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Elite Havens Launches Signature Collection 

Asia's leader in high-end holiday rental vacations, announces the launch of its Signature Collection, a premium selection of the most exclusive villas and chalets in exotic destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Bali, Lombok, Sri Lanka, India, Japan and the Maldives. 

The Signature Collection's tagline, 'Luxury at its finest', says it all. Each villa or chalet in this collection excels in every aspect from architecture to interior design, boasting prime locations, world-class facilities and impeccable service standards that meet the needs of the most discerning of guests.

The Signature villas and chalets offer enhanced luxury at every level. The tiniest of details are taken care of, and small personal touches that are sure to delight such as bespoke activities or fine dining with personalised menus. 

The Elite Havens Signature Collection boasts high service standards and all properties are impeccably maintained. Some havens come fully staffed with in-villa teams while others are supported by highly trained service staff and the Elite Concierge. Impeccable service from start to finish will leave guests wanting for nothing. Villas that are staffed with in-house teams include the services of a professional chef experienced in local and international cuisines. These skilled chefs are passionate about using locally sourced, seasonal produce and working alongside the best suppliers, they create menus tailored to the guests' nutritional requirements.  Meanwhile, other Signature havens have access to the very best gourmet food in the area, including bespoke private dinners and barbecue experiences. Dining is always a delight at a Signature haven. 

Guests can now experience the ultimate in enhanced luxury by choosing to holiday in an Elite Havens Signature villa or chalet. Get a taste of these beautiful properties at www.elitehavens.com/signature.apx. 

Banyan Tree Group opens its third property in Mexico- Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana, an oasis on the outskirts of Merida

Banyan Tree Group announces the launch of its third property in Mexico, Hacienda Xcanatun which will be operated by its upscale brand, Angsana. Located 15 minutes from the centre of Merida, 10 minutes from the archaeological zone of Dzibilchaltún, and 20 minutes from the beaches of Puerto Progreso, Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana promises to be a new historic-chic oasis in the region. 

Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana presents a contemporary interpretation of the legendary Yucatan (henequenera) Haciendas (large agricultural estates of the 18th century amidst henequen agave plant). It represents a new commitment of the award-winning hotel group in promoting this destination's rich historical heritage and culture. 

“Mexico is the gateway to luxury tourism in the American continent, and we are delighted to be part of this opportunity, and operate a property like Hacienda Xcanatun. This is our first property managed by Angsana in the country, and we are proud to bring the brand to this terrestrial paradise in the Yucatan Peninsula,” said Mr Peter Hechler, Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts SAVP and Head of Regional Operations MENA (Middle East, Europe, North Africa & Americas).

The Angsana brand under the Banyan Tree Group operates 15 hotels and resorts in 10 different countries. It brings adventure to travellers, intertwining chic venues with a vibrant atmosphere full of culture. Now, under the seal of quality and global luxury standards of Angsana, the Hacienda has evolved into a contemporary space, with the aim to be the first local resort, inspiring the philosophy of carefree luxury and enjoying the best moments.

Hacienda Xcanatun by Angsana reflects the harmonic authenticity of a historic legacy, showcasing contemporary art and comfortable modernity. Inspired by Yucatan culture, the ruins of the original structure have been preserved. Pre-Hispanic and modern elements are incorporated throughout the new design and the feeling of tranquility is apparent throughout the Hacienda. The refreshing experience includes 18 renovated suites designed by renowned Mexican architectural firm Estudio 240.

https://www.angsana.com/en/mexico/hacienda-xcanatun

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Drumroll, please! Bar Trigona Tops the Malaysian Entry in Asia's 50 Best Bars 2020

In a dramatic leap from last year, Bar Trigona at Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur has claimed a prestigious spot on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2020 list and has been named the Best Bar in Malaysia. Thanks to Head Bartender Ashish Sharma's brand of mixology, which marries creativity with sustainability, Bar Trigona has become the darling of cocktail aficionados across the region.

Announced via a virtual ceremony on May 14, 2020, this elite watering hole also bought home the Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award 2020 for the second year in a row placing Bar Trigona among Asia's favourite drinking destinations.

Receiving top billing on the menu are homegrown ingredients, tracked down by Ashish during his forays into the Malaysian countryside. It was during one such research trip that he discovered the trigona honeybee, the inspiration behind the bar's name and a hive of eco-friendly initiatives. Native to Southeast Asia, these stingless bees produce the highly sought-after trigona honey. The sweet and sour notes of this nectar – sourced in small batches from Dino's Kelulut Organic Farm in Negeri Sembilan – lend a distinct taste to signature cocktails.

The partnership with Dino also sparked Bar Trigona's 'Adopt a Beehive' initiative, which helps to preserve indigenous bee habitats and promote natural beekeeping methods. Patrons can adopt a local hive for a year and take home the wild honey produced by their adopted bees. As Ashish explains: “Our journey has been intertwined with trigona bees right from the start, so this cause is very close to our hearts.”

 Elite Havens - Asia's leader in high-end villa vacations, announces the addition of Katamanda Estate to its Phuket portfolio, expanding to the south of the island. The company now offers consumers a choice of over 290 private luxury villas and chalets across Asia, at destinations such as Phuket, Koh Samui, Bali, Lombok, Sri Lanka, India, Japan and the Maldives.

Katamanda is an exclusive hillside estate on Phuket's south-west coast. Walking distance from two of the most beautiful beaches in Phuket, Kata Noi and Kata Yai, the estate is also close to the vibrant village of Kata, with its award-winning restaurants, lively entertainment, boutique shops, and a range of holiday activities.

The secure estate of privately-owned villas is surrounded by lush jungles and manicured gardens. Each villa is unique, ranging from two to six bedrooms and with a myriad of comfortable, spacious living areas. Guests can enjoy sea and garden views from their private verandas and pool terraces, as they relax in serene surrounds, well taken care of by villa staff. The estate is ideal for families or groups holidaying together. Multiple villas may be booked together, offering flexible accommodation options along with the comfort of personal space.

One of the island's first luxury villa estates, Katamanda allows guests to enjoy facilities such as complimentary internet access and 24-hour security. Each stay will be made comfortable by a highly professional hospitality team led by a Villa Manager. Private chefs are on hand, included in some villas and available for a fee in others, who are not only trained in Thai and western cuisines but also adept at creating tasty meals for children.
www.elitehavens.com