Vietnam Unveils Stunning Cave Dining Experience Blending Culture and Cuisine

Vietnam Unveils Stunning Cave Dining Experience Blending Culture and Cuisine

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 8, 2025

In an ambitious fusion of heritage, theatre, and culinary art, Vietnam has unveiled one of its most enchanting tourism experiences to date—a cave dining and cultural performance inside the ancient Dragon Pearl Cave near Halong City. The remarkable initiative, launched by Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation, offers guests a 2.5-hour immersive journey through Vietnamese folklore and fine local cuisine.

The experience, which debuted on May 30, takes place in a 150-million-year-old limestone cave, spanning 4000 square metres and located about 30 minutes from Halong City. Nestled 45 metres above sea level and part of the Bai Tu Long region in Cam Pha district, Dragon Pearl Cave is revered for its dramatic stalactites and twin-chamber formation, often referred to as "a theatre inside a mountain."

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The evening begins with “The Quest for the Dragon Pearl”, a visually stunning 45-minute cultural performance directed by Le Thanh Phong. Against a surreal cave backdrop, the show uses music, dance, acrobatics, lighting effects, puppetry, and props to narrate the legend of the sacred Dragon Pearl—a tale of power, peace, and unity between heaven and earth.

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After the performance, guests are treated to an elaborate Vietnamese fine dining experience by candlelight. Curated by Head Chef Nguyen Gia Thien, the menu celebrates the culinary richness of Quang Ninh Province, blending local ingredients and folklore inspiration. Dishes include:

  • Pomelo and giant river prawn salad

  • Grilled Van Don oysters with scallop sauce

  • Hand-pounded Co To squid cakes

  • Crispy roasted Tien Yen chicken

  • Grilled sea bass in wild dzong leaves

  • Lobster with Tiến Vua imperial sauce

  • Gat Gu rolls and braised Khau Nhuc pork

  • Stir-fried asparagus with cordyceps mushroom

  • Golden Dragon Pearl dessert

  • Yen Tu golden flower tea

This innovative experience is expected to reshape the region’s tourism appeal. Nguyen Hong Nhat, General Director of APC Corporation, shared, “‘The Quest for the Dragon Pearl’ diversifies Quang Ninh’s tourism, offering more for travellers to discover beyond famed Halong Bay. This ancient cave is a new cultural landmark that promotes sustainable, heritage tourism and creates lasting economic and cultural impact for the province.”

By combining natural wonder, dramatic storytelling, and refined hospitality, Dragon Pearl Cave is not only a visual spectacle but a celebration of Vietnam’s cultural legacy and culinary depth. The launch marks an important step in positioning Quang Ninh as a leading cultural and experiential destination in Asia.


LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar to Host Exclusive Whisky Cocktail Takeover on August 15

LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar to Host Exclusive Whisky Cocktail Takeover on August 15

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2025

LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, the vibrant rooftop venue crowning the 33rd and 34th floors of INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit, is set to host an exciting whisky cocktail takeover event on August 15.

The event, titled ‘LUZ x Prakaan Guest Shift Glow’, will welcome renowned bartender and Prakaan Whisky brand ambassador, Bank Watcharapong Suriyaphan, from 7 PM to 9 PM. Known for his expertise as the founder of Tale of the Spirits bar academy and books, as well as a seasoned bar owner and manager, Suriyaphan will craft four exclusive cocktails specially curated for this one-night-only event.

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  •  Sol de Miel (The Golden Glow) – A sweet blend of Prakaan Select Cask, citrus honey shrub, vanilla, lemon, and soda.
  •  El Misterio (The Mystery) – A smoky creation featuring Prakaan Peated Malt, dry vermouth, fig jam, and cocoa bitters.
  • LUZ Oscura (Dark Light) – A nutty profile crafted with Prakaan Double Cask, Amontillado Sherry, Frangelico, and bitters. 
  • Flamenco Flame (The Fire Within) – A vibrant mix of Prakaan Peated Malt, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering, citrus, and caramel.

Beyond the beverages, the venue offers an elevated atmosphere. While the 33rd floor houses the tapas bar itself with striking architectural design inspired by Bangkok’s Rama VIII Bridge, the 34th floor opens into a pool bar and transparent infinity pool with a rooftop terrace. The decor pays tribute to the city’s Giant Swing, blending modern aesthetics with cultural nods.

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LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar is known for serving authentic Spanish tapas complemented by Thai ingredients, along with a curated selection of Spanish wines, beers on tap, cocktails, and signature sangrias.

The bar is open daily from 4 PM to midnight, making it an ideal spot for sunset views and late-night indulgence.


Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 5, 2025

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the iconic 93-year-old luxury retreat near Cambodia’s ancient Angkor sites, has launched a new art exhibition titled “Harmony.” The show highlights the works of two of Cambodia’s most prominent contemporary artists, Morn Chear and Nak Noy, both natives of Siem Reap.

Curated by Nat Di Maggio from Tribe Art Gallery, the exhibition captures the intricate beauty of Cambodia’s natural environment through vivid depictions of birds, elephants, fish, and other wildlife. Beyond artistic expression, these creatures serve as symbols of Khmer heritage, folklore, and everyday life. At a time when environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, “Harmony” invites viewers to reflect on the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

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The exhibition is on display in the hotel’s elegant public spaces, and guests can also enjoy private guided tours led by the resident artists. Running through September, this initiative is part of the hotel’s ongoing cultural series, which began earlier this year with a showcase by renowned Khmer painter Channy Chhoeun.

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Opened in 1932 as a haven for explorers and archeologists visiting Angkor Wat, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to celebrate Cambodia’s rich heritage. Its ‘Curated Journeys’ and in-house ‘Resort Programme’ offer immersive experiences that connect guests with local culture and traditions.

Adding to its legacy, the hotel was recently named one of the world’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ by Travel + Leisure for the fourth year in a row.


Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 4, 2025

Sarovar Hotels, the Indian arm of Louvre Hotels Group, has launched its premium Royal Tulip brand in Nepal with the grand opening of Royal Tulip Chitwan. Developed by KTM Hospitality, a subsidiary of KTM Group Holdings, the resort is located near the renowned Chitwan National Park and spans 4 acres of lush landscape.

Royal Tulip Chitwan features 65 well-designed rooms and villas, including Pool Villas, Water Villas, and unique Machan accommodations. Each space is crafted to offer guests a luxurious and immersive experience with sweeping views of nature. The resort also includes a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and an array of dining options, such as Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, and the lively Tanavi Sports Bar.

Ajay K. Bakaya, chairman of Sarovar Hotels and director of Louvre Hotels India, said, “Nepal is fast emerging as a preferred destination for both Indian and international travelers. We are thrilled to introduce the Royal Tulip brand in this beautiful country with a resort that offers a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and local culture.”

Rameshwar Shah, chairman of KTM Hospitality, added, “Royal Tulip Chitwan, a place covered by nature where the wild watches over you, is our tribute to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. This resort is more than just a hospitality project, it is our commitment to enhancing the region’s tourism appeal, creating local employment opportunities, and setting a new benchmark for luxury in Chitwan.”

With this strategic launch, Louvre Hotels Group continues to grow its footprint in South Asia, reaffirming its focus on expanding into high-potential tourism destinations. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a preferred retreat for travelers seeking serenity, wildlife, and refined hospitality in the heart of Nepal.

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