PRESS PACK May 2016 www.secret-retreats.com The voyage of discovery is not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes Marcel Proust Public Relations Contacts Worldwide Kat Johnston [email protected] China - Hong Kong: Rosetta Hon [email protected] France – Francophonie Florence Daignas Pitoun [email protected] SUMMARY 1. About Secret Retreats 2. Behind the Scene 3. Experiences & Expertise 4. Memberships & Collection 5. Factsheet - Map ABOUT SECRET RETREATS A Different Way of Traveling By emulating yesteryear’s travelers who sought to broaden the mind, infuse themselves with new cultures and discover the genuine hospitality of Asia that continues to be celebrated around the world. Exclusively in Asia Secret Retreats is a collection of some of the finest The members of Secret Retreats share common values in boutique residences, hotels and boats throughout Asia and a environment conservation and the preservation of local brand that provides experiential experiences for the cultures. Each hotel defends and upholds the traditions discerning traveler. Representing a collective of cultured of their country, the architecture, nature and its individuals whose taste, sense of refinement, simplicity and inhabitants and strive to make each guest’s experience as hospitality is reflected in the unique properties that they authentic as possible. created, Secret Retreats is solely devoted to promoting properties within Asia. Conscious of the uniformity of luxury hotel chains around the world that has deprived today’s travelers of authenticity and individuality, Secret Retreats sets a new reference point in the hospitality industry through advocating exclusive boutique hideaways and promoting bespoke travel experiences. Members of Secret Retreats believe that luxury is not about acquiring extravagant products and lavish facilities, but about authentic interactions with the local people, getting to know the heart of the culture and their generous hospitality. The intrinsic value of luxury cannot be derived from a monetary exchange, rather it is found in the enriching moments that are shared when making new connections and experiences. Weaving a thread between these hidden gems in Asia, Secret Retreats has invented Kim, an imaginary character, whose quests and escapades takes us on an exploratory journey around the Orient BEHIND THE SCENE United in their love for Asia, affinity with boutique hotels and passion to preserve the local culture has inspired the founders of Secret Retreats to plant the seed of this beautiful venture. The Founders Bruno Ferret Stéphane Junca An expert in tour operations within Asia A hotel marketing guru whose roles have and founder of a successful travel included overseeing the development of company, Les Ateliers du Voyages, that several luxury hotels in China; joining the catered to the French market. Selling his Tugu Hotel in Bali as Marketing Director; Tour Operations to Kuoni in 2009, Bruno and serving as the regional director of moved to Bangkok and started three Relais & Châteaux Asia before co- hotels in Asia; Samar Villas in Siem Reap, founding Secret Retreats . Stéphane is Cambodia - Villa Mathis in Bali, and passionate about travel and has spent Muang La in Laos. most of his working life in Asia always on the lookout to explore new properties and Bruno is Secret Retreats’ Executive discoverer new experiences that will Director. provide the discerning traveler with a memorable stay. Stéphane is Secret Retreats’ Managing Director. A Vision for Hospitality SECRET RETREATS guests will enjoy the following features: • Intimate properties that are discreet, tranquil and in harmony with their natural environment. • An average room capacity of twenty rooms with some properties ranging from fewer rooms to solo quarters. • An unique opportunity born out of the owner’s personal passion to experience the traditions and culture, be in touch with the local people, a natural hospitality and seamless service. • Fine gastronomy experiences using the freshest local ingredients and products to create traditional recipes invigorated with a modern twists by talented and innovative chefs. • Charm and five star luxury that reflects the proprietor’s personality and taste • Attention to detail with regards to service, the selection of furnishings and architecture. • A sensory feast and discovery of the soul of a property • A commitment to sustainable practices Secret Retreats Sustainability Pledge Members of Secret Retreats are active members of their community and engage in philanthropic endeavors that support the sustainability of the local people, their culture and the preservation of their natural habitat. Valuing the importance of planetary stewardship, Secret Retreats’ aim is to bring a greater awareness to each member’s individual charities through a centralized system. Representing the collective vision and goals of each individual, Secret Retreats offers enthusiastic patrons of Secret Retreats an opportunity to contribute to the local community while at the same time seeks for strategic partnership with potential donors and sponsors. In 2015, members formalized a common commitment of every Secret Retreats members to act responsibly in all their dealings, in the form of a signed pledge (read www.secret-retreats.com/en/we-care) Frequent disasters (earthquakes, flooding, fires in rainforest…) have prompted Secret Retreats to answer cries for Help and to find a way to raise money on regular basis to help urgent charity needs. An ongoing Charity Auction system has been set up; it will allow the highest bidders to win stays, dinners or activities in Secret Retreats properties www.secret-retreats.com/auction. EXPERIENCES & EXPERTISE Experiences by Secret Retreats Secret Retreats offers both an experience that shuns traditional hospitality and reflects the pure essence of the country and its culture. Our bespoke tailor-made itineraries introduce you to a new dimension or perspective of a country and its people that you were previously unaware of. Catering to the discerning traveler, our comprehensive range of thematic experiences includes: Taste of Asia Take a gastronomic journey hosted by your own private Chef as you enhance your palate and learn how local products and indigenous dishes are created. Equally exciting is joining a cooking class or experiencing the local flavors at all Secret Retreats restaurants. The educational taste of discovery promises to linger long after the voyage has been savored. Spa Indulgences www.secret-retreats.com/en/experiences Pampering reaches new sensual heights with age-old therapy techniques from yesteryear that use local herbs, spices and Secret Retreats provides contemplative travelers with methods to provide you with the ultimate Spa Indulgence. unforgettable experiences that broaden the mind, engage the senses and nourish the spirit. Whether you seek to unveil the Meditative Highlights mysteries of the Orient, engage in the art and culture of Participate in yoga and restorative meditation practices that indigenous societies, immerse yourself in the flavors and spices aim to refresh your chi, rejuvenate your spirit and give you a of the local cuisine or indulge in a rejuvenating spa therapy that serene new outlook on life. traces its origins from ancient healing traditions - Secret Retreats experiential experiences ensures that you taste the best that Asia has to offer and come away feeling that your life has been enriched. Golf Romantic Escapes Let us organize the ultimate golfer’s holiday where Enjoy our collection of romantic escapes, you can enjoy the luxury and privacy of staying at hidden sanctuaries and charming boutique one of our boutique hotels while enjoying one of residences ideal for a honeymoon, wedding, the many international championship golf anniversary, or other festive occasion. courses in Asia less than a forty-minute commute from many of our properties. Secret Weddings Imagine organising a wedding filled with Corporate Retreats mystery, excitement and wonder as you whisk Seeking to organise a corporate event or a unique away your closest friends and loved ones on a team building experience? We can help and plan secret Asian sojourn that will only be revealed something exclusive at one of our hideaways. In a at their final destination. Close your eyes and city, on a deserted tropical island, on the ocean, or dream of the colour rich world of tucked away in the mountains, we offer ideal Rajasthan… Always dreamed of swimming in venues for intimate size meetings and incentive the turquoise waters in the Maldives? Perhaps groups. you want to experience the sounds of the drums and the vibrant, time honoured red Arts and Culture qipao dress in China, or simply relax on a Venture into a sensory experience as you learn the tropical island? Asia is our playground and artisanal skills of the local people, engage in the together with our team of local experts, we local dance and music and explore the sacred look forward to making your wedding dreams temples and heritage sites that Asia is historically a reality. known for. Nature and Adventure Discover the wondrous beauty of nature and the thrill of adventure as we introduce you to the hidden gems of Asia’s wildlife and scenic countryside. Expert Guides Passionate about sharing their trade and knowledge on the place in which they dwell, our Expert Guides will reveal to you a way of life that gives travel and exploration a whole new meaning. From meditative journeys to sacred sites led by a yoga master, learning the artisanal skills of the local people as your guide takes you to the city’s best art galleries and workshops, traversing on the road less travelled where our celebrated photographers share with you some of the charming hidden treasures of a city or a remote monastery The Hosts tucked away in the mountains, to embarking on a culinary journey where our award winning Chefs will tantalize you with their inside knowledge of the local flavors and ingredients as you follow them to the local markets and farm plantations. The Hosts The puppets, also known as wayang, symbolizes the spirit of hospitality of our hosts.