Asia’s leading luxury boutique hotel operator, Alila Hotels and Resorts, is set to expand its footprint in Asia with six new properties slated to open this year, which will include the launch of three Alila Villas properties, the new generation of resorts that deliver ultra luxury in design, space and bespoke hospitality combined with innovative lifestyle concepts.

“These upcoming properties represent a significant milestone in the growth of Alila in both established and emerging destinations across the region,” says Frederic Flageat-Simon, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Alila Hotels and Resort.

The six new properties will expand Alila’s existing presence in Indonesia and Thailand, as well as mark the group’s first venture into the Maldives and India. They include:

Alila Villas Uluwatu, Indonesia – a spectacular resort designed by award-winning WOHA Architects, located along the southernmost coast of Bali on the Bukit Peninsula. It offers clifftop resort living with panoramic views over the Indian Ocean. This will be the debut of Alila Villas, come June 2009.

Alila Villas Hadahaa, Maldives – located on a remote tropical island in the North Huvadhoo Atoll. Designed by SCDA Architects, its beach and water villas capture the ultimate Maldivian experience of tranquility and space. The resort’s very own dive centre will offer unique diving experiences in the region’s unexplored waters. Alila Villas Hadahaa will open in July 2009.

Alila Hansar Koh Samui, Thailand – a stylish beachside resort located along the picturesque Bophut Beach. A fusion of contemporary Thai design and luxe comfort, complete with destination dining and spa wellness heralds Alila’s entry into this popular holiday island in third quarter of 2009.

Alila Diwa Goa, India – sited on the beautiful Majorda Beach in south Goa, the resort fuses traditional architecture with understated elegance, tastefully complemented with varied options and recreational zones for family activities. A strong wellness component is evident in the living concept with emphasis on local culture and environs as can be seen in its destination dining restaurant and show kitchen. The resort with its comprehensive event centre will open in September 2009.

Alila Villas Soori, Indonesia – luxury residences right along the southwest coast of Bali, near the island’s famous Tanah Lot Temple. Designed by award-winning SCDA Architects, its vibrant mix of spaces for living, relaxation and spa wellness embrace Bali’s unique balance of tranquility and vitality. Surrounded by a stunning landscape of verdant rice terraces and stretches of beautiful black-sand beach, this villa resort will open in November 2009.

Alila Hansar Bangkok, Thailand – combines ultra-luxe residences and intimate boutique hotel services in the heart of the Thai capital. Its mix of urban sophistication, new-age lifestyle concepts and high-tech business lofts will make Alila Hansar Bangkok one of the premier meeting places for business and leisure in the city. Opening in last quarter of 2009.

Alila’s reputation for design innovation and warm hospitality encompassing fine living, dining and wellness into rich destination experiences has hit the high note with many discerning travelers. Its commitment to minimizing its impact on the natural environment and helping local communities has already seen several of its hotels achieve the prestigious Green Globe certification.

With Alila Villas, the company introduces a new generation of exclusive timeless properties, developed in some of the most naturally spectacular locations. Designed by award-winning architects and crafted by artisans, Alila Villas will offer an unprecedented level of private space, personalized hospitality and culturally enriching destination and lifestyles experiences for its guests.

The opening of these six properties will double Alila’s current portfolio of hotels and resorts, which are Alila Ubud, Alila Manggis, Alila Jakarta and Kemang Icon by Alila in Indonesia, Alila Cha-Am in Thailand and 3 Nagas by Alila in Laos.

Meanwhile, Alila is also presently developing hotels and resorts in China, Oman and the Gulf region.

For more information visit http://www.alilahotels.com

Anantara Resorts, a leading hospitality and leisure organisation in the Asia-Pacific region, is set to manage two unique five-star resorts in Morocco. This marks Anantara’s first entry into the African market.

Anantara Marrakech Resort & Spa and Anantara Mogador Resort & Spa will both open in 2011. The two hotels are the first of many planned with H Partners, a Morocco-based hospitality investment company.

Construction work will begin later this year on the two resorts, which will be strong additions to the ever-expanding Anantara portfolio. Owned by the Thailand-based Minor International, Anantara offers indigenous and culturally evocative luxury resorts in sought after destinations with an emphasis on nature, gardens space and sensual harmony. The rooms are luxuriously appointed with a “sense of locality” and are usually housed in villa type or low-rise accommodation. The planned resorts in Morocco will be no exception.

Anantara Marrakech will be constructed within the Atlas Golf Resort on a six-hectare plot. As well as guest rooms and suites in the main building, the resort will feature pool villas that will form part of the hotel with a portion being for sale as residences. Hotel guests will be within 10 minutes of the Djemaa El Fna, the centre of the Marrakech medina and the heart of the labyrinth of alleyways and side streets of this vibrant marketplace. Additionally, guests will have access to the 18-hole Atlas Golf course.

Anantara Mogador will be located in the first phase of an upmarket development adjacent to the historic town of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast. The resort will include 40 luxuriously appointed guest rooms along with 60 lavish pool villas, both for sale as residences and for let by the hotel. Tying in elements of local architecture and lush gardens, the resort and spa will evoke a sense of its surroundings and provide guests with unparalleled cultural experiences.

This seaside destination, about two hours from Marrakech by car or short flight from Casablanca, is a popular destination for surfers, artists and film-makers, and is also known for its music festivals. Essaouira, formerly known as Mogador, is steeped in history having endured invasion attempts. The main citadel is surrounded by a fortress wall and within the ramparts of this UNESCO world heritage site are a number of cafés, art galleries and craft shops. The medina is filled with small riads, museums and restaurants.

William E. Heinecke, CEO of Minor International said: “MINT is delighted to be entering this exciting new market. The locations in Marrakech and Mogador are true to the Anantara pillars of offering authentic cultural experiences in the world’s most enchanting destinations. H Partners bring a wealth of wisdom and understanding and this new venture will open up great development opportunities for the Anantara brand.”

Fouad Chrabi, President of H Partners, said: “We are very excited about this joint venture with MINT, a leader in our industry with a highly respected reputation for excellence and innovation. Our strategic partnership with MINT will allow us to transform the hotel scene in Morocco and deliver accommodation and holiday experiences of the highest quality.”

For more information visit http://www.anantara.com

The recent launch of their online retail facilities means you now have easy access to Chiva-Som’s skin care and spa products wherever you are, simply by visiting www.chivasom.com/chiva-som-products.

They created this 100% natural line according to their holistic philosophy, following extensive research and rigorous laboratory testing. This year, as part of Chiva-Som’s 15th anniversary celebrations, they have added signature products to the retail range. These are formulas our therapists have been using in signature treatments at the resort for the last four years, which guests have frequently requested to buy to take home.

The new products, suitable for both men and women, are divided into 15 face care, seven body care and five massage oils. Each satisfies different needs. The Balance Massage Oil, for instance, has a grounding, calming effect, gained from the use of essential oils such as Jasmine and Lime, whereas the Purity Massage Oil cleanses and detoxifies through the key essentials of Grapefruit, Fennel and Juniper Berry. By helping to boost the metabolism and eliminate toxins, it is particularly beneficial for people with skin problems, cellulite, joint pain or arthritis.

There are also softening and nourishing body balms that are ideal if you live in a dry or cold climate, plus facial masks and youth serums that speed up cell renewal. The full collection is explained in detail on the website and every product has
links to related items, so you can build the bodycare suite most appropriate to you.

The ordering procedure couldn’t be simpler. Just click on the products you want, complete the delivery information, and your personal Chiva-Som spa range will arrive within a few days.

For More information visit CHIVA SOM with Finest SPA

Method
Soak black glutinous rice and white glutinous rice separately in water overnight. Drain and combine.

In a steamer, steam rice for 30-40 minutes. In a saucepan, over a medium heat, combine brown sugar and coconut milk and simmer for 7-10 minutes, stir constantly and ensure sugar has dissolved. Pour milk mixture into a large mining bowl, add cooked sticky rice and combine. Cover the mixing bowl with a lid or cling film and allow rice to absorb liquid for 30 minutes. Form the sticky rice into oval shapes by hand; there should be enough for 15 pieces. Place mango wedges on top and serve.

Nutrients Per Piece
Energy 259.15 kcal
Protein 4.15 g
Carbohydrate 51.21 g
Fat, Total 4.59 g

Ingredients

• 300 g (10 ½ oz) black glutinous rice
• 300 g (10 ½ oz) white glutinous rice
• 180 g (6 oz) brown sugar
• 225 ml (8 fl oz/1 cup) coconut milk
• 750 g (1 lb 10 oz) ripe mangoes, peeled and cut into bite-size wedgesThis recepie comes from the very wellknown Chiva-Som International Health Resort

Method

Curry Paste
Using a pestle and mortar, gradually add each ingredient in the order listed, pound each ingredient from hard and dried to soft and wet before adding the next. Or, using a blender, add little by little of each ingredient. To soften, add a little water or soy sauce. Blend until pureed.

Rock Lobster Curry
Pour half the coconut milk into a large heavy-based pan over a medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Stir in curry paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until mixture is fragrant and thoroughly blended. Add miso paste and palm sugar and mix well. Add tamarind juice, vegetable stock and remaining coconut milk and bring back to a boil. Then add cooked potato and onion, reduce the heat and simmer for several minutes. Add rock lobster and cook for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat. Garnish with shallot quarters, red chillies and toasted shallots and serve.

Nutrients Per Serving

Ingredients

Curry Paste

• 6 dried red chillies, seeded and soaked in water until soft
• 2 cm (1 inch) piece galangal, peeled
  and sliced
• ½ Tsp coriander seeds
• ½ Tsp cumin seeds
• 1 Tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 Tsp ground turmeric
• 4 cardamom pods
• 4 cloves
• 2 medium shallots
• 3 garlic cloves

Rock Lobster Curry

• 250 ml (9 fl oz/1 cup) coconut milk
• 80 ml (2 ½ fl oz/ 1/3 cup) curry paste
• 10 Tbsp miso paste
• 40 g (1 ½ oz) grated palm sugar
• 2 Tbsp tamarind juice
• 1 L (1 ¾ pints/4 ¼ cups) vegetable
  stock
• 400 g (14 oz) potatoes, cut into 2 cm
  (1 inch) cubes and boiled for 8 minutes
• 200 g (7 oz) onion, cut into 2 cm
  (1 inch) cubes
• 320 g (11 ½ oz) rock lobster, shelled
  and sliced
• 80 g (2 2/3 oz) shallots, quartered, to garnish
• 2 Tbsp sliced red chillies, to garnish
• 2 Tbsp sliced and toasted shallots, to garnish

For more information visit Chiva-Som International Health Resort with Finest SPA

The award-winning Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group will introduce bespoke signature spa therapies, together with a product and homecare range at many of its luxury hotel spas worldwide, from June 2009.

Mandarin Oriental’s Signature Spa Therapies
Mandarin Oriental’s Signature Spa Therapies have been devised to address guests’ increasing desire for simple, effective and authentic spa experiences, which can be extended to one’s home.

Developed in consultation with specialists in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and master aromatherapists, each signature therapy consists of a relaxing, hands-on body massage ritual that combines the powerful effects of oriental meridian massage with the therapeutic benefits of custom-blended essential oils, created uniquely for Mandarin Oriental.

Each treatment begins with a private therapist consultation in order to determine each individual’s personal and current state of wellbeing. The treatment and oils are then tailored to each guest in order to leave the body, mind and spirit in perfect harmony. Guests are also provided with nutritional and exercise guidance, in order to extend the beneficial effects of the programme at home.

“Mandarin Oriental’s unique signature spa experience and product range provides our guests with a luxurious, sensory and therapeutic experience, and extends the Group’s holistic, personalised approach to wellness far beyond the four walls of its spas,” said Group Director of Spa, Andrew Gibson.

Signature Product Line
Mandarin Oriental’s signature product line has been developed specifically for the Group by the award-winning UK based company, Aromatherapy Associates. Each aromatherapy-based product has been created according to the oriental principles of five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Bringing together the purest plant and flower oils from east and west, the blends reflect the unique balancing properties of each of the elements. From the stimulating influence of earth to the releasing force of wood, each blend lends its own restorative effect depending on the needs of the individual.

The product range incorporates body and bath oils matched to each of the five elements, as well as a generic body scrub, body wash and body lotion. All contain natural ingredients and are paraben free, and have been blended by a master blender to Mandarin Oriental’s specifications. The products, which include a range of candles and travel-size oils, will be available for purchase at Mandarin Oriental spas, so that guests can continue using specific blends at home.

About Aromatherapy Associates
For 25 years, Aromatherapy Associates has been at the forefront of the aromatherapy industry. Some of the world’s finest hotel and destination spas have benefited from the company’s in-depth knowledge of the healing powers of natural plant extracts, and the potent ability of essential oils to enhance physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. From sourcing ingredients to product development and blending, Aromatherapy Associates maintains the highest standards and delivers an aromatherapy experience that is both effective and luxurious.

About Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the worlds most prestigious hotels, resorts and residences. Mandarin Oriental now operates, or has under development, 41 hotels representing over 10,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 17 hotels in Asia, 14 in The Americas and 10 in Europe and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates, or has under development, 13 Residences at Mandarin Oriental, connected to the Group’s properties.

For more information visit http://www.mandarinoriental.com

Tone your body with the new ESPA “Contour and firm” body treatment
A specialized treatment that combines a detoxifying full body massage and a specific body envelopment designed to specifically stimulate the circulation and lymphatic systems, concentrating on problems areas that are prone to cellulite, fluid retention, and uneven skin texture.

280 Euros per person, treatment lasts 1 hour 50 minutes; or 840 Euros for 4 treatment sessions

New! Men’s treatment: “Fitness Massage”
This full ESPA body treatment is appropriate either before or after exercise to help increase circulation and warm muscles, preventing strains and relieving aches and pains.

150 Euros per person, treatment lasts 50 minutes; or 220 Euros treatment lasts 1 hour 20 minutes.

For more information please visit Hotel METROPOLE with FINEST SPA