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Hospitality Net
28-05-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Introducing Eight New Members of Design Hotels
From charming retreats in Upstate New York and the Swiss Alps to urban wonders in Baltimore and Prague, discover the newest members of Design Hotels around the world. Situated in an array of locations ideal for different types of travelers, the following eight new members showcase unique transformations of spaces. In one, guests will discover underground concrete wine tanks that have become a series of inviting baths. At another, a family's former villa now boasts a beachfront all-suite hotel. And in a historic structure dating to 1912, visitors can sip craft cocktails amongst contemporary high-camp style in an homage to John Waters. Source: Marriott LA PUNTA ZICATELA, MEXICO At Hotel Humano by Grupo Habita in Puerto Escondido, local culture takes center stage. Steps away from Zicatela Beach, one of the most renowned surf destinations in the world, guests can blend in with the locals as they surf, chill, and repeat—or simply take in stunning Pacific Coast sunsets from a relaxed yet pampering atmosphere filled with gardens, fire pits, and poolside pleasures. Permeable lattice structures enable a seamless flow between interiors and the outdoors, while a rooftop garden and central courtyard provide ample room to lounge beneath the Mexican sun and fresh ocean breeze. Throughout the hotel, materials like exposed concrete contrast with clay tiles, raw bricks, and tropical wood details, all of which were sourced, produced, or handcrafted locally. Welcoming barefoot guests among simple luxury, the hotel places the focus on the enchanting Oaxacan coast and allowing visitors to effortlessly integrate with the local culture. TULUM, MEXICO A private coastal sanctuary of suites thoughtfully oriented toward the sea, XELA Tulum is a beachfront, soulful retreat for likeminded spirits seeking laidback luxury and an authentic experience in the heart of the Caribbean. The hotel was designed to evoke a sense of ease and a beach house ambiance, with a color palette dominated by soft, sand-like hues and warm oranges, accented by organic woods, woven fibers, and stone finishes. Originally a chic European family's private holiday home, the property now boasts a carefully preserved charm with the added amenities of contemporary communal spaces, a sophisticated bar, a serene spa, and a garden-facing gym. Additionally, three restaurants operated by the hotel offer a range of dining experiences: The on-property XELA Restaurant & Bar pairs a seasonal, local menu with signature cocktails. Nestled within a stylish nearby roadside shack, Los Bowls de Guadalupe presents healthy organic bites, smoothies, and bowls. And NÜ Tulum, an upscale experience also close to the hotel, was mentioned in Mexico's first Michelin Guide. Source: Marriott NEW YORK CITY, USA Tucked in the heart of Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood, surrounded by old brownstones and tree-lined streets, The Moore greets guests with a classic façade that has deliberately been left untouched—a nod to Clement Clarke Moore, who developed Chelsea in the 1800s. Behind the historical façade is a lobby designed to feel like a living room and 81 luxe guestrooms, where the pervading feeling is more about home than hotel. Believing that the coziest spaces always present warm tones of woods and velvets, the hotel's designers augment a rich neutral pallet with off-white linen-textured walls, wide-planked oak-wood flooring, teak wall paneling, and furniture with brass inlays. Windows are draped in a modern, deep-charcoal velvet, framing plush fabric headboards and desk chairs upholstered in mohair and velvet. Downstairs, the 24-hour Cafe Moore serves pastries and resembles an old diner counter, while the seasonal roof terraces is home to Moore Wine bar. The hotel also has an intimate gym and offers partnerships with local businesses, including Bathhouse, Bombshell Pilates, Soul Cycle, and the neighboring restaurant Marsanne. KINGSTON, USA Less than 90 minutes north of Manhattan, Hotel Kinsley is spread across four historic buildings in the charming village of Kingston, close to countless hiking trails, local farms, breweries, and more. Graced by the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River, the hotel presents an inviting world of exposed beams, stone walls, and a mixture of locally scouted vintage pieces, custom furniture and millwork, and original moldings. Each of the four buildings, which date from the 17th to the 19th centuries, is set on a different street and contains its own unique story and aesthetic featuring designs by Robert McKinley, Vanessa Guilford and Aviva Blaichman. In one, guests will discover a serene gym. In another, infrared saunas and a private massage room await. Another hosts Restaurant Kinsley, which offers a fresh take on New American cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating. Similarly, every room has its own personality and gives the feeling of staying in a private residence, courtesy of features like original fireplaces and abstract art from the owner's private collection. Unifying the experience are watercolor illustrations, found throughout all buildings and created by a celebrated Brooklyn-based artist. Source: Marriott BALTIMORE, USA Farther down the East Coast is Hotel Ulysses in Baltimore's Mount Vernon Historic District. An homage to local icons John Waters, Edgar Allen Poe, and Billie Holiday, the hotel is a stylized world full of drama, mystery, and playfulness set within a nine-story structure built in 1912. Largely inspired by Waters's high-camp style, guests will discover vibrant leopard-print carpets, vintage furniture, and flamingo motifs. Rooms boast four color schemes—cerise, citron, jade, and azure—and are adorned with canopy beds, plush quilted bedding, hand-beaded Indian lampshades, charming antique finds, and handpicked artwork from around the globe. Public spaces, designed to pique curiosity, include the all-day café, market, and nightspot Ash—Bar, where guests can enjoy breakfast and afternoons can stretch long into nights; Bloom's, a plush cocktail bar serving up classics from the Prohibition era as well as famous drinks from the 1970s; and The Coral Wig, a cocktail bar tucked in the hotel's alley inspired by the clubs of 1980s-era Manila. PRAGUE, CZECHIA Set in a 19th-century landmark building with beautiful views of the Vltava River, Sir Prague Hotel is a Gothic wonder with an inviting contemporary spirit in the heart of the Czech capital city. Built in 1884, the structure was once home to Prague's Ministry of Coal. Inspired by this history, the hotel's designers drew attention to traditional stonework and ornate ceilings, while introducing geometric shapes and graphic patterns inspired by the Czech Republic's Cubist era. As a result, contrasting materials provide a unique and energetic aesthetic, with rooms also featuring whimsical artwork. Guests can relax in the library, where soft lighting, elegant woodwork, and Murano chandeliers create a quiet place to unwind or rendezvous. Steps beyond this urban sanctuary are the famous Dancing House and a unique mix of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture as well as Art Nouveau and Cubist landmarks. Source: Marriott MARTIGNY, SWITZERLAND Located at the foot of the Swiss Alps in the once-thriving Roman settlement of Martigny (33 kilometers south of Montreux), Hôtel Borsari is situated within a stunningly renovated former agro-industrial site and winery. The hotel's bold design combines this history with an eclectic mix of midcentury pieces, embraced by warm deep-wine reds and complemented by concrete, brick, granite, terrazzo, oak, and larch. Each floor is characterized by dark green, dark red, basalt black, or blue, each of which represent the fundamental elements of the region: foliage, grapes, minerals, and spring water. Underground, guests will discover a series of original borsaris, or concrete wine tanks, that have been transformed into extraordinary baths. Back upstairs, a cobblestone courtyard between the hotel's two buildings offers the ideal setting for alfresco indulgence at the in-house dining outlets Le Cercle, focusing on culinary delights, or La Saucithèque, showcasing the hotel's emphasis on wine. MÜNSTER, GERMANY A welcoming city hotel that could easily belong in Stockholm, Amsterdam, or New York, Mauritzhof Hotel Münster presents sublime elegance with an artistic flair on a promenade just minutes from Münster's historical center. Oiled oak-parquet floors, regional limestone, and a warm, dark color palette create a sophisticated, inviting setting. Works by local artists abound, including those of well-known photographer Berthold Socha. The open-plan lobby features a fireplace alongside pieces by Gubi and Fredericia to create a relaxed lounge space. The hotel is perhaps most recognized for Reckos Restaurant, a unique and sought-after destination in the city, where locally inspired, down-to-earth dishes celebrate the region's finest produce and the changing seasons. Plus, an outdoor terrace equipped with heaters and canopies is the perfect year-round setting for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or enjoying a sunset cocktail with friends. About Design Hotels For 30 years, Design Hotels has been at the forefront of a movement in travel by crafting a handpicked portfolio of 300+ independently owned and operated hotels in over 50 countries. From cultural hubs in fast-paced cities to tiny off-the-beaten-path escapes, each hotel reflects the vision of its pioneering owner—or 'Original'—who possesses a passion for genuine hospitality, cultural authenticity, thought-provoking design, and architecture. More than a collection of hotels, Design Hotels brings forward-thinking member hotels insightful travel industry expertise – from trend forecasting and creative consultancy, to PR, marketing, and global sales representation. Design Hotels is headquartered in Berlin, with branches in London, Los Angeles, New York, and Singapore. In 2019, the company partnered with Marriott Bonvoy ® , expanding the reach of its member hotels and offering its community access to the industry's leading loyalty program. About Marriott International Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of nearly 9,100 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 142 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on X and Instagram. About Marriott Bonvoy Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International's award-winning travel programme and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of 31 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalisation and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enrol for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok. View source
The Independent
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
The smart summer travel guide
Are you craving barefoot luxury in the Caribbean, culture-soaked city breaks, or just some smart ways to make life easier when travelling? From eco-villas in Bali to a next-gen non-alcoholic drinks and even a high-tech chauffeur solution, these standout travel ideas are tailor-made for curious, conscious travellers looking to soak up the summer season in style. Encounter laid-back luxury with local soul on a Balinese beach Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach is so much more than just a beachfront beauty. As the beloved hospitality brand's first resort, it's a vivid celebration of Balinese culture and community. With 289 rooms, suites and villas, eight dining venues and a sublime spa, it's a dreamy place to unwind. But what truly sets it apart is its neighbourhood-rooted ethos. Guests can try Endek painting – a traditional textile art – or don ceremonial dress for a joyful immersion into local life. The hotel's sustainability efforts are equally hands-on, from transforming used chopsticks into furniture, to donating surplus food, and repurposing cooking oil into biodiesel. It's a stay that feels good – and does good, too. Discover a sun-kissed paradise in the British Virgin Islands Summer is so much more than a season — it's a state of mind. And at Long Bay Beach Resort that feeling comes vividly to life on one of the Caribbean's most postcard-perfect coastlines. Set on the shores of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, this boutique resort hideaway offers modern beachfront villas and suites with knockout ocean views of the surrounding Caribbean islands, swaying palm trees and soft white sand just steps away from your door. Whether you're into paddleboarding at sunrise, sailing to secret coves, or just napping on a day bed on the beachfront to the gentle lapping sounds of the sea, Long Bay Beach Resort moves to your rhythm. Here, time slows down, the stress melts away and every moment feels like the golden hour. Book a five night stay 182 days in advance and get 30% off at Book now Possessing both magnificent nature and unparalleled urban style, Norway is a must for any discerning traveller's bucket list. And Thon Hotels makes it easy. With over 80 stylish locations across the country, this colourful hotel group pairs Scandinavian design with a warm welcome and a reassuring focus on sustainability. Whether you're soaking up Oslo's vibrant arts scene, kayaking through crystal-clear fjords, or chasing the midnight sun in the Arctic north, you'll find a cozy place to land at the end of every day. Expect smart, modern rooms, a standout Norwegian breakfast buffet and easy access to both wild nature and walkable cities. This is summer travel somewhere cool, calm and thoroughly refreshing. Save up to 20% on your stay at Offer ends August 2025. Located near Canggu, Desa Hay Bali is where eco-luxury meets soulful serenity. Each standalone villa comes with a private pool, lush garden, and is tailor-made for travellers who crave connection as much as comfort. At Ijo — the resort's restaurant — globally inspired tapas is crafted daily from fresh, local ingredients. Morning yoga, in-villa massages and traditional Melukat rituals offer deeper immersion, while nearby adventures range from the cliffside majesty of Tanah Lot to sunrise hikes up Mount Batur. With solar energy, water conservation and gentle luxury at its core, Desa Hay is so much more than a place to stay. It represents a slower, more meaningful way to experience Bali. Sip smarter on your next summer escape Whether it's beachfront barbecues or golden-hour gatherings, it's increasingly clear creating great travel memories needn't involve alcohol. That's where a new kind of drink comes in. Enter SENTIA Spirits — a pioneering functional drinks company whose products are designed to enhance mood, boost sociability and help you stay fully present. Developed by leading neuroscientist Professor David Nutt, these award-winning blends use cutting-edge science and botanical ingredients to support your brain's natural GABA system, bringing calm, clarity and connection wherever you roam. Start your day with an energising pre-surf GABA Black pour, savour vibrant GABA Gold at a long picnic lunch or wind down with a mellow GABA Red after dark. Whether paired with tonic, kombucha or your favourite fizzy drink, each sip helps support your wellbeing — without compromising on flavour. Or vibes. Flight delayed? Schedule changed? When travel plans shift on a dime, drvn exists to ensure your ground game stays sharp. Designed for travel managers, event planners and executive teams who demand flawless execution every time, this global platform coordinates private transportation at scale, with real-time ride tracking, custom integrations and white-label booking tools tailored to your exact needs. Whether it's black car pickups for an international conference or discreet SUV arrivals for top-tier clients, drvn connects you to a vetted network of commercial chauffeurs worldwide. Every detail is managed, and every mile carefully accounted for. This isn't just black car service, it's large-scale ground transportation management. Unwind at a Tuscan wellness retreat Castel Monastero is located in a beautifully restored 11th-centruty monastery in the heart of Chianti, surrounded by rolling vineyards and cypress trees. With just 70 rooms and suites, the hotel's atmosphere is one of calm refinement — perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking space, silence and soul. Guests can unwind at the award-winning wellness retreat with water circuits, detox therapies and customised spa rituals. Gastronomy is a highlight, from informal dining in the medieval cellar to a Michelin-starred experience in the historical square. Whether you're exploring Siena and Florence nearby, sipping Brunello under the stars or simply recharging in the gardens, this romantic corner is the perfect place to rediscover balance. If your soul is seeking a little snow-dusted silence and starlit solitude, Isbreen The Glacier is where it's at. This off-grid Arctic hideaway sits deep within Northern Norway's Jøkelfjord, where five geodesic-domed igloos overlook the Øksfjordjøkelen glacier and fjord below. From wood-burning stoves and private whirlpool baths to chef-prepared meals featuring reindeer and cloudberries, every detail exudes authentic local luxury. Fill your days with dog sledding, kayaking or whale swims. Or simply gaze at the Northern Lights, when conditions are right, from the comfort of your bed. The largest suite, a 1,500-sq-ft double dome, redefines remoteness with style. Book now and get your fourth night free, a complimentary forest sauna experience and potential igloo upgrade (subject to availability). Offer valid with code OFFER2025 for travel in 2025 and 2026. Stay stylishly stress-free in the Swiss Alps If your family vacation vision is all about clean lines, crisp air and zero hassle, rocksresort in LAAX totally hits the mark. Set in a modern Alpine village at 3,600ft, this design-forward escape swaps cookie-cutter chalets for sleek, stylish and modern stone-clad apartments, with cafes, restaurants, concept stores and a freestyle park that let kids roam and grown-ups breathe. The Family Deal of rocksresort wraps up the best of the region: lift passes for hiking and biking, entrance to turquoise Lake Cauma, the world's longest treetop walk (complete with gnarly spiral slide) and even childcare when you need a little adult escapism. LAAX brings laid-back energy with sustainability baked in—it's cool, conscious and quietly luxurious. Book now Learn a language through full cultural immersion If you're hoping for a life-altering summer, why not take the plunge and learn a language where it's spoken? EF's immersive Language Abroad programmes let you swap surface-level sightseeing for deep connection, meaning you'll bring home skills that last a lifetime. Offering flexible Monday start dates, EF has courses in 17 countries, including Spain, France, Japan and Costa Rica. You'll learn at modern campuses alongside students from over 100 countries and get to benefit from a full calendar of cultural events, weekend excursions and cool summer-only perks like beach barbecues and music festivals. Each programme includes accommodation, expert support and guaranteed progress in as little as six weeks. You'll return more confident, more connected and well on the way to fluency. Book before 12 June 2025 to get 15% off courses of three weeks or more departing by 25 September 2025.
The Sun
27-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Peaceful African city right by the sea that feels ‘more like Europe' – but tourists always miss it
AN overlooked city dubbed the 'white city of Morocco' is a holiday destination where you won't find many crowds this summer. Tetouan in Morocco is often overlooked as a holiday destination with most Brits heading to Marrakech or Agadir. 5 5 However, it was once the capital of Spanish Morocco, nicknamed the "daughter of Granada" meaning a lot of the architecture feels more European than African. And due to the lack of tourism, it also means it remains a more authentic side of Morocco with mainly locals visiting on holiday. The main medina in town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the original 17th century features remaining. Tourists have raved about it being a much cheaper place to find souvenirs compared to Marrakech. One said: "We bought souvenirs in Medina at half the price from Marrakech - the sellers are polite. "It was a real surprise for us, we found ourselves in a city that looked like Europe." Another said: "This medina has a old world charm with no tourism. Experiencing Morocco as it must have been years ago." There is also the The Archaeological Museum, which shows the origins of the city before it was founded in the 15th century. The city is known for its artistic heritage as well, so the Ethnography Museum is worth a visit as well as the Tetouan Museum of Modern Art, built within a former Spanish-style train station. Embrace the crazy city full of warmth and culture And while tourists aren't allowed to go inside the Grand Mosque, it is worth a visit just for the exterior. Otherwise it's proximity to the mountains means its attracts adventure sports fans too, with trekking and mountain biking popular as well. If you really want a beach break then there is the nearby Tamuda Bay, which recently opened a new Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay (the first five star for the resort). But for stays nearer the city, one of the most popular is the all-inclusive Club Med Village Yasmina, while the Blanco Riad Hotel is in the middle of the Tetouan. And according to Tripadvisor, Blanco Riad Restaurant is the most popular restaurant in town, with traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine. 5 5 It could be easier to get to Tetouan soon, with a new train line from Tangier being proposed as well as a new motorway. Until then, Brits will need to fly to Tangier which takes less than three hours from the UK, when flying with Ryanair. Tetouan is then around 1hr15 by car. Otherwise The Sun's Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited Agadir. And here is an African country set to be the "next Morocco". 5
Travel Daily News
15-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
Why holiday cottages are the UK's best-kept secret
If you're tired of cookie-cutter hotel stays and long airport queues, it's time to consider the charm and practicality of the UK's holiday cottages. From coast to countryside, these hidden gems deliver an experience that's richer, more relaxing, and ultimately more memorable. In recent years, more UK travellers are discovering the charm of staying in holiday cottages, opting for unique and flexible accommodation over traditional hotels or overseas trips. Whether nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside or perched along dramatic coastlines, these hideaways offer an intimate, authentic British experience that big resorts simply can't match. With domestic tourism on the rise and a renewed appreciation for local escapes, it's time to explore why holiday cottages are being hailed as the UK's best-kept secret. Below, we delve into the top five reasons more people are turning to these quintessential retreats. 1. Authentic Local Experiences Staying in a holiday cottage places travellers at the heart of a destination. Unlike standardised hotel chains, cottages are often deeply integrated into their local surroundings—be it a thatched-roof home in a chocolate-box village or a converted barn on a working farm. This setting gives visitors a real taste of local culture, food, and traditions. The design and charm of holiday cottages often reflect the history and character of their region. In many places, you can enjoy local produce from nearby markets, interact with village life, and even walk to family-run pubs or tearooms. The experience feels less like a tourist and more like a temporary local—one of the key draws for those who want more than just a place to sleep. 2. Unmatched Privacy and Flexibility One of the standout advantages of top holiday cottage destinations, such as Cofton Holidays, is the level of privacy they offer. Without neighbours on the other side of a thin hotel wall or daily interruptions from housekeeping, you're free to truly relax on your own terms. This makes cottages ideal for romantic getaways, family holidays, or solo retreats. Flexibility is another key factor. You can cook your own meals in a fully equipped kitchen, come and go as you please, and enjoy a living space that feels like a home rather than just a room. Whether you're spending a quiet evening reading by the fireplace or enjoying a summer BBQ in the garden, the sense of autonomy enhances the overall experience. 3. Access to Nature and Outdoor Adventures Many holiday cottages are set in rural or coastal locations, offering immediate access to some of the UK's most beautiful landscapes. From the moors of Yorkshire to the cliffs of Cornwall, cottages serve as perfect bases for exploring walking trails, beaches, national parks, and nature reserves. For example, if you're looking for holiday cottages in Devon, you'll find properties surrounded by lush countryside and within striking distance of both Dartmoor and the Jurassic Coast. These settings provide a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, birdwatching, and paddleboarding. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual nature lover, the opportunities are abundant. 4. Pet-Friendly and Family-Oriented Stays Hotels often impose strict rules when it comes to pets or children, but many holiday cottages in Devon are designed with families and furry friends in mind. You'll find properties with enclosed gardens, game rooms, and even dog-washing stations—making them a practical choice for those travelling with their full household. Parents appreciate the space to spread out, cook child-friendly meals, and avoid the stress of dining out with little ones every night. Likewise, pet owners can enjoy walks straight from the front door and rest easy knowing their pets are comfortable. It's a win-win situation that few traditional accommodations can offer so comprehensively. 5. Better Value for Longer Stays When it comes to longer holidays, cottages often deliver better value for money than hotels. With self-catering facilities and no need for constant restaurant meals or extra room bookings, families and groups can save significantly while enjoying a more spacious, comfortable stay. Take, for instance, those looking for holiday cottages near Dawlish. Many cottages in that area offer weekly rental rates that rival or beat hotel costs—especially during shoulder seasons. Plus, with amenities like Wi-Fi, private gardens, and washing machines included, the overall convenience and cost-effectiveness make them an increasingly popular choice for both short breaks and extended stays. Discover a Better Way to Holiday in the UK If you're tired of cookie-cutter hotel stays and long airport queues, it's time to consider the charm and practicality of the UK's holiday cottages. From coast to countryside, these hidden gems deliver an experience that's richer, more relaxing, and ultimately more memorable. Next time you plan a break, think beyond the usual options. Whether it's a cosy cottage nestled in Devon's rolling hills or a cliffside retreat near Dawlish, the perfect escape is likely closer—and more enchanting—than you think. Photo by Lois Portelli on Unsplash
South China Morning Post
07-05-2025
- South China Morning Post
How Scottish settlers brought bagpipes to Hong Kong
What best sums up local culture? Some mainstays are so taken for granted that they only become properly appreciated, valued and nurtured during times of uncertainty. Advertisement From the beginning, an emergent local Hong Kong culture – quite distinct from anything found elsewhere in southern China – imported, adapted, then embraced an assortment of influences from across the world. Readily consumable, cliché examples abound. Crusty egg tarts from backstreet bakeries recall only faint traces of their European (or more specifically, Portuguese) ingredients. Likewise, Hong Kong-style milk tea – made with tannin-rich tea dust and condensed milk – betrays its Indian bazaar origins, having been introduced here via the British forces, and preparation methods gradually spread across the territory through skills learned in military cookhouses and NAAFI (Navy, Army and Air Force Institutes) canteens. Sergeant Edward Lam Yat-sing of the Royal Hong Kong Police Force Band wears the Mackintosh tartan for a rehearsal. Photo: SCMP But when asked which musical style has become elementally 'Hong Kong', most people would probably note Cantopop , along with concert icons such as the Four Heavenly Kings, and perhaps make a passing reference to earlier local bands such as The Mystics. While reasonable enough, these guesses overlook the most widespread, 'gone local' musical introduction of all, one that can be heard plaintively wailing in a performance or a practice session somewhere in Hong Kong throughout the year. Yes, you guessed correctly: the Scottish bagpipes. Bagpipes were introduced into maritime Asia in the late 16th century, with the first permanent settlers from Scotland. Lured out East by better economic opportunities as Scotland steadily stagnated, these homesick Scots-in-exile would do anything for their beautiful country, except actually live in it. By the mid-18th century, large, well-established Scottish communities existed in prosperous commercial cities from Calcutta to Canton. Along with a shrewd business sense, the Scots exported their own distinctive cultural life. No community gathering, especially the annual Burns Night binge, was complete without bagpipers. Egalitarian-minded Scots were happy to share their musical skills with fresh enthusiasts and, over time, these strange-looking, distinctive-sounding, technically complex wind instruments became widespread among non-Scottish populations. In pre-independence India, bagpipes became commonplace ceremonial components in military bands, and remain a much-enjoyed tradition in garrison life in modern India and Pakistan. Advertisement From the late 19th century, Hong Kong police bands prominently featured bagpipers, and still do. Other local disciplined services units have also incorporated the instrument. Bagpipes are traditionally draped with tartan cloth. Distinctive, colourful patterns immediately signified the piper's clan or, less usually, a sponsor.
