Real Relaxation: The Venetian, Macau

The Venetian, Macau

Famous for its Venice, Italy design inspiration, The Venetian is a luxury hotel and casino resort in Macau, China.

The execution of the designers’ intention was on point. This picture would pass as a postcard, but being physically there was a whole new level – like being inside a postcard.

The structures were marvellous, actually looking like the ones in Italy. Even details of the place were carefully added. The colours used were fairly different, yet harmonized because of its warm tone. The fact that the canals mirrored the blue skies was very fitting. Having those two go together formed a calm mood in the midst of all the crazy shoppers surrounding the canal. The gondola ride is the cherry on top of the relaxation at the canal, slowly floating on the water as the gondoliers sang.

I think the whole concept of bringing Venice to Asia worked really well. It literally felt like I was in Italy, not China. I have no doubts as to why this place is such a tourist spot, it gives you the whole experience – hotel, resort, casino, shopping, food, all in one place! What more can you ask for?

Bikes and Baguettes: Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila

Spiral, Sofitel Manila

This Paris-themed setting was the first thing that caught my eye when I walked into Spiral, a restaurant buffet in a 5-star luxury resort hotel in Manila called Sofitel. The mini version of the Eiffel Tower set on top of a counter made an impression that the original structure is much bigger and higher. This immediately catches your eye however, because of its intricate cut-outs imitating its inspiration in a creative way. I also very much LOVED the bike stationed in front of it. The colours matched the French flag and the baguettes were a nice touch tying the whole concept together. I think the idea behind this small section of decor was well executed. It definitely made me feel very luxurious while the temptation to ride the bike and hand baguettes out was barely stoppable.