M
WeekendinFEATURE
WeekendinFEATURE
ore Than Just a
From a sexy couple’s fitness program, to indulging in an in-room fine
dining experience, the Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa promises a
whole lot of lovin’.
The tranquil paradise offered by Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa makes
it the perfect place to head to with a special someone. I was treated to a
stay at one of the suites at the Larkhill Terrace. Built during World War II,
the building was once a colonial British barrack. Beautifully restored, this
double story building gave me the feeling that I had just stepped through
the looking glass into the grandeur of old Singapore. Larkhill Terrace
boasts charm and elegance that can only be proffered by buildings with a
history as colourful as a rainbow’s.
Do not be fooled by the throwback architecture. The interior of each suite
is meticulously designed and decorated to suit even the most modern
and high-tech of guests. I was booked into one of the corner suites on
the second floor of Larkhill Terrace. With a stunning view overlooking
the infinity lap pool and a wraparound balcony featuring classic rattan
furniture and comfortable throw cushions, I knew that I had a luxurious
stay in store for me.
The interior was nothing short of sensational. I was greeted by a massive
living area with a comfortable L-shaped couch, flat screen television, study
desk with complimentary stationary and a beautifully set table for two
complete with a romantic tropical floral arrangement for my in-room
dining session that evening. The adjoining bedroom boasted a king-size
four poster bed and throw pillows, beckoning me to sink into its warm
embrace. The bathroom was magnificent. A large rainfall shower area on
the left and toilet on the right led to a tub that overlooked the infinity
pool below. His and her sinks flanked each side of the tub and high quality
bathroom amenities completed the overall welcome.
The canopy of the surrounding greenery carried forth the calm whispers
Weekendin 64
Valentine’s Day Staycation
by Lianne Choo
of rustling leaves and chirping birds. Not too far into the distance, glints
of sunshine danced off the surface of the South China Sea and the distant
sounds of a foghorn signaled the passing of massive ships making their
way to and from the world’s busiest port. I could not help but daydream
of a forgotten time when pirates and traders ruled the high seas, waging
wars against opium and spice kings.
I was jolted out of my daydream by the phone ringing, gently reminding
me that I had a gym appointment to head to at Aileron Wellness, the
resort’s 24-hour fitness centre.
Aileron Wellness
As part of Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa’s special couple’s package, I
was treated to a personal session at the resort’s 24-hour gym managed by
Aileron Wellness. Aileron Wellness is a fully equipped gym with some of
the best facilities and trainers in the country. Boasting some of the finest
body-building and cardiovascular equipment one could possibly ask for,
Aileron is every fitness buff’s dream come true.
Aileron Wellness also boasts a fitness playground complete with Astroturf
and partial hardwood floors. The green concept certainly pairs well with
the gym’s image as an unconventional fitness centre nestled in the heart
of Amara’s surrounding greenery. With a stunning view of the ocean,
Aileron Wellness is the perfect place to head to should one wish to sweat
the calories away without actually feeling like one is at the gym.
The session I partook in was the Couple’s Fitness Program. Designed for
couples, this simple yet sweat-promising regime encourages couples
to motivate each other through harmonious exercise movements. I was
lucky enough to score a session with the gym’s owner, Keith, and by the
end of my 45-minute session was feeling great.
Although tiring, I thoroughly enjoyed the fun-filled session that
encompassed games and interactive fitness activities. The session is
thoughtfully designed in such a way that couples who partake in it do not
feel like they are working out, but rather, staying in tune with each other
as they work as a team and bond by completing the exercises. Bucket
loads of laughter ensured and I loved how much fun I had. By the end of
my session, I was half in love with my stand-in partner, Sufian, one of the
trainers who stood in as my workout buddy. I can only imagine how much
fun it would be with a special someone!
In-Room Dining
After my dip in the infinity lap pool and a luxurious soak in the tub, I was
ready for my 3 course in-room dining. Post-workout, I was more than ready
to sample the culinary delights that I had heard so much about. A liveried
waiter rang my doorbell at the stroke of 7pm. Balancing a tray complete
with champagne, bread basket and crab meat salad entrée, he skillfully
placed everything on my pre-set table and deftly lit a candle, bathing the
room in a romantic glow.
When I was done with my entrée, he waltzed back in with a beautifully
placed tray that comprised of my appetizer, main course and dessert. My
taste buds were indulgently treated to a perfectly seared piece of fois gras
with toasted brioche, poached pear and Morella cherries. For the main
course, I practically melted when I took my first bite of the braised Wagyu
bee b'&