Walking in Shanghai

We hit the ground running in Shanghai. It was perfect weather for explorations. A bit of research told us that the French Concession is THE place to check out. With beautifully restored heritage buildings, tree-lined roads and lots to see, this was a perfect day out. 

Jacqueline had her first ever mulled wine. I could not have been happier with the concoction that https://www.instagram.com/boxingcatbrewery/?hl=en put out. That cinnamon and orange was the perfect addition to the drink and it tasted just right for a second. And third. 

I skip the pictures from the Bund (at night). There are plenty out there. Instead, I offer the view from the club lounge of The Westin. On a whim, we changed the hotel to be closer to the Bund and this was the perfect location and hotel. They added a promo for the club lounge and that was totally worth it. Rooms were moderately sized, but extra cozy and also very smartly designed. Bathtub! Yah!

How Did They do It?

We went back to Mudtrekkers for a round of Paintball. This is me after only 2 sessions. Each one lasting max 7 mins, but typically, a game is over much faster. This got me thinking: how did soldiers manage during WWII out here. We had fans and this was just a fun outing. Soaked through and panting, I could not help but admire what it might have taken to fight in jungle settings back then. Also, them paint balls HURT (don't look to closely where I got hit). 

Day Trip to Hakone

 

Just 2 hours out of Tokio one will find Hakone, a rather picturesque part of Japan where there is a lot to see and do. Historically, this part of Japan used to be a thoroughfare for trade and along the old routes one will find a lot of infrastructure that would have supported businesses back in the days. Tour guides will typically explain all that, including the issue with stations being set up to control the movement of weapons into Tokyo (Should have paid more attention to the details I guess). 

A must-see is the Lake Ashi, which is a caldera lake and resort area with boat tours, hot springs, accommodation and with a bit of luck views of Mt Fuji. Around the lake one will find a number of interesting activities: cable cars, hot springs, shopping, local food stuffs and shrines. If your everyday ferry is too boring, you can try a swan-shaped pedal boat or you join Jack Sparrow over there.

A quick ride on a cable car will deposit holidaymakers and scientists at the visitors center perched on the rim of the still "active" volcano. Sulphur smoke is billowing out from the soil and one can only hope for strong winds to blow the stinky clouds away. A surreal landscape, invites creativity with your toys you bring along...

Then you have an egg-flavoured soft ice cream and head back to Tokyo for some more delicious food!

A Vineyard in Thailand?

 

When in Thailand, one SHOULD visit Hua Hin. The seaside town always had a special place in my heart and it was just the obvious choice for a trip with friends to stay a few days. Besides the other attractions, the nearby Monsoon Valley Vineyard sounded like a promising locale. 

If you are a bit puzzled, fret not as we also thought that this is a bit unusual. Not that I am a sommelier of sorts, but I was always under the impression that wine needs a different climate. However, the wines produced by this boutique vineyard are refreshing and surely on par with with the grapes we would normally consume. Elevated, the restaurant offers a stunning view and a cooling breeze. 

The restaurant serves up not only their own products by the glass or bottle, but also yummy Thai food to fill the tummy. Those interested in learning about wine can book a tour; those interested in Elephants may splurge on food for them. The Elephant conservation is Monsoon Valley's CSR initiative. 

With just an hour driving time from Hua Hin, this stop should be on the agenda of anyone heading down the coast along the Gulf of Thailand. 

The Shirt: The Star

 

What an exciting event that was! WhiskyPLUS on 9 September goes down as a success in my books as I managed to add bottles to my collection that I had been eying for some time. 

And they put me in the promo video!

Next up is the first WhiskyPLUS Penang edition since 2019. This event will be held on Saturday, November 25th at the beautiful Wembley St. Giles Hotel in the heart of Georgetown.

Get into the Cove

A short hop across the water, still being a domestic flight away, Kuching beckons as a getaway where travellers step into a legend-laden history. Laid back, yet highly developed, Kuching makes for an highly efficient entry point for a weekend stay. Cove 55 is situated north of the City, a mere 40 minutes’ drive from the International airport. The time puts a lot of distance between the hectic of big cities and the serene surroundings of this boutique hotel. A drastic change in the scenery occurs once the city limits have passed and one is washed over by a sense of tranquillity; with each passing kilometre, the desire to head back is diminishing as one is engulfed by nature.

The clever architecture of Cove 55 immediately becomes clear upon arrival. The property is concealed from the street and a Grab driver may easily miss the entrance. Mangroves have been cleverly incorporated to shield guests from views from the outside as well as blocking what little noise is left from the road that never seems to get busier than a few vehicles gliding by. The lobby, which feels like a living room not only functions as the welcome centre, but also as a library. The system of a book exchange is encouraged here with many good reads up for grabs. If the entrance to Cove 55 had a theme song, it would be Belinda Carlisle’s “La Luna”, in which a woman who fell in love with a man she met and spent romantic moments with under the moonlight. They were walking, talking, and laughing.

With only 28 rooms and a generous layout, Cove 55 is whispering serenity. Off to the right are the Mangrove villas whereas the main house is home to the balcony and garden rooms. This exclusivity ensures that the place never looks busy or overcrowded. Guests disperse into various activities and thus one hardly gets to meet others. The villas, built on stilts are tucked away into the mangroves which act as screens as well as setting the mood. Suddenly, it is getting very quiet, the stress left at the airport. With the backdrop of Mount Suntobong to the West and the sea to the East, Cove 55 is wedged between a strip of the most dramatic landscape. The breeze from the sea cools it down, letting guests forget that one also sits on the Equator.

After an uncomplicated and swift check-in, one can don the hat of an explorer by discovering the spacious and luxurious rooms. Mangrove Villas come with a deck, at the back of the room, where lounge chairs offer relaxation amidst the trees. Ocean View Pool Villas have decks facing the sea and a private plunge pool. The Mangroves are abuzz, soothingly providing the background sound for a tranquil getaway. The layout of the villas is functional, yet generous in the use of space. Much thought was given to the bathroom, which many will find very inviting to run a bath, light some candles and maybe have a glass of wine while soaking.

Nestled at the foot of Mount Suntobong, Cove 55 makes for an epic background for photos. Something that couples celebrating their wedding at Cove 55 can surely weave into their stories about their decision on why they picked this place. Suntobong, as it is commonly referred to, is inevitably mentioned by any local that one talks to about a trip to Kuching. According to the legend, Putri Santubong (Princess Suntubong) and her cousin Putri Sejinjang were sent from the heavens to pacify two villages. The two managed their respective communities in peace and harmony until Putri Santubong fell in love with a handsome prince.

Some may comment that Sarawak may not have as nice beaches as Sabah. However, Cove 55 offers a pool that leaves nothing to wish for for those that want to take a dip. Also built on stilts, the infinity pool truly lives up to that description. Its elevation and colour scheme make it appear as if there is no break between the pool and the open sea. The pool’s size is also remarkable: with 30 meters is it longer than many hotel pools. Sipping cocktails, lounging in the gazebos around the pool one may yet again be immersed by tranquillity: as guests disperse into activities, there may not be too many people sharing the pool at anyone time and a young couple may find themselves all alone frolicking in the refreshing waters. Built over the water, the pool is having the crashing waves as a soundtrack, making it a unique experience of being in a calm pool with the natural sound of the ocean. Cove Bar offers thirst quenching drinks. Guests are encouraged to sample the local brews for a truly Sarawakian experience.

Once the sun dropped itself behind Mount Suntubong, a fat moon hanging over the sea, it is time for a good night’s sleep. Being near the equator, the moon appears bigger. It is the type of nights where you want to walk barefoot through the grass with the stars in the clear sky watching. The sun rises over the open sea, making for the most dramatic sunrise. This event is best watched from the pool and is more than satisfying, considering that one has to get up earlier than when going to work. One would only wish that Cove Bar would supplement this with some bubbles.

The inhouse restaurant, Kechala, is reminiscent of old colonial charm. Kechala offers al fresco ambience as well as indoor sitting, whereby the latter transports you into yet another space, making it feel as if you had stepped away from the hotel. An open kitchen offers a clean and uncluttered menu which offers something for every taste. The mix of Asian and European cuisine is focused on quality. One should be prepared to be surprised as the German head chef is trying to put his own tasty spin on the dishes. Waitstaff may recommend the latest addition to the drinks menu, mild sparkling Tuak. Tuak is a Sarawakian rice wine, which is a must-try. Breakfast is served in Kechala as well, whereby the concept is to order a “main” and supplement it with pastry, fruits, and other delectable foods from the buffet. In tune with Oasis’ Champagne Supernova, one may order just that to go along with the Big Breakfast.

Sarawak is known for seafood and guests of Cove 55 are encouraged to try some of the fares offered by nearby restaurants. One such place is adjacent to the hotel and while you could walk, Cove 55 offers a car to drive guests over. Besides this, Cove 55 can also arrange day trips to the nearby attractions, such as the animal sanctuaries where visitors can get up close with Orang Utans. Recently, a private nine-hole golf course was added to the portfolio.  Besides additional activities, those planning to spend time in Cove 55 are advised to check in advance about availabilities as the property can be fully booked. Events typically take up not only the event hall and invite participants to just stay. The property offers airport transfers for guests’ convenience. When the car’s tyres crunch some pebbles in the driveway, heading to the airport, it is “Never Really Over” by Katy Perry that one hears.

Grammar Matters (!)

 

Parents should be terrified! Someone is feeding this to frozen children!