Alate

ALATE A L A T E

T H E N E W TR $19

AV E L E R THE UNCONVENTIONAL WAY TO SEE THE WORLD.

NOV 12 / 1.1

A L A T E

A L A T E

[ CONTRIBUTORS ]

6

PERRI ROTHENBERG

DANSHELLE JONES

KRISTINA FREDERICKS

REBECCA WASH

A L A T E

[ TABLE OF CONTENTS ] COVER STORY: ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND; PLACE TO ESCAPE / 8 TRENDING: TRENDING FOR FALL / 10 ANTISCIANS: INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE / 18 MUSIC: TRAVEL PLAYLIST / 29 DESTINATION ISOLATION: 5 FAR OUT PLACES TO STAY / 31 C[OPEN]HAGEN: A NEW PART OF TOWN / 47 OUTSIDE THE WHITE WALLS: INSTALATION ART / 51 FASHION: SS 2013 PREVIEW: REFORM / 58 FUR & LEATHER: TAKE IT EVERYWHERE / 64 BEAUTY: DEPTHS OF BEAUTY / 68 WHATS INSIDE YOUR BAG? / 74 A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE: SLOW TRAVEL / 78 MEGATREND: LUXURY OF TIME / 87

NOVEMBER 2012

8

[ ON THE COVER ]

A L A T E

ZERMATT, SWITZERLAND Zermatt is located in the district of Visp with a minuet population of about 5,800 people.

It is not too late to plan a holiday get-a-way to this famed mountaineering and ski resort of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy a dialog between the cultures with luxurious boutique hotels, and traditional restaurants nestled throughout this quaint town.

Stay at The Omnia Hotel, this mountain lodge designed by New York based architect Ali Tayar that has panoramic views of the infamous Matterhorn.

The furnishings are inspired by a warm, handcrafted sense of modernism. After a long day of skiing across the Italian border there are just two places to be

from 5pm onwards: Hennustall, at the floor of the run back to the village from Furi and later at the Papperla Pub (across from the church square.) Both offer a unique atmosphere with friendly staff and management. After relaxing at the extensive spa, Zermatt’s night scene ofers a world of variety ranging from the thriving Schneewitschen club (trendy and happening with excellent cocktails) to the eclectic collection of bars and clubs of the legendary Hotel Post, Sparky’s (the seasonaire’s hang-out), to the Bubbe (ultimate ski bum cantina and bar.) Either way, Zermatt has something to offer for every type.

10

A L A T E

[ TRENDING ] 12

Sweater, 3. Philip Lim, $425 Shoes, 3.1 Philip Lim, $595 Pants, Marni, $550 Jacket, Oscar De La Renta, $4390 Bag, Proenza Schouler, $1675 Watch, Nikon, $250 Gold Nail Polish, Estee Lauder, $25 Book, Assouline, $1000

A L A T E

[TRENDING]

2

3

1

4 8

7

6

OXBLOOD Oxblood packs a punch with its deep rich 1 Peter Som, Fall 2012 Collection hue. Not only all over the runway for 2 Acne Azalea Mixed media loafers $630 Fall 2012, but it has filtered its way into 3 Pomegranate all things visually stimulating.

4 Versus, Shearling and suede jacket $3,125

5

5 Nars China Town- Blood Red $18 6 Boquet phone: (918) 747-6750 7 Marchesa Lily embroidered clutch $1,299 8 Benjamin Garcia, Mouth, Mixed Media painting, Saatchionline.com, $600

14

A L A T E

[ TRENDING ]

16

A L A T E

[ PEOPLE ]

ANTISCI

ANS /

THE INH ABITANT S SHADO WS AT N OF THE EARTH , LIVING OON AR ON DIFF E CAST ER IN OPPO SITE DIR ENT SIDES OF T ECTION HE EQU S. ATOR, W

HOSE

With four diverse quadrants making up the world, it is obvious to say everyone has their story. Different cultures embody visions, thoughts and interests that inspire the young and the wise. Meet four countries in four different quadrants whose shadows certainly cast opposite at noon. / Photographer : Aaron Bernstein

18

A L A T E

[ VITA ] Mother Agency: Elite Name : Vita Koldings Hometown: Santiago, Chile Words to live by : An old Danish proverb my dad would always say to me. “Life is not holding a good hand; Life is playing a poor hand well.�

How would you describe your style?: My style is very morose yet beautiful, like a dark nymph.

Favorite city visited: When I visit America, New York is my favorite place to go. I love how the city can swallow you whole.

20

A L A T E

[ KRISTYN ] Mother Agency: VIVA MODELS Hometown: Berlin, Germany Words to live by? : “Follow your heart but take your brain with you. ” How would you describe your style? : I really love black, its lazy, easy but mysterious.

Favorite city you’ve had the opportunity to visit so far? : I like Milan because I made some really amazing friends, and got my first real taste of what traveling as a model is all about.

What makes you happiest?: My family and my dog, he goes everywhere with me, his name is Benno

22

[ LUNA ] Mother Agency: DNA Hometown: Brussels, Belgium Words to live by? : “Never settle for less” How would you describe your style? : Sporty Chic. I could not imagine life without my Nike Freerunners and Rag & Bone Skinny jeans.

Favorite city you’ve had the opportunity to visit so far? : Crete, Greece is the most beautiful place I have been to.

The waters are the deepest of blues.

What makes you happiest?: Skiing in Chaminox, France.

The people and atmosphere is just the perfect combination for a nice getaway.

A L A T E

24

[ ADIA ] Mother Agency: Wilhelmina Hometown: Prague, Czechoslovakia Words to live by? : “Take one day at a time.”

How would you describe your style? : Modern Grunge Favorite city you’ve had the opportunity to visit so far? : Abu Dhabi, it is such a vibrant and upcoming country. I can’t wait to see it progress over the next decade.

What makes you happiest?: Sitting on brick cobblestones at home oil painting historic side streets.

A L A T E

26

A L A T E

A L A T E

[ MUSIC ]

A L A T E

DES TINA ISOL TION ATIO N

E TH ’S ND INA E U RO CH IN TH A N LL CE I UIN A AY IN DO ST ROV BE TO UI P KE A EK G S E NH P LI TR ER C LA E A LEE THE ENB P T TH S R TH OU GH , OR D FO I RO R E FA ROU NG ARE ERR 5 A TH R REP / P E S IN P IT. S E TH TEP NTA . BE TH ITH 00 S MOU BYA OR W T 0,0 W F LI IS W H IG E 6 LLO A O E IT L EL . HIK D YE HAR MIS V A E SA RO TR OBE RAT P E GL LEB W CE

[ DESTINATION: ISOLATION ]

PHOTOGRAPH: JAKE WYMAN

32

A L A T E

Jade Screen Hotel is in the Yellow Mountain range, with 70 peaks that make up one of China’s most attractive landscapes. With twisted pine trees, stone crags and endless steps, this is a location for those who appreciate the natural creations the world has to offer. One of the most interesting things about the Jade Screen Hotel is how a traveler gets there; 60,000 steps through the mountains. Sounds adventurous and physically demanding for the average globetrotter looking to relax - so no worries, there is also a quick cable car ride to this mountain oasis.

Waking up at dawn to see the sunrise is what makes this four star hotel truly worth its while.

DISTANCE TO NEAREST STARBUCKS: 54 MI. NEAREST AIRPORT: HUANGSHAN TUNXI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, 27 MI. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: FEB: 37F / SEPT 63F DOUBLES: $68 PER NIGHT HOW TO GET THERE: 60,000 STEPS (2 HOUR HIKE) OR CABLE CAR.

YUPING PEAK, ANHUI PROVINCE, CHINA.

JADE SCREEN HOTEL

ELEVATION: 5,249 FT.

[ DESTINATION: ISOLATION ]

34

A L A T E

ELEVATION: 1,545 FT. DISTANCE TO NEAREST STARBUCKS: 1094 MI. NEAREST AIRPORT: SEBHA AIRPORT, 99 MILES. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: FEB: 69F / SEPT 100F

In this secluded lodge, guests stay in one of thirty-five appointed tents placed in a circle of a luxurious bedouin camp. Each tent is decorated with kilims, carved and inlaid wood furniture, and glass lanterns with metal lacework. Tuareg stewards serve herbal teas and an array of gourmet meals in an inner circle of cushions overlooking the shifting sand dunes. Guests can explore the dunes, visit nearby oases , and seek out cave paintings. At night enjoy total relaxation while listening to the captivating stories of the local Touaregs with the whispers of the Saharan sands.

TENTS: $150-$245 PER PERSON / NIGHT HOW TO GET THERE: 2.5 HOUR DRIVE INTO THE LIBYAN SAHARA.

UBARI, WADI AL-HAYAT, LIBYA.

UBARI MAGIC LODGE

[ DESTINATION: ISOLATION ]

36

A L A T E

ELEVATION: 1,545 FT. DISTANCE TO NEAREST STARBUCKS: 35 KM. NEAREST AIRPORT: IVALO AIRPORT, 35 KM. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: FEB: 8F / SEPT 37F

This igloo village is made up of 40 cabins, restaurants, and saunas that are made of rare dead standing pine, and kelo. The glass igloo provides a one of a kind opportunity to admire the northern lights and million of starts of the crystal clear sky in a warm room. This village also has snow igloos built entirely out of snow with average temperatures between -3C - -6C. Enjoy crosscountry skiing, snowboarding, ice swimming or an unforgettable winter safari with huskies, reindeer or snowmobiles. This hotel offers guests to experience first hand what Lapland has to offer and the rich culture of the Sami People.

TENTS: $200- $400 PER NIGHT HOW TO GET THERE: HIGHWAY 4, BUS.

SAARISELKA, FINLAND

HOTEL KAKSLA UTTANEN

[ DESTINATION: ISOLATION ]

38

A L A T E

Torre De Pisa is named after a 65foot leaning pinnacle resembling the famous leaning tower of the Cathedral of Pisa. This refuge is located high in the Dolomites, a part of the Italian Alps that runs along the Austrian border. The only way of getting to this small hostel is by your own two feet! In the summer months between June and October the boarding house opens exclusively for 20 guests in wood paneled dormitories filled with bunk beds. Experience a warm and cozy atmosphere while enjoying meat Polenta topped with mushrooms, spezzatino, cheese and potatoes from the locals. Make sure to bring binoculars to spy on the populous chamois sheep and marmots.

ELEVATION: 8,763 FT. DISTANCE TO NEAREST STARBUCKS: 118 MI. NEAREST AIRPORT: BOLZANO AIRPORT, 27 MI. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: FEB: 31F / SEPT 52F BUNK BED: $22 PER PERSON PER NIGHT HOW TO GET THERE: LEGS - 3 HOUR HIKE.

CAVIGNON PEAK, VAL DI FIEMME, ITALY

RIFUGIO TORRE DI PISA

[ DESTINATION: ISOLATION ]

40

A L A T E

No Maldivian resort has captured the majesty of water travel like Dhoni Island. This resort is set on its own private island in the crystal clear waters of the Maldives. It’s only a 25 minute seaplane flight from Male International Airport but why travel by plane when you can travel to this resort on your own traditional handcrafted wooden Maldivian sailboat.

The resort offers only six suites of which this 65 foot cruiser is all included with a private villa, pool, and courtyard. The boat is fabulously fitted with Bose surround sound theaters, personal butlers and goosedown duvets. With sunny skies all year, why not?

ELEVATION: 1 FT. DISTANCE TO NEAREST STARBUCKS: 43 MI. NEAREST AIRPORT: MALE’, 43 MI. AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: FEB: 82F / SEPT 81F VILLA/POOL/ COURTYARD/BOAT: $1,157 PER NIGHT (ALL INCLUSIVE) HOW TO GET THERE: 25 MINUTE SEAPLANE / 5 HOUR SAIL

DHONI ISLAND, MALDIVES

DHONI ISLAND MALDIVES

A L A T E

44

A L A T E

A NIGHT OUT IN Of course Copenhagen, Denmark is famed for its liberality, and we are in Vesterbro, the right light hipster district. It is a subject the locals can’t seem to miss, “ It’s full of hookers down at that end,” says the man pointing down one of the best known streets, treny Istegade. We found plenty of inspiration where the sleazier side of Vesterbro stops at the junction between Istegade and Gasvaerksvej. It is here where the streets bustle with boutiques, homeware stores, galleries, bars and cafes. With an evolving dining scene, we recommend the atmospheric Falernum, which matches wine to Danish ‘tapas” such as black risotto with tiger prawns and herring in bread crumbs. Get ready for an unforgettable night in a city where anything goes. / PERRI ROTHENBERG PHOTOS BY: JAKE HAMILTON

C[OPEN]HAGEN

46

THIS PAGE: Top: Marc by Marc Jacobs, Bottom: Stylists Own RIGHT PAGE: Top: Alice + Olivia, Bottom: Tommy Hilfiger

A L A T E

48

Dress: Versace for H&M

A L A T E

A L A T E

OUTSIDE THE

WHITE WALLS /R

EB

EC

CA

WA S

H

D

iscovering fresh, and

different destinations might seem next to im-

possible, but one of the wonders of travel is that there’s always something that will shock and delight you. Even when you think you might know a place, there is always room for further adventure. If you have an interest in installation art there is plenty to be discovered in every place you go. I find that some of the continent’s most amazing pieces of art may not always be

52

where you expect them. / To uncover some of the best installation art the world has to offer, one should step out of the norm of museums, art galleries, and exhibitions that artists once used to display their work. In today’s modern world, artists have stretched the boundaries of imagination and resourcefulness. They are using the area around them to invent a whole new setting that is visually stimulating. / Artists including the likes of Zaha Hadid and Paola Navone in collaboration with companies Barovier & Toso and Citco located in Milan, Italy have a created “The Secret Garden” inside the lush botanical garden, Orto Botanico. Passeravaki of Yatzer. com claims, “Alice in Wonderland, comes to reality through a project named ‘The Secret Garden’. The fairytale princess would definitely feel at home there.” It is considered to be one of the world’s most unique gardens and creates a since of joyful delirium to the visitor as he/ she wanders under the 10,000 left over hazelnut branches, azure lamps, and is captivated by the never-never land enchantment. I felt a sense of delight and meditation while I was there and wanted to find more installations that gave me the experience of being apart of the work of art.

I found myself in Paris, France and took the time to play in Arnaud Lapierre’s, first outdoor installation, “The Ring” collaboration with Audi, in the plaza Vendome. The best way to experience the Ring is to study the outside view. Observe how the cubes act as reflectors as they change the space around you.

Arnaud calls this a visual intrusion; his goal is for you to gain a new interpretation or view on the world.

Then take the time to go

A L A T E

inside the ring to see your reflection go on forever, which coincides with surrounding details of the plaza. It becomes a place of what seems surreal almost dream like as you stare into the compilation of clouds, urban architecture and your own image. Arnaud wanted this part of the visual experience to be more intimate as one reinvents their idea of the world around them.

Another great reflective installation in Paris, France is done by Arik Levy, a French designer of the “Big Rock”, located in Passage de Retz, is just one of the many sculptures he has created in his series “Bigger Than Man.” Standing at a colossal size it is a light reflection as well as an optical and emotional experience. The rock can disappear and rematerialize by reflecting both the surrounding environment and us. When experienced in the outdoors, this piece seems to have arrived from the progression of society.

From some angles, it blends into the landscape seamlessly as it reflects its surroundings; from other angles, it boldly stands out with its apparent manmade roots. It is certainly an eyecatching piece.

Before I left to go home I had to make a trip to Kiarpara Harbour, New Zealand to visit Gibbs Farm. I met a friend while stand-

54

A L A T E

ing outside of “The Ring” in Paris, France and he told me it was an experience of a lifetime. Gibbs Farm is open one day out of each month and I was so fortunate to make it into a group for my 4-hour tour through the farm of 26 installations curated all by different artists. This is an amazing adventure for one who truly wants to see what artists can do with their surroundings. Neil Dawson crafted one of my favorite works that I saw; he appropriately places an enormous three dimensional sculpture created to make a flat, two dimensional illusion. The artist has created what looks like a scribbled paper cartoon like drawing “Horizons” set on the hill.

The way the sculpture sits in an empty space allows fluidity between the backdrop of the rolling hills, and ever-changing skyline behind the black steel outlines of the structure.

Neil has embraced the challenge of such an obnoxiously large space and has captured an air of curiosity to the visitor to want to come back and see how the background of the sky changes with the season.

These are definitely places I would want to go back to in the future. I found that with each installation I came across I was able to experience it on a personal level and gain a new perspective of the art world today. / Rebecca Wash

A L A T E

58

A L A T E

60

Shows: Fendi, Alexander Wang, Rick Owens

A L A T E

A L A T E

STAND OUT IN: YOUR LEATHERS AND FURS

Pull out your new/vintage furs and leather items, November brings new winds of the seasonal change. No matter what quadrent of the globe you find yourself this month. /Rebecca Wash SPAIN: (top left) Lighten up your

Angora Fur with this season’s bright coral in high waisted pants, an arm stacked with bangles, and a platform sandal.

MILAN: (top right) Mix your

leather jacket with a denim button down to contrast textures. Add a jewel tone maxi skirt with a neutral grey spike platform boot to keep a rocker vibe.

ATLANTA: (bottom left) Feel

good classic pieces such as the fur coat, gold matte earrings, and nude shades give this look a soulful flare.

PORTUGAL: (bottom right) Add some spice to your rabbit vest and body con dress and adorn yourself with a statement necklace and a luxurious leather handbag.

64

A L A T E

A L A T E

[ BEAUTY ]

DEP

THS

OF

BEA

UTY

TAKE A LOOK AT NATURAL AND LOCALLY MADE BEAUTY PRODUCTS THAT WILL ENHANCE YOUR SKIN, HAIR AND NAILS TO LOOK AT THEIR BEST. FROM THE DESERTS OF MOROCCO TO THE SALTS OF THE DEAD SEA, YOU MAY BE SURPRISED AT WHAT YOU CAN FIND. / KRISTINA FREDERICKS 68

A L A T E

[ BEAUTY ] Pack your products after you arrive? How does that make any sense? As a traveling woman, cosmetics and everyday beauty products are an obvious musthave. As you jet across the globe, wouldn’t you think forgetting about the cosmetic necessities would be a dream come true? Get ready for that dream to become a reality! We found so many amazing products that will make you want to forget your ordinary, everyday items. These products are not just miracle working, they are as organic as it gets.

One company that is already familiar with this is Estee

CHINA 70

Lauder. Later this month, Estee Lauder is planning on launching a cosmetics line specifically aimed for an Asian client. These cosmetics and moisturizers are made specifically for women in China.

The products being released are infused with various Asian grown herbs such as Ginseng. It is generally uncommon for foreign companies to produce a product for another countries demographic and use contents from that country to make that specific product and not offer it to its home region. If all goes as planned, China will soon be Estee Lauders second home base, which could benefit

A L A T E

MOROCCO

the faces of many! If being able to have herb and ginseng filled moisturizer at our fingertips, this will make having to visit China over and over again less of a chore and more of a vacation!

Once your face is silky smooth from your Zen filled vacation and you get back into the daily routine, you’re bound to fall into not so fabulous habits that can potentially take a toll on your skin. As we take that long awaited twoweek vacation to the Dead Sea, you can only get your pores excited for what they are about to take on. The Dead Sea, also know as the Salt Sea is known for its delicious offerings of minerals.

The complexities of these minerals are best known to exfoliate. Research over the year proves the salt levels in the Dead Sea not only produce the scrub that exfoliates but soaking in the water itself will help psoriasis, acne, cellulite, eczema, different skin allergies and

even wrinkling just to name a few. So look at this vacation as a mineral makeover!

Now that we have your skin all taken care of, lets hop on that plane and get your hair in check! Off to Morocco we go! The silky smoothness of the Moroccan oils will surely have you contemplating residency. Argan Oil, also known as Liquid Gold actually has a very strong reputation throughout the cosmetic industry. Kiss those dull split ends good-bye! The oil absorbs right into your stands and really brings the hair back to life. After all, a good week of swimming in the Dead Sea, you’re bound to have a dry scalp and a head of hair in serious need of a pick me up!

Applying this amazing oil to your scalp and ends will liven your locks in no time.

Enough is just sometimes never enough. Back to the Oriental areas we

[ BEAUTY ] go! Pearls, some of jewelry’s most beautiful items. From the classic pearl necklace to the precious pale colored pearl earrings, who would think to crush them up and rub them on your face? Crazy? Well think again! Freshwater pearls are century old benefits in the beauty world. The pearl-producing oyster whether found in pearls themselves or in the oyster’s shell, contains the same essential amino acids that heal and maintain cells in the human body.

Keratin, something many are already familiar with is also a major player in the purpose of these pearls because it is the one protein produced that provided a significance in strengthening the cells in your skin and hair. Crushed pearls have been used for centuries upon centuries and were used by the Asian women to maintain a youthful appearance. Could this be the fountain of youth? Give these beautiful mighty pearls a test run while you enjoy your green tea over looking the Great Wall.

Athens, Hydra, Poros and Egina are nothing less than breathtaking. Why not make your body’s appearance the same way. Greece has a beauty of the culture the food and the people that make up the population. The history is nonetheless brilliant as the scenery is simply beautiful. Having such amazing history, looking back from the beginning of time, the Greeks have always used olive oil to its fullest potential. From the beginning, olive oil gained the respect of many and started to be known as “beauty oil”. This makes a lot of sense since it is amazing for the body whether it is applied to the skin or consumed in the food. Olive oil

72

is naturally packed with antioxidants, rich in vitamins and flowing with moisturizing and anti-aging factors, which provide the essentials for healthy skin. Extracted from the olive tree leaves and the finely grained olive seed, the oils along with other natural vitamins and extracts create total harmony for your pores. Why stop at the pores when you can have the soft lips you have always desired? Put some delicious Greek olive oil on those dry crackled lips and end up with the luscious soft lips that are simply irresistible. Just watch out, those Greek men may not be able to resist! Not that, that’s a bad thing!

Overall, being the independent jet setter that you are, know that there is no need to stress any longer over what beauty supplies you “need”. Maybe “forgetting” some of your everyday items would be a good thing because you would then be forced to use these different amazing natural items. There are few women and even men that would turn down a soft face and silky smooth hair. So go on and live that vacation up to the fullest! Eat the best foods, swim in whichever sea you choose and exfoliate that body with whatever the earth has provided!

We would love to hear what you are using on your next vacation! From the hair to the toes, write in and spill the beans on where we must go next and experience! / Kristina Fredericks

A L A T E

Olive Tree

Dead Sea, Israel

74

A L A T E

A L A T E

TAKE

IT SL

OW

X LA E E R L O HO T W E IM A T IN KE TA LING ES TO AVE JON T AN TR LLE T OR IDER SHE P S N IM S CON / DA I IT D, AND LY. L R W WO USH SLO D R CE HE AY A T T P OP OF W S FA ST PE S ’ Y PE. TY A W A D TO ESC NE IN D AN

78

A L A T E

La Datcha Ski Chalet

In today’s fast paced world, it is impor-

tant to take the time to relax and escape. Many times however, even travel gets rushed with people going to visit a new country and expecting to experience everything within just a few days. Part of this we can blame on corporate society and their two weeks paid vacation that they allow but, if you can manage to escape for longer than that, here are some rush free travel methods that you can enjoy.

The first method is a vacation rental. It is a fully furnished property, such as a holiday villa, apartment, cottage, condominium, townhome or even a single-family-style home. Sales of vacation rentals grew about 9% to $26.4 billion in the three years between 2007 and 2010, according to a 2009 estimate by travel research firm PhocusWright. And according to HomeAway, a vacation rental site, there are about 6 million vacation homes for rent in the U.S. and Europe alone. Because vacation rentals are becoming so popular, there are a plethora of amazing places that you can choose from when deciding where you would like your trip to be. For example, you could stay in the Rhone Alps of Savoy, France at la Datcha, skiing the slopes, hiking the majestic mountains or golfing on their 9-hole golf course. If the cold is not what you’re looking for, you could stay on the beaches of Brazil, sunbathing, exploring the

rain forests, or enjoying the live theater. Generally the rentals are charged on a weekly basis though some places are available for daily charge. Prices range from budget studio apartments to lavish private villas, some starting at thousands per night with luxury accommodations. Some vacation rentals, mainly condo’s or apartments offer many of the same services as hotels do such as front desk check in, in housekeeping, and 24-hour maintenance. There are many websites devoted to helping you find the perfect vacation rental like Vrbo.com, previously mentioned HomeAway.com, and Airbnb. com are some of the more popular ones. Making this your choice of stay is a great way for you to experience local rather than tourist culture.

For those of you that consider yourself eco-conscious and are adventurous or even those that would like to learn more about organic culture, a great way for you to see the world at your own pace is by WWOOFing around the world.

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It is an un-paid exchange; in return for volunteer help WWOOF hosts offer food, accommodation, and opportunities to learn about organic lifestyles. The exchange is based on 4-6 hours work - fair exchange for a full day’s food and accommodation. Volunteer helpers (“WWOOFers”) choose the hosts that most interest them and make direct contact to

New Zealand’s Mana retreat, Organic garden

arrange a stay. To get connected, WWOOF organizations usually charge a small fee to hosts and volunteers. This fee helps maintain and develop the WWOOF network. As a volunteer you can stay for a time ranging from days to months even (in rare cases) up to a year. If you don’t mind a little hard work this could be a very rewarding experience for you. I have yet to come in contact with someone whose experience was a negative one. WWOOFing is a great opportunity to make new friends, learn about your environment, and have hands on local experience.

Because we are speaking in a vacation sense, it is important to note that you should make sure

80

that when choosing a location to travel to, you do some further research into the local area and what leisure activities it offers. Some of the more popular WWOOF locations are New Zealand, Argentina, Portugal, Italy and Sweden.

House Sitting What better way to enjoy your stay abroad than with free accommodation? Homeowners globally are recognizing the benefit and peace of mind of having someone look after their home and occasionally pets while away, in exchange for providing a comfortable place to stay –this can range from anywhere between a weekend to over a year’s duration. After you’ve been trusted to look after the place once, you could be the one they ask back each time they go away.

People choose house sitting for a number of reasons such as gaining an overseas lifestyle far beyond the usual budget, finding new and diverse locations, and the chance to discover and enjoy far more unique cultural experiences than you would likely find in any guidebook. If you only have two weeks of vacation a year, why not consider tailoring it around a cool house sitting job? If this sounds like something you’re interested in some trusted websites to visit are: - trustedhousesitters.com -Mindmyhouse.com -Housecarers.com

Rio De Janeiro, Ipanema Penthouse

Turkish steam room, Grecian Villa

A L A T E

A L A T E

A L A T E

THE CUSTOMER SERVICE INDUSTRY IS RAPIDLY PROGRESSING TO KEEP THEIR COMPETITIVE EDGE. COMPANIES ARE CHANGING THE WAY THEY DO BUSINESS TO GIVE PEOPLE EXACTLY WHAT THEY WANT: INSTANT SATISFACTION. // 86

PERRI ROTHENBERG+

Deconstructed Clock / Todd McLellan

[ MEGATREND ]

A L A T E

Everyone is well aware no one has the

time to interact with anything or anyone other than their finger and a screen to get essentially anything instantaneously. Instant messages, instant e-mail, instant Internet, even instant food; it is readily available at anytime.

Having the time to deal with essentially anyone is an idea of yesterday, although we are still striving to achieve some sort of special status without even being seen. As cultures migrate together, international and domestic businesses are more connected and competitive than ever before. Satisfying their customer is and will always be the goal, even if they are not even there. The middlemen that used to be involved from getting to point A to B may be disappearing, but some things will never change. The Economist Intelligence Unit survey of 479 business leaders in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, spanning all industries and all revenue brackets say 83% of customers will always value a personal touch within

88

their experience no matter what technological innovations appear. The service industry is evolving beyond customer satisfaction to fulfill an idea of the superior experience at their fingertips.

Online society creates a virtual world of instant gratification. Customers believe they are the only client.

According to Jo Causon, CEO of the Institute of Customer service, writes “Companies must maintain service standards in the face of the need for speed.” Time has been transformed into a luxurious phenomenon that will change the service industry in the decade ahead. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit, nearly 82% of firms believe that clients expect a faster service than five years ago. Many prominent online retailers and leading hotel operators are molding high expectations for the future of customer service. Net-A-Porter sells over 300 of the world’s most sought-after designers,including Miu Miu, Yves Saint Laurent, and Chloe. There is no need to trek through the rain or snow in the latest pair of Acne boots because Net-A-Porter is strictly online. Not only do they ship all orders within 24 hours world wide, if the Valentino dress is a size too small Net-A-Porter will gladly return it free of charge. Mark Sebba, Chief Executive Officer of Net-A-Porter writes, “We think that speed is very important, and our customers think it is important too. Our customers are busy people and time is the new luxury,” Mr Sebba is also a busy person and feels as though “something that helps them avoid having to wait in the post office is important.” To meet demands of Asian customers, Net-A-Porter plans to open up their third distribution center in Hong Kong. As a result, they will be no more than a 24-hour shipment away from any metropolitan center in the world. ShopBop and other retail outlets including Neiman Marcus are figuring out business strategies to stay competitive in the market by altering their shipment policies. Customers appreciate their purchase order coming in as soon as possible.

The service industry is also changing the way customers expect to be treated. No individual seeks pleasure waiting in long lines at the airport lugging their overstuffed Prada Vitello Daino through security. Which is why noone could imagine flying without online checkin, and the Global entry program that allows passengers to skip the queue at customs. Accor, a french global hotel

A L A T E

managing company, runs hotel chains including Sofitel, All Seasons, and Ibis. Within the next decade, Accor hopes to give customers the option to check in online by linking its loyalty credit card to become an electronic door key. Jean-Luc-Chretien, Accor’s executive vice president for sales, distribution and loyalty explains, “In our economy hotels, we will move more to self check-in and web check-in, so that you can move into your room quickly.” At their upscale hotels, Accor will provide a variety of alternate options other than quickly going to the room. Customers will feel independent by walking into the hotel without hassling with check-in. This service will make personal greetings and services that much more meaningful. Customers usually react to a poor service experience in a rather negative manner, making it critical for companies to cover and keep running in the right direction With the “need for speed,” companies face several key challenges to maintain quality levels.

Social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

have only been launched within the past 10 years. 25% of companies believe social media has improved customer relations according to a BDO case study. Social media allows customers to freely and anonymously post videos, blogs, and complaints about corporations.

Anonymous posts usually exemplify bold statements making companies rethink the way they collect and address customer feedback. Accor observers, guest gratification on their web based program tracking. This program tracks performance by country, hotel brand, or city. “We can measure by seeing if brand satisfaction is being affected by a problem in a specific country or hotel network,” says Mr. Chretien.

In todays society, the number one concern for all services is a lack of qualified staff, Dr. Millard, a customer experience futurologist, states “in 2020, the number one challenge from a service perspective is complexity.”

Although technology is an enabler , it certainly has created complexity within all industry standards. The people themselves have made it much more difficult to maintain and surpass current levels of customer service. Dr. Millard warns companies about how “we’ve created a monster, these customers are very well informed, they’ve done their homework and they now need reassurance about their choice, or advice.”

To stay competitive in the service industry, companies will have to pick up and start running to

“On what basis does your company primarily compete now?”

90

catch up with consumer expectations. We all expect a much faster and more personalized service. Maintaining the same, if not a higher quality service to consumers is the next step. Although time may be considered the new luxury, emerging market economies will create a personalized service for all customers. The differentiation between good service and great service will be the game changer for the service industry revolution of the future. Time is certainly of the essence for both the customer and company. //

“... in the year 2020?”

A L A T E

92

A L A T E