PAID POST BY RAFFLES

Travel

The art of celebration

1887 – 1940

Where the party began

What do Jackie Kennedy, Charlie Chaplin and Lady Gaga have in common? All of them – not to mention countless authors, politicians, members of royalty, actors and the beau monde of fashion – have enjoyed exclusive parties and celebrations in Raffles Hotels, a proud tradition that has continued for over 130 years.

Do they come to revel in life’s most significant moments because Raffles adds extra touches that no other hotels can? Undoubtedly. But this legendary service extends to all guests, not just those in the public eye, whether they are celebrating personal milestones, a successful business event or a romantic escape.

With an innate sense of style and sophistication, Raffles works tirelessly to create these exceptional celebrations and accompany you during life’s most cherished moments. Come join us on this historical journey, whether it’s to waltz to Johann Strauss at a sensational Christmas ball, to dance with your granddaughter on her 21st birthday or dine under the stars overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Raffles, Singapore’s most iconic hotel, is the place to be since its doors swung open on Beach Road in 1887. The property has always known how to organise select celebrations from the get-go. It’s something that Raffles carries on to this day in its ever-expanding network of properties around the world.

The stories emanating from Raffles’ fashionable parties have entered folklore. Then, as now, a Raffles party was unlike any other. From the early days, kings, queens, maharajahs and sultans were entertained by the finest international chefs and danced to music played by the King’s Regiment.

The King’s Regiment

Charlie Chaplin

At special dinners in the early 1900s, waiters sped from the kitchen to the dining room on roller skates, with some guests joining in the merriment by undertaking a few laps on the Italian-marble floor themselves. In 1921 the new ballroom opened, and the Raffles Dance Orchestra played the hottest tunes of the day. It was widely acknowledged as the finest in the East, able to accommodate 500 revellers, and was visited a year later by the Prince of Wales, a man who certainly enjoyed the finer things in life.

In 1929 the Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh was opened by His Majesty Sisowath Monivong, which included a lavish buffet, dancing and a band flown in from Saigon…a party that was the talk of the town. Elsewhere in Cambodia, at Christmas 1936, the Grand Hotel d’Angkor, at Siem Reap arranged for the seasonal illumination of the breath-taking temples of Angkor Wat, accompanied by music and dancing, which attracted party-goers from all over Asia.

The clouds of war were gathering, though. By the end of 1941 the mood was sombre but preparations went on, nonetheless, for the traditional New Year’s Eve Ball. Almost defiantly, the hotel filled with wealthy evacuees from all over Asia. During the party, the rooftop watchman blew his whistle four times to signal the approach of enemy planes. Quite the adrenaline rush for the guests to be sure.

Ava Gardner

Elizabeth Taylor

1950

The post-war glamour lives on

The return of peace heralded a new age for Raffles and with it a fresh sense of glamour and spontaneity. Lee Kuan Yew, the first prime minister of Singapore, was married in the hotel in 1950. Famous Hollywood actors also passed through her doors while visiting the Far East.

One legendary visit happened in November 1967. Jackie Kennedy visited Cambodia and stayed at the Raffles Hotel Le Royal, where a cocktail, the Femme Fatale – crème de fraise des bois, cognac and champagne – was created in her honour in the legendary Elephant Bar. (If you’re passing through, ask to see the glass that still bears her lipstick.)

From the 1960s onwards, several movies and TV shows were shot at Raffles in Singapore, bringing her allure to cinema screens around the world. The hotel featured in the film Pretty Polly (later renamed A Matter of Innocence) and even appeared in an episode of cult 70s police-drama series Hawaii Five 0. More recently, Raffles once more stole the show in the film Crazy Rich Asians, which featured the main characters indulging in the elegance of the Drawing Room.

As the decades passed and new properties came under the Raffles banner, the crème de la crème of the fashion world were also attracted by the sense of grand tradition combined with modern facilities.

Jackie Kennedy

Glass used by Jackie Kennedy in 1967 bearing her lipstick

2019

The celebration continues

Celebration is Raffles’ raison d’être and a party or commemorative dinner at one of their properties is unlike any other. It’s a proud heritage that continues today in the ever-growing family of iconic landmarks around the world, which have become landmarks in their own right. From Jakarta and Manila via Istanbul and Seychelles to Paris, modern sophisticated gatherings across the portfolio are still glittering affairs.

And you can make this tradition yours. A fabulous get-together of friends or family, or a romantic interlude with your significant other, deserves extra attention to detail. Leave it in hands of Raffles for a celebration that will be remembered and cherished forever.

Gastronomy is also at the heart of every celebration, and no one does it quite like Raffles. Like a well-executed symphony, Raffles’ master chefs run some of the world’s best culinary programs, concocting dishes with the most perfect flavor palettes. While you might not notice the hustle and bustle going on behind the scenes, you will notice how deliciously paired the champagne was with your first course.

In Paris, enchant your taste buds at Le Royal Monceau with the vibrant menu from renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Or if you prefer, indulge in a sublime Italian feast at Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio. Whichever you choose, you will be met with delightful macaron creations by Pierre Hermé upon arrival to pique your interest.

According to Indonesian artist, Hendra Gunawan, food is art in all its senses. Raffles Jakarta was designed to pay tribute to this great artist, and in the kitchen, Chef Matias creates fantastical and innovative dishes such as the Chilli Crab in charcoal bun. If you want to make a whole weekend of it, treat yourself to the decadent Romance Experience, starting bespoke cocktails at Writer’s Bar, private dinner for two in a private cabana and a sumptuous Indonesian Heritage massage.

With sweeping view of the Bosphorus, Raffles Instanbul reminds you that wellness is about heart AND body. Begin with a strength building session with a personal trainer, followed by a relaxing massage at a hammam (Turkish steam bath). In the evening, keep up the momentum by dining on delicious and healthy juices and food.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure, head to Raffles Seychelles where nature is on display in all its glory. Take a private tour or excursion to Curieuse Island and see the giant Aldabra tortoises – found in only two places on earth (the other being Galapagos). Build up an appetite by kayaking and paddle boarding, and then relax on the beach with a picnic and Praslin Slings.

Weddings at Raffles Hainan

And what better way to welcome the new year then at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor. Wake up every morning with champagne breakfast poolside – a design feature inspired by royal bathing pools of the King of Cambodia. Get culturally acclimated by the in-house historian, who will take you back in time and immerse you in the wonders of the Angkor Wat.

With excellence of organization and spirit of generosity, Raffles is synonymous with hospitality for over 130 years. With a timeless elegance, the hotel has truly turned ‘celebrating’ into an art form delighting the world over. From an intimate wedding on the pristine white sands of Meradhoo Island in the Maldives, to a grand 50th-anniversary gala in Dubai featuring a hundred pink roses to remind her of the first time you met, to a surprise video link to friends in India who couldn’t make the party …… let Raffles bring your celebration to life with the glamour of yesteryear and legendary service that continues to this day.

Next year, after a meticulous restoration to preserve the best of what the hotel has always been, Raffles Singapore will reopen. With a refreshed look and some new surprises, the grande dame, is sure to delight returning families and friends.

In 2019, as in 1887, the celebration continues at Raffles.

Gala celebrations at Raffles Singapore

In Paris, enchant your taste buds at Le Royal Monceau with the vibrant menu from renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Or if you prefer, indulge in a sublime Italian feast at Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio. Whichever you choose, you will be met with delightful macaron creations by Pierre Hermé upon arrival to pique your interest.

According to Indonesian artist, Hendra Gunawan, food is art in all its senses. Raffles Jakarta was designed to pay tribute to this great artist, and in the kitchen, Chef Matias creates fantastical and innovative dishes such as the Chilli Crab in charcoal bun. If you want to make a whole weekend of it, treat yourself to the decadent Romance Experience, starting bespoke cocktails at Writer’s Bar, private dinner for two in a private cabana and a sumptuous Indonesian Heritage massage.

With sweeping view of the Bosphorus, Raffles Instabul reminds you that wellness is about heart AND body. Begin with a strength building session with a personal trainer, followed by a relaxing massage at a hammam (Turkish steam bath). In the evening, keep up the momentum by dining on delicious and healthy juices and food.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure, head to Raffles Seychelles where nature is on display in all its glory. Take private tour of excursion to Curieuse Island and see the giant Aldabra tortoises – found in only two places on earth (the other being Galapagos). Build up an appetite by kayaking and paddle boarding, and then relax on the beach with a picnic and Praslin Slings.

Romantic getaways at Raffles Seychelles

To learn more about Raffles’ enduring legacy as an epicentre of revelry, culture and celebration, check out Soirées, Sojourns & Stories by Raffles by renowned author Natasha Fraser-Cavassoni. A must-read for devotees of luxury, glamour and travel, it encapsulates the Raffles spirit of yesteryear and today.

Buy the book here.

Celebrations at Raffles around the world

Raffles Europejski Warsaw
Raffles Europejski Warsaw

Raffles Europejski
Warsaw

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Raffles Dubai
Raffles Dubai

Raffles
Dubai

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Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor
Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor

Raffles Grand
Hotel D’Angkor

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Raffles Singapore
Raffles Singapore

Raffles
Singapore

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Raffles Istanbul
Raffles Istanbul

Raffles
Istanbul

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Raffles Hainan
Raffles Hainan

Raffles
Hainan

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Raffles Le Royal Phnom Penh
Raffles Le Royal Phnom Penh

Raffles Le Royal
Phnom Penh

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Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris
Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris

Le Royal Monceau
Raffles Paris

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Raffles Makati
Raffles Makati

Raffles
Makati

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Raffles Jakarta
Raffles Jakarta

Raffles
Jakarta

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Raffles Makkah
Raffles Makkah

Raffles
Makkah

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Raffles Seychelles
Raffles Seychelles

Raffles
Seychelles

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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

Raffles Maldives
Meradhoo

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Raffles Shenzhen
Raffles Shenzhen

Raffles
Shenzhen

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Raffles Europejski Warsaw

More than 160 years since its 19th century heyday, Hotel Europejski has been lovingly restored and reinvented as Raffles Europejski Warsaw, reclaiming its place at the heart of Poland’s artistic metropolis.

Under the skillful guidance of renowned local curators Anda Rottenberg and Barbara Piwowarska, the hotel resonates with the artistic soul of the Polish nation from times of endurance and exile to bespoke pieces made this year to celebrate the country’s 100th anniversary since regaining independence. The hotel houses one of Poland’s largest collection of Polish contemporary art.

With views over the magnificent Piłsudski Square, Raffles Europejski Warsaw is perfectly placed along the Royal Route, and a leisurely walk from the beautifully restored Old Town.

The 106 guest quarters are a tribute to the artistic heritage of Raffles Europejski Warsaw, where the urban blueprint of 19th century Warsaw graces the floors through its woven carpets, and over 450 pieces of original Polish art are displayed, complementing the stunning skyline of Warsaw etched into the magnificent marble walls of the bathrooms.

Indulge in a lavish treatment as you admire the 1961 ”Abduction of Europa” mosaic by Krystyna Kozłowska which now hangs in the lobby of the Raffles Spa. Enjoy a taste of the hotel's culinary expertise, at the Europejski Grill, re-imagined with a modern twist. And while the new is brought in, the old has not been forgotten. Lourse Warszawa Patisserie pays homage to the illustrious history of the hotel where a café of the same name was a well known haunt of the artists, writers and poets of the day. And adjacent, a Humidor — the most exclusive in Warsaw — awaits the connoisseur of fine cigars and single malts.

Raffles Europejski Warsaw

Raffles Dubai

Raffles Dubai is a stunning landmark hotel. Its distinctive pyramid shape, blending Asian style with an Egyptian aesthetic, rises from the desert and delivers a luxurious retreat that provides impeccable service in sophisticated style.

Starting at a generous 70 square meters, the rooms are outfitted with walk-in showers, sitting areas and balconies or terraces. And the suites themselves are stunning at night, with views from the private balconies that stretch towards the horizon.

Hotel guests have a choice of an incredible seven restaurants and bars, with many more to explore in nearby Wafi Mall. With lush private gardens, an outdoor pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and the exceptional Raffles Spa, this hotel offers plenty of ways to laze the day away after the buzz of sightseeing.

Here, the famously impeccable Raffles Butler Service is intuitive, discreet and, in fact, award winning.

Raffles Dubai

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor has been a true landmark hotel in Cambodia since the hotel first opened its doors in 1932 to the first wave of travelers keen to see the world-famous Angkor Temples.

With 15 acres of garden, one of Cambodia’s most iconic swimming pools, and incredible original features – such as a unique timber elevator — the hotel offers the sumptuous splendor of a bygone era to travellers exploring Siem Reap.

Located in the heart of the Old French Quarter, eight kilometers from the Angkor Wat temple complex, The Grand Hotel D’Angkor is the perfect place to explore this incredible UNESCO world heritage city and surrounds.

A hotel built on Raffles signature welcome and service, this iconic hotel is a dreamy step back in time to the days of luxury travel and adventure with all the heart that Cambodia has to offer.

Raffles Grand Hotel D’Angkor

Raffles Singapore

Reopening mid-2019

Raffles Singapore is one of the few remaining great 19th century hotels in the world. With its signature Colonial-architecture, this hotel is more than a national treasure — it’s a distinctive wellspring of calm in the bustling city, and a romantic nod to travellers of yesteryear. It is also the birthplace of the legendary Raffles service.

The world-famous Singapore Sling was born at the hotel’s iconic Long Bar. Invented as a cocktail for those most discerning ladies wanting to sneak something stronger into their drink, this is a cocktail that is now enjoyed by all. No visit to Singapore is complete without a visit to Raffles; and no visit to Raffles is complete without having a Singapore Sling.

Raffles Singapore is the flagship property of Raffles Hotels & Resorts. Its century-old colonial charm and heritage, together with its famous patrons, make it one of the most memorable places to stay in the world.

Currently closed for restoration, the hotel will reopen towards the end of 2018 with exquisite new suite categories, vibrant lifestyle experiences and refreshed dining concepts. The restoration is designed to make Raffles Singapore the place to meet, spend time, shop and celebrate. All the while retaining what makes Raffles so special – the ambience, the service, the charm and the heritage.

Raffles Singapore

Raffles Istanbul

A wonderfully sleek and modern hotel, Raffles Istanbul offers breathtaking views of the Bosphorus from almost every room.

Sitting on the European side of the city, in the Besiktas district, it is well connected to all that the city has to offer. Guests can experience the unique energy of Istanbul before retreating to the luxury of this sumptuous home away from home.

Each of its 185 rooms is fitted with understated ethereal hues of blue and green, accented by hand-woven Turkish textiles and contemporary art.

As a beacon of modern Turkey, the hotel is also attached to the Zorlu Center — a contemporary bazaar with luxury brands and a performing arts center boasting world-class entertainment.

Raffles Spa, one of the largest in Istanbul, offers everything from Turkish baths to eastern massages and the hotel offers a variety of world class dining experiences. Raffles Istanbul is truly a haven of unparalleled comfort, luxury and service.

Raffles Istanbul

Raffles Hainan

Raffles Hainan is a veritable Garden of Eden. The views from this stunning hotel stretch out forever over the deep blue, tropical waters of Clearwater Bay. The hotel is the perfect spot for those wanting respite, as well as those looking to take advantage of the championship golf course right next door.

The hotel itself is a Balinese-style tropical paradise filled with artisanal stone sculptures, lush palm trees and immaculate lawns. With three swimming pools, six restaurants and bars, plus the Raffles signature spa, travellers can enjoy absolute relaxation or set upon the gorgeous sandy beach for an afternoon of sun and surf in total privacy.

The beachside rooms are a generous 80 square meters, all with gorgeous sea views across the glittering bay. In “Hawaii of the East” style, Raffles Hainan provides unparalleled comfort and service in the South China Sea. It’s no wonder it was named Luxury Travel Guides’ 2018 Luxury Contemporary hotel of the year.

Raffles Hainan

Raffles Le Royal Phnom Penh

90-year-old Art Deco and French Colonial style is reinterpreted in a contemporary way at Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Cambodia. This is a hotel where elegant history and a vibrant present live side by side, just as they do in Phnom Penh.

The hotel sits on a tranquil tree-lined street, a stone’s throw from the National Library, and minutes away from the temple hill Wat Phnom and the riverfront.

To enhance this stunning piece of Cambodia’s heritage, a new extension was done beautifully and sensitively. Local artisans were commissioned to recreate painted ceilings, decorative beaten copper crests and sculptures. And outside, two swimming pools sit in a private courtyard with a frangipani-lined tropical garden. Even with 173 rooms, this hotel retains an intimate feel that guests might expect from a boutique hotel.

Hotel Le Royal is a grand old dame — a Raffles classic, with intuitive service and flawless attention to detail — making it the perfect haven after exploring the bustle of this “water city.”

Raffles Le Royal Phnom Penh

Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris

A short stroll from the majestic Champs Elysees, the iconic Arc de Triomphe and the beautiful Parc Monceau — the perfectly Parisian Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris surely has one of the grandest and most picturesque settings in town.

This stunning hotel is both a sumptuous retreat from the buzz of the metropolis and a delightfully vibrant celebration of Parisian art, food and culture. Built at the end of the roaring twenties, the hotel became a hot spot for artists from around the world who came to create and collaborate in the heart of this remarkable city.

Stunningly transformed by designer Philippe Starck, the hotel is entirely dedicated to the celebration of art, with in-house exhibitions and its own art concierge. Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris is the personification of elegant service in one of the most romantic cities in the world.

Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris

Raffles Makati

In the heart of the central business district, this 30-story architectural and art-filled masterpiece exudes intimacy and luxury. Set in the thriving Philippines capital of Manila, Raffles Makati is the best place to explore all the best of Filipino culture.

With no less than 1,600 commissioned works — Filipino art fills the halls and the 32 large suites and residences of this hotel. As such, there is a dedicated art concierge on hand to help guests experience the collection through bespoke tours. But it is the fusion of contemporary sophistication and old-world charm which gives the hotel the unmistakable Raffles essence of understated elegance and calm.

Raffles Makati offers a range of dining and leisure areas — including the signature Long Bar and Writers Bar. The Mireio restaurant on the ninth floor offers particularly stunning views across the city.

A sanctuary at the center of this buzzing metropolis, Raffles Makati stands as a graceful and sumptuous stop for discerning travellers.

Raffles Makati

Raffles Jakarta

At the core of this thriving Indonesian city, Raffles Jakarta stands out from the hustle and bustle as a beacon of calm and luxury inside the golden triangle.

This is a new destination for entrepreneurs and culture seekers. Indonesian artist Hendra Gunawan’s work is celebrated throughout the hotel, where design inspiration draws from his famous work.

The hotel is also connected to Lotte Shopping Avenue for shopping, dining and entertainment, and the Ciputra Artpreneur Center — a must-see art gallery and theater complex where the legacy of Hendra Gunawan’s art comes to life.

This cultural heritage is evident throughout the hotel’s restaurants and bars. The Writers Bar, a re-interpretation of the much-loved Raffles Singapore haven, overflows with Indonesian art, history and literature. And for al fresco relaxation, guests can enjoy poolside dining and cocktails in the lush tropical gardens.

An elegant aesthetic design, combined with outstanding views and exquisite comforts, makes Raffles Jakarta’s 173 sumptuous rooms and suites the ideal place to unwind and indulge in striking surrounds.

Raffles Jakarta

Raffles Makkah

This stunning all-suite hotel has no equal. With an incredible location boasting truly breathtaking views of the Grand Mosque and the Kaaba, Raffles Makkah Palace in Saudi Arabia is an unparalleled vantage point from which to explore the holy site and beyond.

This magnificent residential experience draws inspiration from the heritage, culture and faith of the Middle East, offering easy access to King Abdulaziz Gate, the main entrance to the Grand Mosque.

The generous suites — all of which overlook the holy site – boast separate living and dining spaces, underpinned by Raffles’ incredible attention to detail.

Guests will be spoiled for choice with an incredible array of dining options. Al Majlis boasts Levantine specialties, while Al Qasr features delectable international choices including Arabic, Indian, Moroccan and western cuisine. There’s even an ice cream parlor with custom designed Teppanyaki ice cream dishes.

Raffles Makkah Palace is truly one of the world’s great hotels; an opulent and elegant refuge and certainly an experience of a lifetime.

Raffles Makkah

Raffles Seychelles

A few steps from the pristine coastline of Anse Takamaka on the island of Praslin, Raffles Seychelles is an idyllic and private slice of heaven.

86 contemporary villas dot the hillside, providing some of the most spacious accommodation in the Seychelles. Each villa features a plunge pool, a private outdoor pavilion and a balcony to enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean, white sand coastline and lush green hillside.

The hotel has two pools, one of which is a 40-meter infinity, the largest in the Seychelles. There is also a lovely stretch of private beach for those looking to relax in the sand. With three restaurants, a beach bar, and two lounges — including a rooftop shisha spot — there are plenty of onsite offerings in which to indulge.

But the crowning glory might just be the stunning Spa. Each of the 12 treatment pavilions showcase spectacular views that make this a haven of peace and rejuvenation.

Only 15 minutes by plane or helicopter from Mahé island (or a scenic 55 minutes by ferry), and a million miles from the office, this hotel is perfect for those wanting adventure and luxury that is far from the ordinary.

Raffles Seychelles

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

Opening early 2019

The new kid on the block, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, will be the first Raffles in the region. Nestled amongst a paradise made up of hundreds of islands, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo will have 21 island villas and 16 ocean villas with private pools. The hotel will feature an overwater spa, fitness center, three restaurants and a cocktail bar overlooking the crystal-clear waters surrounding the resort.

If water sports are your particular passion, Raffles Maldives will not disappoint. Guests will be able to head over to the dive center where the in-house Marine Butler will expertly see to your every sea-related inquiry before you head off on an underwater adventure with a certified diving instructor. All of these activities aim to relax, rejuvenate and reinvigorate the body, mind and spirit.

There can be no better place for a romantic retreat, and the Raffles Maldives romance package offers some truly extraordinary touches. You’ll enjoy a bottle of chilled champagne on arrival, and 100 euros to spend across any of their restaurants and bars. But, the romantic highlight of this exceptional experience is dinner for two served on the edge of the private beach.

Raffles Maldives Meradhoo

Raffles Shenzhen

Opening in 2019

Raffles Shenzhen will be Raffles’ second hotel in China. Part of the One Shenzhen Bay development, the hotel will occupy the top floors of the 72-story architectural icon at the heart of the Nanshan District. Featuring 168 spacious and luxurious guestrooms, each room provides stunning views of the beautiful Shenzhen Bay and, in the distance, Hong Kong.

To get away from the hustle and bustle of Shenzhen, awaken and revive your senses with a retreat to the Raffles Spa. The epitome of a luxurious sanctuary, time-honored methods and holistic treatments will calm the mind. Follow that up with rejuvenating hydrotherapy wellness experience that includes jacuzzi, vitality pool and sauna in a natural-light environment – this will certainly soothe the soul. After working up an appetite, indulge with a choice of six restaurants and bars, including Kokoni, considered the only true Japanese restaurant in Shenzhen.

At Raffles Shenzhen it’s truly about feeding your mind, body and soul. And continuing a 131-year tradition, the legendary Raffles butlers will bring the graceful and personalized service to your stay, giving you that home away from home feeling on your next excursion into China.

Raffles Shenzhen

This page was paid for by Raffles. The editorial staff of CNBC had no role in the creation of this page.