Have you ever met a 79-year-old with face tattoos? If you could, what would you ask them? That’s the question we’ve been asking ourselves since hearing about Capella Curates, a new programme of immersive cultural experiences from Capella Hotels & Resorts. The company is rolling out unique activities at each of its properties, offering travellers a deep-dive into each destination and a chance to meet with local characters who will help them view a place through new eyes.
New buildings in many parts of Asia are often subject to a feng shui assessment to determine if their design, usage and character are the right fit for the location. In Singapore, Capella guests will explore the modern cityscape via motorcycle and sidecar, accompanied by a feng shui expert who will explain the principles behind some of the city’s unique architecture.
In Shanghai, guests can explore Art Deco architecture and traditional shikumen neighbourhoods with professional photographer Mr Wang, who will lead a tour of the city’s most photogenic spots and share tips on taking first class images.
Bali-bound travellers will be able to reconnect with themselves in the Confined to Quarters experience, in which traditional rituals are performed in the comfort of Bill Bensley-designed luxury tents. Blessings, yoga and Balinese massage will fill the day, followed by a traditional Balinese feast prepared on an open fire outside the tent and a sunrise purification ritual at the Wos River Temple the next morning. At the company’s newest hotel in Bangkok, younger visitors are introduced to mindfulness and kids yoga as part of the Little Monks programme.
And the lady with the face tattoos? She is one of the indigenous Li people, an ethnic group who have inhabited Hainan island for thousands of years. At Capella Sanya, guests can visit Li villages in the company of a guide who will tale tales of Li culture and heritage and introduce visitors to the 79-year-old matriarch.