May 2026 – TRAVEL with DONG

NEWS

THE ST. REGIS ON THE BUND, SHANGHAI INTRODUCES NEW LUXURY SUITES WITH LAUNCH OF ART PROGRAM

The St. Regis on the Bund, Shanghai continues its journey of timeless renewal, refining spatial aesthetics and curated experiences to carry forward the legacy of a century-old luxury icon. Recently, the hotel officially unveiled seven newly renovated luxury suites and launched the artist-in-residence program The Journey in partnership with contemporary artist Zhang Tianjun. As the brand’s flagship address on the Bund, the hotel upholds the House of Celebration philosophy and remains committed to the vision of “Moving Forward, Renewing Always”, crafting an urban sanctuary that blends ritual grace and heartfelt belonging for Luminaries.

Why Are We Eating Japanese Food at the Crossroads of the World?

My friends and I were spending our last night in Istanbul. Tomorrow, they would pack their bags and fly back to their respective cities. So a local friend led us down a lively street — and then I froze. Why, in Istanbul, would we be eating Japanese food?

HOTEL

The Ultra‑Luxury Retreat on Hangzhou’s West Lake

Early summer in Hangzhou – sunlight ripples across the shimmering waters of West Lake, while the breeze carries the fragrance of tea leaves and the lush green of the season. Millennia of culture flow quietly through the landscape. Drawn by the timeless elegance of the lake, I embarked on a homeward journey where nature, art, and culture intertwine — *The Silk Lakehouse, Shangri-La Hangzhou. *

The True Taste of Istanbul Starts Here

I’ve always said that to understand a city, you must start with its breakfast. So on this Istanbul morning, a friend and I walked through the doors of Emirgan Sütiş. This breakfast spot in the Emirgan neighborhood holds an unshakable place in the hearts of locals. There’s no over‑styled “Instagram” vibe here; the customers are mostly local families with children. And that atmosphere itself is the most authentic appetizer.

Golden Horn Views & A Contemporary Reimagining of Turkish Flavors

At OCTO, the restaurant inside the JW Marriott Istanbul by the Golden Horn, the shimmering light of the strait is woven into a contemporary reinvention of traditional Turkish flavors. The restaurant’s philosophy, “Food From Home,” aims to use local Turkish ingredients to create a culinary map stretching from the Aegean coast to the heart of Anatolia.

Where Istanbul’s Breeze Meets Ottoman Elegance

As Istanbul's wind blows in, carrying the salty tang of the Golden Horn and the sweet aroma of the Spice Bazaar, I climb the stone steps beside the market. Slowly, the story of the century‑old Pandeli unfolds among its turquoise İznik tiles.

The Meal That Shattered Every Turkish Food Stereotype I Had

After wandering through Istanbul all day—from the cobblestone streets of the Old City to the evening breeze of Galata Port—I just wanted to collapse somewhere and gaze into space. So, led by a local friend, I ended up at Muutto, tucked away by the harbor, ready to reward myself with a good meal. Little did I know that this dinner would completely shatter every stereotype I had about Turkish cuisine.

A First Taste of Orthodox Turkish Cuisine at Seraf in Istanbul

Upon landing in Istanbul, I was introduced by a local friend to my first authentic Turkish fine dining experience—Seraf. Outside the restaurant, a full row of prestigious accolades gleams golden: the top "Five-Pearl" rating from Turkey's İncili Gastronomi Rehberi, a 2026 Michelin Guide selection, three toque hats from Gault&Millau, and core membership in the International Gastronomy Association—all proof of Seraf's elite standing in traditional Turkish cuisine.

RESTAURANT

A European-Jiangnan Dinner at Kempinski Hangzhou

When the evening breeze off the canal drifts through the window lattice, the warm glow of Frieda Restaurant begins to light up. As a Kempinski restaurant that embodies European culinary craftsmanship, this spring evening banquet weaves the fresh flavours of Jiangnan and classic European tastes into every dish — a gentle feast for the senses, unlocking a springtime journey of flavour.

RESTAURANT

Crayfish Feast at Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou

As temperatures rise and evening breezes grow softer, the summer ritual for Hangzhou locals officially begins with a feast of crayfish. And for the first crayfish meal of this summer, I chose Kitchen@K All-Day Dining Restaurant at Kempinski Hotel Hangzhou. Nine flavours in one sitting — unlocking the freshness and comfort of the entire summer. As Kempinski’s summer highlight, this Crayfish Food Festival is a true paradise for crayfish lovers. Prepared fresh daily, hygienic and safe, you can indulge with total peace of mind.

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