'INSPIRE ROMANCE' STAYCATION AT GLENMARIE HOTEL & GOLF RESORT

Rest, repast and a romantic 2 days/1 night staycation in a Junior Suite. Since our last vacay was over three years ago, we caved and succumbed to Glenmarie Hotel & Golf Resort’s Inspire Romance Package, heading to the hotel for a brief fling.

Upon our arrival at the 260-room Glenmarie Hotel with its award-winning golf fairway, we were delighted check-in was smooth and efficiently handled. The towering columns and water features within the lobby area are evocative of a resort.

 

Entering the Junior Suite assigned to us, the lovely decorations adorning our King-size bed: a pair of beautiful ‘swans’ folded using towels and rose petals artistically arranged to form the words ‘I love you’ left us completely smitten. Now such Instagrammable moments had to be recorded for posterity and we left the decorations untouched until bedtime.

There was also a welcome gift platter of delicious chocolates which we savoured while lounging in the comfort of our suite. Complimentary water, coffee/tea-making facilities were provided so we felt quite at home enjoying these creature comforts.

Our suite looked out to the golfing greens – the tranquil landscape edged by prolific greenery proved a nice change when we snuggled into the comfy chaise lounge for reading or just to relax. The in-room WiFi is easily accessible and fast.

Later we went for a quick dip in the pool. Being a weekday, we had the whole place to ourselves.

The highlight of our 'Inspired Romance' staycation was the four-course dinner, served in the privacy of our suite. Right on the dot, the room service team member arrived with our chosen selection at the appointed time.

Such an indulgence we rarely had the privilege to enjoy so it was a memorable experience. The food was surprisingly up to expectations too.

 

After sipping our complimentary mocktails, we sampled our starters of Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken, and Cream of Mushroom with Truffle Oil. Both portions were generous enough for hubby and myself to share and swap. The salad was agreeable whilst the soup proved a tad too rich for our liking.

Both the Grilled Australian Ribeye Steak with Seasonal Buttered Vegetables and Fries, and Pan-fried Salmon Fillet with Creamy Dill Sauce and Seasonal Buttered Vegetables were on-point. Again, portions were hearty and we had to pace ourselves before we could proceed to sample dessert.

Dining in-room proved advantageous as there was no time limit, unlike restaurant dining. You could dawdle over the starter or the main course as long as you like. We spent some time snapping photos of the dishes so the luxury of enjoying dinner at an unhurried pace was a nice change.

Wrapping up our evening on a high note was the classic treat of Bread & Butter Pudding with Vanilla Sauce complemented by Fresh Fruit Platter. Admittedly, both of us shall cherish this romantic dining experience as one to remember.

After a good night’s sleep, we trooped downstairs to Kites Restaurant for our complimentary buffet breakfast for two. We ate our fill from the ample spread of pastries, noodles, rice, fruits, dim sum, eggs, bread, etc served.

The 'Inspire Romance' Package (from RM496 nett) is available for stay-in dates until 30 June 2022, so hurry and reserve your dates now! It's a lovely escapade for couples who need to escape their daily routine just for a day, to rekindle their spark of romantic passion.

For more information and reservations, call Glenmarie Hotel & Golf Resort, tel: 03-7802 5200 or email:reservations@glenmarie.com.my

HOMING IN ON STAYCATIONS IN SINGAPORE

Planning a staycation in Singapore? There's plenty to eat, see and do

With Chinese New Year less than a fortnight away, it seems unlikely my old friend AK will get the chance to welcome the Ox Year with her parents in Malaysia. Since the coronavirus doesn’t look like it’s disappearing anytime soon nor will the Malaysia-Singapore borders be opening in time for CNY, I told AK to forgo her trip home and use the festive break to rediscover Singapore instead. 

“AK, thousands of people fly from around the world to visit Singapore every year. Why don’t you take a step back, pretend you’re a visitor and see Singapore through that perspective? Sometimes we take our own backyard too much for granted-lah!” I rationalized with her.

Savvy travellers will find tons of info in Traveloka

When AK groused about not knowing where to start, I pointed her to Traveloka. The online portal is chockful of useful travel tips and information with links to hotel, restaurants, activities, packages, promotions and everything savvy travellers need to enhance their travel experience.

I believe AK will be able to enjoy her CNY break if she puts her mind to it and does her groundwork using Traveloka. Not only would it save her time and effort with the overall planning, she can’t make any lame excuses about not knowing what kind of staycation she wants. For instance, if she looks under Staycation Singapore in Traveloka, out pops a list of inspiring staycation ideas: from romantic rendezvous for couples to family-friendly escapades and gourmet getaways for friends.

Food paradise...from humble fare to refined restaurants, Singapore has it all

Depending on her budget, AK can take her pick from the mind-boggling range of hotels, be it budget-friendly or budget-busting … oooh, how I wish I’m going on staycation too!

As for the types of activities to fill her time, I daresay AK would be spoiled for choice. I must remind her to take advantage of the Singapore Rediscovers Vouchers in Traveloka. I bet many Singaporeans haven’t been on the interesting tours offered in the Singapore Rediscovers section! I find the activities are varied enough to please sporty go-getters and adventure-seekers, animal and nature lovers, history and modern entertainment buffs — there’s something to suit everyone.

Thinking how Chinese New Year is synonymous with our roots and heritage, AK may like booking a Kampong Buangkok tour. I’m sure the charming village will  stir up nostalgic feelings of her hometown back in Perak.

Few visitors can resist the captivating call of a day trip to Pulau Ubin
 

Hmm…she may want a full-blown tour to Singapore’s last surviving Kampung followed by visits to urban mushroom, wheatgrass and vegetable farms or an exciting day trip to Pulau Ubin. Ah, if it wasn’t for these pandemic times, I’d dearly love to join AK on these interesting excursions.

Of course, no staycation is complete without good food. Since it’s Chinese New Year, I wonder if AK would be game to embark on a Crazy Rich Asians Insta Tour with Cocktail Making Workshop…Hey, it’s not every day one gets a chance to ride in a Vespa sidecar touring some of Singapore’s ritzy locations and... YOLO, so why not?

The much-talked-about "Jewel" in Changi Airport's crown is a sight to behold

Again, I found Singapore Rediscovers Vouchers aplenty for guided walks, immersive tours, and hands-on cooking workshops — such a boon for those who are keen to learn and discover local culinary secrets and gems through experiential sessions.

Should AK prefer more sensible suggestions, then I’d propose she goes for the ‘Singapore: Melting Pot of Tea’ tour where she’ll have a chance to learn about more than 20 tea blends, sample delicious tea from traditional to modern, and even try making her own. Although I’m unsure about her interest in kitchen forays, perhaps a Hainanese or a Hokkien cooking class may strike a chord in view of the festive season or would that remind her too much of what she’s missing back home?

Even though she can’t return to Malaysia this Chinese New Year, I’m willing to bet AK will enjoy her staycation in Singapore thanks to all the tips I’ve shared with her from Traveloka. Now won’t that be an Ox-spicious way to welcome the Lunar New Year?

ALEX PORTEOUS STAYS FOCUSED ON THE FUTURE

Like the Leica camera he uses in his street photography, Alex Porteous is firmly focused on the future as he steers the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur (FSHKL) team through the current uncertainties plaguing the hospitality and tourism sectors as the newly appointed General Manager. 

Having arrived in Kuala Lumpur right in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic from Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, Porteous admits there’s no playbook to deal with such an unprecedented crisis. Fortunately, having garnered more than 27 years of experience with Four Seasons at 7 properties, 3 hotel openings and a handful of accolades, Porteous can count on his own inimitable leadership skills to forge ahead and maintain the FSHKL team’s momentum following their stellar performance right from the get-go.

To this personable GM, authenticity means being honest. “I’m the first to admit I don’t know everything. Sometimes my team members are surprised when I say I don’t know everything. I also ask a lot of questions. That’s how we learn: by asking questions,” says Porteous.

He firmly believes in authenticity as a key trait of leadership, citing a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment”. As his team moves towards 2021, he is committed to involve each and every one in decisions that affect their jobs and work environment; ensuring every one of them can voice a different opinion without fear of any negative consequences.

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

Creating a safe work place is paramount to Porteous as he says “when we as colleagues connect with each other meaningfully, that’s when we are able to connect with our guests as well.” 

Showing a sincere interest in his team as people, as individuals, and not just as employees will translate and demonstrate his actions match his words. An avid advocate of listening and engaging with guests and employees, Porteous affirms top of his list will be working together with his team to raise the bar for the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur and continue to build the confidence of guests and business partners. “Getting our team to do the right thing instead of just doing things right  ̶  that makes a difference.”

“It’s important we keep engaging with our guests, business partners and internal team members” says Alex Porteous. “For our corporate guests and business partners, we ask them ‘How are you doing?’, ‘What can we help you through this tough period?’…It’s through such engagements that led us to the creation of our ‘Ultimate Me’ and ‘Inspiring Workspaces’ marketing packages.”

Praising Malaysian authorities on their handling of the Covid-19 pandemic, Porteous says the general populace is also experiencing ‘Covid fatigue’ and yearns for a change of scene with their families and friends. “That’s when some of our guests check into the Four Seasons.”

Porteous explains: “FSHKL adheres to Four Seasons global health & safety programme known as ‘Lead with Care’ that outlines procedures educating and empowering employees to take care of guests and each other. Face masks must be worn by everyone within the Hotel, temperature checks are conducted and every person are registered via the MySejahtera app.

“At our restaurants, tables are set apart to ensure physical distancing and all utensils are sterilized and wrapped. Regular touchpoints such as lift button panels, phones and light switches throughout the Hotel and in our guestrooms are sanitized constantly and thoroughly. Guests can control and limit the frequency of face-to-face interactions between themselves and our employees, whether it’s for making reservations, requesting for airport transfers or concierge service.”

Porteous also says it’s imperative to keep his team engaged and updated on how the Hotel is doing. He constantly writes them notes; passing them guests’ compliments and how the employees concerned have made their stay memorable. 

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

“I not only thank them but also their family. It’s during these trying times that people need to be reminded of their self-worth, and the support of their family. To me, their family is the wind beneath their wings, enabling them to do a great job at work. I also call each employee on their birthday. Some may view it as a small, insignificant gesture but to an employee, it could be a good mood booster and causes him or her to be nicer to their family members. I’m a firm believer of life-work balance rather than the work-life balance of yore. Many people don’t realise when your life is in order, your work will naturally fall into place.”

The consummate hotelier caught the hospitality bug as a young chap after his father’s hotelier friend took him on a whirlwind behind-the-scenes tour. When he turned 17, Alex Porteous joined the hotel industry and worked his way steadily in different roles and through various departments: management trainee, chef, server, barman, receptionist, engineering, press office, and sales & marketing. 

It was in 1993 when he first joined the Four Seasons Hotel in Hong Kong. Since then, Porteous has gained a wealth of experience from his stints in Canada, Singapore, Thailand, Seychelles and Japan. 

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

According to Porteous, his best experience as a hotelier thus far is being General Manager. Recalling the day he finally occupied the hot seat, Porteous quips “it suddenly dawned on me the sheer weight of responsibilities resting on my shoulders. I realized just how important my role is and how it has changed over the years. Now a GM has to be inclusive, to be empathic and to take ownership of one’s actions.”

Citing the Four Seasons philosophy of “treating others as how you would have them treat you”, Alex Porteous says “I want to be the kind of boss who will treat my daughters like they matter; a boss who value their contributions and know their worth.”

Married to Satoko, the father of three enjoys dabbling in street photography. The Leica camera enthusiast who prefers shooting monochrome, looks forward to capturing the undiscovered gems of Malaysia. In the meantime, the hotelier’s sight remains steadfastly focused on the path ahead.

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

MY CRAZY RICH ASIANS STAYCATION EXPERIENCE AT E&O PENANG

Rudyard Kipling. Somerset Maugham. Charlie Chaplin. Noel Coward. Dato’ Michelle Yeoh. They were among the coterie of famous guests who have graced the iconic Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang.

 

Thus we too had the privilege of living the luxe life, albeit it was only for a weekend, after the E&O Hotel completed a 9-month meticulous refurbishment programme of its Heritage Wing. Retaining its rarified old-world charm coupled with newer culinary experiences, the grand dame of Penang greeted the new decade with aplomb.

Upon entering the spacious lobby, my Crazy Rich Asians-style staycation experience was triggered. After welcoming pleasantries, we were instantly escorted to our plush Twin Queen Deluxe Suite. Just a squiggle of my signature completed the swift and smooth check-in process. Guests residing at the Heritage Wing also enjoy butler service on request.

Like Alice in Wonderland, I explored and admired every inch of the tastefully appointed suite. Soft, muted colours abound, complemented by white and dark wood trimmings, carefully curated framed prints and two queen-size beds bestowed understated colonial era-inspired elegance. An ornate writing table with multiple slots and drawers made those who need to catch up on work a complete breeze.

Founder of Interiors International Sdn Bhd Datin Tham Oi Wah who restored the Heritage Wing back to its former glory has done an excellent job overall. For instance, padded armchairs and a comfy settee turned the adjoining seating area into an inviting lounge for reading, watching the UHD flatscreen TV and rustling up drinks from the side cupboard. Banks of retro louvre windows opened out to breathtaking views of blue skies, towering palm trees, aquamarine sea and the Heritage Wing pool surrounded by potted greenery.

Cocktail hours en-suite are possible thanks to the provision of glass decanters filled with vodka, gin and whiskey. A mini bar with soft drinks, bottled juices, soda water and cold towels comes built-in within the side cupboard. It also proffers a Nespresso machine, an array of Harney & Sons premium tea complete with a tea press, three types of nibbles (handcrafted pralines and nuts) and daily fresh fruit. 

Strolling into the elongated walk-in wardrobe and dressing area, I felt like a pampered superstar. The dark wood vanity cum dressing table was splendid for dolling myself up whilst the ample shelving and storage space ensured our luggage and necessities were kept in order. Aside from the bathrobes provided, a touch of local culture in the form of two batik sarong (tying instructions provided) are made available.

I could stay ensconced forever in the luxurious bathroom with a long bath, signature twin vanities and a separate shower. In the hotel’s quest to reduce the usage of one-time plastic,  amenities such as bamboo toothbrush, comb and emery board came packed in biodegradable cornstarch material. Instead of miniature plastic bottles of shampoo, conditioner and body lotion, full-size ceramic pump bottles of toiletries are now de rigueur.

Although we were reluctant to tear ourselves away from the creature comforts of our plush suite, we went a whirlwind tour of the E&O. The echo dome – an original structure from the Sarkies management era – reigns overhead in the Heritage Wing lobby. A four-sided upholstered banquette seat crowned with a cluster of palm fronds makes it a majestic rendezvous point for guests.

At the expansive reception area, a dark wood key slots cabinet from the heritage hotel’s halcyon days along with the manually controlled Waygood Otis lift with a sliding grill – featured in the Crazy Rich Asians movie – remains ship-shape even though it is no longer in use.

 

 

Nearby, groups of retro-designed armchairs and settees with side tables bearing fresh orchids beckon from strategic nooks and corners. Along the marbled corridor leading to the Grand Ballroom and Victory Annexe, huge potted palms and more orchids add touches of vibrancy. By night, the mellow lighting casts a romantic vibe.

“Generations of guests and visitors alike have chosen the famous Heritage Wing as the backdrop for their magical moments over its 134-year history” said Alison Fraser, general manager of the E&O Hotel Penang. “Mindful of this beloved legacy, careful consideration has been taken to ensure we retain E&O’s treasured style of timeless elegance that is unique to this cherished heritage landmark.”

A new art colonnade situated along the hallway outside The Cornwallis does double duty as a showcase of artworks by local talents. The artistic collection changes periodically, promoting different homegrown artists' creative efforts to the E&O Hotel guests from around the world.

 

 

 

Strolling along the verdant seafront lawn, we saw a lovely garden wedding set-up. More elaborate banquets and formal affairs are usually held at the gilded Grand Ballroom which oozes class and discernment.  

History buffs can refer to the beautifully produced map provided in their suite, listing interesting historical elements found onsite the hotel. For instance, three decommissioned cannons from Fort Cornwallis remain in place at the seafront facing the Andaman Sea – important testaments of not only to the historical significance of the E&O and its guests but also that of Penang.

Our walk ended at the 232-suite Victory Annexe where Emporium – the hotel’s retail shop is located. Stocked with a treasure trove of keepsakes such as "The E&O Hotel – Pearl of Penang" coffee table book by Ilsa Sharp, unique artisanal souvenirs, framed landmark photographs of Penang, eclectic semi-precious stones and silver designer jewellery, delicately beaded cheongsam dresses, batik stoles and sarong, Emporium is bound to keep avid shopaholics happy. To replicate the E&O’s restorative bath experience, Emporium also offers organic spa accoutrements by Panpuri, essential oils, plush E&O bath towels and robes.

 

  

Sunset saw us venturing into The Cornwallis lounge for complimentary cocktails and canapes from 6pm to 7pm. Tempting nibbles of lamb meatballs with a zingy sauce, baby potato halves topped with sour cream and chopped streaky beef, roti jala with chicken curry, crudites, a cheese board with assorted nuts and fruits, and tropical sliced fruits whetted our appetite.

 

 

Thirst-quenchers include house white or red wine, beer, juices or soft drinks. Otherwise, the resident mixologist will readily whip up a classic cocktail or inventive mocktail on request nightly. Conceived with an integrated seating and dining area, the convivial lounge looks out to the Heritage Wing swimming pool.

 

As guests of the Heritage Wing, we had the privilege of having breakfast at the Cornwallis, Planters Lounge (Level 6, Victory Annexe) or Sarkies. Our first morning was spent admiring the seaview vista from the spacious balcony of Planters Lounge (the alternative is air-conditioned comfort inside the lounge).

Rarely did we revel in the tropical balmy weather but somehow the luxury of having breakfast prepared to our liking made it a distinct experience. Thanks to the cordial and attentive service, I relished every bite of my White Only Omelette with Spinach and Tomato while my other half tackled his Breakfast Steak and Eggs, and for my girl, Cured Salmon and Eggs Benedict.

The following morning our Continental breakfast at The Cornwallis was equally on-point. Laid out for guests to help themselves were yoghurt, fruits, muesli and cereals, pastries and bread. Our omelette and scrambled eggs came up to expectations. Again, service was impeccable and left no room for complaint.

 

Whether you’re staying in a Superior, Deluxe, George Town, Premier, Straits, Writers, Pinang Suite or the ultimate E&O Suite at the Heritage Wing, the courtesies accorded will include all the privileges we had experienced, complimentary in-suite WiFi access, complimentary local newspaper (Chinese, English or Malay), and laundry and pressing service of 3 garments per stay.

 

Views from Pinang Suite

Premier Suite

 

 

When it comes to food & beverage, the E&O Hotel Penang will leave discerning gourmands spoiled for choice. That's another story best told on another day in another blogpost.

For your own Crazy Rich Asians staycation or more information, visit the E&O Hotel Penang website https://www.eohotels.com/suites/

Coming soon: Reviews on the dining options available at the E&O Hotel Penang: Palm Court and Java Tree.