Sundowners with a Difference – Gear Up and Explore

What’s one to do as the sun sets over the horizon in the central business district of Changi? Plenty, as John Maxwell a Long Stay Guest at Capri by Fraser, Changi City /Singapore will tell you:

“I saw the adverts for ‘Gear up and Explore – the cycling experience’ posted around the hotel. I thought it would be a good way to explore the local area and to get to know my fellow guests and the staff at the hotel. I have not cycled for years but the team at Capri by Fraser made my Changi experience so enjoyable. The pace was just right. The route was safe, scenic and well organised. Safety and comfort was a key concern for the Capri team and that was very reassuring. The break for food and drink was an added bonus. However, it was the warmth, kindness and friendliness of the Capri staff that made it not just a lovely experience but a highlight of my time in Singapore. After the trip I was buzzing, not just from the enjoyable experience but the fact that the acquaintances I had begun the journey with had become my friends.”

From left: Vernon Lee, General Manager with our guests, Rosemarijn Kriek (in yellow top), John Maxwell (in orange top) and Santosh Kumar Podishetti (in chrome orange top), along with our enthusiastic team of cyclists from Front Office

Stay at Capri by Fraser, Brisbane!

Is Brisbane on your list of places to travel to this year?

If you’re looking for a place to stay, then look no further! Hint: Capri by Fraser, Brisbane

For our business travellers, we’re centrally located in the city’s business district. As for our leisure travellers, shopohalics included, – good news for you! We’re also within walking distance to Queen Street Mall Shopping, City Botanical Gardens, riverfront dining at Eagle Street Pier and commercial buildings including the landmark Waterfront Place. That’s not all – we’re also near the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Southbank precinct and other riverside attractions (yay).

What to expect?

Not only do our rooms scream space, we also have a range of high-tech services. Yes, we’re talking about the Hotspot station and free high speed wireless internet – no excuse to not get connected!

For our fitness fanatics, our gym runs 24/7! After a long flight or perhaps a long day out, you can spend time in an indoor heated swimming pool, steam and sauna and Spin and Play with games consoles – where you can be entertained with kickboxing and xbox Kinect between spin cycles.

Need we say more? Now you can take a peak at Capri by Fraser, Brisbane!

Tips for better rest when you travel

Whether you’re traveling for business or for pleasure, getting a good rest can be challenging. We’ve got five tips for you on how to get better rest when you travel!

Avoid caffeine

If you’re on a daytime flight, you’ll find it much harder to sleep if you have caffeine coursing through your veins. This is especially so when the view out the window can be a distraction too. Skip the temptation to have a cup of coffee or a soda before boarding, and stick to water or juice when the drink cart comes around.

Dress comfortably

If you plan to sleep on the plane, we suggest to dress for the part before departure. Think sweatpants, short sleeves – a tshirt perhaps, and a hoodie or sweatshirt. Comfort over fashion, or even a happy medium of both, is important to ensure that your body is comfortable enough for you to get some shut eye.

Stay hydrated

On the plane, in high altitudes, along with the air purification, our body and skin will likely get dehydrated. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you increase your liquid intake before departure, about a day or two before. Say hydrated throughout your flight as this will prevent grogginess when you awaken from rest on the plane.

Modify your sleep

This one is important! Ensure that you tailor your sleep a couple of days before leaving to prepare yourself for the impact of a new timezone. This includes tailoring your bedtime, a couple of days before departure, to that of your new location. Doing this will shift your eating habits and ensure that once you get to your hotel, you will be ready to tackle the new time. Once there, you will be able to wake up naturally to get yourself adjusted fully with the new timezone.

Free your feet
Some people choose to slip their shoes off as soon as they get on a plane while others wouldn’t think of it – there’s the issue of keeping your circulation flowing; going barefoot permits your feet to swell.

We say – wear shoes you can slip on and off easily. This way you’re not pulling at shoelaces and flinging elbows mid-flight. On overseas flights, some airlines give you socks that will keep you warm and encourage circulation in your feet.

With that, we wish you a pleasant flight! Safe travels!

Asana by Pete Evans

Staying in Capri by Fraser, Brisbane, and thinking of where to eat… or just have coffee?

We’ve got you covered. Frasers Hospitality has partnered with well-known chef and paleo ambassador Pete Evans to launch Asana by Pete Evans restaurant and bar in Brisbane.

Well-known chef, health coach and paleo ambassador Pete Evans joined 60 guests, including local suppliers and national media, to open his first Brisbane restaurant recently on 22nd May. Guests were welcomed with champagne on arrival, served by stilt performers, before indulging in a tasting style experience, showcasing key menu items. The talented bar team served a variety of cocktails including Singapore Slings and French Martinis, paired with beers and wines from the restaurant’s wine list. The team from Sensory Lab also showcased their skills behind the coffee machine, serving Espresso Martinis and coffee topped with impressive latte art designs.

What does Asana bring to the table, if you may ask? The restaurant prides on using fresh and nutritional local produce to create meals which is both pleasing to the eye and palate. Check out the menu here. The kitchen will be led by Josh Harris who recently held the position of head chef at Brisbane’s Era Bistro along with stints at Baguette Bistro and Bar, and customs House.

If you are looking for a good cup of coffee to awake your senses, settle only for the best at Capri by Fraser – crafted by Melbourne‘s renowned coffee baristas, The Sensory lab.

Will we see you at Asana?

The great outdoors in Brisbane – part 2

There’s always something to do in Brisbane. Read on for the second part of what you can expect from the beautiful city. If you’re a beach lover, you ought to play close attention!

We understand, sometimes nothing can beat a beach holiday – sun, sand, and relaxation complete with the sun shining in your face. You can have plenty of that when in Brisbane – from palm-fringed white sands to beaches with spectacular views of the open seas, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

It pays to head to the more off-beat spots. Popular attraction Noosa beach, for example, is beautiful but often crowded. If you desire something quieter, we recommend Sunshine Beach, just south of Noosa Heads. Even when the neighboring areas are full of visitors, Sunshine Beach remains laid-back and perfect for those looking for a quiet time enjoying the sun and the sea. While there, try your hand at surfing or explore the quaint little towns of Maleny, Woodford or Dayboro.

If you want to spend an afternoon away from the polished malls, see the beautiful city with a cruise along the Brisbane River, the longest river in Queensland. Once used by early settlers to travel to the city, Brisbane River is a national icon famed for the natural beauty as well as the abundant fish and rich vegetation. The river remains central to the story of the city and continues to dominate tourists’ imagination like no other. The trip along the river is pleasant, passing the lovely greenery that line the banks and Brisbane’s waterfront properties glimmering in the sunlight. A number of local operators offer Brisbane River cruises. For example, Kookaburra River Queen adds a touch of luxury to the experience by providing lunch and dinner cruises while River City Cruises takes you on an informative river tour which highlights Brisbane’s sights and historical landmarks like Kangaroo Point Cliffs and the Story Bridge.

If that doesn’t excite you enough, why not take a day trip? Two sand islands sit off the coast from Brisbane, protecting the city’s ports from the Pacific Ocean. Just a short ferry ride from the bayside suburbs, each has something unique to offer. Moreton Island is the place to go if you prefer quieter moments while North Stradbroke offers a variety of activities like museums, galleries and whale watching. Both islands feature stunning coastlines and beautiful beaches and places you should head to if you’re thinking of planning an extended day trip for the family.

Another place to head for the Redlands, a paradise for nature lovers. A place where the land meets the sea, the region’s marine inhabitants, from dolphins and manta rays, are plentiful all year round. You will be able to see whales too during their northern and southern migration from the vantage point of North Stradbroke Island’s North Gorge Headland Walk. This walk also offers more than just stunning ocean views – the pinnacle of the rocky trail is a natural sea inlet known as the Blow Hole, which sends ocean water streaming into the air like a humpback whale reaching the sea’s surface.

But for those who prefer to be closer to marine life can snorkel and scuba dive off Point Lookout to meet manta rays, dolphins and corals with Manta Lodge. If you’d rather be floating on the water, head to Amity for kayaking but make sure you keep an eye out for sea turtles in the area. When you return to the shore, relax by the beach and watch the island’s dolphins that visit Amity Point most afternoons. Ready to plan a trip to beautiful Brisbane? Book a stay with us at Capri by Fraser, Brisbane!

The great outdoors in Brisbane – part 1

The city of Brisbane is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities and one of Australia’s top holiday destinations. It’s history has always been colourful: Brisbane began life as a penal colony for British convicts in the 1800s but its scenic and fertile surroundings soon drew in settlers from the world over.

Now Australia’s third largest city, Brisbane is perhaps best known for its mix of culture and style – the nightlife spots, cutting-edge art scene and multitude of award-winning restaurants and cafes are reasons why this Queensland capital is on the travel radar.

Plus, there’s that great subtropical weather which means outdoor events like food markets can be enjoyed almost all year round.

According to the Tourism Australia website, there were 6.8 million visitor arrivals for year ending September 2014, an increase of 8.2 percent relative to the previous year.

In 2014, global travel media company Lonely Planet also picked Brisbane as “arguably Australia’s hippest city… (an) energetic river town on the way up.”

But what makes Brisbane truly unique is its wealth of nature. On top of that, the mild climate also allows visitors to experience the outdoors all year round. After all, locals will tell you that life in the city is best lived outdoors. They’re not wrong: There are hundreds of walks, parks, bike rides, beaches as well as river activities and theme parks to immerse yourself in.

So whether it is trekking up Brisbane’s highest peak Mount Coot-ha or abseiling down the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, Brisbane is the place to go if you want to experience the great outdoors.

The city of Brisbane is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities and one of Australia’s top holiday destinations. It’s history has always been colourful: Brisbane began life as a penal colony for British convicts in the 1800s but its scenic and fertile surroundings soon drew in settlers from the world over. Now Australia’s third largest city, Brisbane is perhaps best known for its mix of culture and style – the nightlife spots, cutting-edge art scene and multitude of award-winning restaurants and cafes are reasons why this Queensland capital is on the travel radar.

Plus, there’s that great subtropical weather which means outdoor events like food markets can be enjoyed almost all year round. According to the Tourism Australia website, there were 6.8 million visitor arrivals for year ending September 2014, an increase of 8.2 percent relative to the previous year. In 2014, global travel media company Lonely Planet also picked Brisbane as “arguably Australia’s hippest city… (an) energetic river town on the way up.”

But what makes Brisbane truly unique is its wealth of nature. On top of that, the mild climate also allows visitors to experience the outdoors all year round. After all, locals will tell you that life in the city is best lived outdoors. They’re not wrong: There are hundreds of walks, parks, bike rides, beaches as well as river activities and theme parks to immerse yourself in. So whether it is trekking up Brisbane’s highest peak Mount Coot-ha or abseiling down the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, Brisbane is the place to go if you want to experience the great outdoors.

An escape from the city

Brisbane maybe surrounded by its towering skyscrapers, but the city’s famed nature spots is merely a walk away. For example, a great place to start is right in the city at Roma Street Parkland and the City Botanic Gardens. Bring comfortable walking shoes as there are spectacular walking and bike tracks close to Brisbane and surrounding suburbs – you could end up walking for hours!

The forests and reserves of Brisbane also make a great day trip for bushwalking or to just take in the natural beauty. At 28,500 hectares, Brisbane Forest Park is the place to go to enjoy a picnic, relax in the cafe, explore the walking trails. You might even catch some of the natural wildlife while you are there.

Speaking of wildlife, Daisy Hill Conservation Park is a koala habitat that is a must visit. One of the last relatively intact natural habitats between Brisbane and the Gold Coast for the species, and quite possibly the best place to go for if you are escaping the hubbub of city life.

With luck, as you enjoy a picnic or a morning walk, you just might catch a sight of a koala resting on one of the tall gum trees. Otherwise, visit the Daisy Hill Koala Centre (free admission) to learn more about these Australian icons.

Another place to catch these mammals is at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: With more than 130 Koalas calling the venue home, the sanctuary is considered one of Brisbane’s must-see attractions. Here, you can hold a koala, hand feed kangaroos and wallabies or even watch a platypus play in his enclosure!

Stay at a Capri by Fraser, Brisbane if you visit the city and stay tuned for more in part 2!

3 reasons you need a holiday, stat!

Sure, everyone wants to go on holiday. But why do so many of us find it so hard to actually find the time – and to truly disconnect? And why do we feel guilty, feeling like we’re being self-indulgent and shirking our responsibilities?The reality is, taking a break is part of being a good employee, spouse, parent and human being! Your regular, jam-packed routine can take its toll, and sometimes, the hardest time to take a vacation is exactly when you need it the most.

Here are three big reasons you need a holiday:

Get inspired

At some point, all of us would feel like we’ve lost our “mojo” at work. Then it’s about time to get some inspiration reload! Being surrounded in the same, stagnant environment can bore you and make your output equally stagnant. Get out for some fun, laughter, sun or snow (if you prefer), and visit places that can make you feel happy and inspired. Plus, taking some time out can help combat the effects of burnout at work and at home. It can help to give you that extra focus you need to perform at your best!

Rebuild your body

It’s easy to underestimate the impact a chronic lack of good rest can do to your body. Sometimes all you need to heal yourself is getting better sleep! You won’t just feel better rested – studies have shown that getting enough sleep leads to better memory, reduced inflammation, boosts in creativity, improved athletic performance and many more benefits! So go on holiday, get away from all the usual stressors of your life and make sure you get a good night’s sleep

Get fit!

You actually can regain fitness just by going on holidays. Vacations often demand that we are more active (sightseeing can involve a lot of walking!) and offer many other fun ways to get our blood pumping, whether it’s swimming or skiing or white water rafting!

Don’t forget to take advantage of the fitness facilities where you’re staying as well. At Capri properties, for example, our fully-equipped gyms are open around the clock! And if you’re at our property in Kuala Lumpur, you’ll even have access to the Yoga and Aerobics room 24/7. There’s no excuse for not getting a workout in!

So, get planning and start booking!

Tips for solo travelers

Ever wanted to plan a holiday or go on a last minute getaway, but couldn’t find anyone to travel with you?

Or have you ever felt like you could do and see so much more if you traveled alone?

Traveling solo is a great way to indulge yourself fully. You’re on your own, independent and in control of every aspect of your trip. This also means you can do exactly what you want – all the time. That includes traveling at your own pace, doing things that interest you, and splurging to your heart’s content!

But of course, there are also downsides to traveling alone. Your solo trip may be more expensive as costs aren’t shared. And you have no moral support when things don’t go as planned.

However, solo travel allows you to discover more about yourself while also discovering more about the place you’re visiting. It is fun, challenging and exhilarating!

To ensure you have a great time on your first or next solo trip, here are some tips!

Planning

It’s important that you do some planning. It doesn’t have to be a detailed schedule but ensure you at least book your accommodations for the first night before you take off!

Pack light 

Remember to pack light so that you can manage your luggage and carry-on without struggling. One carry-on suitcase or a backpack can work for a quick getaway.

Arrive during the day

Avoid trying to find your way through an unfamiliar place at night. Make sure to arrive in daylight!

Organised tours

Book some organised tours to enjoy the company of others. It also takes away the pressure of planning an itinerary or worrying about getting around the city on your own.

Essentials

Make sure to carry your important documents and emergency contact information on you while you’re out.

Take your own photos

This is where a selfie stick could come in handy. Everyone back at home will be jealous they didn’t come with you in the first place!

Avoid dark and secluded areas

Especially at night, keep to open and public places.

Trust your gut

If something doesn’t feel right, you probably shouldn’t do it. Trust your instincts!

Of course, the most important thing while you’re traveling is to have fun and broaden your horizons! So, are you up for it?

Taking it easy in Bangsar

It isn’t a holiday if you don’t make time to pamper yourself. After hours spent on meals and shopping in Bangsar, take some time off to relax!

In need of a Turkish bath? Don’t you worry. There’s no need to head to the Middle East when Kuala Lumpur has some top notch Turkish baths (aka hammams) of its own! Hammam Bangsar recreates the authentic Turkish bath and spa experience through its splendid mosaic Moroccan-themed interiors – not to mention the exquisite treatment you’ll get at the hands of their expert massage therapists and spa technicians!

3f7 & 3f8, Bangsar Village 2

At Boudoir by Soong Ai Ling, it’s not just the manicures that are French – its beautiful interiors transport you from Bangsar to Paris as well. The sumptuous salon is the brainchild of former model and TV host, Soong Ai Ling, who certainly understands beauty and luxury – so you can trust that you’ll be properly looked after! And the pampering doesn’t end at the treatments! Customers are also offered champagne and macarons, too, so you can indulge while being pampered.
 We say it’s a must-go!

2f-11, Bangsar Village 2

Shopping spots in Bangsar

We’ve shown you all the good eats in Bangsar… now it’s time to go shopping!

Let’s take you through our favourite places to shop in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur.

Started as a hobby project in 2013, 17A Select Store soon blossomed into its current incarnation at a first floor walk-up of
a former art gallery. The brainchild of Irman Hilmi and Adeline Chong, this epicentre of cool imports the Japanese concept of select stores – an assortment of wares sold under one roof – and gives it local spin. Hilmi and Chong not only champion premium Malaysian marques but also curate a selection of merchandise that lends their shop a razor-sharp style.

3 Jalan Telawi, Bangsar Baru

Shop the world in Sundays everyday. This quirky lifestyle boutique in Bangsar Village is a treasure trove of exquisitely curated finds from all over the globe. Whether it be vintage fabrics or antique bric-a-bracs and artisanal crafts, Sundays is the place to stock up on hard-to-find one-of-a-kind home furnishings.

1F-29 & 30, Bangsar Village 2

Designed in La Ville Lumiere and produced in Malaysia, Dude &
 the Duchess is a one-of-a-kind his and hers boutique specialising in stylish tailorings. Expect sharp looks with chic details or trimmings on shirts from the brand, now helmed by Paris-based Malaysian designer Jonathan Liang. The International New York Times once called it a Malaysian marque “with a hearty dose of originality”. Prices start from RM129.

UGF-19, Upper Ground Floor, Bangsar Village 2

Started in 2010 by a three-man team, Pestle & Mortar has since taken “Made in Malaysia” branding to new heights. Champion of all things Malaysian and street – even the prices are high-street – Pestle & Mortar’s Bangsar store not only carries its signature slogan T-shirts, but also a limited but nicely-curated selection 
of international brands such as Vans and Nike.

11 Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru

That’s not it!

For our shoppers…

Capri by Fraser, Kuala Lumpur/Malaysia provides a free shopping shuttle to Bangsar Village 2, in the late morning and afternoon at four timings: 10.30am, 11.30am, 4pm & 5pm.