Wanderfolk: Promotional Fares on Thai Airways, Save on at Noku Maldives, New Ovolo & Alila Hotels

PUBLISHED October 30th, 2018 06:00 am | UPDATED March 26th, 2019 05:56 pm

We were introduced to the concept of “splurget travel” by our friends at Skyscanner, where holidays might be planned on a tight budget but includes a splurge (or two) on a luxury element like spas, luxury hotels, Michelin-starred establishments. Well, there’s plenty of that on this edition of Wanderfolk with cheap(er) tickets on Thai Airways, new luxury hotels with exciting experiences, and more.

Save at Noku Maldives

Nothing screams “beach holiday” more than the Maldives and this time, why not head to the Noonu Atoll and stay at Noku Maldives on the island of Kuda Funafaru? A 45-minute flight from Velana International Airport by seaplane, the resort shares the locale with a thriving marine ecosystem including dolphins and rays. The 20 beach villas and 30 over-water villas feature a soft white palette and dark wood accents to complement the natural beauty seen through large bay windows and French doors. And it doesn’t hurt that they’re offering 20% off rooms from now till 22 December 2018. Simply quote NM-CN when you email [email protected] to enquire or book.

Mega Deals on Thai Airways

For those already planning to travel the first quarter of next year, the folks at Thai Airways are offering deals on travels between 20 November to 15 December 2018 and 15 January to 31 March 2019 (see other blackout dates below). Fares start at $275 for travellers departing from Singapore to countries and regions such as Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket), China (Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu), Japan, India, Australia, and Europe (13 cities including Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, London, and Copenhagen). Book now (sale available till 10 November 2018) and you might potentially score a Valentine’s getaway to Tokyo for less than S$600 per person.

Blackout periods for destinations in Japan include 1-9 Feb and 15-28 Mar 2019. See here for more information.

Alila Wuzhen Opens 1 November 2018

An hour from Hangzhou, Wuzhen Watertown is one of the few remaining old towns along the southern Yangtze River and boasts more of 6000 years of history with its fertile surroundings. Five minutes away sits Alila Hotels’ latest opening designed by famed Chinese architectural firm GOA. The 125-key hotel is a case of art imitating life, where the suites, garden villas, and pool villas are wrapped around private courtyards and intertwining waterways– much like Wuzhen’s maze of quiet canals and ancient alleyways. From now till 31 March 2019, take advantage of their Watertown Package. Priced from US$578++ for two nights in a Garden Suite for two, inclusive of daily breakfast, a visit to Wuzhen Watertown, traditional snacks, and a couple or family snapshot at the hotel.

For bookings and more information, see here.

Cruise Around Asia Aboard Silver Muse

Silversea Cruise’s ultra-luxury flagship vessel, arrives in Singapore for the first time on 9 November 2018. Able to accommodate just under 600 guests (about one-fifth of the capacity of most major cruise liners), Silver Muse embraces the small-ship intimacy alongside spacious all-suite accommodations. Besides destinations like Hong Kong and Bali – as well as port of calls including Ho Chi Minh City, Palawan, Yangon, and Semarang – the main attraction is the all-inclusive amenities such as complimentary premium wines and spirits, unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi, lecture and enrichment programmes, and the choice of eight different dining venues.

Prices start from US$5400 per guest. For bookings made now till 30 November 2018, save up to US$3000 off per suite and score free selected shore excursions. See here for more information.

Ovolo The Valley To Open This November

Known for its playful, forward-thinking spirit and spaces with personality, Ovolo Hotels is launching its newest property this month in Brisbane with Ovolo The Valley. Inspired by the local neighbourhood of Fortitude Valley, the first dedicated entertainment district in Queensland, Ovolo The Valley is designed by award-winning architecture firm Woods Bagot. Expect a whimsical oasis of colour, art, and quirkiness throughout its 103 rooms – and did we mention that there are two suites named after David Bower alter egos, Major Tom and Rebel Rebel, for those who dare? Rooms start from A$300 a night, inclusive of free brekkie, wifi, Happy Hour drinks daily, mini bar, and laundry.

For bookings and more information, see here.

Top image: Wuzhen Water Town, courtesy of Alila Wuzhen