TRAVEL NOTES
Macau Mandarin opens
For a different spin on Hong Kong, head to the island of Macau, just 45 minutes by ferry from central HK, where a brand new, super-luxe Mandarin Oriental has just opened. For those who fancy an idyll away from the intense gaming of the former Portuguese colony, there is no casino in the hotel. Instead, enjoy panoramic views of Taipa Island, Nam Van Lake, Macau Tower and the hills of the South China coastline. The hotel has a holistic spa and its Vida Rica restaurant and bar is the place to see and be seen. From £187 per night. www.mandarinoriental.com/macau.
Ramsay goes detox in Tuscany
This summer sees the launch of a new Italian Diet Menu at the beautiful detox centre, Castel Monastero. Not the most appealing name, but Gordon Ramsay and Angela Hartnett have weighed in to formulate a menu that will satisfy as much as it helps you detox. Think dishes such as herb-roasted chicken breast salad with toasted pistachio nuts and wild fennel dressing and sea bass al cartoccio with zucchini, leeks and a touch of brandy. Wellness Program is £1,163 (€1,300) per person for three days based on two sharing a double room. Tel: +39 0577 570001, www.castelmonastero.com.
Thailand’s Koh Samui’s latest edition
Say hello to the island of Koh Samui’s newest luxury addition, the Banyan Tree, with 78 spacious pool villas, iconic dining venues and Koh Samui’s first hydrotherapy spa, The Rainforest. It’s a hydrothermal circuit, comprising alternating hot and cold thermal cabins, for couples to embark on a trail of wellness treats. There’s a rain walk, aroma steam, Finnish sauna, bucket drench shower, ice fountain, Swiss shower and vitality pool. Gorgeous restaurants complete the experience. Introductory offer is £430 for a Deluxe Pool Villa per night with breakfast. To book, call 00800 300 20000 or email reservations-samui@banyantree.com.