Off the Beaten Track
Forget your usual destinations and venture further afield this fall.
Luxury on a Budget
Yes, we’re in a recession, but there’s no need to turn to crappy hotels; there are some great deals out there where you can really indulge and save your pennies at the same time, writes Winnie Yeung.
1. Fly High
Sure, Macau’s the obvious go-to for a cheap break, but there’s no need to travel with the plebs on the ferry. If you thought that the 15-minute chopper ride is the sole reserve of the Ho family, you’re sorely mistaken. Local agent Hong Thai Travels has a two-day package to Macau that includes a one-way helicopter ride, a ferry back home, and one night’s stay at the brand-new, super luxurious Four Seasons at the Cotai Strip for $3,209 per person. Pretty good considering that the ride itself is $1,900 per head, and the hotel room is at least $2,700. Hong Thai also offers the same package to other, less expensive hotels, including $2,269 per person at the Sofitel Macau at Ponte 16 or $2,549 at The Venetian. For reservations, call Hong Thai at 2108-8888.
2. Bargain Beach Break
If you’re looking to soak up the sun this winter, Sanya in Hainan Island is close by and far cheaper than Thailand, but doesn’t scrimp on quality. Pullman Sanya Yalong Bay is the newest option. For $3,499 per person, you get a return flight on Dragonair, and two night’s stay at the resort’s 150-square-foot villa. With a private garden, your own swimming pool, outdoor massage area, Jacuzzi and a separate living room, you’ll never want to leave. Of course, you could also visit the resort’s private beach for a spot of sunbathing, too. For reservations, call Instant Travel Service at 2521-3223.
Another Chinese destination to watch for luxurious travel opportunities is of course glamorous Shanghai. Prices to the country’s financial capital are dropping fast after the Olympics and with the hairy crab season in full swing, there’s no better time to book yourself in a fine hotel with a great view before going off to gorge yourself on crab roe and bar hop at the newly opened Club Lan, M1NT and Kee Club. The best deal out there is Cathay Pacific Holidays’ four-day package with three nights’ accommodation in a river-view room at Hyatt on the Bund. The luxurious hotel is situated at the tip of the Bund and has an unbelievable view of both the old (the Bund) and the new (Pudong) Shanghai. The rate is $3,099 per person, which also includes return flights by Dragonair and travel insurance. Reservations at www.cxholidays.com or 2747-6070.
Superspy Me
With the new Bond movie coming out, Pavan Shamdasani checks out the best places to fulfill your inner spy.