Immersive, Tranformative Experiences Offer Deeply Personal Insights Into the Intriguing Beauty, Culture And Traditions Of Krabi, Bali, Niseko, and Jiuzhaigou
HONG KONG –– In the most extraordinary corners of the world, Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates await travelers who seek exotic sanctuaries like no other. Each Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a rare destination that promises immersive experiences of the many unique stories, culture and history of its surroundings. At each Ritz-Carlton Reserve, time seems to stand still with the anticipation of the joy of discovery, the excitement of an unexpected adventure and the indulgence in uncommon luxury through deeply human connections created by Ritz-Carlton Reserve Personal Hosts.
Joining the portfolio of Ritz-Carlton Reserve estates that grace the tropical beaches of Phulay Bay, Thailand, the mystical hills of Ubud in Bali, Indonesia and the breathtaking alpine regions of Niseko, Japan, is the much-anticipated opening of Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, China’s very first Ritz-Carlton Reserve and the fourth in the Asia Pacific region. Rissai Valley is poised to be the gateway for luxury travelers to the stunning natural wonderland of Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and World Biosphere Reserve. Set in a 72,000-hectare nature reserve, the new resort will invite travelers to savor the pleasures of discovery within relaxed and intimate settings inspired by the exquisite natural beauty of the region.
Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Expected to make its debut in the second quarter of 2023, Rissai Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve will reflect the traditions, culture and history of the Tibetan plateau in a spectacular mountainside setting. The name of the estate was inspired by the Tibetan word for “village”, elegantly linking it to the original meaning of Jiuzhagou, or “nine villages” in Chinese. Jiuzhagou today means “Ravine of Nine Villages”, named for the nine ancient Tibetan villages dotted along the valley. This incomparable place is a perfect getaway destination with its jewel-colored lakes, cascading waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. Rissai Valley’s 87 private villas exist in delicate harmony with their surroundings, tastefully designed to offer magnificent views of the surrounding forests, mountains and Tibetan villages. A 2,500-square-meter spa and an array of dining choices at the resort’s four signature restaurants tempt guests to savor the many pleasures of this destination, and the Reserve’s Personal Hosts organize engaging and immersive activities that uncover human connections and deep personal insights into this truly magical corner of the world, including Tibetan sound therapy meditation, forest hikes, visits to traditional Tibetan homes and much more.
Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Along the pristine shores of the Andaman Sea in Krabi, Thailand, Phulay Bay is a spellbinding place whose name means “where the mountains meet the sea” and this enchanting tropical paradise is the setting for Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve. 24 spacious pavilions and 30 villas with private pool villas, verandahs and personal gardens offer captivating views of the naturally rugged shoreline and dramatic limestone islands which make up this beautiful part of southern Thailand. The architecture of the estate is a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary luxury reflecting the richness of Thai aesthetics, with a candlelit pavilion that welcomes arriving guests into a place of exceptional serenity and peace. Phulay Bay offers signature Thai and Mediterranean inspired dining and a luxury spa with treatments that restore a deep sense of wellbeing. With the guidance of a Personal Host, guests can also explore all that Krabi has to offer, from hikes to the top of the island’s beautiful Naga Mountain to the remarkable culture, traditions and customs of Thailand.
Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Spiritual Bali, the “island of the gods”, is the home of Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in the Indonesian archipelago. Mandapa, or “temple” in Sanskrit, is an extraordinary portal into a world of wellness, culture and refined arts. The estate’s 35 suites and 25 private pool villas overlook the Ayung river or the lush rice fields and hills of Ubud that the passage of time has seemingly left untouched. Within the villas, accents of exquisitely handwoven songket brocade pay tribute to Indonesia’s ancient artisanal traditions. A sense of timelessness permeates Mandapa, where the Reserve’s Personal Hosts or “Patih”, historically meaning “assistant to the King”, discreetly anticipate guests’ every need. This is a place of sanctuary from the world, where the body, mind and senses can be restored with the gently intuitive touch of Ketut Mursi, a gifted blind healer. Dining at Mandapa is an adventure into the rich flavors and aromas of Indonesian as well as Mediterranean cuisines, offering choices of chef-led dining experiences, romantic candlelit dinners and barbecues by the rice fields. The resort’s nature-inspired Ambar is perched high on a cliffside, a tranquil spot for handcrafted cocktails, Japanese gastronomy and quiet contemplation of the magical sunsets of Ubud.
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, celebrates the ethereal beauty and ever-changing seasons of Japan’s northernmost island of Hokkaido, and connects guests to the breathtaking alpine environment through play, exploration and personal discovery in a splendid retreat high in the mountains and forests of Niseko. At the core of the experience at Higashiyama Niseko Village is “Kachou Fuugetsu”, or the philosophy of transforming and finding oneself through nature, whether on an invigorating mountain trek, in the healing powers of hot springs or observing the elegance of Japanese omakase-style dining. The resort’s Personal Hosts, or “Do San” are always at hand to reveal the charms of Japan’s culture, cuisine and traditions to guests who seek uncommon experiences. The 50 rooms and suites at Higashiyama Niseko Village offer a classic balance of traditional elements and modern luxury, and overlook majestic Mount Yotei and the Niseko Annupuri international ski area. Niseko transforms into a powder snow ski paradise in the winter season, and the resort’s expert guides, Higashiyma Reservists, lead guests on private trips to explore more than 2,100 acres of skiable terrain. After an exhilarating day outdoors, the resort’s Spa Chasi La Sothys awaits to soothe and reinvigorate tired bodies and senses with private indoor and outdoor onsens, fed by the pure restorative waters of Niseko’s volcanic hot springs.
