displays and special cocktails and menu items at The Fullerton Hotel. Ticket prices range from S$9.90 (US$8) for a day pass to S$190 (US$145) for the three-day VIP Gold pass. thefullertonheritage.com…

MAGNIFICENT MOTORS

BUZZ OFF A passenger was kicked off an IndiGo flight from Lucknow to Bengaluru after he complained about there being an excessive number of mosquitoes inside the cabin. The passenger claims he was manhandled by crew and threatened, though the airline claims the man was acting belligerently, which led to ground security removing him from the aircraft. TYPO TERROR A 65-year-old woman caused a portion of Brisbane Airport to be cordoned off last month after she wrote the words “Bomb to Brisbane” on her luggage. The woman, who was travelling from Mumbai, had mistakenly written “Bomb” rather than “BOM”, Mumbai’s airport code. FORESIGHT FIASCO A passenger on board a Lion Air flight from Jakarta to Padang was so convinced he could “see and feel” danger that he donned a life vest six times throughout the…

Together at last

MARRIOTT International has finally unveiled plans for the merging of its three loyalty programmes – Marriott Rewards, The Ritz-Carlton Rewards, and Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG). Over the next 12 months, a single currency will be created (with current SPG Starpoints to be multiplied by three during the conversion). Moving forward, members will earn ten points for every US$1 spent at hotels and five points per US$1 spent at extended-stay brands. Meanwhile, Silver Elite status will be earned after ten nights (at any property), with Gold Elite after 25 nights, Platinum Elite after 50 nights, Platinum Premier Elite after 75 nights, and finally Ambassador for those surpassing 100 nights and US$20,000 of spend. Members will be able to combine their accounts under one (as yet unnamed) platform starting from August. marriott.com…

Together at last

AIRBUS and Zodiac have revealed designs for lower-deck sleeping modules designed to fit inside the cargo compartments of the A330 and A350 families of aircraft. The bunk bed-style berths, expected to be available by 2020, are a similar concept to crew rest areas currently in place on the A380, and would offer a new level of passenger comfort. Designers are also working on other applications for the pods, such as a play area for kids, and the compartments are intended to be easily interchangeable with regular cargo containers – possibly within the time frame of a typical turnaround. The provision of sleeper compartments on the A350 XWB airliner is also being studied.…

ENCHANTED EVENING

FOR one night only, renowned illusionist Stefan Leyshon will dazzle diners at The Connaught Room of Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong with an evening of levitation, mind reading and other classic magic tricks. The French magician was the youngest member to be admitted into the Magic Circle aged 14, and The Secret Dinner show on June 8 will be his debut performance in Asia. Meanwhile, guests will enjoy a gastronomic three-course menu of “Foie gras, Beef and Apple”, together with sommelier-selected champagne and wine pairings. Tickets cost HK$2,888 (US$368), with the cocktail reception starting at 7.30pm. mandarinoriental.com/hongkong…

ENCHANTED EVENING

DINING OUT IN SINGAPORE

FORBIDDEN DUCK “Demon Chef” Alvin Leung, famous for his three-Michelin-starred restaurant Bo Innovation, has launched a Singapore branch of his restaurant Forbidden Duck. The venue opened last month and is located at the Marina Bay Financial Centre. As the name suggests, the food focuses on classic dishes such as the restaurant’s signature slow-cooked Peking-style duck, and seafood rice in aromatic duck soup. A selection of dim sum and other traditional Cantonese dishes will also be available. forbiddenduck.hk PANAMERICANA Get a taste of the Americas at new bar-grill Panamericana in the Sentosa Golf Club. The colonial-chic restaurant, accentuated with Georgian tiles and chevron furnishings, offers views over the Singapore Strait and a lush golf course. From the brick-encased asador comes a selection of grill dishes including chilli-glazed Colombian chicken and salt-crusted baked trout, with…

DINING OUT IN SINGAPORE

ASCENT: Air Belgium, a start-up airline based out of Brussels South Charleroi Airport, launched its first route at the end of April – a non-stop, three-class service to Hong Kong. Hong Kong Airlines will begin flying to Moscow this month with flights operating three times a week from May 18 until October 27, 2018. Philippine Airlines plans to launch four new non-stop international services this year between Manila and New York, New Delhi, Mumbai and Sapporo. DESCENT: Emirates has dropped one of its three daily flights between Dubai and Jakarta as the airline looks to reposition its capacity to other routes in its network. Etihad has announced it is to suspend flights between Abu Dhabi and Perth effective from the start of October, and between Abu Dhabi and Edinburgh from the same date. HK Express will operate…

GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS

Most produced commercial jet aircraft model In March, Boeing celebrated the 10,000th 737 to come off the production line (for Southwest Airlines). Most air miles flown by a passenger In 2003, Frederick Finn claimed this title after racking up 13,900,000 miles via regular commutes between London and New Jersey, USA. He also holds the passenger record for the most supersonic flights, having made 714 Atlantic crossings on Concorde. Oldest pilot ever Cole Kugel, from the US, was born one year before the legendary Wright Brothers took to the skies, on March 14, 1902. He earned his pilot’s licence in 1945 and kept flying until his last flight in 2007, aged 105. He died the same year. Fastest time to visit all seven continents In February this year, Julie Berry and Lasey Stewart teamed up to break the…

The Royal Pacific Hotel and Towers, Hong Kong has launched a 30th anniversary celebration package, including three nights’ accommodation, airport limousine transfer, champagne and chocolate on arrival, daily buffet breakfast for two, complimentary Australian set dinner at Pierside Bar & Restaurant, and a complimentary fourth night’s stay for guests if it is their birthday month. The package rate starts from HK$3,520 (US$448) per night and is valid until October 31, 2018. sino-hotels.com The St Regis Macao has a Stay Exquisite package offering a deluxe room, daily breakfast or lunch for two at The Manor, Bloody Mary welcome drinks for two at The St Regis Bar, afternoon tea set for two at the bar, plus either one-way Cotai Water Jet first class ferry tickets for two, or HK$300 (US$38) hotel credit on…

WIN A FREE HOTEL STAY IN SHANGHAI

THIS MONTH’S prizes come from the Hongqiao Jin Jiang Hotel in Shanghai. Conveniently located between downtown Shanghai and Hongqiao International Airport, the Hongqiao Jin Jiang Hotel features 587 rooms and suites offering an elegant, contemporary atmosphere with subtle traditional Chinese touches. Guests have seven F&B offerings to choose from, serving Japanese, Chinese, Italian and international cuisine, as well as the elegant Chelsea Bar for a quiet cocktail. Those looking to relax can head to the Health Club, featuring a state-of-the-art gym, an indoor swimming pool, sauna and massage facilities. For more details and to enter, visit businesstraveller.com/competitions This month’s competition has two prizes up for grabs, with each winner getting a two-night stay in a Premier Room, inclusive of daily breakfast. MARCH’S ONLINE COMPETITION WINNERS: Wei Han, Jeffrey Cheong and Jimmy Ang…

WIN A FREE HOTEL STAY IN SHANGHAI

British Airways has unveiled the pricing for its new Hand Baggage Only (HBO) fares, which it says will be up to £60 (US$85) cheaper than standard return fares. These new “Basic” fares will include in-flight meals, as well as a two-piece hand baggage allowance, but no check-in allowance. The past few months have seen a wave of announcements from airlines that they will begin offering their own HBO fares, though these are primarily set to be available on transatlantic routes. British Airways’ new Basic fares, however, will also include some Asian destinations, with one-way fares starting at £210 (US$298) to Delhi, £228 (US$324) to Hong Kong and £230 (US$327) to Singapore (excluding tax and surcharges). ba.com…

Make an Entrance

A whole new definition of modern sophistication awaits travellers at the Prince Hotel in Hong Kong, with a completely refreshed arrival experience in the form of the hotel’s brand-new lobby space. Designed by award-winning Hong Kong-based architecture and interior design firm ARK Associates Limited, the lobby welcomes guests into the property as they enter through a dramatic double-height glass box from bustling Canton Road in the heart of Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district. During the day, the stunning entrance is bathed in an abundance of natural sunlight, while in the evening, the lobby is illuminated by a medley of sculptural lighting installations crafted from irregular metal rods. Dressed in velvet, the lounge's colour scheme offers a calming palette of Aegean ocean blues to mirror the marine views of nearby Victoria Harbour. Black mirrors…

Make an Entrance

ANGEL IN THE DETAIL On March 27, 2018 I checked in to the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris. Everything went smoothly, I was in my room in no time and I was told that my luggage would be brought to my room. After perhaps ten minutes, my luggage had still not arrived, so I called reception. The receptionist apologised and my luggage was delivered just a few minutes later. After some time, I got a call from the duty manager who told me that they wanted to deliver drinks to my room and asked me to open the door. I was a bit surprised by the call and didn’t really understand what it was about, but went to open the door anyway. Standing there was a butler holding a tray with a large bottle of champagne…

Join the debate

PRICING STRUCTURE STAR ALLIANCE RTW: SINGAPORE AIRLINES A380 SURCHARGE POST ANTIPODES I am hoping that one of the forum’s experts can explain the reasoning behind Singapore Airlines’ decision to charge a surcharge for flying in its A380 aircraft given that other airlines flying the A380 do not see the need to impose a surcharge. I am not fluent in the jargon, but once you reach the “choose flights” stage of the Star Alliance planner, if you have chosen an SQ flight then you must click on flight details. You will then be shown the type of aircraft used. If it is an A380 you will be told that a surcharge must be paid and what the amount is. The surcharge does not apply to one-way or round trips operated by Singapore Airlines,…

Prepare for the extraordinary

Q: What are the unique features that make Grand Hyatt Shanghai stand out from the crowd? After 19 years in the market, Grand Hyatt Shanghai has built a strong reputation by hosting various large events, including the Special Olympics charity dinner, the Shanghai International TV Festival, and many more. It has also welcomed many politicians and celebrities, from former US president Bill Clinton and Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong to Hugh Jackman and Kylie Minogue. As a landmark hotel in Shanghai, providing extraordinary service and experience to guests is our first priority. The rich experience that we provide has become an intrinsic part of why guests choose our hotel. Another key factor to success is our outstanding service team, which is well trained with comprehensive hospitality knowledge and an enthusiasm…

Prepare for the extraordinary

SNAPSHO DOWN UNDER

Australia's tourism industry is set for "supercharged growth" in the next few years Australia is no stranger to tourism. Its iconic wildlife and culture, enviable weather and outdoorsy pursuits provide a constant lure to global travellers. But according to the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, the tourism industry is set for "supercharged growth" in the next few years, with Asia - and China in particular - set to dominate the inbound market. As the official Tourism Research Australia forecast shows, Asia-Pacific already accounts for 64 per cent of all visitor growth, with China alone making a 29 per cent contribution. Statistics also reveal an upturn in foreign business investments by major advanced economies, including the US, Japan, UK and Canada, with an expectation that this will greatly increase the number of corporate travellers and…

SNAPSHO DOWN UNDER

BRIDGING THE GAP

Four man-made islands, a 22.9-kilometre-long stainless-steel bridge weighing some 400,000 tonnes, and the longest submerged sea tunnel in the world… this is the new Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (HZMB), soon to be the world’s longest cross-sea bridge and the jewel in the crown of a new wave of developments aimed at fostering greater integration between the cities of the Pearl River Delta (PRD). The HZMB project – which totals 55 kilometres in length – began construction in December 2012 as part of a joint effort by Hong Kong, Macau and the Chinese mainland, though the idea for a connection across the Lingding Channel that separates the cities was originally floated back in 1983. Fast-forward 35 years and the bridge is nearly complete, with the opening slated before the end of June. The benefits…

BRIDGING THE GAP

Make your dream event come true

Grand Hyatt Macau comprises two wave-inspired towers within the City of Dreams – renowned for its innovative culinary and creative excellence, an important element that enhances each delegate's experience at the hotel. The hotel aims to plan and host the finest meetings and incentives, complemented by award-winning products and services, pioneering food and beverages and a commitment to quality. Grand Hyatt Macau is the ideal partner to collaborate with to ensure successful and memorable events. The event space spans almost 8,000 square metres, including a colossal Grand Ballroom and Salão do Teatro, the only ballroom in Macau encompassing a theatre-style show kitchen. There are eight flexible, intelligently structured conference and meeting Salons, suitable for gatherings of between 40 and 100, complete with two nearby residential-style Salon Lounges for breakout receptions. In addition to…

Make your dream event come true

STAY WELL IN SINGAPORE

Singapore has long been leading the Asian Green City Index. The city welcomes you with almost as much greenery as steel and glass, thanks to regulations stating developers must replace the same amount of vegetation their building displaces... and the tropical climate, which does the rest naturally. Many of Singapore’s hotels follow suit, not only practising renewable and sustainable initiatives, but also piling on amenities to help fuel guests’ wellbeing. Proximity to nature, innovative exercise, mind-body practices and plant-focused diets are just some of today’s wellness must-dos that hotel guests will find in abundance. It’s the ideal opportunity to boost your physical, mental and spiritual energy, and return home feeling even better than when you left. A prime example, PARKROYAL on Pickering is an architectural breath of fresh air. More like a series…

STAY WELL IN SINGAPORE

1 Shwedagon Pagoda Built sometime between the 6th and 10th centuries AD, the Shwedagon Pagoda is an unmissable sight in Yangon – quite literally. Emblazoned in gold and standing atop Singuttara Hill, the pagoda is the tallest structure in Yangon at 99 metres, with strict rules prohibiting the development of buildings higher than the top of the stupa. While this sacred site can be visited throughout the day, sunset is the best time to go, so you can watch as lights slowly illuminate the golden pagoda until it is shining in the darkness. The more adventurous can also choose to get there just after 5am, another magical time where you will be able to observe locals and monks praying and performing rituals as the sun slowly rises. Open 4am-10pm daily; entrance…

BATTLE OF THE GIANTS

In 2007 the A380 was heralded as the start of a new generation of aircraft that would reshape air travel When Singapore International Airlines (SIA) became the first carrier to operate the Airbus A380 “superjumbo” commercially in October 2007, it was heralded as the start of a new generation of giant, long-haul aircraft that would reshape the way we travelled by air. After all, it was the world’s largest commercial airliner with the capacity to carry up to 800 passengers, eclipsing the previous “Queen of the Skies”, the Boeing 747 jumbo. Yet in October 2017 – a decade after it first flew commercially – the giant A380 aircraft, that had made an epic maiden voyage from Singapore to Sydney, was dispatched to a small airport between the towns of Lourdes and Tarbes…

BATTLE OF THE GIANTS

If brands are a promise, why do we so often feel let down by that promise? The big news in 2016 in the world of hotels was the merger of Marriott and Starwood to create a company with 30-plus hotel brands. Although there were many reasons for the merger, streamlining the number of hotel brands wasn’t one of them. Sheraton and Marriott, Four Points by Sheraton and Courtyard by Marriott, Luxury Collection and Autograph Collection all continue as before, with no amalgamation. Roll on to 2018, and the number of brands increases weekly. It’s fair to say that no business traveller wakes up in the morning and says to themself, “I really wish someone would invent a new hotel brand.” However, the hotel chains keep on creating them. At a recent Global…

WORTH YOUR TIME

At the 28th year of the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), 34 exhibitors showcased iconic timepieces to collectors, horologists and media from around the world. The grand watchmaking event took place in January this year in the Swiss capital. Here are the highlights of what was exhibited at the watch fair. FIFTYSIX DAY-DATE BY VACHERON CONSTANTIN STRAP:DARK GREY WITH A DEPLOYANT BUCKLE CASE DIAMETER: 40MM WATER RESISTANCE: 30 METRES PRICE: HK$141,000 (US$17,963) vacheron-constantin.com At SIHH this year, Vacheron Constantin debuted an entirely new collection called FiftySix Day-Date inspired by its vintage models but contemporary in feel and design. Indications on the metal dial include hours, minutes, hand-type date, centre seconds, power reserve, and hand-type day of the week. The model is powered by the Vacheron Constantin calibre 2475SC/2, which provides a 40-hour power reserve.…

WORTH YOUR TIME

The Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) is one of the most exclusive events for serious watch collectors, industry professionals and the watch Maisons alike. But not every watch enthusiast can scoot off to Switzerland to scout the next timepiece for their collection. Also, as savvy watch collectors will know, snapping up the latest trends at market price is not necessarily the smartest move. The pre-owned market – once a dirty word – is starting to thrive, as serious collectors have realised the merits. The most obvious, perhaps, is the chance to bag a bargain, but the pre-owned market also gives collectors the chance to find rare pieces no longer available in normal retail channels. Samuel Lee, co-founder and chairman of Watchbox Asia, says: “The pre-owned market has become much hotter recently,…

Brunch – that delicious portmanteau of breakfast and lunch – is the ideal weekend activity, particularly in a high-powered business city like Hong Kong. With a mimosa in hand at 12pm it’s easy to push boardroom stresses to the back of your mind, not to mention the joys of gourmet food enjoyed over a leisurely few hours whilst socialising in a fancy setting. It’s widely claimed that credit for this inspired activity goes to Guy Beringer, who concocted “brunch” as the perfect cure for a hangover, or as he more eloquently put it in his 1985 piece for Hunter’s Weekly: “By eliminating the need to get up early on Sunday, brunch would make life lighter for Saturday-night carousers. It would promote human happiness in other ways as well. Brunch is cheerful,…

Why paying a little more can be a good idea

The chains and the independent hotels are creating attractive deals for those who book direct Everyone wants the best price when buying a hotel room, but you often get what you pay for. Comparison sites and online travel agents (OTAs) offer a useful service, allowing consumers to price-check accommodation easily. And no one in the hotel business really likes them. The main demand for OTAs – or “third-party operators” (TPOs), as hotels refer to them – comes from individuals who are spending their own or their own company’s money. But many independent travellers tell of disappointment upon arrival when the room they have booked through an OTA overlooks a kitchen extractor fan, or has been converted from the housekeeper’s broom cupboard. The booking process can seem easy and prices cheap via an OTA,…

Why paying a little more can be a good idea

Rules of conduct

Avoiding onboard confrontation opens the door for overbearing or calculating characters It was in the economy cabin on a chock-full Air India flight from London to Sydney via Bombay (yes, it was that long ago). A slightly sweet, acrid smell woke me from my uncomfortable slumber, slumped as I was in the seat, my head twisted awkwardly, chin on collarbone. Nose twitching, I opened my eyes to reveal brightly painted toenails offsetting lines of grime that striated a bare foot positioned on my armrest mere inches from my face. The leg disappeared into the gap between my row’s seats, and turning I saw an Indian lady staring back placidly at me from the seat behind. Despite my obvious revulsion, pointing and head-shaking, she made no move to extricate her pungent extremity, and…

Rules of conduct

Malaysia Airlines A350-900 business class LONDON–KUALA LUMPUR

Nearly every seat in business class is different, from the window seats to the aisle and middle seats BACKGROUND This was the inaugural flight of the A350 on this route. The airline has leased six A350s, with the intention for the double-daily departures from London to Kuala Lumpur to be served by a combination of A350 and A380 aircraft. LOUNGE There are separate business and first class lounges, both with good views over Heathrow airport including the stands where Malaysia Airlines’ aircraft are parked. The lounges are comfortable, clean and attractively decorated, but dated and due for a refresh. The bar service and food selection are impressive, though. BOARDING Boarding was nearby at Gate 5A. Before take-off, we were offered a choice of drinks, including champagne, and hot towels. THE SEAT The A350 has…

Malaysia Airlines A350-900 business class LONDON–KUALA LUMPUR

Shangri-La Colombo

The hotel uses elements inspired by the natural beauty of Sri Lanka, fused with modern design BACKGROUND Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has two properties in Sri Lanka: Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort and Spa opened in June 2016, and Shangri-La Colombo opened in December 2017. WHERE IS IT? The hotel overlooks Colombo’s Galle Face Green promenade. It is walking distance from some of the city’s main attractions such as the Dutch Hospital Precinct. Colombo International Airport is a 45-minute drive away. WHAT’S IT LIKE? The hotel was in its pre-opening stage the morning I checked in. A winding pathway lined with greenery guided my vehicle to the entrance of this 32-storey property. Designed by New York-based Handel Architects, the interior décor is replete with gold and bronze hues. The hotel’s signature floral chandelier welcomes…

Shangri-La Colombo

Marriott Hotel Manila

The hotel focuses on MICE but doesn’t stint on luxury, and offers very high levels of service BACKGROUND The original eight-storey building opened in 2009, followed by a second meeting complex. In early 2017 the 13-storey West Wing opened. WHERE IS IT? In Newport City, within sight of Terminal 3 of Ninoy Aquino International; however, busy roads and elevated expressways lie in the way, so either a Php300 (US$6) cab ride or the free shuttle bus from Bay 12 will get you there in 5-10 minutes. (A skybridge across to the airport is being built.) A car into downtown Manila takes 30-60 minutes plus, traffic dependent. WHAT’S IT LIKE? There is a single entrance from the road, where armed security guards check all vehicles. The main building and West Wing have their own…

Marriott Hotel Manila

CHANGI TERMINAL 3, SINGAPORE

BACKGROUND Singapore Airlines (SIA) has two SilverKris lounges at Changi Airport – one in Terminal 2 and one in Terminal 3 – both with separate business and first class areas. In T3 the lounge is located on Level 3 – a short walk to the left after clearing immigration, towards the “A” gates. WHAT’S IT LIKE? Attached to the business class lounge, the smaller first class area is quite a different space. Noticeably quieter – ergo a better working environment – it is also brighter, with tall windows facing out onto the tarmac complemented by an overall lighter colour scheme. There are three main zones in the lounge – two seating areas separated by a dividing wall, and a dining area, plus shower facilities. There’s also The Private Room, an exclusive space…

CHANGI TERMINAL 3, SINGAPORE

LONDON HEATHROW TERMINAL 2B

BACKGROUND There are two SilverKris lounges in Terminal 2B at Heathrow, both of which are approaching their third anniversary. At reception you’ll either be directed to the left for first class or the right for business class. WHAT’S IT LIKE? It’s a long walk over to T2B where the lounge is located, but you can ask for a shuttle buggy if you need it (and I imagine there are plenty of people who do). Both lounges were developed by the interior design firm Ong&Ong, and feature a “home away from home” theme. There are several distinct areas for sitting, working, dining and privacy, and there are a couple of shower cubicles for passenger use at the far end. On entering the lounge there’s a seated area to your left partially obscured…

LONDON HEATHROW TERMINAL 2B

LONDON HEATHROW T3

BACKGROUND The lounge opened last November, located airside beyond the shops as you walk through to the gates. WHAT’S IT LIKE? The lounge is split over two levels with views out onto the airfield. The ground floor hosts the dining area and gin cocktail bar, as well as some sitting areas, while the upper floor has a round cocktail bar and more options for dining or just relaxing. Capacity stretches to more than 230 passengers, but there’s no segmentation between business and first. The lounge is popular with top-tier cardholders in the Oneworld programme, which means a lot of BA flyers use it. The design is the same as that of Qantas’s international lounges in Hong Kong, Singapore and Brisbane, with the food and interior design by Woods Bagot taking inspiration from…

LONDON HEATHROW T3

GEORGE BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL, HOUSTON, TEXAS

BACKGROUND Terminal D at Houston isn’t short of lounges, but walking towards the United/Star Alliance Lounge I saw signs for the Centurion Lounge, lots of them, and decided to investigate. I realised before too long why there are so many signs –you could work in terminal D for a week and still not know where the Centurion Lounge is, so well hidden is its entrance. To save you much frustration: it’s accessed via a lift/elevator, behind a duty-free shop. The elevator takes you down to a mezzanine level and at the end of a long corridor you find the lounge. WHAT’S IT LIKE? A pleasant surprise from start to finish. Receptionists at lounges spend most of the day refusing passengers entry, and for that reason often become quite fierce over the…

GEORGE BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL, HOUSTON, TEXAS

Staying connected

For some travellers, the advent of in-flight wifi is seen as a curse – the death of a once-legitimate excuse to escape emails and disconnect for a while. For others (60 per cent according to the European Aviation Network’s annual survey) it is now seen as a necessity. Then again, in an informal online poll of Business Traveller readers, only 19 per cent of respondents said they actually purchase wifi during a flight. Perhaps this is because offering a strong internet connection at a competitive price is something airlines are still working out. Regardless of your position, one thing’s for sure: in-flight wifi is here to stay. Here we look at the wifi packages currently available on Asia-Pacific’s biggest carriers.…

Staying connected

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