UNDER THE BANYAN TREE Jul-Dec 2015 | Page 10

TA P E S T RY free d om vietnamese women’s day october 20 vietnam The appeal of any holiday is in not having to adhere to a routine. Cassia lets you be the boss. The unique experience allows you to decide whether you want to look after yourself or enjoy being looked after. Choose what you pay for when you book, from extra housekeeping to airport transfers or meals delivered to your door. Celebrated throughout the country, this is the day in the calendar when society shows its love and respect for their countrywomen. The gift-giving extends far and wide as flowers and presents are bought by husbands, lovers, sons and colleagues in respect. The celebration is to mark the foundation of the Vietnam Women’s Union, formed this day in 1930. Angsana LANG CO, CENTRAL VIETNAM Banyan Tree LANG CO, CENTRAL VIETNAM Mexican Grand Prix November 1 Mexico City, Mexico Even if you’re not a fan of fast cars you can’t help but be enthralled by the glittering celebrity of F1 race day. There’s a carnival atmosphere and a tangible sense of excitement in the air. This year will be the first time Mexico has held an F1 race since 1993. All the more reason to make the drive to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez circuit in Mexico City. space Relax in a one- or twobedroom apartment with its own living area and well-equipped kitchen. In some apartments, an airy loft space offers even greater opportunities to expand your living area, or perhaps pop in a sofa bed. With its views over the sea or lagoon it’s a great place to start the day or watch the sun set. Mooncakes BANYAN TREE YANGSHUO, China Banyan Tree Cabo Marques Galungan July 15 TO 25 Bali, Indonesia An integral part of this festival is a dragon boat race, which attracts some 1,000 participants. For those with a head for heights there is also a ‘grand prix’ on the precarious ascending ladder to add a further frisson of excitement to the occasion. Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei U N D E R T H E B A N YA N T R E E 07/12 2015 Banyan Tree Ungasan BANYAN TREE UNGASAN With its shimmering blue waters and powdery silver sands, there are few people that can resist falling under the spell of Bali, land of the Gods. Awaken each morning in the soothing sanctuary of Banyan Tree Ungasan where you will never tire of delighting at being as one with nature, cocooned in a haven of five-star comforts. LIV E, L A UG H , LOVE YOUR WAY PHOTOs: getty images (cinco de mayo, main) icons from the noun project: Christian Brunner (bird); Francielly Costantin Senra (friendship) Three Gorges Festival September 28 Chongqing, China All over China the mid - Au t umn Festival is celebr ated with mo oncakes. The tr aditional ‘cake ’ has a thin pastry shell that encases a paste made of lotus, red beans or dates. At its centre is a salted egg, which represents the mo on. Modern DAY variations ARE SWEETER including DELIGHTS SUCH AS lique ur-inf used cho col ate ganache . The eve of this Hindu festival sees households decorating a bamboo pole (called a penjor) with Mother Nature’s bounty including fruit, coconuts, and leaves. This is the most important event of the year for Balinese Hindus, a time to honour the creator of the universe: Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa and celebrate their ancestors. The decorated poles are displayed outside every house. On the day of the festival spit-roasted pigs and traditional dishes are served — making this a delicious occasion. Phuket, one of Thailand’s destination gems is set to welcome the arrival of Cassia, the latest addition to the Banyan Tree family. Due to open in Laguna in October 2015, Cassia is billed as a hotel residence of the future. Consisting of 221 self-contained apartments, it's ideal for people who want the flexibility to create their own space while on holiday. Cassia will debut in Phuket, with planned expansion into Australia, Indonesia, China and Sri Lanka. It is fitting that the strength of Phuket continues as the new brand is born in Banyan Tree’s birthplace, which now hosts five of the group’s hotels. Within Cassia, Market 23 is the spot to grab a meal to go, catch up over coffee or stock up on essentials so you can cook in your own kitchen. Whether you want to discover the best beaches or search out the liveliest nightlife, Cassia Friends, the resort’s multi talented crew have all the answers. The unique concept is guaranteed to add some extra happiness to holidays, so don’t be surprised if your family and friends don’t want to leave. Visit www.cassia.com 09