Celebrity chef Akira Back has restaurants all over the world, but it’s Las Vegas that he chose to call home. “My first impression of Las Vegas was loud,” says Back. “But I soon discover that it’s very quiet, away from the Strip, it has a community feel. That’s why I still live there.”
Try the three Michelin star Joel Robuchon Restaurant. Don’t worry about what to order. Just sit and get ready to eat - he will make you 32 different courses. You should also come to my restaurant – Yellowtail Japanese Restaurant & Lounge. I’ve been there 11 years – that’s a long time in Las Vegas. You will be how many famous chefs from throughout the world go there and don’t do well. You should also try Lotus of Siam outside the Strip. They serve up Thai food that’s very, very good.
Take in a show. My favourite show is still ‘O’ – a water-themed show by Cirque du Soleil. They have a pool, which they dive into, then the pool is covered over and turns into a dance floor. I love the show so much it has given me inspiration for my next restaurant. It will take me three years to get this concept off the ground, but it’s happening. I plan to have a day-to-night restaurant, which features a pool and is set over three levels.
Get out of the city and into the fresh air. My favourite thing to do on the weekend is to Lake Mead, which is 20 minutes from my house. There is so much to do there. Hiking, mountain biking, kayaking… You just have to wake up early before the temperature starts to rise.
Chef Akira Back was in Singapore celebrating the launch of his new menu at Akira Back Singapore, JW Marriott Singapore South Beach. Look out for apple smoked A4 Tochigi Striploin and an adventurous twists on sashimi - Hirachi Carpaccio with jalapenos.
Witness the beauty of Hong Kong from the top of Victoria Peak
Savour traditional cuisine including Hong Kong’s famed dim sum
Cruise the harbour in a traditional sampan boat
Marvel at the Hong Kong skyline from Kowloon’s Avenue of Stars
Go on a shopping spree of designer brands at the Citygate Outlet Mall
Explore the Angkor temples in Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm
Discover Khmer flavours and cook a three-course Khmer meal
Experience the colourful spectacle of Phare, the Cambodian Circus
Fly through the jungle canopy on a zipline adventure
Feed the Asiatic black bears and sun bears at a rescue sanctuary
