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June 21, 2022

Workations: A Look Into How This Growing Travel Trends Is Affecting the Hospitality Industry

by: Juancho Reyes

Travel Guide & Inspiration

The terms “bleisure travel” or “bizcations” have long existed ever since the idea of traveling for both work and leisure has been accepted as a privilege – an employment perk. Meanwhile, the advent of telecommunications, and later on the Internet, has brought the rise of remote work – further blurring the boundaries between work and leisure. Nowadays, you won’t have to look hard to find productive remote workers and digital nomads in places like a busy co-working space in Bali or in the comforts of a private villa in Phuket. In today’s pandemic era, lockdowns and restrictions have forced companies and swathes of workers to shift to working remotely. More and more of these workers have come to embrace work-from-home arrangements and more flexible work environments. For some, this means not only working from virtually anywhere but also being able to take their jobs on the road with them while …

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April 28, 2022

Wayang Kulit: A Dance of Light and Shadows

by: The Luxury Signature

Bali Travel Guide, Culture & Tradition

A lone, flickering flame radiates its light in a dimly lit room. Soon after, a chime of gongs and metallophones fade in adding to the atmosphere of the theater. Gently, shadow figures of various sizes and shapes emerge from behind the silkscreen, dancing to the beat of the light and the enchanting melodies played by the orchestra. Soon enough, a booming voice appears, signaling the start of the show. This is Wayang Kulit; a traditional form of shadow puppet play that mainly originated in the cultures of Java and Bali, Indonesia. For centuries, this traditional Javanese art form has fascinated the imaginations of many. It not only served as mere entertainment but as a tool in reflecting the spirit, culture, and even the current state of affairs within a community.   An ancient story-telling tradition of gods and men Wayang originates from the word “ma Hyang” or journey towards the …

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March 31, 2022

Choeng Mon: Koh Samui’s Laidback Tropical Gem

by: The Luxury Signature

Koh Samui Travel Guide

When talking about the best island destinations in Thailand – and arguably around the world – the first destination that comes to mind is Phuket. But on the northeastern coast of Thailand lies Koh Samui, a lesser-known yet equally alluring tropical paradise that has been charming countless visitors that come to its shores. One of the most popular areas in Koh Samui is Choeng Mon on its northern end. Providing the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, Choeng Mon is home to a fantastic white-sand beach that offers chill and laid-back vibes that couples, honeymooners, and families find captivating. Choeng Mon has plenty of exciting and memorable experiences to offer. From must-visits to must-eats, here are things that tourists should check out in and around the Choeng Mon area.   A Quiet and Charming Beach Ambiance  Famous for its powdery white sand, laid-back ambiance, and beach huts that line up …

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February 14, 2022

What Japanese Minimalism Can Teach Us

by: The Luxury Signature

Culture & Tradition

Japanese minimalism has long been associated with art and aesthetics. But the less-is-more philosophy resonated with many and has become not only a reflection of the Japanese culture but has found a way to seep into different facets of our lives. Here are some of the principles minimalism can teach us that we can incorporate into our daily lives. The Philosophy of Ma Ma, pronounced “maah”, is about the artistic value of negative spaces in art, including music, poetry, interiors, and architecture. It celebrates not the things themselves, but the spaces between them. While looking at a painting or any form of artwork, Ma teaches us to put emphasis on the things that are not, rather than the things that are. This shift of focus can be perspective-altering at first. While some worldview focuses on buying, accumulating, achieving, or filling our lives with more, Ma seems countercultural. But it’s a …

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December 21, 2021

Spending the Festive Season in Thailand

by: The Luxury Signature

Culture & Tradition, Travel Guide & Inspiration

The most wonderful time of the year is here! Christmas is considered one of the most eagerly-awaited festivities across the world thanks to the infectious vibe characterized by catchy carols, lively holiday decorations, and endless merriment. While it is not considered a public holiday in Thailand, the locals and residents still embrace various Christmas traditions, particularly in some of the major cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai where tourists and expats usually flock to during the holidays. Religious differences Christmas, being a Christian celebration, is not part of Thailand’s local practices because of its predominantly Buddhist population. Despite this, the holiday spirit is still alive among the Thai people who love to have fun and celebrate. Buddhism is a highly tolerant religion, allowing its believers to welcome practices and activities regardless of origin. Despite the cultural and religious differences, the Thais welcomed this special Christian holiday while still standing …

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