By Rama Gaind.
A brand new luxury retreat in Labuan Bajo, Flores, will surely be a holiday destination to bear in mind in the not-too-distant future. An authentic Indonesian beachfront sanctuary will be worth a visit after the global Caronavirus pandemic ends.
Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo, is being crafted by Bali-based architecture studio ESA International.
The director of Sudamala Resorts, Emily Subrata, describes it as a one-of-a-kind resort that depicts the charm and beauty of its destination.
“We want to introduce international-standard hospitality to Labuan Bajo, while also promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage,” Emily said. “ESA International’s expert team of architects have embraced our vision of creating the first true resort in the region’s hottest destination, and we look forward to presenting this outstanding property to the world in 2020.”
Labuan Bajo is a former fishing village that used to be visited by the Bajo tribe, a seafaring group from Sulawesi who finally settled in the area and assimilated with the local people. Their influence can be discovered at the new suites and villas that blend the native style of village dwellings with the dramatic thatched conical roofs that are unique to this part of Indonesia.
Located on the spectacular, unspoiled west coast of Flores in Indonesia’s East Nusa Tenggara, the new resort’s sensitive design will reflect the classical architectural style of this ancient region, with a concept showcasing traditional building techniques, local materials, authentic art and natural fabrics.
Facing the beach and blessed with breathtaking views of the Labuan Bajo Strait, the resort is sure to exude a deep sense of calm and freedom. It respects local wisdom and captures the spirit of the island, while helping to preserve the environment. Native trees have been preserved to encourage wildlife, provide shade and ensure a wonderfully tranquil ambience.
Bangkok’s elegant new boutique hotel
Villa de Pranakorn is an elegant new boutique hotel in Thailand’s capital Bangkok’s historic Sam Yot district, which is committed to a plastic-free future. Working with local eco-friendly company, Panpuri, the amenities are made from bamboo or packed in stone paper. The hotel also works with Nordaq, a water filtration company, to produce its own still drinking water onsite. This enables every hotel guest to refill their own glass water bottle free-of-charge during their stay, instead of using plastic versions.
The launch of Villa de Pranakorn comes at the ideal time for visitors to Bangkok, following the recent opening of Sam Yot MRT subway station. Just a short walk from the hotel, this brand-new light rail station is on the popular Blue Line and puts the entire city within easy reach.
The lively streets of Silom and Sukhumvit are only a few stops away, and Bangkok’s main railway station, Hua Lamphong, can be reached in just two stops. Further down the line, Chatuchak Park station allows shoppers to alight at one of Asia’s biggest markets.
Thailand’s world-famous street food can be savoured at a selection of roadside stalls, chic cafés and traditional shophouse restaurants such as Jay Fai, the famous Michelin-starred noodle joint. Then after dark, this trendy neighbourhood comes to life as locals and visitors rub shoulders at hip cocktail bars.
Nestled in the captivating old quarter, Villa de Pranakorn blends a refined urban style and luxury amenities with Thailand’s rich heritage, culture and cuisine. It’s the ideal base to escape the hustle-and-bustle of this 21st century metropolis to discover Bangkok’s old-world charm, including landmarks such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Yaowarat, the city’s vibrant Chinatown.
DETAILS BOX
Sudamala Suites & Villas, Komodo, Labuan Bajo, Indonesia
Villa de Pranakorn, Bangkok, Thailand
www.sudamalaresorts.com
www.villadepranakorn.com