Going Places isn’t just for travellers in the air – sit back, relax and flip through our e-magazine for travel inspiration
From the editor
Some cities simply have a way of stopping you in your tracks. Changsha is one of them. With Malaysia Airlines launching its new route this July, our cover story on Hunan’s ancient capital feels perfectly timed. If writer Sammi Sowerby’s first encounter is anything to go by, this is a city that thoroughly rewards the curious traveller. From the heritage block of Taiping Old Street, largely unchanged for over 2,000 years with its traditional Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, to the massive, multi-storey Wenheyou Market with a retro 80s cyberpunk vibe, it’s a place that keeps surprising you at every turn. If it’s not already on your radar, consider this your sign.
Elsewhere, we revisit Melbourne, but not the Melbourne you think you know. If you have visited the city centre before, this issue takes you further out, where hot springs, a vintage talking tram tour, a candle-making workshop and a privately owned Sculpture Park offer a slower, more meaningful way to experience a destination that still has plenty left to give.
We also turn our attention to luxury travel and what it really means to seek out the extraordinary. Our “Personal effects” feature looks past the glossy Instagram photos and star ratings to uncover the hidden stories in Penang and Maebashi, Japan that make a stay truly memorable. After all, the best travel experiences have always been the ones that linger long after you have checked out.
And as always, there is plenty more to explore in these pages: a buzzing neighbourhood in Bangkok, a new wellness park in Osaka, halal-friendly eateries in Hong Kong, a post office-turned-lifestyle block in Medan, cool spots in Bali and more.
Closer to home, as Malaysia celebrates National Day on 31 August, it feels like the right moment to rediscover the buildings whose corridors have witnessed some of the nation’s most historic and defining moments. Flip to page 11 for a walk down memory lane with Warisan KL’s heritage trail.
Wherever these pages take you, I hope they inspire your next adventure.
Go forth and wander!
Elizabeth Soong
Editor
