Lifestyle Living by Arjun Gill

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ONEGIN.ONLINE Lifestyle Living is a niche, high-end magazine, exclusively dedicated to creative, even edgy lifestyle. It showcases the best that life has to offer, through the perspective of cutting-edge design. It aims to provide a style statement through an inspired rendering of the unusual–be it original designer jewellery, electronic gizmos, futuristic automobile blueprints, a hi-tech airport, an automated, temperaturecontrolled swimming pool, a celebrity’s personal space, an airline’s service design and ingenious interiors–whether it is a spa, home, hotel or office. The magazine includes the realm of hi-fashion and cosmetics, inventive art & craft and world-class paintings. PUBLISHER/EDITOR KEWAL GILL EXECUTIVE EDITOR KAMAL GILL VICE PRESIDENT VIVEK MITTAL MANAGING EDITOR ARJUN GILL DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR SIMRAN MISHRA EDITORIAL SENIOR EDITOR PRABIR BISWAS ASSOCIATE EDITOR INDIRA LAUL ASSISTANT EDITORS CHETAN BHATTARAI, ROUBLE RAGHUVANSHI CONTRIBUTING EDITOR PRAMILLA BHARAT SINGH ART GROUP ART DIRECTOR AMITABHA SEN CREATIVE DIRECTOR ANKUR JAIN ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR MANDEEP SINGH MARKETING & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT DELHI OFFICE GENERAL MANAGER AMIT KHURANA ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER VAGISH MISHRA FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION GENERAL MANAGER AJITH KUMAR LR FINANCIAL CONTROLLER VIJAY GOSAIN ACCOUNTS & ADMINISTRATION INDU MATHUR FOR ADVERTISEMENT ENQUIRIES CONTACT: NEW DELHI Tel: 91-11-29841710 -13 Fax: 91-11-29841714 email: gillindiadel@gmail.com Editorial e-mail: lifestyle.editor@gmail.com Gill India Communications Private Limited O-46, 2nd Floor, Lajpat Nagar II, New Delhi-10 024 MUMBAI Tel: 91-22-29252652, Fax: 91-22-29254492 email: gillindiamum@gmail.com 111, 1st Flr., Atlanta Arcade, Marol-Church Road,Opp. Andheri-Kurla Road, Andheri (E), Mumbai-400059

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News events 6 Personality the winning trump 12

Architecture pompidou up close 18 Automobile the ghost rider 22

Cover Photo: Mercedes-Benz CLS 350 Source: www.daimler.com Lifestyle Living is published/printed by Kewal Gill on behalf of Gill India Communications Private Limited and published from: O-46, Second Floor, Lajpat Nagar - 2, New Delhi - 110024, India Printing & Processing: Gokul Offset Pvt Ltd, D - 159/A, Phase 1, Okhla Industrial Area, New Delhi. All rights reserved All information in LIFESTYLE LIVING is derived from sources, which we consider reliable. Information is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. The contents of this publication contain views of authors and are not the views of Gill India Communications Pvt Ltd (GIC). Similarly, opinions/views expressed by any party in abstract and/or in interviews are not necessarily shared/ do not necessarily reflect any opinion of GIC. All rights reserved throughout the world. Reproduction in any manner is strictly prohibited. Material appearing in the publication cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without prior permission. The same rule applies when there is a copyright or the article is taken from another publication. Publications reproducing material either in part or in whole, without permission could face legal action. Editorial enquiries and enquiries concerning the reproduction of articles, advertising and circulation should be emailed at gillindiacorp@gmail.com. The publisher assumes no responsibility for returning unsolicited material nor is responsible for material lost or damaged in transit. The publisher reserves the rights to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with all advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the Indian Advertisements Code as well as the Advertisements Code of South Asia. The publisher will not be liable for any damaged or loss cause by the late publication, error or failure or advertisement to appear.

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Getaway Mansion world’s ‘splashtastic’ experiences 28 the jumbo way to live 42 Destination Cuisine thailand-where the gods smile 36 say cheese 44 Wellness Fashion fishy pedicurists 38 Couture 2010 48 Beauty glossy lip service 54 Boutique shoppers’ arcadia 56 Perfumes pour l’ homme 58

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

galleri(e) Body art gettin’ inked stylishly 62 Stylist shear artistry 66

(n)tertainment Sports the return of schumi 74 Chatterati celeb buzz 76 Forecast tarot 78

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this

(&) that news 6 the winning trump 12 Donald Trump is the true embodiment of the American dreamâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;he works hard, makes great deals and has fun doing it

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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NEWS EVENTS

PARIS HILTON TO TIE THE KNOT SOON? Socialite heiress Paris Hilton is planning to settle down by the end of 2010. Hilton is ready to tie the knot with boyfriend Doug Reinhardt and reveals there could be a big ceremony in the near future. "I wouldn't rule out a wedding in 2010. With how amazing everything is going between us, I see a very bright and happy future," said Hilton. While Doug, 25, hasn’t yet presented her Paris with an engagement ring, he did splash out on diamonds at Christmas. On Twitter, Hilton was expansive-“So happy! He really spoiled me this year and gave me so many incredible presents! All the jewellery he bought me from 14 Karats Jewellery Store is so stunning! It's true diamonds are a girl's best friend. I am speechless.” Later, Hilton spoke about Doug and how he was her best friend. “He makes me feel like a princess every day. He's taught me how real love can feel. Doug's taught me how to grow up and become more domestic, as in not going out as much as I used to," she added.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

L i f es t y l eL i v i ngi sa ni c he , hi ghend ma ga z i ne , ex c l us i v el y dedi c a t edt oc r ea t i v e , ev enedgyl i f es t y l e . I t s howc a s est hebes t t ha tl i f eha st ooďŹ&#x20AC;er , t hr ought he per s pec t i v eofc ut t i ng edgedes i gn.

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NEWS EVENTS

LEATHER CLASSICS FROM PORSCHE After its hugely popular first men’s collection, Porsche does it again. The company is launching its second fashion collection for the spring/summer 2010 season. Porsche Design is once again showcasing a classic, timeless line, featuring a high level of functionality. The most exclusive piece in the collection is a leather jacket produced in a limited edition run of just100. The new products will be available worldwide in Porsche Design stores and franchise stores. The men's collection is completed with a series of fashion classics to complement the range of leather jackets. Whether it is the sporty cardigan in exclusive merino wool or the elegant blazer in the finest cotton–only top- quality materials were used in the new fashion collection. The T-shirt No.1, available in black or white, is a real eye-catcher. Thanks to a complex printing process, it features an absolute classic image: the Porsche Design exclusive sunglasses from 1978.

GEORGES CHAKRA AT PARIS FASHION WEEK Participating in Paris Fashion Week, the Spring/Summer 2010 Couture show of Lebanese designer, Georges Chakra, was held on January 25, 2010, in Paris, at L'École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux Arts. Drawing inspiration from nature's beauty, Chakra's collection treads the fine line between reality and fantasy, while staying true to the femininity of women. A collection of forty three dresses was presented, characterised by varying geometric lines, contemporary designs, contrasting hues combined with delicate necklines and asymmetrical cuts. All shades reflected summer tonalities: flamboyant pink-orange of sunset, flashes of metallic blue, sparkling gold and silver and the eternal beauty of black and white, creating unparalleled elegance and sophistication. Textures came in an endless variety, ranging from luscious layers of chiffon, tulle, organza, lace, to satin and silk, embroidered with sequins, feathers, rhinestones and pearls. Egyptian actress Youssra came, wearing a Chakras dress, and a large audience of international press and VIPs gave the designer a well-deserved standing ovation at the end of his show.

RIHANNA WEARS DE GRISOGONO Singer Rihanna walked the red carpet at the NRJ Music Awards 2010, wearing de Grisogono Gocce earrings, set with grey and white diamonds and Boules rings, set with black and white diamonds. To accept her award for Best International Female Artist of the Year, Rihanna wore de Grisogono black and white diamond Boules earrings and Boules rings.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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NEWS EVENTS

SPECIAL PACKAGES FROM TUSITA RESORT & SPA, THAILAND Located on the beautiful, unspoiled beach of Had Arunothai in Thailand, Tusita Resort & Spa Chumphon offers a variety of packages for the forthcoming summer season. For those who favour outdoor activities, snorkelling packages are available to see the coral reef at Tao and Nang Yuan Island, or just plain snorkelling at Rang Bang Thad and Maprao Island, which is the snorkelling point situated nearest the resort, with numerous baby coral reefs. But, if you prefer mountains and canals, you can choose rafting at Pa-toh canal and enjoy the lush scenery there. For fitness freaks, there is a well-appointed spa. For all package offerings, prices start at 8,400 THB only. This special offer is valid until April 30, 2010. For more information or room reservation, please contact 0 7757 9151, 07757 9073-4, 02-610 3801, or e-mail at reservation@tusitaresort.com or see further details on the package at www.tusitaresort.com. ‘Tusita’ translates from Thai into ‘fourth heaven’. Adhering to this concept, the resort designed the accommodation with an uplifted floor, with a wooden pathway connected to each room. The design is a combination between Thai, Indian and English styles. The resort offers 17 rooms and 5 modern Mediterranean-style beaches. High-end luxury is available at the resort’s supreme accommodation called Tusita @ the beach, and its location is at a 500-metre distance. MORE ACTION FOR 2010 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX The 2010 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be kicking off the 60th anniversary season of the FIA Formula One World Championship, with a brand new track layout as it extends its existing 5.412-kilometre circuit to a thrilling 6.299 kilometres. After six years as host to the biggest sporting business and social event in the Middle East, the Bahrain International Circuit’s new track extension now offers a challenging loop of corners and height changes reaching out into the Sakhir desert, to bring fresh challenges and exciting overtaking opportunities in readiness for the 2010 event. Says Zayed R Alzayani, Chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit-“The loop was completed in 2006 as part of the built-in evolution of the venue for competitors and fans.We gave it its debut with the inaugural 24 Hour Race of Bahrain that same year where it proved extremely successful, and with the changes to the regulations, the teams and the driver line-ups in Formula One this year it is the perfect time to evolve the circuit with this new

HUNTER AND CHOO UNITE Footwear just got a whole lot more stylish. Jimmy Choo has collaborated with iconic British brand Hunter to create what have to be the most luxurious Wellington boots around. Combining the traditional aesthetic of Hunter with the sleekness of Jimmy Choo, the result is a natural rubber boot embossed with the luxury label's signature crocodile print and branded top bind, a gold buckle and rivet detailing, plus a leopard print lining. Explains Jimmy Choo president Tamara Mellon–“I was inspired by images from the festivals of the hip Brit girls in their wellies. This led to our collaboration with Hunter to produce a sleek interpretation of the British classic”. Both brands are well-reputed and work well together. The boots will be sold exclusively online at www.jimmychoo.com from June, costing £250. To make sure you don't miss out, get your name on the waiting list, which will be available on the Jimmy Choo website from May1.

challenge and new overtaking opportunities.” This new extension at BIC will offer more circuit space and more dramatic action for the fans at the trackside plus a TV audience, mammoth when it hosts the opening round of the Formula One season for the first time since 2006. The 2010 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix marks the first race in Formula One’s 60th season and will see Michael Schumacher and MercedesBenz confront an all-star lineup including the British McLaren ‘superteam’of reigning World Champion Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s new partnership of double world champion, Fernando Alonso, with twotime Bahrain Grand Prix winner, Felipe Massa. More information

on all Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix ticket prices is available on Bahrain International Circuit’s official website, www.bahraingp.com. Tickets can also be purchased online, through the circuit hotline on +973-17-450000, via the Welcome Center at Bahrain International Circuit and at the BIC ticket stands at Seef Mall and Bahrain City Center.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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PERSONALITY DONALD TRUMP

the winning trump Donald Trump is the true embodiment of the American dream– he works hard, makes great deals and has fun doing it INDIRA LAUL IN HIS LIFE, Donald Trump has proved beyond doubt that he is an ardent follower of philosopher Emerson’s fiercely individualistic philosophy of life, which is–‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’ If anything, Trump has blazed his own trail with a single-minded purpose and a dedication that some might think borders on the extreme. Trump says that for him, life has always been a series of discoveries–“It starts with discoveries and hopefully should continue that way. Remember how exciting it was to learn to ride a bike? Ever watched a child

was obsessed with baseball and little else. His parents therefore sent him to the New York Military Academy in an effort to straighten him out. A successful real estate developer, his father constantly drilled one message into his son’s head–’work hard’. And the message seems to have gone home, because Trump relinquished all dreams of becoming a sports athlete in favour of achieving success in the realty business. He made it to one of the best business colleges in the US–University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business, followed by his own apprenticeship with his father, before packing up and taking on Manhattan.

his ingenuity in business that enabled him to pull off one of the most remarkable business turnarounds in history. After accumulating a multi-billion dollar fortune, he saw most of it wiped away under massive loan payments, carrying billions in losses, only to regain it after some very clever business moves. Says Trump, “Over the years, I’ve watched people who are successful and I’ve watched people who have failed. And, the one thing that I see more than any other trait in successful people is that they never give up. They never stop.” A great part of Trump’s success, by his own admission, lies in his ability to deal with

“You always have to believe that your family is your best personal accomplishment. Even though I’m the biggest developer in New York by far, I’m a nicer person than you might think” taking their first steps? It’s a momentous occasion. If we can capture that kind of excitement every day, I think we’re on our way to wisdom.” It’s what successful icons tell us time and again, that the measure of success is within every individual’s grasp and you have to go out and get it. Along with this focussed vision must come a sense of balance and the strength of positive thinking that will not be swayed by anything negative. Identify your own talent, then work at it passionately. It’s what Trump did, with astounding results. Trump’s early years were in Queen’s, New York. He was the fourth of five children and

Clearly, Trump had an intrinsic flair for business and he knew that whatever he did with his life, it would be big. “Always do something that you like, always do something that you enjoy doing, or you will never be successful. You will never be good at it,” says Trump. It’s the do-whatever-it-takes attitude that has made him into one of the most powerful men in the world today. He moved to New York city, where he put his business acumen to play. Trump excelled in the art of negotiation, targetting large building projects in Manhattan that offered the highest opportunities for profits. But it’s a tribute to Trump’s resilience and

people. “It’s always a great asset to be able to get along with people. Over the years, despite some very tricky deals, I’ve generally been able to get along with people,” claims Trump. Just how successful a businessman Trump is, is evident from his enormous list of accomplishments. In his kitty are numerous buildings, casinos, private clubs, golf courses and properties including the Taj Mahal, Trump Tower, Trump Plaza, the Plaza Hotel, Mar-aLago, a personal 727 jetliner, and a yacht allegedly worth $100 million, for starters. Trump is well and truly tuned in to the art of real estate speculation, judging by how he has repeatedly turned bad real estate properties

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

PERSONALITY DONALD TRUMP

into gold mines. He also owns the Miss Universe, Miss Teen USA and Miss USA beauty pageants, a modelling agency, and 50 per cent of the land under the Empire State Building, not to mention the four to five books he’s authored that have made it to the best-seller list. Forthright to the point of being brusque sometimes, this real estate mogul has a softer and generous side to him as well. Once, when Trump’s limo broke down on a busy highway, an unemployed car mechanic stopped to help him. What most people don’t know is that Trump sent the mechanic’s wife a bouquet of flowers and then paid off the man’s mortgage. And there’s no doubt that he’s a family man. “You always have to believe that your family is your best personal accomplishment. Even though I’m the biggest developer in New York by far, I’m a nicer person than you might think. Though, on occasion, I am too trusting of people,” he admits. So, what, you might ask, is a typical day

“Always do something that you like, always do something that you enjoy doing, or you will never be successful. You will never be good at it” in the life of this business icon like? Trump says he takes three hours out everyday to think and read. He’s in his Trump Tower office at 8.30 am, after which there are non-stop meetings and phone calls. He has his first Diet Coke at 10.30, which he prefers to mineral water. With hundreds of phone calls coming in from around the world every day, he says that prioritising is crucial and keeping momentum is of paramount importance. A long lunch lasts 15 minutes if he's out, but that’s rare. He often lunches on ham and cheese or corned-beef sandwiches from the nearby Carnegie Deli, during a meeting in the boardroom. Mostly, it's a lunch break of pizza, a sandwich or nothing, while he reviews news clippings. By 6 pm, the phones have finally stopped

ringing. He opens a box next to his desk. It's a repository for articles, letters and memorabilia, including a favourite quotation: “Hope is not a strategy.” There are other items of memorabilia–John F. Kennedy Jr, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, Clint Eastwood and some clippings of himself, along with postcards from daughter Ivanka, and a treasured postcard from his parents. Trump says his parents taught him frugality, the importance of education and a duty to repay family and society for one's good fortune. From 6 pm to 7.30 pm, he makes phone calls from his condo in the office. At 8 pm, he and Melania (his third wife) meet Joy and Regis Philbin–close friends and frequent dinner companions.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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the centre pompidou up close 18 Contemporary Paris beckons, with its avant garde museum and culture hub, the architecturally-innovative Centre Pompidou the ghost rider 22 Like a ghost, this one, too, moves quietly, but it is bodied, attractive and visibleâ&#x20AC;Ś get ready to be possessed by the Rolls-Royce Ghost

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ARCHITECTURE CENTRE POMPIDOU

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

the centre pompidou up close Contemporary Paris beckons, with its avant garde museum and culture hub, the architecturally-innovative Centre Pompidou

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

ARCHITECTURE CENTRE POMPIDOU

LL BUREAU IN THE HEART of Paris, close to the Notre Dame Cathedral and other old capital buildings, there’s an imposing structure that boggles the mind by the sheer audacity of its design. The high-tech, industrial façade of the Centre Pompidou, which has its lifts, escalators and pipes on the outside, is a great counterpoint to the old-school grandeur of the Louvre museum, also nearby, which exemplifies traditional French architecture. But three decades down the line, the Centre Pompidou has accomplished what it set out to achieve–that of being both art gallery and cultural hub. Its modern and contemporary art collection, with over 50,000 works and multiple temporary exhibitions, is one of Europe's most significant, and its public library and performance spaces throng with life–more than six million visit the Pompidou each year. The brainchild of former French President, Georges Pompidou, the Centre Pompidou was envisioned as a cultural institution that would focus on modern and contemporary art, that would include the performing arts such as theatre, cinema and music, as well as literature. Located

in the Beaubourg district of Paris ( and therefore also known as ‘Beaubourg’), it was conceived by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers and first opened its doors to the public in 1977. The original construction began in 1971, but it was closed for renovation and reopened on January 1, 2000, looking even grander than before, with expanded museum space, enhanced reception areas, shops and restaurants. The Pompidou Centre is well-reputed in the world of modern and contemporary art. You can view paintings from masters like Picasso, Miro or Warhol; it features the most exclusive collection of modern and contemporary art in Europe, houses a vast

public reference library with facilities for over 2,000 readers, general documentation on twentieth century art, a cinema and performance halls, a music research institute, educational activity areas, bookshops, a restaurant and a café. The Centre also holds about thirty public exhibitions as well as international events such as cinema and documentary screenings, conferences and symposiums, concerts, dance and educational activities, many of which go on to other venues in both France and abroad. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers used groundbreaking and innovative designs to epitomise contemporary architecture. They

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

did this by turning the museum inside out, pushing out passageways and superimposing more than one million square feet on eight huge floors. The original structure had colourcoded ducts attached on the outside, with blue for air-conditioning, green for plumbing, yellow for electricity cables and red for elevators and fire extinguishers, the idea being, to maximise internal space. The Centre was designed in two parts–a three-level infrastructure housing the technical facilities and service areas and a vast, seven-level glass and steel superstructure, including a terrace and mezzanine floor. The designers’ aim was to increase spatial movement and flow in order to foster an interdisciplinary approach. The metal framework of the building has 14 porticos with 13 bays, each spanning 48 metres and standing 12.8 metres apart. On top of the posts, on each level, are moulded steel beam hangers, measuring 8 metres in length and weighing 10 tonnes; 45-metre long girders rest on the beam hangars, which spread stress through the posts and are balanced by tie-beams anchored on crossbars. Each storey is 7 metres high, floor-tofloor. The glass and steel superstructure

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envelops the free open spaces. The entire structure uses glass and steel in the most innovative and intelligent manner. There’s a Children’s Gallery as well, with special exhibitions and workshops. Students will find a wealth of information in the library and workshops located in the Centre. You could make a day of visiting the Centre Pompidou–it’s certainly worth it. You can visit the book store on level zero and the design boutique on the mezzanine, without paying for tickets to the Centre. The design boutique is a great place to shop for funky souvenirs and gifts. There are casual cafes which serve food, but the place to eat and enjoy panoramic views of Paris is the level 6 Georges Restaurant. It’s a favourite spot among the jet set, because it boasts an unbeatable vantage of the whole city, features a trendy fusion-cuisine menu and is architecturally quite unique. Dine on Sole Meunière or Duck with Caramel and Coconut, as you take in the view. This restaurant in the heart of Paris has the most beautiful roof terrace you can find. The view is breathtaking and it is obviously one of the best ways to discover Paris and its wonders–Notre Dame, Montmartre–the

panorama is unique and if it’s your first time in Paris, this restaurant and its terrace is an absolute must-visit. Once you leave the Centre, your visit still remains to be completed. As you step out into the forecourt, which is a free ‘entertainment centre’, you will find sculptures and street art; sometimes, there are mimes, fire-eaters, circus performers and musicians. You will enjoy the colourful pop-art scene at the Stravinsky Fountain–the bright lips, heart and elephant figures. This is a wonderful place to people-watch or chill out at a cafe overlooking the fountain. Buying tickets at Centre Pompidou could be an intimidating experience, as there are various ticket options depending on what you want to see and when you want to visit. While there are variations, for a basic ticket to the museum and exhibitions, expect to pay •12 during the busy tourist season and •10 in the off-season. On the first Sunday of each month, entry is also free (but expect large crowds). You can buy tickets online for Centre Pompidou. You can also purchase a Paris Pass, which includes line skipping, free entry to Centre Pompidou and 59 other attractions (like Le Louvre), and free Metro rides.

AUTOMOBILE ROLLS ROYCE GHOST

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

the ghost rider Like a ghost, this one, too, moves quietly, but it is bodied, attractive and visibleâ&#x20AC;Ś get ready to be possessed by the Rolls-Royce Ghost

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

AUTOMOBILE ROLLS ROYCE GHOST

"Strive for perfection in everything you do. Take the best that exists and make it better. When it does not exist, design it" –Sir Henry Royce

ROUBLE RAGHUVANSHI LUXURY MANIFESTS itself in every facet of one’s life–from living, eating, dressing to how one moves about. The age of long cavalcades might have become passé, but not the idea of moving in magnificence. In fact, what’s been added to the essence of mobile luxury is moving with soundless speed, and its voluble singularity. And all of this is captured with great detail by the superluxury saloon Rolls-Royce Ghost. Be it the impeccably mirror-finish exterior paintwork, the plush and sophisticated interior or the advanced technology, every bit of Ghost is classy and luxury exemplified through simplicity. The

saloon is indeed the quintessence of RollsRoyce in its simplest, purest form–the 2:1 ratio of the height of the wheels to that of the body; the long wheelbase and bonnet; the short anterior overhang and long rear overhang–every inch of it delivers on the classic Rolls-Royce. And as pointed out by Exterior Designer Andreas Thurner, “It looks natural, not styled.” Ghost is available in twelve colours, each so aesthetically chosen and done that the result highlights the simplicity and dynamism of the car. "We don't just paint our cars–we create an incredibly deep, flawless shine. So, when you look closely at a

Rolls-Royce's paintwork, you'll see a perfect reflection of yourself staring back at you,” says Lisa Tandy, Paint Associate. To add to the glory of your wagon, you can also choose from additional colour features, including the Silver Satin bonnet and windscreen surround. The Ghost’s interior is polished and indulgence personified. There is smooth grace in both, entering and exiting Ghost, given the low sill height that ensures you step onto the Ghost. Housed within the front doors are integrated Teflon-coated umbrellas, while the unique rear-hinged coach doors open to 83 degrees, adding an

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

augmented sense of theatre for the rear passengers. A simple, yet fashionable interior supplies depth to Ghostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sophistication. Soft, full-grain leather, natural wood veneers, Blenheim wool carpets and the cashmereblend roof lining, all supplement the sumptuousness and spaciousness of the grand wagon. This openness can be further augmented by the Panorama sunroof (optional). There is smooth flow in design detailing. The leatherwork is crafted so meticulously that the colour of the hide is uniform in every inch. This fluidity also extends to the veneers,

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

with each set coming from a single tree, so that from the facia to the rear compartment, there is no difference in texture and colour. When it comes to colours, you can pick from a vast array of mono and contrast leather colour combinations that give the inner space a seamless expanse, and even extend your choice of leather into the headlining, if you wish. For the veneers, you can choose from classic woods like Walnut or Elm or opt for straight-grained veneers such as Malabar or Dark Wenge. Ghost is built around a steel monocoque chassis and suspension system. Powered by a new twin turbo 6.6-litre V12 engine and 8speed ZF gearbox, it accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 4.9 seconds, silently. Peak power output of 563bhp at 5250 rpm is combined with a maximum torque of 780 Nm at only 1500 rpm. There is four-zone automatic air conditioning, automatic air recirculation, condensation prevention and solar compensation. Lounge or individual seating (with optional massage function) delivers significant comfort and luxury. There are picnic tables matched to your Ghostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chosen interior, and two 9.2in LCD screens at the back of the front seats, for your entertainment. And when speaking of the audio system, power is what you should expect, and power is what you get in Ghost. It delivers 600 Watts of sound through a 10-channel amplifier and 16 speakers, including two floor-mounted subwoofers. There are USB and auxiliary

SPECIFICATIONS Vehicle length: 5399 mm Vehicle width: 1948 mm Vehicle height: 1550 mm Boot volume: 490 ltr Fuel tank capacity: 82.5 ltr Gross vehicle weight: 2940 kg Engine/cylinders/valves: V/12/48 Fuel management: Direct injection Displacement: 6592 cc Power output: 563 bhp @ 5250 rpm Max torque: 780 Nm @ 1500 rpm Top speed: 250 km/h Radiator incl. heater: 17.2 ltr Engine oil: 10.5 ltr Number of doors: 4 Seats: 5 Turning circle: 13.4 m/44.0ft Transmission type: ZF 8HP90 Wheel size, front and rear: 8.5" x 19

inputs, in addition to a 12.5 GB hard drive that enables storage of music files from USB or CD player sources. There is an extensive range of optional aids, which add to making Ghost a leading driver-focussed car. To mention a few are rear, front-side and top-view cameras, Night Vision camera, Head-up Display, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assistance, Adaptive, directional headlights and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go Active Brake Intervention. Electronic aids including AntiRoll Stabilisation, Dynamic Brake Control and Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control and Cornering Brake Control keep Ghost poised on all terrains. Luxury finds a benefactor in the powered simplicity of Ghost. Driving or being driven in Ghost is like moving in your own personal haven in the signature Rolls-Royce manner - naturally.

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(s)cape world’s ‘splashtastic’ experiences 28 Wade in waters so blue that it takes your breath away, try out different strokes in warm health spas–luxury pools are here to stay thailand-where the gods smile 36 It’s a country with the most natural assets-glorious beaches, majestic mountains, lush greenery; but what captivates the visitor is Thailand’s hospitality fishy pedicurists 38 Fish foot therapy is the most natural kind of pedicure, but it is not for the squeamish

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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ARCHITECTURE GETAWAY SWIMMING POOLS

world’s ‘splashtastic’ experiences Wade in waters so blue that it takes your breath away, try out different strokes in warm health spas–luxury pools are here to stay San Alfonso Del Mar, Chile

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

San Alfonso Del Mar, Chile

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ARCHITECTURE SWIMMING POOLS

INDIRA LAUL TIME WAS WHEN people were attracted to a hotel because it had a pool. Then, when tourists became more evolved, the pool became a necessary requisite, while indoor pools set the standard for luxury. Today, swimming pools in hotels and resorts are combining cuttingedge designs with architectural elements, and have taken creativity to another level. Infinity pools, which set the new standard in design, seem to stretch on endlessly, with contractors often placing them strategically, so that they appear to merge with the ocean. But something new is always around the corner and resort owners are

often found touting their swimming pools as the biggest and the best. Get ready to make a splash in some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most amazing swimming pools. SAN ALFONSO DEL MAR, CHILE You have to see it to believe it. With an incredible size of eight hectares, transparent to a depth of 35 metres and holding 250,000 cubic metres of water, the San Alfonso Del Mar in Chile trounces all other record holders in the category, making it to the Guinness World Records as

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

It has a tremendous edge over traditional pools, needing 100 times less chemicals, less energy and water; and was built at a cost of US$3.5 million, with maintenance costs being just one-sixth of those associated with a professional golf course. Crystal Lagoons has patented its technology round the world, with more than 125 projects in 35 countries, involving an investment of US$80 million. SIX SENSES HIDEAWAY IN ZIGHY BAY, OMAN Which resort in the world provides you dramatic entries such as paragliding or a speed boat trip to the destination? Six Senses Hideaway in Zighy Bay, Oman, gives you just those very options, plus another–a winding, spellbinding drive over the Hajar Mountains overlooking the bay. Located between the mountains and the beach, this resort is managed by Six Senses Resorts & Spas, who have developed and are operating unique properties in the Maldives, Oman, Thailand Vietnam, Spain and Jordan. The 79 low-level villas, built with local stone, all have private infinity pools. The white-walled, dark-wood interiors are spacious and the views from the beachside villas are magnificent–beyond the pool and wicker gates are palm trees, golden sands and the Arabian Sea. The resort’s large, central infinity pool offers excellent snacks and drinks. The Spa, operated by Six Senses, offers nine treatment rooms and has a full range of treatments. PERIVOLAS LUXURY HOTEL, SANTORINI, GREECE If ever there’s a Greek classic, it is the infinity pool and the stunning views offered from the Perivolas Hotel in Santorini. With a cliff-hanger location, the hotel has perhaps one of the most sought-after pool views in Europe. The infinity pool at Perivolas really does seem to stretch into the horizon, as if swimming off the edge would plunge you to the depths of the sea floor. It is the central point of the hotel, with its ‘traditional houses’ or rooms grouped around it. The pool is simply incomparable and has graced the front cover of popular travel magazines. Everything from the cover of Conde Nast

Six Senses Hideaway in Zighy Bay, Oman

being the world’s largest swimming pool. The crystal clear waters of this lagoon, which is unprecedented in design and construction, is the brainchild of Crystal Lagoons’ founder, biochemist and Chilean businessman, Fernando Fischmann. It is said to be equivalent in size to 6,000 standard domestic pools. Apart from its size, the lagoon has another spectacular feature–its waters have the purity and the intense turquoise colour of tropical seas. This is largely due to the efforts of Crystal Lagoons, whose green technology has harnessed ocean water and kept it in perfect condition.

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Perivolas Luxury Hotel, Santorini, Greece

ARCHITECTURE SWIMMING POOLS

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

Blue Lagoon, Grindavik, Iceland

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ARCHITECTURE SWIMMING POOLS

Golden Nugget, Las Vegas

and the pages of Vogue have recognised the hotel’s uniqueness, and it is rightly featured in the pages of ‘1,000 Places To See Before You Die’. The entire complex is set within an amphitheatrically-curved landscape, that goes down to a central stone terrace with the pool, that flows over the edge of the cliff into an Aegean horizon. Next to the pool, an old winery has been refurbished as an indoor cafe and a poolside bar. A decent array of sun-beds with thick towels surrounds the pool as you sip your preferred drink and take in the beauty of the Caldera. BLUE LAGOON, GRINDAVIK, ICELAND This is an experience you just cannot miss. Located in Grindavik, in south-western Iceland, is one of Iceland’s most sought-after destinations–the Blue Lagoon, a man-made pool, which is just ten minutes away from Keflavik International Airport and only a 40

minute-drive from the Icelandic capital Reykjavik. The size of the Blue Lagoon is about 3,000 square metres (32,000 sq ft) and it is rich in minerals like silica and sulphur. Interestingly, the water is heated from a nearby geothermal power plant. The fluorescent blue pool of water is close to 40°C all year round, which is why it is such a popular destination, even in the cold Icelandic winters. Before you enter the water, you need to shower and change. Then, amidst black lava rocks all around, sink into the mineral-rich waters and enjoy. The geothermal spa's updated facilities include changing rooms, an indoor swimming area, a conference area, and a restaurant with a beautiful view. In addition to bathing in the lagoon, visitors can visit the lava cave or take a steam bath powered by nature. The Blue Lagoon spa offers countless wellness services and sells its own cosmetics brand.

THE TANK, GOLDEN NUGGET, LAS VEGAS Located in the heart of the Fremont Street Experience and approximately six miles from McCarran International Airport, Las Vegas, in the Golden Nugget, is The Tank, a $20-million dollar, Olympic-sized swimming pool that includes a 200,000 gallon shark tank, waterfalls and a three-storey waterslide. Get up close to sand tiger sharks, brown sharks, Pacific black tip sharks, nurse sharks and zebra sharks, along with southern stingrays. Or, climb thirty feet in the air and slide down the waterslide for an unforgettable experience. After that uplifting adventure, relax at the hotel's 45,000 square-foot casino, which offers blackjack, craps, baccarat, roulette, slot and video poker machines, race and sports book, and a poker room. Enjoy a drink at H2O Bar and take advantage of the Golden Nugget Spa, which offers massages, a beauty salon, fitness

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

Altira Hotel Macau

centre, saunas, tanning rooms, and whirlpools. ALTIRA HOTEL, MACAU US Forbes Traveller named the infinity-edge swimming pool at Altira Hotel Macau as one of the best 10 Hotel Swimming Pools. This 16th-floor swimming pool is 25-metres in length and has floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the sea and the Macau peninsula. And get this–it has piped-in underwater music to soothe you as you swim. Altira Hotel Macau has several restaurants, ranging from the mid-range to top-notch, serving Cantonese fare, authentic Japanese teppanyaki (a style of cooking) or exquisite tempura dishes. A special elevator and independent entrance way at Altira Hotel Macau lead directly to the lobby, so guests don’t have to pass through the casino facilities. There are four world-class restaurants, a spa centre and gymnasium. FOUR SEASONS, COSTA RICA, SPAIN Another spectacular resort, the Four Seasons Resort in Costa Rica features three infinity edge pools, amidst the lush landscape of a tropical forest.

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Ticos, the 1,000-square metre freshwater main pool, is joined on either side by two smaller pools, with a nearby whirlpool grotto. Guests can enjoy an aquatic workout or relax in a comfortable chaise longue, as Four Seasons attendants bring cocktails and complimentary fruit, water and other treats. The Blanca pool overlooks the beach area and has 70 lounge chairs, with a table and

umbrella for every two chairs. Pool attendants ply snacks, and complimentary sunblock and aloe vera gel are available, in addition to water scented with tropical fruit. The adult-only quiet pool is steps from Playa Virador (the quiet beach), and boasts 40 lounge chairs, with a table and umbrella for every two chairs. All pools are kept at a comfortable 25.5°C.

Four Seasons, Costa Rica, Spain

WELLNESS DESTINATION FISH THERAPY THAILAND

thailand-where the gods smile

It’s a country with the most natural assetsglorious beaches, majestic mountains, lush greenery; but what captivates the visitor is Thailand’s hospitality

LL BUREAU EACH ONE OF us has visions of the perfect holiday. It could be a laidback stretch-out on a golden beach. Trekking up jagged mountain paths in unexplored territory. Losing yourself in the mores of an ancient culture. Or, perhaps, just partying the night away in a vibrant resort. One destination could see all the above come to life–Thailand. Thailand’s stunningly beautiful coastline has 2,500 kilometres of unspoiled beaches, sheltered bays, secluded coves and tropical islands. In Thailand, wherever you go and whatever you do, one aspect is a constant–the country’s celebrated hospitality–which won’t let you be

until you’re completely satiated. For adventure seekers, there’s no dearth of the range of fascinating activities it offers. For water sports, Phuket and Krabi are excellent for jet-skiing, parasailing, banana boating and marine fishing. For a more relaxed and tranquil ambience, choose Trang. TRANG From being a rubber trading centre, Trang has emerged as a foremost tourist destination, which is not surprising, considering its long 199kilometre coastline, which sports superb beaches, panoramic views, good diving sites,

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

city, you will be struck by the blend of Western, Chinese and Thai cultures that are reflected in the buildings around you–from the SinoPortuguese shop-houses to the Chinese temples and shrines. Stroll through the parks and visit the Ta Klang marketplace for souvenirs.

many scenic islands and an inland emerald lagoon. Add to this, impressive limestone mountains, and you have a veritable paradise. Trang’s mainland beaches and offshore islands attract visitors keen on cruising coastal waters and taking in such sights as the magical Emerald Cave, which is accessible only by water. Visit the Mu Ko Petra National Park, with beaches and islands lapped by the warm waters of the Andaman Sea. Some of the diving sites in the park are exemplary. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a day’s outing amidst waterfalls, nature trails and caves at the Namtok Khao Chong and Khlong Lamchan Parks. As you walk into the

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KRABI There’s evidence that dates Krabi city to prehistoric times; archeologists claim that Krabi city is one of the older settlements in the country. But there’s nothing old-world about today’s Krabi, with its two world class beaches Ao Nang and Hat Rai Le, which offer numerous diving trips, restaurants, shops, etc. It is a tourist’s haven, with its stunning limestone cliffs and rock formations and a National Park located approximately 40 kilometres outside town, with lakes, caves and spectacular natural scenery. Scuba diving and snorkelling are preferred activities for those who are into water sports. Most of the diving gear shops in Krabi are located in Ao Nang and there a lot of agencies who operate tours based in Ao Nang. There are two well-known places in Krabi where underwater sightseeing is popular. Koh Po Da Nock, or Chicken Island, is one of them, which is hardly half an hour away.At Koh Po Da Nock, underwater caves are visited by divers. Boating is another activity that has many takers and it’s no wonder; with the waters being so crystal clear, that mooring and anchorage become very easy. Many agencies offer charter sailing boats for two or more people as ‘join-intrips’. For tourists who wish to explore the caves and mangroves, kayaks are a good option. The limestone cliffs are a challenge even to the amateur rock climber–Krabi has droves of adventurers climbing its steep cliffs, which climb straight from the river beds. Guides and gear for beginners are available in the Ao Nang and Rai Ley area. Krabi’s lush national parks are a major attraction for hikers, trekkers and bikers. The parks include caves and mountains, rocky outcrops and waterfalls, streams and rock pools; guided tours are available to take you through the spots where scenic beauty and exotic plants and animal life are in abundance. Favoured spots for hiking are the Koh Phanom Bencha National Park and Koh Pra-Bhang Khram, near Bang Teao village. Big game fishing is another popular activity in Krabi. Day excursions are the norm, but you can also charter a boat to go out before dawn,

or at night. When you get your white snapper, it will be grilled for free at the Frittomisto restaurant. PHI PHI ISLAND It’s Thailand’s stellar destination; it's been in the movies and it's the subject of conversation for travellers all over Thailand. And the reason is not difficult to discover–Phi Phi is sheer, unadulterated beauty. As you approach by boat, steep cliffs tower overhead, then give way to beach-fronted jungle. Of the two islands, one is completely free of habitation (Phi Phi Lei), and the other is without roads (Phi Phi Don). Cliff diving, sunbathing, reading, exercising, hiking, rock climbing–there are a myriad possibilities here. Snorkelling and diving is exceptionally easy in the emerald green waters. Also, on Phi Phi Islands, you have a real live boxing event three times a week. Some well-known professionals participate in it, and on Fridays, the fight is serious.They also run a training camp for boxers on this island. PHUKET With nearly four million foreign visitors to Phuket annually, the island is undoubtedly one of Thailand’s most important destinations. So, just what brings them to this southern province? Apart from some stunning natural beauty and an excellent hospitality industry, Phuket also has other attractions. The beaches are like nowhere else in the world–there are nine pretty crescent bays along the west coast, each one uniquely different from the other. Promthep Cape Phuket has spectacular sunset views. Look out for the hundreds of small elephant statues left here. Visit the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, for its lush landscape and protected sanctuary, along with two splendid waterfalls. For some fun, go to Phuket Fantasea in Kamala, a Vegasstyle extravaganza, which is staged every evening in a large auditorium and theme park. It includes a menagerie of animals, circus acts, comedians and Thai cultural displays, and a disappearing elephant magic act devised by David Copperfield. Take the climb up to Wat Chalong, one of the grandest Buddhist temples in Phuket. Its soaring, unconventional pagoda has a glass case that is supposed to house a chip of the Buddha’s bone. Whatever you do, don’t miss the Phuket Shell Museum, dedicated entirely to shells. Highlights include the world’s largest golden pearl (140 carats) and a 250 kilogram shell.

WELLNESS FISH THERAPY

fishy pedicurists Fish foot therapy is the most natural kind of pedicure, but it is not for the squeamish INDIRA LAUL EVER WONDERED what it would be like, being at the other end of the food chain? Having scores of fish nibbling at you instead of you on them? There’s a growing trend in certain designer spas and resorts of countries around the world, of a pedicure that involves the nibbling of feet by tiny fish–an idea that some would take time getting used to, while others would emerge feeling beautiful and relaxed from the experience. If you’re not averse to getting your feet wet and getting a tickle out of the latest fancy, indulge yourself in this unique beauty treatment. This is how the treatment works–Spas import small, tropical fish called the Garra Rufa, or ‘doctor fish’, which occur naturally in the waters of a hot spring near Kangal, in Turkey’s Sivas Province, and where the fish’s uncommon dietary habits were first discovered. It was found that the fish would

peck away at the dead and diseased skin of bathers and cure them of skin ailments. The imported fish are then introduced into hot water, where they thrive and then used for foot and body treatments. The Garra Rufa fish nibble away at the feet, ridding them of dead skin and leaving the healthy skin untouched. The process is said to be both painless and soothing, leaving behind a pleasantly tingling sensation, with no pain. The end result–smooth, glowing and healthier skin. The treatment also dispenses with fatigue, increases blood circulation and helps in relaxation. Lifestyle Living looks at some of the luxury fish foot spas which offer this unique therapy. The Sampuoton Spa in Malaysia is located in Petaling Jaya and is the original fish therapy designer concept spa in Malaysia. An awardwinning fish spa, the Sampuoton Spa also

offers the ancient art of Malay tea drinking. After a pampering fish spa treatment, you get to sample any of 18 different varieties of organic teas on offer. As you enter the lounge, you will experience the welcoming ambience. Relax on the cosy sofas and sip Malay tea and listen to soothing music playing in the background. The spa offers full body treatment using the Garra Rufa fish from Turkey. Though many fish spas claim they use the Garra Rufa fish, they’re really using the Chin Chin, a tilapia species (a popular food fish) from China. These fish mimic the nibbling of the Garra Rufa, but do not provide the same medicinal benefits. There are two large pools, a unisex one that can accommodate 10 to 15 people and a private pool for ladies. The spa also provides bathing suits for women and swimming trunks for men. You have to shower before

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

entering the pool, so that all traces of chemicals or lotions that could harm the fish will be removed. The recommended treatment is for one hour, as it takes time for the skin to soften, making it easier for the fish to nibble off the skin. The treatment is followed by a shower and a choice of relaxing massages such as the Double Herbal Compress Ball Massage, Swedish Massage and Aroma Massage. Our next stop is the 100 Fountain Spa, at the Pillar & Post Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, in Canada. Just 45 minutes north of Buffalo. New York, this 13,000-square foot spa has stunning interiors and offers extensive services for the well-being of mind, body and soul. Located in the heart of wine country, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a year-round destination offering a wide range of cultural, historical and recreational activities, only minutes from Niagara Falls. You can relax by the fireside in the plush spa lounge that overlooks the outdoor hot springs. Inside, rich colours meet textured stone and elegant woodwork. Take advantage of the heated indoor saltwater pool, hot springs and fitness centre.

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The Garra Rufa pedicure is clearly the most popular of all treatments offered at the 100 Fountain Spa. The treatment room provides twin tanks, so you and your partner can share the experience. As in all fish spas, you have to shower, change into a soft spa robe and then make a beeline for the pedicurists. You climb on to a seat just above the tank and lower your feet into warm water, full of the tiny nibblers. Treatment over, you can have a normal pedicure at the hands of the spa staff. Apart from the exfoliation, which has already been taken care of, enjoy a foot massage, moisturising treatment, nail trimming and polish. From North America, we travel eastwards, to Japan, to the Ooedo Onsen Monogatari, in Tokyo. On May 2006, the Ooedo-OnsenMonogatari, a four-year-old hot springs spa in the city's Odaiba area, added a new treatment to its menu: the ‘doctor fish pedicure and manicure’. The onsen (Japanese for ‘hot springs’), one of the largest in Tokyo, is a bather's paradise, with outdoor and indoor pools of varying temperatures. The ion-rich water comes from a spring, which is more than 4,600 feet underground. The tubs are

shaped like pickle barrels while the baths resemble lap pools. Many of the hot tubs are designed in a traditional Japanese way, with artfully pruned trees and decoratively-placed stones around them. One of the charming requirements of the onsen is the traditional custom of donning a yukata (kimono-like robe) on entry. This has to be worn at all times, as long as you’re inside the spa. The backs of the robes are adorned with colourful images of geishas, Mount Fuji and other Japanese icons. An open-air footbath flows like a creek, laid with stones. The 20-minute doctor fish foot treatment is done in an indoor pool, about the size of a small fish pond, whereas the 15minute hand option takes place in an aquarium-size tank. Sections of the onsen are open 22 hours a day, so visitors can bathe in the springs at various times, between 9 and 11 am, after which the spa shuts for scrubbing. Besides the baths, the facility also provides other special spa treatments. For example, there’s a sand bath, where you get buried neck down under hot, indoor sand dunes, for a fortifying experience.

THEATRE ONEGIN.ONLINE

the jumbo way to live 42 John Travolta’s passion for flying is reflected in his home, which is designed like a mini-airport say cheese 44 There’s nothing like a good cheese platter to round off a dinner, or even a standalone cheese party the star invades fashion 48 The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin displayed high creativity and innovation, in keeping with the brand image georges chakra: the lebanese effect 51 Georges Chakra’s couture collection is a fusion of French chic and the femininity of the Middle East mystique glossy lip service 54 If you fancy a pout like Angelina Jolie’s or wish to make your lips look fuller and shinier, get some of the best lip glosses available shoppers’ arcadia 56 Galeries Lafayette is a shopper’s delight, offering a humungous range of exclusive shoes and garments pour l’ homme 58 Here are some of the most sought-after fragrances which capture the strength and sensitivity of modern man

indul(g) 40

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

April 20092010 February | www.lifestyleliving.in | www.lifestyleliving.in

MANSION JUMBOLAIR

the jumbo way to live John Travolta’s passion for flying is reflected in his home, which is designed like a mini-airport LL BUREAU HOWEVER MUCH you may deny it, there’s a voyeur lurking within each one of us. From a mild curiosity to the vicarious pleasure to be got out of peeking through a peep-hole–we are a curious lot. Especially when it comes to celebrities. There is this inordinate desire to know how the famous live, eat and sleep, behind those privet hedges, wrought-iron gates and watchful doormen. And whether they live in glass-walled penthouses or vintage estates, it’s their own private sanctuary. Lifestyle Living gives you a glimpse into one such celebrated home. JUMBOLAIR-JOHN TRAVOLTA What do you do when your neighbours won't let you park your Boeing 707 outside your home? You move to another ‘housing development’–one that lets you have close-parking privileges, complete with a 1.4-mile airstrip. Following his love of aviation, John Travolta now lives in Jumbolair, just north of Ocala, Florida. The Jumbolair Aviation Estates is a residential community in Ocala, Florida, that provides a private airport for its residents. Located immediately off the main airstrip, Travolta’s house is

designed so that his Gulfstream and Boeing 707B can taxi right up to two outbuildings connected to the main structure, which is shaped like a squat air-control tower. Travolta can walk out his door, under a canopied walkway and into the cockpit, out of the long mechanised gate and be airborne within minutes. Travolta designed his house himself. In front, it looks like a Frank Lloyd Wright structure; the back resembles an airport. Apart from the parking lots for his jets, there is a garden in the guise of a heliport, further parking for at least six swanky cars, a swimming pool with a swirling hot tub, a 1.4-mile runway, a gym and stables for the 75 horses down the road. A brand-new security kiosk and electronic gate guard the home where Travolta, his wife, actress Kelly Preston and their two children live six months out of the year. Travolta was born and raised in New Jersey, and there’s ample evidence of it in the décor. The walls of the round dining room are ablaze with a mural depicting a glamorous cocktail lounge from the fifties, overlooking a twinkling airfield; the living room is done in cool turquoise and clear green with a tinge of yellow, reminiscent of the early sixties.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

CUISINE CHEESE

say cheese There’s nothing like a good cheese platter to round off a dinner, or even a standalone cheese party LL BUREAU YOU WANT TO host a wine and cheese party and you want to make it a roaring success. You’re not a little nervous about the fact that the success of the party will rely on your skills as the host or hostess, and that significant thought will have to go into this fun event. Putting together a cheese platter is not only easy, but tasty as well. Generally speaking, a cheese platter ought to include a variety of cheese, progressing from the very mild to the stronger ones. However, since palates vary, it’s important to get your basic mix right. This way, everybody’s taste buds will be satisfied and you can be sure that at least one variety of cheese will appeal to everybody. When you shop for cheese, always ensure that you taste everything you buy. For instance, Feta is a salty cheese and Parmesan is dry. However, unless you taste it, you won’t know the difference in the flavours. As a rule, most platters tend to serve hard cheese, but there are certain exceptions to the rule. Camembert and Brie, both soft cheeses, are popular, as they

are mild and suit most taste buds. Your platter should include some of the common varieties of cheese such as Cheddar, smoked Gouda, Swiss Blue Cheese, Emmental, Gorgonzola, Camembert and Brie. After you buy the cheese, ensure that you use a wooden board to assemble them. Avoid using metal as this could alter the flavour due to oxidation. Always remember that cheese tastes best when served at room temperature. Set knives by the cheese plate, ideally one for each cheese. Cheese markers

The Zillion-Dollar Frittata

are a fun way to identify the types of cheese you are serving. Provide napkins and small plates. Also, keep aside different types of bread such as rye, multi-grain and a variety of crackers. Always keep a bowl of pitted olives, prunes and fruits, apart from cold cuts. These serve as the perfect accompaniment to the cheese. Finally, remember to set out the cheese half an hour before serving to ensure that they attain room temperature. This helps

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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CUISINE CHEESE

Wagyu Steak

Matsutake Mushrooms

bring out the flavours of the cheese. Also, a cheese platter doesn't have to be an after-dinner event. It makes a sensational lunch accompanied by a mixed salad of greens. When friends or family drop by, bring out a fine cheese selection, serve it with the best wine and you've got a party. There are hundreds of types of cheese produced in the world. Their different styles, textures and flavours depend on the origin of the milk (including the animal's diet), whether it has been pasteurised, its butterfat content, the species of bacteria and mould and the processing, including the length of ageing. Herbs, spices, or wood smoke may be used as flavouring agents. The yellow to red colour of several cheese is a result of adding annatto (natural dye obtained from pulp of herb). For some cheese, the milk is curdled by adding acids such as vinegar or lemon juice. Most cheeses are acidified to a lesser degree by bacteria, which turn milk sugars into lactic acid, then the addition of rennet completes the curdling. Vegetarian alternatives to rennet are available; most are produced by

fermentation of the fungus mucor miehei, but others have been extracted from various species of the Cynara thistle family. Cheese is a good travel food and is valuable for its portability, long life, and high content of fat, protein, calcium, and phosphorus. It is more compact and has a longer shelf life than the milk from which it is made. Clearly, cheese is quite likely the most popular dairy product in the world. Here are some choice varieties of highend cheese you might want to try out: Gorau Glas, an award-winning blueveined cow’s milk cheese from Anglesey, Wales. Priced up to $40 per pound, it claims to be the world’s (or at least, the UK’s) most expensive cheese. Production is limited, but the farm is well-known by travelling foodies who are eager to get a taste of the ‘first-of-itskind’ Welsh cheese. Bitto, a mixed cow and goat’s milk cheese from the Italian Alps (Valli del Bitto). Priced up to $55 per pound, it maintains strict production requirements (such as manual milking), and uses an extremely rare breed of

WORLD’S MOST EXPENSIVE FOODS Matsutake Mushrooms–$1000 a pound The matsutake, or mattake, mushroom of Japan, is expensive because of its rarity. The introduction of an insect that kills the trees under which the mushroom grows has caused a dramatic decrease in the number of matsutake mushrooms. Since a method for farming the matsutake has yet to be developed, the lack of trees from which to harvest these mushrooms naturally poses a serious problem for the species. Most Expensive Bagel–$1000 Created by executive chef Frank Tujague for New York’s Westin Hotel, this bagel is topped with white truffle cream cheese and goji berry infused Riesling jelly (a kind of wine jelly), with golden leaves. The bagel’s price is justified when you consider that white truffles happen to be the second most expensive food by weight, eclipsed only by caviar. The underground fungus grows only under specific oak trees in Alba, Italy. The zillion-dollar Frittata At Le Parker Meridien in New York, they serve a frittata or omelette, at $1000. This is a breakfast item that comprises a mixture of eggs, lobster and ten ounces of Sevruga caviar (which costs the restaurant $65 per ounce). Wagyu Steak–$2800 While Wagyu cattle are raised both in and outside Japan, the Kobe variety, which is raised specifically in the Hyogo prefecture, is the most elite. Employing the most traditional production methods, Kobe beef comes from cows that are allegedly fed only beer and massaged by hand to ensure a tenderness and marbling beyond compare. In New York City’s Craftsteak, a full Wagyu rib eye was served up to a private party for $2800. Samundari Khazana, world’s most expensive curry–$3200 To celebrate the DVD release of Slumdog Millionaire, Bombay Brassiere packed this curry platter full of the most expensive ingredients they could find. Devon crab and white truffle and a half tomato filled with Beluga caviar and dressed with gold leaf are just the start of this lavish dish. A Scottish lobster, also coated with gold, four abalone and four shelled and hollowed quails’ eggs, filled with even more caviar, round out the dish.

Samundari Khazana

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

goat, which explains why this cheese is so expensive. It also has the unique quality of a cheese that can be aged for ten years or more. And you can be sure that the older the cheese, the heftier the price tag. But the world's most expensive cheese at $500 a pound is Swedish, and even more unbelievably, it’s made from moose milk. Moose milk cheese is made at the Moose House, a 59-acre moose dairy farm in Bjursholm, in northern Sweden. The cheese comes from the milk of three moose cows, named Gullan, Haelga, and Juna, and is sold to upscale hotels and restaurants in Sweden. You can also sample and buy any of the three available cheese varieties at the farm. Christer Johannson started the farm seven years ago with his wife Ulla. They were inspired by similar facilities in eastern Russia, which produce only milk, not cheese. According to Johannson, theirs is the only farm of its kind in Europe. The three cows,

which stay outside all year long, were found as calves, which were abandoned in the woods around Bjursholm, 404 miles north of Stockholm, and were adopted by the Johannson family. The animals, usually wild, have been domesticated, making it possible to milk them. Says Johannson, “Fortunately, they know and love us, because they weigh about 1,100 pounds. They see us almost as their own calves.” It takes between 30 minutes and two hours to milk a cow, and each produces up to one gallon of milk a day. But that's only between May and September, the time between when they calve and when they are in heat again. “That's one of the reasons why the cheese is so expensive,” explains Johannson. The milk, which contains 12 per cent fat and as much protein, is refrigerated, and curdling is done three times a year, producing about 660 pounds of cheese annually.The Moose House attracts about 25,000 visitors a year.

Cheese is a good travel food and is valuable for its portability, long life, and high content of fat, protein, calcium, and phosphorus

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

CHEESE PUMPKINS Ingredients: 8 tablespoons smoked Cheddar cold pack cheese (made by grinding and mixing together one or more varities of cheese without heat) 2 teaspoons finely chopped peanuts 4 butter-flavoured pretzel spindles or sticks, broken in half 16 tiny pieces fresh parsley leaves Method: Line small serving plate with waxed paper. Roll each level tablespoon cold pack cheese food into a ball; place on waxed paper-lined serving plate. Refrigerate 10 to 15 minutes for easier handling. With end of toothpick, draw ridges around balls to resemble pumpkins. Dip bottoms of cheese balls in chopped peanuts. Just before serving, insert pretzel halves into cheese balls for pumpkin stems. Decorate with parsley for leaves. Store in refrigerator.

WELLNESS FASHION FISH THERAPY COUTURE 2010

the star invades fashion The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Berlin displayed high creativity and innovation, in keeping with the brand image IN THE HISTORIC heart of Berlin, at Bebelplatz, from January 20 to 23, 2010, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week showcased an exciting portfolio of designers in the German capital. Among the first names to be announced were Allude, Anja Gockel, Dimitri, Hausach Couture, Schumacher, Boss Black and Joop, amongst others. In keeping with the brand image of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, the theme of the couture collection matched the brand at the highest creative level. More than anything, the event showcased the Mercedes-Benz commitment to fashion, involving artists, designers, photographers and new media into a contemporary international platform for creativity and innovation.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

WELLNESS FISH THERAPY

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

georges chakra: the lebanese effect Georges Chakra’s couture collection is a fusion of French chic and the femininity of the Middle East mystique TAKING THE Paris Fashion Week, the Spring/ Summer 2010 Couture show by storm, was Lebanese designer Georges Chakra. The show, which was held in Paris, at L'École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux Arts, was somewhat of a Lebanese-European mélange. Chakra’s collection captured nature’s bounty; the accent was on femininity, treading a fine line between reality and fantasy. The forty-three dresses that comprised the collection sported geometric lines, contemporary designs and contrasting colours, blended with delicate necklines and asymmetrical cuts. All colours reflected summer tonalities–the vibrant pinkorange of sunset, flashes of metallic blue, sparkling gold and silver and the eternal beauty of black and white, creating exceptional elegance and sophistication. The textures used were a wide range of luscious chiffon, tulle, organza, lace, to satin and silk, embroidered with sequins, feathers, rhinestones and pearls. Said Chakra to Reuters, before the show, “The Lebanese love fashion, we love going out, we love eating, we love books and cinema.” Elaborating on style, Chakra said that Lebanese fashion was more feminine than avant garde and Lebanese evening gowns varied in style, from clean and simple to fully studded. Chakra’s dresses are priced at $20,000 to $50,000. A Middle Eastern bride, he said, may easily order a dozen–one for the wedding, the others for the 11 nightly parties that follow. But one thing was certain–Chakra’s collection was eminently wearable.

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WELLNESS FISH THERAPY

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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WELLNESS BEAUTY FISH LIP CARE THERAPY

glossy lip service If you fancy a pout like Angelina Jolieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or wish to make your lips look fuller and shinier, get some of the best lip glosses available 54

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LL BUREAU IF YOU WANT to be on the cutting edge of what’s new and hot where make-up is concerned, don’t be a holdout. Go with the trend, or with the red carpet, for stunning results. If you’re still a lipstick girl, get a life. Get some shimmer and shine on your lips with a bronzy peach colour gloss made famous by JLo, or perhaps a luscious one that could give you that celebrated Angelina Jolie pout. Lip gloss has become quite the most popular lip-enhancer within the last few years. Women love it because it adds shine, has a moisturising effect and could lend a plumping effect to lips. And it’s classy. What better way to show your sense of style than to take out a lip gloss wand with that Chanel logo emblazoned on the end and apply it in front of the girls? Max Factor, a name that is synonymous with beauty and fashion today, first invented lip gloss in 1930. His reason for this was to make lips glossy or shiny for films. Max Factor inventions include lipstick and the mascara wand, all of which have since become common items in purses throughout the world. The first retractable lip gloss was invented by Angie Parlionas in 2004. Yoyo Lip Gloss is a fashionable retractable lip gloss that sits at the hip for easy access. The string extends up to 3 1/2 feet long and retracts back to the hip after use. The Yoyo Lip Gloss Tubes and Fun Interchangeable Reels are available in five colours and delicious highsparkle flavours. When buying lip gloss, there are some factors you should consider, among the most important being stickiness, glossiness, staying power, taste, smell, application and greasiness. The sticky factor has to do with how the lip gloss feels on your lips. It most certainly must not get into your hair if it happens to brush against your lips. Most glosses have a large stickiness factor, but are still worth buying for other reasons. And the best lip gloss should have a gloss effect which is both appealing and subtle. Good lip glosses should have staying power. Another important factor is taste. If a lip gloss tastes like chemicals, you won’t want to put it on your lips. Smell, too, goes hand in hand with flavour. For instance, Born Lippy from the Body Shop, smells delicious. Lip glosses that are overly greasy are also a big no-no, and while some women wear lip gloss for colour, many also use it over lipstick, like Marilyn Monroe did. But finally, good lip gloss should make your lips look shiny, vibrant and sexy. While narrowing down the best lip gloss may be difficult, it’s not impossible to narrow the search to a select few. Chanel’s Glossimer has an amazing colour selection without being overpowering. The glosses are not overly sticky, either. Chanel’s Glow and Sirop glosses will make your lips look luscious. From the hugely popular Benefit range comes the Benetint lip tint, which is a hit. Priced at about £14.50, it contains vitamin E for lip smoothing and has an SPF of 15. The styling is superb as is the packaging, which is kitsch, and highly appealing to young women; the names of the products are quite zany–Show offs, Smooch and Boo Zap, to name but a few. The company is based in San Francisco and has recently

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

earned a big name in the UK. Or, try a bottle of Benefit’s High Beam Gloss. It’s a glimmering, colour-infused lip gloss, with shades that are flattering and flirty. The colours come from clear crystal to bright red, to a browny-pale purple colour-some unusual, like Getaway, which is a pale purple, with a pink sheen. Benefit glosses are smooth when applied, non-sticky, and give your lips a full, shiny look. If you want to try something special, and don’t care about the price, try Go Light On My Lips Gloss, the Swarovski Crystal Limited Edition. These lip glosses are custom-made and priced at $250. They are fully-encrusted with Swarovski crystals, all hand-made and hand-placed and come in any colour stones combination. A special order takes two to six weeks for delivery. You can have your initials monogrammed with Swarovski crystals on the outside. Another highly-priced (most expensive) lip gloss is Cle de Peau. It is a non-sticky gloss that will give you a soft peck of colour and lots of shimmer and sheen. It stays on very well, too, and lasts for hours. It wears well and fades after several hours without drying or leaving a ring of gloss around your lips. There are 12 colours in total. All Cle de Peau products are numbered, so it's easy to remember. All the colours are wellpigmented, even though they are all light colours. You can see the distinct colours in each shade except number 11, which is a nude gloss. The texture is sticky. The packaging looks like Giorgio Armani Lip Shimmer–one straight, see-through tube and a black cap with the Cle de Peau logo on it. There is a wand with a sponge for application, and it's angled, to ensure smooth spreading on the lips. If you’re a naturalist, try the Bobbi Brown lip gloss, made from herbal extracts like jojoba oil, vanilla bean and chamomile oil. This is available in many cool and vibrant colours such as raisin, pink and pink blossom, tangerine, chocolate and many more. The Bourjois Effect 3D High Shine Lip Gloss was made popular by JLo some years ago. The gloss lasts and lasts and the colour array makes it hard to choose just one. The shimmer effect on the lips will male thin lips look fuller. But one of the most touted glosses is Lipfusion Color Shine, which uses collagen to make lips look and feel plump. They have a great collection of colours, that are somewhat sheer. This gloss is popular because it doesn't plump your lips by irritating them, but instead, it almost fills in your lips and moisturises them. The gloss is really long-wearing and it's not sticky at all. On application, your start to tingle and in a few minutes, your lips will be plump. It’s great for women who have dry and peeling lips because it seems to hide all imperfections. This gloss uses marine collagen, which is harvested from sea plants. The collagen molecules are really small, so your lips can easily absorb them. Once the collagen is absorbed by the lips, the collagen molecules expand when they come in contact with moisture, thus plumping and moisturising your lips.

BOUTIQUE GALERIES LAFAYETTE

shoppers’arcadia Galeries Lafayette is a shopper’s delight, offering a humungous range of exclusive shoes and garments

LL BUREAU IN PARIS’S Haussmann boulevard, is located the swish Galeries Lafayette, a store after Imelda Marcos’ (her of the 3,000-shoes fame) heart. The most famous and the most spectacular of Parisian department stores, the Galeries Lafayette is the only store where you will find big brands (often exclusively) like Armani, Chanel, John Galliano, Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Lacroix, Prada, Sonia Rykiel and Thierry Mugler, on fully-refurbished floors entirely given over to women’s fashion. Says its marketing and promotions manager, Asia, Caroline de Maisonneuve–“Galeries Lafayette, the largest departmental store in Europe, may sound too exclusive for many…but the shopping centre with classic architecture has something for everybody. Our shoe department stocks more brand names than any other shop in France and our home interior store is designed like a home where shoppers are even treated to French cuisine.” For shoe addicts, it’s a dream come true. The ‘Espace chaussures & Souliers’, which is the largest shoes department in the world, is devoted to an unbelievable 3,000 square metre-space to shoes, of which 75 brands are exclusive to Galeries Lafayette alone.

The new area was created by Galeries Lafayette with the signature of architect Patrick Jouin; the store has a boutique atmosphere, with large aisles, brown wengé (dark, tropical wood) wood and white varnished furniture, with comfortable chocolate brown leather sofas. Over here, you can find any shoe under the sun–from flip-flops to 1000-Euro boots, to hundreds of brands, all under one roof. All the must-haves of the season can be found; all the models are arranged by theme and displayed on tall podiums decorated with fringes of crystals, beads and sequins. Even slippers have made it into the fashion scene (20 per cent of shoe sales in France are for slippers), with a new area entirely devoted to sequined clogs, multi-coloured ballet slippers, sophisticated mules and embroidered oriental slippers. A special area is exclusively marked off for‘leather and foot care’, where you will get everything needed for foot care, such as special brushes, shoe creams in all colours, foot-care lotions, etc. The women's fashion department is entirely dedicated to bringing you

the best, the latest and the widest range in highquality fashion clothing and accessories. Men’s fashions also occupies a niche segment in the Galeries Lafayette Men's store, Lafayette Homme. There’s youth fashion at Lafayette VO in the basement level and children’s fashion on the fifth floor. At Galeries Lafayette, couture extends to the whole family. Every level offers the best of fashion, with over 260 brands, ranging from the most luxurious to less expensive brands, from the most famous to less well-known labels–there is truly something for everyone. Galeries Lafayette has been given exclusive distribution rights to 45 brands within all of its French stores , and 180 brands which are exclusively available at the Haussmann store. Galeries Lafayette went to 15 different countries to acquire new international designs for the re-launch of the women’s fashion department. From China to Canada, and from Japan to Finland, it has brought more than 128 otherwise unknown labels into France. Galeries Lafayette offers free help out for busy women, or those who need to be sure they are making the right choices, to comply with the latest trends . Each client is privately welcomed by an advisor, who then makes a list of the client’s needs.The personal shopper then goes into the department store and looks for the outfits which will best correspond to the style, expectations and budget of the client. The chosen outfits are then shown to the client who will decide which garments they will buy, at no extra cost. If all the shopping tires you out, you have the option of 12 restaurants to choose from. A rooftop café offers tea, coffee and splendid views of the city. Also, catch the store’s dance and fashion shows from Monday to Saturday.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

F ora dv er t i s ement s www. l i f e s t y l e l i v i ng. i n ma i l us : gi l l i ndi a de l @gma i l . c om

WELLNESS PERFUMES FISH THERAPY MEN

pourlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;homme Here are some of the most sought-after fragrances which capture the strength and sensitivity of modern man 2

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

COLONIA ASSOLUTA Fresh, sensual and vibrant, Colonia Assoluta, dedicated to men and women, is a bouquet of crisp citrus essences such as sweet orange, bitter orange of Sicilia, bergamot and verbana, and warm spicy notes such as cardamom, pink peppercorns and paprika.

LE MALE JEAN PAUL GAULTIER An Eau de Toilette that flouts convention and plays it two ways: between tradition and audacity, freshness and softness, strength and sensuality. A virile man who accepts his sensitive side will appreciate this strong yet sensual eau de toilette. Power is expressed through freshness of mint, tradition is turned on its head by lavender and the sensuality of vanilla adds tenderness.

VETIVAR GUERLAIN The exhalations of the earth, the fresh air of early morning, this is the perfume of a country gentleman, where spices mix with tobaccoâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;so many sources of inspiration for the first perfume created by Jean-Paul Guerlain, a scent that evokes the duality of nature: harmony and disorder, freshness and warmth. TOM FORD BLACK ORCHID The attention is captured by a sensuous blend of Black Truffle and Ylang, mingled with fresh bergamot and delectable black currant. A dramatic signature unfolds with the custom-made Tom Ford Black Orchid blended with dark, tempting florals and rich fruit accords. The heart is deepened with the intoxicating lotus wood. The decadent Noir Gourmand Accord is balanced by patchouli, incense and vetiver. Vanilla Tears add a fluid creaminess to warm Balsam and smooth sandalwood.

LIME BASIL & MANDARIN BY JO MALONE Reminiscent of the scent of limes carried on a Caribbean sea breeze, Lime Basil & Mandarin has become a modern classic for men and women. Fresh limes and zesty mandarins are undercut by peppery basil and aromatic white thyme in this alluring signature blend. TERE D HERMES The limited edition was created as a vertical fragrance which carries paradox notes of grapefruit and orange, with a heart of flint, pelargonium, pink pepper and black pepper, while base notes comprise soft and velvety accords of Atlas Cedar, Patchouli, Vetiver and Benzoin. ANTAEUS CHANEL Created by Chanel perfumer Jacques Polge in 1981 to reflect the emergence of today's complex man. Inspired by the legend of the Greek hero Antaeus, the fragrance captures both the strength and sensitivity of modern man. Starts powerfully, with Clary Sage and Lavender, then an evolution of Patchouli and a Sandalwood note. An amber note continues into honey, with leathery hints of Rockrose and Spice. DAVIDOFF COOL WATER Cool Water is a fragrance for the modern man with an authentic and cool personality. A passport to freshness, masculinity, extreme sensations, and independence, Cool Water has an aromatic fresh fragrance with the intense freshness of peppermint, the strength of spicy coriander and the essence of lavender. Cool Water embraces the power of the ocean, the power of cool.

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

THEATRE ONEGIN.ONLINE

gettinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; inked stylishly 62 Body art has morphed from the tacky to the funky and stylish, making inroads to couture as well shear artistry 66 Anne Veck has taken hair-styling to a fine art, with her innovative use of colours, cuts and extensions

galleri(e) 60

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BODY ART TATTOO

gettin’ inked

stylishly

Body art has morphed from the tacky to the funky and stylish, making inroads to couture as well

LL BUREAU THE TATTOO’S SOMEWHAT sleazy, seafarer image is a thing of the past, but going under the needle to get designs permanently inked onto the skin was, until recently, only reserved for rappers and other flamboyant figures in show business. Today, it’s an art form that has proliferated and become a part of society. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 36 per cent of Americans aged 18 to 29 are tattooed. When did it all begin? Way back in the fourth century, BC, a Caucasian is said to have been sighted with markings on his back and ankle and a cross tattooed behind his left knee. And some of the most elaborate body ornamentation comes from Mayan culture, between the third and tenth centuries, in Mexico,

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BODY ART TATTOO

Guatemala and Belize. The Mayans marked their bodies indelibly for spiritual as well as decorative purposes but, many cultures, such as the Picts in Britain, tattooed their skin and faces as well, as a sort of defence tactic. Pagan tribes who were converted to Christianity (the Bible frowned upon body art) were forced to relinquish their cultural rites such as body modification, so, for many years, tattooing was relegated mainly to tribal and warrior societies. The word ‘tattoo’ came into being in the eighteenth century, with the advent of Captain Cook and his wanderings to the many islands of the Pacific Ocean. Tattooing was an intrinsic part of the island culture, and Sir Joseph Banks, a British botanist, who was part of Cook’s crew, documented this art as well as other tribal mores and practices. When Banks headed back to Europe, he bore an indelible memento of his voyage– it was modern Western man’s first tattoo. Among the many cultures that Banks wrote about was that of the Maori, of Polynesian-Melanesian descent, in New Zealand. Another important culture that puts a premium on tattooing is the Samoans, who call tattooing ‘Pe’a’. Western tattoo culture took off in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and sailors who cruised the world returned to Europe with stories of abduction and forced tattooing. The real breakthrough occurred in the US, in the nineteenth century, when a certain Samuel O’Riley obtained the first electric tattoo machine, which was a take-off from the embroidery machine invented by

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MASTERS OF THE ART

Thomas Edison. O'Riley set up what he called a ‘tattoo parlour’ and began working out of a New York barber shop. Soon, tattoo parlours began mushrooming all over the country and tattooing became accessible to the people at large. In the mid-seventies, tattooists were a recognised fraternity and began holding conventions to showcase their work, to sell machines and pigments and judge the craftsmanship of their peers. Today, body art is here to stay and has become a sought-after phenomenon. Tattoo designs have found their way into the most intimate locations of the human anatomy, providing ample scope for self-expresion. Women, in particular, find it is one of the most sensuous ways of decorating their bodies. From the glimpse of a butterfly tattoo peeping above the waist of faded blue jeans to the bold and colourful dragon tattoo that adorns the lower back of a delectable socialite, tattoo designs have become a fashion statement. Dedicated tattooists also believe that tattoo designs are linked with specific symbolism. For instance, the lotus flower, when inked on the lower back or tailbone, along with buds, seed-pods and flowers, is said to represent the past, present and future. Combining the lotus flower with tiny tendrils

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

attempting to peek above the waist, is as sensual as it is beautiful. Other flower images when placed on the lower back have come to represent feminine beauty and fertility. A chakra tattoo design on the lower back is said to be a great location for spiralling energy and represents Shakti, the feminine aspect of the universe. In Celtic and Welsh mythology, animals symbolise fertility and vitality. Serpents and dragons are said to symbolise trouble. Positioning the lion tattoo design in the small of the back, in either black and white or colour, makes a statement of courage and pride. When placed on the tailbone, the eagle tattoo design, in all its majesty, speaks of courage and the yearning to go beyond the everyday. In the world of couture, Chanel has given an edge to this funky art by making it classy. Chanel’s illusions of chain bracelets were showcased on 2009’s fall runways. They were an instant success, so the brand has decided on selling the transfer tattoos under the name of Les Trompe L’Oeil de Chanel, which will start selling online and in international department stores such as Selfridges, starting March 1, 2010. The trend seems to have caught on–Rodarte painted their models in bold tribal patterns, while Jean Paul Gaultier chose to spray his models’ names onto their bodies and faces.

Paul Booth– King of Rock Tattoos His waiting list is anywhere between two and three years. After devoting almost twenty years of his life to the art of tattoo, where he is revered for his efforts to elevate the medium into the realm of fine art, Paul Booth has become a household name. His unparalleled dedication to the evolution of his craft has earned him numerous awards around the globe, top-tier magazine features (among them, many cover stories), public and television appearances including CNN, MSNBC, Discovery, A&E, TLC, MTV, and more. In 2002, Rolling Stone Magazine featured Booth and proudly crowned him ‘The new king of rock tattoos.’ In an interview with The New York News and Features he said, “Tattooing should never be trendy. Trends come and go. Tattoos are forever. That aspect is a bummer”. Bob Tyrell Detroit-born artist Bob Tyrell started tattooing in his early thirties. But despite his relatively late entry in the tattooing business, he has had a career that most artists can only dream of. His talent for black and grey realism, and horror-themed tattoos is among the best, and has earned him many welldeserved awards. The son of a commercial artist, Tyrell grew up around art. For the last seven and a half years, though, he has dedicated himself to the art of tattooing. His strongest influence and favourite tattoo artist? Paul Booth.

STYLIST HAIR

shear artistry Anne Veck has taken hair-styling to a fine art, with her innovative use of colours, cuts and extensions 66

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

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STYLIST HAIR

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

LL BUREAU AN AMAZING hair cut is of little use if it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t suit you. Or, if you need hours every morning to style the look. The mark of a good hair stylist is to have the know-how and expertise and to offer individual consultations, along with trendy cuts. Anne Veck is one hair stylist who pushes the boundaries of style and colour and the end result is similar to a perfectly-designed painting. Anne is one of the United Kingdom's most talented long hair and wedding hair specialists. From an instant fringe to a sleek bob or long hair, her hair extensions offer a whole range of possibilities. She has more than sixteen years of experience with hair extensions and was American Dream's International Artist for the years 2006 to 2007. Anne and her talented salon teams have won several awards and her expert advice has been featured regularly in hairdressing magazines throughout the world. The award-winning salon teams in Oxford and Bicester, UK, are multi-talented, multi-lingual, internationally qualified and dedicated to giving the best in service and hairdressing. Anneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teams are friendly, helpful and professional. Both salons are five-star rated by the Good Salon Guide and Fellowship for British Hairdressing Gold Star salons. Each salon team includes a Wella Professionals Master Colour Expert, Racoon-trained hair extensions experts, Yuko System specialists and long hair experts. The stylists are trained and qualified in the UK, France, Belgium and New Zealand.

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STYLIST HAIR

The Oxford salon was Blackhair magazine's Regional Salon of the Year in 2007, while Bicester was a finalist in the British Hairdressing Business Awards two years running–in 2004 for Customer Care and in 2005 for Salon of the Year. When it comes to colouring, there’s nothing to beat Anne’s innovative colour palette, with her Eye Candy collection, with blue tips, pink streaks, brick-toned oranges and an array of other gorgeous shades. The pink and light blue colours are romantic and ladylike, while the bright red is a chic, professional look. If you want to sport a funky look, that’s there, too, with the short, curly hairdo. If you want a full-bodied wavy hair style that will wear well during the day and night, Anne’s team will give it to you. There are all kinds of colours available–platinum, strawberry, flaxen, golden, caramel, the choice

is endless. Weddings are Anne’s forte, she is one of UK's most in-demand stylists. If she is unavailable, then a member of her team will deputise. Customers can either visit one of her salons or be visited by the specialists wherever the wedding may be, even if it is in Bali. Members of the family can also be included. Anne’s modus operandi is somewhat like this–about two or three weeks before the wedding, she calls the bride-to-be for a trial session in the salon. She will then have an indepth discussion with the bride in advance of the trial, to determine what she will require and will quote an exact price. A deposit will be required at this stage, to secure an appointment. The Yuko system, or the revolutionary hair straightening system from Japan, is also

available at both salons. This system straightens as well as repairs the hair and makes it glossier and shinier. Each salon team includes at least one Yuko specialist who has been trained at the Yuko Academy in London, and a wide range of Yuko treatments and shampoos are available to care for the newlystraightened hair at home. Anne’s greatest contribution is the fact that her passion for her craft has garnered funds for her pet project–leukemia research. Says she–“My passion in hairdressing is avant garde and I have been very lucky to have the opportunity to indulge myself through Alternative Hair and their amazing shows at the Royal Albert Hall. Tony Rizzo and Alternative Hair have raised more than £7 million for leukemia research and this amazing effort has inspired all of us at Anne Veck salons to try and do a little more to help.”

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THEATRE ONEGIN.ONLINE

(n)tertainment the return of schumi 74 At an age at which most people worry about career of their teenaged children, Schumi is back behind the wheel to satisfy his need for speed, and to keep a promise he made long ago celeb buzz 76 tarot 78

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SPORTS

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER

the return of schumi At an age at which most people worry about career of their teenaged children, Schumi is back behind the wheel to satisfy his need for speed, and to keep a promise he made long ago LL BUREAU WHEN HE RETIRED from F1 racing in 2006, he was already the oldest man on the circuit. Later this year when he races again, this time with Mercedes, in the greatest comeback in the sports history he would be the oldest to attempt a comeback. With this comeback professional life would have come full circle for Schumi for Mercedes was where he started his professional career in April 1991. Like so many other greats in the world of sports, Schumacher also began very early in life starting with karting when he was barely four years old. As German rules allowed karting license only for those above 14, he got his license from Luxemburg when he was barely 12. Two years later he got the German license also and the same year won the German Junior Kart Championship. For some who would become a F1 legend, Schumacher’s road to stardom began as a replacement driver in 1991 for the Formula 1 Jordan team at the Belgian Grand Prix. Though next year he won his first Grand Prix, at Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps, in a BenettonFord, glory came his way in 1995 only when he joined Ferrari reportedly at a salary of $30 million. The rest, of course, is history but still needs to be recounted. What began then the most glorious innings of Schumacher and Ferrari complete with accidents, charge

trading and controversies. During this period was scripted a saga of his indomitable will to succeed even in the most gruesome conditions which included a debilitating accident. In this period Ferrari restructured and rediscovered itself and at last found the ever elusive glory. The next eleven years of F 1 racing can be summed up as Schumi and lots of ‘also rans’. By 2006 when he finally bowed out as his batteries were ‘empty’, he had virtually rewritten every entry in the record books. With Seven Drivers’ World Championships, 248 Grand Prix starts, 91 victories, 154 podium finishes and 68 pole positions he sat on a pile of records which even those with most fertile imagination would not dare to think of. Like most of the sporting epics, his also began with failures and accidents: he narrowly

missed out on the World Title in 1997 and 1998 in the final race of the season, and in the 1999 season he managed to break his right leg in the first serious accident of his career withdrawing from the Championship for six Grand Prix races. But in Malaysia he made an amazing come-back. And this is where he towers above other great drivers: like others of his elk Michael, too, is exceptionally ambitious, confident, intelligent, motivated, dedicated, and determined. But no one has rebounded so quickly; no one ever combined these qualities to create such excellence, and for so long. For him, driving is like a fountain of youth (he still goes karting for fun), his search for improvement never ends and his racing success drives him on. Leading by example he frequently visited the factory at Maranello, talking to the

PARTNERS AND SPONSORS DVAG, OMEGA, Rosbacher, Bacardi, KSM Motorsport, Schuberth MS Kart- und Eventcenter Year Team Teammates 1991 Jordan 1991 Andrea de Cesaris 1991-1995 Benetton 1991 Nelson Piquet 1992 Martin Brundle 1993 Riccardo Patrese 1994 Jos Verstappen/JJ Lehto/Jonny Herbert 1995 Jonny Herbert 1996-2006 Ferrari 1996-1999 Eddie Irvine 2000-2005 Rubens Barrichello 2006-2007 Felipe Massa

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

personnel and inspiring everyone with his high energy level, optimism and huge work ethic. He is basically a shy and private man devoted to his family and spending time playing with his children Gina-Maria and Mick, and walking his two dogs, one of which a stray dog he adopted in Brazil. Very protective of his private life he dislikes the celebrity spotlight, preferring istead a simple life. The family currently lives near Gland, Switzerland. Among the richest sportsperson in the world - in 2005 Eurobusiness magazine identified Schumacher as the world's first billionaire athlete - he believes in sharing; he supports charities, especially those for underprivileged children. He has donated more than any other sports person, most sports leagues, many worldwide corporations and even some countriesin 2004 he donated $10 million to help victims of the 2004 Asian tsunami disaster. He was ranked 17th by Forbes magazine in their "The World's Most Powerful Celebrities" list. Many of us remember him for indomitable will to succeed even in the most adverse conditions; for others his is a glorious innings dotted with controversies. On the whole he is a champion who never disgraced the game. He is someone who gave his fullest to his every race, never lashed out at his buddies in media, never owned up his defeats without passing the buck and won the race he ran within days of attending his mother’s funeral. Now in his comeback can he reclaim the lost glory let us wait and watch.

CAREER SPAN: Formula One career from 1991 to 2006 at the Jordan, Benetton and Ferrari teams. Seven Drivers’ World Championships; 248 Grand Prix starts; 91 victories; 154 podium finishes; 68 pole positions. Fastest laps: 76 Points: 1,369 Day of birth: 03/01/1969 Place of birth: HürthHermülheim (D) Nationality: German Residence: Switzerland Marital status: Married to Corinna Children: Gina Maria, Mick

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

WELLNESS CHATTERATI SPA BUZZ CELEB

KATRINA: SALMAN LOOKED AFTER ME WHEN I WAS YOUNG Katrina Kaif, who is the next guest on Karan Johar’s celebrity chat show Lift Kara De, talks about Salman Khan and her struggling days.Katrina reveals that she was only 19 years old when she shifted to Mumbai and did not know much about life in Mumbai. She says, ‘Salman Khan, his family and friends looked after me.”When Karan asked her about her relationship status, she said, “I believe that until you are married, you are single!” Well, now, that’s a very diplomatic answer.

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

BRANGELINA-THE STORY SO FAR Although this beautiful couple is going though one of the worst phases in life, we would still like to know about what’s really happening behind the scenes. Are they together or not, is what everyone’s asking. The paparazzi are having a field day by flashing their cameras and gathering gossip on Brangelina. But does anyone know the reason behind the split, if indeed, that’s true? There is much speculation that’s doing the rounds and everyone seems to have their own version of it. The couple in question have denied reports that they're about to split, while friends insist the media have mistaken a prenuptial agreement as a signal that they're separating. The couple and Jolie's father, Jon Voight, have dismissed British tabloid reports that they're no longer together. And insiders claim the story couldn't be further from the truth–the couple has allegedly signed a mega-million equivalent of a prenuptial agreement, which will cement their relationship. A source told Life & Style magazine, "Brad and Angelina had a meeting with a top law firm in LA in December, where they worked out terms of a legal document similar to a pre-nup”.

"By taking on the responsibility of being its brand ambassador, I feel honoured in being able to partner with a media channel that has been a conduit of social change while churning out excellent quality entertainment." He also remarked–"I am sure Aapka Colors, with its myriad hues of entertainment, will spread its magic in the United States as well, as it did in India."

SHAH RUKH KHAN HONOURED IN HOLLYWOOD Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has added another feather to his cap. The 44-year-old icon was honoured in Hollywood, after his wax idol was unveiled at Los Angeles' Madame Tussauds museum. The honour marks the twentieth anniversary of Shah Rukh's 'King of Bollywood' title in the Indian film industry, which the actor was given at the beginning of his career, Contactmusic reported. Shah Rukh's waxwork double cost USD 300,000 to make.

BOLLYWOOD BAGS PADMA AWARDS The most prestigious civilian awards, the Padma awards 2010, have been announced and Bollywood has indeed made its presence felt here, too. Of the total 130 awardees, 6 are Padma Vibhushan, 43 Padma Bhushan, and 81 Padma Shri. The award winners include Ilayaraja, Aamir Khan and AR Rahman for Padma Bhushan, and Rekha, Arundhati Nag, Resul Pokutty and Saif Ali Khan for Padma Shri. Aamir Khan, who was in the US for the Sundance Film Festival, said it was“wonderful”to be chosen for the honour and thanked his fans and well-wishers for their support. He expressed his joy, saying, “The first thing that comes to my mind is my mother’s smiling face. This has been a good day for me. My film Peepli Live gets superb response at the Sundance Film Festival and then I receive this wonderful news of getting the Padma Bhushan. I wish I was back home right now.”

KATRINA TO STAR WITH HRITHIK Katrina Kaif is all set to star opposite Greek god of Bollywood, Hrithik Roshan, in Zoya Akhtar’s upcoming movie. Zoya Akhtar’s movie starrs Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar and Hrithik Roshan. Apparently, Katrina has a killer role in the male-dominated movie.When Farhan Akhtar was asked about Katrina’s inclusion in the movie, he said, “It’s too early to talk about it, but yes, if Katrina does come into our project, she will be cast opposite Hrithik. He is the only one who gets to romance his love interest. Abhay and I have no love interest in the film.” BIG B BRINGS AAPKA COLORS TO THE US Bollywood is truly making waves in the West. One of India's entertainment channels, Aapka Colors, has teamed up with Dish Network to launch in the US. After launching in the UK, Aapka Colors is now coming to America, bringing popular shows like Jai Shri Krishna, Swarg, Balika Vadhu, Fear Factor- Khatron Ke Khiladi, with Akshay Kumar, and National Bingo with Abhishek Bachchan, to the US audience. Aapka Colors have chosen Bollywood veteran Amitabh Bachchan to represent the channel in the US and he said,

February 2010 | www.lifestyleliving.in

DEEPIKA’S NEW LOOK FOR DABBOO RATNANI CALENDAR The famous Bollywood photographer Dabboo Ratnani’s annual 2010 calendar is out.This is the 11th year where he has captured all the top celebrities for his trademark calendar. The calendar this year will have a black-and-white theme. Deepika Padukone’s picture looks like she is not wearing anything, since all the body parts you see are bare. Dabboo Ratnani says,“I wanted to make her look sensual, but aesthetic. Last year, I shot her in a sari, so this is in total contrast. She strikes a thinking, dreamy pose, and I have used lighting to match her mood. Normally, Bollywood is associated with bright colours. Black and white images are of the bygone eras but I opted for a stark B&W mood in the snapshots.”Every year, Dabboo starts his preparations in October. Although he has many interactions with the celebrities for their shots for magazines, movies and portfolios, every year, all of them take time out for the calendar. Ratnani says, “The shoot provides the stars a platform to experiment with their looks and styling.” The 2010 calendar includes celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Kajol, Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, John Abraham, Sonam Kapoor and Kangna Ranaut.

AAMIR KHAN SIGNS A 35-CRORE ENDORSEMENT DEAL Aamir Khan is on a high after the super success of his latest release, 3 Idiots. He has bagged the endorsement deal for a new telecom entrant, UAE’s Etisalat, for a whopping Rs 30 to 35 crores, for three years.With this, Aamir becomes the first and the only Indian actor to have been paid such a big amount for a brand promotion. The deal had been on for some time, but it was only recently that the entire plan was finalised. It may be mentioned here, that Aamir’s hardcore competitor, SRK, charges in the range of Rs 6 to 8 crores per advertisement. However, Aamir’s pay stands far behind the figures of the billiondollar lifetime endorsement that golf legend Tiger Woods signed, and the $70-million deal that Russian tennis sensation Maria Sharapova bagged early this month from Nike, for eight years. Aamir is already the brand ambassador of several brands like Parle, CocaCola, Tata Sky and Samsung.

FORECAST TAROT

forecast AQUARIUS The 2010 Aquarius yearly horoscope is full of unexpected surprises and events. Strength placed in your natal house will help you to achieve a lot that was not possible in the previous year. All Aquarians will be in an advantageous position that allows them to work hard towards their career and financial goals. People-to-people relationships will improve, while family-related issues will not pose any major problems. Strength denotes a strong personal character, with high self-worth and confidence and is the very foundation of the physical body. The card indicates qualities of perseverance, courage, resolve and inner strength that will see you through any tricky situations. It also indicates an ability to relate to others in an open and friendly way and to deal with life to the best of your ability.

KIREN RAI

K rai99@yahoo. com

INSPIRATIONAL DESIGN IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY

ARIES 21 March ~ 19 April

The Ace of Pentacles is the foundation for all kinds of projects in the real world.While it may not be the promise of long-lasting financial and material security that some might expect, it is the sign that such things are within your reach. It gives you the resources to go in search of higher goals.

TAURUS 20April ~ 20 May

The Knight of Pentacles often brings with it a sense of responsibility and the need to take charge of the situation. It has the strongest character of all the cards. You could be assigned a project or given a task which will require all your attention to see it through.

GEMINI 21 May ~ 20June

The Six of Wands brings a time when the strife and competition of the past are overcome and you can enjoy the spoils of victory. Though it is a purely physical victory that you will gain and not a spiritual one, it will be as enjoyable.

CANCER 21 June ~ 22 July

The Four of Cups is a card that urges moderation in relationships and all matters of the heart. This may seem like a good card, but it has a nasty sting lying in wait. It usually targets someone who becomes complacent about his happiness and pricks the bubble, so you end up losing what you have.

LEO 23 July ~ 22 August

The Ace of Wands is the initial burst of creativity and outpouring of energy that accelerates a project and inspires people to greatness. This is the spark that ignites and is like a torch that can guide you to success. However, you must be willing to carry the torch with you as you travel along that winding stream to happiness. The Ace can light your way so you can make the correct choices yourself.

VIRGO 23August ~ 22 September

The Ace of Swords denotes great power, in both love and hatred. It implies the use of such power to further one's ends, but is not explicit about the means to attain the end, nor what that end itself is.

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LIBRA 23September ~ 22October

The King of Swords' arrival in your life will never go unnoticed, because he appears only to drive away your negative emotions and instill your sense of impartiality in solving a problem. All obstacles will be surmounted with the King of Swords. Judge fairly, speak the truth and never waver from your standards.

SCORPIO 23October ~ 21 November

The Eight of Pentacles is about improving projects and ventures. This card can also show the need for meticulous attention. Now is not the time to be slipshod or casual. Look for errors, and tie up loose ends. The key to success is an extraordinary effort. Whatever your task, the Eight of Pentacles tells you to give it your all in every way.

SAGITTARIUS 22November ~ 21December

The Page of Cups is Cupid bringing you opportunities for love. He delivers opportunities to experience romance, deep feelings and the inner life–the wonders of the Cups suit. In readings, this Page suggests that an opening may appear that stirs your emotions, pulls at your heartstrings or brings you great joy. Act on it.

CAPRICORN 22December ~ 19 January

The Three of Cups shows expectations arising from the union of the Two of Cups. This could be pregnancy, a birth, engagement a marriage proposal, or perhaps a romantic interlude. Either way, those expectations are very likely to happen. Joy and celebrations are in the offing.

AQUARIUS 20January ~ 18 February

The Two of Cups demonstrates love between two people. Finding common happiness and feelings with another. Love, passion, friendship, affinity, union, concord, sympathy, the interrelation of the sexes–all these are on the cards. You will attain success in love and business and gain wealth and honour.

PISCES 19 February ~ 20 March

The Six of Cups brings in a time where you realise that not only does happiness come from within, but that you have to pursue your own happiness and fulfillment. Often, this card embraces all of childhood and the feelings associated with it–being carefree, playful, secure and loved.