From Festive Lights to Ocean Breezes: Celebrate Diwali with a Stay at One of Elite Havens Luxury Villas in Goa
This October, Elite Havens Asia's leading luxury villa management service provider invites guests to experience Diwali in a way few ever have: in a private luxury villa in Goa, where warm ocean breezes, golden sunsets, and the glow of thousands of diyas set the scene for a celebration like no other. Imagine this: stepping barefoot onto cool marble floors, the air scented with fresh marigolds and jasmine. Candlelight flickers across the pool's surface as the sky turns indigo. Friends and family gather on shaded verandas, champagne glasses in hand, while your private chef serves a lavish Diwali feast tailored to your tastes. The night hums with laughter, music, and the distant echo of fireworks over the Arabian Sea. Elite Havens' curated collection of Goa villas offers the perfect stage for this intimate luxury:
Villa Athena A sophisticated sanctuary with contemporary design, elegant indoor-outdoor spaces, and a private pool perfect for hosting starlit soirees.
Casa Tanisa A lovingly restored Indo-Portuguese gem where vintage charm meets modern comfort, surrounded by lush gardens ideal for al fresco dining and festive gatherings.
Colina Villa G Perched high above the coastline, this modern hillside retreat offers panoramic views, an infinity pool, and complete privacy for a serene, elevated celebration.
Estate de Frangipani & Estate de Alta Palmeira Expansive estates designed for groups, with multiple living pavilions, tropical landscaping, and sweeping terraces for Diwali nights under the stars.
Book now at elitehavens.com https://www.elitehavens.com/and celebrate the Festival of Lights in unparalleled luxury.
Chef Heman Expands Asian Local Food journey at Asia Coffee House Anchoring on JB Old Street "Meng's" Zi Char
Chef Heman is set to broaden his culinary presence within Singapore and beyond in Asia, with a significant emphasis on the region's beloved street food traditions with a modern twist. This new stall at Asia Coffee House prominently features **JB Old Street "Meng's" Zi Char**, a concept poised to deliver an authentic and exhilarating wok-fired dining experience.
Chef Heman emerges with a dish that promises to warm the soul and tantalize the taste buds: the **Claypot Peppery Pig Stomach and Pork Trotter Stew**. This heartwarming creation showcases Chef Heman's masterful use of spices, transforming traditional ingredients into an unforgettable experience.
Chef Heman's philosophy revolves around highlighting the natural flavors of quality ingredients while enhancing them with a thoughtful blend of spices, deeply flavored broth with a comforting peppery kick.
Diners at JB Old Street "Meng's" Zi Char will be invited to immerse themselves in a spread of new, meticulously crafted dishes, hot off the wok. Highlights include the **Spicy Chilli Slipper Lobster**, where succulent slipper lobster is drenched in a fiery, aromatic chilli sauce; and the **Steamed Fish Tail with Black Bean Sauce**, offering tender fish complemented by the deep, savory notes of fermented black beans.
A comforting and robust favorite, the **Claypot KL Style Hokkien Tai Loi Mee**, promises thick, chewy noodles braised in a rich, dark soy sauce, imbued with the coveted "wok hei" smoky essence. Also on the menu is the **Crispy Pork Belly in Red Fermented Beancurd Sauce**, featuring perfectly rendered pork belly with an irresistibly crispy skin, coated in a unique, umami-rich fermented beancurd marinade. These dishes represent the heart and soul of Asian home-style cooking, elevated by Chef Heman's expertise.
Further enhancing the street food array that will be featured, serving expertly grilled dishes from **Meng's Satay & BBQ** with tasty meat skewers alongside a delectable assortment of sambal-infused grilled seafood all prepared to perfection over open flames. Complementing these rich and robust flavors, is **Yummy Steam** that will present a selection of exquisitely prepared steamed dishes, ensuring a balanced, flavorful, and wholesome dining experience.
Guests can also look forward to the upcoming revamp of Jas GrillHaus into **American Mass Hall Junior**, a new concept that will offer a selection of classic Western grill dishes in a family-friendly setting.
This culinary initiative underscores Chef Heman's deep commitment to showcasing and expanding the authentic, diverse, and beloved flavors of Asian Local street food within the region.
Address:
Asia Coffee House: 101 Woodlands Ave 12, #01-16, Singapore 737719
Asia Coffee House serves as a vibrant culinary hub, offering a diverse array of local and Asian flavors. It is dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable and tasty food in a welcoming atmosphere, aiming to be a go-to destination for food enthusiasts.
About JB Old Street "Meng's" Zi Char
JB Old Street "Meng's" Zi Char brings the beloved tradition of "Zi Char" to the forefront, offering a menu of wok-fried dishes that embody the rich culinary heritage of Johore Bahru, Singapore and Asia's street food scene. With a focus on fresh ingredients and authentic preparation, it aims to deliver a true taste of local favourites.
Celebrate the 2025 Mid-Autumn Festival with Jia He, a celebration steeped in tradition. Guests could expect a curated selection of freshly baked, artisanal Mooncakes in celebration of SG60, available from 29th August to 6th October 2025.
Jia He is dedicated to providing guests and customers an assortment of freshly baked Signature Mooncakes, such as the Deluxe White Lotus Paste with Macadamia Nuts, the indulgent Deluxe White Lotus Paste with Two Yolks, and the Classic Red Lotus Paste with One Yolk, including the Black and White Sesame Lotus Paste. The culinary team has taken into consideration lowering the sugar content of most of the Baked Mooncakes.
Many anticipate Jia He’s Deluxe Assorted Nuts with Kam Hua Ham, which offers a delightful balance of sweetness and a hint of savory flavors.
Jia He is renowned for its Mini Snowskin Yam Paste with White Chocolate-Coconut Truffle Mooncake and Mini Snowskin Tiramisu Paste with Cognac Truffle Mooncake. These exquisite mooncakes are made with premium ingredients and Cognac liquor. Featuring a cognac chocolate truffle filling, every bite of these mooncakes is guaranteed to captivate taste buds. A special blend of soft powdery snow skin encases velvety smooth paste with lavish fillings for a luxurious treat.
The new Snowskin flavor for 2025 is Peanut & Custard Mochi Snowy Mooncake, which is creamy with rich peanuts and custard. This innovative creation promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience, where the smooth, velvety custard filling perfectly complements the delicate snowskin. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and a rich, comforting aroma, making it a must-try for those seeking a fresh and satisfying twist on a classic.
Jia He has rolled out a list of touch points for customers to browse favourite mooncakes for a Mid-Autumn Festival filled with happiness and decadent treats to mark the special occasion.
Jia He is pleased to present its exquisite collection of mooncakes, perfect for celebrating this special occasion with family and friends. The mooncakes are crafted with the finest ingredients, offering a blend of traditional flavours and innovative creations to captivate every palate.
The full selection of Jia He's mooncakes is available for online ordering through the official E-Shop https://shop.jiahe.com.sg and https://www.jiahe.com.sg and have these festive treats delivered right to their doorstep.
Jia He Chinese Restaurant
1 Farrer Park Station Road,
#01-14/15/16 Connexion
Tel: 6694 8988 / 6694 9466
11am to 3pm and 3pm to 10pm (Tuesdays to Sundays) =
Jia He Grand Chinese Restaurant
1 Farrer Park Station Road,
One Farrer Hotel, Lobby Level
Tel: 6538 9688 / 6538 2788
11am to 3pm and 3pm to 10pm (Daily)
=
Jia He Mooncake Delights Showcase:
Takashimaya Square B2– Promotion Booth
4th Sept 2025 to 6th Oct 2025
Monday to Sunday
10:00am to 9:30pm
Pre-order of 2 Working Day is required for 11 Boxes and above.
Free Delivery is available for 15 Mooncake Boxes and above.
Bulk Buy is available. Terms & Conditions apply.
For Corporate and Bulk Orders, please contact Seow Pei at 9067 0828, Mr. Ho at 8870 8988.
Jia He Chinese Restaurant presents Dutch Ducks for Discerning Palates
Jia He Chinese Restaurant is pleased to announce a new addition to its menu: the Dutch Duck. Available from now, this premium, antibiotic-free poultry offers a fresh and exquisite dining experience for discerning palates.
Sourced from the Netherlands, the Dutch Duck is raised in open pastures for 47 to 52 days, which allows for natural foraging and contributes to its uniquely aromatic flavor. The result is a duck with a perfect balance of succulent meat and fat, and a taste that is notably less gamey than other varieties. This commitment to clean and sustainable farming ensures a high-quality product that is both delicious and wholesome.
Diners can indulge in this exceptional ingredient prepared in three celebrated Chinese culinary styles:
Braised Dutch Duck: Slow-cooked to achieve a rich, tender texture, with the meat absorbing the deep flavors of Chef's special braising sauce.
Roast Dutch Duck: Expertly roasted to produce a crispy, golden-brown skin that gives way to juicy, flavorful meat.
Peking Style Dutch Duck: A traditional masterpiece, served with crisp skin, thin pancakes, and classic condiments
Jia He Chinese Restaurant @ Connexion 1 Farrer Park Station Road, #01-14/15/16 Connexion, Singapore 217562
W Maldives Invites Bali's Benjamin Cross, Stephen Moore and Chris Smith to Host Exclusive Two-Night, Six-Hands Culinary Collaboration
In October 2025, W Maldives will host a special edition of its Flavors Unscripted culinary series, featuring a six-hands collaboration between three acclaimed Bali-based chefs: Benjamin Cross, Stephen Moore, and Chris Smith. The event, scheduled for 18 and 20 October, forms part of the resort’s Dare to Taste program, which highlights international culinary talent while showcasing Maldivian ingredients and the natural island setting.
The first dinner will take place at FIRE, the resort’s beachfront smokehouse, where menus will emphasize wood-fired cooking and shared plates. Highlights include whole roast wagyu ribeye, smoked duck with green chilli chutney, and a smoked banana split. The second dinner will be held at FISH, the overwater seafood restaurant, presenting dishes such as line-caught fish pilpil with piquillo pepper, lobster risoni in tom yum butter, and other seafood preparations inspired by the Indian Ocean.
Chef Benjamin Cross, originally from Australia, is known for Mediterranean-inspired, fire-led cooking and is Co-Owner of Mason and Bar Vera in Bali. Stephen Moore, Culinary Director of Shelter, brings experience from globally recognized restaurants such as El Celler de Can Roca and Aman properties, creating refined interpretations of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Chris Smith, of Red Gunpowder and 7AM Bakers Club, draws on Michelin-starred experience in Europe, blending French technique with Indian spices and Balinese freshness.
The collaboration aims to unite craftsmanship, sustainability, and creativity, highlighting culinary synergies between Bali and the Maldives. According to the resort, the event is designed not just as a dining experience, but as a celebration of place, personality, and innovation. For more information, visit Maldives Island Resort | W Maldiveshttps://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mlewh-w-maldives/overview/
OTERA STAY Presents “Digital Nomad Retreat” at Temple Along the UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo!
Otera Stay will host the Nachikatsuura Digital Nomad Retreat 2025 on November 22–23, 2025, at Daitaiji Temple, located along Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. The two-day retreat aims to provide digital nomads with an immersive experience combining mindfulness, cultural exploration, and opportunities to connect with peers in a historic setting. Daitaiji Temple, with over 1,200 years of history, serves as the retreat venue, offering participants the chance to engage in Zen meditation, explore temple grounds, and appreciate historical architecture and cultural landmarks.
The program includes a variety of activities designed to foster personal reflection and spiritual renewal, including a fire ritual at Nachisan Seiganto-ji, where participants symbolically cleanse their minds and bodies by burning wooden prayer sticks under the guidance of Kumano monks. Temple tours, bell-ringing experiences, and meditation sessions provide additional mindfulness and cultural engagement. The retreat also emphasizes community interaction.
Participants share meals featuring local specialties, attend unconference sessions focused on remote work and the digital nomad lifestyle, and gather for casual evening events to network and build connections. Daily routines begin with Zazen meditation followed by a Sri Lankan curry breakfast to cultivate focus and calm.
Pricing is tiered, ranging from ¥23,880 for early bookings until August 31, 2025, to ¥39,800 for registrations after October 31, 2025. The head priest of Daitaiji Temple, Tomi Nishiyama, welcomes international guests and supports the temple’s vision as a space for relaxation, inspiration, and cultural engagement.
Overall, the Nachikatsuura Digital Nomad Retreat combines traditional Japanese spirituality, cultural immersion, and professional networking opportunities, creating a holistic experience tailored to digital nomads seeking personal reflection and community connection within a historically significant and serene environment. Website：https://event.oterastay.com/
Eight Irresistible Reasons to Trade Winter for the Maldives
The Maldives offers a range of luxury festive experiences across its private island resorts, with the Festive Early Bird packages available for stays from December 15, 2025, to January 10, 2026, and bookings until October 15, 2025. These packages combine oceanfront accommodations, curated seasonal activities, daily breakfast, resort credits, non-motorized water sports, and tailored touches to create memorable holiday celebrations for families, couples, and multigenerational travelers.
At the North and South Malé Atolls, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offer curated experiences blending indulgence and leisure. Highlights include beach dinners, spa treatments, sunset cruises, and snorkeling excursions, with the assistance of dedicated island butlers ensuring personalized service. Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa emphasizes family-friendly experiences with dining credits, activities for children, shared speedboat transfers, and spa discounts.
In the secluded Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atolls, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort and JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa focus on understated luxury and wellness, featuring daily resort credits for dining and spa treatments, non-motorized water sports, and personal butler service. The JW Marriott in Shaviyani Atoll also includes extensive children’s programs and photography sessions. The North Ari, Baa, and Lhaviyani Atolls offer more adventurous and wellness-focused experiences. W Maldives provides the Festive Favors package with access to house reefs, spa treatments, daily resort credits, and private island excursions. The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort combines wellness programming, spa savings, family activities, and complimentary upgrades. Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa features daily breakfast, resort credits, curated festive programs, padel clinics, and water sports activities.
Across these offerings, resorts balance relaxation, recreation, and celebration, ensuring guests can enjoy Maldivian natural beauty while partaking in curated dining, wellness, and festive activities. The packages emphasize personalized service, family engagement, and a seamless blend of leisure and adventure, creating a holistic and memorable holiday season. Visit our website to discover more about Marriott Bonvoy portfolio of resorts in the Maldives or click here to start planning your festive escape now.
Jia He Restaurant Welcomes Master Chef Raymond Sui to Lead Culinary Team
Jia He Chinese Restaurant and Jia He Grand are proud to announce the appointment of Chef Raymond Sui, a decorated and highly experienced Master Chef, to lead the culinary operations of both establishments. With a celebrated career spanning over three decades and a trove of international accolades, Chef Sui joins the Jia He family to elevate its renowned Cantonese and Chinese cuisine offerings.
Known professionally as Raymond Sui (Sui Suan Boo), his culinary journey began in 1988 as a First Cutter at Fortune Gate Shark's Fin Cantonese Restaurant. Over the years, he has honed his craft at some of Singapore's most esteemed dining establishments, including roles as Executive Chef at The Red Monkey Western/Chinese Restaurant and House of Seafood Restaurant. His diverse experience across a range of culinary roles, from Assistant Chef at Jumbo Restaurant to Head Chef at Mellben Signature Crab House, has equipped him with a deep understanding of traditional techniques and modern innovations.
Chef Raymond's artistry and dedication have earned him significant recognition on the world stage. In 2022, at the Global Culinary Challenge Malaysia, he was a key figure in securing the Champion title for the Singapore team in both the Global Cup Team Challenge and Team Challenge Showpiece. He also personally won a Gold medal in the Individual Hot Cooking Main Course Seafood category. In 2019, he was honored with the Special Gold Award for Individual Events at the "Lee Kum Kee Cup" World Chefs' (Nanxun) Championship, where his team also clinched the Team's Special Gold Award. His accomplishments also include a World Championship Chef Shanghai Team Champion title in 2015 and a Merit Award for Main Course and a Bronze Award for Dim Sum at a WMCCC competition in 2017.
As the new Master Chef for Jia He Chinese Restaurant and Jia He Grand, Chef Raymond Sui will be in charge of both kitchens, bringing his award-winning skills and creative vision to delight diners. His leadership will further enhance Jia He's commitment to culinary mastery, artistry, and the harmonious blend of traditional flavors and contemporary creations.
Guests at Jia He Chinese Restaurant and Jia He Grand can look forward to experiencing the exceptional dishes crafted by Chef Raymond and his team, reaffirming Jia He's position as a premier destination for authentic and innovative Chinese cuisine.
Devasom celebrates 15 Years journey of unique Thai hospitality with 'Luna Circle' mindful festival at Devasom Hua Hin this September
Devasom, the award-winning Thai luxury hospitality brand, celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2025, reflecting a legacy of serene boutique experiences, authentic cultural heritage, and mindful living. Founded in 2008 by the Atirak family, Devasom Hua Hin opened in 2010, followed by Devasom Khao Lak in 2018. The brand’s name combines “deva” (angel) and “ashram” (place of peace), emphasizing a philosophy of creating homes of calm and meaningful experiences rather than extravagant displays.
Devasom Hua Hin offers architectural elegance, wellness programs, and a strong sense of place rooted in Thailand’s rich traditions. Signature experiences include sunrise and mindfulness yoga, Himalayan sound bath healing, and private sessions in breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness tea ceremonies. Day visitors and in-house guests can participate, with selected sessions complimentary for hotel guests.
Devasom Khao Lak complements the Hua Hin property with beachfront luxury villas, wellness-focused offerings, Michelin Bib Gourmand dining, and curated cultural programs. The resort hosts the annual Devasom Sol Wellness Festival, a multi-day immersive event featuring yoga, sound healing, and mindfulness, with the next festival scheduled for April 2026.
To commemorate the anniversary, Devasom Hua Hin will rebrand its dining with Pribpri, a restaurant celebrating the culinary heritage of Phetchaburi, a UNESCO gastronomic city. The menu includes traditional dishes such as Khao Chae Devasom, Phetchaburi Rose Apple Salad with Dried Squid, and Pad Kua Moo Yang. Additionally, the property will host Luna Circle, an intimate beachfront event in September featuring wellness experiences, mindfulness practices, and authentic local cuisine.
Over the past 15 years, Devasom has established itself as a benchmark for Thai boutique luxury, emphasizing serenity, balance, and emotional connection. Looking forward, the brand plans to expand wellness programming, enhance guest experiences, and explore new destinations, maintaining its philosophy that each stay represents a meaningful, immersive journey. Devasom Hua Hin Resort (SHA Certified) - Official Hotel Website https://www.devasom.com/huahin/
Jia He Chinese Restaurant Buffets
JiaHeChineseRestaurant@Connexion
For reservations, please contact 6694 8988 / 6694 9466
Photo at the Top of the Page is by Andrea Piacquadio https://www.pexels.com , Photo below is taken by Sharon Vu at Ave on 3 Cafe, Da Paolo Gastronomia, Paris Baguette, Origin + Bloom
