HOI AN, VIETNAM, 09 FEBRUARY 2026: Namia River Retreat, Hoi An’s first and only luxury wellness-inclusive resort with all-private pool villas, is proud to announce its acceptance into Virtuoso®, the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This marks a significant milestone for Namia River Retreat, which opened its doors in December 2024, positioning the resort within an elite circle of the world’s finest travel providers. By joining this invitation-only network, Namia River Retreat gains access to a global powerhouse of more than 20,000 luxury travel advisors, further establishing its reputation as a premier destination for wellness hospitality in Central Vietnam.

Elevated Luxury: The Virtuoso Advantage

As a preferred partner, Namia River Retreat now offers exclusive amenities designed for the discerning Virtuoso traveler. These benefits elevate the retreat’s wellness-inclusive core with "VIP" status and tangible value:

• US$100 Food & Beverage Credit: Per villa, per stay, to be enjoyed at the resort’s signature riverside dining venues.
• VIP Booking Status: Ensuring personalized recognition and priority service from arrival to departure.
• Room Upgrade & Early Check-in/Late Checkout: Subject to availability, providing guests with enhanced flexibility and even more immersive river views.
• Vietnamese Artisan chocolate box per villa per stay.

“Joining the Virtuoso network is a defining moment in our story,” says Michelle Ford, General Manager. “This partnership reflects our commitment to excellence and allows us to share our unique vision of Vietnamese herbology and mindful hospitality with a global audience that appreciates the highest standards of luxury and authenticity.”

Luxury Pool Villas By The River
Guests can enjoy exclusive access to the picturesque islet where each of the 60 luxurious private pool villas await. Each villa features an open-plan living room that seamlessly flows into an outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Nipa palm forest or the Thu Bon River. The spacious bedroom boasts a sunken bathtub overlooking the pool, and an en-suite bathroom with a refreshing shower.

Wellness-Inclusive Journeys

All resort guests can enjoy an inclusive 90-minute well-being journey per person, per night at Lumina Wellbeing, the spa and wellness heart of Namia River Retreat, consisting of:

• Custom herbal remedy prescription in the apothecary;
• 30-minute hydrotherapy: choice of herbal hammam using locally sourced herbs, or sauna and cool plunge;
• 60-minute traditional therapy: choice of cupping, acupressure, Vietnamese massage, or signature Diện Chẩn facial reflexology.

Inspired by Thuốc Nam (Vietnamese Herbology), all prescriptions and therapies are created in collaboration with traditional medicine doctors and local healers. Guests can choose between two Wellness Pathways: Deep Rest to calm the nervous system and improve sleep, or Body Balance to ease tension, boost circulation, and restore vitality.

Sustainable Dining
Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the resort, from sourcing local ingredients to implementing eco-friendly practices. Key initiatives include:

• Locally sourced products and ingredients
• Elimination of single-use plastics and non-organic compounds
• Minimisation of food and bar waste
• Mindful education for the resort team

Guided by Executive Chef Thu Le - with her homegrown skills, shaped by global experience - Namia River Retreat celebrates its homeland through authentic dishes that are light, nourishing, and rooted in seasonality.

The mainland welcome lounge leads to The Merchant River Cruise & Restaurant. Overlooking the Thu Bon River and Nipa Palm forest, the Restaurant offers an elegant setting for contemporary Vietnamese cuisine, inspired by Hoi An’s trading port heritage. Signature dishes include farm-to-table roasted duck, along with street food-inspired cocktails. The Merchant also hosts immersive culinary experiences, from artisan Vietnamese coffee and “Born to Bánh Mì” workshops to tastings of sustainably produced wines. The Merchant River Cruise, a sunset and dinner cruise on the Thu Bon River, is set to launch in early 2026.

The Fisherman Restaurant + Pool Bar celebrates Hoi An’s fishing culture with a seafood-focused menu blending traditional Vietnamese flavours and modern techniques. Set poolside with panoramic river views, it features fresh wild catch of the day, foraged herbs from the Cham Islands, and dishes that showcase the region’s natural bounty.

Mindful Experiences

At Namia River Retreat, guests are invited to move in harmony with nature’s rhythm. From sunrise bamboo bicycle rides, “Dưỡng Sinh” movement or yoga sessions to sunset cruises with cocktails and the evening lantern lighting ritual, each experience is rooted in the soul of Hoi An.

By the riverside, the main heated salt-water swimming pool overlooks the Thu Bon River with 180-degree views, a serene waterfall, hydro-jets, reflexology paths, a living bio-pond, and intimate lounge corners for unhurried moments.

Rooted in Purpose

Namia’s commitment to wellness extends beyond the guest experience. As a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) Considerate Collection and Wellbeing Collection, the resort’s eco-conscious operations, local employment, and long-term community engagement redefine what it means to travel well for the guest, the land, and the people of Vietnam.

At the invitation of Vietnam-based international investors and developers Larfa Properties and AppleTree Group, Philippe Starck, one of the world’s most celebrated creators, arrived in Vietnam to share his vision for Nhà Estate, a beachfront residential development in Ho Tram. The project represents the first time Starck has lent his creative vision to a residential concept in Vietnam, a place that Starck imagined as if ‘’it has always existed, timeless in its elegance and poetry. An elsewhere in Vietnam.”

Ahead of the project’s public debut, Starck recently attended a gathering at a creative venue in Ho Chi Minh City alongside Eric Merlin, CEO of AppleTree Group and the development team — an informal, elegant evening that brought together a handpicked group of friends, collaborators, and figures from the city’s creative and business communities to celebrate the vision behind the estate.

Nhà Estate: When Philosophy Becomes a Living Space

With a career spanning over four decades, Philippe Starck has conceived a vast portfolio of global icons, from everyday objects to architectural landmarks, always with the human experience at the core. To him, a space truly succeeds when it stirs the emotions and fosters a deep harmony between people, their community, and the natural world. It was therefore only natural that it all started with a human encounter between the Merlin family and Philippe Starck — a meeting that was meant to be, between partners sharing the same values, the same philosophy and ethics.

When they discovered the unique landscape of Ho Tram, together they recognised the rare opportunity to create a place rooted in truth, honest in its design and intelligent in its purpose: a preserved place built to endure, where architecture becomes a natural extension of the landscape.

All the elements were in place to start a creative collaboration: the right people, the right land and the right vision. As Philippe Starck explains, “Nhà Estate is a home of life and humanity, honesty and harmony. Here, everything is imagined to awaken intelligence, inspire creativity. It is a place to be more in love, more alive and more human.”

Having arrived in Vietnam, Philippe Starck fully embraced the local landscape, ensuring that Nhà Estate reflects a global spirit rooted in a profound respect for Vietnamese culture. The project serves as a bridge between Starck’s humanistic creative vision and an Eastern sensibility — one that prioritises a kinship with nature, a spirit of community, and a graceful balance between heritage and progress.

Located on a peninsula between the Ray River and the sea, Nhà Estate comprises just 38 private villas in Ho Tram’s best-preserved area. Each waterfront home is individually designed to achieve a seamless integration with the outdoors, honouring the site’s original beauty as if the architecture had emerged naturally from the terrain.

Nhà Estate is conceived as a village with a highly organic masterplan, shaped by the harmony of sea and river and complemented by a beach club, restaurants, and generous communal spaces. At the same time, Nhà Estate remains closely connected to nearby attractions, including golf courses, restaurants, bars, and water-sports activities.

Here, architecture is shaped through subtle dialogues between land and water, warmth and luminosity, openness and privacy, lightness and durability. Each Nhà Estate villa is conceived to allow natural light, sea breezes, and the surrounding landscape to flow into every living space. Always with views on the water.

Ho Tram: Where Nature Shapes a Way of Life

For many years, Vietnam’s high-end resort real estate market has been defined by scale and investment volume. Nhà Estate, however, takes a different path by placing emphasis on the quality of experience and the relationship between people and their living environment.

The emergence of Nhà Estate is closely tied to the transformation of Ho Tram, one of the few coastal stretches in southern Vietnam that has preserved much of its pristine character. Located roughly two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, the area is gradually becoming a key resort destination, known for its long beaches, untouched forests, and rare natural ecosystem.

Ho Tram has become an ideal setting for the two development partners, Larfa Properties and AppleTree Group, to shape this project. With decades of experience in the luxury real estate sector, both share a common approach: creating places with cultural depth and enduring value, rather than developments driven by short-term market demands.

“We believe that the true value of a project does not lie in short-term profit, but in its ability to endure and be appreciated over time,” says Eric Merlin, CEO of AppleTree Group. “Nhà Estate was conceived as an unconventional development. It is a philosophy of living, where architecture, nature, and people rediscover their balance. Our aspiration is to create a place that holds meaning today and continues to matter for generations to come.”

About Nhà Estate

Imagined by world-renowned creator Philippe Starck, Nhà Estate is a collection of 38 private villas, a boutique hotel, a restaurant, and a beach club, located in Ho Tram, Vietnam. The luxury residential project is a joint venture between Larfa Properties, a privately owned real estate investor and developer with a focus on long-term, high-quality projects, and AppleTree Hospitality, part of the AppleTree Group founded in Vietnam in 1993. The partnership combines Larfa’s commitment to craftsmanship and heritage with AppleTree’s three decades of building premium, experience-led businesses across Asia.

nha-estate.com

About AppleTree Group

Established in 1993, AppleTree Group is a diversified investment and development company headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, with a portfolio spanning hospitality, tourism, retail, and food distribution.

appletree-asia.com

About Larfa Properties

Larfa Properties specialises in hospitality, residential, and mixed-use developments across Europe and Asia, with a focus on architectural character, heritage value, and long-term investment potential.

larfaproperties.com

About Philippe Starck

Philippe Starck is a world-famous creator whose multifaceted inventiveness is always focused on the essential — his conviction that creation, whatever form it takes, must improve the lives of as many people as possible. This philosophy has made him one of the pioneers and central figures of “democratic design.”

Through his prolific work across all domains — from everyday products (furniture, a citrus squeezer, electric bikes, an individual wind turbine) to architecture (hotels, restaurants that aspire to be stimulating places) and naval and spatial engineering (mega yachts, a space habitation module) — he continually pushes the boundaries of design, becoming one of the most visionary and renowned creators of the international contemporary scene.

starck.com | Instagram @Starck | Facebook @StarckOfficial

Media contacts

Commercial inquiries: Nhà Estate
Press: Ivy+Partners – Ms. Khanh-Linh Nguyen – Senior Communications Consultant
0986031299 – khanhlinh@ivynpartners.com

Da Nang – Hoi An, Vietnam — March 20, 2026 — The ELEVATE 2026:
Accelerate Growth – Asia Leadership & Development Dialogue has officially concluded at The An Heritage, marking not only a milestone for global leadership exchange, but also a powerful statement on Vietnam’s rising role as a destination for international dialogue, innovation, and investment.

Co-organized by Elevate Conference and The An Heritage, the conference gathered over 200 global leaders, executives, and experts—set against the unique cultural and natural backdrop of Central Vietnam.
Vietnam: A Rising Hub in a Fragmented Global Landscape
In a time of global uncertainty and shifting economic centers, Vietnam is increasingly recognized as a strategic convergence point for growth, talent, and innovation.

Key advantages positioning Vietnam on the global stage include:

• Sustained economic growth and resilience amid global volatility
• A young, dynamic workforce driving digital transformation
• Strategic location within the Asia-Pacific supply chain realignment
• Rapidly improving infrastructure and openness to global partnerships

As highlighted throughout ELEVATE 2026, Vietnam is no longer just a manufacturing hub—it is evolving into a knowledge economy and leadership development center, where global ideas meet local execution.

Hoi An – Da Nang: Where Heritage Meets Global Dialogue

Few destinations offer the layered richness of Hoi An and Da Nang—a corridor where cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern infrastructure intersect.

Hoi An Ancient Town, with its centuries-old architecture and trading legacy, represents a history of global exchange—making it a symbolic setting for today’s cross-border leadership conversations.

Within minutes, participants experienced:

• Pristine coastlines such as An Bang Beach
• The tranquil Co Co River connecting Da Nang and Hoi An
• Proximity to landmarks like My Son Sanctuary and Cu Lao Cham

This rare combination of heritage, nature, and accessibility creates an environment not only for travel—but for reflection, strategic thinking, and meaningful connection.

The An Heritage: A New Model for Destination-Led Leadership Platforms

Hosting ELEVATE 2026 at The An Heritage reflects a broader shift in how global events are designed.

Rather than traditional conference venues, The An Heritage represents a destination ecosystem—where:

• Business dialogue meets lifestyle experience
• Leadership development integrates with well-being
• Investment conversations emerge organically within curated environments

Positioned along the Da Nang – Hoi An axis, the development captures the essence of Central Vietnam: a place to gather, to think, and to build long-term value.

From Global Expertise to Local Opportunity

With participation from leading voices across Silicon Valley, Asia, and Europe, ELEVATE 2026 transformed Central Vietnam into a temporary hub of global expertise.

But more importantly, the event created a two-way exchange:

• Global leaders gained deeper insight into Vietnam’s growth trajectory
• Local and regional businesses accessed world-class thinking and networks

This dynamic reinforces a larger trend: Vietnam—and particularly the Hoi An – Da Nang region—is becoming a bridge between global capital, talent, and emerging market opportunity.

Beyond a Conference: Positioning Vietnam on the Global Leadership Map

ELEVATE 2026 was not just an event—it was a positioning moment.

It demonstrated that Vietnam can host:

• High-level international forums
• Cross-border leadership dialogue
• Strategic partnerships between global and regional players

As destinations worldwide compete to attract not just tourists but ideas, talent, and capital, the success of ELEVATE 2026 places Hoi An and Da Nang firmly on the map as Asia’s next destination for leadership and innovation gatherings.

Looking Ahead

Following the success of this year’s conference, Elevate Conference and The An Heritage are expected to expand their collaboration—further anchoring Vietnam as a long-term hub for leadership development, global exchange, and sustainable growth.

In a world searching for stability, meaning, and new growth engines, Vietnam—and the timeless charm of Hoi An—offers something increasingly rare:

A place where the future of leadership can be imagined, discussed, and built.

Media Contact:
For press inquiries and partnership opportunities, please contact the ELEVATE organizing committee.

About Elevate Conference
Elevate Conference is a global leadership and professional development platform dedicated to empowering leaders, coaches, and entrepreneurs through world-class learning, strategic dialogue, and international networking.

About The An Heritage
The An Heritage is a premium integrated urban resort in Central Vietnam, designed to connect heritage, modern living, and global experiences into a unified destination ecosystem.

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music, we are pleased to present the “New Generation” concert, taking place at 8:00 PM on 3rd April 2026, at the Concert Hall of the Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music.

“New Generation” is a concert featuring the HCMC Conservatory Young Orchestra which brings together talented students from the Western Musical Instruments Department. The orchestra was founded and developed under the guidance of Meritorious Artist Tran Vuong Thach, and is currently led by clarinetist Quan Hoang as Music Director, contributing to a professional performance environment for young musicians.

In this concert, the orchestra is honored to collaborate and perform with Dr. Andrea Daru from the Faculty of Music, University of Debrecen (Hungary). As part of the cooperation between the two institutions, with support from the Pannónia Scholarship Program, conductor Andrea Daru will join the young musicians to explore the remarkable sounds created through orchestral harmony. The program also highlights five young soloists from the Western Musical Instruments Department: Nguyen Linh Xuan, Tang Lac Ky Nam, Truong Y Linh, Nguyen Hieu Doanh, and Tran Hoang Truc Dan, showcasing the distinctive timbres and techniques of string instruments through works by Vivaldi and Beethoven.

ABOUT CONDUCTOR ANDREA DARU

Dr. Andrea Daru is a Hungarian conductor and music educator. She graduated in Orchestral Conducting from the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music and holds a PhD in Educational Sciences from Eötvös Loránd University. She has conducted in many countries and collaborated with prestigious orchestras such as the Siam Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hungarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra. In addition to her performance career, she currently serves as Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Music, University of Debrecen, and Associate Professor at the Hungarian Dance University.

PROGRAM

The concert opens with two remarkable concertos by Antonio Vivaldi, one of the most prominent composers of the Baroque period. First, audiences will enjoy the Concerto for 4 Violins and Strings, RV 550, performed by four young soloists: Nguyen Linh Xuan, Tang Lac Ky Nam, Tran Hoang Truc Dan, and Truong Y Linh. This is followed by the “Winter” Concerto from the famous The Four Seasons, featuring soloist Nguyen Hieu Doanh. The program concludes with Symphony No. 8 in F major by Ludwig van Beethoven - a lively and energetic work, brought to life by the young orchestra with youthful passion and vitality.

EVENT INFORMATION

• Time: Friday, 3rd April 2026, at 8:00 PM
• Venue: Concert Hall, Ho Chi Minh City Conservatory of Music (112 Nguyen Du Street, Ben Thanh Ward, HCMC)
• Ticket prices: 100.000 (Students) - 200.000 - 300.000 - 400.000 VND
• Ticket contact: 0398883487 (Ms. Thao)
• Contact for other inquiries: vndtinh@hcmcons.vn

*No admission for children under 5 years old.

Opening Reception: 18:00 – 20:00, Friday, March 27, 2026
Exhibition Dates: March 28 – May 30, 2026
Address: Rare Sea – 3 Đặng Thị Nhu, Bến Thành Ward, Hồ Chí Minh City
Opening Hours: 10:00 – 18:00, Tuesday – Sunday, or by appointment
Free admission.

Rare Sea is pleased to introduce the forest lives on as unfinished film reels, a group show with the participation of four artists Aliansyah Caniago, Xuân-Hạ, Rab, and Hoàng Vũ. Featuring multi-medium artworks, spanning sculpture, silk & Korean traditional paper painting, installation, and moving image, the exhibition explores the lingering existence of materials and spirits as interlocutors on urbanism, production, and labor of modern society.

Urban space and industrialization often drape themselves in fantastical promises of a stable and prosperous future, where labor is a one-way ticket to happiness. What has been pushed aside in the name of progress? Do they carry any momentum of memories and histories? And should we listen, observe, touch, smell and feel them? In the forest lives on as unfinished film reels, what remains invisible within the intimate and collective spaces of urbanism and production is exaggerated, saturated and glorified: fauna ghosts, noises, mythical creatures, repetitive gestures. From these vestiges, both human and non-human, the exhibition excavates what has been erased and what haunts us, reflecting perspectives on labor, dwelling, and the residual consequences of industrial society.

At the entrance, Aliansyah Caniago opens a space of refuge in remnants of colonialism. Aliansyah traces the spirits of camphor tree forest still residing within materials produced through colonial extraction–not to memorialize, but to break them down from within. His works propose alternative ways of sensing history: scattering processed film reels into a floating graveyard, reciting and dissecting colonial reports until they dissolve into meaningless sound, and proposing scent as an archival medium for the asymmetrical exchange routes across the Indian Ocean. Materials become both monument and coffin, holding space for collective values that were erased and borrowed, while opening dialogues between the profane and the sacred, between colonial extraction and the spiritual endurance of a people.

Hoàng Vũ and Rab lead viewers into spaces of construction, production, and imagination on the first floor. Both artists anatomize the production process through exploring contrasting materialities. Hoàng Vũ anchors a visual-audio vantage point in learning about the positionality of a newly renovated building. He uses noise recorded from the construction, along with field recordings on the city’s streets, treating construction mesh and metal scaffolding as an acoustic buffer zone. Listening carefully to the marginal sonic particles of urban life, he questions what material dialogues might emerge from urban space. In Rab’s imaginary factory, the human body loses its individuality, becoming a mass-produced commodity. Rab critiques the absurdity of biological exchange as a commercial transaction. From personal observation and intertwinning with mythological perspective, Rab traces the disappearance of creatures displaced by urbanization from lands that once belonged to them. Together, Hoàng Vũ and Rab propose non-human ways of inquiry: one listening from the building’s construction skeleton, the other through the eyes of a magpie.

The exhibition concludes on the second floor, in a space made tangible by invisible gestures of labor. In Rare Sea’s kitchen—a more intimate space in the gallery—Xuân-Hạ’s three-channel video invites reflection on gendered labor within the household area. The work evokes the residing of intergenerational ties among women working in the communal yet vulnerable spaces of the home: the kitchen, the bathroom, and the washing room. Repetitive gestures weave memory into the space, which becomes shaped by unnamed acts often draped as expressions of care. As they expose what has been silenced as gendered trauma within these rooms, these gestures also weave the warmth of care back into memory, becoming a poignant ode to the women who came before and a quiet critique of the system that rendered their labor invisible. Through these repetitive acts, the artist keeps returning to unfinished stories, acknowledging that what haunts also holds.

the forest lives on as unfinished film reels speaks to the dwelling of spirits meant to be erased after the act of labor and production. Residing in a recently renovated building in an urban area, the exhibition also invites engagement with a space where art labor continues to cultivate alternative, critical lenses on progress.

ABOUT ARTISTS

Aliansyah Caniago (b. 1987, Indonesia) is an artist based in Banda Aceh whose practice spans site-specific installation, performance, painting, and archival research. Growing up amid rapid industrialisation in Indonesia, his work critically examines ecological loss, extractivism, and the consequences of modernity for both human and more-than-human worlds. Since 2016, his research has focused on Barus, North Sumatra, once the centre of global camphor trade, where colonial extraction led to the destruction of sacred camphor forests and the erosion of Batak cosmologies.
Camphor functions in his work as both material and metaphor, connecting spiritual belief, colonial science, and industrial technologies such as celluloid film. Through artistic practices involving scent, touch, ritual, and the body, Aliansyah activates fragmented archives and oral histories to reanimate suppressed narratives and embodied memory. His works have been presented internationally, including at Documenta Fifteen (Germany), MUMA (Australia), the Jakarta Biennale. He is a graduate of MA Art and Ecology, Goldsmiths, University of London.

Xuân-Hạ is an art worker whose practice spans roles as an artist and organizer. Working across moving image, installation, and conceptual art, she translates personal imaginaries and collective memories into visual narratives. Her work creates discursive spaces that critically examine the fluidity of identity, the impermanence of place, and the fragility of cultural continuity amid social and environmental transformations.

Her works have been presented at international film festivals and exhibitions, including the Asian Avant-Garde Film Festival 2025 (M+ Museum, Hong Kong), Painting with Light Film Festival 2022 (National Gallery Singapore), the Kyoto University Visual Documentary Project (VDP) 2021, and Jakarta Biennale ESOK 2021 (Museum of National Awakening, Indonesia), as well as at various independent and institutional art spaces nationally and internationally. Alongside her artistic practice, Xuân-Hạ is deeply engaged in cultivating local art communities in Vietnam. She is a co-founder of Chaosdowntown Cháo (HCMC, 2015–2019) and the founder of A Sông (Da Nang, 2019–present). She has been awarded for the International Future Leaders Program 2022-23 by The Australia Council for the Arts, and recently received the Fellows Award: Cultural & Artistic Responses to the Environmental Crisis 2024 (CAREC) by Prince Claus Fund.

Bui Bao Tram, also known as Rab (b. 2000), is a multimedia artist based in Ho Chi Minh City. Rab's practices address the themes of collective and personal memory, investigating the dialogues and exchanges that occur within relationships. This exploration aims to raise questions and discourse regarding societal and humanity.

In 2023, Rab presented her first solo exhibition, "Nằm mơ đan lưới trời" (Dreaming of Weaving the Sky Net) featuring site-specific installations and performance. Rab has participated in various projects, such as Arts Intensive Study Program (The Fire Station, Qatar Museums, Qatar, 2025-2026), ARKO Art Studio Residency (Arts Council Korea, Seoul, Korea, 2025), There is no center, Group exhibition (ROH, Indonesia, 2025), Saigon City Slang group exhibition (Sàn Art, Vietnam, 2024), S.E.A. Focus (Singapore, 2024), The Unknown, Choreographed (Á Space & 3nam Studio, Vietnam, 2023), etc. In 2025, Rab received the Prince Claus Seed Award from Prince Claus Fund (Amsterdam, Netherlands) and was nominated for Finest Artists from Hanoi Grapevine, Vietnam. Rab also co-founded Bụi Tre Collective - an artist-run collective aimed at providing support for emerging experimental artists in Vietnam.

Hoàng Vũ (b. 1996, Mekong Delta, Vietnam) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Saigon, working across sound, poetry and visual arts. Hoàng Vũ is also an experimental ambient music producer.
With sound as his primary focus, his practice centers on atmosphere and phenomena, within liminal space, states of waiting, and shifting boundaries. Alongside his compositional work, he develops research-based projects engaging ecological soundscapes and site-specific phenomena shaped by urbanization and ongoing environmental instability that continuously reshape the landscape.

ABOUT THE CURATOR

Lại Minh Ngọc was born in Hanoi and is currently based in Saigon, Vietnam. Graduated in Social Studies and Art & Media Studies at Fulbright University Vietnam, she is taking small steps in practicing photography, documentary film, ethnographic film, and curation. Ngọc views artistic practices as a multidimensional approach to social research, especially issues and representation of sex and gender woven within the changing of urban space.

ABOUT RARE SEA

Rare Sea is an independent contemporary art organisation based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Opening in January 2026, Rare Sea supports artistic practice through exhibitions, studio-based research, professional development, and public engagement.

Through its programming, Rare Sea fosters artistic exchange and builds platforms for creative practice and international cross-cultural dialogue in Vietnam and beyond, grounded in sustained, forward looking engagement with artists, curators, and local communities.

CONTACT

Address: 3 Đặng Thị Nhu, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

For further inquiries or to book a visit, please contact us via email info@raresea.vn

Website: raresea.vn

Instagram: @raresea.vn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rareseavn
Phone: +84 937891284

Ho Chi Minh City, 2026 – April unfolds with a quiet sense of anticipation, as the city begins to lean into the promise of long, unhurried holidays ahead. It is a moment suspended between movement and pause - where days soften, and time invites a more considered way of living. At JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon, this transition is expressed through a thoughtfully composed collection of experiences, where gastronomy, design, and moments of connection come together - shaping a lifestyle that feels both elevated and effortlessly balanced.

1. Nikura & Pisco Hana – A New Social Destination for the Discerning

April marks the arrival of Nikura, a dining concept that captures the nuanced dialogue between Japanese precision and the expressive soul of Peruvian cuisine. Here, Nikkei is not merely presented - it is interpreted, refined, and quietly redefined. At the helm is Peruvian Chef Ivan Casusol, whose international journey through some of the world’s most dynamic culinary cities informs a style that is both assured and deeply considered. Under his direction, Nikura emerges not just as a restaurant, but as a destination for those who seek nuance, texture, and a sense of discovery within each course.

Under the direction of Chef Ivan Casusol, Nikura brings refined, deeply expressive Nikkei cuisine to the heart of Saigon

The space itself opens generously onto the movement of Hai Ba Trung Street, blurring the line between the city’s pulse and the intimacy of the dining room. Interiors draw from Peru’s tactile warmth, most notably in lighting inspired by the softness of alpaca wool, layered with the quiet elegance of traditional Japanese artistry. At the open kitchen and sashimi counter, the day’s finest seafood is presented with restraint, inviting guests to observe, engage, and immerse themselves in the craft as it unfolds. Private dining rooms and an intimate chef’s table offer a more personal dimension - where each dish becomes part of a dialogue between guest and chef, unfolding in real time.

Overlooking vibrant Hai Ba Trung Street, the open kitchen setting creates a dining experience that feels immersive and connected

Just steps away, Pisco Hana Bar & Lounge shifts the evening into a more vibrant register. The experience begins with a gesture that feels both generous and disarming “First Drink on Us” - setting the tone for a night that is as social as it is sensory. Led by Bar Manager Huu Phu, a mixologist known for his inventive spirit and instinctive understanding of flavor, the cocktail program draws from the same Nikkei philosophy - layered, expressive, and quietly unexpected. Each creation reveals itself in stages: warmth giving way to brightness, familiarity dissolving into intrigue.

Led by Bar Manager Huu Phu, Pisco Hana crafts a multi-layered cocktail journey inspired by contemporary Nikkei influences

Yet beyond composition, each drink carries a narrative - an interplay of ingredients, memory, and technique, shaped with precision and intention. It is this pursuit of curiosity that defines Pisco Hana: contemporary, exploratory, and just restrained enough to remain elegant.

Each cocktail unfolds as a story - defined by creativity, precision, and a quietly daring spirit

The setting mirrors this duality. Plush seating and subtle Japanese motifs create an atmosphere of intimacy, while private rooms offer discretion. A distinctive bar-to-table window introduces a moment of theatre - cocktails passing seamlessly from the hands of the mixologist to the guest, collapsing the distance between creation and experience.

An intimate setting with Japanese-inspired details and weekend DJ rhythms shapes an inspired after-dark destination in the city

As the evening deepens, weekend DJ sets lend rhythm to the space, where music, conversation, and cocktails move in quiet synchrony. It is here, framed by the glow of the city beyond, that the night lingers just a little longer. For reservations or further information, please contact +84 914 296 754 or email nikura.saigon@marriott.com, visit the official fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/NikuraRestaurant or website https://www.jwmarriottsaigon.com.

Nikura & Pisco Hana: Ground Floor – JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon (Corner of Hai Ba Trung Street and Le Duan Boulevard, Saigon Ward)

2. A Vibrant April at JW Café with a Tapestry of Culinary Experiences

April unfolds with a renewed sense of vibrancy at JW Café, where a curated series of dining experiences takes center stage. The highlight arrives with the Easter Sunday Brunch on April 5, as the restaurant is brought to life through a rich and colorful culinary journey. An abundant selection of premium seafood - snow crab legs, Nha Trang lobster, Ca Mau crab - sets the tone, accompanied by indulgent accents such as 24-month Iberico ham and delicately seared foie gras. From there, the experience unfolds across a spectrum of global cuisines, weaving together Italian, Japanese, Peruvian, Indian, and Chinese influences into a seamless culinary narrative. At its center, a refined caviar station elevates the experience further, where each element - whether paired with mille-feuille, sour cream, roasted sweet potato with garlic butter, or crisp salmon cake - is designed to balance texture with depth. Tableside trolley service adds a quiet sense of ceremony, bringing moments of interaction that feel both personal and considered.

A lavish spread unfolds with premium seafood, global flavors, and a refined caviar experience at its center

Beyond the table, JW Garden transforms into a scene of gentle festivity, where children move through Easter egg hunts and families gather for unhurried moments captured in thoughtfully designed spaces. The experience concludes, as all memorable meals should, with a dessert selection that lingers - delicate, expressive, and quietly indulgent.

JW Garden becomes a joyful gathering space, where Easter egg hunts and family moments come naturally together

Continuing through the month, JW Café welcomes Chef Tiong Joeson, Sous Chef from The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, for a series of Singapore-inspired dinners on April 17 and 18, followed by a special Sunday Brunch on April 19. Guests are invited to explore a repertoire of iconic flavors - from the bold richness of chili crab and the comforting elegance of Hainanese chicken rice to the aromatic depth of laksa- alongside charcoal-grilled satay, slow-braised beef rendang, and the soulful warmth of Bak Kut Teh. Each dish captures the vibrant spirit of Singaporean cuisine, unfolding as a dynamic and immersive culinary journey. The buffet experience is priced at VND 1,880,000++ per guest, inclusive of fresh juices, tea, and coffee, with optional wine pairing from VND 800,000++ or a champagne package from VND 2,000,000++, offering a refined accompaniment to the experience.

Chef Tiong Joeson of The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore presents a vibrant Singaporean culinary journey, where iconic dishes such as chili crab, Hainanese chicken rice, and laksa are reimagined with refined expression

For reservations or further information, please contact +84 914 296 754 or email jwsaigon.jwcafe@marriott.com, visit the official fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/jwcafesaigon or website https://www.jwmarriottsaigon.com.

JW Café: Level 1 – JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon (Corner of Hai Ba Trung Street and Le Duan Boulevard, Saigon Ward)

3. The Lounge – An Afternoon Ritual with Refined Tropical Flavors

At The Lounge, afternoons take on a slower cadence through a Tropical Afternoon Tea that feels both playful and poised. Pastry creations draw from familiar fruits featuring strawberry, banana, lychee, tomato, yet are reinterpreted with a level of craftsmanship that transforms the expected into something quietly striking. Alongside, savory selections provide contrast and balance, while classic scones, served with vanilla mascarpone cream, citrus butter, and berry chia jam, anchor the experience in tradition.

Tropical Afternoon Tea at The Lounge delights with a collection of pastries that are both imaginative and elegantly crafted

Served with free-flow tea or coffee for two, this Tropical afternoon tea ritual at The Lounge is more about intention: a pause in the day, softened by light, conversation, and a sense of ease that feels increasingly rare.

Refined savory selections and classic scones create a balanced, elegant, and quietly indulgent afternoon tea experience

For reservations or further information, please contact +84 28 3520 9999 or email jw.sgnjs.thelounge@marriott.com, visit the official fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/JWMarriottSaigon/ or website https://www.jwmarriottsaigon.com.

The Lounge: Ground Floor – JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon (Corner of Hai Ba Trung Street and Le Duan Boulevard, Saigon Ward)

4. Moments Retreat – An Utmost Luxury Getaway Right at The Heart of Saigon

As the city approaches its holiday rhythm, Moments Retreat offers a different perspective on escape—one that does not require leaving, but rather re-seeing. With daily breakfast, a VND 500,000 dining credit, and a 20% privilege at Spa by JW, the experience is designed to move effortlessly between indulgence and restoration. Days unfold gently- through wellness rituals, diverse dining, and moments of stillness that invite reconnection.

Moments Retreat offers a thoughtfully balanced stay, where dining, relaxation, and wellness come together with ease

The Family by JW program introduces a layer of shared experience, while JW Garden offers a rare pocket of calm within the city’s momentum. With newly enhanced facilities and a service philosophy rooted in anticipation and personalization, Moments Retreat becomes more than a stay - it becomes a shift in pace, a quiet recalibration. Available through September 30, 2026, including the peak holiday window from April 27 to 30, it is an invitation to experience the city not as it rushes, but as it breathes.

Family by JW program at JW Garden creates meaningful moments of connection within a rare pocket of greenery in the city

For reservations or further information, please contact +84 28 3520 9999 or email jw.sgnjs.reservation@marriott.com, visit the official fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/JWMarriottSaigon/ or website https://www.jwmarriottsaigon.com. At JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon, April is not defined by what happens - but by how it is experienced: with intention, with elegance, and with a sense of quiet discovery woven into every moment.

About JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon
JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon is a luxury urban retreat in the heart of the city, imbued with local charm, where guests can fully enjoy moments of serenity, meaningful connections, and memorable experiences. The property comprises a 21-story hotel with 305 elegantly appointed rooms and a 31-story serviced residence tower offering 260 premium one- to three-bedroom apartments, all with panoramic city views. The hotel is directly connected to the renowned mPlaza Saigon and is adjacent to high-end shopping centers and cultural landmarks in central Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Saigon Central Post Office, Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Class A office buildings, and is only 6 km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport. JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon features more than 1,200 m² of elegant meeting and event space, suitable for a wide range of occasions. Leisure amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and Spa by JW with seven treatment rooms. Four distinct restaurants offer diverse culinary experiences, supported by a team of professional and highly experienced chefs, ensuring every guest enjoys a world-class dining experience.
Stay updated on the latest activities via the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages, or visit marriott.com/sgnjs for the latest information. For more details, please visit: www.jwmarriottsaigon.com.

About JW Marriott
JW Marriott is a brand within the luxury portfolio of Marriott International, encompassing distinctive hotels and resorts around the world. The JW Marriott brand pays tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who consistently prioritized holistic happiness as a way to care for others better. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in the pursuit of holistic well-being, JW Marriott hotels offer a sanctuary for guests through uniquely designed programs and services that encourage them to fully embrace each moment, cultivate mindfulness, nurture the body, and restore the spirit. Today, there are nearly 125 JW Marriott hotels in 40 countries and territories worldwide, serving discerning travelers who seek experiences that foster meaningful connections and enrich the soul. JW Marriott proudly participates in Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s global travel program. The program provides members with an exclusive portfolio of global brands, unique experiences through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and benefits including free nights and Elite status privileges. To enroll for free or learn more about the program, please visit: www.jwmarriott.com.

Positioned at a prestigious “diamond location” spanning the vibrant intersections of Nguyen Hue, Dong Khoi, Le Loi, and Le Thanh Ton, Union Square officially unveils four new dining concepts on Level 3 - introducing a refined and diverse culinary ecosystem to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

This launch marks a significant evolution for Union Square. Long recognized as a premier luxury retail destination, the iconic building now expands its offering into a thoughtfully curated lifestyle experience - where dining becomes an integral part of the destination.

Under the concept “Saigon’s New Culinary Collective”, Level 3 brings together four distinct culinary identities, each defined by its own character, yet unified through a shared vision of quality, creativity, and contemporary taste.

Curated and operated by Vina Collective, this new floor is designed not simply as a collection of restaurants, but as a destination where guests gather, connect, and return - drawn by experiences that are both elevated and approachable.

The launch introduces four unique concepts, each contributing a distinct perspective to the overall dining experience:

NOI – Premium Wood-Fire Dining & Bar
NOI presents a Mediterranean-inspired dining experience centred around wood-fire cooking. Specializing in premium meats and fresh seafood, the restaurant emphasizes natural flavours enhanced by open-fire techniques. The space is defined by a warm, refined ambiance, complemented by an open kitchen and a contemporary bar - ideal for both intimate dinners and vibrant social evenings.

PÃO PÃO – A Taste of Portugal
PÃO PÃO introduces a premium fast-casual concept inspired by Portuguese cuisine and is recognized as the first Portuguese-style bread shop in Vietnam. Designed for modern urban lifestyles, the concept offers a dynamic, youthful energy through its signature breads, combining bold European flavours with convenience and accessibility.

Vietnam House Restaurant – Contemporary Vietnamese Cuisine & Champagne Bar
Building on the legacy of its Dong Khoi flagship, Vietnam House Restaurant at Union Square reinterprets Vietnamese cuisine through a contemporary lens. The restaurant blends heritage flavours with global influences, set within an elegant, refined space. The addition of a Champagne Bar and Afternoon Tea further enhances its positioning as a sophisticated dining destination for both local and international guests.

The Reverie Boutique – Artisanal Patisserie & Delicatessen
Extending the signature craftsmanship of The Reverie Saigon, The Reverie Boutique offers a curated selection of fine pastries, artisanal chocolates, and premium gifting items. The boutique embodies a refined aesthetic, where culinary artistry meets thoughtful design - creating a destination for both indulgence and elegant gifting.

All four concepts are curated and operated by Vina Collective - a hospitality management and placemaking collective dedicated to reimagining Vietnamese hospitality through creativity, craftsmanship, and meaningful human connection.

Through its growing portfolio, Vina Collective aims to shape distinctive destinations that bring together dining, culture, and lifestyle into cohesive, experience-driven environments.

At Union Square, this vision comes to life through a carefully curated mix of concepts - each contributing to a broader narrative of connection and community.

As part of this launch, Vina Collective also introduces its Loyalty Program, marking the first step toward a unified guest experience across its venues. Members can enjoy immediate benefits, including welcome privileges, birthday rewards, and exclusive access to curated experiences.

With the introduction of “Saigon’s New Culinary Collective,” Union Square redefines its role within the city’s evolving lifestyle landscape.

More than a dining floor, Level 3 is envisioned as a vibrant culinary destination - where different concepts and energies converge to create experiences that are dynamic, engaging, and designed for repeat visits.

Union Square now stands not only as a landmark for luxury retail, but as a new epicentre for contemporary dining in Ho Chi Minh City.

About Vina Collective
Vina Collective is a hospitality management and placemaking collective dedicated to curating distinctive destinations across hospitality, dining, culture, and lifestyle in Vietnam. Guided by the philosophy “Collectively Inspired: Vietnamese Hospitality, Reimagined,” the brand brings together creative minds, cultural insight, and premium standards to shape experiences that are both authentic and forward-thinking.

With a vision to become Vietnam’s most distinctive hospitality and lifestyle collective, Vina Collective develops and manages a diverse portfolio spanning hotels, restaurants, retail, and lifestyle concepts. Each destination is thoughtfully crafted to reflect a strong sense of place - celebrating local culture while embracing a contemporary, global perspective.

Rooted in genuine hospitality and driven by collective creativity, Vina Collective places emphasis on craft, quality, and meaningful human connection. Through its curated approach, the brand aims to elevate Vietnamese hospitality into immersive experiences that inspire guests, partners, and communities alike.

Media Contact
Trần Thụy Thanh Trúc (Ms.)
Director of Marketing and Communications
+84 (0) 903 16 10 16 | truc.tran@thereveriesaigon.com

Da Nang, Vietnam – March 20, 2026

Hoiana Resort & Golf introduces the Entertainment Hub to its extensive lifestyle portfolio. This state-of-the-art indoor facility creates a high-energy destination where world-class leisure meets social connection.

Spanning a meticulously designed futuristic space, Entertainment Hub is the latest addition to a resort already renowned for its championship golf, luxury accommodations, 24/7 entertainment and 25+ diverse dining venues. This all-weather facility bridges the gap between active daytime play and vibrant nightlife, catering to families, couples, and MICE groups alike.

A New Pulse of Social Play

The Entertainment Hub is designed as a multi-dimensional "playground" featuring a range of immersive experiences:

Sports Bar & Social Games - The heartbeat of the Hub. Featuring massive screens for live matches, it offers a relaxed lounge vibe by day and transforms into a high-energy hotspot with themed events by night. Guests can also challenge friends to classic bar games, including pool, foosball, darts and more in a stylish setting.

Boutique Bowling & Virtual Play - Four contemporary bowling lanes offer a stylish setting for friendly rivalry. Complementing this is the Virtual Sports zone, where players can step into realistic simulations to perfect their golf swing or engage in various high-tech sports challenges.

The Arcade Zone & Mini Golf - A neon-lit "pixel playground" featuring cutting-edge arcade games, grab machines, and a ball pit for younger guests. The Hub also features a vibrant 9-hole Mini Golf course, offering family-friendly fun and surprises for all ages.

Future-Ready Karaoke Suites: Looking ahead, the Hub is set to debut five themed Karaoke Suites, each suite is designed with premium technology and unique ambiances like "Sci-fi" and "Underwater Wonderland" to elevate private celebrations to unforgettable heights.

The launch of the Entertainment Hub reinforces Hoiana’s commitment to providing an unparalleled variety of leisure options, solidifying its position as the most dynamic integrated destination in Central Vietnam.

About Hoiana Resort & Golf

Nestled on the serene central coast of Vietnam (Da Nang), just minutes from the ancient town of Hoi An, Hoiana Resort & Golf is not just a resort — it's a vibrant world of wonder waiting to be discovered. Spanning nearly 1,000 lush hectares, Hoiana brings together the best of Southeast Asia in one dazzling destination: four world-class hotels, a championship golf course, a pristine private beach, over 25 superb dining experiences, an expansive kids' club, the region’s most dynamic gaming floor, an exciting indoor entertainment hub, outdoor adventures, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Hoiana has been recognized among the world’s premier destinations, earning titles such as “World’s Leading Integrated Resort 2024” and “Asia-Pacific’s Best Integrated Resort 2025.” Its signature Hoiana Shores Golf Club stands proudly among the region’s finest, ranking 18th in Asia and 94th globally — the only Asian course honored in Golf World UK’s Top 100.

As an ambitious development project worth USD 4 billion, Hoiana Resort & Golf will raise new standards for high-class tourism in Vietnam while bringing opportunities and economic prosperity to the East of the new Da Nang.

Media Contact:
Amber Nguyen
Assistant Manager, Brand Communications
Hoiana Resort & Golf
E: thao.ntp@hoiana.com

A New Chapter of Riverside Elegance Begins By The Thu Bon River

Hoi An, Vietnam, March 2026: Riverside luxury in Hoi An is redefined with the introduction of Thu Bon River Suites at Anantara Hoi An Resort, a new suite category created to add style and sophistication to heritage living on the banks of the river.

These eight ground-floor suites have been transformed into larger yet intimate spaces, offering extended indoor and outdoor living areas, blending comfort with authentic charm and direct riverfront views presenting glimpses into Hoi An’s authentic daily life.

Interior design features include elegant local craftsmanship and individually-designed furniture pieces reflecting Hoi An’s multi-cultural influences and colonial charm. The new refined bathrooms highlight striking free-standing claw-foot bathtubs, elegant white marble finishes and chic double vanities.

In addition to the new suite category, ten Premium River Suites across the ground and first floors have been fully renovated and redesigned, also with distinctive interior features.

The new Anantara Two Bedroom River Suite has been converted from one bedroom, allowing ideal flexibility for families and friends. This suite offers two separate bedrooms and bathrooms and an extensive balcony directly overlooking the river.

Each of the 19 new suites features refreshed interiors with French colonial charm and Asian influences, celebrating Hoi An’s cultural blends and creating the most luxurious riverside suites in the Ancient Town.

These suites also now offer dedicated room host service for the ultimate in personalised stays, in-suite check-in and check-out and a 60-minute treatment per person, per stay, plus complimentary private steam room access at Anantara Spa.

The resort’s Art Space Restaurant & Bar has also undergone an extensive makeover with a complete reimagination of its outdoor terrace creating a tropical-style concept and introducing trendy signature cocktails and tapas dishes to the menu.

A sit-up bar adds to the social element, along with a dedicated stage area for weekly live music events. Clever lighting, mixed-height tables, chairs and sofas all complement the chic and fashionable new space.

“We are thrilled to reveal our transformed suites and restaurant as we kick off 2026 and offer amazing new resort experiences. These elevated spaces bring enhanced luxury to life as we continue to create unforgettable journeys for all our guests”, said Ross Sanders, Area General Manager, Minor Hotels Vietnam.

Anantara Hoi An Resort is a luxuriously-charming cultural hideaway, edging the Thu Bon River in the historic port town and just a few minutes’ walk from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hoi An’s Ancient Town.

For further information, please contact Anantara Hoi An Resort on +84 235 391 4555, or at hoian@anantara.com.

About Anantara Hotels & Resorts

A luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, Anantara Hotels & Resorts connects guests to genuine places, people and stories in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. Each Anantara embraces the surroundings and culture of its destination, creating unforgettable memories for every guest since 2001. From city to sea and desert to jungle, Anantara delivers heartfelt, Thai-inspired hospitality at its over 50 hotels and resorts across Asia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean.

Anantara Hotels & Resorts is a Minor Hotels brand and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.

Visit anantara.com for more information, and connect with Anantara on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube.

About Minor Hotels

Minor Hotels is a global leader in the hospitality industry with over 560 hotels, resorts and branded residences across 57 countries. The group crafts innovative and insightful experiences through its hotel brands including Anantara, Elewana Collection, The Wolseley Hotels, Tivoli, Minor Reserve Collection, NH Collection, nhow, Avani, Colbert Collection, NH, Oaks, and iStay, as well as a diverse portfolio of restaurants and bars, travel experiences, and spa and wellness brands. With over four decades of expertise, Minor Hotels builds stronger brands, fosters lasting partnerships, and drives business success by always focusing on what matters most to our guests, team members and partners.

Minor Hotels is a proud member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) and recognises its guests through one unified loyalty programme, Minor DISCOVERY, part of GHA DISCOVERY.

Discover our world at minorhotels.com and connect with Minor Hotels on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Kate Jones
Area Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Vietnam
Tel: + 84 905 652 564
Email: kjones@minor.com

In the evolving landscape of luxury hospitality, "lifestyle" hotels are no longer just selling a comfortable bed; they are selling a curated way of living. In Da Nang, Radisson RED is spearheading this movement by consistently partnering with local brands like 138CKnit and Mùa Craft Sake, creating unique cultural and fashion "touchpoints"; for the modern traveler.

A new generation of travelers—specifically Gen Z and Millennials—craves authentic connections with their destinations. This demand has pushed international hotel chains to adopt a "Glocal" (Global & Local) strategy: maintaining world-class management standards while embracing local soul through collaborations with regional artisans, designers, and craft brands.

Radisson RED Danang stands as a prime example. Moving away from generic souvenirs, the hotel celebrates Vietnamese creativity through inspiring collaborations. This past Valentine’s Day, the hotel sparked a "mini-trend" by partnering with 138knitwear, a contemporary local hand- knitted fashion brand. Under the message "For moments meant to stay with you," the partnership focused on creating intimate, deeply connected moments for couples. This unique partnership also highlights "fashion", one of the core pillars of the Radisson RED brand.

The Creative in-room fitting set is a part of the collaboration between Radisson RED Danang & 138knitwear

The collaboration target Gen Z and Millennials who crave authentic connection with their destination

The most innovative highlight of this campaign was the "Private In-Room Fitting" service, exclusively for Radisson Rewards VIP members and Suite guests.

Instead of traveling to a boutique, guests enjoyed a private styling session within the comfort of their room featuring 138CKnit designs. Each session was accompanied by a handcrafted "crochet heart" mascot—a symbol of the warmth and meticulous skill of Vietnamese knitters. This approach not only honors traditional craftsmanship but also elevates the personalized luxury experience for the guest.

The localization journey continues beyond fashion. Radisson RED Danang is extending its reach into the culinary world by partnering with Mùa Craft Sake—Vietnam’s first artisanal sake brand. The centerpiece of this collaboration is the "Neo-Tokyo Sake Fest" series, hosted this April at the BlackOut Rooftop Bar on every weekend.

Mùa Craft Sake—Vietnam’s first artisanal sake brand. The centerpiece of this collaboration is the "Neo-Tokyo Sake Fest" series, hosted this April at the BlackOut Rooftop Bar on every weekend.

This partnership promises an exciting intersection of cultures: centuries-old Japanese brewing techniques blended with unique Vietnamese ingredients. Set against the modern, vibrant backdrop of Radisson RED, the event offers a sophisticated "craft" tasting experience within a stylish international context.

"We believe in the quality of Vietnamese artisans and are ready to introduce these 'Made in Vietnam' products to our high-end international guests," says Dmitriy Zakutniy, Curator AKA General Manager of Radisson RED Danang.

According to Dmitriy, these activities transform a stay at Radisson RED into a multi-sensory exhibition of entertainment and art. These deep emotional touchpoints not only increase guest loyalty but also drive powerful organic engagement on social media.

"Selectively integrating local materials and stories makes our hotel feel more approachable and alive," he adds. "This is the key to attracting Gen Z and Millennials—the market leaders who are constantly searching for novelty and authenticity."

About Radisson RED Danang

Radisson RED is an upper upscale hotel brand that presents a playful twist on the conventional. The brand injects new life into hospitality through informal services where anything goes, a vibrant social scene that’s waiting to be shared and stylish public spaces with standout design to inspire our guests. Radisson RED hotels are designed to fit the needs of our guests by giving them endless opportunities to tune in and out, switching effortlessly between business and pleasure. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson RED by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards.

Radisson RED is a part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and Prize by Radisson brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.

For reservations and more information, visit our website. Or connect with Radisson RED on:

LinkedIn | Instagram | X | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok

Da Nang, Vietnam — The organizing committee of the ELEVATE Conference is proud to announce the ELEVATE 2026 Conference: Accelerate Growth – Asia Leadership & Development Dialogue, taking place on March 20, 2026 at The An Heritage. Following the success of ELEVATE 2025 in Ho Chi Minh City, the 2026 edition will bring together global industry pioneers, renowned coaching leaders, and influential business executives to advance the future of leadership development and professional growth in Asia.

Hosted in the historic coastal city of Hoi An near Da Nang, the conference will serve as a high-level dialogue platform for executives, entrepreneurs, coaches, and emerging leaders seeking innovative strategies to navigate today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.

The event will be held at The An Heritage, a premier integrated urban resort and luxury residential development created by MSH Group. Situated along the scenic Co Co River and minutes from An Bang Beach, the venue combines modern luxury with the cultural heritage of central Vietnam, offering an inspiring environment for global thought leadership and collaboration.

ELEVATE 2026 will feature a dynamic program of keynote presentations, expert panels, and experiential learning sessions led by distinguished leaders from Silicon Valley and across Asia. Participants will gain exclusive insights into emerging trends in leadership, coaching, artificial intelligence, and business transformation—equipping them with the tools needed to build resilient organizations and lead high-performing teams.

Beyond knowledge sharing, the conference will provide a powerful networking platform where attendees can connect with global experts, industry innovators, and like-minded professionals. The event aims to foster strategic partnerships while empowering leaders to translate ideas into measurable business impact.

“ELEVATE 2026 is designed to move leaders from possibility to performance,” said the organizing team. “By bringing together world-class experts and forward-thinking professionals, the conference will accelerate leadership capabilities, unlock professional potential, and contribute to the sustainable growth of businesses and communities across the region.”

Through immersive learning experiences and practical frameworks—including coaching methodologies and AI-powered leadership tools—participants will leave the conference equipped with actionable strategies to stay ahead of industry trends and drive meaningful change within their organizations.

About ELEVATE Conference

ELEVATE is an international leadership and professional development platform dedicated to empowering leaders, coaches, and entrepreneurs through world-class learning experiences, global networking opportunities, and transformative dialogue.

Our event brief information can be found here:

*Time: 08:15 AM - 06:00 PM, March 20, 2026
*Location: The An Heritage — 3B House, The An Heritage, Lac Long Quan St., Ha My Dong A Hamlet, Dien Ban Dong Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam.
*For those who can not fly to Hoi An, can register to attend the conference in the morning via this link: https://luma.com/txof7w5e.
*Organisers: Coach On Tap, Colina Dreamcatcher, and SmartR
*Target audience size: around 200-300 guests.

*Keynote Speakers:

• JeanAnn Nichols – Board Member, Executive Coach, Stanford Leadership Instructor, Technologist (San Francisco Bay Area, CA). Former Vice President, Sales & Marketing and General Manager of Intel Corporation (US) for over 30-years.
• Jeff Smith – VP SE, CTO Office, Founder, Entrepreneur (NZ). Former VP of Nutanix (US) Previously with Apigee (acquired by Google), BlueCoat (now Broadcom), Aruba (now HPE), NTT (Japan), and DevRev (New Zealand).

*Speakers

• Chị Mai Khôi - Executive Coach, MA & CPCC Relationship Expert, Best selling Author, Toàn Vẹn Institute, Founder & Master Coach Trainer.
• MaryAnn Ireland - Executive Coach, Facilitator, Team Mobilizer, Founder and Principal, ClarityWorks (San Francisco Bay Area, US).
• Per Bristow - Voice, Influence & Performance Coach (Sweden/Los Angeles, US).
• Tanya Monsef - Executive Coach, SCU Executive Professor (Silicon Valley, US), Former partnered with leading global innovators: Google, Meta, Genentech and NetGear.
• Van Nguyen - Founder & CEO, SmartR, Former Director of Innovation, IBP, Former Area Manager, NOV.

*Panelists:

• Tanya Truong – Moderator, Executive Coach, MA, PCC & OD Consultant, Founder of Insage Leadership Consulting, Coach on Tap & Elevate Conference (US/Global), Former senior leader in global people & culture teams at: Techcombank (VN), Nutanix, Clorox, Johnson & Johnson, Trend Micro.
• Linh Dao - Executive Coach, PCC, Founder & CEO, InCoach (VN), Former Consultant at McKinsey (VN), The WorldBank, Fidelity Information Service Inc.
• Milena Nguyen - Founder of Impact Coaching Circle & Impact Coaching Alliance (VN/SEA), Business Coach, Author and TEDx Speaker working with clients across 30+ countries.
• Steven Tran – Director of Talent Management & Development, Techcombank (VN), Former Finance Business Partner, Senior Consultant, HR Transformation Consultant (Melbourne, Australia).
• Quy Nguyen - Co-Founder & CEO WorkFlow, Co-Founder & Former CEO, ICS Bilingual School (VN).
• Kathy - Founder, EpicTeamAI and Founders 1stTM

Presenters:

• Cheryl Duong Tu - Head of Growth, AhaSlides (VN), Former Managing Director and Head of Marketing.
• Dung Nguyen - Corporate Well-being & EAP Advisor, ICF-Certified Professional Coach.
• John Christy – Executive & Leadership Coach, PCC (San Francisco, US), Former 30+ years Emergency Services Firefighter-Paramedic, Captain and Peer Support Team Leader (US).
• Ky-Nam Doan - Co-Founder & CTO of SmartR, Former Investor Advisors, CSO of Duy Tan, Maison and graduate of MIT.
• Tom Bosschaert - Founder & CEO, EXCEPT (Global), Founder of Vito (VN), Chairman, Environment Committee, World Institute for Change Management and Innovation (WICMI) (Switzerland).
• Vibha Venkatesh - Mindshift & Psychosomatic Coach (ICF), Founder & CEO, Vizen Consulting.

*Event Agenda:

Morning Sessions
08:15 | Registration, Networking & Booth Visits
08:45 | Opening Ceremony & Keynotes
09:30 | Interactive Speakers & Presentations
10:00 | Panel Talk & Tea Break
11:15 | Keynote Speakers & Presentations

Afternoon Sessions
12:30 | Lunch, Networking & Booth visits
13:30 | Leadership/Business Workshops Session 1
14:30 | Leadership/Business Workshops Session 2
15:30 | Leadership/Business Workshops Session 3
16:30 | Raffles Prizes & Closing Ceremony
16:45 | Happy Hour & Networking
18:00 | Event ends

*************************

ELEVATE 2026 brings together top industry leaders, executive coaches, and business experts to share insights on leadership, coaching, and professional growth. We are excited to introduce some of the esteemed speakers and panelists who will be joining us:

*Speakers

• Chị Mai Khôi - Executive Coach, MA & CPCC Relationship Expert, Best selling Author, Toàn Vẹn Institute, Founder & Master Coach Trainer.
• MaryAnn Ireland - Executive Coach, Facilitator, Team Mobilizer, Founder and Principal, ClarityWorks (San Francisco Bay Area, US).
• Per Bristow - Voice, Influence & Performance Coach (Sweden/Los Angeles, US).
• Tanya Monsef - Executive Coach, SCU Executive Professor (Silicon Valley, US), Former partnered with leading global innovators: Google, Meta, Genentech and NetGear.
• Van Nguyen - Founder & CEO, SmartR, Former Director of Innovation, IBP, Former Area Manager, NOV.

*Panelists:

• Tanya Truong – Moderator, Executive Coach, MA, PCC & OD Consultant, Founder of Insage Leadership Consulting, Coach on Tap & Elevate Conference (US/Global), Former senior leader in global people & culture teams at: Techcombank (VN), Nutanix, Clorox, Johnson & Johnson, Trend Micro.
• Linh Dao - Executive Coach, PCC, Founder & CEO, InCoach (VN), Former Consultant at McKinsey (VN), The WorldBank, Fidelity Information Service Inc.
• Milena Nguyen - Founder of Impact Coaching Circle & Impact Coaching Alliance (VN/SEA), Business Coach, Author and TEDx Speaker working with clients across 30+ countries.
• Steven Tran – Director of Talent Management & Development, Techcombank (VN), Former Finance Business Partner, Senior Consultant, HR Transformation Consultant (Melbourne, Australia).
• Quy Nguyen - Co-Founder & CEO WorkFlow, Co-Founder & Former CEO, ICS Bilingual School (VN).
• Kathy - Founder, EpicTeamAI and Founders 1stTM

These experts will share valuable insights, best practices, and strategies to help professionals and organizations elevate their leadership and business success.

***********************

ELEVATE 2026 brings together globally recognized thought leaders in leadership, coaching, and organizational development. Our keynote speakers are industry experts who have guided executives, teams, and organizations toward success through transformative coaching and leadership strategies:

• JeanAnn Nichols – Board Member, Executive Coach, Stanford Leadership Instructor, Technologist (San Francisco Bay Area, CA). Former Vice President, Sales & Marketing and General Manager of Intel Corporation (US) for over 30-years.
• Jeff Smith – VP SE, CTO Office, Founder, Entrepreneur (NZ). Former VP of Nutanix (US) Previously with Apigee (acquired by Google), BlueCoat (now Broadcom), Aruba (now HPE), NTT (Japan), and DevRev (New Zealand).

These distinguished speakers will share actionable insights, leadership strategies, and coaching techniques designed to help professionals and organizations navigate change, improve decision-making, and drive success.

ELEVATE 2026 is proud to feature influential coaches, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders who are shaping the future of leadership, coaching, and personal development.

*Speakers

• Chị Mai Khôi - Executive Coach, MA & CPCC Relationship Expert, Best selling Author, Toàn Vẹn Institute, Founder & Master Coach Trainer.
• MaryAnn Ireland - Executive Coach, Facilitator, Team Mobilizer, Founder and Principal, ClarityWorks (San Francisco Bay Area, US).
• Per Bristow - Voice, Influence & Performance Coach (Sweden/Los Angeles, US).
• Tanya Monsef - Executive Coach, SCU Executive Professor (Silicon Valley, US), Former partnered with leading global innovators: Google, Meta, Genentech and NetGear.
• Van Nguyen - Founder & CEO, SmartR, Former Director of Innovation, IBP, Former Area Manager, NOV.

*Panelists:

• Tanya Truong – Moderator, Executive Coach, MA, PCC & OD Consultant, Founder of Insage Leadership Consulting, Coach on Tap & Elevate Conference (US/Global), Former senior leader in global people & culture teams at: Techcombank (VN), Nutanix, Clorox, Johnson & Johnson, Trend Micro.
• Linh Dao - Executive Coach, PCC, Founder & CEO, InCoach (VN), Former Consultant at McKinsey (VN), The WorldBank, Fidelity Information Service Inc.
• Milena Nguyen - Founder of Impact Coaching Circle & Impact Coaching Alliance (VN/SEA), Business Coach, Author and TEDx Speaker working with clients across 30+ countries.
• Steven Tran – Director of Talent Management & Development, Techcombank (VN), Former Finance Business Partner, Senior Consultant, HR Transformation Consultant (Melbourne, Australia).
• Quy Nguyen - Co-Founder & CEO WorkFlow, Co-Founder & Former CEO, ICS Bilingual School (VN).
• Kathy - Founder, EpicTeamAI and Founders 1stTM

To successfully organize this program, the Organizing Committee is very grateful to cooperate with Sponsors and partners such as:

1. The AN Heritage
2. AhaSlides
3. ClarityWorks Executive Coaching & Team Mobilization
4. InCoach
5. Insagen Leadership Consulting
6. Per Bristow
7. Tôi Toàn Vẹn
8. DevRev
9. Except Integrated Sustainability
10. Milena Nguyen
11. WorkFlow Space
12. CRO Vietnam
13. EPIC TeamAI
14. Maenhir Partners
15. Silicon Hiland Services
16. Founders 1stTM
17. Grandemy
18. Techcombank
19. ViCo
20. VF Nu - Viet Kieu Nu
21. Saigoneer
22. UuDamStudio
23. Rozie Synopsis

Join these renowned experts at ELEVATE 2026 as they share actionable insights, coaching methodologies, and leadership strategies that can transform careers and businesses.

Follow the Elevate pages for updates on the upcoming activities:

• Website: https://elevateconference.asia/
• Event Ticket: https://luma.com/ue8guo5d
• Facebook Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/coachontap
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/coach-on-tap/

For further information regarding the event, please contact:

Mr. Van Nguyen (For Guests) - English + Vietnamese
Phone: +84 906 918 551 (WhatsApp)
Email: van.nguyen@smartr.co

Ms. Colina Q Tran (For Press/Media):
Phone: +84 907554796 (Zalo/Line/WhatsApp/Telegram)
Email: colina@colinadreamcatcher.com

Sunset in Phu Quoc never rushes.

It lingers — spilling honeyed light across the sea before surrendering slowly to the indigo. And in that suspended moment between day and night, something else begins to glow. At InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, a flame is lit and they call it Shared Flame.

It is not simply a collaboration, nor merely a dinner staged for an evening’s applause. It is a conversation — one told not in words, but in heat, in timing, in the quiet understanding between chefs who know that fire reveals everything.

Its first chapter unfolds at LAVA.

Beneath sweeping bamboo arches that rise along Bai Truong’s shoreline, LAVA emerges as a meeting point of architecture, narrative and cuisine. Embers glow softly within the open kitchen, while the fossilised coral bar reflects a cool, aquatic sheen. Beyond, the rhythm of distant waves merges with the quiet choreography of service.

At LAVA, fire is more than technique; it shapes the atmosphere itself. The menu unfolds as a dialogue between charcoal and sea. Heat is applied with restraint, drawing out the natural sweetness of freshly caught seafood, allowing a whisper of smoke to settle gently across each layer.

A Chef Who Listens to the Seasons

Chef Duong Quoc Dung moves through his kitchen with quiet assurance.

Raised in a farming family in Central Vietnam, he learned early that ingredients carry stories — of soil, of season, of patient hands. He cooks with that memory intact. Nothing is hurried. Nothing is wasted. Heat is applied with care, almost reverence.

He often speaks of listening. Listening to the sweetness of just-caught seafood. Listening to the slight tightening of flesh as flame begins its work. Listening to the moment when a dish no longer needs intervention.

In his hands, fire is not aggressive. It is attentive. On this night, he stands beside another chef, not to compete, but to exchange. The flame between them is steady — waiting.

A Chef Who Listens to Emotion

If Chef Dung listens closely to his ingredients, Chef Nutthapol “Nick” Pavapaiboon listens to emotion.

At Wang Hing Hoi in Bangkok, he has shaped a sanctuary from the city’s restless pace, a space where guests arrive not merely to dine, but to transition. The urgency of the outside world softens; breath steadies before flavour begins its quiet reveal. The experience unfolds in measured rhythm, inviting a deeper, more attentive presence.

His cuisine carries the unmistakable character of Thailand: fragrant herbs that linger on the air, acidity that lifts and clarifies, warmth that builds with confidence before settling into balance. Each layer of flavour is placed with intention, each contrast carefully calibrated. In Nick’s kitchen, emotion is thoughtfully orchestrated.

For this chapter of Shared Flame, he brings a philosophy rather than a fixed signature dish: every plate must possess structure, emotional resonance and a reason to exist. Ingredients may respond to a new coastline; presentation may adapt to a different setting, but the integrity, the soul of the dish, remains unwavering.

When Fire Becomes a Bridge

Shared Flame brings together Chef Dũng and Chef Nick, two culinary minds shaped by contrasting philosophies yet united by the same devotion to taste. One draws from roots, intuition, and the quiet discipline of listening. The other is led by structure, refinement, and emotional depth. Here, the elegance of Thai cuisine meets the vibrant freshness of Vietnam’s island waters, while modern technique and tradition converge in a seamless exchange of flavour and form.

As the sun softens over Phu Quoc, beneath LAVA’s iconic bamboo arches, the kitchen takes on the character of a stage. Two distinct philosophies move in harmony, led by a single flame.

In this singular four-hands chapter, Evian is thoughtfully placed within the journey as a pure interlude between courses, allowing the palate to reset and return to clarity before each new expression unfolds. As such, April’s first dinner is not merely a memorable evening at the table, but the opening of stories waiting to be written by firelight.

The wellness-inspired hotel features 161 upscale rooms that reflect the rich heritage of Hue City and the Huong River.

Vietnam, Mar 2026 – Fusion announces the opening of Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, a new luxury hotel located in the heart of Hue City in central Vietnam. The opening marks another milestone in Fusion’s successful expansion into some of the region’s most alluring destinations.

Set on the southern bank of the Huong River, adjacent to the iconic Truong Tien Bridge, the hotel, which opened to guests on March 14, boasts a prime riverside location within the UNESCO-recognized heritage landscape of Vietnam’s former imperial capital.

Blending cultural heritage with contemporary hospitality, Grand Royal Riverside Hue delivers an immersive guest experience rooted in history, place and modern comfort. Hue is internationally recognized for its historic monuments, scenic river landscapes and enduring cultural significance.

The new hotel, located at No. 02 Hung Vuong Street, comprises two towers with a total of 161 guestrooms. Inspired by the Huong River, a symbol deeply connected to the history and daily life of Hue, the hotel is built around the concept “A Tale of Two Times,” merging past and present in a single experience. The river serves as a scenic backdrop and the narrative axis guiding the hotel’s design, spatial flow and guest journey.

Architecturally inspired by Indochine elegance, the hotel reflects a period of cultural exchange that shaped Hue’s distinctive urban identity. Interiors are layered with natural wood and locally inspired materials, softened by jade-toned hues that evoke calm and balance. The result is a serene and elegant retreat that pays homage to the former imperial capital, where refined design details seamlessly bridge heritage character and contemporary comfort.

The hotel’s Jade & Ginger Restaurant serves a daily breakfast buffet and all-day dining, featuring authentic Vietnamese flavors such as bun bo Hue, pho and banh mi, alongside signature Hue specialties and selected European dishes and other cuisines.

Complementing the dining experience, The Amber Lounge is the hotel’s elegant lobby lounge and social hub. By day, it offers artisanal teas, freshly brewed coffee and light refreshments in a tranquil setting. In the evening, the space transitions into a refined bar presenting curated wines, signature cocktails and premium spirits.

In keeping with Fusion’s strong brand emphasis on health and wellness, the new hotel features Sả Spa (lemongrass) & Wellness with four modern treatment rooms staffed by experienced therapists who use locally sourced herbs and natural essential oils in treatments. The spa also integrates a fitness center, steam room and skincare and rejuvenation services, delivering a holistic relaxation experience.

In addition, the hotel includes meeting and event facilities suitable for corporate functions and MICE activities, with a capacity of up to 370 guests. A variety of flexible spaces, including co-working areas, lounges, reception spaces and elevated venues cater to the diverse needs of leisure travelers, business guests and event organizers.

Ms. Ha Tran, General Manager of the hotel, said: “In recent years, Hue has continued to strengthen its position as one of Vietnam’s most meaningful heritage destinations. With Grand Royal Riverside Hue – Fusion Collection, we are proud to introduce a riverside retreat that honors the city’s cultural legacy while embracing Fusion’s wellness-led hospitality. From design inspired by the Huong River to Sả Spa & Wellness and thoughtfully curated dining experiences, our goal is to offer guests a refined stay that feels unmistakably Hue, calm, restorative and deeply connected to place.”

Mr. Christophe Hur, Chief Executive Officer of Fusion Hotel Group, said: “We are proud to expand Fusion’s presence in Hue, which is a destination of profound cultural significance, and we see strong potential in developing hospitality experiences that respect heritage while meeting the evolving expectations of today’s travelers. It represents an important milestone in Fusion’s long-term growth strategy in Vietnam. We believe Grand Royal Riverside Hue will contribute to enhancing the city’s heritage value. This opening reflects our commitment to building distinctive hotels with a strong sense of place, delivering sustainable value for our guests, partners and local communities.”

Room rates start from USD $123 per night, inclusive of breakfast for two guests. Celebrate our grand opening with 25% off stays until May 31, 2026. Book directly at https://fusion-collection.com/grandroyalriversidehue/ to enjoy this special offer.

Guests are invited to enhance their experience with the Fusionlife loyalty program, including extra benefits for spa, dining, rooms and more. Please visit: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/fusionlife/.

VIETNAM (Mar 2, 2026) – Celebrating the beauty, strength, and spirit of women, Fusion is marking International Women’s Day 2026 with exclusive wellness and dining experiences across its properties in Vietnam. From refined buffets and spa indulgences to yoga, sound baths, and curated menus, these offerings are designed to honor women with moments of relaxation and appreciation.

Travelers are also invited to join Fusion’s loyalty program, Fusionlife, which provides access to the best rates and benefits, including discounts of up to 25%. More details on signing up here: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/fusionlife/

Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang will present an elegant dining and wellness experience on 6 March when guests will be invited to Savor the Flavors of Grace, a refined buffet at Fresh Restaurant priced from VND 899,000++ per person, with a special 15% savings for tables of five ladies and a complimentary wellness drink for each guest. The promotion also includes spa offerings, available from 1–10 March at VND 2,700,000, featuring a 75-minute hydrating facial enriched with water lily, complemented by a complimentary 25-minute head, back and shoulder massage.

Meanwhile, on March 8, further south on Vietnam’s exotic coastline, Maia Resort Quy Nhon and The Ocean Resort Quy Nhon offer a sanctuary for a woman’s spirit to exhale, where the rhythmic flow of yoga and Tai Chi meets the grounding resonance of sound baths and the quiet alchemy of herbal workshops. To honour the journey of all women who have given so much to the world, the Maia Spa would like to return the favor with a 20% discount privilege across the entire Maia Spa menu, while Vẽla Spa invites visitors to experience their Massage Collection with a 30% discount or a complimentary third session for every two reserved. And at MIXE, Quy Nhon’s oceanfront dining haven, a Women’s Day Special Menu has been unveiled - a 4-course Western tribute including smoked duck breast, pumpkin soup, prime beef tenderloin and culminating the dark allure of chocolate tarts.

At Fusion Suites Vung Tau in southern Vietnam, a special Ladies’ Lunch will be hosted, with an exclusive set menu priced at VND 599,000++ per guest, available from March 6 to March 8, including a signature mocktail and a handcrafted bouquet. As an additional bonus, visitors are invited to indulge in an Ocean Beauty promotion at Maia Spa, with offers of up to 50% off premium skincare products.

In the Saigon area, a “sweet” International Women’s Day will be celebrated at both HIIVE by fusion Binh Duong and HIIVE by fusion Binh Duong New City. Ladies are invited to indulge in the refined flavors of handcrafted chocolates and fresh fruits with women guests dining at Dzô Dzô Sports Bar receiving one complimentary cocktail or mocktail. The vibrant atmosphere of this American-style sports bar is an ideal venue where conversation and laughter flows.

For more information, visit: https://fusionhotelgroup.com/

ABOUT FUSION

Fusion is a leader of wellness-inspired hospitality brands in Vietnam, managing 23 properties in Vietnam and Thailand and expanding to open new hotels and resorts in the region.

A WELLNESS GETAWAY: Showcasing some of Vietnam’s most idyllic beaches, Fusion Resort is the epitome of a relaxing beach getaway. Sophisticated accommodations with all-spa inclusive therapies, and breakfast anywhere, anytime, served by a team of Fusionistas.

REJUVENATE YOUR MIND AND SOUL: Creating the next level in rejuvenation escapes, Fusion Retreats specialise in providing sanctuaries to support both the mind and soul. With a deeper focus on wellness and wellbeing, guests experience recovery and indulgent programmes that include meditation and medical treatment to support their specific needs. Whether it be stress-recovery, supporting injuries and strains to detoxification. All treatments are tailor-made to ensure revitalisation and revival.

A PLACE FOR THE DARING: No two are alike! Each select property represents the brand with its own individual design and services - original thinking leading to original experiences. Fusion Originals are unique and have bold styles for the discerning traveler. Set in prime locations in Vietnam’s city centres, guests enjoy creative and unexpected spaces along with Fusion’s signature high-quality services.

URBAN RETREAT: Fusion Suites combines urban locations with a resort experience in the city. With spa or reflexology treatments, breakfast anywhere, anytime options and Fusionistas bespoke service, Fusion Suites provides guests a real retreat from the city.

A CULINARY ADVENTURE: A focus on culinary experience in special destinations. Maia Resorts offer getaways, filled with exceptional culinary journeys along with bespoke spa treatments. Whilst surrounded by coastal landscapes, guests are exposed to regional and thoughtfully crafted cuisine with local touches and the freshest ingredients.

A TOUCH OF THE INDIVIDUAL: Located in picturesque destinations, Fusion Collection’s properties offer distinctive experiences tailored to their surroundings. Whether it’s hotels or resorts, the Fusion collection provides unparalleled experiences with top-notch accommodation and facilities, all expertly managed by Fusion Hotel Group.

BUSINESS WITH HOME COMFORTS: Designed with the business and leisure traveller in mind, HIIVE by fusion provides comfortable accommodations for both long and short-term travelers. Situated in prime business locations, each hotel is created for commercial guests to be productive, with well-deserved home touches.

COMFORTABLE MIDSCALE IN PRIME LOCALES: GLOW Hotels & Resorts is for travellers seeking avant-garde experiences. Enjoy a simple brand with core services at an attractive price point – without compromising on service or standards. Unique properties in exciting urban locations or exclusive seaside destinations. Don’t just live, GLOW!

Modern cities are designed for movement, productivity, and constant connection. Yet for the people living inside them, this intensity often comes at a cost. Noise, screens, crowded spaces, and the pressure to always be “on” have created a new kind of fatigue, one that is emotional and mental rather than purely physical. As urban life accelerates, the question facing many industries today is no longer how to impress, but how to restore.

Hospitality is one of the spaces where this shift is becoming most visible. Traditionally, hotels were built around comfort, convenience, and visual luxury. Today, they are increasingly expected to do something deeper: help regulate mood, rebalance emotional energy, and create environments where people can feel grounded again. In this new context, nature is returning to the city, not as decoration, but as a functional tool for mental wellness.

KiN Hotel Central Park, Lobby

KiN Hotel Central Park, Restaurant

Nature as a psychological design tool

The renewed interest in green design across urban hospitality is often mistaken as a purely aesthetic or sustainability-driven trend. In reality, it goes much deeper. Plants, natural light, airflow, and open layouts are now understood as psychological regulators. They help lower stress levels, soften sensory overload, and create a sense of ease in environments that would otherwise feel intense.

Rather than acting as decorative elements, greenery and nature-inspired architecture are being used intentionally to shape behavior and mood. Spaces feel less rigid, conversations last longer, and social interactions become more organic. Nature, in this sense, becomes part of the architecture of emotional balance, supporting mental wellbeing in subtle but powerful ways.

KiN Hotel Central Park: designing emotional balance into the city

Within this evolving landscape, KiN Hotel Central Park, located at 223 Hai Ba Trung street, offers a relevant example of how emotional-first hospitality can be translated into physical space. Rather than positioning itself as a “green hotel,” Central Park is designed as a bridge between nature and city living, using greenhouse-inspired architecture to soften the intensity of its urban surroundings.

Greenery is integrated not as an afterthought, but as a core design language that shapes the experience of moving through the space. The goal is to rebalance guests’ relationship with the city. This approach extends upward to the open-concept rooftop pool bar with a jacuzzi, which functions as a symbolic “mini escape” above the city. More than a luxury feature, it serves as a space for emotional release and social reconnection, where guests can unwind, breathe, and re-enter the city with renewed energy.

KiN Hotel Central Park, Rooftop Bar and Jacuzzi Pool

In this sense, KiN Hotel Central Park reflects a growing belief that hospitality should help regulate emotional energy, not amplify urban chaos. It is a space designed to support calm without isolation, and social interaction without overstimulation.

From individual properties to a holistic ecosystem

Central Park is not an isolated concept, but part of a broader approach within KiN Hotel Group, where hospitality is viewed as an ecosystem rather than a collection of standalone properties. Across hotels, cafés, wellness concepts, and events, KiN’s focus is on creating everyday environments that support how people actually live in cities.

KiN Hotel Central Park, Grand Park View Room

This consistency reflects the brand’s underlying philosophy of kinship, the idea that hospitality should foster connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging. Instead of offering occasional moments of luxury, the goal is to integrate wellbeing into daily urban rituals. Whether through spaces to rest, gather, or recharge, each touchpoint is designed to contribute to emotional comfort and social ease.

By aligning architecture, design, and lifestyle experiences around mental wellness, KiN Hotel is responding to a larger shift in how people define value in urban living. Comfort is no longer measured by scale or extravagance, but by how effectively a space supports balance.

The future of hospitality as a movement

Looking ahead, the future of hospitality is being shaped less by amenities and more by intention. Emotional experience, mental wellness, and community connection are becoming central to how people choose where to stay and spend time in cities. Hotels are no longer just places to sleep, but environments that influence mood, support recovery, and encourage meaningful social interaction within everyday urban life.

This shift has given rise to a new hospitality movement - one that views hotels as part of a broader lifestyle ecosystem rather than standalone destinations. Within this movement, KiN Hotel Group is rethinking hospitality as a network of interconnected experiences, where accommodation, wellness, social spaces, and everyday rituals work together to support urban balance. From green, socially driven properties like KiN Hotel Central Park to wellness concepts such as KUDOCHI Onsen, KiN’s approach reflects a belief that rest and connection should be accessible within the city, not reserved for distant escapes.

Bringing nature back into urban hospitality, therefore, is not about aesthetics or trends. It is about designing spaces that help regulate emotional energy and soften the intensity of city life. Through greenery, open architecture, and wellness-led experiences, hospitality becomes a tool for mental restoration, offering calm without isolation and social connection without overstimulation.

This Valentine’s, Miss Thu invites guests to an intimate evening with Love Spark, a four-course dining experience designed for modern romance. Set high above the city, the menu encourages guests to slow down, indulge, and connect - one thoughtfully crafted course at a time.

Located on the 24th floor of Fusion Original Saigon Centre, Miss Thu is a contemporary dining destination where modern Vietnamese cuisine is reimagined through a stylish, cosmopolitan lens. Known for its panoramic views, refined atmosphere, and carefully curated menus, Miss Thu offers a setting that feels both intimate and effortlessly glamorous - an ideal backdrop for moments meant to be shared and remembered.

Modern flavors take center stage as the experience opens with pepper-crusted Norwegian salmon paired with passion fruit and caviar. Delicate foie gras ravioli in a silky supreme sauce follows, then premium Wagyu beef enhanced with Phu Quoc pepper. The evening concludes on a soft, elegant note with a dessert of pineapple, vanilla, and white chocolate.

With its understated luxury, curated ambiance, and focus on sensorial storytelling, Love Spark reflects Miss Thu’s signature approach to dining - where sophistication meets emotion, and every detail is designed to linger.

Miss Thu Restaurant
24th Floor, Fusion Original Saigon Centre, 65 Lê Lợi, Saigon Ward, HCMC
T: 028 3622 2265
W: missthu.com
E: reservations@missthu.com ​

Explore Love Spark Menu here.

As part of the refined world of The Reverie Saigon, The Reverie Boutique has unveiled a new look, reimagined as a premier destination for luxury lifestyle experiences. Located on the first and second floors of the iconic Times Square building, the boutique is a curated haven for exquisite gifts, signature The Reverie Saigon mementos, and sophisticated artisanal products handcrafted by Vietnamese makers. At the same time, The Reverie Boutique serves as an elegant meeting point in the heart of Saigon, perfect for indulging in gourmet pastries, premium beverages, and light bites.

The Reverie Boutique stands as an emblem of elegance, extending the illustrious artistic legacy of The Reverie Saigon. Spanning nearly 80 square meters, the gift gallery on the first floor of The Reverie Boutique features a mezzanine layout that creates a seamless, flowing experience for guests. The architectural language unfolds as a refined dialogue between premium materials and a classic jade-green palette.

An arched main entrance leads guests into a curated display of luxury gift collections, local artisanal crafts, and exquisite pastries, inviting them to explore and enjoy. Bronze is the defining element, flowing seamlessly from the door frames and railings to the display cabinetry and decorative accents. Paired with a mix of clear and fluted glass, it creates a multi-layered visual structure that feels both opulent and airy. Concealed LED lighting follows the architectural curves, casting a refined glow across the metallic surfaces to evoke a sense of warmth. The display counters, crafted from marble with minimalist geometric patterns, provide a grounded presence - striking a harmonious balance between aesthetic beauty and functional design.

The gift collections at The Reverie Boutique reflect the artistic lifestyle and refined sensibilities of both the giver and the recipient. Whether marking cherished occasions for loved ones or conveying thoughtful appreciation to business partners, each gift affirms a sense of esteem and impeccable taste.

The selection ranges from the hotel’s signature pastries, renowned for their refined and elevated flavours, to artisanal chocolates crafted over 72 meticulous hours from single-origin cacao, presenting an array of distinctive fillings. Complementing these are candles and fragrances from a prestigious Italian brand - an industry pioneer in shaping “the culture of ambience” where scent becomes an expression of atmosphere and identity.

The pinnacle of curation is further embodied in gifts deeply rooted in Vietnamese heritage, such as lacquerware artistry and silk scarves, where local craftsmanship is elevated into luxurious keepsakes. More than a collection of gifts, The Reverie Boutique’s offerings preserve personal moments while extending the value of artisanal heritage to the global community.

Extending the experiential journey, The Reverie Boutique extends to the second floor of the Times Square building - a serene sanctuary where guests can pause and savour delicate culinary flavours. The seating is thoughtfully arranged under soft, ambient lighting, while an open design enhances the sense of airiness and ease. With its elegant atmosphere and polished service, the space presents an ideal setting for light lunches, leisurely afternoons of pastries and beverages with friends, or intimate business meetings in a refined yet welcoming environment.

A thoughtfully curated menu of pastries, baked delights, cakes, and light bites invites guests on an engaging journey of flavours. Each creation reflects meticulous attention to premium ingredients, combined with the masterful craftsmanship of The Reverie Boutique culinary team, offering an experience that fully awakens every sense.

Whether you choose to pause and indulge, gather with others, or share an exquisite gift, every moment at The Reverie Boutique is cherished as a lasting imprint through time. These are meticulously crafted and exclusive experiences, uniquely curated in the signature style of The Reverie Saigon.

“When you go out to paint,
try to forget what objects you have before you,
a tree, a house, a field or whatever.

Merely think
here is a little square of blue,
here an oblong of pink,
here a streak of yellow,
and paint it just as it looks to you,
the exact color and shape.”
– Claude Monet

Noirfoto Gallery is honored to present “LÃNG” – a fine art photography exhibition that unfolds as a contemplative visual journey, where photography steps away from literal representation to touch the fragile resonances of light, nature, and memory. The exhibition runs from January 31 to February 28, 2026, at Noirfoto Gallery, 131 Duong Van An, Binh Trung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, and is open to the public free of charge.

In “LÃNG,” the boundaries of identification dissolve. Images drift into one another, overlap, disperse, and reunite, illusory like fragments of memory we can sense but never quite grasp. A river is no longer water, the moon is no longer a satellite, and trees are no longer wood and matter. They exist instead as vibrations of light and nature, where the line between reality and dream becomes as delicate as a breath.

“LÃNG” brings together the works of artists Đặng Hoài Anh, Nguyễn Thành Dũng, Hoàng Lê Giang, Phạm Tuấn Ngọc, Trần Thắng Nhật, Hoàng Thế Nhiệm, Hoàng Thế Phong, Shing Chan, Tom Hricko, and Lâm Xuân Tùng. Though diverse in their individual practices, they converge here in a shared refusal of strict realism, seeking instead a language of light, composition, and abstraction, where nature is not merely photographed, but borrowed to paint landscapes of the inner mind.

Within the exhibition, one encounters the stark chill of melting polar regions, the quiet transformation of a lake at dawn, and the proud solitude of a single branch suspended in an indeterminate void. Through layers of reflection, mist, and softened lenses, images become multi-dimensional and profound. Trees, stones, and water no longer appear with defined edges, but dissolve into hazy tonal fields, drawing viewers away from a fixed viewpoint and into a non-linear visual flow.

Floating within this ambiguity of earth and sky, the images quietly open a dialogue between humanity and the vast universe. Each work resembles a low, lingering note, gently guiding the viewer into a symphony of stillness.

“LÃNG” is not about losing memory, but about liberating vision, a moment in which we allow ourselves to forget in order to feel lighter: forgetting structure, logic, and habitual classifications. Forgetting rigid names, ceasing the urge to identify, and abandoning the search for clear meanings in what appears before us.

When the eyes are no longer preoccupied with naming the world, the heart begins to learn how to sense invisible vibrations. Beauty does not always require a complete form; it only needs a soul quiet enough to reflect.

Allow yourself to drift through realms of illusion and reality, letting this gentle aimlessness carry you toward unnamed memories. In that moment, reality softly recedes, and the world reveals itself like a tender, lucid dream…

Selected for the transitional moment of the New Year, the “LÃNG” Collection offers an invitation to reflect on the emotional journey of 2025 – a year of both exuberant highs and contemplative lows. In their own way, these fragments of experience assemble into a life rich in emotional texture and inner depth. Noirfoto Gallery hopes that within “LÃNG,” each visitor will discover a work that truly resonates, carrying that presence with them into 2026 and the years beyond.

About Noirfoto Gallery

Founded in 2017, Noirfoto Gallery is an art space with a dedicated focus on analog and contemporary photography. Through carefully curated works, each artist represented by the gallery brings a distinctive personal language, diverse in themes, styles, materials, and techniques. More than just an art gallery, Noirfoto Gallery aspires to elevate the client’s experience through professional consulting services, flexible logistics, and a trial-display policy, bringing art closer to everyday life.

About AGAD

AGAD provides art-related services as effective, sustainable, long-term solutions for essential business challenges, supporting businesses by connecting brand image with the essence of art: creativity, endurance, sophistication, refinement, aesthetic appreciation to create differentiation, thereby attracting customers, enhancing reputation, and building sustainable competitive advantages.

Pearl Island enters its most generous season.

The sea lies still, polished to a mirror sheen. Mornings arrive washed in pale gold, while afternoons unfold beneath a soft caress of wind, waves murmuring in a dreamlike hush. Every movement feels measured yet vivid. Every hue appears gentle, yet alive. Together, they shape an atmosphere of quiet pleasure and clarity, inviting one to linger longer, to savour each passing moment, and to fully inhabit the tender calm of spring by the sea.

At InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, Tết is not treated as a festive overlay, but as an expression of place. Across the InterContinental brand, each destination is shaped by its cultural context, where global refinement adapts seamlessly to local identity. On Phu Quoc, that identity is inseparable from the ocean, from craftsmanship born of patience, and from a quiet elegance rooted in Vietnamese heritage.

This year, the resort brings this philosophy to life through the Tết artwork “Tides of Heritage”, unveiled in the lobby. Created in collaboration with a young Vietnamese artist, the piece celebrates cultural memory through a contemporary lens. Drawing inspiration from Đông Hồ folk paintings, familiar symbols emerge: the Lion Dance, alive with movement and joy, and the Boy Riding the Koi Fish, lifting the InterContinental insignia, a gesture connecting tradition with the present, generations, and the wider world. Surrounding motifs echo folk art while reflecting the resort’s design language, with flowing waves, architectural rhythms, and colours drawn from sand and sea, allowing the artwork to exist naturally within its setting.

The tide continues its journey. It touches sound, as drums begin to resonate and lion dancers bring energy into open spaces, carrying wishes of prosperity and renewal. It then softens into quieter rituals, with calligraphy brushes tracing hopes onto red paper and Tò He figurines shaped by careful hands, evoking the playful spirit and simple joys of a childhood Tết.

As afternoon eases into evening, Tết takes on a gentler rhythm. At Pearl Lounge, conversations linger over Tết Afternoon Tea, where sweetness and serenity echo the warmth of reunion. High above the shoreline, at INK 360, anticipation unfolds through the Wheel of Joy, offering guests red envelopes inspired by the tradition of lucky exchange, capturing the delight of chance, fortune, and shared celebration.

When night falls, dining becomes another expression of togetherness. At Sora & Umi, a festive Tết feast is accompanied by live music, where flavours and melodies move in harmony, reflecting the communal tables that lie at the heart of Tết gatherings. At LAVA, the celebration turns inward and symbolic. During the first days of Tết, a special five-course journey, A Gallop of Fine Flavours, unfolds as a tribute to renewal and forward movement. Guided by Chef Dũng and gentle guitar melodies, cuisine and sound progress in quiet synchrony, creating a sense of progression that feels both intentional and serene.

Between moments of celebration, space is held for stillness. At the HARNN Heritage Spa, Tết of Renewal invites guests into a healing sound journey guided by singing bowls, a ritual of release and intention-setting that reflects the deeper meaning of Tết beyond festivity, aligning body and mind with the promise of new beginnings.

Alongside Tết, February introduces another celebration, quieter, more intimate, and shaped by connection. With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, the resort’s rhythm slows, turning from shared celebration to intimate moments for two. At Pearl Lounge, Sweet Love Harmony invites couples to linger over afternoon tea with delicate flavours and a glass of sparkling wine, where soft light and whispered conversation create a moment suspended in time. Continuing the journey of love, LAVA welcomes lovers to Love Is in the Strings, where candlelight flickers against the horizon and live guitar melodies mingle with the sea’s gentle rhythm.

Long after the festivities draw to a close, a quieter presence remains. Vietnamese spirit settles into the rhythm of the place, felt in unspoken moments and unhurried pauses. On Pearl Island, where nature opens wide and cultural memory is held with care, InterContinental Phu Quoc frames spring as a feeling rather than a season. Guests leave not with the echo of celebration, but with something more lasting. A sense of calm, personal renewal, and a New Year remembered in its most refined form.

InterContinental Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort
E: Reservations.ICPQ@ihg.com
T: +84 297 397 8888
W: phuquoc.intercontinental.com/

HO CHI MINH CITY, January 2026 — Continuing its journey of celebrating the art of living and elevated gastronomy, Mia Saigon proudly presents Australian Brunch by the River, a one-day-only culinary event taking place on Saturday, 24 January 2026, at Kitchen by the River. Designed to honour Australia Day, the occasion also marks a prestigious collaboration with guest chefs associated with Bocuse d’Or, alongside ambassadors of Australian beef and lamb from Aussie Beef Mates – Lambassador.

Set against the tranquil flow of the Saigon River, the brunch invites guests to experience an inspired dialogue between world-class culinary craftsmanship and Mia Saigon’s signature riverside elegance.

When Michelin-Inspired Excellence Meets the Saigon River

A defining highlight of this edition is the presence of guest chefs connected to Bocuse d’Or, often regarded as the “Olympics of gastronomy”. For the first time at Kitchen by the River, guests will enjoy dishes shaped by Michelin-star standards — from precise techniques to contemporary culinary thinking — all while celebrating the quality, versatility, and provenance of premium Australian ingredients.

Each creation is presented within the relaxed yet refined atmosphere of Mia Saigon, where global culinary excellence is expressed through a lens of calm sophistication and effortless hospitality.

Commenting on the event, Group Director of Operation (F&B and Culinary) of Mia Saigon stated:

"At Mia Saigon, we strive to create experiences that resonate with culture and emotion. With 'Australian Brunch by the River,' we are thrilled to partner with the talent of Bocuse d’Or to showcase world-class culinary excellence in our tranquil riverside setting. This event is a tribute to those who appreciate the finer things in life—a perfect harmony of technical precision and the warm, laid-back spirit of Australia Day."

A Curated Multi-Sensory Culinary Journey

The brunch unfolds as a carefully choreographed culinary journey where exquisite craftsmanship meets delicate flavors:

Sophisticated Appetizers: Begin the afternoon with luxurious Caviar served with blinis and sour cream, rich Foie Gras paired with fresh lime marmalade, and Wagyu Beef Tartare accented with smoked mayonnaise and black truffle.

Premium Seafood Station: A showcase of the ocean’s finest, featuring Nha Trang Lobsters, Fine de Claire Oysters, and French Bulot Snails, all served with classic condiments to preserve their pristine essence.

Live Stations & Al Fresco BBQ: From expert carving stations and fresh Sushi & Sashimi to an outdoor BBQ featuring premium meats and seafood, the experience offers a vibrant balance of land and sea.

The Mia "Art de Vivre" Experience

Beyond the brunch table, Mia Saigon invites guests to extend their stay with the Mia Art de Vivre Package—a staycation journey designed around relaxation and cultural discovery. After a leisurely brunch, guests can retreat to the quiet elegance of an Indochine-inspired Mia Suite, indulge in a restorative spa treatment, enjoy sunset cocktails, and embark on a private art tour to explore the hotel’s curated collection.

EVENT INFORMATION & SPECIAL OFFERS

• Time: 12:00 – 15:00, Saturday, January 24th, 2026.
• Location: Kitchen by the River – Mia Saigon Luxury Boutique Hotel.
• Price: VND 1,950,000++ per guest.
• Exclusive Offers:
  15% Early Bird Discount for bookings made at least 7 days in advance.
  15% Group Discount for parties of 6 or more.

For more information and reservations, please contact:
+84 28 6287 4222
https://www.miasaigon.com/offers/mia-brunch-by-the-river/