Face to Face

Cheval Blanc Courchevel is expanding with two chalets conceived as private residences, offering all the services of Cheval Blanc, alongside 15 dedicated Majordomes providing highly personalised service.

The five-bedroom Chalet and nine-bedroom Chalet harmoniously retain the architectural codes of the original Maison, while reinterpreting them through a refined, contemporary aesthetic. Their connection to the main property is immediately recognisable through the ochre colour of the exterior walls — the signature shade of Cheval Blanc Courchevel — as well as the extensive use of wood.

A nod to the traditional alpine chalets of the region, the material is used across the façade in a contemporary interpretation of local architectural codes: charred timber elements interlock with one another like a piece of modern marquetry.

Architecture and Nature

Light and landscape are integral to the architectural concept and have guided the design of these new creations.

Located in the heart of the Jardin Alpin, the nine-bedroom Chalet and five-bedroom Chalet feature expansive openings that provide abundant natural light throughout the day, along with exceptional views over La Saulire and the Col de la Loze. Dramatic ceiling heights create an unprecedented sense of space. The bedrooms deliberately contrast with the generous proportions of the communal areas, offering warm and intimate spaces where all the signature codes of the original Maison can be found: thoughtful in-room touches, sumptuous textures and the comforting Mountain Chic signature scent.

A New Approach

The nine-bedroom Chalet and five-bedroom Chalet introduce an entirely new concept to the Maison: independent living spaces designed to function like private homes, while benefiting from the expertise and hospitality of Cheval Blanc Courchevel. A bespoke experience is orchestrated by dedicated Artisans, including Majordomes and a private culinary team, combining the art of excellence with an intimate residential experience.

Each chalet has private access to the ski slopes, providing direct access to Europe’s largest ski area and ensuring maximum comfort for skiers. Each property also features its own private cinema, fitness room, sauna, hammam and Guerlain massage rooms, offering moments of wellness in complete privacy. Both chalets also have their own private swimming pool. The pool in the nine-bedroom Chalet features a double-height space, allowing natural light to flood in through a play of glass and mirrors.

The five-bedroom Chalet (900 sq m) features a bedroom designed as a suite, while the nine-bedroom Chalet (1,500 sq m) includes a collection of suites as well as an exceptional bedroom occupying the entire top floor.

In the latter chalet, the double-height grand salon is warmed by two-metre-high fireplaces. Music rooms, games rooms equipped with F1 and multi-sport simulators, and Le Carrousel for children provide a wealth of on-site entertainment. The dining room offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and features a setting by Vik Muniz, while the private wine cellar provides an intimate setting for more private dining experiences.

The various spaces are designed as comfortable havens in which to gather after a day on the slopes. The two chalets can also be combined, creating a single 2,400 sq m private residence.

An Artistic Signature

The interior architecture of the chalets’ communal spaces has been designed by Peter Marino. The furniture, specially created for these two new projects, engages in dialogue with artworks selected by the architect and original pieces created by his long-standing collaborators.

Lison de Caunes’ straw marquetry sits alongside landscape frescoes by Brazilian artist Vik Muniz, while woven and gilded straw tapestries and designs by René Bidet complement the geometric paintings of Guy de Rougemont. Peter Marino excels at bringing together diverse sources of inspiration to create environments where residential comfort and exceptional standards are combined with a distinctive artistic sensibility.

Through this exceptional new residential offering, Cheval Blanc continues its pursuit of excellence, creating stays in which every moment becomes an invitation to dream, wonder and enchantment.

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Royal Caribbean is introducing “The SpongeBob Musical,” the first-ever at-sea production inspired by the Tony award-winning Broadway show on Hero of the Seas when the fourth Icon Class vacation sets sail from Miami in August 2027. As part of the bold entertainment lineup on the newest family vacation, the adventure-packed show will bring the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom to life in the Royal Theater. “The SpongeBob Musical” joins Royal Caribbean’s award-winning entertainment portfolio, which continues to push the boundaries for experiences across stage, air, water and ice for vacationers of all ages.

“At Royal Caribbean, we’re focused on creating incredible experiences that bring families of all ages together in meaningful, memorable ways,” said Christi Coachman, vice president, entertainment, Royal Caribbean. “Our entertainment lineup on Hero of the Seas is designed with something for everyone. ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ delivers on that by bringing generations together through a story families know and love, while showcasing the creativity, cutting-edge technology and world-class production that can only be experienced on a Royal Caribbean vacation.”

From under the sea to at sea, “The SpongeBob Musical” on Hero will transform the beloved Nickelodeon animated series and 12-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway show into a reimagined production for the whole family that can be experienced only on Royal Caribbean. Filled with unexpected twists, larger-than-life characters, hit songs and above all – friendship, the adventure will show audiences that heroes can come from even the most unlikely places as SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends race against time to save their town from total destruction.

Beyond groundbreaking entertainment for all ages, vacationers can go all in on adventure across eight neighbourhoods with experiences including:

• Crown’s Edge, part skywalk, part zip line experience suspended 154 feet above the ocean
• Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea
• Nine pools, including the new Coconut Cove pool and the adults-only The Hideaway, featuring two pools and the largest swim-up bar at sea
• 28 dining venues, including the multi-course Orleans Parrish Supper Club; an immersive train car dining experience at Royal Railway – Hero Station; hands-on cooking classes in a new venue to be revealed and more
• Brand-new family accommodations, including the three-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse featuring a rooftop terrace, whirlpool and two-deck teen space

Hero will take vacationers on 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean adventures from Miami, with every adventure visiting Royal Caribbean’s top-rated  Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas. Adventurers can choose to explore Western Caribbean spots like Cozumel, Mexico and Roatan, Honduras, or head to tropical Eastern Caribbean destinations such as Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas and Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

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The aurora-viewing season kicked off in Alaska in late August, meaning the next seven months are a prime time to witness the northern lights, according to the Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA).

“This fall into early winter timeframe is one of my favourite times of year for aurora viewing. The nights are starting to get longer, but the temperatures are mild,” ATIA President and CEO Jillian Simpson said. “In destinations like Fairbanks under the auroral oval, your chances of seeing the northern lights are pretty high on a clear night. Great aurora viewing in Alaska isn’t dependent on it being a solar maximum.”

With northern lights viewing ranking as one of Alaska’s most popular winter travel experiences, visitors can find a range of aurora tours, specialty lodges and experiences throughout the Southcentral and Interior Alaska regions. Places like Coldfoot Camp, Chena Hot Springs Resort and Borealis Basecamp have become iconic for their northern lights offerings.

Earlier this year, several new ways to see the northern lights became available to visitors in Alaska:

• The Orion, a sister property to A Taste of Alaska Lodge, opened this past spring near Fairbanks. The new 10-room property is designed to support northern lights viewing while offering modern accommodations. Located close to town, the property features single- and double-queen guest rooms, an indoor aurora viewing lounge, an aurora camera and an outdoor viewing deck. Guests can sign up to receive aurora alerts and access viewing areas when conditions are favourable.

• Aurora Black Truck Tours is a new Fairbanks operator offering private, small-group northern lights excursions. Tours are conducted in heated vehicles and include transportation to aurora viewing locations selected based on current conditions. The four- to six-hour experiences are led by local guides who provide knowledgeable insight while focusing on comfort and flexibility for guests.

• Outbound Heli Adventures has introduced a new aurora viewing dome overlooking Knik Glacier in Southcentral Alaska. Accessible only by helicopter, the dome offers a private, guided winter experience designed for aurora viewing in a remote setting. The experience includes transportation by helicopter and access to a fully enclosed dome with panoramic views.

• Snowhook Adventure Guides has expanded its operations with the opening of a new lodge in Hatcher Pass. Available year-round, the lodge enhances Snowhook’s winter offerings, which include dog sledding, kennel tours, snowmobiling, access to an on-site sauna and overnight packages designed for northern lights viewing.

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Bank Rakyat Group Chief Executive Officer, Ahmad Shahril Mohd Shariff, said in a statement that the initiative aims to reward customers when they spend using their Bank Rakyat Mastercard Credit Card-i, while encouraging its use as a convenient and secure payment method.

“This campaign also reflects Bank Rakyat’s continued commitment to providing added value to customers through rewards that are relevant to modern lifestyles,” he added.

Under the campaign, cardholders stand a chance to win fully sponsored holidays for two to selected destinations, including Japan and Singapore, complete with premium travel experiences such as business-class flights. Each transaction made using the Bank Rakyat Mastercard Credit Card-i entitles customers to earn entries into the campaign.

Prizes include a grand prize of an eight-day, seven-night holiday to Japan, while monthly prizes include five-day, four-night holidays to Singapore. Customers also stand a chance to receive a special reward of a RM100 Shopee voucher, with a total of 1,350 winners.

To participate, cardholders only need to use their Credit Card-i for domestic, online or foreign currency transactions. Every RM100 spent on domestic transactions earns one entry, while every RM100 spent on online or foreign currency transactions earns 10 entries.

For the special reward, customers are required to register their Credit Card-i as the primary payment method on their preferred application or for subscription and recurring bill payments and spend at least RM100 per month for three consecutive months to receive a RM100 Shopee voucher.

For more information, customers may refer to the campaign’s terms and conditions on the Bank Rakyat website at www.bankrakyat.com.my, visit the nearest branch or call the Bank Rakyat Contact Centre at 1-300-80-5454.

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As a pioneer in Macao’s integrated resort model, Sands China has maintained a strategic focus on non-gaming businesses for over 20 years, including hotels, retail, entertainment, MICE and cultural tourism experiences, all in a bid to drive Macao’s economic diversification. The Parisian Macao stands as a key manifestation of this vision and its opening on Sept. 13, 2016 marked the completion of Sands China’s interconnected integrated resort cluster in Cotai.  

Sands China has dedicated significant efforts to developing The Parisian Macao into a world-class tourist attraction. Following four years of planning, The Parisian Macao’s Eiffel Tower was built at half the scale of the original in Paris. Meticulously crafted using over 2,800 tonnes of steel and 6,600 lights, and refined through more than 4,500 design drawings, the tower faithfully captures the spirit of the iconic Parisian landmark. Integrating diverse experiences ranging from observation decks and the love lock bridge to the panoramic restaurant La Chine and light shows, the tower has shaped the distinctive Cotai skyline over the past decade while creating the setting for countless festive and cherished romantic moments with both visitors and residents.

SOURCE Sands China Ltd.

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The work gives viewers a glimpse into a new side of Deepika as she travels, underpinned by Hilton’s hospitality, which allows her to truly express herself – staying as authentic as she always is – while bringing a playful and fresh cultural energy to the It Matters Where You Stay campaign in India.

Shot at Conrad Bengaluru, the campaign is inspired by a simple truth about modern travel. When people leave home, they often leave behind the routines and support systems that help them navigate everyday life.

For Hilton, this reinforces the importance of the Stay as the ecosystem guests rely on when they travel. Away from familiar routines and the people who help them navigate everyday life, guests are met by Hilton Team Members, thoughtfully designed spaces, seamless technology and the benefits of Hilton Honors, all working together to anchor them while they are away from home. Together, they create the comfort and confidence to enable guests to focus on what matters most and be fully themselves.

“People often think about travel in terms of destinations, but for us, it’s about hospitality – the Stay – that makes the trip possible,” said Mark Weinstein, chief marketing officer and head of Luxury Brands, Hilton. “A Hilton Stay helps our guests make the most of why they came. Travel is exciting, but it can also be demanding. When travel takes people from their routines, the Stay becomes even more important. Our Team Members ensure everything is taken care of, giving guests the comfort and confidence to focus on what truly matters, turning everyday moments into expressions of confidence and playfulness. Deepika brings that feeling to life beautifully in this campaign and captures the ease that comes when everything around you simply works.”

Throughout the campaign, Deepika reveals a more spontaneous and instinctive side of her personality. Comfortable in her surroundings and fully present in the moment, she reflects what becomes possible when the Stay removes friction and allows guests to simply enjoy the journey.

Deepika Padukone said: “What I connected with most about this campaign is how true it felt to the experience of staying with Hilton. When you feel genuinely comfortable and looked after, you stop overthinking and can simply be yourself. That sense of ease gave us the freedom to have fun with the creative.”

The campaign comes to life through a broad suite of content. Across dining, wellness, loyalty and the care delivered by Hilton Team Members every day, the work brings to life the feeling of having people around you who understand what you need, help you feel looked after and give you the confidence to be fully yourself while travelling.

Music and movement sit at the heart of the campaign’s treatment. Hilton worked with acclaimed creative collaborators including GRAMMY Award-winning director Nadia Marquard Otzen and globally recognised choreographer Shay Latukolan to create work that feels emotionally engaging, culturally relevant and entertainment-led.

Featuring an original soundtrack, by award-winning music producer and composer Mikey McCleary, the film combines electronic influences with contemporary Indian vocals to mirror Deepika’s energy throughout the story – confident, relaxed and fully herself. Together, the music and choreography help bring Hilton’s vision of modern hospitality to life in a distinctive and culturally resonant way.

As Hilton continues to accelerate its growth across India, with an aim of reaching 400 trading hotels in the coming years, the campaign underscores the company’s deep understanding of modern travellers. Today’s guests seek more than just a place to stay; they value convenience, authenticity and a meaningful engagement. Hilton’s focus on removing friction and delivering intuitive, human hospitality ensures that it continues to meet and exceed those expectations.

At its heart, the campaign celebrates the role Hilton plays when guests are away from the people, routines and support systems they rely on every day. Whether through its Team Members taking pride in looking after guests, the experiences it creates or the ways it rewards loyal guests, Hilton becomes part of that support system – helping people feel understood, supported and free to focus on what matters most. And that’s why, more than ever, Hilton is For the Stay.

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New Zealand

Queenstown and Wellington offer the perfect backdrop for travellers seeking a chilly escape. Queenstown, known as the adventure capital, provides an alpine winter wonderland with temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) to -2°C (28°F) in July and August, ideal for skiing enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Wellington, with temperatures between 14°C (57°F) to 7°C (45°F), invites visitors to explore its cultural offerings and coastal charm, making it a perfect spot to cool off.

Australia

Melbourne and Hobart in Tasmania present urban and wilderness experiences with crisp weather. Melbourne, with its vibrant culture and dining scene, maintains a cool 14°C (57°F) to 7°C (45°F), perfect for those seeking a refreshing city break. Hobart, a historic port city, serves as a gateway to Tasmania’s wilderness, with temperatures from 11°C (52°F) to 3°C (37°F), offering a serene escape into nature.

Japan

Sapporo and Hakodate in Hokkaido offer a mild summer with temperatures between 22°C (72°F) to 17°C (63°F). Sapporo, famous for its beer and lavender fields, and Hakodate, known for its seafood and mountain views, provide a refreshing break from the heat, perfect for those looking to chill out in style.

Malaysia

The Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands offer cooler climates with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 15°C (59°F). These highland retreats are perfect for exploring tea plantations and enjoying mountain resort activities, providing a cool breeze amidst the tropical heat.

India

Manali and Shimla, with temperatures between 25°C (77°F) to 15°C (59°F), are ideal for adventure and scenic beauty. Manali is an adventure hub, while Shimla offers historic charm and accessibility from Delhi, both providing a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “As temperatures soar this summer, Agoda is your ticket to finding the perfect destination to cool off. Whether you’re hitting the slopes in Queenstown or enjoying the crisp mountain breeze in the Cameron Highlands, we’re here to help you escape the heat and discover the region’s most refreshing retreats, with accommodations, flights and activities you can book seamlessly in one platform.”

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The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) announced that works have commenced on Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi, a landmark institution on Saadiyat Island that will become one of the region’s most technically advanced performing arts venues upon opening in 2030. Representing a major investment in cultural infrastructure, the institution reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to create world-class platforms for artistic excellence, international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Through its continued investment in culture, creativity and knowledge, Abu Dhabi is building a vibrant cultural ecosystem that connects local audiences with the world’s leading artists and institutions while reinforcing its position as a global capital for culture.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi represents our long-term investment in artistic expression and reflects our comprehensive approach to cultural development. It is an approach rooted in our values, shaped by our people and open to the world. This is a deliberate investment in the future of our cultural ecosystem, and the scale of our ambition is clear. Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will be a permanent home for performance at the highest international level, bringing together leading artists, companies and creative talent from the UAE, the region and across the world. Through artistic residencies, international partnerships and world-class productions, it will expand opportunities for cultural exchange, inspire new generations of creatives, and further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre for creativity, exchange and artistic excellence.”

A home for the performing arts

Opening on Saadiyat Island, near the celebrated Saadiyat Cultural District, Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will be among the region’s largest and most technically advanced dedicated performing arts venues. The highly adaptable performance complex will be a permanent home for opera, ballet, theatre and other live performances at the highest international level, and will bring together acclaimed and emerging talent from the region and around the world across a range of artistic disciplines. Audiences will experience the arts at different scales, from intimate productions to major performances.

Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi will offer 365 days and nights of events, performances and activities.

Its facilities include a multipurpose performance hall of more than 2,000 seats, a 3,500-seat open-air amphitheatre, a 400-seat studio theatre and a 250-seat jazz venue, with a combined capacity of more than 6,000 across its spaces.

The new performing arts institution is also envisioned as a platform for long-term artistic residencies, touring partnerships and co-productions with the world’s leading performing arts companies. It will bring the most celebrated artists and ensembles to Abu Dhabi while creating new opportunities for regional and emerging talent to perform alongside them.

Expanding Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape

Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi was commissioned by DCT Abu Dhabi and designed by the late Frank Gehry, one of the world’s most celebrated architects who is behind the architecture of the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. It is envisioned as a living expression of music and performance, with a billowing fabric-like exterior that cascades over the heart of the site.

Its transparent façade invites the public into the artistic process, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to openness, engagement and cultural exchange.

These structures of Frank Gehry underscore Abu Dhabi’s commitment to architectural excellence and its strategic decision to invest in exceptional design that inspires and reflects the emirate’s cultural aspirations.

The performing arts have long flourished in Abu Dhabi, demonstrated by its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music; the annual Abu Dhabi Festival; the Berklee Abu Dhabi performing arts education centre; the Bait Al Oud music academy; and its role as host of International Jazz Day 2025, alongside other festivals and concerts.

The announcement of Dar al Funoon Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s commitment to investing in culture as a means of sustainable development. Beyond its cultural significance, the institution is expected to deliver lasting community and socio-economic benefits, creating jobs, developing local skills and talent, attracting cultural tourism and strengthening the creative economy as a driver of long-term growth for Abu Dhabi.

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Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, Château Saint-Martin & Spa in Vence and L’Apogée Courchevel are proud to announce the renewal of their Palace Distinction.

Awarded by Atout France and renewed following an exceptionally rigorous assessment process, this prestigious recognition celebrates the enduring excellence of these iconic properties, their incomparable sense of hospitality and their contribution to showcasing the very best of French luxury hospitality. 

Created in 2010 to recognise establishments offering an experience that surpasses the standards of five-star hospitality, the Palace Distinction honours a unique savoir-faire, exceptional service, remarkable heritage and the ability to create truly memorable experiences for every guest. Its renewal reflects the dedication of the teams and the unwavering pursuit of excellence that lies at the heart of each of these three Oetker Hotels properties.

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc – The Timeless legend of the French Riviera

Overlooking the shimmering waters of Cap d’Antibes for more than 155 years, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc remains one of the world’s most celebrated addresses. 

A true legend of the Côte d’Azur, the property embodies a singular art de vivre where elegance, discretion and refinement exist in perfect harmony. Its Mediterranean gardens, iconic seawater infinity pool carved into the rock and legendary service combine to create an experience unlike any other. 

First awarded the Palace Distinction in 2016, this renewed recognition further underscores the hotel’s remarkable ability to preserve its heritage while continually evolving to meet the expectations of a discerning international clientele.

Château Saint-Martin & Spa – Excellence Amidst Nature

Nestled within a 14-hectare estate in the hills above Vence, Château Saint-Martin & Spa offers a serene retreat in the heart of the French Riviera.

Once a 12th-century Knights Templar commandery and now a haven of understated luxury, the property captivates guests with its exceptional natural surroundings, sweeping Riviera views, authentic art de vivre and deeply personalised approach to hospitality.

First awarded the Palace Distinction in 2019, this renewed recognition reaffirms Château Saint-Martin & Spa’s place among France’s most prestigious destinations, where heritage, gastronomy, wellbeing and bespoke service come together to create unforgettable experiences.

L’Apogée Courchevel – Alpine Luxury at Its Finest

Nestled at the summit of Courchevel 1850’s Jardin Alpin, L’Apogée Courchevel embodies the finest expression of Alpine hospitality.

Enjoying a privileged location with direct access to the world’s largest ski area, the property presents a contemporary vision of Alpine luxury, where elegance, intimacy and conviviality exist in perfect balance. Its spacious suites, exceptional spa, bespoke experiences and impeccable service have established it as a destination of choice for discerning travellers. First awarded the Palace Distinction in 2019, L’Apogée Courchevel now celebrates the renewal of this prestigious recognition, honouring once again the remarkable quality of the guest experience and the unwavering dedication of its teams.

A Recognition of Excellence

The simultaneous renewal of the Palace Distinction for Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc, Château Saint-Martin & Spa and L’Apogée Courchevel reflects the vision at the heart of Oetker Hotels: exceptional hospitality, where every detail matters, authenticity meets excellence in service, and every stay becomes a deeply personal experience.

More than a prestigious distinction, this renewal stands as a tribute to the talent, passion and unwavering dedication of the teams who bring the unique spirit of these three French Palaces to life each day and contribute to the enduring influence of French hospitality around the world.

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Trip.com Group highlighted the city’s growing appeal this week at its “Guilin Night” event, which brought together more than 3,500 international guests from 78 countries and regions. This is alongside legendary actor and the Group’s Global Ambassador for China Travel, Jackie Chan, who is shining a spotlight on the destination.

For generations, Guilin has enchanted travellers with its mist-covered karst mountains, winding rivers and timeless scenery. And beyond the postcard-perfect landscapes, the region also offers a rich tapestry of multi-ethnic cultures, where traditions from communities including the Zhuang, Yao, Miao and Dong peoples continue to shape local life, cuisine, craftsmanship and customs.

“Guilin reminds me that travel is not only about seeing famous sights, but about connecting with the culture of a destination,” Jackie Chan shared. “The mountains, the rivers, the atmosphere, it feels like walking inside a Chinese painting. But what makes it stand out is that it slows you down in the best way. In cities like Beijing and Shanghai, life can move very fast, but Guilin shows another side of China that allows you to be more present.”

A Wealth of Scenic Landscapes

For Jackie Chan, the highlight of any Guilin trip begins with the legendary Li River.

“The Li River is the soul of Guilin,” he said. “You can sit quietly on the boat and just look around you. The scenery changes every minute.”

The famous river cruise between Guilin and Yangshuo passes through dramatic limestone mountains, fishing villages, and the iconic “Yellow Cloth Reflection,” a stretch of water near Xingping ancient town that is immortalised on the 20 RMB banknote.

Another sight among Jackie Chan’s top three Guilin experiences is the Longji Rice Terraces, notably ranked #3 in Guilin sights on Trip.Best, Trip.com Group’s AI-curated ranking list designed to help travellers select a destination’s best experiences. The 600-year-old terraces transform through the seasons, from mirror-like flooded fields in spring to golden waves during harvest season.

“When you stand there and look across the fields, you realise how much history and human effort exist in this landscape,” Jackie shared.

Visitors can also explore nearby ethnic minority villages, including communities known for traditional craftsmanship and cultural performances. This increasingly ties in with the modern traveller’s hunt for experiences that offer local culture, slower exploration and meaningful connection.

As for travellers looking to experience Guilin’s natural scenery beyond its rivers and mountains, Reed Flute Cave offers a unique underground perspective.

Known as the “Palace of Natural Arts”, Reed Flute Cave offers a surreal underground world of colour and geology.

“The first time I entered Reed Flute Cave, I felt like I was on another planet,” Jackie said. “The colours, the rock formations, the reflections, it’s unbelievable. It’s one of those places where photos don’t fully capture how impressive it feels in person.”

Inside the cave, travellers can explore illuminated stalactites, stalagmites and underground chambers shaped over millions of years.

The region also offers newer tourism experiences that combine thrills steeped in Guilin’s natural environment.

Adventure seekers should head to Ruyi Peak, ranked #8 in Guilin sights on Trip.Best. This modern “aerial park” allows you to stand on cable cars, suspension bridges and panoramic skywalks, and look out over Yangshuo’s dramatic limestone landscape, combining nature with adrenaline-filled exploration.

Cultural Immersion at Solitary Beauty Peak

For travellers wanting to combine history and scenery, the historical Solitary Beauty Peak and Jingjiang Princes’ Palace site, located in the heart of Guilin, are must-visit sites.

Solitary Beauty Peak offers panoramic views of Guilin and remains one of the city’s most famous scenic spots. While the latter is a former Ming Dynasty royal residence, where visitors can step back in time and wander the halls of the once-functional inner city, occupied by the nephew of the founding emperor of the Ming dynasty, the last imperial dynasty in China. 

Immersion in A Performance Unlike Any Other

At night, the Impression Liu Sanjie performance comes alive. One of the world’s largest natural auditoriums hosts 600 performers in traditional attire of the Zhuang, Miao and Yao minorities, bringing to life the legend of Liu Sanjie, a famous figure in the region’s folklore. This stunning show is set against the Li River, with the karst landscape as its natural backdrop.

“The mountains become part of the show,” Jackie said. “You don’t just watch it, you feel surrounded by it. It’s very emotional and very Chinese, blending music, dance, light and local folklore in the best way,” he added.

Directed by renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, the large-scale outdoor performance uses the Li River itself as a stage, featuring hundreds of local performers beneath illuminated peaks.

Growing Interest in Experiencing Culture

Trip.com Group said the Guilin showcase reflects broader travel trends across Asia, where travellers are prioritising slower-paced itineraries, nature-based tourism and immersive cultural experiences over traditional checklist travel.

For instance, during “Guilin Night”, otherwise known as the Trip.com Group Envision Gala Dinner, the evening celebrated Chinese intangible cultural heritage through immersive workshops, traditional games and cultural performances.

Guests experienced ancient Chinese sports, including Cuju, an ancient Chinese football game, and Chuiwan, a royal bat-and-ball game, created traditional lanterns, practised Zhuang brocade crafts, and participated in lantern riddles beneath glowing lights.

The evening concluded with a large-scale drone show illuminating Guilin’s famous skyline, a modern spectacle set against one of China’s most timeless landscapes.

Guilin has become a place where visitors come not only to sightsee, but also to pause and connect with nature, whether that means wandering along riverside streets, discovering local flavours, or simply taking in the quiet beauty of the landscapes.

For Jackie Chan, that balance is what defines Guilin. “People remember the mountains and rivers, but they also remember how the place and culture make them feel,” he said. Reflecting more broadly on travel in China, Jackie believes many international visitors only scratch the surface of what the country has to offer. “My advice is simple: don’t rush. Many first-time visitors focus only on the biggest cities or attractions they see on social media, but China is a very large and diverse country, with so many different sides that you can barely uncover in a single trip. Be curious, throw away your pre-existing conceptions and come with an open mind.”

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