Tạp chí du lịch KANOO du lịch đến Trung Đông tháng 2 năm 2013

Produced in International Media Production Zone
THE MIDDLE EAST’S BIGGEST TRAVEL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2013
WIN!
A weekend stay at the Grand
Millennium Dubai
Animal
C h a r m

Why your kids
would love a
Kenyan safari
Düsseldorf
Germany’s go-to
city for culture
Puerto Rico
The Latin flavour well
worth savouring
Bali
Sophie Lam heads to the authentic heart of luxury
8
heart-tugging
escapes in
the GCC
KWT Cover_ Feb.indd 1 1/28/13 3:20 PM
Untitled-8 2 1/28/13 5:25 PM
Untitled-8 3 1/28/13 5:24 PM
Untitled-8 3 1/28/13 5:24 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 3
KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER
Welcome to the issue
As we all accustom ourselves to 2013 and prepare to bid farewell to the

cold weather, I would like to welcome you all to our February issue. As
always, my team and I look forward to helping you experience the most
memorable journey.
In this issue we take you from Germany’s bourgeoning city of
Düsseldorf, also known as the ‘Knightsbridge of the Rhine’, to the must-
visit city of Kosice, this year’s European City of Culture. And from the
beauty of Bali to the plains of Kenya, for a novel idea of where you can
take the kids this half term holiday. As always, we’re giving you the
chance to win yourself a luxury weekend away, this time in Dubai at the
Grand Millennium hotel.
I take this opportunity to announce that January has been a particularly
special month for Kanoo Travel as we celebrated the success of 2012,
and I thank every associate in the company for their hard work and
dedication. I also extend my thanks to our valued customers who have
remained loyal and supported us through dicult times. I congratulate
our Divisional Travel Management team and the Kanoo Travel UAE
team for the successful launch of Kanoo’s newest and finest Corporate
Contact Center in Karama last month, the customer feedback received
has been extremely encouraging.
Enjoy the issue.
Nabeel Kanoo
Director
Kanoo Travel
KWT Welcome_ Feb.indd 3 1/27/13 5:37 PM
©2010–2012 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Preferred Guest, SPG,
St. Regis and their logos are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its aliates.
a legacy of luxury.
now at over 30 of the world’s
finest hotels & resorts.
africa the americas asia

europe the middle east
stregis.com
SOPHISTICATED
LEISURE AT THE
FINEST ADDRESS
IN QATAR
Escape to an exclusive beach
with private oceanfront cabanas.
Slip into an Olympic-size pool
or take a dip in the inviting blue
waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Revel in water sports that
excite or soothe, arranged by a
St. Regis Butler. Savor flavors
from ten extraordinary restaurants
including Gordon Ramsay,
the master chef’s signature ode
to Qatar. The joy of leisure
redefined by The St. Regis Doha.
Come, explore.
al gassar resort at west bay
stregisdoha.com
974.4446.0000
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 3
KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER
Welcome to the issue
As we all accustom ourselves to 2013 and prepare to bid farewell to the
cold weather, I would like to welcome you all to our February issue. As
always, my team and I look forward to helping you experience the most
memorable journey.

In this issue we take you from Germany’s bourgeoning city of
Düsseldorf, also known as the ‘Knightsbridge of the Rhine’, to the must-
visit city of Kosice, this year’s European City of Culture. And from the
beauty of Bali to the plains of Kenya, for a novel idea of where you can
take the kids this half term holiday. As always, we’re giving you the
chance to win yourself a luxury weekend away, this time in Dubai at the
Grand Millennium hotel.
I take this opportunity to announce that January has been a particularly
special month for Kanoo Travel as we celebrated the success of 2012,
and I thank every associate in the company for their hard work and
dedication. I also extend my thanks to our valued customers who have
remained loyal and supported us through dicult times. I congratulate
our Divisional Travel Management team and the Kanoo Travel UAE
team for the successful launch of Kanoo’s newest and finest Corporate
Contact Center in Karama last month, the customer feedback received
has been extremely encouraging.
Enjoy the issue.
Nabeel Kanoo
Director
Kanoo Travel
KWT Welcome_ Feb.indd 3 1/27/13 5:37 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 5
07 check in
We look at the GCC’s most romantic
destinations and marvel at the history
of The Peninsula Hotel, Hong Kong
18 competition
Win a weekend break for two at the
Grand Millennium Dubai Hotel
20 Where to stay

Head to Barcelona for hip hotels and
architectural wonders galore
26 picture this
Feast your eyes on these unbelievable
destinations, guaranteed to tempt
66 Visit: rio De Janeiro
Rio’s incredible landscape and carnival
spirit are irresistible, says Leah Oatway
68 Visit: carDiFF
Wales’ capital is a city destination to be
reckoned with, as KWT discovers
72 suite Dreams
Blissful seclusion and high-end Arabian
luxury await guests of the Royal Villa at
Doha’s Sharq Village and Spa
33 kenya
A family safari to hidden game park
Laikipia dispels security preconceptions
40 kosice
This year’s co-capital of European
culture has an intriguing history
44 bali
Sophie Lam unravels the traditional
Balinese code for living
52 puerto rico
Fran Yeoman explores the cultural tug-
of-war taking place across the island
60 DüsselDorF
Germany’s business hub has a host of
luxurious treats for weekend visitors

TR AV EL BITES
FEATURES
CONTENTS
KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER FEBRUARY 2013
Managing Director: Victoria Thatcher
Editorial Director: John Thatcher
Advertisement Director: Chris Capstick

+971 4 369 0917
Editor: Leah Oatway

Designers: Adam Sneade, Vanessa Arnaud
Production Manager: Haneef Abdul
Senior Advertisement Manager:
Stefanie Morgner

+971 4 446 1558
Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are
correct at time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Kanoo World Traveller.
Jan-Jun 2012
22,953
BPA Consumer Audit
Produced by: HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC
Woman in
traditional
clothing, carrying
baskets of animal
fodder, through
rice terraces
52

40
33 60
44
KWT Contents_ Feb.indd 5 1/28/13 3:29 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 5
07 check in
We look at the GCC’s most romantic
destinations and marvel at the history
of The Peninsula Hotel, Hong Kong
18 competition
Win a weekend break for two at the
Grand Millennium Dubai Hotel
20 Where to stay
Head to Barcelona for hip hotels and
architectural wonders galore
26 picture this
Feast your eyes on these unbelievable
destinations, guaranteed to tempt
66 Visit: rio De Janeiro
Rio’s incredible landscape and carnival
spirit are irresistible, says Leah Oatway
68 Visit: carDiFF
Wales’ capital is a city destination to be
reckoned with, as KWT discovers
72 suite Dreams
Blissful seclusion and high-end Arabian
luxury await guests of the Royal Villa at
Doha’s Sharq Village and Spa
33 kenya
A family safari to hidden game park

Laikipia dispels security preconceptions
40 kosice
This year’s co-capital of European
culture has an intriguing history
44 bali
Sophie Lam unravels the traditional
Balinese code for living
52 puerto rico
Fran Yeoman explores the cultural tug-
of-war taking place across the island
60 DüsselDorF
Germany’s business hub has a host of
luxurious treats for weekend visitors
TR AV EL BITES
FEATURES
CONTENTS
KANOO WORLD TRAVELLER FEBRUARY 2013
Managing Director: Victoria Thatcher
Editorial Director: John Thatcher
Advertisement Director: Chris Capstick

+971 4 369 0917
Editor: Leah Oatway

Designers: Adam Sneade, Vanessa Arnaud
Production Manager: Haneef Abdul
Senior Advertisement Manager:
Stefanie Morgner

+971 4 446 1558

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from HOT Media Publishing is strictly prohibited. All prices mentioned are
correct at time of press but may change. HOT Media Publishing does not accept liability for omissions or errors in Kanoo World Traveller.
Jan-Jun 2012
22,953
BPA Consumer Audit
Produced by: HOT Media Publishing FZ LLC
Woman in
traditional
clothing, carrying
baskets of animal
fodder, through
rice terraces
52
40
33 60
44
KWT Contents_ Feb.indd 5 1/28/13 3:29 PM
CHECK IN
BE INFORMED, BE INSPIRED, BE THERE
GET A ROOM
The GCC region is ripe with
romantic destinations to suit
all tastes this Valentine’s…
global
CheCk in | news
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 7
SIX SENSES ZIGHY BAY, OMAN
It has never been dicult to find romance in
this secluded Omani paradise, with its sandy
white beaches, dramatic mountain backdrop,

private villas and award-winning spa. But
this Valentine’s Day, Six Senses Zighy Bay is
pulling out all the stops to ensure couples
feel the love. Having washed away city stress
with a dip in the private plunge pool of your
luxury villa, any lingering aches or stress
knots will melt away following an hour-
long rose-oil and hot stone massage, and
30-minute rose-infused facial. End the night
with an aphrodisiac course-by-course dining
experience, at sunset, overlooking Zighy Bay.
Irresistable. Sixsenses.com
ATLANTIS, THE PALM, DUBAI
Those looking for an intimate and magical
place to hide away this Valentine’s would
be hard pressed to find a more secluded
spot than an underwater suite. Descend
into the three-storey Neptune or Poseidon
suite at Atlantis, The Palm, and you will find
yourself immersed in a fairytale. Floor-to-
wall windows in the bathroom and bedroom
reveal the imagined underwater ruins of a lost
and ancient city along with its spellbinding
inhabitants: tens of thousands of brightly
coloured fish, including piranhas, as well as
sharks, eels and seahorses. With a butler on
hand to cater to your every need, you may
never want to resurface. Atlantisthepalm.com
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 7 1/27/13 8:05 PM
CHECK IN

BE INFORMED, BE INSPIRED, BE THERE
GET A ROOM
The GCC region is ripe with
romantic destinations to suit
all tastes this Valentine’s…
global
CheCk in | news
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 7
SIX SENSES ZIGHY BAY, OMAN
It has never been dicult to find romance in
this secluded Omani paradise, with its sandy
white beaches, dramatic mountain backdrop,
private villas and award-winning spa. But
this Valentine’s Day, Six Senses Zighy Bay is
pulling out all the stops to ensure couples
feel the love. Having washed away city stress
with a dip in the private plunge pool of your
luxury villa, any lingering aches or stress
knots will melt away following an hour-
long rose-oil and hot stone massage, and
30-minute rose-infused facial. End the night
with an aphrodisiac course-by-course dining
experience, at sunset, overlooking Zighy Bay.
Irresistable. Sixsenses.com
ATLANTIS, THE PALM, DUBAI
Those looking for an intimate and magical
place to hide away this Valentine’s would
be hard pressed to find a more secluded
spot than an underwater suite. Descend
into the three-storey Neptune or Poseidon

suite at Atlantis, The Palm, and you will find
yourself immersed in a fairytale. Floor-to-
wall windows in the bathroom and bedroom
reveal the imagined underwater ruins of a lost
and ancient city along with its spellbinding
inhabitants: tens of thousands of brightly
coloured fish, including piranhas, as well as
sharks, eels and seahorses. With a butler on
hand to cater to your every need, you may
never want to resurface. Atlantisthepalm.com
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 7 1/27/13 8:05 PM
Untitled-2 1 1/14/13 11:18 AM
8 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller
INTERCONTINENTAL DUBAI
FESTIVAL CITY, DUBAI
Nothing says romance quite like a candlelit
dinner and nowhere oers a romantic dinner
quite like Reflets par Pierre Gagnaire. With
its waterfront setting, opulent décor - think
pink chandeliers, mother-of-pearl walls and
plush fuschia seating - and a three-Michelin
star chef overseeing the menu, this ultra chic
restaurant is the perfect place to show the
foodie in your life you care, with a five-course
dinner guaranteed to fill hearts as well as
stomachs. Walk o dinner with a late night
stroll along the banks of the historic creek,
before retiring to the palatial comfort of the
Royal Suite. Inte rcontinental.co m
PARK HYATT, JEDDAH

With breathtaking views of the Red Sea and
the world’s tallest fountain (King Fahd’s
fountain) dancing in the moonlight, the Royal
Suite of Jeddah’s Park Hyatt hotel is the
perfect city escape this Valentine’s. Ask the
ever hospitable sta to add an extra touch
of romance to your stay and you’ll arrive to a
room adorned with roses, candles, chocolate-
dipped strawberries and more. Add to that
a delicious room service menu and there’s no
reason to leave the blissful cocoon of your
suite. For those able to tear themselves away,
indulge in hydrotherapy at the hotel’s spa or
shower your loved ones with gifts at the on-
site shopping mall. Jeddah.park.hyatt.com
MADINAT JUMEIRAH, DUBAI
Picture the scene: you arrive at the Madinat
Jumeirah, check in and find yourself being
whisked away in a Rolls Royce to the nearby
Burj al Arab, where a helicopter is waiting
for you on its rooftop. You depart on an
enchanting sky tour. Back at the Madinat,
a team of top chefs has prepared a private
dinner for you on a terrace adorned with your
favourite flower. A classic trio sets the mood
and the evening is captured by a professional
photographer. When dinner is over, you retire
to the Presidential or Royal Suite. Madinat
Jumeirah is oering Dubai residents this
exclusive Valentine’s date: grand gestures

don’t come much grander. Jumeirah.com
QASR AL SARAB, ABU DHABI
As dreamy Arabian landscapes go, few can
rival the unspoilt majesty of Liwa desert,
with its rolling golden dunes and starry
night sky. The former home of the ruling Al
Nayan family, Liwa is also home to one of
the country’s most luxurious resorts: Qasr Al
Sarab. Which is good news for those looking
to enjoy an Arabian adventure this Valentine’s
Day. Unwind with a dip in the free-form pool
or take a romantic camel ride across the
dunes before dining amidst the amber dunes,
with your own private butler to serve you, as
the sun sets on this postcard-perfect setting.
Qasralsarab.anantara.com
ST REGIS, DOHA
From the airport greeting service that
ensures a swift and trouble-free arrival to
the 24-hour butler service on hand to cater
to your every whim, everything about the
St Regis’ Presidential Suite promises a truly
A-list Valentine’s experience. Reserve an
exclusive cabana and unwind on your private
sundeck before retiring to your three-room,
two-storey suite. After a soak in one of the
super deep bathtubs, you can toast your
relationship from the private rooftop terrace
overlooking the turquoise waters of the Gulf.
A stay at this plush Middle Eastern gem is

sure to leave you with that loving feeling.
Stregisdoha.com
HOTEL MISSONI, KUWAIT
The style lover in your life is guaranteed to
fall head over heels at this glamorous and
uplifting designer abode. With its warm
Italian hospitality, trademark multicoloured
stripes, geometric patterns and florals,
Missoni’s Kuwait hotel provides the perfect
setting for a playful and luxurious Valentine’s
weekend. Drink in the ocean views over a
mocktail from the comfort of the daybed
on the vast terrace of the Suite d’Oro. After
a sumptuous dinner at the ultra chic Luna
restaurant, slip into a comfortable and
much-coveted Missoni robe and slippers and
relax with a film from the complimentary
collection. Perfection. Hotelmissoni.com
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 8 1/28/13 3:29 PM
Untitled-2 1 1/14/13 11:18 AM
Untitled-6 1 1/27/13 5:58 PM
10 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller
Standing at just over 1,000 feet, The Shard is now the tallest building in Western
Europe. KWT looks at how it measures up to the best of the rest around the world…
300
metres
Eiffel Tower Shard Empire State Petronas Burj Khalifa
310
metres
381

metres
452
metres
828
metres
800m
700m
600m
500m
400m
300m
200m
100m
800m
700m
600m
500m
400m
300m
200m
100m
Reaching new heights
The wait is over. The must-see landmark of 2013, London’s The Shard, is finally open to the public. KWT takes a look…
uK
More than a decade after plans for The
Shard were first announced, the building
that has redefined London’s famous skyline
forever is finally open to the general public.
Standing at 310 metres, the colossal light-
reflecting tower is now Western Europe’s

tallest building. In a city filled with historical
architecture and
internationally
renowned
landmarks, it would
take something
pretty special
to capture the
imagination of its
spoilt-for-choice
inhabitants. So
the fact that The
Shard is already
considered a
must-see landmark
of 2013 speaks
volumes for the
success of Italian Master Architect Renzo
Piano’s ‘vertical city’. Towering above
the city’s London Bridge Quarter in the
swanky South Bank district, the razor-sharp
structure boasts oces, restaurants and
residences. And, at twice the height of any
other viewing platform in the city, the views
are spectacular. Take a “kaleidoscopic” lift
to the 69th floor and you will be treated
to a 360-degree view that extends more
than 64 kilometres out to the coast and
Windsor Castle on a clear day. Draw your
eyes closer in and you will spot a plethora

of London icons – including Buckingham
Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster.
Those brave enough to venture even further
skyward, to The Shard’s highest habitable
point on level 72, can stand in the open
air above ground. While not for the faint
hearted, from here, through the gaps, you
can hear London’s streets. Wait until next
month and you could improve your chance
of experiencing the building’s spectacular
views by opting to stay there. The fabulously
luxurious Shangri-La Hotel opens its doors in
March and, with 202 rooms occupying floors
34 to 53 of the tower, it will boast some
of the best views of the city. What better
location for the British debut of one of the
world’s most opulent hotel brands?
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 10 1/27/13 8:05 PM
Untitled-6 1 1/27/13 5:58 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 13
CheCk in | news
MAGICAL MALAYSIA
3 nights in Singapore,
3 nights in Kuala Lumpur
From $835 p/p
Set your own pace on this Asian adventure,
which starts in Singapore. The bustling me-
tropolis oers the perfect city escape, with
something for everyone: whether it’s some
serious retail therapy on the city’s Orchard

Road, with its vast array of luxury stores, or
sampling the culinary delights on oer at
the city’s many restaurants or cafes. Culture
vultures have a plethora of museums and gal-
leries to explore, while those looking to get
closer to nature in the “Garden City” would
do well to check out the world’s largest col-
lection of orchids in its Botanic Garden. Come
nightfall, go on a safari at the award-winning,
cage-free rainforest zoo.
From here, it’s on to the bright lights and
architectural delights of Kuala Lumpur. Not
only is this city a shopper’s paradise, it also
has its fair share of attractions – from the
landmark Petronas Towers to the old British
colonial buildings. Those looking to get out
of the city for a day will find respite on the
Genting Highlands tour. Just an hour out of
the city, at 2,000 metres below sea level,
this Malaysian hill resort nestled within the
Titiwangsa Mountains oers a cooler climate
than the often hot and humid city. Take a
cable car ride to the resort, soaring through
lush, green-forested highlands to the vast
resort. Indulge your inner child at its outdoor
theme park before returning to the comfort
of your city hotel.
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 13 1/27/13 8:06 PM
12 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller
great escapes

Take your pick from this month’s best deals from Kanoo Travel
hot offers
DISCOVER NEPAL
7 days, 6 nights
From $665 p/p
Enthusiastic explorers of culture will love this week-long
immersion in Nepal’s diverse culture and topography
– which starts the moment you touch down in Kath-
mandu. After checking in, you’ll head for dinner at Utsav
restaurant, an authentic Nepalese restaurant filled with
live music and dance.
What Nepal lacks in size it more than makes up for
in heritage. You’ll experience the best of the country’s
attractions – starting with Kathmandu Durbar Square, or
Hanuman Dhoka Durbar, the ancient palace at the heart
of the city. And then there’s the incredible landscape:
take an optional flight over Nepal’s breathtaking moun-
tain range to enjoy Everest, Annapurna and Langtang
Himalayan range. Prepare to lose a day mesmerised by
the monuments within the ancient city of Patan, known
as the city of arts, before taking a short flight to Pokhara.
At Lake Side, you can marvel at the reflection of Mount
Machhapuchhre on the freshwater Phewa Lake over a
leisurely lunch and boat ride, before heading to Tiger
Mountain Lodge for the night. After a morning at this
tranquil haven, set above the Pokhara Valley, you’ll head
to Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave. Scramble through a low
tunnel and you’ll find yourself behind the deafening
waters of Devi’s Falls.
Back in Kathmandu, there is just time to marvel at

Nagarkot’s famous Himalayan views before heading to
the ancient Newar town of Bhaktapur, filled with elabo-
rately carved monuments, palaces and temples: a fitting
end to an unforgettable Nepalese experience.
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 12 1/28/13 3:30 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 13
CheCk in | news
MAGICAL MALAYSIA
3 nights in Singapore,
3 nights in Kuala Lumpur
From $835 p/p
Set your own pace on this Asian adventure,
which starts in Singapore. The bustling me-
tropolis oers the perfect city escape, with
something for everyone: whether it’s some
serious retail therapy on the city’s Orchard
Road, with its vast array of luxury stores, or
sampling the culinary delights on oer at
the city’s many restaurants or cafes. Culture
vultures have a plethora of museums and gal-
leries to explore, while those looking to get
closer to nature in the “Garden City” would
do well to check out the world’s largest col-
lection of orchids in its Botanic Garden. Come
nightfall, go on a safari at the award-winning,
cage-free rainforest zoo.
From here, it’s on to the bright lights and
architectural delights of Kuala Lumpur. Not
only is this city a shopper’s paradise, it also
has its fair share of attractions – from the

landmark Petronas Towers to the old British
colonial buildings. Those looking to get out
of the city for a day will find respite on the
Genting Highlands tour. Just an hour out of
the city, at 2,000 metres below sea level,
this Malaysian hill resort nestled within the
Titiwangsa Mountains oers a cooler climate
than the often hot and humid city. Take a
cable car ride to the resort, soaring through
lush, green-forested highlands to the vast
resort. Indulge your inner child at its outdoor
theme park before returning to the comfort
of your city hotel.
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 13 1/27/13 8:06 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 15
CheCk in | news
The Pearl of the Orient
This month, we head to Hong Kong to take a closer look at the illustrious
history of The Peninsula Hotel, which has been at the top of its game for 85 years…
Historic Hotels
Hong Kong’s Grande Dame has seen some
things in her time. A bastion of style and lux-
ury since she opened in 1928, The Peninsula
has survived war and military occupation,
rubbed shoulders with royalty and welcomed
Hollywood’s finest, past and present, into her
ever hospitable fold. Eighty-five years and a
stunning makeover later, Hong Kong’s only
surviving historical hotel is still regarded as
the best in the land.

The Peninsula’s fascinating story begins
in the 1880s, when two members of the
wealthy Kadoorie family – Ellis and Elly - left
Bombay and travelled East to Hong Kong
and Shanghai, respectively. A decade later,
having experienced considerable success, Elly
purchased shares in The Hong Kong Hotels
Company Limited. It was to be the start of the
Kadoorie family’s long-standing relationship
with The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels
Limited, which continues to this day.
In the early 1920s, they decided to build a
new hotel at the edge of Hong Kong’s Victo-
ria Harbour, or Kowloon. Perfectly located at
the busy junction, where increasing numbers
of wealthy ocean liner passengers and travel-
lers on the trans-Siberian rail link disem-
barked, the Kadoories had one aim: to create
the finest hotel east of Suez. In fact, it was to
become one of the finest in the world.
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 15 1/27/13 8:06 PM
Untitled-7 1 1/28/13 5:12 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 15
CheCk in | news
The Pearl of the Orient
This month, we head to Hong Kong to take a closer look at the illustrious
history of The Peninsula Hotel, which has been at the top of its game for 85 years…
Historic Hotels
Hong Kong’s Grande Dame has seen some
things in her time. A bastion of style and lux-

ury since she opened in 1928, The Peninsula
has survived war and military occupation,
rubbed shoulders with royalty and welcomed
Hollywood’s finest, past and present, into her
ever hospitable fold. Eighty-five years and a
stunning makeover later, Hong Kong’s only
surviving historical hotel is still regarded as
the best in the land.
The Peninsula’s fascinating story begins
in the 1880s, when two members of the
wealthy Kadoorie family – Ellis and Elly - left
Bombay and travelled East to Hong Kong
and Shanghai, respectively. A decade later,
having experienced considerable success, Elly
purchased shares in The Hong Kong Hotels
Company Limited. It was to be the start of the
Kadoorie family’s long-standing relationship
with The Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels
Limited, which continues to this day.
In the early 1920s, they decided to build a
new hotel at the edge of Hong Kong’s Victo-
ria Harbour, or Kowloon. Perfectly located at
the busy junction, where increasing numbers
of wealthy ocean liner passengers and travel-
lers on the trans-Siberian rail link disem-
barked, the Kadoories had one aim: to create
the finest hotel east of Suez. In fact, it was to
become one of the finest in the world.
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 15 1/27/13 8:06 PM
Untitled-5 1 1/27/13 5:56 PM

16 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller
The hotel was ocially opened, amid much
excitement, in December 1928. Unsurpris-
ingly, its opulence and grandeur created a
stir among Hong Kong’s wealthy visitors,
including the famous and titled, and the
1930s were a magical time for a thriving and
modern Hong Kong and for The Peninsula, at
the heart of this exciting destination.
This ended abruptly on December 8, 1941,
when, mid-way through the Second World
War, the Japanese attacked Hong Kong.
Volunteer Hong Kong Defence Forces, sup-
ported by British, Canadian and India forces,
tried to resist the onslaught but were severely
outnumbered. After ferocious fighting, British
colonial ocials, led by the governor of Hong
Kong, Sir Mark Aitchison Young, surrendered
to the Japanese on the third floor of the
hotel on December 25, 1941. The capitulation,
or surrender treaty, was signed the follow-
ing day and the governor was reportedly
confined for two months in one of the hotel’s
suites before being deported to a Shanghai
prison.
For the next four years, the Japanese ruled
Hong Kong with an iron fist from the grand
interior of the harbourfront hotel. Rooms and
corridors once filled with auent and excit-
able travellers were now home to Japanese

ocers and high-ranking dignitaries. Once
targeted by well-dressed ladies looking to
indulge in afternoon tea, for the duration of
the war the hotel’s colonial façade became a
prime target for allied attacks.
In April 1942, when the Japanese removed
street and building signs and renamed them
in Japanese, The Peninsula Hotel became the
“Tōa Hotel” (meaning ‘East Asia Hotel’).
Finally, on August 15, 1945, six days after
the United States dropped the atomic bomb
on Nagasaki, Japanese forces surrendered.
British sovereignty was restored in Hong
Kong and The Peninsula Hotel took back its
original name.
In the years that followed, Hong Kong’s
Grande Dame was restored to her former
glory. Signature style and grandeur in tact,
she welcomed back the world’s finest digni-
taries and celebrities. Among a heady list of
guests, which continues to grow, were former
United States’ Presidents, Nepalese royals
and Hollywood icons: from Marlon Brando to
Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant to Elizabeth Taylor.
In 1970, the hotel bought its first fleet of
seven Rolls Royce Silver Shadows. It was the
largest single order for the esteemed car
marque – a tradition that continues today
with The Peninsula’s fleet of 14 Phantoms.
This partnership with the iconic British brand

was to lead to another: four years later, in
“The Man with the Golden Gun”, James Bond
(played by Roger Moore) followed Scaraman-
ga’s mistress Andrea Anders to The Peninsula
Hotel to confront her. His assistant, Mary
Goodnight, tells an impressed Bond about
the hotel’s fleet of green Rolls Royces.
This was not to be the hotel’s last foray into
film. Some 30 years later, in 2007, its helipad
featured in the Batman blockbuster “The
Dark Knight”. The helipad had been added
to the hotel in 1994 as part of an expansion
project that saw a 28-storey tower almost
double the hotel’s capacity. Despite this
modern addition, the colonial façade and
decadent lobby and reception area remained
untouched. Last year, to celebrate the hotel’s
85th birthday, a HK$450 million makeover
of the hotel’s interior began. The redesign
reflects Hong Kong’s passion for innova-
tion and technology, while maintaining the
classic elegance and style that has kept The
Peninsula at the top of its game for almost a
century. peninsula.com/hongkong
KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 16 1/27/13 8:06 PM
Untitled-5 1 1/27/13 5:56 PM
18 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller
Hot offers
Whether you choose to spend it trawling the aisles of the city malls looking for bargains,
chilling poolside with a soft drink and your favourite book or indulging in some much-needed

pampering; everyone could benefit from a weekend break at a luxury hotel. And there are
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when night falls, there are several first-rate restaurants in which to dine - including Dante,
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before February 28, 2013
Q. What is the name of the Grand
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b) Jasmine
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Terms and conditions:
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Win a weekend break at the Grand
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KWT_Check In_ Feb1.indd 18 1/28/13 3:30 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 21

luxury doha
Experience Qatar’s most lavish hotel oerings
kwt promotion
KWT Luxury Qatar_ Jan.indd 21 1/28/13 5:48 PM
20 February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller

OR
Hotel Casa Fuster
hote lescenter.es
Steeped in architectural history
and close to La Sagrada Família,
you’ll find artists and intellectuals
galore here. People watch over
tea at the legendary Café Vienés.
Gran Hotel La Florida
hotellaflorida.com
Perched on Mount Tibidado,
this 88-year-old hotel remains
one of the best in the city, with
the most spectacular view.
Just outside the city centre, this
lovingly restored and historic
hotel oers a peaceful and
luxurious stay. And if it was
good enough for Rock Hudson
and Ernest Hemingway
Grand Hotel Central
grandhotelcentral.com
The rooftop infinity pool of this
hip hotel, set in Barcelona’s

fashionable Born district, oers
magical views of the city’s
Gothic area. With the most
interesting places a short walk
away, refuel after a busy day
sightseeing by dining at the
hotel restaurant run by award-
winning chef Ramón Freixa.
Hotel Omm
hotelomm.es
Its Asian-inspired lines, natural
light and understated modern
elegance provide an oasis
of calm in a buzzing city.
Rejuvenate at the Spacciom spa.
Granados 83
derbyhotels.com
This hotel oers modern luxury
with a distinct art deco flavour.
Marble, steel and glass meet bare
brick and leather for a unique
and stylish city getaway.
El Palace
hotelpalacebarcelona.com
Filled with the decadent glamour
of a bygone era, this hotel is
perfectly positioned to explore
Las Ramblas and the most
prestigious shopping area.
START

OR
Modernist marvel Decadent delight
OR
Vintage beauty Historic treasure
OR
Period charm City style
OR
Artistic getaway Tranquil haven
OR
Hipster chic Sleek
WHERE TO STAY
BARCELONA
With festivals galore, February in Spain’s second largest city is perfect for shaking
o the last of those winter blues. Check out these stylish abodes
KWT_Where to stay_ Feb.indd 20 1/28/13 6:49 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 21
luxury doha
Experience Qatar’s most lavish hotel oerings
kwt promotion
KWT Luxury Qatar_ Jan.indd 21 1/28/13 5:48 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 23
kwt promotion
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
ritzcarlton.com/doha
Those seeking all of the warmth and comfort
of home, with all of the luxurious trappings
of a five-star resort, need look no further
than the Club and Suite experience at
Ritz-Carlton’s stunning Doha property. Much
like its home city, the hotel oers an alluring

blend of the cultural and contemporary.
Whether travelling for business or pleasure,
the hotel’s Club Level, on the 23rd floor,
oers an exclusive, tranquil hideaway to
retreat to. After a busy day, take the weight
o tired feet, sink into the plush surrounds
of the Club Lounge and refuel in style with
the Ritz-Carlton, Doha’s delicious afternoon
tea - including signature scones, sandwiches,
French pastries and the finest of teas. Here,
sumptuous fabrics in warm inviting colours
fuse with elegant touches of gold, creating
the perfect ambience from which to enjoy
breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian
Gulf’s glistening turquoise waters and the
property’s exclusive marina.
Retreat to your suite, reached only by keyed
elevator access, and find yourself amid a
secluded, opulent Middle Eastern haven
rich in texture and colour: think silk wall
coverings, handcrafted furnishings and
regional artwork hanging on walls. Those
able to muster the resolve to leave their
suite should take advantage of the culinary
presentations available throughout the day
at the Club Lounge or venture to one of eight
on-site restaurants for a meal to remember.
KWT Luxury Qatar_ Jan.indd 23 1/28/13 5:49 PM
22 February 2012 Kanoo World Traveller
The St regis doha

stregisdoha.com
Whether it’s a club sandwich lovingly
sprinkled with herbs and spices from Doha’s
souk or an avant-garde dining experience at
Gordon Ramsay’s eponymous restaurant, The
St Regis Doha is the ultimate destination for
foodies. With 10 very dierent dining options,
heed advice from the hotel’s butler before
delving into the delights on oer to ensure
your meal choice satisfies your mood; rest
assured there is something for everyone.
Dark and decadent, with modern furnishings
and moody lighting, Hakkasan is on a
mission to elevate authentic Chinese cuisine,
particularly Cantonese, to the echelons of
fine contemporary dining. And it is likely
to achieve it: just indulge at its special Dim
Sum Lunch on a Friday to see for yourself.
For an understated and elegant fine dining
experience, head to Gordon Ramsay, headed
by Michelin-starred, Ramsay-trained chef
Gilles Bosquet. A more relaxed, but no less
special, evening can be found at Ramsay’s
sister restaurant Opal: think bistro-style
dining complete with two live gourmet pizza
and raw stations.
Incredible steak and seafood is served with
more than a pinch of retro New York dining at
the Astor Grill. The restaurant is a tribute to
John Jacob Astor IV, who founded the first St

Regis Hotel in New York more than a century
ago. And then there’s the best Lebanese
restaurant in Doha – Al Sultan Brahim. The
original restaurant, legendary for its fish
dishes, was founded in Jnah, Beirut, in 1968
by the El-Ramy brother and now they have
brought their unique culinary talent to Doha
with this second restaurant.
A stay in Doha has never looked so
appetising…
KWT Luxury Qatar_ Jan.indd 22 1/28/13 5:49 PM
February 2013 Kanoo World Traveller 23
kwt promotion
The Ritz-Carlton, Doha
ritzcarlton.com/doha
Those seeking all of the warmth and comfort
of home, with all of the luxurious trappings
of a five-star resort, need look no further
than the Club and Suite experience at
Ritz-Carlton’s stunning Doha property. Much
like its home city, the hotel oers an alluring
blend of the cultural and contemporary.
Whether travelling for business or pleasure,
the hotel’s Club Level, on the 23rd floor,
oers an exclusive, tranquil hideaway to
retreat to. After a busy day, take the weight
o tired feet, sink into the plush surrounds
of the Club Lounge and refuel in style with
the Ritz-Carlton, Doha’s delicious afternoon
tea - including signature scones, sandwiches,

French pastries and the finest of teas. Here,
sumptuous fabrics in warm inviting colours
fuse with elegant touches of gold, creating
the perfect ambience from which to enjoy
breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian
Gulf’s glistening turquoise waters and the
property’s exclusive marina.
Retreat to your suite, reached only by keyed
elevator access, and find yourself amid a
secluded, opulent Middle Eastern haven
rich in texture and colour: think silk wall
coverings, handcrafted furnishings and
regional artwork hanging on walls. Those
able to muster the resolve to leave their
suite should take advantage of the culinary
presentations available throughout the day
at the Club Lounge or venture to one of eight
on-site restaurants for a meal to remember.
KWT Luxury Qatar_ Jan.indd 23 1/28/13 5:49 PM