Month: March 2017

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Reviving The Senses At Constance Ephelia

Upon arrival, the sheer size of the resort is soon revealed – 120 hectares of absolute bliss! Spanning two large beaches (one situated in a marine park), a vast mangrove forest, cliff-side views, hiking trail, spa-village and several restaurants, Constance Ephelia certainly leaves one spoilt for choice.

Our spacious senior suite was on the north beach and had a very large balcony with views overlooking the picturesque Port Launay bay. A pillow menu was provided to ensure optimum rest – essential if one aims to explore all that Constance Ephelia has to offer.

The boathouses and fitness centers ensure hours and hours of activities – from zip lining and rock climbing to diving and sailing. Canoeing is a must! From an exclusive mangrove tour to the gentle sway of the open ocean, the views are a sight to behold. The Ros Lepa hiking trail will take you back in time to the age of discovery through lush palm groves, ancient boulders, and wild vanilla.

When you’ve had your fill of action packed adventure, head to the secluded spa village for some well-deserved relaxation, where you are sure to be pampered with exotic natural products by the finest masseuses.

Situated on the western side of the island, Constance Ephelia makes for breath-taking sunsets. When the day is almost spent, head to the helipad for an intimate picnic as the hues of twilight adorn the evening sky overlooking the bay. For a more festive sunset experience, Seselwa Bar at the north beach is the perfect place to kick off your shoes and embrace the night ‘a la Creole’ style!

The resort has 5 fine restaurants to choose from, each with different themes – from the signature dishes at Cyann to the buffet at Corossol. A truly entertaining culinary display are the chefs at Asian restaurant Adam & Eve, as they lure the enormous flames from the fire pit to the wok to achieve a smoky taste otherwise unattainable.

As with everything at Constance Ephelia, the breakfast buffet certainly presents a luxurious selection with a variety of exotic fruits.

With several boutiques at your disposal selling day to day necessities and handmade traditional crafts to a unique line of clothing, be sure to take a little bit of Constance Ephelia home with you when you leave. A magical place to revive the senses indeed!

Guest Signe Da Silva – Awards Representative

Contact information

To book contact Info@epheliaresort.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.constancehotels.com

 

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Constance Lemuria an escape to paradise…

As the giant wooden doors opened to the strike of the gong, our ceremonious reception at Constance Lémuria certainly set the tone for the paradise that we would soon step into. Boasting 3 pristine beaches, the fabled ‘coco de mer’ palms, 3-tier swimming pool, serene spa, 4 lavish restaurants, 5 bars, and the only 18-hole championship golf course in the Seychelles, this truly is paradise revealed!

Ideally situated on the northwest coast of the quieter Praslin Island, this resort is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle that tires the soul. Despite the size of the resort, the personal touch of friendly staff manage to make every guest feel esteemed. Mr Arumugam, our butler personally ensured that we were treated like royalty for even the smallest request.

Suits are designed with complete comfort in mind – a trait that is echoed by the excellent room service.

A visit to the concierge will soon reveal the extent of activities on offer, and it would be worth your while to explore the wealth of marine life that lies below.

Not only does the island act as nesting ground for sea turtles, but Lémuria has an active turtle conservation program. Before long, we were whisked away to the scene where a hawksbill turtle was laying her eggs – a precious and exclusive experience never to be forgotten. The Constance Hotels and Resorts group also combine environmental responsibility and sustainable management by Energy and water saving, recycling, composting or protection of the local fauna and the flora which is incorporated into each of the hotels in the group.

Whether a golfer or not, the scenery alone is sure to get you strolling up the hills. We had the privilege of an unforgettable sundowner at the famed and scenic ‘tee 15’, where it was our pleasure to have met the Food and Beverage Director of the Constance Group, Mr. Giany Bundhooa and having gained insight into the many challenges faced by luxury restaurants on secluded islands, we can truly say that Giany and his team have found a way to turn challenges into masterpieces.

“We spare no expense to provide each guest with an ultimate luxury experience.” Said Giany

Of the many restaurants available, the Nest certainly was a treat for the senses! True to its name, the Nest is a very exclusive deck restaurant, perched upon the rocks almost entirely surrounded by the ocean. It quickly became clear that the bartender, Karthick, has mastered the art of mixology when he designed two new cocktails before our eyes – the making of which was as enjoyable to watch as the taste! Of the set-seafood dinner menu, so much can be said, yet words will never truly capture a culinary experience that must be lived and not spoken – superb!

As expected, good wine is certainly held in high esteem at any of the resort’s elegant restaurants, with Diva boasting an award winning 58 page wine menu and in-house sommelier.

Arranged especially for our wedding anniversary, we were treated to an exclusive picnic at Anse Georgette Beach. What a marvellous experience!

As the rumour goes, Praslin is a little piece of paradise that broke away from the Garden of Eden. Based on our experience at Lémuria, we certainly won’t disagree! Thank you Press Liaison, Isabelle for making our stay an unforgettable one!

Guest Signe Da Silva – Awards Representative

Contact information

To book contact resacoord@lemuriaresort.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.constancehotels.com

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Iconic Resort Earns Two Spots In Guinness World Records


Port Dickson, 14 March 2017 –  Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson is now the official proud record holder of Guinness World Records for achieving “The most swimming pools in a resort at 643” and “The most overwater villas in single resort at 522”. These records were determined by a research which was verified on 14 October 2016.

YB Dato’ Mas Ermieyati (2nd right) and Swapnil Dangarikar (2nd left) flanked by Dato’ Low Tak Fatt (L) and Mandy Chew Siok Cheng (R) with the achievement plaques

In a ceremony witnessed by Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism YB Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin representing Tourism and Culture Minister YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri b Abdul Aziz and amongst other high-profile guests, the event saw Mr Swapnil Dangarikar, representative from Guinness World Records handing over the two plaques to YBhg Dato’ Low Tak Fatt, managing director of Kuala Lumpur Metro Group, owner of Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson and Ms Mandy Chew Siok Cheng, President of Lexis Hotel Group, the operator of Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson.

In reading the minister’s speech, YB Datuk Mas Ermieyati said it was a proud achievement for the country to have obtained the accolades from a prestigious institution, known for its documentation of record-breaking feats.

“A rather lengthy process had to take place whereby an accredited consultant had to be engaged to study the attempt and comparison made with other such similar developments around the world. Not many people can boast of such achievements and I, therefore, encourage more Malaysians, whether as individuals or corporate companies, to emulate Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson. This will definitely help to put Malaysia in a positive spotlight and at par with the rest of the world.”

The triumphs by Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson further strengthens its commitment to promoting tourism in Port Dickson, which continues to see increased demand for luxurious accommodation from discerning travellers, covering business and leisure segments from both local and overseas. With plenty of job opportunities being offered to the locals, the resort has contributed positively towards the Malaysia tourism industry. As of to date, the properties within Lexis Hotel Group have attracted more than 3.2 million tourists from across 119 countries and in a short span of less than two years since its opening in 2015, Lexis Hibiscus alone had received more than 630,000 tourists. Lexis has also brought in tourism dollars to the state. Assuming a conservative expenditure figure of just RM1,000 per guest, Lexis have already contributed more than RM3.2 billion in tourism receipts.

In addition to the Guinness World Records achievements, Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson has also won other prestigious awards, such as the World Luxury Hotel Awards for the Luxury Water Villa Resort for Southeast Asia Category in 2016 and more recently, the BrandLaureate SMEs Signature Awards for the Best Brand in Hospitality for Hotels and Resorts.

Nestled along Pasir Panjang beach, the iconic Lexis Hibiscus Port Dickson resembles the national flower of Malaysia and is the largest water homes development in the world, at 639 villas. Each of its spacious pool villas is tastefully decorated and comes with its own private dip pool and steam room for luxury and privacy – an unassailable achievement by any standard.

Complementing the villas are a host of exciting dining options, while Lexis Hibiscus’ range of function spaces are specially tailored for MICE needs. A diverse choice of recreational activities are available, from a spa providing rejuvenating treatments to a kids’ club well as a karaoke centre.

Sun and thrill seekers will have fun with a range of beach, water and team building activities, all focused around the tallest seawater fountain in Malaysia at 400 feet. The Hibiscus Walk, located at the beachside, provides guests a sampling of Malaysian cuisine as well as a wellness centre providing therapeutic massages.

For more information on the resort, please visit www.lexishibiscuspd.com

About Lexis Hotel Group

Lexis Hotel Group provides discerning leisure and business guests with practical and luxurious accommodations across various properties in Malaysia. It is steadfast in offering professional management services for hotels and resorts and has successfully built a strong, profitable and visible premier niche brand in the hospitality industry especially in managing award-winning unique water chalets as well as pool villas. The brand currently manages three properties, namely Lexis, Grand Lexis and Lexis Hibiscus, all located in Port Dickson. Another upscale property, Lexis Suites Penang, opened for business in 1st quarter of 2016.

 To contact reservations team please email: reservations@lexishibiscuspd.com

Or book online at: http://www.lexishibiscuspd.com

 

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A modern chic experience at Carana Beach Hotel

As one of the new hotels in the Seychelles, Carana Beach Hotel is certainly expected to raise a new standard in luxury accommodation. Boasting 40 private chalets, it is the only boutique hotel on Mahé’s azure north shore.

The chalets are spacious and stylishly furnished with modern accents and true attention to detail, each with covered decks offering spectacular views that promise to keep you captivated! The bathrooms are marvelously designed to convert into a steaming sauna room, complete with mood lighting and ample seating.

The architects and designers have truly succeeded in integrating the splendour of the Seychelles into the look and feel of the hotel – lying on your bed you can almost feel the gentle waves breaking at your feet as the fresh air breathes through the chalet.

The resort boasts gardens that are not only beautiful but also provide an organic privacy barrier between the chalets, which keeps in line with the resort’s commitment to ecological preservation.

Dinner at Lorizon Restaurant was an absolute delight. With many of the ingredients being regularly flown in from the owners’ Denis Island, and the dinner menu rotating at least 2 dishes every night, it is clear that Food and Beverage Manager, Chia, is dedicated to providing a culinary experience that is fresh in every sense of the word.

Likewise, the aroma of freshly baked croissants set the scene for a breakfast buffet that is laden with delicacies.

The beach bar presents a lovely laid-back atmosphere with live music on certain nights – be sure to try barman Danyl’s very own ‘Le Diz’ cocktail made with spice-infused rum.

“Special compliments to front-of-house team Dean and Martin for tending to our every need, and Public Relations Manager Nicole for creating an authentic Seychelles experience!”

Guest Signe Da Silva – Awards Representative

Contact information

To book contact info@caranabeach.com

Or view this beautiful award winning hotel online via www.caranabeach.com

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The Tintswalo Atlantic – A Magical Escape in the Table Mountain National Park

The meaning of Tintswalo is “The intangible feeling of warmth and gratitude you bestow upon someone who has given you a worthy and meaningful gift”.

Tintswalo Atlantic is a magical luxury escape with ocean-facing views in the Table Mountain National Park.
Upon arrival, we were greeted personally by the operations manager, Tatum. She showed us to our suite and gave us an interesting history of the property while making sure we were as comfortable as possible. Impeccably restored from the ravaging Cape fires – this exquisite lodge gleams with new dreaminess and luxurious flair.

We checked into the Ithica Suite, a gorgeous room designed in the traditional Greek blue and white colour scheme, also reflecting the ocean and its classic hues. The fireplace and 300-year-old tree just beyond our private balcony were my definite favourites.


Later we arrived for canapes and dinner to be greeted as well as served by the friendliest staff member, Vuyu. While we enjoyed some flavourful sundowners on the deck we took in the stunning sea views. To our surprise and absolute delight, we enjoyed front-row-seats watching whales splashing about from our table which was truly awe-inspiring. Life does not get better than this!

Sundowners with a view of the bay

The chef prepared an iconic South African inspired, 5-course meal with tastes to suit each palate, not a bite was wasted.
The special for breakfast was one of the most amazing meals my husband and I have ever shared.

During breakfast, we were greeted by General Manager Team Ryno and his lovely wife Melissa.

Upon checking out we were graciously met again by Melissa and we did the traditional wishing stone ceremony with her. Each guest who visits the boutique lodge is presented with a stone from the pebbled beach when they leave, it is then thrown back into the ocean accompanied by a special wish from the heart.

“My wish is to visit again! Thank you to the Tintswalo Atlantic team, your 5-star reputation is well deserved.”

Guest Adele Hamman

Book via Email: reception@atlantic.tintswalo.com or  Website: www.tintswalo.com/atlantic