Go Now May 2012 by Cross Section Interactive Private Limited

THIS ISSUE EDITORS’ PAGE

Dear Readers, The exponential growth and development in Delhi never ceases to amaze me. Those of us who’ve been living in the Capital for as long as I, have borne witness to the evolution of the city through the throes of change in the 90s, post globalization, and finally to the world city that it can rightfully claim to be today. No one, least of all the fourth estate, can afford not to take cognizance of these slow, but unambiguous developments and their ramifications on our lives. So, lengthy ramblings aside, we present to you a much more intensive, in-depth, and holistic ‘Living It Up,’ section this month. In it you’ll find a sampling of the city’s restaurants, bars & lounges, spas, weekend getaway destinations, as well as up and close profiles of people who’re creating waves. This month we chat up Mauro Maccioni – the owner of the famed Le Cirque restaurant which has opened at the Leela, Chanakyapuri. On a serious note, it’s not all hunky dory in this march towards progress – as those who live close to the Yamuna River would corroborate. In ‘Tourism Connect,’ development writer Rahul Kumar takes stock of what it would take to clean up the Yamuna, and paints an alluring picture of a beautiful riverfront to rival the old Capitals of Europe. In this section, we also present the pertinent points from GMR & NCAER’s joint report on the Economic Impact of Delhi and Hyderabad Airports which was released by ex-President APJ Abdul Kalam. The erudite Dr. Kalam had the entire assembly in rapt attention with his in-depth observations – excerpts from which we present to you. On the travel front we take a break from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok in neighbouring Khao Yai National Park at the premium Kirimaya Resort & Spa, and check out the best vegetarian restaurants in Singapore. Within the country we head south: roving through the streets of Old Cochin, we discover a unique melting pot of cultures which has endured over centuries. Closer to home, we showcase the Jal Mahal in Jaipur which has been reborn, courtesy a Private Public Partnership between the government and a private developer. The very fact that the structure, which till a couple of years back was derelict and dilapidated has been restored to its once-pristine glory, and even more significantly, the adjoining Man Sagar Lake which has been transformed from a dead trash-filled water body to a thriving clean lake with boats plying and birds nesting, is a heartening story of revival when the powers-that-be make a concerted effort. India has a treasure trove of monuments, forts, and relics which are languishing in disrepair. The potential for tourism, if we can replicate the Jal Mahal story across the country, is limitless.

READERS WRITE IN Charming Matheran

Design Dynamics

My husband and I decided to getaway to Matheran for a couple of days last month and it was truly the way it has been described in your article – relaxed and chilled out. Reading about it brought back memories. I only wish there were more pictures to go with the article.

First, congratulations and thanks to the team for a niche product. However, I personally feel a little emphasis should be laid on the design element of the magazine. Being a designer myself, I feel that the magazine lacks dynamism in terms of design.

Savita K, Mumbai

Serving Round-the-clock

Ankit Tandon, Bangalore

Jazzed-Up Delhi

There are very few places in Delhi that are open 24/7 for diners. It was good to read about India Grill, Hilton Garden Inn in Go Now. We often take advantage of the roundthe-clock happy hours at the restaurant after a night out and the food is quite good too. It’s a great option for a late night bite!

The Delhi Jazz Festival, though a little overhyped, was great entertainment. It was good to see it covered in your magazine; it is a well written review. I too attended the jazz fest and yes the music was great but it was the ambience that set the mood for the night. Delhi should host such music concerts more often!

Priyam Singh, New Delhi

Vineet Dhall, New Delhi

Editor: Navin S Berry Assistant Editor: Purva Bhatia Business Development: Sudhir Sood Advertising: Saurabh Shukla Design: Ashok Saxena, Neelam Aswani Go Now is published and printed monthly by Navin Berry on behalf of Cross Section Media Pvt. Ltd. and printed at Rakesh Press A-7, Naraina, Phase II, New Delhi and published from IIIrd Floor, Rajendra Bhawan, 210, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Marg, New Delhi - 110002. Tel: 91-11-43784444. Fax: 91-11-41001627, 41001628. E-mail: info@crosssectionmedia.com This issue of gonow contains 80 pages plus 4 pages cover

drop us a line Like something we wrote? Wondering how to get somewhere? Or been to a place you want to talk about? Write to us and let us know. Don’t have the words to describe a place? Don’t worry – send us your best travel pictures and we’ll let them speak for you. If your letter or photo is published, you will get a year’s subscription to gonow absolutely FREE! Send your letters and photographs to E-mail: info@gonow.in info@crosssectionmedia.com Material not used will not be returned

May 2012 GO NOW

GO NOW MAY 2012

LIVING IT UP 10 Fine Dining Celebrity Chefs – The new toast of the town 16 Interview Le Cirque’s owner – Mauro Macchioni in an exclusive tete a tete 20 Bars and Lounges Vintage Spirits – A sniff of the oldest and rarest spirits on offer in the city’s five-star hotels 22 IPL Fever Head to the city’s bars to cheer for your favourite teams 26 Rooms and Suites A work of art – the refurbished Lalit Legacy Tower 28 Fine Dining Authentic European cuisine at Mobius 30 Weekend Getaway Neemrana reinvented 34 Spas and Gyms Head to the newly renovated Mystic Spa

WORLD TRAVELLER 41 Destination: Berlin’s premium lifestyle experiences 46 Food Trail: Go Vegan – The Top-10 vegetarian eateries in Singapore 52 Resorts: Kirimaya – A green escape from Bangkok

On the

COVER Vietnamese roll at 7 Sensations, Singapore

INDIA TRAVELLER 58 Destination: Old Cochin – A crucible of cultures 60 Destination: Jaipur’s Jal Mahal restored to former glory 62 Summer Goa Special: Enticing hotel packages to explore Goa this summer

TOURISM CONNECT 70 Aviation: Excerpts from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s speech on Civil Aviation 72 Airports: A report on Delhi airport’s economic impact 74 Ecology: Chilika, a conservation success story 76 Convention: First ever “NGO India” pulls in crowds 78 Environment: A case for reviving the Yamuna

GO NOW May 2012

May 2012 GO NOW

LIVING IT UP

NEEMRANA FORT PALACE

Life in New Delhi and NCR Region – The Best of Spas, Lounges, Bars

• Fine Dining 24/7– India Grill • Fine Dining – AUMA • Interview – Olive’s Chef Saby On Food And Inspiration • Lounge – Uber Lounge in GK2 • Weekend Getaway – Westin Sohna Resort & Spa • Wedding Venue – Regneta Hotel & Conventon Centre

FINE DINING

CHEFS IN THE ARCLIGHTS Gone are the days when chefs were confined to the kitchen – unheralded figures whose job was literally just to put food on the table. Following world trends where chefs like Gordon Ramsay are celebrities in their own right, Indian chefs including the likes of Ritu Dalmia, Karan Suri and their ilk occupy reams of newsprint, and draw diners to their eateries just on the basis of their reputations. These gentlemen and ladies in their top hats are today, quite justifiably, the toast of the town. 10

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hef Karan Suri’s visage is a picture of concentration as he juliennes, dices and slices a cornucopia of veggies and fruits. The dapper chef is rustling up dishes for a cook off with his co-competitor on Foodistan, a TV food show which pitted professional Indian chefs against their Pakistani counterparts. After completing each dish, Suri – executive sous chef at New Delhi’s Leela Palace

– would step back from the kitchen counter to admire his creation, one among the many that have made him a celebrity in his own right. Nor is Suri alone. An explosion of social media, TV shows, cookbooks, magazines and internet blogs is fuelling the trend of celebrity chefs across the country’s rapidly evolving gastronomic landscape.

“I

n today’s cutthroat hospitality environ ment, either the chef or his food has to be a star,” quips Manish Malhotra, executive chef, Old World Hospitality, Suri’s co-contestant on Foodistan who won the show with his avant garde recipes including ramdane ka laddu with sitaphal cream. However, till the Suris and the Malhotras trotted along, India’s foodscape was largely devoid of the cult of the celebrity chef unlike the West where chef-oriented eateries enjoy a sizeable constituency amongst the uber sophisticated. Indeed, often the question amongst connoisseurs there isn’t “What dish are you having?” but “Which chef are you having?!” Chefs like Britain’s Gordon Ramsay, ‘The Naked Chef ‘ Jamie Oliver, ‘The French Laundry’s’ Thomas Keller or Ferran Adria of ‘El Bulli’ have been the superstars of the West’s culinary firmament, anointed by food guides like Michelin, the Holy Bible of gastronomy.

However, the Michelin system of bestowing chefs with stars – which is also a bellwether for the restaurant’s popularity - is still an alien concept in India. Ergo, chefs too, have remained largely low-profile creatures, the backroom boys, so to say. But with the birth of a new breed of “lifestyle restaurants” – that serve up not just good food but a bespoke experience – celebrity chefs are becoming more and more noticeable in India too. Driven by market dynamics, it is indeed becoming vital for a chef to be a successful marketer too. Apart from superlative culinary

“Celebrity chefs indeed uplift the overall standing of hotels and its culinary offerings. The celebrity angle not only gives exposure, more of it underlines the culinary excellence of the property.” Oliver C Martin

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CHEFS LIKE BRITAIN’S GORDON RAMSAY, ‘THE NAKED CHEF ‘ JAMIE OLIVER, ‘THE FRENCH LAUNDRY’S’ THOMAS KELLER OR FERRAN ADRIA OF ‘EL BULLI’ HAVE BEEN THE SUPERSTARS OF THE WEST’S CULINARY FIRMAMENT, ANOINTED BY FOOD GUIDES LIKE MICHELIN, THE HOLY BIBLE OF GASTRONOMY.

and people skills, a well-rounded chef also comes armed with that intangible “X” factor that propel him and his eatery into the superstar league. What does this trend augur for the eatingout business in the country? And does the chef’s stardust rub off on his establishment too, with a celebrity chef-driven restaurant garnering more footprints? Opinion is fractured on this contentious topic. Many feel that while the phenomenon

of the celeb chefs is on an upward spiral, they are largely fodder for Page 3 soirees. “I don’t believe that this trend will have any substantial or lasting impact on eating habits or the food business in India. Such outlets cater to passing fancies of only a microcosmic elite,” says Megha Pillai, a food researcher. “In any case, at such outlets, it’s usually pyrotechnics which dominate the dining experience and not the quality of food which isn’t an ideal situation.” May 2012 GO NOW

FINE DINING

deal or not, a celeb chef is gradually commanding a fan following in India too. Ask Hemant Oberoi of Taj, Mumbai. A super chef for the last two decades – someone who has fed prime ministers and presidents with as much aplomb as Hollywood celebrities and corporate heavyweights, Oberoi launched ‘Varq’, the contemporary Indian brand at the Taj Delhi with some superlative creations (prawn popcorn, martaban ka meat, tandoori scallops, parmesan naan et al). Oberoi followed this up in quick succes-

“Today’s customers are well travelled and extremely knowledgeable about food and wine, so it is quite a task to please and pamper them. Happy and pampered guests are the true assets for any business.” Chef Anil Khurana

sion with Wasabi (also at Delhi Taj) with an incredible vegetarian repertoire – almost 50 per cent of the menu is vegetarian and can be credited to Oberoi. This has made the Japanese restaurant a popular haunt for high-profile, vegetarian corporate leaders. The spotlight on the chef indeed seems to be shining brighter these days as he steps out of the kitchen to become the point of contact with the guests and the F& B business gets increasingly chef-driven.

“I

t’s a win-win situation for both the business and the guests,” iterates Yogendra Pal, executive chef, The Claridges Surajkund. It also has a multiplier effect down the line with the business benefiting from the chef’s name resulting in more footfalls into the restaurants which in turn leads to more income generation, adds the award-winning chef. This is indeed a change from the times when the only perception people used to have about cooks was that of a lowly “baawarchi” “or “khaansama”. But now, guests go by his recommendations or give him a brief of their expectations and a whole experience is created around that. This concept has resulted in chefs morphing into brand ambassadors of their establishments and driving the business for them, explains Pal.

GO NOW May 2012

his sentiment finds a resonance with Oliver Martin, General Manager, The Clar-

idges Surajkund. Says Martin, “Celebrity chefs indeed uplift the overall standing of hotels and its culinary offerings. The celebrity angle not only gives exposure, more of it underlines the culinary excellence of the property. Furthermore, the increased coverage of chefs on TV and in print media means that consumers have a better understanding of the person behind the food.” Most chefs concur that gastronomy in any hotel being the life and soul of the hotel creates the buzz and vibrancy for the property. Ergo, celebrity chefs play a catalytic role to further promote and position the property. “They are definitely an additional selling point that only a handful of hotels can boast of,” adds Martin. Even so, chefs iterate that no matter how much recognition one gets, they are as good as their last meal. In that sense, the pressure is enormous. Hence, getting carried away by the limelight is not an option.

“W

hile being under the spotlight means that one is at talked about more, for a true chef, the focus should never veer from the food,” elucidates the much-feted chef Raymond Sim who has helmed the kitchen of RED (Rare Eastern Dining) at Radisson Blu MBD, NOIDA for close to a decade. An increasingly well-travelled, sophisticated consumer is well aware of global trends and tastes and wants these served up. Palates have

changed, diners have grown up and authenticity or innovation have become keys to selling any dining “experience”, adds Sim.

ccording to Indian Corporate chef Anil Khurana of Hyatt Regency, New Delhi, the consumer is the final beneficiary in all this. “He gets to meet the best, eat the best and be pampered at these restaurants. Today’s customers are well travelled and extremely knowledgeable about food and wine, so it is quite a task to please and pamper them. Happy and pampered guests are the true assets for any business.” But do the celebrity chefs actually sweat it out in the kitchen everyday? Or do they simply leverage the eatery’s brand name for mutual benefit? The answer to this one isn’t easy. The Western world has been grappling with this query for years and the classic riposte is still the one offered by Paul Bocuse, the first global celebrity chef. When asked who cooked at his restaurant when he was busy travelling, Bocuse quipped, “The same people who cook when I’m there!” However, Sim is unambiguous that he’s a very “hands-on” cook who not only plans recipes but also gets down and dirty to do the actual cooking. Suri too, says it is a “joy” for him to cook and see the smiles on his guests’ faces. Undoubtedly, the next five years are going to be fascinating for the F&B scenario in

India, say the trade pundits. With the advent of iconic eateries like Le Cirque and Megu at Leela Palace, Delhi and the more and more international hospitality chains, the bar will be raised even higher. Trade analysts point out that with growth crimping in the West, the Indian hospitality sector has become an attractive investment playground for global players who are leveraging the country’s myriad advantages to roll out their properties. A raft of global hotel chains have announced their entry into the Indian market recently while those who had acquired a foothold earlier are in an expansion mode. Amongst the biggies, Hilton Worldwide is building 10 new hotels over the next couple of years while the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) will pump in about $30 million to de-

“An increasingly welltravelled, sophisticated consumer is well aware of global trends and tastes and wants these served up. Palates have changed, diners have grown up and authenticity or innovation have become keys to selling any dining experience.” Chef Raymond Sim

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BUT DO THE CELEBRITY CHEFS ACTUALLY SWEAT IT OUT IN THE KITCHEN EVERYDAY? OR DO THEY SIMPLY LEVERAGE THE EATERY’S BRAND NAME FOR MUTUAL BENEFIT? THE ANSWER TO THIS ONE ISN’T EASY. THE WESTERN WORLD HAS BEEN GRAPPLING WITH THIS QUERY FOR YEARS.

velop 19 new Holiday Inn Express properties across India by 2015. Starwood Hotels – which already straddles 31 hotels in India (including 10 under the Sheraton brand) – is targeting to build at least 100 hotels in India by 2015, making it the third-largest market for the worldwide

chain after the US and China. The group also plans to launch its first ‘W‘ brand hotel in the country’s financial capital – Mumbai. Starwood – the largest international operator of five-star hotels in India – already has six of its nine global brands operational in May 2012 GO NOW

FINE DINING

India. By this year-end, the group hopes to have 50 properties underway on the sub-continent including its upscale brand, St Regis.

hef Saby, author of Savor Cheese says all this global exposure augurs well for the luxe segment. “We’ve moved away from the basic to the exotic and from the rudimen-

tary to refined. And with such refined tastes, a good chef has become our vehicle towards world-class F&B.” But how has the spotlight made a difference to the chef personally? Karan Suri says it has made life much more “interesting” and of course, challenging. “With more and more guests recognising you and then demanding what all I had cooked on Foodistan, it is not a smooth ride but I enjoy every bit of it. It helps me to challenge myself to innovate and deliver extremely high standards of food and service to the guests.”

r ask Ritu Dalmia. She is one of India’s most feted female chefs and the owner of the iconic Diva chain of eateries. However, till Diva came along, almost a decade ago, Indian diners had just two choices in Italian – go mass market with Nirulas or head for La Piazza at Hyatt Regency, Delhi, the tony destination for the swish set. Dalmia changed the rules of the game and today Italian cuisine has found a substantive following amongst the bourgeoisie. Dalmia’s success also underscores how achieving celebrity status is no cakewalk. Born in Kolkata to a Marwari family, the lady joined her family business of marble stones at age 16. Her work often took her to Italy for sourcing where over a period of time, she developed a taste for Italian cuisine. So enamoured was Dalmia of this cuisine that in 14

GO NOW May 2012

Ritu Dalmia is one of India’s most feted female chefs and the owner of the iconic Diva chain of eateries. Dalmia changed the rules of the game and today Italian cuisine has found a substantive following amongst the bourgeoisie. 1993, and all of 22, she launched Mezza Luna, specialising in Mediterranean cuisine in south Delhi. The venture was a disaster and a heartbroken Dalmia moved to London in 1996 where she opened the first Indian fine dining restaurant on King’s Road. Though the restaurant was a big success, Dalmia had a point to prove - that she could still run a successful eatery in Delhi. So she returned to the capital city in 2000 to launch “Diva” to rave reviews. The rest, as they say is history. Diva was followed by a cachet of other successful eateries – like a café at the Italian Embassy’s Italian Cultural Centre in Chanakyapuri, Delhi, “Diva Café in Greater Kailash,

FINE DINING

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NOT SURPRISINGLY THEN, KAPOOR ITERATES THAT THE OPPORTUNITY FOR CHEFS TO LEVERAGE ON THEIR BRAND NAME WILL GET INCREASINGLY ENORMOUS.

“Latitude 28” at Khan Market and “DIVA Piccola” at Hauz Khas village. A decade down the line, Dalmia remains steadfastly at the helm – remarkable in itself given the mercurial, and if one may add, capricious nature of the business, thereby proving that celebrity chefs can be game changers too!

he journey of Vikas Khanna (India’s only Michelin-starred chef), from the backwaters of Amritsar to the hallowed epicurean portals of New York is too well-known bear recounting here. Suffice to say, that Khanna, an alumnus of the Culinary Institute of America and the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, Paris, has created a comfortable niche for himself as India’s best known celebrity chef abroad. Khanna runs a slew of successful eateries in the Big Apple apart from having authored several books, including “The Spice Story of India”, “Modern Indian Cooking” and “Flavors First” (2011, Lake Isle Press). How would the super successful chef define a celebrity chef? “Well,” he told this correspondent over phone, “to put it succinctly, celebrity is the offshoot of a lot of hard work, plain common sense and a hand on the pulse of people’s tastes.”

t is this hand on people’s “pulse” that has helped ace chef Sanjeev Kapoor cut a swathe amongst the masses. Kapoor, who pioneered the celebrity chef concept in the country with his TV show Khana Khazana, today owns a business empire straddling a chain of restaurants (Yellow Chilli), cookbooks, his own brand of packaged foods, a stake in a TV food channel (Food Food) as well as a cookware company. Not surprisingly then, Kapoor iterates that the opportunity for chefs to leverage on their brand name will get increasingly enormous. “This demographic is at an interesting stage and will evolve further,” he says “But first, we need to have more chef-owned restaurants. For this, more renowned chefs will have to take the plunge and reach out to more people.” And reaching out they are, it seems, with more and more foodies eating out of their hands!

Zing, Metropolitan Hotel and Spa

Wraps & Cocktails

India Grill, Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/Saket

For a Late Night Meal

The Fine dining restaurant Zing at Metropolitan Hotel and Spa offers mouth watering F&B promotions this May. You can pick your choice of sumptuous wraps with a white spirit based cocktail. You can choose from veg. and non-veg. varieties like Chicken Tikka Wrap, Lamb Seekh Kebab, Paneer Achari and Vegetable Wraps with sizzling cocktails. The promotions are on throughout May from noon to midnight at Rs. 1,500. The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa Bangla Sahib Road, New Delhi - 110001 Tel: (+91)-(11)-42500200

India Grill, the multi cuisine restaurant, at Hilton Garden Inn introduces a special Midnight Biryani menu. After your night out on town, India Grill could be the perfect place for a late night snack. The special Midnight Biryani Menu is available from 12 am to 4 am. India Grill, Hilton Garden Inn New Delhi/ Saket, A4, 2nd floor DLF Place, Saket District Centre, New Delhi - 110017, India Tel: (+91)-(11)-39191919 or (+91)9716836509

Crowne Plaza Today Gurgaon

Café G Celebrates Coastal Cuisines

ew Delhi played host to a number of food promotions this April. One such promotion was organised by Café G at Crowne Plaza Today Gurgaon to give its patrons a taste of the true, authentic coastal food. The food promotion – The Celebrated Tastes of South-West Coast of India – was on from 25th April to 5th May and the entire spread was crafted by visiting Chef Raghvendra from Crowne Plaza Bangalore and Chef Suresh from Holiday Inn Cochin. Together they prepared and presented coastal cuisines like Malvani, Malabari, Mangalorian and Konkani. The chefs carefully selected each ingredient for the dishes from their originating regions; fresh prawns and fish were specially flown in straight from the coasts. The tasting menu put together by the chefs was utterly delicious: we tried the Tarkari Masala from the Konkan region, the Karavali Bendakkai Sagle, a deliciously hot Malabari Kuttandan Meen (fish) Curry, Prawn Xcutti which is a Konkani preparation and Karavali Tenderloin Kolombu (an authentic beef preparation from Kerala). The curries were served with Karavali chicken Biryani, Kerala rice and Malabari Paratha. For dessert, we tried Pazham Pradhaman, a banana Payasam made with extra ripe plantain and jaggery. Cafe G is already gearing up to host their next food promotion very soon. If you missed out on coastal food, try their Steamboat (Hotpot) food promotions in May; a healthy choice of sliced AARUSHI GUPTA meat, seafood, vegetables and wonton.

by NEETA LAL May 2012 GO NOW

FINE DINING

Iconic restaurateur Mauro Maccioni has gourmands eating out of his hands at Le Cirque which made its Asia debut at the Leela Place, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, last year. Maccioni speaks on his experiences in India, his hotelier’s legacy and the feedback to his offerings at possibly one of the most striking restaurants in the country.

t’s as close to royalty as far as lineage in the restaurant business goes – Mauro Maccioni literally grew up in Le Cirque with his celebrated Manhattan restaurateur father – Sirio Maccioni. Deeply passionate about food, the younger Maccioni now orchestrates the family food business which has grown exponentially while continuing to enchant gastronomes with a sublime fine-dining experience.

Le Cirque’s Mauro Maccioni

Iconic owner brings international flavours with a local touch

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FINE DINING

The restaurant’s wood-paneled walls on the tenth floor of the Leela Palace, parquet floors and orange-rimmed plates decorated with jugglers, spell hushed elegance. The menu (often dubbed ‘uber traditional’) is embellished with culinary superstars like black cod, foie gras, lobster risotto and chocolate soufflé – top-notch comfort food for the well-heeled. According to Glen Eastman, Executive Chef at the Leela Palace Hotel, what has worked most in Le Cirque’s favour in Delhi is its strong food element and timeless appeal. “It is our showcase restaurant; our badge of honor and most premium brand. Everything here is focused on wowing the diner.” Eastman knows a thing or two about ‘wowing’ guests considering his caviar-topped Rs 9,999 pizza, at the hotel’s restaurant – Le Qube – has been a rage in Delhi ever since its launch. Fiercely proud of its menu, Le Cirque is well known for not altering its spread to cater to the local palate at any of its outlets – be it New York or Las Vegas. The restaurant does take cognizance of, and integrate, local ingredients (like morel mushrooms from Kashmir at its Delhi outfit, for instance).

Would you give us a short rundown on Le Cirque and its legacy? MM: Our restaurant business has been quite a family affair. My brothers and I have been

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IT ALL STARTED IN 1974 WHEN MY FATHER BOLDLY CHALLENGED THE THEN PREVALENT NORM OF AN UPMARKET FRENCH RESTAURANT AND PUT FORTH A UNIQUE NEW DINING EXPERIENCE WHICH HE CALLED ‘CONTROLLED CONFUSION’.

involved in my father’s business since an early age. Although my father, Sirio Maccioni jokes that he wanted his all three sons to be architects, doctors or lawyers, but we all followed into the business of ‘selling soup’ albeit, and a pretty good soup! My oldest brother Mario Maccioni manages our three Las Vegas properties while my brother Marco Maccioni and I split our time manning our two New York (now soon to be 3!) restaurants along with my father who is the patriarch and cornerstone of our organization. Marco and I also spend time abroad at our international outlets (in New Delhi and the Dominican Republic).

What does Le Cirque mean and connote? MM: Le Cirque – literally means ‘The Circus’ in French. It all started in 1974 when my father boldly challenged the then prevalent norm of an upmarket French restaurant and put forth a unique new dining experience which he called ‘controlled confusion’. The

first Le Cirque was established at the Mayfair Hotel and it’s populed to the outlet beng relocated to a larger space at the New York Palace Hotel under the name ‘Le Cirque 2000,’ in 1997. By 2004, Le Cirque was an established New York City landmark and decided to move to the prestigious Bloomberg Building on East 58th Street and finally opened its doors in May 2006 as a 16,000 square foot signature restaurant by Adam Tihany.

How many outlets worldwide does Le Cirque have today? MM: Today the Maccioni family manages and directly controls two New York-based restaurants- Le Cirque and Osteria del Circo; three Las Vegas-based restaurants with MGM Casino & Resorts including the Michelinstarred Le Cirque in the Bellagio hotel and two Dominican-based restaurants in the Casa de Campo resort. Le Cirque,OsteriadelCirco and SirioRistorante represent three complementary concepts and price points. With May 2012 GO NOW

seven outlets across the globe – two in New York, three in Las Vegas and two in the Dominican Republic, Le Cirque has ventured into the Asian market with its partnership with The Leela Palace New Delhi.

Why did you choose India to open Le Cirque? How do you decide upon a new market?

palate? What has been the most interesting revelation about the Indian market? MM: We are trying our best to offer a different flavour to our Indian patrons and have stuck with the authentic flavours in the dishes on the menu. Our flavours are based on the best quality ingredients possible with the

MM: The family chose India through our friendship with the Nair family (owners of the Leela group) who approached us with the opportunity of opening the eatery in their wonderful new location in Delhi. Delhi, being the capital, was a perfect entry point for our ambitions to expand East. India’s economic growth story and Indians’ desire for high quality made our decision easy.

How do you maintain continuity in your menus across the world while also appeasing local tastes? MM: We maintain continuity by making sure our chefs are fully trained at tweaking our preparations to maintain the same dish aesthetic and flavors at all our outlets. For example, we needed to import our potatoes from the US (Idaho) in order to wrap our Paupiette of black. The local Indian potato lacked the sufficient level of starch needed to keep the potato stuck to the fish.

What has been the response to Le Cirque in Delhi? MM: We started operations last September 2011 and ever since the response to our product has been phenomenal. Within seven months, Le Cirque, Delhi, has been ranked among the best by food critics and discerning guests worldwide. We have been awarded the coveted HT Vir Sanghvi Personal Choice Award for ‘Sensational Opening of the Year’; Time Out Award for ‘Best Wine List in the city in 2011’; Travel + Leisure India & South Asia, India’s Award for ‘Best Hotel Restaurant’ and the Times Food and Nightlife Award for ‘Best European in the city’. We have elevated benchmarks for fine dining in the Capital by maintaining a high level of Italian authenticity in our food paired with a solid backbone of French stylized Le Cirque dishes.

Have you made any modifications to your menu for the Indian 18

GO NOW May 2012

with morels and asparagus’, ‘Mini Paupiette of black cod’, ‘Tournedos Rossini’ and, to finish, our famous ‘Le Cirque Chocolate Souffle’ along with a spoonful of our ‘Crème Brûlée’. If one was on a diet, a nice salad of fresh Kashmiri morels, arugula (grown on the Leela property!) with Parmigiana cheese shavings and aged 25 year old traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena, Italy.

least possible manipulation of the product. That, in essence, is the Italian way! Having said that, after our observations of the market in Delhi, we gladly adapted to the higher demand for vegetarian diners – 30% of our menu offerings are vegetarian dishes. Our Chef de Cuisine, Le Cirque, New Delhi – Mickey Bhoite and his kitchen team have very ingeniously crafted the menu which is designed to offer an innovative gustatory experience.

How would you define a quintessential Le Cirque guest/experience? MM: A quintessential Le Cirque meal would include the standard Le Cirque classic menu that we also offer here in Delhi – ‘Tuna tartar curry sauce’, ‘Scallops black tie’, ‘Risotto

What's your favourite part of the job? Tell us about the host of famous chefs that have come through your kitchen... MM: What I completely adore on my India trips is the food!! I love Indian food and try to sneak down to Jamavar – the Indian signature fine dining outlet at The Leela Palace New Delhi as often as possible! Le Cirque has helped launch the careers of many illustrious chefs including Daniel Boulud, David Bouley, Terrance Brennan, Alain Allegretti, Pierre Schaedelin and Geoffrey Zakarian to name a few. In December 2008, Craig Hopson, joined this impressive team of culinary legends followed by the ninth current executive chef -- Olivier Reginensi. by NEETA LAL

May 2012 GO NOW

BARS & LOUNGES

RARE VINTAGE SPIRITS FOR THE TRUE CONNOISSEUR First there was Black Label, then Blue Label, and now the byword in Delhi is single malts. But for some rare enthusiasts, even the smokiest, peatiest single malt – whether it’s 25-year-old Laphroaig or a Glenlivet of decent vintage’ – doesn’t quite get the juices flowing. To cater to this growing band of fanatical vintage’spirits connoisseurs, hotels in Delhi have started collecting extremely rare and old spirits including single-malts and wines. A look at some of these classic spirits adorning bar-shelves in the Delhi’s Hotels

the name suggests, the Heirloom malt is matured for 50 years before being bottled. In 1991, bottling of 500 bottles had taken place which had been sourced from nine casks that were laid way back in the 1930s. The second offering of 500 bottles were released in 2009 and for the next 10 years, only 50 bottles will be released every year from this precious stock for sale. Glenfiddich 50 is one of the most impressive and rarest malts in the world, and the only opportunity you’re likely to get to taste it is at the Rubicon Bar at Leela Kempinski Gurgaon.

hat differentiates a vintage spirit from any other age-old commodity is its sheer transient nature. While antiques, if properly preserved, can be admired for hundreds of years, a spirit is a consumable, and to enjoy it, unlike say a work of art, it has to be smelled and tasted – consumed. That the act of appreciation should lead to its eventual demise is what makes a vintage whisky such a precious commodity – priceless, even, to collectors. Obviously, picking up a rare bottle of say, a Glenfiddich single-malt or a Petrus wine might be beyond most people, but saving up to buy one drink may not. GO NOW visited a few bars at some of the top hotels in the NCR and found a collection of vintage, limited edition, specially aged, single-malts, wines, and even a cocktail.

GLENFIDDICH. Colour: Pale Gold Price per 30 ml: Rs 60,000 + taxes Available at: Rubicon Bar, Leela Gurgaon

TAJ MAHAL HOTEL AND TAJ PALACE HOTEL

Macallan 1990

LEELA KEMPINSKI, GURGAON

Glenfiddich 50-year-old (The Heirloom Malt) The Glenfiddich is widely considered to be one of the finest and best-selling single malts in the world. Glenfiddich is sold in over 180 countries and accounts for about 35% of single malt sales. One of the rarest collections to come out of Glenfiddich is The Heirloom Malt or the Glenfiddich 50-year-old. As 20

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PETRUS WAS SERVED AT THE WEDDING OF PRINCESS ELIZABETH AND PRINCE PHILIP IN 1947 AND IN 1953 MADAME LOUBAT GIFTED A CASE TO THE BUCKINGHAM PALACE FOR THE CORONATION OF QUEEN ELIZABETH II.

While it may not be a spectacular vintage – the 1990 Macallan is definitely a singular one. What makes it special is simply the fact that the variant of the single-malt offered at the Taj Hotels and Resorts is a unique one which is not available anywhere else and has been specially distilled for the hotel chain. The whisky has been distilled in the only cask of its kind in the world and is one of the very few select private labels in India. Wood play an important part in the maturation process as most flavours and 60% of colour comes from the wood. This is a unique cask combination because the whisky was maturing in

BARS & LOUNGES pedigree. If you are a red wine lover, The Imperial is where you can get your fix of it. 1982 PETRUS. Colour: Red Price of the bottle: 3,99,000 Rs + taxes Available at: The Imperial Hotel

HYATT REGENCY

Chateau Lafite Rothschild Wine 1994

the ex-bourbon cask for 15 years. Later to balance the flavours it was placed in a sherry cask for 6 long years, the result is an exceptional whisky with a complex layering. This is a limited edition malt and will not be repeated, once the 300 numbered bottles have been enjoyed, and out of these limited 300, 60 bottles have been allocated to Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi. THE MACALLAN 1990. Colour: Golden Brown. Price per 30 ml: INR 2300 plus taxes Available at: The Rick’s, Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi

THE IMPERIAL HOTEL

Chateau Petrus Wine 1982 The Château Petrus is one of the most distinguished and sought after wines in the world. Petrus is a wine estate in France which had been owned by the Arnaud family since the middle of the 18th century. In the middle of the 20th century, the estate was acquired by Madame Loubat who became the sole owner of the property. Madame Loubat’s partnership with Jean-Pierre Moueix turned more beneficial when he took over the whole management of the estate and oversaw the vineyard. After the partnership with Moueix the wine was also introduced in the United States, was served at the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip in 1947. Again in 1953 Madame Loubat gifted a case of Petrus to the Buckingham Palace for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The Petrus 1982 is one of the finest and most coveted wines with a rich colour, clarity of flavour and structured

Château Lafite Rothschild 1994 is one of the most famous wines in the world and has been owned by the Rothschild banking family since the 19th century. The vineyard is about 264 acres and one of the biggest in the Médoc region in France and there are about 35,000 cases that are produced annually. The final wine is between 80% and 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% and 20% Merlot, and up to 3% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The Château Lafite Rothschild is one of the most sought after wines in the world and commands very high premiums at auctions – one in November 2010 yielded $5.4 million with one case of 12 bottles of the 2000 vintage selling for $36,300 or $3,025 per bottle. Chateau Lafite Rothschild 1994 Colour: RedPrice of the bottle: 99,000 Rs + taxes Available at: La Piazza and The China Kitchen at Hyatt Regency

THE OBEROI

The ‘Angel’s Share’ Cocktail Vintage or rare whiskies and wines are all very well but how about a cocktail? The Oberoi, New Delhi has included an aged cocktail in their bouquet of liquors. Like ageing adds character to whiskeys and wines, they decided to see how the passage of years would affect the taste of a cocktail – ‘Angel’s Share. ’Wasn’t exactly years or even months but when the cocktail was tasted after a few days, there was a brand-new infusion of flavours. The bespoke cocktail was coronated ‘Angel’s Share’ and’is sourced from the Grey Goose French Oak barrel. The drink has been inspired by the Italian classic - the Negroni - a mix between French craftsmanship, Grey Goose vodka and the finest French Orange liquor – Cointreau. The mix is rested for a minimum of 9-12 days before being cracked. The process renders a concentrated flavour and a new character to the cocktail. Angel’s share composition Grey Goose Original: 30 ml. Martini Rosso: 20 ml Cointreau: 10 ml. Campari: 10 ml Colour: Orange Available at: threesixty°, The Oberoi, New Delhi by APRAJITA SHISHOO

The Oberoi, New Delhi

Wine Tastings at Enoteca After an overwhelming response in the last season, Enoteca, the wine cellar at The Oberoi, New Delhi is back with 39 specially chosen wines from premium wineries of the world like Baron Philippe De Rothschild, Chateau Ste Michelle, Rust & Vrede, Banfi, LivioFelluga, Gaja, California, Allegrini and Benziger to name a few . The wine tasting sessions are on every Wednesday and Friday from April to June 2012 between 7.30 pm and 9 pm. Each session is priced at Rs. 1,200 per person (inclusive of all taxes). For reservations, call 9811888356. Enoteca, The Oberoi, Dr. Zakir Hussain Marg, New Delhi - 110003

Mocha Art House

Revel in Art Over Coffee Mocha Art House has on display acrylic works of artist Sharmishtha Dutta. ‘Euphoria’ includes acrylic paintings, sculptures in acrylics and acrylics on canvas. Mocha Art House unveiled the collection on 14th April 2012 and the exhibition is on till 14th May between 11 am and 9 pm. Mocha Art House, Shop no. 167, DLF Promenade Mall, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi Tel: (011)-46075630/31/32 May 2012 GO NOW

BARS & LOUNGES

Cricket is the ultimate spectator sport. And given the IPL’s daynight schedules, bars and lounges in the city’s top hotels, are going all out to draw the game’s aficionados for IPLcentric evenings. Go Now brings to you a compilation of some of the best deals in New Delhi’s five star hotels.

CATCH THE IPL FEVER at Delhi’s Favourite Watering Holes

t’s that time of the year when the entire city seems to be spending its evenings in front of television screens – Cricket’s favourite league, the IPL has hit the town. If you’re looking for a place to let your hair down while you watch the games, consider heading to any of the following five-stars which are running IPL promotions till May 27th.

Cascades, The Grand New Delhi The big screen is great, but it’s the fantastic 22

GO NOW May 2012

IPL promotions which are pulling in cricket fans to the Cascades at the Grand. The chef has prepared an exciting spread of vegetarian and non-vegetarian kebabs that go splendidly with your drinks. You have beer buckets with kebabs and a scrumptious a la carte menu with a tempting cocktail selection to choose from. Beer Buckets are up for grabs in various combos: while one comprises of one veg. and one non-veg. kebab with two bottles of Kingfisher beer (Rs. 600); another includes two veg. and two non veg.

May 2012 GO NOW

BARS & LOUNGES

kebabs with four bottles of beer (Rs. 1000). There is also an exclusive buffet & Beer Bucket combo which gives you unlimited snacks with four bottles of beer. Visit Cascades during the matches and lounge about from 2 pm to 12 am! For reservations, call 011-26705408 or email cascades@thegrandnewdelhi.com

ORO, The Bar, Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar The beautiful ORO bar at the Radisson Blu Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar has also introduced a slew of promotions for the IPL season! The bar has been transformed into a stadium with a cricket pitch created with 3D stickers. Enjoy live and action-packed screening of the matches at the ORO ‘stadium’ with

their special beverages offer. Visit the bar during IPL and enjoy five pints of domestic beer at Rs. 1000 or order five pints of imported beer and pay only Rs. 2000. You can also get a flat 25% off on your final bill. You can avail these offers till 27th May, anytime between 11 am to 1 am. For more information, call 011-46399999

ConneXions, Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini Another great place to try out during the IPL season is the bar ConneXions at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini. Open from 12 pm to midnight, the bar is offering a bucket of three Budweiser beers and a snack of your choice at Rs. 899 or get 20% off voucher for “Predict and Win” game with a complimentary Budweiser. For reservations, call 011-44884488

Bar Zen, Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon A no-stipulations unlimited offer for those who don’t like to watch their drinks (or their wallet!). Bar Zen at Courtyard by Marriott, Gurgaon is offering some great IPL promotions - choose from unlimited starters and beer at Rs 799 or try the exclusive veg. and 24

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BARS & LOUNGES

Hard Rock Cafe

Exclusively Crafted Menu for Delhi Apart from the rock music, the themed decor and an extensive drinks menu that pulls the crowd to Hard Rock Cafe, there is another reason to frequent the place – the launch of their new menu. The new menu, crafted especially by Chef Harman Singh Talwar for the Delhi belly, includes a variety of Indian dishes that have been brilliantly fused with western elements. Chef Harman has been managing the HRC kitchen for almost two years now. Being a Delhi resident himself, he has the perfect understanding of what Delhites would really like to eat. Especially for vegans, the highlight of the new menu is the Saag Paneer – an innovative combination of marinated cottage cheese in a heap of spinach and cubes of toasted pita bread served with charmoula yogurt dip. For meat lovers, there is plenty on the menu including the delicious Fritto Misto which is an assortment of squid rings and prawn spirals served with chilli garlic dip. Delhites love pakodas – a hot selling item on the menu is the Chicken Pakoda. Don’t miss out on the Keralian Fish/Prawn Curry as the entree which is an authentic preparation of coconut milk and basa fish. Burger enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the new Tandoori Spiced Chicken Burger, simple but delicious! When you round it off with dessert, try the Mojito Yogurt with Fresh Seasonal Fruit or go for the White Chocolate Banana Pudding – both are sinfully exotic. HRC has also introduced a signature preparation of the good old Cheese Cake. There is a lot more on the menu that is new and creative and is sure to satisfy the cravings of the Delhi belly.

Kink, Noida

non-veg. snacks menu at Rs. 999. For more information, call 124-4888444

Polo Lounge, The Hyatt Regency The Polo Lounge at The Hyatt Regency, New Delhi also has some great promotions on offer. All through the IPL series, Polo Lounge is offering a kebab platter with a sumptuous selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options served with unlimited beer for Rs. 2,500. If all you need to cheer for your favourite team is beer, opt for the unlimited beer package exclusive of kebabs at Rs. 1,600. The offers are valid during match telecast hours till 27th May 2012. For more information, call +91-11-66771314 by AARUSHI GUPTA

Summer Refreshers Kink, Noida is all set to help you beat the heat this summer with deliciously refreshing summer coolers! Loaded with rich ingredients like orange, lemon, fresh ginger, guava, peach and lemongrass, these mocktails are the perfect energisers in the scorching summer of Delhi. Try the Chilled Guava (blended with spices and chilli) or lounge with the Homemade Ginger Ale (with basil and fresh ginger). The drinks are priced at Rs. 299. Kink - Noida, 3rd Floor, Dharam Palace, Sector - 18, Above ICICI Bank, Noida - 201301 Tel: (011)-49422222 May 2012 GO NOW

ROOMS & SUITES

Famed Artists Create the Magic of the New Lalit Tower Designer elements When The Lalit, New Delhi decided to refurbish a portion of its hotel, they decided to incorporate elements of art into it. The rechristened Lalit Legacy Tower has been inspired by the creations of three Delhi-based famous artists Jayasri Burman, Paresh Maity and Satish Gupta. All the 53 designer suites and 25 luxury rooms and the exclusive Lalit Lounge have been designed and inspired by the artists’ collections. The colour theme is consistently brown which strikes a unique contrast with the creative and colourful interpretations of the artists. Everything, from the bedcovers to the cushion covers have motifs inspired by the artists. The rooms also have limited edition books on the artists. Another fascinating aspect is that the whole refurbishing of the Legacy Tower was inspired by the Lalit group’s core ideology of ‘Minimizing Wastage’. The whole process 26

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The Lalit New Delhi refurbished their Legacy Tower amidst much fanfare; a world class Lalit Lounge and the designer inspired suites and rooms are the envy of everyone’s eye.

Dr Jyotsna Suri, chairperson & MD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group along with L-R: Amitabh Kant, CEO & MD, DMICDC, Naresh Kapuria, director, art & culture, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group and artists Paresh Maity, Jayasri Burman and Satish Gupta

ROOMS & SUITES

Private 22m outdoor heated pool embellished Kohinoor Suite at The Oberoi Gurgaon

was curated by Dr. Jyotsna Suri for over a year. The old furniture, artefacts, paintings and other interior design elements were not thrown away but restored and recycled to be used again in a new form.

The unveiling event On the occasion of the unveiling of the tower Dr. Suri said, “In the year 1988, we pioneered the concept of creating an exclusive tower of suites for the discerning business traveller. Twenty three years later, The Tower gets a makeover and is now in a contemporary avatar, though retaining its glorious legacy.” The Delhi glitterati were in full attendance when The Lalit Legacy Tower was unveiled by Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group. The Champagne and Caviar event saw the high and mighty grace the event; from Rohit Bal to Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and his sons Aman and Ayan Ali Bangash, celebrities from all walks were present at the unveiling. After the initial round of viewing the tower, the celebrated artists – Jayasri Burman, Paresh Maity and Satish Gupta painted live at The Lalit Lounge while the champagne was being popped.

Money matters The 53 designer suites and the 25 luxury rooms have been divided into five categories (starting at Rs 22,000 per night). The other divisions are The Lalit Business Suite, The Lalit Executive Suite, The Lalit Luxury Suite and The Lalit Legacy Suite. But the star attraction at the Tower is The Lalit Lounge that is on the 20th floor.

hen presidents come calling, it's only fair to present the presidential suite to them. And not just any presidential suite, but the one that is a jewel in the crown or better still the Kohinoor in the crown. Yes, we are talking about the Presidential suite or the Kohinoor Suite at The Oberoi, Gurgaon. Upon entering the suite, the first thing that strikes you is the expanse of the suite, spread over 5300 square feet, boasting of two bedrooms, a dining room with a fully equipped service pantry, a spacious living area and a separate study. The awesome factor does not end here; the most distinguishing feature of the suite is the 22-metre cantilevered private outdoor heated pool with a deck. This ups the grandness quotient by many notches. Perfectly situated on the 6th floor of the hotel, the suite offers extended views of the maze garden and the landscaped greens of the hotel. The magnificence of the suite does not end here. The living room includes a comfortable seating area, the study designed to provide the most relaxing and tranquil space to work and relax. Exclusively commissioned contemporary Indian art and traditional zardozi work lend a richness and grandeur to the interiors of the suite. As far as amenities are concerned, the room has the best of everything, a king size bed in the master bedroom, a comfortable sofa and a walk-in closet. The tranquility is accentuated by large windows that suffuse the space with warm natural light. Enough about the room, it's the luxurious bathroom that takes your breath away, which is finished in Botticino marble and features a separate rain shower, separate water closet and a large free standing bathtub placed next to the window. These are the regulars in the bathroom, what does make your jaw drop is the wall-mounted 17-inch LCD television besides the bathtub. Impressive and tempting, isn't it? Although the services of the presidential suite come at a price of 3 lakh per day, it is an experience that is both indulgent and exquisite. compiled by APRAJITA SHISHOO

by APRAJITA SHISHOO

May 2012 GO NOW

FINE DINING

EUROPE ON A PLATE AT

MÖBIUS The bistro-style restaurant – Mobius – at Hotel Samrat is less than a year old but is well on its way to creating a niche for itself with its authentic yet innovative European Cuisine. Great location, quality food and drinks, and a chilled out ambience make the eatery an excellent choice for an evening out when you’re looking for conversation and privacy.

ocated in the quiet environs of the Samrat Hotel, and adjacent to the popular bar, Shiro, Mobius cuts a tranquil and almost colonial figure resplendent in its ivory furnishings and an infinity staircase. There’s an undeniable element of class and smooth appeal which is apparent from the moment you enter the eatery’s minimalist interiors: coffee tables and lounge chairs on the extreme left and the restaurant’s bakery section on the right (patrons are served an assortment of hot freshly baked bread the moment they enter!). Mobius has two bars – one for the ground and the other for the upper level. The duplex setting works well for the restaurant, with the upper level allocated primarily for private parties and a smoking booth. This writer and her companion were ushered into a largely empty restaurant – to be fair it was a weekday and the restaurant, presumably, does not see too much traffic mid-week. Right from word go, the service was absolutely top-notch. The music immediately set the

factfile Name: Mobius Location: Hotel Samrat, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi Cuisine: European Reservations: 12 hours in advance during weekdays and a day in advance during weekends Cards: All Types Hours: 7:00 AM to 1:00 AM Parking: Valet parking is available

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FINE DINING mood – western instrumental that went on to retro pop as the evening progressed.

CHEF’S RECOMMENDATION On discovering that we were pork lovers, the chef, Mayank Tiwari, recommended we try ‘Pork Chops’ for the main course which, tasted as good as they looked. He highly recommended his signature dish – ‘Crisp Skin Sea Bass’ served with green beans with wasabi and a ‘pink peppercorn veloute’ which turned out to be lusciously succulent. We were also told that the ‘Pan Seared Duck Breast’, another one of Tiwari’s signature creations, is a hot favourite among the diners. ‘Warm Wild Mushroom Salad with prune & balsamic glaze’ (which was our favourite among the other two salads we tried) and the fresh and tender ‘Asiago & Asparagus Ravioli’ served in a flavourful, rich wasabi thyme cream (that I personally loved) are great choices for the vegans. If you are a Risotto fan, be sure to try the ‘Wild Mushroom Risotto’. Mobius’ ‘Chocolate Pizza’ is well known (and it did make for an interesting dessert) but what really stole the show was the ‘Pecan Pie’! While you’re waiting for your order make sure you check out the wine list – it’s been compiled by Magandeep Singh – India’s first French-certified sommelier. We tried the Italian red wine Terra Scura Chianti Cibreo. Very smooth, with notes of cherry, which paired quite well with the Pork Chops.

COSTING A meal for two, with a glass of wine (or any drink) will set you back by Rs 2,500 – Rs 3,000. However, considering the location it is in, the quality of food and wine it serves and the elite crowd it pulls, it is worth every penny you spend here!

SPECIAL OFFERS The plan to turn Mobius into a 24-hour restaurant with a special late night menu is still underway. The chef has put together special menus for kids as well. Mobius does have offers for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day and for events like FI and IPL. We were told that the restaurant has also hosted some great private parties and corporate lunches/dinners.

USP & CONCLUSION There is so much Mobius has to offer – fantastic preparations of dishes from a number of different European regions, a huge variety of freshly baked breads, an exclusive and especially crafted beverages menu, a simplistic yet stylish decor and an enviable location. Recommended for its exhaustive menu, quality food, and non-intrusive ambience. by AARUSHI GUPTA

Threesixty°, The Oberoi, New Delhi

For a Hearty Celebration The all-day dining restaurant Threesixty° at The Oberoi, New Delhi offers an attractive Celebrations Package for your private parties or gatherings. The specially crafted menu includes a selection of specials like Yakitori, Pizzas, Asian and Spanish Tapas and Indian Kebabs with a full bar where you can pick your choice of spirit from scotch, single malt, rum, gin, vodka and wine. The package starts at Rs 4,000 per person for a minimum of twenty guests. The Oberoi, Dr Zakir Hussain Marg. New Delhi - 110003. Tel: (011)-2436 3030

Hyatt Regency

A taste of Rajasthan For those lucky few who made it to the Hyatt Regency’s ‘Aangan,’ restaurant, last month, there was a veritable Rajasthani feast in store. And it all happened at an opportune time as the IPL season had just begun. The food festival – ‘Aromas from Rajasthan’ – was launched on 13th April 2012 – the day the Rajasthan Royals played against the Kolkata Knight Riders. To give diners an authentic sampling of Rajasthani food, ‘Aangan’ invited Chef Sameer Gupta straight from Jaipur as the guest chef. Under his guidance and supervision, the Aangan chefs prepared an entire range of Rajasthani cusine specials. Chef Sameer has a rich experience of over 20 years in kitchens across the globe and he crafted extensive vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus with dishes like Murgh ki Mokal, Tarbooz ki Sabzi, Make Ke Soyeta and more. Some of the best items on the menu were the very refreshing Kesariya Pana, the spicy snack Mirch Vada Jodhpuri, the typical Govind Gatta with Bati and the very light Rajasthani Kadhi. Aangan has successfully promoted Bengali and Kashmiri cuisine in the past. Apart from Indian cuisines, they often have kebab and burger specials as well. Don’t fret if you’ve missed out on these specials, just make certain to be there the next time Aangan has someAARUSHI GUPTA thing exclusive going on! May 2012 GO NOW

WEEKEND GETAWAY

A hotel is a hotel is a hotel. Or so we thought until Neemrana Fort Palace came along on Delhi-Jaipur highway back in 1991. Breaking away from most of the set hospitality industry rules, it announced that a hotel can be a destination. Decades later, this destination continues to charm travellers as it constantly reinvents itselfâ&#x20AC;Ś

NEEMRANA REVISITED

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WEEKEND GETAWAY

taying at a hotel located in a small town about two hours away from your home doesn't quite sound like an ideal getaway plan. But throw away that image of a usual hotel and replace it with a resurrected royal palace belonging to the 15th century. Bring in a bit of aroma of history, colonial richness and a surprising blend of simplicity and elegance. And now picture a weekend digging in the past yet enjoying all the modern comforts. For Delhiites it is a perfect quick retreat and has been so for years in the form of the country’s oldest heritage resorts, Neemrana Fort Palace. Its luxurious yet unpretentious charm continues to call Delhiites who find some excuse or the other – social event, conference, a wedding, a royal lunch or simply a relaxing stay at the property – to experience Neemrana. Being just about 120 kms from Delhi it befits the choice for one of those Friday evening yearnings for an impromptu trip. And it was this craving that took us there this

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EACH OF THE 60 ROOMS IS DISCREETLY DECORATED AND DESIGNED ACCORDING TO THE NAME IT IS GIVEN. EACH STANDS OUT WITH A UNIQUE COMBINATION OF COLONIAL AND RAJASTHANI DESIGN...

PURVA BHATIA

time. No preplanning to be done, no tickets to be booked you just think about it, pack your bags and drive into the royal experience within a couple of hours. Err...that is when you don’t encounter gigantic trucks causing jams on the narrow roads on the way, which can add a couple of hours to your travel time! But it’s easy to grin and bear the obstruction knowing that the experience at Neemrana Palace would be worth it. Perched on a high hillock, it stands out both literally and figuratively. And a first time visitor would know that right at the entrance that it is a ‘non-hotel’. An enormous entrance gate leads you into the Fort while smaller gates and stone paved ramp let you acquaint yourself with the environment by the time you reach the reception desk to check-in. The staff is not the regular formal-uniformed ‘ready to help you’ kind but one wearing simple kurtas and warm smiles as if symbolising the proverbial earnest Rajasthani hospitality. The warmth comforts you instantly and you almost feel like walking into your holiday May 2012 GO NOW

home when you open the door of your room not with a key card but the traditional key. The rooms head off in all directions through passageways, terraces and staircases. And if walking all around the palace, feeling of regality hasn’t riveted you yet, the board outside your room helps you do that. Not numbers but individual names like Aman Vilas, Parvati Mahal give every room an identity and character. Each of the 60 rooms is discreetly decorated and designed according to the name it is given. Each stands out with a unique combination of colonial and Rajasthani design, coming alive with colourful fabrics, artifacts, and vintage furniture. But our favourite was the Chandra Mahal with night sky black and moon-white décor. Some rooms in the old construction have traces of the past in carved ceilings intelligently re-

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NO PREPLANNING TO BE DONE, NO TICKETS TO BE BOOKED YOU JUST THINK ABOUT IT, PACK YOUR BAGS AND DRIVE INTO THE ROYAL EXPERIENCE WITHIN A COUPLE OF HOURS.

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Neemrana: The Past

NEEMRANA HOTELS

PURVA BHATIA

Built in 1464, Neemrana Fort-Palace became the third capital of the descendants of Prithviraj Chauhan III, who fled Delhi in 1192 after he was vanquished in battle by Muhammad Ghori. Neemrana's rulers, proud of lineage, continued to assert themselves, even under the British, as their kingdom suffered. Thus, their lands were clipped and given away to Alwar, Patiala, Nabha and others who entertained the viceroys of the Raj with shikar and Champagne breakfasts. The Chauhans would bow to none. In 1947, Raja Rajinder Singh of Neemrana moved down to Vijay Bagh as the façade of his Fort-Palace crumbled and its ramparts began to give way. For forty years he tried to rid himself of his liability but there were no takers until Aman Nath & Francis Wacziarg took up the task of restoring the Fort-Palace in 1986. (Source: Neemrana Fort Palace website)

stored to life. It’s grand but nothing about any of the design element is ostentatious or intimidating. It is this detail that makes you feel a part of it. You can choose your room depending on your taste, the size of your pocket and of course availability. Forget watching television on this break, there are no sets in any of the rooms. (There’s a common room where you can watch television, if you absolutely must.) Instead watch preening peacocks and parrots from your private balcony or terrace. Remember Neemrana is not located in a destination but is a destination in itself. The fort is fun to explore with all the stairways and pathways leading to stunning views and hidden alcoves. It’s a treat for those with an eye for colonial paintings and art. But even when you think you have reconnoitered most of the palace, there’s still something left to explore or do: relax in any of the several sitting areas, according to your mood: watch nature’s penultimate act of setting the sun, from one of the terraces; drown your thoughts in the bygone era gawking at the majestic fort; relish a hot cup of complimentary tea with your companion in the tea area late afternoon; and be a part of the local culture with folk artists performing in the evening. There's still more. You can engage yourself in various activities at the property like a spa therapy or zip lining for some adrenaline rush. Plus, there’s some new addition at the property. While there are rooms in the original fort area, the palace has been extended with new construction. Initially, starting with just 12 rooms, the plan is to have a total of 100 rooms. However, with the passionate designing of the co-owner, it’s difficult to distinguish between the original and the new. When hunger calls, you can treat yourself to traditional Rajasthani and other Indian cuisine along with French and continental cuisine. To suit a range of tastes and palates, South Indian, Chinese and Thai dishes are also often added to the buffet spreads. Also,

the well-stocked bar serves an impressive range of the choicest drinks and cocktails. Dine on the terrace, or other open air spaces, each with a name like Aam Khas, Panch Mahal, Holi Kund and Maha Burj. The exclusivity in spaces and experience at Neemrana comes at a price. While breakfast is included in the room tariff, fixed menus for lunch and dinner are offered at per head rates: Rs 900 and Rs 1,000 plus taxes respectively. But then the price seems small for the escape it offers from the present to the past and from cookie-cutter hotel designs and services to an experiential hospitality. In fact, it's a nonconforming experience the romance with it doesn't end with just one off getaway. It stays with you and keeps calling back. by PURVA BHATIA

factfile Location: 122nd Milestone, Delhi-Jaipur Highway, Village Neemrana, District Alwar, Rajasthan 301705 Tel: +911494 299900, 246006-8 Mobile: +91 9414050068 Rooms: Neemrana Fort has seven palace wings built over 6 acres across twelve levels. There are 3 Duplex Deluxe Suites, 10 Deluxe Suites, 3 Grand Suites, 2 Duplex Suites, 6 Suites, 10 Small Suites, 4 Grand Rooms, 21 Rooms and 1 Tent Rooms, when available, can be given for day use from 9 am to 5 pm, at 60% of the normal room charge Room Rates: Rs 2500 to Rs 22000 Activities: Two swimming pools (one heated) and health Spa facilities only for residents. • Ayurvedic massages and rejuvenation programmes at the spa. • A self-guided audio tour of the history and restoration of the property. • 5-track aerial zip lining by Flying Fox. Best time to visit: September to March Offer: An off-season discount of 20% is offered from 1st May to 31st August (except Saturdays). Tip: It is a good idea to book in advance since weekends witness a lot of rush

May 2012 GO NOW

SPAS & GYMS

Customisation is Key to Therapy at Mystic

Newly renovated and refurbished, the Mystic Spa is an excellent getaway within the city if you want to just take some time out to soothe frazzled nerves and dissipate work-fuelled anxiety. The spa has an extensive range of therapies and massages, well-trained masseuses, subtle lighting, aromatic oils and soft music for a relaxing spa experience.

he reason that Mystic Spa became, within three years of its opening in 2009, a name to reckon with in the wellness space in the capital, is simply that the brand acquired a wealth of operational knowledge running establishments at five-star hotels before launching independent outlets. Today the spa has five well-established outlets around the city in Punjabi Bagh, New Friends Colony, Gurgaon, Dwarka and Mehrauli and the USP of the brand is that inspite of so many outlets, the delivery of service across all the centres is uniform. It does not matter whether you are in New Friends Colony or Punjabi Bagh, the service provided by the masseuse, will be of the same level. Another aspect is the customisation of the service; other than the listed therapies in the menu, Mystic offers a customisation service where, according to the needs of the clients, a certain therapy can be tailor-made. One of the outlets, the Mystic Spa at Mehrauli went for a makeover recently and we decided to check out the refurbished version. 34

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factfile Name: Mystic spa Address: Ambawatta Complex, Mehrauli Behind Qutab Minar, New Delhi Tel: 011- 32602685 Signature Ritual: Mystic Vedic Ritual, priced at Rs. 5,000 Promotions and Packages: Mystic has membership booklets, which have coupons worth 20% and 30% discount along with complimentary service voucher.

SPAS & GYMS

Half Day Voyage Take a break from the hectic life and indulge in a half day of pampering, rebalance & refreshness. Exfoliate & hydrate with our Herbal Body Scrub. Destress with a custom fifty minute massage. Renew in a customized fifty minute facial. End the spa experience with a Skin Lightening Manicure Pedicure. A healthy brunch is included in the package. Rs 7,500++ This, 3,700 sq ft spa now accommodates five therapy rooms and one couple therapy room. The ambience is, well, exactly what you’d expect in a spa – spacious, easy on the eyes décor, earthy brown toned interiors, subdued lighting, and a fragrance of incense – imparting the spa a very tranquil ambience. This writer opted for a simple Olive oil massage, which while simple was extremely effective in easing out all the accumulated stress. For those who prefer more elaborate treatments, Mystic has a lot ot offer right from Ayurvedic treatments like ‘Abhyanga Shirodhara’ to international favourites like the Swedish massage to the very popular ‘Hot Stone Ritual.’ With an overall makeover, the Spa has also introduced a revised menu of therapies and treatments including an assortment of international rituals like the ‘Deep Tissue’ and the ‘Lomi Lomi massage,’ express rituals like ‘Traditional Reflexology,’ scrubs and wraps like ‘Herbal Body scrub’ and ‘Jasmine body Polish,’ spa facials like the ‘Champagne antiaging facial’ and various hand and feet therapies. But the most sought after treatment at the Mystic is their signature ritual – the Mystic Vedic Ritual, which lasts for 120 minutes and is priced at Rs 5,000. The entire ritual is performed in five stages using five different compositions which include a sacred bath in combination with massage and scrub. Mystic has acquired a reputation as a value-for-money establishment which is easily accessible and offers world-class service. That approach seems to be paying dividends. by APRAJITA SHISHOO

Neo Veda Journey: Stimulating the Brain and Enhancing Beauty Neo Veda has established a reputation for itself, especially because of its sought after signature treatment, the Neo Veda Journey. The treatment is a three hour marathon therapy that takes you on a heavenly journey of relaxation.

therapeutic journey that soothes your body, mind and soul, which is what the Neo-Veda Journey at the Neo-Veda spa, The Metropolitan Hotel, New Delhi, is all about. The healing powers of Ayurvedic oils, the curative abilities of salt and spices and the restorative power of hot oil, all mix together to give you a rejuvenating and relaxing spa therapy. Although the Neo Veda Spa is a fairly new spa in the burgeoning spa and wellness market in the Delhi – NCR region, it has established its reputation as an epitome of luxury. Located centrally at the Metropolitan Hotel, Neo Veda is a regular hangout for people working in the busy commercial district of Connaught Place and the nearby residential area of Gol market. According to the spa head, Dr. Akhilesh Agrawal, the experience at Neo Veda is “Simply Divine”. We tried to find out how much truth is there in his claim and so we headed for the Neo Veda spa to try their signature treatment, the Neo-Veda Journey. Like all other spas, Neo Veda also has the regular, Thai, Swedish, Balinese and Hot Stone massages. Although the special part about it is that for every therapy designed at the Spa, there is a room conceptualised for it. For the hot stone therapy, there is the Marma room, for the Ayurvedic Shirodhara massage, they have the shirodhara room and for the Kalari therapy

there is a room specifically for the purpose. Their signature treatment, the Neo Veda Journey, is exceptional in its own way because it is a combination of four therapies. According to Agrawal, “Nobody else offers such a treatment and this is why it is very unique and a very sought after therapy, also being the costliest treatment ((Rs 6,500) at the Spa.” This 2 hour 30 minute ritual is aptly titled the Neo Veda Journey because it actually takes you on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation. The techniques used in the treatment are age old but the brilliance lies in the efficiency of the staff who knew what they were doing. The masseuse who was assigned to me knew her job well and was deft at her craft. According to Agrawal, “The New Veda Journey is a treatment is actually like a journey that takes you beyond relaxation and relives stress from all levels.” It relaxes to all parts of your body and one comes out refreshed and invigorated. The “journey” starts with an anti-stress body massage. As the masseuse lithely moves her hands to relive stress from your joints, one starts feeling more relaxed and calm. Once the one hour body massage is taken care of, the next step is the Shirodhara technique, wherein warm medicated oil is poured over your third eye center. This technique has been there since time immemorial and it does help in stimulating the brain, although the time period of 45 minutes seems bit too long because of excess oil that is poured. The whole process is then followed up with a salt and spice scrub and a wrap. By the end of the relaxing schedule, one can feel more active and sense their body glow. by APRAJITA SHISHOO

May 2012 GO NOW

WORLDTRAVELLER

KIRIMAY RESORT BANGKOK

Discover the world with our updates on destinations, airlines and experiences

• Berlin’s Premium Lifestyle Experiences • Singapore’s Top Vegetarian Eateries • Weekend Escape from Bangkok – Kirimaya Resort

May 2012 GO NOW

WORLD TRAVELLER TRAVEL BUZZ Alila Villas Uluwatu

The Mehta detox at Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali

Tower Club at Lebua

One-bedroom Suites Offer in Bangkok “Stay Longer! Save More!” by Tower Club at Lebua, Bangkok is a special package that offers accommodation in the one-bedroom Tower Club City View Suite. The package also includes daily buffet breakfast for two at Cafe Mozu (you can opt for continental breakfast at the Tower Club Lounge instead). You can also enjoy

Tower Club privileges like exclusive-to-Lebua Bvlgari amenities, free soft drinks at the mini-bar, complimentary in-suite broadband internet access, priority dining reservations at The Dome and exclusive usage of Tower Club Lounge with complimentary canapés and alcoholic and soft drinks. What's more, you get addi-

tional privileges for one night stay – complimentary guaranteed upgrade to Tower Club Riverview Suite with late check out until 4 pm.

Thomas Cook India

Discover Phi Phi Island with Outrigger Hotels & Resorts in Thailand minute Wana signature massage for two, a Thai set lunch and 20% discount on any additional spa treatments. The package is priced at THB 47,900 (Rs 80,708) for a Hillside Pool Villa. You can choose from a Beachfront Junior Suite, a Deluxe Bungalow and a Superior Bungalow as well.

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The five-day Mehta Detox package is priced at Rp. 9,500,000 (Rs 53,972). For more information, email uluwatu@alilahotels.com or call (+62)-361-8482166

The package is priced at USD 195 (Rs 10,162) and is valid until 27th December 2012. For more information, call (+66)-0-6249555 or email reservations@lebua.com

Outrigger Hotels & Resorts in Thailand

Spend three magical days in paradise with Outrigger Hotels and Resorts. The hotel chain has launched a special three days/two nights package at the Phi Phi Island Village Resort and Spa, near Phuket in Southern Thailand. ‘Paradise Discovered’ includes breakfast for two, a 90-

If you are visiting Bali, do not miss out on the Mehta Detox by Alila Villas Uluwatu. This five-day ritual is aimed at cleanses your body and mind. The Mehta Detox is a routine that is designed specifically for your body and lifestyle. The routine starts at 7 am with fresh lemon and ends at 8.30 pm with a cup of laxative tea, followed by resting time. The routine includes breakfast at 8 am, lunch at 2 pm and dinner sharp at 7 pm. The special menu of the detox package includes healthy eats like cucumber sticks, cashew basil pesto, pecan nuts, banana-spinach-celery-cucumber juice, carrot sticks, humus, pumpkin seeds, dried apricot, guacamole and bell pepper sticks and a daily dose of raw chocolate truffles.

The offers are valid till 31st October 2012. For more information, email sales@ppisland.com or call (+66)-0-75-628900/99

‘Travel and Learn’ Packages Thomas Cook India Ltd. introduces ‘Travel and Learn' packages to 12 world-class destinations. The package is all about 'enriching the quality of education through experiential learning’. This initiative is a unique combination of educational and fun experiences. Packages include a ‘NASA Expedition’ in USA, ‘Nature’s Treat’ in South Africa, ‘Wonder Down Under’ in Australia, ‘The Intriguing Emerald Isle’ in Ireland, ‘Europedition’ in Paris & Switzerland, ‘The Kingdom & Beyond’ in London with Scotland, ‘Beyond the Wall’ in China, ‘Hysterical Hong Kong,’ ‘Eduventure’ in Thailand, ‘Asia A to Z’ in Malaysia, and ‘Shimmering Singapore.’ For more information, visit www.thomascook.in

WORLD TRAVELLER TRAVEL BUZZ

Turkish Airlines

Summer Promotions by Turkish Airlines What makes this summer a little bearable are the special promotions by Turkish Airlines. These summer promotional fares are especially for Indian fliers on daily flights from New Delhi and Mumbai. Some of the destinations covered are Amsterdam Rs 37,332, Dublin Rs 36,640, Frankfurt Rs 37,370, London 42,537, Milan Rs 33,407, Munich Rs 36,749, Paris Rs 35,693, Rome Rs 34,478 and Venice Rs 33,400. Kenya Airways

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic’s ‘Upper Class Red’ Marking the launch of Virgin Atlantic’s redesigned Upper Class cabin, the airline has chosen the brand bareMinerals Pretty Amazing LipcolorTM in the shade ‘Upper Class Red’. This lip

colour will be made available to sell to the public for pre-order onboard the flights through the airline’s in-flight shopping guide – Retail Therapy. It will also be sold at the Virgin Atlantic Club-

house Spa at Heathrow, Gatwick and New York JFK. It has been especially chosen by bareMinerals with the airline’s cabin crew because it matches perfectly with the ‘Virgin Atlantic Red’.

Kenya Airways Commences Flight from New Delhi Starting 16th May 2012 Kenya Airways will launch flights from New Delhi. The airline will fly to Nairobi from New Delhi four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday). The flight will depart from Delhi airport at 12.50 am and arrive at 5.30 am. The launch of this new route will provide seamless travel and easy accessibility from Africa to the India. Apart from adventure and wildlife safari, Kenya is also a great destination for MICE, honeymooners and family holidays.

Amanzoe, Greece

Aman Resorts Now in Peloponnese Aman Resorts is all set to inaugurate their new property – Amanzoe – in Peloponnese, Greece. The summer of 2012 will witness the launch of this magnificent 38-suite resort. The resort features an Aman Spa that comprises seven double treatment rooms, two hammams and a hair and finishing salon. Also, there are plans of adding a number of Aman Villas in the near future. Bookings for a stay at the new Amanzoe have already begun and you too should make the most of the introductory rates. Pool Pavilion is priced at Euro 825 (Rs 57,356) and the Deluxe Pool Pavilion is priced at Euro 925 (Rs 64,308). For reservations, email amanzoe@amanresorts.com

May 2012 GO NOW

WORLD TRAVELLER TRAVEL BUZZ

Lufthansa

The New Business Class, a first for Asia

Japan Airlines

First Ever GE-Powered Dreamliner Service Launched in India Japan Airlines (JAL) recently launched the brand new Boeing 787 Dreamliner (powered by General Electric GEnx engines) on four out of five weekly services on the New Delhi – Tokyo route. The launch marked the introduction of the dreamliner in India. Before India, JAL had introduced the Dreamliner on the Boston – Tokyo route in April. Japan Airlines took delivery of two Boeing Dreamliners marking the entry of the GEpowered Dreamliner in the commercial airline service for the very first time in March.

In Asia, India is the first country where Lufthansa will deploy its latest fleet member B747-800. The new Lufthansa Business Class will serve on the New Delhi - Frankfurt and Bengaluru - Frankfurt routes this summer. Later this summer, this aircraft will take the Indian travellers all the way from Delhi and Bangalore to Washington, Chicago and Los Angeles, Via Frankfurt.

Japan Visa Made Easy The Embassy of Japan in India recently inaugurated a Japan Visa Application Centre operated by VFS Global in New Delhi that is sure to simplify the otherwise tedious visa processing for Indian travellers. Some of the advantages that applicants will enjoy are longer opening hours from 8.30 to 5.30 (Mon-Fri) and 8.30 to 12.30 (Sat); two convenient locations in New Delhi and several drop-off offices outside New Delhi; more updated information so applicants can check their status on the visa centre website. For more information, visit www.vfsglobal.com/japan/india

Singapore Airlines & SilkAir

Enhanced Connectivity from Bengaluru Subsequent to the completion of Bangalore International Airport’s runway maintenance, SilkAir, the regional wing of Singapore Airlines, introduced new flight schedules between Bengaluru and Singapore from 5th May 2012. The SilkAir flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays have been re-timed to depart in the mornings. Revised timings and Singapore Airline’s daily evening departure flights are sure to enhance flight options and connectivity between Bengaluru and other cities in the combined Singapore Airlines and SilkAir network. 40

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WORLD TRAVELLER DESTINATION

BERLIN TODAY Premium Lifestyle Accents

istinguished Diversity

Celebrating its multicultural, multiethnic and global shimmer in a myriad of premium lifestyle accents, Berlin ranks supreme among Germany’s lively cities. We lived up the platinum-crested features in their unparalleled sophistication as an acknowledgement of the capital city’s incomparable offerings.

Check out the very finest of A-list lifestyle experiences in Berlin, Germany with Kishore and Smita Iyengar

understated class and elegance. An ultra-modern kitchenette and dining area kept private from the bedrooms by a teasing feather wire partition adds to the seductive feel of the suites. A business desk and formal lounge sofas look out to private green views of the living hall that also packs in a private library and carefree seating for relaxation.

Hospitality Haven Soulful Serenades An exalted evening among western classical music maestros gave us an unforgettable experience at the renowned Berlin Philharmonie, an institution lauded and recognised worldwide for hosting the finest musical concerts and memoirs. Among an extremely talented collection of musicians of the Rundfunk Sinfoniaorchester we were mesmerised by the magnificence of young erudite conductor Juraj Valcuha and his ace violin prodigy Sergey Khachatryan. Their synchronic synergy captivated us through their renditions of Karol Szymanowski, then fabled Jean Sibelius and finally to Pjotr Illyich Tchaikovsky. Sergey’s brilliantly soulful and heart-rendering violin pieces were akin to a million jewels in a star span-

gled universe. A twenty-minute non-stop standing ovation to that!

Design Diametrics Rated as one of the finest design hotels with avant garde, uber chic interiors, The Mandala Hotel Berlin on the lively Potsdamerplatz had hosted Shah Rukh Khan in their nummer eins Presidential Suite during the filming of ‘Don2.’ Minimalistic and swank, the suites here radiate spatial expanse, the soft pastel tones reflecting just the most uppercrust high living accents with the lingering German flourish. With power mode, remote controlled curtains, electronic device maneuver, mood lighting and strobe spotlights, ample seating couches and sofa layout, beds in super silky linen and appointments radiate

The Kempinski Bristol Berlin’s graceful fivestar landmark in the heart of the stylish Kurfurstendammstrasse area is well known for, besides it’s legendary world famous spiral stairway, it’s ‘Kempinski Grill’ fine dining restaurant that personifies the genteel indulgences of eclectic fine-dining in the city. With impressive German wines for company we relished ‘King Prawns coated in brick dough’ and ‘Variation of Canadian Lobster with Mango and tarragon’ paired with a fine 2010 ‘Insel Mariannenque Weisburgunder-Chardonnay Trocken’ white wine. Our repast was capped with ‘Loin of lamb coated with tomato-olive crust’ and ‘Fillet Loup de Mer Pike Perch’ accompanied with a smart 2008 vintage ‘Schloss Reinhartshausen Spaetburgunder’ red wine. May 2012 GO NOW

Atrium, The Hotel Mandala. (Above) Qiu Lounge Bar, The Mandala Hotel. 42

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WORLD TRAVELLER DESTINATION The crisp Gran Marnier flambéed crepes and strawberry dices were the highlight. The mellow lighting added visual comfort to the senses.

Expressions of Creativity Andrae Kaufmann personally guided us through the latest canvasses gracing his small, boutique art gallery. The works reflected a radical, out-of-the-box display of imploring art picked out from the threads of bare canvas frames that lifted out into the environment. At Andrae’s gallery on busy Schroederstrasse, young creative minds lend expression to art in manifold credentials, a delight to behold.

The Kaefer’s four-course was light, crisp and innovative. ‘White herring on Herb Bread with green Asparagus’ was a fine start with a flute of sparkling Mosel Valley German wine. Our ‘Medium-fried breast of Duck on grape-leek vegetables’ performed well with a medium-bodied 2007 ‘Baldauf Domina’ red wine, while the ‘Breaded Schnitzel of Veal with roasted potatoes’ was perfect with a 2009 ‘Apriles Castell Schlossberg Spaetburgunder’ red wine. To sweeten up the noon fiesta, we savored ‘Baked Schlosserbuben on Vanilla sauce with plums and Tonka bean ice cream’. The concerto by Sebastian Bach lilted our enchanting fine dining journey.

Vintage Verve Heights of Exclusivity The German Parliament sits there and the portals of the Reichstag (or Bundestag) are the most unlikely of venues for some delectable fine dining with sweeping views. But as the swift, fortified elevator zips you to it’s rooftop, the spherical glass dome and the Kaefer Rooftop Restaurant allured us with their avant-garde architecture and svelte interiors.

Boutique cellar wine tastings – Planet-Wein-Berlin.

The Berlin Wall’s gone and its remnants are a distant echo. But a relic of the erstwhile East Germany commands curious and thrilling indulgence in the city. Our privileged ‘Trabi’ open limousine ride aboard a bright pink number with a blaring jukebox added romance to our high-end Berlin experiences. The ‘Trabi’ (slang for Trabant, cars made in the former GDR-East Germany) is a convert-

ed version that offers an exceptional wheelson tour of the city’s most distinct landmarks and sights.

Garden-edged Gourmet Overlooking a calm and cheery garden decked with old earthen pots and mood-lit with spots, our evening on a weekend was well clocked at the distinguished fine dining pad ‘Facil’ at The Mandala. Creative and thought-provoking for the senses, we ingested ‘Mackerel Escabeche with Thai Mango and Watercress’ followed by ‘Soup of Hokkaido Pumpkin’. Exemplary indeed. The all-glass enscons created serene expanse as we stilled ourselves with ‘John Dory with Bulgur, Amalfi Lemon and Mint’ and a super ‘Sea Urchin from Iceland and Elderbery Absinth Soda’. The flavours were inviting so we graduated to small portions of ‘Atlantic Plaice Mache and sauce Finkenwerder’. As the glows langoured over our dining enchantment, our ‘Pure Exotic Tasmanian Pepper -Manjari and Tanariva Chocolate’ was beyond compare anywhere.

Exclusive festive shopping – Ka De We Designer Mall. May 2012 GO NOW

WORLD TRAVELLER ???????

Exotic Crepe Gran Marnier Flame, Kempinski Bristol.

Elements of Exotica ‘Stilwerk’ is Berlin’s most exquisite interiors and design destination and it needs more than a scrutinizing gaze to truly appreciate the exotic home and space interiors creations from Germany and around the world. From cutting-edge Italian all-clear-tint glass furniture and light fittings and accessories to German living room and office assemblages and furnishings to African upholstery and Swedish aesthetic bedroom appointments, this place bowled us over with the innovations in design. Fibre glass, steel wool, plastic foam, polyester shelves, Jacquarra shades, waste wood and tree trunk supports, kids’ room elementals and loads of creative furniture, lifestyle

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Designer all-glass interiors boutique, Stilwerk Mall

known global brands like Artemide, Bang & Olufsen, Capellini, Tobias Grau and Walter Knoll grace the precincts of this premier design hub.

Select Vintages ‘Planet Wein’ is small but evocative. The brick and plaster-adorned wine cellar in Berlin’s downtown is the right spot to identify, pick, choose, taste and buy some of the finest wines from Germany and other global wineries. As we settled on barrique-glass topped covers with antiquated lamps and under an old wrought iron winding staircase, our white and red wine tastings took us into unknown vineyards and labels that were exceptionally commanding, and to weinguts

‘STILWERK’ IS BERLIN’S MOST EXQUISITE INTERIORS AND DESIGN DESTINATION AND IT NEEDS MORE THAN A SCRUTINIZING GAZE TO TAKE IN THE MOST EXOTIC HOME AND SPACE INTERIORS CREATIONS FROM GERMANY AND AROUND THE WORLD

accessories and complementaires, kitchenware, sanitary fittings and superlative custom-crafted, French hand-knitted, Alsace lace and Swiss crochette items deck the swank and stylized designer boutiques tat radiate ultimate gilt-edged living. Well 44

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(wine makers’) choices that left unforgettable flavors and aromas on our palates.

A Private Privilege A stone’s throw from the bustling Kurfurstendamm shopping hotspots, is the Hotel

Brandenburgerhof. Here within its classic, elegant environs is the award-winning Michelin-Star outpost ‘Die Quadriga’ one of Berlin’s most revered fine dining restaurants fabled for it’s Nordic cuisine created by ace Master Chef Sauli Kemppainen from Finland. Following a brief but enjoyable in-cellar sparkling wine aperitif at their brick-arched Weinkeller’ our fine dining enlivened our gastronomic pleasures. Exotic dishes at ‘Die Quadriga’ like ‘Grape and Celery Truffle Monkfish’ and ‘Nordic Koskenkorva Angelica Cranberry Almond’ create high expectancy in flavors and sensory seduction. Other signature wonders one can experience are ‘Turbot Morcilla Terva’ and Salsified Veal with spices’. The symphony of flavors continue with exceptionally evocative ‘ Allackerbeere, yoghurt and chocolate’.

Designer Flourish It’s the most famous high-end lifestyle address in Berlin and great reason to be so! The ‘Ka De We’ (Kaufhaus Des Westens ) is heritage architectural grandeur in regal settings containing the finest German and international design brands on all it’s dazzling seven plush floors. This uppercrust shopping icon is a single destination for all that you can

WORLD TRAVELLER ???????

Grand dome atop Reichstag – fine dining venue.

possibly dream of possessing on a premium scale. The names are legend enough to attract the most fasatidious and discerning clientele. Hermes, Christian Dior, Prada, Gucci, Aqua di Parma, Ferrari, Guerlain, Mont

seamlessly glide past the changing skyline. The four-course signature gourmet repertoire is outstanding, yet light and inducing in flavors and aromas, Chef de Cuisine Michael Wegener makes sure the indulgence is per-

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THE YOU CAN NEVER MISS THIS TALLEST STRUCTURE IN ALL BERLIN. THE ‘BERLINER FERNSEHTURM – 360 DEGREE BERLIN’ – THE FAMED TV TOWER WITH THE REVOLVING PANORAMA FLOOR IS EASILY ONE OF THE TOP ATTRACTIONS OF THE CITY

Blanc, Hublot and many more adorn the superbly preserved interiors in all it’s classical opulence and magnificence. An in-house wintergarten and restaurant add to the shopping pleasures at ‘Ka De We’.

Three Sixty Degree Marvel You can never miss this tallest structure in all Berlin. The ‘Berliner Fernsehturm – 360 Degree Berlin’ – the famed TV tower with the revolving panorama floor is easily one of the top attractions of the city. But more significantly, the revolving fine dining restaurant that dominates the spherical architecture takes the cake and the gilt-edged icing, literally. Nothing seems more privileged and exclusive than living up the gorgeously breathtaking vistas of this historic city as you

fect. The unusual ‘Grilled Watermelon with Vanilla Tofu’ and ‘Warm Ricotta tart with cinnamon and oranges’ made a cheery start, as we quaffed a fine ‘Heye Riesling Reinherb 2007. Moistening our tastebuds were ‘Broccoli Duet and ‘Winter Vegetable Veloute with olive tapenade’ light yet appetizing soups. To add thrill to the creations, we had ‘Finchen’, a typical crispy bread popular during the former GDR cuisine era. As the gracious MD Christina explained the seasonal culinary concepts, we savoured the fine Riesling with a finely ‘Baked Risotto with cucumber salad and tomato crème and olive oil sauce’. The violin symphony playing to Chopin’s grandeur lilted our oenophilic quest as a dry ‘Weingut Bernhard Malterdinger Spaetburgunder (Baden) 2009 red wine. The

factfile GETTING THERE 147 km by road from Kuala Lumpur (approx. 2 hours) or 90 km from KL International Airport travelling south on the North-South Highway. ACCOMMODATION Available to suit all budgets. • Renaissance Melaka Hotel, Jalan Bendahara 75100, Melaka. Tel: 6 06 284 8888, Fax: 06 284 9269 • Century Mahkota Hotel Melaka, Jalan Kerdeka 75000, Melaka Tel: 6 06 281 2828 Fax: 06 281 2322 • Holiday Inn Melaka, Jalan Syed Abdul Aziz, 7500, Melaka Tel: 6 06 285 9000, Fax: 606 285

trio of ‘Pumpkin in chutney, puree and pastries’ and followed by ‘Poached Organic Eggs with cream of potatoes, green asparagus and mustard seeds’ heralded absolute gourmet bliss! As Jazz drums softly created a musical stir and the mauve-amber glows of a long winter sunset over Berlin tinted the ambience, our ‘Trinity of green apple and ‘Raw Milk cheese with fig mustard’ signed off an enchanting evening of romantic memories we shall always cherish. Like a million diamonds strewn down below us, the magnificent city awakened to yet another eventful, dazzling night. May 2012 GO NOW

WORLD TRAVELLER DESTINATION

Bombay Café is popular for its Mumbai’s street food and snacks.

Shopping paradise Singapore was always a preferred culinary destination. But little known are the options available for hardcore veggies. We take you through best of the lot

Vietnamese roll at 7 Sensations.

GO VEG IN GASTRONOMIC SINGAPORE The Top Ten Vegan Haunts

n oft asked recommendation by visitors to Singapore is for vegetarian cuisine. Over a decade ago, eateries serving vegetarian fare in this foodies’ paradise could be counted on one hand, with a finger or two to spare. However, with vegetarianism increasingly becoming a lifestyle choice, there is an escalated demand for stand-alone restaurants serving a range of varied cuisines. Beyond the obviously ubiquitous North and South Indian fare, now there is Italian, Mediterranean, Mid-Eastern, Western, Peranakan, Chinese, Japanese, and new age organic, holistic, healthy alternatives. The restaurants featured here (numeroalphabetically) have won numerous culinary accolades. Yet, it is word-of-mouth publicity that has resulted in their growing popularity

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and regular repeat clientele. Approximate cost of a meal for two is without alcohol but inclusive of local taxes.

7 Sensations

Creative Holistic Vegetarian Coincidentally, into its 7th year now, 7 Sensations has built up its reputation by word-of-mouth goodwill from its clientele. This has resulted in the restaurant moving from its previous Little India location to its current premises in the definitely upscale central business district (CBD). The interior is contemporary trendy in black and white. The numerical 7 continues to rule as the menu takes a journey to deliberately include 7 Culinary Elements. These comprise Asian

Fusion (Vietnamese Roll, Hong Shao La Mian), Singaporean Peranakan (Pumpkin Curry, SambalBuahKeluak), Western (Portobello Mushroom, 7 Sensations Mousaka), Thai (Thai Style Green Curry, Fried Tom Yam Bee Hoon) and Japanese (Rainbow Maki, Soba). Add two more from the Healthy Beverage bar (Fruit Enzyme) complementing the food and the not too sinful Cakes and Pastry (Eggless Cake and Homemade Yogurt) to round off the meal. Caring for, and catering to the six senses – sight, sound, taste, touch, smell and mind – in a holistic manner, the philosophy simply is to let the offerings at 7 Sensations reflect the passion, heart and minds of the founders. This restaurant certainly lives by its maxim: ‘If it doesn’t taste good it doesn’t go on the menu.’ And add to that the artistic pre-

WORLD TRAVELLER CULINARY HOTSPOT

Vegetable Pot Pie at Beets.

sentation of each dish which visually enhances its flavour as well.

Café Salivation

touch to each item creating in some instances, an east-west fusion. Some of the signature dishes include Panzenella salad, comprising confit tomatoes, mozzarella and edamame beans dressed in citrus dressing and black olive powder. A creamy leek and potato soup with poached egg and truffle 'caviar' is one of the popular dishes. The local-flavoured cheong fan roulade is a must for mushroom buffs. Flat rice noodle wrapped around minced vegetables and served with a meaty mushroom gravy is also popular. Desserts go with the trend of most healthweight conscious diners. Light and refreshing fruit sorbets being the ideal choice.

while a plasma screen shows clippings from Hindi movies. The Bombay Cafe experience is nostalgic, especially for those yearning for Mumbai street food and snacks. The range is extensive – from authentic pavbhaji, bhelpuri, vadapav and ragda patties to an impressive list of chaats including golgappas and varied pakoras. The tandoori style bharwanaloo and crispy paneer and pepper-filled kurkure mushrooms are delicious. All of these can be downed with either the Punjabi-style cooling shikanjvi or a thick mango lassi. Main meals with a strong Indian twist include Chinese or Chindian (as being popularised here), Mexican, Western, and of course Indian. The Mexican dosa and tandoori pizza are flavoursome, while the in-house sizzler and an unusual chat sizzler exude a delectable aroma while being served. Naturally, the Indian-Chinese all-time favourites: Gobi Manchurian, Crispy vegetable, Black pepper mushrooms and American chop suey are all available here. And you can round up the meal with the must-eat, gooey-grainy sizzling brownie. Another smaller outlet, opposite Mustafa Centre in Little India promises all of the above along with lunch and dinner buffets. Ideal for shoppers in a hurry.

SINGAPORE 9 Raffles Boulevard, Millenia Walk, P3-07 (3rd Floor), Parco Marina Bay Tel: 6298 8198 www.7-sensations.com Meal for two: $45 (Rs 1,800)

Beets

Serving Modern Vegetarian The latest vegetarian eatery in town is located in one of the erstwhile army barracks that dot Dempsey Hill. The interior sets the tone for the word ‘modern’ with its white and metallic look. While you wait for the menu, the Table Mat doubles to tempt with a range of fresh juices from Energy Boosters to Sunset Beets to a Kid's Companion. The ingredients are kind of indicative of the names. The lunch and dinner menus offer adequate choices but don’t go over the top. More options in each category – salads, soups, mains and desserts – are offered on the dinner listing. The chef is obviously a lover of vegetarian cuisine as he creatively adds a unique

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22 Dempsey Road, Tel: 64756869 www.facebook.com/beets.sg Meal for two: $40-$50 (Rs 1,600-2,000)

Bombay Café

Nostalgia, MumbaiEshtyle! The interiors are funky. Shades of fuchsia dramatised with black used to tasteful advantage. Bollywood dominates the décor with a collage and posters jazzing up the walls,

THE BOMBAY CAFE EXPERIENCE IS NOSTALGIC, ESPECIALLY FOR THOSE YEARNING FOR MUMBAI STREET FOOD AND SNACKS. THE RANGE IS EXTENSIVE – FROM AUTHENTIC PAVBHAJI, BHELPURI, VADAPAV AND RAGDA PATTIES TO AN IMPRESSIVE LIST OF CHAATS

334 TanjongKatong Road, Tel: 6345 0070 /79 Syed Alwi Road, Tel: 63966452 www.bombaycafe.com.sg Meal for two: $35-$40 (Rs 1,400-1,900)

May 2012 GO NOW

Original Sin

Cafe Salivation

Reena Pushkarna, owner of Pita Pan.

SINGAPORE Trendy cuisine in a funky setting

The candy stripped walls and diaphanous salmon-pink curtains jazz up this place. Breaking the perception that Little India eateries serve only Indian cuisine, the vibrant Cafe Salivation (part of The Raj Group Restaurants) aims at satiating the vegetarian lover’s every craving from pastas, pizzas, burgers and sandwiches to Mexican wraps and eggless Western desserts. Accompanying the meal are refreshing drinks, mocktails and a variety of Italian coffees. Clients walk into Cafe Salivation as much for the Mexican Enchiladas Remo (with tortillas stuffed with stir-fried vegetables and topped with tomato sauce and white cheese sauce), as for the Kidney Bean Quesadilla, Paneer Pizza and Italian Penne Arrabiata. The restaurant also serves a grilled desi sandwich with potatoes, tomatoes and green coriander chutney, popularly found at every street corner in Mumbai, and the spicy scrambled paneer with toast. Three new dishes which have entered the menu are worth trying – Tortellni on a bed of salad greens; a creamy Pesto Fetutuccine and a lighter Vegetable Fettuccinie. The friendly, gracious owner Karen Raja is an ardent cook and this is apparent in the 48

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range of eggless desserts and cakes she makes which are very popular as takeaways too. These are as loved as the pancakes with maple syrup and the visually attractive strawberry parfait. Jain cuisine without onion and garlic is also available. 75 Syed Alwi Road. Tel: 62981412 Web: www.cafesalivation.com Meal for two: $25 (Rs 1,050)

Jelina Vegetarian Garden

Not compromising the curiosity of taste buds A garden-themed café with its sunflower yellow and apple green furniture and walls and a cosy line of green trellis with sunflowers and morning glory in full bloom welcome visitors and sets the mood for the multi-coloured cuisine. Bright posters propagating healthy eating replace art on two walls, while two others have shelves holding organic food products for sale. The owner, Jelina’s, motto is: Be kind to yourself, be kind to the world, be kind to animals. There are more reasons to eat here because only natural additives like camellia seed powder, bamboo charcoal and enzymes are used. Cookware is given as much importance as is evident from the unique

knife that prevents fruits and vegetables from oxidizing when cut. Detox juices are one of the top selling items – with a rich blend of nuts and fruits, with an ability to cleanse and detox the system. Whole grain Herbal Soups with a clear broth comes stocked with nutritional benefits from ingredients including mushrooms, Chinese yam with its nut-like taste and wolfberry. Looking as good as it tastes is Brown Rice and the sweet and fragrant Chinese Toon and other vegetables (wrapped in lotus leaf and steamed). The famed local Singaporean Nonya Curry is popular among foreigners too. The bright turmeric yellow coloured dish incorporates Camellia Seed oil that prevents harmful side effects formed by regular oil. 9 Cheong Chi Nam Road Opp. Bukit Timah Shopping Centre Tel: 64633962 www.jelinasqcare.com. Meal for Two: $20 (Rs 800)

LingZhi

Vegetarian Chinese goes haute LingZhi from the TungLok Group is the undisputed pioneer of haute vegetarian Chinese cuisine. Having been in the business for almost 15 years, the spacious flagship outlet remains on Orchard Road with another branch opened on Novena Square. The dishes at LingZhi are devoid of the

Nutritional herbal soups come with mushrooms, nutty-flavoured crunchy Chinese yam and wolfberry at Jelina.

LingZhi

Original Sin

SINGAPORE

mock meats/seafood and glutton products which are increasingly passing for ‘vegetarianism’. Mushroom lovers will find a gamut of choice here, as the chef expertly combines an assortment of these (some with woody overtones), with fruit and vegetables. Top of the list has to be the Vegetarian Mushroom Hot Pot, combining over 10 varieties of (shiitake, abalone, golden, black fungus, velvet, lingzhi, straw, button, white fungus and oyster) in either a clear, laksa or tom yam broth (available only at the Velocity @ Novena Square outlet). The signature dishes include the Sautéed Monkey Head Mushrooms with Dried Chilli and the Crispy Wild Mushrooms Aeroponic Vegetables Salad and Sautéed Honshimeji Mushrooms. Other delectable creations are the asparagus and capsicum served in a potato basket and the sautéed broccoflower and fungus with the chef's special blended sauce. Liat Towers#05-01, 541 Orchard Road Tel: +65-6734 3788 / Velocity @ Novena Square. #03-09/10, 238 Thomson Road Tel: 6538 2992 www.lingzhivegetarian.com Meal for two: $40 (Rs 1,700)

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Fine dining gourmet fare

The reigning, premier, by now-time-tested, Mediterranean vegetarian restaurant located in the expat-friendly Holland Village. Here, you can dine al fresco or in the cosy, candlelit interior with its earthy tones in mustard coffee tints. Proprietor and Culinary Director Marisa Bertocchi is one of the prime reasons for guests’ repeated visits. The lady obviously loves her vegetables and plays on multiple flavours and textures in each dish. Must-haves here are the Magic Mushroom comprising oven-baked portobello stuffed with ricotta cheese, spinach, pesto and pine nuts, topped with tomato basil sauce and mozzarella. Other dishes high on the list are the BoscoMisto comprising spinach, feta and tofu made into patties coated with crushed almonds and sesame seeds. The low-calorie Principessa Salad is a combination of vegetables drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Middle Eastern specialities are represent-

PITA PAN IS IS MAKING WAVES WITH ITS WHOLESOME ALLVEGETARIAN MEDITERRANEAN AND MID-EASTERN MEALS. THE BISTRO-CAFÉ IS LOCATED ON THE BOARDWALK, OPPOSITE THE ARTSCIENCE MUSEUM ALONG MARINA BAY SANDS’ WATERFRONT

ed via the mezze plate with servings of koresh, hummus, baba ganoush, tzatziki and falafel accompanied with pita bread. If you want something more substantial, order the Moussaka (baked layers of char-grilled eggplant, potato, tomato and lentils, infused with Middle Eastern spices). Whilst here, you should also try the Indianised Masala Pizza with eggplant and yogurt. And make sure to save space for desserts – the marble cheesecake and tiramisu get double thumbs up! Block 43, JalanMerah Saga Tel: 6475 5605 www.originalsin.com.sg. Meal for two: $60 to $80 (Rs 2,500-3,300)

Pita Pan

Mid-eastern & Mediterranean must haves! The new kid on the block is making waves with its wholesome all-vegetarian Mediterranean and Mid-Eastern meals. The bistro-café is located on the boardwalk, opposite the ArtScience Museum along Marina Bay Sands’ waterfront. Besides its location and reasonable prices, it’s weekly late night opening till 1am, and till 3am on weekends brings in the post-theatre and movie goers in for a late night snack. A larger-than-life portrait of owner Reena Pushkarna greets visitors from behind the May 2012 GO NOW

Interior of Whole Earth.

service counters. When she is in town, the Indian-Israeli celebrity chef and restaurateur who owns a host of other restaurants in Israel, is seen flitting between tables, talking to her guests. Topping the menu is the lightest falafel ever in regular, sun-dried tomato and basil flavours. For a pita pocket, opt fromwholewheat, za’atar or sumac – and garnish from an array of in-house sauces. Amba, the mango mustard is a must try. The Mediterranean Platter comprises the ubiquitous Hummus, Babaganoush, Dolma, Olives, Tabouleh and much more. But with Pita Pan’s ‘secret’ touch. The Shakshuka, a ragout of tomatoes, onions, capsicum to be mopped up with pita, is served with either an egg, or feta cheese. Salad choices are a mix-and-match from the 35 options available. Finally, select one of many fresh vegetable and fruit juices in combinations or plainto down your meals with. Pita Pan also does special no-onion / nogarlic meals for its Jain diners.

Maki at Zen Japanese Vegetarian

restaurant’s name in green, it’s the black silhouettes of people strolling, two with a dog on a leash, that makes Whole Earth come alive. Indoors again it is predominantly white which perhaps makes for an ideal setting for the multihued cuisine. The only vegetarian Peranakan and Thai food restaurant in Singapore was opened by its pioneering ‘green team’ in 2003 as the result of a calling to ‘serve healthy and enjoyable plantbased food from Mother Earth’. Peranakans, the descendants of Straits Chinese (early immigrants from Mainland China), inter-married Malays and imbibed their customs, culture, clothes, jewellery and food. The undisputed favourite, AsamPedas (literally, sour spicy in Malay) is crispy slices of bean curd in a flavourful sauce. The Oatmeal Tofu is all about textures and can substitute for rice or noodles. Made of shiitake mushrooms, the Nyonya Curry cooks for eight long hours on a slow fire. The Yam Treasure Ring is a treasure trove of vegetables, nuts and mushrooms. Thai dishes include the Battered Oyster Mushroom and Sweet and Sour Delight where textured soya merges with the natural sweetness of pineapple chunks.

in Singapore, As the name suggests the restaurant has an amazingly peaceful atmosphere. The modern style décor retains a tranquil simplicity in white and for privacy between fellow diners, the high partitions do the needful. Yet the open kitchen concept makes for an interactive setting common in most Japanese style eateries. The much-in-demand dishes are the ‘mock’ Unagi, Pork Cutlet, Cashew Chicken, Black Pepper Pork, Tempura, Tomato Rice. Other-must tries are Green Tea Soba and Buck Wheat Noodle and Grilled Skewer.A new addition to the menu is Smoked Duck and King Mushroom. Zen offers an option of set meals where the presentation is very eye catching and tempting Before you turn your nose up at the word ‘mock’ – the owners assure you that the food does not taste ‘fake’ - and does not contain gluten at all- and is healthy. Raw components for the mock meats consist of healthy natural ingredients like oats, wheat, cereal, soya, soya fibre and mushroom. These are combined in various quantities to make the fake meat get the right texture which is known to the owners only. As we go to press, the owners inform us that Zen is relocating to bigger, more clientfriendly premises early May.

SINGAPORE Pita Pan #01-87, Bay Level, The Shoppes At Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bay Avenue Tel: 66887450 www.pitapan.com.sg Meal for two: $25-$35 (Rs 1,050-1,400)

Whole Earth

76 Peck Seah Street. Tel: 6323 3308 www.wholeearth.com.sg Meal for two: $50-60 (Rs 2,100-2,500)

Wholesome food from Zen Japanese Vegetarian Mother Earth Tranquility enchances Along Peck Seah Street in TanjongPagar in dining experience the CBD, the side façade of the white building demands attention. Besides the logo and 50

GO NOW May 2012

The only pure vegetarian Japanese restaurant

For enquiries / update Tel: 6883 1586 Email: enquiryhz@hotmail.com Meal for two: S$40 (Rs 1,700) Text by AMITA SARWAL Photo courtesy 7 SENSATIONS, BEETS, BOMBAY CAFE, CAFE SALIVATION, JELINA, LINGZHI, ORIGINAL SIN, PITA PAN, WHOLE EARTH, ZEN JAPANESE VEGETARIAN

May 2012 GO NOW

WORLD TRAVELLER RESORTS

ocated on the periphery of the Khao Yai National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the luxurious Kirimaya Resort is a high-end nature retreat located just two hours from Bangkok. Popular with wealthy Thais, Kirimaya draws visitors keen to explore the park, indulge in lengthy spa treatments, or play golf (the resort has a Jack-Nicklaus design championship course). The area around Khao Yai rises from 400mts to 1,351 mts above sea level which translates into lower temperatures than Bangkok making Khao Yai considerably

cooler than the capital and a good option even in the summer months. While a large number of people head to the resort just to relax and rejuvenate, the biggest draw is definitely the National park: A huge number of flowering trees and shrubs, in addition to wild orchids and other rare plants bloom from December to May (which is also the best time to spot wild elephants and migratory birds). June and July are low-season but the most exciting time for nature-lovers: it rains for two-three hours in the forest every day during this period giving it a ‘forest in the mist,’ charm.Visitors can stargaze, watch wildlife up

close, traverse nature trails, tackle the challenging Kirimaya golf club, have a culinary adventure with the vineyard tour, rejuvenate at the Maya Spa, or simply laze by the pool. Kirimaya’s USP is its quietude and the feeling of complete isolation from the urban world. While the majority of visitors to Kirimaya come for weekend getaways, there’s a lot to do, and places to visit in the surrounding area if you decide to stick around for a longer period. The Night Safari at Khao Yai National park tour winds through mountain forests and grasslands and the vans are outfitted with special halogens to spot and il-

Kirimaya Resort: a green escape from

BANGKOK Head to the Kirimaya resort in Khao Yai national Park next time you want to take a clean break from hectic Bangkok

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VISITORS TO KIRIMAYA CAN STARGAZE, WATCH WILDLIFE UP CLOSE, TRAVERSE NATURE TRAILS, TACKLE THE CHALLENGING KIRIMAYA GOLF CLUB, HAVE A CULINARY ADVENTURE WITH THE VINEYARD TOUR, REJUVENATE AT THE MAYA SPA, OR SIMPLY LAZE BY THE POOL. KIRIMAYA’S USP IS ITS QUIETUDE AND THE FEELING OF COMPLETE ISOLATION FROM THE WORLD.

May 2012 GO NOW

luminate passing wildlife. Look out for deer, felines, porcupines and wild elephants. History buffs can take off early morning from the resort and head to the Ban Prasart Archaeological site. The site, believed to be over 3,000 years old, is a short drive from the Phimai Historical Park (which has the largest collection of Khmer buildings in Thailand. Dan Kwian, also known as the ‘land of ceramics,’ is Nakhon Ratchasima’s main ceramics centre. A couple of hours drive from Kirimaya, the hamlet is an excellent place to shop for jewellery, chimes, figurines and vases, all made with an rough-hewn exterior which is peculiar to the region.This kind of pottery is not found anywhere else in Thailand. For gastronomes, (especially those who aren’t squeamish!) a visit to the nearby Pakchong Night Market is an absolute must. Sample fried grasshoppers and other

factfile STAYING AT KIRIMAYA Accommodation Kirimaya’s lodging options combine the natural charm of Khao Yai with the lifestyle of contemporary living. Rooms, suites and unique tented villas are luxuriously spacious with idyllic views of unsurpassed greens and hills. A bit like a quiet haven with modern innovative designed luxury residences. Visitors have a choice between Plantation view rooms, Horizon View rooms, terrace suites and four gorgeous and incredibly luxurious tented villas. Rooms & Rates (Including Breakfast and afternoon tea) • Plantation View Rooms (Lower level including a private balcony) - Baht 9,000++ • Horizon View Rooms (Upper level including a private balcony) - Baht 10,000++

• Terrace Suites (with a private terrace) Baht, 17,500++ • Tented Villas - Baht 33,000++ For information and reservations, contact: Kirimaya, Khao Yai, 1/3 Moo 6 Thanarat Road, Moo-Si, Pakchong, Nakorn Ratchasima 30130 Thailand. Reservation: +66 (0) 44 426 000 Fax: +66 (0) 44 929 888 Email: reservation@kirimaya.com Web: www.kirimaya.com If you’re already in Bangkok, then you can also get in touch with the city reservation office at: Bangkok Sales Office, 10/F Tonson Tower 900 Ploenchit Road, Pathumwan Bangkok 10330 Thailand. Tel: +66 (2) 257 0455 - 7 Fax: +66 (2) 257 0459 Email: info@kirimaya.com

FACILITIES THE KIRIMYA GOLF CLUB The exclusive 18-hole championship golf course – designed by Jack Nicklaus – is set within natural surroundings with panoramic views of Khao Yai’s lush greenery and mountains. The course ranges from 4,875 yards (ladies) to an incredible 7,115 yards (tournament) and with its single-track layout, makes you feel as if you’re the only one on the entire course. It’s anything but a walk in the park though – be prepared for accurate point A to point B kind of golf. This course can’t be bullied into submission. MAYA SPA With four cooled indoor treatment parlours (and a Thai Massage parlour) and a Spa Gallery, and a host of Thai and international treatments on tap, the Maya Spa has become a destination in itself. CONFERENCES Expansive mountain views, a pristine world heritage rain forest, exclusive dining venues, and flexible meeting facilities are just a few key components of a successful event at Kirimaya Golf Resort Spa. The spacious 600 sqm function area is extremely flexible and includes the Grand Ballroom and up to two breakout rooms and one full furnished executive boardroom.

Khao Yai delicacies while you wander through the local fresh produce market. An authentic Thai dinner at a picturesque riverside restaurant (approximately 35 minute drive from the resort) is highly recommended. Wine lovers can also visit the local winery which produces grapes of four varieties including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Chenin Blanc. More than 25,000 bottles of red wine and 10,000 bottles of white wine are produced here annually. There are various wine-making and winetasting tours available. Text by MERAJ SHAH

GO NOW May 2012

INDIA TRAVELLER

The Leela Goa

Travel and Discover a Subcontinent

• Old Cochin – A Crucible of Cultures • Jaipur’s Jal Mahal – Restored to Old Glory • Goa Summer Special – Summer Packages at Top Hotels

INDIA TRAVELLER TRAVEL BUZZ

Cidade De Goa, Goa

Enticing Off-season Deal

The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts

Take a Heritage Holiday Summer Break with Oberoi The Oberoi Group has introduced ‘Unforgettable Holidays,’ packages this summer which centre on the group's heritage properties in northern India – The Oberoi Rajvilas in Jaipur (Rs 45000), Oberoi Udayvilas in Udaipur (Rs 48000), and the Oberoi Amarvilas in Agra (Rs 47000). The two-night packages include complimentary car transfers, stay in the hotel’s Premier Room, breakfast and lunch (or dinner) and a 15% discount on Oberoi’s spa therapies (there are also options for deals with breakfast only at the three properties). The offer is valid till 30th September 2012. For reservations or more information, call toll free 1800-11-2030 or email: reservations@oberoigroup.com

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Cidade De Goa, the five-star resort on the Vainguinim Beach in Goa, has come up with a tempting value-formoney offer to draw travellers in the lean period between April – June The package includes airport transfers; buffet breakfast at Café Azul or Laranja; happy hours at the Bar; 15% discount on F&B, on the Ayurveda spa at ‘Pavitra’ and at the beauty salon – Clube Saude; complimentary use of recreational facilities; daily live entertainment at the resort and daily movie screening. For children, there is complimentary use of Kidade – the resort’s game room – and babysitting between 9 am and 6 pm. Under this package guests can avail a discounted rate of Rs 8,000 (on weekdays) and Rs 8,500 (on weekends). The offer is valid till 30th June. For more information, visit www.cidadedegoa.com

IndiGo Adds Six New Flights IndiGo, the popular low-cost carrier, continues to expand its ever growing presence in the Indian skies with the launch of six new flights from Vishakhapatnam, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Effective from last month, IndiGo has added two new flights between Mumbai and Hyderabad, and a daily direct flight between Hyderabad and Vishkhapatnam. The frequency of flights between Mumbai and Vishakhapatnam via Hyderabad has also been increased.

Te Aroha, Dhanachuli

A Weekend Package for Dhanachuli Set in the verdant rustic setting of Dhanachuli in the Kumaon hills, Te Aroha is beckoning travellers with an enticing twonight, three-day package. The special package includes breakfast and lunch (or dinner). Visitors will be served a welcome drink on arrival and provided with morning tea, mineral water bottles, coffee and cookies in room. Children below the age of five-years can stay for no extra charge. The package, priced at Rs 15,900 is valid till 30th June 2012. For more information, call (91)-8755080735/36/37 or email info@tearoha.in

INDIA TRAVELLER TRAVEL BUZZ

Le Meridien, Jaipur, and Sheraton Udaipur Palace Resort and Spa

Rajasthan Getaway

Park Hyatt Hyderabad

First foray into India Le Meridien, Jaipur, and Sheraton Udaipur Palace Resort and Spa, are offering an exclusive summer package by which you can save an additional 20% if you stay at both the hotels! The package includes accommodation on double occupancy in a superior room, buffet

breakfast at the all-day dining restaurant, 20% discount on food and soft drinks, 15% off on spa treatments, 10% discount on travel desk services and another 10% off on laundry. Upgrades to a deluxe room cost an additional Rs 1,000 per room per night. An excellent alternative for

those looking at extended vacation Rajasthan.

an in

The offer is valid till 30th September 2012. For Sheraton Udaipur Palace Resort and Spa, call +91-294-3050002 and for Le Meridien, Jaipur, call +91-1415114455

India’s first city Park Hyatt Hotel has opened in Hyderabad. Contemporary and elegant, the hotel aims particularly at the business traveller and offers a sophisticated ambience in the heart of the upscale Banjara Hills neighbourhood. It also offers 42 fully serviced luxury apartments - The Residence – that offer five start amenities. The hotel is located about fifteen minutes away from Hi-Tech City and the business district. The next time you plan to visit the city, you might want to give Park Hyatt Hyderabad a visit!

Lemon Tree Hotels, Kerala

Backwaters Calling Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort, Muhamma, West of Kumarakom, Kerala offers a great package this summer. The visually stunning resort beckons you to take a dip in the resort’s infinity pool and rediscover yourself with a therapeutic Ayurveda spa treatment. The offer includes buffet American breakfast for two and buffet lunch or dinner for two at Citrus Café. The package is valid till 30th September 2012. For two nights and three days, the package starts at Rs 12,699. For more information or reservations, call +91-9911-701701

Ranbanka Palace, Jodhpur

An Educational Holiday Ranbanka Palace, the heritage hotel in Jodhpur is offering a royal heritage package ‘The Royal History Tour,’ aimed at folks who’d like to take their children for more than just a fun vacation this summer.The package is customisable and offers a comprehensive educational experience. Besides stay in the hotel’s deluxe room, all meals,

half day sightseeing in the city the package also includes daily live entertainment or cultural evenings at the hotel. Accommodation on triple sharing basis is also an option. This two night/three day package is valid till September 2012 and is priced at Rs 5,000 per student. For reservations, mail reservations@ranbankahotels.com May 2012 GO NOW

INDIA TRAVELLER DESTINATION

he fault-line that generally cleaves the sensibilities of India’s northern states from the South is very visible here in Old Cochin. Long before ‘heritage’ became a fashionable catchword, Kochi had already cordoned off its cobbled streets and historic mansions behind a protective barrier of spreading rain-trees. The predatory urban squalor that swiftly gobbles up monuments and historical consciousnessz in most Indian towns, is kept firmly leashed here – in fact confined to teeming Ernakulum across the causeway. Kochi is really made up of several parts. On the southern promontory is Old Cochin, which consists of Fort Cochin and

Mattancherry, and includes almost all the historic sights. A waterway separates it from Willingdon Island, the spotlessly clean hub of Kochi officialdom, and the nerve center of port Kochi. Ernakulum is the noisy, dynamic commercial heart. All of these parts are connected by causeways on which ferries ply. All of Fort Cochin area is a listed heritage site, and the best way to see it, is to walk through its shady avenues and narrow highwalled lanes. I paced myself alongside other walkers; backpackers liquefying alarmingly in the pre-thulavarsham sauna – the humidity that precedes the north-east monsoon. We passed a gaggle of young Malayali girls in crisp cotton saris on their way to college – a defin-

ing symbol, perhaps, of progressive Kerala. From under the shade of my wide-brimmed straw-hat I stopped to admire the Dutch and Portuguese mansions and bungalows. Built between the 16th and 19th centuries, these houses with their arched doorways, verandah seats, and brick facades grown over with bougainvillea were once the offices and homes of prosperous coffee merchants and tea-brokers. Officials and proprietors of Pierce Leslie & Co., Carritt Moran & Co., colonizers, adventurers, carpetbaggers, are all laid to eternal rest in these far-off cemeteries and churchyards. At the end of Princess Street with its well preserved European houses, I stopped at Loafer’s Corner for a drink of

OLD COCHIN CRUCIBLE OF CULTURES

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INDIA TRAVELLER DESTINATION tender coconut and then had it split open to nibble on strips of its cool translucent flesh. We wandered still further back in time, to the Jewish settlement at Mattancherry. This is really just a couple of streets lined with 17th century Dutch and traditional Kerala homes. With shuttered windows painted a faded blue or green, and grillwork in the shape of the Star of David, many of these old houses have now been converted to antique shops selling everything from brass menorah to hippie gear. It is a fascinating browse, and in one warehouse I found an entire 30ft. façade of an old Malabari mansion – verandah, doors, pillars et al, priced at a few modest lakhs! There are leather-bound copies of the Torah, African

400-year old Jewish Synagogue.

factfile GETTING THERE Visitors getting in by air will arrive at the Cochin International Airport. Travel time between Delhi and Kochi is around three hours. Travellers can take the KSRTC buses from the airport to get to their preferred destination in Kochi. Taxi services and car rentals are also available. Pawan Hans, located at the domestic terminal, operates helicopters to various parts of the city. To take a helicopter ride, prior booking is required. For those getting in by train, Kochi has two major rail terminals - Ernakulam Town Station and Ernakulam Junction Station (most major trains pass through this station).

The iconic Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi.

erotica carved in ebony, rare Chinese porcelain – treasures from all over the world. Jew Town was founded by Sephardic or ‘White Jews’ who fled the Inquisition in Spain and Portugal in the early 16th century. Here in Cochin, they set up prosperous businesses in timber, rice cotton goods and spice. The business houses with names like Forbes, Figgis, and Ewart still stand, still dealing in spice, coir, rubber and tea. At the end of a cul-de-sac in Jew Town, stands the 400 year old, beautifully preserved, Pardesi Synagogue where you could bump into one of the last few white Jews who still remain in Cochin. If that happens, do control the urge to whip out your camera. The tourist season makes them very surly, when they are stalked daily by an international ring of photo-terrorists. Earnest American Jews often make the pilgrimage here, gazing misty-eyed at the ancient scrolls of Mosaic Law in the Tabernacle, before leaving a fat roll of dollars in the offertory. Sharing a wall with the Synagogue is a

Colonial buildings in the heritage zone of Fort Kochi.

compound that houses a stupa-like Krishna temple that reflects Kerala’s encounter with Buddhism in the 8th century. Within the same compound stands the 16th century Mattancherry Palace, built in a synthesis of Portuguese, Dutch and Kerala styles. Not far from here is the leaning Coonen Cross, enduring symbol of faith for Kerala’s Mar Thoma Christians. Within a small area of a few square kilometers, are the preserved remains of at least 20 centuries, relics of at least 5 different faiths and 7 distinct cultures. Kochi has cradled more cultures in its rich and varied history, than any other place you’re likely to find in this country. Text & photographs by BHARATI MOTWANI

May 2012 GO NOW

INDIA TRAVELLER DESTINATION

Jaipur’s Jal Mahal Restored in Body and Spirit In a striking transformation, a once-derelict Jal Mahal, on the outskirts of Jaipur has been dramatically restored to its former glory. The project is a shining example of the merits of rescuing historical relics from obscurity and disrepair.

arsh as it may sound, our country does not have a good record of conserving historical buildings and monuments: almost as if we’ve subliminally internalized the understanding that all material things are evanescent and any attempt to hold the past is like seizing a fistful of breeze. Driving across India you can see scores of abandoned ruins – mansions, shrines and cenotaphs built by feudal clans, kings and governors. They rise out of mustard fields, rocky scarps and thorny scrub, just part of the terrain, scarcely noticed. Very often they are cannibalized for their bricks and stones by villagers. As a wise Indian once patiently explained to a Western visitor, ( who was horrified by such insensitivity to history), “You must understand sir, in India we burn our dead”. A reverence for relics is the mark of a modernized society that, because of accelerated change, senses a destabilization of identity, and so, feels a need to connect with and reaffirm its historical and cultural roots. In the last couple of decades India has begun to dust off and resurrect its monumental treasures creating ‘Heritage Hotels’ and undertaking exercises in architectural conservation and 60

GO NOW May 2012

restoration. We are rediscovering who we were in order to reaffirm who we are. Until six years ago the Jal Mahal in Jaipur was just another damaged and disregarded medieval pile. It stood in the middle of the badly polluted Man Sagar lake which lies on the outskirts of the city. Visitors could see the lake (and certainly smell the foul stench emanating from it!) on the way to the hilltop fort of Amer. And like so much of our medieval heritage, very little was known about Jal Mahal, except that it was built in the early 18th century by Sawai Jai Singh the founder of Jaipur, and that it was clearly a ‘pleasure pavilion’ and probably inspired by the water palaces of Udaipur. A year of delving through dusty records unearthed a single reference to it in the Bikaner State archives: that it was built in 1730 by Jai Singh for a sum of 30,000 monetary units. It is a four-storey structure, part of which is submerged. Set on a rock outcrop, it is built of stone that has marvelously withstood water erosion. Today as you stand at the new latticed sandstone railing at the waterfront, and gaze across the lake towards Jal Mahal – inured as we are to governmental callousness and our own lack of civic sensibility – you can tell

how beautiful our country once was, and how beautiful it can be with just a little will and good intent. The Man Sagar, till recently the stinking sump into which Jaipur’s sewage, solid waste and stormwater drained, is today clean and teeming with fish, stroked by fresh, fragrant breeze and filled with birdlife. To make this miracle happen, two million tonnes of toxic waste was dredged out, lowering the lake floor to almost twice its depth and ensuring that it remains full even in the summer. And though some of the waste of the city still drains into the Man Sagar, a new, revolutionary and almost entirely natural water treatment technique has lowered its BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand ) from a poisonous 800 mg/litre to just 20 mg/ litre (the idea is to get it down to five mg/litre. The Jal Mahal too has been restored and in fact, re-imagined. At dusk, it glows from across the waters like a topaz jewel, framed by the dark, craggy hulk of the Aravallis. A barge built by traditional boat-makers from Mathura with a heavy, carved wooden masthead in the shape of a mythical bird, carries you across the lake to a small jetty from where you enter the arcaded galleries of the palace. All restoration has been true to the

architectural and material integrity of the structure. The themed galleries have been redecorated with exquisite Rajasthani painted murals, mirrored ceilings and large digitally printed reproductions from the different Rajasthani schools of art. On the terrace, open to the sky, is the piece de resistance – a rooftop garden recreated in the ‘char-bagh’ style. Its centerpiece is a translucent white marble floor lit from within. Exquisitely inlaid with semi-precious stones in the traditional Mughal ‘pietra dura’ style, it is surrounded with fountains and a shrubbery of fragrant white flowers and Champa trees. Around the garden are gloriously painted and enameled ‘chattris’ glowing with muted light. It is truly a breathtaking vision. And all this is only one element of what will eventually be the ambitious Jal Tarang Experience. How did all this come about? The reviving of the lake and the restoration of the Jal Mahal are the cornerstones of a far larger project undertaken by the Government of Rajasthan with a private promoter under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. The company – Jal Mahal Resorts, a subsidiary of the KGK Group (whose core business is diamond jewelry), has been granted a 99 year lease of 100 acres around the lake. The Jal Tarang project, projected to cost Rs 1,000 crore, envisages a leisure zone around the lake that will be divided into public areas and hospitality areas. The

public areas which will be open late into the evening, will include a pedestrian area with restaurants overlooking the lake, a crafts bazaar, an amphitheatre for cultural performances, and jetties from where boats will row visitors to Jal Mahal or simply cruise the lake. The other part will have mid-market hotels with Convention spaces, a luxury resort and spa, all with a back-to-nature theme. Construction will be no more than two-storeys high, and will be located far from the waterfront. They will adhere to tough environmental guidelines, and most importantly, there will be only 13% coverage of these 100 acres – a figure significantly lower than the 20% legally permitted in eco-sensitive zones. A green canopy is being created by planting one lakh trees, some of them fully grown ones transplanted from where they had earmarked for felling because of expansion work on NH8. In the last 6 years a lake has been

factfile GETTING THERE Jal Mahal is roughly an hour’s drive from Jaipur (and half that is you’re driving from Old Jaipur) and located near the historic Amer Fort.

brought back from the dead, and a decrepit monument has been restored with enormous sensitivity and grace. The promoters have called in eminent experts like historian Giles Tillotson, architect Vibhuti Sachdeva, and conservation consultant Kulbhushan Jain (who has worked on the Mehrangarh, Nagaur and Amer fort conservation projects). There seems no reason to doubt that Jal Tarang will soon be a space that will transform Jaipur’s quality of leisure, public space and tourism without compromising on eco-ethics or good taste. When complete, the Jal Tarang project will marry the poetry of conservation with the prose of profitability. Text & photographs by BHARATI MOTWANI

May 2012 GO NOW

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

GOA RADISSON BLU RESORT GOA

Blu skies and virgin sands

here are those for whom a vacation in Goa is synonymous with pub-hopping from Tito's to Mambo's; and then there are those who go to the tropical beach destination to get some time out to rejuventate, relax and contemplate. If you're of the latter variety, then you'll love the untouched charms of the picturesque Cavelossim beach in south Goa. Perhaps the prettiest beach in all of Goa, Cavelossim is hemmed in by the Arabian

On Offer

Summer Package: Radisson Blu Resort Goa has a three nights/four days Summer Package on offer. The package includes airport and Margao railway station transfers, buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, high tea, two pints of beer (house brands), two aerated soft beverages, jar of cookies and cashew nuts, happy hours at the bar, 15% off on laundry, 20% discount on beauty salon/spa, and halfday sightseeing. The offer is valid till 30th September 2012. The package is priced at Rs. 28,000 for a Superior Room and Rs. 31,000 for a Premium Room. For reservations or more information, call (+91)-(22)-65340310/ (+91)-88888 19181/ (+91)-8888848034 or email siyer@rdresortgoa.com or resvmum@rdresortgoa.com

GO NOW May 2012

Sea and the Sal River, and offers beautiful seascapes and views of green paddy fields. One of the few properties on this unspoilt piece of sand and surf is the Radisson Blu Resort. The Resort is a 5-star deluxe property spread over ten acres of gardens and coconut groves. Its 132 rooms and suites are inspired by Goan-Portuguese architecture. The hotel offers all the facilities that you would expect from a luxury brand like Radisson - Wi-Fi facilities inside and outside the rooms, 24-hour room service, conference hall, banquet facilities, board room, swimming pool, fully equipped business centre and the works. An interesting fact is that the lobby of the resort is designed to resemble a self-contained Portuguese hill hamlet! When you are choosing a room at the hotel, you can take your pick from the 30 Superior Rooms with a sea view, a lawn view and a pool view; 96 Premium Rooms (villa structure with two, three and four rooms) that give you a garden view; two Executive Suites with a lawn and a pool view; and four Radisson Suites (villa structure) that offer a garden view and a water body view. The hotel houses two restaurants and one bar. The 'Upper Deck' is the hotel's 24hour coffee shop where you can enjoy a

scrumptious buffet breakfast from 7.30 am to 10.30 am, buffet lunch from 12.30 pm to 3 pm and buffet dinner from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. It serves a combination of Mediterranean and Indian cuisines. 'Lucio,' - a Goan Portuguese cuisine restaurant focuses on live cooking, and is open for dinner from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm. The wellstocked lounge bar - Sagres - where all the snacks are presented with a 'Tapas' style modern twist is open from 11 am to 11 pm. Guests can also take advantage of the 24hour in-room dining menu for those late night hunger pangs.

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

GOA FORTUNE SELECT REGINA

Fortune Favours Summer Travellers

estled between the Sahyadri Ghats to the East and the Arabian Sea to the west, Goa is a diverse destination and one of the tourist hotspts in the country. With

On Offer

SUMMER PACKAGES 2012 Located in Candolim, North Goa, the idyllic epicentre of holidays, Fortune Select Regina is an ideal retreat for a fun-filled vacation with family and friends. The package priced at Rs. 7999 (per night on double occupancy for minimum 2 nights stay) for a stay at the Luxury Room, includes room, airport/railway station transfers, welcome drink, buffet breakfast, lunch or dinner, 20% discount on salon, spa & laundry, complimentary use of swimming pool and gymnasium, and taxes. The offer is valid till 30th September 2012. For reservations or more information, please call 1800-102-2333 (toll free) or visit www.fortunehotels.in

picture-perfect beaches, a laidback island vibe and vibrant cosmoplitan atmosphere, Goa has a lot to offer the discerning traveller: whitesand beaches, lush green spice farms, wildlife and bird sanctuaries, music, dance and local folk theatres, clubs, pubs, exciting night markets, gourmet dining, backwaters and adventure sports. Situated in a quiet, peaceful alcove in this tropical Eden is Fortune Select Regina – a contemporary upscale full service hotel overlooking verdant rice fields and hills with wide, panoramic views to its east which sweep over the main Candolim Church. The hotel blends vibrant energy with comfortable architecture, offering an ideal destination for a memorable holiday or a perfect business trip. Fortune Select Regina is conveniently located off the main road to Fort Aguada in Candolim, North Goa. It's just a seven minutes walk from the magnificent Candolim beach. The hotel has been created with a carefully crafted blend of contemporary style and traditional aesthetics to provide premium accommodation. The hotel offers a selection

of 102 well appointed rooms including 70 Standard Rooms, 25 Fortune Club Rooms, six Suites and one Room for the differently-abled. The rooms have been tastefully upholstered in contemporary décor and are equipped with all modern amenities. All rooms also offer a private balcony (there are select rooms with the pool and landscape view). Fortune Select Regina has a bouquet of dining options including Orchid – the multi-cuisine restaurant; Nostradamus – A Lounge & Bar; Verandah – an open air extension to Orchid with poolside seating & a barbeque grill station operating periodically during the week. For travellers with children, the property offers a designated pool section and play room. A well-equipped gymnasium overlooking the swimming pool, Spa and Salon (with Jacuzzi and sauna) are just a few other facilities that the property has on offer for its guests. Panoramic views of the peaceful countryside await you, with the beach and all the action just a short walk away. Come, enjoy a memorable vacation and let Fortune shine on you in the land of sun, sand and fun! May 2012 GO NOW

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

G O A THE LALIT

Tee Off at the Lalit

On Offer

The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort Goa Accommodation

SGL/DBL

Rate

Garden View Suite

SGL DBL

24,999 28,999

Sea View Suite

SGL DBL

27,999 31,999

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lthough thesummer season is a lean period for toursits in Goa, there are scores of vacationers who visit precisely to experence the tropical paradise come alive in the monsoon rains. The Lalit Golf and Spa Resort in Goa is the perfect combination of quietude and world-class facilities to base yourelf in to explore the state, and catch a round or two of golf wheile you’re there. An all-suite property located near the Raj Baga Beach (a 90 minute drive from the airport and 45 minutes from the Madgaon Railway station), the hotel has a strong influence of baroque Portuguese architecture (with some Goan aspects blended into it). The sprawling twin-storey structure is nestled amidst formally landscaped gardens and Goa’s only golf course. Outfitted with rustic-look chandeliers and Extra Person Duration long-poked oldfashioned ceiling 03 nights/ 9,000 fans exmpllify the 4days hotel’s take on Goa’s Portu-

guese heritage. There are four types of suites – the Sea View Suites, the Luxury Suites, Presidential Suite and the Garden View Suite. All the suites have private attached verandahs and are equipped with inroom five-star facilities. From a trendy bar to various dining avenues, beach activities, a holistic spa, water activities, The Lalit has every conceivable amenity and facility on tap. The resort also boasts of its own luxury yacht and a Helipad. Winner of the Best Resort Hotel by Asia Pacific International Hotel Award in Association with Bloomberg Television, The Lalit Golf & Spa Resort is one of the most exquisite, beautiful and secluded beach resorts in the state. The Lalit’s various F&B options include the Canacona – a multi-cuisine restaurant; the Gazebo – a fascinating sunken pool bar; Sirocco – a Mediterranean Restaurant; SeaBQ – offering grilled steaks and seafood; Corta’s the beach shack (seasonal; and Veri Feni – the hotel bar. The in-house Rejuve Spa spread over 15000 sq ft (the second largest in the state) offers a variety of treatments. Attached to the spa are a gymnasium, a yoga studio, wet area (comprising of Steam, Jacuzzi, Chill pool, Pulsating shower and chilled shower), and 10 state-of-the-art treatment rooms.

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

GOA THE LEELA GOA

Refurbished for Extreme Luxury

he Leela Goa has recently completed an exciting refurbishment project and is now ready to serve its guests with luxurious vacation experiences this holiday season. An aesthetically appealing confluence of Portuguese and Indian design spread across 75 acres of green sanctuary and fresh water lagoons, this beachside resort in south Goa is now ready for a busy summer and

On Offer

Summer Packages Bed & Breakfast/All Meals Visitors can choose between three types of rooms: Lagoon Terrace – Rs 8,500/11,000 (which accommodates a couple), Conservatory Premiere – Rs 9,500/12,000 and Lagoon Suites – Rs 13,500/16,000 (which can accommodate a family). The package includes airport transfers, one buffet breakfast and complimentary usage of the Steam bath & Sauna. In the All Meals package guests also get a buffet lunch and dinner (per person). Club Exclusive Indulgence For those looking for upper-crest luxury, the hotel is offering this package for its Club Suites (Rs 25,000) and Club Pool Suites (Rs 30,000). The package includes airport transfers by luxury sedan, a club breakfast ( in the lounge or ensuite), afternoon tea and coffee, laundry service, usage of the club lap pool and a personalized butler service.

monsoon season ahead. The exclusive resort that has been hugely popular with both Indian and overseas guests, now boasts of a range of 206 new and refurbished rooms with modern amenities to choose from, along with a new restaurant. The new Lagoon Suites are ideal for family getaways and can accommodate two adults and two children under the age of 12. Featuring a spacious bedroom and a living room, each Lagoon Suite includes a private balcony overlooking the lagoon and a choice of one or two marble bathrooms. The modernised rooms also feature dark wood floors throughout, Indian textiles and Dedon balcony furniture. The Lagoon Terrace Rooms reflect elegance through thoughtful styling. Each of these spacious rooms has a private balcony overlooking the lagoon and its greenery, as well as a garden entrance. The resort’s new dining experience, The Restaurant, designed by Jeffrey Wilkes of Malaysian firm Design Wilkes, features interactive live kitchens serving Indian, Western and Asian cuisines. Offering all-day dining with both, alfresco (108 seats) and indoor seating (134 seats), The Restaurant offers stunning views of the pool, the resort’s executive golf course as well as the azure expanse of the Arabian Sea. ‘Jamavar,’ The Leela’s signature fine din-

ing Indian restaurant has also been introduced at The Leela Goa to complement the existing repertoire of culinary offerings currently available. These include Riverside – an Italian restaurant on the banks of the River Sal, Susegado – the beachfront grill restaurant which serves local fresh seafood, the Pool Bar which serves refreshing cocktails, juices and a selection of cold drinks and light snacks and the Yali Lounge (which serves beverages and appetizers).

May 2012 GO NOW

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

GOA ALILA DIWA

South Goa’s Tranquil Haven

ocated on the quiet southern beach of Majorda, Alila Diwa, is an excellent get away for individuals and families looking for a private beach holiday in Goa. This serene resort offers a double helping of captivating views. On one side, the wild expanse of Majorda beach unfurls alongside the Arabian Sea; on the other, lush paddy fields create a vivid green horizon. Whether enjoying an intimate couple’s retreat or a getaway for the entire family, the resort’s 153 rooms and suites offer havens of space, comfort and serenity, while the resort’s new Diwa Wing is an enclave of exclusivity, boasting its own lap pool with an open air

On Offer

GOAN ESCAPE PACKAGE Three nights in a Family Terrace room at Alila Diwa Goa is up for grabs at Rs 27,800++ for visitors between May and September. For guests checking in on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday between June and September, the fourth night is free. Price includes accommodation for two adults and two children under 12 (sharing); breakfast, lunch and dinner at VIVO restaurant and return airport transfers as well as a host of added extras including spa and beverage vouchers and complimentary usage of the kids club. For reservations visit www.alilahotels.com/diwagoa or call +91 832 2746800.

GO NOW May 2012

Jacuzzi and hot tub. For those looking for something more lavish, Alila Diwa has an entire annexe dedicated to the pursuit of luxury! The recently opened Diwa Wing caters to those with a penchant for perfection and privacy – with bespoke services designed to ensure the pinnacle of personalised attention. Starting with the in-room check-in and breakfast in bed ritual, this is truly an indulgence worth experiencing. There are also lots of activities to keep kids busy – from a dedicated children’s pool with day beds and outdoor children’s park to a teen zone with Wii stations and a private movie theatre. A wealth of Alila experiences are also available to allow families to explore the fascinating state, whether it’s finding out how to bake Goan bread or visiting spice plantations to learn where the vanilla in vanilla ice cream comes from.

Fresh From The Catch: Take a scenic drive to the bustling fish market and select your choice of the morning's fresh catch. Head back to the resort where you can learn to cook up a local delicacy at our Alila Cooking School, or have your fish served as part of your dining experience. Two hours per couple: Rs 2,500 ++ / per person: Rs 2,000 ++

Three Kings Chapel Tour: Enjoy a gourmet experience with a twist atop a hill beside the mystical Three Kings Chapel in the nearby scenic village of Cuelim. Two hours per couple: Rs 3000 ++ Spice Plantation Tour: Take a tour of a 200year-old local spice plantation. You can buy freshly processed spices from the plantation, and back at the resort, the chef will show you how to rustle up a scrumptious meal using your collection. Three hours per couple: Rs 3,500++

INDIA TRAVELLER SUMMER GOA SPECIAL

GOA PARK HYATT GOA

Sun, Sand and the Beach

he sun, sand, and beach typify a vacation in Goa, and there’s no time better than the summer for a true-blue beach experience – unclutttered by crowds and beach shacks – than the summer. The summer months attract only those vacationers who’re out to get a taste of authentic Goa. One of the best places to stay, if what you’re looking for is solitude and privacy, is the Park Hyatt –conveniently located along the pristine Arossim Beach and a 15-minute drive from the airport. There’s a complimentary air-conditioned shuttle service to and fro the airport. The hotel also boasts of the one of the largest swimming pools in India shaped to resemble a lagoon and surrounded by palm trees and lush tropical gardens with spectacular views of the Arabian Sea. The view from the rooms is equally breathtaking with a clear line of sight to the water body and a manicured lawn. The architecture of the hotel is rather dramatic and intended to resemble an Indo-Portuguese village (with 250 Pousada style rooms and suites). The Park Hyatt has a genrous sampling of F&B outlets – eight in fact, headlined by the Casa Sarita which offers traditional Goa cuisine and The Wine Room (well-known for its exclusive wine tasting sessions). Those who do not consder a vacation complete without a spa session can head for

Sereno –voted the ‘Favourite Destination Spa’ at the Conde Nast Traveller India Readers’ Travel Awards 2011 and ‘Top 10 Relaxation Spa Hotels in India,’ at the TripAdvisor 2011 Travellers’s Choice Awards. So, if your kids’ summer breaks have just started and you are planning a short relaxing summer trip, head to Goa and book yourself a room at the Park Hyatt. Relax at the spa, have fun at the pool, eat and drink to your heart’s content, basically have the time of your life at Goa.

On Offer

Tropical Escape Package Park Hyatt Goa Resort and Spa announces the ‘Tropical Escape’ package – a two night, three day experience at this picturesque holiday destination in Goa. The ‘Tropical Escape’ package includes the following: • Daily buffet breakfast at the Village Square • Food and beverage credit of INR 3,000 per night • 20% discount at Sereno Spa and on laundry services • Round trip airport transfers in an air conditioned shuttle • Daily yoga classes and lifestyle consultation for a couple at Sereno Spa The “Tropical Escape” package starts at INR 25,432 plus taxes on double occupancy. Sereno Spa Summer Specials Indian Clay Body Wrap – the summer skin detox Relax and find solace in the healing characteristics of Indian herbs as they strengthen elasticity and minimise toxic deposits. The Indian clay works by

stimulating the lymphatic system, and thereby detoxifying the system. Indian clay is responsible for its amazing detoxifying properties, like a magnet the clay absorbs toxic elements from the body and helps remove impurities and dirt from the pores of the skin. It also helps to balance the oil levels in the skin, thus giving an even complexion and texture to skin. The added tea tree oil is useful in reducing oil secretions during summer. INR 3,500 plus taxes for 60 minutes. Cooling Aloe and Lavender Masque Calm and soothe your skin with a mask rich in amino acids and Aloe Vera, nature’s most active vehicle for healing. Enriched with the calming qualities of lavender and Aloe Vera, this wonderfully cooling body mask will leave skin glowing. It is recommended for those with oily skin, sunburn or very sensitive skin. INR 3,500 plus taxes for 60 minutes.

May 2012 GO NOW

TOURISMCONNECT

Also

Bringing together diverse stakeholders of the national tourism product

Former President Kalam advocates mission mode for development of Indian Passenger Jets • Chilika - A Conservation Success Story • Delhi Airport’s Economic Impact - A Report • Convention - First Ever NGO India Pulls in Crowds • A Case for Reviving The Yamuna • Excerpt - Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s Speech on Civil Aviation May 2012 GO NOW

CONNECT AVIATION

At the inuaguration of the International Aviation Economics Conference in New Delhi, seen from (L to R) – P.S. Nair, CEO, DIAL; GM Rao, chairman, GMR Group; E.M. Zaidi, secretary Civil Aviation; ex-President Abdul Kalam and others.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam recently addressed the participants at the first International Aviation Economics Conference on the theme - Economic Importance of Airports in the Nation’s Growth and Development. Here we present a few excerpts from his speech.

“A

viation has multiple components. Aviation growth is a function of the design, development and pro duction capacity of passenger jets and its various subsystems in a country. . .. The time has come for Civil Aviation Ministry to study and take up a mission mode project for development, production and marketing of Indian Passenger Jets as a 15year task, irrespective of the changing politico-bureaucratic situation in the country. This will enable, shining of Indian Aviation sector instead of growing US and European Economy through large scale purchase of aircraft systems by Indian Aviation establishment and other private enterprises. ...

Economic Impact of Airports I am happy to release the Economic Impact Study Report for Delhi and Hyderabad airports prepared by GMR in partnership with National Council for Applied Economic Research (NCAER). It is reported in this document that, by the year 2020, the overall 70

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economic impact of Delhi Airport is expected to be about trillion rupees which will be 0.7% of national GDP. Of course, it will add multiple impacts in Delhi city economy and other areas. I am very happy to know that Delhi Airport has been rated as the second best airport worldwide in 25 to 40 million passenger carrying category for airport service standards. Of course our airport is ranked 47th out of 100 international airports in terms of passenger traffic in 2010. I studied PS Senguttuvan’s Principles of Airport Economics....and I would like to convey about the master plan of Chicago airport which will be completed in 2013 at the modernization cost of 20 billion dollars, resulting in saving of $750mn per year and enable reduction of weather related delays by 95% and over all delays by 79%. .. I understand, for maximizing the downstream economic benefits of Air Services many countries in the world are following the open sky policies in air transport services. I would suggest the conference may like

to discuss on open sky policies and its challenges and make its recommendation to the government.

Growth of Aviation Business Today, civil aviation in India has grown into nearly 4200 arrivals and departures per day in addition to surveillance of 900 flights overflying the Indian aerospace. Our airlines and foreign airlines both domestic and international put together carry around 150 million passengers per year. The cargo carried per year is around 1.5 million tonnes. The real growth in the airline industry started after the commencement of liberalization process in 1991, when private sector started operating airlines in the country. The second major breakthrough was in 2004 when Captain Gopinath started the low cost airline model in the Indian aviation sector and then the birth of competitive air transportation system. Simultaneously, to meet the demands of large number of landings and takeoff and air traffic penetrating into smaller cities and

CONNECT AVIATION towns, large investment took place in airport expansion, modernization and creation of new airports. The introduction of low cost airlines increased the passenger capacity to a substantial extent, but has severely affected the profitability of all airlines both private and public barring two airlines, who are operating profitably and also maintaining 99% on-schedule movement. The airport economy is the function of how the airlines profitably performing. The time has come either to introduce competitive new airlines within the country or abroad and restructuring every airline for higher levels of efficiency and productivity resulting in competitive human power cost and fuel cost.

Global Aviation Sector The global aviation industry presently is generating 56.6 million jobs and contributes over US$2.2 trillion of global GDP. It has also a strong track record of fuel efficiency and CO2 emission saving, making it a promoter of sustainable development. Compared to the global contribution, Indian aviation industry provides employment for 1.7 million people and contributes US$18 billion which is just 1.5% of our GDP, whereas a country like Dubai employees 2,50,000 people and generates an economic output of over US$22 billion. When we compare the population and the number of passengers for United States with over 300 million people transports over 1.4 billion passengers in a year leading to 4.5 airport passenger per head of population every year, whereas India with over 1 billion population scores just 0.125 airport passenger per person, because only 150 million air passengers travel every year.

Airport Infrastructure India has around 450 airfields, however only around 85 airports are operational. Only six metro airports are responsible for more than 70% of the traffic. Air Traffic Management has become an urgent issue to be addressed at the metro airports. ... Our challenge is to expand the operationalization of Air fields in the interior regions of the country. Barring Delhi airport, the other airports in India are not equipped with all weather, day and night capability. Flight delays and flight cancellations are routine during the peak winter season in the northern parts of India. ... There is need to address the issues of both en-route navigation and precision nav-

President Kalam releases the NCERT Study on Impact of Delhi Airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contribution to the economy of the city. Also in the picture (second from left) is GM Rao, chairman, GMR Group.

igation for overall efficient operation and cost saving for the airlines.

Transform India to be Tourist Destination of the World Indian aviation cannot wait till tourism in India grows in the course of time. Indian aviation has to be a great partner to tourism industry to push up tourist traffic. We have had a long tradition of religious and spiritual tourism. But it is important to make the travel, stay and the ambience of the tourist enjoyable. ..

Vision for Aviation Business in India I would like to give my visualization of aviation business in India during the year 2030. 1. Aviation business will contribute at-least 5% to the GDP of India by 2020 and 8% to the GDP in the year 2030. 2. The number of passenger traveled in a year will be over 1.3 billion per year leading to one passenger per person including tourist traffic. 3. All airports will have all whether capability of landing and takeoff. This will be executed in phases, first all the metros and subsequently the tier2, tier3 towns and cities. 4. There will be no unnecessary hovering of the aircraft at the destination leading to increase in fuel efficiency and 100% on time performance of the air transportation system. 5. There will be seamless road or rail connectivity for the passengers to reach the airport without undue congestion and reduced commuting time, as has already been done in

Delhi through metro rail. 6. All the airports of India will be passenger friendly embedded with foolproof single stage security system and facilitate the passenger to report to the aircraft without delay through informed en-route voice and display guidance. 7. All our airlines will have high capacity utilization, minimum fuel consumption and improved cost effective airport and aircraft service provision leading to overall profitable operation. 8. India will have its own passenger jet which will start forming the main passenger carrier for the country?s airlines. It will be a publicprivate-partnership programme.

Conclusion: Creative Leaders in Aviation I want to convey to you what I have learnt on leadership from working at DRDO, ISRO, and PURA. 1. Leader must have a vision. 2. Leader must have a passion to transform the vision into action. 3. Leader must be able to travel into an unexplored path. 4. Leader must know how to manage a success and failure. 5. Leader must have courage to take decision. 6. Leader should have nobility in management. 7. Every action of the leader should be transparent. 8. Leader must work with integrity and succeed with integrity. May 2012 GO NOW

CONNECT AIRPORTS

Delhi Airport Contributes 0.45% to National GDP and 13.53% to Delhi’s GSDP India’s Civil Aviation Sector has also attempted to keep pace with the rising demands from economic growth. This study provides an assessment of the economic impact of Delhi International Airport on the regional and the national economies in terms of output, value add (income) and employment.. 72

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odernization and expansion of infrastructure is crucial to economic growth and development. India’s Civil Aviation Sector has also attempted to keep pace with the rising demands from economic growth. This study provides an assessment of the economic impact of Delhi International Airport on the regional and the national economies in terms of output, value add (income) and employment.

About Delhi Airport ● Delhi airport is one of the busiest and fastest growing airports in the country and the Asia Pacific region. It is ranked 1st in the country in terms of passengers and 2nd in terms of freight. It is also ranked as the 2nd best airport worldwide in the 25–40 million passengers category for Airport Service Standards (ACI ASQ Rating, 2011). Delhi airport connects 51 international and 41 domestic routes. It ranks 47th in the world’s top 100 international airports in terms of passenger traffic in 2010. ● During 2010–11, Delhi airport handled 29.94 million passengers and was ranked at the top spot in the total passengers handled in the country surpassing

CONNECT AIRPORTS Mumbai airport (29.07 million). During 201112, Delhi Airport handled approx 35.94 million (Provisional) passengers ● The traffic ratio of Delhi airport is 31:69, that is 31.0 per cent are international travelers and the remaining traffic is domestic. ● In tourism, 91 per cent of the foreign tourists arrived by air in India in 2010 out of which Delhi airport’s contribution was 34 per cent, the highest amongst the metropolitan airports. ● In terms of economic performance, a major portion of Delhi airport’s revenue comes from non-aeronautical services (44.8 per cent) followed by aeronautical services (36.4 per cent) and the remaining portions of revenue comes from services like cargo, CPD and other income. ● In aeronautical revenue, airlines landing fee contributed about 69.5 per cent followed by passenger fee (26.4 per cent) in 2010–11. In the non-aeronautical revenue, the highest percentage share came from rental and services followed by retail and concession. ● DIAL’s total expenditure suggests that the share of operating expenditure in total expenditure was the highest in 2010–11 (49.4 per cent) followed by staff costs (25.8 per cent) and administration and other costs (24.8 per cent). ● The total revenue per pax increased from Rs. 419 in 2008–09 to Rs 421 in 2010–11. On the other hand, total cost per pax declined substantially from Rs. 195 in 2008–09 to Rs.188 in 2010–11. However, the revenue and cost ratio remained within the range of 1.2 to 1.3 since 2008–09.

Passenger Profile A sample survey of passengers was carried out in this study to understand the profile of passengers using the airport and their expenditure pattern. In this survey, a total of 4,747 passengers were surveyed, out of which 3,278 (69.1 per cent) were domestic and 1,468 (30.9 per cent) were international passengers. The ratio is not an estimate of the ratio of international to domestic passengers but it is merely a description of the sample. The survey was spread over 10 days in the domestic and international departure and arrival sections. ● Among the Indian residents travelling by international flights, the top 20 per cent reported an average monthly income to the extent of Rs 4.2 lakh per month and the

bottom 20 per cent had a monthly income of Rs 15, 525 per month. ● Among non-Indian residents travelling by international flights, the top one-fifth had a monthly personal income to the extent of US$ 18.7 thousand per month. The monthly personal income reported by the 1st quintile group (or bottom 20 per cent) was US$ 712 per month. ● The spending profile of air passengers in Delhi suggested that about 70 per cent of those who had come for business purposes spent more than Rs 5,000 on hotels. Similarly, about 80 per cent of the passengers who had come for tourism purposes spent more than Rs 5,000 on hotels. About 70 per cent of the passengers in these two categories spent between Rs 1,001–10,000 on transportation. ● On the quality of services at Delhi airport, about 60 per cent of passengers said that they were ‘good’ and 20 per cent said ‘excellent’ on a scale of (poor/fair/average/ good/ excellent).

impact of the construction phase would, therefore, be three times this estimate but spread over three years. This total impact of construction phase in a year comprises of: ● INR 25.7 billion directly contributed through value added. ● INR 42.6 billion indirectly contributed through supply chain (multipliers impact).

Contribution to Employment Delhi airport’s operation sector contributes 1578 thousand jobs (0.34 per cent of national employment) and this represents as a ratio to Delhi’s employment a significant 25.9 per cent.

The Total Comprises of: ● 64 thousand directly contributed jobs. ● 452 thousand indirectly contributed jobs

through supply chain (multiplier impact). ● 1062 thousand jobs in induced impact

through tourism and investment. Delhi airport’s construction activities

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DELHI AIRPORT’S OPERATION SECTOR CONTRIBUTES 1578 THOUSAND JOBS (0.34 PER CENT OF NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT) AND THIS REPRESENTS AS A RATIO TO DELHI’S EMPLOYMENT A SIGNIFICANT 25.9 PER CENT.

Economic Impact of Delhi Airport Contribution to Indian and regional GDP

Delhi airport’s operations contributed in (2009–10) Rs 294.7 billion (0.45 per cent) to the national GDP and its contribution relative to Delhi’s GSDP is 13.53 per cent. The total comprises of: ● Rs 42.9 billion directly contributed through value added (air transport and airport services) ● Rs 77.2 billion indirectly contributed through supply chain (multipliers impact). ● Rs 174.6 billion in induced impact through tourism and investment. By 2020, the overall economic impact of Delhi Airport is expected to be approx Rs 909.5 billion, which will be 0.7 per cent of the National GDP and relative to Delhi’s GSDP would be 22.2 per cent. Delhi airport’s construction sector contributed INR 68.23 billion (0.104 per cent) to the national GDP (in 2009–10) and its contribution relative to Delhi’s GSDP is 3.13 per cent. This is a one-time impact which includes one-third of the total project cost. The total

contributed total 614 thousand jobs in each of the three years of construction phase. This total comprises of: ● 35 thousand directly contributed jobs. ● 579 thousand indirectly contributed jobs through multiplier effects. The study has illustrated the significant linkages of the Civil Aviation Sector with the rest of the economy. It has highlighted the catalytic role the sector can play in supporting economic growth of the region and the country. We should also note that linkages of the national and regional economies are also multifaceted and exact demarcation of these effects is also difficult. The study has required use of combination of approaches and assumptions to come up with the estimates of the economic impact, given the complexity of the sector. We believe that the insights from the study would be of significant value to the understanding of the role of the sector in the economy and to policies to enhance the positive effects of infrastructure development. May 2012 GO NOW

CONNECT ECOLOGY

In a rare example of environmental work carried out by authorities, the wetlands of Chilika in Orissa have come off the worldwide endangered list and developed into an award-winning model of selfsustaining ecological balance.

CHILIKA: BEYOND TRAVEL GUIDES

his is a multi-layered destination.. At one level, it’s ideal for the average tourist. It offers unwinding, something a little different, and a chance to have been to a place were most of their friends haven’t. More especially, however, it is for those who have ‘Seen It, Done That’: those who are tired of package tours and the stereotyped prattle of guides herding groups of panting visitors. And finally, it is also for those who are driven by an insatiable curiosity to discover new lifestyles, to boldly probe where few other tourists have probed before. All this with a reasonable amount of comfort, of course. Even the Star Trekkers had all their futuristic comforts on Star Ship Enterprise. Our Enterprises, for these two excursions, were the Orissa Tourism Development Corporation’s Pantha Nivases in Rambha and Satpada, 130 and 110 kms, respectively from Bhubaneshwar. We particularly relished their vegetarian and seafood dishes. This is a delectable cuisine waiting to be discovered.

We stayed in two different Tourist Bungalows because Chilika lake spreads over 906 sq kms growing to 1165 sq. kms in the monsoons. The cottages in Rambha offered serene, horizon-stretching views of the lake all through the day looking like evocative silk-screen paintings at dawn and sunset. The lake, here, has a number of little, wooded, islands for picnics and there are cruises during which you might see the rare Irrawady dolphins. We saw them but, because they don’t leap out as high as sea dolphins do, they are very difficult to photograph. In winter, however, the lake hosts a million birds belonging to 225 species, many flying in from Russia, the steppes of Mongolia, Southeast Asia and Ladakh. These winged visitors include the oddly elegant flamingoes whose plumage blazes scarlet on a diet of Chilka’s shrimps and prawns. These million birds compete with 12,363 families of fisher-folk living in 132 villages around the lake. That, generally, is as much as the casual visitor wants. Having said that, however, an increasing number of tour-

The sky filled with migratory birds. 74

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CONNECT ECOLOGY Boats and the unusual prawn ‘farms’.

ists are being inspired by Nat.Geo, Animal Planet and Discovery. They, like us, are interested in probing a little deeper and asking questions. “What are those strange reed and net structures standing in the lake?”. “They are prawn pens” a fisherman said. “Prawns swim up rivers to lay their eggs and the hatchlings hide in shallow water near the banks. From there they are collected by families specializing in this skill and sold to us. We nurture them in these net-and-reed pens. In the day the baby prawns shelter in the mud at the bottom .

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DR. PATTNAIK FOUND THAT WEEDS HAD BEGUN TO CHANGE THE SWEET-WATERSALINE GRADIENTS OF THE LAKE AND TOOK A CALCULATED RISK IN OPENING UP A NEW MOUTH TO THE SEA. HIS INITIATIVE WAS HELPED BY NATURE: A GREAT STORM AROSE AND BLEW THE CHOKING WEEDS OUT TO SEA.

They come up at night to feed and grow fat. Added another, “We harvest them in three months.” More fishermen joined us. They said that Chilika is a very shallow lake. “Some foreigners wrongly called it a..” they used two words which we interpreted as loch and fjord..”.. but those are very deep. Chilika is different. It is special. Some part is fresh water, some part saline from the sea. Some fish swim in from the sea to breed here, others swim out from the fresh part of Chilika to breed there..” a young fisherman interrupted “.. and if they don’t get the right type of

water, the right mixture of salt and fresh, their eggs might rot in their bodies and they will die..” That sounded so far-fetched that we filed it away for re-checking. We learnt that the fishermen had been right when we spoke to Dr. A.K. Pattnaik, I.F.S. in his office. He is the CEO of the Chilika Development Authority and has done wonders in removing Chilika from the list of endangered wetlands, world-wide, and making it an awardwinning model of self-sustaining ecological balance. Dr. Pattnaik had found that weeds had begun to change the sweet-water-saline gradients of the lake and had taken a calculated risk in opening up a new mouth to the sea. His initiative was helped by nature: a great storm had arisen and blown the choking weeds out to sea. Thanks to him, Chilika is a well-managed water farm. “Why doesn’t the presence of so many birds in the lake and the waste generated by those 132 villages on the shores, choke it with pollution, doctor?” “No one really knows. The waters of Chilika are so pure that we hope, after a series of tests, to apply for a special international certification for our fish” Certified Organic Products are a booming market. “What keeps the water of Chilika so pure, doctor?” “As I said, we don’t know” He thought a while and then added. “Perhaps there are some micro-organisms, possibly in the shallow waters of the lake, which remove the pollutants.” Scotland’s Loch Ness has its legendary monster. Chilka’s unknown creatures are much smaller, far more beneficial, but equally mysterious. Text & photographs by HUGH & COLLEEN GANTZER

May 2012 GO NOW

CONNECT CONVENTION

Never had so many Indian NGOs come together on one platform to exchange notes, seek funding and showcase their work as they did at the NGO India 2012 conference and exhibition in Gurgaon. The country’s first NGO networking event had hundreds of development organisations showcasing their work, reaching out to potential partners and canvassing for support.

India’s First Networking Event gives a Fillip to the Development Sector

he Indian development sector had never seen a gathering of this magnitude in recent history. The country may have seen NGOs at work, big social campaigns, and even large gatherings of NGOs (like the India Social Forum) but a networking event for the country’s development sector was striking in its absence. All that changed at the three-day NGO India 2012 that took place in Gurgaon at the Epicentre from 16-18 March 2012. The first-ofits-kind event was the brainchild of UBM India (one of India’s top event organisers) and included an exhibition and multiple fora for interaction (conferences and meetings). The event attracted over 150 NGOs from across the development spectrum - right from grassroots organisations to international biggies. Generally accepted estimates put the number of NGOs in India at over one mil-

vocating and advising the government on public policy. In a welcome indication of times to come when most of the development sector will look at raising funds from domestic, and more specifically corporate sources, top corporate social responsibility teams of leading corporate houses were present at the event. Not surprising when the event itself was positioned as a CSR initiative of UBM India. “Like most corporate houses, UBM is involved in supporting local charities. We felt that rather than having a passive involvement in local communities, we should take a more active engagement. Our expertise is in bringing in different people together and to create communities around specific interest areas. That is something we are trying to achieve with NGO India,” elaborated Sanjeev Khaira, Managing Director, UBM India.

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THE FIRST EVER NGO INDIA CONVENTION ATTRACTED OVER 150 NGOS FROM ACROSS THE DEVELOPMENT SPECTRUM - RIGHT FROM GRASSROOTS ORGANISATIONS TO INTERNATIONAL BIGGIES.

lion and the sector has acquired as important a status as the government, media and corporate houses on the development front. NGOs in India today are active in all possible spheres of development (or the lack of it): right from grassroots organisations providing basic living needs to those in distress, disaster relief and rehabilitation, women’s empowerment, clean energy, health and sanitation, to larger urban organisations ad76

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The event was organised in partnership with Oxfam India, IBM, the National Trust, FICCI, Economic Times, Guidestar and other organisations. The conference brought to the fore critical issues like funding, transparency and credibility, organisational governance and NGO-government relations. It also offered a forum for people to put forth their views on what they believe are lacunae in the current system. Nisha Agrawal, Chief Executive Officer,

CONNECT CONVENTION

EXPERTSPEAK SANJEEV KHAIRA

In an interview to GoNow, Sanjeev Khaira, Managing Director, UBM India shares his vision for the event and also talks about how it will leave an impact on India’s evolving social sector. What do you foresee for your event in the years to come?

Our vision is that this becomes an annual event and moves around from city to city. We will research with the exhibitors to understand where else they would like it. Unsurprisingly that would in areas like Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, etc. What Impact do you think you’re likely to make on the development sector in India?

That’s a difficult question. We have already made a fairly significant investment in this event. We created more value by doing this than we would have by simply giving a cheque to one of the NGOs directly. We need to do rigorous follow up with delegates, speakers, exhibitors and visitors to understand what they took from this event, whether they made new

Oxfam India, felt that there were too many funding and advocacy restrictions on the social sector in India. “These restrictions are not application to foreign companies and individuals who can bring in and take out money at their convenience. But NGOs cannot do so. Why? Similarly, international companies can influence government policy but NGOs cannot advocate for policy changes,” she said. Similarly, raising another issue that has been in news recently - foreign funding for NGOs - Puspha Aman Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Guidestar India, said that all NGOs getting over Rs one crore in foreign aid are actually putting up their financial information on the FCRA website. She added that NGOs welcome the increased scrutiny over work as well as funds from the government and media as this will improve the credibility of NGOs. To drum up support preceding the event, the organisers held three road shows in Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai which resulted in a large attendance from people outside the industry who were interested in the voluntary sector. Most NGOs in attendance represented four broad verticals - environment, empowerment, education and securing livelihoods. A

connections, found new funding, got new knowledge to be able to say that this is the value created by our work. We hope to create a multiplier effect through this event by 8-10 times in terms of real value that we give back to NGO and CSR community. Would this feedback, information, collection of data be available to your partners or NGOs?

Very much so. I think we need to demonstrate on the return of investment to our customers. We are giving them stands for free, but still it costs them in terms of time and resources. Many of the NGOs have come from different parts of country, spending on travel and accommodation, so it’s also a significant investment made by them. Unless they get true value from this event, they won’t come back again.

number of international NGOs like UNICEF, OXFAM and others were present. Khaira expostulated further on the aim of the event: “We realised that the sector as a whole is not very mature in terms of the market and that’s not a surprise. Most of these NGOs don’t know each other, particularly the smaller NGOs who lack awareness about corporate governance, how to raise funds for their legal aids. We’re hoping that during this event, such individuals and organisations will be able to acquire the knowledge and intangible wherewithal they need to grow and expand their area of work. In India a lot of NGOs are working in the background. They might be doing some fantastic work, but they might be looking to attract funds and support from the corporate sector, to establish themselves.” Highlighting the utility of the event for NGOs, Deepa Bajaj, Chief Executive, Child Survival India, said: “People hardly understand how NGOs work just because they (the NGOs) do not have efficient communication people.” She welcomed the UBM initiative for its effort to build a bridge between NGOs and people as well as NGOs and the business sector. Text & photographs by RAHUL KUMAR

May 2012 GO NOW

CONNECT ENVIRONMENT

REQUIEM FOR THE YAMUNA Delhi is well on its way to being a world class city but the polluted Yamuna still represents a blemish on the city’s landscape. All glitzy capital cities have free-flowing rivers which are top draws for recreational and cultural activities, sports and leisure. Delhi has much to gain by rescuing the river and literally, cleaning up its act.

ven as London dresses up for Olym pics 2012, River Thames is ready. It will host the rowing, canoeing and paralympic sports competitions. Not only that, it will also be the venue for non-sporty tourist events like boating, walking and fishing. Londoners are already busy advertising their riverside pubs, restaurants and retreats; walks and outings by the river and even the Thames Festival that takes place in September. You would have already seen pictures of the flotilla that took the Olympic rings on a boat ride on the Thames. We had our moment of glory with the Commonwealth Games and we did not know what to do with the River Yamuna. We couldn’t hide and we couldn’t show it.

A City on the Fast Track India’s capital has evolved into a world-class but there’s still some way to go before it can be compared to it’s Euopean counterparts like London, Paris and Amsterdam. Even cities like Shanghai in Asia have stolen a march over Delhi. Dr Suresh K. Goel, Director General, ICCR Delhi, says: “Delhi is slowly emerging as a world class city in parts as far as infrastructure is concerned. South Delhi is a good example of how the habitat can begin to deteriorate with a growing population. Fortunately, New Delhi has remained an oasis of urban calm but we have completely neglected Old Delhi except paying lip service to it from time to time. With some effort, it could have been like old Rome or old Montreal. It could generate enough revenues through tourism to sustain it and keep its traditions alive.” He adds that it is not just infrastructure that makes a world class city it is the people 78

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American Singer Terra Naomi performs at a concert to create awareness on climate change in December 2009 on the bank of River Yamuna.

who make the city. “Regrettably, we have a long way to go in that direction to bring Delhi in the same league as Paris, London or Rome,” says Goel.

Just Imagine... Where Delhi stands out from all these cities is the river. Theirs are clean and ours is almost toxic. As a resource, the Yamuna can be the biggest and the best that Delhi can have – a recreation hotbed, sports centre, tourism attraction, spa and health centre, transport waterway, and many more things. One river, many roles. Just imagine if the river had water and was clean, the people of Delhi could be indulging themselves in adventure sports like water scooter, jet boats, water skiing and many more. Alternatively, they could be boating, canoeing, rowing or even crossing

the river to the other bank. People could be relaxing with angling and fishing activities. Delhi travel agents could have been advertising for luxury cruises on the river and luring tourists with dinners in the moonlight, a lunch on a floating restaurant. Imagine sailing past the Majnu ka Tila gurudwara, the monastery, the ghats, the Red Fort, the Delhi Government headquarters, various sports stadiums, the power plants, the Akshardham Temple and on to the Okhla Bird Sanctuary. There was a time when ships would traverse the entire length of the river from Delhi to Calcutta. Imagine setting sail from Delhi to play Holi at Mathura and Vrindavan or a boat journey to Agra to see the Taj Mahal! The possibilities are endless and exciting to contemplate. Goel, who was born in Old Delhi remember with nostalgia the pleasures of taking walks along the Yamuna. He says: “A clean Yamuna would have permitted a number of cultural activities along its banks and on boats drifting in the streams as it happens in the Mekong River, the Nile, the Thames or the Seine in Paris. Images of diyas floating in the Ganges; chants of Vedic prayers along the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi jump into vision wistfully and painfully when I reflect on what Yamuna could have been.”

An Outsider Over 20 drains empty out their filth into the river converting a pious and a holy river into a stinking stretch. Can you picture the Potomac River that flows through Washington DC smelling of sewage. Even as we twiddle our thumbs over the Yamuna, people in the US not only clean the Potomac River but even clean up its watershed area which includes its

The The Yamuna Yamuna has, has, quite quite literally, literally, become become Delhi’s Delhi’s waste waste dumping dumping ground. ground.

A man takes out metal and other retrievable materials from a deeply polluted river.

The Indian Ocean band performs at a concert to create awareness on climate change in December 2009 on the bank of River Yamuna.

streams, other rivers and the bay! The fashionable people of Paris take immense pride in the fact that the Banks of the Seine River were put on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1991 for its urban landscape, art and architecture. The city is unraveled to the tourists not only through the tourist coaches but also through cruises that provide wonderful views of the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Louvre museum, the Musée d’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower and many more. Noted environmentalist and artist Ravi Agarwal, who has been at the forefront of green activism in Delhi says: “The best cities

Source of Yamuna – Yamunotri Glacier Length in Delhi – 48 kms Width in Delhi – 1.5 kms to 3 kms Polluted stretch in Delhi – 22 kms Number of drains falling into the river – 22 The river supplies 70 per cent of Delhi’s drinking water supply

are remembered not for their buildings, but how clean, how human and how friendly they are and how much they respect what they have. We have to take care of the Yamuna, clean it, care for its bio-diversity, and show that we respect nature. Those are the values people know India for, and this is what we need to remember once more.” He is right that even though rivers are part of the folklore in the most modern cities, India, an ancient and traditional society, has literally banished the Yamuna from our mindscape. Take for instance Amsterdam, the world famous tourist city of cycles and canals, which takes its name from the Amstel River that flows through the heart of the old city. The river is host to a nationally televised concert every year on Liberation Day; a Canal Parade which is Amsterdam's annual floating gay pride parade as well as the national-level rowing race called Head of the River Amstel. When you think of the Hudson River, it is the UN building that immediately comes to mind.

That brings us to the Huangpu River that divides Shanghai – China’s powerhouse – into two distinct entities. The river cuts such a remarkable streak with the British-architecture dominated skyline on one side and the modern glitzy Chinese architecture on the other side. Cruises over the Huangpu are highly recommended to foreigners to enable them to check out the old and new Shanghai from the comfort of luxury liners. A Chinese saying says, ‘The mark of a successful man is one that has spent an entire day on the bank of a river without feeling guilty about it.’ Hope Delhiites will be able to spend that one day on the banks of a free-flowing pristine river without feeling guilty about it. Something that Agarwal puts so succinctly: “A clean flowing river gives the city a feeling of timelessness and makes it eternal. Pure nature has that effect. When you stand on the Yamuna’s banks, it will provide a sense of balance and peace. Delhi will be a happier city.” Text & photographs by RAHUL KUMAR

May 2012 GO NOW

LAST PAGE FOR THE LAND, FROM THE LAND: Our Native Village

GREEN ALERT Our monthly roundup of sustainable tourism practices in India and elsewhere that are making a real difference.

ur Native Village, Bengaluru

‘We offer our hearts and our space to all who are committed to the path of health, joy and self-discovery’ – The promise of Our Native Village is warm – almost like an embrace. Founded by C.B. Ramkumar in 2006 who returned after two decades working abroad as an advertising and marketing professional, Our Native Village is 40 km from Bengaluru, in a small township called Hessarghatta. “I had 12 acres of land here and whatever I did, I wanted it to be closest to land,” says Ramkumar on the beginnings. Thus, this ‘100 per cent eco retreat’ generates more than 70 per cent DESERT ROSE: Al Maha Resort of its own electricity and uses harvested rainwater in its kitchens. One attraction of ONV that makes a lot of sense is its ‘compassionate food’ which is served to its guests who stay here. This is food which has the flavours intact due to slow cooking – an outcome of using biogas. However, more than as a resort, ONV is known as a place of holistic healing. There are many programmes which help in controlling diabetes, taking care of cardiac health as well as several other rejuvenation therapies. The Soul Spa, one of the recent additions, is quite an innovation that combines ancient Indian healing techniques with other forms of therapy. Besides the therapies, the adivasi guides also take you for leisurely walks through nearby coffee plantations. There is a swimming pool which is actually the village pond kept clean with not any chemicals but by aquatic plants. There is an open area where the residents play different rustic games like rolling bicycle tyres and flying kites. In the temple, gods from all religions are venerated. Besides short courses in milking cows and caring for chicken, turkeys and dogs, ONV also gives you an opportunity to earn your ‘bullock cart driving licence’. 80

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l Maha Desert Resort, Dubai

Dubai is fast on its way to become a ‘nation resort’ driven by a determination to expand its economic base (and thereby reduce its dependence on fast-dwindling oil reserves) by attracting international tourists. And the Al Maha Resort is doing just that. And more. This elegant eco-tourism resort, owned and managed by Emirates, the much-awarded airlines of the UAE, is just a half hour drive from the Dubai International Airport. Al Maha is not just a luxury resort but also seriously conserves the rich natural habitats of the Arabian desert. It is part of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR) and under its watchful eyes Al Maha breeds the endangered Arabian oryx (called Maha in Arabic – from where the resort takes its name). Gazelles also gambol about gracefully like the terrain is its playground, which it actually is. The resort accommodation is all standalone, bungalows with canvas roofs with individual plunge pools. Quite a luxury for a desert resort? Not quite. Water is stringently conserved by recycling the water used in the pools and the spas which is then returned to its groundwater source through a unique irrigation system. The resort offers camel excursions into the undulating sand dunes with experienced guides. Once you reach your camp out in the desert, you are also introduced to various facets of Arabian culture. Among the most interesting is falconry where the guests are introduced to different species of falcons and also given crash courses on falconry – a popular sport in the desert kingdom. One can also visit the many wadis or dry river beds closeby and go sand skiing. However the best experience recommended would be watching the graceful gazelle and oryx gambol about just next to your patio. Compiled by THOMMEN JOSE