For a toast, as a gift, with a celebratory feast or even mixed in a cocktail, these sparkling wines may be more obscure than Champagne, but they’ll still add a touch of luxury to almost any bash.

Cremant Bourgogne Philippe Marquis  

What: Buttery, round and tasting of apples, this Champagne method sparkling wine from Burgundy boasts fine bubbles and is made from 100 percent Chardonnay grapes. The bottle is pretty classy looking too (green and gold with a fancy French name scrawled in cursive script across the label) and at first glance could pass for a pricey Champagne.
Why: This good-looking bottle would work great as a gift. Bring it along for your hosts and have them save it for after dinner. Though dry, because the wine is buttery, it makes it a smart pairing with dessert, especially rich pastry.

$32 from Le Benaton

Cremant d’ Alsace Buecher  

What: Crisp and acidic, this wine from Alsace is made from pinot blanc, Riesling, tokay and pinot gris. Comes in a classic-style bottle with a “prestige” label—looks expensive.
Why: For a pre-dinner toast. The bottle’s classy and festive, and the wine gets the appetite going with its lemony acidity.

$45 from Le Benaton

Finca Flichman Extra Brut  

What: A salmon-hued vino (though you won’t know it from the dark bottle) made from Chardonnay and Malbec from a dry rocky vineyard off the Mendoza River. It’s got more body than the average sparkling wine and though it’s produced by Charmat method, the bubbles are not too aggressive.
Why: It’s light and fresh but—because of the Malbec—has enough body to stand up to food. Have it with high-end seasonal offerings like lobster, oysters and caviar.

$32.10 from Le Vigne Wines

Langford Blanc de Blanc

What: Made from hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes, this New Zealand sparkling wine boasts fine bubbles and a creamy, mousse-like texture.
Why: Appropriate for a pre-dinner tipple or to accompany seafood and white meat, this little number is a real crowd pleaser. Phoenix Wines managing director Manfred Tan says, “The wine’s pure flavor makes it easy to appreciate and I find it’s always a hit when I host corporate tastings.”

$47 from Phoenix Wines

Sumarroca Brut Rosado Cava

What: Rosé phobics might be scared off by this cherry pink cava which comes in a clear bottle. Thankfully, it isn’t as sweet as it looks. Made from pinot noir and Garnacha, it’s also got enough flavor to stand up to food.
Why: It’s a pretty pink tipple that doesn’t taste like a sugary cliché from the ’80s. Pick it up for a romantic get-together.

$35 from Wines Online

Zardetto-Milliesimato 2010

What: This extra dry Prosecco comes in a cool dark bottle with a great big “X” on the front: très edgy. Tastewise, it’s got plenty to offer—fine bubbles, a bright green apple-like flavor—and would make a cleansing pairing with salty antipasti (think briny anchovies and sardines).
Why: The modern-looking bottle’s a perfect fit if you’re afraid of looking stuffy (those cremants can look pretty dated). It’s also clean-tasting enough to go with small bites or even work in a good Bellini.

$48 from TOQUE, ToTT

Advance Planning
Get the ball rolling by sending invites out early. Valerie Lange, events manager at Speakeasy says, “Between three to four weeks before the party is a safe time to send out the invites. And it’s always good to send a reminder a week as well as a day before.” A good place to get some custom-made ones is Kartoe. They offer bespoke services like hand calligraphy and wax seal stamping (100 invites from $1,500).

Budgeting
Lance says, “It’s important to weigh what is crucial to spend on and what can be compromised. Get quotes from more than one vendor and do not just settle for the first. In order to get reasonable prices, it’s also best to start planning in advance as there are always extra charges for last minute services.”

Catering
Food’s at the center of most good parties, so you better get it right. Big spenders can try Dolcetto by Basilico’s Take Home A Butler package ($2,988 for 10 people)—you get luxe dishes like Sevruga caviar and roasted wagyu beef with truffle sauce, three bottles of vino, and a Four Seasons butler to set up and serve the meal for up to four hours. For something more affordable, the folks at Preparazzi provide set menus—like salmon wellington for four to six people ($120)—delivered straight to you. Also, private chef Eric Low from Lush Epicurean can whip up anything from Mediterranean to Asian chow for six to 20 (from $80 per person). If you’re cooking the meal yourself, make sure you have plenty of extra food. Chef Low says, “For a sit-down meal, always have two extra plates on hand; for cocktail parties, 20-30 percent more canapés than you think you’ll need. You never know when unexpected guests turn up or mishaps happen.” C is also for Champagne—here's where you can get great sparkling wines for under $50.

Delivery Services
To wash down all that grub, you need an ample supply of booze. Instead of hauling heavy bottles home, get them sent right to your doorstep. Drinks Fellas offers unusual liquors like Butterfly Boston 1902 absinthe ($116.63) with free delivery (minimum order $200). Also, E Wine Asia sells everything from sparkling to fortified wines with free delivery (for orders $200 and above), standard delivery in two working days ($15 delivery charge) and express next-day delivery ($30). Sometimes you just need a nice cold brew, so pick from 300 craft suds at Thirsty—The Beer Shop. They’re having a 10 percent discount for 24 mix-and-match bottles (minimum value of $200) with free delivery through December 31. Owner Roland Utama says, “To cater to different palates, we recommend hosts have beers covering four taste profiles: light and refreshing like the Redor Pils ($7.90), floral and aromatic like BrewDog Punk IPA ($8.90), rich and flavorful like Orval ($9.90), and a sweet and fruity cider such as Brothers Toffee Apple ($9.90).”

Expert Advice
If you have no idea what to do, it’s not the end of the world—call in the professionals. The folks at Fine Palate will plan everything for you, be it a cocktail party (from $85 per head) or a sit-down soiree ($210 per head). You can also try RED Events, which offers private parties from $120 a head.

Flowers
So you find balloons and streamers tacky and boring. To spruce up your space, get professional flower arrangements at Boenga instead. Though pricey (an arrangement for a table of six costs $2,500), their designs are popular with the high society crowd. If blooms are not your thing, fret not. Lange says, “A nice table centerpiece can also make a big impact: a big vase filled with fruit or candy, a nice designer cake, birds in cages, fishes in bowls or even fancy hats.”

Going Green
When you're hosting indoors or out, using green tableware will make you feel better about throwing it all away after the party’s done. Pick up biodegradable plates and cutlery from Olive Green (plates from $60 for 500) or L’earth (from $1.20 for 50 forks).

Home or Away
One of the biggest headaches when hosting a party is deciding whether to have it at home or rent a space elsewhere. Corazon Events Management’s managing director Adrian Teng (see Teng's top party tips) says, “You do save a bit of money when you have a party at home but sometimes there are practical considerations. You can’t fit 200 people in your house.” For away-from-home ideas, historic old bungalows and even popular watering holes are pretty memorable spots.

Ice
Break the ice with appropriate (and entertaining) questions. And make ice—really cool looking ice at that—with the ice ball mold ($12.90 for two) from ToTT. The large sphere of ice melts slowly so you don’t get watery cocktails.

Juggling a Million Things
To keep track of everything that’s going on, use planning and organization apps. With Dragon Dictation (free for iPhone), you can convert spoken words to written text (awesome for reminders). There’s also Remember The Milk (free for iPhone and Android) for to-do lists. And if you want to be really thorough—important for more formal shindigs—Super Planner ($12.38 for iPhone and Android) helps with nitty-gritty details like budget, amount of food and venue capacity.

Keeping it Flowing
The most important factor in a great party is lubrication; it all ends when the booze dries up. But there’s no need to worry that you’ll be stuck mixing drinks all night. Samuel Wong, bartender at Jigger & Pony, explains, “Preparing high volume drinks like punch bowls ahead of time is not just convenient for you, it can result in better flavors. Simple recipes are also best as they allow the host to concentrate on entertaining guests.” Jack Ong, a partner at Drink Fellas, adds, “It’s good to have a range of liqueurs as they mix well with other alcohol for easy cocktails. For example, a good quick drink to make would be Mozart chocolate liqueur or Vedrenne Crème de Cassis with sparkling wine.”

Looking Your Best
Party planning is tough. Don’t forget to take care of yourself with festive spa specials so you look fresh for the big do. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental has a dedicated Party Preparation Package ($340) that includes a full body massage, facial and foot massage. Another way to get your mind off the frantic preparations is Spa Esprit’s Cheeky Chai Detox Massage ($235 for 105 minutes) which expels harmful toxins, stimulates cell metabolism, and rejuvenates skin through a massage, scrub and wrap. Once your skin’s feeling fresh, get a professional make-up artist to do you up for the event. Cleo Chang, founder of Cleo Chang Make-up charges $200 for her services. To make sure your look has staying power through the evening, she says, “Bring along loose powder and lip gloss for a quick touch-up. You don’t want your face to look greasy under spotlights and camera flashes.”

Music
Grab your guests’ attention with some wacky live music by Stew Bamrah of the Bamrah Bros. He plays funk, Afro-Brazilian and reggae on the electronic didgeridoo and the mandolin. Or, create your own mixtape; just don’t let your ego or rarefied taste in music get in the way. Veteran local DJ Debbie Chia explains, “Make a mixtape that doesn’t scream who you are, but provides what the party needs. Put together feel-good tracks that get people singing along and maybe even making out by the end of the night. Start with something upbeat and keep the energy level up with vocal tracks and songs including other live elements.”No money for live music or DJs? Try an online radio station. Last.fm puts together playlists based on your favorite artistes, Live365 gets you plenty of variety—everything from classical and country to hip-hop and Latin music—and Sonar gives airtime to local beat makers like Vanessa Fernandez, Good Times, and X’Ho.

Nostalgic Venues
Colonial black-and-white buildings make gorgeous party venues. Nestled in Labrador Park, Tamarind Hill is a stunning space that can accommodate up to 130 (sit down) or 300 (cocktail). Rates are around $20,000 a night (5pm-12am) for a cocktail shindig inclusive of haute Thai nibbles and drinks. Prices for similar-style bungalow 7Adam start at $2,000 for 30 to 50 (just the bar and lounge area) and run up to $15,000 on weekdays and $20,000 on weekends for the whole house, which will hold 350 people. For anyone with an artistic streak, display space Red Sea Gallery is also available for events from eight to 200 people. Expect to pay around $10,000 for 80 people.

Outfits
Look smart with the perfect party outfit put together by a personal stylist. Karen Ng at Glitz will pick out a complete look (hair, jewelry, makeup and clothes) from $1,000. There’s also Club 21 Style Services available at $300 per hour (free if you spend $1,000 at the store). Lani Chan, head of Club 21 Style Services, has got plenty of tips for staying cool and looking chic in our hot and humid weather. She suggests, “In the tropics, ladies can wear sparkly tops with shorts and bejeweled heels, and guys can try some nice jeans or colorful corduroy pants."

Photography
Double chins, red eyes and that notorious extra five pounds—it isn't easy to look good in photos. Al Tan, director and photographer at studio LiveMoments, has some choice tips on how to look great. He says, “Pictures from a high angle may make you look like Tweety Bird (big head, small legs). Instead, try taking from chest level: it’ll make your legs look longer. And if you can’t help but feel like a block of wood when taking pictures, lean against something. You look more natural.” He and the folks at LiveMoments will act as your event photographers, roaming around snapping and printing instant images. Packages start at $1,088 for four hours. Alternatively, LiveStudios Interactive Photography provides a photo booth complete with fun props so you’ll get the most out of the instant photos. Prices start at $850 for two hours.

Quirky Costumes
Nothing to wear for a costume party? The Wear House rents out belly dancing getups ($50) as well as SIA flight attendant costumes ($40) to ladies; gents can get togged out in colonial police garb ($50). And at Masquerade, you can get dressed up as a pirate ($50) or Cleopatra (from $80).

Renting
Why pay for expensive things you'll only use once? Events Partner offers designer furnishings such as the Chivari chair (from $10.20) and Tulip table ($59.50) for one to three-day rental, providing extra seating (without having to resort to cheap foldable chairs). Music buffs can lease sound equipment from Music Warehouse, where they have event packages (from $190 for three hours) including professional standard loudspeakers, amplifiers and microphones.

Security
If you’re having the party at home, you’ll want to stash away any embarrassing items in the medicine cabinet and incriminating photos. At bigger events, it might even be a good idea to hide valuables and breakables (like that antique heirloom vase you were counting on to pay for your retirement). As an extra precaution, you can hire a bouncer from JT Security at $30 per hour (minimum eight hours).

Tools
So you've got the recipes, but none of the kit to make it happen. Pick up all the equipment you need at ToTT like a Cuisinart blender ($550.10)—perfect for anything from soup to daiquiris—and fancy wine glasses by Helicium (from $107 for two). If you’re really adventurous, get a molecular cocktail mixology kit ($117.50), which allows you to make alcoholic caviar beads, airs and jellies. Also try LemonZest for some F&D brand martini glasses ($31.80), cocktail shakers (from $31) and muddlers (from $9).

Ultimate Party Trick
Sabering Champagne (lobbing off the top of a bottle, cork and glass rim included) will certainly leave a lasting impression on your guests. David Coleman, CEO at Asia Wine Society—which runs classes on sabrage—explains, “The process involves a firm tap at the top of the Champagne bottle, just below the lip, from a blunt sword. A precise hit at the weakest point and the pressure of the Champagne in the bottle will take the top off. Be careful, the bottle top can fly as far as 10 meters away!” Getting you hands on a sword however won’t be easy. Call the folks at Asia Wine Society and they’ll hook you up with a specimen imported from Europe.

Vegetarian
Keep non-meat eating guests happy with the menus at Marmalade at Home available from $52 for a buffet (minimum 50 pax)—including plenty of salad and savouries like mushroom quiche—and $80-100 for a four-course sit down affair. Well-known “pay-as-you-wish” Indian institution Annalakshmi also offers five- to seven-course catered meals (there are set prices though). Expect to pay $40-60 per head for a group of around 10.

Wine Bars
Since alcohol’s essential to keep the party going, what better place to host your event then at a wine bar? Most don’t charge anything for the use of their space, but do require a minimum spend. Speakeasy will accommodate around 80 (standing) for a minimum spend of $1,500-2,000 on weekdays and $2,500 on weekends. And at WineBos you can rent their cozy attic with a minimum spend of $500-$800 for 12 people. The space will take up to 25 (with minimum spend of $1,000). Those on a tighter budget can hit homey neighbourhood joint The Oak Room, where you need to spend just $700 for 30 people on a weeknight (6-11pm).

eXit
When the whole affair’s over, you’ll want to get your guests out the door ASAP, so you can get started on cleanup. If they’ve had a bit too much to drink, call taxi and limo services to get them home safe. Limousine Cab offers a range of options from a seven-seat maxi cab for $50 an hour (minimum two hours) to a minibus for 19-23 for $100 an hour (minimum three hours) and will drive them to as many locations as needed within that time period. Alternatively, The Sixt Limousine Fleet offers town cars like the Toyota Camry (seats three) for $55 an hour (minimum three hours) and luxury minivans (seats six) for $60 an hour (minimum three hours).

Yawning
For guests who just won’t leave, pull out an inflatable mattress ($29.99) from Giant.

Zero Mess
In the aftermath of a particularly wild bash, E Cleaning Solutions will cleanup after you for around $600 if it’s an outdoor party.

[ THAILAND ] Akatsuki Resort
Set along Lipa Noi Beach, this private villa is suited for a cozy group of up to 15 people. It has four pools, a spa and a dedicated team of service staff from chefs to guides, drivers and butlers. The villa goes for US$3,100 (S$3,808).

[ THAILAND ] Amari Hua Hin
From the 223-room beach resort, you can easily visit nearby attractions like Hua Hin Vineyard and the Cicada Market. Rates start at B2,400 (S$95).

[ THE PHILLIPPINES ] Ariara Island
Enjoy 125-acres of green space with up to 16 other people. This island resort features accommodation styled like a private home complete with a private chef, massage and manicure services. Activities available include kayaking, diving, boating and trekking through the island’s forests. Bookings are available for groups of 15-17 for US$295 (S$383) per person, per night, for a minimum of seven nights. All activities and food are included in the price while return transfers cost US$600 (S$779).

[ MALAYSIA ] Gaya Island Resort
Located just off the coast of Kota Kinabalu and a 30-minute car and speedboat ride from the airport, this 121-villa resort offers breathtaking views of the ocean and Mount Kinabalu. The place is home to many rare species including the orangutan and the proboscis monkey. Plenty of outdoor activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, nature walks and private yacht charters are available. A 40-meter infinity swimming pool rounds out the fitness facilities. There are also more sedate handicraft classes and storytelling sessions, plus, a spa village with six rooms—surrounded by a mangrove forest—offering treatments informed by Borneo culture. Rooms are available from RM600 (S$243).

[MALAYSIA] The Oberoi, Lombok
Conveniently situated for both trips up Mount Rinjani and across to the nearby Gili Islands, this resort occupies a truly stunning plot of oceanfront land. Its 20 villas and 30 pavilions are spread across 24 acres of grounds and the resort also boasts a tennis court, a beach club (with PADI dive center) and its own boat launch. Rates start from US$380 (S$483).

[ INDONESIA ] Montigo Resorts Nongsa
This Mediterranean-styled hotel is set on a private beach along Batam’s northeastern coast. Its 88 villas each have a private plunge pool, alfresco dining area and sky terrace. Rates start at S$371.

[ CAMBODIA ] Song Saa
Just a 30-minute speedboat ride from the coastal city of Sihanoukville (S$90 per person per trip), this resort rests on two footbridge-connected-islands called Song Saa (or The Sweethearts in Khmer). The setup comprises 27 intimate villas built from sustainable materials and modelled after Cambodian fishing villages (expect thatch roofs, rough-hewn natural timbers and drift wood furnishings). An on-premise spa offers Khmer treatments using local herbs, sand and iron-rich stones. There’s also a marine reserve home to dugongs and seahorses. Rates start from S$668 per person per night (includes meals and drinks, laundry, minibar, transfers and leisure activities).

[ CHINA ] St. Regis Sanya Yalong Bay
Everything about the place is inspired by the sea—from the lobby outfitted with yacht-like wood finishes to its restaurant, Driftwood, which dishes out fresh local seafood. It also has 800 meters of beach frontage and exclusive berths for luxury yachts at on-premise Sanya Yalong Yacht Club. Rates start at RM1,575 (S$307).

[CHINA] Hyatt Regency Qingdao
The place has 439 rooms and all have clear views of the sea as well as floor-to-ceiling windows. Crowning the building is an ocean view rooftop terrace. In addition, the on-site spa Qing features eight spa suites and four reflexology rooms. Alongside the spa is a gym which overlooks the beach and a 25-meter temperature-controlled indoor pool. Rates start at CNY788 (S$156).

[ INDONESIA ] Queen Villa and Spa
Accessible by public boat from Bangsal Harbor, Gili Trawangan Island is a haven for those interested in aquatic life. The resort offers diving sessions (reef sharks, sea turtles, Manta rays and Moray eels are known to roam these waters) and fishing lessons. After a day out at sea, come back to one of their 125 modern rooms and enjoy spa, fine-dining are bar facilities. Rates start at US$200 (S$257).

Need more beachfront options? Check out our round up of the best hotels in Koh Samui.

Away Spa
With rainforest-inspired decor and a jacuzzi area soaked in aglowing purple hue, the Away Spa isn’t somewhere you’ll forget in a hurry. The nine guest rooms and suites here, each equipped with its own private plunge pool, are perfect for anyone feeling burnt out in the run-up to Christmas. The spa menu is basic with single massage ($250 for 90 minutes) and facial ($220 for 90 minutes) options, but book a Smooth Sensation body polish ($75 for 30 minutes) or even their Coast to Coast regeneration therapy ($140 for 60 minutes)—said to reduce cellulite appearance and water retention—and you should be set.

Estheva Spa
Having been named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Best City Spas to Visit in 2011, Estheva Spa is easily the best luxury day spa in town. Its recently opened flagship outlet in Raffles Hotel boasts fresh flowers, calming pastels and grand chandeliers, making you feel like you’re a guest in Martha Stewart’s home (no, not the prison cell, the other one). Estheva’s signature treatments are carried out in large, plush spa suites; try their renowned Choc De- Ager ($355 for 150 minutes), an anti-aging treatment that’s said to possess mood-boosting properties, or their Christmas Magic Scrub with Personalised Massage (12 options available; $210 for 110 minutes).

The Spa Artisan
This one is by the folks behind Aramsa, The Garden Spa and is located in the CBD area—great for 9-to-5ers. The main draws are the Red Flower treatments—using 100 percent natural and organic ingredients—which include hammam (Turkish bath) rituals ($350 for 150 minutes). It’s small but cozy, with fresh wall creepers in the hallways, swing seats and a dimly-lit lounge area. There are some quirky elements here too, like the aptly-named nail spa Pedi Field, as well as an aromatherapy bar where you can blend your own treatment oils.

St. Gregory
The fifth home of this award-winning hotel spa chain is at Pan Pacific Orchard and it’s an earthy and tranquil space inspired by the ocean. Though it’s small, with only four treatment rooms, a foot reflexology room and a luxuriously Zen suite, its hush, intimate vibe makes you feel as if you’ve escaped somewhere far away from the city. One treatment unique to this branch is the St. Gregory Hot and Cold Stone Music Therapy Booster ($190 for 75 minutes), a massage which helps calm the mind, rebalance energy and ease aches and muscle tension. With an extensive spa menu of over 40 treatments, there’s bound to be something to remedy any ailment and melt away stress. 

[THAILAND] 137 Pillars House

A dose of 19th-century British colonial charm nestled along the Ping River in Chiang Mai, this hotel is located only a few minutes away from popular tourist spots and a host of riverside boutiques and restaurants. The historic building has 30 suites decked out with vintage furnishings such as four-poster beds and free-standing Victorian baths. Plus, each room has its own collection of books on Thai history, culture and plant life. Rates start at B6,300 (S$250).

[MALAYSIA] 23 Love Lane

This estate comprises buildings that were erected at various times throughout the 19th and 20th centuries: the Anglo Indian Bungalow, the Straits Eclectic Building, the 1920s Jack Roof Annex and The Indian Shophouse. The historic compound was meticulously restored over the past three years. Heritage tours and airport shuttle services are available upon request. Rates start at RM400 (S$160).

[THAILAND] Cabochon Bangkok

The eight-room establishment, housed in an art deco mansion, features colonial décor elements inspired by the 1920s (think antique trinkets like toy planes and vintage world maps). But there are also modern comforts like wifi and cable television, plus a rooftop garden, swimming pool and in-house Thai-Laotian restaurant, Thai Lao Yeh. Rates start at around B4,800 (S$191).

[MALAYSIA] Campbell House

A debut project for British hoteliers Roberto Dreon and Nardya Wray, this three-level shophouse (once a sailors’ hostel) has 11 individually decorated suites with colorful Peranakan tile decorations, walk-in rain showers and organic locally made toiletries. On-site, there’s also Il Bacaro, a traditional Venetian restaurant, with Italian small plates and fish specialties. Rates start at RM330 (S$133).

[LAOS] Maison Souvannaphoum

After extensive remodeling, the mansion—which was once owned by a Lao prince—is now a stylish boutique option for travelers heading to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the area’s French colonial and traditional Lao architecture, meandering rivers, Buddhist temples and scenic countryside. Then, return to the retreat for traditional spa treatments at the award-winning Angsana Spa. Stays cost US$110 (S$135).

[JAPAN] Palace Hotel Tokyo

This luxury hotel is set in the green sprawling gardens of the Imperial Palace. Right by a moat, it replaces two shuttered hotels—Hotel Teito and the Palace Hotel—that occupied the same site from 1947 and 1961, respectively. The place features ten restaurants which run the gamut from Japanese to French, each with direct links to two-star Michelin chefs. Evian, famous for its mineral water and luxe resort in France, also has a spa on the hotel’s fifth floor. Rooms start at US$596 (S$727).

[MALAYSIA] The Sterling

Situated in the heart of the Malacca’s heritage zone, this hotel offers easy access to places of interest such as Jonker Street and the Stadthuys. The building itself is a charming example of colonial architecture, with 37 rooms and the city's only rooftop restaurant. An eco-friendly establishment, the place also has a rainwater collection tank with a capacity of 320 liters and uses solar panels as a main energy source. Rooms are available from RM350 (S$143).

[SINGAPORE] The Sultan

Located in the historically Muslim neighborhood of Kampong Glam, this 64-room boutique hotel is housed in two rows of vintage shophouses featuring eight-meter-high ceilings and ornate hand-carved window screens; the rooms include handmade furniture and modern Arabic design elements. It’s also just minutes from iconic buildings and attractions including the Malay Heritage Centre, the Sultan Mosque, and popular shopping mall Bugis Junction. Rooms start at S$145.

[HONG KONG] Tai O Heritage Hotel

Built by the British in 1902, this two-story colonial-style former police station offers an utterly different perspective of Hong Kong. With just nine rooms and one restaurant, it pays to book ahead. Free tours of the historic site are given daily (3pm and 4pm), and the entirety of the hotel (except for occupied rooms) remains open to the public. Rooms and packages start at HK$1,380 (S$217).

[SRI LANKA] The Wallawwa

Built in Dutch colonial style, this traditional clay-tiled resort boasts over 200 years of history. Set on three acres of garden space, the hotel’s rooms offer plenty of private facilities. The Mountbatten Suite, for instance, features a private garden and plunge pool. A high-minded getaway, the place also gives back to the Sri Lankan community through its gift shop, which sells a collection of unique items sourced mainly from small craft producers in Sri Lanka. The store donates all its profits to charity. Room rates begin at US$160 (S$195).

Ad Here 13th Blues Bar

13 Samsen Rd., Phranakorn, 089-769-4613, [email protected]. Open daily 6pm-midnight.
If your old man is a music lover then there’s no better place to take him than the spit and sawdust charm of Ad Here. This tiny little shophouse, a short walk from Khao San, remains one of the premium joints to catch some authentic live blues thanks to its constantly rotating line up of very talented, and often slightly gnarled, local and inter musicians losing themselves in the moment. Your dad will also love the impressive collection of classic vinyl covers that serve as the wall decorations.

Humidor

Lobby/F, InterContinental Bangkok, 973 Ploenchit Rd., 02-656-0444. Open daily 8am-12:30am.
You’re not far from the Fireplace Grill to get that manly steak dinner and the Humidor has plenty of black leather and chrome to stay in the mood. But what makes this bar really special is that it’s also one of the rare places where you can puff on a big cigar indoors. Expect a solid selection of single malt whiskies to go with that stogie and live music Mon-Fri, 9pm-midnight.  

Brew Beers and Ciders

G/F, Seen Space, Thonglor Soi 13, 02-185-2366. www.brewbkk.com. Open daily 4pm-2am.
What real dad doesn’t love a beer or two, and this place has arguably the most impressive collection in town. With a range of intriguing brews that come from America, Britain, Belgium and beyond, there’s sure to be one that tickles his taste buds. Grab a seat out in the courtyard and he’ll get the added bonus of being able to ogle the bright and beautiful young things that flock to Seenspace every night.    

Manhattan Bar

2/F, JW Marriott Bangkok, 4 Sukhumvit Soi 2, 02-656-7700 ext.4230. Open daily 6pm-1am.
Located on the second floor of the JW Marriott Hotel Bangkok, at the heart of Sukhumvit, the Mahattan Bar is run by the same folks behind New York Steak House, considered one of the top places for a slab of red meat in Bangkok. Start your night with something from the grill before imbibing a few of the martini offerings in the stylish gentleman’s club ambiance.  

01 MAE HONG SON

Before Sunset

Behind Phra That Doi Gongmu, Muang, Mae Hong Son. Open daily 7am-6pm.
On our last visit to Mae Hong Son, we couldn’t believe our luck stumbling upon this charming cafe with a beautiful view hidden just behind the religious landmark Phra That Doi Gongmu. The perfect combination of a cozy terrace, colorful Lanna umbrellas and a jaw-dropping view of the valley have earned the place a spot in many films, blogs and TV programs. The coffee is not the best, but the ambiance (and photo opportunities) will have you dreaming of a return visit.

02 CHIANG MAI

Doppio Ristr8to

15/3 Nimmanhaemin Rd. front of Soi 3, 053-215-278. Open daily 08:08am-11:08pm.
Ristr8to’s initial claim to fame was the mini celeb status of owner/barista Arnon “Tong” Thitiprasert, but once you try one of his hot lattes you’ll need not remember he’s one of TV show Toey Tiew Thai’s hot vendors. Ranked 6th at the 2011 World Latte Art Championship, this Trang-born barista spent six years making coffee in Sydney before deciding to relocate to Chiang Mai to open Ristr8to in 2011. Grab a seat at the counter and watch the master serve up steaming cups of art by pouring milk over your espresso shot.

03 CHIANG RAI

Chivit Thamma Da Coffee House

Soi Baan Rong Suae Ten 3, Muang, Chiang Rai, 053-166-622. Open daily 9am-8pm. www.chivitthammada.com
After years of traveling abroad, Nattamon Holmberg decided to settle down with her husband in her hometown. Following their dream of owning a small, cozy cafe, they turned a small space by the Kok River into an English-country-style space filled with wood furnishings and floral motifs. Summers can be spent in the air-con glasshouse; while in winter, kick back in the riverside garden and enjoy the selection of coffee and tea. Nattamon serves up food, too, with the menu changing daily. And next door is Chivit Thamma Da Day Spa, if you really want to relax.

04 KHON KAEN

Coffee der La

Theparak Rd., Khaon Kaen, 081-820-2201. Open daily 10am-8pm.
Owned by the sister of Thanaruek
Laoraowirodge (see sidebar), the man behind Somtam Der and Supanniga Eating Room, this cafe successfully blends a homey ambience (think Joma in Luang Prabang) and minimal wood furnishings (think Baan Ying in Bangkok).

05 SAMUI

Bakubung

145/5 Moo 1, Bophut Beach, 084-636-9090. Open daily 10am-8:30pm.
Most people with a sizeable beachfront chunk of land in Samui would probably build a hotel. But the owners of Bakubung (meaning “people of the hippo” in Sotho-Tswana) decided to create a small cafe instead. There, you can enjoy a glass of their signature iced lemon tea (B85) on the lawn, while overlooking the sea. The best moment to visit is around sunset, of course. And it’s also an ideal spot to relax before boarding a flight, as it’s close to the airport. 

06 SANGKLABURI

Graph Cafe

Sri Suwan Khiri Rd., opposite the entrance of P Guesthouse, 081-751-2365. Open daily 7am-9pm.
Sat in a welcoming lawn space, this minimal cafe is where you rub shoulders with the international NGO volunteers who regularly frequent Sangklaburi. Apart from the iced coffee, you can also shop for locally-made merchandise like postcards and hand-painted bags, where some of the proceeds go to charity. Hidden behind the cafe is Haiku Guesthouse, housing four rooms in a traditional Japanese setting inspired by Haiku poetry and Japanese Zen.

07 NAN

Baan Khun Luang

Pha Kong Rd., Nai Vieng, Muang, Nan, 081-998-1127, 081-166-1715. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 7am-5pm.
The only coffee shop in Nan where you can sit back, sip freshly-brewed coffee, and enjoy the view of Wat Phumin, Nan’s most revered Buddhist temple, home to the famous Pu-Man-Ya-Man fresco. This teak house once belonged to a government-executive-turned-tobacco-merchant—and it’s his descendants who have turned it into one of the most visited cafés in the province.

08 NAKHON RATCHASIMA

Slow Life Coffee & More

Route 304 KM.61, Wang Nam Keao, Nakhon Ratchasima, 085-438-9898. Open daily 8am-6pm.
Recommended by our friends at Lonely Planet Magazine Thailand, this small cafe is set in a bungalow-like house done up with raw cement and vintage wood panels, overlooking Wang Nam Keao’s pristine, forested valley. Along with Arabica coffee beans handpicked from smaller producers, the venue also offers comfort food choices ranging from Japanese curry rice to spaghetti. Grab a seat by the canal and watch the world slowly go by.

09 HUA HIN

Le Chapon

31 Diskul House, Naeb Khehat Rd., 032-531-146. Open daily Thu-Tue 11am-9pm.
Probably the poshest eatery on Hua Hin’s beach strip, Le Chapon is part of the boutique resort The Hen on the main Naeb Khehat Road. The open-air space is decorated in a black-and-white theme that gives it a French flair. Le Chapon serves up French and international cuisine with a specific focus on seafood, of course. We suggest, however, that you go there during late afternoon for high tea (B1,399), served in a sophisticated porcelain set with a selection of snacks and pastries. Sea views included.

10 SONGKHLA

The Secret Garden

87 Raman Rd., Muang, Songkhla, 086-965-4998. Open Wed-Mon 10am-9pm.
Design graduate Tok Anantapan and his partner were inspired by the cover of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s novel Secret Garden, which shows a cozy backyard hidden behind a wall, to create this café which is only accessible through a small orange door. The one-year-old café is set in an 80s-style house, complete with warm colors and a small garden on Raman Road (aka Nang Ngam Road), Songkla’s up-and-coming strip for local creatives.

11 PHUKET

Mac-chiato

48 Thalang Rd., Muang, 076-215-701. Open daily 9am-9pm
Phuket town may be dominated by charming old shophouses, but Mac-chiato House is a nice blend of the old and new. Set in one of those long and narrow old shophouses that are 20-30 meters deep, Mac-chiato is separated into two sections: the front air-con section where you can enjoy their homemade coffee and cakes while reading your favorite book; and an open-air courtyard out the back that lets you laugh a little louder with friends. If you didn’t bring any reading material, you can borrow books and magazines from the bookcase that stretches along one wall.