THE ENVELOPE: Two-part book series covers Asia’s most magnificent heritage hotels
Welcome back to The Envelope on AM3NITY.com, where we curate the finest in culture, travel, and lifestyle. Today, we are turning the pages of a captivating two-part book series that celebrates the enduring romance of travel across the East: Heritage Hotels of Asia.
The newly spotlighted second volume, Heritage Hotels of Asia: Southeast & East Asia, is authored by distinguished writer Kenneth Barrett and edited by Jaffee Yee Yeow-Fei. Recently reviewed by British-born travel writer and former hotelier Andrew J. Wood, the series is hailed as an invitation to step inside the region's most magnificent properties and discover how they have shaped the character and atmosphere of their destinations.
The Birth of the Grand Hotel
The history of the modern hotel is inextricably linked to the history of modern travel. As Wood highlights in his review, the golden age of the grand hotel was ushered in by the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, along with rapid advancements in steamship travel and expanding railway networks.
These properties evolved into far more than luxurious places to rest; they became the vibrant epicenters of colonial society, commerce, and diplomacy. Their ballrooms, bars, and dining rooms were the very places where news was exchanged, deals were struck, and reputations were built. Today, they remain treasured cultural landmarks, meticulously preserving the art, architecture, and atmosphere of a bygone era.
An Extraordinary Journey
One of the most impressive aspects of Volume Two is its staggering geographical scope. Barrett takes readers on a grand journey through the histories of 56 remarkable properties spread across 13 countries and territories.
Here is just a glimpse into the diverse historic properties featured in the book:
- Singapore: The legendary Raffles Hotel, Goodwood Park Hotel, and Capella.
- Thailand: The iconic Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, Chakrabongse Villas, and Chiang Mai's 137 Pillars House.
- Vietnam: The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, Hotel Continental, and Dalat Palace Hotel.
- Japan: The Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Fujiya Hotel, and Tokyo Station Hotel.
- China: Shanghai's Fairmont Peace Hotel and Waldorf Astoria, alongside the Beijing Hotel.
- Malaysia: The Eastern & Oriental Hotel and Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion.
Whether they began as purpose-built grand hotels, government buildings, private mansions, or warehouses, each property is united by a compelling historical narrative.
A Must-Have for Travel Enthusiasts
Meticulously researched and richly illustrated with historic photographs, posters, postcards, and vintage luggage labels, Heritage Hotels of Asia transcends the traditional coffee-table book. Wood notes that it is destined to become an encyclopedic reference work for architects, designers, hoteliers, and anyone who appreciates the rich tapestry of Asian history and tourism.
Barrett has achieved something truly special: he hasn't just documented old buildings; he has resurrected the people, great journeys, and historic events that unfolded within their walls.
Where to Find It Heritage Hotels of Asia, Volume 2: Southeast & East Asia is published by World Scientific Publishing Singapore. It is available for purchase at Kinokuniya Bangkok, major bookstores throughout the region, or directly online from the publisher's website.