Ideal travel coordinates for girls who love to explore with their BFF
Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash)
Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash)
A stroll through the verdant O'sulloc green tea fields offers a memory to treasure. The breeze dances through your hair, the golden light gleams across the tea terraces, and laughter rings clear through the air. Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away.
Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels)
Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels)
Why not hike with your BFF to the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak at dawn? The sky blushing in pink and the sea shimmering in first light might just leave you both breathless with delight. Afterwards, settle into a cosy café in Seongeup Village, sip warm tangerine tea, and lose yourselves in conversation. Pop into a hanbok shop for a whimsical throwback to the Joseon dynasty, where playful photoshoots and spontaneous giggles are guaranteed. Wuzhen (China)
Above Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance (photo: Pexels)
Above This water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery (photo: Pexels)
Often hailed as one of China's most picturesque ancient towns, Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance. With a heritage stretching back thousands of years, this water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery.
Read more: 5 beautiful little-known tourist destinations in Asia
Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels)
Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels)
Let the journey begin with a poetic moment, drifting gently on a quiet boat through Wuzhen's glistening canals and under its moss-covered stone bridges. It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your BFF to cast aside your worries, let your thoughts float with the current, and share whispered secrets: stories that perhaps only this peaceful setting can draw out with ease.
Wandering down cobblestone alleys, you'll pass wooden shops filled with delicate handcrafted treasures, tranquil tea houses laced with gentle aromas, and stalls offering fragrant, traditional sticky rice cakes. Stroll at your own pace, and when the mood strikes, pause by the canal at a petite tea house. Sip elegant chrysanthemum tea and speak of dreams yet to come and plans still taking shape.
As evening descends, Wuzhen becomes almost otherworldly. Hundreds of scarlet lanterns glow along both sides of the canal, their flickering light dancing across the water's surface and warming the night sky. This is the moment to seek out a performance—perhaps a Peking Opera or a soulful Jiangnan folk dance—to absorb the spirit of a town that has stood for more than 1,300 years. Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam)
Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship. Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscapes. It's where the two of you can unwind in style, embrace nature's splendour, and collect a trove of cherished, just-the-two-of-you memories.
Photo 1 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa)
Photo 2 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa)
Photo 3 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa)
Photo 4 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa)
Photo 5 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa)
Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc)
Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc)
Above Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc)
The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, designed with the charm of a vibrant, vintage university, offers an unforgettable backdrop. Lounge by the infinity pool, clink glasses over cocktails at sundown, and capture those dazzling 'million-like' photos that spark laughter and delight. For a fresh take, La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy. Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike.
Above For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground (photo: Unsplash)
Above Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island (photo: Unsplash)
Above Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views (photo: Unsplash)
For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground. Sink into the powdery white sands of Bai Sao or Bai Khem, with crystal-clear waves lapping at your feet. Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island, Mong Tay Island or the Ganh Dau reef, where a kaleidoscope of coral awaits below the surface. Craving a bit of adrenaline? Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views, or hop on a jet ski and test your rhythm as a duo. Whether thrilling or tranquil, these shared adventures will only bring you closer.
Above A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets
Above The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget
A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets. Head to Dinh Cau Night Market to sample the freshest seafood: think garlic butter grilled lobster, sweet steamed crab, and rich, creamy sea urchins. The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget.
Above Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea, the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town (photo: Kiss Of The Sea)
Above A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water (photo: Kiss Of The Sea)
Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea , the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town. A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water, set against the backdrop of the glimmering night sea, offers a romantic and satisfying close to a day filled with laughter and shared memories. Chiang Mai (Thailand)
Chiang Mai, often called Thailand's 'Rose of the North', is a full-sensory experience made for two. With its dramatic mountains, ancient temples and deeply rooted local culture, it's the perfect place to explore with your best friend.
If you're both drawn to adventure, Chiang Mai won't disappoint. Begin with a visit to Chiang Mai Night Safari, Thailand's largest nocturnal zoo. Aboard an open tram, you'll observe giraffes, zebras, tigers and leopards roaming under the spell of twilight. Then, for something bolder, Phoenix Adventure Park awaits. Zipline through forest canopies, test your strength on artificial rock walls or dive into a rainforest paintball match: activities designed to energise and bring out your inner thrill-seekers.
A truly heartwarming highlight lies in connecting with Chiang Mai's beloved elephants. At ethical sanctuaries such as Maerim Elephant Home, Kanta Elephant Sanctuary or Mae Wang Po Ngurn Elephants Sanctuary, you'll get to learn about these gentle giants—feed them by hand, bathe them in cool streams and walk beside them through the forest. These experiences offer a profound and tender glimpse into Thailand's natural heritage.
Chiang Mai is also home to sacred temples and mountain landscapes that invite reflection. Make time for Doi Suthep Temple, perched atop a mountain and accessible by climbing more than 360 steps. Its gold-plated architecture glows in the morning light, with panoramic views over Chiang Mai stretching out below. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Wat Chedi Luang exude the grandeur of Lanna architecture, while Wat Ku Tao holds historical treasures not to be missed. For a dose of nature, venture to Doi Inthanon National Park, known as the 'Roof of Thailand'. Towering at 2,565 metres, it's home to cascading waterfalls like Wachirathan and Sirithan, tranquil forest paths, and the twin royal stupas—Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Nopphon Phumisiri. Each temple and peak reveals a different facet of Chiang Mai's soul.
As night descends, the city transforms. Glittering lights and the aromas of sizzling street food turn Chiang Mai into a lively playground. The famed Night Bazaar is unmissable as a treasure trove of handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans and northern tribes. Here, food becomes a journey in itself: mango sticky rice, Pad Thai, grilled skewers, charming cafés and even open-air massage spots create a vibrant street scene. Strolling side by side, sampling dishes, laughing at shared stories. These are the moments that make memories last. Sentosa Island (Singapore)
A visit to Sentosa Island in Singapore is a dive into an entertainment haven where every moment is crafted to be unforgettable. From adrenaline-pumping attractions to immersive underwater explorations, from the fantasy of cinematic realms to dazzling light displays, this island offers a kaleidoscopic journey that's ideal for best friends seeking pure joy and adventure.
Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore)
Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore)
Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore)
Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore)
At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore. Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds. Wander along Hollywood's glitzy boulevard, lose yourself in Madagascar's wild jungle, feel the buzz of New York City, or uncover the secrets of ancient Egypt. Each zone offers its own set of games, stage shows and charming gift shops perfect for hours of fun and a few keepsakes to take home.
Next door, the S.E.A. Aquarium™ invites you to embark on a mesmerising journey beneath the waves. As one of the world's largest marine aquariums, it houses over 100,000 marine creatures and 20,000 vibrant coral species, showcased in dramatic glass tunnels that offer an immersive, close-up view of the deep blue.
Sentosa also brings dreams to life at Madame Tussauds Singapore, where you can strike a pose beside astonishingly lifelike wax figures of global icons. Whether it's pop legends like Michael Jackson, film stars such as Marilyn Monroe, or historical figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama, it's a celebrity-filled gallery of photo opportunities. Afterwards, unleash your daring side at iFly Singapore, where a giant wind tunnel lets you experience the exhilarating sensation of free fall, Hollywood style. Then head to Mega Adventure Park, where MegaZip sends you soaring above the jungle canopy of Imbiah Hill, and MegaJump offers a 15-metre leap for the fearless. These thrill-filled moments are the perfect way to test your limits together.
Above For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network (photo: Singapore Cable Car Sky Network)
For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network. Suspended above Sentosa, it gives you a 360-degree perspective of the island and the city beyond. Afterwards, don't miss Skyline Luge Sentosa—a unique attraction that combines the thrill of a luge ride with scenic cable car views. Glide through curving tracks like Dragon or Expedition, and feel the rush of freedom with every turn. Whether you crave speed or scenery, this is one for the memory books.
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Tatler Asia
7 days ago
- Tatler Asia
Asia's grilling culture is deep, delicious and anything but basic
Celebrate satay and smoke in Indonesia Above Photo: Street Windy / Pexels Satay may be the global poster child of Indonesian grilling, but it's just one chapter. Across Java and Bali, skewers of marinated meat—infused with sweet soy, galangal and lemongrass—are grilled over coconut shell embers. The glaze turns caramel-fragrant and sticky before it even hits your plate. Regional spins deepen the story. Bali's sate lilit wraps spiced minced meat around lemongrass stalks. Padang satay is rich with curry-like sauces. And wherever there's smoke, there's likely a roadside clay brazier. See more: The best satay in Malaysia, according to chefs In India, there's tandoor, fire and showmanship India's grill culture revolves around one holy oven: the tandoor. Clay-lined, cylindrical and ancient, this upright inferno is the original vertical grill. Skewers of marinated meat, such as Punjabi tandoori chicken, steeped in yogurt, lime and a riot of spices, are lowered into its fiery depths, emerging smoky-red and blistered. Seekh kebabs, spiced minced lamb shaped onto metal rods, come out singing with garam masala, their char as important as their tenderness. It's not grilling in the Western grate-and-flip sense, but tandoori cooking relies on the same principles: high heat fire, and a kiss of smoke. Vertical, earthen grilling, if you may. But the story doesn't end with the tandoor. Across the subcontinent, India's streets crackle with coal-fired ingenuity. In Goa, choris sausages (descended from the Portuguese chouriço) sizzle over open coals, dripping spice-laced fat that fuels the flame. In Lucknow, kebabs roast on portable coal stoves called angithi that line the lanes like culinary lanterns. Whether it's the controlled intensity of the tandoor or the chaotic romance of a roadside grill, India knows that good fire makes unforgettable food. Enjoy China's skewers, smokers and shaokao China's grill culture is massive, regional and wild. In the chilly cities of the northeast, you'll find shaokao stalls braving the cold with lamb skewers dusted in cumin and chili flakes. Xinjiang's Uyghur communities perfected these smoky sticks long before they showed up in Beijing's nightlife. Meanwhile, Sichuan brings the heat, both thermally and spice-wise. Here, skewers swim in chili oil or are grilled over open flame. Coastal towns offer butterflied squid grilled whole. Even tofu isn't spared, smoked and charred until it mimics meat in all the right ways. Char and chaos meet in Thailand barbecues Walk through a night market in Chiang Mai and you'll inhale grilling smoke long before you see the skewers. Thai grilling is fast, hot and never shy. Moo ping skewers are pork caramelised in coconut milk and fish sauce. Gai yang is chicken split butterfly-style and grilled flat over charcoal, served with sticky rice and sharp, sour jeow sauce. The north and northeast regions go deeper: sai ua, the herbaceous sausage packed with lemongrass and chilies or grilled sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, charred outside, chewy inside. It's meat-and-rice alchemy. Grilling means street culture in the Philippines Above Photo: Alessandra Sio / Unsplash You haven't truly experienced everyday Filipino life until you've navigated a smoky sidestreet at dusk, fingers greasy with barbecued chicken or pork meat or offal. The national grill lexicon is vast, with regional specialties that include Bacolod's inasal—chicken marinated in calamansi, lemongrass and achuete—and Cebu's lechon belly, skin blistered to a glassy crisp. And then there's ihaw-ihaw, which is just the generic word for all sorts of grills. But ask for it, and you will be sent to the roadside stalls that appear like mushrooms after a rain, selling everything from mundane meats (the aforementioned pork and chicken skewers, as well as all kinds of sausages) to distinctively Pinoy delicacies (chicken or pork intestines, pig ears and cakes of coagulated blood playfully called 'betamax' because of their blocky shape). In Japan, grilling means precision, smoke and a little bit of theatre Above Photo: Shio Yang / Unsplash If Korea is a food opera, Japan is kabuki. Yakitori, yakiniku, robatayaki—grill culture here is both minimalist and highly codified. At a yakitori bar, you're not just ordering chicken; you're ordering cartilage, liver, tail, skin. Each skewer gets a different heat zone. Each bite, a culinary haiku. Meanwhile, robata-style dining channels fishing village hearths, where chefs grill over charcoal on raised platforms. Expect everything from eggplant to whole sweetfish, called ayu, glazed in miso. And in Osaka, where no flavour is left behind, street stalls torch beef tendon skewers into smoky perfection.
Tatler Asia
23-07-2025
- Tatler Asia
Ideal travel coordinates for girls who love to explore with their BFF
If you adored the film When Life Gives You Tangerines , then Jeju Island is your next must-visit. Its radiant citrus groves and lyrical landscapes seem to have leapt straight from the silver screen. The island invites you into a realm of windswept beauty winding tree-lined roads, dramatic coastal cliffs, and golden fields of blooming canola, all set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments. Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash) Above All set the stage for unforgettable friendship moments (photo: Unsplash) A stroll through the verdant O'sulloc green tea fields offers a memory to treasure. The breeze dances through your hair, the golden light gleams across the tea terraces, and laughter rings clear through the air. Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away. Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels) Above Suddenly, the world's cares feel far away (photo: Pexels) Why not hike with your BFF to the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak at dawn? The sky blushing in pink and the sea shimmering in first light might just leave you both breathless with delight. Afterwards, settle into a cosy café in Seongeup Village, sip warm tangerine tea, and lose yourselves in conversation. Pop into a hanbok shop for a whimsical throwback to the Joseon dynasty, where playful photoshoots and spontaneous giggles are guaranteed. Wuzhen (China) Above Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance (photo: Pexels) Above This water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery (photo: Pexels) Often hailed as one of China's most picturesque ancient towns, Wuzhen, dubbed the 'Venice of the East', charms with its poetic waterways and timeworn elegance. With a heritage stretching back thousands of years, this water town has preserved its serene, rustic beauty, adding a quiet romance to your voyage of discovery. Read more: 5 beautiful little-known tourist destinations in Asia Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels) Above It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your best friend to cast aside your worries (photo: Pexels) Let the journey begin with a poetic moment, drifting gently on a quiet boat through Wuzhen's glistening canals and under its moss-covered stone bridges. It's the kind of stillness where time seems to slow, inviting you and your BFF to cast aside your worries, let your thoughts float with the current, and share whispered secrets: stories that perhaps only this peaceful setting can draw out with ease. Wandering down cobblestone alleys, you'll pass wooden shops filled with delicate handcrafted treasures, tranquil tea houses laced with gentle aromas, and stalls offering fragrant, traditional sticky rice cakes. Stroll at your own pace, and when the mood strikes, pause by the canal at a petite tea house. Sip elegant chrysanthemum tea and speak of dreams yet to come and plans still taking shape. As evening descends, Wuzhen becomes almost otherworldly. Hundreds of scarlet lanterns glow along both sides of the canal, their flickering light dancing across the water's surface and warming the night sky. This is the moment to seek out a performance—perhaps a Peking Opera or a soulful Jiangnan folk dance—to absorb the spirit of a town that has stood for more than 1,300 years. Phu Quoc Island (Vietnam) Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship. Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscapes. It's where the two of you can unwind in style, embrace nature's splendour, and collect a trove of cherished, just-the-two-of-you memories. Photo 1 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 2 of 5 Let the golden sunshine, cerulean waters and refreshing sea breeze of Phu Quoc create the perfect setting for a new chapter in your friendship (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 3 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 4 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Photo 5 of 5 Nicknamed the 'Pearl Island' of Vietnam, it's more than just a resort haven of captivating landscape (photo: JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa) Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) Above La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) Above Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike (photo: La Festa Phu Quoc) The JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, designed with the charm of a vibrant, vintage university, offers an unforgettable backdrop. Lounge by the infinity pool, clink glasses over cocktails at sundown, and capture those dazzling 'million-like' photos that spark laughter and delight. For a fresh take, La Festa Phu Quoc, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, introduces a sleek, modern energy. Ocean-view villas, sun-drenched terraces and breezy loungers offer the perfect setting for heartfelt chats and elegant snapshots alike. Above For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground (photo: Unsplash) Above Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island (photo: Unsplash) Above Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views (photo: Unsplash) For sea lovers, Phu Quoc is an endless playground. Sink into the powdery white sands of Bai Sao or Bai Khem, with crystal-clear waves lapping at your feet. Don't miss a snorkelling excursion to Gam Ghi Island, Mong Tay Island or the Ganh Dau reef, where a kaleidoscope of coral awaits below the surface. Craving a bit of adrenaline? Soar together above the waves on a paragliding flight, take in panoramic island views, or hop on a jet ski and test your rhythm as a duo. Whether thrilling or tranquil, these shared adventures will only bring you closer. Above A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets Above The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget A culinary journey in Phu Quoc is sure to delight even the most discerning of gourmets. Head to Dinh Cau Night Market to sample the freshest seafood: think garlic butter grilled lobster, sweet steamed crab, and rich, creamy sea urchins. The flavours of the ocean, paired with the market's lively atmosphere, promise an experience you won't soon forget. Above Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea, the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town (photo: Kiss Of The Sea) Above A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water (photo: Kiss Of The Sea) Round off a fun-filled day with Kiss of the Sea , the spectacular water music show in Sunset Town. A dazzling interplay of lights, music and water, set against the backdrop of the glimmering night sea, offers a romantic and satisfying close to a day filled with laughter and shared memories. Chiang Mai (Thailand) Chiang Mai, often called Thailand's 'Rose of the North', is a full-sensory experience made for two. With its dramatic mountains, ancient temples and deeply rooted local culture, it's the perfect place to explore with your best friend. If you're both drawn to adventure, Chiang Mai won't disappoint. Begin with a visit to Chiang Mai Night Safari, Thailand's largest nocturnal zoo. Aboard an open tram, you'll observe giraffes, zebras, tigers and leopards roaming under the spell of twilight. Then, for something bolder, Phoenix Adventure Park awaits. Zipline through forest canopies, test your strength on artificial rock walls or dive into a rainforest paintball match: activities designed to energise and bring out your inner thrill-seekers. A truly heartwarming highlight lies in connecting with Chiang Mai's beloved elephants. At ethical sanctuaries such as Maerim Elephant Home, Kanta Elephant Sanctuary or Mae Wang Po Ngurn Elephants Sanctuary, you'll get to learn about these gentle giants—feed them by hand, bathe them in cool streams and walk beside them through the forest. These experiences offer a profound and tender glimpse into Thailand's natural heritage. Chiang Mai is also home to sacred temples and mountain landscapes that invite reflection. Make time for Doi Suthep Temple, perched atop a mountain and accessible by climbing more than 360 steps. Its gold-plated architecture glows in the morning light, with panoramic views over Chiang Mai stretching out below. Nearby, the ancient ruins of Wat Chedi Luang exude the grandeur of Lanna architecture, while Wat Ku Tao holds historical treasures not to be missed. For a dose of nature, venture to Doi Inthanon National Park, known as the 'Roof of Thailand'. Towering at 2,565 metres, it's home to cascading waterfalls like Wachirathan and Sirithan, tranquil forest paths, and the twin royal stupas—Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Phra Mahathat Nopphon Phumisiri. Each temple and peak reveals a different facet of Chiang Mai's soul. As night descends, the city transforms. Glittering lights and the aromas of sizzling street food turn Chiang Mai into a lively playground. The famed Night Bazaar is unmissable as a treasure trove of handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans and northern tribes. Here, food becomes a journey in itself: mango sticky rice, Pad Thai, grilled skewers, charming cafés and even open-air massage spots create a vibrant street scene. Strolling side by side, sampling dishes, laughing at shared stories. These are the moments that make memories last. Sentosa Island (Singapore) A visit to Sentosa Island in Singapore is a dive into an entertainment haven where every moment is crafted to be unforgettable. From adrenaline-pumping attractions to immersive underwater explorations, from the fantasy of cinematic realms to dazzling light displays, this island offers a kaleidoscopic journey that's ideal for best friends seeking pure joy and adventure. Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) Above Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds (photo: Universal Studios Singapore) At the heart of the island's excitement is Universal Studios Singapore. Step through its iconic gates and you'll find yourself transported to seven distinct film-inspired worlds. Wander along Hollywood's glitzy boulevard, lose yourself in Madagascar's wild jungle, feel the buzz of New York City, or uncover the secrets of ancient Egypt. Each zone offers its own set of games, stage shows and charming gift shops perfect for hours of fun and a few keepsakes to take home. Next door, the S.E.A. Aquarium™ invites you to embark on a mesmerising journey beneath the waves. As one of the world's largest marine aquariums, it houses over 100,000 marine creatures and 20,000 vibrant coral species, showcased in dramatic glass tunnels that offer an immersive, close-up view of the deep blue. Sentosa also brings dreams to life at Madame Tussauds Singapore, where you can strike a pose beside astonishingly lifelike wax figures of global icons. Whether it's pop legends like Michael Jackson, film stars such as Marilyn Monroe, or historical figures like Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama, it's a celebrity-filled gallery of photo opportunities. Afterwards, unleash your daring side at iFly Singapore, where a giant wind tunnel lets you experience the exhilarating sensation of free fall, Hollywood style. Then head to Mega Adventure Park, where MegaZip sends you soaring above the jungle canopy of Imbiah Hill, and MegaJump offers a 15-metre leap for the fearless. These thrill-filled moments are the perfect way to test your limits together. Above For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network (photo: Singapore Cable Car Sky Network) For a sweeping view of the island, take to the skies with the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network. Suspended above Sentosa, it gives you a 360-degree perspective of the island and the city beyond. Afterwards, don't miss Skyline Luge Sentosa—a unique attraction that combines the thrill of a luge ride with scenic cable car views. Glide through curving tracks like Dragon or Expedition, and feel the rush of freedom with every turn. Whether you crave speed or scenery, this is one for the memory books. NOW READ Ho Nguyet Minh of Majesty Golf Vietnam: fearless on the fairway Pride Month: 7 of the world's most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations you might not know about The living legacy of Chinatowns around the world
Tatler Asia
23-07-2025
- Tatler Asia
On Ernest Hemingway's birthday, travel the world in the footsteps of the literary titan
Paris, France: write your story in a quiet sanctuary Hemingway wrote parts of his breakthrough novel The Sun Also Rises while frequenting cafés such as La Closerie des Lilas, located in the lively Montparnasse district. He also rented rooms in the Latin Quarter, including areas near Rue Descartes, seeking quiet spaces to write away from the bustle of his flat. Find your corner table, order a café au lait and let the city's rich literary energy inspire your story. Key West, Florida: battle a marlin on the deep blue Gulf Stream Above The literary titan spent countless hours on fishing adventures, hunting marlin, tuna and swordfish. (Photo: Slava. Jamm / Unsplash) Few places captured Ernest Hemingway's passion like the deep sea. In 1934, he purchased his customised 38-foot fishing boat Pilar, and spent countless hours on the Gulf Stream and surrounding waters off Key West, Cuba and the Bimini Islands, hunting giant marlin, tuna and swordfish. These fishing adventures provided authentic detail for his novels , To Have and Have Not and his Pulitzer Prize-winning The Old Man and the Sea . Today, you can charter a boat from Key West's historic harbour and experience the thrill of battling these magnificent fish in the same waters that served as Hemingway's ultimate proving ground. Northern Michigan: find solitude on the trout streams of his youth The pristine wilderness shaped Hemingway's earliest literary imagination. During summers at his family's cottage, Windemere, on Walloon Lake, young Ernest developed his lifelong passion for fishing in the crystal-clear streams of northern Michigan. This landscape became the setting for his semi-autobiographical Nick Adams stories, where characters first confronted life's harsh truths. Visit public access points on Walloon Lake or cast a line in Horton Creek, connecting with the natural world that was the wellspring of his writing. Pamplona, Spain: soak up the 24/7 energy of the San Fermín festival The energy of Pamplona's San Fermín festival transformed Hemingway from observer to participant. He attended the festival numerous times, fully embracing the spectacle of dancing, drinking and the primal thrill of the bull run—even participating in the run himself. His novel The Sun Also Rises turned this provincial party into a global phenomenon. Experience the non-stop energy of the fiesta, from the Plaza del Castillo to the winding streets of the encierro route, and understand why this celebration became central to his artistic vision. Cuba: live the island life, from Old Havana to the fishing village of Cojimar Above Hemingway spent over 20 years in Cuba, fishing and frequenting local spots. (Photo: Diego Gennaro / Unsplash) Cuba defined Hemingway's most productive decades. For over 20 years, he made the island his home, fishing for marlin from his boat Pilar , which he docked in the small fishing village of Cojimar—the inspiration for the setting of The Old Man and the Sea . He was a well-known figure in Havana, starting a local baseball team and frequenting bars like La Floridita. Live like a local: fish the Gulf Stream, explore Old Havana's cobblestone streets and soak in the vibrant culture that inspired his Nobel Prize-winning work. Idaho: hunt for serenity in the 'high blue windless skies' Ernest Hemingway sought the peace that eluded him in his final sanctuary. The writer found refuge in Ketchum, Idaho's rugged landscape, which reminded him of Spain's mountains. His passions here were hunting and fishing, finding solace in the outdoors. He wrote a moving eulogy for a friend, now inscribed on his memorial, celebrating the 'leaves yellow on the cottonwoods' and 'the high blue windless skies'. Explore the mountains and streams around Sun Valley, seeking the same tranquillity and connection to nature that he pursued in his twilight years. Credits This article was created with the assistance of AI tools
