5 Airports That Are Great For Long Layovers

One wouldn’t normally look forward to being in an airport. Truth be told, the only reason why many of us are excited about being in one is because we’re about to embark on an adventure and go somewhere new. So it can be frustrating to arrive at your check-in counter only to discover your flight’s been delayed.

Of course, worse than that is arriving at your destination airport after a long flight, and then finding out that your luggage wasn’t on it. The icing on the cake is potentially facing a six-, 12- or even 24-hour wait for it to arrive on the next flight.

Sometimes, we have to accept that an itinerary may require a long layover at an intermediate airport in order to secure a promotional airfare. This is quite a common way of saving money on a direct flight along popular routes.

None of these scenarios are situations that we look forward to. At the same time, that may not be the case for some of Asia and the Middle East’s most remarkable airports. You might even end up being thankful for a flight delay or a long layover! Here are five outstanding ones you’ll actually look forward to spending time in:

1. Changi Airport | Singapore

The first airport on our list has won countless accolades – including the title of the world’s best airport. In fact, there are so many attractions in its four terminals, you should allot an entire day to see them all.

For Instagram-worthy spots, head to the Heritage Zone, a shopping hub with Peranakan-inspired design. The Viewing Area is perfect for taking shots of planes taking off. Or you can also go green and walk along indoor nature trails like the Cactus Garden, Sunflower Garden, and Orchid Garden. It’s hard to run out of things to check out at Changi Airport. For longer layovers, avail of their free city tours that last up to eight hours.

Did you know that they’re also about to open a Canopy Park? Set to open in 2019, it’s something to look forward to, as it offers lots of new attractions like sky nets, a canopy maze, and a forest valley — right inside the airport!

All four of Changi’s terminals are connected by wide air-conditioned walkways — great if you’re looking to burn off excess holiday weight — or you can take the free trains between each terminal.

2. Incheon International Airport | Seoul

Flight delays and long layovers won’t be a bore at Incheon International Airport. It homes a variety of attractions including an ice skating rink, a cultural museum, and lots of dining facilities that offer local cuisine and international favourites.

Also included in the list of airport attractions is a golf course, indoor gardens, retail hubs, and a casino. Gambling is banned in Korea, but tourists can exercise their privilege of gambling at Paradise Casino Incheon that’s just two minutes away via a free airport shuttle service.

While those are already appealing, it needs to be said that one of the best things about Incheon International Airport is that, like Singapore, it offers free city tours. Many travellers plan their travel itineraries around this, and opt to arrive in the morning and depart in the evening so they can take advantage of a free tour of Seoul. Travellers can choose between seven types of city tours, depending on the duration of the layover.

3. Haneda Airport | Tokyo

International travellers visiting Japan usually do so via Narita Airport, but it’s Japan’s Haneda Airport that was recently voted by Skytrax as the third best airport in the world. Contrary to popular belief, Haneda isn’t Tokyo’s domestic airport. It is, but it also has many international flights arriving and departing, and is much closer to the city than Narita.

Haneda Airport’s international wing has just as many restaurants, cafés, and duty free shops as Narita, but most importantly, it has a more relaxed and less crowded feel to it. The terminal has shower rooms on level 2, which is great for freshening up after a long intercontinental flight. Price-wise, it’s reasonable at only ¥1,000 (approximately USD9) for 30 minutes’ use.

For departing passengers, there are two small spas on levels 4 and 5, called Raffine Relaxation Spaces, where passengers can get a massage, reflexology, or other spa services whilst waiting for their flight. It’s pure bliss and a great way to leave Tokyo.

4. Hong Kong International Airport | Hong Kong

Got hours to spare and fancy a good movie? Hong Kong’s biggest IMAX screen is right at its international airport! Movie-viewing at the UA Imax Theatre is free of charge, but if you’re looking for something with more of an adrenaline rush, visit the Aviation Discovery Centre. This museum is features exhibits related to Hong Kong’s aviation history and includes flight simulators.

Of course, if you’re simply looking for a relaxing time, there are loads of dining and retail outlets to check out. Hong Kong International Airport is perfect for last minute souvenir shopping too, or if you need to buy a few more necessities for your travels.

5. Dubai International Airport | Dubai

Although Skytrax rates Qatar’s Hamad International Airport in Doha higher than Dubai International Airport, for those who want to do some serious shopping, you’ll go crazy in Dubai International Airport’s 5,000-square-meter Duty Free zone. It’s brimming with all the brands you know and love.

Other than shopping, there are many entertainment options too, and for those travelling with children, there’s a wonderful Kids Zone in Terminal 3 where the little ones can enjoy interactive games, playground equipment, and other family-friendly facilities.

For rest and relaxation, a gym, spa, and a swimming pool are also available for departing passengers to use. After all those adventures, travellers can indulge in a gastronomic dining experience with over 100 food outlets, so you know you’ll find whatever it is you have a hankering for.

So, when it comes to airports in Asia and the Middle East, gone are the days of long and dull hours of waiting in between flights or getting annoyed because of flight delays. It’s actually not uncommon to hear of travellers checking in for their flight half a day early at some of these airports, just so they can enjoy the experiences that these airports have to offer.

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/travel-guides-and-tips/5-airports-that-are-great-for-long-layovers/

5 Things To Know Before Visiting The Great Wall Of China

Located in China’s Northern region, the Great Wall is a popular pilgrimage for first-time visitors to the Land of the Dragon. It was China’s first ruling monarch, Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who began construction of this massive monument in the third century BC as a means of uniting his empire while preventing nomadic barbarians from invading.

Today, the Great Wall is facing a different invasion of sorts, as tens of thousands of tourists from all corners of the globe descend upon it daily just to gaze upon its majesty and take in the stunning views offered, which change depending on the light and season. From the scenery to the architecture, there are plenty of things to look forward to when visiting the Great Wall that can range from mysterious towers linking to nowhere to impromptu wedding photoshoots.

So, next stop: Beijing, China! However, before you decide to tackle this UNESCO World Heritage Site, here are a few things that you’ll want to keep in mind:

Pick Off-Peak

There’s no doubt that the Great Wall offers spectacular views throughout the year, but the weather and surging crowds can impact your overall experience. The best time to visit is during the off-peak periods of spring (March to May) and winter (December to February). Do note that the first week of May is a popular time for locals to visit, as the surrounding landscape bursts into life with all kinds of various flora and fauna. This sometimes results in troublesome traffic jams and higher hotel rates.

If you wish to avoid the crowds entirely, then planning a trip during winter is your best bet. Lot of layers is absolutely essential as Beijing’s winter can be unforgiving with sudden cold snaps that can bring temperatures to below freezing. It’ll all be worth it though, for witnessing the Great Wall and her surrounding mountains dusted in a layer of ice and frost makes for a particularly spectacular scene.

Please Mind Your Step

It’s mind-blowing to comprehend how the construction of the Great Wall was mainly done by hand all those centuries ago. Spanning over 20,000 kilometres, some have estimated that if all the bricks used in its construction were laid end to end, it would be enough to loop around the equator at least 36 times!

Ever since its inception, various sections of the wall have been added on and refurbished over time, although parts of the original foundation can still be discovered (depending on your point of entry). Because of this, donning appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles is highly recommended in order to confidently tackle the uneven steps, steep slopes and perilous ridges that mark this wondrous monument.

Grab Some Grub

Nothing works up an appetite like a hike, and you’ll definitely need more than just sheer willpower to survive the Great Wall. There are several options readily available at popular entry points such as Mutianyu and Badaling, along with makeshift food stalls offering all kinds of snacks and beverages (usually at marked-up prices).

If all you need is a quick bite, packing a light snack and a water bottle will do the trick. Just be sure to hang on to your trash to be chucked after your descent as litter bins are not exactly easy to come by.

Bring A Buddy

While the idea of conquering the Great Wall solo might seem impressive, unless your Mandarin is up to par, it’s best to take on this monumental feat with a trusted companion. Mobile data can get pretty spotty at certain points of the Great Wall, so you’ll want someone on-hand with a good sense of direction. If anything, it’s a big relief knowing that there’s somebody you can count on to pull you through should anything unexpected occur out of the blue during your great adventure.

Take Your Time

Unless you intend on splurging on a private helicopter tour, you’ll most likely spend an entire day attempting to cover a single section. Given that the Great Wall is located approximately two hours away from Beijing city by public transport, one of the best ways to save time getting there is to book a hotel closer to the monument before travelling over first thing in the morning. Some adventurous travellers have even been known to set up camp in the surrounding forests near the wall, but if that’s a little too close to nature for your taste, there’s always the option to book a hotel online.

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/travel-guides-and-tips/5-things-to-know-before-visiting-the-great-wall-of-china/

What To Do If Your Passport Is Lost Or Stolen While You’re Traveling

Traveling abroad is always very exciting. There are so many different things to see and it’s easy to get caught up in having fun. This might lead you to forget to check on your belongings. Lost or stolen passports are a lot more common than you think, and this can happen to even the most experienced of travellers.

As soon as you notice that your passport is gone you start to panic. You probably don’t know what to do, and you start having bad thoughts about all the things that can go wrong. The simple steps below will help you replace your missing passport in no time!

Report the lost or stolen passport to the local police station

Right when you notice that your passport’s lost or been stolen, the very first thing you should do is head over to the nearest police station and report your lost document. If your passport was stolen, this procedure will at least protect you in case anyone tries to misuse your passport.

The police will give you a report which will describe the way in which your passport was lost or stolen. This document is crucial and will allow you to take on the following steps, and you should also make multiple copies of it, in case you need it more than one along the way.

Contact your country’s embassy about your lost passport

After going to the police station and obtaining your police report, the next thing to do is head over to your country’s embassy. Either while you’re on your way or once there, look for a place to take a new passport photo. Having a passport picture ready will only help you speed up the process, and you’ll be able to get a replacement passport much faster.

Once at the embassy, you’ll once more report that your passport’s missing or been stolen, and present them with your official police report. It’s imperative that you let those working in your embassy know when you intend to leave the country, so they’ll be able to help you obtain a temporary emergency travel document to help you travel and reach your next destination safely.

The embassy will probably ask you to fill out another form, apart from the stolen or lost passport form you filled out at the police station. This new one will simply be a new application for a passport. In case the police report is not enough for the embassy, you may need to fill out an additional form, which will essentially be a statement regarding your lost or stolen passport.

On top of that all, you should also keep in mind that embassies don’t usually work on weekends or on public holidays, so your emergency passport won’t be issued until a normal working day. So unless you’re in a life-threatening situation, you’ll likely need to wait in order to file your report.

Apply for an emergency passport

To successfully fill out the application for a temporary passport, you’ll need a few documents with you. The good thing is that they’re pretty easy to obtain. They are:

• Your new passport pictures
• Some kind of identification, such as your national ID or a driver’s license
• Some kind of travel itinerary, such as your plane tickets
• Evidence of your citizenship, such as a birth certificate (ask someone to email it to you)
• You report regarding the lost or stolen passport and your application for a new passport

Keep in mind that this process, apart from being time-consuming, will likely not be free of charge. For example, if you’re a US citizen, you’ll most likely need to pay the normal passport fee of USD140 to obtain a replacement passport.

Keep your documents safe when traveling

To keep the situation less traumatic and expensive, consider investing in a good travel insurance plan. Work with a professional travel agency or insurance provider and they’ll probably cover your expenses in case of an emergency when traveling overseas.

Finally, you’re better off keeping your travel documents and personal identification papers stowed away in hidden and/or secure pockets. Having them with you is always important whenever traveling abroad, and you should ensure that you always know where they are, in order to prevent anything untoward from happening.

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/travel-guides-and-tips/what-to-do-passport-lost-or-stolen-while-traveling/

3 Movies Recommendation in November

1.       SUZZANNA: BERNAPAS DALAM KUBUR

Suzzanna and Satria have been married for seven years but they have not been blessed with children. They live in a house with three assistants: Mia, Tohir, and Pak Rojali. Suzanna's anticipated pregnancy finally happened, but unfortunately it coincided with Satria's official plan abroad. This was used by four Satria employees: Jonal, Umar, Dudun, and Gino, who held a grudge against Satria and intended to rob Satria's house when her house was quiet. But unlucky, the plan of their robbery turned out to be a murder when Suzanna who was supposed to go with three of her helpers turned out to be alone because of the weak body condition. Panicking, they then buried the Suzzanna's body behind the house.

1.        FANTASTIC BEASTS: THE CRIMES OF GRINDELWALD

At the end of the first film, the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Depp) was captured by MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America), with the help of Newt Scamander (Redmayne). But, making good on his threat, Grindelwald escaped custody and has set about gathering followers, to raise pure-blood wizards up to rule over all non-magical beings. In an effort to thwart Grindelwald's plans, Albus Dumbledore (Law) enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help.

2.       RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET : WRECK-IT RALPH 2

Video game bad guy Ralph and fellow misfit Vanellope von Schweetz must risk it all by traveling to the World Wide Web in search of a replacement part to save Vanellope's video game, "Sugar Rush." In way over their heads, Ralph and Vanellope rely on the citizens of the internet -- the netizens -- to help navigate their way, including an entrepreneur named Yesss, who is the head algorithm and the heart and soul of trend-making site BuzzzTube.

Travelling To The New 7 Wonders Of The World

The new 7 Wonders of the World was announced in July 2007 after over 100 million people voted for them from a selection of 200 existing monuments. Scattered across four continents, I sought out to visit the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum in Italy, Petra the city of Jordan, the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá in Mexico, and the Taj Mahal in India.

As I dug a little deeper, I found that five of the seven locations are disabled-friendly (these being the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum, Christ the Redeemer, Chichén Itzá, and the Taj Mahal). After all that research, I didn’t spare another moment and set out to visit each location, beginning with The Great Wall of China.

Conquering the Old Dragon’s Head

It’s an opportunist trip more than anything, as my cousin and I visited a friend who lived in Beijing. Built from 220 BC to 1644 AD, the Great Wall was built by several emperors and dynasties that stretch beyond 20,000 kilometres, and was constructed across mountainous passes and ridges. It makes full use of the natural terrain for defence and border control, and depending on which section you decide to visit, walking up the uneven stairs of the Great Wall of China may pose a challenge.

Should you be apprehensive about your physical capabilities of climbing through uneven terrain, the Mutianyu section’s your best bet, as it’s the best-restored of the many wall sections. Other more challenging sections with unparalleled views include the Shanhai Pass (also known as the Old Dragon’s Head where the Great Wall meets the sea), Juyongguan (wheelchair-friendly and houses one of the many Great Wall forts), Simatai (the only section open for night tours), and Jinshanling (the half-wild and half-restored section popular with those who favour a hike).

Hearing the past gladiators roar

The next wonder of the world I visited was the Colosseum, also known as the Flavian Amphitheatre. Even though about two-thirds of the Colosseum has been destroyed by earthquakes, fires, and vandalism over the years, the amphitheatre remains as Rome’s most iconic symbol with its long history, receiving over 4 million visitors a year. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be planning a summer trip to Rome. Just ensure you keep yourself hydrated while queueing, as the summer heat and crowds don’t make for a winning sightseeing combination.

If you have reservations about the long line to get in, know that the view from within the structure makes the wait worthwhile. There’s a visible shift in the atmosphere once you’re inside, almost as if we, the visitors, have all been collectively awed by what once stood in its place.

Fighting uncertainties in Jordan

Next on my list was Petra. I landed in Jordan right after Egypt was declared unsafe to visit. Unsurprising really, considering the daily stories about uprisings and revolutions. If there’d been any worries about visiting an area so close to conflict, they’re unfounded, as I didn’t feel unsafe or threatened during my exploration of Petra.

Dating to around 300 BC, the archaeological site in Jordan’s southwestern desert features a rather long walk, so comfortable shoes are a must. Half-built, half-carved into rock, Petra is surrounded by mountains that are riddled with passages. The caves, temples, and tombs of Petra reveal an impressive civilisation. Most impressive, however, is the Hellenistic facade that was carved directly into the canyons.

Finding a favourite in Machu Picchu

Built in the mid-15th century by the Incas, Machu Picchu is set high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, above the Urubamba River valley. Left undiscovered until 1911, even though the Incan empire was conquered by the Spanish in 1532, it’s exact use remains a mystery that many have tried (and failed) to solve.

Marvelling at the splendour of Machu Picchu wasn’t an easy task though, considering that many tourists flock to the location. However early you think you many be, there will likely already be a line in the nearest towns taking early busses up the famous mountain. The journey only gets more difficult from there on out, as the roads leading to the site feature narrow and steep slopes. You can rest assured though that the view from the top of the hill is nothing short of magnificent; and well worth it.

One thing to note is that the toilet facilities are located outside the ruins and not within, or you might risk cutting your trip within this ancient citadel short. Luckily, I was pre-warned, leaving me with plenty of time to walk about and take photos. I also nabbed that Machu Picchu stamp on my passport on the way out.

Tip: You can get a student discount by showing a valid student card at the counter. Your student card will have to feature the university name, your name, and photo, as well as an expiration date to entitle you to the discount.

A moment of silence at Christ the Redeemer

One cannot visit South America and not visit Christ the Redeemer. Commissioned by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro, it stands 125 feet tall atop a 710-metre tall mountain, and is considered the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world. Its symbolic status attracts thousands of eager tourists annually, keen to see this iconic statue in person and take in sweeping panoramas of Rio.

The easiest way to pay the sculpture a visit is by booking a tour. A van and a guide take you up the hill, most likely during peak noon hours, and while there’s nothing wrong with that, it does increase the odds of the trip being hot and overcrowded. You can opt to go in the morning instead, aiming to arrive at 8am (when it opens) to avoid the throngs of tourists.

Alternatively, you can make like me and head up late in the afternoon, where I took the cog train up and stayed until the last train down in the evening. The view from the top is simply marvellous, and if you need a moment, there’s even a chapel inside the Christ the Redeemer — a silent place for prayer and contemplation.

Tip: September and October are great months to visit thanks to cooler temperatures and less humidity.

Listening for the quetzal in Chichén Itzá

You may not have heard of the ancient Chichén Itzá, but you’ll most certainly recognise its iconic central pyramid, El Castillo. If you’re travelling from neighbouring coastal towns, prepare yourself for a ride of a few hours at least.

Once at the ruins itself, be sure not to rush through your experience, as Chichén Itzá is spread out over a site that’s 5 square kilometres. It’s a whole Mayan city for you to uncover. The ruins feature religious temples that epitomise Mayan innovation in astronomy and science, and there’s definitely much more to see than just ‘a bunch of old rocks’ as some cynics might say.

If you stand at the base of the pyramid and clap, the echoes of your clap sounds like birds chirping. Architects, engineers, and historians can’t explain why (or how) it was built as such, but many believe that the Mayans engineered it to mimic the sounds made by the quetzal — a resplendent bird that was considered divine and a messenger of the gods.

Tip: The pathways connecting the various different ruins in Chichén Itzá are all lined with stalls and vendors selling art, pottery, rugs, clothing, and an array of local handmade knick knacks. So, if you’re one for souvenirs, make sure you pick them up here.

A monument to love

Ironically, the last wonder of the world I visited was the one closest to my homeland of Malaysia — the Taj Mahal in India. Dubbed by many as a testament to love, this ivory-white marble mausoleum in India was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house his favourite wife after she died birthing his 14th son.

The Taj Mahal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and is also regarded by many as the best example of Mughal architecture. Needless to say, it stands as a symbol of India’s rich history, reflecting the Mughal architectural style that is based on symmetry and balance.

What came as a surprise to me was how cool the space felt despite its many visitors. If you’re here in the evening, try catching the sunset. It may seem cliché, but it’s a shot worth having at this world wonder. After all, what’s life without a little cliché?

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/travel-stories/travelling-to-the-new-7-wonders-of-the-world/

11 travel essentials you should buy before your year-end trip

Planning to end the year on a high note with a well-deserved holiday? What a fantastic idea! But first, make sure you’re well-prepared with these must-have travel essentials that you should bring along.

Trust us – you’ll be glad you did!

Waterproof cosmetics bag

Who doesn’t love things that are not only cute, but practical too? To ensure you’re looking as glam and #onfleek as possible during your trip, don’t forget to safely pack your make-up in this waterproof cosmetics bag. 💋

Packing cubes

If your packing method involves randomly tossing things into your bag, a handy set of packing cubes is a real game changer. You’ll no longer have to dig through the depths of your bag to find a sock, as there’s a place for everything and everything in its place.

Portable clothes hanger/dryer

You might be thinking to yourself, “But most hotels provide hangers… Why would I need to bring my own?” Hold your horses. This hanger doubles as a dryer – for your shoes. Because there’s nothing worse than having to walk around in cold, damp shoes. 👟

Anti-theft backpack

Most people travel with a fair amount of gadgets on them these days, from smartphones to cameras. Keep your gadgets safe and juiced up while you’re on the go – there’s an external USB port that connects to a powerbank so you can charge your devices and keep your hands free.

Travel pouch

Worried about keeping your valuables safe while traveling? This discreet pouch helps keep important items such as your passport, money and smartphone close at hand, while the strong elastic straps fit securely and comfortably around your waist.

Moisturizing serum

Sitting for hours in an airplane can be incredibly drying for your skin, so pack a travel-size bottle of skin serum to help keep your skin hydrated. By the time you’ve arrived at your destination, everyone else will have parched skin while yours will be glowing.

Lucas’ Papaw Ointment

Made from fermented papaya, petroleum jelly and wax, this handy ointment has been touted to have multiple uses, from preventing chapped lips to keeping your eyebrows nice and tidy. Thanks to its many uses, it’s pretty good to have on hand while traveling.

Mini 2-in-1 hair straightener and curler

If you’re the kind who won’t leave the house without your hair perfectly put together, this one’s for you: a mini hair straightener that does double-duty as a curler. Whether you’re in the mood for straight-as-a-pin hair or soft curls during your travels, you can easily get it sorted with this. Its small size also means it won’t take up much space in your bag!

Chargeable mini fan

Going someplace hot and humid? This charming handheld mini fan will be a lifesaver. Not only does it come in pretty colors and is easy to carry around, it also comes with a stand and can be recharged via a USB port.

Retractable phone cable

If you’ve traveled in a group before, then you’re probably familiar with this scenario: there’s only one charger port, but everyone needs to charge their phones and they all use different models. The solution? A USB cable that comes with multiple connector heads, such as a Lightning cable, a Micro cable, and a Type-C cable. Get one that retracts into a case at the press of a button so you won’t have to deal with detangling cables.

Tripod and lens kit for smartphones

This one’s for the smartphone photography enthusiasts – level up your Instagram game with the help of this set, which comes with an adjustable tripod and four lenses that can accommodate most smartphone models. Say cheese! 📸

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/travel-guides-and-tips/11-travel-essentials-you-should-buy-before-your-year-end-trip/

5 of the most romantic Michelin-starred restaurants to impress your date

Whether it’s a special occasion or a long-awaited treat, the classy ambience, impeccable service and sumptuous multi-course menus of Michelin-starred restaurants make them the go-to options for romantic dinners. And for good reason, too: it’s where you can fully enjoy the company of your dining partner with few distractions. 😉

So share a meal and let your culinary knowledge shine at these intimate restaurants that will set the mood:

Corner House | Singapore

Inside Singapore’s famed Botanic Gardens sits a two-story colonial bungalow that dates back to the early 1900s, currently housing one of the finest restaurants in the Little Red Dot. Corner House is a 1 Michelin Star restaurant known for its innovative dishes using carefully-sourced herbs and plants. Indeed, it even touts its own contemporary style of cuisine, “Gastro-Botanica”, conceived by Chef Jason Tan.

When making your reservation, you can book a table in any of three rooms: Claret Corner, The Verandah or Whispering Corner. We highly recommend Whispering Corner, as it overlooks the patio and is made for a romantic dinner. The restaurant’s exemplary food is complemented by a wine list of over 600 labels.

Corner House
1 Cluny Road, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Singapore 259569.
Tel: +65 6469 1000
Opening Hours: 12.00pm – 3.00pm (Lunch, Tues-Fri); 6.30pm – 11.00pm (Dinner, daily); 11.30am – 3.00 pm (Brunch, Sat & Sun) | Closed on Mondays

Le Meurice Alain Ducasse | France  

The lavish interior of the 2 Michelin Star Le Meurice Alain Ducasse will have you feeling like French aristocrats with its antique mirrors, crystal chandeliers and frescoes. In fact, it was inspired by the royal apartments in Versailles Palace.

Located in the heart of luxury hotel Le Meurice in Paris, this is where you want to go for an authentic French fine dining experience. Opt for the Collection menu, which allows diners to discover the essence of the restaurant’s finest cuisine in a five-course journey. Do note that all gentlemen are required to wear a jacket – if you didn’t pack one, no worries, they’ll lend you one.

Le Meurice Alain Ducasse
Le Meurice Hotel, 228, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris.
Tel: +33 144 58 1055
Opening Hours: 7.00am – 10.30am (Breakfast, Mon-Fri); 7.00am – 11.00am (Breakfast, Sat & Sun); 12.30pm – 2.00pm (Lunch, Mon-Fri); 7.30pm – 10.00pm (Dinner, Mon-Fri)

Le Normandie | Thailand

Offering breathtaking views of Chao Phraya River through floor-to-ceiling windows, the acclaimed 2 Michelin Star Le Normandie has consistently topped Bangkok’s list of top fine dining restaurants since its opening in 1958.

Situated in Mandarin Oriental’s Garden Wing, Chef Arnaud Dunand-Sauthier delivers potent flavors in delicate presentations, while the restaurant provides an elegant setting with crystal chandeliers and gorgeous flower arrangements, all coming together to create an unforgettable experience. Signatures include Yellowtail kingfish with oyster and crabmeat and Lamb allaiton with eggplant and black garlic.

Le Normandie 
Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 48 Oriental Avenue, Bangkok 10500
Tel: +66 (2) 659 9000 (EXT 7399)
Opening Hours: 12.00pm – 2.00pm (Lunch, Mon-Sat); 7.00pm – 10.00pm (Dinner, Mon-Sat) | Closed on Sundays

La Sponda | Italy

Ah, you’d be hard-pressed to find a destination more romantic than Italy, especially the charming Amalfi Coast. And few restaurants are as romantic as Le Sirenuse Hotel’s 1 Michelin Star restaurant La Sponda – overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, guests seated on the terrace are treated to stunning panoramas of Positano and the ocean.

But inside is even better – 400 candles are lit every evening, bathing the vine-covered interior in warm light and creating an enchanting, magical atmosphere. It’s tough to go wrong with anything on the menu, which is inspired by traditional Neapolitan recipes and prepared using the best local ingredients.

La Sponda
Le Sirenuse Hotel, Via Cristoforo Colombo, 30, 84017 Positano.
Tel: +39 089 875066
Opening Hours: 1.00pm – 3.00pm (Lunch); 8.00pm – 10.30pm (Dinner) | Only open on Saturdays & Sundays, Closed between 1 January – 25 March and 29 October – 31 December

Caprice | Hong Kong

For a little something different from the typical French cuisine you’d find at many fine dining establishments, head to Hong Kong’s Caprice. The 2 Michelin Star restaurant is set on the sixth floor of Four Seasons Hotel, offering lovely harbor vistas and an interior that brings together old world elegance with modern panache.

Similarly, Chef Guillaume Galliot combines classic French techniques and subtle Asian influences to produce unique dishes. Specialities include roasted pigeon with beetroot; crab laksa with confit egg; and ‘Trilogie de Chocolat’.

Caprice
6F, Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong.
Tel: +(852) 3196 8860
Opening Hours: 12.00pm – 2.30pm (Lunch, daily); 6.30pm – 10.30pm (Dinner, daily)

cr: https://blog.traveloka.com/en/see-and-do/5-of-the-most-romantic-michelin-starred-restaurants-to-impress-your-date/