JW Marriott and Ritz-Carlton Open in Macau, Tumi Turns 40, Wild Hong Kong
Macau celebrated some big news earlier this month: the JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton opened with a bang, hoisting their flags side by side in a new section of the Galaxy complex. The sister brands share some facilities, such as the new Promenade mall, a spa by ESPA and the massive Skytop Adventure Rapids. Both properties are of the up-market variety, but JW Marriott is catered more towards families, with a lobby stairwell that looks straight out of “Frozen.” The Ritz-Carlton seems to be made entirely of white marble and aims to be the area’s most indulgent address. After all, it is an all-suite hotel: rooms range from 915 to 5,038 square feet and all come with luxurious bathtubs that look like they could easily fit a party of five.
These luxury openings are just the start of a new Macau: the Cotai area will look completely different three years from now, with another Wynn, MGM, The Roosevelt and more in the works. But if you’re like me and prefer Macau’s more European side, visit now before all the peaceful enclaves are replaced with booming casinos.
JW Marriott from $1,388 'til Aug 31; Ritz-Carlton from $4,888 'til June 30. Galaxy Macau, Cotai, www.galaxymacau.com.
Sock it Tumi
To ring in its 40th birthday, Tumi has rolled out a commemorative luggage line with a throwback, vintage feel. Of course, it’s not at all old and musty—the limited-edition collection is called “1975,” named after the year Tumi launched, and is made from a gorgeous, caramel-colored, full-grain American leather, similar to what the company used in its early days. The collection includes a variety of 1970s-inspired styles, like a classy carry-on, briefcase and rucksack.
Shop 142, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, 2918-4688, www.tumi.com.
Born to be Wild
Have friends in town? Check out Wild Hong Kong, a new eco-adventure tour company. As the name suggests, the focus is on the city’s “wild side,” which actually makes up 70 percent of the territory. Most tour options explore off-the-beaten trail destinations—including historical hikes, secluded waterfalls and adventurous kayaking—and custom packages are available too.
