The Sunrise Kempinski and Simon Wescott's Brazil Recommendations
A New Sunrise
Mixing up the biz hotel scene in Beijing, Kempinski just re-branded a striking new property on Yanqi Island. The Sunrise Kempinski Hotel is a pretty remarkable architectural feat: it looks like a space capsule that rolled down the Yanshan Mountains, settling on the edge of scenic Yanqi Lake. Conceived by chief designer Zhang Hai Ao, the hotel’s glassy exterior reflects the sky, the mountains, and the lake to maintain a sense of connection to the environment—which it aims to protect by relying on solar panels and natural gas as its main energy supplies. And it’s not without some symbolism: the scallop-shaped profile represents “fortune,” while the fish-shaped entrance symbolizes “prosperity.” As for what’s inside, the discus-shaped hotel is packed with nine restaurants and bars (including self-brewed beers at Paulaner Brauhaus), a spa, kids’ club and contemporary brown-hued rooms. Intro rates from RMB1,088 ($1,377) for deluxe room and breakfast 'till Feb 28, 2015.
18 Jia Yanshui Rd., Yanqi Lake, Huairou District, Beijing, (+86) 10-6961-8888, www.kempinski.com/beijingyanqilake.
Inside the egg-shaped Kempinski Sunrise Hotel
Boy’s Night In
The Upper House is teaming up with stylish online men’s fashion retailer MrPorter.com on a staycation deal that's complete with some swanky swag. Stay at two consecutive nights before Feb 28, 2015, and enjoy a discounted rate ($5,000 per night—yes, that’s the discount!), one-way transfer, 500 Asia miles, a $500 daily hotel gift card, and some goodies from MrPorter.com: a £50 ($620) gift card, and a Malin + Goetz grooming kit.
Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 2918-1838, www.upperhouse.com.
Staycation in Style at the Upper House
Ask an Expert
The CEO of Luxe City Guides and longtime travel publisher, Simon Wescott tells us about a steaming hot destination: Brazil. Hosting the Summer Olympics in 2016 (Aug 5-21), Rio de Janeiro is sure to be on lots of travel wish lists. Here’s a little inspiration for your itinerary.