Taking some time off to soak up the sights in a foreign land could be all that one needs to recharge in life. Knowing that there will always be support back home is comforting to bear in mind, especially during a long trip. However, there are several travel spots that offer the best of both worlds – a whole new environment with the comfort and familiarity of home.
Be it the architecture, culture or even the view from the hotel room, these destinations feature surprising traces of Singapore, which will allow the weary traveller to revel in the reminders that that one’s homeland is waiting at the end of the road.
Pictured Above: Zadún, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Mexico
From the balcony in the luxurious beachfront suite of the Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Zadún, one can lap up the glorious panoramic ocean vista and be reminded of the view overlooking the iconic Singapore River. Guests can expect to be treated to an experience of ultimate relaxation, from enjoying bespoke treatments to restore one’s wellbeing at Spa Alkemia – a five-acre natural haven – to indulging in hearty Latin American cuisine at Humo.
Not only does Ritz-Carlton Reserve deftly blend local Mexican culture and heritage into the property, but it also incorporates the high-end hotel chain’s distinctive aesthetics into its interior design, which recalls the décor of Ritz-Carlton Singapore. The two Ritz-Carltons share the architectural roots of a historical American home, and their commonalities will have one feeling right at home as the sea breeze blows through his hair.
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Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, Greece
Immerse yourself in Greek history in the city of Athens while retreating to a luxurious accommodation that is reminiscent of Singapore’s colonial past. The Four Seasons Aster Palace Hotel offers easy access to major attractions, as it is only approximately 30 minutes away from historical sites such as the Acropolis Museum and Temple of Olympian Zeus.
The sights of the storied city will also remind travellers of several iconic landmarks in Singapore, such as the National Gallery and the Supreme Court, which are heavily influenced by Greek design. The anachronistic pillars that stand proudly at the front of these two Singapore buildings are typical of ancient Greek architecture, and what better way to gain a better insight into the aesthetic than visiting the home of its origins?
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Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Sharjah will pull on the heartstrings of Singaporeans with its striking resemblance to Singapore’s Clarke Quay riverscape. However, the commonalities do not end there; both Sharjah and Singapore are stepping up on the world stage by embracing art, preserving it, and establishing more platforms to elevate it.
World-class museums, such as the Sharjah Art Foundation, make that statement to the global audience. With an upcoming first-ever Sharjah Architecture Triennial, it is set to be one of the biggest up-and-coming cities for its appreciation of the fine arts. For Singaporean art enthusiasts, a trip to the United Arab Emirates must not go without a visit to Sharjah for a dose of creativity peppered with a touch of sentiment.
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Hayman Island by Intercontinental, Australia
This July, InterContinental reopened its haven, Hayman Island, at the heart of The Great Barrier Reef. Offering luxurious island living, the resort is the ultimate playground for those who are well acquainted with the marina club lifestyle, giving them more space and a carefree atmosphere to enjoy their favourite activities amidst a huge world attraction.
There is also the option to take air tours in helicopters for a bird’s eye view of nature’s wonder. Though the concept of the island is liberating with its open-plan dining and social spaces, Hayman Island surprisingly captures some classic colonial flavour. This vibe is similarly shared at InterContinental Singapore in both its interior and exterior designs, jolting memories of our local cultural hotspots.
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