GHA DISCOVERY

in Southeast Asia

Discovery in Germany

Get a taste of the exotic

Southeast Asia conjures images of vine-covered temples in the heart of the jungle, powdery white sands lapped by turquoise waters and thronging, spice-scented markets. You can amble through Vietnam’s French colonial neighbourhoods or marvel at the skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s vibrant, modern capital. Thailand’s secluded beaches and Myanmar’s remote highlands make the perfect escape from busy cities. Dive into this fascinating region for a taste of the exotic that will tantalise all of your senses.

Vietnam

Viceroy

Thailand

Malaysia

Myanmar

Viceroy

Hotels

Experiences

Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of contrasts, from natural wonders like the limestone islands emerging from the water in Halong Bay to the frenetic centres of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. Shop for made-to-measure clothes in French colonial towns and hike through mountainous villages while admiring rice terraces and enjoying the hospitality of welcoming locals. Not to mention the world-renowned cuisine, with mouth-watering favourites such as phở noodle soup, generously-stuffed bánh mì baguettes and fresh rice-paper rolls.

Rice Terraces in Mu Cang Chai, Vietnam

Vietnam’s unspoiled beaches offer rest and relaxation in near seclusion. For a place to stay, Avani Quy Nhon Resort on Bai Dai Beach has suites and studios with balconies from which to welcome the sun each morning. Its outdoor clifftop restaurant, Tre, has live cooking displays and a deck with views over the dramatic coastline. Be part of the culinary action by joining at the hotel's chef on a trip to a food market before returning to the kitchen to cook traditional local recipes.

Halong Bay

Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh

Bai Dai Beach

Thailand

Thailand is brimming with ancient tradition, tantalising food and some of the busiest markets in the world. Stretching out over 27 acres and with 15,000 stalls selling everything from furniture to textiles, Chatuchak Weekend Market is the place to indulge in some retail therapy. For a moment of tranquillity and reflection from the many hives of activity, visit one of the country's 40,000 Buddhist temples, including Wat Pho in Bangkok where you'll find a 46-metre-long reclining Buddha.

Wat Arun Temple, Bangkok

When it comes to local cuisine, a national dish and perennial favourite with visitors is phad thai, with its flat noodles covered in sweet tamarind sauce, fresh coriander and chopped peanuts.

Bangkok

Buddha in Wat Pho Temple

Koh Samui

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Malaysia

A visit to Malaysia often starts in the cosmopolitan capital of Kuala Lumpur. The city’s Petronas Towers, the tallest twin structures in the world, stand 452 metres high over a city that combines high-tech modernity with old-world charm. The country’s communities of Malay, Chinese and Indian residents is evident in the eclectic culture scene: you’ll find Buddhist temples, Hindu shrines and magnificent mosques dotted around the city.

Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur

Despite its contemporary feel, the city has honoured its traditional dishes over the centuries. Take time to try the classic Frankfurt Green Sauce in the Torschänke Restaurant at the 5-star Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt. Available as one of our exclusive Local Experience Awards, the salsa is presented as part of a three-course menu devised by the head chef. This country-house hotel is situated in the tranquil suburb of Neu-Isenburg, providing an idyllic respite from the bustling city centre. Start your day with a soak in the 2,000 square metre spa before practising your backhand on one of the two tennis courts.

Petronas Towers

Borneo

Mount Kinabalu

Langkawi

Myanmar

Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) is the newest addition to the Southeast Asian odyssey, as the country was only opened to visitors in 2010.
Now, travellers flock here to experience its inspiring traditions and get a taste of authentic Asia.

Dhammayangyi Temple in Bagan, Myanmar

The ancient city of Bagan in central Myanmar has become a popular spot for hot air balloon rides due to its spectacular and almost untouched landscape, featuring over 2,000 Buddhist temples. Another attraction is Mandalay, the old royal capital, with its pagoda-style former palace and some of the country’s best noodle dishes. Sample national favourite mohinga, served in a steaing fish broth.

In another former capital, Yangon, ride by tuk-tuk through the streets, taking in colonial architecture, towering cathedrals and the golden-tipped Shwedagon Pagoda, Alternatively, explore the history and culture of the city on a half-day heritage walking tour.

For a luxury spot to rest and unwind, look no further than Pan Pacific Yangon, located in the main business district and moments from bustling Bogyoke Aung San Market. Book a corner Junior Suite for stunning sweeping views, or head to the hotel's wellness floor to take a dip in the infinity pool and get an even better panorama of this stirring city.