Jetsetter Summer 2017

EXOTIC PLACES

INTERESTING PEOPLE

INTELLIGENT TRAVEL

LONDON’S BEST MARKETS

HURAWALHI

MALDIVES PERFECTION

THE WORLD’S GREATEST RAIL ADVENTURES

DETROIT

FROM THE ASHES MALLORCA BOUTIQUE HOTELS

AMERICAN AIRLINES FIRST CLASS

ISLES OF INTRIGUE

A COLLECTION OF 7 APARTMENTS LOCATED IN ST JAMES’S Oceanic House presents the rare opportunity to purchase a unique apartment at the heart of London’s West End, in an exclusive new development steeped in history. The imposing former White Star Line headquarters - the booking office of the glamorous Titanic ocean liner - has been sensitively redeveloped to provide six apartments and one two-storey penthouse for private sale.

Leasehold Approx.

Prices starting

125 years remaining

from ÂŁ4,750,000

paul@beauchamp.com +44 (0)20 7022 9831

W

10

EDITOR'S NOTE

elcome to another issue of JETSETTER, Asia’s leading experiential travel lifestyle magazine. I’m writing this note from ILTM Asia, the annual showcase of

PUBLISHER Denis Fahy denis@channel1hk.com

luxury travel that takes place in Shanghai each June. For a lover of travel like myself it’s like a second Christmas as cruise lines, hotel companies, tourism boards, airlines and

MANAGING EDITOR Nick Walton nickwalton@artemiscomms.com

every other category of travel company arrive in force, to introduce the travel events, trends and destinations that will define our holidays for the year ahead.

You’ll find some of the best announcements in the pages of this issue. In addition to the new places to visit and stay, we have an issue packed with inspiration. This year sees the launch of three new luxury trains – two in Japan and one in Peru – ensuring that lovers of slow travel have new additions to their bucket lists. In honour of these new arrivals we list our favourite new and established global rail adventures. From the tracks we jet to Detroit, a city that’s seen more than its fair share of hard times but is now bouncing back, with tourism playing a crucial role in the rebuilding. Talking of destinations that have endured recently, we venture into our favourite London markets, if only to bolster the resilience of this great city. There’s also time to check into boutique hideaways in Mallorca, visit the world’s leading national parks, and dance the night away at the calendar’s greatest music festivals.

In our regular lifestyle section, we talk Breton cuisine with chef Olivier Bellin, showcase high fashion in Venice, and slip behind the wheel of the Rolls-Royce Wraith.

Wherever you’re travelling this season, whether it’s a luxury vacation or a quick weekend escape, we hope JETSETTER continues to inform and inspire.

Safe Travels.

Nick Walton

Managing Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

As managing director APAC – wines & spirits at Quintessentially Wines. Rickesh

Kishnani serves over 3,000 private clients in Hong Kong, Singapore, Mainland China, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Australia. In this issue he talks about pairing our favourite summer whites with Asian cuisine.

www.jetsetter.hk

As a professional

Susan R. Pollack is an

editor, writer and

award-winning travel

photographer,

writer who has lived in

Cindy-Lou Dale

Metro Detroit for 44 years.

creates non-fiction

She took a buyout from

for numerous

The Detroit News after

publications around

36 years in 2012 - just

the world. Her

before the whole city came back to life, and she's now

specialist genres include high-end travel, luxury motoring and affluent lifestyles.

Joe Mortimer is a UK-based travel writer who specialises in luxury and lifestyle. He has visited 60 countries, stayed in more than 100 high end hotels, and eaten at some of the best restaurants in the world. For this issue, he explores London’s best market spaces.

having great fun trying to keep up with the dizzying pace of development. In this issue, she gives us the top tips on her home city.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Isabelle Lui editorial@artemiscomms.com CHIEF SUB EDITOR Philippa Walton ART DIRECTOR Don Pierre Riosa don@channel1hk.com BEIJING SALES MANAGER Louis Chu louis@channel1hk.com SALES MANAGER Fatima Cameira fatima@channel1hk.com CHIEF REPRESENTATIVE EUROPE Laurence James laurence.james@jetsetter.hk

JETSETTER is registered as a newspaper & periodical.

JETSETTER is published by Channel One Communications JETSETTER is printed by Channel One Communications Suite 402-3, Hong Kong Trade Centre 161-167 Des Voeux Rd Central Hong Kong 616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-5706 Valley Cottage, NY 10989 USA Tel Number (+852) 28557885 www.jetsetter.hk All rights Reserved: Copyright and distribution rights are reserved exclusively for Channel One Communications, their partners, associates and affiliates. All materials published remain the property of the publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission. All information contained in this publication is from a reliable source. Channel One does not make any guarantees to the accuracy of the information contained.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Explore the world Feel at home

INSPIRING SERVICED APARTMENTS BY SWIRE PROPERTIES

www.pacificplaceapartments.com.hk

LEASING ENQUIRIES (852) 2844 8361 SWIRE PROPERTIES MANAGEMENT LIMITED

www.taikooplaceapartments.com.hk

CONTENTS SUMMER 2017

20

ROOM WITH A VIEW

AEGEAN ODYSSEY

32

24 HOURS

DETROIT: FROM THE ASHES

36

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL

MYSTICAL MALLORCA

42

THE WORLD’S GREATEST

RAIL JOURNEYS

56

HOTEL REVIEW

SKY’S THE LIMIT

58

LONDON’S GREAT

MARKET SHARE

Hurawalhi Island, Maldives

CONTENTS SUMMER 2017

70

MALDIVES

A PRIVATE PARADISE

74

TURNING LEFT

FIRST IN STYLE

78

FOOD ADVENTURES

PINEAPPLE EXPRESS

80

CHEF PROFILE

OLIVIER BELLIN

94

FASHION

ISLES OF INTRIGUE

108

AUTO

A TRUE RITE OF PASSAGE

Signposts along the route of The Ghan train in Australia

16

Boomtown

Hampshire, England August 10 – 13, 2017

Attracting 60,000 attendees to Hampshire, located on the southern coast of England, Boomtown is an immersive music and arts festival showcasing theatrical performances across 120 music venues each year. Featuring hundreds of actors and actresses performing in specially themed streets, this innovative four-day event will feature the likes of electronic music group 47Soul; DJ and record producer Aphrodite; and English musician Amy Becker at various mega stages. Don’t miss out on Electrikal Sound System's street party on the event’s last day. www.boomtownfair.co.uk Where to Stay: Housed in a 600-year-old coach inn, The White Horse Hotel and Brasserie offers a range of luxurious, modern rooms and suites, some of which include loft bedrooms, while its brasserie serves authentic British cuisine created with seasonal ingredients. www.thewhitehorseromsey.co.uk

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta NEW MEXICO, USA October 7 - 15, 2017

Founded as a birthday celebration for local KOB Radio, Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta draws tens of thousands of visitors to the largest city in New Mexico each year. Spanning nine days in the beginning of autumn, the world’s most significant hot air balloon festival offers visitors a host of multi-colour balloon launches, captivating laser light shows and fireworks displays. Get up early for the Dawn Patrol Show, at which a dozen soaring balloons are backdropped by sunrise. www.balloonfiesta.com Where to Stay: Located a 20-minute drive from the event venue, Hotel Parq Photo credit: Bennie Bos

Central provides elegantly-furnished rooms and suites, including a Cottage Suite with a private patio. The hotel’s rooftop Apothecary Lounge serves an array of seasonal cocktails and small plates to be enjoyed with uninterrupted city views. www.hotelparqcentral.com

POP Montreal Montreal, Canada September 13 – 17, 2017

Celebrating music and independent art forms, the five-day POP Montreal festival showcases works by more than 400 emerging talents from around the world at 50 venues across the city. Visitors can explore creative art forms and events at the exhibitions, fashion shows, and cultural events held during the festival, or at symposium discussions, screenings, and concerts featuring big names like American rock band Royal Trux; Brazilian singer Elza Soares; and Canadian electronic music band Austra. Look out for the all-night parties taking place across the city centre. www.popmontreal.com Where to Stay: Situated in Old Montreal, St Paul Hotel is nestled in a historic neighbourhood filled with stylish shops, restaurants and world-famous art galleries and features rooms with art works and stunning views of the Downtown skyline. www.hotelstpaul.com www.jetsetter.hk

18

Edinburgh Festival Fringe edinBUrgH, sCotland August 4 – 28, 2017

The world’s largest arts and culture celebration, Edinburgh Festival

Fringe takes place in Scotland's capital each summer. Hosting more than 3,000 shows at 294 venues across the historic city, this 70-year-old festival entertains thousands of visitors from around the globe with comedies, musicals, dance and circus shows, visual art exhibitions, handcrafting workshops and tasting events, allowing creative minds the chance to share knowledge and insights. www.edfringe.com Where to Stay: Within walking distance of the Royal Terrace Gardens, No. 11 Brasserie and Boutique Hotel provides contemporary rooms and suites featuring ensuite bathrooms and modern furniture. Other facilities include a private garden, a lounge and an upscale restaurant. www.11brunswickst.co.uk

Nyege Nyege Festival nJerU, Uganda

September 1 – 3, 2017 Inspired by The World Festival of Black Arts, a remarkable celebration of African arts and culture, Nyege Nyege Festival is held at Nile Discovery Beach Resort in Njeru, Uganda. Set on the banks of the Victoria Nile, the upper section of River Nile, this three-day waterfront party encourages African electronic music-lovers to immerse themselves in beats by big names like Ghanaian DJ Gafacci and Italian percussive performance artists Ninos Du Brasil. Check out the on-site boutique where you will find unique art pieces and local designer handcrafts; or get your own custom clothing made with local fabric by tailors at the Kitenge Corner. www.nyegenyege.com Where to Stay: Located 10 minutes from the venue, Nile Hotel Jinja provides serene accommodation featuring traditional designs and wooden touches. The hotel also provides free guided walks along the Nile. www.nilehoteljinja.com

Birdsville Races QUeensland, aUstralia September 1 – 2, 2017

Held every September since 1882, the Birdsville Races welcomes 7,000 horse racing fans to the small town of Birdsville, Queensland, with funds raised at the event going to the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia.

Travellers can build their own tents at campsites on the banks of the Diamantina River, and enjoy two days of racing, including special events for horses bred in and around Birdsville. www.birdsvilleraces.com Where to Stay: The Bedourie Hotel provides 11 fully-serviced double and family motel rooms, all with ensuites. Other facilities include a bar, a dining room, and a 20-metre pool. www.bedouriehotel.com www.jetsetter.hk

20

ROOM WITH A VIEW

AEGEAN ODYSSEY Wake each morning to the endless beauty of the Aegean

Sea, contrasted by the traditional white washed walls of Canaves Oia Suites, an idyllic Greek retreat on the island of Santorini. The cliffside resort’s opulent President Suite is the ultimate indulgence; boasting panoramic views, a kingsized bed, spacious living and dining spaces, and a sublime bathroom with deep soak tub, the suite features a private veranda, the perfect setting for intimate in-suite dinners and lingering sundowners as day ends above the island’s iconic

www.jetsetter.hk

caldera.

http://canaves.com/canaves-oia-suites

ROOM WITH A VIEW 21

www.jetsetter.hk

22

INSPIRE

THE RISE OF COLOMBIAN CUISINE

While Peru, Brazil and Argentina have long been considered Latin America’s gastronomic epicentres, Colombia has slowly been cooking up a feast of its own, and specialist luxury operator Amakuna knows what’s cooking, with its new bespoke foodie foray exploring this untapped gastronomic destination. The 10-night Colombian Flavours itinerary begins in Bogota’s Paloquemao market, where guests will join Bandido restaurant’s chef Felipe Arizabaleta to gather iconic Colombian ingredients including yuca brava and sweet plantain to transform into a gourmet feast under his watchful eye. In Leticia, in the Amazon, guests will journey into the forest with local guides in search of army ants and pirarucu fish, just a few of the ingredients incorporated into the menu of pioneering restaurant El Cielo, whose founder spent the best part of a decade learning the recipes and techniques of the surrounding indigenous tribes. In Medellin, visit a family-run farm with husband and wife duo Carmen Angel and Rob Pevitts, key players in the region’s food movement, to source key ingredients such the Andean lulo fruit and tomate de arbol, before joining Carmen in the kitchen to recreate her signature five-course tasting menu. The itinerary ends at restaurant Oci.mde in the trendy Poblado district, where chef Laura Londoño is making waves with an ever-changing menu of slow-cooked specialties. www.amakuna.com www.jetsetter.hk

INSPIRE 23

NEW LOOK FIRST CLASS LOUNGE FOR AA

American Airlines has opened its new-look Flagship Lounge at New York’s JKK International, heralding in a new era in first class travel for the airline. The newlook Flagship Lounge at JFK now allows customers to unwind, work or refresh before their flight with quiet rooms, individual work pods and shower suites.

Customers will be able to enjoy a range of food options, including a robust hot and cold food buffet, an a la carte dining menu, and a chef’s table with a rotating menu of made-to-order entrees. Diners can also pair their meals with premium wines and champagnes or prepare a bespoke drink at the lounge’s innovative “make your own cocktail” station. The airline has also expanded access to its Flagship Lounges to include business class passengers travelling on qualifying international and transcontinental flights, in addition to first class passengers who already had access. The renovation of the New York Flagship Lounge is part of a US$200 million investment by the carrier in its premium travel experience. www.aa.com

NEW ECO-LODGE FOR THE AMAZON

Travellers looking for a truly unforgettable eco-retreat experience in the heart of the Amazon should head to the Inkaterra Explorer Guides Field Station, which opened this month in Peru. The latest property from eco-tourism pioneer Inkaterra, the field station offers guests the chance to roll up their sleeves and get handson with an array of conservation and wildlife projects overseen

by Inkaterra’s NGO, the Inkaterra Asociación (ITA). Located next to the Tambopata National Reserve, which houses two thirds of the world’s plant and animal species, Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica has historically been used as a training centre for InkaterraExplorer

NEW VESSEL FOR AURORA

Guides and a research centre for ITA. The property now offers a selection of communal and private accommodation options, with all meals included. Activities on offer include bird ringing, animal

Australian adventure specialists Aurora Expeditions is the latest company

camera tracking, local farming studies, and wildlife documentation

to announce a new purpose-built expeditionary vessel. The state-of-the-

through a series of guided treks, while daily talks and lectures from

art ice class 1A ship will be built to the latest polar code specifications,

ITA’s experts will ensure guests get an unrivaled insight into this

offering unprecedented levels of safety and environmental protection – for

remarkable ecosystem. www.inkaterra.com

operations not just in the high latitudes, but across the planet. Exclusively designed for expedition cruising, the new ship will feature an X-BOW that will reduce motion in the ocean, and will allow for greater adventure opportunities thanks to a custom-designed platform to cater for additional numbers of kayakers and divers, and a mud room for easier preparation for climbers and skiers. Small inflatable Zodiac craft will continue to carry expeditioners between ship and shore, with a dedicated sea-level Zodiac loading platform for quick and easy boarding. Other amenities will include a 180-degree indoor observation deck; wellness facilities including a gymnasium, sauna and spa; and plenty of outdoor viewing areas for additional enjoyment and comfort. The yet-to-be-named ship will be delivered in time for Aurora Expeditions' 2019/2020 Antarctic season. www.auroraexpeditions.com.au www.jetsetter.hk

24

INSPIRE

SUITE SEAS

Ritz-Carlton has announced plans to build a series of ultra-luxurious yachts as part of a new branded cruising experience. Created by Ritz-Carlton and maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will feature three lavish cruising yachts, with the first scheduled to take to sea in the fourth quarter of 2019. The specially designed small-capacity vessel will measure 190-meters, accommodate up to 298 passengers, and feature 149 suites, each with its own private balcony. The yacht will also feature two 138 square-meter lavish duplex penthouse suites, with modern craftsmanship and interior finishes jointly designed

by The Ritz-Carlton and leading cruise ship design firm, Tillberg Design of Sweden. Guests will be able to enjoy an ultra-luxurious cruising experience thanks to a restaurant by Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelinstarred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg; a signature signature Ritz-Carlton spa; a panorama lounge and wine bar; and a wide variety of on-board entertainment. Additionally, the yacht will offer one-of-a-kind curated destination journeys through collaborations with local chefs, musicians and artists, allowing guests to experience the locations in unique and experiential ways, both onboard and ashore. www.ritzcarlton.com/en/yachts

www.jetsetter.hk

26

INSPIRE

THE DUKE OF DUBAI

With a quintessential British persona, the Duke has opened on Dubai’s Palms Jumeirah development as a slice of British far from home. Delivering the crisp, old world service of its sibling property in London, Dukes Dubai boasts 279 guest rooms, including 64 suites, as well as a women-only Liberty Duchess floor, and 227 fully-furnished apartments. Thanks to partnerships with a host of UK producers, Dukes showcases the best of Britain, including Liberty Fabrics, furniture by Andrew Martin, bone china from William Edwards, bespoke candles from Floris London, cheeses curated by Paxton & Whitfield, and a selection of boutique English wines. Talking of food, Dukes is home to six distinctive dining experiences, including a Great British Restaurant, a champagne and tea lounge, and Khyber, a traditional Northern Indian eatery. www.dukesdubai.com

SELF-GUIDING THE HIMALAYAS

Adventure travel specialist World Expeditions will launch its first-ever self-guided itinerary in the Himalayas this October. A new concept of trekking for the region, the introductory-level Self-Guided Everest Trek will appeal to groups of friends, families or even couples looking for the flexibility of setting their own departure date. Featuring accommodation at World Expeditions' exclusive eco-campsites, with standing height tents, flushing western-style toilets, and hot showers, and with porters carrying luggage to the next night's camp, the trek route follows established trails and is the ideal introduction to trekking in the Everest region and the culture of its Sherpa people. The carefully-developed itinerary allows for maximum acclimatisation and offers access to World Expeditions' safety network that verifies arrival to each camp. Highlights of the 11-day trip include viewing many of the world's highest peaks, including the emblematic summit of Everest; exploring the colourful markets of Namche Bazaar, the so-called Sherpa capital of Nepal; marveling at the famous Thyangboche Monastery, the spiritual heart of the Khumbu region; and visiting the villages of Khunde and Khumjung, where Sir Edmund Hillary established the region's first hospital and school through the Himalayan Trust. www.worldexpeditions.co.uk

THE MURRAY TO OPEN IN HONG KONG

In one of the most anticipated luxury hotel openings in the region in a decade, The Murray, a Niccolo Hotel, will open in Central Hong Kong in December. Located in an iconic white arched building on Cotton Tree Drive that has been reimagined by British design firm Foster + Partners, The Murray will feature 336-guest rooms offering spectacular cityscape views, world-class dining, including an outlet of acclaimed Cantonese restaurant Guo Fu Lou, and an enviable location at the heart of the city’s financial district.

(Read more on pg 98) www.marcopolohotels.com

www.jetsetter.hk

28

INTRODUCING

Doha Debut Opening its psychedelic doors this September, Mondrian Doha brings the US

brand’s signature style to the Middle East for the first time. Designed in collaboration with Marcel Wanders, the lavish 270-room hotel will be the acclaimed Dutch designer's first hotel in the region, and will feature bold yet elegant local touches, many inspired by the timeless tale of One Thousand and One Nights. From the spectacular spiral staircase adorning the lobby atrium, to the stained-glass dome crowning the rooftop pool and skybar, the Mondrian promises to impress. Be sure to keep a keen eye out for gourmet dining from Wolfgang Puck and Japanese chef Masaharu Morimoto, full wall mosaics in the 1,950sqm ESPA wellness enclave, and Swarovski chandeliers in every guest room. www.morganshotelgroup.com

www.jetsetter.hk

INTRODUCING 29

STYLISH NEW DIGS IN PARIS

Playful, chic and undeniably urban, The Hoxton is set to open in Paris this summer, as the group’s second property in Europe. Located in the 2nd arrondissement, and occupying a 16th century building designed

by Etienne Rivie, a counsellor to King Louis XIV, the boutique-styled hideaway will feature 172 rooms dressed in blonde timber, leather and bespoke furniture; a standalone restaurant designed to complement the area’s reputation as a foodie destination; a speakeasy cocktail bar serving up classic Parisian concoctions; and The Apartment, an intimate meeting and events space. www.thehoxton.com

www.jetsetter.hk

30

INTRODUCING

NURTURING OF THE CLOUDS

Named for a royal blessing dating from the Qianlong dynasty, Amanyangyun is set to open in a forest glade just outside the dynamic city of Shanghai this autumn. A story of preservation and innovation, the new urban retreat is made up of a clutch of modern and ancient Ming and Qing dynasty dwellings, the fruits of a decade-long preservation effort, wreathed by manicured gardens and 1,000-year-old camphor trees. Many of the restored homes, as well as some of the trees, were transferred over 700km from Jiangxi Province, where China’s relentless development threatened their existence. Supervised by Jiangxi-born entrepreneur and philanthropist Ma Dadong, a team of engineers and specialists in Chinese architecture were tasked with disassembling, transporting and reconstructing the historic homes from 30 Jiangxi villages. The result is 26 sumptuous guest spaces – from one-bedroom Club Suites to four-bedroom Antique Villas with pools – each of which boasts interiors by Kerry Hill Architects that embrace a restful, earthy palette, and feature wood, stone, and bamboo. Look out for a signature Chinese restaurant, a village-style deli, and a comprehensive Aman Spa. www.aman.com www.jetsetter.hk

32

24 HOURS

FROM THE

ASHES

www.jetsetter.hk

24 HOURS 33

Almost given up for dead after decades of urban decay and economic decline, Detroit has emerged as a vibrant “comeback city�, with a recent influx of artists and techies, combined with ambitious real estate development transforming down-andout neighbourhood into energised hubs, still gritty around the edges but complete with hip new hotels, public art installations and a dynamic restaurant and bar scene, discovers Susan R Pollack. www.jetsetter.hk

34

24 HOURS

11 am Make your way downtown from Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) to the Detroit Foundation Hotel, the city’s hottest new digs. The boutique hotel, with 100 industrial-chic rooms, is the former Detroit Fire Department headquarters – designers even kept the red arched firehouse doors. Stop by the circular bar with dazzling cascading glass lights - it’s the centrepiece of the Apparatus Room, the ground-floor restaurant, forged from a space that once housed firetrucks and hoses. Consider returning later for regionallyinspired New American fare by Thomas Lents, a two Michelin-star chef who left Chicago to join Detroit’s exploding culinary scene. www.detroitfoundationhotel.com

Noon Stroll to the Guardian Building, an Art Deco skyscraper with a three-storey vaulted lobby featuring stunning tilework in Native American and Aztec motifs. Pop into Pure Detroit for a Motor City souvenir; stylish purses and tote bags woven from seatbelts are a favourite. A few blocks west, you’ll find downtown’s focal point, Campus Martius, a people-watching park with a manmade sandy beach. Grab a food-truck snack or a boozy milkshake at The Fountain Detroit, an umbrella-studded restaurant nestled inside a shipping container. www.fountaindetroit.com

1:30pm Hop aboard the Q Line, Detroit’s long-awaited streetcar system, which launched in May. Running 5.3-kilometres along Woodward Avenue, it links downtown with the newly-bustling Midtown and New Center areas, each filled with eateries and attractions to explore. You’ll pass through The District Detroit, a super-sized

entertainment, sports and residential development still under construction. Concerts and sporting events start in September at the new Little Caesars Arena. www.districtdetroit.com

2pm Exit at Midtown’s Ferry Station and savour lunch at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails, the Detroit Free Press’ 2016 Restaurant of the Year. Amid walls painted in the vibrant signature colour, choose from an array of chartreuse concoctions and a changing menu of creative plates, including the popular twice-cooked egg and a yummy dessert waffle with chartreuse ganache, crėme Anglaise and blackberries foster. Also in the Park Shelton building, browse the fashions and accessories in two fun boutiques, Frida and the Peacock Room. www.chartreusekc.com

3:30pm The Detroit Institute of Arts, with its world-class collection, including Diego Rivera’s famous “Detroit Industry” murals, is across the street – on Fridays the museum offers evening concerts and tours.

Alternatively, at the Motown Museum, also known as Hitsville U.S.A., the modest home-turned studio where Berry Gordy launched the legendary Motown sound in 1959, you’ll hear Smokey Robinson, the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and the Temptations during an hour-long tour. Your spine may tingle in Studio A where it all began; the centrepiece is an 1877 Steinway piano Paul McCartney had restored a few years ago. Reserve a ticket in advance, www.motownmuseum.org

www.jetsetter.hk

24 HOURS 35

5pm Squeeze in a stop at Shinola in Midtown for some luxury shopping, including hand-assembled Shinola watches, leather goods and bicycles. A few doors down, watch

Clockwise from top left; street art can be found across the city; the St Barrel Aged Negroni; The Fountain Detroit; Shinola; Apparatus Room

workers press vinyl at Jack White’s new Third Man Records.

6.30pm You’ve earned yourself a drink so check out the buzzing scene at Wright & Company, downtown. It’s on Woodward, just above John Varvatos, a designer boutique open until 7 p.m. Order a craft cocktail – highlights include the Fantastic Disguises, Elyx vodka with Dolin dry vermouth, capers, orange bitters, gold leaf, and house made Amaro Nonnio candy – and fresh, hot potato chips smothered in cheese, bacon and scallions. www.wrightdetroit.com

8pm Sate your appetite at Grey Ghost Detroit, a hipster favourite with contemporary takes on meat and seafood.

Schmooze with some of Detroit’s friendliest bartenders, all masters of infused cocktails, and feast on the likes of bison tartare, yellowfin tuna with sesame and lime, and beet tabbouleh with feta-yogurt, naan and pepperoncini. www.greyghostdetroit.com

10pm Detroit’s hottest ticket is the Bad Luck Bar, an intimate, 35-seat hideaway reached via a dark alley. Reminiscent of a Roaring ‘20s speakeasy, it offers a pricey menu of imaginative, Tarot card-themed cocktails with eclectic, sometimes rare ingredients served in unusual glasses. www.badluckbar.com Alternatively, return to your hotel and the Apparatus Room, which serves a mean Brush St Barrel Aged Negroni.

9am Start your morning at Detroit’s beloved, organic Avalon Café and Bakery in its new downtown location near Campus Martius. You can’t go wrong with lemon ricotta pancakes or avocado toast to shake off the cobwebs. www.avalonbreads.net

10am Head to the Detroit Riverwalk, a revitalised five-kilometre strip that winds past Hart Plaza and the gleaming Renaissance Center towers, headquarters of General Motors; that’s Windsor, Canada, just across the river. From the riverfront make your way to Detroit’s historic Eastern Market and join Saturday throngs buying fresh produce and flowers. Admire murals by international artists and load up on cheese, nuts and other provisions at shops (open daily) around the market perimetre. www.easternmarket.com

www.jetsetter.hk

36

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL

MYSTICAL

MALLORCA BOASTING SCENIC VIEWS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN AND CAPTURING THE HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE OF MALLORCA, THESE BOUTIQUE HOTELS ARE THE EMBODIMENT OF THE SPANISH ISLAND’S HERITAGE AND WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY, DISCOVERS

ISABELLE LUI

www.jetsetter.hk

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL 37

Cap Rocat

Set in a preserved military fortress built in the 19th century, Cap Rocat is a serene hideaway in Palma Bay, a short distance from Palma, the Mallorcan capital. The hotel’s 24 rooms maintain the building’s historic architectural design; luxury double rooms and suites, boasting patios and terraces overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, are elegantly-furnished without compromising the historic setting. Check into the El Cabo Suite, which has a spacious living area with domed ceilings, a garden and a private pool; or opt for one of the three Sentinel Suites (pictured), watchtowers transformed into rooms with rocky walls, delicate woods and refined rugs. In addition to a salt water infinity pool, the luxury retreat also offers a range of experiences, from golf, horse-riding and helicopter charters, to sailing, diving and deep-sea fishing. Ctra. d'enderrocat, s/n, 07609 Cala Blava, Mallorca, Spain; +34 971 74 7878; www.caprocat.com

Hotel Can Simoneta

Comprising two clusters of accommodation revamped from 140-yearold cliffside houses, Hotel Can Simoneta enjoys a coastal setting that offers captivating views of the Bay of Canyamel in the north of Mallorca. The adults-only hotel features 28 rooms and suites: clifftop Can Simoneta, once the home of a poorly monk seeking seawater baths as a natural remedy, includes two double rooms with terraces and six spacious suites, each of which offers views of the sea or the peaks of the Sierra de Levante from bed – we like the Luxury Suite, which comes with a 90sqm private terrace with jacuzzi. The adjacent house, called Can Nofre, includes a restaurant and bar, and a spa and wellness area. The hotel’s Beach House, located at the base of the cliffs, also includes rooms and suites with terraces, and offers direct access to the sea. Leisure facilities at this enchanting retreat range from seawater baths, massages and jacuzzi, to golf, mountain biking and hiking. Finca Torre Canyamel, Carretera Arta-Canyamel, km 8, 07580 Canyamel, Islas Baleares, Spain; +34 971 81 6110; www.cansimoneta.com

Finca Hotel Son Palou

A country-style enclave set amidst a private 150-hectare estate, the 12-room Finca Hotel Son Palou offers a secluded locale with expansive manicured gardens. Perfect for nature lovers, this oasis is surrounded by extensive apple and cherry tree orchards, which come to life during harvest. Each of the tastefully-furnished rooms is accentuated by wooden finishes, and includes a minibar and a bathroom with bath or shower. The larger Superior Room, with its private terrace, and the spacious Junior Suite, which features a whirlpool, are the perfect options for discerning travellers seeking more privacy and indulgence. Enjoy a tantalising Mediterranean meal at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves traditional recipe-inspired dishes on a terrace overlooking spectacular Orient Valley; while golf aficionados can take a short ride to the nearby 18-hole Son Termens golf course. Plaza Iglesia Orient, 07349 Orient, Islas Baleares, Spain; +34 971 14 8282; www.sonpalou.com www.jetsetter.hk

38

WELLNESS

The Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square has unveiled its new wellness space, The Spa, a captivating urban wellness enclave that features eight treatment rooms, including an indulgent Spa Suite; a Turkish hammam; a 14-metre swimming pool; and sauna and steam rooms. The new spa’s treatment rooms boast domed ceilings and wooden accents, providing a relaxing ambience for the ultimate rejuvenating experience. Be sure to try the Harmonising Detoxifying Ritual, which includes a full-body, moisturising massage, a detoxifying warm body wrap using sun-dried Indian rassoul clay, a breathing ritual, and a scalp massage. Alternatively, the Ultimate Sensory Hammam Journey for Two starts with a black soap scrub, followed by a hammam steam bath, which helps de-stress and stimulates metabolism, and finishes with a revitalising massage. www.fourseasons.com/tentrinity www.jetsetter.hk

PAMPER 39

Spiral Sanctuary Mountain-wreathed Alila Yangshuo will offer a new rural wellness enclave, Spa Alila, when it opens in Guilin, China this month.

The resort’s new subterranean spa, which is accessed from a heritage building that once stored molasses, offers guests a menu of exclusive treatments combining the traditional techniques of East and West. Set in a mysterious underground location accessible via a spiral staircase, the space is dressed in tiles and naked volcanic rock, setting the scene for spa treatments that use local ingredients and are delivered in the sanctuary’s five state-of-the-art treatment rooms. www.alilahotels.com/yangshuo

Tropical Treat Relax and recharge at The Okura Spa at The Okura Prestige Bangkok, which has launched a new mangosteen-laced treatment. The new 90-minute Purple Pampering treatment takes guests on a rejuvenating journey with a relaxing mangosteen exfoliating cream scrub, which opens up pores and leaves skin supple and refreshed; followed by an aroma massage delivered in one of the spa’s serene treatment rooms.

The treatment helps guests de-stress, while combating tired muscles, and awakening the senses. www.okurabangkok.com

Swedish Sauna Enjoy a unique wellness experience at Icehotel, the world’s original ice hotel, in Swedish Lapland, with the property’s new 10-step Arctic Sauna Ritual, created by wellness expert Andreas Hermansson.

Part of Off the Map Travel’s Arctic itinerary, the ritual features traditional Swedish sauna protocol and invites guests to participate in alternative immersions in a wood-fired sauna, followed by a cold plunge in the nearby Torne River. In addition, this experience includes a body scrub using natural lingonberry and blueberry products by Swedish skincare brand Care of Gerd. Guests can also enjoy the extra hours of sunlight with outdoor activities like mountain hiking and white-water rafting. www.offthemap.travel

The Art of Touch Switzerland’s Grand Resort Bad Ragaz has partnered with Harald Kitz, therapist and developer of the haki concept, to launch the new “Haki - The Art of Touch” treatment suite, which offers a combination of space, sound, colour, fragrance and thermal water experiences. Four new haki rituals, based on haptics and kinetics, are exclusively delivered in the suite. The new space has been created to relieve guests’ physical and emotional pressure, and the four multi-sensory rituals include sensation therapy, a water therapy, foam and compress massages, and a haki treatment. A 150-minute ritual includes a haki full-body cleanse with soapsuds, a soap-compress scrub, a warm full-body oil treatment, and a haki intensive head-to-toe treatment. www.resortragaz.ch www.jetsetter.hk

40

THE LIST

Close to the Coast Grab those flip-flops and find your perch on the sand for some extraordinary experiences at five of our favourite beach festivals.

By Isabelle Lui

Prince Edward Island hosts one of Canada’s largest country

Canadian, this beach event happening in June brings together

music concerts, Cavendish Beach Music Festival, every

singing, dancing, food and beer, creating a relaxing atmosphere

July. Feast on the scenic Atlantic landscapes, set up your

for both performers and audience. www.beachesbrew.com

camping tents, and dance to the country songs with 70,000 visitors on the reddish white sand beach. Recharge yourself at

Providing dancers with the perfect occasion to stretch their

the stage-side food vendors and the saloon, in time for the next

limbs, the Sea Dance Festival attracts more than a hundred

dance. www.cavendishbeachmusic.com

thousand electro music fans to pebbly Jaz Beach, in Budva, Montenegro, each July. Visitors can enjoy the ‘Best Medium-

Food and wine lovers can savour some of the best gourmet

Sized European Festival’ with a sun-drenched electric dancing

seafood at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival at Miami

experience that includes rapper Sean Paul; singer-songwriter

Beach each February. Featuring more than 350 renowned

John Newman; and techno musician TKNO. Finish off with a

chefs, America’s most prestigious gourmet gathering

cocktail enjoyed at sunset. www.seadancefestival.men

offers visitors a chance to taste freshly served delicacies with selected wine. Immerse yourself in the aroma as

Celebrating the beginning of summer, Zrce Spring Break

cooking techniques are demonstrated right in front of you.

Europe is held in early June at Zrce beach on the Adriatic island of Pag. Soak up the energy generated by international acts including Dutch DJ R3hab and hardstyle producer Brennan Heart, and leave time for the warm-up and boat parties. Captivating light and sound shows at two of Croatia's hottest beach clubs, Aquarius and Kalypso, will bring heat and vibrancy to the event. www.zrcespringbreak.com

www.corporate.sobefest.com Enjoy live music at the Beaches Brew at Hana-Bi on the sea shore of Marina Di Ravenna, Italy, with a craft beer in hand. Providing festival-goers an artist-audience connection with outstanding rock bands such as Suuns and Destroyer www.jetsetter.hk

42

RAIL TRAVEL

L i fe o n

the Rails The launch of three new luxury trains this year heralds in a new golden age of rail travel. Here’s our pick of the world’s greatest new and established train adventures. By Nick Walton www.jetsetter.hk

RAIL TRAVEL 43

One of the most anticipated new trains to launch in Japan this year, complementing the existing – and coveted – Seven Stars in Kyushu rail cruise, the Twilight Express Mizukaze departs Kyoto, Osaka and Shimonoseki stations to explore unspoiled and rarely visited western Japan, with visits to Matsue, Izumo and Miyajima, and opportunities to take in the natural beauty of the Sea of Japan, Mt. Daisen, and the Seto Inland Sea islands. With Art Deco lines and the amenities of a five-star hotel, the train caters to just 30 passengers across six sleeper carriages. Each day gourmet meals by acclaimed Japanese chefs Yoshihiro Murata and Hajime Yoneda showcase the best of washoku (Japanese cuisine) using locally-sourced ingredients. www.countryholidays.com.hk www.jetsetter.hk

44

RAIL TRAVEL

Enjoy the majestic landscapes of Ireland aboard the Belmond Grand Hibernian, the first luxury overnight train to grace the Emerald Isle’s rails in a generation. With a distinctly contemporary take on Dublin’s iconic Georgian architecture, the train’s 20 sumptuous cabins cater to just 40 guests; each boasts wardrobes, writing desks, private ensuites and picture windows through which train lovers can enjoy ever-changing vistas during two, four, and six-night journeys; for the ultimate indulgence, opt for the seven-day Grand Tour of Ireland during which you’ll enjoy whiskey tastings at the Jameson distillery in Dublin, learn falconry at Ashford Castle, and dine on innovative produced laced with locally-sourced ingredients. www.belmond.com

South America is presently one of the most sought-after destinations by affluent travellers, and the recent launch of the continent’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer, will make it even easier to explore the region’s stunning landscapes in style.

Catering to just 68 guests in sumptuous en-suite cabins, the new train will travel along one of the highest rail routes on earth, traversing the Peruvian Andes from Cusco to Lake Titicaca and Arequipa on four one or two-night journeys. Along the way travellers will take in breathtaking scenery amidst interiors by Inge Moore of The Gallery HBA that take their inspiration from Peru’s hand-woven textile culture, with touches of alpaca wool and Andean slate. www. belmond.com

The Rocky Mountaineer is an icon of the Canadian Rockies, and what better time to explore some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes than the country’s 150th anniversary? The all-daylight travel of the two-day itinerary means you don’t miss a single snowcapped mountain peak or mirror-like lake, and the train’s Gold Leaf service, which includes domed cabins and gourmet dining, offers a train experience like no other. Choose from three itineraries: the 100-year-old Kicking Horse line; the Yellowhead route; and the Fraser Discovery. www.rockymountaineer.com www.jetsetter.hk

RAIL TRAVEL 45

Best known for its fascinating Central and Eastern European luxury long-distance railway journeys, Golden Eagle Luxury Trains has created new tours on board the fabulous Golden Eagle Danube Express, including the first foray to Sicily by a luxury train. The recently rebranded Danube Express offers spacious staterooms, elegant dining and the opportunity to explore corners of Europe rarely ventured to by luxury trains. The new Sicilian Odyssey starts in style with two nights at the iconic five-star Hotel Danieli in Venice before passengers board the beautiful Golden Eagle Danube Express bound for Verona, home of Romeo and Juliet. It’s then on to the foodie capital, Bologna; the enclaved microstate of San Marino, for a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage centre; and the port town of Bari, with its Florentine-style old-town and 12th century fortress.

Among the transportation en-route is a passage across to Sicily on one of the very few ‘train ferries’ in the world. Once in Sicily, guests can take a walking tour of bustling capital, Palermo, and a detour to Corleone to learn about the notorious Mafia families, made famous by Francis Ford Coppola's movie, The Godfather. www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com www.jetsetter.hk

46

RAIL TRAVEL Another new sensation on Japan’s rail network, the Train Suite Shiki-Shima operates from Tokyo’s Ueno station and explores the northeastern region of Tohoku and into Hokkaido. With an itinerary that includes the Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture and the Shirakami-Sanchi mountains, the Shik-Shima offers guests many opportunities to leave the train and delve into the surrounding countryside on daily excursions. A maximum of 34 guests stay in 17 lavish staterooms dressed in Japanese cypress and custom furniture. Like its Japan rail brethren, reservation is upon application. www.countryholidays.com.hk

If you’ve done the luxury-safari thing but haven’t yet sated your passion for Africa, Rovos Rail’s two beautifully rebuilt trains each cater to a maximum of 72 guests and travel far and wide across Southern Africa. Treat yourself to one of the wood-panelled Edwardian-styled Royal Suites, complete with king-size bed, ensuite with Victorian bath and separate shower, and complimentary minibar. An African epic in its own right, the 15-day journey between Cape Town and Dar es Salaam traverses South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania, with opportunities for Big Five viewing at the Madikwe Game Reserve, nights at the Victoria Falls Hotel, and hikes through the Great Rift Valley. In between stops, drink in Africa’s ancient vistas from a leather wingback chair in the train’s lavish lounge, dine on locally sourced produce in the elegant dining car, or sip sundowners in the open-air Observation Car. www.rovos.com

An icon of the Scottish Highlands, The Royal Scotsman is as intimate a train journey as you can find, catering to just 36 lucky souls. Between daily excursions to castles, distilleries and hamlets during multi-day itineraries, guests can view the passing lochs and towering peaks from the comfort of their private cabin or from the popular Edwardian observation car. Each night, gourmet meals are served in a candle-lit dining room, followed by whisky tastings and storytelling. Be sure to leave time to visit the train’s newly launched spa carriage. www.belmond.com

www.jetsetter.hk

Start influencing the world’s top luxury brands.

Join the world’s most exclusive research community.

Luxury Opinions is changing the way the world’s best luxury and wealth management companies research consumers, design and launch new products, Our private community participates in short, online surveys in order to genuinely influence the future of luxury.

Luxury shopping experiences Airmiles or hotel points of your choice Personal concierge service Or donate your points to charity

Completely free, no fees 100% privacy protection Participate when convenient Access to research

48

RAIL TRAVEL For a rail journey that’s far from the beaten path, explore Central Asia’s ancient trading legacy aboard The Orient Silk Road Express, which travels from the Uzbek capital Tashkent to Bukhara, Kiva and Samarkand over ten nights.

During this Central Asian odyssey, you’ll visit Tashkent’s Khast Imam Square, home to the Tillya Sheykh Mosque and Kafal Shashi mausoleum; delve into the Kyzyl Kum desert; explore Bukhara’s old city, once a weigh station for caravans hauling spices, furs and silks; marvel at the summer residence of the last Emir; and tour the oasis of Khiva, famed for its countless mosques, minarets and madrasas. For travellers looking for a true insight, train specialists Country Holidays also offer private tours of Ashgabat in Turkmenistan and the ancient trading city of Almaty in Kazakhstan. www.countryholidays.com.hk

Regularly named the best train in the world, The

Maharajas’ Express is the most regal and refined of India’s many luxury trains. With insightful itineraries between Delhi and Mumbai and roundtrip from Delhi through Rajasthan, the 19-car train captures the beauty and colour of India, with daily guided excursions and behind-the-scenes encounters at timeless temples, ancient forts, and sumptuous palaces. The sevenday Panorama Journey is a captivating week-long epic through some of Northern India’s most beautiful landscapes and most historic trading and religious cities, and includes a private dinner hosted in the confines of the Gwalior Palace, an evening cruise on the Ganges, and opportunities to buy gems from local artisans.

Return to a royal welcome, complete with white gloved service, and insightful regional cuisine by acclaimed chef John Stone. www.maharajas-express-india.com

The greatest rail journey in Southeast Asia, the

Eastern & Oriental Express runs between Singapore and Bangkok on two-night three-day itineraries that capture the history and beauty of destinations like Ipoh, Penang and Kanchanaburi.

Between daily excursions to temples, historic railway stations, and WWII sites, guests can relax in the comfort of their beautifully-appointed colonial-esque ensuite cabins; soak in lush southeast Asian countryside from the open-air Observation Car; or sing the night away in the lively bar car, home to a resident pianist and Asian-inspired cocktails. www.belmond.com www.jetsetter.hk

RAIL TRAVEL 49 Probably the most famous train in the world, The Trans-Siberian is a must for any intrepid traveller’s bucket list, but you don’t have to do it without creature comforts. The luxurious Golden Eagle features 12 ensuite sleeper cars in three categories; live like a Tsar in one of the train’s Imperial Suites, home to a double bed, complimentary minibar, large picture windows and 24-hour butler service. Sip Dom Pérignon as you depart Moscow’s Kazansky Station bound for Vladivostok, 9,288km to the east, on a 15day itinerary that winds its way through Kazan and Novosibirsk; along the banks of Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake; and across the Siberian steppes, a landscape best enjoyed from the Golden Eagle’s two regal restaurant cars, where authentic Russian cuisine is complemented by international wines and, of course, plenty of locally-sourced vodka. Country Holidays offer private pre- and post-tours to beautiful St Petersburg, Russia’s cultural capital, or to the heart of the Gobi Desert for an unforgettable glamping encounter. www.countryholidays.com.hk

Australia’s most famous rail journey, The Ghan runs between Adelaide in South Australia, and Darwin in the Northern Territories. Originally known as the Afghan Express for the camel caravans that once crossed the Outback, the 2,979km three-day two-night itinerary exposes travellers to a true cross-section of Aussie landscapes, from the lush Barossa Valley to the burnt-orange beauty of the Flinders Ranges and the infinite emptiness of the Outback. The Ghan’s all-inclusive Platinum Service backs up the captivating landscapes with plenty of luxurious touches, including spacious cabins that convert into double bedrooms featuring full-size ensuites, leisurely in-cabin breakfasts, and access to a dedicated lounge and restaurant, where gourmet meals feature unique Outback ingredients and are matched with local wines. www.greatsouthernrail.com.au

A modern incarnation of Europe’s Grand Dame on rails, Belmond’s

Venice-Simplon Orient-Express continues the luxury train tradition to perfection, travelling on two-day one-night itineraries between Rome and Calais (with an extension to London on the British Pullman and seasonal routes all the way to Istanbul and Scandinavia). Made up of reconditioned carriages that once hosted the German surrender at the end of WWI and later the French surrender to the Nazis, today’s Venice- Simplon OrientExpress boasts lavish Pullman-style cabins that feature large picture windows, and walnut paneling. After an intimate in-cabin Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea, and sumptuous fine dining in the restaurant car, return to a luxurious turndown service by your dedicated cabin steward that includes signature VSOE pajamas. www.belmond.com www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Constance Hotels & Resorts has introduced several exciting wellness and gourmet offers

Constance Belle Mare Plage The Blue Penny Cellar

Yoga at Constance Halaveli Maldives

Aerial of Constance Lemuria Seychelles

A

collection of luxury hotels in authentic destinations across the Indian Ocean, Constance Hotels &Â Resorts offers unique experiences in seven distinct properties across Mauritius, the Maldives, Madagascar and the Seychelles. With a genuine passion for hospitality, it delivers memorable stays to guests through tailor-made service from dedicated staff.

One of the cornerstones of the brand is gastronomy, with

gourmet cuisine and the finest wines on offer in each of its properties. To further build on its commitment to offering guests unforgettable culinary experiences, Constance Hotels & Resorts has recently introduced wellness menu options, delicious wholesome food that incorporates locally sourced produce. Chef Michael Scioli from Constance Prince Maurice has worked on the elaboration of these menus in collaboration with famous nutritionist and Irish actress Rosanna Davison.

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION Unique Cuisine of The Blue Penny Cellar

U Spa by Constance

The dishes are characterised as follows: Low Calorie, Energy Boosting, Sleep Enhancing, Antioxidant Rich, Good Mood and Muscle Building. Each meal can have more than one classification, such as the Chocolate Brownie Superfood, which is Antioxidant Rich, Energy Boosting, Good Mood and Muscle Building.

These delicious, healthy bites have revamped the hotel’s culinary offerings. At the Wellness Corners at breakfast, for example, guests can sample smoothies, yoghurt, muesli and other new wellness options depending on the location.

Another area in which Constance Hotels & Resorts excels is its fine wine. With 60 sommeliers scattered between its seven hotels, it ensures that every guest receives unparalleled service when it comes to finding the right vintage. With a wide knowledge of the international wine market, its sommeliers hail from a diverse range of locations including Mauritius, Malaysia, South Africa, India and France.

With the Around Wine pairing, guests have the opportunity to choose a wide selection of wines proposed under the wise advice of the professional sommelier.

Once the vintage has been selected, the chef realises a tailor-made menu to sublimate the food and wine pairings.

At Constance Belle Mare Plage in Mauritius, the Around Wine programme aims to offer guests something special. As they enter the Blue Penny Cellar, diners are directed in their choice of vintage by the sommelier and then savour a meal specially created around the wine they chose. A special wine list has been curated Constance Prince Maurice Le Barachois Restaurant

for the project, with 11 wines carefully selected from its best crus. Traditional wine pairings are also available.

During the presentation of the dishes, the sommelier is on hand to explain why the dishes pair well with the vintages selected and additionally provide information on the nuances of the wines. At the end of the meal, the chef will go to the table, or guests can meet the chef in the kitchen to give feedback on the experience.

Another highlight of Constance Hotels & Resorts is the comprehensive wellness programme on offer at U Spa by Constance, which is inspired by the flora of the Indian Ocean. The spa offers three different treatment ranges: massage oils, full body products and a facial line, which includes a Face Hydrating Cream treatment, a silky day cream that soothes and moisturises the skin.

Other stand-out therapies include Relax Body Oil, with aromatherapy extracts of ylangylang, frangipani, lemongrass and neroli to create a sense of harmony in the mind and the body. Full Body treatments include Aloe Soothing Gel, which also contains Orange Flower and Lemongrass to moisturise and soothe the skin. The freshness of the gel helps to cool down the skin after sunburn.

These exciting new culinary and wellness offers will further establish Constance Hotels & Resorts as a luxury hospitality brand that offers timeless adventures and an unsurpassed level of service.

www.constancehotels.com

52

THE LIST

The World’s Most Beautiful National Parks The planet plays host to some pretty spectacular landscapes, and fortunately many of its most dramatic have been preserved for generations to come as National Parks. Here’s some of the world’s most captivating conservancies. By

Isabelle Lui

The world’s first national park, established in

habitat for the gorillas, as well as a myriad of

1872, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming,

bird, and primate species. Depart on guided

USA, spans over 80,000-hectares of grasslands,

hikes to visit the gorillas communities and trace

mountain peaks, lakes and rivers, under which

the route of the meandering Munyanga River

broods one of the world's largest volcanoes,

before visiting the Buhoma village to learn the

the Yellowstone Caldera. Explore the hidden

community’s ancient customs and traditions. www.

beauty of the 32-kilometer-long Grand Canyon of

bwindiforestnationalpark.com

Yellowstone; be awed by the spectacular 94-meterhigh Yellowstone Falls; and feel the power of the

Adventurous souls will love the soaring mountain

Earth's turbulent core at the rim of the world-

ranges and ever-changing landscapes of the

famous Old Faithful geyser. www.nps.gov

Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chile. The three iconic granite towers of Paine dominate the breath-taking scenery of the park; if you’re lucky, while trekking one of the reserve's well-maintained hiking routes, you'll have the chance to see resident Andean condors and to experience flocks of Chilean flamingos grazing on the Patagonian plains. www.torresdelpaine.com

Located on the northern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the Abel Tasman National Park boasts stunning golden sand beaches, deep native rainforest, and Cleopatra's Pool, a natural waterway located on the world-famous Abel Tasman Coast Track that features a moss-lined water slide that’s a favourite with intrepid visitors.

Kayak to the headland at Separation Point to meet the fur seal colonies, or set up a tent for a unique camping experience in one of the park’s pristine bays. www.abeltasman.co.nz Experience the unique wildlife of Africa’s Bwindi

National Park in Uganda, home to mountain gorillas, one of the rarest primate species in the world. Its 331sqkm of dense jungle is a natural www.jetsetter.hk

Europe’s largest national park, Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland offers some of the region’s best Arctic experiences, from the towering Vatnajökull glacier, to snowy mountains, and geothermal hot springs. The perfect destination for adventurous travellers looking to glacier-hike or camp amidst a unique volcanic landscape, be sure to leave time to visit Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss (pictured). www.vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is

54

INSIDER

Nick Walton talks with Perrier-Jouët’s Hervé Deschamps, the youngest cellar master to be awarded the honour of Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres, about the house’s newest inspiration What inspired Perrier-Jouët’s new permanent cuvee, the Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs?

dosage of 8g/l, we then wait for the wines to create fine and

Chardonnay is in the Perrier-Jouët spirit and we truly cherish this

lightness and vitality.

delicate bubbles and craft a cuvée overflowing with freshness,

heritage. The blanc de blancs is made only from Chardonnay find in the Champagne region. We wanted our new blanc de

Why was Hong Kong selected as the launch market for this new wine?

blancs to be a tribute to the grape variety; with its distinctive

Hong Kong is the first city in the world to welcome the new blanc

vivacity and delicate floral notes, it fully reveals the vibrant

de blancs because we feel it is a strategic market for Perrier

freshness of Chardonnay.

Jouet within Asia. We also see its importance as well as its

grapes, the most elegant and delicate variety of grapes you can

influence in the region. It's historically one of our first markets

Why has the house not created a permanent blanc de blanc before?

for champagne in Asia, with a heritage that reaches back to the 18th century.

Maison Perrier-Jouët has over two centuries of expertise in revealing the facets of Chardonnay and its emblematic grape

Why was it time for a new non-vintage?

variety. However, when I joined as cellar master in 1983, they

We wanted to show the variety of elegant and delicate variations

didn’t have a blanc de blancs. We decided to create the first to

we could create with Chardonnay. Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs

celebrate the millennium with the Belle Epoque Blanc de Blancs

is now part of the permanent cuvée and perfectly completes

1993, launched in 1999. And now we are going further in this

Perrier-Jouët’s range of classic, non-vintage cuvées, alongside

tradition with the new non-vintage blanc de blancs as we feel

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut and Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé.

it’s an expression of the intricate floral style unique to Maison Perrier-Jouët, with its fresh, vivacious character, true to the Chardonnay grape.

What will we find in the flavour profile of the new permanent cuvee?

In the glass, Perrier-Jouët Blanc de Blancs is luminescent pale

How does the process of making the new blanc de blancs differ from that of other Perrier-Jouet champagnes?

gold, tinged with hints of green. On the nose, lively hedgerow

The process to create a champagne is very thorough. First, we

and invigorating, with a mineral intensity on the finish.

flower aromas of elderberry, acacia and honeysuckle tangle with notes of citrus fruit. On the palate, the wine is fresh, tangy

harvest and select only Chardonnay grapes for the blanc de I get to try the blends, the samples of Chardonnays from some

What dishes would you match the blanc de blancs with?

of the finest terroirs in Champagne to create the final blend.

I would go for raw or steamed fish and seafood; something light

And with a touch of reserve wines (up to 15 percent) and a light

and yet tasteful to bring out all the texture and freshness of the

blancs. Then comes one of my favourite moments, the blending.

champagne.

www.jetsetter.hk

56

HOTEL REVIEW

SKY’S THE LIMIT SkyCity Grand set the benchmark for five star hotels when it opened in New Zealand’s largest city. Nick Walton discovers the Grand continues to define luxury travel in Auckland over a decade later.

I

remember it like it was yesterday, or so

restaurants and bars, and a host of heart-stopping

the adage goes; the opening party of the

tourist attractions, all in the shadow of the city’s

SkyCity Grand was the Auckland party to

iconic 328-metre high Sky Tower, SkyCity Grand

attend in 2005, with celebrities, politicians

is what true five star hotels are supposed to be, a

and yes, even All Blacks in attendance. The

destination in of itself. In fact, the hotel has helped

new hotel, the first truly luxurious house of slumber

revitalise the whole neighbourhood, with Federal

to open in the city in an age, was the talk of the town,

Street, a narrow pedestrian-friendly lane that bisects

and everyone, from captains of industry to lowly

the complex, now one of the hottest dining enclaves

journalists, were clambering to book a staycation or

in the country.

reserve a table at one of the Grand’s restaurants.

So, it’s comforting that, more than a decade late to

There’s touches of the Big Apple in the Grand’s

the party, when I finally do arrive to check in, SkyCity

cavernous lobby, a space punctuated by bold New

Grand looks better than ever.

Zealand art, gleaming marble and dark leather – the effect is modern without being ostentatious. The mix

www.jetsetter.hk

Nestled within a city block-sized complex that

of guests making their way through the space run

houses a casino, convention space, countless

the gamut from couples visiting from out of town, to

HOTEL REVIEW 57

But the hotel’s most exciting culinary venture opens this month in the form of Huami, a new Shanghainese restaurant that takes its inspiration from the heyday of the French Concession. Kiwi chef Nic Watt has collaborated with executive chef Jeff Tan to create an eatery that honours and innovates on traditional Chinese fare, using the best locally-sourced ingredients, including New Zealand abalone and crayfish.

If guilt over your indulgences kicks in, you can head to the Grand’s fitness centre, or take a few laps of the 25-metre pool.

Alternatively, East Day Spa Auckland, crowned the best hotel spa in New Zealand, is only steps away and blends eastern healing traditions with modern spa and beauty therapies. With any luck, at the end of your treatment you’ll look as good as Auckland’s true Grand Dame hotel.

SkyCity Grand, Corner Victoria and Federal Streets, Auckland, New Zealand; Tel: +64 9 363 6000; www.skycityauckland.co.nz corporates toting briefcases, to locals arriving for meals at the three restaurants located at street level. The vibe is cool, calm and collected without being fussy – just the way New Zealanders like things.

The bold, unashamedly modern lines of the lobby extend to the hotel’s 316 guest rooms, which are scattered across five categories. My Premium Luxury Harbour View Room is well-lit and airy, with blonde timber floors, beige carpets and captivating views west, down the length of the Waitemata harbour. There’s a king-sized bed, a spacious work desk with international power sockets (not as common as you might think), and a chic bathroom with bathtub and Puriri amenities.

While even the entry level rooms are a step up on anything else in the city, if you’re looking to splurge you can’t go past one of the hotel’s Grand Presidential Suites, with their butler’s pantry, dining table for ten, magnificent views and white marble-lined bathrooms.

People stay at SkyCity Grand because they like to be close to the action, especially if they’re foodies. The complex presently boasts more than a dozen restaurants, ranging from casual grab-and-go to the city’s leading fine dining institutions. For a quick bite without the fuss there’s Andy’s Burgers & Bar; chef Al Brown's Depot, home to charcoal grilled dishes; Gusto at the Grand, a rustic Italian restaurant; and Federal Delicatessen, a take on an old-school NYC Jewish deli that’s also one of the city’s leading houses of mixology. However, SkyCity Grand is also home to ground-breaking eateries like multi-award winning Masu by Nic Watt; innovative Spanish eatery Bellota; and the lauded Grill by Sean Connolly. www.jetsetter.hk

58

LONDON

www.jetsetter.hk

LONDON 59

The Great British marketplace is a legendary enterprise that’s as old as the country itself, and there’s nowhere better for a spot of weekend markethopping than the UK capital, discovers Joe Mortimer.

Thanks to the hipster revolution and demand for all things retro, the British market scene has returned to its roots, with an abundance of options for discerning visitors. Whether you’re looking for vintage Chanel, rare vinyl or fresh lobster rolls, these London markets have something for everyone.

www.jetsetter.hk

60

LONDON

CamDen maRketS

If you can’t find what you’re looking for in Camden, it’s time to give up and go home. This sprawling market covers half the neighbourhood, with various enclaves dedicated to international streetfood, independent shopping and local design, stretching from the riverside food stalls of Camden Lock to the cavernous underbelly of the Horse Tunnel Market. Hunt hard and you might pick up a Mexican hammock, a Gambian hoodie or a corduroy Saville Row suit from the 1950s.

alFie’S antiQue maRket

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Marylebone, Alfie’s is a multi-storey emporium of antiques, collectibles and vintage design, with more than 100 shops spread out behind an Art Deco façade on Church Street. Named after owner Bennie Gray’s father, Alfie’s is frequented by a patchwork of London life, from hardcore antique dealers and celebrity buyers to wide-eyed tourists.

Look out for retro jewellery, vintage posters and furniture ranging from turn of the century kitsch to contemporary design.

www.jetsetter.hk

62

LONDON

Hackney Flea Market

This relatively young market in achingly cool Stoke Newington has quickly become one of the city’s favourites. Home to a mish-mash of stalls selling vintage vinyl, period furniture, retro clothing and everything else imaginable, the weekly event is just one more reason to visit East London. A rotating line-up of DJs man the sound system each weekend, playing a collection of rare and popular tunes as eclectic as the goods for sale at this unique bazaar off Church Street.

Maltby Street Market

The sons and daughters of folk that used to shop at Borough Market now spend their weekends perusing the stalls at Maltby Street Market.

Come Saturday and Sunday, the workshops of LASSCO Ropewalk and the surrounding streets are converted into a warren of foodie shops and independent produce stalls nestled into and around the railway arches, with artisans selling everything form beard balm and chilli chocolate to biodynamic vegetables and homemade mead. Look out for the snug outposts of popular London eateries like St. Johns, Comptoir Gourmand and Neal’s Yard Dairy.

www.jetsetter.hk

64

LONDON

bRiCk lane maRket

Another East London favourite, the Brick Lane Market is a visual feast in the heart of one of the most vibrant parts of the capital. Sundays see the streets transform into a chaotic mass of humanity, with stalls selling collectibles, junk and everything in between, and street performers showing off the best of Shoreditch colour. If you tire of slogging through treasure troves of second hand goods, lift your eyes to see some of London’s best street art, or stop in for lunch at one of the myriad ethnic restaurants that line the neighbourhood.

olD SpitalFielDS maRket

Everything in the world is crammed under one roof at Old Spitalfields Market, housed in a Victorian building that’s been flogging wares since the late 19th century. Quiet Mondays to Wednesdays see the covered market filled with regular traders, but the rest of the week is divided up into themed days for niche buyers.

Thursdays are all about antiques; Fridays are dedicated to fashion and art; Saturdays mean vintage wares; and Sundays combine the whole lot for a mega-market, complete with street food stalls offering an endless variety of edibles.

www.jetsetter.hk

LONDON 65

www.jetsetter.hk

66

ROAD WARRIOR

THE POLE ROVER

The first person on earth to have reached The Three Poles – the North Pole, the South Pole, and Mount Everest – within a year, polar explorer Eric Larsen speaks with Isabelle Lui about his fascination with extreme destinations.

How did your fascination with the poles begin?

It started when I was reading about historical expeditions and exploration as a kid. In the mid-1990s, I got a job as a dog musher and went on some of my first winter expeditions, which sparked my interest in bigger, bolder and colder expeditions.

How do you manage to endure the extremes of polar destinations?

Everything about polar expeditions is work.

Staying safe and warm in the most extreme environments on the planet takes constant vigilance.

Therefore,

I

am

constantly

checking in with myself and the environment.

Of course, I also rely on high quality gear and equipment.

Name five travel essentials for your journey You’re an expert polar explorer to Mt Everest. and the first person in history to First of all, the backpack itself is very important. I’ll have have reached the two poles and in my Granite Gear backpack a Garmin inReach, which Mt Everest within a year; what’s is a two-way satellite communication and GPS device; a Helly Hansen jacket with Allied Feather & Down inside; next for you?

I'm currently still promoting my book,

a Mountain Safety Research-XGK-EX camp stove; and

On Thin Ice, about my 2014 North Pole

Skratch Labs hydration mix – food is fuel.

expedition, as well as working on another process of planning another expedition

Give us some tips for preparing for a polar adventure.

to Mongolia. Equally important to me is

My philosophy on preparing is to train hard and travel easy.

spending time with my wife and two kids in

For any big adventure, I try to determine all the potential

Colorado this summer.

areas for failure, such as gear and weather, then work to

polar documentary project. I'm also in the

solve each as best as I can. We spend a lot of time simply

You’ve spent 20 years exploring the Arctic; what significant changes have you observed?

In the Arctic, the character and nature of sea

isn’t always as easy as it seems. The nice part is you don't have to worry about getting eaten by a polar bear.

thinner and the overall extent of sea ice is

Where do you go when you’re not on the poles?

dramatically reduced. In the Antarctic, you

I love being outside no matter the location. So, you can

see significantly warmer temperatures.

usually find me camping or on my bike.

ice is dramatically different – the ice is much

www.jetsetter.hk

researching and testing gear. The transition back to city life

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Etihad THE RESIDENCE

the inflight Chef is available to create special made-to-order dishes for your fine dining experience at your exclusive table in The Residence. Meals are served on bespoke 24-karat gold porcelain tableware and include striking Wedgwood crystal glassware designed by Vera Wang. A special XO Cognac service is provided featuring signature glasses designed by Norman of Copenhagen.

T

he Residence is your very own private 125 sq. ft., luxurious three-room suite exclusively aboard Etihad Airways’ fleet of A380 commercial airliners. This bespoke travel experience provides you, the affluent traveler, with one-of-a-kind surroundings on a par with the world’s best hotels, super yachts and stately homes – at 35,000 feet in the air.

Suitable for one or two passengers, each deluxe suite is revolutionary, setting Etihad Airways apart from the competition and placing it at the forefront of innovation and service. The Residence offers a lounge, bathroom with shower and bedroom. There is even a private concierge at your disposal who will organize everything for you from a luxury limousine to private check-in.

When boarding, you will be greeted by your very own personal butler! Trained at the Savoy Hotel in London, he will ensure that your every need is taken care of in the sky. The Butler’s role is multi-faceted and includes that of a Concierge and Maitre d’hôtel providing access to a range of services including dining reservations, entertainment bookings, special events destination information and lifestyle services upon landing.

Inside your private three-room suite in the sky, The Residence offers a personalized travel experience that perfectly suits

your needs. The living room features plush Poltrona Frau leather seats with an electrically operated ottoman, two dining tables and chilled minibar. Enjoy the 32inch flat screen TV while your butler serves you the airline’s signature Cognac!

A private corridor leads to the en-suite bathroom with its full-height shower which comes with exclusive bathrobes and toiletries including an exclusive range of Acqua Di Parma bath products. Guests receive a selection of personal amenities packaged in stylish gift boxes. Gentlemen will also find the ‘Barbiera’ range of shaving products.

The private bedroom is furnished with a natural fiber mattress double bed, Egyptian cotton sheets and luxurious pillows and duvets. Elegant loungewear from Christian Lacroix is also provided.

It also comes with a bedside table, two personal storage drawers and full-length wardrobe suitable for two guests. There is even a turndown service at bedtime for a completely unique travel experience, akin to private jet travel but on a commercial airliner.

These new standards in luxury leave nothing to chance. Guests are contacted prior to travel to discuss their in-flight dining and menus are tailored around their dietary requirements and preferences. A gourmet a la carte menu is offered and

With The Residence, Etihad Airways has chosen a path that places it well beyond the competition. The airline’s focus on quality over quantity with style and flair has made it unique. The airline does not benchmark against other airlines, but instead draws inspiration from the world’s best hotels and dining establishments. No other airline can offer such a unique travel experience.

Where else could you be served breakfast in bed by your very own butler in sublime luxury way above the clouds!

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

A JOURNEY OF FASCINATION AND HEALING

E

mbark on a journey of a lifetime with SriLankan Airlines, now offering you direct connectivity from Hong Kong to Colombo, the heart of Sri Lanka, five times a week. Enjoy the award-winning warmth and hospitality of the crew on-board, while treating yourself to a host of delicacies and a wide range of onboard entertainment before you step into the paradise isle of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka has in store, something for any type of a traveler. Its vibrant wildlife may be a thing of timeless fascination to anyone who arrives in the country. The un-spoilt landscapes laced with ancient monuments and the lush greenery maybe the backdrop of every island adventure. Yet, these cannot define fully the mesmerizing island legacies that live on. Mask making in the southern coast of Sri Lanka is one among many such legacies that continue to hold the travellers in awe.

While exploring the pristine beaches down the southern coastal belt, you may venture into the bustling town of Ambalangoda, where the tradition of mask-making has been a legacy that lives on. The history has it that the Sri Lankan artisans found their initial inspiration in the masks that came from Kerala and Malabar, India. However, the influence of the Indian art became lesser as times went by, when the local artisans opted to create masks based on the Sri Lankan folklore.

“Thovil” is the primary function where masks are used in an act of healing. ‘Sanni’ masks are worn in this form of dancing. Here, the dancer who wears the mask, recites a range of chanting so as to stimulate positive

atmospheric energies. While chanting, he dances around the person who requires healing, to a traditional drumbeat that catches up tempo as he succeeds from one act to the next. While diverting the attention from sickness and ensuring that negative energies have left the body, the dancer convinces the sick that his/her ailment no longer resides in the body; thus healing the mind and instilling in him/her the confidence to fight the disease.

Among the traditional masks, “Ranksha” has been mainly used in ‘kolam’ dances performed in an outdoor arena in front of villagers. Raksha masks are said to have over 20 varieties depicting different facial expressions. The popular forms of the Raksha are those associated with cobra and bird.

‘Kolam’ masks on the other hand are comical representations of human characters, who come in the ‘kolam’ plays.Similar to the elaborate face-paintings and masks used in traditional dramas often staged at Hong Kong Opera, these masks bring out the inherent characteristics of each role.

If your next trip is to Sri Lanka, you may not only visit an artisan’s workshop in the Southern Sri Lanka but also happen to witness a traditional dance or a ‘Kolam’ performance; be it in the open or in a theatre, the vibrancy of it may not vary so much.

It has been a tradition among Sri Lankan communities to hang a mask on a wall of a house that is being constructed. It is believed that masks can invoke protection and caste away the evil eye.

When you pick a miniature mask to take

home, be it in the form of a pencil-topper or a fridge magnet or whether it is a T-shirt printed with a mask motif, you are taking home a treasured piece of the paradise island.

SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka and a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance currently covers 101 destinations in 48 countries. Operating an all Airbus fleet that includes the state-of-theart A330-300’s and A320/21neos, SriLankan will continue to serve its travellers with modern comforts of contemporary air travel complemented with its traditional Sri Lankan warmth and hospitality. The introduction of A320neo aircraft will help enhance its exceptional service standards for passengers and serve to align its fleet to the airline’s new strategic focus on Asia and the Middle East.

2521 0708 www.srilankan.com res_hkg@srilankan.com

70

AFRICA MALDIVES

www.jetsetter.hk

MALDIVES 71

A PRIVATE

PARADISE The newest luxury retreat to open in the Maldives, Hurawalhi offers a blissfully adults-only respite from the urban coalface, discovers Nick Walton.

www.jetsetter.hk

72

MALDIVES

I

f you haven’t been to the Maldives yet, then

Guests can choose from Hurawalhi’s four room

it’s time you did yourself a favour and booked

categories – essentially Ocean or Beach Villas, with or

the next flight to paradise. The Indian Ocean

without the added pleasure of a private plunge pool. Our

playground has never been more sought

Ocean Villa is superbly spacious, with vaulted ceilings, a

after, and the arrival of its newest adults-

48-inch flatscreen television, and a heavenly king-sized

only retreat only adds to its glorious seduction.

bed facing a deep-set sun deck and the expanses of the Indian Ocean. Can’t resist the lagoon any longer?

We arrive at Hurawalhi, as all guests do, by seaplane,

There’s direct access from your sun deck, while Beach

vibrant turquoise seas wreathing submerged coral

Villas, nested in deep tropical foliage, offer direct beach

gardens racing past below as we descend, 40 minutes

access and a touch more privacy.

after leaving the resort’s signature seaplane lounge in Male. You know you’ve arrived somewhere special even

All guest rooms boast expansive bathrooms with rain

before pontoon touches lagoon; a string of overwater

showers (though curiously no bathtub); a pair of comfy

bungalows branches out from a tree-encrusted island

sun lounges, gleaming timber, vibrant art work, and

framed by white sand beaches. As the sun rises

feather-light linens. There’s complimentary internet, a

the colours leap to life; deep greens in the canopies

minibar and wine fridge packed with all-inclusive goodies,

that hide luxurious beachfront bungalows; aqua and

and diligent villa attendants that ensure your villa is the

turquoise blues in the lagoon’s waters; blazing white

perfect tropical home-away-from-home.

in the uniforms of traditional Maldivian drummers that greet new arrivals. It’s as if someone’s nudged the

For many guests the villa is where they spend much of

saturation levels – everything just pops.

their holiday, and I can appreciate such seclusion; with plenty of privacy, and azure seas and pristine beaches

A clutch of 90 villas set against breathtaking house

beckoning, each villa offers the perfect escape from

reefs in the heart of the Lhaviyani Atoll, this beautiful

hectic urban life. But don’t get too comfortable, there’s

new hideaway epitomises the Maldivian escape to

plenty more to see.

perfection, and with an adults-only policy that welcomes guests 15 years and up, you won’t have to share your

For the active, Hurawalhi has everything you’d expect

romantic escape with everyone else’s ‘little darlings’.

from a luxury Maldivian resort, from a tennis court, games room, and a comprehensive water sports centre

What an escape it promises to be, thanks to brilliant,

with hobbie cats, wake boarding and jet skis; to a resident

infinitely-cheerful staff, gourmet dining, sophisticated

marine biologist; and an outpost of Prodive, which offers

accommodation, and all-inclusive packages that implore

a raft of dive courses and experiences for those who like

you to order another cocktail, take up a poolside perch,

to explore below the waves.

and make the most of every moment. www.jetsetter.hk

MALDIVES 73 Early one morning I head out with resident Dutch dive

on a pier that reaches out into the lagoon, and serves a

master Morton. Rather than having to take a boat out

contemporary menu of delectable Asian-inspired dishes

to a remote dive site, we simply gear up and step from

laced with organic ingredients and complemented by an

one of the resort’s piers into thriving seas packed with

intimate Teppanyaki bar. At the other end of the resort,

coral gardens. We trace our way along the resort’s house

the Champagne Pavilion is the perfect spot for utterly

reef, with its mesmerising coral walls, home to blennies,

romantic sunsets, enjoyed over a chilled bottle of bubbles,

coral hawkfish, hawksbill turtles, black tip reef sharks

while Coco Bar, adjacent to the resort’s infinity pool, is the

and, if you’re lucky, manta rays. Later that afternoon my

heart of the property and offers a comprehensive menu

wife Maggie and I take to the house reef again, this time

of sharing-style bar snacks and tiki-esque cocktails, most

as part of an included guided snorkeling excursion, and

of which feature on the all-inclusive menu.

encounter Moorish idols, Napoleon wrasse, and a fever of elegant eagle rays, which dart through the shallows

Beyond the bar, most meals are served in the stunning

and trail our group before eventually diving deep.

Canneli restaurant, a shrine to great cuisine complete with an international buffet, al fresco dining, crisp yet

Despite being cast in the middle of the sprawling

friendly service, and live cooking stations. The diversity

Maldivian archipelago, Hurawalhi really sets itself apart

of fresh, contemporary dishes prepared by New Zealand

with its innovative dining. The crowning jewel of the resort

executive chef Shannon Batten and his multi-national

has to be 5.8 Undersea Restaurant, which, as the name

team is remarkable, especially considering how remote

suggests, is submerged below the gently lapping waves

his kitchens are from suppliers. If you’re really looking to

of the lagoon. Underwater venues are not a new thing in

kindle the fires of love, the culinary team can also set up

the Maldives but 5.8 Undersea Restaurant has refined

a private candle lit dinner on a deserted beach or send

the concept; imaginative, slightly eclectic multi-course

you off to nearby Dream Island, a local sand bank, for the

tasting menus are presented to just 12 guests each

ultimate private picnic.

night, with tables set beneath a mesmerising canopy of aqua blue water packed with colourful and inquisitive

If fine dining and jaw-dropping vistas aren’t enough to

reef fish. As we dine on the intriguing wine-paired menu

sweep you from urban drudgery, then head to the Duniye

of shy German chef de cuisine Bjoern van den Oever,

Spa, a chic citadel to pampering perched over the waters

a veteran of leading Michelin-starred kitchens, angel,

of the lagoon. Here a host of Asian-inspired treatments,

butterfly and even puffer fish meander through the coral

using Healing Earth organic products, are conducted by

polyps beyond the glass, their aquatic home taking on

a team of experienced therapists in beautifully-appointed

an inky hue as the daylight fades six meters above our

spa suites that feature portholes to the lagoon below. Be

heads.

sure to leave time for a spot of serenity in the relaxation lounge, located above the spa reception and boasting

For diners who prefer a less submerged dining

views of the lagoon that will have you falling in love with

experience, Aquarium Restaurant is located above 5.8,

the Maldives all over again. www.hurawalhi.com

www.jetsetter.hk

74

TURNING LEFT

FIRST IN STYLE

with scrambled eggs, Applewood bacon and roasted potatoes; chow mein noodles with beef brisket; or a continental breakfast of yogurt and granola.

The dinner dishes were well proportioned and perfectly nice but I hazard a guess the overall dining experience would have been much better if offered the way it was designed.

ENTERTAINMENT American Airlines’ entertainment system is one of its leading drawcards and the ability to not only connect to wifi (unlimited for US$19) but also connect your own device is great. Even after multiple long-haul flights with the airline

DESPITE THE DECLINE OF FIRST CLASS ACROSS THE INDUSTRY, AMERICAN AIRLINES STILL STRIVES TO OFFER THE ULTIMATE FLYING EXPERIENCE IN ITS FIRST CLASS CABIN ON ITS NEW FLIGHTS BETWEEN LOS ANGELES AND HONG KONG, DISCOVERS

Even in first class, where American Airlines’ crew should be performing at their peak, service still

BACKGROUND Airlines

of television shows and movies to enjoy.

SERVICE

NICK WALTON. American

over a space of a few months I still found plenty

branded Bose noise-cancelling headphones. offers

the

only

true

needs refinement and consistency. Some cabin attendants had finesse and whisked passengers

international first class product in North America,

Once passengers found their seats, cheerful

away to the golden era of flying, with a great

extending its premium product to its Boeing 777-

but slightly flustered crew served glasses of

understanding of the wine list and a sense of

300ER aircraft flying between Asia and Dallas

sparkling wine (I opted to wait for the Laurent

pedigree you’d expect in a fine-dining restaurant;

and Los Angeles.

Pierrer Grand Siecle Champagne on the menu),

others didn’t seem to see a distinction between

warm smoked almonds, stylish leather amenity

cabins and brutishly fussed through the dinner

kits by Cole Haan (although they were not the

service like they were working coach. When it

After an efficient check in process I made my

airline’s new international version) and sets of

came to getting some sleep, passengers made

way to American Airlines’ Admirals Club and its

signature pajamas.

up their own beds, while crew retreated to the

CHECK IN/THE LOUNGE

galley, staying there for much of the flight.

makeshift Flagship Lounge, a space reserved for first class passengers while the new lounge is

DINING

under construction. This is a basic but serenely

American Airlines has worked hard to offer

quiet space, with armchairs, bar tables, work

WHAT WE LOVED

a market-leading dining experience in first

I can honestly say this was the most comfortable

class, with a menu of small dishes that

seat I’ve ever slept in. I also love the overall

allows passengers the chance to linger their

intuitive design.

stations, and a buffet selection in an adjacent room. There’s a great bar set up, a busy coffee machine, and access to well-maintained shower suites. The new-look Flagship Lounge, when

way through a multi-course meal paired with

it opens at the end of the year, promises to be

world-class wines selected by Intervine and

WHAT WE DIDN’T

spectacular, offering restaurant-style dining,

Ken Chase. Unfortunately, as he took orders

As a big fan of American’s business class

make-your-own-cocktail stations, and dedicated

the purser persuaded each passenger not

product, I find first class to lack privacy. Service

shower suites.

to order multiple small dishes, but to simply

needs a shakeup.

choose an appetizer and main. I opted for a

THE SEAT

heirloom tomato salad with Italian buffalo milk

SUMMARY

We were first to board the 777-300ER, which

mozzarella and macadamia pesto; followed

American Airlines has all the competitive

featured eight first class seats in a 1-2-1

by King Salmon and prawns with champagne

hardware components to offer a world-class

configuration. American Airlines’ Flagship Suite

risotto and pumpkin, which I matched with

product, but the airline’s cabin crew need to

seat is spacious, modern and elegant; it looks like something you’d find in a private jet, with plush leather, plenty of storage space, a 17-inch personal monitor, and multiple seat configurations - turn it towards the spacious shelf and you have a

a Pascal Jolivet Les Terres Blanches from Pouilly-Fume.

I

skipped

dessert,

which

included a choice of the airline’s signature ice cream sundae; mixed berry pavlova; and

get onboard. Even with its compelling business class product, the carrier’s first class offering would maintain the old-world charms of flying’s luxury heyday, and seduce premium travellers in the process, if only it was executed as it was

poached pear with warm red wine sauce.

intended.

a built-in USB-equipped recess for smartphones;

Breakfast, served 90 minutes before arrival

American Airlines Hong Kong-Los Angeles in First

a pair of international AC sockets; and blissful AA-

included the choice of an American breakfast

Class from HK$55,000 (US$7,052); www.aa.com

desk, turn towards your seat mate (in the case of centre seats) and you have dining for two. There’s

www.jetsetter.hk

76

TURNING LEFT

CANADIAN ALL STARS AIR CANADA TORONTO-HONG KONG

NICK WALTON DISCOVERS CONSISTENT LEVELS OF SERVICE COMPLEMENT AIR CANADA’S MARKET-LEADING BUSINESS CLASS PRODUCT TO PERFECTION ON A RECENT FLIGHT FROM TORONTO TO HONG KONG. CHECK IN/THE LOUNGE

DINING

I had already checked in for this flight

Cuisine is where Air Canada is really trying to

in Ottawa so I made my way from my arrival

distinguish itself from other North American

gate to the Air Canada Maple Leaf lounge,

carriers and based on the eight flights I’ve

which was spacious and warm, with a cooked

done with the carrier in the past months,

breakfast and great coffee on offer.

they’ve been successful. After a glass of chilled Champagne Drappier and a bowl of

THE SEAT

warm nuts, lunch was served, with smoked

I’m a huge fan of the Air Canada International

trout Nicoise followed by a choice of stir-

Business

ergonomic,

fried sliced pork with black bean sauce;

intelligent and contemporary, it’s a pleasure

grilled chicken breast with chickpea panisee,

to fly in and even better to sleep in. My

asparagus and chimichurri; roasted smoky

window seat boasted three windows, one

Applewood salmon with maple balsamic

partially covered by the 18-inch touchscreen

butter, white wine risotto, and broccolini; and

monitor; and at 80-inches long and 21-inches

grilled AAA beef tenderloin with cabernet

wide ensures plenty of space and comfort.

peppercorn sauce, Yukon Gold mashed

There’s pneumatic cushions and a massage

potatoes, and asparagus. The Nicoise salad

function for lumbar support and comfort;

was deliciously light and fragrant while the

easily-accessible USB and AC ports secreted

beef was cooked to perfection and beautifully-

in a flush, deep-set drawer at the centre of a

proportioned (meaning there was no room for

large armrest; and a single-pin audio jack for

the cheese selection).

Class

product;

those who like to bring their own headphones.

Water and amenity kits featuring Canadian

Savvy to the needs of business travellers,

brand Escents Aromatherapy products were

the airline also offers an Express Light Meal

already supplied when I took my seat.

Option and a Flexible All-Inclusive Option on its long-haul flights, while there’s also a self-

Crew offered glasses of water and sparkling

service snack basket and At Your Leisure

wine, obtained post-take off drink orders, and

snacks, including hot noodle soup with pork

handed out menus; we departed on time on

and prawn wontons.

the 16-hour flight to Hong Kong. www.jetsetter.hk

Approximately 75 minutes out from Hong Kong we were served brunch, with fresh orange juice and seasonal fruit, yoghurt, fluffy warm croissants and blueberry muffins, and a choice of a parsley omelet with chicken sausage, roasted red skin potatoes, red pepper relish and cottage cheese; Chinesestyle congee with chicken julienne, green onion and ginger; or chicken fried rice.

SERVICE Another aspect in which Air Canada is excelling, service on my flight was attentive without being fussy, and intuitive without being standoffish. My orders were taken by charming guest services manager Holly, and the lunch meal was served efficiently but was unhurried.

WHAT WE LOVED What impressed the most was the state-ofthe-art business class seat, with its userfriendly design, and the quality of the service.

WHAT WE DIDN’T Although the Executive Pod is a great piece of engineering I did find it a little cramped around knee level when in bed mode.

Air Canada Hong Kong-Toronto in business class from US$4,453. www.aircanada.com

LIFESTYLE

KiNG OF the seAs

CHEF OLIVIER BELLIN

VeNiCe ISLES OF INTRIGUE

A TRUE RITE OF PASSAGE PRICKLY ADVENTURES

THE MURRAY HONG KONG

SUMMER EYE CANDY

78

FOOD ADVENTURES

www.jetsetter.hk

FOOD ADVENTURES 79

PINEAPPLE

EXPRESS

One of the world's most popular tropical fruits, the pineapple is known for its distinctly sweet and sour flavours, offering the perfect touch to sundowner cocktails and the COMPLEMENT to pizzas. But there’s much more to this prickly fruit than sunsets and tiki culture, discovers Isabelle Lui.

O

n Elgin Street in Hong Kong, the

newly

reopened

Soho

Spice restaurant showcases this

versatile

decadent

fruit

new

with

dessert

a by

chef Peter Cuong Franklin. The Grilled Spiced Pineapple includes a scoop of rich coconut ice-

E

xperience the nourishing effects of pineapple at Le Grand Spa at the Grand Hotel Excelsior Malta, which offers a special spa programme featuring the inclusion of two iconic

tropical fruits – coconut and pineapple. The 45-minute Exotic Pineapple and Coconut Rub

cream, perched atop caramelised pineapple, and

helps improve the skin’s elasticity and hydration

sprinkled with spices and salted crushed peanut

as well as reduce fie lines while removing

and sesame. Finished off with a rum vanilla

damaged cells for a glowing complexion. The

sauce, this soul-soothing dessert features smoky,

treatment’s provision of enriched vitamins

spicy, sweet flavours in a decadent take on a

leaves the skin young and smooth thanks to

tropical classic. www.diningconcepts.com

the fruits’ powerful anti-oxidation benefits.

H

www.excelsior.com.mt/thespa ead down to the Hawaiian island of

Oahu

for

Dole

Plantation’s

Pineapple Express Train Tour, which combines travel and education.

The fully narrated, twenty-minute

train tour provides visitors with spectacular views

W

ant a taste of summer freshness in a glass? Try The Original Piña Colada at

Caribar

at

Caribe

Hilton San Juan Hotel in

of the pineapple plantations and lush Hawaiian

Puerto Rico, where the classic concoction was

rainforests of the North Shore, while also letting

invented in 1954. A blend of Don Q Gold rum,

them delve into the story of the islands’ most

Coco López, cream and fresh pineapple juice,

famous crop during the three kilometre adventure.

this hand-crafted cocktail is served with delicious

The venue also offers a plantation garden tour that

tapas and panoramic ocean views. The Evolution

showcases eight mini-gardens filled with tropical

of the Piña Colada menu also includes two other

fruit; and a one hectare pineapple garden maze

versions of the elixir, highlighting innovative twists

– the world’s largest – delicately decorated with

on the original. www.caribehilton.com

14,000 Hawaiian plants. www.doleplantation.com

www.jetsetter.hk

80

CHEF PROFILE

www.jetsetter.hk

CHEF PROFILE 81 What inspired you to be a chef?

Becoming a chef is not something you suddenly decide,

Tell us about your Breton cuisine at The Ocean.

at least not in my generation. In my case, it had been

The Breton cuisine at The Ocean by Olivier Bellin

a long journey moving step by step. Initially I did not

brings something new to Hong Kong’s food scene,

want to be a chef, but I love eating and grew up with my

with products that are not available here and with very

grandmother and my mother, both of whom were cooks,

different flavour characteristics from my home. My style

which allowed me to be exposed to a wide variety of

integrates the products from the sea with some of the

flavours. Working with renowned chefs gave me the real

most characteristic Breton ingredients, like buckwheat

passion and made me understand that with great effort

and oats. There are excellent chefs in Hong Kong, but

I could become a successful chef.

the new menu at The Ocean by Olivier Bellin introduces distinctive Breton flavours to consumers.

Hong Kong is a long way from your ancestral restaurant in Brittany, what inspired the move to The Ocean?

How do you incorporate traditional cooking techniques into modern dishes?

My relationship with The Ocean is a series of

For me it is very important to find the right balance. I

coincidences. I already knew that my cuisine was

come from a very classic generation of chefs, but the

appreciated in Hong Kong, from my previous experience

world is evolving and things are very different from

cooking in Asia so when the opportunity to collaborate

what I learnt years ago. The cuisine has changed

with The Ocean arose I had the certitude that my style

and it becomes necessary to integrate the current

was going to match well. The Ocean and my restaurant

modern flavours, cooking style, and presentation. I try

in

des

to maintain my traditional style and to remain loyal to

Glazicks) have some similarities including a waterfront

my philosophy, while incorporating modernity into my

location, which helped me decide that it was the right

dishes, with the combination of cooked and uncooked,

project to get on board.

using less salt, adapting the acidity arrived from Asia,

Brittany

(two-Michelin

starred

L’Auberge

as well as trying new condiments.

How has working with celebrated chefs like Joel Robuchon shaped your culinary style?

You always learn something and you progress

How do you see modern French cuisine changing?

enormously when you have the opportunity to work with

My generation had a strong culture of local cuisine

such renowned chefs. At that time, Joel Robuchon was

that helped build the fundamentals of chefs. The new

the best cook in the world. He taught me to aim for the

generation travels more, experiments more, and is

excellence and for the highest quality of cuisine and

more innovative and unafraid of trying new options and

ingredients. With him I learnt about cooking, but also

crossing borders.

about consistency and organisation.

What do you cook on a holiday?

Chef Jacques Thorel had an auberge in Brittany, and

I usually choose a style very different to my cuisine.

working with him there I learnt that every detail matters,

I like to eat simple products without high elaboration,

from flowers to daily problems. He taught me that a very

like pasta with butter. As a good Frenchman, I also like

important part of a successful restaurant is building a

crepes with cider and of course cheese with a glass of

strong identity, which I applied in my small restaurant

wine.

in Brittany.

I also had the chance to work with Alain Ducasse, from

What new ingredients are you experimenting with?

whom I learnt the importance of working with a good

At the moment, I am working with herbs and vegetables

team. Once again, I understand that the cuisine itself is

grown on the Breton seaside, which retain the flavours

important, but you also really need to be able to rely on

of the sea while bringing a completely different taste to

the people you are working with, and you can go very

dishes. I am also experimenting with other ingredients

far with a good team.

like sweet Roscoff onions, which are recognised with the AOP (appellation d’origine protégée), without forgetting a continuous exploration of buckwheat, to find adaptations to new dishes.

www.jetsetter.hk

82

RESTAURANT REVIEW

A DAY AT THE BEACH Bathers, on Lantau Island, not only shows visitors to the city a completely different take on Hong Kong, but is also a refined and welcoming respite for city dwellers.

Nick Walton layers on the sun screen and heads to the beach.

B

athers, located on Lower Cheung Sha, is the kind of hidden gem that we wouldn’t begrudge you keeping to yourself. In a city with very little wiggle room, finding a chic, Sydneyinspired restaurant perched on the sands of a pristine beach,

seemingly a million miles from Central, is a rare find.

The latest creation by Hong Kong hospitality duo chef Chris Woodyard and marketeer Bronwyn Cheung of Woolly Pig Concepts, Bathers takes the city’s beachfront dining offering from the humble BBQ pit and noodle stand, to something that’s both sophisticated and friendly, complete with al fresco seating, stunning views, crisp, intelligent service, and a menu by British chef Toby Barrett that’s laced with the bounty of both land and sea.

I’m not going to lie to you – getting to Lower Cheung Sha village is no easy task, especially on weekends when it seems the masses are all beach and Big Bhuddha bound. Fortunately, the restaurant has put on a pre-book pre-paid bus that links Bathers with Tung Chung. We make our way across Lantau’s mountainous spine, descending to panoramas of green islands dotting a deep blue sea. Fifteen minutes after leaving the MTR station at Tung Chung we’ve arrived in paradise. occasion, from family lunches and intimate evening dining, to We take a table as close to the sand as possible, cooled by ceiling fans

parties, celebrations and even small-scale beachfront weddings,

and sea breeze. Charming staff quickly greet us, suggesting signature

backdropped by the beauty of the South China Sea.

cocktails and house specials; Bathers is part beach club, part gastropub – the vibe is cool, the cuisine unpretentious yet well-executed. Dressed

We kick off with rounds of Lantau Mules, local takes on the classic

in muted grey and vibrant turquoise, the restaurant caters for up to 100

cooler with Fair Vodka, spiced with Aming ginger beer, Falernum

diners, with additional self-service tables and sun loungers available

and lime, and order parmesan and lemon polenta croquettes and

on the beach, for those who like to dine with the sand between their

crispy salt and pepper squid, both of which are perfectly cooked

toes. Spacious, airy and with a resort vibe, the space lends itself to any

and generously proportioned, the smoky aioli really lifting the pillowy croquettes. My dining companion and I both opt for the beer battered barramundi with chips and crushed lemon peas, which again is fresh, crispy on the outside and silky inside. Other alluring options included the Wagyu cheeseburger with smoked bacon and emmental cheese; and the charred pork chop with crispy mustard potatoes and cider jus, and the red snapper with fennel and a pine nut and orange salsa.

There really is something for everyone on Bather’s menu, including dedicated children’s dishes and some very indulgent deserts (a new take away counter called Mr Chipper will also open next door this month) but instead we finished off with a jug of the Paloma, with Tequila Ocho, lime, pink grapefruit soda and salt, the perfect refreshing finish to a blissful day at the beach. 32 Lower Cheung Sha Village. South Lantau, Hong Kong; Tel: +852 2504 4788; http://bathers.com.hk

www.jetsetter.hk

84

TOP TABLES Acclaimed one Michelin-starred Italian chef Luca de Berardinis has taken the helm at one of Hong Kong’s favourite Italian restaurants,

Operetta, introducing a new seasonally-driven menu that fuses tradition and innovation. Chef Berardinis worked in some of Italy’s leading kitchens before arriving in the Fragrant Harbour to head up local favourites Il Milione and Nicholini’s at the Conrad. His insightful new menus at Operetta, which include new two or threecourse lunch sets and an indulgent brunch spread, are packed with authentic Italian flare. Highlights include spaghetti fish roe carbonara, with salmon roe, caviar, sea urchin and bottarga roe; a signature tomato-less pappardelle with lamb ragout; monkfish tail wrapped in pancetta; and spring chicken “diavola” with grilled vegetables, chili and rosemary sauce. Also look out for authentic Italian pizzas and calzones, and delectable desserts, including a reinterpreted tiramisu with coffee and limoncello jelly. www.operetta.hk

EAST MEETS WEST Offering authentic Marrakesh flavours to the city’s palate explorers, Lilya Moroccan Lounge & Bar has opened in Central, Hong Kong. Boasting authentic Moroccan dishes, the venue, which can accommodate 90 guests, features mosaic zellige tiles, ornate brass lamps, and an intimate terrace, as well as a private dining room. Look out for innovative concoctions crafted by award-winning mixologist Younes Ateyah, including the Oriental Fashion, made with 27 Moroccan spices. Dishes to complement the cocktails include harira beef tenderloin soup with chickpeas and black truffle; and sardines marinated in a tomato and garlic sauce. www.diningconcepts.com/restaurants/Lilya

British furniture designer Timothy Oulton has brought modern British cuisine to Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan district with the opening of his first restaurant, Gough’s On Gough. The two-storey eatery serves a variety of dishes created by head chef Arron Rhodes, including roasted Oyster Bay lamb rump with garlic and lemon puree; and dashi made with custard and topped with sea urchin. The restaurant’s two bars feature signature cocktails inspired by Sir Winston Churchill; Our Finest Hour, reminiscent of Churchill’s famous speech given after France sought an armistice during WWII, blends Pierre Ferrand 1840 Cognac, Great King Street Artist’s Blend whisky, and Tempus Fugit Créme de Noyeux, with a dash of cherry tobacco. www.goughsongough.com

www.jetsetter.hk

TOP TABLES 85

Set in a revamped shophouse, Muse Amuse by The Carbon Collective has recently opened in Singapore’s bustling Chinatown dining area. The two-storey venue’s lower floor includes a dining space, Muse, and a cocktail bar, Amuse, where classic Asian teainfused concoctions are crafted. For a more intimate experience, the upper floor has a private dining space and a private lounge. The eatery’s Asian-influenced dishes include Golden Kibun, Korean-style spiced arancini balls with butternut pumpkin purée, kimchi and gochujang chilli; and Japanese somen noodles in a bonito-kombu broth, with sauteed scallops and a sous-vide egg yolk. www.thecarbonco.com

Delivering a blend of modern and traditional culinary experiences to discerning diners, these are the tables not to be missed this summer. By Isabelle Lui Hong Kong’s Wagyu Kaiseki Den has rebranded as Kaiseki Den by Saotome and opened in a new location in Wan Chai. Featuring Japanese Kaiseki cuisine, a traditional multi-course meal, the new kitchen is helmed by executive chef Hiroyuki Saotome, who applies his authentic home-cooking techniques to innovative tencourse menus comprising dishes made with lavish ingredients, such as black and white truffle, caviar, and French challans duck. In addition to daily-imported sashimi platters, a classic option at the restaurant is the chef’s signature dish, sea urchin claypot rice with truffle. www.laisun.com

Award-winning chef Frédéric Vardon has opened LE

39V, a twin sister of his restaurant in Paris, in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong. Located on the 101th floor of the International Commerce Centre, the new Parisian food haven overlooks the city’s skyline, and offers a variety of well-presented dishes prepared by chef Vardon and his team from Paris. Using traditional ingredients and modern cooking styles, signature creations include Niçoisé-styled red mullet; thick monkfish from France with shellfish; and blue lobster ravioles printed with herbs. www.jcgroup.hk

www.jetsetter.hk

86

MINIBAR

Old Me From modern, sustainable drops to are the tipples we’re pouring

Created by the brand that gave birth to the modern tequila renaissance,

Gran Patrón Piedra is an ultrapremium, triple-distilled extra-añejo spirit for true agaveophiles. A distinctly different tequila from other Patrón products, Gran Patron Piedra is crafted using the traditional process of grinding the roasted agave heart or pina with a stone wheel called a tahona. The resulting agua miel, or “honey water” is then distilled along with the crushed agave fibre, before being aged in new American and French oak casks for three years. Bottled in a beautiful lithe decanter at 40% ABV, Gran Patron Piedra Extra-Añejo boasts a medium amber hue, with touches of oak, spice and cigar smoke on the nose, followed by sweet toffee and butterscotch on the Inspired by the exoticism of Africa and the timeless distilling traditions of London, Whitley

Neill Handcrafted Dry Gin is a unique small-batch spirit that instills the best of contemporary gin production. Bottled at 43% ABV, and featuring African botanicals like Baobab Tree extract and Physalis fruit, the gin is produced in a 100-year old copper still and features spice and juniper on the nose, followed by cassia bark and acacia honey on the palate and a long, smooth finish, making it ideal for summertime gin cocktails as well as year-round classics. www.whitleyneill.com

palate. www.patrontequila.com

For true lovers of craft spirits from the US, The Most Righteous New

York Straight Bourbon Whiskey from the Catskill Distilling Company is made from New York state grains and aged onsite to create a dark-amber liquid that’s as bold as the rich caramel and toffee of its aroma. Reminiscent of the spirits that were once produced in the region north of New York City, The Most Righteous bourbon, bottled at 42.5% ABV, features touches of espresso, cocoa and leather on the palate, as well as a lingering note of burnt orange and a long, slightly sweet finish that lends itself as well over ice as it does to prohibition-era cocktails. www.catskilldistillingcompany.com

www.jetsetter.hk

ets New

MINIBAR 87

spirits that harp to a bygone era, these this season. By Nick Walton Connoisseurs will always look to a

Never has it been truer than today: not

spirit’s water source to gauge quality,

all vodkas were created equal. Case in point, New Zealand’s Karven

Starka Vodka, a unique small-batch spirit

but collecting moisture from passing fog to make vodka? In an innovative, sustainable limited-release, San

laced with the distilling traditions of

Francisco’s Hangar 1 distillery has

Eastern Europe, and the world-class

created Hangar

1 Fog Point, a

artesian waters of New Zealand (the

unique Californian vodka made from

family distillery also does an award-

fresh locally-sourced ingredients,

winning gin and a very unique vermouth).

including fog. Fog catcher Chris Fogliatti,

An elegant yet robust grain vodka with

founder of sustainable water nonprofit

a dark, mellow hue completely at odds

Fog Quest was tasked with seeing if the

with most vodkas, Karven Starka is

city’s iconic fog could be a resource,

rested in American oak barrels infused

and the result is remarkable. A spirit

with manuka honey and local botanicals,

made by head distiller Caley Shoemaker

including native kawakawa in a process

from vintage wines sourced from local

reminiscent of the traditional Starkas,

sustainable vineyards, Hangar 1 Fog

which were barreled and buried at

Point is an extraordinarily crisp, pure, and

the birth of a son, and enjoyed at his

gluten free sipping vodka with elegant

wedding. Look for notes of vanilla and

hints of pear, citrus, and honeysuckle. www.hangarone.com/fogpoint/

Straight rye whisky is making a

honey on the palate, followed by a

comeback as more cocktail fans in Asia

lingering spiciness. www.karven.co.nz

reach for the original punch behind their favourite classic libations. Pikesville

Straight Rye Whiskey is a great expression of the unapologetically robust straight rye style. First produced in Maryland in the 1890s, the brand, along with the rest of the once-booming Maryland Rye industry, was shuttered by prohibition, an era that gave birth to many of the greatest classic concoctions. Now produced in Kentucky

by Heaven Hill, using extra-aged barrels stored in prime warehouse locations, this six year old rye features cherry syrup, red licorice and cinnamon on the nose, followed by cherry cola, rye spice and vanilla on the tongue, making it a great drop for a classic Manhattan. www.pikesvillerye.com www.jetsetter.hk

88

SPIRITS

teQUiLA’s Traditional Innovator founded in 1870, Casa Herradura has become one of Mexico’s most iconic tequilaproducing haciendas. Today, it continues to produce market leading drops for a new generation of tequilaophiles, discovers Nick Walton

F

ounded by Ambrosio Rosales and Aurelio Lopez, Casa

Casa Herradura integrates sustainable practices in many facets of the

Herradura has been producing super-premium 100 percent

tequila production process to reduce its environmental footprint. These

agave tequila at the Hacienda San José del Refugio since

include a multi-million dollar state-of-the-art water treatment plant,

1870. Located in the village of Amatitán, Jalisco, Casa

a composting plant, agave nurseries and greenhouses. In addition to

Herradura lies in the birthplace of tequila, a libation that’s

being an environmental steward, for the past 146 years, Casa Herradura

seeing a huge surge in popularity both globally and within Asia, with

has invested in projects that promote social and economic growth in the

consumers and mixologists alike experimenting with this timeless Latin

community of Amatitán and the state of Jalisco.

spirit.

A stickler for antiquity, Casa Herradura continues to use traditional methods to produce its range of world-class tequilas, from slow cooking

Casa Herradura produces four tequila styles, each with their own distinct personality .

wild, airborne yeast created by the surrounding orchards and agave

Herradura Silver is crafted with 100 percent blue agave, and is aged in American white oak for 45 days. With a light straw hue and herbal aroma, followed by vanilla and touches of oak on the palate, it’s perfect for classic tequila cocktails.

plantations. The spirit is twice distilled before being aged to perfection

Herradura Reposado was an industry first and is aged in white oak for 11

in American white oak barrels. The results of this commitment to

months to produce hints of anise, fruit and spices, and a smooth, sweet brown spice finish.

mature agave hearts, harvested by specialist agave farmers called jimadores, in traditional clay ovens, to using natural fermentation, with

authenticity and excellence has earned Casa Herradura numerous accolades and awards.

In fact, Casa Herradura’s history has always been a balance of respect for traditional production processes and industry-leading innovation.

Renowned for being the tequila industry’s foremost innovator for more than five generations, Casa Herradura is credited with the introduction of the world’s first-ever reposado and extra-añejo tequilas in 1974 and 1995, respectively. www.jetsetter.hk

Herradura Añejo is aged for two years to ensure a dark copper hue, and an intense agave aroma, followed by toasted oak and dried fruit on the nose, and a slightly sweet finish.

For the ultimate tequila experience, Herradura Extra Añejo is another industry first. This Selección Suprema is aged in American white oak barrels for four years, and boasts spiciness and floral notes on the nose, with a complex, rich vanilla and dried fruit palate and long, smooth finish.

90

WINE

W

ith summer now in full force, wine preferences start to shift towards nicely chilled white wines that are fresh, light,

and easy to enjoy with food. But for those of us used to generally grabbing that bottle of Bordeaux or Brunello, what are the best white wines to try and what’s the best way to match them with bold Asian food flavours?

The general idea of pairing is that the food and wine should complement or balance one another, with neither overpowering the other’s flavours and characteristics.

While wine pairing can be subjective, there are some general rules to follow.

• Salty dishes work well with wine on the sweeter side.

The saltiness and sweetness balance each other out.

• Sour dishes work well with drier wines. The flavours in these foods bring out the fruit flavours in the wine, making it taste less dry than normal.

• Deep-fried or spicy foods call for something on the crisp side. Sparkling wines work well in this case.

• Many Asian dishes have a lot of texture to begin with so best to avoid wines that are very high in texture.

The more versatile the wine the better, and this is why Riesling is the top choice to pair with Asian food. The Riesling grape maintains its acidity and can develop high sugar levels, making it a great complement. Its flavours are delicate enough to handle even the spiciest dishes too. As Riesling varies from dry to sweet, you can choose different varieties to pair with your meal.

Gewürztraminer (also known as Gewürz) — meaning spice grapes — has a lot of complex spice notes, making it another great pair with Asian food. For dishes with a lot of texture, like thick rice noodles or tofu-packed meals, Gewürz from Alsace has a softer acidity and texture to complement the dish.

The PeRFeCT

PAiRinG Rickesh Kishnani makes pairing

summer dishes with white wine dead easy thanks to a few golden rules. www.jetsetter.hk

Champagnes and sparkling wines are also great accompaniments. The carbonation works well with salty and fried dishes in particular, acting as a palate cleanser to wash away the flavour and oil between bites.

For sweeter dishes like pork or chicken, or with spicy food, bubbles accentuate the spices in a dish while also cleansing the mouth.

While some of the more delicate reds can work well (like Pinot Noir), generally avoid red wines with serious tannins and heavier bolder flavours when pairing with Asian dishes. Don’t worry about making an “ideal pair” like in western cuisine; while some things do work well, try new wines, new combinations, and enjoy some experimentation.

CHAMPAGNE 91 Champagne house Lanson has launched Lanson Green

Label, a new cuvee using certified organic grapes from its own vineyards in the Marne Valley, around the village of Verneuil. The vineyards, which were acquired in 2010, have been managed biodynamically, producing grapes for an organic non-vintage champagne using the house’s 2012 base wine. Made in the tradition of Lanson champagnes, the wine has not undergone malolactic fermentation but instead was aged for more than three years on the lees, a process that offsets high levels of malic acid in champagne. Initially limited to a production of just 65,000 bottles, and comprising 50 percent pinot noir, 20 percent chardonnay, and 30 percent pinor Meunier, the new organic wine is a sign of things to come, with other major champagne houses also setting aside acreage for biodynamic grapes. www.lanson.com

Two new champagnes have arrived in time for summer celebration. By Nick Walton Veuve Clicquot has unveiled its exclusive Extra Brut Extra

Old champagne in Asia. Mixing the best of history, Veuve Clicquot pays homage to its rich heritage with the launch of this entirely new auteur wine, a premium cuvee blended exclusively from the house’s precious reserve wines, spanning over three decades from 1988 to 2010. Set aside in order to ensure the consistency of the brand’s Yellow Label, these wines are the heart of the Veuve Clicquot identity, and are presented, double aged and with a very low dosage (only 3g/l of sugar) by cellar master Dominique Demarville. Clear to the eye with a fine golden effervescence, and a grape balance of 47 percent pinot noir, 27 percent chardonnay and 26 percent pinot Meunier, the wine is a beautifully versatile compliment to both lighter dishes and richer flavours, and features a depth and nuances thanks to an additional three years of aging during a special double maturation process. www.veuveclicquot.com

www.jetsetter.hk

92

BEAUTY TRAVEL

be Gone!

From de-puffing tired peepers to promoting skin resilience, these dark circle eliminators for men will ensure your eyes look sharp and refreshed wherever you’re headed to. By Isabelle Lui

Dedicated to gents looking to get rid of dark circles beneath eyes, Sircuit

Skin’s White Out + deals with shadows around the eye area and protects the skin against harmful environmental substances. With Biolumen Firm technology, which eliminates the harmful effects of UV light, this fast-absorbing cream helps promote radiance, while the colour-correcting attributes of its active ingredients soothe and whiten under-eye skin, and reduce puffiness. www.sircuitskin.com

Laced with a strong puffreducing ingredient, caffeine, Kiehl's Facial Fuel Eye De-Puffer is a lightweight eye stick that cools and soothes the skin around the eyes for reduced puffiness.

Formulated with Arctic root which helps rejuvenate tired eyes, this non-greasy agent provides the skin with hydration while leaving eyes refreshed; its portable design also makes it great for travellers. www.kiehls.com

www.jetsetter.hk

An instant solution to water retention under the eyes, Clinique for Men’s

Anti-Fatigue Eye Gel uses a stainless-steel rollerball to deliver micro-circulation around the eyes, which helps reduce accumulated fluid. With a cooling effect, this roll-on gel removes tired-looking eyes by revitalising and hydrating the skin, as well as combating dark circles and fighting the signs of aging around the eyes for a brighter skin tone in one week. www.clinique.com

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Natural - Pollution Free Herbal Purity’s Antrodia Cinnamomea is made of highest range of Antrodia Cinnamomea and meticulously yielded in a natural, pollution-free environment.

Proven by research studies, both our Antrodia Cinnamomea and the wild Antrodia Cinamomea possess the same structure, appearance of fruiting bodies and odor under the investigation by microscope. Unlike other types of its kind, Herbal Purity’s Antrodia Cinnamomea is the purest form of Antrodia Cinnamomea with qualities that are simply unmatched with the industry.

Restore your health the natural way

Antrodia Cinnamomea Nature’s rare and medicinal edible mushroom that promotes overall wellness.

Antrodia Cinnamomea Capsules Our Antrodia Cinnamomea is the purest form found at an altitude of 450- 2,000 m in the government-protected lands in Taiwan.

Excellent Health-Preserving Value Promotes Healthy Liver Function Helps Promote Detoxification Enhance Essential Qi Contains 100% Antrodia Cinnamomea Rich in Triterpenoids, Polysaccharides and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)

For more information please visit:

w w w. c h u n s h e n g . t w

This information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are intended to support general wellbeing and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure any condition or disease. Always seek advice from your medical doctor.

94

FASHION

If there was ever a city in which to seek glamour and seduction, it must be Venice, an ancient metropolis once defined by palatial intrigue and the passing fortunes of kingdoms.

Photographer: Paolo Guadagnin A city defined by the tides, at Hotel Metropole Riva D'acqua; dress by AGG Anton Giulio Grande; bracelet by Leda Otto. www.jetsetter.hk

Timeless elegance at Hotel Metropole’s Oriental Bar; dress by AGG Anton Giulio Grande; bracelet (left hand) by Zoccai; ring by Zoccai; shoes by Francesca Bellavista.

FASHION 95

www.jetsetter.hk

96

FASHION Hotel Metropole; dress

by AGG Anton Giulio Grande; necklace by Leda Otto; shoes by Francesca Bellavista.

www.jetsetter.hk

FASHION 97

Tamed by the night, at Hotel Metropole; dress

by Maison Renato Balestra; bracelets and necklace by Zoccai.

Credits: Photographer: Paolo Guadagnin Stylist Barbara Palladino Model Lera Varaboya @TheFabbrica (Milan) Mua&hair Beatrice Contino Ph. assistant Michele Roma Stylist assistant OscarOb Studio Ob Design Special thanks to: Hotel Metropole – Venezia www.hotelmetropole.com

www.jetsetter.hk

98

DESIGN

NEW LEASE ON LIFE

Set to redefine the luxury hospitality scene when it opens in late 2017, The Murray Hong Kong, a Niccolo Hotel, is the latest project by British design firm Fosters + Partners.

The Firm's Colin Ward discusses the ground-breaking new redesign.

What were your first thoughts when you saw The Murray Building?

stories into the hotel lobby. An elegant staircase

the project was to reconnect the building with

connects to the Garden Level encompassing

the city at ground level, creating a new street

Built in the 1970s, the Murray Building is an

a beautiful lounge and restaurant. Eight large

frontage on Garden Road, with open routes at

iconic landmark. A distinctive presence on the

lifts take guests to the upper levels, where the

ground level.

city’s skyline with its deep square punched

strong geometry of the facade frames stunning

windows, brilliant white façade, and majestic

views of the Hong Kong skyline and the lush

arches at ground level, it offered us a fantastic

gardens that surround the site.

opportunity to work with an important part of the city’s architectural heritage. The building is also an early exemplar of sustainable design and is inextricably linked with the green network of the city, located in-between Hong Kong Park and the Botanical Gardens. We were extremely

Foster + Partners has done a number of preservation and adaptive re-use projects.

Which past projects have influenced the firm’s sense of design as it is applied to The Murray?

The Murray will sit right next to some of Hong Kong’s most iconic skyscrapers.

What are some of the most important factors you considered in the re-design and preservation of this landmark?

Our primary focus has been to enhance the relationship of the building with the surrounding landscape; the ground plane is much more

Our endeavour is always to design a building

important than the height of the building. The

that relates to its immediate context, especially

design therefore, opens the base of the building,

within a dense urban scenario. The Murray

creating new connections between Hong Kong

builds on our urban design experience, with

Park and the Botanical Gardens. Also, the

What are the interesting elements behind a preservation project that you won’t be able to experience with an entirely new building?

projects such as Trafalgar Square and the Great

Murray Building is modestly tall by Hong Kong

Court at the British Museum, which sought to

standards. In fact, it is surrounded by much

knit the city together by creating pedestrian

taller buildings and overlooked by many from

connections that enlivened the space. Similar to

quite a distance. The roof, being lower than the

We always wanted to create a dialogue between

The Murray, these projects embodied a sense

other buildings, forms a ‘fifth elevation’, with

the old and the new – a building that is familiar

of reinvention, creating a new dialogue between

many people looking down to the site from

but has been given a new lease of life and a

the old and new and bringing forward a centrally

the surrounding areas. With this is mind, we

new purpose. Our design intent for The Murray

located luxury hospitality venue with a degree

designed the roof terrace as a continuation of

has been to rediscover the romance of going

of invigoration.

the green landscape, hence it becomes the

excited to take on the challenge to renew and adapt a government office building into a unique luxury destination.

centre of attraction.

to a hotel. Most new build city hotels nowadays are relatively anonymous; however, the 1970s

A former government building, the Murray

building by Ron Phillips and his team at the

Building had been fenced off from the

Architectural Services Department gives The

surrounding areas for many years for security

Murray a unique sense of character. Revealing

reasons. It was also designed at a time

Is the design of the interiors of The Murray influenced by a particular period or style?

a real sense of arrival, a private forecourt with

when the city was planned around the car

The building dates back to the 1970s, and

the historic cotton tree at its centre forms the

and consequently stands on an island site,

we have chosen an interior palette that is

hotel drop-off and entrance. From here visitors

surrounded by roads making it impermeable

sympathetic to the original structure but is also

walk through the majestic arches rising three

for pedestrians. One of the central aims of

timeless. www.marcopolohotels.com

www.jetsetter.hk

100

WATCHES

PPERFECTION inK Perfect for women looking to make their mark, Rolex has unveiled two new versions of its classic Oyster Perpetual Lady-Datejust 28, a 904L steel model and a white Rolesor version combining 904L steel and 18-carat white gold with a fluted or gem-set bezel in 18-carat white gold. As with the gold and the Rolesor versions introduced in 2015 and 2016, these new Lady-Datejust watches feature a redesigned, larger 28mm case and a new-generation mechanical movement, calibre 2236, equipped with the Rolexpatented Syloxi hairspring in silicon. Both new models are available with a wide choice of dials, including pink (pictured).

Like all Rolex watches, the new versions of the Lady-Datejust 28 carry the Superlative Chronometer certification redefined by Rolex in 2015, which ensures singular performance on the wrist. www.rolex.com

www.jetsetter.hk

WATCHES 101

THE nEW SPiRiT OF DISCOVERY

Breitling has redesigned its Superocean Héritage line, a collection dedicated to modern-day explorers, to coincide with its 60th anniversary.

F

irst launched in 1957, the Superocean

ties with the 1957 model, while ensuring optimal legibility,

professional diving watch has since spawned

enchanced by luminescent markers.

several generations of instruments boasting peerless aquatic performance. Yet Breitling

The sturdy steel case, with its screw-locked crown, is water-

has also preserved the spirit of the original

resistant to 200m, while the fluted unidirectional rotating

model in a line named Superocean Héritage that has become

bezel, bearing a luminescent dot at 12 o’clock, is fitted with

one of the brand’s stellar collections, thanks to its unique and

a 120-tooth system enabling extremely accurate adjustment

timeless look combined with cutting-edge technology.

and very smooth rotation – whether it comes to checking a dive time or marking off various time measurements, notably

To mark the 60th anniversary of this pioneer of wide-open

in aviation.

spaces, Breitling had reinvigorated its iconic design, with the addition of a new face as original, pure and dynamic as

The Superocean Héritage II is interpreted in two watch

ever, as well as a new steel bezel with an ultra-hard high-

sizes, 42mm and 46mm, each powered by a Swiss Official

tech ceramic ring that’s scratchproof and shock proof. The

Chronometer Testing Institute-certified Manufacture Caliber

elimination of the metal ring surrounding the minute circle

B20 movement, while a 46mm chronograph houses a

means the bezel appears to form a seamless whole with the

selfwinding chronograph movement. All models are available

dial in a matching colour. The unusual shape of the hands

in three colours (black, blue and bronze) and can be fitted with

(triangular for the hours and lozenge-like for the minutes),

leather, crocodile or rubber straps, or a steel mesh bracelet

along with the slightly cone-shaped hour-markers, reinforces

echoing the legendary 1957 version. www.breitling.com www.jetsetter.hk

102

WATCHES

NEW DIALS FOR

REVERSO COLLECTION

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s has made the relationship between men and its iconic Atelier Reverso collection all the more exclusive with the addition of three new dials, available in masculine electric blue and in two stone interpretations, one with a military influence in green marble, the other in tiger’s eye, a gemstone that gleams with an especially pleasing amber warmth. The collection's vibrant colours are the perfect complement to a new men’s model, the Reverso Classic Large Duo Small Second. Driven by a manually-wound mechanical movement, the new piece is dedicated to tradition and watchmaking know-how. Its front face presents a guilloché and brushed dial with a small seconds indicator. A second time zone in an opaline finish is revealed on the reverse, where a day/night indicator is set into the Clous de Paris-patterned guilloché design at 6 o’clock. A selection of straps also allows for additional personalisation and include calfskin, alligator leather, ostrich leather, and satin. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

www.jetsetter.hk

104

WISHLIST

D I A MON DS ARE FOREVER Diamond specialists Bella Vaughan has unveiled its debut collection of engagement rings and fine jewellery, which include this stunning Grandeur Oval Halo Diamond engagement ring in platinum. Renowned for creating extraordinary designs using state-of-the-art processes, the brand’s new collection of handcrafted, platinum engagement rings are available through Blue Nile, a leading online jeweller of certified diamonds and fine jewellery. The new range of rings focuses on showcasing side stones with fancy-cuts like asscher and trapezoid, whilst highlighting the diamond in the center, each selected by Blue Nile’s experts. From HK$33,750 (US$4,330); www.BlueNile.com/HK/

www.jetsetter.hk

WISHLIST 105

GEMS OF THE GARDEN Chopard’s collaboration with world-famous Barbadian singer Rihanna has

resulted in the new Rihanna Loves Chopard Haute Joaillerie Collection, which features lines inspired by the gardens of Barbados and the island’s eclectic Carnival. Influenced by Rihanna's island roots, the chandelier earrings from the Gardens of Barbados series are made with 18-carat white gold and titanium, graced with a total of 768 blue, pink and yellow sapphires, tsavorites, rubellites, green beryls, aquamarines, Paraiba tourmalines, rubies, amethysts and topazes, as well as lazulites and diamonds. These gems form the figure of a butterfly and flowers, while revealing a lush and lively garden. www.chopard.com www.jetsetter.hk

106

WISHLIST

Embodying the power and spirit of New York City, Tiffany & Co. has created HardWear, a new jewellery collection inspired by the Big Apple, where the modern rebel mixes high fashion with street style. With lines that stem from a unisex bracelet from 1971, the collection has been reimagined to include earrings, rings, necklaces and pendants, and goes as perfectly with a leather jacket as it does with couture. The metal-intensive designs capture the industrialism of the city, while the signature gauge links at the heart of the collection reflect the clean, simple shapes of utilitarian hardware. The chain necklace in 18-karat gold features graduated links that shift in scale, with a clasp that seamlessly disappears into the piece. A reinterpretation of the original design, the braclet is embellished with a detachable lock and ball for versatile styling, while the unique bolt backing on a pair of triple drop earrings makes for a perfectly symmetrical design, as striking from the back as it is from the front. www.tiffany.com

www.jetsetter.hk

108

AUTO

THE ROLLS ROYCE WRAITH A TRUE RITE OF PASSAGE

Driving a Rolls-Royce anywhere in the world gets you noticed. It’s a rite of passage for the super wealthy, discovers Cindy-Lou Dale as she slips behind the wheel of the new Rolls-Royce Wraith.

W

ith a V12 engine, what do you

with the eight-speed automatic gearbox. Lift

think the Rolls-Royce Wraith is

your foot off the pedal as you approach a

signature umbrellas in the door frames.

going to be like? It’s opulent, it’s

bend and it holds the gear without changing

The Wraith is unique in the US$300,000 price

extravagant and yes, it’s a tad bit excessive.

up while lane guidance technology sends a

bracket for size, space and luxury. Its nearest

It’s a serene, thoroughbred coupe version

gentle vibration through the steering wheel if it

rival is the Bentley Continental GT, which is

of the Ghost, yet it’s more than just a two-

feels you’re wandering into the next lane. And

over US$100,000 cheaper, and smaller (and

door reworking of its slightly bigger brother;

that’s just the tip of the technological iceberg;

Wayne Rooney has one).

the Wraith is lower and leaner and has what

like many things in this car, the features

people of my age would call a ‘fastback’.

provide assistance, not aid.

I garner envious looks from pedestrians and other road users; one mink coated lady with

A 20 minute drive along France’s ruggedly

As if it was born for it, the Wraith slips into

a semi hysterical pooch points with one hand

beautiful Côte d'Opale had the V12 humming

touring mode and its unique chassis settles

whilst covering her mouth with the other.

calmly in the background, as if it couldn’t be

above the tyres, begging that I push down on

bothered. The unobtrusive heads-up display

the accelerator. It’s the fastest Rolls-Royce

I pull into a service station to top up the thirsty

on the windscreen shows the whisper-quiet

ever (Rolls-Royce refuse to call it fast – they

tank and seek caffeine-laced fuel for myself.

engine to be spritely, but even though it is

refer to it as being ‘dynamic’) with a 6.6-litre

Before returning to the vehicle I stand back,

quick and stable through bends, heaving the

V12 engine, backed by twin turbos, specifically

allowing the crowd that has gathered around

2.5-ton Wraith around tight corners just seems

developed by Rolls-Royce engineers. This

the roller to enjoy it some more. When I open

wrong.

is no fire spitting, attack dog supercar but it

the door, I feel the crowd lean forward, drawing

will hit 60mph in 4.6 seconds. However, you

in to catch a glimpse of the opulent interiors.

The air suspension has also been modified to

may not want to do this as boy-racing a Rolls-

make it more dynamic, but don’t expect it to

Royce seems a little vulgar.

An elderly gentleman, visibly moved by the sight of the Wraith, asks if he can touch it.

climb trees. This car can take a bend at quite some speed but you need to get it right if you

Inside, the carpet is thicker than that found in

His voice is tight with emotion. “England

want to glide through. Get it wrong and the

most houses, the leather is of the finest quality

has a long royal history and gave us world-

stability control gets grouchy and it will under

and the cabin in general oozes Salvador Dali-

famous

steer like a ferry on the Bosporus.

type style from the (real) wood panels and

Shakespeare and Wimbledon,” he says. "But

the RR monogrammed head rests, to the

it also gave us Rolls-Royce, the car of my

star speckled roof lining, and the concealed

dreams.” www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

At high speeds the Sat Nav communicates www.jetsetter.hk

educational

institutions, William

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

THE NEW ERA

OF WORKSPACES

Seeking for professional offices with one-stop service or a hassle-free experience working on the go? Look no further than Regus!

H

ong Kong, as one of the top financial world centers, as well as the bridge between Mainland and global economy, is a melting pot of business cultures, with international corporations, investment banks and professionals from different countries. As such, there is an increasing demand for crossborder and multinational office spaces.

Nowadays, no matter what field you are in or what role you play – many of the job nature needs you to work on the move and meet clients. Thus, the modern workplace has evolved and the office is no longer defined by a particular space or furniture, but rather wherever workers and their technology happen to be.

Having three hours break in between meetings and don’t want to waste your precious time traveling back to office? A professional workspace around the corner will be beneficial. You no longer need to battle over noise and WiFi at coffee shops, nor afraid that the confidential business documents will leak.

Flexible workspaces for different budgets and needs

In Hong Kong, there is a variety of traditional office buildings that cater to the different sizes of enterprise. Some globally-acclaimed business centers have also set foot here, providing well-equipped private and open offices, meeting rooms and multi-functional workspaces for short-term and long-term rent.

Flexible in terms of budgets, time and needs, you can take an office for one person or a whole team, for a day, week, month or as many years as needed. The communal area of these workspaces might as well foster exchange of ideas and communication between clients, creating business opportunities.

According to related research statistics, over 72% business workers agree that open workspace can enhance communication, among them 86% thinks that semi-open office is the best for focus, thus raising work efficiency.

For SMEs and start-ups, flexible workspaces are what they need, which allow them to expand and relocate anytime and anywhere they want, with the necessary resources and supports, while reducing costs.

Enormous workspace network for workers on the go

Understanding the needs of the real business world, the world’s largest flexible workspace provider, Regus, provides to its customers premier business locations and top of the range services.

Spread over 3000 locations, 900 cities and 120 countries, Regus operates globally, providing workspaces from fully equipped offices, virtual offices to meeting rooms, business lounges with WiFi connections all around.

In Hong Kong, Regus has 17 professional

business centers readily available at prime locations, including Sheung Wan, Central, Wanchai, Causeway Bay, Quarry Bay, TST, Kowloon West, Mongkok and Kwun Tong.

The latest centre is located at Windsor House, Causeway Bay. To fully utilize Regus’ comprehensive business services, you can join its exclusive membership scheme – Businessworld which offers privileged access for mobile workers to more than 2000 Regus Business Lounges globally, and all the world-class facilities and supports, plus complimentary WiFi and coffee are provided.

With exclusive offer to Regus customer, serviced office tenants would be entitled to complimentary Regus BusinessWorld Gold Membership which gives you unlimited access to Regus business lounges across the globe and enjoy special discount on Regus products.

User-friendly and convenient, tying multiple services together in one simple price, Regus let customers to work exactly how and where they want to, whether it is a mile from home or 10,000 miles away.

Tel: +852 2166 8000 Website: www.regus.hk/jetsetter/wb

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

THE 29TH MACAO INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS DISPLAY CONTEST WILL ILLUMINATE THE CITY’S SKIES THIS AUTUMN

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

U

niversally acclaimed as one of the best events of its kind, the annual Macao International Fireworks Display Contest takes place on the Macao Tower Shorefront in September, culminating with a final dazzling performance on National Day, 1 October.

Held over five separate nights – 2, 9, 16 and 23 September and 1 October this year – the event will feature ten teams ready to outdazzle one another and illuminate the skyline with spectacular fireworks displays that will earn them a place on the podium. As in previous years, teams will choreograph their firework displays to music and laser light projections to bring out their display’s character and heighten the drama of the show.

“Anim’Arte " Nam Van Lake

In addition to a support show of music and laser effects, other activities planned to complement the event include a trophy design contest, photo competition and student drawing contest for Macao residents.

Over the years, the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest has attracted more than 100 international teams from China, the Philippines, Thailand, Japan, Korea, Australia, the UK, Switzerland, France, Germany, Portugal and Spain to this world-class Macao Science Center

pyrotechnic shoot-out. Many visitors choose this time of year to visit Macao and enjoy a holiday illuminated by spectacular displays in the night sky that can be enjoyed from many vantage points on the Macao Peninsula and Taipa Island.

Indeed, there are countless great locations from which to witness this illuminating contest. Standout spots include the observation deck at the top of Macao Tower, which stands 233m tall, and the Macao Science Center, which has a spiral walkway and large atrium.

Other good places to watch these dazzling displays are the Anim’Arte Nam Van, a new landmark for leisure, culture and creativity that overlooks Nam Van Lake, and the riverfront side of Taipa Island.

Riverside, Taipa

A host of talented teams from all over the world will take part in this year’s competition, including last year’s winner, MARUTAMAYA Ogatsu FIREWORKS CO., LTD. from Japan. The company began manufacturing its ornamental fireworks at the end of Edo era in 1864 and in 1947, it put on a display in front of the Imperial Palace, the first great fireworks show after the war. In the same year it got exclusive permission from General Headquarters, the Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers (GHQ) to display traditional fireworks at the Ryogoku Opening River Meet. Thanks to its excellent technique, MARUTAMAYA succeeded in reviving the firework tradition in Japan and also introduced Japanese fireworks to the world.

Alongside 2016’s winners, MARUTAMAYA, participating teams this year include Australia’s

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Cardile International Fireworks Pty Ltd, a Perth-based family firm founded in 1890 that’s widely acknowledged as Western Australia’s most successful pyrotechnics company.

Another participant, Austrian firm FIREevent - Die Feuerwerkert is a big name in the European pyrotechnics field, having organised high-profile shows for corporate clients since its inception in 1995 and invited to fireworks competitions in Monaco and Courchevel to showcase its talents.

With a wealth of experience that ranges from international displays in front of hundreds of thousands of people through to private wedding displays in rural hotels, the UK’s MLE PYROTECHNICS LIMITED will also be in attendance at the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest.

Another European participant in the competition is French firm ALPHA PYROTECHNIE, which is helmed by designer Patrick Brault, whose elegant style has become a trademark since he established the company in 2003.

There are three other European contenders competing to be on the podium at the event, including Potsdamer Feuerwerk GmbH, one of the largest providers of pyrotechnics in Germany, which is renowned for its special effects and stunning laser shows. Another competitor is Italy’s PANZERA S.A.S., which has previously put on shows in Switzerland, England, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, Morocco, Libya and Sudan. Grupo Luso Pirotecnia, creators of the world’s largest pyrotechnic waterfall, will be representing Portugal. The company has previously put shows together for Singapore’s National Day and music festival Rock in Rio. Asian representatives at the competition include the Philippines’ DRAGON FIREWORKS INC. Founded in 1992, it was the first fireworks manufacturing company licensed by the Philippine

government to cater to the domestic market and met the growing demand for quality fireworks. The official fireworks provider to the 23rd Southeast Asian Games, the company was Gold trophy winner at the 2015 Flammende Sterne (Flaming Star) International Fireworks Competition in Germany.

The tenth competitor is China’s YUNG FENG (QINZHOU) FIRECRACKERS & FIREWORKS CO., LTD, which has manufactured display shells and toy fireworks for more than 40 years. It utilises advanced technology from Japan and its products are popular in more than 100 countries globally.

Prepare to be dazzled by a truly illuminating event that is set to delight children and adults in equal measure – and stake out your spot for a fantastic view of the Macao International Fireworks Display Contest.

29th Macao International Fireworks Display Contest PROGRAM September 2nd (Saturday) 21:00 - Australia - Cardile International Fireworks Pty Ltd 21:40 - Austria - FIREevent - Die Feuerwerker September 9th (Saturday) 21:00 - United Kingdom - MLE PYROTECHNICS LIMITED 21:40 - France - ALPHA PYROTECHNIE September 16th (Saturday) 21:00 - Japan - MARUTAMAYA Ogatsu FIREWORKS CO., LTD. 21:40- Philippines - DRAGON FIREWORKS INC. September 23rd (Saturday) 21:00 - Germany - Potsdamer Feuerwerk GmbH 21:40 - Italy - PANZERA S.A.S. October 1st (Sunday) 21:00- Portugal - Grupo Luso Pirotecnia 21:40- China - YUNGFENG (QINZHOU) FIRECRACKERS & FIREWORKS CO., LTD

LUGGAGE 113

Handmade with soft black calf skin, the Portofino

Rolling Travel Bag in black pebble by Aspinal of London has a main compartment with red grosgrain lining and a robust double zipped closure. Designed to enhance travel efficiency, the base of the bag has a zipped pocket that hides the wheels and telescopic handle, while a lockable shoe compartment provides more room for an extra pair of loafers. In addition to dual top handles, an adjustable leather shoulder strap allows for easy carrying on the go. www.aspinaloflondon.com

The new Floto Collection Suitcase Duffle

Bag should be a frequent travellers’ everyday companion. Crafted with full grain vegetable tanned Italian calfskin, this 2.7-kilogram features three internal compartments, a padded laptop pocket and a fast access zip pocket. This spacious leather bag also features a semi-shiny wax finish which helps keep stains and water at bay. www.flotoimports.com

WEEKEND WARRIOR As summer lures you into travel adventures, pack essentials for a getaway with these high quality, stylish weekend bags.

By Isabelle Lui

Combining stylish design with fluid functionality, the first-of-its-kind New Globe Traveller Weekend

Holdall is part of the brand’s eco-friendly luxury product range, which are handmade from upcycled leather and tyre tubes. The size of a cabin bag, this holdall provides a 22-litre capacity for your daily commute or weekend escapes, while a gunmetalcoloured clasp makes sure your belongings are secured. The cotton-lined interior has dedicated slots for your wallet and phone, as well as zipped sleeves for smaller items. The strap can be detached to suit different carrying styles. www.newglobetraveller.com

www.jetsetter.hk

114

LIMELIGHT

CLASSIC

COUTURE CONTINUES

Strengthening its expansion within Asia, British luxury brand Mulberry has re-launched its Hong Kong store in a new location in Ocean Centre, one of the city’s most popular luxury precincts. Joining the brand’s 120 stores worldwide, the new space, with its Mulberry Green façade, recently showcased the Autumn/Winter 2017 collection, which includes a line of new bags, accessories and shoes, amidst the scent of pink and red blossoms. Attending guests at the cocktail party included local artist Miriam Yeung; awardwinning film director Kearen Pang; and socialites Antonia Li and Jenny Wong-Chau.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

11 www.jetsetter.hk

12

Anina Ho Davis Chan Alice Chan Antonia Li Miriam Yeung Akina Fong Elaine Yiu Nicola Yeung The new store showcases the Autumn Winter collection 10. Charles lam 11. Kam Kwok-leung & Real Ding 12. Guests enjoying the opening party

LIMELIGHT 115

1

3

2

5

7

CENTURIES OF

8

6

4 1. Adelene Chan & Vivian Li 2. Albert Wong & Edwin Ing 3. Andrew Pong 4. Brandon Chau 5. Veronica Li & Yen Kuok 6. Jason Chan, Cecilia So & Phil Lam 7. Charlie Young & Jean-Marc 8. The exhibition space 9. Yen Kuok 10. Helen Ma 11. JC & Amanda Cheng 12. William Tang 13. Rosemary & Walter Hau

9

10

ELEGANCE Parisian jeweller Chaumet recently invited Hong Kong gem lovers to The Art of Jewellery Since 1780 exhibition, held at the Oval Atrium of the city’s IFC Mall. The exhibition, a 17th century Follies-inspired construction, presented a selection of the brand’s High Jewellery pieces collected over the last two centuries, as well as an engaging virtual reality film titled Here and Beyond: An Imperial Virtual Journey, which took guests on a journey through Chaumet’s history. The opening cocktail event welcomed a mix of local artists, including Charlie Young and Cecilia So; as well as singers Phil Lam and Jason Chan.

11

12

13 www.jetsetter.hk

116

CULTURE

MUSÉE YVES SAinT LAUREnT PARiS After its half-year-long transformation from exhibition venue to museum, the Museum Yves Saint Laurent Paris, operated by Fondation Pierre Bergé - Yves Saint Laurent, re-opens in October. Paying tribute to the French designer’s 40-year contribution to the global fashion industry, and dedicated to conserving his works, the Parisian museum, housed in a historic couture house that was once the designer's studio, will exhibit over 20,000 pieces of haute couture, as well as accessories, sketches and photographs that map the development of the brand and the evolution of high fashion. www.fondation-pb-ysl.net

Image credit: Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris

www.jetsetter.hk