SERENE STAYCATION AT AMARI SPICE PENANG

Connected to SPICE Arena (Penang's newly renovated indoor sports arena and preferred MICE venue), the Amari SPICE Penang hotel in Bayan Baru is easily accessible via the second link from Butterworth. It's about 20 minutes away by car from  Georgetown but you won’t miss much of the hurly-burly pace.

Tastefully designed with a minimalist, arty approach, the 453-room hotel boasts a spacious lobby with lofty ceiling. Gigantic modernist sculpture of the nutmeg, shelves of bric-a-bracs and potted palms add visual interest and splashes of colour.

A smiling frontline team welcomed us upon check-in and formalities were swiftly dispensed with, allowing us to go straight to our Deluxe room. 

Spacious with neutral tones, the floor-to-ceiling window accords an expansive view of the SPICE arena and nearby buildings against a verdant green hilly backdrop.

The executive desk gave ample elbow room and together with an ergonomically design chair, made working a breeze. We give extra brownie points for the USB-type ports and international traveller-friendly plug points. My favourite is the cushy chaise lounge with ottoman, ideal for reading or power napping.

Like the lobby and public spaces, artworks by local artists adorn the rooms. A mini coffee brewing machine with a box filled with tea bags and accoutrements, a smart flat-panel TV with a wireless sound bar are the in-room conveniences.

I like the practical, sizeable bathroom with brightly-lit mirror and vanity top. The rain shower is powerful and its easily adjustable flow made us reluctant to step out whilst the wardrobe comes with an iron and ironing board, a weighing scale, a hairdryer, slippers and bathrobes.

The bed with just the right degree of firmness and fluffy pillows ensured we slept like logs.

Amaya Food Gallery – the all-day dining restaurant on Level 4 – comprises lots of seating space and dedicated live action kitchens. 

The generous spread of East-meets-West breakfast and dinner buffet selections draw inspiration from Penang, Malaysia, and Asia; leaving diners utterly spoiled for choice.

Outside patio seating overlooks nicely landscaped water feature, plenty of semi-alfresco and outdoor seating. Easy access to the purpose-designed jogging/walking path adjacent to SPICE Penang makes it a boon for exercise buffs.

Ascending a short flight of stairs from the patio, we found ourselves at the 25m salt water swimming pool. Insta-worthy nooks abound as the poolside cum sun deck area is surrounded by greenery and nice view. Breeze Spa and the 24-hour, well-equipped Fit Centre gym are mere steps away.

If there’s one compelling reason to stay at Amari SPICE Penang, it would be the heavenly massage therapies at Breeze Spa. The two spa consultants who attended to us are so patient and well-versed in their skills, my daughter and I couldn’t believe when our one-hour session flew past in the blink of an eye.

From the various Signature Mood Massages available, I chose Dreamy – a combination of hypnotic aromas and long, flowing massage strokes ideal for alleviating tension from a busy day, a long flight or life’s daily hustle. My daughter chose Serene – soothing long strokes and palm pressure techniques to get rid all the knots and kinks in her stiff muscles.

We surrendered to the petal-strewn foot wash and scrub before we were ushered to one of the dimly-lit spa treatment rooms. Employing our preferred choice of essential oil, the ladies gently yet firmly worked on us until we succumbed to a blissful state of mind. It was well-worth the price as we felt instantly invigorated and relaxed post-therapy.

For reservations at Amari SPICE Penang, tel: 04 683 1188. Address: 2 Persiaran Mahsuri, Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL KL TO HOST TERRY FOX RUN

Calling all runners, joggers and walkers. Lend your support for a good cause by participating in the official Terry Fox Fun Run hosted by Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Participants can register for the Terry Fox Run by buying a Terry Fox Run t-shirt – designed by celebrity Ryan Reynolds – via the Hotel website. The superstar shared a Tweet recently showing him wearing the official Terry Fox Run t-shirt and encouraging people to support the event. 

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts regional marketing director Nelson Hilton (pix above) said "The Terry Fox Run scheduled on 7 May at 7 am, is in support of Cancer Research Malaysia. A hundred percent of the funds raised will go to Cancer Research Malaysia."

Initiated by the late Terry Fox who lost his leg to bone cancer in 1980, the then 22-year Canadian ran 5,374 kilometres across Canada to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

He continued his Marathon of Hope through rain, snow and heat, until he was forced to stop when cancer appeared in his lungs. Terry passed away the following year, but not before raising CAD 24 million for the cause.

Inspired by Terry’s courage and vision of a cancer-free world, Four Seasons founder Isadore Sharp made a commitment to uphold Terry’s legacy. Working closely with several sponsors to organize the first-ever Terry Fox Run in 1981, the event drew more than 300,000 participants.

Today, more than 9,000 Terry Fox Memorial Runs take place around the world annually, supported by Four Seasons in several locations. 

“Our Hotel team is thrilled to host this event for the first time and to honour Terry’s inspiring legacy,” says General Manager Blaise Montandon. “It is a privilege for us to support our local community by raising funds for Cancer Research Malaysia.”

The 5-km route will start from Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, covering the perimeter of KLCC. Safety of the participants are ensured since it is the city’s car-free day. So far the event has attracted about 200 participants especially corporate companies and the Canadian community in KL.

“We invite everyone to join in the Terry Fox Run. You can walk, jog, run or stroll at your own pace. Come with your family and friends: be they young or old to support the good cause.

“Participants also stand a chance to win exciting prizes such as complimentary stays at Four Seasons Hotel Langkawi and Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur, and dining vouchers from Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur.”

Supporters and do-gooders alike can donate to the good cause by purchasing the said t-shirt too at this link:

https://fs-kuala lumpur.myshopify.com/collections/terry-fox-fun-run/products/terry-fox-fun-run

 

PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP UNVEILS NEW LOUNGE AT KLIA

It was 25 years ago when the first Plaza Premium Lounge opened at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). The Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has since come a full circle, proudly unveiling its spanking new Plaza Premium Lounge & Plaza Premium First at KLIA Terminal 1.

Officially opened by Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke amidst much fanfare, the new lounges incorporate Plaza Premium First and the Plaza Premium Lounge.

Available to business and leisure travellers, the tastefully designed lounges feature dedicated relaxation, socialising, dining and ‘work from anywhere’ spaces including private rooms for families or corporate use.

Song Hoi-See, PPG’s CEO and Founder said: “We founded the independent lounge concept 25 years ago in Malaysia. We’ve have since expanded our concept to over 70 international airports, and in conjunction with our 25th anniversary, we’ve returned to our roots and revisited the whole lounge experience.

“This launch is a testament to PPG’s growth in 2023 and beyond. Committed to “Make Travel Better”, we aim to transform Plaza Premium Lounge into a pre-flight space and also as a destination in its own right, in all the countries we operate in. We want to bring Malaysian culture to the forefront, where guests can visit us and discover something new every time.”

The interior design of both Plaza Premium Lounge and Plaza Premium First pays homage to Malaysia’s art forms and its natural landscape. A rainforest tree serves as the focal point within the space, bestowing a touch of green for guests. Batik elements are incorporated into the lounge seating whilst dividing panels feature rattan-weaving patterns.

 

In collaboration with Art People Gallery, curated artworks from nine local, emerging artists are showcased throughout the two lounges, giving guests insights into the culture and traditions of Malaysia. At the entrance, an expansive art mural depicts Malaysia’s past, present and future.

Chef de Cuisine Andri Hadi is tasked with creating an a la carte menu for Plaza Premium First where dishes are cooked a la minute, while Plaza Premium Lounge’s offers a buffet menu.

Known for his elevated fusion creations, Chef Andri’s signature dishes include Nasi Lemak with Australian Beef Rendang for Plaza Premium First and Malaysia Curry Laksa for Plaza Premium Lounge. A refreshed menu featuring plant-based and vegetarian options will also be offered in its bid to promote sustainability and wellness.

Opening Offer (March 1 – June 30, 2023)

• Plaza Premium First – From RM202 per person (2-hour lounge use)
• Plaza Premium Lounge – From RM 146 per person (2-hour lounge use)