Forget generic guidebooks and overly enthusiastic tour guides that talk quicker than you can get your heard around what they’re actually saying, there’s a new audio walking tour in town and it’s all thanks to The Hari Hong Kong’s Live like a Local experience.
Now you can explore trendy neighbourhood Wan Chai with insider knowledge (sans tour group in tow) and be guided through the district’s coolest nooks and crannnies. From the hidden temples tucked between skyscrapers to the cha chaan teng (local diners) serving milk tea that promise to cure your soul, every stop along the way is dripping in authentic Hong Kong flavour.
This neighbourhood is a blend of the old and the new; think vintage teahouses rubbing shoulders with swanky bars. You’ll learn where to slurp noodles like a pro and hear facts about Hong Kong’s history that aren’t in any of the textbooks you had to buy in high school.
The Hari’s user-friendly app has interactive features that make it super easy to get around, and it even has narration of seven of the district’s hidden gems. Want the lowdown on where to get the crispiest egg tarts? Or the story behind those quirky street art murals? Maybe you want to visit an appointment-only gallery that was once a private rooftop clubhouse in the 1970s?
Wherever you choose to explore, the app has got you covered. It’s time to lace up those comfy walking shoes…
We reckon nothing tastes stronger than a cocktail with a side of conscience and lucky for everyone, the geniuses over at FCC Angkor by Avani and Herbal Kulen Gin have come up with a bottle that’s as good for the planet as it is for your palette.
It’s at Scribe Bar, a place where you can easily embark on a sensory journey while also immersing yourself in the rich, diverse and downright mouthwatering flavours of Cambodia.
But Herbal Kulen Gin is no ordinary gin. Crafted by the eco-visionary Unn “Pari” Sophary, this planet-saving spirit will only be produced in a small batch (we hear that, and we think exclusive) and offers sippers the chance to taste the soul of Cambodia – think lemongrass and citronella.
You might be thinking, ‘But where does sustainability come into this?’ and we’re so glad you asked. Pari has a deep commitment to reforesting the land at the foot of the Kulen Mountains, and so this special gin pays homage to the country’s vibrant ecosystem and sustainable practices. And now you get to taste that commitment in every cocktail at Scribe.
Try the Cambodian Negroni – a spicy, citrusy twist on the classic – or wet your lips with an Apsara Sour full of regional botanicals such as butterfly pea tea, lemongrass syrup and lime juice. No matter what drink you choose, this collaboration gives a whole new meaning to the term ‘responsible drinking’. We’ll cheers to that.
Get ready to elevate your nights in Bangkok – literally. The newest, coolest, and one of the highest (26 floors high to be exact) rooftop bars is almost here and we simply can’t wait for its private lift doors to open in mid November.
SIN, perched atop the Avani + Riverside Bangkok Hotel, is a place where mischief meets a little magic, serving up jaw dropping 360-degree views of the pulsating city’s sparkling skyline and the nearby Chao Phraya River. But this isn’t your average rooftop lounge.
The vibe at SIN is equal parts glitz and grit with neon-lit corners, plush seating and an aesthetic that influencers will surely lust after. And we haven’t even mentioned the cocktails yet, although we’re sure they’ll end up on more than one said influencer’s Instagram feed.
Every cocktail is a masterpiece and has been expertly crafted by award-winning mixologist, Brian Gonzalez Fernandez. Forget espresso martinis and spicy margs, SIN promises alcoholic beverages inspired by themes of sin (go figure) and desire with a Thai twist.
Embracing your cravings is easy when you have a choice of 10 signature cocktails including ‘Forbidden Nectar’, a bourbon caramel delight, and the ‘Kiss of Euphoria’, a crafty concoction combining tequila with kiwi and Cointreau. And let’s not forget the curated menu of light, contemporary bites to ensure the drinks go down way easier than they should – think oysters served with wasabi mayonnaise and wagyu beef tartare.
But there’s a cherry on top (if you still have room). The bar will also play host to a number of regional and international DJs including British DJ of Thai descent, Tek Harrington, and techno mastermind, Sunday Sundae, to keep the place buzzing until the early hours. Bangkok’s really showing the world how to do rooftop bars properly with this one.
There’s street parties, and then there’s Lan Kwai Fong’s epic Halloween-themed street party in central Hong Kong. It’s the craziest spook-filled gathering of ghosts, ghouls and costumed revellers you’ve likely ever come across.
Yes, usually Lan Kwai Fong is a tame yet bustling maze of bars and eateries, but when October rolls around (and especially when Halloween hits), it transforms into an explosion of cobwebbed alleys where gory face painters dance to the sickest DJ beats echoing through the neon-lit streets (apparently we’re dressing up as poets this Halloween).
Wander through the cobbled lanes and you’ll be met with a bizarre lineup of activities: try to make it through the haunted houses without spilling your drink (talk about almost impossible), or watch the massive costume contest pick a winner between a nightmarish marionette doll and an instantly recognisable plague doctor. You can even catch a classic Hong Kong-style horror flick.
And when you get thirsty, there’s plenty of bars to choose from with each one rolling out a range of special options – think ‘Blood Punch’ and ‘Zombie Brain Shots’. To soak up all that mummifying alcohol, food stalls are on hand to satisfy your creepy cravings with everything from grilled skewers to sizzling dumplings on the menu.
But this place gets busy, like busy busy. Imagine shoulder-to-shoulder crowds of zombies, witches, and characters you can’t quite identify (is that a costume or your usual get up?) squished into streets definitely not meant for 25,000 people.
Local authorities are putting extra safety measures in place but keep your wits about you, prepare for the chaos, look out for others and hit up the Unholy Halloween Party (just a suggestion) for a hauntingly good time.
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the chaos of everyday life to a remote tropical island where Wi-Fi signals can’t reach you and your biggest decision is whether to swim or snorkel, Dryft Camp on Darocotan Island should be your next stop. Touted as the number one glamping resort in the Philippines, this slice of paradise is less a resort and more an immersive island experience, where “roughing it” feels gloriously refined.
The Journey There: A Scenic Prelude
Getting to Darocotan Island isn’t exactly seamless, and thank god for that. You’ll first make your way to El Nido, where a local boat will whisk you away to the island. The 30-minute ride might just be the perfect time to say goodbye to emails, notifications, and that frantic urban energy you didn’t realize had been clinging to you until now. Instead, you’re greeted by the sight of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the complete absence of, well, pretty much everything. It’s just you, the ocean, and a few bamboo huts scattered along the shore.
Glamping Redefined
Forget your standard glamping setup with a tent plopped down somewhere next to a road. At Dryft Camp, glamping is an art form. The handcrafted bamboo huts and bell tents offer a level of rustic luxury that screams Robinson Crusoe, but with better Instagram lighting. There’s a certain wild elegance here—the tents come with actual beds, linens so soft you’ll question every pillowcase you’ve ever owned, and private outdoor bathrooms that let you shower under the stars. Sure, there’s no air-conditioning, but trust me, a breeze off the Pacific beats any fan, and nothing says “I’ve made it” quite like a cold shower after a long day of swimming.
Disconnect to Reconnect
It’s hard to describe just how liberating it is to be totally off the grid. At Dryft, your phone becomes irrelevant—there’s no Wi-Fi and zero cell signal. But here’s the thing: you won’t miss it. Not once. Instead of doom-scrolling, you’ll spend your days snorkeling in the nearby reefs, kayaking around the island, or chilling in one of the hammocks scattered along the beach. If you’re feeling particularly ambitious (and hydrated), you can even sign up for a spear-fishing trip with the local fishermen, an activity that’s as badass as it sounds. And let’s talk sunsets. They’re the kind that make you feel guilty for having ever spent a golden hour indoors. As the sun dips into the ocean, grab a beer or a fresh coconut, and take it all in—there’s nothing quite like a Darocotan sunset to remind you why people leave everything behind to live on islands like this.
Eco-Luxury with a Purpose
The best part? Dryft Camp isn’t just about aesthetic goals. It’s built around sustainability. The resort is 100% solar-powered, and everything from the composting toilets to the locally sourced meals is designed to minimize impact on the environment. You can stuff your face with delicious seafood, knowing it’s fresh off the boat and as eco-friendly as your bamboo hut.
Nights Under the Stars
When night falls, the vibe shifts. The campfire gets going, drinks flow, and you can hear the sounds of the island come alive—waves crashing, the breeze rustling through the palms, and the occasional guitar strum. If you’re lucky, someone will pull out a ukulele and you’ll find yourself singing along with other guests, all of whom have the same glazed-over, blissed-out expression of island-induced euphoria.
The Verdict
Sure, Dryft Camp might not be for everyone. If you need air conditioning, round-the-clock room service, or a five-star spa, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you’re after an authentic island escape, where the luxury is in the experience and not the thread count, this place is a dream. It’s the kind of spot that lingers in your memory long after your tan fades and you’ve returned to the chaos of real life.
If you thought hotel rebranding was all about slapping on a new logo and calling it a day, think again. Ovolo has gone full throttle with a r[evolution] in Hong Kong, launching Southside by Ovolo—a cheeky new chapter in the city’s first warehouse-turned-hotel saga. Forget the usual fluff; this is where designer luxury meets raw, unfiltered Hong Kong culture, right in the heart of the ever-so-hip Wong Chuk Hang.
This isn’t just a facelift; it’s an all-out experience overhaul. Southside by Ovolo isn’t just a place to crash; it’s a playground for those who like their stays with a side of attitude and a dash of rock ‘n’ roll. Think Rock Star Suites that Freddie Mercury would have approved of—built-in bar, custom art, and views that make you forget you’re just a hop away from Ocean Park and Water World.
Speaking of hops, let’s talk about Flat Iron Deluxe, the new steakhouse that’s thrown its hat into the Southside ring. We’re not just talking steaks; we’re talking the best cut you’ve probably never heard of—the Flat Iron—served up alongside club sandwiches that might just change your life. Oh, and did we mention the weekend brunches, cooking classes, and a kids’ menu that’ll make you the hero of family outings? Yup, they’ve got that too.
Now, before you get too comfy, know that this r[evolution] is all about the details. There’s the Wonder Bar, a quirky spot where you can grab a drink, shoot some pool, and even snag curated goodies for your room. And because Ovolo knows how to keep things fresh, they’ve thrown in themed rooms that’ll make the kids go wild—hello, B. Duck! Yep, the beloved Hong Kong character now has his own room, complete with play tents and enough cuteness to melt even the most jaded hearts.
But wait, there’s more. Book direct and you’re in for the Ovolo Standard, which is code for, “We’ve got your back.” Think up to 15% off, flexible cancellations, and even a cheeky free drink during Apero Hour. And because Ovolo likes to keep things moving, they’ve relocated reception to the third floor—no more awkward lobby encounters, just a warm, inviting space that makes check-ins as smooth as your last cocktail (or mocktail, if you’re into that sort of thing).
Southside by Ovolo is also the perfect playground for events, from product launches to rooftop cocktails. With versatile spaces like G.i.G and The Terrace, you’re covered no matter what you’re planning. And let’s not forget the dog-friendly VIPooch experience, because who wouldn’t want to share their staycation with their four-legged bestie?
So, if you’re ready to dive into the Southside R[evolution], pack your bags (and maybe your dog’s too) and get ready to experience Hong Kong like never before. Because this is more than just a hotel—it’s your new local.
The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), otherwise known as North Korea, were the first country to close its doors due to the COVID pandemic. Now, almost five years later, they’ve just re-opened, allowing the tourists to flock to the traditional travel hotspot known for its nightlife and freedom of expression.
Chinese tour companies have begun operating there once again, with tours available to people from pretty much all nationalities, as long as it is through one of those selected companies.
We at get lost predict one day, probably in the very distant future, North Korea will have its travel boom. Travellers will be curious to go – borrowing a term from 1989 – ‘behind the curtain’, and discover life in this mysterious hermit country. Volcanic mountains and decent ski/snowboarding are top of the list, and the very few who have visited have spoken about a cuisine completely untouched by western influence.
But that all would need to wait until the Kim dynasty finishes up, which doesn’t look like happening any time soon.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs (DFAT) Smart Traveller website has a “do not travel” note in place for North Korea. get lost is all for travel to far-flung places, but we agree with this warning – travel to North Korea is still under extremely tight restrictions, and any money that goes into a tour goes toward supporting an oppressive, totalitarian dictatorship.
Five pretty wild travel facts about North Korea
1. Jeans are illegal. Everywhere. Leave your Levis and Dejours at home.
2.Construction of the Ryugyong Hotel, the 1,080 foot pyramid-shaped skyscraper which dominates Pyongyang’s skyline began in in August 1987. It has never been finished. The North Korean Government is allegedly looking to turn it into a casino.
3. The Masikryong Ski Resort is the country’s first ski resort, and supposedly has some pretty decent slopes. The resort, which we visited about 10 years ago, has been described as a “prestigious propaganda project for the regime.”
4. Paektu Mountain, shared with China, is the country’s highest point. It last erupted in 1903.
5. Air Koryo is the country’s official, and only, commercial airline.
The year is 2028 and surprisingly, no one cares about who’s leading the medal tally in L.A.
Or if Simone Biles has won another gold. Or if Snoop Dog’s making cameos at equestrian event (hard to believe we know). That’s because the hottest new resort has finally opened in Taiwan and it’s creating a bigger buzz than the inevitable subpar standards of the Olympic Village.
But let’s rewind. Unless you’ve just woken up from a coma or somehow got hold of a time machine, it’s still 2024 and yes, we have to wait four agonising years before we can live it up in one of only 65 spacious rooms at Capella Kenting. But this place looks so cool—like futuristic meets Byron Bay cool—that we’re already counting down the days.
Boasting oceanfront views thanks to its location along the western coastline of Taiwan’s Hengchun Peninsula, this sprawling property has been meticulously designed to be the best damn hotel you’ve ever stayed at. We’re talking world-class architecture. Decor that matches the natural landscape. The largest rooms in all of Taiwan. Private swimming pools. Hot spring facilities. Local cultural immersions. Honestly, we could go on…
…and we’re going to. The resort’s signature wellness program, including lunar phase-specific therapies and restorative experiences, is never more than a deep breath away. And once you’ve healed your soul to the sound of the nearby ocean waves enough to work up an appetite, the resort’s farm-to-table culinary concept will take you on a tastebud-tingling journey.
But you don’t just have to stay at the resort (although we get why you would). Kenting is known for its wild beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife. It’s also an epic surfing spot with water temperatures at a comfortable 22°C-28°C year-round. And it was one of the primary locations for Ang Lee’s Life of Pi, so there’s that.
First there was Squid Game and now, after the resounding success of Netflix’s latest Japanese drama series Alice in Borderland, the world has a new immersive death game.
The hit TV show follows Arisu, a gamer who finds himself trapped in a survival of the fittest sickest game that takes place in a parallel universe. Japan’s Immersive Fort Tokyo has whipped out the UNO draw 4+ card equivalent, taking this theme and running with it by recently launching it’s 7th attraction “Alice in Borderland: Immersive Death Game”.
This is very much a play-at-your-own-risk type of adventure with participants experiencing the life-or-death game wearing the same ‘collar bomb’ shown in the series. Fully immersed in a set of visuals carefully created by the Netflix staff who worked on the show, it’s every man for himself as you fight to survive. We don’t even reckon Tim Burton could dream this twisted shit up.
The language barrier is one thing you won’t have to think about (a small yet welcome reprieve) as the attraction is available in English, Chinese (simplified), Chinese (traditional) and Japanese.
And if one PTSD-inducing death game isn’t enough, Immersive Fort Tokyo has 6 other attractions you can try out. Maybe you’d be better at solving mysteries as part of an immersive Sherlock Holmes whodunit. Or perhaps you’re looking for something a bit more hardcore and fancy the sound of stumbling your way through a horror maze as Jack The Ripper takes chase.
Whichever attraction you choose, this immersive theatre theme park promises an adventure to die for, literally.
You know the tropical paradise you dream about at 3.30pm on a Tuesday afternoon, when you’re supposed to be listening to Mike, the Assistant General Manager of Accounts, give his quarterly report?
Arcadia on Pandanan Island feels like that dream. Based on the miniscule island of Pandanan in Malaysia’s Sabah region, off the coast of Borneo, the hotel is the ideal place for a wholesome eco-adventure with some besties or your special bestie.
There’s an Arcadia Hotel in Toorak, Melbourne; a pub with the nickname ‘The Shark Park’ due to the kind of clientele that frequent it. But there are no sharks at Arcadia Beach Resort.
The waters are teeming with life – get lost’s Editor saw more turtles (green sea and hawksbill) in the three days he spent at Arcadia than he has combined for his entire life up until that point.
It’s unbelievably well set up for the ‘Gram, if that’s your thing. The rooms are all white, giving off Greek island vibes. But for us, it’s the diving, swimming, snorkelling and island hopping (pictured above – nearby island Bohey Dulang) – all of which are elite.
The word Arcadia actually loosely means to be in harmony with nature, or in a utopia.
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