Jetsetter Spring 2018

EXOTIC PLACES

INTERESTING PEOPLE

INTELLIGENT TRAVEL

THE 2018 BUCKET LIST ULTIMATE ENCOUNTERS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD

RIDE THE SNAKE

Escapism at its Very Best

THE BENSLEY COLLECTION DEBUTS IN SIEM REAP

EXPLORING THE PERUVIAN AMAZON

Time to Take a Dip

THE WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTEL POOLS

AN AUSSIE CHEF IN MEXICO

BANGKOK ELEPHANT POLO

DRONE FEVER

A S T U N N I N G N E W L A N D M A R K O N H O N G KO N G H A R B O U R F R O N T Located in the newly-fashionable district of North Point on Hong Kong Island, the brand new Hotel VIC on the Harbour boasts spectacular panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and direct access to a newly-created waterfront promenade. The twin-tower hotel offers 671 affordable luxury guestrooms and suites designed for upwardly mobile, young and savvy tourist and business travellers looking for unbeatable comfort and quality service. Dining options include international cuisine at an all-day outlet and a sophisticated rooftop restaurant and bar, complemented by diverse eateries and superb shopping in the hotel’s podium floors, as well as in an adjoining mall and the vibrant surrounding area. Links to Hong Kong’s superb public transport network, including the MTR and ferries, are just steps away from the hotel.

Hotel VIC’s hospitality extends to the high-tech world of super-connectivity. In addition to complimentary lightning-fast Wi-Fi available throughout the premises, the hotel features online check-in/out service; guestrooms equipped with flat-screen televisions offering IPTV service; and a tailor-made smartphone app that puts services like in-room dining, table reservations, networking and multimedia entertainment at guests’ fingertips.

Hotel VIC is due to open in mid-2018.

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myAustrian DEBUTS ITS

PREMIUM ECONOMY CLASS THIS SPRING

myAustrian passengers can look forward to an even more comfortable journey when premium economy class launches this spring.

The centrepiece of the new Premium Economy Class is a specially developed seat that provides passengers with a seat pitch of 38 inches (97cm) compared to 31 inches (79 cm) in Economy Class. Additional footrests take the strain off the legs, a feature that is likely to prove particularly welcome with those travelling long-haul. A central armrest with foldout table between the seats and a broad armrest for every passenger delivers more privacy and room on the side. In addition, every seat is equipped with its own power outlet and USB port.

Distinguished service

The new Premium Economy Class from myAustrian offers much more than a comfortable, well-appointed seat. Passengers in the new travel class can check in two pieces of luggage at no charge, each with an allowable weight of up to 23 kilograms.

After enjoying a welcome drink, Premium Economy Class passengers can order their meals from a mouth-watering menu, with all dishes served on china dishware.

In addition, every passenger in this travel class is given a small amenity kit with useful travel accessories to ensure a restful stay on board. Premium Economy passengers can also sit back, relax and enjoy the extensive in-flight entertainment programme on large 12-inch touchscreens from the comfort of their spacious, well-equipped surrounds.

Explore more features online at premium-economy.austrian.com

A travel class for everyone

The new Premium Economy Class is an important milestone in the airline’s strategy to link individualisation with quality, says Austrian Airlines CCO Andreas Otto. “The customer can individually choose the travel class according to his or her needs, whether the preference is to fly in a price conscious

manner in Economy Class, treat oneself to a little more service and comfort in Premium Economy or luxury travel in Business Class,” he adds. In particular, the new Premium Economy Class is designed to appeal to passengers keen to experience a higher level of comfort on flights to their holiday destinations as well as price-conscious companies booking seats for business trips.

Great value fares

To celebrate the launch of its Premium Economy Class, myAustrian is offering special fares priced at HK$8,880 including taxes from Hong Kong to Vienna, London, Paris, Milan and Prague. The offer is available for booking until 19 April for travel from 22 March-24 June, or 11 September31 December (21 days advance booking is required).

For more offers, please visit www.austrian.com or contact the service centre on +852 2846 6433.

14

EDITOR'S NOTE Denis Fahy

denis@jetsetter.hk Publisher

Nick Walton

nickwalton@artemiscomms.com Managing Editor

Grace Brewer

editorial@artemiscomms.com Editorial Coordinator

Philippa Walton Chief Sub Editor

Don Pierre Riosa don@jetsetter.hk Art Director

Tammy Fong

tammy@jetsetter.hk

Travel Industry Relationship Director

Paul Lo

paul.lo@jetsetter.hk

W

General Manager (Shanghai) photo credit: Reeve Jolliffe/EYOS Expeditions

elcome to another issue of JESTETTER, Asia’s home to luxury experiential travel. As we shake of the brief cold months of Asia’s winter, we prepare for a year of exploration ahead, and that means it’s time for our annual Bucket List, a curated collection

of unique travel experiences – some new, some established, some whimsical, some more immersive – but all guaranteed to get your mind into travel mode. This year’s list has a little something for every traveller, from cruising America’s Route 66 on a classic Harley to mark the motorcycle icon’s 115th anniversary, to cruising the remote islands of Indonesia aboard a luxurious liveaboard, the ideal adventure for divers. But there’s much more on offer this issue; we delve into the Peruvian Amazon in search of the rare animals and remote communities that call this unique ecosystem home; we take a dip in some of the world’s most eye-catching swimming pools; and we take a visit to the clutch of private islands only a few hour’s travel from Singapore. In our regular Lifestyle section we slip behind the wheel of Aston

Louis Chu

louis@jetsetter.hk

Beijing Sales Manager

Fatima Cameira fatima@jetsetter.hk

Macau Sales Manager

Laurence James

laurence.james@jetsetter.hk Chief Representative Europe

JETSETTER is registered as a newspaper & periodical.

JETSETTER is published by Jetsetter Ltd JETSETTER is printed by Jetsetter Ltd Suite 402-3, Hong Kong Trade Centre 161-167 Des Voeux Rd Central Hong Kong 6F No.580 Tianyaoqiao Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, China 200030

Martin’s newest Vantage; meet an Aussie chef who’s turning heads in the Mexican

616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-5706 Valley Cottage, NY 10989 USA

highlands; and learn the latest from the worlds of drones and DSLRs. Wherever

Tel +852 28557885

you’re travelling this season – be it an epic adventure on your own bucket list or simply a weekend away with someone special – we hope JETSETTER continues to guide, educate and inspire. www.jetsetter.hk

Safe travels.

Media Partner

Managing Editor Nick Walton

www.jetsetter.hk

Jetsetter Magazine

Jetsetter.hk

All rights Reserved: Copyright and distribution rights are reserved exclusively for Jetsetter Ltd, 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. Jetsetter Ltd does not make any guarantees to the accuracy of the information contained.

CONTENTS 24

ROOM WITH A VIEW

Lingering in The LiWa

38

24 HOURS

KiWi cooL

42

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL

ice coLD accommoDaTion

44

INSIDER

maSTer oF The SKieS

48

HOTEL INSIDER

eScapiSm aT iTS very BeST

52

THE 2018 BUCKET LIST

uLTimaTe TraveL From acroSS The gLoBe

CONTENTS 64

AMAZON

riDe The SnaKe

76

LUXURY ESCAPES

Singapore’S privaTe iSLanD paraDiSeS

80

THE WORLD’S GREATEST HOTEL POOLS

Time To TaKe a Dip

96

IN THE KITCHEN

againST The grain

102

RESTAURANT REVIEW

TranScenDing TraDiTion

126

AUTO

aDvanTage aSia

20

Tjungu Festival Ayers Rock, Australia April 26-29, 2018

In its fifth consecutive year, the acclaimed Tjungu Festival is a celebration of indiginious Australian music, dance, fashion, film and food. This year’s event will pay special attention to emerging Aboriginal fashion designers and will climax with a performance by country music favourite Troy Cassar-Daley

Where to Stay: Be close to the action at the Ayers Rock Resort, home to a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury apartments to traditional camp sites. www.ayersrockresort.com.au

La Bohème

Sydney, Australia March 23 – April 22 Using Sydney’s breathtaking harbor as a backdrop, a stunning new production of La Bohėme seduces travellers to the harbourfront. Set in a wintery 1960s Parisian streetscape, the new production will feature beautiful cobblestone laneways, glowing street lamps and classically bohemian costumes under the direction of director Andy Morton and costume designer Dan Potra. Described as one of the great outdoor opera events in the world, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is a highlight of the Australian cultural calendar.

Where to Stay: The InterContinental Sydney is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, with elegant guest rooms and suites and brilliant harbor views. It’s also only a short walk from the opera venue. www.icsydney.com.au

Adäka Cultural Festival Whitehorse, Canada June 29 – July 5, 2018

A major cultural event on the Canadian calendar, the Adäka Cultural Festival celebrates and showcases Yukon First Nation art and culture. Held on the Whitehorse waterfront, the festival offers a vibrant program of events incorporating a balance of traditional and contemporary music, dance, drumming, arts and crafts, storytelling, film, artist demonstrations, workshops, cultural presentations, a community feast and more. www.adakafestival.ca

Where to Stay: Tracing its heritage to the Klondike Gold Rush, Whitehorse’s Edgewater Hotel overlooks the iconic Yukon River and offers luxurious guest rooms and a close proximity to the festival grounds. www.edgewaterhotelwhitehorse.com www.jetsetter.hk

22

Inti Rayni Cusco, Peru June 24, 2018

Time your next visit to South America to coincide with Peru’s colourful Inti Raymi or sun festival, a religious ceremony that dates from the Incan dynasty. Paying tribute to the sun god, the festival coincides with the winter solstice and much of the action takes place at Cusco’s city centre, with a mass at the cathedral followed by a procession to the Fortress of Sacsayhuaman where the religious ceremony is re-enacted.

Where to Stay: Nested at the heart of the city, the luxurious Belmond Hotel Monasterio is one of South America’s most coveted houses of slumber. A former monastery turned boutique hotel, the property, a national monument, boasts sophisticated guest rooms, a mesmerising art collection, and some of the best dining experiences in Peru. www.belmond.com

Sing Jazz

Singapore April 6-8, 2018 One of the region’s leading showcases of jazz and jazzinspired musical genres, Sing Jazz welcomes a host of local and international artists to this year’s event, held at Marina Bay Sands. Look out for icons like Soul II Soul and Estelle (pictured), and emerging talents like Weish, Tim de Cotta and Indonesian singer Tompi. www.sing-jazz.com

Where to Stay: Stay close to the action at Marina Bay Sands and enjoy world-class restaurants, stunning views from your guest room, and one of the world’s most Instagramable pools. www.marinabaysands.com

Stars of the White Nights St Petersburg, Russia May-July 2018

Celebrate the end of winter and the warmth of long summer nights with the residents of St Petersburg during the annual Stars of White Nights festival, a collection of captivating events that run from mid-May to mid-July when the sun only dips briefly below the horizon. Look for the Scarlet Sails, a fleet of red-sailed tall ships that play a vital role in a sensational fireworks display; walk the riverfront amongst mimes, fire eaters and gypsy bands; and catch breathtaking ballet performances at the iconic Mariinsky Theatre.

Where to Stay: The Grand Hotel Europe is one of Russia's most historic hotels and has beautiful suites themed on characters through the nation's rich history. www.belmond.com www.jetsetter.hk

24

ROOM WITH A VIEW

www.jetsetter.hk

ROOM WITH A VIEW 25

Lingering In the Liwa Nothing quite captures the imagination like a sea of towering sand dunes which march towards the horizon. And that’s what guests at acclaimed Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort wake to every day. Nestled in the depths of the Liwa Desert, part of the great Empty Quarter, this spectacular retreat is located three hours’ drive from Abu Dhabi and brings to life the ancient forts and oases of the desert, complete with stone parapets, sumptuous guest suites and villas, some with private pools, world-class restaurants, and of course, views to die for. Be sure to take one of the Anantara resort’s sunset camel rides, timed perfectly to greet the transition from day to night among the dunes. https://qasralsarab.anantara.com

www.jetsetter.hk

26

INTRODUCING

LO F T Y LUXURY Luxury hotel group Rosewood has debuted in the Cambodian capital. Rosewood Phnom Penh is located in the city’s now-iconic 39-story Vattanac Capital Tower and boasts 175 residential-styled guest rooms, including 37 suites, each of which boasts stunning cityscape vistas. Designed by Melbourne’s BAR Studio, the lavish new urban retreat features cutting-edge new restaurants, including a duo created by Tokyo-based Bond Design Studio; interiors that aim to capture the essence of Khmer architecture; and close proximity to the city’s most popular landmarks, including The Royal Palace, National Museum, Central Market, and Wat Phnom. Be sure to leave time for a tipple at Sora – translated as “sky” from Japanese – the highest bar in Phnom Penh, which is perched on a cantilevered terrace on level 37 with unobstructed views of the Cambodian

www.jetsetter.hk

capital.

www.rosewoodhotels.com

INTRODUCING 27

SAN FRAN’S MOST BEaUTIFUL BILLET

Offering stunning views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the new Lodge at the Presidio, which opens in June, is expected to bring new levels of luxury to one of San Francisco’s most

beautiful parks. Building on the success of the Park’s first hotel, the Inn at Presidio, which opened in 2012, this newly rehabilitated historic boutique hotel boasts just 42 rooms, housed in the former army post’s Montgomery Street Barracks, which were built by the US Army between 1895-97. Lovingly restored by Architectural Resources Group and LC Interiors, the barracks has been reimagined as a contemporary and luxurious retreat while retaining its historic significance, with guest rooms featuring mesmerizing bridge views, modern furnishings, and touches of memorabilia. After a day exploring the city or the park’s hiking trails and bikeways, return to the Lodge in time for cocktails served by the garden fire pit. www.presidiolodging.com

www.jetsetter.hk

28

INTRODUCING

THE LION’S DEN

Established by conservationists and National Geographic filmmakers Beverly and Dereck Joubert, Botswana’s Duba Plains has been the base for the couple’s Great Plains Conservation since its opening. The camp was recently completely rebuilt, with five sumptuous suites and a two-bedroom Duba Plains Suite returning the elegance and luxury of yesteryear to the 31,000-hectare private concession. Each suite takes its inspiration from the safari camps of the 1920s, replete with copper bathtubs, Persian rugs, antique furniture, crystal decanters in the minibar, and four-poster beds. The region is best known for its lion prides, which were captured in the Jouberts’ documentary The Last Lions, but there’s also hippo and leopards, red lechwe and resident elephants, with each day in the bush finishing with the customary sunset cocktails. Because no one said you had to rough it. https://greatplainsconservation.com

www.jetsetter.hk

30

INSPIRE

A Superyacht Sized Adventure Exploring the world’s farthest flung corners by superyacht has until now been the domain of the super-wealthy, but superyacht charter specialists EYOS Expeditions will celebrate its tenth anniversary by offering a series of unique superyacht departures to Antarctica in 2019, available by the cabin. EYOS pioneered fly in/ fly out superyacht expeditions to Antarctica, and guests on these unique expeditions will enjoy the same convenience of flying over the notorious Drake Passage before they join their multi-million-dollar expedition-ready superyacht Legend for a week-long adventure of a lifetime. During the cruise three experienced EYOS guides will be onboard, with expertise in photography and the natural history of Antarctica, to help ensure you get the most out of this remarkable part of the world. Prices for the one-week departure in January begin at ₏25,000 (US$30,800) per person, and include pre and post hotel nights in Punta Arenas, flights between Punta Arenas and Antarctica, and all drinks and activities onboard, with the first departure planned for January 6-13, 2019. Later this year, EYOS will introduce other scheduled expeditions onboard superyachts in the South Pacific and the Maldives, as well as future polar expeditions onboard Legend. For reservations email legend@eyos.com. www.eyos-expeditions.com

www.jetsetter.hk

32

INSPIRE

www.jetsetter.hk

INSPIRE 33

A Culinary Voyage to Remember

Voyages Ayers Rock Resort's exclusive evening dining experience in the desert, Tali Wiru, (meaning beautiful dune in local Pitjantjatjara) has re-opened for its fifth season, offering travellers to Australia’s Red Centre an open air gastronomic

experience set against remote sand dunes overlooking Uluru and the distant domes of Kata Tjuta. This season's menu features ancient flavours of indigenous Australia with some exciting and unusual ingredients woven into the mix. Guests begin this unique dining experience with Champagne and canapés at sunset, accompanied by the sounds of a digeridoo, before being seated for a four-course table d'hote menu perfectly matched with premium Australian wines. Highlights of this season’s menu include seared scallop with finger lime buerre noisette; pressed wallaby with fermented Quandong, Hung yoghurt, pomegranate and puffed ancient grains; and Wagyu beef fillet with salt-baked celeriac, paperbark smoked onion soubise, King Brown mushroom and smoked bacon jus. During the meal a storyteller shares tales of indigenous culture and the southern night sky, with the evening concluding with port, cognac or native wattleseed-infused hot chocolate around a roaring campfire. www.ayersrockresort.com.au www.jetsetter.hk

34

INSPIRE

www.jetsetter.hk

INSPIRE 35

Making

Memories Ritz-Carlton

has

launched

a

series

of

unique

experiences designed to give guests an insight into the destinations to which they’re travelling. Whether it's an amenity, a cultural ceremony, or an engaging performance, the new #RCMemories, some of which are complimentary while others have an associated fee, connect guests to local culture by featuring a destination's taste, scent, sight or sound. At The RitzCarlton, Dove Mountain in Arizona guests can gather around a fire pit and listen to a Dove Mountain Ranger recount local folklore while being serenaded by a Native American flautist. At The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain guests can experience the Tree of Life lighting ceremony, which signifies life through the illumination of lights, lamps, lanterns and candles; while at The Ritz-Carlton, Langkawi, guests will become spellbound by the 'Dance of Thanks to the Sea', which takes place each evening at the golden hour of sunset at the beach; and at The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, travellers can delve into the island’s Hindu heritage with a soul purification ritual. www.ritzcarlton.com

www.jetsetter.hk

THE MAGIC OF

MACAO

Celebrate spring with an unforgettable stay at Sheraton Grand Macao

A heady mix of East and West, the vibrant city of Macao is home to a diverse array of architecture, from colourful squares and buildings built by the Portuguese to ancient Chinese temples. The city is additionally renowned known for its premier shopping, entertainment and dining options. It was recently crowned a member city of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in the field of gastronomy, and there are plenty of local delicacies to savour, from juicy pork chop buns and fresh crab congee to creamy Portuguese egg tarts and double boiled milk pudding.

Being just an hour’s ferry or 15-minute helicopter ride away from Hong Kong, Macao is the ideal location for a relaxing break.

Cotai Calling Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel, Cotai Central is located in the middle of it all on Cotai Strip, a bustling area famous for its shopping, thanks to landmark malls and more than 850 duty-free stores.

Treat yourself to a much-needed break by booking the Fun with Friends Hotel Package for two at the Sheraton Grand Macao. Ideal for couples, friends or families looking for a revitalising getaway, the package includes free drinks for two at the Palms Café and Bar – just what you’ll need after a busy day sightseeing around this beautiful city.

Raise a toast to friends at this stylish lobby lounge over a glass of wine, beer or cocktail. If you’re feeling peckish, menu highlights include the Chinese bbq plate or a steaming, fragrant bowl of laksa, while the matcha smoothie fruit bowl is a deliciously healthy yet moreish sweet treat to share with friends.

Travelling is always a fun experience, especially when it is with your nearest and dearest. Relax, unwind and create compelling memories at Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel this spring.

Sheraton Grand Macao Hotel Fun with Friends Stay period: from now until 30 June 2018 HK$1,388++ for two person

• • • •

Accommodation for two with daily buffet breakfast or lunch One-way Cotai Water Jet Cotai Class tickets for two or MOP200 hotel credits Daily complimentary glasses of selected wine, cocktail or beer at Palms Café and Bar Additional MOP100 hotel credits. The offer is valid until 30 June 2018.

For more information, visit www.sheratongrandmacao.com +852 2880 2000 Estrado do Istmo.s/n Cotai, Macao

38

24 HOURS

Kiwi Cool An easy drive from New Zealand’s largest city, Matakana captures the essence of kiwi rural bliss as the arts and foodie gateway to the North, discovers Nick Walton.

www.jetsetter.hk

24 HOURS 39

11am What put little Matakana on the map was its Farmer’s Markets and you should time your visit so you can mingle with locals and Aucklanders alike among the quirky and eclectic stalls, cafes and galleries centered around the Matakana Village complex. There’s live music, games for the kids, great coffee and a plethora of snacks to enjoy, from Manaki whitebait fritters and preserves and dips from Puhoi Pantry, to freshly baked bread and homemade jams from the Pukeko Bakery. Also look out for locally-made feijoa sparkling wine from Lothlorian, made with New Zealand’s unofficial national fruit; honey bourbon from Batch 10; and gourmet delights from I Love Pies. Beyond the food stalls there’s plenty on offer

9am

in the Village, from beautiful home décor at Damask Studio and Matakana Home, to local art, decadent

The perfect base from which to explore Matakana,

chocolate and superb coffee – something kiwis take

less than an hour’s drive north of Auckland, is the

quite seriously. The markets are every Saturday from

luxurious and blissfully private Black & White Barn,

8am-1pm. http://matakanavillage.co.nz

a boutique hideaway created by foodies Simon and Amy Hope that’s steps from the centre of this dynamic and eclectic village. The Barn has two

1.30pm Walk off your grazing at one of the country’s most

suites; the Black Suite is inspired by Matakana at

popular new art destinations. Sculptureum is a

night and features a private outdoor patio, fine New

fascinating

multi-million-dollar

complex

of

six

Zealand art and a queen-sized bed, while the White Suite, which is clean, crisp and modern, comes with a king-sized bed that can be configured as two singles, Smeg appliances and locally-produced Matakana Botanicals toiletries. The suites can be combined for friends and family travelling together to make the Black and White Cottage. Be sure to leave time for lingering continental breakfasts served al fresco. http://blackandwhitebarn.co.nz/

www.jetsetter.hk

40

24 HOURS galleries and three sculpture gardens. The creation of

regular brews, and two seasonal drafts, all of which are

owners Anthony and Sandra Grant, who spent a decade

made with no sugar, preservatives or colours added and

collecting a fascinating array of works, the estate has both

are unpasteurized. Find your favourite tipple to take home

indoor and outdoor galleries, with 150 exhibits and 400

with you or plan your visit right to enjoy live music and a

pieces by artists from New Zealand and aboard including

great evening ambiance. www.sawmillbrewery.co.nz

John Ferguson, Cezanne, Monet, Chagall and Rodin. After you’ve worked up an appetite in the gardens and galleries

8pm

head for Rothko, the estate’s restaurant, named for US

Matakana has also made a name for itself for its boutique

artist Mark Rothko, where executive chef Jarrod McGregor

wines, and one winery has helped thrust the scene into

serves up delectable, modern cuisine using locally-sourced

the national spotlight. Ascension Wine Estate was one of

ingredients and matched with boutique Matakana wines.

the region’s first wineries and makes stellar chardonnays,

www.sculptureum.nz

pinotages and sparkling roses, as well as grappa and plum

4pm

brandies. Once you’ve worked up a thirst in the tasting room make your way to the award-winning Osteria restaurant,

Another great arts hub nearby is The Vivian, a showcase

home to contemporary Italian fare – you can even opt for

of international and local art set across three distinctive

a private dining experience in the winery or wine cellar –

spaces that in turn are housed in a rustic-chic building by

with highlights of the menu including cured salmon with

artist and designer Mike Petre perched on three acres of

avocado mousse and dill gel; smoked duck with rocket

landscaped bliss. The gallery offers a dozen shows each

salad, orange, and mandarin oil; and balls of mozzarella,

year, with some pieces exhibited on the venue’s expansive

ricotta, parmesan, feta and fontina, bread crumbed and

lawns. Exhibitions run the gamut from carbon imprint works

fried. http://ascensionwine.co.nz

by Bruce Foster to ornate Japanese-inspired tea cups by artist Aaron Scythe. www.thevivian.co.nz

6pm

10am Explore the stunning coastline of Pakiri Beach on a onehour horseback adventure with Pakiri Beach Horse Rides.

A short drive away, Sawmill is an independent brewery

You’ll encounter some of the local wildlife, from endangered

turning heads with its craft beers and organic wines. You

Dotterills to oyster catchers, while enjoying views of Little

can explore the brewery on a guided tour that finishes with

Barrier and the Hen & Chicken Islands. Longer rides

a flight of five of the brewery’s top drops, or pop in at the

through sand dunes, pohutukawa glades and native forests

Smoko Room, the venue’s cellar door, for sips of the 14

are also available. www.horseride-nz.co.nz

www.jetsetter.hk

The Next Big Wave An endless expanse of pristine tropical beaches, exotic culture and food, cozy living in lavish cabanas and of course splendid surfing that is recognized the world over. Just a handful of the experiences we promise at Jetwing Surf - welcome to Sri Lanka’s first eco luxury surf resort in Pottuvil Point, only 5 minutes away from the famed Arugam Bay. Call +94 11 4 709 400 or email resv.surf@jetwinghotels.com for details.

SURF POTTUVIL POINT

J E T W I N G , T H E H O M E O F S R I L A N K A N H O S P I TA L I T Y www.jetwinghotels.com

42

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL

ICE COLD ACCOMMODATION Reykjavik, one of Europe’s coolest capitals, is also home to some of the region’s savviest boutique hotels, discovers Nick Walton

Ion City Hotel

You may already know about Ion’s sister property, the striking award-winning Ion Adventure Hotel, which captures the majesty of Iceland’s interior. Now the homegrown brand has opened in the capital. With just 18 rooms, Ion City Hotel boasts a distinctive down-to-earth vibe, thanks to organic interiors, clean lines, locally-produced art and grey white walls contrasted by honey-hued timber floors. Designed by Minarc, an Icelandic architectural duo who also worked on the sister property, the hotel showcases national themes and design, right down to the real birch tree behind the reception desk and a custom-designed “bird’s nest” light hanging from the ceiling. Combining the best of Icelandic hospitality with farm-fresh cuisine and a bar that’s as popular with the locals as it is visitors, the Design Hotels member’s 18 guest rooms all feature timber floors, luxurious linens and Bluetooth speakers, although we have a soft spot for the 30sqm Junior Suite, with its spacious balcony and private sauna. ioncity.ioniceland.is www.jetsetter.hk

BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL 43

Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre

Located on Hverfisgata Street, a thriving area in the heart of the Icelandic capital, Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre has been designed as a natural extension of the vibrant neighbourhood, with local design influences and natural materials used throughout the hotel's architecture and interiors. Steeped in local culture, guests can taste Iceland's famous Omnom chocolate on site, enjoy water naturally filtered by Icelandic lava, and immerse themselves in local literature when relaxing in the hotel’s poets' corner. There’s even an LP library with records that can be played on the hotel’s ten record turntables. With just 112 rooms, the hotel boasts an intimate, chic ambiance that extends to the Geiri Smart restaurant,

where

Lead

Chef

Enthusiast

Jóhannes Steinn Jóhannesson and Sous Chef Enthusiast Bjarni Siguroli Jakobsson innovate on local dishes. www.canopybyhilton.com

101 Hotel

One of the city’s coolest enclaves, the 38-room 101 Hotel is housed in a former 1930s office building that was once the headquarters of the Icelandic Social Democratic Party. The Icelandic Opera House and Reykjavik Art Museum are steps away. Under the creative guidance of owner and designer Ingibjörg S. Pálmadóttir, the Design Hotels member has become a casual-chic lightening rod for the city. With its modern lines, local art work, and palette of black, grey and white, the hotel is unapologetically modern but without being pretentious. Guest rooms in heated oak and white linen are spacious and user friendly – we especially like the Double Deluxe Rooms with their standalong bathtubs. Downstairs the Nordic cool continues in the bar, which is dressed in Chinese lacquer and timber, the look punctuated with pieces by Eero Saarinen and Philippe Starck; and in the restaurant, which is saturated in natural light thanks to overhead windows. http://101hotel.is www.jetsetter.hk

44

INSIDER

Master of the Skies

The youngest pilot to have joined the Breitling Racing Team, Frenchman Mikael Brageot nailed 2015's Challenger Cup and is stretching his wings towards the scene's greatest victories. He shareS his air racing aspirations, his journey to the Master Class category, and his preparations for the upcoming series of competitions at the controls of his high-performance MXS-R plane, renamed Skyracer, with Isabelle Lui. What inspired you to become a pilot and to choose air racing?

It all started at the age of 12. My grandfather took me to the local

By the age of 14 everything was clear in my head – I knew I wanted to be a pilot. My whole life revolved around aviation by that point. All my weekends, holidays and evenings were spent at the air field and flying occupied my thoughts around the clock. Aerobatics was my passion and you really need to dedicate your life to this if you want to be the best. I decided to get a professional aerobatic qualification and I tried to develop a career in this area.

air field to have my first lesson. He thought it would be a good

www.jetsetter.hk

thing for me to experience. I think he had a futuristic vision of

The Red Bull Air Race noticed me through my

how the world would be with flying cars and wanted to give me

achievements in top aerobatic competitions.

the chance to experience this early on. I completed my basic pilot

They called and invited me to the qualification

training, gaining my PPL (private pilot license), and became the

camp where I gave my best in a totally new flying

first pilot in the family. From there I progressed to flying a cap 10,

environment and from that I was asked to join the

an aerobatic aircraft; it was a natural progression. I saw other

Challenger Class as a race pilot. It was a dream

local pilots flying the plane and it inspired me to learn. The cool

come true. I finished third in 2014 and then went

thing is that you can fly competitions which was a new aspect of

on to win in 2015 and at this point I was awarded

aviation for me. It allowed me to really train, perform and improve

my super license to be able to join the Master

flight after flight.

Class.

INSIDER 45 What does it mean to you to be the youngest pilot to have joined the French Aerobatics team?

safe flying at low level and to be able to handle your aircraft like an

As an aerobatic pilot, it has been, since my first competition, a dream

being an air race pilot; the ability to stay calm under pressure, as well

to one day join the best pilots in the world at the top level. It’s difficult

as to be extremely focused. You must never allow yourself to become

to imagine the path towards this target. But step by step, sometimes

complacent either, that’s the rule to staying safe.

longer than you think or expect, you see some movement, especially

extension of your own body. Discipline is a hugely important part of

when you pass in the next category and you get closer and closer to the

Describe the best moments in your racing career.

level you’re dreaming to reach.

Every single time in the air racing environment gives me an amazing feeling. If I had to choose some of the best moments I’d select my first-

After a few years, for me, everything sped up and I was very quickly embedded into the high-performance single seat French category, Excellence, the last step before the Unlimited international level. Trust me, at that time I had just finished my studies, at around 19 years old, and when I saw a tiny possibility to fly with the French Aerobatic Team, I decided to put every ounce of effort into the sport. After only one

ever podium in the Challenger Cup (first place in Dallas 2014); my first Red Bull Air Race Championship win (Challenger Cup 2015); my first flight in the track 2016 flying the high-performance aircraft mentored

by Nigel Lamb; and my first race with my team engaged in the Master Class World Championship 2017 with the Breitling MXS-R Skyracer.

year the French federation selected me as an official pilot for the World

How do you prepare yourself for competition?

Championships at Silverstone in the UK. After all the effort, dreaming,

I not only have a physical regime but also a mental one. I ride my

sacrifices, and happiness, it was just a huge honour for me to represent

mountain bike around south-western France, which helps me to stay fit

my country during an international contest and to hold the national flag.

and enables me to work on different exercises directly linked with the

It was the continuation of my passion at the next level and the start of

needs of the race. Cardio and endurance as well as fast reactions are

my professional sporting life in aviation.

our main concern and what we train for to be at our best throughout the season. You can also really help yourself by exercising particular

You’ve won a number of air races, including the Challenger Cup Championship 2015 in Las Vegas, and have now joined The Breitling Racing Team.

How far are you from achieving your ultimate goals?

It is a long journey to my ultimate goals. In terms of the air race, I’d like to be World Champion one day, but I realise that kind of achievement doesn’t happen overnight. So, we take each race, each season at a time. My first goal will be to get onto the podium at a race, then it will be to win, and finally to become consistent enough to win the title. As I said, it’s a long way to go, so one step at a time. I’d also like to become the Aerobatics World Champion, but unfortunately, I’m not able to compete at this year’s Championship in South Africa due to a calendar clash with the Red Bull Air Race. But I’ll certainly be aiming for National Champion at this year's [2017] Championship.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in racing?

muscles to combat the effects of G force on your body.

Mentally I work with a sports psychologist to improve my ability to focus in a demanding environment. Somehow you have to find a balance between being too relaxed and too hyped up. You need to feel sharp but not under so much pressure that you don’t fly in a natural precise and smooth manner. It’s very important that, when you start the engine, you are looking forward to the race and that you’re mentally and physically prepared. You need to be in a frame of mind where you can get the best out of yourself and the machine, and feel that you are absolutely on top of your game. You’re focused, know exactly the line you want to take and you’re not thinking about anything else.

How do you see air races evolving?

Since the standardised racing engines were introduced in 2014, we have the same power to weight ratio, so times in the track have become a lot more competitive and closer together. Now we really are concentrating

Air Racing is so far the ultimate competitive aviation discipline you can

on the aerodynamics of the aircraft and flying the fastest lines. With this

enter. Most of the pilots come from aerobatics, so you’d think it would

the role of the track analyst is becoming more and more important, and

be easy you know, but once you’ve arrived in the sport, you realise that

you’ll see that’s where teams are spending their time and energy to

you almost need to learn everything again and you never stop learning

improve race after race.

to progress toward the top; this is the biggest challenge, and to do it all with a professional approach while trying to achieve the best results is not easy. However, I’m relishing the challenge.

What are the most important qualities an air racing pilot must acquire?

How did flying the new Breitling MXS-R Skyracer give you an edge in the 2017 Red Bull Air Race World Championship?

We are now the only team to be flying the MXS-R, with everyone else flying the Edge 540. It’s difficult to know which is the ultimate machine;

Plenty of hours flying high-performance light aircraft is a must before you

they each have their attributes. What we do know is that the Skyracer

can even think about becoming an air race pilot. Whether it’s aerobatics

is competitive, and with the right preparation we should be in the top

or crop spraying, you have to have gained enough experience to be

seven in terms of aircraft performance. The rest is down to the pilot. www.jetsetter.hk

46

PAMPER

Time for Holistic Healing Bali’s newest wellness enclave has opened in the hills of Nusa Dua. REVĪVŌ is centered around soothing spirits and rejuvenating bodies through relaxation activities, spa and holistic treatments, and a personalised nutritional programme. Boasting just 16 Balinese-style suites, including two four-bedroom villas that can be booked for more exclusive retreats, the new resort is dedicated to achieving holistic “healing” through mind training and selfawareness. A schedule of insightful programmes cover everything from detoxing and weight loss to stress busting and anti-ageing, and are complimented by fitness programmes centered around the property’s unique 8,000sqm hybrid fitness area, which includes a yoga barn, a martial arts hall, a reformer Pilates studio, a gym with TRX, boxing and kinesis equipment, a 25-metre-long lap pool for aqua workouts and a 1,500 square metre landscaped park for outdoor exercises.

Catching Zs in Paradise

The resort’s five-suite spa combines authentic ancient Balinese

We all know the importance of a good night’s sleep. This

healing traditions with aroma, hydro and chromo therapies, conducted by skilled therapists using herbal-infused oils, aromas and massage techniques. www.revivoresorts.com

May 17-22 Como Shambhala Estate in Bali will host its first The Sleep Awakening workshop, led by renowned sleep consultant Tristian Kelly. The six-day workshop will help guests take control of their sleeping patterns, with daily group sessions and a single one-on-one consultation that looks into the science of sleep and teaches a range of sleeping strategies to help with bouts of insomnia. Kelly will also identify guests’ individual anxiety triggers, and then craft personalised sleep programmes which they can use to aid their sleep on their return home from the workshop.

There will also be discussions on how food and nutrition can support good sleep, as well as daily inspiration provided by the Como Shambhala kitchen, while relaxing body treatments, yoga and outdoor activities will also help engender real results. Those sheep will be jumping fences in no time. US$5,160; www.comohotels.com

Chakra Alignment Ensure you’re living life in balance with the new Chakra Well-Being Treatment at Hampshire’s luxurious Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in the United Kingdom. The new bespoke treatment is based around seven blends of chakra-balancing essential oils, which are designed to heal the nervous system and realign the body’s essential energy channels. Each 120-minute treatment is created specifically to meet the wellness requirements of each guest and includes the pouring of warm oil over the shirod or the body’s third eye to a soundtrack of exclusive ILA chakra-healing music. Finish your session with a soak in the hotel’s iconic hydrotherapy pool. https://chewtonglen.grandluxuryhotels.com

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WELLNESS 47

INDIAN OCEAN

INDULGENCE

Head to the sun-kissed Indian Ocean island of Mauritius for the region’s newest wellness retreat, the spa at the new Kelly Hoppen-designed LUX Grand Caube.

One of the island’s largest wellness enclaves, the LUX* Me Spa boasts 11 treatments rooms and three pools, offering cold, ambient and heated bathing experiences. The spa’s partnership with Carita Haute Beauté has resulted in an indulgent range of face and body treatments, some of which are laced with oils created exclusively by famed UK aromatherapist Shirley Page. Facilities include a steam room, sauna, Murdock barber shop, Kérastase hairdressing salon, and an Essie nail station offering premium manicures and pedicures. Be sure to speak with the dedicated Wellness Concierge, who provides bespoke programmes and nutritional advice tailored exactly to guests’ individual needs. www.luxresorts.com

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48

HOTEL INSIDER

Escapism

at its Very Best

Fans of Bill Bensley will love the first property of the American designer’s eponymously-named hotel brand, the striking Shinta Mani Angkor – Bensley Collection, which recently opened in Siem Reap.

Nick Walton checks out the cultural capital’s new design diva.

So, itís a new hotel?

ensuring I was in good company during my stay.

Kind of. Shinta Mani Angkor and adjacent sister

The new villas also add a new dimension to the

property Shinta Mani Shack, both of which were

Shinta Mani experience offered by the other two

designed by Bensley, have been thrilling travellers

hotels, which are both elegant and whimsical but

for a few years now. The new addition of ten lavish

not as distinctly luxurious.

pool villas marks the debut of the designer’s own signature brand. Set in the heart of the city, but with the feel of a chic urban retreat, Shinta Mani Angkor

Once you’ve made it past the rather clumsy antique

– Bensley Collection’s shophouse-styled villas bring

padlock on the front door you enter a space that’s

new levels of luxury to the former imperial capital

both private and refined. A tiled courtyard – the

thanks to tropical landscaped gardens, private lap

perfect spot for an in-villa lunch – skirts the lap

pools, spacious rooftop living areas, and of course

pool and leads to an al fresco mini bar and coffee

plenty of inspired design elements, ranging from

counter. Outdoor stairs climb to the lofty rooftop

captivating wall art, wicker chandeliers and antique

relaxation area with dining table and views across

trunks, to heritage accents that harp to the city’s

the street to the local football pitch (due to the heat

colonial roots.

I rarely venture upstairs, preferring the shaded

So, weíre talking about somewhere pretty special?

www.jetsetter.hk

What are the villas like?

courtyard instead). From the courtyard traditional timber double doors lead into a vestibule; there’s the bedroom with a king-sized bed, a day bed, a

In a word, yes. The villas are already sought after

flat screen television, a full-height engraved wall

by Cambodia’s own glitterati for staycations and city

mural inspired by the rippling robes of Jayavarman,

escapes, while also welcoming visiting celebrities

and picture windows looking onto the pool and the

and royalty – as I checked in the royal motorcade

internal garden respectively, as well as a half bath

of a monarch from a neighboring country arrived,

to one side. Beyond the bedroom, through more

HOTEL INSIDER 49

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HOTEL INSIDER

What did you love?

Whiling away a hot afternoon in the lap pool to a backdrop of bird song was pretty blissful. Sunset from the rooftop terrace with a cold beer in hand was also a moment I wouldn’t mind reliving again and again.

What didnít you?

During my stay the hotel-within-a-hotel was still working on a rather nasty mosquito problem, with the little pests loving the regularly watered internal gardens, meaning no outdoor baths and leading to a compulsion to double check doors before I went to bed. However, a specialist was coming in from Thailand the next week and Bora was confidant the problem would soon be rectified.

Whatís Next?

Look out for Bensley’s next creation, Shinta Mani Wild, a remote but equally lavish tented camp nestled in a pristine double doors, the lush internal garden, with its large stone

game corridor in the Cambodian jungle, opening Q4 2018.

bathtub and outdoor shower, wraps around double vanities

www.shintamani.com

and a spacious dressing room in a glass cube. The overall effect is that of a private residence; the art is intimate, the linens luxurious, the walls high, and the world blissfully removed.

So, thereís a strong focus on art?

It’s more than just art – think of it as cultural immersion, or, as Bensley describes it, ‘escapism’. Every detail has his touch, from pops of Khmer orange, to the eye-catching monochromatic tiles, to the locally-produced linens, to the bathroom amenities. It’s more than just nice pieces hanging on a wall, each villa is a living museum; a homage to the Khmer culture, past and present.

What about the service?

This is another area where the Bensley Collection has elevated the local luxury scene. Guests are escorted to their villa by the first generation of ‘Bensley Butlers’, local ladies and gentlemen that have gone through intensive training to be nothing less than indispensable. Resplendent in Bensleydesigned uniforms, your butler is your consummate guide throughout your stay and is there to enhance your experience, whether it’s guiding you through fast-tracked immigration on arrival, running you a rose-scented bath in your villa, acting as interpreter during a visit to the ruins of Angkor, or, in my case, accompanying me on a tour of the agricultural projects of the Shinta Mani Foundation, the hotel group’s charity arm.

Guests can dictate how much or how little they see their butler – my little shadow, Bora, was very eager to be of service and always seemed to be waiting whenever I emerged from my villa.

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST

ULTIMATE ENCOUNTERS FOR 2018

FROM EXPLORING THE DEPTHS OF THE AMAZON, AND CRUISING ROUTE 66 ON A CLASSIC HARLEY, TO SIPPING WORLD CLASS WINES IN THE BAROSSA VALLEY, AND PLYING SOUTHEAST ASIA’S MOST IMPORTANT WATERWAYS, THESE ARE THE UNIQUE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES CAPTIVATING OUR IMAGINATIONS FOR THE YEAR AHEAD. BY

Nick Walton.

There’s nothing like learning a new skill to kick off a new year, especially when it’s one that gets the heart pumping.

Snowkiting has become the hottest (forgive the pun) new sport at Austria’s Lake Achensee, where the region’s first snowkiting school at Achenkirch has been pumping out wind-worshipping skiers and snowboarders ready to hit the slopes. Come winter time, the region’s sunkissed paddocks and breathtaking lake waters become the perfect wintertime terrain for snowkiting, which consists of riding downhill skies or a snowboard while being propelled by a steerable kite. Ideal for families and adrenalin junkies looking for something new to do on the slopes, snowkiting is easy to pick up and is just one of a raft of wintertime activities on offer in the scenic heart of Austria. www.achensee.com

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST 53

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST

True trainophiles will love the new 14-day Best of Britain Steam Tour offered by Golden Eagle Luxury Trains. This October adventure is a 3,500-kilometre itinerary timed for the 10th anniversary of the Tornado, the first steam locomotive in over 50 years to break 100mph (160km/h) on British tracks.

The locomotive will pull a complement of ten carriages from the luxurious Belmond Royal Scotsman, accommodating just 38 guests on an extraordinary adventure that begins in Edinburgh before delving into the Scottish Highlands for a black-tie dinner at 14th century Cawdor Castle, and a private whisky tasting at J&G Grant’s Glenfarclas Distillery. In Wales the train will skirt the Cambrian coast before venturing back into England with visits to Bath, Devon and Cornwall, with world-class dining at historic castles and country estates along the way. Visit Salisbury, Oxford and York en route to Edinburgh where a farewell dinner will be held at the National Railway Museum. From US$40,000 per person, departing October 14, 2018. www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com

For a truly indulgent way to explore some of New Zealand’s award-winning craft beers in style, Heletranz Helicopters has created the Ultimate Pub-Crawl, a stunning scenic flight that stops off at a series of selected North Island breweries along the way. The three-hour pub-crawl commences in Auckland with a scenic flight north along the coast before arriving at the first stop, the artisan Sawmill Brewery in Matakana (read more on pg 38), where you’ll have a tasting and tour the newly-opened facilities. After reboarding the helicopter, punters will be whisked away to the historic Puhoi Pub and Stables, where they’ll be treated to a spot of history and the pub’s famous pilsner and gourmet Puhoi Valley Cheese & Bacon Burgers. From Puhoi there is the option of flying back direct or, if you’re not quite ready to make your way home, an additional stop by executive mini-bus can be arranged to sample the famous range of craft beers at Hallertau Brewery in Riverhead. www.heletranz.co.nz

If Mongolia is on your must-visit list, why not time your trip for the Golden Eagle Festival, an annual gathering of Kazakh eagle hunters or Burkitshi, who celebrate their heritage and compete to catch small animals such as foxes and hares with specially trained golden eagles, showing off the skills of both bird and trainer. Golden eagles have been used by the Kazakhs for hunting for centuries, and the festival, which started in 1999, seeks to preserve this proud tradition. Whilst golden eagles are not commonly used in hunting anymore, many Kazakhs keep these majestic birds as pets, allowing Kazakhs youngsters to hone their burkitshi skills from a young age. Prizes are awarded for speed, agility and accuracy, as well as for the best traditional Kazakh dress, ensuring this festival is a photographer’s dream. www.jetsetter.hk

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST

Delve into one of Australia’s most striking, and leastvisited landscapes with a new guided trek along the

Great Cooloola Walk trail. Cooloola takes its name from the local Gubbi Gubbi word meaning “the sound the wind makes as it whispers through the branches of the trees”. Available on a fortnightlybasis from April 22 until September 23, Tropical Treks’ five-day, four-night 88km self-sufficient treks link the Noosa Northshore to Rainbow Beach via the 500,000-year-old Cooloola Sandmass. Look out for ground parrots, feathertailed gliders, koalas, wallabies and even humpbacks offshore as you cross the Sandmass, stopping to set up camp along the route. The package includes all camping equipment, meals and drinks, with nightly accommodation in four walkers' camps, which offer tranquil camping experiences with toilets and freshwater. More for nature lovers that comfort creatures, hikers will be required to pitch their own tents, but the reward is insight into one of Australia’s most beautiful and untouched corners. www.tropicaltreks.com.au

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST 57

Celebrate Harley Davidson’s 115th anniversary this year with the ultimate guided road trip. Eagle Rider’s ten-day Harley Davidson Exclusive

VIP Tour kicks off in Milwaukee, where you’ll to visit the Harley-Davidson Headquarters and museum. After two nights at the famous Iron Horse Hotel, you’ll hit the open road, travelling on Route 66 – the Main Street of America.

Trace the shores of Lake Michigan en route to downtown Chicago to meet up with other riders for a night out in The Windy City before crossing Illinois bound for the Pacific Coast. You’ll pass through Joliet on the Pontiac Trail before reaching the Mother Road. In St Louis cross the Chain of Rocks Bridge over the mighty Mississippi River before making your way into the rolling hills of Missouri, navigating the Devil’s Elbow, and meeting the locals of Joplin, which was almost destroyed in a 2011 tornado. In Oklahoma you’ll pass through the towns of Miami, Claremore and Catoosa, before arriving in Oklahoma City. You’ll ride one of the oldest stretches of Route 66 coming out of OC, one which follows the historic Chrisholm cattle trail, before visiting the Route 66 museum in Clinton. After crossing the Texas Panhandle, head out for steaks in a fleet of classic Caddies. Finish up in New Mexico, with visits to the Cadillac Ranch and the ghost town of Glen Rio before reaching Santa Fe. www.eaglerider.com www.jetsetter.hk

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST If your idea of adventure is on two wheels, you might like to explore Russia by bicycle with UTracks. The company has launched new guided cycling tours of the Russian capital and its surrounds to coincide with the country’s hosting of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in June, an event that’s expected to draw more than a million tourists.

The eight-day Russia: Moscow & Beyond guided cycle itinerary follows a route along the Volga River between the 'Golden Ring' cities of Sergiev Posad, Vladimir and Tver. The highlights of this unique adventure are vast, from sightseeing in Moscow, following mostly-car free routes, to exploring bucolic countryside, historic cities and quaint villages. Along the way you’ll visit ancient churches and monasteries, try your hand at making Russian dumplings, and even paint your own Russian

How about combining a helicopter flight with some of Australia’s best wines? As part of Australia’s Ultimate Winery

Experiences line up for 2018, tour the breathtaking Barossa Valley in South Australia in true luxury. You’ll depart

doll. You’ll also stay at handpicked accommodations, including a restored manor house, a Russian style holiday park, and a hotel in the heart of Moscow's historic centre. www.utracks.com.au

downtown Adelaide by helicopter bound for St Hugo, home to the St Hugo collection of regional red wines, which are presented in a beautiful preserved winery building and stand as a homage to celebrated local wine figure Hugo Gramp.

You’ll enjoy a personal tour of St Hugo House, during which you’ll learn about the estate’s food and wine from executive chef Mark McNamara before sampling back vintages from the estate’s extensive collection, followed by an eight-course degustation dinner in the St Hugo Restaurant. The next day, after a night at one of the region’s luxurious hotels, you’ll be guided through a private wine blending experience with St Hugo winemaker Dan Swincer and receive a selection of St Hugo’s finest vintages before being whisked back to the city by helicopter. www.ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au

There's nothing like slipping behind the wheel of a luxury supercar, especially when there's world-class fare waiting down the road. Country Holidays' new Italian Rendezvous in Super Cars itinerary offers motorheads the chance to take to the roads of Italy behind the wheel of a Ferrari or Lamborghini, concluding with an unforgettable halfday track racing experience. The June 15-22 itinerary starts in Rome, with a tour of the eternal city at night by luxury vintage car. The next morning you'll drive into the Tuscan countryside at the wheel of your chosen marque, with lunch at Hotel II Pellicano and a stop at the historic town of Pitigliano. In Siena you'll tour the city wth an English-speaking guide, and between gourmet meals enjoy a spa treatment to ensure you stay limber for the drive through the Monena countryside and your visit to the Pagani Supercar factory and museum. After passing through the soaring Dolomites, with lunch at acclaimed Cortina d’Ampezzo, you’ll tackle the Passo dello Stelvio, one of Europe’s highest mountain roads, home to majestic glaciers and towering peaks. Finally, test your skills driving both the Ferari 458 Challenge and the Lamborghini Huracán Super Trofeo at the Autodromo di Franciacorta racetrack, which will be open exclusively for Rendezvous guests. www.countryholidays.com.hk www.jetsetter.hk

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST 61

Explore the remote Tambopata National Reserve in the Peruvian Amazon with bespoke travel company Aracari, which has partnered with the Tambopata Research Center to offer guests the chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular natural phenomena in the heart of the vast reserve — the daily gathering of thousands of parrots and macaws. Tambopata is home to the highest concentration of avian clay licks in the world, which in turn attract a myriad of birdlife to feast on the detoxifying clay. Located just 500m away from the largest and most famous macaw claylicks, the Tambopata Research Center is the headquarters for in-depth scientific explorations into these gatherings, and during the Aracari encounter guests accompany highly knowledgeable researchers to gather data, study the complex lives of the vibrant residents, and hear first-hand why this colourful phenomenon mystified scientists for years. There’s also the chance to explore the jungle by night, take guided boats trips in search of jaguar, and help the scientists from Wired Amazon, the pioneering research project studying the flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon (read more about this unique part of the world in our next feature) to monitor the hundreds of remote cameras that are located in the area. Guests can earn credits that can be traded for future stays at Tambopata Research Center, which opens three exquisite new rooms this year. www.aracari.com

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OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST Explore eastern Indonesia’s remote Cenderawasih Bay aboard the luxurious Alila Purnama phinisi with a new itinerary that captures the beauty of one of Indonesia's most far flung corners. Known as the Bird of Paradise Bay, Cenderawasih Bay is located in the north of West Papua, a region famous for the spectacular marine diversity of its namesake national park. With its vibrant coral reefs, protected mangrove forests, and scattering of tropical atolls, Cenderawasih National Park is one of the largest marine parks in Southeast Asia, home to green and Olive Ridley turtles, dolphins, blue whales, and whale sharks. The Alila Purnama is the ideal base from which to explore this remarkable corner of the world. Catering to just ten guests in five luxurious cabins, the vessel boasts a full staff, including dedicated PADI-certified dive instructor, ensuring you’ll be able to explore Cenderawasih Bay above and below the waves. Cruises depart from Manokwari in West Papua between April and June 2018. www.alilahotels.com Adrenalin-junkies will love the new Jebel Jais Flight zipline at Ras Al Khaimah, which was recently named the world’s longest by the Guinness World Records. The multimillion dollar attraction now means thrill-seekers can travel at speeds of up to 150km/ph at a height of 1,680 metres above sea level from the top of Jebel Jais mountain. The zipline, which measures 2.83 kilometers - the equivalent of over 28 soccer fields - is operated by Toroverde Ras Al Khaimah, one of the world's most experienced zipline managers. Action seekers are suspended above the mountain, strapped into a special suit as they prepare to take the flight headfirst in a 'superman' style position, with each heart-thumping flight lasting three minutes. Once guests complete this record breaking flight, they will transfer to a second 1km-line, to complete their journey back to the ground. https://jebeljais.ae

Take to one of Asia’s most important rivers with a new experience from Minor Hotels. Mekong Kingdoms is a newly-launched selection of river itineraries that capture the colonial romance and slow travel luxury of river cruising. With a fleet of five unique vessels, guests can ply the waters of the Mekong from Thailand’s Golden Triangle to the ancient Laotian capital and now UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, experiencing the local culture, visiting riverside communities, and feasting of regional delicacies along the way. Choose from the 13-cabin Bohéme for journeys between Luang Prabang and Bangkok or between Chiang Rai and Luang Prabang, visiting the Pak Ou caves, traditional loams at Ban Baw, and the rural village of Ban Houy Phalam en route. For a more intimate encounter, the Gypsy is an ultra-exclusive two-cabin cruiser, while the Nomad and Play are perfectly suited for day trips. Mekong Kingdoms cruises joins Minor Hotels’ existing fleet of Manohra Dining Cruises in Bangkok and Anantara Overnight Cruises, which sail from Bangkok to Thailand’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya. www.mekongkingdoms.com www.jetsetter.hk

OUR ANNUAL BUCKET LIST 63 Already regarded as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, if you haven’t reached Tasmania yet it should be high up on your list for 2018. With its soaring mountains, deep endemic forests, and rich history, the island is truly unique.

There are plenty of ways to do Tasmania; Saffire Freycinet, a member of Luxury Lodges of Australia, offers an indulgent take on this ancient land, with stunning views across Great Oyster Bay, luxurious guest rooms and some of the island’s best dining. You can also head into the interior with nights at acclaimed Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, an iconic wilderness retreat located on the cusp of the Unesco-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Alternatively, Hobart is a cosmopolitan city with world-class distilleries and breweries, a heritage as one of Australia’s oldest settlements, and restaurants that capture the best of Tasmania and nearby King Island’s freshest produce.

www.jetsetter.hk

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Ride the

Snake

An adventure into the Peruvian Amazon is a chance to delve into an ancient and captivating landscape unlike any other, discovers

Nick Walton.

Photos: Nick Walton & Aqua Expeditions

The Aria Amazon cruises the Peruvian Amazon (Aqua Expeditions)

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T

he Amazon River. Even the words

of well-heeled travellers that ply its waters, it will be

sound exotic. It’s a name that conjures

here well after we’re gone.

up the most captivating of places, the deepest of jungles, the longest

Such reflection comes easy when you’re actually on

of waterways, the wildest of beasts,

the great waterway. From my perch at the prow of

and the furthest of frontiers. I’ve been fascinated with

the Aria Amazon, a stout yet luxurious river cruiser

the Amazon River since I was a child, when I would

operated by Amazon gurus Aqua Expeditions, the

gaze up at a National Geographic world map in my

expanse of the river is before me, the same colour

biologist Grandmother’s study, tracing its course with

as my morning coffee due to recently flooding -

my tiny fingers, struggling with the pronunciation of its

infinitely wide, impossibly powerful, tenacious in its

settlements and tributaries. The map was produced

temperament. It’s little wonder, as the sun begins to

the year I was born and since then many things have

struggle out of bed, its rays shimmering off the water

changed – borders have shifted and names have

and sending tree-bound macaws into a symphony of

been rewritten – but the Amazon has remained,

morning gossip, that the ancient Manaós tribe called

perennial, seemingly infinite. There’s a timelessness

the Amazon “the mother serpent of the world.”

to the Amazon – it’s been here before we were, and with careful management and respect by both those

When we think of the Amazon we often think of Brazil

who live along its banks and the increasing number

and its mighty, albeit threatened forests. But that’s like

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AMAZON 67

(Clockwise from left) Exploring the waterways of the Amazon (Aqua Expeditions); children of the remote village of Contamanillo; a spider monkey (Nick Walton)

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AMAZON

starting a book three quarters of the way into the story.

The tale of this intriguing network of tributaries, streams and rivulets starts far up stream, in Peru, where the river is better protected and easier to access, and that’s where my adventure is just beginning.

It’s the first morning of a seven-day cruise round-trip from the river-edge town of Nauta, where the waters of the Mananon and Ucayali collide to mark the beginning of

across the landscape. Ripples appear ahead, and

the Amazon River. The night before, my fellow guests and

a pair of pint-sized pink dolphins breech the still

I travelled from Iquitos, the most inland port in the world

waters and escort us northwest.

and another destination smudged by dirty fingers on my grandmother’s map. The capital of the Peruvian River

This is Aqua Expeditions’ backyard. The company,

region, Iquitos is only accessible by boat or plane and

founded by intrepid Italian American adventurer

lies under siege by the wilderness beyond, a jungle that

Francesco Galli Zugaro, was the first to bring

constitutes 60 percent of the country. We had boarded

world-class river cruising to the Amazon with the

the Aria at last light and cruised into the encroaching

launch in 2008 of the 12-cabin Aqua Amazon.

darkness.

Today the company offers three, four and sevennight itineraries that journey deep into the Peruvian

The next morning things can only be described as

Amazon basin and delve into the acclaimed Pacaya

serene. As wide as a pair of Los Angles highways, the

Samiria National Reserve, which is framed by the

river meanders around amiable turns on which one

Pacaya, Samiria and Yanayacu-Pucate rivers and is

bank is always steep and ragged, the other smooth and

home to protected populations of spider monkeys,

shallow, a process caused by the water’s subtle samba

arrau turtles, giant river otters, and scarlet macaws,

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AMAZON 69

(Clockwise from top left) River turtle eggs in the wet markets of Nauta; a green tree iguana; the expedition team with an anaconda; a shy capybara; local children fish for catfish (Nick Walton)

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AMAZON

as well as the most extensive floodable forest, or várzea, in the Amazon rainforest. It’s a truly special corner of the world that most people have never heard of.

The Aria Amazon, now the company’s sole ship on the Amazon (although work on a second is well underway), is the perfect platform from which to explore this remarkable landscape. Designed

by Peruvian architect and interior designer Jordi Puig to be the epitome of understated luxury, the Aria’s 16 suites wouldn’t be out of place in a design-savvy Manhattan boutique hotel. There’s polished wood floors and spacious ensuites, Peruvian

cotton

linens

and

floor-to-ceiling

picture windows. Unseen stewards tidy up while you’re out on excursions, ensuring you return from the heat of the river to a blissfully cool and contemporary space where you can collect your thoughts and recharge your batteries. One level above my suite is Aria’s restaurant, where exotic and intriguing ingredients from the jungle and from local producers are used to create insightful, modern Peruvian cuisine. Above the dining room, the observation lounge is the heart of the ship, especially during evening debriefings conducted over cocktails, while an outdoor lounge and plunge pool is the perfect setting for early risers and sun worshippers.

After a hearty breakfast in the sun-kissed restaurant, the domain of the infinitely-elegant cruise director Julianna, my fellow passengers and I gear up for our first excursion on the river. During the night we’ve cruised against the Marañón’s eight knot current, leaving civilization well and truly in our wake. The river here is broad and placid at its surface. The dolphins, grey and pink and inquisitive, continue to make appearances and occasionally long boats from the river’s remote Maina Indian communities drift by, their occupants shading from the sun under brightly-hued parasols. www.jetsetter.hk

A cocoi heron in flight; a caymen caught in the lights; meeting residents of a remote river community (Nick Walton)

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

AFFORDABLE LUXURY Hotel VIC on the Harbour will be home to an impressive array of facilities and services, from an innovative online check-in/out service to a 24-hour gym on its rooftop.

Culinary options at Hotel VIC will include all-day international dining restaurant The Farmhouse, which sits atop the podium and has indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the harbour​. Serving up cuisine from around the world at its tempting buffets, this swish space also serves afternoon tea. A sophisticated rooftop bar and restaurant with an outdoor area providing panoramic views of the harbour, Cruise is the place to stop for a romantic dinner and cocktails.

The restaurants at adjoining shopping & dining complex Harbour North, which is set to open in the fourth quarter of 2018, will offer plenty of other international culinary options to guests keen to dine locally. Those who enjoy alfresco dining can seek out the spacious terrace, which will be lined with stylish restaurants, trendy cafes and chic wine bars looking onto Victoria Harbour.

B

ased in the up-and-coming district of North Point on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, Hotel VIC on the Harbour is set to become one of Hong Kong’s most desirable places to stay. Targeted to open in mid 2018, customers will be able to place their booking from April and become one of the first to enjoy its friendly service and impressive amenities.

Hotel VIC will provide an online check in/out service, while a bespoke mobile app will enable guests to order room service, arrange airport transportation, or even talk to staff. Guests can easily access hotel features and service on their palm, which creates a simple, seamless and personalised staying experience.

In addition to complimentary lightning-fast wifi for unlimited devices, all guestrooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs featuring IPTV service, free use of handy smartphone with unlimited data connection in the city and free IDD to selected countries (China, Japan, South Korea, the US and the UK) and free mini bar.

Guests who like to work out are also well catered for at Hotel VIC, with a 24-hour gym located on the rooftop.

At the health club, guests can enjoy an extraordinary fitness experience with the Icaros flying machine, which combines fitness and virtual reality to create an exciting, effective workout.

Hotel VIC guests are also well-placed to explore the traditional neighbourhood of North Point, where traditional wet markets and Michelin-recommended eateries including dim sum restaurants Tim Ho Wan and Mak Kee await. Guests can additionally enjoy the views over to Kowloon from a 400-metre long harbour front promenade just next to Hotel VIC, which will open to the public shortly after the hotel makes its much-anticipated debut. www.hotelvic.com

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AMAZON

branches of a fallen tree, and when a shy, dog-sized capybara emerges from the thick jungle to sip at the river’s waters. At other moments nature continues at its own frantic pace as we explore the intricate network of waterways – above us cocoi herons nimbly

Piranha fishing is one of the most popular activities; children of Contamanillo (Nick Walton); a stateroom aboard the Aria (Aqua Expeditions)

www.jetsetter.hk

Most days on the river are punctuated by two guided excursions,

step from branch to branch in the canopies,

one before lunch and one as the day’s heat begins to ebb. No two

a black collar hawk glides down for a silent

adventures on the river are the same; from the ship’s powerful skiffs

kill, and later, in the shade of ancient palmito

we spot exquisite great egrets, neo-tropic cormorants and jabiru

trees, schools of piranha race towards the

storks. On early morning explorations of narrow river backwaters,

bait of our hand lines during one of the Aria’s

spotted and howler monkeys race through the canopies that line

most popular activities.

the riverbanks, and in the shade, we spy ancient-looking Hoatzin birds with gleaming red eyes. As the light fades we use torches to

While daily lectures are an insight into

track caymans in the shallows, blinking fire flies racing past like tiny

the Amazon River’s complex ecosystems,

fighter jets as we chase the sunset home.

the challenges it faces, and the symbiotic relationships that make it so fragile, each

The Aria’s Peruvian expedition team, led by the ever-grinning

guide is also a treasure trove of information

Julio and made up of experienced naturalists, has a goal for

and none seem to tire of my ceaseless

each excursion – from finding sleepy anacondas among the

questioning. “The river has a life of its own,”

dead logs that litter the river banks during the dry season (when

says Julio as he serves cold beers during

we do find one the intrepid pose for photos with the great snake

an impromptu mid-river sundowner session.

running across their shoulders), to visiting the rangers of remote

“There are so many layers to the river, so

anti-poaching stations, where river turtle eggs are incubated – yet

many interconnections. Every day here is

each adventure is ultimately determined by the wildlife. We stop,

different, that’s part of what draws people

mesmerized, when we discover green tree iguanas clutching the

back time and time again.”

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A Hoatzin bird watches down from the canopy (Nick Walton)

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As you might expect, conservation is a central

and kerosene, prized possessions for people so

theme of the expedition and on and off the

far from civilization.

ship we learn about the efforts of the Peruvian

Julio studies the banks during an evening excursion (Nick Walton)

authorities to protect species like jaguar,

However, through it all, there is the river, always

black caymans and squirrel monkeys, and the

moving, always evolving, ebbing and flowing

challenge of getting these messages across

with the seasons as it carves its path through

to distant communities for whom hunting in

the jungle, and our journey has been a truly

the jungle has been a way of life for centuries.

unforgettable opportunity to see this unique

Despite the efforts of the government and

ecosystem in play. We finish our adventure by

private sector to change man’s often destructive

finally immersing ourselves in the waters of

ways, river turtles, dolphins and even tayra, a

the Amazon River, with a smile from Julio and

type of large weasel, can still be found for sale

a promise that our splashing and celebration

in the wet markets of Nauta.

is sure to scare off the larger caymans and anacondas. The risk is surely worth it.

We also hear about the folklore and superstition that has kept some species, including the beautiful, shy river dolphins, the so called demonio de largua or demon of the water, relatively safe from deliberate poaching during

tRaVel essentials

Fly: American Airlines links Hong Kong with Lima via Dallas, with connections on to Iquitos with oneworld partner LATAM www.aa.com

visits to remote communities, including the 100-strong village of Contamanillo, where guests donate school supplies, matches, salt www.jetsetter.hk

Cruise: Seven-night expedition from US$8,925 per person; www.aquaexpeditions.com

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ISLAND RETREATS

Singapore’s

Private Island Paradises

Combining innovative accommodation and sensational settings, escaping from Singapore to a private island resort has never been easier, discovers Laura A H Elliott.

Let’s be honest – when it comes to fun under the sun nothing really compares to a private island, a little citadel of respite you only have to share with a select few. Fortunately, private islands have never been more popular, meaning more choice and easier access, especially from Singapore, which is uniquely positioned to offer that Robinson Crusoe escape to well-heeled travellers.

Bawah

Another unforgettable tropical retreat is the Indonesian island of Bawah. An untouched retreat in the Anambas archipelago, a clutch of idyllic, pristine coral-wreathed islands a short ferry and 75-minute seaplane ride from Singapore, Bawah has already welcomed more than its fair share of regional celebs looking for the ultimate in privacy. Opened in 2017, previously uninhabited Bawah is nestled within a marine conservation area comprising five pristine islands, three crystal clear lagoons and enough beaches to keep even the most private couples happy.

The resort only allows a maximum of 70 guests at any one time, with those lucky souls accommodated in 35 ecodesigned suites and overwater bungalows, each featuring a beautifully appointed bedroom, spacious bathroom and a relaxing outdoor living area with incredible views across the lagoon. While the heart of the resort is Bawah’s beachfronted infinity pool, the perfect spot for sundowners, guests can also unwind with bespoke cocktails at the Grouper Bar, Jules Verne Bar, and Boat House Bar. These uniquely-themed bars are situated at different zones on Bawah, each offering beautiful and distinctive sights of the surrounding islands. https://bawahisland.com www.jetsetter.hk

ISLAND RETREATS 77

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ISLAND RETREATS

Cempedak Island

Just like its exotic namesake fruit, Cempedak Island reveals the most delicious morsels. Find romance, adventure and wellness in barefoot luxury that thumbs its nose at tech and high-fives privacy, spaciousness and natural beauty. Welcoming guests sixteen years old and over, this intimate island hideaway features 20 exquisite, bamboo-clad one-bedroom villas, all with stunning views of the South China Sea. Spend your days sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and diving around the island before returning to gourmet dining, complete with an excellent wine selection and imported beers that provide exciting pairings for the restaurant’s Indonesian specialities. Be sure to leave time for a massage at the spa, which helps fund classes in everything from soil management to IT and nutrition for local villagers. www.cempedak.com

Nikoi Island

An hour's ferry ride from Singapore, just off the coast of Bintan, Nikoi Island (above) was stumbled upon by Australian expats Andrew and Julia Dixon, who bought it and developed an ultimate ecological, food, wine, and restorative getaway––a down-to-earth outdoor paradise for city dwellers. Beach volleyball and tide pool exploration leads to mountain biking, rock climbing and trekking or simply fish off the jetty at sunset. Come between February and September to spot nesting turtles. Your host, Yogi, is as equally excited about introducing you to a huge tropical spider as he is mixing a tall cool one at his namesake’s bar.

Granite boulders hug the bars, pool and restaurant – home to menus that include the day’s catch and the joy of dining barefoot in the sand – in a gorgeous setting of jungle and white sand beaches, but you might find the most respite in your spacious villa, complete with stunning views of the

Telunas

Sail out of Singapore to your island paradise and enjoy encounters with pink dolphins and flying fish on a three-hour journey to the private island of Telunas, the ultimate escape, where jungle and sea frames a deserted cove. Relax with a massage on the veranda of your overwater sea villa as you admire stunning views of enchanting Sugi Island nearby. Take a swim in the freshwater infinity pool or plunge into clear aquamarine waters from the island’s ten-meter-high diving platform. Jungle treks will break up endless days of sun worshipping, although there’s always the chance to cliff dive the local waterfall if you need a fix of adrenaline. Kayak or SUP on Kallang Basin’s Indonesian currents or join one of the cooking classes offered by the island’s culinary team, where you can make your own sambal. www.telunasresorts.com www.jetsetter.hk

South China Sea. www.nikoi.com

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HOTEL POOLS

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HOTEL POOLS 81

TIME TO

TAKE A DIP From private jungle-wreathed pools to expansive man-made seas where the glamour set dwell, these are the world’s most breathtaking hotel swimming pools, just in time for summer. By

Nick Walton.

Dubbed one of the grandest hotels in Italy, Lake Como’s stunning

Villa d’Este boasts a unique

‘floating’ pool that seamlessly marries the luxury house of slumber with its sensational locale.

While the hotel was originally built as a summer palace in the 16th century, the hotel’s striking pool was only added in 1966, when it became an icon among the celebrities who visited Como during the summer months. The modern floating design was followed a few years later and continues to seduce the who’s who to the water’s edge.

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HOTEL POOLS

Spilling down to the waters of the

Aegean Sea, Mykonos’ Myconian Avaton is named for the mythical

paradise of the Gods, and for good reason. This exclusive resort, which seems forever suspended between the sea and the sky, boasts sublime guest

rooms

and

cutting-edge

dining with multiple infinity pools.

Our favourite is the main pool, which, backdropped by the Avaton restaurant’s al fresco seating, is sewn with LED lights as if to catch the starry night above.

Set on the cusp of an ancient and vertiginous canyon in the cradle of Oman’s fabled Green Mountain,

Anantara Al Jabal

Al Akhdar is a haven from the modern

world, where world-class service meets the breathtaking landscapes of the Saiq Plateau, one of the world’s most soughtafter destinations in 2018. At the heart of the mountaintop resort is its infinity pool, which traces the edge of the canyon, offering the perfect place for a spot of afternoon sun worshipping, followed by dramatic desert sunsets (read more about this impressive new resort in our next issue’s Oman coverage).

A respite hidden amidst the tea plantations that surround Sri Lanka’s Castlereagh Lake, Ceylon Tea Trails’

Dunkeld Bungalow,

a converted tea planter’s bungalow located

in the middle of the working Dilmah Tea Plantation, boasts a series of luxurious guest rooms and suites, many of which look out to the verdant tea fields of Dunkeld estate, and to the resort’s infinity pool, which seems to float above the surface of the lake below.

Here at 1,250 meters above sea level, the evenings are cool and the skies clear, making the adjacent hot tub one of the hottest perches on the island after a gourmet meal in the Bungalow’s colonial-esque Relais & Chateaux dining room.

www.jetsetter.hk

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

A SLICE OF PARADISE A

A stay at Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu offers exceptional comfort in the tropics

lush garden retreat situated within a tropical paradise, Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa, Cebu is the only fivestar resort in this popular tourist hotspot. Located in LapuLapu, it is connected to the main island of Cebu by two bridges and is only a 20-minute drive from Mactan Cebu International Airport.

with extensive banqueting and conference facilities, including The Marquee, which can host 1,000 delegates for a reception, and the Mactan Ballroom, which seats 480 guests for a banquet. The resort’s business centre, meanwhile, offers secretarial support and intimate meeting rooms.

Nestled amid 13 hectares of greenery and landscaped gardens, the family-friendly resort has its own 350-metre white sand beach in addition to extensive recreational facilities, which include an Adventure Zone, Toddler Zone, entertainment hub E-Zone and two swimming pools, along with mini golf, a tennis court and Marine Sanctuary that’s home to more than 160 species of aquatic life.

Business and leisure guests alike will enjoy sampling culinary delights from a diverse array of mouth watering food and beverage options located within the resort. There are seven dining options to savour, including Cowrie Cove Seafood Bar and Grill on the seafront, where grilled seafood platters await, and Italian restaurant Acqua, whose signature dishes include grouper ravioli and beetroot risotto.

A more tranquil side of the resort is presented at the resort’s spa, Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La, which is located within a secluded village.

One of the largest spa villages in Asia, this heavenly escape is set within 10,000 square metres of private gardens and houses villas with private pools. Many of the spa’s massages and treatments are based on traditional healing methods found in the Philippines and incorporate natural plants, herbs and botanical products. The spa’s signature therapy is the Philippine Hilot massage, where virgin coconut oil and warmed banana leaves are placed over the body to detect and soothe areas of energy imbalance.

To cater for discerning leisure and business guests staying at the resort, Shangri-la’s Mactan Resort & Spa recently refreshed its transportation portfolio, adding a yacht, speedboat, helicopter and a BMW 5 Series for guests who want to get around in the utmost comfort. Arrive by chopper on the resort’s very own helipad to start the holiday of your dreams or take to the seas for a sunset cruise in Celandine, a luxury yacht equipped with three cabins.

From extensive outdoor pursuits that will engage all the family to an inspiring collection of meeting facilities with stunning ocean views, there’s something for everyone at Shangri-La’s Mactan Those seeking privacy will appreciate the Ocean Club rooms located Resort & Spa. in the Ocean wing, which has a separate driveway and entrance for added exclusivity. Business guests are also well catered for www.shangri-la.com/cebu/mactanresort

84

INSIDERPOOLS HOTEL The Indian capital is no stranger to regal urban retreats that nimbly skip along the line between hotel and palace, and the

ITC Grand Bharat, the country’s first all-

suites luxury retreat, is just such a destination. Located

just outside the city centre, the hotel was envisaged as a tribute to the glory of this ancient nation, complete with seemingly endless manicured gardens, an acclaimed 27-hole Jack Nicklaus golf course, and of course, a ground level sandstone swimming pool, encircled by sun lounges, that’s fit for a modern-day queen.

www.jetsetter.hk

HOTEL POOLS 85

One of the newest hotels to open on the Thai capital’s Chao Phraya River, the

Avani Riverside Bangkok

is unapologetically modern and bold,

with 228 guest rooms and suites offering captivating river views. The place to see and be seen is the hotel’s

mesmerizing

infinity

pool;

located on the 26th floor, it’s not only popular with the city’s beautiful (and instagramable) but is also a hot spot for the city’s dramatic sunsets.

Having recently emerged from a multimillion-dollar

renovation,

Wellness at St Moritz’s

the

Palace

Badrutt’s

Palace is home to cutting-edge beauty treatments, indulgent spa rituals, and

an iconic indoor infinity swimming pool; originally built in the 1960s, its breathtaking form quickly became the staple for luxury alpine resorts. The 25-meter oval pool is best known for its granite diving rock as well as its stunning panoramas of the Engadin mountains.

With only 29 guest “Sanctuaries”, each semioutdoors, with private pools and views of the world-famous Pitons, St Lucia’s

Mountain

Jade

is an inspiring take on the

tropical Caribbean resort. Like something out of a pirate fantasy, the resort tumbles down a jungle-clad hillside to a pristine white-sand beach. However, the best views are from the highest Sanctuaries, accessed by the Bridges to Infinity, private bridges that reach the resort’s top suites, which boast private pools that range from 400-900sqft.

www.jetsetter.hk

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HOTEL POOLS

One of the most iconic hotel pools in the world, you can’t visit

Marina Bay Sands in Singapore without a peak

at its rooftop infinity pool, which offers some of the best panoramas in the Lion City. Located 57 floors up as part of the Sands Sky Park, which includes some of the city’s best restaurants and cocktail bars, including Lavo Italian and Spago by Wolfgang Puck, the pool reaches right to the edge of the building, offering a vertiginous swimming experience as well as some great Instagram opportunities.

After your dip make for one of the city-facing sun loungers or an al fresco perch at chic entertainment icon CÉ LA VI.

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HOTEL POOLS 87

Set on Indonesia's Bintan Island, a 60-minute ferry ride from Singapore,

The Sanchaya is a luxury estate

like no other. A sense of colonialesque pomp set against a stunning tropical landscape, the resort, designed by Thailand’s P49 Design, is a welcomed respite from city life, one where you’re as likely to find yourself sipping Pimms and playing croquet as you are munching on ayam bakar with a jasmine-infused mojito. While there’s great dining, world-class cocktails, and one of the island’s best spas only steps away, much of the action is centred around the expansive infinity pool, which is manned by an army of beach butlers who supply signature cooling packs to the assembled glitterati.

Located on Bali’s southeast coast,

Amankila

is a clutch of chic cottages perched on sea cliffs overlooking the Lombok Strait, and while there’s a expansive swimming pool at the cusp of the beach, the main attraction here is the resort’s iconic threetiered main pool, which tumbles down towards the ocean. Designed by Ed Tuttle, the captivating pool creates a seamless waterway where the horizon dissolves into ranks of white umbrellas and timber sun loungers.

It’s not easy to build a resort pool that can compete with the beauty of a Maldivian lagoon but the archipelago’s newest arrival,

Fushifaru,

has made an honest

attempt. Located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, a 35-minute seaplane flight from the capital, Fushifaru is home to a clutch of rustic chic beach and overwater villas, a worldclass spa and access to some of the Indian Ocean’s best diving. However, be sure to capture sunset at the pool, which mirrors the skies and captures its colours to perfection.

www.jetsetter.hk

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HOTEL POOLS

The

Ritz-Carlton Shanghai Pudong is a hotel that makes the most of its

stunning panoramic views across China’s commercial capital and the swimming pool on the 55th floor is no exception. Located on the same level as the luxury hotel’s RitzCarlton Spa, the indoor pool features breathtaking vistas of The Bund and a sense of lofty reprieve from the busy streets far below.

Another Bali stunner is the pool at

Alila Ubud,

which

is regularly listed among the world’s best hotel pools in part because of its dramatic backdrop. Perched high above the Ayung River and opposite an ancient Hindu temple, the Alila’s

stunning

infinity

pool

adds a sense of zen to one of the most spiritually serene locations in Asia.

www.jetsetter.hk

Organized by

Right Effort for the Right Return:

HOTEL INVESTMENT 4-6 June 2018, Bangkok Thailand

ihif.questexevents.net

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HOTEL POOLS

Nudging the spectacular Indian Ocean and flanked by native Takamaka trees,

Banyan Tree Seychelles

is a

hidden paradise within a paradise. With its stunning views across Intendance Bay, said to be one of the best beaches in the archipelago, and its colonial-styled main building, the retreat is centred around its remarkable L-shaped infinity pool, which juts out above the dramatic surf line, offering a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.

www.jetsetter.hk

CRUNCHY CRUST

MADAGASCAR VANILLA BEANS

MOIST HEART

DARK RUM

Unique Canelés for unforgettable memories Number one supplier of freshly baked canelés in Hong Kong and Singapore, Le Canelé d'Or is baking each canelé in an authentic copper mold, using premium and carefully selected ingredients. Classic yet unique French pastries, canelés are a perfect match with wine, champagne and petits fours.

www.lecaneledor.com.hk | info@lecaneledor.com.hk | +852 5975 3098

A MIXED BAG

92

TURNING LEFT

While there’s no question Etihad is at the forefront of the global airline scene, the business class product on its A330 aircraft flying between Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong doesn’t give the best first impression, discovers Nick Walton.

Background

passengers) at shoulder level, and a built-in magazine holder above a

Etihad is the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, based in

small drinks shelf, with room for very small items under the armrest.

Abu Dhabi, and operates over 1,000 flights each week to a network of

There’s a 15-inch monitor built into the seatback in front, below which

over 120 passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa,

the tray table is awkwardly bolted. For connectivity there are USB and

Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.

AC ports at foot level, with a headphone jack and additional ports hidden under the arm rest. While the seat isn’t our favourite, it’s perfectly

Check In/The Lounge

I checked in at Abu Dhabi’s international airport using a sophisticated, designated business and first class check-in hall, and walked ten minutes to the airline’s Premium Lounge, which has to be one of the best we’ve encountered. There’s a concierge that actually fixes problems, a stand-up bar that mixes a mean martini, a Six Senses Spa that offers complimentary 15-minute treatments, shower suites and a barber shop, and an extensive hot and cold buffet. Even when full the lounge is spacious, elegant, and welcoming.

The Cabin

Unfortunately, things take a small step down once we board the A330, the business class cabin of which seems impossibly cluttered, ill-designed, and rather weathered. While most airlines try to use every square inch as efficiently as possible, the Etihad A330 business class product looks like it’s been repurposed rather than specifically designed for the aircraft and at every turn there’s negetive space. There’s no forward galley, just a partition between cabin and cockpit, with seats set in a staggered 1-2-1 configuration that requires some careful consideration (so be sure to elect your seat in advance). There’s no overhead bins above the centre seats and smaller-than-usual bins on the sides (even smaller on port side) which causes a little post-boarding chaos despite the warm welcome of the Etihad crew.

The Seat

adequate for medium-haul flights like Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong.

Dining

I’m greeted by a charming cabin manager in a spotless white jacket, who offers me a glass of Piper-Heidsieck champagne, a hot towel, and a menu (though no amenity kit). It’s a late-night flight and many passengers have dined in the lounge so that they can sleep as much as possible. On offer is an Arabic mezze platter, followed by dill poached prawns with sesame red cabbage; and tomato lemongrass soup with crème fraiche. Mains include a beef tenderloin with roast potatoes, baby carrots and a shiitake mushroom sauce; fried barramundi with egg fried rice, bok choy and a red curry sauce; chicken margouga, a local favourite; and a Mediterranean vegetable tart with buffalo mozzarella and rocket. I opt to skip the main and just have the mezze platter and soup, both of which are excellent, especially when paired with a New Zealand Wither Hills sauvignon blanc from Marlborough.

Breakfast includes a range of pastries, cereals and breads; natural yoghurt with cranberry, sunflower and flax seeds; and the options of a steak sandwich with Emmental cheese and red onion chutney; or a seeded laugen roll with smoked salmon and crème fraiche, but like many passengers I skipped the meal in lieu of more sleep.

Service

Etihad has made a name for itself with its world-class service and while its A330 product might not be its best offering, the service on the Abu

The 185-centimeter-long lie-flat Solstys-style seats are comfortable

Dhabi-Hong Kong flight is top notch. Crew are friendly, welcoming,

but offer little in the way of privacy, especially those window seats with

attentive and efficient, serving drinks and dinner quickly after takeoff,

arm rests against the fuselage, which have virtually nothing between

and ensuring guests could dine and sleep, and are always on hand

passenger and aisle, ensuring plenty of spilt champagne and a sore

throughout the flight.

shoulder but the end of the journey. In addition, there’s almost no storage space (despite a whopping gap between seat and fuselage);

Etihad business class Hong Kong-Abu Dhabi return from HK$32,000

there’s an odd panel-styled light fixture (which is very obtrusive to other

(US$4,090) www.etihad.com

www.jetsetter.hk

94

TURNING LEFT

Downunder Bound Cathay Pacific’s state-of-the-art Airbus A350 adds new levels of comfort and sophistication on the competitive Hong Kong-Auckland route, discovers

Nick Walton.

The Lounge

wants to get as much sleep as possible so cruised through dinner

I arrived early at Hong Kong International to check out the new-

service with a well-versed elegance.

look Cathay Pacific First Class lounge, The Pier; the 2,000sqm

Dining

lounge near Gate 63 was recently reimagined by designer Ilse Crawford, who has created a pleasant, residential vibe, with different spaces and nooks for travellers to discover. Dressed in warm, tactile and timeless materials such as onyx, limestone, and bronze, with an abundance of house plants and beautifully designed furniture, the lounge features a series of Day Suites and Showers, a Dining Room that caters to 100 and serves a la carte meals throughout the day, and a chic cocktail bar that wouldn’t look out of place in a hotel lobby.

I’m also a fan of dining on a plane - the solitude, the uninterrupted movie, the gin and tonic refills. A starter of Parma ham, Portobello mushrooms, and baked tomato with feta, was followed by a choice of Chu Chee curry prawns with mixed vegetables and jasmine rice; stewed beef brisket with white radish in a Chu Hou sauce; ricotta and spinach stuffed chicken breast with asparagus, capsicum and creamy polenta; and as a vegetarian option, spinach and tomato rigatoni. The chicken breast was perfectly cooked and ideal comfort food for putting travellers to sleep, especially when

The Seat

followed by a cheeky cheese board and a glass of Dow’s port.

Designed by Studio F.A. Porsche, the business class seats on the

The Sleep

airline’s new A350s are 20-inches wide and feature a 45-inch pitch

The new business class seat aboard the A350 makes for a great

and can convert to a 180-degrees lie-flat bed. Blissfully private and

bed, with padding in all the right places, and when coupled with

three inches longer than its siblings on the 777, the seat features

the silent cabin of the new plane and the thick CX duvet, ensures

storage space at both foot and shoulder level (the latter housing

a great night’s rest – all you have to do is drag yourself away

the airline’s very adequate noise-reducing headphones, as well

from the movies on StudioCX, the airline’s inflight entertainment

as USB and AC ports); a broad armrest below the window that’s

system, or the fast wifi, priced at US$19.95 for the entire flight. I

great for tablets and laptops; an 18.5-inch personal touchscreen

actually decided to skip breakfast and snooze a little longer as we

monitor; and a new 4.3-inch screen on the remote, in case you

approached New Zealand.

want to watch the map and a movie at the same time.

Service

Summary Despite being a Kiwi, I’ve always flown Cathay Pacific home to

I have always found CX cabin crew to be great, offering consistent,

New Zealand – the service is exactly what I’m looking for, quick,

crisp service and the flight to Auckland was no different. Crew

efficient and cheerful enough without being invasive; the business

served glasses of Billecart-Salmon champagne (and seconds)

class product is always a market leader; and the new A350

upon boarding, as well as hot towels, menus, and amenity kits

is only going to give CX an additional edge on this competitive

packed with mini Jurlique products. When the meal service

route. Business class return Hong Kong-Auckland from HK$33,250

started, it was efficient yet friendly – cabin crew know everyone

(US$4,260); www.cathaypacific.com

www.jetsetter.hk

LIFESTYLE againST The grain

CHEF PAUL BENTLEY

FooD aDvenTureS

SUMMER BOUNTY

TimeLeSS eLegance

PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER

aDvanTage aSia aSTon marTin DoeS iT again

BREITLING NAVITIMER ROADSHOW

BEAUTY IS POWER

EARTH & SKY

96

IN THE KITCHEN

Against

the Grain

Tapping into his upbringing in Australia and his time in some of the best kitchens in New York and Guadalajara, chef Paul Bentley’s newest mission is to take Mexico’s gastronomic capital, San Miguel de Allende, in a wholly new direction. By

Nick Walton.

www.jetsetter.hk

IN THE KITCHEN 97

www.jetsetter.hk

98

FOOD ADVENTURES

SUMMER BOUNTY

More than just a great addition to breakfast, summer berries have long been recognised for their nutritious potential.

These unique travel experiences offer a new take on the humble fruit. By Isabelle Lui

www.jetsetter.hk

FOOD ADVENTURES 99

B

egin your love affair with seasonal fruit at Restaurant Telegrafas at Kempinski Hotel

Cathedral

Lithuania, Lopez’s

with

Square executive

signature

dish,

in

Vilnius,

chef Javier Treasures

of

Žemaitija Forest. Using ingredients sourced from one of the country’s oldest forests, the dish features roe deer served with foraged boletus, sunroot crisps, home-made švilpikai dumplings, fresh forest blueberries, a Nebbiolo red wine sauce, and a delicate blueberry gel in a modern take on a rural classic. www.kempinski.com

H W

ead over to London's Revolution Bar on

Leadenhall Street for a refreshing cocktail that will herald in the summer months ahead. The Strawberry Daiquiri is a modern take on the Cuban classic, blending

Bacardi Carta Blanca rum, vanilla liqueur, and housemade strawberry purée with fresh lime and tart cranberry juice, making for the ultimate berry fix. www.revolution-bars.co.uk hat’s

better

than

spending

a

weekend morning in a colourful garden picking dew-wet berries?

Visit Huntley Berry Farm in New South Wales, Australia from

November through May for the ultimate berry picking experience. Here fields of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries reach towards the horizon and once you’ve picked your fill stock up on homemade fresh berry products in the boutique. www.huntleyberryfarm.com.au

F

inally, tap into the healing properties of

summer berries with the Adler Vitamins for Body and Face treatment at Adler Thermae, located in the Unesco-listed Val d’Orcia in southern Tuscany. The 75-minute treatment, created to coincide with the arrival of the retreat’s new line of spa products, includes a body and face scrub followed by a massage using a moisturising mousse made with fresh vitamin-rich raspberries, which help improve circulation. www.adler-thermae.com

www.jetsetter.hk

100

RESTAURANT REVIEW

A LESSON

In Cuisine

The team behind Kennedy Town icon Catch, has introduced its newest innovation, Elementary.

Grace Brewer heads to Tai Hang to be schooled in contemporary Australian cuisine.

F

irst there was Catch; then

dish caught us a little off-guard – we expected

came Mama Malouf, and

seared scallops; however, this ceviche-like dish

now owner, Alex Malouf

was elegant and well-balanced all the same,

and chef Lewis Dai have

with the sweetness of the apple offsetting the

created

heat of the wasabi.

a

blissfully

Elementary, simplistic

neighborhood eatery. Tucked away on School

The “EFC”, Elementary’s Fried Cauliflower,

Street in Tai Hang, a corner of Hong Kong Island

which is deep-fried and sprinkled with almonds,

steadily filling with trendy restaurants, bars and

was delightfully crunchy without being oily and

boutiques, Elementary taps into Malouf’s Aussie

is the perfect comfort alternative for people who

roots with simple comfort food with touches of

don’t like their vegetables.

culinary innovation and a menu that sates both appetite and imagination.

As we opened our second bottle, we tucked into the Fancy Poutine, a take on the traditional

We arrived on a Thursday to find the restaurant

Canadian dish with the addition of a runny egg

full. The industrial-chic dining room caters to a

- comfort food at its best. We also opted for the

couple of dozen diners with a cocktail bar to one

duck heart kebabs, which are seasoned with

side (although when we visited the venue was

parsley vinaigrette and lemon, both of which

yet to get a liqor license). Once seated, the first

help accentuate the subtle gameness of this

of four waiters to serve us offered menus and

deliciously rich dish.

took our BYO wine to the chiller.

The menu is wonderfully varied and ranges from

www.jetsetter.hk

Elementary’s menu is broken into three sections:

kalbi beef short rib, braised with honey kimchi

light, medium and heavy, reflecting the food’s

relish; and beef tartare with nuoc cham, capers,

flavour, not the order of courses or portion size.

quail egg yolk and prawn crackers; to whole

We started off with scallops with rose apple,

roasted snapper with tamarind and squid ink

wasabi ginger, pecans and nori spice. Due to

aioli, making this a great destination for locals

the way it was described on the menu, this

and food grazer alike. www.elementary.hk/

102

RESTAURANT REVIEW

tRAnSCenDinG

TraDiTion W

Introducing the inspiring dishes of the Huai River region to Causeway Bay, 10 Shanghai marries elegant, contemporary décor with the breathtaking presentation and subtle flavor combinations of Huaiyang cuisine, discovers Nick Walton.

hen

of

out across the plate in a mesmerising

traditional Chinese

we

think

pattern. The cucumber is succulent and

fare, images of vast

refreshing and perfectly matches the

dining rooms, huge

headiness of the aged Shaoxing Huadiao-

tables and armies of wait staff usually

brined chicken (a Huaiyang staple); and

come to mind. Then there’s 10 Shanghai,

delicate smokiness of the soft-boiled

the newest addition to the Lee Gardens

eggs with black truffle pearl that follow.

foodscape. Dedicated to the delicate, intriguing dishes of Yangzhou and the

Other highlights of our eight-course

Huai River, but with accents taken from

tasting menu, created by chefs Chen

Shanghai’s 1930s heyday, 10 Shanghai

Xiaohe and Luen Wa Wang, include

offers diners a sophisticated ambiance

perfectly-cooked crispy smoked chicken

and the opportunity to delve into the

with tea leaves, which is revealed from

intricacies of Huaiyang Cuisine, one of

its smoke-filled cloche by a waitress with

the four classical culinary traditions of

the flare of a magician pulling a rabbit

China.

from a hat; and lobster and silky turnip encased in fine-spun pastry as light and

The creation of 1957 & Co Hospitality, 10

fragrant as flower petals. We finish with a

Shanghai was designed by Steve Leung,

sublime Grand Marnier souffle with hints

who took his cues from Shanghai’s French

of osmanthus, a sensational sweet touch

Concession, with touches of Chinese

that rounds off the meal to perfection.

Art Deco evident in the timber floors and arched metal latticed partitions. The effect is a space dressed in dark greens and blues that’s as seductive as a latenight jazz club – in fact on some nights songstresses in qipaos perform classics from the 1930s.

What we loved: The décor of 10 Shanghai is moody and sexy and helps elevate the uniqueness of the dining experience. We missed the divas, but I can imagine their performance in the main dining room would create an ambiance akin to time travel.

Despite the relatively modern inspiration, 10 Shanghai is home to a far more ancient

What we didn’t: Ordering a classic

culinary

Cuisine

cocktail that wasn’t on the menu caused

defines the very best dishes of the

so much confusion no less than five staff

Huai Region, which includes Yangzhou,

arrived in turn to ask the ingredients. The

Suzhou and Shanghai, and like the other

restaurant does have four imaginative and

classical cuisines of China adheres to a

rather sweet looking signature libations,

strict selection of ingredients. In addition,

themed on the four great beauties of

the chefs of the region are renowned for

ancient China (and only the ingredients

their knife work, with exquisite plating and

for those drinks in the bar) as well as an

carving techniques making each dish

extensive selection of Chinese red and

from the extensive 10 Shanghai menu a

white wines, vintage yellow rice wines and

work of art.

Maotai, but in the end we opted for beer.

tradition.

Huaiyang

This is especially evident in the first of three starters - sliced crunchy cucumber with sesame sauce, with the slices fanned www.jetsetter.hk

Shop 101, Lee Gardens Two, 28 Yun Ping Road, Causeway bay, Hong Kong; +852 2338 5500; www.10-shanghai.com

104

TOP TABLES Hong Kong’s newest carnivoric destination, Steak

on

Elgin has opened at the heart of SoHo. Delivering an

authentic taste of the British Isles from head chef Clayton Ma, Steak on Elgin is a refined steakhouse where the focus is on sustainability and the freshest quality ingredients imported from Scotland, Wales and England, including tender varieties of 100 percent grass-fed native British beef and seafood from the North Sea. Highlights from the meat selection include 30-40 day dry-aged filet mignon on the bone; 30oz dry-aged grass-fed rib-eye; and Kettyle Irish Salt Moss Cave Aged Porterhouse.

However, there are dishes for diners of all persuasions, including grilled Spanish octopus with anchovy, roasted garlic and caper sauce; Caledonian “Angel” prawns with arbequina smoked olive oil; Wicks Manor farm pork chops; and Welsh Rhug Estate organic lamb racks, all of which are complemented by a 350-bottle wine list curated by owner Stephen Wickens. 59 Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong; +852 2627 0528.

Located in a glass-walled space on the roof of IFC Mall in Hong Kong, Dear

Lilly has been designed

by Ashley Sutton, the award-winning designer behind Ophelia and Iron Fairies. Taking inspiration from the florist boutiques of Paris, the restaurant is filled with extracts from love letters sent by soldiers to their sweethearts during the first and second World Wars, engraved into the flooring and written on scrolls piled on the bar. Alongside classics like Bellinis, Sazeracs and Manhattans, Dear Lilly’s mixologists serve a selection of signature cocktails inspired by 1920s France. The contemporary European menu includes slow-cooked octopus, seafood platters, puttanesca pappardelle, and New Zealand lamb cutlets. www.diningconcepts.com

Hidden away in Causeway Bay, newly-opened The Artist House takes Hong Kong’s craft beer scene to the next level. An interactive venue, the new brewerycum-cocktail bar offers a selection of unique beers, fine artisanal spirits and craft beer cocktails, along with barista coffee, bespoke teas and a range of baked goods using ingredients from the brewery. A fragrance bar is designed to decipher which craft beer should tickle your taste buds, while visitors can learn about the brewing process and try their hand at pouring a pint the Belgian way. Adding another dimension, culinary arts farm Farmacy grows rare herbs and flowers for Michelin star chefs and for flavouring The Artist House’s unique drinks. www.mrtheartist.com

www.jetsetter.hk

TOP TABLES 105 One of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed omakase restaurants has reopened at Lee Gardens in Causeway Bay. Ta-ke, formerly Sushi Ta-Ke, was the pioneer of omakase dining in the city and gained a cult following at its former Cubus location. The new gourmet journey at Lee Gardens begins with a new persona by three master designers - Kengo Kuma, Steve Leung and Tino Kwan. Taking inspiration from the architecture of the Edo-period, Ta-Ke’s interiors now feature bamboo, paper and adobe bricks, which complement the zen-like elegance of its cuisine, the creation of three top Japanese Michelin-starred chefs – Masakazu Ishibashi, Hara Eisaku, and Suzuki Masahiro. Ta-ke’s new menu will continue to offer insight into Japan’s culinary traditions but with far more diversity than before; besides featuring its famous sushi and sashimi, the menu will also include teppanyaki and tempura, with signature dishes including watercress and roast beef salad; smoked salmon and avocado with caviar; Botan shrimp with egg yolk, soy sauce and caviar; and abalone risotto with sea urchin and dried mullet roe. www.ta-ke.com.hk

The Middle House, Swire’s new addition to the heart of Shanghai, is soon to open a sister restaurant to Hong Kong’s acclaimed Café Gray Deluxe. Combining restaurant, lounge bar, private dining room, and an expansive terrace overlooking Nanjing West Road, Café Gray Deluxe Shanghai will serve unique and modern European cuisine by New York chef Grey Kunz, using seasonal Asian ingredients. Dishes include seared foie gras with du puy lentil salad; braised beef short ribs; and crusted Maine lobster. A sophisticated menu of craft cocktails will also be available, and will include the Hong Kong outlet’s iconic Pisco Sour. www.swirehotels.com

Three Michelin-starred Japanese icon Sushi

Saito has opened at the Four Seasons

Hong Kong as one of the most anticipated new restaurants of the year. Paying respect to long-standing traditions of Edomae-style sushi, the restaurant of chef Takashi Saito concentrates on the precision of fish ageing, rice preparation and the freshest ingredients, which is flown in from Tokyo daily, to create a sushi experience like no other. Expect interiors in premium Japanese cypress from Nagano, complimented by stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline. www.fourseason.com

www.jetsetter.hk

106

MINIBAR

Created by Casamigos Tequila founders George Clooney, Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman,

Casamigos

Mezcal is the perfect introduction

to this unique agave spirit for those

looking to spice up their home mixology.

Made in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca from 100 percent Espadin agave, and available in Joven or Blanco, Casamigos Mezcal is balanced and elegant, offering harmonious hints of tamarind, pomegranate, banana and mango, with touches of fresh herbal mint aromas, dried oregano and thyme. Delicate tones of smoke, hints of licorice and mineral nuances can be found on the long silky finish.

SUMMER

LOVIN’ As the mercury rises, be sure to reach for these seasonal spirits for the perfect summertime libations.

By Nick Walton

This stylish spirit is presented in a hand-crafted bottle designed by Rande Gerber and rubbed using a unique process insuring no bottle will ever be the same. www.casamigos.com

As perfect for summer mixology as sunshine, Britain’s acclaimed Bathtub Gin has created a modern sloe berry rendition.

Bathtub Sloe Gin is

made with half a pound of sloe berries for every bottle of delectable cold-compounded spirit, ensuring a bold yet elegant spirit that’s perfect for tall cocktails and punches. With coriander, orange peel, cloves and of course plenty of rich sloe berry goodness, this brilliant little spirit can even be used to replace maraschino in classics like the Hemmingway Daiquiri or Martinez. www.ableforths.com

www.jetsetter.hk

MINIBAR 107

Ideal for summer cocktails,

Gin Bordiga Rosa is a delicious take on the

Piedmont distillery’s standard

What’s summer without rum?

Why not try Dominican rum

Brugal Anejo, an elegant

spirit that’s aged five years.

gin. Packed with seasonal

Ideal for mixing in classic rum

flavours including red rose

libations, Brugal Anejo features

and pink grapefruit, as well as

a coppery golden hue and

three secret ingredients, this

gentle notes of vanilla and

silky, modern gin still has a base of juniper, accentuated

banana as well as nutty aromas with a light oak undertone.

by the addition of angelica

There’s sweetness on the

and coriander. Distilled five

palate but nothing overpowering

times for ultimate purity and smoothness, this is the

meaning this is a rum for those easing their way into the

perfect seasonal gin for home

category. Look for hints of oak

mixology, especially when

and tobacco in your next cuba

poured tall with plenty of ice.

libre. www.brugal-rum.com

www.bordiga1888.it

The perfect dram for the inquisitive Scotch lover in your life, Chivas

Regal

Another perfect spirit for the season is Tanqueray Rangpur, an award-

Mizunara builds on the

winning, easy-drinking gin

of the Far East. Chivas master

profile. The key ingredient

distiller Colin Scott decided to

here is Rangpur, a lime

iconic whisky brand with touches

blend a whisky based on his travels to Japan, even going so far as to use luxurious Japanese Mizunara oak to mature the

with a juicy citrus flavor

which originates in India that’s essentially a hybrid between a lemon and a mandarin orange. This highly

spirit. The result is a Scotch with

acidic fruit lends a fresh,

an underlying note of Mizunara,

zesty flavor to the classic

with touches of sweet barley,

gin foundation, and fuses

dried apricot, citrus peel and

beautifully with other exotic

black tea, with vanilla, pear,

botanicals, including bay

honey and ginger on the palate

leaf, ginger and of course,

and a middle-length finish that’s

juniper. Serve with a lime

elegant without being overt. www.chivas.com

peel and good tonic water. www.tanqueray.com

www.jetsetter.hk

108

WINE

SEASON of the SPRITZER iT’s ThAT TiMe oF yeAr AgAiN, wheN you’re reAchiNg For spriTZers To keep you cool uNder The suMMer suN. BuT which wiNe should you Be usiNg iN This clAssic MediTerrANeAN MiX? By

NICK WALTON

W

hile the wine spritzer might have once been considered a little fuddy-duddy to serve at a weekend brunch or barbeque, all that’s steadily changing

as bartenders and brands alike turn to this family of coolinducing libations with the addition of good fruit, good ice and of course, good wine. You’re guaranteed to see spritzers on offer at the coolest al fresco bars and soirees this summer with stand-alone mixes like the Shark Tank-funded Bon Affair in competition with savvy champagne brands including Moet & Chandon with its Ice Imperial, and Lanson with its White Label, wines specifically designed to be served over ice.

The humble spritzer has evolved since 1842 when the newlyinvented soda water was added to the wines of Hungarian author András Fáy by his friend scientist Ányos Jedlik to see if it brought out the flavor profile of the wine. While many Europeans - especially lovers of the green organic wines in the hills above Vienna - still believe the purist way to drink a

blanc, with its crisp acidic notes and touches of summer fruit. Balance the inherent

spritzer is simply combining still white wine with soda water,

acid with melon balls, a touch of basil or even a stalk of rosemary, and think about

if you go south to the Med you’ll likely encounter the bold red

replacing the soda water with a splash of citrus-flavoured mineral water or even

prosecco-laced Aperol Spritzer, the pride of the Italians and

good old fashioned lemonade.

one that can now be found in the top bars around the world.

If your favourite drop is something more aromatic like a riesling, or gewürztraminer, Today a wide range of white wines, cavas, champagnes,

offset the sweetness with a touch of soda water, and balance with grapefruit or

Proseccos and sparkling wines are used to make spritzers,

orange and a few drops of citrus bitters.

with the addition of fresh fruit and even herbs adding to their complex but refreshing flavor profiles. For a sweeter touch,

Another popular vino for spritzer construction, especially in Australia and parts of

try using an asti or a moscato for your spritzers – garnish

Asia, is pinot grigio, which can be best balanced with fresh peach – if you don’t

with some ripe melon or seasonal berries to really elevate

have the fruit throw a peach-flavoured ice pop in instead - it’s fun and contributes

the drink. Alternatively, use a slightly wooded chardonnay to

to keeping the drink cool.

offer a stable foundation for the drink, and top with a dash of ginger beer and a wedge of candied ginger to balance the

And don’t feel like you’re restricted to white wines and bubbles when it comes to

oak notes.

spritzers – red wines also lend bold tannin-laced flavours while roses are tart and clean and fresh, although be sparing with the fruit, you don’t want to end up with

A common and easy to access wine for spritzers is sauvignon www.jetsetter.hk

sangria, that’s a tale for another day.

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110

GREAT OUTDOORS

Surviving in style

Outdoor specialists The North Face has collaborated with Japanese designer Junya Watanabe and fashion brand Comme des Garçons to create a jacket that greys the lines between functionality and haute couture.

The Terra 65 jacket takes its name from another The North Face product, its popular backpack, but that’s where the similarities end. With a price tag north of US$2,500, the Terra 65 jacket is made from three-layer Goretex Windstopper fabric, which ensures you’re kept sheltered from the elements while retaining heat within. There’s an adjustable hood, and reinforced collar and elbows in corduroy, as well as a series of useful pockets for things like keys, smartphones and lift passes. There’s also a day pack incorporated into the jacket, which makes the combo ideal for the likes of Antarctic cruises where space and weight on those charter flights is always a factor. www.thenorthface.com

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CUST OM MAD E TO Y OUR PERSONAL SPECIFICATIONS

IT'S A WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT

A TASTE

OF MACAO Taipa village showcases some of the best culinary experiences the city has to offer.

Char-boiled Grouper Fish Fillet Served With Tomato Rice

AntÓnio

António is an upscale affair that’s been a Michelin recommended restaurant since 2009. Its warm and inviting décor incorporates Portuguese tiles and paintings and is complemented by attentive service.

The restaurant is helmed by chef António Coelho, a master chef of the Chaine des Rotisseurs who is dedicated to the promotion of authentic Portuguese cuisine in Asia. Menu highlights include barbecued tuna served on a bed of red onion sauce, seafood stew prepared in a Portuguese copper pot, and wild boar stew with chestnuts on the side. Those with a sweet tooth can dig into typical Portuguese desserts like almond cake, or carrot cake.

Scrambled Eggs With Portuguese Bread Sausage

Tapas de Portugal

Following the success of his first eatery in Taipa, Chef António has opened another restaurant directly opposite, Tapas de Portugal, where the Portuguese sausages and smoked ham are among the specialties and are incorporated into many of the petit plates. Here you can find traditional tapas that you might not easily find, such as codfish cakes, scrambled eggs with Portuguese bread sausage and fried dates rolled in bacon. Diners can finish their meal with a traditional Portuguese cheese platter and a glass of Port on the rooftop terrace, which overlooks the streets of Taipa village.

Le Cesar

Le Cesar is another culinary gem serving up plenty of traditional dishes that act as a worthy introduction into Portugal’s culinary heritage. One item worth ordering on the menu is the wet sea bass rice with clams & lemon sauce.

Start your meal with a puff pastry stuffed with goat’s cheese, apple and honey, enjoy traditional Portuguese duck rice as a main and save some room for a serradura pudding.

PortugÁlia

Wet Sea Bass Rice With Clams & Lemon Sauce

Homemade cakes and desserts such as the Serradura, plus daily set lunches showcasing fine Portuguese fare have both done their bit to ensure the success

Portugália is a chain of Portuguese beerhouses originally established in Lisbon in 1925. The dish that gives name to the restaurant, Steak à Portugália is seasoned according to a secret recipe before being smothered in a creamy, buttery sauce and topped with an egg.

The restaurant also serves lupin beans, or tremoços, a yellow legume seed that’s pickled and best enjoyed with a beer (remove the skin first). Finish your meal with a portion of Portugália’s egg pudding, a soft, slightly caramelised dessert laced with Port.

of this restaurant.

O Santos - Comida Portuguesa

Chef Santos came to Macao as a navy chef and decided to open a Portuguese restaurant in Taipa Village almost 30 years ago in 1989. Showcasing gastronomy from Alentejo, which is famed for its traditional cheeses and smoked hams, the restaurant prides itself on delivering rustic meals which replicate that home-cooked flavour. The chef’s unique take on Alentejo cuisine has attracted clients from around the world – Mick Jagger and Charlie Watts dined here when in town for their Cotai Arena show – and the restaurant’s walls are lined with photos of chef and his famous clientele.

Charcoal Grilled Codfish With Baked Potatoes

Steak à Portugália

Seafood lovers are in for a treat if they pull up a chair at O Santos, with dishes including sautéed clams in a garlic and white wine sauce, octopus salad and grilled sea bass on the menu.

O Santos - Loja Portuguesa O Santos has an adjoining delicatessen, O Santos – Loja Portuguesa, where diners can stock up on Portuguese delicacies including sardines and olive oil. Other imported goods stocked in the store include coffee, tea and pastries but best of all is the wine cellar located on the first floor, which offers everything from top-notch vintages to bottles for everyday enjoyment.

MACAO TARGETS TRAVEL TRADE

The Macao International Travel Expo will unite travel experts from around the world this April.

N

ow in its sixth edition, the Macau International Travel Industry Expo is dedicated to forging a platform for delegates from tourism and related industries to exchange insights, promote products and boost visits from different markets.

The three-day Expo attracted more than 36,000 visitors in 2017, achieving an increase of 12.5 per cent compared to the year before, with more than 30 contracts signed and 23 sessions of promotion seminars held.

This year, the Expo area has expanded to cover 11,000 square metres hosting 500 booths representing six major traditional tourism categories: dining, accommodation, transportation, entertainment, sightseeing and shopping.

The show will host a diverse range of exhibitors from the Greater China region and destinations around the world, including representatives from travel agencies, hotels, scenic spots, tourism transportation, tourism-extended services as well as other tourism- related entities and enterprises.

Riding on the successful experiences from the last five editions, the sixth MITE will focus on enhancing its programme in parallel with Macao’s commitment to the development planning of a city cluster in the GuangdongHong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and other major developments.

The Expo will additionally highlight Macao’s unique advantages as one of the major hubs along the Maritime Silk Road and a Sino-Portuguese platform not only by facilitating networking among participants but also by fostering new partnerships between local trade delegates and their international counterparts.

More specifically, Expo highlights will include the ChinaPortugal Tourism Cooperation & Networking Seminar, a Maritime Silk Road Tourism & Culture Display, Greater Bay Area Tourism Promotion Session, Macao Tourism x Creative

Street as well as the Macao: City of Gastronomy Feature Zone, which reflects the city’s new status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. This event will also offer the latest travel tips and interactive experiences to the public.

With abundant partnership opportunities just around the corner, Macao’s tourism industry is marching towards greater regional cooperation. At the same time, integration has deepened between tourism and related sectors to advance diversified and sustainable tourism development, generating an impetus to the city’s transformation into a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.

Macao’s hosting of this important event for the travel industry illustrates the city’s commitment to becoming a globally recognised hub for leisure and tourism.

BEAUTY TRAVEL 115

Sisley Hair Rituel Precious Hair Care Oil Glossiness and Nutrition The factors that can damage hair, such as sun, pollution and genetic ageing, are the same as those that damage skin. Skincare brand Sisley has launched a new hair care range, Hair Rituel, designed to care exclusively for the scalp and hair fibres, making it ideal for a mid-summer treatment. Using oils from passion fruit, shea, cotton, and moringa, The Precious Hair Care Oil restructures hair and creates a film of protection around the fibre giving hair that extra shine throughout the summer months. www.sisleyparis.com

Antipodes Apostle Skin-Brightening Serum Antipodes’ new water-based serum helps correct dull, blemished or uneven skin.

Ingredients including Waiwera water, grape seeds, and kiwifruit antioxidants are

Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Ultra-Light Daily UV Defense This new lightweight sunscreen has both UV filters and pollution-deflecting technology. With SPF 50 and vitamin E, Kiehl’s has developed a cream which fights the effects of the sun and

scientifically proven to hydrate skin cells,

environmental pollutants together,

provide essential nutrients and minimise

ultimately preventing premature

facial redness. For eco-conscious women, this

skin aging. Oil and fragrance-free,

serum is not only organic and natural but all

the formula also provides all day

Antipodes product packaging is 100 percent

hydration. www.kiehls.com

biodegradable. www.antipodesnature.com

Supercharge Your

SKINCARE

Start preparing your summer skincare routine now. From scientifically created serums, to sunscreen that fights off pollution, these are the new beauty travel essentials for the summer months ahead. By Grace Brewer www.jetsetter.hk

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WATCHES

A Timezone

CLASSIC For today’s busy traveller, time could be considered just as precious as gold, and keeping track of time both locally and at home has never been more fundamental. To help the jet set keep tabs, Frederique Constant has released the latest rendition of its Classics Wordtimer Manufacture, which allows users the opportunity to track time on cities around the globe. Featuring a beautifully etched world map on its dial, ringed by 24 cities, with a date by hand at 6 o’clock, the new release boasts a FC-718 caliber movement. Produced in house, the movement allows all Worldtimer functions, as well as the date, to be adjustable via the crown itself, with no additional push-buttons.

The timepiece displays two separate discs, one featuring a 24h day-night indicator and a second with indications for 24 cities. This striking new timepiece is presented with a green alligator strap with white stitches that complements the deep green of the dial. https://frederiqueconstant.com

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WATCHES 117

Timeless

Elegance

First launched in 1983, Cartier’s now iconic Panthère de Cartier timepiece is a symbol of infinite elegance and timelessness. A beautiful amalgamation of watchmaking and fine jewellery, the 2018 incarnation continues that legacy. Available in double or triple loops, in yellow gold, pink gold, white gold, or steel, with varying degrees of diamond paving (a pink gold version entirely paved in diamonds harps to the original), this eye-catching timepiece coils seductively around the wrist, with the intimate square case boasting a dial that showcases the maison’s signature roman numerals and railway track indexes to perfection. www.cartier.com

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WATCHES

Inspired by PASSION Breguet has set hearts aflutter with its newest ladies release, the Valentine's Day 2018 Classique Phase de Lune Dame. Limited to just 14 pieces, the new watch is a rendition of the Classique Phase de Lune Dame, now attired in pink. The bezel of this 30 mm-diameter white gold timepieces is adorned with subtly graded shades of diamonds and pink sapphires, while the lugs are graced with a setting of pink sapphires at 6 o’clock and diamonds at 12 o’clock. The satin-finished alligator leather strap also appears in graded shades of pink. This delicate hue imbues the model with a softness and lightness reflected in the mother-of-pearl dial, whose white tones and iridescent shimmer endow it with cloud-like beauty. This resolutely romantic Classique 9085 naturally welcomes a moon phase appearing at 6 o’clock against a lacquered pink backdrop and periodically hidden from sight behind a pink mother-of-pearl heart. www.breguet.com

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WISHLIST 119

SIBERIAN

SONATA Built over three precious months and inspired by travels to the world’s most remote and exotic corners, Chaumet’s latest high jewellery collection, Les Mondes de Chaumet, begins with a homage to Russia with Promenades Impériales, which captures the beauty of the Siberian winter and includes this stunning necklace in white and pink gold, set with a 16.31 carat pearshaped “sunset colour” Padparadscha sapphire and a 9.03 carat cabochon-cut Padparadscha sapphire, both from Sri Lanka; an oval-cut 1.13 carat D VVS1 diamond, a brilliant-cut 0.45 carat D VVS2 diamond, and marquise and brilliant-cut diamonds. www.chaumet.com

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120

WISHLIST

A SYMBOL

OF HOPE

Created to aid the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Riedel has unveiled the Amadeo Double Magnum Rainbow decanter, a breathtaking example of the glass-blowers art. Designed by Maximilian in conjunction with Sir Elton John, the Amadeo Double Magnum Rainbow, the first decanter to include four colours in Riedel crystal wine-ware, is mouth blown at Austria’s Kufstein glassworks and depicts the colours of the rainbow while embodying hope, diversity and acceptance. Limiting production of the Amadeo Double Magnum Rainbow decanter to just 50 pieces globally, Riedel will donate US$31,000 to the Elton John AIDS Foundation relief fund as well as five decanters to charity auctions to spread wellness and compassion to the world. US$3,200; www.riedel.com www.jetsetter.hk

WISHLIST 121

PROPPING UP THE BAR Take your home mixology to the next level with the Dime Bar Cabinet, a stunning wall-mounted timber wet bar design by wood gurus Splinter Works. Inspired by a spinning dime, this eye-catching cocktail corner is the perfect place in which to store those precious tipples; with an exterior comprising individual curved segments in American walnut and ripple sycamore, which shuffle and glide together when opened, the Dime Bar Cabinet features shelves and enough workspace to construct the perfect dry martini. www.splinterworks.co.uk/dime www.jetsetter.hk

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TECHNOLOGY Drone technology is evolving at heart-thumping speed, with devices getting smaller and more agile with every iteration.

While some models follow the dynamic flying drone with camera mantra, others look at propellers as simply a means of capturing better footage. California-based Skydio recently unveiled the company’s first product, the R1, a slim, cuttingedge fully autonomous flying camera. Built from the ground up by a team of world-class researchers and engineers, the R1 is powered by the Skydio Autonomy Engine, which enables it to see and understand the world around it so that it can fly safely at high speeds while avoiding obstacles, even in dense and challenging environments. The R1 can also see people and anticipate their movements, ensuring the smoothest, most cinematic footage in real-time. Shooting video in 4K video, which can be accessed and edited via a dedicated app, the R1 features 13 cameras – that’s right, 13 - giving it the ability to map and understand the world in real-time, and allowing it to be fully autonomous and independently capture the kind of footage that once required a Hollywood film crew. www.skydio.com An alternative take on drone technology from the company that really pioneered the personal drone experience, DJI, the new

Mavic Air is an ultra-portable, foldable camera drone that delivers higher performance, more intelligent features and greater creative possibilities than any other consumer drone. Developed with the traveller and outdoor enthusiast in mind, the Mavic Air inherits the best features of DJI's iconic Mavic series with a 4K camera for superior image quality, new QuickShot modes and SmartCapture for easier, more intelligent photo and video capturing, and FlightAutonomy 2.0 with Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems for smarter, safer flight. A marvel of engineering and design, Mavic Air enables limitless exploration wherever adventure takes you. Weighing just 430 grams, the Mavic Air’s folding arms and propellers sit flush against its slender aerodynamic frame, making it so compact that its footprint is nearly the size of a modern smartphone when folded. Its recessed three-axis mechanical gimbal is suspended from dampeners to further reduce vibration providing superior protection and steadier shots with the powerful camera, which houses a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor and the equivalent of a 24mm F2.8 lens that captures 12-megapixel stills utilizing new HDR algorithms that preserve more highlight and low light details. www.dji.com

DRONE

FEVER

Two new drones promise exhilarating performance and stunning videos to boot, discovers Nick Walton. www.jetsetter.hk

TECHNOLOGY 123

DIGITAL

DIVAS

Two new mirrorless digital cameras put more creative power in the hands of travellers than ever before.

Not to be outdone, Canon has launched the cuttingedge EOS M50 mirrorless camera, which boasts 4K video capability, a vari-angle touchscreen, and Canon’s latest DIGIC 8 image processor. Coupled with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity, an APS-C sized 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor for beautiful soft backgrounds and sharp, highresolution images in low-light situations, and a ten frames per second (fps) continuous shooting capability, the Canon EOS M50 is the perfect choice for confident smartphone and compact camera photographers seeking to enhance their photography on the road. Highly portable, this interchangeable lens camera is sleek and compact, with a super-fast autofocus system and Full HD video capability that features cinematic modes for true story telling. www.canon.com

With a newly-designed body that’s robust and durable, and incorporating a range of extremely useful features that support shooting in various scenarios, the new mirrorless Fujifilm X-H1 is the first camera in the company’s professional X Series to include the latest 5-axis in-body image stabilization. Boasting superior image quality, a high-precision electronic viewfinder, and a large grip design, the new dust, scratch and water-resistant camera is constructed in magnesium alloy yet remains light-weight. Ideal for confidant shooters, the X-H1 also features the quietest shutter sound in the series, a newly positions AF-ON button at the back for back button focusing, and a new ETERNA video mode that simulates film. www.fujifilm.com

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124

LIMELIGHT

Navigating

Luxury

Breitling recently hosted a Roadshow party in Shanghai to launch the newest additions to the Swiss watch brand’s Navitimer Collection, the Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph and Navitimer 8 Automatic. In attendance were Singaporean singer Nathan Hartono, Korean actor

1

Ji Sung, and Hong Kong director Stephen Fung.

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2

4

6

1. Breitling CEO Georges Kern; Japanese fashion influencer Akiko Yamada, free diving Asia champion Ryozo Shinomiya; and Japanese polar explorer Yasunaga Ogita 2. Avid Breitling collectors 3. Breitling fans attending the Shanghai event 4. Sakon Yamanoto 5. Stephen Fung 6. Hands on with the Navitimer Collection 7. Ji Sung 8. Nathan Hartono 9. Dinner is served 10. Chinese actor Yang Shuo

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LIMELIGHT 125

March of

theElephants Bangkok recently hosted the fun and festivities the 16th annual King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament, one of the most anticipated events on the city’s social calendar. The event, held on dedicated grounds adjacent to the Anantara Riverside and Avani Riverside hotels and presented by Anantara Hotels & Resorts, combines the pageantry of polo with a chance to raise awareness of the plight of Thailand’s elephant population. During the four-day event, which includes a Children’s Educational Day and Ladies’ Day, regarded locally as the ‘Bangkok Ascot’, a total of 20 unemployed former street elephants took part in the festivities, during which they were given full veterinary checks, essential vitamin supplements, and some much-needed TLC. The event has become one of the biggest charitable events in Southeast Asia, with over US$1.7 million raised for projects that better the lives of Thailand’s wild and domesticated elephant population, including the world’s first Thai Elephant Assisted Autistic Therapy Project, positive reinforcement elephant training workshops, mahout community development initiatives and wild elephant conservation. The 16th King’s Cup Elephant Polo Tournament was opened with a blessing by Thailand’s last Elephant Spirit Men, while crowds were sated at the Thai Food Market and at marques by Chang Beer, Johnnie Walker and Attitude, the popular rooftop bar at the Avani Riverside, and entertained by performances by the likes of Thai popstar Singto Numchok. www.anantaraelephantpolo.com www.jetsetter.hk

126

AUTO

Aston Martin has unveiled the new Vantage in Asia, continuing the brand’s legacy for performance and luxury with its latest sporting icon. By

Nick Walton

F

or seven decades the heartbeat of Aston Martin’s purest models, the Vantage nameplate has been worn by some true icons; first used in 1951 on a high-output engine option for the

DB2, Vantage was quickly established as a model in its own right.

Today this formidable sporting dynasty is poised to hit new heights with the introduction of the new Vantage, a super car defined by a bold new look, intensified performance, and a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine mated to an eight-speed ZF transmission.

The perfect marriage of elegance and power, the new Vantage’s pure, sculptural form creates an athletic, predatory stance, while the minimal front and rear overhangs, muscular flanks and broad haunches express the agility and dynamism inherent within the car. New head and tail lights form dramatic new signatures giving the Vantage unmistakable road presence and contribute to a strong and individual identity within the growing Aston Martin model range.

The heart of the Vantage is Aston Martin’s potent new alloy, 4-litre twinturbo V8 engine. Set low and as far back in the chassis as possible

www.jetsetter.hk

AUTO 127 and also ensures the rear diffuser is fed with clean airflow.

The design of the diffuser creates an area of low pressure air, while simultaneously preventing turbulence generated by the rear wheels from disrupting the flow of air exiting centrally from beneath the rear of the car. Together with the new side gills, which have been integrated into the body surface and bleed air pressure out from the front wheel arches, and the pronounced upswept rear deck lid, the Vantage generates a significant level of downforce – a rarity on any production car and a first for a core production Aston Martin model.

The design story continues inside the new Vantage, with a dynamic and focused sports car cockpit that rejects long, fluid curves in favour of sharp, focused lines denoting the more aggressive nature of the car. A high waist interior theme and lower driving position creates a more immersive driving experience and contributes to significant gains in occupant space and a significant improvement in headroom compared with previous models.

The Vantage features a high level of standard equipment, including keyless start/stop, a tyre pressure monitoring system, parking distance display, park assist and front and rear parking sensors. for optimal centre-of-gravity and perfect 50:50 weight distribution, this high performance, high efficiency engine develops 510PS at 6,000rpm and 685Nm from 2,000-5,000rpm. With a dry weight of 1,530kg this gives the Vantage formidable power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios – something vividly demonstrated whenever the throttle is squeezed. Detailed tuning of the induction, exhaust and engine management systems has also given the Vantage a truly intoxicating character and soundtrack.

The Vantage deploys its impressive power and torque to the rear wheels via a rear-mounted ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/hr in 3.5 seconds and on to a maximum speed of 313km/hr, it employs a sophisticated suite of integrated electronic systems to offer maximum control and driver enjoyment. These include Dynamic Stability Control and

The In-Car Entertainment system – controlled and viewed via a centrally mounted 8-inch LCD screen – includes the Aston Martin Audio System, Bluetooth audio and phone streaming, iPod, iPhone and USB playback and an integrated satellite navigation system.

Being an Aston Martin, the new Vantage also features a high level of craftsmanship, evidenced by flawless paintwork, luxurious Alcantara and leather upholstery and the levels of finish optimised through the use of tactile natural materials of the highest quality.

There is also extensive scope for personalisation via a generous choice of options that include forged alloy wheels in a variety of finishes; a Sports Plus Collection (comprising Sports Plus seats and Sports steering wheel); carbon fibre interior and exterior detailing; and a Premium Audio System. www.astonmartin.com

Dynamic Torque Vectoring. The speed-dependent electric power steering has 2.4 turns lock-to-lock for an outstanding combination of responsiveness and precise, intuitive control.

The Electronic Rear Differential (E-Diff), a first for Aston Martin, is linked to the car’s electronic stability control system, and can go from fully open to 100 percent locked in a matter of milliseconds, allowing very fine control of the car’s dynamic behaviour. This makes the car feel much more composed both in terms of its straight-line stability and its cornering performance, providing the driver with increased levels of confidence to explore and enjoy the car’s capabilities to the full.

Aerodynamic performance is also central to the new Vantage’s design concept: the front splitter directs airflow underneath the car, where a system of fences channels cooling air where it is needed, www.jetsetter.hk

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CULTURE

Reigning Men: FaShion in menSWear 1715 – 2015 may 12 – ocToBer 14, 2018 poWerhouSe muSeum SyDney

Fresh from its time at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear 1715 – 2015 opens in May at Sydney’s Powerhouse Museum. The exhibition features over 130 garments ranging from extravagant silks worn by 18th century aristocrats, and the flawless tailoring of 19th century dandies, to pieces from renowned fashion brands including Tom Ford, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Burberry, Vivienne Westwood, Giorgio Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, Louis Vuitton and Yves Saint Laurent. Exploring the history of men’s fashion, the exhibition re-examines the all-too-frequent equation of “fashion” and “femininity”. Drawing primarily from LACMA’s renowned collection, Reigning Men makes illuminating connections between history and high fashion as it traces cultural influences over the centuries, examines how elements of the uniform have profoundly shaped fashionable dress, and reveals how cinching and padding the body was, and is, not exclusive to women. https://maas.museum/powerhouse-museum www.jetsetter.hk