Day 1: The Press Lounge, New York City, USA
Perched on the 16th floor of the Ink48 Hotel, The Press Lounge offers an unobstructed, stunning view of Manhattan's concrete jungle and the Hudson River. As the sun dipped below the horizon, our glasses clinked in the cool evening breeze, filled with the Lounge's signature cocktails. 'The Grand Tour,' with its blend of gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon, was a refreshing start. With its minimalist design, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and an infinity pool, the ambiance is chic and luxurious. A visit here, I must say, is a must to taste the high life in the Big Apple.
Day 4: Aer Lounge, Mumbai, India
Moving from the skyscrapers of New York to the bustling streets of Mumbai, the Aer Lounge on the 34th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is a world away. Here, under the open sky, we were surrounded by a panoramic view of the sprawling city below. As we sampled a rich spread of global tapas and sipped on the spicy 'Mumbai Margarita,' the city's sounds drifted up to us, softened by the altitude into a distant, rhythmic hum. The Aer Lounge turns magical as the sun sets, with soft music and changing LED lighting that creates a unique, ethereal vibe.
Day 7: Sky Bar, Bangkok, Thailand
Next, we found ourselves in the heart of Bangkok at the Sky Bar on the 63rd floor of Lebua at State Tower. Recognized as the world's highest open-air bar, this place has a magical ambiance. As we enjoyed the 'Sunset 63,' a cocktail with Absolut 100, Cointreau, Hanky Bannister 12 Years, and lime, we marveled at the breathtaking 360-degree view of Bangkok's skyline, glowing against the setting sun. This bar has also made a Hollywood appearance in the movie 'The Hangover Part II,' and truly, the experience here is nothing short of starry and glamorous.
Day 10: Ozone, Hong Kong
We ended our journey in Hong Kong at Ozone, the highest bar in the world, located on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton. Designed by Japanese architect Masamichi Katayama, the bar’s futuristic design and blue-purple neon lighting give it an other-worldly feel. Enjoying the 'Dragon's Back' cocktail, a blend of vodka, dragon fruit, and lychee liqueur, we took in the stunning view of Hong Kong's vibrant cityscape and Victoria Harbor. Sunday brunch here is a culinary experience not to be missed, with sushi, oysters, and a chocolate room to delight your taste buds.
The world from the heights of these rooftop bars presents a unique blend of luxury, thrill, and novelty. The immersive views of the cityscape, innovative drinks, delectable cuisine, and an ambiance that leaves an indelible impression on the heart is something every travel and drink connoisseur should experience. This journey was about more than the bars; it was about tasting life from a different, higher perspective.
Here's to the high life and to many more adventures around the world. Until next time!
Cheers!
