Published: July 09, 2026

Boodle Fight 101: Origins, DIY Guide, and Where to Try It in Asia

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 09, 2026

Boodle fights have a way of getting people's attention. Whether you encounter it on your screen or in person, the spectacle is hard to miss: a long table set up, piled with steaming white rice and an array of meats, seafood, vegetables, and fruits, arranged in an artistically messy way. It looks great on your Instagram feed, even better on TikTok. But more than that, it's a feast you'll want to share with loved ones — so, what is a boodle fight?

The communal, no-cutlery-allowed, hands-on feast has become a part of Filipino cuisine not only in the Philippines but all over the world. It promises bonding and engagement, regardless of rank, title, or any social hierarchy. Everyone eats from the same delicious spread. But behind the banana leaves lies a more complicated story, one that runs through Spanish colonization and U.S. military mess halls.

The roots of the boodle fight actually predate any of that, however. Long before Spanish ships arrived in the 1500s, Filipinos across the archipelago ate kamayan-style, using their hands rather than utensils. In Tagalog, "kamayan" literally translates to "with hands," and it wasn't a novelty. It was simply how Filipinos ate.

That changed when Spanish colonizers introduced cutlery — forks, spoons, and plates — in the 16th century, part of a broader effort to assimilate Indigenous Filipinos into European customs. Kamayan never fully disappeared, but it wasn't an everyday custom anymore.

Dara Hong Kong boodle fight — Photo from Instagram/ Dara Hong Kong

Enter the Americans. After the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War, the United States took control of the Philippines in 1898 and maintained their presence until 1946. American colonizers tried, like the Spanish before them, to push Western dining habits onto the islands. But it was the U.S. military that ended up reviving the practice, albeit for different purposes.

The term "boodle fight" itself is military slang. "Boodle" referred to treats like candy, cake, or ice cream, and a "boodle fight" was originally just military jargon for a party where boodle was served. By World War II, the term had attached itself to a specific ritual: U.S. and Filipino soldiers eating shoulder-to-shoulder, food piled onto a long, banana-leaf-lined table, no rank distinctions as they share the prepared meal. It started as a West Point cadet tradition and trickled down through the ranks, eventually spreading beyond the barracks into civilian life.

Today, restaurants often use "boodle fight" interchangeably with "kamayan" or a "kamayan feast," even though the terms carry very different histories — one rooted in Indigenous custom, the other in colonial military culture. What they share, though, is the hands-only, everyone-digs-in spirit that has made the dining format one of Filipino cuisine's most recognizable and beloved cultural exports.

Lola's Kitchen boodle fight — Photo from Facebook/ Lola's Kitchen

How to Set Up a Boodle Fight at Home

The short version: clear a long table, cover it in banana leaves, pile on the rice and meats, and call your people. The longer version involves a bit more, but the whole point of a boodle fight is that there's nothing precious or carefully curated about it.

Start with the foundation. You'll need fresh banana leaves, laid flat and overlapping across the length of your table. There shouldn't be any gaps, as this functions as your plate for the food. Most wet markets carry them. Rinse them well and briefly run each leaf over an open flame or under hot water to soften them and release the faint grassy scent.

If you don't have banana leaves, large sheets of parchment — like the ones you would use for a Western seafood boil — will do in a pinch.

Then the food. Rice goes down first. White rice is standard, but others try to elevate their boodle fight with garlic rice or other flavors. As the base for the whole thing, make sure to put down generous quantities. Some people get creative and create shapes or spell words with the rice. Up to you!

From here, the feast is yours to build. A classic spread includes grilled meats and seafood: Inihaw na Liempo (grilled pork belly), Inihaw na Pusit (grilled squid), and more. You can include fried dishes: Lumpia (fried Filipino spring roll), Lechon (roasted pig), fried fish, etc. Others add Pancit (noodles) because Filipinos don't judge a "carbs on carbs" diet.

Blackbeard's Seafood Island boodle fight — Photo from Instagram/ Seafood Island

Some may even add a stew such as Adobo or Ginataan. But generally speaking, stews and soups are avoided because they tend to make for a messier table. The solution for others is to put them into bowls, placed around the feast for easier access.

Then add vegetables (Pinakbet, Ensalada, grilled eggplant or okra, and more), fresh fruits (watermelon, mango, pineapple, papaya — tropical fruits are ideal), and dipping sauces (soy sauce, vinegar, Mang Tomas lechon sauce). It's all fair game. The only rules that matter are to pile them high and make sure there's enough variety to keep things exciting.

More dishes, more color, more texture — the better.

As for the eating: hands only, no exceptions. Wash up, gather around, and dive in. The boodle fight was designed to bring people together — no individual plates, no assigned cutlery for courses, no hierarchy.

Not up for sourcing your own banana leaves or cooking ten different things at once? Fair enough. We've put together a list of restaurants across Asia that offer a Boodle Fight set and will handle all of it. Just show up hungry, curious, and dig in!

Manila, Philippines

Blackbeard's Seafood Island

Blackbeard's Seafood Island has the energy of a place that understands the assignment: loud, generous, unapologetically fun. The seafood restaurant has branches at Mall of Asia, Eastwood Citywalk, and Palawan. The boodle follows the same logic as a DIY boodle fight: go big, varied, and a little theatrical.

Good for families and groups of friends, they also offer smaller "Boodle Feast" sets that are designed for two for only P1,099. It's a date that makes sure neither of you leave the table hungry. Their "Tali Beach" set is more classic Filipino beach feast: grilled liempo, grilled tanigue, pinakbet, crispy bangus, classic dinakdakan, and curry mussels and shrimps. Plus, garlic rice, mango, and other tropical fruits.

They also offer a richer, brothier set with "Magellan's Landing," featuring fish tinola, sinuglaw, chicken inasal skewers, pork humba, and shrimp and mussels in sambal coco chili. Its base is talipapa fried rice and finished with lato salad and seasonal fruit.

Some boodle sets are available at limited date and time slots, so be sure to double-check.

For more information and updates, follow Blackbeard's Seafood Island on Facebook and Instagram.

Locations:

SM by the Bay, SM Mall of Asia, Seaside Blvd., Pasay City
Eastwood City Walk 1, G. Orchard Rd., Bagumbayan, Quezon City
597X+WCQ, Purok Bagong Pag-Asa, National Highway, Corong-corong Pob. (Barangay 4), El Nido, Palawan

Operating Hours: Vary per location

Dampa Seafood Grill

At first glance, Dampa Seafood Grill leans more towards a Western seafood boil than a Filipino boodle fight because they've built a reputation on their Dampa Premium Seafeast (P3,499 for three to four pax), a boodle fight featuring crabs, shrimp, mussels, and clam — all covered in the Cajun sauce — plus corn, unlimited rice and two 1-liter mocktails. It's a kamayan feast and a seafood boil in one.

But look into their menu and you can mix and match your way into a more traditional Filipino boodle fight. They offer Ultimate Crispy Pata (P899), Liempo 2-Way (P440), Grilled Bangus (P490), Sinuglaw (P490), Catch of the Day Soup (P480), Grilled Squid (P490), and more.

Dampa Seafood Grill has branches in Quezon City and Pasig City. Outside of the Philippines, they also have branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where it picked up a Best Local Restaurant award at Dubai Expo 2020.

Open daily from 11 AM to 1 AM, dining in Dampa Seafood Grill means large groups and long meals.

For more information and updates, follow Dampa Seafood Grill on Facebook and Instagram.

Locations:

71-73 Scout Limbaga St., Tomas Morato, Quezon City
2/F The View Deck, Arcovia City, C5, Pasig City

Operating Hours: Vary per location

Mr. Jeepney

Maginhawa Street in Quezon City has long been one of Manila's best food spots. Mr. Jeepney — formerly known as Gerry's Jeepney — is right in the thick of it, and definitely worth a stop. Think of a neighborhood fiesta: live music, cold San Miguel beer, and a menu proudly offering Filipino comfort food.

The draw here is the "Boodle Bulilit," which starts at P750. For a boodle fight, this is one of the cheapest ones available. "Bulilit" is Tagalog for small or pint-sized, which makes this ideal for two to three persons rather than a long table. There's not a lot of details on what is included in the spread, but if the photo is an accurate indication then it features pork barbecue, chicken inasal, and pancit alongside vegetables like okra. Straightforward, but no less satisfying. If you want to try out the format without committing to a full feast for a dozen people, then this is right up your alley.

For more information, follow Mr. Jeepney on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: 131 Maginhawa St., Teacher's Village, Diliman, Quezon City

Operating Hours: Tuesday to Thursday, from 11 AM to 12 AM; Friday to Sunday, from 7 AM to 12 AM

Hong Kong

Bedañas Filipino Restaurant

For the huge Filipino community in Hong Kong, Bedañas Filipino Restaurant has been the answer to homesickness since 2008. But you don't need to be Filipino to appreciate the spot. It's a reliable entry point into the cuisine with its no frills, good food, and warm hospitality ethos.

The boodle fight menu runs across three sets, all priced per person and built around refillable rice. Like we said, it's all about the rice. Set A (HK$250) lets you choose six ulam (dishes) from a list that includes pork barbecue, liempo, crispy pata, lechon kawali, longganisa, tocino, chicken inasal, pancit, and vegetables. Set B (HK$280) adds tilapia, shrimp, kinilaw, and a refillable juice pitcher to the mix. Lastly, the most expensive spread, Set C, at HK$350 brings the crab and squid out, plus seasonal fruits. In other words, the full spread. All three come with a two-hour dining window.

For first-timers to Filipino cuisine, the choose-your-own-ulam is the smart way in. And for those who are really craving for the whole experience, Set C offers a feast that Filipinos truly recognize.

To stay updated and for more information, follow Bedañas Filipino Restaurant on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: G/F 113 Woosung Street, Jordan, Kowloon

Operating Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 2 AM

Dara

"Kain na!" — say that out loud and everyone is summoned to the table to eat. It's more than an invitation to eat; it's a phrase that everyone says at nearly every gathering, fiesta, and family meal. At Dara in Hong Kong, that's the message. Come here, pull up a chair, there's always room in the table, and the food is abundant — not to mention indulgent and delicious.

Dara's boodle fight is a serious spread. At HK$350 per person, the banana-leaf table comes loaded with chicken inasal, fried tilapia, laing, inihaw na baboy, and a seafood boil of shrimp and mussels, rounded out with salted egg salad, lumpiang Shanghai, inihaw na mais, and mixed fruits. All with — you guessed it — unlimited rice. For those who want more meat, their kamayan experience also offers lechon belly as an option.

But plan in advance! Dara requires five days' advance booking for the boodle fight. Just think of it as something to look forward to.

For more updates and information, follow Dara on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Shop 3, 5-6, G/F Soho 189, No. 189 Queen's Road West, Sai Ying Pun, Central

Operating Hours: Sunday to Thursday, from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM; Friday and Saturday, from 11:30 AM to 1 AM

Singapore

Esquinita Singapore by Kōnyō

If you're a fan of stretching dinner into an entire evening plan, then Esquinita Singapore by Kōnyō is precisely the place to make that happen. The restaurant's recently launched Filipino Feast Experience is a full kamayan-style feast: grilled meats, fresh seafood, Filipino classics, seasonal fruits, and a signature Bulalo soup. Priced at S$248++ for four to five people.

"Filipino Feast Experience" is specifically a weekday dinner set. But they also have previously launched Boodle Fight sets for the weekends. Any of these sets are ideal for big gatherings: family celebrations, corporate get-togethers, occasions like birthdays, or visiting guests who could enjoy a one-of-a-kind Filipino dining experience.

Oh, and Esquinita also has free karaoke. And is also a pet-friendly establishment. You can bring your pets and family for a relaxed, long lunch or bring your friends for a fun night out. Either way, Esquinita has got you covered.

For more information and updates, follow Esquinita Singapore on Instagram.

Location: 29 Cuppage Road, Cuppage Terrace, Singapore 229456

Opening Hours: Mondays to Thursdays, from 3 PM to 1 AM; Fridays, from 3 PM to 2 AM; Saturdays, from 12 PM to 2 AM; and Sundays, from 12 PM to 1 AM

Nanay's Kitchen

You can't go wrong with food prepared by Nanay. Nanay's Kitchen boasts four branches spread across Singapore (Sengkang, Yishun, Ubi, and Outram) and an unfussy, generous spirit that makes you feel like you're eating from someone's home.

The restaurant serves Halal Filipino and Malay cuisine, ideal for Singapore's Muslim diners. Their boodle fight sets are scaled for nearly every size. Set A covers two to three people at S$56.25 and includes chicken inasal, daing na bangus or tilapia, garlic prawn, tortang talong, bihon, and bulalo. Set B (S$112.50) scales up to four to six people and adds fried tilapia and chicken sisig to the spread. Set C (S$150) handles eight to ten people, bringing in tinapang bangus, beef bulalo, and more. Groups larger than ten can extend at S$18.75 per person.

Nanay's Kitchen also offers the full setup for catering and delivery — banana leaves, disposable tablecloth, and bilao included. If you'd like the boodle fight to come to you, just call Nanay.

For more information, follow them on Instagram and visit their website.

Location: 301 Ubi Ave. 1 #01-273 Singapore 400301

Operating Hours: Mondays to Sundays, from 7:30 AM to 9 PM

Bangkok, Thailand

Lola's Kitchen

If "Nanay" means mother, "Lola" means grandmother. And in Filipino households, our lolas are generally seen as the final boss when it comes to excellent food. Using lola means setting expectations, and Lola's Kitchen in Bangkok's Pratunam neighborhood seems comfortable with that. Tucked into the second floor of the Arck Hotel, it's a practical stop for anyone navigating Bangkok's shopping districts.

Their kamayan-style boodle fight follows a classic formula. Banana leaves and a spread that's as solid as they come: grilled meats and seafood (liempo, chicken inasal, bangus, shrimp, mussels etc.) paired with vegetables, salted egg, and soup.

Reservations to try out their boodle fight is needed at least three days ahead, whether dine-in, take out, or delivery.

For more information and updates, follow Lola's Kitchen on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: 2/F, Arck Hotel, 4/41-47 Soi Petchaburi 19, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok

Operating Hours: Daily, from 12 NN to 9 PM

Toto Inasal

Toto Inasal, sitting just outside Ratchaprarop BTS station, prides themselves on a very specific specialty: Bacolod-style inasal. The restaurant has built a following among Bangkok's Filipino expat community and curious locals on the flavor of that inasal alone.

Their boodle fight spread leans predictable, but no less satisfying. If anything, it plays into their strengths. While Toto Inasal hasn't released a full list of what guests can expect, we can see some old reliables on the boodle fight photos they've posted online: the trust chicken inasal joined by lato salad, salted egg, more vegetables, and other dishes. It's not much to go on, but think of it this way: there's more for you to wonder about when you finally try it out.

Much like the others in this list, ordering the boodle fight requires a reservation. Dine-in only.

For more information and updates, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: Near Airport Rail Link, Ratchaprarop, Bangkok

Operating Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 9 PM

Kuala Lumpur & Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

Laguna Filipino Bar & Restaurant

To be every Filipino's "home away from home" in Malaysia is Laguna Filipino Bar & Restaurant's goal. With outlets in Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur, Laguna runs on the kind of loud, communal energy that Filipinos will instantly recognize. It's a whole experience: authentic Filipino cuisine, comfort food, karaoke, and ice-cold Red Horse.

Laguna's boodle fight follows a classic, crowd-pleasing set: pancit, barbecue, chicken inasal, grilled fish, salted egg salad, and lumpia laid out on banana leaves. Nothing too experimental; just an easy entry into Filipino cuisine if you're bringing some friends along.

And if you do decide to bring them, get ready for the karaoke!

Follow Laguna Filipino Bar & Restaurant on Facebook.

Locations: No. 14 Jalan 19/36, Seksyen 19, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia

Operating Hours: Daily, from 11 AM to 11 PM

The Narra

Named after the National Tree of the Philippines, The Narra is aptly named as a restaurant that seems to operate on a similar, reliable principle: show up everyday, cook good Filipino food, and welcome everyone. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, The Narra is the kind of neighborhood constant that reminds Filipinos of home. A neighbor you can always count on, and one who will always welcome you in to eat.

Their boodle fight offering is also a fan favorite spread, composed of pancit, lumpia, fresh fruits, shrimp, barbecue, grilled fish, and vegetables. Depending on the occasion, they may even shape the rice to form a word. It's definitely a big set for large groups: holiday parties, office gatherings, and celebrations.

For more information and updates, follow The Narra on Facebook.

Location: G001 Dataran Millennium, Jalan 14/1, 46100 Petaling Jaya

Operating Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 10 PM

Note: Before digging into a boodle fight at restaurants outside the Philippines, make sure to secure a reservation or contact the restaurants in advance, as this may be a seasonal menu offering and/or require a minimum group size.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: June 16, 2026

Why Da Nang Deserves to Be Your Next Vietnam Escape

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
June 16, 2026

There are places built for adventure, destinations with “relaxation” as their middle name, and cities with such a vibrant, hustle energy that sweeps you off. Then there are cities like Da Nang — designed for discovery but best enjoyed at your own pace.

Located along Vietnam’s central coast, Da Nang is fast emerging as the ultimate travel sweet spot. It’s modern but not soulless, lively but never chaotic, and equal parts local charm and global convenience. For seasoned travelers who are traversing Vietnam, looking to break from the usual Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh itinerary, Da Nang offers that rare middle ground: exciting, but not overly energy-consuming.

What makes now the perfect time to visit? Because Da Nang is currently in that magical window before it gets too mainstream. You still have the chance to enjoy clean, uncrowded beaches, sidewalk bites of Banh Mi, and hotel views that don’t cost an arm and a leg. The balance between local authenticity and tourist-ready infrastructure is just right. You can stay in a 5-Star beachfront hotel, take a Grab to the best tailor in Hoi An, spend your night dancing at a rooftop club, before ending up at a street stall with a steaming bowl of Pho — all in one day.

This isn’t a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed. It’s a vacation that rewires your brain, redefines what a vacation could also be like. Slowing down doesn’t mean your vacation has to come to a complete halt, and finding authentic moments doesn’t have to mean giving up comfort.

Golden Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam — Photo from Wikimedia Commons

Details You Need to Know

Da Nang sits on the eastern coast of Vietnam, hugged by the South China Sea and split by the Han River. It’s the country’s fourth largest city, with a population of about 1.2 million. It enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, which translates to hot, humid summers and milder winters. Vietnam’s tourism board suggests visiting around March to May, or September to October, when the weather is warm but not suffocating.

You can fly into Da Nang via Da Nang International Airport, with its modernity and efficiency a welcome surprise. Flights to and from major Asian cities are plentiful, and immigration lines move faster than you would imagine. The Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency, and while it may initially shock you with the amount of zeroes, your money stretches impressively far here.

English is spoken in most tourist-friendly areas, but learning a few Vietnamese phrases, such as “Cảm ơn (Thank you)” and “Xin lỗi (Excuse me/Sorry)” will go a long way.

Da Nang has managed to blend the energy of a budding metropolis with the warmth of a coastal town. Street vendors, chic rooftop bars, informative farm tourist activities, and swanky hotels all coexist harmoniously here. And if you want to feel like a local, then head to the beach at 5 AM or 5 PM when the sun is barely out or about to leave — because locals take sun protection seriously here. You can also don their famous conical hats, the Non la, to keep yourself shielded from the sun.

My Khe Beach in Da Nang, Vietnam — Photo from Wikimedia Commons

Where to Stay: M Hotel Da Nang

Sprite hosted The Beat Asia as we attended the Sprite Da Nang Beach Fest, which was held nearby on My Khe Beach. With this, we had zero expectations coming into M Hotel Da Nang, but what we can tell you now is that we still haven’t emotionally checked out. Located right in front of My Khe Beach, quite literally just across a street, this five-star boutique hotel knows exactly what travelers want: sleek design, convenient location, and thoughtful amenities without the over-the-top fuss.

Out of their 200 rooms, each one exuding understated luxury, we stayed at their Ocean Breeze Deluxe room. With a king-sized bed facing a floor-to-ceiling window that brilliantly framed the ocean views beyond, it felt like waking up inside a postcard.

The room also features a rain shower (and a detachable shower head), comfortable robes, a writing desk, safe, minibar, and enough storage space for a week-long stay — details that make a guest feel welcome, not just accommodated. It’s also worth noting that they minimize the use of single-use plastics by having refillable hair and body product bottles in the bathroom instead.

M Hotel Lobby | Photo from Website/ M Hotel Da Nang

Breakfast at Đu Đủ Restaurant was an overall pleasant experience. The buffet isn’t overwhelming; it’s curated well to delight a wide variety of guests. From live cooking stations for pho and eggs to surprise appearances by black rice and Vietnamese rice dumplings, it hits the right note between comfort and curiosity. And yes, their Vietnamese coffee is exactly what you expect: strong enough to make you question if you’ll be able to sleep 12 hours later.

Of course, even though the beach is literally less than a minute away, we still had to check out their rooftop, infinity pool area. It’s a two-part pool setup with pools featuring either panoramic views of the city or the beach. Although during our visits, we found the pool facing the sea to be more crowded, while the pool facing the city is nearest to the poolside bar — so choose your poison and settle in the cozy outdoor lounge seats as you sip on your sundowner cocktail.

M Hotel Infinity Pool | Photo from Website/ M Hotel Da Nang

If stress is something you packed with you, the Lim Dim Spa at M Hotel is where you leave it behind. While there are no shortages of affordable spas within walking distance, there’s something unbeatable about staying within the relaxing bubble of the hotel, slipping on their robe, and letting the hotel handle the rest.

Lim Dim keeps you in that plush, post-breakfast and pool haze with a wide array of treatments that range from hair spas to full-body massages and scrubs, and even facials. We opted for the 45-minute hair shampoo and facial mask package, a deceptively simple session that ended up scrubbing our scalps into bliss and hydrating our faces into calming oblivion. It's one of the more affordable services on their list, but it still felt every bit as luxurious. Even that short session had us nearly in a coma, and by the end, we were relaxed and deeply regretful that we didn’t spring for the longer packages.

For dinner, Mê Man Dining & Lounge served traditional Vietnamese fare: spring rolls, tofu and mushroom stew paired with steamed jasmine rice wrapped in a banana leaf, and an aromatic fried rice with grilled prawns and squid flowers.

The dishes were flavor-packed and balanced; the kind that makes you pause mid-conversation just to savor each bite. Each plate ended up sidetracking whatever conversation the group was having, from small notes on the freshness of the vegetables to the deep flavor a simple tofu and mushroom dish can hold.

Overall, we had found — or rather, we were fortunate enough to have been hosted in a luxurious hotel that is now our beachfront go-to in Da Nang. Fortunately, tourists have plenty of options, as numerous large hotel brands, such as Hilton, Crowne Plaza, Sheraton, Grand Mercure, and Novotel, have found their place in the city.

Local, boutique hotels also offer unique stays that could be just as luxurious, but we couldn’t tear ourselves away from the beachfront bliss that M Hotel delivers. And even though we struggled to leave the hotel behind and end our Da Nang vacation, it was no problem as the airport was only 15 to 20 minutes away via car.

True to the city’s signature slow pace, there’s no need to rush here.

Book a stay at M Hotel Da Nang via Trip.com or Klook. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: M Hotel Danang, 286 Vo Nguyen Giap Street, Ngu Hanh Son Ward, Da Nang City

Where to Eat and Drink

Food in Da Nang is everything you hope Vietnamese cuisine would be: fresh, layered, and always, always satisfying. One of our defining dinners was at Madame Lân, a Michelin-recommended restaurant by the Han River. The vibe alone is worth the visit: Vietnamese lanterns, water installations, and the ideal indoor-outdoor setup.

Madame Lan Restaurant — Photo from Instagram/ Madame Lan

The Bánh It Trần Nhân Tôm Thịt (Glutinous Rice Cake with Prawn and Pork Filling) was an instant hit, but those who are health-conscious might find the fried pork fat underneath to be a bit much. Rolls are a must-have, so naturally our meal included two: Gỏi Cuốn Cá Chiên Giòn (Fresh Spring Rolls with Fried Fish) and Nem Rán Madame Lan (Madame Lan Signature Fried Spring Rolls) — both filling, fresh, and will have you wondering if you should leave the last piece alone (like a true Asian) or have it for yourself.

To start your meal or cap it off, you can have the Canh Mồng Tơi Nấu Tôm (Malabar Spinach and Prawn Soup). It was a clear, light soup that gently wove us through the menu so the flavors landed and transitioned smoothly. Still, there was a star that stole the show: the Bò Lúc Lắc Sốt Tiêu Đen (Diced Beef with Black Pepper Sauce). Its incredibly rich sauce and tender beef were so indulgent that some couldn’t help but mix leftover rice into the remaining sauce. We agree, not a single drop of that sauce should be wasted.

Lastly, the Chè Hoa Cau (Mungbean and Coconut Milk Sweet Soup) earned the ultimate Asian approval: not too sweet. Comforting, mildly sweet, it’s a dessert that all ages can appreciate, and while it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of a fancy dessert, it still provides that soft hug the way a good dessert does.

Follow Madame Lan on Instagram and reserve a table through their website.

Location: Madame Lan, No. 04 Bach Dang, Thach Thang Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, from 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM

Another highlight was a lunch at Nhà Gỗ Restaurant. Their Tôm Sốt Bơ Tỏi (butter garlic shrimp) was served practically swimming in savory, spicy sauce — delectable and downright sinful. Their special platter (Met 3 Tang Nha Go), a tower of fried dumplings, seafood spring rolls, and wontons, looked like an edible art piece. It was a feast for the eyes, but the individual dishes were also incredibly filling. Other items we loved were their Egg Fried Rice, Nem Lụi (Grilled Pork Skewers), and Chả Giò Hải Sản (Fried Spring Rolls with Seafood), contained in a mini version of a farmer’s shoulder pole with two matching baskets carrying the spring rolls.

If you spent the past few days eating fresh vegetables, leafy greens, and light meals, this restaurant ensures you’ll leave with satiated palates with the barrage of flavors they’ll serve on your plate. Addicting at first bite, the meals were decadent and intense in the best way possible.

Follow Nga Go Viet on Instagram.

Location: Nga Go Viet, 49 Nguyễn Thái Học, Hải Châu 1, Da Nang

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM

Don’t skip the food stalls along the sidewalks either: banh mi sandwiches, pho soup, grilled seafood — these can easily be the best bites of your trip.

Vietnamese coffee, of course, flows like water. Cộng Cà Phê serves all the classic brews and more. The salted cream version, Nau Kem Muoi, is surprisingly addictive with its savory, sweet flavor. It’s a popular coffee chain, however, so expect the place to be packed, and getting a drink may take anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes. So, if you want a quick coffee to go, you might be better off finding a local coffee stall.

But one of our most memorable food experiences includes a market visit in Hoi An.

We brought fresh ingredients from the local market, taking in the scent of herbs and the colorful chaos of vegetables. Then we brought it all the way to Tra Que Water Wheel, where we prepared our own Vietnamese salad and chicken stir-fry. We also learned how to make steam rice paper from scratch — all the effort and learning culminating in a lunch meal that just hit different. Our personal favorite was the Cao Lầu, a Hoi An noodle dish. Of course, we washed down our lunch with a glass of ice-cold Sprite — the combination simply cannot be beat.

Follow Tra Que Water Wheel on Instagram. Book your experience here or send them a message via WhatsApp: +84 912719079.

When it was time to let loose, we headed over to Sky36. Perched on top of the Novotel, it’s the highest rooftop bar in Da Nang. Expect DJs, captivating live performances, panoramic city views, and pulsating energy. With all of these, it’s no wonder over 12,000 people visit the bar per week. Plus, if you time it right with the Da Nang Fireworks Festival, it becomes the hottest seat in the city. The breathtaking pyrotechnics are so close, you’re practically face-to-face with the grand spectacle.

Follow Sky36 on Instagram and Facebook.

Location: Sky36, 36/F Novotel Danang Premier Han River, 36 Bach Dang Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 6 PM to 2 AM

A more relaxing alternative to a nightclub is to locate one of the handful of bars strewn along the coast of My Khe Beach. Our pick was Maia Beach Bar, just across the M Hotel, with its modern tropical interior, fast service, and impressive cocktail menu. There’s a vibe for everyone. If you’re looking for a chat, their friendly bartenders will entertain you as you sit solo by the bar. Small groups can get their bottles while they sit in one of the umbrella-covered sofa sets. There are also lounge beds facing the beach for those who just want a cocktail while they stare into the scenic waters.

Personally, we chose to chat with their team as we sat in the bar and explored their cocktail menu. Their classics hit the right spot, but if you’re looking for something different, their bartenders are always up for the challenge. If you want something refreshing but deceptively strong, ask Greg for his signature off-the-menu cocktail that is roughly a mix of French 75 and Gin & Tonic. The ingredients are a well-kept secret, though, so don’t take our word for it. But trust us that it was the ideal drink for a beach bar — simple, invigorating, citrusy, sparkling, and will keep you cool and buzzing all night long.

Follow Maia Beach Bar on Instagram and Facebook.

Location: Maia Beach Bar, 294 Võ Nguyên Giáp, Da Nang (across M Hotel Danang)

Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 12 AM; Saturday and Sunday, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 AM

What to Do: Cook, Lounge, Repeat

Aside from lounging at My Khe Beach (and there is plenty of that to be had) and a relaxing trip to the spa, there’s no shortage of things to do in Da Nang. One of the highlights was the aforementioned cooking class at Tra Que Water Wheel, where we learned recipes and techniques. After chopping, grinding, and stir-frying our way through the class, we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor.

If you’re more into temples and city views, the Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda are worth a few hours of your time. They offer a peek into the spiritual side of Vietnam, plus plenty of scenic photo opportunities. There’s also Da Nang Cathedral and Dragon Bridge, both worth a quick stop, especially if you happen to be around when the dragon breathes fire. Yes, really. The bridge itself is lit up in neon colors at night, and it’s quite the spectacle.

You can book other experiences and activities in Da Nang and Hoi An, such as the Ba Na Hills Day Tour or a Hoi An City Tour with Coconut Basket Boat experience, via Klook.

photo of My Khe Beach at sunset from Vietnam Airlines' website — Website/ Vietnam Airlines

Before we forget the gem of the city, My Khe Beach is a must-visit. The roughly nine-kilometer-long beach boasts fine, cream-colored sand and gentle, warm waters. More importantly, it’s clean. While there are several bars along the coast, there aren't so many that you feel like you’re walking into a party beach.

Some bars offer live DJs that could have you and your friends dancing well into the night. But there’s also enough space for you to find a quiet spot and leave the world behind as you sunbathe.

There are just enough establishments to feel convenient when you’re suddenly hungry or thirsty, but it’s still empty enough that you don’t get the commercialism-taking-over-nature vibe that party beaches tend to evoke.

And of course, there’s shopping.

Where to Shop: Hoi An and Haggle Wisdom

No trip to Da Nang is complete without a detour to Hoi An. Known for their skilled tailors and well-preserved ancient town, it’s a shopping haven. You can get a custom dress or suit made in 24 to 72 hours. Pro tip: come ready with inspirations and pegs, and hit the tailor as early as possible in your trip so that there’s enough time for adjustments.

We toured the Old Town via solo rickshaw, craning our necks to peek at every boutique and tailor shop lining the narrow alleys. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and the prices are hard to beat. We had to restrain ourselves from jumping off the rickshaw to beeline to a tailor right away.

The whole place feels like a set from a period film, especially at night when lanterns light up the streets in soft hues. If you don’t have time for Hoi An, Da Nang boasts its own share of skilled tailors and boutique shops. You can also visit the Chợ Hàn (Han Market) for food, souvenirs, and other knick-knacks. Haggling is part of the culture but keep it respectful. At most, you can offer around 30% less than the asking price, and bargain from there. Another pro tip: only haggle when you’re sure about purchasing something. It’s bad faith to push for a lower rate and renege on the deal.

Also, be mindful of currency. Vietnamese bills can look deceivingly similar, and sometimes they stick together when damp. Double-check before handing cash over — especially in crowded markets where a few seconds of distraction can cost you.

Hoi An at Night — Photo from Wikimedia Commons

Da Nang Lets You Slow Down or Speed Up on Your Own Terms

The beauty of Da Nang lies in its ability to let you decide what kind of vacation you want. Want to sleep in, sip coffee, and slowly walk the shoreline? How about partaking in cooking classes, getting custom clothes, and temple visits? Either way, Da Nang is perfect. It’s a city that doesn’t force an itinerary on you. No rush, no pressure. Just a lot of really good options.

Then there’s the food, which is endlessly satisfying without being overcomplicated. Every meal is fresh, nourishing, and you’ll walk away from every experience wondering if you could replicate it somehow at home. It’s never quite the same, but local Vietnamese restaurants in your city will have to do — until your next visit to Vietnam, that is.

Da Nang isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about choosing your pace. You can fill your days with sights, eats, and exploration, or simply lounge on the beach and do absolutely nothing but relax. Either way, you’ll feel like you experienced the city correctly. In a world of overplanned itineraries and crowded destinations, Da Nang is a breath of fresh air — with just the right touch of modern convenience.

While the city doesn’t shout like Saigon or Hanoi and simply exists, you won’t feel like it’s a waste of a Vietnam tour leg (or an overall visit to Vietnam if it’s the only city you’re exploring). It’s the kind of destination that feels like it knows it’s great, but doesn’t need to prove it. The city lets you slow down or speed up on your own terms.

This balance won’t last forever. Eventually, the secret will be out. The sidewalks will get fuller, spa prices higher, and the beachfronts a little louder. As is what happens when a slow city gets the recognition it deserves. But for now, Da Nang is everything you want from a vacation — minus the stress. Go now, before everyone else does.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: January 13, 2026

Travel Tips: Here’s How to Meet People on Vacation

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Facebook/Singapore Tourism Board

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 13, 2026

If, like us, you’ve seen “People We Meet on Vacation” — Netflix’s latest romcom trending on social media, then you know there’s something magical about the people we cross paths with when we step outside of our routines.

A vacation changes us. It softens our edges, opens our curiosity, and nudges us out of our comfort zones. It’s a great way to discover yourself, which is why traveling solo has been dubbed as “soul searching,” and in this fast-paced area where connections are often fleeting or through a screen, people are constantly craving for organic encounters and lasting relationships.

If you want to become the kind of “vacation you” who meets new people, makes memories, and brings a little bit of serendipity into your trips, here’s how.

Book Hostels or Local Guesthouses

Photo of the social lounge at The Mahjong — Photo from Website/The Mahjong

Staying somewhere social instead of isolated hotels instantly increases your chances of meeting fellow travelers or locals. Hostels and guesthouses, or places designed to be shared spaces, make connections feel effortless rather than forced. These stays often have long communal tables, shared common rooms, open kitchens, and even rooftop lounges where you can easily start conversations over coffee, maps, or a simple, “Where are you headed next?”

Cities like Hong Kong have several social hostels in prime districts like Tsim Sha Tsui or Sheung Wan, where plenty of tourists and locals meet up for night markets, shopping sprees, or late-night dim-sum runs.

Located in the Tokwawan neighborhood is The Mahjong — Hong Kong’s first boutique hostel. This property is conveniently located close to a number of bus and subway stations, and is close to both city districts like Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok, and coastal towns. The hostel has a large social lounge where you can meet new people, as well as custom-built bunk beds that are comfortable and secure, with personal light and electric sockets, keycard security lockers, and privacy screens. Room prices start from HK$270 per night. You can learn more about the property here.

Join Walking Tours

A photo of a Hawker Center in Singapore — Photo from Website/Klook

Instead of driving around from one point to the next, why not try going on foot? Walking and small group tours take the pressure off connections. You don’t have to perform, initiate, or impress as you’re simply there listening, observing, and occasionally turning to the person beside you to whisper a comment or share a laugh.

Singapore’s walking tours feel well-suited for making new connections because the city reveals itself in layers. A heritage walk through Chinatown or Little India invites conversations about food, cultural rituals, and family as you visit various temples and shophouses. In Tiong Bahru, art and architecture tours are great for creative learning, so you’ll find more people here who linger and ask questions, and who are more likely to grab coffee afterwards to talk more about the places you’ve visited.

Good conversations are often the easiest over good food, so go on food crawls across some of Singapore’s most popular Hawker centers, where small talk can turn into something warmer. These can easily be booked via travel sites like Klook.

If you want something more cinematic, there are also sunset or night walking tours along Marina Bay or the Singapore River, which creates that magical rom-com scene: golden city lights against beautiful architecture, and conversations that drift from travel plans to real life.

Choose Slow Travel

A photo of a street art in George Town, Penang — Photo from Website/Finding Beyond

Slow travel is more than just a trend, but one of the biggest shifts in how people are exploring the world this year. Rather than hopping from landmark to landmark like a checklist or going through a packed itinerary, slow travel invites you to live within a place for days or weeks at a time, pacing yourself with the city and living like a local.

The magic of slow travel isn’t just that you see more, it’s that you feel more. It gives you the chance to return to the same local café three mornings in a row, where the barista begins to greet you by name, or to swap stories with a fellow traveler already on their third week in town. These connections are born out of rhythm, not itinerary.

Malaysia is best explored at a slower pace. Rush between cities and you’ll miss its many layers. Swap guidebooks for a bicycle ride through Penang’s George Town, where colorful shophouses, hidden street art, and easy small talk with stall owners turn everyday moments into memories. In Kuala Lumpur’s Kampung Baru, linger over teh tarik (hot milk tea beverage) and keep returning to the same kopitiams to try something new each time. You’ll soon find that shared meals make you a familiar face, and that food is often all it takes to turn strangers into friends.

Take a Class

A photo of a Thai cooking class session at the Bangkok Thai Cooking Academy — Photo from Website/Bangkok Thai Cooking Academy

Enrolling in a class or workshop is not only a great way to learn something new, but one of the easiest ways to meet people naturally. After all, you already have a shared goal, curiosity, and the skill to bond over.

In Bangkok, try Thai cooking classes where you can learn to make iconic dishes like Pad Thai or Green Curry alongside other travelers and locals. It’s a fun learning experience where you can laugh over a too-spicy sauce and swap tips on where to find the best street food in the city.

If you want something a little different, you can select from a number of Thai craft workshops, such as fruit carving or batik painting. These hands-on experiences are instant conversation starters, and by the end of it, you won’t only walk away with a new skill and a souvenir, but also shared memories and perhaps a friend or two.

Download ‘Connecting’ Apps

A photo of a group of people meeting up and chatting — Photo from Facebook/Meetup

Making connections on your trip doesn’t have to be left to chance. Sometimes, all we need is a little push to know where the events are taking place and which trending spots people are often hanging out. If you’re ready to make that connection, there are mobile apps and online platforms that make meeting locals and fellow travelers easy — no matter where you are in the world.

Meetup is perfect for joining local events, interest groups, and hobby meetups. From language exchanges in Bangkok and book clubs in Manila to hiking groups in Malaysia, Meetup lets you tap into the community and helps you become part of it. You can join here.

You can also try Skout, a location-based social networking platform that focuses on social discovery beyond romantic connections. The app has a Passport feature, which can help you get in touch with people traveling in over 100 countries worldwide and specializes in instant connections with locals and fellow travelers. They even have a playful “Shake to Chat” function that connects users in a spontaneous way as the app pairs you with a person who shakes their phone at the same time as you. The app is available for iOS and Android.

Other apps to keep on your radar include:

Travello – A social network app built for travelers to share experiences, find travel buddies, and join interest groups. Download on the Apple Store and Google Play.
Withlocal Tours & Travel – an app that into you to locals in the city you’re in. Better than any guidebook, this app connects you with someone who can take you on unique tours and food experiences — letting you explore like a local. Download on the Apple Store and Google Play.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: January 07, 2026

Travel at Your Own Pace in 2026 at These Asian Destinations

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 07, 2026

In 2026, travel isn’t about how many cities you can squeeze into one trip anymore — it’s about how deeply you experience just one. According to 2026 travel trends, slow travel is still on the rise, but it’s less about moving slowly and more about traveling with intention. As burnout, overtourism, and overly curated itineraries lose their appeal, more travelers are choosing to stay longer, move less, and let a place unfold through everyday moments.

And while slow travel feels very now, the idea itself isn’t new. It traces its roots back to the Slow Food Movement, which started in Italy in 1986 as a pushback against fast consumption and cultural erasure. The movement championed presence, locality, and intention — values that now shape how we explore the world, turning travel from something you check off a list into something you actually experience.

If you’re looking to travel at your own pace this year, these five principles define what slow travel really means, along with Asian destinations that embody them best.

Stay Longer

Workshop classes at Ban Khang Wat — Photo from Website/Tourism Thailand

At its core, slow travel is about presence. This 2026, luxury is measured in time, not distance. Instead of rushing through a destination with a tightly packed three-day itinerary, travelers are choosing to stay put for weeks, sometimes even a full month, and let a place slowly become familiar.

Renting an apartment in a lived-in neighborhood allows time for simple daily rituals such as morning walks to the same café, weekly trips to the local market, or quiet afternoons spent people-watching in a park. Without the pressure to see everything at once, the experience becomes less about ticking off landmarks and more about feeling the rhythm of everyday life, noticing the little details that make a place unique.

In Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, renting an apartment in one of the city’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan neighborhoods, like Bangsar or Damansara, is a great way to start. You can spend your days visiting local wet markets like Chow Kit Market, experiencing the amazing culinary scene, strolling through Perdana Botanical Gardens, or exploring galleries and bookstores leisurely at your own pace.

Long favored by writers and creatives for its slow rhythms and low cost of living, Chiang Mai, Thailand is an ideal place to settle for a while, where you can take unstructured day trips to nearby villages or waterfalls, shop at local markets, and alternate between cafe work days and temple walks. For a more cultural experience, you can also try enrolling in a Thai cooking or ceramics class at Ban Khang Wat.

Live Like a Local

A girl walking along a market street in Singapore — Photo from Website/Visit Singapore

One of the most rewarding parts of slow travel is the opportunity to blend into everyday life. This might mean shopping at local markets, eating at the same small café every morning, or learning a few words of the local language. Living like a local isn’t about seeing more but about being where you are.

You don’t need to find remote islands to experience cultural activities. In fact, there are ways to experience cities famed for skylines and attractions like Singapore, like a local. In neighborhoods like Tiong Bahru, you can spend mornings wandering past Art Deco shophouses, grabbing coffee at cozy cafés, and exploring the Tiong Bahru Market for local breakfast favorites like kaya toast and kopi.

Little India is perfect for strolling through bustling streets at your own pace, visiting temples, and returning to hawker stalls again and again to savor the flavors of daily life. If you’re looking for a true escape from the city, Pulau Ubin allows travelers to pause and take their time cycling through kampong villages and connecting with nature.

Embrace Stillness

A cliff view in Batanes, Philippines — Photo from Facebook/Breathtaking Batanes

One of our favorite concepts of slow travel is how it’s simply about doing less. Choosing destinations that encourage reflection, nature, and quiet are ideal spots for you to pause and separate yourself from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Some provincial destinations in the Philippines allow travelers to pause fully. In Batanes, where mindful travel is encouraged, you can spend days exploring on foot, sitting at viewpoints for long stretches, eating home-cooked Ivatan meals, and talking with the locals for hours. You can simply just “be” as the weather rolls in through scenic landscapes.

In Camiguin, travelers can wander to waterfalls, relax in hot springs, hike up Mt. Hibok-Hibok, stroll along the powdery white sandbar of White Island, or just sit and watch the light change over a landscape. These moments of stillness create space for connection, whether it’s with yourself, the people around you, or the environment. Remember: slow travel thrives in pauses, not in checklists.

Move Sustainably at a Human Pace

A photo of the Shinkansen traveling across Mt. Fuji in Japan — Photo from Website/Japan City Tour

Slow travel isn’t just about going slowly. It’s about moving at a pace that lets you fully take in your surroundings. Traveling this way often naturally aligns with responsible choices, showing that you can savor the journey while still being mindful of the planet.

By choosing destinations that are walkable, bikeable, or well-connected by train, travelers reduce their carbon footprint while experiencing life at a human pace.

In Taiwan, for example, the High-Speed Rail connects most major cities, allowing travelers to avoid domestic flights while taking in scenic views along the way. You can explore Taipei, Tainan, and even Kaohsiung, where you can taste culinary delights at the famed Night Markets or explore nature views leisurely.

Similarly, Japan allows travelers to travel between cities through its expansive rail network. You can easily board the Shinkansen (bullet train) and visit cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka without flying. Within its cities and historic districts, you can use subways and buses exclusively or even walk or cycle from one neighborhood to another. We also recommend staying in ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) or machiya townhouses close to the station for the chance to immerse yourselves in the traditional Japanese lifestyle while still having convenient access to local transportation.

Connect with Culture, Not Attractions

Photo of a man buying dried goods in a local market — Photo from Website/Hong Kong Tourism Board

Last but not least, slow travel is about understanding a place beyond its attractions and Instagram-worthy sights. This principle emphasizes cultural immersion over landmark-hopping.

While Hong Kong is considered a business capital, applying this slow travel principle means less about ticking off Victoria Peak or the theme parks and more about immersing yourself in the city’s everyday rhythm.

Spend mornings wandering the bustling streets of Sheung Wan or Sham Shui Po, browsing local markets with traditional dried seafood shops, and stopping for dim sum at family-run tea houses.

Take time to explore small art galleries, indie bookstores, or craft workshops tucked into quiet side streets, and linger at neighborhood temples, like Man Mo Temple, observing rituals without rushing to the next stop.

Other activities like attending a local festival, joining a calligraphy class, or simply returning to the same coffee shop over several mornings let you experience Hong Kong beyond its skyline, connecting with the people, the traditions, and the flavors that make the city unique.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: January 02, 2026

PokéPark KANTO, the First Outdoor Pokémon Theme Park Opens in February

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Pokémon/Website

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
January 02, 2026

Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Japan is opening a new Pokémon theme park next year!

The Pokémon Company just announced that PokéPark KANTO, the first-ever permanent outdoor Pokémon attraction, will open on Feb. 5, 2026.

The new park stretches over 26,000 square meters in a corner of Yomiuriland, an amusement park located in Tokyo’s verdant Tama Hills. PokéPark KANTO is a place where Trainers can embark on an adventure through two main zones filled with over 600 Pokémon!

PokéPark KANTO Pokémon Center — Pokémon Center | Photo from Website/PokéPark KANTO

PokéPark KANTO Sedge Gym — Sedge Gym | Photo from Website/PokéPark KANTO

According to the official website, the Pokémon Forest is a sprawling wilderness featuring various terrains such as hilly paths, tall grass, tunnels, rocky trails, and more. Here, trainers can observe a wide variety of Pokémon from Kanto and other regions as they run, battle, and share berries.

In Sedge Town, you’ll find the Pokémon Trainers' Market, the Pokémon Center, Poké Mart, Gym, Pokémon parade, and two other attractions: the Pika Pika Paradise — a ride powered by over 30 Electric-type Pokémon — and the Vee Vee Voyage carousel. This zone is the place to connect with Pokémon Trainers, watch shows, and take part in exciting meet-and-greet events.

PokéPark KANTO Map — Park Map | Photo from Website/PokéPark KANTO

Tickets are sold via the official PokéPark KANTO website on a first-come, first-served basis. Note that tickets go live two months in advance and will close as soon as they sell out. Visitors from outside Japan are advised to buy tickets here.

You can purchase the Ace Trainer's Pass (JP¥14,000 to JP¥16,500), which grants access to both zones with unlimited re-entry alongside other perks like meet-and-greets, reserved seating for shows, access to priority lanes for attractions, and original merchandise. Alternatively, there’s the Trainer’s Pass (JP¥7,900 to JP¥9,400), which grants a single entry to the Pokémon Forest within a specified time slot and unlimited entry to Sedge Town. The park will also introduce a Town’s Pass in summer 2026, for guests who wish to only visit Sedge Town. Prices will range from JP¥4,700 to JP¥5,500.

Rides and attractions are not included in the entry ticket price and will have to be bought separately. Prices are at JP¥1,200 (Adults) and JP¥800 (Children).

For more information, visit the website. Follow Pokémon on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

Location: Yomiuriland Amusement Park, 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi City, Tokyo 206-8725

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Asia/ Vibe/ Pop Culture

Published: December 12, 2025

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Debuts in Singapore

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
December 12, 2025

In a raw and ethereal reflection on self-discovery, Chinese artist and the creator of viral POP MART character SKULLPANDA, Xiong Miao, seamlessly bridges the gap between fine art and pop culture at her new “SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE” immersive exhibition at the National Museum of Singapore (NMS). The showcase officially opens to the public today, Dec. 12, 2025, and will be running until Feb. 22, 2026.

Following the success of NMS’ popular “Play:Date - Unlocking Cabinets of Play” exhibition in 2024, featuring childhood classic toys, games, and large-scale installations, the museum has levelled up in collaboration with POP MART and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

The first-ever SKULLPANDA showcase in Singapore, CAGE-UNCAGE is taking the lead in contemporary museum programming to explore the craft and storytelling behind collectible design and culture. Being also the first SKULLPANDA exhibit outside of China, this unique collab also places Singapore on the map as an exciting and must-visit destination for both locals and inbound travelers, POP MART enthusiasts, art and culture lovers, collectors, and everybody in between.

“I'm truly excited and honored to present SKULLPANDA's work outside of China for the first time in Singapore. With its unique charm — balancing tradition with innovation, structure with creativity — it's a truly fitting venue for an exhibition that explores the tension between contrasting ideas and perspectives,” shared Miao.

This flawlessly curated exhibition takes you on an immersive journey through the limitations of self to the eye-opening joy of discovery in finding that you were holding the “key” to breaking free from these restraints all along. Handcrafted, painted, and featuring large-scale collectibles available for sale by Miao, step through larger-than-life installations that invite you to enter the world of SKULLPANDA.

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Debuts in Singapore — Photo by The Beat Asia

Not only is it a beautiful photo op, but almost every CAGE-UNCAGE artwork is also designed to be interactive. This is a particularly poignant part of the exhibition, where in the traditional art world you know to respect but not touch (with reason and for the protection of old great works!), but POP MART and Miao have done the opposite.

From a giant book detailing the life and journey of SKULLPANDA, where you flip through its pages, to scales balancing the weight of their astronaut helmet, to a giant rotating block puzzle, guests are invited to touch and play.

Just like the wave of collectibles (who do you know that doesn’t own a Labubu) that are empowering generations to heal their inner child, POP MART’s unique collaboration with such a prestigious national institution answers the demand for young people to engage with local arts and culture initiatives and brings a new crowd to the museum.

And this is more than just a fad, as SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE presents art in its true form, an answer to the current times, conveying a powerful message to those who often feel voiceless in a tumultuous world.

As you step onto the front lawn of the NMS, you will encounter a giant SKULLPANDA sculpture reminiscent of Greek and Roman statues guarding temples of their time. Immaculately detailed, front and back, with beautiful lace and cosmic motifs, you are intrigued by the eerie sculpture and excited to explore more. This is not your usual toy/collectibles exhibition.

As you enter the Neo-Palladian building, you notice how its pristine white walls blend seamlessly with the muted and frosty tones of SKULLPANDA’s cosmic world. You are greeted by the beautiful arched ceiling of its rotunda, featuring six unique paintings in each arch depicting the six themes you will travel through in the exhibition: Emotion, Direction, Fortune, Rules, Life, and Exploration, each reminiscent of your personal life journey.

CAGE-UNCAGE spans two floors, and upon entering NMS' Stamford Gallery (Level 1), you encounter “The Key,” as you peek through a keyhole mirroring the motif.

You then step into a room, beginning your journey with SKULLPANDA, starting with the theme “Emotion,” projecting the key and keyhole onto the floor and depicting limited-edition SKULLPANDA pieces — some available for sale! This includes a miniature model of the sculpture on NMS’ lawn.

You then step into the next room with “Direction,” where you will encounter a gigantic book of life, filled with transparent hand-painted pages that line up to portray a portrait of SKULLPANDA. You can flip between these pages, symbolizing how you have the power to navigate through your own life. A video display featuring a unique motion graphics art video by Miao is also in the same room. It’s hard to look away as her hand-painted style moves between her signature butterfly motif, birds, and the key and keyhole of CAGE-UNCAGE.

Next, you move to “Fortune,” a frosty room with a crystalline-lined mirror floor reflecting an overhead chandelier and SKULLPANDA frozen in a glass cabinet, two corners cracked and showing the character in a huddled position.

Then, you move through “Rules” and “Life” before re-entering NMS’ grand lobby and heading to the museum’s basement.

The descent may feel regressive, as if you are falling into further emotional darkness, as SKULLPANDA does hold a dark and mysterious aura. When you enter the museum's expansive Gallery Theatre (Basement Level), a feeling of hope and openness creeps through the cage and key motifs. Now, it’s time for “Exploration.”

You then reach the pièce de resistance, “The Room,” and here is where you meet two godly SKULLPANDA sculptures that really make you feel like the smallest atom in the universe. Each celestial statue wears a collar with a keyhole whilst extending a hand holding a key to you, the viewer. The room is lined with mirrors infinitely reflecting yourself, SKULLPANDA, and the indisputable truth that you were holding the key to your freedom all along.

You won’t want to leave the room, but the promise of limited-edition Singapore-exclusive merch will draw you to move along.

First, you’ll come across an enchanting co-curated Singapore installation which pays homage to the nostalgic national hobby of bird singing. Beautiful birdcages house miniatures of the CAGE-UNCAGE installations, and a video artwork created by Miao takes you on a journey with SKULLPANDA through Singapore’s historic landmarks guided by birds and butterflies.

Lastly, guests will have the opportunity to browse and bring home a limited-edition SKULLPANDA Plush Cage-Uncage Doll, The Compass of Light figurine, and other showcase-exclusive merchandise. After such a long emotional journey, you will likely feel the urge to take home a souvenir and a reminder that you alone have the key to uncage your personal limitations.

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Showcase-exclusive merchandise — Showcase-exclusive merchandise | Courtesy of POP MART

“SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE” officially opens to the public at the National Museum of Singapore on Dec. 12, 2025, and will be exhibiting until Feb. 22, 2026. An exclusive SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Singapore gift will be given to the first 4,500 visitors to the showcase, so make sure to book your time slot in advance and opt for an Early All Access Ticket to be one of the first to experience this special exhibition!

Early All Access Tickets from Dec. 12 to 16, 2025, are priced at S$40 for tourist adults, S$32 for tourist concession, and S$22 for locals. Standard All Access Tickets from Dec. 17, 2025 until Feb. 22, 2026 are priced at S$36 for tourist adults, S$28 tourist concession, and S$14 for locals. Tickets can be purchased via the NMS website or Trip.com.

Tickets also include entry to the National Museum’s current exhibitions, “Once Upon a Tide: Singapore's Journey from Settlement to Global City” and “Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time.”

Follow and stay up to date with POP MART’s latest happenings by following them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Plan your visit to SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE by checking out the National Museum of Singapore’s Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, and the Singapore Tourism Board on Facebook and Instagram.

Location: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897

Dates: Dec. 12, 2025 to Feb. 22, 2026

Opening Hours: Daily, from 10 AM to 7 PM

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Asia/ Nomads/ Stay

Published: October 27, 2025

Fairmont Makes Special Happen with New Unique Guest Experiences

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Website/ Fairmont

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 27, 2025

Luxury hotel brand Fairmont is unveiling the next chapter of its global campaign, introducing fresh experiences that celebrate how “Special Happens…’ for every guest.

Rooted in the success of “Make Special Happen,” Fairmont Hotel & Resorts honors its century-long legacy of hosting the world’s most iconic celebrations through a collection of global elevated experiences. The experiences are grouped into four “Special Happens…” categories, namely, “After Dark”; “In the Wild”; “Around the Table” and “In the Spotlight”—all crafted to capture the brand’s signature hospitality and embody how it makes special happen every day in each of its 96 hotels and resorts around the globe.

“Today's luxury travelers crave connection and meaning, seeking experiences that reflect the local culture at the heart of each destination,” said Omer Acar, CEO, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts. “At Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, our hotels serve as the social epicenters of their cities— vibrant gathering places that foster a genuine sense of belonging. We are delighted to bring guests the opportunity to reserve one of our new 'Special Happens' experiences, focusing on creating moments that feel both genuine and rooted in the community. These new experiences and this overall approach at Fairmont enable our guests to live better, travel smarter, work with meaning, play with purpose, and explore with energy.”

Special Happens... After Dark

Día de Muertos Dinner Experience | Photo courtesy of Fairmont

Fairmont Makati is bringing movie nights to a whole new level with its “Moonlight Silent Cinema,” Manila’s first poolside film experience under the stars. Guests can lounge by the water, enjoy bento boxes inspired by each movie, and tune in through silent-disco headsets—all with the hotel’s skyline glittering in the background.

Other after-hours experiences include Fairmont Mumbai’s “The Traveler’s Reset,” a one-of-a-kind spa ritual focusing on combating the effects of long flights, shifting time zones, and restless sleep; and the “Día de Muertos Dinner Experience” at Fairmont Mayakoba which allows guest to honor one of Mexico’s most meaningful traditions through a family-style dinner menu inspired by ancestral recipes, regional ingredients and local rituals.

Special Happens... In the Wild

At Fairmont Orchid, adventure meets artistry with the Reel in Your Dream Adventure experience, a private deep-sea fishing experience along the Kohala Coast of Hawai'i Island. Here, guest can set sail to reel in their own Ahi Tuna, guided by Fairmont Orchid's Executive Chef, who will shares expert culinary insights along the way. Upon their return to shore, Chef Zaid Khan will transform their fresh catch into an exquisite oceanfront dinner.

The “Helicopter Cocktail Odyssey” experience at Fairmont Kea Lani redefines farm-to-glass luxury with a private helicopter ride over Maui to Kuleana Rum Works. Guests sample a custom Pilina rum blend, enjoy a cocktail-paired lunch in the cane fields, then return to Fairmont Kea Lani for a sunset toast by the ocean.

Other exciting experiences in the wild include Fairmont El San Juan Hotel’s “Tropical Splendor Engagement Package,” which curates a journey of romance leading up to the perfect proposal moment and Fairmont Chateau Whistler’s “Absolute Solitude Wellness,” where guests can have a restorative experience traveling to a secluded natural sanctuary for guided yoga sessions amid ancient trees and cascading waters.

Special Happens... Around the Table

Offered every Friday during the autumn months, Fairmont Singapore invites guests to an elevated “Harvest-to-Table Lunch” that blends sustainability, culinary artistry, and breathtaking city views. The journey begins at the hotel's aquaponics farm, where guests can personally harvest fresh herbs and vegetables with the guidance of the farm manager and Executive Chef Seamus. The experience continues at SKAI on the 70th floor for a three-course lunch paired with premium wines, and is followed by an exclusive cellar tour led by Sommelier Luca.

Another experience you shouldn’t miss is Fairmont Taghazout's “Around the Table” experience, which is a trilogy of exclusive culinary experiences in collaboration with two iconic restaurants and world-renowned chefs: Chef Masaharu Morimoto of Morimoto and Chef Fabrizio Aceti of Paper Moon. This event happens twice a year and takes place over three unforgettable nights, where guests can savor an intimate Chef's Table dinner, an immersive tasting journey, and the unveiling of each restaurant's new seasonal menu.

Fairmont Ambassador Seoul also has a unique experience for couples with its “Cinematic K-Romance ” proposal experience, complete with an elegant six-course private dinner with hanbok-inspired floral arrangements, champagne, a personalized proposal cake, and live serenades of beloved K-Drama love songs amid views of Yeouido's sparkling skyline.

Additionally, Fairmont San Francisco invites its guests to celebrate the festive season with a private dining experience inside the “Gingerbread House,” perfect for holiday celebrations over breakfast, tea, or dinner. This enchanting experience is available from Nov. 22, 2025, through Jan. 1, 2026, with exclusive seatings on Dec. 24 and 25, 2025.

Special Happens... In the Spotlight

A Day in Chak Charanwas | Photo courtesy of Fairmont

Immerse in the city’s rich local culture with Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech’s “Sky-to-Souk Journey,” which takes guests on a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the desert plains and Atlas Mountains, followed by a guided drive by local experts exploring the Medina's hidden alleys, artisan workshops, and cultural traditions.

Other experiences include Fairmont Le Montreux Palace's exclusive “Chalet Claude Nobs tour,” where guests can witness the private home of the Montreux Jazz Festival's legendary founder, and Fairmont Jaipur’s “A Day in Chak Charanwas,” which gives you a glimpse into authentic rural Rajasthan through village walks, camel rides, home-cooked meals, and heartfelt conversations with locals.

For more information on how to book these experiences, visit Fairmont’s official website. You can also follow Fairmont Hotels & Resorts on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Stay

Published: October 24, 2025

Celebrate the Holidays in Asia’s Most Magical Luxury Resorts This Season

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Centara Hotels & Resorts

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 24, 2025

Imagine a holiday where your suite glows with candlelight, your dinner is under a jungle canopy, and your evening stroll takes you through an Italian Christmas village, without ever leaving Asia. Asia’s top resorts have just rewritten your festive season playbook.

This year, luxury hotels across Asia are pulling out all the stops to transform the holidays into immersive, storybook experiences. From mid-November through Lunar New Year, travelers can choose from a curated collection of once-in-a-lifetime escapes that blend cultural flair, culinary artistry, and jaw-dropping design.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi — Courtesy of Sofitel

At Sofitel properties across Asia, including Seoul, Singapore, Hanoi, and Bali, the newly launched “Candle Experience” offers a serene alternative to the usual holiday hustle with suites bathed in flickering candlelight, infused with signature scents, and soundtracked by curated playlists. It’s a modern homage to 1860s Paris, when 56,000 oil lamps earned the city its “City of Lights” nickname.

Red Sky Fireworks at Centara Grand CentralWorld — Courtesy of Centara Hotels & Resorts

Families looking for festive fun should head to Centara Hotels & Resorts in Thailand, where the season comes alive with beachside carnivals in Phuket, golden galas in Samui, and a “Lost World” adventure in Pattaya. With properties spanning the Maldives, Vietnam, and even Osaka, Centara’s blend of Thai hospitality and family-friendly programming makes it a top pick for multigenerational getaways.

InterContinental Luxury Villas — Courtesy of InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

Meanwhile, InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort in Vietnam invites guests to dine with the locals of the primate variety. Inspired by the rare monkeys that inhabit the surrounding jungle, each of the resort’s five restaurants is “hosted” by a different monkey character, offering everything from Michelin-starred French cuisine to Vietnamese street food and omakase.

Over on Phu Quoc Island, JW Marriott ’s Emerald Bay Resort transforms into a celestial campus, where guests can chart their own constellations, dine at the whimsical Pink Pearl mansion, and unwind in villas that feel like private observatories.

Just down the coast, La Festa Phu Quoc by Hilton brings the Amalfi Coast to Southeast Asia with a full-blown Italian Christmas village, complete with market stalls, fireworks, and sunset views from the Amalfi Ocean View Suite.

Rooms and experiences are available from mid-November 2025 through February 2026. For booking and more information, visit the websites of Sofitel, Centara, InterContinental Danang, JW Marriott Phu Quoc, and Le Festa Phu Quoc.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Explore

Published: October 20, 2025

Last Updated: October 23, 2025

#TravelWithVisa: Three Days in Shanghai with Visa Hong Kong

by: The Beat Asia

Travel With Visa HK Shanghai Media Cross border Payment Experience Trip 1

Photo by Visa Hong Kong

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 20, 2025

Last Updated:
October 23, 2025

Shenzhen has been all the rage these past years, especially with new visas and visa-free travel options opening up for foreign nationals from around the world. Thanks to China’s advanced high-speed rail system, travel has never been more accessible. Always wanted to visit the breathtaking mountains that inspired the alien planet of the blockbuster film Avatar? You can get there in a few hours by train! But there is one common concern amongst tourists (and even Hong Kong locals), which is setting up a payment system to match China’s rapid digitalization over the past decades, as most of the country is now cashless.

While some of us are Alipay veterans thanks to our Taobao shopping addictions, others are hesitant or confused about joining a new payment platform to facilitate their travels. Enter Visa: here to deliver seamless payment solutions across the country; using any Visa card or Apple Pay, you are now able to pay with credit card across the country.

As part of Visa’s global strategic partnership with Shanghai Summer, The Beat Asia team was privileged to join the global digital payment platform to experience just how easy it is to pay with a credit card in China! Whether taking public transportation, hailing a cab, or paying at a restaurant or shop, you can do it all with a Visa card.

Things to Do in Shanghai

Tour group from Hong Kong posing in front of Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Shanghai’s Former French Concession

The first morning of our trip, we ventured out to the former French Concession in Shanghai, a historic and culturally rich neighborhood filled with unique local shops in heritage buildings. A popular tourist destination, many of the shops are fitted with Visa payment terminals to facilitate smooth guest shopping experiences.

Storefront of Short Sentence with Toy Story Pixar collaboration collection installation — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

One such shop was Short Sentence, the concept store home to local fashion brand MINI LIVING, which also participated in Shanghai Fashion Week, another Visa-sponsored initiative, this October.

Helmed by lead designer Guan Lin, the brand currently has a collaboration with Pixar film Toy Story and features an equally colorful and whimsical collection. At first sight, it may be hard to imagine the playful pieces in one’s wardrobe, but as we tried on different pieces, each was like a statement item essential to anyone’s capsule collection. From gorgeously vibrant dresses and a signature denim collection to cheeky accessories, to custom footwear, Short Sentence has it all.

Custom baseball cap by Short Sentence photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Visa payment experience at Short Sentence fashion concept store in Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Our visit was also our first opportunity to try out the shop’s newly fitted Visa payment terminal (in matching Visa blue, of course), and we can confirm payments are as easy as they are back home. Staff are welcoming and fully trained to receive credit card payments — a completely seamless experience!

Location: Short Sentence, No. 290 Anfu Rd., Jing’An District, Shanghai

Fruitypod in French Concession, Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Looknow & Flow concept store in French concession, Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

As we walked along the streets of the neighborhood, we were struck by how green the city is, with residents and tourists taking advantage of the bicycle rental facilities available on almost every roadside and lush green trees shading the streets.

In addition to local brands, creative collectives can be found as well, like Looknow & Flow, which stocks a curated streetwear selection, plushies, and collectibles like Jellycat and irresistibly cute local brand so far so good (SFSG)!

Interior of Looknow & Flow concept store in French concession, Shanghai as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Yellow SFSG dog plushie keychain in Looknow & Flow concept store in French concession, Shanghai as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

We could not resist SFSG’s signature fluffy dog keychains, side collection of adorable felines, and other merch like notebooks and tumblers. The store was like a never-ending treasure trove that we’ve bookmarked for our next visit to Shanghai.

Location: Looknow & Flow, 156 Anfu Rd., Jing’An District, Shanghai

Our next stop took us to Perfumer H, and what we loved was how walkable the French Concession was. With streets lined with preloved fashion retailers and unique F&B concepts, this is a neighborhood you’ll want to plan to spend a day in.

Exterior of Perfumer H Shanghai flagship in French Concession as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Woman trying on perfume at Perfumer H Shanghai flagship in French Concession as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Perfumer H is a British brand founded by perfume maker Lyn Harris, with their Shanghai flagship discreetly tucked into Lane 845 on Julu Road. The store has three stories, two of which are gallery floors, as well as a verdant garden terrace.

Each of their 45 bespoke scents is the epitome of quiet elegance, with a perfume for every person. We were drawn to earthy fragrances: Rain Wood, Charcoal, Salt, and Moss.

Visa payment experience inside Perfumer H Shanghai flagship in French Concession — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

In addition to perfumes, the brand also stocks candles and incense, perfect to ornament your home with one of their signature scents — that last touch that will make every guest inquire, "Your house smells so good; what is that?"

At Perfumer H, we encountered a second gateway from Visa — the universal payment method of China — a QR code. Those who may find QR codes a little daunting don’t have to worry, however, as it won’t try to direct to an app like Alipay or WeChat Pay. Instead, you will be taken to a secure browser to key in your payment amount (think PayMe), which you will then be able to settle with your Visa card connected to your Apple Wallet!

Location: Perfumer H, No. 5, Lane 845 Julu Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai

Exploring Zhangyuan

Zhangyuan Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Continuing our shopping adventure, we ventured to Zhangyuan, a revitalized old walled city dating back to 1882, located near our hotel in Jing'an. The neighborhood is home to the concept stores of many international luxury fashion brands, with its signature red brick buildings offering a unique and picturesque setting for flagships.

Many aesthetic cafés and eateries line the cultural complex located on West Nanjing Road, making it a literal feast for the senses.

Cream Story shop exterior in Zhangyuan Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

During our visit, we also learned about Shanghai’s attractive tax refund policies for overseas travelers (including those visiting from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan). Zhangyuan has a dedicated tax refund service counter offering "refunds-upon-purchase" to visitors. Skip the hassle of long airport queues and reclaim your taxes after a productive shopping spree. Just make sure to save all the receipts from your purchases.

Location: Tax Refund Service Counter, Zhangyuan W8, Jing’an District, Shanghai

Sightseeing in Pudong, Shanghai

Gustave Courbet, The Wounded Man 1844-1854 in the Museum of Art Pudong, Shanghai — Gustave Courbet, The Wounded Man 1844-1854 | Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Crossing Shanghai’s iconic Huangpu River, we arrived at Pudong, the city’s Central Business District (CBD), which is also home to Visa’s new headquarters in Shanghai IFC.

Our first stop was the Museum of Art Pudong (MAP) to visit their ongoing Paths to Modernity exhibit featuring over 100 masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, including works from Vincent van Gogh, Monet, Cézanne, Édouard Manet, Edgar Degas, Renoir, and many other modern masters.

We embarked on an immersive guided tour walking through Academicism to Realism and Naturalism, through Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism, to Post-Impressionism in the immaculately curated exhibition. The grandeur of the museum was a fitting sight for the masterpieces of our school textbooks, brought to life in Shanghai.

Spanning five floors, MAP is unique in that it does not house a permanent exhibition, but rather a rotating roster of regional and international programs. Although Paths to Modernity is coming to a close after an extended run on Oct. 26, 2025, you can stay tuned on MAP’s official website for their upcoming roster.

Location: Museum of Art Pudong, No. 2777, Binjiang Avenue, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

The Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden in Pudong, Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Another site to visit in Pudong District is The Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden, located in the Shanghai Expo Culture Park (formerly the Shanghai World Expo Park), which spans two square kilometers of green spaces, including its Greenhouse Garden, dubbed Shanghai’s version of Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay.

The massive indoor area impresses with its scale and is also home to some small animals and aquariums. It’s a great photo opportunity spot, so come dressed in an outfit that will stand out amidst all the green! After spending a day in the streets, the large green space offered us a refreshing breather in the garden oasis.

Location: The Expo Cultural Park Greenhouse Garden, 100 Jikun Lu, Shanghai Expo Culture Park, Pudong New Area, Shanghai

Shanghai Bund skyline nighttime view — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Rounding out our evening, we returned to the riverside to embark on a scenic nighttime cruise along Huangpu River. Having witnessed Shanghai’s iconic skyline from the rooftop of MAP, we were excited to get a 360° panoramic look.

The scenic ride was a stunning way to take in all of Shanghai’s glowing nighttime skyline in good company, a glass of champagne in hand.

Huangpu River nighttime cruise champagne x Visa setup as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Huangpu River cruises and guided tours can be booked via Klook or Trip.com, or you can hire an entire cruise privately via a local agency. We even witnessed a floating restaurant and a banquet hall on a boat, best suited for private events.

We would recommend booking a private nighttime cruise, as having the ship to yourself makes all the difference. Watching Shanghai’s glistening skyline at dusk all around us as a gentle breeze refreshed our faces from a busy outdoors was a real treat! All the little touches from the cruise’s hospitality team made for a comfortable and elevated experience.

Where to Stay

Lobby of the Jing An Shangri-La hotel in Shanghai — Photo from Website/Jing An Shangri-La

We stayed at the Jing An Shangri-La, conveniently located near the French Concession and Zhangyuan shopping areas and just a short drive over to Pudong. The luxury 5-star hotel is a statement of classical elegance, standing out amongst its culturally rich surroundings. The hotel boasts beautiful views we could not get enough of, especially from our room on the 53rd floor, as well as its Horizon Club Lounge situated on the 55th floor, offering floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of Shanghai as we took our breakfast in the morning.

The excellent location, premium service, luxurious room, and indulgent dining options had us wishing to prolong our trip towards the end of our stay. The hotel comes highly recommended, offering classic Shangri-La hospitality.

Location: Jing An Shangri-La, 1218 Middle Yan'an Road, Jing An Kerry Centre, West Nanjing Road, Shanghai

What to Eat

Exterior of Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

An unmissable delicacy during your visit is Shanghai hairy crab. Having eagerly anticipated our chance to enjoy the popular autumnal dish, we were excited (and hungry) when we arrived at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden, a premium dining establishment situated in a historical building, where we were treated to a decadent 24-dish spread.

Steamed Lily Bulbs with Spanish Ham dish at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Crab Xiao Lng Bao at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Serving signature Shanghainese cuisine, many of the courses featured hairy crab, like their irresistible Crab Xiao Long Bao, Crab Served with River Shrimp, Stir-Fried Crab Noodles, and Crab Vermicelli Claypot. Other delicacies included Chili Stir-Fried Pork, Steamed Grouper, and their Steamed Lily Bulbs with Spanish Ham.

But finally, it was time for the moment we had been waiting for: our servers rolled in a cart of steamed Shanghai hairy crab and took to deshelling and presenting each guest with a delicious crab spread.

Servers preparing Shanghai hairy crab at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Shanghai hairy crab at Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

The freshness of the crab had us savoring every bite, from the smooth taste of its meat to the burst of flavor of the rich roe that left us craving more.

Location: Chenglongxing - Yifeng Garden, No. 1442, Hongqiao Road, Changning District, Shanghai

Exterior of ROOF P.M. Modern Dining rooftop restaurant on the Museum of Art Pudong rooftop as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Interior of ROOF P.M. Modern Dining rooftop restaurant on the Museum of Art Pudong rooftop as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

One of our favorite dining destinations during our visit to the Museum of Art Pudong took us to its rooftop, where an elegant restaurant glowed against the backdrop of the Shanghai Bund at dusk.

ROOF P.M. Modern Dining serves modern European cuisine curated by Chefs Giovianni Young and Paul-Arthur Berlan. During the day, the restaurant serves as a museum café and converts into a high-end dining establishment at night.

Visa-themed Chocolate Noisette at ROOF P.M. Modern Dining rooftop restaurant on the Museum of Art Pudong rooftop as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

We dined on a four-course menu that evening, starting with a Ham Salad, followed by the creative presentation of the classic Chinese Lotus Soup with Pork Rib. For our main, we enjoyed the beautifully plated and prepared Seared Cod Fish, a refreshing and flavorful dish. And for dessert, we were delighted to be served a Visa-themed Chocolate Noisette, a sweet finish to our evening.

Boasting 270° views of Shanghai’s skyline from its floor-to-ceiling windows, the restaurant is a great way to immerse yourself in the heart of the city while treating your palate.

Location: ROOF P.M. Modern Dining, 5/F Rooftop, 2777 Binjiang Avenue, Lujiazui, Shanghai

Boston Lobster at Tidu Reserve Restaurant in Shanghai as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Another memorable dining spot was our visit to popular Beijing restaurant Tidu. The venue’s grand interior is cave-like in its dark, muted tones but with natural and elegant accents highlighting different zones of the space, including its main dining area, private dining rooms, bar, and garden.

We were served an indulgent 18-course menu featuring modern Peking flavors beautifully presented and plated. Highlights include the Fermented Bean Curd & Red Wine Foie Gras, Sweet Bean Sauce Braised Fat-Free Pig Trotters, Signature Sea Cucumber & Pork Skin Aspic, Boston Lobster, and Typhoon Shelter Tiger Crab (it was hard to pick a favorite, but deep down, we knew the one menu item we would not be forgetting).

Servers preparing Peking duck with caviar at Tidu Reserve Restaurant in Shanghai as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Arriving to serve us tableside, we were treated to an irresistible show of Tidu’s signature Qiantan Five-Flavor Roast Duck prepared and plated in two versions.

Peking duck pancakes at Tidu Reserve Restaurant in Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Crispy Peking duck skin with Caviar at Tidu Reserve Restaurant in Shanghai — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

The Peking duck’s crispy skin was carefully sliced into bite-sized portions, topped with caviar that was such a perfect combination of crunch and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. The neatly wrapped classic pancakes were also too delicious for us not to go back for seconds.

For those who are fans of Peking cuisine, we would recommend Tidu as the answer to everything you are looking for!

Location: Tidu Reserve Restaurant, S-L4-05, 06, L4, Shiqu, Qiantan Taikoo Li, Dongyu Road, Pudong New District, Shanghai

#TravelWithVisa in Shanghai

Visa Shanghai Dazhong taxi as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Navigating Shanghai was also a breeze thanks to the different payment gateways set up by Visa! Although the most common transaction method is still via QR code scanning, you now have the option to pay by credit card on Shanghai’s metro or even designated taxis.

Visa payment experience at Shanghai Maglev Train — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

Even when you arrive at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, you can take the Shanghai Maglev Train (SMT) into the city by simply tapping your Visa card at the payment gates. The first commercial high-speed train in the world, the magnetic levitating train takes you from the airport to central Pudong in just eight minutes. From there, you can easily transfer to Shanghai’s subway or grab a cab to your next destination.

Being able to pay with your Visa card is also great because you do not have to worry about buying another transportation card or reloading your balance on an app, offering a seamless airport transportation experience.

The Shanghai Metro is also easy to navigate and highly accessible, and can take you throughout the city as well as to connecting high-speed rail stations if you are transferring cities or planning a day trip in another town.

Visa payment experience on a Shanghai Dazhong taxi — Photo by The Beat Asia

Shanghai is home to multiple taxi operators, but one of their major cab businesses is Dazhong, which has now entered into a partnership with Visa to facilitate credit card payments. Fares start from an affordable RMB19 (around HK$21 or US$3), and drivers are equipped with an app on which you can tap your card for easy payment!

In addition to hailing cabs from the street, you can book a Dazhong taxi via their service hotline at +86-21-96822.

Visa Shanghai office Vee mascot as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

We also had the chance to visit Visa’s new Shanghai office in Shanghai IFC and were greeted by their adorable mascot Vee in multiple fluffy and giant versions! Their office has amazing views of the entire city, including a full viewpoint of Shanghai’s iconic Oriental Pearl TV Tower.

Ms. Shirley Yu, Group General Manager of Visa Greater China at Visa Shanghai office as photographed by The Beat Asia — Photo by The Beat Asia

Head of Product Innovation of Visa Greater China at Visa Shanghai office as photographed by The Beat Asia — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

We received a warm welcome from Visa representatives Mr. Xiaolong Yin, General Manager of Visa Mainland China, and Ms. Shirley Yu, Group General Manager of Visa Greater China, as they shared more about Visa’s vision to spread not only payment accessibility but smart financial solutions that grow with you as you progress through life.

Additionally, Visa is taking part in more lifestyle initiatives like their sponsorship of the highly-anticipated return of the MAMA Awards to Hong Kong happening from Nov. 28 to 29, 2025, which includes exclusive presale offers and benefits for Visa cardholders and other exciting regional activations. Additionally, Visa is the title sponsor of BLACKPINK’s return to Hong Kong at Kai Tak Stadium in January 2026!

Following Visa’s active participation in the F1 China Grand Prix | Shanghai International Circuit and Shanghai Fashion Week, we’re excited to see what’s more in store for the brand.

Final Thoughts

#TravelWithVisa HK-Shanghai Media Cross-border Payment Experience Trip — Courtesy of Visa Hong Kong

We loved Shanghai! China’s financial center seamlessly fuses culture and old school charm with cutting-edge technology, and it was great to witness the accessibility of the city firsthand. A three-day trip did not offer as much time to explore as we would prefer, and we will definitely be back (especially for the shopping).

For more information about Visa Hong Kong’s upcoming initiatives, stay tuned on their website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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Asia/ Nomads/ Stay

Published: October 03, 2025

World of Hyatt Partners with HYROX Asia-Pacific for Athlete-Focus Stays

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by World of Hyatt, HYROX

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
October 03, 2025

World of Hyatt, the award-winning loyalty program from Hyatt, has announced a new regional collaboration with HYROX Asia Pacific, one of the world’s premier fitness racing series. As HYROX’s Official Partner across Asia Pacific, World of Hyatt extends its hospitality promise to athletes and fitness travelers with tailored, wellness-focused stays.

Poster for the partnership of Hyatt and HYROX — Courtesy of World of Hyatt, HYROX

HYROX is known for its innovative race format that combines running with functional workouts, drawing thousands of fitness enthusiasts all around the globe. To complement the HYROX experience, participating Hyatt hotels across Asia Pacific will offer stays designed to support preparation, performance, and recovery. From thoughtful amenities, nutritious dining options, and access to wellness facilities, every stay is crafted with athletes’ needs in mind.

“At Hyatt, we believe that caring for athletes helps them perform at their best — that’s why we’re proud to support the HYROX journey with comfort, care, and recovery of a Hyatt stay,” said Tammy Ng, Vice President of Brand & Marketing, Asia Pacific, Hyatt.

Gary Wan, Managing Director of HYROX APAC, added: “We are thrilled to collaborate with World of Hyatt. We share a deep commitment to wellness and community, making this collaboration a natural fit. This collaboration allows us to elevate the customer experience, creating a true ‘race-cation’ with memorable and premium experiences for our shared audiences.”

People working out — Courtesy of World of Hyatt, HYROX

Hyatt offers dining experiences for wellness-focused stays — Courtesy of World of Hyatt, HYROX

The HYROX Stay Experience includes:

Exclusive room rates: 10% off the Hyatt Member Rate at participating race-city hotels.
Hotel benefits: 15% off on select F&B and spa treatments at participating outlets during stay, one complimentary bag of laundry (wash and fold).
In-room amenities: In-room HyEnergy Welcome, Sleep and HyRecovery post-race amenities, plush in-room ice bucket available upon request.
Destination guide: Curated local insights to help guests explore race cities.

World of Hyatt Members can earn points and elite status qualification on qualifying stays and dining worldwide. Points can be used for free nights, suite upgrades, dining, and experiences.

This partnership debuts with HYROX Melbourne, followed by HYROX events in the Asia Pacific.

Participating Hyatt hotels are the following:

Andaz Singapore
Grand Hyatt Singapore
The Standard, Singapore
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
Hyatt Centric Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne
Hyatt Place Melbourne Essendon Fields
Hyatt Place Melbourne Caribbean Park
The StandardX, Melbourne
Hyatt House South Melbourne
Grand Hyatt Incheon
Grand Hyatt Seoul
Andaz Seoul Gangnam
Park Hyatt Seoul

For more details and information, visit the Hyatt website here and follow Hyatt on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

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Book Hostels or Local Guesthouses

Join Walking Tours

Choose Slow Travel

Take a Class

Download ‘Connecting’ Apps

Travel at Your Own Pace in 2026 at These Asian Destinations

Stay Longer

Live Like a Local

Embrace Stillness

Move Sustainably at a Human Pace

Connect with Culture, Not Attractions

PokéPark KANTO, the First Outdoor Pokémon Theme Park Opens in February

POP MART’s SKULLPANDA CAGE-UNCAGE Exhibition Debuts in Singapore

Fairmont Makes Special Happen with New Unique Guest Experiences

Special Happens... After Dark

Special Happens... In the Wild

Special Happens... Around the Table

Special Happens... In the Spotlight

Celebrate the Holidays in Asia’s Most Magical Luxury Resorts This Season

#TravelWithVisa: Three Days in Shanghai with Visa Hong Kong

Things to Do in Shanghai

Shanghai’s Former French Concession

Exploring Zhangyuan

Sightseeing in Pudong, Shanghai

Where to Stay

What to Eat

#TravelWithVisa in Shanghai

Final Thoughts

World of Hyatt Partners with HYROX Asia-Pacific for Athlete-Focus Stays

This Week's Deals in Asia

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