Travel in style exotic voyages
Sunglasses Trends
Nyepi
The “Absolute” Silent New Year in Bali
Durian
King of Fruits
ANGKOR From the sky
2015’s
hottest travel trends
2 | Travel in style
Greetings from Exotic Voyages! It’s great to see you again reading our 6th Issue of Travel In Style Magazine. “Spring Around Asia” is chosen as the theme of this issue. We wish to take you around the magical land of Asia in the freshest season of the year – Spring. Following after last Festive Issue, these inspiring pages are waiting to make your mind flourish with festivals, trends and special travel ideas. This issue marks the start of a new section – Travel Fashion. We understand that the fashion is an indispensable part of travel and would love to share with you – the fashion lovers your passion. The first issue of this section would be useful advice of sunglasses trend this year and the lovely story of Kimono – the spirit of Japanese women. Our pages of three classic sections of Travel in Style, Food & Experience and Asia Insight will invite you to different country to see how they celebrate the Spring, to see what is new for travelling as usual: outstanding hotels to open by first quarter of 2015 in Vietnam and Myanmar, incredible moment flying above the magnificent Angkor historical park. Food Experience sees the strike of durian – the King of Fruit in Asia, explore a luxury French-style restaurant in Phnom Penh. Asia Insight is promising to make you surprise with strange New Year celebration in silence of Balinese, gentle color of cherry blossom in Japan. Thank you once again for supporting us and trust us well via our latest news and articles about luxury travel in Asia! Exotic Voyages Team
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Table Of Content
Travel in style The Reverie Saigon................................................................... 7 2015’s Hottest Travel Trends................................................10 Sanctum Inle Report...............................................................12 Angkor from the Sky...............................................................14
Food experiences
Durian, the “King of Fruits”...................................................20 Topaz Restaurant – Haute French Cuisine at the Heart of Phnom Penh............................................................24
Asia insight
5 Interesting Facts about Cherry Blossom Season in Japan....................................................................................28 Nyepi - The “Absolute” Silent New Year in Bali...................32
ADS Travel Fashion
4 | Travel in style
Kimono.....................................................................................38 Sunglasses Trend.....................................................................40
Travel in style All about NEW! Trendy travel ideas, new and hot destinations, new accommodations, new tours and OUR experts’ suggestions.
6 | Travel in style
Ranked in the top one of 11 hotels opening in 2015 can’t wait to check into, the Reverie Saigon seems to be a hotel like no other. Here, the old and the new, the time-honored traditions and cutting-edge modernity harmoniously mingles. Now, Exotic Voyages is proud to present the exclusive interview with Mr. Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, General Manager of the Reverie Saigon to dig into the secrets making its own uniqueness.
EV (Exotic Voyages): There are so many luxury hotel choices in Saigon, why should travelers visit your hotel right now? What is new? RS (The Reverie Saigon): The Reverie Saigon is obviously the first one to open in nearly a decade that truly meets the definition of “luxury” by international standards. Of course, we encourage travelers, especially for aficionados to experience it sooner rather than later because there’s a certain kind of excitement and level of exclusivity that comes with experiencing a hotel when it’s still a new brand. It is up-to-the-second appeal reflecting in its own modern and luxury corners of spaces. And what’s to be experienced is not just the physical place itself – which is truly incomparable to any other in the world in terms of our own style & design as well as excellent services.
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New Story of a Trendy Property
Saigon
Reverie
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EV: Based in Vietnam, why does The Reverie Saigon attract visitors by Italian style? Could you explain the reasons behind this decision? RS: From the very beginning, we set out to be a trend-setter rather than a trend-follower. This is why Italian style ultimately dominates the design scheme – because the intent was to, uncompromisingly, offer the absolute best in design & manufacturing and when it comes to that, Italy is known throughout the world for its long history of impeccable craftsmanship. That’s really why Italian style became our predominant choice for the types of furnishings, decorative pieces and design elements that you see throughout the property. EV: Tell us the highlights of the restaurants in The Reverie Saigon? RS: Just as with the guestrooms, the spa and meeting & event facilities, every one of our food & beverage venues raise the bar on the dining
experiences to be had in Saigon, with the incomparable quality of food and level of authenticity that we call “the art of dinning”. Our various culinary teams, as spearheaded by some of the best chefs in Vietnam. We allow only the very best quality ingredients into our kitchens, whether local or imported, and all operations are overseen by Executive Chef Giovanni Parrella – who comes with over 15 years of international experiences. EV: How busy were the first days of the Reverie Saigon? RS: It’s been prosperously busy already, since our dining outlets have already become popular destinations among Saigon’s social elite, many of whom can already be considered regulars. Guestroom bookings are going on strong as well, due to our robust global sales & marketing efforts.
EV: How can you describe the customer service of your hotel? RS: Simple is the best. We’re determined to set a new precedent as far as the intangible Vietnamese hospitality that’s to be experienced is concerned. EV: Any outdoor activities that The Reverie Saigon offers for guests during their stay? RS: We do have a swimming pool, a children’s pool and a Jacuzzi on our open-air, 6th-floor terrace from which one can soak in views of the Saigon River and city skyline.
EV: Thank you Mr. Herbert Laubichler-Pichler for sharing with us the precious information and wish The Reverie Saigon all the success and prosperity! Contact Exotic Voyages to book the very first rooms of The Reverie Saigon. Follow our next issue for further information of this hotel.
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EV: Do you think The Reverie Saigon is just the beginning of a bigger trend in 2015? RS: That all depends on the trend, I suppose, but in terms of the level of luxury hospitality available in Vietnam (in setting & service) – undeniably so. Especially, The Reverie Saigon has its
own heliport which makes The Reverie Saigon the most royal ambience. It is the collective passion for the renowned reputation that provides the vision and innovative thinking of one of the World Leading Hotel in 2015.
t s e t t o h s ’ 5 1 0 2
s d n e r t travel
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that 2014 was Despite the fact entful year for somewhat an ev s a with 3 airline si A in g lin e av tr d is still predicte catastrophes, it ill continue to that tourism w are . More tourists 5 1 0 2 in m o ss blo otic in to discover ex about to flock go to stay longer, Asia, expecting ut B y. el differentl further and trav k Let’s take a loo how differently? d n e s hottest travel tr e th f o e m so at in 2015!
MOBILE BOOKING ON THE RISE From Expedia to Airbnb, people are using their mobile devices more frequently to book hotel rooms, flights and train tickets. World-renowned hotel chain Accor has stepped up by developing several mobile apps for its brands to allow user book their rooms
on the go. An increasing number of airlines have also put more emphasis on mobile booking by having their own dedicated booking app. Furthermore, we will see a breakthrough year for taxi booking apps as they don’t show any signs of slowing down.
BIKING INSTEAD OF GOLFING According to various sources, including The Economist, it is likely that a significant number of luxury male travelers from 30 to 65 will trade golfing for biking, including business
travelers. Biking will let them get closer to natural highlights at its best. Less competitive but more active and adventurous, that’s what a biking trip will give you in place of a round of golf.
PEER TO PEER DINING This does not mean we will eat less at restaurants, but, more of us will take chances to enjoy sharing meals with the locals, at the local houses after taking a cooking class. This way, we will learn
so much more about the authentic local cuisine whilst having more joy by interact with people. This trend has seen a rapid growth but has not gone mainstream yet.
USING TRAVEL FORUMS TO RESEARCH BEFORE GOING It is obvious that in the last couple of years, braggies, an image of your current holiday posted to social networks, has been a major trend in international travel. However, in 2015,
we will see hotels even encourage braggies by rewarding travelers with vouchers, discounts and deals. As a result, they can benefit by having their images promoted on the web.
GIVING BACK WHILE TRAVELING poor or enable job opportunity for handicapped people or orphans. These places can be restaurants or spas. Apart from that, you can also give donations to poor local communities such as in the floating villages of Halong Bay or the Tonle Sap in Cambodia. If you go to Yangon, consider taking our designated Yangon Charity Tour which will take you to various places where you can make your trip even more meaningful.
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When returning home and thinking back about your memorable trip, you may wonder if it could get any better? The answer is always yes, particularly if you did not give back to the local communities at the destinations you have just stepping through. Good thing is there’s a variety of way to do this. You can use services at places that are sourced by a non-profit organization that provides financial support for the
Free your mind… Free your eyes … Nurture your passion … Travel across the Inle Lake … And “get lost” in awe in Sanctum Inle Resort … Upon the trend of increasing visitors to Inle Lake, the luxury Sanctum Inle Resort managed by the Apple Tree Group – Hospitality Division, sets to open its door in the first quarter of 2015 and is going to contribute
96 elegant rooms and suites for the leisure accommodations. Sanctum Inle Resort is completely where the past and the present, the spiritual and the secular, the monastery and inspiration perfectly mergers.
THE MONASTIC EXPERIENCE It inspires relaxation through its off-the-beaten-path location and architectural garnishes that symbolizes for monastic traditions. It leaves a soft sense of a tranquil renewal. Based on the simplicity of wooden furnishings, the Sanctum Inle Resort has blended all of the latest comforts in two floors, in every suite and room to offer both modern and contemplative style. The
Cloister Bar serves Burma traditional carefully-served cuisines and a wide range of Myanmar-brewed beers. Or being in a special Cigar Bar that looses visitors by Cuban and Dominican cigars in a separated cigar lounge! Three menus, three experiences, three essential Burma references but neverending feeling of peaceful atmosphere!
Sanctum Inle Resort 12 | Travel in style
The Monastic And Inspiring Life
THE INSPIRING LIFE The Sanctum Inle Resort’s Spa engages your time by Thai massage and footmassage, spreading across two floors. 96 private rooms in 7 classes with the most comfortable furniture and mesmerizing views of Inle Lake is definitely beyond your expectation of a staying. Nature is never far away. From there, take back-time to watch unique
one-leg rowing fisherman across the tranquil water at dawn, look forward to floating water garden and stilt wooden houses rising above the water. Take all of them into your eyes. No doubtable that Sanctum Inle Resorts brings up your soul to discover the new destination in once-in-a-lifetime experience!
THE EXQUISITE COMBINATION No feeling of disconnection with the nature. No feeling of disconnection with the sanctuaries. It is exactly the out-of-this-world combination! The contemplative and contemplative life in your journey to the pristine land of
dream! Have a tight sleep at Sanctum Inle Resort after a long day discovering the charming Inle Lake and take your footprints to travel far away as travel is about the extraordinary feeling of the “unknown”!
Durations: 8 Days / 7 Nights Destinations: Yangon – Bagan – Mandalay – Inle Lake – Yangon Price guide: From $1,200 / £ 750 pp
Exotic Voyages say: “Its a tour through 4 popular destinations, give you a complete insight into Burmese life, perfect for first-timer in Myanmar”
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ESSENTIAL MYANMAR TOUR
14 | Travel in style
Angkor
from the
Have you ever asked yourself, how the magnificent Angkor Temples look from above? “Travel is a journey, not a destination.” The way we enjoy the world brings us completely different feelings. Why
don’t you think of something differently for peerless experience in your travel? A helicopter will offer you wings to watch the incredible temples and experience the best moment of your life time.
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WHAT TO SEE FROM THE SKY? A helicopter launches you into the atmosphere to observe the world below from a unique perspective of Angkor Wat. Hovering in the skies above Angkor Wat and the surrounding myriad of ancient temples provides a majestic view on the enormous size, scale and beauty of old Khmer Empire
and incredible creations. A ten or fifteen minute flight enables you to watch sunrise over Angkor Wat or sunset from the Bayon. Fly alongside the magnificent masterpiece of human beings and appreciate the spectacular expanse the grand moat encloses.
WHAT DOES THE FLIGHT COMMIT TO OFFER? The expatriate pilot, excellent service and great equipments won’t let you miss any bird-eye view of the Angkor Complex. Strict enforcement of operational procedures, safety standards and maintenance are
adhered to ensure we maintain our operational and airworthiness approval. Always keep your camera to record the most mesmerizing sights during your flight. There are few powder lines, fences and roads below.
WHAT IS THE UNIQUE? In a longer flight (about 30 minutes), you will glide overtop of many temples, long stretches of rice paddles, young and mountain ranges and Tonle Sape Lake. You greet the sun’s golden ways gradually lightening up the both ancient temples tranquil lake. Listening to the whirling of the rotors, feel the freedom in your mind and travel into the air. Is it worth trying? Traveling through the clouds with the glistening of skyline and above the crowds with breathtaking views on some of Asian’s most intriguing sites is truly a thrilling experience to discover Angkor by helicopter! It has never been more accessible than now. The amazing views of world’s most
spectacular landscapes and ancient Angkor Wat indulges you into gaining a new appreciation for the beauty of the World Heritage Sites in Cambodia. If “tuk tuk” broaden your eyes of “seeing through” the spectacular World Heritage Site, then a helicopter takes you the wings to rise into sky over the temples in the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the “exclusive”. Traveling is not to find a new place but see the old destinations through new perspective. That is what a helicopter over Angkor Wat advocates you! It connects deeply to nature, bonds eternally and celebrates joyfully!
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“Our valued partner, Helistar Cambodia Co., Ltd is the leading helicopter transport provider in Cambodia operating 7 days a week for all destinations of Cambodia, especially flights to discover the ancient Angkor Wat. HELICOPTER FLIGHTS Angkor Wat Circuit Tour Angkor Wat & Temple Tour Angkor Wat & Temples & Floating Village Tour Angkor Wat & Floating Village & Roluos Group Tour Angkor Wat & Kulen Ranges Tour See all sights above
DURATION 8 mins 14 mins 20 mins 30 mins 36 mins 48 mins
Note: Minimum of 3 people/ Maximum of 4 people Contact Exotic Voyages at inquires@exoticvoyages.com”
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Ur Alpine Retreat. U Sapa is located in the heart of Sapa town close to Center Square and Stone Church that is well suit for domestic and international leisure travellers to experience Sapa’s lifestyle and natural beauty. Enjoy a totally relaxed holiday experience to recharge and reconnect to the local environment and its nature, bringing back with you the most memorable moments of a lifetime. Uncomplicated. Inspiring. You.
U Sapa
8 Cau May Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai, Vietnam Tel: +8420 387 1996 Fax: +8420 387 1997 Email: reserve@usapavietnam.com
www.usapavietnam.com
Food Experiences “Taste� the world in your way Global experiences of local cuisine by gourmet travelers, sharing address for good food and authentic gastronomy
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Durian
the “King of Fruits” In Singapore, there’s one thing in common between durian and cigarettes: they are both banned in public places. Because of its infamously pungent smell, durian is not welcomed by everyone, even those who’s from Southeast Asia, the birthplace of this exotic fruit. However, for those who are about to visit Southeast Asia, especially for the first time, sampling this so-called “The King of Fruits” is something you shouldn’t miss. Well, unless you’re too afraid of an “adventure” that doesn’t require you to travel too far.
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ORIGIN Durian’s native land still remains an ongoing debate. While many people insist that it’s originated from Borneo Island, which is shared by Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei, the Filipinos also claimed that they are the first to discover the King of Fruits. Whatever the answer is, through passage of time, durians have traveled far from its homeland, to Thailand (one of
the world’s leading durian exporter), Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Singapore, Myanmar and even further than just Southeast Asia, to Sri Lanka, India or even the African island of Madagascar. As long as you have tropical climate and daily temperatures above 20 degrees, chances you can grow durians are pretty high.
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TO CONQUER THE KING IS NOT EASY Yes, it’s not as eating a banana when you just have to peel off the skin with ease. For first timers, eating a durian requires techniques, and a little bit of strength and bravery, unless you are accompanied by a local. First comes the selection of the right fruit. The secret to this is to hold a durian by both hands (with a cloth to avoid getting hurt by the spiky skin) and gently shake it besides your ear. A good durian produces a rather subtle knocks instead of an obvious knocking sound or nothing at all. After choosing a good one, up comes the real challenge, the opening of the fruit. Find the spot which resembles a star, where the segments are separated. Afterwards, find a knife, one which is sharp and long enough, and penetrate into the durian and cut through the lines that separate the segments, of course with strength. The alluring yellow flesh is ready to be eaten. Good durians should taste like something that falls between the creaminess of butter and the sweetness of nectar. With that being said, if you still confuse of how to enjoy durian perfectly, lucky for you there’s still another way to do it. And that is buying ready-to-eat pieces
of durian flesh which is abundant in the streets or markets of Bangkok, Saigon, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, etc. The “harmful” king In several countries, it is said that durian is an exclusive delicacy for the royals, hence its nickname. However, not any of us feel lucky that “The King of Fruits” is widely available now. As a matter of fact, the king doesn’t earn respect from everyone. Although some people are even addicted to durian, there’s also a significant amount of haters. But even the former has to accept that the excessive consumption of durian can be quite harmful. Thus, it is often advised by the locals that it should never be paired with coffee or alcoholic drinks. Eating durian is also believed to heat up the body and increase blood pressure just like when you drink wine. Or at the very least, it can make a nice guy turn into a public enemy because of the pungent breath from eating the flesh. Finally, collecting durian can also be risky. If not careful, one can has his head severely injured as the spiky and heavy fruit falls freely from the tree. Today, to deal with this, people going into orchards often wear a protective hat.
MORE THAN JUST FRUIT If you have already tried the fruit and loved it, it is very likely that you will also love the variations of durian. The most famous may be durian ice-cream. Its flavor is still unique but not as strong as the fruit itself. Durian ice-cream is perfect if you want to let other people in your traveling group experience this delicacy, knowing that some of them are not as daring as you are. Durian icecream is also an ideal summer treat to cool down amidst the intense summer heat in Southeast Asia. Besides, people in Southeast Asia have also invented durian crepe, durian pancake and even durian sauce to go with rice. In some tropical region in Southeast Asia, durian is even considered a precious asset of local culture as
there’re not many places that can grow it. And because growing durians is not purely easy, “The King of Fruits” is an expensive item on the market. However, if someone is addicted to it, they will chase down its irresistible smell and find it until they succeed. They will not just eat it, but savor its sweet and creamy flavor passionately Love it or not, durian can always create a good story when you talk about it to the locals while visiting Southeast Asia. While disputes about the “king” are everywhere, there’s one thing in certain: durian has become a communal and unique treasure shared by all lands this exotic tropical region.
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t n a r u a t s e Topaz R
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Phnom f o t r a e H e h t t uisine a C h c n e r F e t u a H
Originally established in 1997, Topaz Restaurant was only a modest Asian and French eating spot. After 9 years of catering business lunches and intimate dinners, the ambitious Cambodian masterchef Luu Meng thought it was the time to move forward and transcend the restaurant as the city of Phnom Penh striving. In 2006, the restaurant moved to a new location on Norodom Boulevard, right at the city center and surrounded by numerous famous city landmarks. Altogether, they gradually managed to transform Topaz from an ordinary stop to a wonderful fine dining restaurant, characterized by an array of touches of traditional Khmer design and concept. However, the core of Topaz, as of any other restaurants is the culinary experience itself. Led by Alain “Papa” Darc, a Michelin-starred executive chef as well as several other talented Cambodian chefs de partie, Topaz has gradually evolved by experimenting new ways of cooking, inventing new dishes, and continuously upgrading their menu.
Phnom Penh used to be one of the most ideal places to go for fine dining experiences in Southeast Asia. Through decades of ups and downs, that status can be partially damaged but the legacy and the charm of the former “Pearl of Asia” remains intact. Now, as the city evolves once again and slowly becomes one of the most promising destinations in the region, diners are having more and more choices for a sumptuous dinner. However, there is one place that stands out as the premium stop for haute French cuisine’s enthusiasts. It is Topaz Restaurant. The menu at Topaz is an exquisite manifestation of the perfect balance between creative minds and fresh produce and ingredients, many of which are imported from the finest sources over the world such as Australian beef, French oysters, Norwegian salmons or caviar from Gironde, Bordeaux. If you have the chance to dine at Topaz, it would be a flaw not trying the restaurant’s steak selection. Apart from the superior beef selection, you
Penh
by the dedicated and talented chefs with an exceptional level of attention to details. Dining here is therefore a true unparalleled gastronomic experience, an extra bonus to a magical journey to Cambodia. To sum up every great thing of Topaz, perhaps it is best to quote this line from Jean de La Bruyère, a 17th century French essayist and moralist: (it is also printed on an exclusive page of the restaurant’s menu) “The most exquisite pleasure is giving pleasure to others” Travel in style | 25
can choose from one of six sauces that would make a real difference to your steak. To cap off your wonderful dinner, entertain your appetite with the sweetness of arguably the best dessert menu in the whole country. At Topaz, a small plate of hazelnut mousse with raspberry or crème brulée is something that is cherished and prepared with intricacy by the pastry chefs as they absolutely adore the desserts. At Topaz, a meal is not just simply cooked and served. Every dish here is a work of arts, refinement of haute French cuisine and a subtle Cambodian twist, altogether being put on display
Asia insight “Listen” the sounds, “catch” the sights and “feel” the Asia. A close-up look into Asia’s local life, sharp insight of customs, religion, colture and sense of life rhythm and spirit.
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5 Interesting Facts about
Cherry Blossom Season
in Japan
28 | Travel in style
Not everyone likes pink, but everyone loves the cherry blossom season in Japan. The picture of a park dressed with the gentle light pink hue of blooming cherry blossoms and people camping under has become iconic all over the world. Despite being very
famous, there’re still quite a few things that we may not known about this wonderful time in Japan. Here’re 10 things you may not know about cherry blossom season in the “Land of the Rising Sun”:
1. THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS “CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL” IN JAPAN You heard that right. In Japan, cherry blossom viewing is considered as a tradition or custom rather than a festival. This tradition is called “hanami” by the Japanese. Hanami is literally translated as “flower viewing”, so it can be about either cherry blossoms or plum blossoms. Interestingly, it is a festival to people in Washington D.C. In the capital city of the United States of America, people celebrate “National Cherry Blossom Festival” annually with many activities including a colorful and long-standing parade.
2. HOW IT ALL STARTED REMAINS A MYSTERY Some say hanami started during the Nara period in the 8th century, when Japan is influenced by the culture of flower appreciation of the neighboring Chinese. However, most Japanese people claimed that hanami truly originated within the country. After the publication in 1008 of the epic Tale of Genji which included a famous sakura-hanami scene, the word hanami often used to refer to as parties taking place under cherry blossoms.
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3. CHERRY TREES OR SAKURA DOES NOT COME FROM JAPAN Even if hanami is indigenous to Japan, the sakura is not. These trees were initially imported from the far mountains of the Himalaya in the west. Since then, they have been artificially hybridized for hundreds of years. As a result, now we have over 300 different varieties of sakura. Also keep in mind that actual cherry that often being put on top of cakes is totally different from sakura. Therefore, don’t expect any fruit at the end of hanami. 4. THERE’S NOT A SINGLE DATE FOR WATCHING HANAMI The date for watching hanami does not fall on the same day every year. It depends a lot on where you will be watching it. Perhaps that’s the reason why it cannot be called a festival. Normally, blossoms open earlier in places that have milder climate. But even in the same destination, the best viewing date also varies from year to year. Forecast for this is available but the earlier it is, the more likely it will be
incorrect. In average, blossom opening over Japan falls from late March to early May. In the ancient city of Kyoto and the capital of Tokyo, average full bloom date is April 7th and April 5th respectively. 5. NOW IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT FLOWER WATCHING In recent times, people in Japan have begun to focus more on savoring seasonal foods rather than just simply staring at flowers. The two most common foods are dango (a sweet Japanese dumpling similar to mocha) and bento (a traditional pack meal containing rice, fish or meat, boiled or pickled vegetables). To accompany with them, people also often bring sake. Apart from foods and drinks, playing and listening to music is also becoming popular. But whatever the activities are, the main spiritual purpose of gathering together under the cherry blossoms is simply to meet and have fun with family and friends amidst a sensational setting.
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Nyepi
The “Absolute� Silent New Year in Bali
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We all know that not all regions in the world celebrate New Year the same day, and in the same way. The Europeans, the Americans, the Chinese, the Thai, they all have their own different traditions and customs of how to celebrate New Year. However, while the rest of the world celebrate New Year
with fireworks, music, champagne toasting, people in Bali, the most famous island in Indonesia, stay in utter silence during the first day of the year. Bali is undoubtedly one of the most special places in the world and the Balinese New Year, called Nyepi, must also be one of the most special festivals on earth.
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ORIGIN AND PURPOSE The Balinese Hindu use two traditional calendars. The first one is Pawukon, which includes 210 days per year. The second one is Saka, a lunar (moon-based) calendar that was brought to Indonesia from South India during a missionary tour to promote Hinduism in the 5th century. And to mark the first day of a new Saka Year, the Balinese celebrates Nyepi. It often falls on March. The main purpose of Nyepi is too pray to the God (Hyang Widhi Wasa) and to wish him to clean the universe and the “universe within men�. The ceremonies also have the meaning of tolerance and solidarity between people and respect of differences as well as similarities between people in order to seek for a balance of life. So from a long time ago, the Balinese has adopted a very respectable way of thinking that many parts of the world are lacking.
THE LEADING UP TO NYEPI Three days before the New Year, melasti, a water-cleaning ceremony is held with the aim of cleaning all nature. During this day, people will take all effigies of the Gods from temples to the river, with lengthy and vivid ceremonies. Afterwards, the effigies will be bathed by God Baruna, the Neptune of the Balinese Lord before being taken back home. Two days after melasti, or one day before Nyepi, an exorcism ceremony will take place at the main village road, which is the meeting point of demons. An Ogoh-ogoh (an evil monster made of bamboo) is prepared for the carnival that will be held everywhere in the island of Bali after sunset. In the evening, the islanders will make noises, light up torches and set fire to the Ogoh-ogoh) to get rid of evil spirits out of their lives. After this evil-clearance ritual, everything is ready for the Balinese New Year, the Nyepi. NYEPI - “DAY OF SILENCE” After a noisy evening, the whole beautiful island will turn into an entirely contrary ambience throughout Nyepi day, the first day of a Balinese year. Unlike New Year Day in every other country in the world, on Nyepi, it is absolute silence throughout the island. Everybody stays in their own house, including travelers. No work is allowed. Light is turned off. TV and radio is turned off. Within houses, family members even limit internal interaction. The only exceptions are someone who is life-threatening issue, pregnant women in labor and the Pecalangs, tradition-
al security men in Bali, who will patrol over the area to ensure that the custom is compiled by everybody. Throughout the day, the only sound one will hear may be dogs barking. Now, if you could picture yourself belongs to a member of these Balinese families, perhaps you will understand the true meaning of Nyepi. During 24 hours, as husband and wife, brother and sister, parent and children staying in the same house with limited conversations, one will have the chance to see things slowly, to be able to reflect to the past, to see what he/she has done wrong or right, then to love each other more, ready to forgive. Somehow, this can be the best part about this day of mere silence. NGEMBAK - THE DAY AFTER NYEPI After staying silent for the whole day, people will start going onto the streets and visit their families and friends. On this day, they will together do the Dharma Canthi, during which ancient scripts containing songs will be read. This is when the festive ambience begins to flourish and people come to each other with joy, love, but above all, with forgiveness and altogether look forward to a promising year ahead. To visit or not to visit, that’s the question raised when talking about going to Bali during Nyepi. While it can be very inconvenience to some of us as travelers, this may be a fantastic opportunity to not only experience one of the most unique festivals in the world but also to clear our minds with every other local Balinese.
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In 2015, Nyepi will falls on March 21st, exactly from 6am on March 21st to 6am on March 22nd.
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Kimono
Sophistication in Japanese costume
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People said if the most beautiful natural scenery in Japan is the cherry blossom on the top of the snow-capped Fuji Mountain, the most moving humanities landscape will be image of Japanese girls wearing kimonos. Referring to the Japanese outfit, everyone would think of the traditional Kimono. Kimono in Japanese means
“item – to - wear”, but by time and with its special design, Kimono is directly called as a name of “Kimono” by International Friends. Kimono is not just the traditional garb of the Japanese; it has become the symbol of the ancient cultures of the land of the rising sun and contributes honoring the loving beauty of Japanese women.
In the past, both men and women are used Kimono as daily wearing. Nowadays, only women wear kimono as official cloths, you rarely find the image of Japanese men wearing Kimono except weddings or other traditional occasions. There is a big difference in motifs between Kimono for men and women. Kimonos for women are always designed with motifs of flowers, leaves and other natural icons, reflecting love for nature of Japanese people. Kimonos designed for men usually do not have a pattern, dark colors, printed with the family crest; black color is the most luxurious.
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A way to wear kimono is quite complex and has its own very strict rules. Firstly and importantly, in Japan both genders wear their traditional cloth with the left front over the right. That is unless they are dead, because, in Japan, only a corpse wears the kimono fronts right over left. Besides, there are differences in kimono in term of age, social class, and even seasonal. When wearing kimono, wearer must wear Juban - a kimono lining to prevent from getting dirty - and then pinched by Obi belts (about 4.2m long, 30cm wide) made of expensive luxury silk. There are more than 100 types of Obi girdling; each type reflects the things
in nature. The most prevalent type is Bunko-musubi, characterized as drooping butterfly wings, or type of Ateyanojimusubi with big bow shape. People wear Kimonos must bring Tabi white socks and go with wooden clogs. Each kimono is nicely handmade for individual; so this can be considered as a sophisticated art in each process of selecting fabrics, color combinations, decorative motifs, and choosing accessories to go along. Based on the unique characteristics of Japanese culture reflected the social rituals and marital statuses of the wearer, Kimono were divided into several categories in which typical ones such as Furisode, Yukata, Houmongi, Tomesode, Tsumugi, Tsukesage, Shiromaku. Each type has its own meaning and characteristics. Furisode is for the maid with wide sleeves, often used in the major holidays. Yukata is kind of normal wear in the summer. Houmongi costumes are used for married women, or used for some occasions such as going to a wedding or a tea party. Tomesodala is a kind of formal dresses embroidered with family badges in black color, used for married women wearing for formal events such as family weddings. Tsumugi is used for peasants and civilians. Tsukesage decorated in the form of pattern along the body and then meet back at the shoulder of the coat), this shirt is worn in the tea parties, flower arrangements and weddings. The most beautiful kimono that Japanese girls have worn in their life is Shiromaku - the wedding dress with long round tail skirt. If normal kimono normally takes only a week to complete, the bridal kimono with sophisticated embroidery pattern at the front will take about a month to complete. As same as “ao dai� in Vietnam, nowadays Kimonos are innovated, simplified details and its motif on clothes are designed to suit modern fashion trends, and easier to wear. However in particularly it remains its unique design.
J
ust like sporting stylish outfits and footwear has become a part of our lifestyle, wearing sunglasses and eyeglasses has also become a necessity. Eyewear is no longer used for the purpose of correcting the vision or for protecting the eyes only. They have become a part of our style. In those hot blazing summer days, especially during your holiday to the beach, sunglasses are always indispensable companion for each girl that contributes to our travel fashion style staying ‘COOL’. Have you found for yourself the trendy
sunglasses that fit you for the most this summer 2015? Compiled from both newly emerging eyewear trends and those have already been brought into various famous fashion shows, Exotic Voyages have given out a list of five top list of sunglasses trends forecasted to be leading in the eyewear fashion trends this spring / summer 2015. It’s promised to bring you freshest, brightest and sexiest look in your summer vacation.
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s e s s a l g n d n Su e r t
MIRRORED AVIATOR SUNGLASSES When it comes to styles adorned with modern sporty allure, nothing can ever compete with the traditional aviator sunglasses. It’s no surprise that each season eyewear trends bring this already timeless and classic style, each time spicing it up with innovative vibes. This season, it will be a perfect combination between aviator sunglasses and ultra-contrast lenses of mirrored sunglasses: Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses that makes the traditional aviator sunglasses look no different a colored glass mirror. This kind of sunglasses will be the best choice for those with young sporty style, matched to wear with shorts and T-shirts. With this style, you confidently keep your appearance attractive in front of others and still comfortably walking through every corner of places you travel to even they are very bumpy rough roads. COLORFUL SUNGLASSES
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When selecting a pair of chic eyeglasses or sunglasses, the first and most prominent thing which catches the eye of all the youngsters are the vibrant and sparkling colored frames. Colorful sunglasses are undoubtedly the ‘in’ thing for this season. A little bit quirky and flashy, a pair of colored sunglasses can transform the wearer’s appearance from a traditionalist to a trendy rock-star! How amazing! Colorful Sunglasses have been designed in the most vivid shades. From rosy red, cheeky pink, illustrious orange, subtle maroon, beautiful green and glowing blue to classic black, vintage grey, suave brown! And not just the frames, the lenses are also died in colorful hues of green, blue, red, orange, yellow and many more. So, you can choose from as many colors as you want to pair them with your favorite outfit. Colorful sunglasses are promised to make them the perfect fashion accessory for the fashion forward youth.
TRANSPARENT RIMMED One of the latest eyewear trends this summer is Transparent Rimmed Sunglasses. This trend can be seen as following trend of booming transparent trend such as transparent dresses, handbags and jewelry.... One advantage of this sunglasses is that you can combine them with any outfit, any style. With this kind of sunglasses, you find it easy to pick up cloths and save place for your travel package. It’s really good choice for travel lover, isn’t it? ‘CLUBMASTER’ SUNGLASSES A name of “Clubmaster” is derived in 1986 when the glasses brand Ray Ban launched the glasses line that are inspired from the popular type of glasses ‘eyebrows’ (Browline glasses) in the 50s, 60s. The reason why it is called the glasses ‘eyebrows’ is that its upper frame is bold designs, according to the style of the eyebrows. In later years, Ray Ban has stylized ‘eyebrows’ into many different styles to suit every face and fashion trends. You can use this type of glass with a liberal shirt, while wearing boyfriend jeans and ankle boots.
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CAT-EYE SUNGLASSES Cat-Eye Sunglasses are dubbed as the most fabulous sexy accessories capable of granting women’ looks with a high dose of mystery and glamour. This retro style glasses has become first choice for many fashionista in the recent times due to they bring wearers classical elegant but not less astute beauty. Of course, this 50s style will be appropriated with vintage or retro outfits.
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EXOTIC VOYAGES
Suite 226, C/O ATS Hotel 33B Pham Ngu Lao, Hoan Kiem, Ha noi, VIETNAM Tel: (84-4) 39 33 6 260 * Fax: (84-4) 39 33 62 61 Email: inquiries@exoticvoyages.com