It might be the season of holly and mistletoe, but at Shangri-La Hotels Xi Shi Lounge this month, there are a 1,001 exotic and spicy ways to imagine yourself in a far different climate one consisting primarily of sand, sun and desert heat.
Running now through January 5, 1,001 Nights brings Middle Eastern influences to a cross-services promotion that encompasses food and drink, retail, spa and live entertainment.
We wanted to bring a little spice to Christmas, says Vito Romeo, the hotels general manager. Shangri-La Hotels have a strong presence in the Far and Middle East, so we looked to our sister properties in Oman, Qatar, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates for inspiration and to offer something different to our guests.
A mini souq (an outdoor market popular throughout the Middle East) has been set up in the hotel lobby, with fine Persian, Indian, Afghani and Tibetan rugs, pillows and even purses on display; handmade jewellery, scarves and carvings; and dried fruits and nuts.
The market will be open 3 to 7pm on weekdays and 1 to 7pm on weekends.
Enter into Xi Shi Lounge, and the journey continues with a menu featuring Lebanese cold and hot mezze, such as the stellar fried halloumi cheese, baked lamb kibbe (meatballs), and delicate Turkish delight for dessert. Sip a 1,001 Nights Martini, made with vodka, brandy, apple, maple and cardamom, or a traditional Moroccan tea or Turkish coffee, and enjoy the live music from Tarab, a Vancouver-based Middle Eastern jazz-fusion band, as well as performers such as Meghan Engel, a violinist specializing in classical Indian and Middle Eastern fusion.
Live performances are daily between 5 and 7pm.
Then perhaps head to Chi, The Spa, for an Arabian Date body wrap or Arabic coffee scrub to finish off the luxury experience.
Its an Arabian oasis come to life in Vancouver. I feel warmer already.
