ASIA EDITION
THE ULTIMATE ASIAN GOLF TOUR
18
ISSUE 4
Freak 28’800 Carrousel-Tourbillon, 7-Day power reserve. Patented « Dual Ulysse » escapement in silicium. Available in 18 ct. rose gold or white gold.
U LY S S E N A R D I N B O U T I Q U E : H o n g K o n g , B e i j i n g , K u a l a L u m p u r , Ta i p e i . For a catalog, call +852 2957 0000 - Email : infohk9@ulysse-nardin.com W W W . U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M
Nestled into a granite rock face with sweeping lake and mountain views is this most remarkable Canadian wellness resort. Built with European-inspired elegance, it is the ďŹ rst in the world to incorporate Swarovski crystal elements into every aspect of its design. Your personal journey to whole body health and wellness begins at Sparkling Hill Resort & KurSpa.
British Columbia, Canada 250.275.1556
www.sparklinghill.com
CHAPTER ONE® Three of the world’s most renowned master watchmakers have collaborated on a world-first combination of complications featuring a one-minute tourbillon, mono-push chronograph, retrograde date indicator, retrograde GMT indicator, day of the week indication on roller, and patented precise moon phase indication on roller in a fully integrated mechanical movement. Shown in 18K red gold and limited to 11 pieces.
Maîtres du Temps
La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland
+41 32 911 17 17
Helvetia Time, Inc. Wilkes-Barre, PA, United States +1 570 970 8888
www.MaitresduTemps.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS ON THE COVER: Model Natalia wears white gold earrings with diamonds, green beryls, tsavorite
FEATURES
garnets, rubies, emeralds and sapphires, US$115,000, and a white gold ring
98
BEST SUITES OF THE MALDIVES BY TOVA SYROWICZ
The natural appeal of these idyllic Indian Ocean isles is just the beginning; sprawling and deliciously private villa suites make for an
with diamonds, green beryls, tsavorite garnets, rubies, emeralds and amethysts, US$94,000, both by Dior Fine Jewelry (Contact: Bonnie Ho at Dior in Hong Kong, 852-2269-5000; www.dior.com); strapless silk crepe column gown, US$5,950, Marchesa (Contact: Patrick Devlin at Moda Operandi, (212) 796-5704; www.
out-of-this-world stay.
modaoperandi.com).
106 SHANGHAI’S TOP SUITES BY RACHEL SILVESTRI
From 1930s gangster glam to French Concession chic, these decadent suites in the City of the Future take their inspiration from its colorful past.
112 14 DAYS OF ASIAN GOLF
BY PAUL MYERS
Our VIP golf tour of Japan, China, Thailand, Cambodia and more offers a fortnight of refined accommodations, cultural activities and,
HIGH LIFE 34 NEWS & PREVIEWS The latest updates in luxury travel, services and style, plus Glitterati on the Go, Confidante and a special shopping section.
46 ELITE ACCESS
BY NICK WALTON
Your guide to the season’s most exclusive events in Asia, from jewelry and art fairs to luxury expos, air shows, regattas, polo tournaments and more.
48 FLASH Elite Traveler is on the scene at BMW’s 6 Series Gran Coupé launch in Hong Kong, Louis Vuitton’s maison opening in Shanghai and beyond.
18K rhodium-plated white gold and feather cuff with diamonds, US$89,000, Wilfredo Rosado (Contact: Customer Service at Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, 8522118-3398; www.wilfredorosado.com); leather and satin sandals with feathers and Swarovski crystals, price available upon request, Diego Dolcini (Contact: Chris Shang at Massimo Bonini in Hong Kong, 852-3521-1325; www.diegodolcini.it).
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LEWIS TAYLOR
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: TOM CORBETT; STYLE EDITOR: DREW TAYLOR; HAIR: RODNEY GROVES; MAKEUP: SUSAN MCCARTHY; MANICURIST: RACHEL SHIM
best of all, world-class greens.
A. LANGE & SÖHNE AUDEMARS PIGUET BACKES & STRAUSS BAUME & MERCIER BELL & ROSS BLANCPAIN BREGUET BREITLING BREMONT CELSIUS CHANEL
THE NATURE OF TIME
CORUM DELANEAU FRANCK MULLER FRÉDÉRIQUE CONSTANT GIRARD-PERREGAUX HERMÈS HUBLOT IWC JAEGER-LECOULTRE JOHN ISAAC GENÈVE LONGINES MAURICE LACROIX MONTBLANC OFFICINE PANERAI OMEGA ORIS PARMIGIANI PHILIP STEIN RADO RICHARD MILLE ROGER DUBUIS ROLEX TAG HEUER ULYSSE NARDIN VACHERON CONSTANTIN VERTU ZENITH
THE FINE WATCH ROOM
+44 (0)20 7730 1234 harrods.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
HIGH STYLE 58
WATCH TRENDS
BY JESSICA MICHAULT
76
RUNWAY REPORT
BY JESSICA MICHAULT
New, waxing, full or waning: These elegant timepieces help
Sublime haute couture creations for women modernize his-
you track moon phases—and their effects—in style.
toric house codes this fall, and the guys hit their stride, and the streets, in slim-cut suits.
64 HOROLOGY
BY NATE BORGELT
So much more than the prosaic alarm clock, beautifully
80
ACCESSORIES
BY DREW TAYLOR
Ankle boots, playful clutches and imperial embroidery cater to
handcrafted tabletop timepieces are true works of art.
her many moods, while he cozies up for winter in shearling
68
LIMITED EDITIONS
and cigar loafers. Plus, glamorous luggage that makes pack-
BY ELIZABETH DOERR
ing a pleasure.
From the top of Mount Everest to the ends of the earth, these rugged watches from Zenith and Kobold are designed to survive the most harrowing conditions on the planet.
88
FASHION
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN DUGGAN STYLING BY CHRISTINE DE LASSUS
70
72
JEWELRY TRENDS
BY DIVIA HARILELA
Pair super-supple leather with diamond sparkle for a look
Even Elizabeth Taylor would have swooned for this season’s
that’s so posh, commanding and sexy, you can toss power
dazzling take on the timeless white diamond.
play out the window.
GEMS & JEWELS
BY DREW TAYLOR
Take the road less traveled with Orient-inspired jade in shades of lavender and off-white, and sultry Tahitian pearls on edgy wrist-wear.
Knuckle box clutch with marabou feathers, US$2,895, Alexander McQueen (Contact: Customer Service at Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, 852-2118-3398; www.alexandermcqueen.com). PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LEWIS TAYLOR
Entirely invented and manufactured in-house fpjourne.com
Chronomètre Souverain - Ref. CS Collection Boutique 18K solid Gold movement Platinum case Dial with hour circle on blue mother of pearl
THE BOUTIQUES PARIS +33 1 42 68 08 00
GENEVA +41 22 810 33 33
NEW YORK +1 212 644 5918
TOKYO +81 3 5468 0931
BEIJING +86 10 8517 2036
HONG KONG +852 2522 1868
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS 116 JET FOCUS
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
Topping expectations and busting records, Gulfstream’s G280 is set to enter service towards year-end in grand style.
117 IN FLIGHT
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
Read up on Asia’s latest round of bizjet news, from ABACE’s resounding success in Shanghai to Airbus’s first Japanese order and more.
118 AT SEA
BY NICK WALTON
With these state-of-the-art vessels, you’ll plough the warm waters of tropical Asia in luxury, comfort and style.
119 TEST DRIVE
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
Both intuitive and tricked-out, Audi’s A8 L W12 belies its heavy weight with uncanny handling, plus the sleek BMW Alpina B7 grand tourer and supercharged Jaguar flagship.
120 SERENITY
BY NICK WALTON
For a reprieve from hectic Hong Kong, retreat to one of these luxe urban spas—tranquil, Zen-like sanctuaries in the heart of the bustling metropolis.
122 CHEERS
BY JAMES GREGORY WILKINSON
Crafted in the Highlands of Scotland, these limited-edition whiskeys are taking the Asian market by storm.
123 THE GUIDE Our guide to the hottest new clubs, bars, lounges and restaurants in some of the most happening cities on the planet.
136 PURE DECADENCE
BY NICK WALTON
World-class golf, gourmet dining, a sumptuous spa and splendid accommodations combine to make The Ritz-Carlton a rave-worthy luxury debut on Okinawa Island.
FROM TOP: Antique gold-plated soldered chain necklace with leather and burgundy feathers, US$600, Lizzie Fortunato (Contact: Jawhara Mahdi at N Boutique in Kuwait City, 965-99317658; www.lizziefortunatojewels.com); clutch with hen feathers, US$745, Kotur (Contact: Customer Service at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong,
852-3695-3389;
www.shopkotur.com);
patent leather stilettos with feathers, US$875, Gianvito Rossi (Contact: Benny Chung at Gianvito Rossi in Hong Kong, 852-2522-4001; www.gianvitorossi.com). PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LEWIS TAYLOR
ONE CENTURY IN A BOTTLE
©2012 E Rémy Martin & Co.,LOUIS XIII® Grande Champagne Cognac, 40% Alc./Vol., Imported by Rémy Cointreau USA, Inc, New York, NY. PLEASE SAVOR RESPONSIBLY.
PRESIDENT’S PAGE
LONDON AND PARIS APPEAL Real estate advisor Knight Frank estimates that nearly 60 percent of new-build property sold in Central London is going to Asian buyers. At least half of those buyers are from Hong Kong, mainland China and Singapore, and in one two-month period there was nearly $200 million in transactions. The March/April Global Edition (www.elitetraveler.com/MA12) of Elite Traveler gives you an overview of almost 30 top suites to stay in while you are shopping for property in London, and needless to say, Paris is also on many of your flight plans. To that end our July/August 101 Top Suites issue (www.elitetraveler.com/JA12) had a heavy dose of Paris featuring both top suites at the Mandarin Oriental, Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Hotel Le Bristol and the Terrace Eiffel Suite of the Plaza Athénée, a personal pick by celebrity judge and watchmaker extraordinaire Richard Mille. In London, there are two new hotels that will add to the city’s luxe inventory. With a history that dates back to 1863, Café Royal is hoping to recapture the buzz that made it a favorite of Oscar Wilde, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, George Bernard Shaw, Rudyard Kipling and later Virginia Woolf, Noel Coward, King Edward VIII and Diana, Princess of Wales. Led by Louis Sailer whose credentials include The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, Raffles and Fullerton in Singapore, where he also opened Fullerton Bay, and Raffles Canouan, the Regent Street icon will have 25 suites, including six historical suites that comprise over 2,000 square feet apiece. A pet project of now Fairmont President Jennifer Fox when she was leading InterContinental Hotels’ Europe Division, the InterContinental London Westminster opens before the holidays just a stone’s throw—or actually less than an eightminute walk—from Parliament. The short distance means it will qualify to have a special buzzer in its bar to let MPs know when sessions are about to start. Its Blue Boar Smokehouse will provide an American/British grill experience. Probably of more interest are its heavily securitized meeting rooms with the anticipation of requests for highly confidential and safe venues where business executives and politicians can mingle discreetly. In Paris I am always surprised by how Hôtel Plaza Athénée seems to mix the most regal of venues with unpretentious fun and humor. Last year it was two Barbie-themed rooms, and this year it will be the return of its popular ice skating rink, La Cour Jardin. While there are many rinks in Paris, this venue provides a nice setting where guests with children can sit indoors in supreme luxury with tea and cakes while watching their little ones doing figure-eights. And in the evening, the rink is decked with tables and guests are covered in warm parkas and blankets and can dine on Swiss wintertime staples like raclette. A short distance away at Place Vendôme, outgoing Van Cleef & Arpels Chief Executive Stanislas de Quercize (he becomes worldwide CEO of Cartier in January) will have closed his tenure by launching L’École Van Cleef & Arpels earlier this year. The school offers seven different classes divided into three chapters. Size is limited to ten pupils, and it is possible to book an entire class privately with fees ranging from €600 to €950 per person. For de Quercize opening the school was natural, as he is “an ardent defender of the artistic crafts,” and, he adds, “passing on, sharing and teaching knowledge is a duty.” The school’s Honorary Committee includes the likes of Franco Cologni, Hélène David-Weill, Eileen Guggenheim, Henri Loyrette, Alain-Dominique Perrin, Xiao Hui Wang, Michel Serres, Suzanne Tennenbaum, Nicolas Bos and Marie Vallanet-Delhom. The seven sessions include: Stories and Inspirations, Interpreting the Gemstones, Jewelry Mix and Match, Symbols and Powers of Jewels, Admiring the Unique and Team Craftsmanship, Entering the Van Cleef & Arpels Universe and Having Access to Van Cleef & Arpels creations with personal meetings with the house’s high jewelry artisans. Each session is four hours long, but timing is structured so you can complete the entire program during one visit to Paris. You can, of course, take individual courses as well. To learn more, email contact@lecolevancleefarpels.com or phone 33-1-70-70-34-00.
Wishing you elite travels,
President and Editor-in-Chief doug.gollan@elitetraveler.com
26
For relaxed East-West relations.
An imposing time machine developed with a genuine passion for watchmaking: the Patravi TravelTec chronograph is also an officially certified chronometer and shows three times simultaneously. The patented monopusher conveniently selects the direction of travel – east or west – and jumps over time zones. Carl F. Bucherer’s philosophy, founded on intelligent functions and mechanisms, could not be interpreted more perfectly. www.carl-f-bucherer.com
EDITORIAL TEAM LETTER
MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB / SHENZHEN
VILLA MUTHEE / SHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI RESORT & SPA, MALDIVES
COUPLE’S SUITE / SPA AT ANANTARA PHUKET VILLAS
THE TASTING ROOM / MACAU
THE CHAIRMAN SUITE / THE RITZ-CARLTON, SHANGHAI
GRAND ENTRANCE / THE RITZ-CARLTON, OKINAWA
GOLF, GROWTH AND MORE
28
You could say Asia has gone golf mad. Slow to
nities. To the north, Tokyo is also in the limelight
And if you long to escape the big cities for open
pick up the Great Game compared to Europe
with the opening of the acclaimed Palace Hotel
spaces and sun-kissed beaches, our “Best Suites
and the US, the region is more than making up
(p. 36), an opulent reincarnation of the iconic
of the Maldives” piece showcases the most deca-
for lost time. Massive golfing complexes like
1960s house of slumber of the same name. The
dent resort digs on offer in an idyllic locale that’s
Mission Hills in Shenzhen and the group’s new
reinvented property is proudly Japanese, and
no stranger to the private jet set (p. 98).
tropical courses on Hainan Island cater to Asia’s
offers spacious, elegant accommodation and
Wherever you’re heading this season, let Elite
newly affluent, for whom the game lacks heri-
restaurants that are set to light up the local cu-
Traveler Asia Edition be your guide, your host
tage but retains its prestige. Asia now boasts
linary scene.
and your confidante.
some of the world’s most beautiful and chal-
Shanghai is another city on the go, and the
lenging pro-designed courses, as you’ll read
manic construction of the past five years has
about in this issue’s “14 Days of Asian Golf” by
resulted in some of the region’s most beautiful
regional golf expert Paul Myers (p. 112).
presidential suites, as resident writer Rachel
Kind regards,
Speaking of golf, tee-junkies will love the
Silvestri reports (p. 106). In our comprehensive
new Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa (p. 136), a lavish and
Guide section you’ll also find the top new res-
modern country club-styled resort just opened
taurants and watering holes in Shanghai, Hong
NICK WALTON
on the Japanese holiday island, offering tradi-
Kong, Macau, Taipei, Bangalore and other key
Managing Editor
tional hospitality paired with world-class ame-
private jet destinations across the region.
Elite Traveler Asia Edition
MORE POSSIBILITIES...
...FOR THE JOURNEY Three cabin spaces and incredible range. Powered by Rolls-Royce engines, you can fly from London to New York or Dubai to Johannesburg in total comfort. The largest living space in its class divided into three separate areas allows you to work or rest. And with the largest baggage compartment in its class, you can carry everything you need to do more. Find out more about the Legacy 650 and our six other exceptional models at EmbraerExecutiveJets.com Latin America +55 12 3927 3399, U.S., Canada and Caribbean +1 954 359 5387, Europe, Middle East and Africa +44 1252 379 270, China +86 10 6598 9988, Asia Pacific +65 6734 4321
SUPERYACHTS HOTELS | RESORTS | SPAS DESTINATION GUIDES WATCH GUIDE GETAWAYS ASIA EDITION Group President/Editor-in-Chief DOUGLAS D. GOLLAN President/Publisher DANIEL WADE Group Publishing Director SIMONA KASTLY Publisher, Asia Edition JAMES LISTER Group Editor MICHAEL D. ESPINDLE Managing Editor, Asia Edition NICK WALTON Senior Director of Marketing LISA WEISS Senior Director of Production & Distribution LORRAINE CHU EDITORIAL
ADVERTISING
Editor MICHAEL D. ESPINDLE
ASIA PACIFIC Managing Director and Publisher, Asia Edition JAMES LISTER phone: +852 5148 4281, james.lister@elitetraveler.com
Managing Editor, Asia Edition NICK WALTON Style Editor DREW TAYLOR
THAILAND 11th Floor, Room 11B Vanissa Building, 29 Soi Chidlom, Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Pathhumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand YVAN VAN OUTRIVE, phone: +66 2 252 26 99, fax: +66 2 252 27 01, yvo@immediatethailand.com
Associate Editor TOVA SYROWICZ Assistant Editor SAHAR KHAN Editorial Assistant MADELINE BOARDMAN
DESIGN
INDIA Global Media Network, M-138 Greater Kailash 11, New Delhi 110048, India VIMAL ANAND, phone: +91 11 4058 1544, vimal@gmnindia.com
Creative Director JOANNE GENZONE
INTERNATIONAL ADVISOR Mary Gostelow
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jessica Michault (fashion and watches), Elizabeth Doerr (timepieces), Nate Borgelt (horology)
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joshua Samuel Brown, Evelyn Chen, Matt Flemming, Greg Haradiran, Divia Harilela, Paul Myers, Maida Pineda, Isabel Putinja, Sharmila Rajah, Andrea Seifert, Catherine Shaw, Rachel Silvestri, James Gregory Wilkinson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
EUROPE / MIDDLE EAST / AFRICA John Carpenter House, John Carpenter Street, London EC4Y 0AN, United Kingdom Head of Sales, Europe/Middle East/Africa SIMONA KASTLY phone: +44 207 336 5331, simona.kastly@elitetraveler.com ITALY Via Antonio Salandra, 18, Rome 00187, Italy Director GIANFRANCO CAPUTO, phone: +39 06 4227 2162, mobile: +39 338 620 1905, gianfranco.caputo@elitetraveler.com SWITZERLAND 10 Coin Greinge, CH-1270 Trélex, Switzerland Media Representative SUSANNE SAMUELSSON, phone: +41 22 960 0926, fax: +41 22 960 0927, ssamuelsson@bluewin.ch NORTH AMERICA 7225 Crescent Park West, #134, Playa Vista, California 90094, United States ERIK HOOPINGARNER, phone: +1 949 282 3626, erik.hoopingarner@elitetraveler.com 708 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10017, United States Director (travel, luxury goods) JONATHAN SPITZ phone: +1 646 430 7913, jonathan.spitz@elitetraveler.com Sales Manager (jewelry, watches, beauty) HEATHER HANSON phone: +1 646 430 7918, heather.hanson@elitetraveler.com
Tom Corbett, Ben Duggan, David Lewis Taylor
MARKETING Senior Director of Marketing LISA WEISS phone: +1 646 430 7909, lisa.weiss@elitetraveler.com Events and Marketing Manager JILL GUTEKUNST phone: +1 646 430 7904, jill.gutekunst@elitetraveler.com Senior Manager of Creative Services & Digital Media GAURI GIDWANI
CIRCULATION / PRODUCTION
phone: +1 646 430 7902, gauri.gidwani@elitetraveler.com Sales and Marketing Executive GINA LEHMKUHL
Global Distribution Director LORRAINE CHU
phone: +1 646 439 1030, gina.lehmkuhl@elitetraveler.com
phone: +1 646 430 7908, lorraine.chu@elitetraveler.com Business Development Manager KAT CZARNECKI
INTERNS
phone: +1 646 430 7907, kat.czarnecki@elitetraveler.com
Editorial: Coleman Bentley, Erin Riley, Emily Misencik; Marketing: Jeffrey
Circulation Director RANDY SILVERMAN
Mouscardy; Business Communications: Deanise Chu, Ashley Efrom
phone: +1 917 626 9799, randy.silverman@elitetraveler.com
ELITE LUXURY PUBLISHING, INC. President DOUGLAS D. GOLLAN Executive Vice President DANIEL WADE
Ozzie Award, Folio Magazine Bronze Winner, Eddie Award, Folio Magazine Winner of 12 HSMAI Adrian Awards for Excellence Benjamin Franklin Award, PIA/GATF Premier Print Awards Awards of Editorial Excellence, APEX Awards for Publication Excellence Awards of Editorial Excellence, N. American Travel Journalists Association Winner, Premier Print Awards, Printing Industries of America Bronze Award, Gold Ink Awards, Production Executives Hall of Fame Award Winner, American Graphic Design Awards
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CONTRIBUTORS
Nate Borgelt joined Antiquorum’s team as a watch expert in January 2011. Beginning with an interest in early American timepieces, Nate eventually expanded his passion to Swiss vintage timepieces and automata. He was previously at Christie’s auction house working as a bid clerk and assistant to the auctioneer and in 2008, while at Patrizzi & Co., became the youngest watch expert in the industry.
Paul Myers is the managing director of Asian Travel Media, a Bangkok-based communications company that specializes in golf tourism throughout Asia Pacific. A native of Australia, he has been a writer, editor and publisher in the travel industry for more than 30 years and now splits his time between Sydney, Bangkok and major golf destinations in Asia.
Taipei-based writer Joshua Samuel Brown is the author of Vignettes of Taiwan (2005) and co-author of ten travel guides, including two editions of Lonely Planet’s Taiwan (2007 & 2010). He has also contributed four stories to the upcoming World’s Best Street Food guide (Lonely Planet, 2012) and is a regular contributor to the Lonely Planet website.
Over the past 12 years, international writer and author Maida Pineda has penned two books (Do’s and Don’ts in the Philippines and Six Degrees of Expatriation) and hundreds of articles on food and travel, capitalizing on her MA in gastronomy from Le Cordon Bleu. Living her dream to eat her way around the world, she has indulged from Bangkok to Singapore on the Eastern and Oriental Express, made spring rolls in Hoi An, market shopped in Hong Kong with Alain Ducasse and stalked balut vendors in Manila.
Singapore-based food and travel writer Evelyn Chen traded her jetsetting career for a critic’s pen and has been eating and drinking on the job ever since. She sits on the Southeast Asian judging panel of the San Pellegrino “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list, and her articles have appeared in a wide range of publications including Condé Nast Traveller, DestinAsian, The Independent and SilverKris.
Isabel Putinja caught the travel bug at a young age, leaving her native Toronto and living in three different countries before settling in Bangalore, South India over five years ago. She enjoys playing with words in a variety of ways as a writer, translator and blogger. She has written articles on the arts and travel for a variety of international publications.
Born in Michigan, Elizabeth Doerr has dedicated most of her waking hours to mechanical watches since 1991 upon visiting the Basel fair. Regularly contributing to high-quality magazines and websites all over the world, Doerr reaches millions of readers every year. Doerr, who lives and works in Germany’s Karlsruhe with her husband and two children, published her first independent book in early 2010: 12 Faces of Time, a “love letter” to independent watchmaking.
Having lived in Kuala Lumpur all her life, Sharmila Rajah knows the city intimately and has been passionately exploring its best food spots, eager to uncover the hottest new restaurants and bars. A writing career that began in 1995 spawned a passion for travel, especially to exotic places like Istanbul, Cairo, Beirut and Sri Lanka. Her work has appeared in Harper’s Bazaar Malaysia, Food and Travel Magazine, Fah Thai and Lifestyle+Travel.
Matt Flemming is a Canadian freelance travel writer based in Seoul, who has been the English editor of Morning Calm, the inflight magazine for Korean Air, for the past year. He quickly developed a passion for the city’s sights, culture and cuisine after arriving in the South Korean capital two years ago. A former sports writer, his assignments have seen him take a more participatory approach, with articles about surfing in Australia, kickboxing in Thailand and skiing in Korea.
Born in Jakarta, Greg Haradiran lived in the United States for 12 years, after which he returned to Indonesia. He continues to scour his new home for the best in luxury dining and nightlife experiences for a wide range of leading publications.
Divia Harilela has been working in fashion and lifestyle media for over a decade and was recently the fashion editor at the South China Morning Post, where she remains a contributing editor. She has often been quoted as a leading authority on fashion in Asia, and can be found navigating the cobbled streets of Paris in her Rupert Sandersons or interviewing design luminaries such as Karl Lagerfeld and Giorgio Armani. Jessica Michault is the editor-in-chief of NOWFASHION. She writes about watches, haute couture, luxury and style, and reports live from the runways of Paris, New York, London and Milan. Michault also covers the luxury watch market for the International Herald Tribune, makes weekly live appearances on France24 television, is a trendspotter for Italian Vogue, a contributor to Vogue Japan and has her own blog at www.jessicamichault.com. 32
Born in Peru to Swedish parents, Andrea Seifert has called seven different countries home, including Italy, Thailand, China, Holland, Singapore and the UK. Asia remains her true love although she enjoys eating, drinking (preferably mojitos), shopping and spa-ing her way around the world. For the past three years she has been honing these skills at the LUXE City Guides headquarters in Hong Kong. Zambia-born writer Catherine Shaw has lived and worked in Tokyo for over nine years where she writes about art, culture, architecture and travel for Japanese and international publications. She has contributed to Wallpaper*, Monocle, the Financial Times and South China Morning Post, as well as numerous in-flight and travel publications.
Rachel Silvestri is a freelance writer and editor from rural Cheshire, England. She moved to Shanghai after spending five years in Dubai where her eyes—and stomach—were opened to the world’s cuisines as deputy editor of Spinneys FOOD and Jumeirah International magazines. Specializing in food, drink and luxury lifestyle, she contributes to numerous magazines including Plaza Watch, Emirates Woman and HELLO! Middle East.
James Gregory Wilkinson is a multi award-winning journalist based in Sydney. Formerly “Australian Travel Writer of the Year” for trade reporting, Wilkinson has been the managing editor of the Asia-Pacific region’s highly respected hotel industry magazine, HM – Hotel & Accommodation Management, for the last ten years. He’s also the contributing editor for travel of Time Out Sydney and Time Out Melbourne, and business tourism editor of SPICE magazine.
TIMELY UPDATES FOR THE PRIVATE JET LIFESTYLE
NEWS+PREVIEWS
COSMIC WONDERS King Fook Jewellery Group has a pedigree as flawless as the gems it purveys. The jewelry and timepiece seller—luxury brands include Aaron Basha, Mattia Cielo, Jacob & Co., Stenzhorn and Laurent Ferrier—was established in 1949 in Hong Kong as a gold extraction and gold bar trader, and quickly transformed into the most trusted jeweler in the city-state. The company now includes ten shops across China, four boutiques of which are Masterpiece by King Fook, introduced in 1999 as the first high-end jewelry concept store of its kind. The group’s latest in-house collection, Royal Fan, taking direction from the ethereal elegance of European noblewomen, invites comparison to the cosmos with one-of-a-kind starburst-shaped pieces crafted in 18K white gold and studded with diamonds of the ROYAL FAN NECKLACE / MASTERPIECE BY KING FOOK
finest luminosity. Acting as the collection’s supernova, this necklace abstractly recalls the sun with sinuous rays of 935 pavéd diamonds that burst forth from the glowing nucleus, a 3.2-carat pear-shaped canary yellow diamond, a testament to timeless refinement (about US$153,240).
Contact: Terry Hui at Masterpiece by King Fook in Hong Kong, 852-2270-8000; www.kingfook.com
PAINT THE TOWN BLUE Johnnie Walker Blue Label and Porsche Design Studio have created an exclusive made-to-order private bar concept. Recently launched in Macau, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Private Bar by Porsche Design Studio, of which only 50 will be designed, stands at 7.2 feet tall and is crafted from brushed stainless steel, natural shagreen leather and Australian lacewood. State-of-the-art motion sensors activate its innovative automated opening sequence. When open, the bar reveals a magnum of Blue Label with exterior detailing by PDS, two Johnnie Walker Blue Label 1867 Limited Edition bottles and four crystal glasses, presented on a subtly illuminated surface. A hidden chilled compartment rises out of the bar with the press of a button to reveal a bespoke ice bucket, steel tongs and four more glasses (US$190,000).
JOHNNIE WALKER BLUE LABEL PRIVATE BAR BY PORSCHE DESIGN STUDIO
Contact: Moët Hennessy Diageo’s Georgia Lai, 852-2976-1105; georgia.lai@mhdhk.com; www.mhdhk.com
MADAME ZABRE SPA RETREAT / DESROCHES ISLAND
LUCK UNLIMITED In keeping with the brand’s heavy focus on the Asian market, Cartier has unveiled two new Rotonde de Cartier limited-edition watches, available to the Hong Kong market only. Each timepiece features a motif of the number eight—considered the most lucky in Asian cultures—in Chinese characters, and is available in Cartier boutiques across the city. The watches’ 42mm case houses a caliber 9602MC mechanical movement, and the guilloché and silvered dial, plus a crown set
34
SEYCHELLES SOIREE
with a sapphire cabochon, make
Dubbed the most expensive villa on offer in the Seychelles, the luxurious Madame Zabre Spa
for truly stunning creations. The
Retreat has opened at Desroches Island, which has previously welcomed Sports Illustrated
white gold version is limited
Swimsuit Issue models Chrissy Teigan, Nina Agdal and Julie Henderson, as well as Prince Wil-
to 38 pieces (US$24,700),
liam and Kate Middleton. Named after the famous Madame Zabre beach on the island, this dec-
while the pink gold ver-
adent 6,856-square-foot retreat features three spacious bedrooms, all with private pools, indoor
sion is limited to just 18
and outdoor showers and spectacular views of the Indian Ocean (US$14,600 a night). A modern
(US$23,000).
kitchen, vast entertaining areas and a dedicated team of chefs and butlers make impromptu
Contact: Feony Ho
private dinner parties a breeze. In addition, the villa can be easily configured into a private spa,
at Cartier in Hong Kong,
with an exclusive range of Elemental Herbology treatments and a dedicated masseuse on offer.
852-2522-2963;
Contact: General Manager Renee Leslie, 248-422-9003; renee@desroches-island.com;
www.cartier.com
www.desroches-island.com ROTONDE DE CARTIER / CARTIER
NEWS+PREVIEWS
PALACE SUITE / PALACE HOTEL TOKYO
PALACE SUITE / PALACE HOTEL TOKYO
A PALATIAL RETURN
CONFIDANTE
Located in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district, one of
The PuLi Hotel and Spa, part of central Shanghai’s Park
Japan’s most anticipated houses of slumber
Place development, instantly appealed to global connois-
has opened in a stunning moat-side setting near
seurs, and discerning Chinese business leaders, when it
the Imperial Palace. The Palace Hotel Tokyo, a
opened three years ago. Some views look out at Jing’An
luxury 290-room reincarnation of the original
Park, and all rooms have pull-back screens and walls of
Palace Hotel, which opened in 1961, is the result
gray clay blocks. Public areas feature incredibly high ceil-
of a US$1.2 billion investment and promises to
ings, and black Forbidden City-tiled or distressed wood
be a new icon of the city’s hotel and dining scene.
flooring. The 90-foot bar in the lobby dispenses drinks
Described as an unfiltered appreciation of Japa-
and checks you in. A sense of calm pervades everything.
BY MARY GOSTELOW
nese culture, the luxurious property offers guest
No wonder PuLi’s developers, Urban Resorts, led by
rooms and suites boasting open-style bath-
Markus Engel and John Laing, are using PuLi’s designer,
rooms with soaking tubs, top-of-the-line tech-
Johannes Harfuss, for their next project, the 329-room
nology, remarkable views of the Imperial Palace
PuYu opening in Wuhan this December. They have al-
Gardens and interiors by Terry McGinnity. Many
ready announced one more: PuSen, in Shaoxing, 35 min-
suites, including the extravagant 2,745-square-
utes by high-speed train from Hangzhou, will be a 100-
foot, two-bedroom Palace Suite (about US$8,810
room luxury resort in a collection of 60 historic houses
a night), also feature open terraces and balco-
relocated by its owner, Qing Sen.
nies, as well as unique Japanese touches, in-
The idea of historic houses turned into luxury resorts
cluding bath towels from Imabari and delicate
is epitomized at Amanfayun in Hangzhou. There, an en-
Maruyama Nori teas from Tokyo’s Tsukiji district.
tire village of tea plantation homes is now 47 freestanding
Be sure to visit the sushi bar at two-Michelin-
villas, plus restaurants, some rented out. While there, try
star chef Shinji Kanesaka’s restaurant or chill
the Vegetarian House, run by Buddhist monks. In Thai-
out in the 12,916-square-foot Evian Spa Tokyo.
land, car dealer Suchet Suwanmongkol created his own
Contact: Executive Director and
historic “village.” After spending years buying adjacent
General Manager Masaru Watanabe,
plots of land totaling 60 acres, he built what is now the
81-3-3211-5211; yanagiharaf@palacehotel.co.jp;
village-like Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, boasting
www.palacehoteltokyo.com
123 accommodations and embellished with what he says is only 20 percent of his total collection of antiques.
GLOBAL LUXE
Exotic places give elite travelers a sense of fulfillment.
Not only has Qatar Airways seen phenomenal growth in the 15 years since its launch, it
This, says Rupert Hoogewerf, chairman of Shanghai-
has earned some of the industry’s most coveted Skytrax passenger choice awards—proof
based Hurun Report, is what China’s millionaires and
positive that rapid expansion hasn’t come at the cost of exacting luxury standards. Named
billionaires desperately seek. He recently surveyed 150
the world’s best airline for a second consecutive year in 2012, Doha-based Qatar Airways is
of them, and found that they average 3.2 overseas trips a
perfectly positioned as a gateway carrier between East and West. Baku, Perth and Zagreb are
year, with France the current top destination. Next they’ll
among the cities already added to the airline’s 110-plus destinations in 2012, soon to be fol-
be heading for Spain’s Mediterranean coast. In late June,
lowed by Yangon and nonstop service to Tokyo before year-end. A long-haul, business-class
Bart Raaphorst, director of Villa Padierna Hotels & Re-
flight aboard one of the fleet’s new Boeing 777s will fly by: Seats with built-in massage recline
sorts, was in Shanghai to co-host a dinner at the sensa-
to 180 degrees, while in-flight entertainment offers over 1,000 options on your 17-inch LCD
tional House of Roosevelt—it boasts the largest wine cel-
screen. Exquisite Arabic and international fare, plus elite wines and spirits, are available on
lar in China, and its chairman, Tweed Roosevelt, nephew
demand—the service, of course, is flawless (about US$8,000 for a typical round-trip ticket).
of FDR, is also chairman of the Theodore Roosevelt Asso-
Upon arrival in Doha, an entire US$100 million terminal, complete with a spa, games room,
ciation. Raaphorst introduced Marbella’s Villa Padierna
nursery, fine dining and more, caters exclusively to business- and first-class passengers.
Palace Hotel, where Michelle Obama famously stayed in
Contact: Senior Sales Representative Chitipat Manon, 66-2-259-2701-5;
August 2010, to 65 members of the invitation-only Roos-
resbkk@th.qatarairways.com; www.qatarairways.com
evelt Club. They all received membership cards for Villa Padierna Golf Resort with lots of added benefits. BUSINESS CABIN / QATAR AIRWAYS
Ultra-high net worth Chinese want to give back, says Rupert Hoogewerf. They are looking for good causes, and they are into self-education, health and organic living. Recently Hoogewerf was with a small party climbing a mountain. One billionaire liked it so much he bought it—to set up tea plantations. Perhaps another Amanfayun is in the making.
36
Designed and crafted for you to escape into a private world of views and luxur y. Experience Park Hyatt Sydney. In the moment. Uninterrupted. Reser vations +61 2 9256 1234 or sydney.park.hyatt.com 7 Hickson Road The Rocks Sydney NSW Australia 2000
The trademarks HYATTTM, PARK HYATTTM and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Š2012 Hyatt Hotels Corporation.
METAL MAGIC
FOLIO NEWS+PREVIEWS
Serenity seekers will rejoice at the opening of the Middle East’s first Iridium Spa, part of the lavish new St. Regis Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi. Adding indulgent pampering to one of Abu Dhabi’s most dynamic developments, the chic spa offers a rare and refined wellness experience to elite travelers passing through the emirate. With a host of expertly crafted precious metalthemed treatments that utilize Babor spa products, Iridium Spa features 12 opulent treatment rooms designed by global hospitality design leaders HBA, including a Vichy suite and three individually themed VIP Spa Suites, each of which boasts a private terrace. Submit to the unique Spas Around the World concept, which brings together signature therapies from the globe’s leading wellness destinations, including the Asian-inspired ShiTao face and body treatments using shiatsu and lava stones, a Khanya of Africa treatment that uses the healing powers of the marula tree and the Sea Creation massage featuring heated tiger shells.
Contact: Director of Spa & Leisure Fatna Fallah, 971-2-4988888; reservations.saadiyat@stregis.com; www.stregissaadiyatisland.com
LUCKY DRAGON / LES MILLIONAIRES
TIME FOR HARMONY Luxury Swiss watch company Les Millionaires has launched its latest collection in Hong Kong, introducing its unique bespoke timepieces in Asia for the first time. Three exclusive collections, Fairy Fauna, Poseidon and Lucky Dragon, are initially available on the brand’s website, where a comprehensive customization process takes place ensuring your watch will be one of a kind. The Lucky Dragon piece in 18K white gold with 627 diamonds and 36 precious stones—the pinnacle of the collection—is an exquisite and eyecatching watch designed for the Chinese Year of the Dragon. The timepiece features a dragon motif fighting with the hour, minute and second hands in order to keep harmony according to feng shui principles (about US$270,000).
Contact: Sales Director Mathias Hug, 41-22-310-94-44; mh@pradervand-geneve.com; www.pradervand-geneve.com IRIDIUM SPA / ST. REGIS SAADIYAT ISLAND
MANILA GLAM Offering discerning guests a chance to delve into the often turbulent politics and lavish lifestyles of Manila’s high society, the Sofitel Philippines Plaza Manila has created the sumptuous Imperial Residence from a space once dreamed up by Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos to host VIP guests. The 6,200-square-foot expanse is located on the 11th floor, making it a mansion in the skies above the capital, and features five lavishly appointed suites, which can be booked separately or as a whole. Fashioned by renowned Japanese interior design firm Spin Design Studio, the regal suite is dressed in deep earth tones punctuated by hints of maroon and gold. Mother-of-pearl inlaid doors, capiz light fixtures, custom leather wall paneling and grand sculptures add to the luxe appeal. Ensconced in lavish comfort, you’ll enjoy a ten-seat formal dining room, kitchen with Miele appliances, spacious living area with 72-inch TV and a wraparound balcony with views across Manila Bay. All this, plus access to a personal shopper and private chef, and the option to convert one of the suites to a spa, gym, yoga studio or games den, makes this home away from home hard to leave. But when you do, it’ll be from the hotel’s helipad (US$6,800 a night).
Contact: General Manager Goran Aleks, 63-2-551-5555; 38
room.reservations@sofitelmanila.com; www.sofitelmanila.com IMPERIAL RESIDENCE / SOFITEL PHILIPPINES PLAZA MANILA
“I M P E C C A B L E � *
Distilled in Orkney, Highland Park Single Malt celebrates its distinctive Viking influence. The 1978 Vintage celebrates the wanderlust of the Vikings whose spirit lives on in the intrepid travellers of today. It is rich, warm and shows perfect balance between sweetness and smoke. The 1978 Vintage clearly displays the intense complexity for which Highland Park is renowned by whisky enthusiasts everywhere. Available only in global travel retail, this impressive whisky forms part of the Highland Park Vintage Collection.
* 1 9 7 8 V I N T A G E - The cask selection here is impeccable
You are invited to join our club for friends of Highland Park at
and yet another monster Highland Park is unleashed on the unsuspecting public. www.caskstrength.net - whisky blog
www.highlandpark.co.uk/innercircle
www.highlandpark.co.uk
Please enjoy our whisky responsibly
NEWS+PREVIEWS
GLITTERATI ON THE GO
BY ANDREA SEIFERT
ROYAL RETREAT The Taj Coromandel Chennai hosted many celebrities during the latest Indian Premier League Season, including Katy Perry, who performed at the opening ceremony. She was greeted in the newly renovated lobby with a traditional Indian welcome of aarti tikka and garlands before being whisked off to the Royal Suite. The lavishly appointed abode marries traditional and contemporary décor, and two female butlers were designated to cater to Perry’s every need. The singer dined at Southern Spice and proclaimed the highlight of her dinner to be the elaneer payasam, the “most refreshing dessert” she had eaten.
POSH IN TOWN Former pop queen turned designer Victoria Beckham was in Beijing to promote her collaboration with Range Rover for the city’s Auto China Motor Show. The 99-room urban retreat Opposite House in chic Sanlitun IN-POOL LOUNGING / TAJ COROMANDEL CHENNAI
provided a sanctum for her during a busy week. Beckham stayed in a Studio 95 Suite, whose open-plan living space is a temple to minimalist Zen, with brushed oak finishings, black slate walls and a private balcony overlooking Beijing’s embassy district. She dined at Bei, the hotel’s restaurant featuring a fusion of cuisines from China, Korea and Japan, and made use of the fitness center’s Technogym equipment.
BEAUTY AND THE BEACH Australian beauty brand ModelCo commemorated its tenth anniversary with weeklong celebrations on exclusive Hayman Island earlier this year. Dannii Minogue was one of 60 VIPs who partied at the premier AIRY STUDIO / THE OPPOSITE HOUSE
THE RITZ-CARLTON SUITE / THE RITZ-CARLTON, HONG KONG
playground in the Great Barrier Reef. Minogue slept in sybaritic splendor in a Lagoon Suite, which boasts an elegant fit-out of natural woods and cool marbles, capacious living and sleeping areas done in neutral palettes and a double balcony that offers serene sea vistas.
HONG KONG HIGH On the Asian leg of her “Born This Way” tour, Lady Gaga recently checked into the opulent penthouse suite of The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong. The world’s tallest hotel soars to the 118th floor, and the en-suite marble bathroom of The Ritz-Carlton Suite features a spa bed, sauna and Jacuzzi from which to take in sweeping Victoria Harbour views. It also touts a private study, fully equipped kitchen, spacious living and dining room and walk-in closet. The hotel curated a bespoke experience for the singer, including 24-hour butler service and complimentary massages, plus TROPICAL POOL / HAYMAN ISLAND
LUXURY POOL VILLA / SRI PANWA
monogrammed bathrobes, towels and pillow cases.
FOODIE FIND Celebrity chef Michel Roux recently holidayed at the Sri Panwa resort in Phuket, checking into a Luxury Pool Villa for ten days. The 3,229to 3,767-square-foot villas offer personal infinity swimming pools, jet stream Jacuzzis, outdoor bathing areas with rain showers, and an entertainment system with a fully loaded iPod. The rooftop bar Baba Nest and restaurant Baba Poolclub received a thumbs up from Michel: “As a foodie...I was spoiled for choice on variety and quality, a rare statement for a chef to make. I did not want to eat anywhere else.”
40
NEWS+PREVIEWS | SHOPPING
WORTHY INVESTMENTS Live luxe with the latest and greatest in fine jewelry, fashion, home décor and more.
Taiwan’s Cindy Chao, known for her painstakingly handcrafted high jewelry designs that feature at museums and auctions around the globe, will open her first-ever flagship in Beijing this November. The new boutique will house two exclusive creations from Chao’s coveted “Black Label Masterpieces” collection, including this extraordinary Amazona Colombia necklace with cushion-shaped emeralds, diamonds and sapphires (price available upon request).
Contact: Kate Chao at The Art Jewel Gallery in Beijing, 86-10-8517-2089; www.cindychao.com
Celebrated photographer Mario Testino has shot everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow to the late Lady Diana and is responsible for some of the world’s most memorable magazine imagery. Hot on the heels of his first exhibition in China, and on display at the Shanghai Arts Museum this fall, the new Taschen tome Mario Testino, Private View celebrates the best of his brilliant body of work—a must-have for fashion fans (limited-edition hardcover in plastic case, US$700).
Contact: Rebecca Liu at Asia One Photobook Centre in Hong Kong, 852-2976-0913; www.taschen.com
Add a little edge to cocktail hour with this slick decanter by Ralph Lauren Home. Featuring a cheeky skull and crossbones motif in hand-cut cased With design details inspired by the la-
black crystal, it offers one surefire way to stir up conversation (Ayers skull
bel’s iconic trench coat, Burberry’s
decanter, US$495).
newest watch—dubbed The Britain—is
Contact: Jackie Tso at Ralph Lauren in Sydney, 61-2-9267-1630;
a marriage of rich heritage and modern
www.ralphlaurenhome.com
craftsmanship. A distinctive rounded octagonal case houses a Swiss-made movement (BBY1201 43mm automatic watch with alligator strap, US$1,795).
Contact: Candice Xavier at Burberry in Sydney, 61-2-8296-8588; www.burberry.com
Be Inthavong’s artisanal bags—crafted by hand in New York using an exclusive silk and leather weave produced in his native Laos—are already just about as close to made-to-measure as it gets, but this fall the designer is formally rolling out a bespoke option for loyal fans. Clients can customize their handbag with new weaves and special trims, including hand-cut and -dyed lizard in an array of vibrant shades (Vong tote in lizard, US$4,750).
Contact: Customer Service at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong, 852-3695-3388; 42
www.beinthavong.com
A hotel designed and created for your utmost enjoyment. Truly breathtaking in every aspect, D-Hotel Maris surpasses expectations. w w w.dhotel.com.tr
Datça Yolu Hisarönü Mevkii, 48700 Marmaris, Muğla, TURKEY, +90 252 441 2000
NEWS+PREVIEWS | SHOPPING
With the holiday season just around the corner, Krug has unveiled the Joseph, a generously sized glass crafted in collaboration with Riedel and named for the prestigious champagne house’s founder. Presented as a set of two in a personalized gift box (alongside a bottle of King Grand Cuvée, of course), it takes the guesswork out of gift-giving (US$200).
Contact: KK Wong at Rare & Fine Wines in Hong Kong, 852-2522-9797; www.krug.com
Spritz on fragrance the chic way with Bottega Veneta’s vintage-inspired poire atomizer, part of the new eau de parfum Deluxe Collection. The accompanying Renowned for its precious pearl designs, Utopia Jewels branches beyond baubles with this ultra-luxurious caviar server. Featuring a serving spoon and spreader crafted from white gold, motherof-pearl, diamonds and ruti-
refillable flacon houses the label’s signature scent, a refined blend of notes like bergamot, jasmine, pink peppercorn and patchouli (available in November; US$110).
Contact: Customer Service at Bottega Veneta in Singapore, 65-6688-7228; www.bottegaveneta.com
lated quartz, and a hand-cut crystal ice bowl, it makes for an elegant addition to your next cocktail party (price available upon request).
Contact: Serkan Yildirimer at Lydion Jewellery in Antalya, Turkey, 90-242-710-2000; www.utopia-jewels.com
Talk about animal attraction: For the new Ancient America collection, H.Stern drew inspiration from five different creatures that held spiritual significance in pre-Columbian cultures, yielding pieces like a sculptural turtle ring with an onyx and pavé diamond “shell”
44
and these serpent earrings with shimmering scales
Let the chips fall where they may: With Asprey’s Rat Pack-
crafted from black and cognac diamonds (US$4,200).
worthy poker set, you’ll always turn up a winning hand—at
The Brazilian jeweler has its sights set on expansion
least where style is concerned. Supple camel-colored sad-
into Asia with boutique openings in Seoul (October) and
dle hide and a sleek design show off the storied house’s
Shanghai (November and December).
commitment to quality and craftsmanship (US$7,510).
Contact: Ray Park at H.Stern in Seoul, (800) 747-8376;
Contact: Kyoko Hayama at Asprey in Tokyo,
www.hstern.net
81-3-3245-1781; www.asprey.com
SPECIAL PROMOTION
THE PRIME LONDON PROPERTY MARKET IS RIGGED AGAINST BUYERS Essential information if you are planning to acquire
your time viewing inadequate homes and then take
property in Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Belgravia or an-
advice from agents who represent the seller.
other of London’s premier addresses.
outstanding homes • How to negotiate the best terms possible—
BUT WHAT IF YOU HAD A SIMPLE BLUEPRINT Consider this fact: Over 90 percent of buyers start their
• Do this to have first refusal on the most
WHICH GUARANTEED YOU ACQUIRED YOUR IDEAL
eight proven strategies • Four techniques to source London’s most
search for a home by looking at the Internet and reg-
HOME IN LONDON FOR THE BEST PRICE POSSIBLE?
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istering with eight to ten estate agencies (which is in
In 1996 Jeremy McGivern bought his first property
• Why the Internet is not the solution
fact their third mistake). But what these buyers do not
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• Short Leases Demystified
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• Estate agents in London are employed by sellers &
over 153,400 more. He has spent over 15 years
price has been agreed
are legally obliged to achieve the highest price
discovering, developing and perfecting the best
and further proven strategies to give you the
possible for them.
strategies and techniques to acquire property in
advantage over other buyers and the estate agents.
• There are over 230 estate agencies in Prime Central London each with their own properties.
London’s most prestigious addresses. With his free step-by-step report, you are
But why is such valuable information available to you
They rarely share properties (unlike the Multiple
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• Over 26 percent of the homes valued over £2 million are sold “off-market.” • Agents will waste your time with unsuitable
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IN “THE SEVEN MOST EXPENSIVE MISTAKES
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LONDON PROPERTY BUYERS MAKE & HOW TO
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piece of information discovered in this report will allow you to achieve. To receive your complimentary copy of “The Seven Most Expensive Mistakes London Property Buyers Make & How To Avoid Them” you may call +44 (0) 800 389 4280 or email info@mercuryhomesearch. com quoting Elite
(Jeremy McGivern was educated at Eton College. He
founded
Mercury
Homesearch,
London’s
internationally renowned property consultancy, in 2001 because he was annoyed by the poor service, dubious advice and painful bureaucracy he was encountering as a buyer. He is now recognized as a leading authority on acquiring property in Prime Central London and has featured on Bloomberg Television, Bloomberg India and in publications such as Forbes, The Financial Times, The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Times to name but a few. Mercury has represented family offices and preeminent businessmen from Singapore, Hong Kong, Russia, Australia, USA, Europe, Brazil and India amongst others. However, you may be surprised to learn over 25 percent of Mercury Homesearch’s clients are themselves Londoners.) 45
ELITE ACCESS
HOT HAPPENINGS YOUR GATEWAY TO ELITE EVENTS AUSTRALIA
BY NICK WALTON
THE 7TH CHINA LUXURY SUMMIT
2012 MELBOURNE CUP CARNIVAL
When: November 28 to 29, 2012
When: November 3 to 10, 2012
Where: Various venues, Shanghai
Where: Flemington Race Course, Melbourne
Contact: Lawrence Lee, 86-21-3255-3933;
Contact: Dayle Monteith, 61-3-8378-0747;
luxury@clia.org.cn; www.chinaluxurysummit.com
information@racingvictoria.net.au; www.melbournecup.com
INDIA BRITISH POLO DAY
AUSTRALIAN OPEN 2013
When: December 15, 2012
When: January 14 to 27, 2013
Where: The Maharaja’s Polo Club, Jodhpur
Where: Melbourne Park Tennis Centre, Melbourne
Contact: Tom Hudson, 44-207-352-0340;
Contact: Craig Tiley, 61-3-9914-4400;
info@britishpoloday.com; www.britishpoloday.com
tareception@tennis.com.au; www.australianopen.com
SOUTH KOREA 2012 FORMULA 1 KOREAN GRAND PRIX
AVALON 2013 – AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL AIR SHOW
When: October 12 to 14, 2012
When: March 1 to 3, 2013
Where: Korea International Circuit, Yeongam
Where: Avalon Airport, Victoria
Contact: Park Joon-Yung, 82-61-287-5412;
Contact: Ian Honnery, 61-3-5282-0500;
www.koreangp.kr
airshow@amda.com.au; www.airshow.com.au
TAIWAN CHINA
ART TAIPEI 2012
FINE ART ASIA 2012
When: November 9 to 12, 2012
When: October 4 to 7, 2012
Where: Taipei World Trade Centre, Taipei
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre,
Contact: Richard Chang, 886-2-2585-0382;
Hong Kong
info@art-taipei.com; www.art-taipei.com
Contact: Andy Hei, 852-9493-3886; sales@aaifair.com; www.aaifair.com
THAILAND KING’S CUP ELEPHANT POLO TOURNAMENT
SALON VENDÔME - THE FINE JEWELRY SHOW
When: September 12 to 16, 2012
When: October 25 to 28, 2012
Where: Somdej Phra Suriyothai Military Camp, Hua Hin
Where: Shanghai Exhibition Centre, Shanghai
Contact: Tim Boda, 66-3-252-0250;
Contact: Florence Robert, 86-21-5081-3018;
tboda@anantara.com; www.anantaraelephantpolo.com
info@salon-vendome.com; www.salon-vendome.com 26TH PHUKET KING’S CUP REGATTA SHANGHAI ART FAIR 2012
When: December 1 to 8, 2012
When: November 1 to 4, 2012
Where: Kata Beach Resort and Spa, Phuket
Where: ShanghaiMART, Shanghai
Contact: Simon James, 66-7-627-3380;
Contact: Gu Zhihua, 86-21-6225-4977;
info@kingscup.com; www.kingscup.com
info@sartfair.com; www.sartfair.com
UAE
46
59TH MACAU GRAND PRIX
2012 FORMULA 1 ETIHAD AIRWAYS ABU DHABI
When: November 15 to 18, 2012
GRAND PRIX
Where: Macau Street Circuit, Macau
When: November 4, 2012
Contact: Joao M. Costa Antunes,
Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi
853-8796-2268; macaugp@cgpm.gov.mo;
Contact: Tariq Zuroub, 971-2-6599-800;
www.macau.grandprix.gov.mo
tariq.zuroub@ymc.ae; www.yasmarinacircuit.com
FLASH
LOUIS VUITTON SHANGHAI MAISON OPENING / SHANGHAI Louis Vuitton celebrated the opening of its first Maison in Shanghai with a star-studded
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party at the new Plaza 66 boutique. Specially designed by architect Peter Marino, and bringing together Louis Vuitton’s leather goods, ready-to-wear collections, luggage,
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watches, jewelry and rare products across four floors, the boutique was celebrated with an “Art of Travel” theme that saw A-list celebrities alighting on the city’s iconic Bund. Attendants included French actor Alain Delon, TV host and model Alexa Chung, Chi-
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nese actresses Gong Li, Zhu Zhu and Fan Bingbing, designers Luisa Orsini, Antonine Peduzzi and Marc Jacobs, and photographer Alexia Niedzielski.
1 Gong Li 2 Du Juan, Zhai Lei
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3 Fan Bingbing 4 Alexa Chung, Poppy Delevingne 5 Zhu Zhu 6 Coco Brandolini, Alexia Niedzielski
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7 Antoine Arnault, Alain Delon
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8 Katie Grand, Derek Blasberg 9 Alexia Niedzielski 10 Alexa Chung 11 Elizabeth Von Guttman, Poppy Delevingne 12 Gong Li, Yves Carcelle 13 Hu Bing 14 Laetitia Casta
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YOU CAN’T AGE COGNAC IN BOTTLES
Hermitage Cognacs are aged in old casks for hundreds of years, they come from the very heart of cognac.
Many rare and individual cognacs sleep in old cellars, waiting to be bottled by Hermitage; these nectars are the very essence of greatness and share rare vintage values not found in other cognacs
Hermitage Cognacs www.brandyclassics.com tel: +44 (0)1225 863988 fax: +44 (0)1225 863986
FLASH FOLIO
BMW 6 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ LAUNCH / HONG KONG BMW launched its all-new 6 Series Gran Coupé at an extravagant party at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Happy Valley Race Course. The fete celebrated the Hong Kong release
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of the third luxurious model in the 6 Series lineup, and in attendance were TV personalities Moses Chan and Aimee Chan, as well as actresses Rose Chan and Zoey Shum, mod-
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els Jocelyn Luko, Madi Ross, Ann Ho and Anthony Sandstorm, and singer Jonathan Wong.
1 Rose Chan 2 Hong Kong singer Angela Au 3 Model Uny Chiu 4 Jonathan Wong
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5 Ann Ho 6 Madi Ross, model Angie Ng, Ann Ho 7 Singer Khloe Chu
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JAEGER-LECOULTRE RENDEZ-VOUS PARTY / SHANGHAI To coincide with the Shanghai International Film Festival, of which Jaeger-LeCoultre is a major sponsor, the brand held a lavish red carpet Rendez-Vous launch party, hosted by its new face, film star Zhao Wei. Zhao Wei was accompanied by many notable celebrities including famed French director Jean-Jacques Annaud, American actor Aaron Eckhart, actresses Chen Chong and Zhao Tao, directors Jia Zhangke and Wang Quan’an, and actress Zhang Yuqi. Also in attendance were Miss World Zhang Zilin, singer Kit Chan, Italian film producer and actress Maria Grazia Cucinotta and more than 1,500 other guests from around the world.
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5 1 Jean-Jacques Annaud 2 Chen Chong 3 Zhang Zilin wearing Jaeger-LeCoultre Joaillerie 101 Manchette on the red carpet
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4 Wang Quan’an, Zhang Yuqi 5 Zhao Tao, Jia Zhangke 6 Zhao Wei on the red carpet of the
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15th SIFF opening ceremony 7 Zhao Wei attends a pre-party Jaeger-LeCoultre
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press conference
HENNESSY APPRECIATION JOURNEY AT BANYAN TREE MACAU / MACAU
FLASH
Esteemed cognac house Hennessy recently launched its limited-edition XO Mathusalem designed by Arik Levy at a lavish weekend at the Banyan Tree Macau. The event for 100 VIPs included a private jetfoil from Hong Kong, a decadent multicourse dinner cre-
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ated by Banyan Tree Macau Executive Chef Matías Martínez and an after-party in the exclusive China Rouge club at Galaxy Macau. The event also celebrated the launch of the
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Musée d’Hennessy at Galaxy Macau. Limited to just 100 pieces, the bottle retails for US$45,000. Celebrity guests included Roger Lau and Candy Lo, Sheila Chin, Alex Law, Mabel Cheung, Olivia Lee-Davies, Sean Lee Davies, Ankie Beilke, Almen Wong Blair and Qinnie Chan.
1 Ankie Beilke, Almen Wong Blair, Julian Chi Lam Cheung, Jade Wong 2 Almen Wong Blair 3 Socialite Elizabeth Lai
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4 Film director Alex Law 5 Managing Editor of Elite Traveler Asia Edition Nick Walton and wife Maggie Chooi 6 Julian Chi Lam Cheung, Mabel Cheung, Alex Law, Chan Wing Luk 7 Actress and model Ankie Beilke 8 Singer and actor Julian Chi Lam Cheung
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PICASSO SHOW OPENING NIGHT / HONG KONG The Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau recently collaborated with Alliance Française and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust to exhibit “Picasso – Masterpieces from Musée National Picasso, Paris,” as part of the annual Le France May festival. The opening night event took place at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum and in attendance were Tsang Tak-sing, GBS, JP,
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Secretary for Home Affairs; Arnaud Barthelemy, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau; casino heir Pansy Ho; shipping magnate CC Tung; model Yvette Yuen; fashion designer Bonita Cheung and socialite Olivia Lee-Davies.
1 Sean Lee Davies, Olivia Lee-Davies and Peter Davies
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2 Mr. and Mrs. William Doo 3 Robert and Sally Lo
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4 Pansy Ho, Yvette Yuen 5 Arnaud Barthelemy, Joseph Fung
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6 Florence Lau, Michael Lau 7 Bonita Cheung
SPA... Privacy
SPA@saudiairlines.com | +966 9200 13310 www.saudiaspa.com.sa
Your SPA in the sky
FLASH
GRAND OPENING OF VAN CLEEF & ARPELS EXHIBIT / SHANGHAI Legendary jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels celebrated the opening of its own heritage
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exhibition at Shanghai’s Museum of Contemporary Art with an exclusive soiree attended by the city’s elite. Displayed in a dreamlike setting designed by Patrick Jouin and San-
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jit Manku, 100 years of the brand’s jewelry, watches and precious accessories were on show for the first time in China. In attendance were actresses Fan Bingbing, Gong Li and Zhang Jingchu, jeweler Samuel Kung, French senator Jean-Pierre Raffarin, model Pace Wu and Van Cleef & Arpels’s former president Stanislas de Quercize.
1 Fan Bingbing 2 Actress Qin Lan
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3 Actress Song Jia 4 Pace Wu 5 Samuel Kung, Jean-Pierre Raffarin, Gong Li, Stanislas de Quercize 6 Zhang Jingchu 7 Actress and singer Guan Yue, actor Tong Dawei 8 Actor Wang Xueqi
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MONTBLANC FLAGSHIP OPENING / BEIJING Montblanc launched its new four-story flagship store in Beijing with a host of international celebrities from the worlds of film, music and the arts. Located in the Sanlitun, the imposing new boutique is Montblanc’s largest in the world and will exhibit the Collection Princesse Grace de Monaco. The extravagant black-tie event welcomed the likes of actor Nicolas Cage and actresses Jessica Alba, Naomi Watts, Maggie Cheung and Am-
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ber Heard.
4 1 Outside the new store 2 Actor Clemens Schick, Amber Heard 3 Model Bonnie Chen and guest 4 Naomi Watts, Lutz Bethge, Nicolas Cage, Jessica Alba 5 Model Patina Lin Jia-qi 6 Maggie Cheung 7 Amber Heard, Clemens Schick, Director of Montblanc Cultural Foundation Ingrid
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Roosen-Trinks 8 Bianca Bai, Hong Weiming
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9 Actor Vic Chow
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
BEACH BY HORSEBACK / INTERCONTINENTAL HUA HIN
PERFECT DAY FOR PARASAILING
INFINITY POOL AT DUSK / DEVASOM HUA HIN RESORT
HEAVEN FOR SUNBATHERS
HUA HIN: THAILAND’S REGAL BEACH RETREAT For your next elite beach getaway, follow in the footsteps of Thailand’s monarchs and experience the hidden seaside gem of Hua Hin. Heralded as Thailand’s royal beach resort, tranquil Hua Hin has all the historic charm, stunning scenery and 21st-century luxury trappings of a top-notch coastal destination. Just like the city’s invite-only palace—whose name means “far from worries”—is an idyllic summer retreat for Thailand’s current king and queen, the area’s many luxury hotels promise private jet travelers their own stress-free seaside sojourn. The various resorts are set on Hua Hin’s powdery five-kilometer beach and surrounded by the highest density of world-class golf in Thailand. As one of the only areas that attracts both international jetsetters and local Thai elite, Hua Hin offers visitors a taste of traditional Thai culture with a touch of modern glamour. Mornings can be spent partaking in water sports or on one of the multiple award-winning golf courses, some designed by golf legends like Jack Nicklaus, while afternoons beckon guests to unwind at any of the resorts’ spas, famous for their Thai hospitality and age-old healing techniques. Featuring some of the best authentic Thai cuisine, lavish resorts steeped in local history and fantastic opportunities for golf, Hua Hin is not to be missed by globetrotters seeking solace and relaxation in exotic Southeast Asia. The following pages highlight just a few of Hua Hin’s must-dos and must-stays.
Contact: Tourism Authority of Thailand, www.tourismthailand.org 55
POOLSIDE PARADISE / CENTARA GRAND BEACH RESORT & VILLAS HUA HIN
POOL DECK / INTERCONTINENTAL HUA HIN
HOTEL EXTERIOR / WORA BURA
WHERE TO STAY AND WHAT TO DO IN BEAUTIFUL HUA HIN
the city’s cultural and natural sights. Sunny skies, pleas-
Lining Hua Hin’s main attraction—five kilometers of powdery,
ideal for outdoorsy types. Adrenaline junkies can parasail
white-sand beach—are all manner of upscale resorts, from
and kiteboard, while animal lovers might opt for horse-
striking high-rises to charming hotels characterized by tra-
back riding along the beach or donning snorkeling gear
ditional low-rise Thai-colonial architecture. Whether you’re
to discover Hua Hin’s marine life. At some hotels, guests
looking for a stand-alone beachfront villa that nods gallantly
can even try their hand at arts and crafts, including candle
to the area’s rich history, or a sleek suite with a modern vibe,
making and Batik and glass painting. A vibrant market is a
this seaside escape has accommodations to suit all tastes.
great place to shop for original artwork and fine silks, while
Lovebirds will find privacy and seclusion in smaller boutique properties, where romance unfolds over candlelit dinSEASIDE ADVENTURES
ant sea breezes and low rainfall year-round make Hua Hin
the local bars and late-night karaoke are an excellent way to let loose come evening.
ners by the beach and rose petal-filled soaking tubs, while
Recommended sightseeing excursions include a trip to
families can choose from numerous hotels with creative
the Hua Hin Hills Vineyard, nestled in the area’s mountain-
kid’s club programming and swimming pools for children of
ous region, which greets guests with a glass of fresh grape
all ages. History buffs might find the Centara Grand Beach
juice and gives them the chance to ride on elephant-back
Resort & Villas Hua Hin of particular interest—originally
through the vineyard, sample a selection of wines and
constructed in 1923 as the Hua Hin Railway Hotel, the prop-
pair their choices with a three-course meal served in the
erty paved the way for Hua Hin’s development as an interna-
winery’s restaurant. For a taste of history, spend an after-
tional vacation destination, and today the classic building is
noon perusing the shops at Plearnwan, a “living museum”
both a city landmark and a much-loved local grande dame.
exhibiting Hua Hin’s past through food, drink and music.
Wherever you choose to bed down, though, you’ll be met
A stop at the Pa La-u Waterfall, actually made up of two
with breathtaking sea views, a warm Thai welcome and im-
separate waterfalls, Pa La-u Yai and Pa La-u Noi, promises
maculate hospitality and service for the length of your stay.
visitors striking natural beauty. The waterfall runs over 11
WARM UP
While offerings at the resorts do range, visitors to Hua Hin have access to a tremendous array of activities, from
tiers of rock and is nestled amongst a lush forest that is home to exotic wildlife.
exhilarating water-based sports and world-class golf, to
There’s nothing like the highest density of courses in Thai-
Thai cooking classes and wine tastings, to explorations of
land to keep golfers on their game, and Hua Hin has greens
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB HUA HIN
SOOTHING SOAK / INTERCONTINENTAL HUA HIN
PICTURE-PERFECT SERENITY / CHIVA-SOM
SPA SETUP / INTERCONTINENTAL HUA HIN
to entice and delight all manner of linksmen, from
region’s renowned spas. An afternoon (or several
gamut on cuisine. Sample international delights
casual weekend dabblers to seasoned pros. These
days) of pampering can include treatments that in-
at a beachside open-air eatery, get your pasta
standout courses are designed by golfing legends
vigorate, rejuvenate, melt away tension or simply
fix at an authentic Italian restaurant adjacent to
themselves, including Jack Nicklaus, and are not
get your skin to glow. While massages, scrubs and
a hotel’s lagoon pool or take in some jazz while
only beautiful and challenging to play but also come
facials employ traditional Thai healing techniques,
munching on small plates. A romantic date night
equipped with on-site spas, restaurants and state-
spa menus also draw upon the therapeutic prac-
can be spent at the local bistro, Brasserie De
of-the-art clubhouses. Beautifully landscaped
tices of other nations, including India’s ayurveda
Paris, where fresh seafood is served with a clas-
courses, often two or three at one club, are easily
and Sweden’s famous hot stones. Poolside spa
sic French touch. Or, for guests looking to turn
accessible from the region’s top hotels and make
cabanas, Jacuzzis, steam and sauna are just some
up the heat with some traditional Hua Hin fare,
the most of their lush mountain setting (think strik-
of the other offerings at these wellness oases. In
Sang Thai Seafood serves local shellfish cooked
ing downhill fairways). Among these award-win-
addition to sublime spas, Hua Hin’s high-end ho-
with Thai spices and chilies. Chatchai Market, an
ning golf clubs is one of Thailand’s top ten courses,
tels also boast top-notch fitness centers featur-
outdoor street market, gives visitors the chance
per Golf Digest, as well as educational centers that
ing state-of-the-art gym equipment, as well as a
to mingle with Hua Hin natives while picking up
offer one-off lessons, camps and programs hosted
combination of yoga, tennis, beach volleyball and
everything from vegetables and meat to cook
by PGA-qualified instructors and catering to various
badminton facilities—no need to skip a workout if
back at their villa’s kitchen, to kitschy souvenirs
levels of expertise.
physical fitness is part of your stress-busting rou-
to keep as mementos of the trip.
Golf is such a celebrated part of Hua Hin life
tine! Indeed, Hua Hin is home to one of the most
The offerings of Hua Hin are so vast and varied
that the area is home to various companies
famous health retreats on the planet, Chiva-Som,
that they are sure to please any elite traveler. Truly
strictly focused on organizing golfing vacations.
where guests learn to incorporate healthy eating,
a destination fit for royals, Hua Hin offers jetsetters
Hua Hin even hosts an annual golf festival, held
physical well-being and therapeutic spa time into
the best of the best in cuisine, golf and relaxation.
in August and September, and visiting golfers
their lives in a way that enhances their daily expe-
can be treated like pros at the Hua Hin Amateur
rience and appreciation of the world around them.
Golf Week, with four separate tournaments held over a week this coming March.
For gourmands, Hua Hin has a plethora of tempting eating options in addition to some of
Serenity seekers, meanwhile, can spend their
the best Thai food on earth. Each of the area’s
days soaking up the sun on a quiet spot of beach,
resorts boasts its own restaurant, and in some
or restoring inner balance and calm at one of the
cases up to seven unique venues, which run the 57
WATCH TRENDS
1 MB&F teamed up with Finnish watchmaker Stepan Sarpaneva to create the HM3 MoonMachine, 1
which uses the HM3 Frog design as a start but takes it light years forward. The passage of two hand-finished rotating moon faces (inspired by Sarpaneva’s own mug) through the central aperture indicates the phases of the moon. The stars on the blue dial reflect light from the movement beneath (US$98,000).
Contact: Linda Lee at L’Atelier by The Hour Glass in Singapore, 65-6509-9268; www.mbandf.com 2 The silver-dial version of the Breitling Transocean Chronograph 1461 watch echoes its moon phase function in a clever, understated way. The selfwinding 43mm watch has a retro design heightened by the brand’s mesh-steel bracelet. The timepiece touts a complete calendar with a 1,461-day memory and is water resistant to about 164 feet (US$9,800).
Contact: Shuichi Ono at Breitling in Tokyo, 81-3-3289-1884; www.breitling.com
OVER THE MOON
3 This limited-edition vintage take on the renowned
The moon phase function is the watch world’s most poetic complication.
Dubey & Schaldenbrand Grand Dome Tonneau
Let these timepieces pull you in with their lunar glow.
watch might look back for inspiration, but it still
BY JESSICA MICHAULT
has a contemporary feel. Limited to 65 pieces, the 52-by-37mm self-winding watch features a moon 2
3
phase display, day and month indicators and a chronograph minute counter (US$13,250).
Contact: Gil Jonaton at Dubey & Schaldenbrand in La Chaux-de-Fonds, 41-32-924-93-60; www.dubeywatch.com 4 The lifelike look of the moon phase option on the HD3 Slyde watch comes thanks to its touch-screen dial. Simply slide your finger across the 47mm watch’s screen to change functions. The black titanium PVD case comes attached to a black rubber strap and can be updated with new complications online via a USB cable (US$7,695). 44
5
Contact: Jeffrey Leong at E’Collezione in Singapore, 65-6737-3820; www.hd3complication.com 5 The Masterpiece Tradition Phases de Lune watch from Maurice Lacroix is part of a new line of five contemporary-style watches. The classic lines of this 40mm stainless steel timepiece are enhanced by the “man in the moon” lunar display at 6 o’clock. A smiling face shows when the moon is full, framed by a starry-night backdrop (from US$4,650).
Contact: Juliana Tan at Maurice Lacroix in Singapore, 65-6339-8787; www.mauricelacroix.de
58
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The Firs t Premium All-Inclusive Resor t in Maldives‌
Lily Beach Resort & Spa at Huvahendhoo South Ari Atoll, The Maldives Tel: +960 668 00 13 | Fax: +960 668 06 46 | sales@lilybeachmaldives.com | www.lilybeachmaldives.com
WATCH TRENDS
6 Traditional style and state-of-the-art craftsmanship marry perfectly in the GlashĂźtte Original Senator Moon Phase Skeletonized Edition. Reworked this year with a new red gold case, the design allows both the mechanism and the function to shine. On the dial, the power reserve and small seconds indicators balance the moon phase (US$46,500).
Contact: Carol Lee at Elegant Watch Co. in Taipei, 886-2-2781-8222; www.glashuette-original.com 7 The classic Jules Audemars Moon Phase watch
6
from Audemars Piguet is a great investment for any collector. The choice of a thin bezel and baton hour indicators imparts a timeless appeal and a slightly retro vibe, while providing breathing room for the moon phase function. The unexpected 39mm case size makes this watch truly stand out (US$29,800).
Contact: Customer Service at Audemars Piguet in Hong Kong, 852-2525-5478; www.audemarspiguet.com 8 The 43mm L.U.C Lunar One watch from Chopard is chockablock with complications. It features a perpetual calendar and a leap year and day/night indicator in addition to the standard hours, minutes and small seconds hands. It is within the seconds 7
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sub-dial that the orbital moon phase display circles around the function (US$63,600).
Contact: Robert Li at Chopard in Shanghai, 86-21-6136-7866; www.chopard.com 9 For Carl F. Bucherer, the key to the new versions of its Manero MoonPhase watch was to make all the functions on the dial work in easy harmony. The rose gold moon is cut in the same shade as the 38mm watch and is balanced on the dial with the day, month and date functions, giving this watch a reserved sophistication (from US$12,900).
Contact: Customer Service at Carl F. Bucherer in 9
10
Dubai, 971-4-2329-8333; www.carl-f-bucherer.com 10 Black and bold, the Torpedo Pirata Barbanegra from Cuervo y Sobrinos uses the moon’s glow to draw in collectors. This limited-edition watch (just 100 pieces) also features 12 hours, 30 minutes and central seconds chronographs as well as a calendar display that circles the edge of the dial. The 45mm case is crafted from bronze, titanium and burnished steel with black DLC coating (US$10,400).
Contact: Customer Service at Takashimaya Tamagawa in Tokyo, 81-3-3709-3111; www.cuervoysobrinos.com
60
DOWNLOAD A FREE SWISS WATCH GUIDE AT www.elitetraveler.com/swisswatch
11 Graff’s bold 48mm GyroGraff watch uses a three-dimensional “gyrograph” lunar display that charts the daily progression of the moon’s phases. Its off-set placement at 8 o’clock gives balance to the watch’s double axis tourbillon. The watch, limited to ten pieces in rose or white gold, has a 60hour power reserve and the brand’s iconic faceted case (price available upon request).
Contact: Jasper Su at Graff in Taipei, 886-2-2523-8000; www.graffdiamonds.com 12 The IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar watch has filled its midnight blue dial with a number of important functions, but it is the cut-out perpetual and hemisphere lunar display at 12 o’clock that really draws the eye. The 44.2mm white gold watch has a seven-day power reserve, four-digit date dis-
11
play and sapphire glass case back (US$41,000).
Contact: Gary Soloveicik at IWC in Hong Kong, 852-2301-3011; www.iwc.com 13 Ulysse Nardin’s Classico Luna line takes the moon phase function back to basics. The slim watch has its lunar display in a simple, chic aperture that rotates around the center of the dial once every 12 hours. As the satellite’s monthly cycle progresses, the moon disk increases or decreases in size as
12
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the moon waxes or wanes (Ref. 8293-122-2/41: US$8,500; Ref. 8296-123BC-2/991: US$22,800).
Contact: Anita Chen at Ulysse Nardin in Taipei, 886-2-2877-2567; www.ulysse-nardin.ch 14 This Patek Philippe ladies’ mechanical handwound watch (4968R-001) gives its moon phase function pride of place. The mother-of-pearl dial has a clean, readable design, which focuses on the lunar sub-dial at 6 o ‘clock. This beautiful timepiece comes in a 33.3mm white or rose gold case and is framed by 273 diamonds on the bezel (about US$50,169).
Contact: Joe Tsang at Emperor Watch & Jewellery
14
15
in Hong Kong, 852-2526-9699; www.patek.com 15 The original, organic look of the Toledo 1952 watch from Vacheron Constantin resonates nicely with the rounded shape of a full moon. The lunar function, with golden accents against midnight blue, pops off the silvered dial featuring a guilloché center. This 35.7-by-43.1mm watch features day and month indications as well (US$38,200).
Contact: Erin Xu at Vacheron Constantin in Shanghai, 86-21-3395-0800; www.vacheron-constantin.com
61
WATCH TRENDS 16 The Piaget Gouverneur Moonphase tourbillon timepiece is elegance personified. The watch case blends both round and oval shapes, a feat that is subtly enhanced by the style of moon phase appliqué indicators displayed at 6 o’clock. The ultra-thin, handwound watch has a 642P movement housed in a 43mm rose gold case (price available upon request).
Contact: Elaine Kwok at Piaget in Hong Kong, 852-2530-2188; www.piaget.com 17 The 42mm Duomètre à Quantième Lunaire watch by Jaeger-LeCoultre is a beautiful mix of mechanics and emotions. The watch touts a jumping foudroyante seconds hand along with date and moon displays. To power all the functions, this watch offers two independent power supplies: One regulated by the escapement and balance, and the other for the time, date and moon displays (US$38,100).
Contact: Nicola Cagliata at Jaeger-LeCoultre in Beverly Hills, (310) 734-0525; www.jaeger-lecoultre.com 18 The real draw of the Moonwatch Moonphase
16
timepiece from Omega is the shining moon aperture located at 12 o’clock. The crisp, clean design of the other functions (including tachymeter and 17
18
chronograph) looks sleek and stealthy against the watch’s black dial. A display back completes the 42mm stainless steel case (US$11,500).
Contact: Customer Service at Omega in Jakarta, 62-21-5140-2707; www.omegawatches.com 19 The circles-upon-circles design of the 38.5mm Lange 1 Moonphase watch from A. Lange & Söhne echoes the shape of a full moon. The dial poses the off-center hour and minute indicators against that of the moon phase and the dual-aperture outsized date displays (from about US$39,483 in pink gold).
Contact: Patrick Choi at A. Lange & Söhne in Hong Kong, 852-2312-2085; 19
20
www.alange-soehne.com 20 From Breguet’s Heritage collection comes the graceful Phase de Lune Retrograde 8860 watch. The curved tonneau rose gold case is off-set with a round guilloché mother-of-pearl dial for the hour and minute indicators. The moon phase aperture in the upper right corner of the dial gives off a golden glow as the moon’s face winks out to the world (US$28,700).
Contact: Customer Service at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, 65-6338-6006; www.breguet.ch
62
Chamonix, Courchevel 1850, Crans-Montana, Davos, Megeve, Meribel, St. Moritz, Val d’Isere, Verbier, Zermatt
Kings Avenue Sàrl 14, Rue de Rhône, CH-1204 Genève Switzerland +41 22 819 94 07 www.kingsavenue.com contact@kingsavenue.com
HOROLOGY
TABLETOP TIMEKEEPING Timepiece enthusiasts focused on which wristwatch to wear on any given day may overlook the integral role a table clock plays in the home or the office. The clock was the first truly mechanical form of timekeeping and has seen countless iterations over the centuries, reaching its apex during the 1930s Art Deco period. The following companies keep the age-old art of clock making relevant for today’s connoisseur.
64
BY NATE BORGELT
PATEK PHILIPPE
JAEGER-LECOULTRE
CARTIER
Patek Philippe workshops continue to fash-
Invented in the 1920s, the aptly named At-
Cartier’s rich history of craftsmanship in-
ion one-of-a-kind cloisonné enamel dome
mos clock is powered through fluctuations
cludes spectacular clocks and the company
clocks. The renowned watchmaker began
in barometric pressure in the atmosphere.
continues to build beautiful examples for
producing clocks in the 1950s and over the
The Atmos du Millénaire Transparente
their clientele. Part of their Exceptional
years has created a bevy of unique pieces.
Joaillerie is a modern iteration of a mid-
clocks line, the Venetian Inspiration Décor
Diverse and imaginative themes range from
century classic, enhancing the elegance of
Clock channels the brand’s exquisite design
nature scenes to cityscapes and more. The
the case to correspond with the elegant mo-
principles and incorporates Cartier’s 6002
clock is fashioned with precise finesse—the
tions of the movement. The clock, comprised
mechanical movement. The sterling silver
detail and color of each dome is a prime ex-
of 18K white gold with mother-of-pearl and
timekeeper, available in his and her sizes,
ample of quality craftsmanship—to create
diamond accents, displays the time, moon
is finished in palladium and stands on a
vibrant and exceptional works of art (about
phase, month and year up to 3000 (reference
black-lacquered base with red jasper cabo-
US$62,980).
5745102: US$80,000).
chon elements (reference W0100146: about
Contact: Customer Service at Patek
Contact: Nicola Cagliata at Jaeger-LeCoultre
US$23,354).
Philippe in Shanghai, 86-21-5308-1886;
in Beverly Hills, (310) 734-0525;
Contact: Feony Ho at Cartier in Hong Kong,
www.patek.com
www.jaeger-lecoultre.com
852-2522-2963; www.cartier.com
FREE LUXURY INSIDER NEWSLETTER! ENTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS AT www.elitetraveler.com or email webinfo@elitetraveler.com
Luxury in the heart of Florence
Located on the historic Piazza della Repubblica, Hotel Savoy is the perfect place to absorb the intoxicating Florentine atmosphere, with luxurious accommodation moments away from the city’s famous attractions and fashion houses. Piazza della Repubblica, 7 50123 Florence (Italy) T. +39 055 27 35 1 F +39 055 27 35 888 reservations.savoy@roccofortehotels.com roccofortehotels.com Luxury Hotels and Resorts
Abu Dhabi, Berlin, Brussels, Edinburgh, Florence, Frankfurt, London, Manchester, Munich, Prague, Rome, St Petersburg, Sicily. Future Openings: Cairo, Jeddah, Luxor, Marrakech.
RESORT FOCUS SPECIAL PROMOTION
METROJET: ENABLING LIFE’S ELITE JOURNEYS From VIP service that rivals the best in the industry, to an operational record that is second to none, Metrojet continues to exceed the expectations of jetsetters in Asia Pacific. With more than 30 years of regional experience under its belt, leading busi-
customers enjoy the hassle-free mobility that makes their unique lifestyle
ness aviation company Metrojet offers comprehensive private jet charter ser-
possible. A confidential in-flight environment is guaranteed, and onboard cui-
vices, as well as aircraft management and maintenance. An unwavering con-
sine includes signature Peninsula dishes, crafted to the same exacting stan-
viction to deliver best-in-class services has earned this family business its
dards as they are when served on the ground.
six-star status, and a gleaming reputation for consistent, reliable operational excellence, impeccable service and uncompromised luxury.
REST ASSURED Safety, of course, is paramount: Metrojet’s maintenance facility holds a
AT YOUR SERVICE
110-strong team of expertly trained, highly qualified and experienced individ-
Whether you’re a private owner, charter flight customer or industry part-
uals. Touting a fully certified repair station with key maintenance approvals,
ner, Metrojet is dedicated to meeting and anticipating your needs. Focused
the company works with all key players in the industry, delivering full-service
on delivering meticulous, unmatched levels of service, Metrojet is the only
business aviation solutions, complete with peace of mind.
business aviation group to have its cabin crew trained in VIP service by the world-renowned Peninsula Hotel in Hong Kong. A 24-hour, multilingual dispatch team is on call to make all necessary bookings and arrangements, ensuring flights in Asia and beyond are as
region, it remains completely dedicated to investing in its people and relation-
speedy and seamless as possible.
ships and to offering its clients and partners the very best luxury experience.
Understanding that discretion and well-being are key, Metrojet caters to clients’ needs not only professionally, but personally as well, ensuring that
66
THE KEY TO QUALITY While Metrojet grows to meet the increasing private aviation needs in the
A fully integrated, collaborative team is the underlying core to Metrojet’s stunning track record and continued top-of-the-line offerings.
LIMITED EDITIONS
TIMEPIECES FIT FOR ADVENTURE With so few real adventures left in our world, it is nice to know that you can take part in two genuine ones undertaken over the last year—at least by wearing the same watch. BY ELIZABETH DOERR
KOBOLD WATCHES HIMALAYA EVEREST EDITION Michael Kobold is not just a watchmaker; he is also an adventurer of sorts. But then again he has to be: The products manufactured by his brand, Kobold Watches, are marketed and sold to military units, police forces and intrepid adventurers. And with good reason, as a Kobold timepiece can take anything that is dished out. Case in point: In 2008, Kobold spontaneously joined brand ambassador Sir Ranulph Fiennes, described by the Guinness Book of World Records as “the world’s greatest living adventurer,” on a Mount Everest bid. Kobold was ill-prepared to climb and did not even expect to reach base camp, the
ZENITH EL PRIMERO
last settlement before serious alpinists scale the earth’s highest moun-
STRATOS FLYBACK
tain. He made it up much higher before both men were forced to retreat.
When Zenith CEO Jean-Frédéric Dufour created the program of ambas-
EL PRIMERO STRATOS FLYBACK / ZENITH
The duo topped the summit in 2009, and the Pittsburgh-based watch
sadors called “Legends” in 2009, it was unclear what the program would
manufacturer repeated the feat in 2010 with his wife. During the three
entail. Today, the public is clear on who these legends are: Extraordinary
courageous climbs, the lives of Kobold and his cohorts were seriously
people setting goals that others do not even dare dream of.
endangered. Only by the grace of their skilled Sherpas did they survive.
One of these pioneers is Swedish environmentalist explorer Johan
In his gratitude, Kobold decided to train the two members of the Sherpa
Ernst Nilson, who began a treacherous journey called Pole2Pole without
caste as watchmakers and have them run a new subsidiary in Kathman-
the aid of machinery from the North Pole to the South Pole in April 2011.
du called Kobold Watch Company Nepal (Pvt.) Ltd as co-owners.
He started out on skis, pulling a sled across the North Pole; other forms
The “made in Nepal” Kobold model assembled in Namgel Sherpa and
of transport included a dogsled, bicycle and kite-sled over ice.
Thundu Sherpa’s workshop is called the Himalaya. Housed in a 44mm
Nilson faced extreme climates on his odyssey, far below zero in the
stainless steel case made in the US, the brown or black dial—character-
Arctic and Antarctic regions to more than 50°C in the Mexican desert and
istic of Kobold in its clarity—is placed beneath sapphire crystal and over
cloying humidity in the Mexican jungle. On December 14, 2011, he cele-
a special automatic movement. Caliber K.2651 is based on a vintage
brated the centennial of pioneering explorer Roald Amundsen’s conquest
Förster movement from Pforzheim that currently only Kobold utilizes.
of the South Pole on ice before finally reaching his goal on February 17,
The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters and has an alligator strap.
2012. The two explorers have more than just their Scandinavian heritage
To celebrate the opening of the Nepal branch, Kobold created the lim-
in common; they both wore Zenith watches on their historical journeys.
ited Himalaya Everest Edition with a dial crafted from Mt. Everest lime-
During his Pole2Pole expedition, Nilson wore the limited-edition El
stone plucked from the summit and carried back down in 2009 by Kobold
Primero Stratos Flyback, a watch he has literally put through every test
himself. A German company then spent 24 months crafting beautiful
for robustness and reliability imaginable. This chronograph, limited to
5mm-thick dials from this rock—making each of these 25 special time-
500 pieces, is housed in a 45.5mm blackened alloy case outfitted with a
pieces retailing for $16,500 inimitably unique.
nearly scratchproof black ceramic rotating bezel. The black dial, whose
Contact: Kobold Watches' Brian Satchell, (412) 722-1277;
markers and hands are inlaid with Super-LumiNova to ensure legibility
brian@koboldwatch.com; www.koboldwatch.com
even under the harshest of conditions, is protected by a domed version of the second-hardest substance known to man: Sapphire crystal, which only diamond can injure.
HIMALAYA EVEREST EDITION / KOBOLD WATCHES
This tough watch, available on a metal bracelet or a fabric or rubber strap, is powered by Zenith’s own automatic El Primero movement, a legend in itself. The durable flyback chronograph is completed by a telemetric scale, which Nilson could use for measuring distances. Finally, the date window at 6 o’clock certainly helped remind him of the passage of time over the course of his perilous journey, from which he returned with cracked ribs, frostbitten toes and other maladies that required an immediate hospital stay. Secured by a black triple folding clasp, this bold watch, a tribute to Nilson, retails for $8,900.
Contact: Customer Service at Zenith in Shanghai, 86-21-5204-2886; www.zenith-watches.com 68
JEWELRY TRENDS
WHITE DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER Nothing screams luxury more loudly than diamonds. Both classic and elegant, white diamonds have long been treasured for their intrinsic beauty and value. For fall, these timeless gems have been given a modern update with artistic designs, contrasting materials and cuttingedge settings.
BY DIVIA HARILELA
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1 The fluid movements of a ballerina are recre-
Contact: Chris Lau at Graff in Shanghai,
exotic diamond brooch with a pearl at its center.
ated in De Beers’s Swan Lake Red Carpet col-
86-21-6321-6660; www.graffdiamonds.com
The brooch, part of a traveling collection, debuts
lection. Sweeping lines cross to form this unique
in Hong Kong in October (price available upon re-
rhodium-plated white gold bracelet. Fancy-cut
3 Cartier’s new Secrets et Merveilles high jewel-
quest).
diamonds totalling 41.28 carats are set in half
ry collection celebrates diamonds in all their glo-
Contact: Kan Au at Chanel Fine Jewellery in
bezels to create a look of lightness (US$450,000).
ry with styles fit for a queen. The elaborate pen-
Hong Kong, 852-2869-4898; www.chanel.com
Contact: Jackie Liu at De Beers in Beijing,
dant earrings are made from platinum and come
86-10-5738-2668; www.debeers.hk
to life with shapes ranging from modern cushion
5 When Louis Vuitton launched its high jewelry
cuts to pear, baguette, square and brilliant-cut
line in 2008, the brand chartered new ground with
2 Inspired by classic Chinese scroll paintings,
diamonds (price available upon request).
its own exclusive diamond cuts. The flower cut,
Graff’s Scroll necklace evokes a sense of Old
Contact: Sally Han at Cartier in Beijing,
based on the house’s iconic monogram print, is
World glamour. It features various diamond
86-10-8517-1221; www.cartier.com
the focus of its Les Ardentes ring, which features a 1.5-carat diamond surrounded by 152 brilliant
shapes ranging from traditional round to pear,
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4
with a heart shape taking pride of place as the
4 Coco Chanel’s trip to Venice in the 1920s is the
diamonds totalling 1.3 carats (price available
central stone in some designs. Elaborate swirls
starting point for the new Secret d’Orient collec-
upon request).
create a sophisticated look (price available upon
tion by Chanel. Referencing the Byzantine style,
Contact: Customer Service at Louis Vuitton in
request).
her signature camellia is transformed into an
Singapore, 65-6788-3888; www.louisvuitton.com
DOWNLOAD A FREE ELITE JEWELRY GUIDE AT www.elitetraveler.com/jewelryguide
6
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6 American jeweler Tiffany & Co. celebrates its
Contact: Cherry Lo at Damiani in Hong Kong,
diamonds totaling 25.95 carats. Diamond leaves
175th anniversary this year with a collection that
852-2196-8798; www.damiani.com
dangle from the bottom to create volume and
recreates some archival pieces while paying trib-
movement—another unmistakable trait of the
ute to its most iconic designs. Favorites include
8 Hong Kong-based Wallace Chan has the privi-
house (US$215,000).
the sunburst diamond earrings in platinum de-
lege of being the first Chinese jeweler to exhibit
Contact: Brenda Shek at Bulgari in Macau,
signed by Jean Schlumberger, who was known
his work at the upcoming Biennale des Anti-
853-2875-2386; www.bulgari.com
for his whimsical creations (debuting in October;
quaires in Paris. His latest collection includes
price available upon request).
the Circles of Light earrings featuring a pair of
10 Piaget’s new jewelry collection is inspired by
Contact: Cindy Lo at Tiffany & Co. in Macau,
three-carat old-cut diamonds and a pair of one-
the award-winning Yves Piaget rose, which was
853-2872-3660; www.tiffany.com
carat emerald-cut diamonds, mixed with crystal
cultivated in 1982. The Piaget Rose collection is
(price available upon request).
a tribute to this unique flower, characterized by
7 Paying homage to one of Italy’s most beloved
Contact: Maggie Hong at Wallace Chan in Hong
its 80 petals. Highlights include the 18K white
actresses, the Sophia Loren necklace from Da-
Kong, 852-2523-2788; www.wallace-chan.com
gold diamond ring featuring six brilliant-cut dia-
miani is definitely a statement piece. This white
monds, seven pear-cut diamonds and white chal-
gold necklace is made up of circles embellished
9 Smooth contours characterize Bulgari’s lat-
cedony for a modern touch (about US$49,110).
with 1,352 diamonds totalling 81 carats for a bold
est high jewelry collection, which includes this
Contact: Cate Hsu at Piaget in Beijing,
and fashion-forward look (US$720,000).
stunning bracelet made from white gold and pavé
86-10-6533-1486; www.piaget.com 71
ACCESSORIES GEMS+JEWELS
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JADE PALACE
Go beyond green—carved jade jewels feel fresh and feminine in delicate shades of white and lavender. BY DREW TAYLOR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LEWIS TAYLOR
1 Jade cuff with wood, colored sapphires and brown diamonds, US$45,600, Wendy Yue. Contact: Customer Service at Wendy Yue in Hong Kong, 852-2142-8188;
www.wendyyue.com. 2 18K white gold earrings with jade, sapphires and pavé diamonds, US$26,000, Mimi So. Contact: Naoko Kaburagi at Isetan in Tokyo, 81-3-3225-3142; www.mimiso.com. 72
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1 Lavender jade necklace, US$6,600, Dana Rebecca Designs. Contact: Kelly Durbin at Broken English in Santa Monica, Calif., (310) 458-2724;
www.danarebeccadesigns.com. 2 18K white gold earrings with lavender jade and diamonds, price available upon request, Paolo Costagli. Contact: Jenny Chu at Jenny Chu Consulting in Hong Kong, 852-2868-9772; www.paolocostagli.com. 3 Lavender jade earrings with diamonds, US$21,400, Bochic. Contact: Joshua Jones at Jean Brown in Brisbane, 61-7-3257-2888; www.bochic.com. 73
ACCESSORIES GEMS+JEWELS
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PEARL JAM
These aren’t your grandmother’s pearls: Forgo simple strands in favor of a statement-making, sculptural cuff.
1 Rhodium-plated sterling silver cuff with Tahitian pearl, US$1,033, Misaki. Contact: Customer Service at Jewellery Gallery on Hay in Perth, 61-8-9221-4433;
www.misaki.com. 2 18K white gold bangle with Tahitian pearls and diamonds, US$19,000, Mastoloni Pearls. Contact: Amir Mozaffarian at Amir Mozaffarian Jewelers in San Francisco, (415) 391-9995; www.mastoloni.com. 3 18K white gold bangle with pearls and diamonds, US$50,000, Mikimoto. Contact: Customer Service at Mikimoto America, (800) 223-4008; www.mikimotoamerica.com. 4 18K white gold bangle pendant with Tahitian pearls and diamonds, US$49,500, Yael Sonia. Contact: Anna Cheng at AME Gallery in Hong Kong, 852-3564-8066; www.yaelsonia.com. 74
Photo: www.jimmynelson.com
Explore the Energy of Creation
0.90 ct & 0.50 ct white G/vs diamonds, white G/vs diamond pavĂŠs, 18K white gold & sapphires.
Available at LANE CRAWFORD Hong Kong London | Paris | New York | Los Angeles | Miami | Las Vegas | Dallas | Moscow | Doha | Hong Kong | Barcelona Copenhagen | Oslo | Amsterdam | Hamburg | Munich | Zurich | St Tropez | Courchevel | Knokke | Andorra | Kiev | St Maarten
www.shamballajewels.com
CHRISTIAN DIOR
RUNWAY REPORT
VIKTOR & ROLF
CHRISTIAN DIOR
CHRISTIAN DIOR
CHRISTIAN DIOR
CHRISTIAN DIOR
BACK TO THE FUTURE As Asian buyers turn up at the season’s haute couture runways en force, the world of high fashion puts on an unforgettable show, always keeping the past in mind while paving the way for the future.
BY JESSICA MICHAULT
The pendulum for purchasing haute couture has swung away from Europe and towards Asia. It is from the Orient that a growing number of style-savvy clients have flocked to Paris to take in the shows and tick off which one-of-a-kind looks they want to call their own. As luck would have it many of these newcomer couture buyers were witness to some of the most unforgettable haute couture creations in recent memory, the pinnacle of which was the debut of the Belgian designer Raf Simons at Christian Dior. For many the arrival of Simons at Dior marks a new era in fashion. The show was the final chapter in what was a yearand-a-half-long drama that started when John Galliano was fired from the house in disgrace after hurling racist slurs at a couple in a Parisian bar. What followed was a long and very public search for Galliano’s replacement. But with just three months to create not only his first collection as the creative director of Dior, but also his first ever haute couture show, 76
CHANEL
VERSACE
VIKTOR & ROLF CHANEL
CHANEL
VERSACE
VERSACE
Simons sent out a tour de force collection that will go down in
the house and make them look modern. In a palette of grays
the annals of fashion history.
and pinks the designer showed a collection of covetable tweed
WHERE TO BUY
coats and lovely long and lean eveningwear. But the real muse
CHANEL
amazed his audience by covering a series of rooms—from
of the Chanel show was none other than Lagerfeld’s new kit-
Contact: Wilson Tay,
floor to ceiling—in over a million fresh flowers. Each room
ten, Choupette. The bride’s dress was inspired by the de-
65-6733-5120;
had its own bloom, from pink roses and white orchids to yel-
signer’s feline companion (who has her own Twitter feed—@
www.chanel.com
low mimosa and blue delphiniums. A modern minimalist, Si-
ChoupettesDiary—with almost 12,000 followers), and the new
mons is a 180-degree change in fashion direction from the
Chanel handbag has also been baptized Choupette.
Even before Simons sent out his first look he had already
CHRISTIAN DIOR Contact: Bonnie Ho,
embellished romantic style of Galliano. But for his first collec-
Another fashion moment at the shows was Donatella Ver-
tion, the designer made the perfect move by paying homage to
sace’s first Atelier Versace haute couture runway show in
852-2269-5000;
Mr. Dior and his iconic 1947 “New Look” collection. And more
15 years. She returned to the Ritz, where the designer’s late
www.dior.com
specifically, its most famous ensemble—the Bar.
brother Gianni Versace once showed his mythical creations. She sent out a show that was pure Versace. All the codes of
VERSACE
1950s with a reserved and streamlined sensibility that looked
the house were in the collection: The hip-high slits on gowns,
Contact: Moliuedee
thoroughly modern. In this haute couture collection Simons
pastel chain mail, body con construction and skin on display.
Wamnarit, 66-2-610-9889;
proved, with his delicately embroidered mini ball dresses worn
But there was nothing nostalgic about this show. Versace was
www.versace.com
over cigarette pants, gowns crafted from bands of pale pink and
able to update the DNA of her brand via the patchwork motif
blue feathers, strips of organza or a pointillism effect of chiffon
she used on dresses and “venetian blind” outfits crafted from
tabs, and curvy brightly colored coats, that architectural con-
leather strips. The looks were undeniably sexy but explored
struction would be a key element to his future designs.
the concept in an original way.
The sculptural show fused the hourglass shapes of the
But the Dior show was not the only impressive collection
What these collections prove is that the future of fashion
on display during haute couture week. Karl Lagerfeld created
lies in remembering its past. But as any haute couture buyer
a Chanel collection called “New Vintage,” which explored the
knows, it takes a real artist to transform a brand’s history into
idea of how to reinterpret the past codes, shapes and styles of
its future. 77
RUNWAY REPORT
BURBERRY PRORSUM
HERMÈS
SUIT YOURSELF Get ready to close the deal of a lifetime in the
It was from a distance and he was walking up the steps to the Petit Palais in Paris to catch a Stella McCartney show when he was in the thick of buying up brands for Gucci Group. I had no idea at the time
perfect power suit—meticulous tailoring, sleek
that it was Ford I was glimpsing. What I did know
lines and fine fabrics impart striking sophistica-
right away was that, whoever the man was, he was
tion and confidence this fall.
wearing a fantastic suit. BY JESSICA MICHAULT
Luckily for those men looking for the long-distance “Tom Ford” impact, there are a lot of suit op-
The summer already feels like a distant memory and
tions to choose from this season and a number of
for many men the casual attire that goes with holiday
brands (like Z Zegna) are finally starting to make
vacations has no place in their wardrobe come fall. It
slimmer suit versions of their catwalk looks.
is time to take things seriously, sartorially speaking, and that means investing in a well-tailored suit.
Z ZEGNA
The business suit is the uniform of the corpo-
came out with a dapper gray version in a higher cut
rate world. And just like with military attire, when
that featured six buttons to create a super snug fit.
a businessman goes into battle, he needs to look
And fit is the key to getting the double-breasted suit
sharp and focused. The power of a well-tailored
right. If you don’t want to look like a reject from a
suit is so strong that its force can be felt even before
gangster film skip the shoulder pads and keep the
the man wearing it comes into view.
double-breasted jacket trim and short.
I will never forget the first time I saw Tom Ford.
78
One of the biggest suit trends of the moment is the double-breasted variety. Burberry Prorsum
The most popular suit option continues to be the
DRIES VAN NOTEN
GIVENCHY
WHERE TO BUY two-button, but designers are trying to spice up the old standby in a few creative ways. At Hermès and Z Zegna the introduction of a bit of shine into the fab-
BURBERRY PRORSUM Contact: Candice Xavier, 61-2-8296-8588; www.burberry.com
ric gave the suits some extra pizzazz. At Dries Van Noten the addition of a pocket square drew the eye up to the torso, making it a great accessory for any man looking to keep the focus off his midsection. While at Givenchy, designer Riccardo Tisci went for tone on tone black suits that are a perfect way to look both sophisticated and cool.
DRIES VAN NOTEN Contact: Customer Service, 81-3-5766-8607; www.driesvannoten.be GIVENCHY Contact: Customer Service, 86-21-5213-7838; www.givenchy.com
But if you can only invest in one new suit this season then stick with the classic two-button gray incarnation. It is the male equivalent of the little black dress. It works in almost any situation. Just make sure that the gray shade is right in the middle of the color spectrum (not too dark, not too light). The gray Louis Vuitton suit designed by Kim Jones
HERMÈS Contact: Peppermint Zhang, 852-2525-5900; www.hermes.com LOUIS VUITTON Contact: Celia Huang, 86-40-0658-8555; www.louisvuitton.com
is a perfect example. Pair it with a white shirt and a dark solid tie, and you are guaranteed to get noticed both from a distance and then, if you are lucky, up close and personal as well.
Z ZEGNA Contact: Joy Zhou, 852-3417-3088; www.zegna.com
LOUIS VUITTON
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ACCESSORIES
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REBOOT
From exotic skins to sexy stiletto heels, there’s nothing basic about fall’s fiercest ankle booties. BY DREW TAYLOR
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID LEWIS TAYLOR
1 Python boots, US$1,090, Devi Kroell. Contact: Sujeong Kim at Super Normal in Seoul, 82-2-511-0991; www.devikroell.com. 2 Suede and python boots, 80
about US$733, Aquazzura. Contact: Yasemin Atadeniz at Harvey Nichols in Istanbul, 90-212-319-1100; www.aquazzura.com.
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1 Tweed, suede and patent leather boots, US$295, Jean-Michel Cazabat. Contact: Customer Service at Villa Rouge in Beijing, 86-10-6417-5045;
www.jeanmichelcazabat.com. 2 Leather and calf hair booties, US$1,250, Donna Karan New York. Contact: Yude Yoko at Donna Karan in Tokyo, 81-3-5414-5500; www.donnakaran.com. 3 Crocodile-embossed leather tassel booties, US$1,094, Gianvito Rossi for Altuzarra. Contact: Customer Service at Le Lutin in Shanghai, 86-135-855-77653; www.josephaltuzarra.com. 4 Suede and leather ankle booties, US$550, Sigerson Morrison. Contact: Customer Service at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong, 852-3695-3389; www.sigersonmorrison.com.
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ACCESSORIES
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SO CLUTCH
Books, dice and even rubber duckies do double duty in these quirky-cool, tongue-in-chic minaudières.
1 Embroidered canvas book clutch with Liberty print lining, US$1,830, Olympia Le-Tan. Contact: Noda Nwaearu at Adam and Rope in Tokyo, 81-3-5728-6320;
www.olympialetan.com. 2 Leather clutch, US$895, Diane von Furstenberg. Contact: Rick Lippiner at Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills, (310) 275-4211; www.dvf.com. 3 Perspex box clutch with Swarovski crystal detail, US$1,195, Charlotte Olympia. Contact: Pat Chan at On Pedder at Joyce in Hong Kong, 852-2118-3489; www.charlotteolympia.com. 4 Brass minaudière, US$650, Kotur. Contact: Customer Service at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong, 852-3695-3389; www.shopkotur.com. 5 Perspex clutch, US$390, Lulu Guinness. Contact: Emily Wong at Alter Style in Shanghai, 86-21-6302-9889; www.luluguinness.com. 6 Minaudière with sunflower Austrian crystals, US$4,995, Judith Leiber. Contact: Customer Service at Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, 852-2118-3398; 82
www.judithleiber.com.
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IMPERIAL EMPIRE
Evening-ready accessories take a regal turn with lavish adornments and Qing Dynastyinspired designs.
1, 2 Jade beaded box clutch, US$1,805, and brocade stilettos, US$625, both by Jason Wu. Contact: Customer Service at Lane Crawford in Hong Kong, 852-
2118-3398; www.jasonwustudio.com. 3 Satin clutch with tassel, US$450, Kotur. Contact: Customer Service at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong, 852-3695-3389; www.shopkotur.com. 4 Clutch with crystals, US$3,295, Marchesa. Contact: Shizuka Onozawa at Hatsuko Endo in Tokyo, 81-3-3563-1411; www.marchesa.com.
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ACCESSORIES
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BAGGAGE CHECK
Round out your luggage collection with sleek travel essentials, from a go-anywhere duffel to a timeless, vintage-inspired trunk.
1 Leather and twill bag, US$795, Ghurka. Contact: Hirose Tetsua at Beams in Tokyo, 81-3-3470-3946; www.ghurka.com. 2 Metallic calf leather suitcase, 84
US$4,315, Brunello Cucinelli. Contact: Kimura Sumie at Brunello Cucinelli in Toyko, 81-3-5467-5155; www.brunellocucinelli.it.
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1 Suitcase with leather trim, price available upon request, Valextra. Contact: Customer Service at Valextra in Tokyo, 81-3-3535-9651; www.valextra.it. 2 Leather suitcase, US$3,150, Louis Vuitton. Contact: Moli Hitime at Louis Vuitton in Tokyo, 81-3-3567-1211; www.louisvuitton.com. 3 Leather trolley bag, US$6,250, Brioni. Contact: Customer Service at Brioni in Tokyo, 81-3-3289-6111; www.brioni.it. 4 Coated canvas wardrobe trunk with leather trim, about US$6,990, Tumi. Contact: KC Eng at Tumi in Singapore, 65-6222-1611; www.tumi.com.
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ACCESSORIES 2
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SHEAR GENIUS
Stay cozy, look cool: Touches of shearling heat up men’s outerwear and accessories this season.
1 Wool and leather bag, about US$2,660, Ermenegildo Zegna. Contact: Nicole Hooper at Ermenegildo Zegna in Sydney, 61-2-9222-9355; www.zegna.com. 2 Sheepskin jacket, US$3,780, Bruno Magli. Contact: Tomoko Kda at Takashimaya Nihombashi in Tokyo, 81-3-3548-8085; www.brunomagli.it. 3 Calf leather 86
and shearling boots, US$1,150, Bally. Contact: Kuen Kinyung at Ocean Centre in Hong Kong, 852-2736-8068; www.bally.com.
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VELVET UNDERGROUND
In updated prints, textures and embellishments, the classic smoking slipper never goes out of style.
1 Velvet loafers, US$1,350, Angelo Galasso. Contact: Artem Kapturov at Angelo Galasso in Moscow, 7-495-650-4517; www.angelogalasso.com. 2 Pony hair shoes, US$735, Dries Van Noten. Contact: Nishikawa Masahi at Land of Tomorrow in Tokyo, 81-3-5766-7462; www.driesvannoten.be. 3 Leopard-print pony hair loafers, US$995, Christian Louboutin. Contact: Kerensky Hou at Christian Louboutin in Hong Kong, 852-2118-6502; www.christianlouboutin.com. 4 Velvet slippers, US$500, Bruno Magli. Contact: Tomoko Kda at Takashimaya Nihombashi in Tokyo, 81-3-3548-8085; www.brunomagli.it. 5 Brocade moccasins, about US$580, Alberto Moretti. Contact: Customer Service at The Swank in Hong Kong, 852-2363-8160; www.albertomoretti.com.
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RESORT FOCUS FASHION
SHE’S THE BOSS Take charge in the luxe leather and borrowed-from-the-boys tailoring of the season’s most seductive styles.
PHOTOGRAPHY
BEN DUGGAN
18K white gold and black rhodium ring with multicolored diamonds, US$36,000, Loree Rodkin; 18K gold bracelet with black and
STYLING
CHRISTINE DE LASSUS
white diamonds, US$81,700, H.Stern; silk crepon top, US$1,995, and leather leggings, US$3,495, both by Jean Paul Gaultier; suede lace-up booties with chinchilla fur trim, US$1,093, Brian Atwood. ON HIM:
88 88
Cotton tuxedo shirt, US$1,190, and wool tuxedo pants, US$1,500, both by Kiton; suede and patent leather shoes, US$575, Jean-Michel Cazabat.
18K white gold and diamond earrings, US$164,000, Coomi for Forevermark; calfskin bracelet with silver-plated hardware, US$1,150, and suede lambskin skirt, US$5,700, both by Hermès; satin top, US$820, Carven; lace-up booties, US$1,250, Giuseppe Zanotti Design.
18K rose gold and diamond ring, US$15,000, Gumuchian; gold-plated cuff with Swarovski crystals, US$1,040, Mawi; 18K rose gold cuff with white diamonds, US$33,800, Mattia Cielo; suede jacket, US$2,500, HervĂŠ LĂŠger by Max Azria; viscose twill shorts, US$350, Mulberry; leather platform pumps with gold zipper detail, US$921, Brian Atwood.
RESORT FOCUS
92
18K white gold and diamond bracelet, US$296,700, Diane von Furstenberg by H.Stern; 18K white gold and diamond ring, US$32,600, Mattia Cielo; georgette shirt with pleated scarf, US$1,150, calf leather riding pants, US$2,750, and crocodile belt with studs, US$890, all by Gucci. ON HIM: Wool tuxedo pants, US$1,500, Kiton; suede and patent leather shoes, US$575, Jean-Michel Cazabat.
18K white gold necklace with diamonds, US$75,300, H.Stern; platinum and diamond rings, both prices available upon request, both by Harry Winston; suede bra, leather skirt with lace inserts, and leather coat, all prices available upon request, all by Kanye West; leather boots, US$340, Jean-Michel Cazabat.
18K white gold bracelet with diamonds, US$30,000, Gumuchian; 18K white gold cuff with diamonds, US$125,000, Hoorsenbuhs for Forevermark; platinum bracelet with diamonds, price available upon request, Harry Winston; silk dress, US$3,660, Cushnie et Ochs.
WHERE TO BUY 88
89
BRIAN ATWOOD P. 89, 91
HOORSENBUHS FOR FOREVERMARK P. 95
Contact: Jerick Enclan, (323) 930-2230;
Contact: Allen Chen, 886-2-2777-4288;
www.brianatwood.com
www.hoorsenbuhs.com
[Available at Nordstrom in Los Angeles]
[Available at Club Designer in Taipei]
CARVEN P. 90
JEAN-MICHEL CAZABAT P. 88, 92, 94
Contact: Customer Service, 81-03-6228-7898;
Contact: Customer Service, 86-10-6417-5045;
www.carven.fr
www.jeanmichelcazabat.com
[Available at Carven in Tokyo]
[Available at Jean-Michel Cazabat in Beijing]
COOMI FOR FOREVERMARK P. 90
JEAN PAUL GAULTIER P. 89
Contact: Teresa Hanner, (310) 550-5900;
Contact: Laura Gambucci, (858) 551-0214;
www.coomi.com
www.jeanpaulgaultier.com
[Available at Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills]
[Available at Laura Gambucci in La Jolla, Calif.]
90
91
CUSHNIE ET OCHS P. 95 Contact: Customer Service, 852-3695-3388;
KANYE WEST P. 94
www.cushnieetochs.com
Contact: Jordan Shoe, (212) 255-8588;
[Available at Harvey Nichols in Hong Kong]
www.kanyewest.com [Available at Kanye West in New York]
DIANE VON FURSTENBERG BY H.STERN P. 92
KITON P. 88, 92, 93
Contact: Ray Park, (800) 747-8376;
Contact: Customer Service, 86-10-6505-5198;
www.hstern.net
www.kiton.it
[Available at H.Stern in Seoul]
[Available at Kiton in Beijing]
GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI DESIGN P. 90
LOREE RODKIN P. 89
Contact: Cesar Quezada, (310) 858-1990;
Contact: Leejung Eun, 82-2-542-8006;
www.giuseppezanottidesign.com
www.loreerodkin.com
[Available at Giuseppe Zanotti Design in Los
[Available at Boon the Shop in Seoul]
Angeles]
92
93
MATTIA CIELO P. 91, 92 GUCCI P. 92
Contact: Stephenie Wong, 852-2822-8572;
Contact: Tobbie Chan, 852-2524-4492;
www.mattiacielo.com
www.gucci.com
[Available at King Fook Jewellery Group Ltd.
[Available at Gucci in Hong Kong]
in Hong Kong]
GUMUCHIAN P. 91, 95
MAWI P. 91
Contact: Stephanie Lee, (408) 938-2688;
Contact: Pat Wong, 852-2810-1120;
www.gumuchian.com
www.mawi.co.uk
[Available at CH Premier Jewelers in Santa
[Available at Joyce in Hong Kong]
Clara, Calif.] MULBERRY P. 91 H.STERN P. 89, 94
Contact: Michael Lucero, (888) 685-6856,
Contact: Ray Park, (800) 747-8376;
ext. 6; www.mulberry.com
www.hstern.net
[Available at Mulberry in San Francisco]
[Available at H.Stern in Seoul]
94
95 HARRY WINSTON P. 94, 95 Contact: Janice Lee, 852-2301-2131; www.harrywinston.com [Available at Harry Winston in Hong Kong] HERMÈS P. 90
Photographer | BEN DUGGAN Photography Art Direction | EDDIE VAN NARC Stylist | CHRISTINE DE LASSUS @ ART DEPARTMENT Style Editor | DREW TAYLOR
Contact: Customer Service, 852-2525-5900;
Creative Director | JOANNE GENZONE
www.hermes.com
Art Director | DEENA CAMPBELL
[Available at The Galleria in Hong Kong]
Makeup | WENDY KARCHER @ AIM ARTISTS
HERVÉ LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA P. 91 Contact: Luga Grinblat, (310) 275-2550; www.herveleger.com [Available at Hervé Léger in Beverly Hills]
Hair | ELSA CANEDO Models | OLGA @ SOUL MODELS JERRETH @ DNA MODELS Location | LAFAYETTE HOUSE IN NEW YORK
TOP SUITES
BEST SUITES OF THE MALDIVES
In this almost mythical land where “one island, one resort” is the rule, not the exception, the newest über-luxe hideaway is always on the horizon (rumor has it Louis Vuitton’s Cheval Blanc is next up in 2013). This, of course, keeps Maldives’ high-end hoteliers on their toes, ensuring even the most well traveled of jetsetters an unforgettable, incomparable and decidedly private stay. Whether you love an eco-chic vibe or prefer something sleek and sexy, whether you want the beach at your doorstep or can’t wait to live over cerulean waters, there’s a suite to suit every fancy in our top picks for this legendary Indian Ocean Eden. BY TOVA SYROWICZ
98 FLYING LOW OVER THE MALDIVES BERLINER DOM / BERLIN
POOL DECK / OCEAN REVIVE
MASTER BEDROOM / OCEAN REVIVE
JUMEIRAH DHEVANAFUSHI OCEAN REVIVE
LAP POOL / TWO-BEDROOM ROYAL BEACH VILLA
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MALDIVES AT LANDAA GIRAAVARU
Key selling points | Heaven for honeymooners, this vast over-
TWO-BEDROOM ROYAL BEACH VILLA
water villa touts the largest bed in the Maldives (a three-by-
Key selling points | The indoor/outdoor living experience in
two-meter marvel) and perfect privacy. Seamless floor-to-
this sunset-facing expanse is ideal for elite family getaways.
ceiling windows offer unobstructed ocean views, even from
Soaring vaulted ceilings, dark teak furnishings and soothing
the massive rain shower. Frolic in your personal infinity pool,
cocoa and coral color accents set the scene for indulgent
take a dip in the lagoon teeming with tropical fish and après
relaxation, while lush foliage between the 66-foot lap pool
dinner, sink into a sumptuous outdoor bubble bath for two.
and powder-white beach ensures guest privacy.
Standout service | Upon a guest’s request, staff anchored a
Standout service | The staff has sourced everything from a
Sultans of the Seas yacht—very hard to secure in peak sea-
specific brand of baby formula to Australian goat’s milk to
son—just outside the guest’s villa for the length of his stay.
make guests feel perfectly at home.
Style | Sleek island luxe with pops of turquoise, by Blink
Style | Contemporary Maldivian, by Murhad Ismail, 2006
Design Group, 2011
Special amenities | L’Occitane bath products, 42-inch
Special amenities | Apple media center, two 46-inch
plasma TVs, Wi-Fi, twin massage beds in garden courtyard,
flat-screen TVs, Bose sound system, Wi-Fi, full-size Kelly
large circular and overflowing bathtubs, outdoor showers
Calèche and Terre d’Hermès bath amenities, maxi bar
Square footage | 3,367, plus 9,580 of outdoor space
stocked with all your favorites, 24-hour private butler
Number of rooms in suite | Three
Square footage | 1,528, plus 1,377 of outdoor space
Number of bathrooms | Three and one half-bath
Number of rooms in suite | Two
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 102 villas
Number of bathrooms | One and one half-bath
Who’s slept here? | Celine Dion and Cameron Diaz have
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 38 villas
stayed at the resort.
Who’s slept here? | Hollywood A-listers, Russian oligarchs
Nightly rate | US$10,000
Nightly rate | From US$1,750
Location | Landaa Giraavaru, Baa Atoll
Location | Meradhoo Island, Gaafu Alifu Atoll
Contact | Reservation Manager Hassan Ziyad,
Contact | General Manager Chris Ely, 960-682-8800;
960-660-0888; hassan.ziyad@fourseasons.com;
chris.ely@jumeirah.com; www.jumeirah.com/dhevanafushi
www.fourseasons.com/maldiveslg 99
TOP SUITES
SUNKEN IN-POOL DINING / JUNGLE RESERVE
LIVINGRESERVE AREA / CHAIRMANMASTER SUITE BEDROOM / TWO-BEDROOM ROYAL BEACH VILLA LIVING ROOM / JUNGLE
SONEVA FUSHI JUNGLE RESERVE
100
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MALDIVES AT KUDA HURAA
Key selling points | Completely secluded amid a gorgeous
TWO-BEDROOM ROYAL BEACH VILLA
tangle of rainforest, this enormous villa comprises four
Key selling points | Your own, private stretch of pristine
bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with wine cellar, dining
beach makes this retreat—nestled amid a blooming gar-
for ten and a private spa sanctuary—all connected by pictur-
den—truly unique. In addition to a spacious sundeck, gazebo,
esque walkways and plenty of outdoor lounging space. Built
377-square-foot infinity-edge pool and traditional Maldivian
of sustainable local woods and accented with earthy colors
swing, you’ll enjoy a breezy interior living area with high
and crafts, it is the epitome of barefoot, beachfront luxury.
sloping ceilings, dining for eight and endless water views.
Standout service | One young boy forgot to pack his toys, so
Standout service | For a couple getting married at the resort,
the carpentry department crafted some beautiful wooden
staff decorated the entire suite with thousands of rose petals
ones based on descriptions of his favorites from home.
and monogrammed all the linens with the couple’s initials.
Style | Castaway chic, by Soneva Group Creative Director Eva
Style | Natural-hued elegance with local flair, by HBA, 2006
Shivdasani, 2011
Special amenities | Sodashi bath products, three 42-inch
Special amenities | 52-inch flat-screen TV, Technogym
flat-screen TVs, DVD players, Wi-Fi, Jacuzzi in the master
equipment, sauna and steam rooms, couple’s massage
suite, outdoor showers, soaking tubs, walk-in closets
room, adult and kiddie pools, dedicated 24-hour butler
Square footage | 2,120, plus 2,756 of outdoor space
Square footage | 7,535, plus 10,979 of outdoor space
Number of rooms in suite | Three
Number of rooms in suite | Ten
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of bathrooms | Five
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 96 villas
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 65 villas
Who’s slept here? | Australian rock star Kirk Pengilly,
Who’s slept here? | Daryl Hannah, Edward Norton and Richard
surfing champ Mark Occhilupo
Branson were guests of the island’s SLOW LIFE Symposium.
Nightly rate | US$8,000 to US$11,500
Nightly rate | US$6,000 to US$17,000
Location | Kuda Huraa, North Malé Atoll
Location | Kunfunadhoo Island, Baa Atoll
Contact | General Manager Tulio Hochkoeppler,
Contact | General Manager Laurie Burr, 960-791-8753;
960-664-4888; tulio.hochkoeppler@fourseasons.com;
laurie@soneva.com; www.sonevafushi.com
www.fourseasons.com/maldiveskh
MASTER BEDROOM / VILLA MUTHEE
POOL DECK / VILLA MUTHEE
MASTER BATH / SUNSET WATER VILLA
POOL DECK / SUNSET WATER VILLA
SHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI RESORT AND SPA, MALDIVES
CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND
VILLA MUTHEE
Key selling points | Perched on stilts in a secluded portion
SUNSET WATER VILLA
Key selling points | True to its name (meaning “pearl” in
of the lagoon, this stunning abode with a chromotherapy
Dhivehi), this one-bedroom over-water haven reflects the
infinity pool and floor-to-ceiling windows boasts a private
natural light and beauty that envelops it. A 52-foot pool and
speedboat for travel to and fro. A circular bed rotates 270
shaded dining pavilion offer breathtaking views of Technicolor
degrees for the perfect view of the setting sun night after
sunsets, while indoors, striking timber rafters and Asian
night, while glass floors in the living room grant glimpses of
artwork elevate the space.
passing stingrays.
Standout service | A villa host noticed that a couple had for-
Standout service | When a guest decided 20 minutes before
gotten their camera at home, so he offered to lend them his
departure that her hand luggage had been too damaged by
own or acquire one at a local island on their behalf.
her child to use, her butler gave her his own to take.
Style | Contemporary tropical vibe with Asian influence, by
Style | Modern with a soothing, tropical lilt, by Design2000
LTW Designworks, 2009
and Niru Studio, 2011
Special amenities | Bose sound system, two Samsung LCD
Special amenities | Frette linens, 52-inch flat-screen TV,
TVs, Pañpuri bath amenities, couple’s massage room, daily
Bose sound system, Wi-Fi, Philippe Starck lamps, iPod,
complimentary spa treatments, personal villa host, golf cart
Bulgari toiletries, outdoor Jacuzzi, telescope, private butler
Square footage | 2,960, plus 3,175 of outdoor space
Square footage | 3,767, plus 1,098 of outdoor space
Number of rooms in suite | Two
Number of rooms in suite | Three
Number of bathrooms | One
Number of bathrooms | Two
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 132 villas
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 150 villas, including
Who’s slept here? | Filipino celeb couple Mariel Rodriguez
six suites
and Robin Padilla celebrated an anniversary at the resort.
Who’s slept here? | Paul McCartney, Dita Von Teese
Nightly rate | From US$5,200
Nightly rate | US$7,000
Location | Villingili Island, Addu Atoll
Location | Rangali Island, South Ari Atoll
Contact | General Manager Rene D. Egle, 960-689-7888; rene.
Contact | General Manager Carsten Schieck, 960-668-0629;
egle@shangri-la.com; www.shangri-la.com/male/villingiliresort
aishath.reena@conradhotels.com; www.conradmaldives.com 101
TOP SUITES
EXTERIOR / REHENDI SUITE
LIVING ROOM / REHENDI SUITE
TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA MALDIVES
102
POOL DECK / OCEAN HAVEN
LIVING AREA / OCEAN HAVEN
W RETREAT & SPA – MALDIVES
REHENDI SUITE
OCEAN HAVEN
Key selling points | No need to choose between surf and
Key selling points | A circular design motif that carries from
sand here, as this two-bedroom over-water home touts
the large plunge pool with bubbling Jacuzzi seats to cool cus-
a suspended deck with its very own powder-white beach.
tom sofas imparts a sense of sleek timelessness matched by
Based a half mile from the resort’s hub, you’ll enjoy sweet
infinite ocean vistas. Cathedral ceilings, transparent floors
seclusion and 280-degree ocean views as you lay on the
and sliding glass walls amplify the two-bedroom over-water
hammock or cool off in the 15-foot freshwater pool.
space complete with a wraparound sundeck.
Standout service | When a guest reported her wedding ring
Standout services | Staff members have accompanied
missing, security staff searched everywhere until it was found
guests who are afraid to swim alone into the lagoon, while
at the bottom of the infinity pool, stuck in a suction cleaner.
taking others on private tours of the house reef.
Style | Classic, neutral-toned Maldivian, by David Edwards,
Style | Island village meets modern W luxe, by eco•id
2010
architects, 2006
Special amenities | 400-thread-count Frette linens, 40-inch
Special amenities | King-size W bed, two 42-inch and one
Sony LCD TV, Molton Brown toiletries, Ploh and Kimono-style
50-inch Samsung plasma TVs, DVD library, Wi-Fi, Bliss Spa
bathrobes, Internet, outdoor showers, oversize bathtubs
bath amenities, rainforest showers, wine fridge, barbecue
Square footage | 2,605, plus 2,777 of outdoor space
Square footage | 5,296
Number of rooms in suite | Three
Number of rooms in suite | Four
Number of bathrooms | Two
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 64 villas, including
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 76 retreats, including
six suites
four suites
Who’s slept here? | English singer and actress Issy van
Who’s slept here? | Kate Moss, Kevin Spacey
Randwyck stayed at the resort.
Nightly rate | US$7,200 to US$15,000
Nightly rate | US$14,000
Location | Fesdu Island, North Ari Atoll
Location | Emboodhu Finolhu Island, South Malé Atoll
Contact | Managing Director Marcus Reinders,
Contact | General Manager Ranjit Phillipose, 960-644-2200;
960-666-2222; marcus.reinders@starwoodhotels.com;
ranjit.phillipose@tajhotels.com; www.tajhotels.com/maldives
www.whotels.com/maldives
LIVING ROOM / THE PRIVATE RESERVE
AERIAL VIEW / THE PRIVATE RESERVE
GILI LANKANFUSHI, MALDIVES
LIVING ROOM AND MASTER BEDROOM / GRAND BEACH VILLA
ONE&ONLY REETHI RAH, MALDIVES
THE PRIVATE RESERVE
GRAND BEACH VILLA
Key selling points | Sustainable woods, traditional fabrics
Key selling points | This exquisite family retreat—the second
and a natural coral pool and sea garden blend effortlessly
bedroom has two queen beds—melds beautifully rendered
with life’s modern luxuries (think fully loaded spa and
tropical design with a coveted beachfront spot and ocean-
entertainment room) in this lagoon-locked, three-bedroom
facing private pool. Two huge sunken terrazzo bathtubs sit
expanse accessible only by private boat. You’ll adore playful
window-side, while a personalized in-room bar plus pillow
touches like a hammock strung between pieces of driftwood
and aromatherapy menus make for a fully custom stay.
and a roof terrace-to-lagoon waterslide.
Standout service | A staffer arranged a cooking class so a
Standout service | When a guest’s wedding ring accidentally
couple could recreate at home a meal they had really enjoyed.
dropped into the water, the butler jumped in after it without a
Style | Refined Malaysian with bright accents, by Jean-
moment’s hesitation.
Michel Gathy of Denniston International Architects, 2005
Style | Rustic chic, by Piyal Illeperuma, 2012
Special amenities | Lady Primrose bath products, 40-inch
Special amenities | Bose surround entertainment system, 60-
Samsung LCD TV, DVD player, surround sound, high-speed
inch and 70-inch flat-screen TVs, organic bath products, kitch-
Internet, private golf cart, dedicated 24-hour concierge
enette, 24-hour butler, two-person outdoor bathtubs, gym
Square footage | 2,357, plus 1,109 of outdoor space
Square footage | 12,206, plus 2,863 of outdoor space
Number of rooms in suite | Four
Number of rooms in suite | Eight
Number of bathrooms | Two
Number of bathrooms | Three
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 130 villas, including
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 45 over-water villas
nine Grand Villas
Who’s slept here? | Blake Lively, when the resort was known
Who’s slept here? | Mariah Carey, Katy Perry and Naomi
as Soneva Gili
Campbell have all stayed at the resort.
Nightly rate | US$8,500 to US$15,000
Nightly rate | From US$5,785
Location | Lankanfushi Island, North Malé Atoll
Location | Reethi Rah, North Malé Atoll
Contact | General Manager Iain McCormack,
Contact | General Manager Mark S. Hehir,
960-664-0304; iain.mccormack@gili-lankanfushi.com;
960-664-8800; mark.hehir@oneandonlyreethirah.com;
www.gili-lankanfushi.com
www.oneandonlyreethirah.com 103
TOP SUITES
INDOOR-OUTDOOR POOL / OCEAN PAVILION
LIVING AREA / TENTED POOL VILLA
HUVAFEN FUSHI
104
POOL DECK / TENTED POOL VILLA
BANYAN TREE MADIVARU
OCEAN PAVILION
TENTED POOL VILLA
Key selling points | At the end of a jetty open only to guests
Key selling points | One of six exclusive suites on the entire
of the resort’s two Ocean Pavilions, discover a laid-back,
island resort, this safari-style villa comprises three white
two-bedroom gem with a fiber optic-lit pool that starts in
canopied “tents”—one master bedroom, one spacious bath-
your living room. An infinity Kohler tub (it overflows and fills
room and one vast living room with a romantic dining nook.
from the ceiling), sundeck Jacuzzi and spa shower complete
Though your private pool, timber deck and canvas castle
this over-water wonderland.
are tucked away amid verdant jungle, virgin white sands and
Standout service | A butler surprised a guest who loves to
azure waters are mere footsteps away.
cook with a private lesson hosted by the chef of the guest’s
Standout service | One couple wanted live shellfish served
favorite resort restaurant.
daily, so staff arranged for an overseas shipment every other
Style | Clean-lined natural elegance, by Carl Ettensperger, 2012
day of an 11-night stay to ensure optimal freshness.
Special amenities | Frette linens, large Sony plasma TVs,
Style | Sub-Saharan glamping goes tropical, by Architrave
Bose surround sound, REN bath products, dedicated 24-hour
Design & Planning, 2012
Thakuru (butler), welcome Dom Pérignon and caviar
Special amenities | Dedicated villa host, outdoor shower,
Square footage | 2,368, plus 1,184 of outdoor space
soaking tub, a pair of spa beds for in-villa treatments, Wi-Fi,
Number of rooms in suite | Four
42-inch Sony TV, Sony DVD player, iPod and speakers
Number of bathrooms | Two
Square footage | 1,774, plus 1,067 of outdoor space
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 40 bungalows, three
Number of rooms in suite | Two
pavilions and one residence
Number of bathrooms | One
Who’s slept here? | Elizabeth Hurley, George Clooney and
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | Six tented pool villas
Kate Moss have stayed at the resort.
Who’s slept here? | Music and film stars traveling incognito
Nightly rate | US$9,200
Nightly rate | US$2,995
Location | Nakatchafushi, North Malé Atoll
Location | Ethere Madivaru Island, North Ari Atoll
Contact | General Manager Marco den Ouden,
Contact | General Manager Mohamed Musthafeez,
960-664-4222; marco.den.ouden@huvafenfushi.com;
960-666-0760; mohamed.musthafeez@banyantree.com;
www.huvafenfushi.peraquum.com
www.banyantree.com/en/maldives_madivaru
LIVING AND DINING ROOM / PRESIDENTIAL BEACH RESIDENCE
DINING ROOM / THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA
EXTERIOR / THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA
ANANTARA KIHAVAH VILLAS
CONSTANCE HALAVELI RESORT
PRESIDENTIAL BEACH RESIDENCE
THE PRESIDENTIAL VILLA
Key selling points | Fronting a 250-foot stretch of idyllic
Key selling points | This two-story Maldivian manse crafted
beach, this lavish yet distinctly Maldivian home touts three
from rich woods, gleaming marble and striking decorative
cleverly spaced master bedrooms, a massive living/dining
elements touts chic living and dining rooms with soaring
area with kitchen, two swimming pools and a Jacuzzi. Enjoy
ceilings, plus three sizable en-suite bedrooms. Prime ocean-
shisha in your private beach cabana-cum-hookah lounge, a
front real estate, a giant pool, private gym and spa make for
massage in the garden-ensconced spa pavilion, dinner under
a dream beach hideaway, while a personal chef customizes
the stars and a nighttime soak in the sunken open-air tub.
meals (lovely in the outdoor dining gazebo) upon request.
Standout service | One family enjoyed straight-from-the-
Standout service | The IT manager spent many hours help-
sea-to-their-doorstep tuna, caught by locals and prepared on
ing a Russian couple on honeymoon recover all the photos on
demand in a mobile kitchen set up next to their residence.
their camera, which they thought had been permanently lost.
Style | Contemporary with local textiles and coral reef-
Style | Contemporary Maldivian luxury, by Inter Arc Pvt. Ltd.
inspired accents, by August Design, 2011
Singapore, 2009
Special amenities | Outdoor rain showers, your choice of bath
Special amenities | Mauritian bath products, outdoor Jacuzzi,
amenities, Wi-Fi, 42-inch LED TVs, 24-hour villa host, private
bronze bathtub, 40-inch Philips flat-screen TV with cable,
golf cart, wine cellar, stocked super-size fridge, barbecue
Bose entertainment system, Wi-Fi, 24-hour butler service
Square footage | 12,432, plus 17,018 of outdoor space
Square footage | 5,480, plus 2,830 of outdoor space
Number of rooms in suite | Four
Number of rooms in suite | Ten
Number of bathrooms | Three and one half-bath
Number of bathrooms | Three and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 78 villas, including
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 86 villas
four suites
Who’s slept here? | Roger Federer, Middle Eastern royalty
Who’s slept here? | Roger Federer
Nightly rate | US$7,100 to US$15,411
Nightly rate | From US$10,000
Location | Halaveli Island, North Ari Atoll
Location | Kihavah Huravalhi Island, Baa Atoll
Contact | General Manager Renato W. Chizzola,
Contact | General Manager Dietmar Koegerl, 960-660-1020;
960-794-9010; gm@halaveli.com;
dkoegerl@anantara.com; www.kihavah-maldives.anantara.com
http://halaveli.constancehotels.com 105
TOP SUITES
SHANGHAI’S TOP SUITES With its blend of Art Deco architecture, modern Asian style and traditional Chinese culture, Shanghai is a city of contrasts for the intrepid elite traveler. Its top five-star suites are no less diverse—just take a look at what they have to offer.
BY RACHEL SILVESTRI
GLITTERING SKYLINE / SHANGHAI
106
BERLINER DOM / BERLIN
MASTER BEDROOM / THE PENINSULA SUITE
LIVING ROOM / THE CHAIRMAN SUITE
THE RITZ-CARLTON SHANGHAI, PUDONG
DINING ROOM / THE PENINSULA SUITE
THE PENINSULA SHANGHAI
THE CHAIRMAN SUITE
THE PENINSULA SUITE
Key selling points | Overlooking the Huangpu River, with
Key selling points | Soaring ceilings, a self-contained guest
floor-to-ceiling windows granting panoramic views of the
suite and extensive layout including a gym, study and dining
Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower, the suite features a
room for 12 combine with state-of-the-art technology to
separate sauna room, Italian marble bathroom, library and
provide elite travelers with everything they need in this Art
ceilings up to 19 feet high.
Deco-inspired suite.
Standout service | When a guest forgot his medication in the
Standout service | The hotel helped a guest plan an elabo-
suite, checked out and traveled to Hong Kong, a member of
rate proposal for his girlfriend, complete with roses, cham-
staff flew to deliver the medicine personally to the guest the
pagne and photographers to capture the special moment.
very same day.
Style | Chinese Art Deco glamour, by Pierre-Yves Rochon,
Style | 1930s Shanghai elegance meets sleek, contemporary
2010
luxury, by Richard Farnell, 2010
Special amenities | Life Fitness gym equipment, signa-
Special amenities | Martini bar, private workout room, HD
ture Peninsula in-room technology including nail dryers,
Blu-ray player, mahjong table for four, dining room for 12,
complimentary international phone calls, marble bath with
Kohler bathroom fixtures, Acqua di Parma amenities
whirlpool bathtub, plush bathrobes and slippers
Square footage | 4,413
Square footage | 4,305
Number of rooms in suite | Nine
Number of rooms in suite | 15
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 285, including 52 suites
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 235, including 44 suites
Who’s slept here? | Shaquille O’Neal, Paris Hilton
Who’s slept here? | Kurt Russell is one of the many celebs to
Nightly rate | From about US$18,846
have stayed at the newest Peninsula hotel.
Location | Shanghai IFC, 8 Century Avenue, Lujiazui, Pudong
Nightly rate | About US$16,496
Contact | Regional Vice President and General Manager
Location | 32 The Bund, Huangpu District
Rainer Burkle, 86-21-2020-1888; rainer.burkle@ritzcarlton.
Contact | General Manager Joseph Chong, 86-21-2327-2888;
com; www.ritzcarlton.com/shanghaipudong
josephchong@peninsula.com; www.peninsula.com
FREE LUXURY INSIDER NEWSLETTER! ENTER YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS AT www.elitetraveler.com or email webinfo@elitetraveler.com
107
TOP SUITES
MASTER BATH / PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
LIVING ROOM / PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
LIVING AREA / CHAIRMAN SUITE
WALDORF ASTORIA SHANGHAI ON THE BUND
108
PARK HYATT SHANGHAI
PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
CHAIRMAN SUITE
Key selling points | Elegantly furnished and touting views
Key selling points | The highest top suite in mainland China,
of both the Bund and the Pudong skyline, this suite features
this airy, Zen-like space has 21-foot ceilings, a private dining
two generously proportioned bathrooms, two bedrooms, a
room, personal butler service and incredible views over both
private living room, dining room and fully equipped kitchen.
sides of the Huangpu River.
Standout service | Discovering, from a published interview,
Standout service | For an avid collector of Chanel bags, the
one guest’s penchant for a certain type of candy available
butler contacted the Chanel boutique at the city’s IFC Mall
only in the US, the butler team special-ordered and placed
and had every style available in China delivered so the guest
the treat in the suite before the guest’s arrival.
could shop from the comfort of her suite.
Style | Classic Art Deco with a modern twist, by HBA, 2010
Style | Sophisticated and modern residential Chinese, by
Special amenities | Whirlpool bathtub, 24-hour personal
Tony Chi, 2008
butler service, walk-in closets, LCD flat-panel TV with satel-
Special amenities | Personalized menus cooked in the
lite, DVD and CD players, in-mirror TV, Hermès and Agraria
suite’s open kitchen, two king-size beds, oversized Japa-
toiletries
nese-style bathtub, Bang & Olufsen sound system, Aroma-
Square footage | 2,798
therapy Associates bath amenities
Number of rooms in suite | Five
Square footage | 2,088
Number of bathrooms | Two
Number of rooms in suite | Six
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 260, including 54 suites
Number of bathrooms | One and two half-baths
Who’s slept here? | Michelle Yeoh, Prince Consort of
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 174, including 14 suites
Denmark Henrik
Who’s slept here? | Alain Ducasse, LeBron James
Nightly rate | About US$13,965
Nightly rate | From about US$13,825
Location | No. 2 Zhong Shan Dong Yi Road, Huangpu District
Location | 100 Century Avenue, Pudong
Contact | General Manager Simeon Olle, 86-21-6322-9988;
Contact | General Manager Christophe Sadones,
simeon.olle@waldorfastoria.com;
86-21-6888-1234; christophe.sadones@hyatt.com;
www.waldorfastoriashanghai.com
www.shanghai.park.hyatt.com
MASTER BEDROOM / SASSOON PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
FAIRMONT PEACE HOTEL
MASTER BATH / CHAIRMAN SUITE
GRAND HYATT SHANGHAI
SASSOON PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
CHAIRMAN SUITE
Key selling points | The restored former penthouse resi-
Key selling points | In addition to 24-hour personal butler
dence of legendary Shanghai figure Sir Victor Sassoon was
service, 180-degree Bund views from floor-to-ceiling win-
the city’s most decadent party spot in the 1930s and takes up
dows and private steam and sauna rooms, this suite features
the entire tenth floor of the historic Bund landmark Fairmont
a dining room that can seat 12 people in one of Shanghai’s
Peace Hotel.
most iconic buildings.
Standout service | The first guests to stay in the suite after
Standout service | A famous Australian singer born in the
its recent refurbishment did so to fete Will and Kate’s wed-
Year of the Rabbit checked in on Easter Sunday, so the hotel
ding, so the executive chef created a special British menu for
team surprised her with two giant Easter bunnies made of
the celebration thrown in the suite.
chocolate.
Style | Flawless 1930s Shanghai Art Deco, by HBA and local
Style | Neutral-toned contemporary with Art Deco accents,
historians, 2010
by Bilkey Llinas Design, 1998
Special amenities | Direct access to the 11th floor private
Special amenities | Full kitchen, baby grand piano, spacious
dining room and roof terrace, Jacuzzi, 52-inch flat-screen TV,
study, massage bed, marble bath with separate tub, walk-in
Bose iPod dock, Blu-ray DVD player
shower, heated fogless mirrors and 12-inch LCD TV
Square footage | 2,885
Square footage | 3,067
Number of rooms in suite | Six
Number of rooms in suite | 12
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of bathrooms | One and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 270, including 38 suites
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 555, including 45 suites
Who’s slept here? | Author Chen Danyan and other luminaries
Who’s slept here? | Ricky Martin, Tony Leung
Nightly rate | About US$12,568
Nightly rate | From US$7,745
Location | 20 Nanjing Road East, Huangpu District
Location | Jin Mao Tower, 88 Century Avenue, Pudong
Contact | Communications Manager Teresa Du,
Contact | General Manager Foued el Mabrouk,
86-21-6321-6888; teresa.du@fairmont.com;
86-21-5049-1234; foued.elmabrouk@hyatt.com;
www.fairmont.com/peacehotel
www.shanghai.grand.hyatt.com
109
TOP SUITES
DINING ROOM / JING’AN SUITE
THE PULI HOTEL & SPA
110
MASTER BEDROOM / PENTHOUSE PLUS
JIA SHANGHAI
JING’AN SUITE
PENTHOUSE PLUS
Key selling points | Views over the tranquil Jing’An Park, a
Key selling points | The ultimate party pad, this suite has
separate living room and two master bedrooms, each with its
a full bar with barman service, DJ table and a Bose sound
own walk-in closet, characterize this sprawling and peaceful
system that runs throughout the penthouse, even into a
suite.
bathroom with a four-person Jacuzzi. An adjoining studio
Standout service | So that a guest wouldn’t have to miss din-
apartment expands the penthouse into a two-bedroom suite.
ner at his favorite restaurant due to a delayed flight, a staff
Standout service | When a guest throwing a late-night after-
butler ensured the kitchen remained open until the guest’s
party in the suite wanted better music, the concierge had one
arrival at midnight.
of Shanghai’s hottest clubs send along a DJ immediately to
Style | Modern with local Chinese flair, by Johannes Hartfuss
keep the party going.
of the Layan Design Group, 2009
Style | Warm and modern with theatrical touches, by BURO
Special amenities | Dining table for four, LCD TV in every
Architects, Hecker Phelan and Guthrie Interiors, 2011
room, complimentary afternoon tea and apértifs, 24-hour
Special amenities | Back-of-house elevator access, Wii Nin-
butler service
tendo, private balcony, spa shower, steam room
Square footage | 1,399
Square footage | 1,700
Number of rooms in suite | Five
Number of rooms in suite | Seven
Number of bathrooms | Two and one half-bath
Number of bathrooms | One and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 193, including 36 suites
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 45, including 14 suites
Who’s slept here? | Gérard Depardieu, the royal families of
Who’s slept here? | Maroon 5, Tony Leung, Jackie Chan,
Saudi Arabia and Dubai
Roger Federer, Maggie Cheung, Daniel Wu
Nightly rate | From US$4,524
Nightly rate | About US$1,885
Location | 1 ChangDe Road, Jing’An District
Location | 931 West Nanjing Road, Jing’An District
Contact | General Manager Martijn van der Valk,
Contact | Operations Director Marcus Treamer,
86-21-3203-9999; martijn.vandervalk@thepuli.com;
86-187-1771-0500; marcustreamer@jiaboutiquehotels.com;
www.thepuli.com
www.jiashanghai.com
DINING ROOM / GRAND DELUXE SUITE
MASTER BEDROOM / COURTYARD SUITE
MASTER BEDROOM / GRAND DELUXE SUITE
JUMEIRAH HIMALAYAS HOTEL SHANGHAI
SPA TREATMENT ROOM / COURTYARD SUITE
URBN HOTEL SHANGHAI
GRAND DELUXE SUITE
COURTYARD SUITE
Key selling points | The romantic round bathtub in the
Key selling points | This carbon-neutral suite’s interiors are
middle of the spacious bathroom isn’t all that will sweep
made from 100 percent locally sourced and recycled materi-
guests off their feet: Wraparound views of Pudong through
als, and feature a private courtyard and spacious bathroom.
floor-to-ceiling windows are simply mesmerizing.
Standout service | After one guest struggled to find a taxi on
Standout service | The Jumeirah Junior kids’ program pro-
a rainy day, a member of staff called her husband who picked
vides young guests with an iPad to use during their stay, as
the guest up and escorted him to his destination.
well as a camel toy and Jumeirah cap.
Style | Contemporary Chinese fusion using salvaged Shang-
Style | Lavish, luxurious and culturally conscious, by KCA,
hainese elements, by The Space Group and A00 Architecture,
2011
2008
Special amenities | L’Occitane bath products, Illy coffee
Special amenities | Outdoor courtyard, spa treatment room,
machine, iPod dock, goose down comforters and pillows,
Jacuzzi, custom bath products, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-
rain showers, 52-inch flat-screen TV in each room, fastest
screen TV
complimentary wired and wireless Internet in Shanghai
Square footage | 969
Square footage | 861
Number of rooms in suite | Two
Number of rooms in suite | Two
Number of bathrooms | One
Number of bathrooms | One and one half-bath
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 26, including one suite
Number of rooms and suites in hotel | 401, including 62 suites
Who’s slept here? | Olivia Wilde, Joaquin Phoenix, Amy Ad-
Who’s slept here? | Kylie Minogue, Sarah Jessica Parker,
ams and Samantha Morton have stayed at the hotel.
Fan Bingbing, Yoon Eunhye and Yundi Li have been spotted at
Nightly rate | From about US$439
the hotel.
Location | 183 Jiaozhou Road near West Beijing Road,
Nightly rate | From about US$865
Jing’An District
Location | 1108 Meihua Road, Pudong
Contact | Sales Manager Alessio Rescigno,
Contact | General Manager Akram Touma, 86-21-3858-0888;
86-151-2106-4351; alessio@urbnhotels.com;
jhhinfo@jumeirah.com; www.jumeirah.com/shanghai
www.urbnhotels.com
111
14 DAYS
14 DAYS OF ASIAN GOLF Golf tourism is one of the fastest-growing travel sectors globally, and for the past five years, Asia has been leading the way. While Thailand has attracted golf enthusiasts for more than a decade, other Asian nations—including Japan, Vietnam, Cambodia, China and Malaysia— now have a worthy collection of world-class golf and resort facilities to attract the most avid and discerning players. This journey takes you to many of Asia’s best courses, where, increasingly, the quality of golf is not only as good as in more established golf markets, but is matched by exquisite accommodation, food and wellness experiences. BY PAUL MYERS
112 FAIRWAY AT DUSK / MISSION HILLS RESORT HAIKOU
WOODLAND COURSE / HILTON NISEKO VILLAGE
DONGGUAN CLUBHOUSE / MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB, SHENZHEN
DAY
1
ARRIVE IN NISEKO, JAPAN At about 6,227 feet, Mt. Yotei’s peak stands tall above the farmlands and rolling hills around Niseko in Japan’s western Hokkaido. Yotei is the focal point of everything here, from winter skiing on pristine powder snow to a large selection of outdoor warm-weather activities, including golf. There are more than a dozen golf courses within an hour of Niseko, which are just some of the 169 courses on Hokkaido, an island of only five million people. The Yotei golf group represents the best of them. On arrival Belinda White, the
DAYS
2+3
AERIAL VIEW / MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB, SHENZHEN
MISSION HILLS GOLF CLUB, SHENZHEN, CHINA
local manager of SkiJapan.com and Sum-
Officially recognized by the Guinness Book of
and private butler (about US$6,100 a night).
merJapan.com, the area’s major inbound
Records as the world’s biggest golf complex,
The golf is equally amazing, especially the
tour operators, will whisk you off to your
Mission Hills Golf Club is located just outside
José María Olazábal-designed eponymous
656-square-foot top-level executive suite at
Shenzhen, a thriving city in southern China.
course that this October will welcome the
the Hilton Niseko Village, home to one of the
Each of its 12 courses is designed by a great of
world’s best players in the HSBC Champion-
best golf courses, including a monster 721-
the modern golf era, including players Nick-
ship. Alternatively try the Greg Norman layout,
yard par-6 hole (about US$2,455 a night).
laus, Faldo, Norman, Olazábal, Sorenstam,
regarded as the toughest. After golf, there is
After your round, head to Hilton’s indoor/
Duval, designer Pete Dye and coach David
nothing better than a two-hour recuperative
outdoor onsen facility, one of Japan’s many
Leadbetter. Your two-level, approximately
spa treatment at the nearby Mission Hills Spa
must-try experiences.
3,767-square-foot Presidential Suite at the
center.
SkiJapan.com/SummerJapan.com:
Dongguan complex, which has hosted Tiger
Mission Hills: Executive Golf Director
General Manager Belinda White,
Woods and numerous international dignitar-
Iain Roberts, 86-755-2802-0888;
81-136-224-611; belinda@skijapan.com;
ies, comes with its own 12-seat dining table,
iainroberts@missionhillschina.com;
www.yoteigolf.com
massage and spa facilities, outdoor Jacuzzi
www.missionhillschina.com 113
14 DAYS DAY
4
DAYS
MISSION HILLS RESORT HAIKOU, CHINA Hainan Island, an hour’s flight from Shen-
Golf Club, were designed respectively by Co-
Blackstone golf course, set in a lava field
history, culture, proximity to the UNESCO-
lin Montgomerie and Greg Norman. Laguna
next to the five-star hotel complex, is a short
listed cities of Hoi An and Hue, as well as My
Lang Co, the course that’s about to open, has
walk from your two-level Presidential Suite,
Khe Beach, which served as a home to US
the personal stamp of six-time Majors win-
which features a fully equipped office, mas-
Marines during the Vietnam War. It is now
ner Sir Nick Faldo and promises to be one
sage room and state-of-the-art home the-
becoming especially renowned as an interna-
of the best in Asia. Situated about 31 miles
ater system (about US$6,100 a night). Black-
tional golf destination following the opening
north of Danang near the fishing village of
stone is the star attraction at the ten-course
of two world-class courses in the past three
Lang Co, the Laguna resort is being built by
complex, including a par-3 layout. Host of the
years and a third due to open at the end of
the Banyan Tree group; as well as the golf
biannual World Cup and the World Celebrity
the year. Your approximately 3,304-square-
course and associated villas, the resort com-
Pro-Am, Blackstone combines challenge,
foot, three-bedroom Ocean Villa with three
plex will boast five-star beachfront Banyan
scenic beauty and attentive caddies.
marble bathrooms at the brand new Hyatt
Tree and Angsana resorts.
Mission Hills Resort Haikou: Vice President
Regency Danang is close to the beach and
Montgomerie Links: General Director
of Hotel Operation Yum Srew Wan, 86-898-
offers magnificent South China Sea views
Jon Tomlinson, 84-9-0586-5518;
6868-3888; yumsrewwan@missionhills
(about US$757 a night). Danang’s two golf
jon.tomlinson@montgomerielinks.com;
china.com; www.missionhillschina.com
courses, Montgomerie Links and Danang
www.montgomerielinks.com
SHADOW DUNES COURSE / MISSON HILLS RESORT HAIKOU
PALM TREE-LINED FAIRWAYS / ANGKOR GOLF RESORT
114
5+ 6
DANANG, VIETNAM Vietnam’s third largest city is famous for its
zhen, hosts Mission Hills’ second resort. The
SEASIDE GREENS / DANANG GOLF CLUB
DAYS
7 +8
SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA Each year, hundreds of thousands of visi-
water on all but one hole and concludes with
tors flock to Angkor Wat, located just out-
the signature double water carry 9th that
side Siem Reap, to see the Hindu temples,
offers a daunting final shot onto an island
which were built in the 12th century by King
green. On your second day in Siem Reap, play
Suryavarman II as his capital city. Among a
at Angkor Golf Resort, a Nick Faldo design,
plentiful selection of luxury accomodations,
which has won widespread acclaim among
the 969-square-foot Prestige Suite at the
international golfers and which notionally
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra boasts Hermès
spans almost 1,000 years of local history.
bath amenities, signature Sofitel beds, 24-
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra: Golf Operations
hour butler service and a combination of ele-
Manager Jack Hedges, 855-12-882-882;
gant French and Khmer architectural design
golf.manager@sofitel-royal-angkor.com;
(US$350 a night). The resort’s world-class
www.phokeethragolf.com
golf course is 25 minutes away and is one of
Angkor
three beckoning golfers to the region. The
Adam Robertson, 855-88-777-2217; adam@
challenging championship layout features
angkor-golf.com; www.angkor-golf.com
Golf
Resort:
General
Manager
DAYS
9+10
DAY
11
KUNMING, CHINA As the center of Yunnan history, cuisine and
Majors winner Jack Nicklaus. Your accom-
known for its culture, history and, in recent
culture, Kunming is an up-and-coming golf
modation on the second night is at Brilliant
years, great year-round golf. The Chiangmai
and tourism destination. The city’s interna-
Resort, a Zen-like retreat beside Yang Zong
Highlands is a mountainside course perched
tional appeal is enhanced by a new airport,
Lake. The perfect spot for restorative Chi-
1,000 feet above sea level that includes nu-
the third largest in China. Your first night
nese spa treatments, its lakeview pool villas
merous downhill holes, like the par-5 fin-
is spent in a spacious Executive Suite at
feature a private garden with beach area on
ishing hole that skirts the edge of a hillside
the beautiful Green Lake Hotel, overlook-
the lakeshore (about US$828 a night). Hot
before falling to a gushing creek before the
ing Green Lake, a focal point for locals and
springs with different healing properties are
final shot to an elevated green. Your accom-
visitors alike. About an hour southwest of
scattered throughout the hotel’s gardens.
modation is at The Chedi in a lavish oversized
the city are two extraordinary golf complexes
Spring City Resort: Marketing Manager
Chedi Club Suite, featuring contemporary in-
that rank among the best in Asia: Spring City
Peggy Yang, 86-871-767-1188;
teriors, terrazzo soak tubs and views across
Golf and Lake Resort and Stoneforest In-
peggyyang@springcityresort.com;
the Mae Ping River through floor-to-ceiling
ternational Country Club. Spring City’s two
www.springcityresort.com
glass doors (from about US$300 a night).
36-hole lake and mountain courses were de-
Stoneforest International Country Club:
Chiangmai: Sales Coordinator Fandar Puang-
signed, respectively, by acclaimed golf course
General Manager Justin Chiu,
khajee, 66-53-261-354-9; sales.co@chiangmai
architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and 16-time
86-135-2908-3608; en.shilingaoerfu.com
highlands.com; www.chiangmaihighlands.com
TIERED HILLSIDE COURSE / SPRING CITY GOLF AND LAKE RESORT
DAY
12
CHIANG MAI, THAILAND The former Lanna Kingdom of Thailand is
BREATHTAKING VISTAS / SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT
DAYS
HUA HIN, THAILAND Hua Hin, the Thai royal family’s holiday home, is a popular escape. You will stay at the Sofi-
13+14
KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA
Malaysia has wonderful golf resorts, but none
phaned primates are nurtured for life in the
tel Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas, a
is better than Sutera Harbour Resort, a two-
wild. The resorts’ two glorious courses are
colonial-style hotel that stands on 40 acres of
hotel complex, and the Shangri-La Rasa Ria,
designed respectively by Graham March and
beachfront facing the Gulf of Thailand. Your
near Kota Kinabalu. In the lavish Presiden-
Ted Parslow. Sutera can organize a golf les-
Deluxe Pool Villa features a 161-square-foot
tial Suite in Magellan Sutera Harbour, look-
son with British PGA pro Neil Douglas, whose
marble pool within a private walled garden
ing out to the Manukan Islands in the South
Borneo Golf Academy is on-site. Shangri-La
(about US$850 a night). The stunning 18-hole
China Sea (about US$2,710 a night), or in one
Rasa Ria’s wonderful course winds between
championship Black Mountain course is ide-
of the Shangri-La Rasa Ria’s beautifully fur-
the Tambalang and Mengkabong rivers and
al for golfers of all levels. An accompanying
nished Garden Wing Suites, with its separate
features water on all but one hole.
par-3 course is a challenging test even for the
sitting room and dining area (from US$485 a
Sutera Harbour: Golf General Manager Brian
best players and serves as a perfect warm-up
night), you can while away your time taking in
Werner, 60-88-318-888; brian.werner@sutera
before tackling the championship layout.
the stunning seaside settings of these North
harbour.com.my; www.suteraharbour.com
Black Mountain: General Manager Harald
Borneo resorts. Don’t miss the colonial-era
Shangri-La Rasa Ria: Golf General Manager
Elisson, 66-817-635-665; harald@bmghua
North Borneo Railway, a visit to Mt. Kinabalu
Aaron Johnston, 60-88-791-188; aaron.john
hin.com; www.blackmountainhuahin.com
or Rasa Ria’s orangutan sanctuary, where or-
ston@shangri-la.com; www.shangri-la.com 115
JET FOCUS
GULFSTREAM G280
FOCUS ON
GULFSTREAM G280 The much-anticipated super-midsize replacement for the G200 is, apparently, quite a little speed demon, recently setting speed records for four city pairs, two on its recent trip to EBACE.
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
Slated to enter service by the end of the year, the G280 not only beats the performance of the older G200 it
GULFSTREAM G280
program was launched in 2008 as the G250. With such extensive flight testing, Gulfstream has been able to
Price: About $24 million
weave the data into a quick-and-easy Q&A app for its PlaneBook iPad application.
Passengers: Typically 2 crew, 4 passengers
“We want to ensure our operators are as comfortable as possible with this aircraft,” Gulfstream SVP
Certification: FAA provisional March 2012
Pres Henne told us. “This application is a nice complement to the hands-on training our customers
Range: 3,600NM (4,143 statute miles)
will receive. The information in the app will en-
External dimensions: 66 feet,
hance their operational experience and ensure
10 inches long; 21 feet, 4 inches high;
they’re ready to go when the aircraft is. What’s
63 feet of wingspan
more, they’ll be able to contribute questions of
Internal dimensions: 25 feet, 10 inches long;
their own, thereby building up the knowledge
6 feet, 3 inches high; 7 feet, 2 inches wide
base for the aircraft.”
Maximum speed: .85 Mach
For the record, the speed records set by the
Engines: Two Honeywell HTF7250Gs
full interior, passenger-loaded serial number
Contact: Regional Vice President
2004 jet were: Dallas to Washington, DC (502.25
Asia/Pacific Jason Akovenko,
mph); Washington, DC to Geneva (525.59 mph);
65-6256-8301;
Paris to New York (469.95 mph); and New York to Dallas (489.52 mph).
116
FAST FACTS
is to replace, it has routinely exceeded the performance capabilities it was expected to produce when the
INTERIOR / GULFSTREAM G280
jason.akovenko@gulfstream.com; www.gulfstream.com
IN FLIGHT
INTERIOR / ACJ318
LEGACY 650 / EMBRAER
PRIVATE JET NEWS The ABACE conference reboots in Shanghai, Airbus goes big in Japan and Metrojet welcomes its first Embraer to the fleet in this issue’s business jet update. ABACE REBIRTH
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
While further details on the deal for an ACJ318
and are committed to delivering service and opera-
Last held in Hong Kong in 2008, the new-and-im-
large-airframe jet were not provided, COO-Cus-
tional excellence to all our customers.”
proved ABACE (Asian Business Aviation Confer-
tomers John Leahy commented: “Our first Airbus
Contact: Metrojet Director of Marketing Wyn Li,
ence & Exhibition), held in Shanghai in spring 2012,
corporate jet sale in Japan builds on the growing
852-2523-6407; wyn.li@metrojet.com;
was a resounding success by all reports. Perhaps
presence of our modern airliner family, as well as
www.metrojet.com
the most significant news to come out of the show
encouraging greater use of business jets to help
was the formation of the new China Business Jet
grow what is, today, the world’s third-largest econ-
GULFSTREAM’S APPLETON FACILITY
Shanghai Alliance by leading aircraft financial firm
omy. Cabin comfort and space are key in our busi-
GETS CAAC APPROVAL
Minsheng Financial Leasing Co. The new initiative
ness, and Airbus corporate jets offer more of this
Gulfstream’s aviation service center in Appleton,
is led by the Civil Aviation Administration of China
than any other business jet.” Airbus has logged 170
Wisconsin recently earned an approved mainte-
(CAAC) and is the first official industry organization
business jet orders since the ACJ concept was in-
nance organization (AMO) designation from the
in the People’s Republic to connect major business
troduced about 20 years ago.
Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).
aircraft manufacturers with big Chinese operators
Contact: COO-Customers John Leahy,
With this clearance, aircraft registered with the
like Capital Airlines, China Eastern, Donghai Jet,
33-5-82-05-17-40; corporate.jet@airbus.com;
CAAC can undergo maintenance, repairs, altera-
Nanshan Jet, Zhuhai Helicopter and First Manda-
www.airbus.com
tions and inspections at the facility. “Foreign au-
rin Business Aviation. The show itself featured over
thorizations are important to our customers, par-
150 exhibitors in 43,000 square feet of floor space
METROJET EXPANDS FLEET WITH EMBRAER
ticularly from countries such as China where our
at the Shanghai Hawker Pacific Business Avia-
An Embraer Legacy 650 has been added to the fleet
fleet has grown from zero to more than 40 in about
tion Service Centre at Hongqiao Airport. In addi-
of Hong Kong-based private jet operator Metrojet.
11 years,” said Gulfstream Product Support Presi-
tion, about 27 aircraft were on display in the static
With a managed fleet size nearing 30, Metrojet CEO
dent Mark Burns. “Chinese operators who are in
area, and the entire event was sold out two months
Björn Näf was bullish on the Asian bizjet market
the United States for business or leisure can now
ahead of its opening.
after the delivery: “It is an exciting time for the
have their aircraft serviced [with us] on the East
Contact: China Business Aviation Group,
business aviation industry as we are seeing a lot
Coast, West Coast and Midwest.” Appleton is the
Chairman and CEO Jason Liao, 86-10-5981-7666;
of activities across the Asia region. After becoming
third company-owned service center to earn AMO
jasonliao@cbajet.com; www.abace.aero
Embraer’s first authorized service center in Great-
approval from the CAAC, joining facilities in Savan-
er China, we are now managing our first Embraer
nah, Georgia and Long Beach, California.
AIRBUS’S JAPANESE SUCCESS
aircraft. I am confident that we will continue to wel-
Contact: Regional Vice President Herman Chai,
An undisclosed private customer placed an order
come more Embraer aircraft to our fleet. We look
86-10-8535-1866; herman.chai@gulfstream.com;
for Airbus’s first ACJ product in Japan.
forward to a long-term partnership with Embraer
www.gulfstream.com
117
AT SEA
IN PROFILE / CALISTO
AERIAL VIEW / VERTIGO
SUNDECK JACUZZI / BIG FISH
WINTER ESCAPES As the mercury starts to fall, affluent cruisers head for the warm waters of tropical Asia, where a fine selection of luxury yachts make wintertime cruising a breeze.
118
BY NICK WALTON
CALISTO
VERTIGO
BIG FISH
For a slice of history with comfort at sea, char-
Cruising the Andaman Sea in winter 2012/2013,
The multi-award-winning Big Fish is the first in
ter the 138-foot Calisto. The yacht was originally
Vertigo , named “Sailing Yacht of the Year 2012,”
a new generation of expeditionary superyachts
commissioned for the US Navy but served with
is currently the largest sailing yacht built in the
that can circumnavigate the globe in style. Built
the British as a YMS-1 Class minesweeper. Now
southern hemisphere, stylishly accommodat-
in 2011, this 147-foot beauty accommodating ten
owned by Eric Merlin, founder of travel company
ing 12 guests. Rumored to be owned by media
guests in lavish staterooms is as comfortable
Exotissimo, Calisto is perfectly placed to cruise
mogul Rupert Murdoch, this is the first time this
anchored off Bora Bora or Monte-Carlo as she
the dramatic islands of southern Thailand, the
vessel has been available for charter. Opulent
is in Antarctica and the Amazon. Interiors are
acclaimed diving spots of the Similans and even
interiors by French designer Christian Liaigre
earthy and welcoming thanks to the use of natu-
the Mergui Archipelago in Myanmar, an increas-
offer an “urban at sea” persona, including a
ral timber tones, energy-saving LED lighting and
ingly popular cruising ground of over 4,000 is-
natural palette of walnut, cream and chocolate.
floor-to-ceiling windows that ensure plenty of
lands. With seven beautifully restored cabins—
Built in New Zealand by Alloy Yachts Interna-
natural light. Innovations include double-height
including a master stateroom decked out in rich
tional, this 220-foot superyacht features spa-
atriums with LED screen walls and fold-down aft
mahogany, Egyptian linens and Molton Brown
cious, minimalist cabins, elegant outdoor and
“beaches” that offer an unprecedented 45-foot
amenities—Calisto boasts an elegant, Old World
indoor entertainment spaces and a large Jacuzzi
swimming platform. Big Fish also comes with
ambience after years of entertaining Europe’s
on the aft deck from which to watch the day’s
big toys, including a 26-foot tender, scuba equip-
social elite. She caters to 12 guests and nine
end. The active will enjoy scuba equipment and
ment (plus two onboard scuba instructors), two
crew with a professionally equipped kitchen,
an Avon Jet Rib boat, while a limo tender and
RS Feva sailboats and a jet ski. Alternatively,
spacious living areas and modern technology.
two Nautica tenders make exploring deserted
take a dip in the aft sundeck Jacuzzi or stargaze
Charter rates start at US$50,000 a week.
beaches and busy cities a cinch. Vertigo char-
from the innovative crow’s nest. Charter rates
Contact: Fraser Yachts’ Massima Piras, 377-93-
ters from about US$279,167 a week.
start at US$245,000 a week.
100-496; massima.piras@fraseryachts.com;
Contact: Y.CO’s Tom deBuse, 377-93-50-12-12;
Contact: Y.CO’s Tom deBuse, 377-93-50-12-12;
www.fraseryachts.com
charter@ycoyacht.com; www.ycoyacht.com
charter@ycoyacht.com; www.ycoyacht.com
TEST DRIVE
LFA / LEXUS
QUICK TAKES
A8 L W12 / AUDI
JAGUAR XJ SUPERSPORT a real sense of style
ALL DIALED IN
(check out the 20-inch
Audi’s top-of-the-line city sedan delivers punch, power and panache that can stand
wheels,
toe to toe with any long wheelbase four-door big boy. But, more often than not, what
A touring sedan with
bright
red
brake calipers, black
sets the A8 L W12 Quattro apart, are the little things.
BY MIKE ESPINDLE
grille and panoramic glass roof), this special 510hp supercharged V8 version of Jaguar’s flagship is certain
The luxury sedan game is played out on a scale of millimeters. Oftentimes subtle engineering,
to evoke double takes. The style continues inside with
throbbing engine power and cutting-edge design all pull together in the cockpit, where nuances
cutting-edge carbon fiber touches, easy-to-read digital
of dash instrumentation, pedal feel and wheel and control locations can make all the difference.
dials lit by pools of soft blue light, red-stitched black
Simply said, the Audi A8 L W12 possesses one of the most intuitive and effective driver’s sides
leather, purple felt in the glove box and on the center
I’ve ever experienced.
console, and a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins sound sys-
On my exclusive mountain test drive, the shift paddles practically dropped onto my fingertips
tem. Base price: About US$112,000.
when it was time to goose the seamless eight-speed transmission and explore the true power
Contact: Jaguar Singapore, 65-6473-7755;
of the W12 engine (which, needless to say, was pretty uncanny). Braking, so critical for such a
www.jaguar.com
heavy vehicle (4,773 pounds), was intuitive to the point of being almost eerie, like the car knew what I wanted to do before I did. A large center stack offers a plethora of functions, but all were
BMW ALPINA B7
easy to decipher and locate with a quick glance. Seat comfort is world class, and the Bang & If the artfully sculp-
Olufsen sound system quality is comparable to much more rarefied luxury sedans.
tured flanks of the
Besting a base A8 by five inches of wheelbase, 128 horses and 2.1 liters of displacement (the
BMW Alpina B7 grand-
power plant is officially rated at 6.3 liters, 500hp), those seemingly small improvements, like
tourer don’t hook you,
the finely tuned interior approach, again make a big difference. You’ll experience a 0 to 60mph
the
theatrics
surge in just 4.4 seconds, with stable and controlled high-speed performance that defies the
surely will. Open the soft-close automatic door and the
length and weight of this monster. It looks big at the curb and handles small behind the wheel.
cabin
sills light up with the phosphorescent blue B7 logo. Am-
You can’t discuss the A8 L W12 without delving into the back seat, since the car is eminently
bient light pools gently around the discreetly hidden han-
“chauffeur-able,” and the price tag brings it up towards those “gentlemen’s saloons” often as-
dles, and a stretch of hand-stitched leather and piano
sociated with hired drivers. Leg room, leather quality, ride comfort, entertainment technology
black beckon you inside. Power up the 4.4-liter V8 twin
(dual ten-inch screens with a rear-seat DVD slot)…any critical factor of being a passenger in
turbo (500hp) engine, and you’ll tuck into one of the most
this car compares favorably with a more expensive competitive set. Speaking of the price, Audi
luxurious AWD performance cars you’ll ever experience.
lists US$133,500 as the base, but the maker’s Exclusive program offers a selection of 15 leath-
Base price: About US$137,725.
ers, seven woods and other options that can bring the final cost of a personalized A8 L W12
Contact: BMW of Japan, 81-3-6259-8333;
closer to US$180,000.
www.bmw.co.jp
Contact: Audi Hong Kong, 852-2528-1862; www.audi.com.hk 119
AT SEA SERENITY
120
ORIENTAL SPA
SPA AT THE FOUR SEASONS
LANDMARK MANDARIN ORIENTAL
FOUR SEASONS HONG KONG
CHUAN SPA LANGHAM PLACE MONGKOK
Located within the confines of one of Asia’s
One of the city’s most innovative wellness
Subtly lit and dressed in warm earth tones,
most luxurious hotels, the Oriental Spa at
retreats, the Spa at the Four Seasons Hong
Chuan Spa is perched on the 40th floor of the
the Landmark Mandarin Oriental combines
Kong benefits from some of Hong Kong’s most
chic Langham Place Mongkok. Inspired by
award-winning spa facilities with a Pilates
captivating views. With 17 private spa suites,
the wellness philosophies of Chinese medicine
studio, indoor swimming pool, modern fitness
be sure to opt for one of two VIP suites, each
and the five elements of wood, metal, fire, air
center and yoga suite across two levels. This
boasting over-the-tub rain showers, daybeds
and earth, the spa boasts more than 60 treat-
urban oasis also boasts amethyst crystal
and twin massage beds. A host of new Organic
ments conducted in ten spacious and private
steam rooms, experience showers, a Turkish
Pharmacy-created experiences have just been
spa suites. Local master therapists practice
hammam for the guys and a Moroccan rasul
added to the spa’s enviable treatment list,
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and offer
for the ladies. The spa’s menu features a host
including a 90-minute resculpting massage
everything from acupuncture and moxibustion,
of indulgent treatments, including Mandarin
using ginger and chili oil to stimulate circula-
to the art of Ho Guan cupping, which draws
Oriental’s own signature series, all of which
tion, a seaweed cleansing cocoon wrap that
out impurities from the skin and muscles.
include Oriental meridian massages using es-
rids the skin of pollution and toxins, and a
For something a bit more contemporary, book
sential oils custom-made for the hotel. Be sure
vitamin C antioxidant facial that exfoliates and
the Chuan Spirit VIP Suite, with its private
to spoil yourself with the Oriental Harmony
reduces discoloration in the skin. The Organic
Jacuzzi, and try the Serenity Shen treatment
treatment (from about US$302), a lavish ritual
Pharmacy Facial (about US$399) is a signa-
(about US$254). This three-hour journey begins
that includes a warm scrub and four-handed
ture 120-minute treatment that firms the skin
with a stone therapy massage, followed by a
massage conducted by two well-trained
using acupressure massage to stimulate the
refreshing foot treatment, a facial using essen-
therapists. Finish off with a simultaneous head
lymphatic system. Finish off with a rose crystal
tial oils and, finally, a revitalizing cool marine
and foot massage to feel truly uplifted, and be
and antioxidant serum and an anti-aging mask
algae mask. The spa also offers a wide range
sure to visit the newly opened Pedi:Mani:Cure
to leave you refreshed and ready to tackle the
of treatments suited for travelers, as well as a
studio by Bastien Gonzalez.
city in style.
selection of signature Thalgo facials.
Contact: Director of Spa Charlotte Chen,
Contact: Director of Spa Shoshana Weinberg,
Contact: Director of Spa Victoria Childs,
852-2132-0011; charlottec@mohg.com;
852-3796-8901; shoshana.weinberg@four
852-3552-3510; victoria.childs@langham
www.mandarinoriental.com/landmark
seasons.com; www.fourseasons.com/hongkong
hotels.com; wwwchuanspa.com
HONG KONG’S TOP SPAS With Hong Kong’s high-paced lifestyle, it’s little wonder that the Fragrant Harbour is also home to some of the region’s most cutting-edge and indulgent urban spas. Infusing the healing philosophies of China with those of India, Thailand and beyond, Hong Kong’s hidden citadels of seduction guarantee to poke and prod you into submission.
BY NICK WALTON
THE RITZ-CARLTON SPA BY ESPA
THE PENINSULA SPA
THE RITZ-CARLTON, HONG KONG
PENINSULA HONG KONG
MIRASPA THE MIRA HONG KONG
The city’s newest home of wellness and the
Boasting 14 lavishly appointed private treat-
Located just off Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui,
highest hotel spa in the world, The Ritz-Carl-
ment rooms and awe-inspiring views across
The Mira Hong Kong combines chic design
ton Spa by ESPA is located on the hotel’s 116th
Victoria Harbour, The Peninsula Spa at the
and world-class service; its decadent spa is
floor, affording stunning views of Victoria Har-
Peninsula Hong Kong remains one of Asia’s
no exception. An elegant and modern refuge
bour and the Outlying Islands. At 9,257 square
top urban wellness retreats. Peninsula teamed
from the city, MiraSpa showcases cutting-
feet, ESPA boasts nine deluxe treatment rooms
up with ESPA to create a unique experience
edge skincare and body treatments created by
and two couple’s suites, each with floor-to-ceil-
that draws on Eastern and Western healing
acclaimed French cosmetolgist Anne Semonin,
ing windows and cutting-edge design. The spa’s
philosophies using treatments designed ex-
including vita fusion facials, muscle melt mas-
extensive menu features aromatherapy mas-
clusively for The Peninsula Spa. The two-story
sages and unique black sand treatments. Take
sages, anti-aging facials and a great range of
oasis fuses Chinese elements and contempo-
time out of your busy day to try the Haute Cou-
rituals designed for men. But for the real ESPA
rary flair with accents of marble, aged wood
ture Platinum Facial (US$175), a unique treat-
experience, book one of the signature treat-
and textured granite. Book ahead for one of the
ment that uses the pure revitalizing extracts
ments (all from about US$206), including the
Private Spa Suites, and start your journey with
of apricot kernel oil and seaweed paste. The
Lava Shell Body therapy, during which heated
a session in the Crystal Steam Room, part of
105-minute treatment also includes products
lava shells are used to soothe tired feet prior to
the innovative Thermal Suite, where an array
tailored to guests’ skin type, as well as bespoke
a full body massage, and the Radiance Facial
of cooling and heating environments relax and
eye and décolletage therapies. If you’re looking
with Jade Stone Eye Treatment, which uses
revitalize body and mind. Then try the Spirit of
to shake off the strains of the day, therapist
a special application of ESPA Skin Radiance
Peninsula (about US$257), which begins with a
Eric Lee is renowned in Hong Kong for his
Moisturizer to brighten the skin. Finish off with
foot bath and salt body exfoliation, followed by
intuitive massage skills and knowledge of com-
a swim in the hotel’s unique indoor swimming
a warm fragrant oil massage and a detoxofying
mon body ailments. He specializes in tradi-
pool, with its underwater speakers and ceiling
hand, foot and scalp mask, made with seaweed
tional Chinese and deep-tissue massages that
LED screens.
extracts, lemongrass and peppermint.
soothe body and mind.
Contact: Spa Director Siti Alawiya,
Contact: Regional Spa Director–Asia Sharon
Contact: Director of Spa Tracy Lord,
852-2263-2041; siti.alawiya@ritzcarlton.com;
Codner, 852-2920-2888; sharoncodner@
852-2315-5500; miraspa@themirahotel.com;
www.ritzcarlton.com/hongkong
peninsula.com; www.peninsula.com/hongkong
www.themirahotel.com 121
CHEERS
SINGLE MALT STARS Scotland’s leading whiskey houses are trying to capture a greater share of the Asian market and in the process are giving the region a growing number of exclusive releases—but you’ll need to be quick because they are turning up in extremely limited quantities. BY JAMES GREGORY WILKINSON
The Glenfiddich name has been synonymous with “single malt Scotch whiskey” since its foundation by distiller William Grant back in 1887. While the brand’s much-loved 21-years malt, with its Caribbean rum barrel finish, remains popular with true connoisseurs the world over, it’s the distillery’s limited-release 1974 Vintage Reserve, launched at Hong Kong International Airport, that’s been captivating Asia Pacific since its unveiling in late December. Despite an initial launch of only 200 bottles, retailing at US$1,130 each, demand mirrors the distillery’s previous limited-edition release, Snow Phoenix. “After the pioneering launch of Snow Phoenix, which was created by combining single malt whiskeys of different strengths, ages and finishes, it’s wonderful to release another vatted whiskey in the form of the 1974 Glenfiddich Vintage Reserve,” says Glenfiddich master distiller Brian Kinsman. The 1974 Vintage Reserve also follows the exclusive releases in Taiwan of vintages from 1961 and 1976 (in 2010) and the 1972 (in 2009), but to the joy of many aficionados, the latest release is more widely available.
(Contact: WG&S Marketing Director for India Aparna Batra, 91-1244-99405; glenfiddich.enquiries@wgrant. com; www.glenfiddich.com) With Asia Pacific’s demand for blended and single malt whiskey, it’s no surprise that other leading distillers, including Glenlivet, are focusing on special Asian releases. Glenlivet’s exclusive Asian release, the 12-year-old Glenlivet Excellence, has been a star of the show since its release in November 2011 (about US$68). Paying tribute to Glenlivet’s founder George Smith, the Excellence combines the brand’s signature floral style with a “higher proportion of whiskey matured in ex-sherry casks,” according to Chivas Brothers’ Brand Director for Malts Neil Macdonald. Macdonald says Smith was known for “his determination that ‘only the best will do,’” and that’s reflected in the Excellence, which comes in an elegant, clear glass bottle with a distinctive gold label. The Excellence is not just about looks—sure it does come encased in a gold-foiled carton—but on the palate it’s about vibrant fruit, pear and honey, while the nose is filled with vanilla, orange zest and a dash of hazelnut—characteristics that have proven popular among Asian whiskey drinkers. “The launch of The Glenlivet Excellence reflects our ongoing commitment to growing the brand in this increasingly important market,” says Macdonald. (Contact: Brand Manager for The Glenlivet in Hong Kong Chris Yeung, 852-2378-7946; chris.yeung@
pernod-ricard.com; www.theglenlivet.com) Not to be outdone, luxury spirits distributor Moët Hennessy Diageo released 12- and 18-year-old single malts under The Singleton of Glen Ord brand last summer, targeting Asia’s whiskey fans (12YO: about US$62; 18YO: about US$155). “The Singleton of Glen Ord has been very well received by whiskey adorers in both mature and emerging markets alike,” says Diageo’s brand ambassador Drew Mills. Part of a collection of specific expressions targeting key markets, The Singleton of Glen Ord’s deep shining amber color, warm fruity aftertaste and dark chocolate nose are sure to make it a hit with new and established whiskey drinkers in Asia. Diageo also launched The Singleton of Glen Ord 35YO in February, seeking to entice Asia’s most discerning whiskey drinkers (about US$1,354). (Contact: Brand Manager Georgia Lai, 852-
2976-1105; georgia.lai@mhdhk.com; www.diageo.com) 122 18YO / THE SINGLETON OF GLEN ORD
THE THE GUIDE GUIDE
AROUND THE REGION ANYONE WHO HAS VISITED ASIA WILL TESTIFY TO THE REGION’S CONTRASTS, FROM TOWERING MOUNTAINS TO POWDERY BEACHES, TRANQUIL RURAL LANDSCAPES TO METROPOLISES THAT ARE REDEFINING HOW WE LIVE. ASIA IS NOTHING IF NOT MULTIFACETED, SO IT SHOULD BE OF LITTLE WONDER THAT ITS
MUTE / SEOUL
ENTERTAINMENT SPACES FOLLOW IN KIND, OFFERING ONE-STOP-SHOPS THAT TANTALIZE THE SENSES.
Read on to discover some of the multi-experience venues
Asian entertainment scene, fine dining continues to lead the
opening across the region, including Macau’s Sky 21, which
pack, with the opening of View 62 at the Hopewell Centre,
combines pan-Asian fine dining and al fresco mixology with
home to the avant-garde cuisine of Spain’s influential Mi-
a private shopping opportunity unprecedented in the casino
chelin-starred chef Paco Roncero, while nearby local foodie
city. In Seoul, District is the latest Itaewon hot spot to take
institution Chez Patrick has been reincarnated in chic new
the city’s late-night live music scene by storm, drawing in-
digs, where it continues to thrill visitors and locals alike.
ternational DJs to one of Asia’s most engaging and dynamic
And in Shanghai, a city that’s always innovating, roof-
destinations with its industrial-chic persona. In Taipei, a city
top cocktail bars on the Bund continue to captivate travel-
that’s no stranger to a good night out, MYST offers extrava-
ers thanks to startling skyline views. Newcomers include
gant experiences for the affluent jet set, combining a cutting-
Shook!, located atop the new Swatch Art Peace Hotel, and
edge club scene with cityscape vistas.
the elegant House of Roosevelt at Bund 27, both of which
In Hong Kong, a city that’s often at the forefront of the
offer visitors the ultimate taste of modern China. 123
THE GUIDE
BANGALORE
BY ISABEL PUTINJA
TASTE NO EVIL One of the newest additions to residential Indiranagar’s fine dining scene is I & Monkey, a restaurant that’s being noticed for its cheeky name and quirky menu. The managing partners, Reji Thomas and his son Sathish, are veterans of Bangalore’s F&B scene, having run the city’s landmark Windsor Pub for the past 14 years. The idea behind I & Monkey was to take the much-loved menu at The Windsor and transform it into an upmarket dining experience. The outcome is an understated and elegant setting, an innovative menu and a relaxed atmosphere. The dazzling white walls contrast with the dark hardwood floors and furnishings. Photographs of jazz greats like Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughan, Harry Edison and Illinois Jacquet grace the walls, and, fittingly, a soundtrack of jazz and blues will accompany your meal. Book ahead for a quiet table on the semi-al fresco terrace. The menu is a culinary journey across South India with forays into continental cuisine and some fun twists thrown in. The “Backwater Fried Meat” is a Kerala Syrian Christian specialty of tender beef cubes stir-fried with roasted spices and coconut. The shikari-style shredded meat is a revamped traditional recipe and a house specialty; made with finely shredded sun-dried beef, it is double fried with shallots and spices. An example of the inventive flavor combinations on offer is the pickle paneer lasagna, made with paneer cheese and tangy mango pickle. The wine list features a selection of Indian, Australian, Italian and French varietals, with the Domaine de Saint-Ser and Domaine Gigondan Côtes du Rhône Reserve Saint Just being some of the finest picks.
Contact: Managing Partner Sathish Thomas, 91-88619-86902; iandmonkey2012@gmail.com
URBAN ISLAND The Island has made a smashing entrance on the city’s lounge/bar scene and is buzzing with the in-crowd on weeknights and weekends. True to its name, this high-end nightspot, located off a busy road in Indiranagar, is an urban oasis. The open-air courtyard is set amid pools of water and cascading waterfalls, and the hammocks, thatched parasols and bamboo tables and chairs complete the tropical beach theme. The reggae and retro music provides the perfect backdrop to the laid-back atmosphere; this is the ideal place to unwind with a cocktail under the stars or on the candlelit terrace. The most LIGHT-DRENCHED DINING ROOM / I & MONKEY
coveted seats are in the cozy covered loft overlooking the courtyard. In keeping with the tropical theme, the drinks list features favorites like
THATCHED CHIC / THE ISLAND
Long Island Iced Tea and Blue Lagoon cocktails, as well as margaritas and martinis that are spruced up with local exotic fruits. The pineapple coconut martini is hugely popular as is the watermelon margarita and one infused with cactus pear. The signature cocktail is the Island Jumbo, made with white rum, vodka, gin, tequila, triple sec, cranberry, lime juice and fresh mint leaves, and served up in a huge martini glass perfect for sharing. The wine list features mostly Australian and French vintages; notables include the Bird in Hand pinot noir and the La Patache Médoc cabernet sauvignon. A tempting selection of international appetizers includes Texas-style spicy chicken wings, nachos con queso, Afrikaner braai kebabs, and tequila-spiced mushroom and pepper skewers. Island mixed grill of lamb, beef and chicken; the pan-fried Chilean fish fillet; and Thai red curry are popular mains. Reservations are recommended for the immensely popular Sunday brunch.
Contact: Owners Pankaj Bhatia and Khanindra Barman, 91-99453-01267; pankaj@kpgroups.in
124
BY NICK WALTON
HONG KONG
THE GUIDE
EAST-BOUND & UP One of Hong Kong’s culinary icons has made the bold move to shut up shop in its Central location, and move east to Wan Chai, helping shift the city’s gastronomic landscape in the process. Anyone who dined at Chez Patrick’s iconic Peel Street spot, hidden beneath the bars and boutiques of Soho, could be forgiven for shedding a tear for the end of an era. Fortunately the new Chez Patrick has not only survived the move, but is already in bloom, offering diners a new level of fine dining and elegant palate pleasers, packaged in a chic, welcoming setting that’s a fresh breath of air to the city’s foodie scene. The new location features soaring ceilings, muted tones, delicate handpainted gold wallpaper and intimate lighting, all of which combine to create
FRENCH FLAIR / CHEZ PATRICK
an elegant ambience. The look, a contrast to the Central venue’s minimalism, is the brainchild of Darryl Goevas from Pure Creative International, and calms loyal guests come to see if the spirit of Peel Street remains. Happily it does, with signature dishes like the smoked trio of foie gras, salmon and yogurt, and fresh tuna carpaccio with pastis and lime, found on a dedicated classics menu and still impressing diners new and old. But a host of new selections, including marinated Hokkaido scallops with watercress and wasabi dressing; French ‘’Charolais’’ beef fillet with dauphinois gratin; and a mild ginger and orange zest comfit soufflé are winning new punters thanks to chef Patrick’s fresh and innovative take on timeless French cuisine. The degustation menu is the best way to bring back fond memories of Peel past, or to forge new links with this culinary icon. Restaurant Manager JeanNoel Narbeburu is still greeting guests, and ensuring that despite the stylish new digs far from the ruckus of Soho, Chez Patrick continues to serve the elegant dishes that have made it a favorite on the city’s culinary landscape.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Jean-Noel Narbeburu, 852-2541-1401; www.chezpatrick.com
TAKE YOUR MEDICINE With an approach to cocktails that’s as scientific as it is inventive, Hong Kong’s newest molecular concept bar, Quinary, has opened on Hollywood Road on the cusp of Soho. Headed up by award-winning mixologist Antonio Lai and fronted by Charlene Dawes, owner of nearby whiskey bar Angel’s Share, this
DELIGHTFUL DELICACIES / CHEZ PATRICK
SULTRY SPACE / QUINARY
chic cocktail divan brings back an old-school elegance, married with lashings of new-age innovation, using food science to concoct cocktails. Antonio was at the forefront of the city’s fling with molecular mixology and while he’s not carrying his canister of liquid nitrogen around with him anymore, Quinary is every bit an extension of that creativity. Behind a traditional long bar and within a space of low-slung rafters, dark timbers, deep booths and subtle lighting, Antonio and his team engage all five senses as they create classic concoctions with modern, often surprising twists. The Quinary Sour is an Asian twist with Ballantine’s whiskey, licorice root and Chinese black sugar, while the Earl Grey Caviar Martini features Absolut, apple juice, elderflower and Cointreau, and is served with tea-infused molecular caviar. Things get more scientific with the Quinary Bloody Mary, made with wasabi-infused vodka crafted in the bar’s own re-distiller—a Hong Kong first—while the Crystal 24 uses crisp centrifuge-spun grapefruit juice and Beefeaters 24 gin. If you get peckish, a bar menu features truffle fries, Bloody Mary mini beef burgers and foie gras served with balsamic strawberries.
Contact: Owner/Managing Director Charlene Dawes, 852-9123-8987; charlene@quinary.hk; www.quinary.hk
125
THE GUIDE
JAKARTA
SOARING VIEWS / FABLE LOUNGE & DINING
BY GREG HARADIRAN
COMFORT FOOD / FABLE LOUNGE & DINING
A FABLE IN THE MAKING Perched on the second floor of the circus-like complex known by hipsters as “ex-Bengkel,” which already boasts an exotic car showroom, the wildly popular premium barber Ugo and a rooftop bar-cum-garden-cum-doggie day care, Jakarta’s newest elite playground is not out of place. In fact, with a long, narrow and darkened tunnel that leads to a cavernous structure that resembles a glass bird cage, Fable Lounge & Dining fits right in. On its opening day, Fable featured no fewer than six international DJs, including David Morales, Moto Blanco and Supernova; nine local DJs and a VIP celebrity list that partied from 6 p.m. till 6 a.m. It was an unprecedented feat for a lounge/nightclub opening in Indonesia. Owners Jason Kurniawan and Feisal Hamka, former event promoters, not only designed Fable’s winning music programs—anything from live acoustic to hip hop to svelte house—but also the entire place. Built as a separate extension on the annex of the Fairgrounds complex, the result is an intimate yet spacious and sexy yet friendly hideaway in the heart of the busiest district. To cater to their celeb guests, who regularly include Cathy Sharon, Dian
QUEEN OF HEARTS COCKTAIL / FABLE LOUNGE & DINING
Sastrowardoyo and soccer player Diego Michel, the dynamic duo have also designed two private rooms that offer maximum privacy. One is on-site and the other, a wee bit off-site, is thoroughly private, though a touch less ambient.
COLORFUL TREATS / FABLE LOUNGE & DINING
Don’t miss Fable’s signature cocktails, including the Fable Royal Mojito, a fresh and energizing concoction of rum, crème de cassis, sparkling wine and lime, and the Nutella Passion, a unique drink made of Baileys Irish cream, rum and chocolate hazelnut spread. Pair these with Fable’s blissful desserts such as the sultry Black Velvet Cake, Caramel Crust Pie or Watermelon Menthol, and you just might find it impossible to leave this fairytale wonderland.
Contact: Marketing and Relations Manager Ursula Wantah, 62-812-8877-5611; ursula.wantah@fable.co.id; www.fable.co.id
DOUBLE THE DECADENCE The newly opened Double Bay restaurant, located in the posh neighborhood of LUXE SEATING / DOUBLE BAY BAR/THE BAR AND RESTAURANT
Menteng (not far from the former residence of US President Barack Obama), might strike as a somewhat odd conjuncture of the Prohibition, Rococo and Georgian eras—think red velvet, boudoir chairs, leopard prints and hanging stag heads. But Double Bay pulls it off, presenting a chic but unapologetically American style, with sinful offerings including huge racks of ribs and melt-inyour-mouth foie gras burgers—thick patties sandwiched between generous slabs of foie gras and melted cheese. Owner William Gomez’s years studying in LA have left him with fond memories of not only great American food, but also the 24/7 Hollywood party culture, and Double Bay is decidedly La-La Land. He set up the restaurant as a 24-hour eatery, with the focus being on the late-night and early morning romps rarely catered for elsewhere, complete with spinning DJs and a sexy vibe. Gomez designed the place himself, adding the stag heads, lavish chandeliers, plush velvet sofas and a great cocktail list designed to keep affluent punters happy through the night.
ESCARGOT / DOUBLE BAY
RED VELVET CAKE / DOUBLE BAY
Double Bay is now one of Menteng’s hot spots, with local celebs like Mario Lawalata, Lulu Tobing and Limbad relaxing in the sultry space, sipping signature cocktails like the Captain America—a fusion of fresh strawberry, strawberry vodka, blue curaçao, Frangelico and Southern Comfort—with abandon.
Contact: President/Director William Gomez, 62-812-711-5111; gowilliammez@gmail.com
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BY SHARMILA RAJAH
LOFTY AMBITIONS
KUALA LUMPUR
THE GUIDE
CHAMPAGNE ROOM / VIEW ROOFTOP BAR
Kuala Lumpur has countless places to sip a mood-setting cocktail but nothing quite like the View Rooftop Bar atop the G Tower Hotel. Sprawling vistas over the city skyline give this hideaway an extra edge. Take the lift up to the 29th floor and choose your favorite nook—the funky al fresco Absolut Bar serves delicious original cocktails; for pure luxury, the GH Mumm champagne room is a jewel box of plush velvet seating and seductive lighting; and in between, the mod Glenlivet whiskey lounge is just right for top-level entertaining. The distinct interiors offer a unique experience within each enclave. A long bar and deep, curved banquettes set the stage for unparalled views at the outdoor Absolut Bar. The talking piece—an interactive i-bartop with touch-screen function displaying images—is guaranteed to elevate your sensory experience. An extensive list of cocktails includes View-Illusion, a combination of Absolut Blue Vodka, strawberry, honeydew, egg white and homemade syrup, and the View-Quaalude, a mix of Absolut Blue Vodka, Baileys and Frangelico liqueur with chocolate chips. Alongside your tipple of choice, enjoy spiced nachos, duck spring rolls or breaded calamari. The intimate Glenlivet whiskey lounge is outfitted with individual custody cases for bottle keeping; simply store your unfinished whiskey and carry the key home. Order the most coveted from the Glenlivet range—its rich, complex
CAPE RHYTHMS / ROMANZA LE RESTAURANT
25-year-old; the menu also lists the single malt Macallan. The premium champagne room, with its kaleidoscopic views, is a futuristic space with cup-shaped bar seats, rich drapery and sunken lounges. A small dance space fronts the DJ console; pop open a bottle of Dom Pérignon and party from dusk to dawn.
Contact: Bar Manager Edward Maria Dass, 60-3-2168-1881; manager@view.com.my; www.view.com.my
RETURN TO AFRICA Romanza Le Restaurant is winning the Malaysian capital over with its inventive cooking. The restaurant embodies a modern take on classic luxury, offering a delicious menu that features innovative French Mediterranean cuisine with a distinctive South African slant. The French-trained, South African head chef Steven Kruger experiments with familiar dishes like wild mushroom risotto and lamb shank by injecting them with unusual flavor combinations. The result is a dazzling display of technical expertise and exquisite tastes. Warm pea soup comes with a scoop of salmon ice cream; your ostrich fillet is served with aubergine spiced beef croquette and a citrus-infused fig compote. Chef Kruger, formerly of Opal Lounge in Cape Town, doesn’t hold back on the finest of ingredients—expect truffle and foie gras to elevate flavors. In keeping with the South African flair, the compact wine list features predominantly South African drops; there are also carefully selected varieties
LAMB SHANK / ROMANZA LE RESTAURANT
from France, Chile, New Zealand and Australia. Be sure to give the Glen Carlou Grand Classique 2008 from the Paarl Valley a try. The black, white and red dining room, which seats 100, boasts polished details like chandeliers, bold wallpaper, embroidered chairs and large crescent-shaped banquettes for bigger groups. After dinner, retreat to the plush cigar lounge for the finest Cuban cigars or head out to the al fresco bar where Zimbabwean mixologist Michael Tonderai serves decadent cocktails like the white chocolate martini, mango piña colada and strawberry coconut mojito.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Jo Arnold, 603-4252-6058; jo@romanza.com.my; www.romanza.com.my
127
THE GUIDE
MACAU
BY NICK WALTON
A TASTE FOR INDULGENCE Macau’s culinary scene has had a pleasant shock to the system with the opening of The Tasting Room at the expansive City of Dreams on the Cotai Strip. The elegantly appointed restaurant is located on level three of the five-star Crown Towers, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views across one of Macau’s busiest precincts. The Tasting Room boasts a contemporary European persona and brings to the city’s foodie scene a series of revolving and well-thought-out tasting menus. Each showcases innovation and an inherent respect for the world’s best ingredients, including jet-fresh seafood, beef cuts from French presidential supplier Hugo Desnoyer and a coveted collection of fine cheeses. Guests can choose from a range of dining atmospheres, including the intimate, spacious circular dining room, which is drenched in natural sunlight during the day and offers stunning evening views of the city’s neon nightscape. Alternatively book ahead for the decadent private dining room, complete with padded armchairs, Rosenthal china and Stölzle glassware. CIRCULAR HAVEN / THE TASTING ROOM
CAVIAR-TOPPED SALMON / THE TASTING ROOM
Start off with slow-cooked Scottish salmon with caviar and hazelnut oil, or a half lobster steamed with ginger and coconut milk, before moving onto the likes of Atlantic sea bass with veal jus and espelettes pimento, or Bresse pigeon cooked two ways and served with an Arabica jus. The best way to get a true cross-section of chef Guillaume Galliot’s talent is with the eight-course Tasting Room Chef’s Menu, which changes daily with the whims of the chef. Match your meal with one of Macau’s best wine collections; a state-ofthe-art Enomatic wine machine serves 16 wines by the glass, perfect for the indecisive, while choice drops from the menu include vintages from Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Petrus, as well as top-notch vintage champagnes.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Carlo Carreon, 853-8868-6681; thetastingroom@cod-macau.com; www.cityofdreamsmacau.com
ALL IN (TWENTY) ONE Twenty-one floors up isn’t particularly high in Asia, but for Sky 21, Macau’s newest nightspot, it affords guests quite possibly the best views in town. Ca-
HOUSE OF BLUES / SKY 21
tering to the city’s affluent visitors, Sky 21 is a multimillion dollar, multifaceted entertainment space that floats above the cityscape, bringing together cutting-edge pan-Asian cuisine, luxury private shopping, an exclusive nightclub and both terrace and rooftop cocktail bars with vertiginous vistas. SASHIMI / SKY 21
Start your night at Sky 21’s elegant Zen-inspired dining room, and take over the private space with its sumptuous décor and stellar views across the city. After trying the delectable dishes of chef Daniel Brolese, which fuse the culinary traditions of Malaysia, Vietnam, India, Thailand and Macau, head upstairs to Sky B, the chic cocktail lounge that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor areas. Here, the terrace tables offer stunning views across the water to the Macau Tower and Nam Van Lake. Be sure to try one of the rare cognacs
BERRY GARDEN COCKTAIL / SKY 21
or a tipple from the bar’s extensive champagne and cocktail list. Take time out to browse exclusive Sky Luxe, a private shopping experience that offers a revolving treasure trove of luxury brands featuring hard-to-find watches, limited-edition accessories and fine jewelry. You can finish up by dancing the night away at Sky Life, an ultra-modern lounge space complete ZEN ENTRANCE / SKY 21
with international DJs, a great sound system and enviable city views.
Contact: General Manager Ken Cho, 853-2822-2122; dining@sky21macau.com; www.sky21macau.com
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BY MAIDA PINEDA
LOCAL INSPIRATION
MANILA
THE GUIDE
FRESH AND FRIED / ARACAMA FILIPINO CUISINE
Chef Fernando Aracama, a respected contender in regional culinary competitions and a judge for TV’s Junior Master Chef, has a whimsical knack for Filipino ingredients. He turned Chocnut, a cheap local chocolate peanut candy, into a gourmet gelato that has been copied by ice cream manufacturers and other restaurants. His latest mission is to elevate the quality of Filipino food in restaurants with his newly opened Aracama Filipino Cuisine. Aracama and his partners boldly converted Embassy, formerly the most popular club in Manila, into a three-story benchmark for the championing of local fare. Aracama’s décor evokes the elegance of a countryside hacienda: Airy interiors, wrought-iron designs, white ceiling fans, woven wicker chairs and a plethora of tropical plants. For a more intimate experience, opt for one of three private rooms, catering to a dozen apiece. The food shines with Filipino appetizers like salpicao, made with 24-hour
sous vide beef riblets instead of the usual tenderloin beef cubes. Inspired by the cocktail Gin Pomelo, Aracama adds pomelo sea salt to deep-fried baby
SPICY SIPS / ARACAMA FILIPINO CUISINE
shrimp. His mother’s milkfish spring rolls are spiced with a tamarind and green chili dip, while classic dishes like pancit molo, pork wontons in chicken broth; crispy pata, deep-fried pork hock; and kare-kare, oxtail stew, all grace the menu. The chef also pays homage to his hometown, Bacolod, with dishes like kansi, shank soup cooked in lemongrass, tomatoes and batwon. Aracama does a splendid job with tupa tim, braised lamb shank with Oriental flavors of star anise and hoisin sauce, and with his signature dish, miso sea bass. Match your dishes with the Montes Cherub rosé or the Jules Taylor pinot gris, both of which pair splendidly with the flavors of Filipino cuisine. The chef, who disikes sweet cocktails, collaborates with New York mixologist David Dennis to create curious concoctions using locally sourced ingredients; try the signature Aracama tipple, a blend of gin, vodka, vermouth, pickled shallot brine, local green chili and cracked pepper.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Michael Jovellanos, 63-917-257-2524; michael@aracamamanila.com
REVVING UP AT THE ROCKET ROOM Rocket Room, the newest hot spot to open on Bonifacio High Street Central,
FLAVORFUL PLATE / ARACAMA FILIPINO CUISINE
CRAFTING COCKTAILS / ROCKET ROOM
is a dimly lit, cozy setting with retro blue tiles, tall bar stools and a few intimate dining tables. Enticing the city’s social set are eclectic beverage choices ranging from house-made liquor and tropical fruit infusions, including a lychee-infused sake, to cocktails using French boutique spirit Pure Green Vodka, made from organic wheat. Signature elixirs like The Girl With Violet Eyes, a sweet mojito with mixed berries, apple rum, honey, lychee and mint, are complemented by a selection of hot and cold tapas, including utterly addictive crispy pork belly chips. A wood-fired oven cranks out gourmet snacks at Rocket’s sister restaurant next door, including stuffed mushroom skewers. Mediterranean tapas dishes include spicy gambas, grilled pulpo and croquettes, and roasted truffle mushroom pizza, which oozes with earthy flavors. What the Rocket Room excels at is great live music. On Friday and Saturday nights, Rocket brings in top DJs to pump out rhythms popular in the underground party scenes of Saigon, Manila, Bangkok and Tokyo. Groove to fresh mixes from the likes of Ms Badkiss, Stockholm’s funk-soul-electro duo Amalia+Opolopo, DJs Minister Zero and Danger, Complex and Supreme Fist.
Contact: Rocket Room Manager Rhona Coronel, 632-621-3222; stella.rocketroom@raintree.com.ph; www.raintreerestaurants.com
129
THE GUIDE
SEOUL
WINE COLLECTION / L’ANGOLO
BY MATT FLEMMING
NEON MARKER / L’ANGOLO
ITALIAN SEOUL Armed with 25 years of experience, including a stint as executive chef consultant at three-Michelin-star Ristorante La Pergola in the Rome Cavalieri Hilton, chef Sebastiano Giangregorio has created L’Angolo, a traditional yet creative Italian restaurant and bistro perched on Mount Namsan in Seoul’s Itaewon neighborhood. Since opening earlier in the year, L’Angolo has seen high-powered executives as well as a number of ambassadors as regular customers. In June, singer-songwriter Jason Mraz held an event in the restaurant’s small concert hall, which also serves as a private dining room. Giangregorio imports 90 percent of his ingredients from Italy but also uses Hanwoo beef (Korea’s answer to Wagyu) and pork from Jeju Island off South
COZY SEATING / L’ANGOLO
Korea’s southern coast. Giangregorio’s specialties are his pastas, particularly the tagliatelle bolognese, which he serves up himself tableside from a large wheel of Parmesan cheese. A decadent new addition to the menu is a sureto-please pizza topped with foie gras, Russian caviar and truffles. Of the more than 190 bottles on the wine list, about 70 percent are Italian, including choice drops Gaja Barbaresco, Amorone Masi and Sassicaia. There’s also an excellent selection of Bordeaux beauties, including drops from Château Margaux, Château Mouton Rothschild and Château Lafite Rothschild. Giangregorio designed the restaurant’s interiors himself, seeking to create an atmosphere similar to dining in the home of a well-to-do friend. The
EXTRAVAGANT INTERIOR / MUTE
ALLURING DETAILS / GLAM
ground floor features a lounge with leather couches adorned with throw pillows and blankets, where guests can enjoy an espresso with a slice of cake. The rooftop patio provides excellent city views while a number of private rooms throughout the building are great for those seeking extra privacy.
Contact: Executive Italian Chef Sebastiano Giangregorio, 82-2-792-5571; italianexecutivechef@gmail.com
THE ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT The neighborhood of Itaewon in central Seoul was long known as a hangout for the city’s Western expats. But in recent years, the neighborhood has LATTICED CORNER / PROST
transformed as more and more upscale Western-style establishments pop up, drawing in hip, young locals, and Itaewon becomes a higher-end cultural destination in its own right. The street behind the Hamilton Hotel has been at the heart of this transformation and since its grand opening earlier in the year, District has been the street’s major landmark. This massive entertainment emporium is made up of three venues, Prost, a casual, yet sophisticated alehouse and grill; Glam, a luxuriously appointed lounge; and Mute, a state-of-the-art nightclub. With an old-fashioned factory facade and tall arched windows, the three venues at District have a similar
LAID-BACK LUXE / PROST
décor motif, designed by Kim Chi-ho. Prost features classic European styling and iron latticework with an 80-year-old steel stove still in place. Glam has a candlelit ambience, with hints of black, bronze and gold, and a smattering of handpicked antique furniture. Mute has quickly been established as one of Itaewon’s top clubs, with one of Asia’s most talented DJ lineups complemented by visiting international DJs such as Mendo, Sante and Troy Pierce. District’s top drops—available at all three venues—include Ballentine’s 30 Year, Armand de Brignac Brut Gold, Cristal Brut and Dom Pérignon Rosé Vintage 1998, while Glam serves up Chef’s Choice sashimi and Japanese tapas for when your appetite keeps up with the music.
Contact: District General Manager Sook Young Kim, 82-2-796-6853; districtgm@gmail.com; www.districtitaewon.com
130
BY RACHEL SILVESTRI
SHANGHAI
THE GUIDE
ALL SHOOK UP Located in Shanghai’s Bund district, atop the beautifully restored Swatch Art Peace Hotel, once part of the iconic Peace Hotel owned by Victor Sassoon (the other half across the street is now a luxurious Fairmont hotel), the new Shook! Rooftop Terrace turns the staggering, other-worldly cityscape of Puxi, the lazy Huangpu River and the bustling Bund escarpment into a dynamic, ever-changing backdrop that thrills and tantalizes the senses. Taking its rather curious name from Malaysian slang (owners YTL are based in Kuala Lumpur), this rooftop recluse follows the success of Shook! Restaurant on the chic 1906 Renaissance-styled building’s fifth floor. The terrace matches the stunning vistas with an innovative cocktail menu, extensive wine offerings and one of the best collections of vintage and non-vintage champagnes in the city, including Krug’s Clos Du Mesnil, Dom Pérignon Rosé and, exclusive to Shook!, Armand de Brignac Blanc de Blanc Épernay. The bar’s cocktails are a tribute to Shanghai’s emergence on the regional mixology scene and include cucumber and mint gimlets, a decadent truffle martini and a frozen champagne mojito. Appetites will be sated with the likes of snapper and prawn chips, Wagyu beef burgers with foie gras, and slightly spicy crab meat tarts from the bar menu. Be sure to book ahead for either a coveted al fresco lounge space, perfect
STUNNING CITYSCAPE / SHOOK! ROOFTOP TERRACE
AVANT-GARDE AESTHETICS / LE SHENG
for elegant open-air bottle service, or one of two private rooms housed in defining twin domed towers.
Contact: General Manager Andrew Jordan, 86-21-2329-8522; info@shookrestaurantshanghai.com; www.shookrestaurantshanghai.com
EAST MEETS WEST Traverse from the glamour of the Bund to the quiet leafy boulevards of the French Concession, where Australian Greek chef and local culinary icon David Laris has opened his newest venture to critical acclaim. Le Sheng is Laris’s first Chinese restaurant and presents a modern interpretation of Shanghainese cuisine in a boutique, intimate setting. Named for the harmonious moment when all instruments begin to play, Le Sheng has two chefs, Laris, who has been in Asia for 15 years, and local talent Zhang Yingzheng. Together, they blend cultures to create a menu that’s not as flashy as fusion but is still a delightful departure from the culinary norm.
BUDDHA JUMP / LE SHENG
Le Sheng is a refreshing change from the overly palatial Chinese restaurant; interior designer Andy Hall has decked out the narrow, double-level eatery in dark timbers, cozy lighting and Chinese panels featuring a poem about tea by Li Bai. To one side a colorful collection of Chinese tea leaves immersed
QUIET SOPHISTICATION / LE SHENG
in resin is backlit to great effect. Book ahead for the intimate lower-level private dining room or smaller seclusions upstairs, and have Laris and his team select from the 150-dishstrong menu. The selection includes popular favorites like xiao long bao, Shaoxin drunken chicken and hairy crab, as well as less known, more traditional delicacies like “Buddha jump,” steamed abalone with fish maw in broth. A more modern take can be seen in dishes like the yellow croaker fish spring rolls and Hong Sau Rou braised pork with quail eggs. Be sure to match these innovative dishes with Le Sheng’s collection of Chinese teas, handpicked by a local Chinese tea master, or with one of the unique cocktails infused with Chinese baiju rice wine, peaches, chrysanthemum, plums and hibiscus.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Adrian Yuan, 86-21-5406-6011; info@leshengsh.com; www.leshengsh.com
131
THE GUIDE
SINGAPORE
BY EVELYN CHEN
POLLINATED PERFECTION Barely six months after opening the 19-seat Esquina Tapas Bar, Jason Atherton is zipping into Singapore again, this time to put the finishing touches on Pollen, his second restaurant in the city with renowned hotelier/restaurateur Loh Lik Peng. Sequestered away in a temperature-controlled Flower Dome in the newly debuted Gardens by the Bay, the restaurant is accessed via a breezy buggy ride past towering Avatar-esque super tree structures. Anchoring the glass-paneled dome—together with a host of Mediterranean vegetation including fig and olive trees—is a smart, double-tiered space helmed by Executive Chef Colin Clague. The terracotta-tiled upper deck beckons with a long bar proffering signature cocktails including the Eastside Julep, prepared with Bombay Sapphire gin, elderflower, fresh lemon juice, cucumber and garden-plucked Japanese mint. These are served alongside your choice of finger foods like jamón Ibéri-
co or nibbles from the à la carte menu. To experience the essence of Atherton’s take on modern European fare, make a reservation at the dark wood-swathed ground-floor dining room, where the starched linen-blanketed tables and inspiring bay views set the scene for discovery. Atherton’s Mediterranean-accented creations include Sydney rock oysters served in a dashi broth with soy and pickled shallots; JOHN DORY AND PRAWN HEAD BISQUE / POLLEN
and John Dory fish with baby courgette. Like its London flagship, Pollen also features a stand-alone dessert bar where resident pastry chef Andres Lara,
GARDEN WHIMSY / POLLEN
BEETROOT SORBET / POLLEN
an El Bulli and Noma alumnus, crafts sublime desserts like beetroot sorbet with salt milk chocolate; and hibiscus-compressed granny smith apple, to end your meal on a high note.
Contact: Restaurant Manager Christophe Vitalien, 65-6604-9988; christophe@pollen.com.sg; www.pollenstreetsocial.com
HEFTY HEIFER Built as an annex to a Japanese-inspired beef atelier of the same name, Singapore’s new Fat Cow Lounge is, like its moniker suggests, a high-end chillout bar for the stream of affluent diners who grace the chi-chi steak house for their fix of premium marbled beef cuts. Its discreet location, buried behind closed doors on the ground floor of Camden Medical Centre, at the fringe of Orchard Road, offers the privacy that the deep-pocketed yet low-key crowd SHOGA MULE / FAT COW LOUNGE
KURAI TENSHA / FAT COW LOUNGE
hankers for. In a windowless space overhung with latticework, flickering candles illuminate the low-lit lounge where mixologist Richard Gillam concocts cocktails with Japanese flair, like the Yamazaki 12 years-accented Kurai Tensha, with Kyoto maple syrup, and the Kyoho Flip, infused with homemade Kyoho liqueur and Ron Zacapa Guatemalan rum. Pair these with Wagyu beef-studded eats from the kitchen, including a Wagyu cheesesteak and delicious Wagyu gyoza. If you’re in the mood to impress, ask sommelier Agnel Sathiananthan about his secret stash of vintage wines, some dating back to the 1960s. From his Sommelier’s Collection, Sathiananthan may suggest a Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Romanée Conti Grand Cru 1964 burgundy, or a Domaine des Comtes Lafon Montrachet Grand Cru 1992 burgundy, subject to a 24-hour advance order. In the interest of discreetness, uncork your choice of vintage vino in the 28-seat screen-shielded semi-private room (advance reservation required).
Contact: Restaurant Manager Dax Taparan, 65-9452-7814; enquiry@fat-cow.com.sg; www.fat-cow.com.sg
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BY JAMES GREGORY WILKINSON
COUNTRY ROAD
SYDNEY
THE GUIDE
LUSH LAWN / CHISWICK
Matt Moran has been a familiar face on the Sydney dining scene for the last two decades, particularly with his iconic Aria restaurant that overlooks the Harbour Bridge at Circular Quay. The chef, who is a member of Singapore Airlines’ culinary panel, responsible for signature business- and first-class dishes between Sydney and Singapore, opened his first restaurant, Paddington Inn Bistro, in 1991, and now, more than 20 years later, has again taken up residence in Sydney’s fashionable and wealthy inner-Eastern Suburbs. Chiswick, Moran’s latest venture with business partner Peter Sullivan, is a stone’s throw from Paddington in the leafy consul-lined suburb of Woollahra. Occupying one of the largest blocks in the residential neighborhood and surrounded by lush green lawns and gardens, Chiswick is not just Sydney’s hottest dining spot for the crowd it attracts—Formula 1 ace Michael Schumacher, billionaire James Packer, News Limited heir Lachlan Murdoch and former Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins have all dined here since it opened earlier in the year—but also for its refined country-in-the-city dining. The restaurant itself is a light-filled, white-dominated dining room with a mixture of communal tables and seating for couples and groups. Outside, the green lawn splits the restaurant from bustling Ocean Street, while out the back a 1,614-square-foot garden supplies produce for the kitchen that
GARDEN-FRESH FARE / CHISWICK
emphasizes fresh seasonal ingredients in each dish. Highlights on the menu are the baby Kinkawooka mussels with tomatoes, chili and garden herbs; chicken liver parfait with date puree; roasted king salmon with celeriac, walnuts and bois boudran sauce; and local grass-fed beef from Moran’s family farm. On the boutique-inspired drinks menu your palate will be tempted with a Chiswick Mule that’s twisted with kaffir limes and lemongrass, or a bottle of the 2008 Hugh Hamilton Saperavi from McLaren Vale in South Australia.
Contact: Manager Marta Presciutti, 60-2-8388-8688; info@chiswickrestaurant.com.au; www.chiswickrestaurant.com.au
HAIL TO THE CHIEF Sven Almenning loves good booze. So much so that the former Sydney mixology consultant put forward his own extensive collection for the consumption of connoisseurs when he first opened Eau de Vie in hip Darlinghurst. Alongside well-crafted classic cocktails, his fine selection of tipples helped Eau de Vie win “World’s Best New Cocktail Bar” at the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in New Orleans last year, an event that’s recognized as the top of the world drinks industry. So when Almenning opened his latest venture, The Roosevelt, down the road from Eau de Vie in sister suburb Potts Point, expectations were high. Exceeding them, Almenning created a cocktail
OCEAN TROUT TARTARE / THE ROOSEVELT
den that tantalizes the palate like few bars in Sydney. The Roosevelt features three rooms: A main bar area highlighted by ban-
THE VIP EXPERIENCE / THE ROOSEVELT
quettes, images of nearby Kings Cross from days gone by and Almenning’s collection of antique cocktail shakers; and two cocktail and food degustation rooms that are home to gastronomic matching nights and private events. Hallmarking the drinks list are the “cocktails on wheels:” Staff roll out a trolley that’s all about twisted classics such as The Roosevelt Blazer, with muscatel, figs and burnt orange, or futuristic creations such as the Revolu-
FROTHY TIPPLES / THE ROOSEVELT
tion Mule, which is charged in a bath of nitrogen.
Contact: Owner Sven Almenning, 61-404-175-348; sven@behindbars.com.au; www.theroosevelt.com.au
133
THE GUIDE
TAIPEI
BY JOSHUA SAMUEL BROWN
STAYING IN Anticipation ran high when three-Michelin-star chef Yannick Alléno opened Simple Table Alléno Yannick (STAY) on the fourth floor of Taipei 101, the Taiwanese capital’s most coveted address. STAY’s dining area, simple without being spartan, incorporates a sleek, minimalist design created by American firm Tag Front, whose signatures include the BOA Restaurant in West Hollywood. The mosaic ceiling, wing-like screens at the entrance and bronze sculptures all give a modern, Art Deco feeling, while the tastefully designed private dining rooms—one of which has a window looking into the kitchen—tout a more exclusive atmosphere. Both of the private rooms, as well as STAY’s sharing table, offer customized menus and private waitstaff. From the delicately mingled saltiness of anchovies and slight sourness of capers found in the traditional vitello tonatto appetizer, to the colorful lobster à la nage, a full New England lobster, de-shelled over diced summer vegetables, Yannick’s culinary creations are simple to the eye yet complex to the palate. Oenophiles will appreciate STAY’s extensive wine list, including the Bienvenues-Bâtard-Montrachet Grand Cru 2006 and the Château Cheval Blanc 1995, the latter a steal at about US$2,500. Chef Yannick’s first passion is famously pastry, and diners drawn solely to STRIKING SPACE / STAY
his sweeter creations will appreciate STAY’s signature pastry library, a full table from which dedicated pastry chefs produce Yannick’s signature confections. Those on tighter schedules can visit the chef’s newly opened Sweet Tea, a traditional Parisian tea salon located on the fourth-floor atrium just across from the main restaurant.
Contact: Marketing and PR Manager Ellie Chou, 886-2-8101-8177; ellie.chou@staytaipei.com.tw
MYSTICAL NIGHTS Located on the tenth floor of the recently refurbished ATT4Fun building in the heart of the trendy Xinyi district, MYST is Taipei’s newly opened house of fun, offering chic décor, thumping music and a wide selection of libations. Built to hold 2,000-plus patrons dancing to the latest hip hop and electro hits pumped out by recent headliners like Hyper Crush, the Jump Smokers and DJ Snake (Lady Gaga’s official tour DJ), the main room is practically a city in itself. Softly lit wood-grain walls surround the exterior, which has lush couches for VIPs craving bottle service for their small parties on the edge of the packed dance floor. Each VIP booth comes with its own server, and reserSOUP DU JOUR / STAY
vations for the prime tables need to be made weeks in advance. To escape the madness of the main room, a smaller side space doubles as
GETTING DOWN / MYST
GOOD TIMES / MYST
a chill-out zone. This dimly lit area is good for making conversation with new friends, talking to the bartenders about their selection of top-notch whiskeys or listening to up-and-coming DJs play a mélange of classic hip hop and house tunes. MYST’s biggest selling point may be its massive open-air 17-table balcony that wraps around the building’s corner and offers exquisite views of the city’s tallest building, Taipei 101. Wednesday is ladies’ night, so expect to find a younger and distinctly more ladylike scene. Friday and Saturday nights are the big ones, naturally, when the club is packed wall to wall with Taipei’s stylish and well heeled.
Contact: Business Manager Devin Koo, 886-958-914-777; jh@club-myst.com; www.club-myst.com
134 134
BY CATHERINE SHAW
TOKYO
THE GUIDE
MEMBERS ONLY? The Tokyo American Club, one of Japan’s most exclusive private members clubs, opened its doors to the public last year inviting non-member gourmands to dine at the newly opened restaurant Decanter. The venture—the first time in 83 years that the club has welcomed non-members—has proven such a success that this August sees the launch of Flatiron, the club’s newest dining venue, again welcoming non-members. Flatiron’s sleek third-floor dining area includes a curved washi artwork sculpture by Eriko Horiki and floor-to-ceiling wine cellars—home to more than 10,000 bottles including verticals of Château Palmer, Opus One, Château Latour, Bond Estate and Penfolds Grange reaching back 20 years. The signature Behind the Velvet Rope cocktail, a heady combination of Grey Goose vodka, black raspberry liqueur and agave nectar, infused with strawberries and basil with cranberry is a firm favorite. There is also an excellent selection of whiskeys including a ten-year-old Nikka Single Cask distilled and matured at the Yoichi distillery in Hokkaido and available in Japan only. The food at Flatiron, masterminded by chef David Kristiaan Ueno, melds aspects of molecular gastronomy, sensory cooking, immersion bath technology, flash freezing and searing into a true culinary journey. The multicourse, seasonally inspired set menu includes imaginative creations like frozen heirloom tomato pops that are taken through “a molecular transformation,” whereby rapid blast freezing removes all of the tomato’s liquids and crystallizes its essence. Guests fill their tomato with piping hot gazpacho, which is then blasted with liquid nitrogen—when the smoke clears the diner taps what looks like a tomato, shattering it and leaving shards of tomato mingled with a delicious hot soup. Flat-
THE SCIENCE OF FOOD / FLATIRON
iron only seats eight guests a night, so advanced reservations are a must.
Contact: Food and Beverage Director Brian Marcus, 81-3-4588-0245; brian.marcus@tac-club.org; www.tokyoamericanclub.org
PALATIAL INDULGENCE Thanks to the meticulous attention given to the design of the chic interiors, aesthetic presentation of each dish and a fleet of serene kimono-clad staff, dining at Wadakura, Palace Hotel Tokyo’s newly opened Japanese restaurant, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese heritage and hospitality. Two-Michelin-star chef Shinji Kanesaka is in charge at Sushi Kanesaka, one of four specialized dining areas within Wadakura, which in total offers 118 seats. Named after one of the six moats surrounding the Imperial Palace, Wadakura also has a six-seat tempura bar called Tatsumi (referencing the ancient Imperial watchtower visible from the ten private dining rooms) and Go, an area dedicated to teppanyaki-grilled premium Japanese beef. Executive Chef Keiji Miyabe’s multicourse seasonally inspired tasting
KAISEKI COURSES / WADAKURA
MEDITATIVE MODERN / WADAKURA
menus are a melody of colors, flavors and textures from corn dumpling with water shield, small melon and fresh yuzu, to clamato capellini paired with sea urchin, caviar and Japanese green pepper—an innovative twist on ItalianJapanese flavors. In the main dining room, enjoy palace garden views as you dine on Japanese favorites from sukiyaki to shabu-shabu and kaiseki. Wadakura’s interiors celebrate minimalist Japanese aesthetics with organic textured walls crafted by master plasterer Naoki Kusumi, wave-like naguri-style woodwork and a serene cascade of water down a stone wall.
Contact: Food and Beverage Director Masahiro Yamamoto, 81-3-3211-5303; yamamotom@palacehotel.jp; www.palacehoteltokyo.com
135
PURE DECADENCE
EASTERN EMPYREAN BY NICK WALTON
Okinawa has, for decades, been a strictly Japanese destination, a sliver of paradise wreathed by talcum powder sands and coral reefs that they liked to keep off the map. But all things change, and the tiny island chain between Japan and Taiwan has become a regional hot spot, as the rest of Asia discovers this once little-known tropical hideaway. Newcomers now have somewhere equally decadent to stay, with the opening of the lavish new Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa golf and spa resort.
GRAND ENTRANCE / THE RITZ-CARLTON, OKINAWA
Inspired by the traditional castle guesthouse or gusuku, The Ritz-Carlton, Okinawa boasts sweeping views across the East China Sea and adjacent Kise Country Club,
LIVING AREA / THE RITZ-CARLTON SUITE
and blends traditional Japanese elements, including Shurijo face motifs, distinctive red clay roof tiles, white walls and holy water ponds, with cutting-edge technology and gastronomy. Be sure to stay in the ILYA Corporation-designed Ritz-Carlton Suite (about US$5,744 a night), a palatial two-bedroom presidential-style retreat that features an expansive terrace with private Jacuzzi and telescope, and a bathroom boasting Asprey amenities, individual rain showers and Yukata robes. In the living room and bedroom you’ll find a 52-inch LCD TV with Dynamic Sound System and an iPod docking station with preloaded apps and music. The resort is also returning fine dining to the island, with the opening of ChuraNuhji, an elegant Italian restaurant that will offer al fresco dining, golf course views and the culinary musings of acclaimed Executive Chef Koji Hayakawa. Alternatively Kise, a modern teppanyaki eatery, will serve up locally caught seafood and renowned Okinawan Kuroge Wagyu beef cuts. The resort also features a Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA nestled in its own enclave overlooking the ancient Yanbaru Forest. The spa touts four treatment suites, four dry rooms and coveted outdoor cabanas for shiatsu and Thai massages. Book ahead for one of two special Retreat Suites, each boasting private decks and stone baths.
Contact: General Manager Jun Yoshie, 81-980-43-555; jun.yoshie@ritzcarlton.com; www.ritzcarlton.com/okinawa 136
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF / KISE COUNTRY CLUB
COLLECTORS INFORMATION: THE R22 MARK I - MECHANICALLY PERFORMING BELT BUCKLE CALIBRE BY ROLAND ITEN BUGATTI EDITION - CODENAME: ETTORE 100% MANUFACTURED IN GENEVA UTILISING HIGH PRECISION WATCH-MAKING MACHINERY. PATENTED EXPANSION AND «REVERSE GRENAGE» GEAR SYSTEMS. CALIBRATION RANGE OF 22MM. ISSUED IN SOLID WHITE AND ROSE GOLD WITH TITANIUM ARCHITECTURE AND SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL IN A LIMITED SERIES OF 22 PIECES. CHF 75’000.
ROLAND ITEN COLLECTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT: LES AMBASSADEURS GENEVA / HARRODS LONDON / CHRONOPASSION PARIS / GINOTTI ANTWERPE / BOUTIQUE DOS RELOGIOS PLUS LISBON / CRYSTAL GROUP KIEV / WESTIME LOS ANGELES / THE HOURGLASS SINGAPORE / RIVOLI PRESTIGE DUBAI & DOHA / TIANJIN YOUYI EXQUISITE STORE TIANJIN / VENDOME SYDNEY. FOR PURCHASES IN OTHER LOCATIONS PLEASE CONTACT: INFO@ROLANDITEN.COM / WWW.ROLANDITEN.COM