2025-01-06

W KUALA LUMPUR - Perfecting The Art of Staycation

Fresh, bold yet discernible and approachable, W Hotels brand pitches to the hip and trendy something generation but don't let that put you off, as more often than not, their location is a top draw-card. Their guest room product can rival many other hotels as well as the unique concept of their infamous bars and food & beverage outlets, so the W Kuala Lumpur has what it takes for what you possibly pine for. Pack your stylish and besuited outfit, dancing shoes perhaps and have a big craving for more than just a sumptuous feast, off you go for a staycation and be entertained. At the W's, expect the unexpected. mylifestylenews writes.


The location of the W Kuala Lumpur cannot be beaten, as it is situated right next to the iconic Petronas Twin Towers tourist draw-card. If it is your first visit to Kuala Lumpur, then you will be absolutely blown away by how cosmopolitan this city has become. With all the major luxury brands occupying the prime locations, mindfully upgraded public transport links, gigantic shopping malls grown like mushrooms over the last couple of years within the city center vicinity that caters from high end to all walks of life and so much more to explore, this metropolitan city is competing well and keeping up nicely with their neighboring countries.


But first let's get checked in. We arrived from the airport via the airport express link and then metro, as the city's traffic is crazy slow around the major landmarks and the connectivity is virtually seamless if you are garrulous enough to focus on public transport, not to mention the time you will save and in air-conditioned comfort. Jam! Jam!! Jam!!! was what we heard mostly on the metro while the local speaks that translate to heavy traffic which can be clearly seen through the metro windows.


A short walk from the KLCC metro station to the hotel, the soaring building architecture may seem like any corporate office edifice and before you know it, the unmissable W logo sign perched on the water features outside of its main entrance along the busy driveway welcomes you to the destination of lifestyle driven staycation.


With the concierge team stationed at the ground level, minus the formality to be ushered, we were casually directed to the lifts that gave us access to the eighth floor lobby to proceed for our check-in.


When the lift door opens, as anticipated, big on colour, the W brand is all about bright lights, cool design touches and chic decor and designed to spark a feeling of connection and with unpredictable details that upturn expectations.


We were instantly being drawn by the illuminated and aligned white strings paneling and sectioning the different parts of the foyer and extending to the long stretched out chic and vibrant WOOBA® that is reminiscent of a waterfall, as told.


To its right, is an extended tropical garden jungle theme with more seating adorned with colorful plush cushions. "This Must Be The Place", a neon sign that to be illuminated after the night fall is where the party's on. This first impression did not disappoint. In fact, a WOW moment that inspires all for playful moments with a daring design move that connects.


We had arrived quite early and this is where the challenges begin when it comes to handling early check-ins by the front desk team. Knowing that the standard check-in time is 2pm, we do not expect the room to be ready but the blip on the radar was the approach by the front line team only concern by requesting passports and credit card without greetings and little eye contact and without that personal warm welcome.


Immediately, the prior excitement was discounted from that robotic touch, a further negation of confirmation of our spa and in-house restaurant bookings where we had to prompt them to reconfirm. We did appreciate that at least they offered to store our bags and generously sent us to FLOCK for breakfast while we waited for our room. We were puzzled if this is part of their signature Whatever/Whenever® service that eventually takes care of it all.


Thereafter, things were on a quick uphill trajectory after Michelle, the Front Office Manager took over the situation and our Marvelous corner suite which was ready for us to roll in with a spectacular view of the city vista and the Petronas Twin Towers, which are mesmerizing and never get tired to look at.


The 105sqm Marvelous suite burst into the dynamic spaces and was taking up all our attention for all the right reasons: high ceiling to maximize the spectacular city view; a huge amount of space that is beautifully laid out from the city's contemporary aesthetic reflected in the cutting -edge interior design; a tempting W Mixbar with well stocked beverages and snack selections including premium coffee and tea; an enormous marble bathroom with a free standing luxurious bathtub and huge dual walk-in shower as well as a bidet; a well-lit makeup mirror; the signature W bathrobe; the expected comfortable W king size bedding with signature W essentials such as W pillow menus to ensure a good night's sleep; and a separate living room that is perfect for a long stay and so forth.


The state-of-the-art entertainment system features a premium branded Bluetooth sound bar as well as the advanced technology with all one touch button for the entire room-control functions. One of the joys is to wake up by touching the switch button next to your bed and draw the curtain to unveil the city skyline on your eye level, with floor to ceiling windows drawing in as much natural lighting as possible to enjoy the entire vista without much interruption, thus something special to marvel at on a most desirable urban staycation.


The high-speed internet is also worth a shout-out that is essential to some business travelers which have their eyes glued on their tablets at all times. Not one detail had been forgotten, not to mention that our welcome amenity was a nice touch as well.


The outdoor WET pool which is located on level 12 has one of the best iconic Petronas Twin Towers views in the city which is almost a stones throw away.


If you fancy a swim or bask in the sun, it is best to get WET during the day and before 7pm as this scene to been seen stylish WET DECK will take its fame that transcends conventional pool bar expectations. Creative cocktails are expected to be served in this bold modern design with a playful attitude that has won them a place in Marriott Bonvoy's Top 75 Restaurants and Bars in Asia Pacific.


The illuminated glamorous pool especially after dark juxtaposed with the surreal backdrop of the Petronas Twin Towers is simply breathtaking. If you were the poolside party kind, you have come to the right place as this popular to see and be seen hot spot is a very popular hangout with the locals especially after 10pm. Turn up the vibe and live the electrifying beats, the energy is right there, without being in your face and we loved it for an hour or two before heading back to our room for a deep sleep.


The W hotel brand is known for its Food & Beverage dining concept and the W Kuala Lumpur was certainly pumping in the outlets. Breakfast in FLOCK, which spreads out across the 8th floor is an absolute joy, with an expansive buffet and quite a few dishes being cooked a-la-minute as well as western and Asian tastes well and truly catered for.


It was difficult not to want to try everything, but our selected choices were delicious each morning and it was difficult to find fault with flavors and quality especially the colorful creations inspired by the flavors of Pan-Asian cuisine in Kuala Lumpur.


We also booked in for a Saturday night indulgent buffet Drunch that was full of adventure and thrills to satisfy your most desirable cravings. The enormous and also never ending Pan-Asian Grill flair spreads were in abundance using organic produce and sustainable ingredients.


The vast open The kitchen is vibrant and everything is on the go, the large culinary brigade were busy replenishing food in small amounts to ensure the optimum freshness and temperature. This all-day dining urban setting hangout brings bold and colorful culinary to life without a doubt, accompanied by a variety of alcoholic beverage packages to suits all needs. We had a fabulous dinner.


Should after dinner fun be your thing, the sassy WOOBA® is always a favorite choice. Cool and groovy lounge music vibes fill the air accompanied by mood lighting to sooth the chill mood.


Being the signature Chinese restaurant in W Hotel brands
YEN is particularly recommended for its redefined Cantonese classics in an imperial ambience. Partake in their all-you-can-eat weekend Dim Sum special, as there is a huge array of dishes to savour and enjoy.


FIT - the modern techno gym caters for those that need to get fit.


 AWAY Spa - relax and rejuvenate your senses, you would be hard pressed to miss out on these amenities. Alas our stay was too short, but we managed to enjoy just about every amenity the hotel had to offer. The brand really knows how to deliver on vibes, quality food and beverage that they strive to wow and inspire. The avant-garde bold interior design creates spaces that are not only visually stunning but also deliver comfortable abodes with modern and contemporary amenities and facilities. The aesthetic reflects the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries with daring design moves.


We had many interactions with a lot of the service team members and there is a lot of attention to detail which is pleasing to see, as travelers are spoilt for choice and you need to be on your game to beat the competition. Despite one or two moments of not quite getting it right during our staycation experience, the team then overcame a lapse in service and ensured they didn't miss a beat after that for which they are to be commended for perfecting the art of the staycation.


Tried & Tested:
Location: 5/5
Design & Decor: 5/5
Housekeeping: 5/5
Food & Beverage: 4.5/5
Service: 4/5
Value For Money: 4.5/5
Experience: 4.5/5
 
 121, Jalan Ampang,
Wilayah Persekutuan,
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Tel: +6 03 2786 8888

Reviews are based on actual day of visit and experience. mylifestylenews reserves the right of final decision in case of any disputes. All images are photographed by mylifestylenews team without any photoshop enhancement and are the property owned by mylifestylenews unless otherwise stated.

2025-01-03

THE SUKHOTHAI SPA - Discover “The Dawn of Happiness” Experience

Luxury spa options in Bangkok are plentiful and some brands just have not kept up with the times nor deliver on their brand promise, but with the recent upgraded expansion and luxury transformation of The Sukhothai Spa from the formal Spa Botanica, you will discover “The Dawn of Happiness” and find your contentment here.
mylifestylenews writes.


While The Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok is infamous for its understated and sophisticated luxury and stunning contemporary classic Thai architecture, another ‘string to their bow’ is the re-opening of their Spa Botanica which is now officially called The Sukhothai Spa that has been expanded with newly added treatments as well as modern amenities and luxury facilities we could not be more excited about.


Nestled amidst 7,000 square metres of lush gardens, The Sukhothai Spa not only offers a harmonious escape from the buzzing sights and sounds of Bangkok, but you would also be hard pressed to think what they have missed, as the health and wellness covers a 25 metre long square infinity swimming pool and a state-of-the-art fitness centre (including Muay Thai instructors) all within a few steps of each other.


Being one of Thailand’s seventy-six provinces, the famous lower northern Thailand Sukhothai province is known as the “dawn of happiness”. With that inspiration, the newly opened Sukhothai Spa is unveiled, where the ancient Sukhothai-style culture is artfully integrated into its specific design and ambiance.


With the latest incarnation, bespoke health and wellness at The Sukhothai Spa has been elevated to another level of luxury. Not only has the architecture been re-imagined and expanded, we have to say it looks absolutely stunning as they are now featuring a luxurious and enormous Turkish Hammam, a state-of-the-art facial technology room with cutting-edge technology to elevate the experience to new heights without losing touch of what the sensory experience is all about.


The spa pavilion peaks above the sanctuary walls, so that when you step through the main external entrance into the spa courtyard, you are met with serenity and bliss in the form of reflecting pools either side, available seating in the secluded water garden for you to enjoy this urban serene oasis before or after the pampering  treatment.


In the flowing waters, you will be reminded of the interconnectedness of humanity and nature, then reconnected. There is no separation.


Of course, appearances are not everything, so we needed to see what this newly formed team could do, given that they had a ‘shiny new toy’ to play with and we were completely won over by the ambience, so what about the software?


Our arrival experience was rather warm and welcoming and attended to quite promptly. We were first greeted and then ushered to be seated in the expansive spa foyer to discuss the choice of treatments, with a brief consultation of the spa ticked with purposeful execution and we could not have felt any more special while some house “pouring brand” herbal tea was served instantaneously.


Once the formalities were out of the way, we were escorted to The Suphannahong Suite which is located on the second floor that is perfect for couples and we were suitably impressed. The interior design is subtle, including a traditional wooden Thai door adorned with elegant bronze handles. Inside, two separate elevated spa beds are set in the middle of the cozy room with bright and relaxed soothing ambience.


The interior design also features a “Pra-Kon” wall pattern representing the Thai House that exudes the contemporary beauty that embraces a simple and direct representation of Thai architecture. High ceilings and curved shapes add a touch of softness, complemented by a jacuzzi tub using green terrazzo and light green mosaic. The soothing colours and motifs give a sense of “zen” and nothing was over-wrought, so just the right taste in all things.


The Sukhothai Spa features traditional, result-driven and modern practices from diverse cultures by offering a comprehensive range of treatments and we had chosen the Sukhothai Signature Massage, as this is always the litmus test for us to see what the basics are all about. The signature treatment allowed us to experience a blend of soothing and invigorating massage techniques, while being rooted in the ancient wisdom of Oriental energy meridians – sounds like well-pleasing mumbo jumbo, but it really is a skillful combination of calming kneading and rejuvenating stretching and we were hooked.


Our therapists clearly knew how to tap into the Oriental meridians and committed to deliver personalized attention. We both wanted to get the knots out of our muscles which they did with great aplomb! Our stress was alleviated and some flexibility returned with the expert stretching techniques, which equally promoted a profound state of relaxation as promised.


Once our treatment was finished, we had the luxury of lingering in the environs of the spa pavilion to enjoy the facilities, including a salt-water lap pool, jacuzzi, saunas and steam rooms.


Additionally
, the wellness centre also offers quite an extensive array of services not only in the massage therapy but also beauty treatments, yoga sessions for beginners and intermediate level practices (a must go for the morning session), meditation classes and Pilates overlooking a wide and lush lawn, so everything is taken care of to enhance your experience from a complete holistic point of view in a discreet manner.


Every spa will tell you that they provide the most relaxing treatments with the best therapists, but we have found that to be wanting on many occasions with supposed esteemed Spa brands, so it was more than a delight to discover that The Sukhothai Spa really does have talented and well trained therapists and imbue the pavilion with relaxation and rejuvenation.


A sanctuary dedicated to wellness, such spa journeys of a tranquil and soothing haven are definitely a perfect serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. “The dawn of happiness” is found and we only wished we had booked longer treatments.


Tried & Tested:
Location: 5/5
Design & Decor: 5/5
Amenities: 5/5
Service: 5/5
Value For Money: 5/5
Experience: 5/5

Highlights:
Design Ambience
The Sukhothai Signature Massage

13/3, 28/1-4 South Sathorn Road
Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 344 8888

Reviews are based on actual day of visit and experience. mylifestylenews reserves the right of final decision in case of any disputes. All images are photographed by mylifestylenews team without any photoshop enhancement and are the property owned by mylifestylenews unless otherwise stated. 

2024-12-31

ASIATIQUE ANCIENT TEAHOUSE - Century Old Maison Premium Yum Cha Experience

Dining in Bangkok is always constantly surprising and an absolute joy to experience the creative and innovative options. The vibrant waterside destination of the Asiatique Ancient Tea House is another one to add to your Bangkok culinary wish list. 
mylifestylenews writes.


Situated along the picturesque banks of Bangkok’s Chao Phraya River and easy access by road and river, including shuttle boat services from the Saphan Taksin pier adjacent to the BTS skytrain, this painstakingly restored 111-year-old heritage wooden traditional tea house was first built in 1912 as part of the East Asiatic Company’s warehouse which was Thailand’s first trading pier while maintaining the colonial characteristics and aesthetic of the original historic building that have been well preserved and accentuated.

 
The refurbished design concept that showcases a “Celestial Hint from Heaven” with contemporary classic Chinese style elements, enhances the overall mood and notion to invite you to step into a world of colonial grandeur and classical grace.


The historic aesthetic interior features plenty of black-framing and floral patterned wallpaper in the centre lounge and dining area, adorned with some vivid colour cushions neatly placed on those sleek elegant rattan lounge chairs.


The interior also has a design concept that showcases a modern classic Chinoiserie style scheme, which is embodied in various distinct spaces: a glasshouse surrounded by greenery; 1890’s Blend Gallery, a chic and stylish cocktail lounge, an exhibit of fine tea selections; and The Blooming on the second floor, symbolizing the flourishing era of tea culture. All of these spaces are embellished with wall prints, art installations, the Horseshoe Arch and an extended balcony.


The menu is distinctively curated by Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park award-winning Chinese Culinary team since December 2023 with the concept based on the story of Emperor Shen Nong, who first discovered tea 4,000 years ago along with silk and spice, tea became one of the most popular products traded between Siam and China. And now, this living dining “museum” wants you to explore this relatively new dining option for the Cantonese inspired cuisine especially their delicate and flavoursome Dim Sum in a glamorously elegant and inviting ambience.


From 12 noon to midnight, get ready to step into a world unique blend of East-Meets-West Cantonese gastronomic galore featuring all-day premium Chinese Dim Sum menus. The vast range of the global and premium tea collection on offer is one of their key aspects, including Dark Silk Tea and Thida Green Tea from organic farms in Chiang Dao, Thailand, Bai Mu Dan White Tea from China, Sencha Green Tea from Japan, Darjeeling First Flush Tea from India and Rooibos Tisane from South Africa, to name but a few standouts.


Their innovative cultural cocktails are inspired by the world of tea especially for tea enthusiasts through the art and history of tea, overlooking scenic River of the Kings over lunch, dinner and even a sophisticated after dinner social lounge to chill. We opted for a 15 year old Pu Er tea from China which we thought would pair perfectly with the rich Dim Sum menu and we were in for some tasty bites.


<Alaskan King Crab and Shrimp with Spinach Dumplings>
Large chunks of Alaskan king crab meat are combined with the sweet, rich flavour of shrimp and spinach,topped with salmon roe wrapped with a thin layer of pink rice dough paste that was quite enticing. A good mouth-full size to enjoy the taste from the sea of its seafood combination that offers a great consistency of flavour.

<Stir-Fried Crispy Tiger Prawns and Salted Egg Yolk Sauce>
Specially selected tiger prawns are cut into bite-sized pieces and deep-fried until crispy on the outside, while retaining the juiciness of the shrimp inside. They are then tossed in a rich salted egg sauce, which adds a intense and perfect balance of sweet, creamy and salty flavours. This is a real standout dish, with that delightful combination of crispiness, rich aroma and the seasoned ingredients with the salted egg sauce that is a must order!


<Prawn Har Gao and Asparagus>
Moulded and shaped in golden fish-patterned dumplings to delight your eyes that was certainly too delicate to destroy and enjoy in your mouth. The dumplings were filled with large shrimp, chunky and meaty and diced asparagus. Despite the paste was a little thick on palate, otherwise quite tasty.


<Shrimp Wonton in Spicy Szechuan Oil, Peanuts and Spring Onions>
Yummy as it looks and three large dumplings are filled with whole shrimp, topped with Sichuan oil for that peppery kick that offers a spicy, fragrant flavour, along with a salty taste from fermented soybeans served on a brown stoneware. Simply delicious!


<Traditional Sichuan Hot and Sour Seafood Soup>
This is a spicy and tangy flavoured soup that contained a wide selection of seafood that included squid, scallop and shrimp simmered with vegetables and chili spices to create a rich, well-balanced boullion for its rich unctuous flavour and consistency that we very much enjoyed. A pleasant surprise order!


<Siu Mai>
Suppose a classic pork and shrimp Siu Mai dumpling with shitake mushroom and while it came steaming hot, it was rather disappointing on the palate for its bland taste and the meat combination and was rubbery and starchy. Passed!

<Char Siu Sou>
This honey-glazed barbeque pork baked pastry puffs is one of our all-time favourite dim-sum dishes, but we did find the glazing to be too sticky and it was in luke warm temperature when it was brought to the table, resulting in a soggy bottom and only a little flaky on the top. The pastry was a tad too thick and the filling too savoury, lacking that hint of sweetness combined.
 
<Pan-Fried Beancurd with Shrimp>
Another classic that is composed of pan-fried beancurd sheets filled with shrimp and once again the beancurd sheet was a little soggy and not flaky or crispy enough for our liking as well as the starchy filling also destroyed the entire palate.


<Deep-Fried Purple Sweet Potato Shrimp and Pork Puffs>
These fluffy delicacies came with  a mix of shrimp and pork that offered a well-balanced and harmonious flavour to pair perfectly with the potato and were deep-fried to a perfect crispy, puffy texture. It is a very ‘sweet’ presentation with the imagery of swans and creates the perfect dish for photos! A very happy dish!


<Steamed Crispy Prawns Rice Roll>
The rice noodle sheets are infused with beetroot juice, giving them a vibrant pink colour. Inside you have the crispy-on-the-outside and tender-on-the-inside fried dough wrapped with shrimp, offering a full, delicious flavour. The homemade accompaniment soy sauce complements the dish and enhancing its overall harmony. This was one of our favourite dishes for its yin-yang balance of soft and crunchy. Yummy!


<Steamed Hong Kong Kale with Oyster Sauce>
The naturally crisp and sweet Hong Kong kale is steamed to a perfect tenderness, then topped with a fragrant and rich oyster sauce. This was perfectly executed with the vegetable al dente, giving you that crunch in the bite. A simple dish that excels!
 

 <Braised E-Fu Noodles with Alaskan King Crab meat in X.O. Sauce>
This classic braised noodles has a chewy yet tender texture in a rich and aromatic  homemade X.O. sauce as well as a perfect blend of seasonings. This is then elevated with the addition of the sweet, Alsakan crab meat, adding that extra layer of sweet and savoury depth. So delectable!
 

<Sweetened Pumpkin Cream and Ginko Nuts>
This creamy dessert has a sweet and delicate flavour derived from the creamy pumpkin filling expertly cooked to a smooth, velvety texture. The addition of soft, subtle ginko nuts provided a delightful crunch in juxtaposition to the creamy texture, making the ‘soup’ both satisfying and unique, served delightfully warm and utterly delicious.
 
<Grilled Sweet Sago Soup with Melon and Coconut Sorbet>
This is a cold dessert that is not overly sweet and so refreshing that cleanses the palate somewhat with it’s icy sweet base that provides a fitting finale to our food experience overall!
 

We had already sampled such a large amount of dishes, so as much as we wanted more, we erred on the side of caution and went for less and the overall food experience was quiet enjoyable with some standout dishes that they executed to perfection.


The service, however, was not up to expectations, with the food coming much too quickly, resulting in some hot dishes not being enjoyed at the optimal temperatures despite a message was clearly delivered to remind them on the food delivery as requested and in accordance upon ordering. Staff communication somehow gets lost in translation, so not everything was as smooth as it could have been. Nevertheless, we would rather focus and immerse ourselves in this classy ‘Indochine” décor, sipping the thick, rich, even consistency of the Pu Er tea and those standout dishes. A happy and contented late afternoon well spent!

Tried & Tested:
Location: 5/5
Design & Decor: 5/5
Food & Beverage: 4/5
Service: 3.5/5
Value For Money: 4/5
Experience: 4.5/5

Asiatique Ancient Teahouse
Charoenkrung Soi 72-76,
Charoenkrung Road,
Wat Phrayakrai, Bangkor Laem,
Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 2 059 5999

Reviews are based on actual day of visit and experience. mylifestylenews reserves the right of final decision in case of any disputes. All images are photographed by mylifestylenews team without any photoshop enhancement and are the property owned by mylifestylenews unless otherwise stated.