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Flores Bound
A remote island in eastern Indonesia has plenty to offer the adventurous traveler: spectacular scenery, rich cultural traditions,and maybe, just maybe, hobbits
Reef Respite
While Bedarra Island’s main draw is one of the most exclusive resorts on the Great Barrier Reef, a stay at the former residence of a Queensland artist offers enchantments—and an idyllic beach—of its own
Ten Affordable Island Lodgings
When it comes to that next island getaway, finding a well-priced hotel or resort doesn’t mean forgoing comfort. Here are 10 places for under US$200 a night (in low season) where you don’t have to sacrifice style for savings
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| > | Departments | | | Letters from Readers | | | Publisher's note | | | Gypsy Tales| | LODGINGS UPDATE
Opening its doors on August 1, Hyatt on the Bund (pictured top, 86-2/6393-1234;www.hyatt.com; doubles from US$207) is the latest five-star address on Shanghai’s historic riverfront.
PRODUCT
Fresh Crop
Pick up a gift pack of hand-sorted cashews from Nuts+Nuts (www.nutsplusnuts.com) on your next trip to Bali or Jakarta.
ATTRACTION
Towering Achievement
Melbourne, Australia’s staid second city, has never been much of a destination for thrill-seekers. But its latest attraction, Eureka Skydeck 88 (www.eurekaskydeck.com.au), aims to bring a new level of excitement to the town.
THE SCENE
Night At The Museum
With the opening of three plush restaurants and bars on its ground floor, Singapore’s recently refurbished National Museum (93 Stamford Rd.; www.nationalmuseum.sg) is no longer just a venue for art enthusiasts and school excursions.
Transportation
Full Speed Ahead
Taiwan’s new bullet- train network can be summed up in a single word: high. The trains are high speed, the tracks are high above the ground, and the US$15 billion price tag is high by any measure.
EVENT
Handover Anniversary
It’s been a tumultuous decade for Hong Kong since the former British colony was handed back to China on midnight of June 1997. But 10 years on, the city is set to commemorate its status a special administrative region with no less than 460 events scheduled from now through the rest of the year.
EXHIBITION
Guggenheim Goes South
Jackson Pollock, Roy Lichtenstein, and Andy Warhol will be among the modern masters on display when Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria opens “Guggenheim Collection: 1940s to Now” (June 20–Oct. 7; www.ngv.vic.gov.au).
SHOP
Mo’s Moment
Long considered Thailand’s creative capital, Chiang Mai has been acquiring a hipper, funkier edge recently thanks to an influx of fresh talent.
LUXE LIFE
Cut Above
In a world of disposable Gillettes and rushed shaving sessions at the bathroom sink, there’s something to be said for the full treatment of hot towels, razor straps, badger-hair brushes, and sturdy leather-backed barber chairs.
SPA
Just What You Kneaded
Eyes are popping at the three shipping containers painted lemon yellow and lime green along Phuket’s heavily trafficked main drag, just minutes from Surin Beach.
NEW IDEA
Join The Lobby
Injecting fresh life into the five-star hotel lobby, Westin Hotels & Resorts (www.starwood.com) has launched a series of nightly “Unwind” experiences across its 129 worldwide properties.
Sentosa Stylish
Since the announcement that Singapore will be building one of its two casino entertainment complexes on leafy Sentosa Island, hoteliers have been scrambling to open rooms in nearby locations.
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