Hello readers,

Imagine. First we were sweltering under the summer heat and now, things are starting to cool off. As we head into the last quarter of the year, it won't be long before we start decking the halls and going "ho ho ho". And what does that mean? It's time to start planning that next big vacation, so check out our new BT Luxe Autumn issue, where we offer you plenty of suggestions on where to go.

Before we do that, we shine the spotlight on global players - savvy business personalities from Singapore and Bangkok who share with us their drive to make an impact on the world stage. First up is Kiat Lim, only son of Singapore's famed "Remisier King" Peter Lim, who's poised to take the family's business ventures to the next level. That includes the hot design firm RSP Architects, Thomson Medical Group and Spanish football team Valencia. Hear what he says about being his father's son and what he hopes to do for his own children in the long run.

Next, meet Thai heiress Naphaporn “Lek” Bodiratnangkura, a former hard partying socialite who's a die-hard glamour puss on the surface, but a formidable businesswoman beneath. The CEO of the Nai Lert Group is now the driving force behind the uber-luxury new Aman Nai Lert hotel in Bangkok, and she has plans to build its hospitality and other business arms. Completing the trio is the equally glamourous Stephanie Chai, a former model turned entrepreneur who, as the CEO and founder of Luxe Nomad, turned a flash sale website into a thriving, US$63 million hospitality business that specialises in renting out luxury villas and hotel rooms.

Travel-wise, our writers head deep into Kenya to bring you a story beyond the safari at Suyian Conservancy, a sprawling wildlife sanctuary that protects not just elephants and other animals, but the welfare of the communities who live on the land. In addition, find out what it's like to travel on Japan's most expensive train as we catch a ride on Kyushu's Seven Stars to Fukuoka, on a journey to visit the region's storied pottery makers and artisans. 

Elsewhere, we make a stop in Margaret River's fabled wine country, and head to Kyoto for a stay at The Hotel Higashiyama Kyoto Tokyu, A Pan Pacific Hotel. 

But that's not all. We get up close and personal with iconic Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, and you can also get your fair share of retail therapy with our features on jewellery, watches, fashion and alcohol. You can find all these stories on our BT Luxe homepage.

We've got an exciting issue for you, so sit back, enjoy a leisurely read and happy weekend!