MY Kempinski Experience, Issue 43, 1. 2017

N.43 · 2 · 2016

RICHARD MILLE BOUTIQUES GENEVA

PARIS

LONDON

ABU DHABI

MILAN

DUBAI

MONACO

DOHA

www.richardmille.com

BEIRUT

MUNICH

CALIBER RM 07-01

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Today is the best day to enjoy life and love.

Available at the finest jewellers and in all Wellendorff Boutiques in: Berlin • Düsseldorf • Frankfurt • Mainz Stuttgart • Munich as well as in Hong Kong • Beijing • Tokyo • Luxembourg • Vienna • Las Vegas and San Francisco. To create your personal memories, contact your Wellendorff expert at expert@wellendorff.com.

N.43 · 2 · 2016

MY KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE

CONTRIBUTORS My Kempinski Experience is published by HMI-ARTO 7 Avenue Villebois Mareuil 06000 Nice France, in association with the issuer Kempinski Hotels S.A. 28, Boulevard du Pont-d’Arve 1205 Geneva, Switzerland Bettina Heckmeier DESIGN – EDITING ARTO SAS Antoine Gauvin gauvin@arto-network.com Publication Manager: Dominique Dray Editor-in-Chief: Elaine Swift Artistic Director: Aïcha Bouckaert COPYWRITING – CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Patricia Engelhorn, Elaine Swift, Antoine Gauvin PHOTOGRAPHY - SOURCES Claes Bech Poulsen, AWL, Shutterstock

SRA BUA EXPERIENCE

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Asian cuisine with European flair BERLIN TIERGARTEN

PRINTED BY NAVA Press, Milano

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The revival of a centuries-old garden HOTEL ADLON KEMPINSKI

ADVERTISING HMI-ARTO Dominique Dray Phone: + 33 6 40 62 48 16 dominique@hmi-monaco.com www.kempinski-magazine.com

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New look and feel for an iconic hotel VIP GUESTS AT KEMPINSKI

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TAXIS!

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NOMINAL CHARGE 8 € ISSN 2409-2916 My Kempinski Experience magazine and its entire contents are copyrighted.

Duplication and syndication of any content, or parts thereof, is prohibited and subject to the publisher’s consent. Advertising and advertorial content do not necessarily represent the publisher’s opinion. The magazine is printed on special paper according to the current environment standards.

Legal deposit – DEC 2016

Around the world in six taxis WHAT’S NEW?

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LEVANTINE CUISINE

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LEBANON

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Renaissance on the Mediterranean KEMPINSKI SUMMERLAND HOTEL

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WEST AFRICAN ART IN ACCRA

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

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SHOPPING 3.0 HOT DESTINATIONS

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RESERVATION NUMBERS Please do not hesitate to call any of the below toll-free numbers below for reservations - available 24 hours per day.

Austria 00 800 426 313 55 Belgium 00 800 426 313 55 Brazil 0 800 891 3579 Canada 1 800 426 3135 China (Northern) 10 800 650 0362 China ( Southern) 10 800 265 0363 France 00 800 426 313 55

Germany 00 800 426 313 55 Hong Kong 001 800 426 313 55 Italy 00 800 426 313 55 Japan 00531 65 0007 Netherlands 00 800 426 313 55 Saudi Arabia 800 865 6046 Singapore 1 800 372 1410

Spain 00 800 426 313 55 Switzerland 00 800 426 313 55 United Kingdom 00 800 426 313 55 United Arab Emirates 800 0650 633 United States 1 800 426 3135

Standard international rates apply for calls from any other location: +49 180 501 0646

MY KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE M A G A Z I N E With a circulation of

70,000 per year,

“MY” KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE Kempinski’s way of communicating with its clients.

It extends the hotel experience, with articles on lifestyle, arts, culture, shopping and travel ideas.

70 of the group’s most beautiful hotels ,

Available twice a year in every room of

primarily in Europe, the Gulf region and Asia, the magazine is aimed at a high-income readership, made up of chief executives and senior managers.

E- M AGAZ I N E AVAI LAB LE FOR F RE E D OW N LOAD I N THE APP.STORE

CONTACT : DOMINIQUE DRAY ARTO -HMI 7 AVENUE VILLEBOIS-MAREUIL - 06000 NICE - FRANCE +33 (0)6 40 62 48 16 DOMINIQUE@HMI-MONACO.COM

Welcome to My Kempinski Experience where you’ll find a world of ideas for holidays and short breaks.

If you’re looking for a lively city break, then Berlin has much to offer. Take the time to venture out to the Tiergarten – a once forgotten area that has come to life again.

The rejuvenation of this area is partly due to the Bikini shopping centre with its cafes and restaurants. Elsewhere, the galleries along the ‘Art Mile’ on Potsdam Strasse form a vibrant cultural centre.

The iconic Hotel Adlon Kempinski is the ideal starting point from which to discover Berlin.

Rich in history, this much-loved Grand Hotel is a landmark in itself.

If you’re missing the sunshine then where better to go than Beirut? Located on the Mediterranean, the Lebanon’s capital city is perfect for a winter break. Only ten minutes away from city centre, the recently opened Kempinski Summerland Hotel and Resort is the ultimate in luxury and warm Lebanese hospitality. Take a look at what this property has to offer on page 52.

While you’re in Beirut, don’t miss a day-trip to the ancient city of Byblos. Find out why in our feature page 46.

West African artists are gaining international recognition and now, thanks to art collector, Marwan Zakhem’s vision and commitment, they are getting exposure at home for the first time. Marwan founded Gallery 1957 in Ghana, located within the newly built Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra to give local and international visitors a deeper understanding of artists from this region. Check out some of their work page 58.

We hope this issue of My Kempinski Experience will be a useful source of inspiration.

Whether you like the winter sun or prefer a European city stay, with 75 destinations around the world in our portfolio, there’s bound to be one that’s just right for you.

We look forward to welcoming you to one of our properties very soon.

MARKUS SEMER CHAIRMAN OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD & CEO

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Little Ninja cocktail: shozu, mint and grapefruit. The whole spirit of Sra Bua is there: unconventional, inventive, fresh and flavoursome.

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The Kempinski Group has created its own gastronomic concept combining the multifaceted diversity of Asian cuisine with the distinct culinary signatures of Europe’s top chefs.

At Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Berlin, that signature is Tim Raue’s. The 2-star chef has put all his talent into creating this original concept.

SRA BUA

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SRA BUA MEANS ‘LOTUS POND’ IN THAI, SO IT IS A SYMBOLIC REPRESENTATION OF VARIOUS ASIAN CULTURES AND THE SERENITY, CALM AND GAIETY WE ASSOCIATE WITH THAT CONTINENT. FOR CHEF DANIEL LENGSFELD THESE ARE KEY VALUES. HE BUILDS ON THEM EACH EVENING TO GIVE LIFE TO KEMPINKI’S SRA BUA CONCEPT. DISH: MONKFISH, JALAPEÑO, BEURRE BLANC, LETTUCE.

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THE TASTE OF ASIA DOESN’T STOP AT FLAVOURSOME FOOD. IT’S A WHOLE ART OF LIVING IN WHICH BEAUTY IS BORN OF SIMPLICITY, PURITY OF FORMS AND HARMONY OF COLOURS. BUT SUCH SIMPLICITY REQUIRES TIME, CONCENTRATION AND METICULOUS PREPARATION TO OFFER YOU MOMENTS OF PURE WONDER. DISH: CARABINEROS, FENNEL, PINEAPPLE.

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LEFT PAGE: DISH: AVOCADO, CHARD

THE COMMUNITY OF SRA BUA CHEFS ARE CONSTANTLY ENRICHING EACH OTHER’S CULINARY STYLES. AFTER THE SUCCESS OF THE FIRST SRA BUA IN BANGKOK, AND THE ONES IN FRANKFURT AND BERLIN, MORE SRA BUA RESTAURANTS ARE IN THE PIPELINE FOR THE MIDDLE EAST AND ASIA.

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Landwehrkanal in Tiergarten.

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In the heart of Berlin is a garden with over 200 hectares of greenery and serenity. The centuries-old Tiergarten, has recently undergone a major revival symbolic of West Berlin’s return to the international scene.

TIERGARTEN

BERLIN

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::: The Berlin Tiergarten - a new world in the old west :::

By Patricia Engelhorn

The Berlin Tiergarten is more than just a park with

embassies, or in the capital’s major media outlets. They

a zoo. Frederick the Great’s former pleasure gardens

are followed by tourists, mothers with prams, and older

have become a firm favourite for everyone who wants

people who have more time to sit on the benches to enjoy

a change from the vibrant and fashionable Mitte

the park and watch the world go by.

district.

The Berlin Tiergarten is sometimes compared with

The Tiergarten changes constantly throughout the day

New York’s Central Park, although at 210 hectares it is

reflecting the different groups of people who use it or

considerably smaller. But it does have a zoo! And with

just pass through. In the early morning it is almost a

a total of 18,600 animals, it’s home to the richest array

rural idyll as the first weak sunbeams push their way

of species in the world, including baboons, polar bears,

through the dense foliage of the trees. The only sound is

penguins, monkeys, zebras, and even scorpions.

of muffled traffic and birdsong.

Their kingdom is set in a privileged location in the

The first people to appear are joggers doing leisurely laps.

heart of the city, in a neighbourhood that’s enjoying an

They come from all directions, jogging along the paths

upturn in its popularity. Following the hype of Mitte

and past statues of Frederick William III, Queen Louise,

and Kreuzberg, Prenzlauer Berg and Friedrichshain,

and Richard Wagner. A little while later the cyclists arrive,

the Tiergarten is now considered to be one of the best

whizzing across the park to work in the federal ministries,

places for those who love Berlin’s offbeat style, mingled

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THIS PAGE: ALL AROUND THE TIERGARTEN ARE SUMPTUOUS CONTEMPORARY BUILDINGS. SUCH AS THE FEDERAL CHANCELLERY. FACING PAGE: THE HOUSE OF THE WORLD’S CULTURES DATES FROM 1957. TODAY IT HOSTS EXHIBITIONS, SHOWS, CONCERTS AND DANCE PERFORMANCES - ALL PART OF THE TIERGARTEN’S CULTURAL REVIVAL.

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with good taste and casual elegance. No wonder it’s a

will be designed by the Dutch architect, Rem Koolhaas,

magnet for young business people, the new stars of the

famous for Beijing’s TV tower, the Casa da Musica in

gastronomic world and the creative art scene.

Oporto and several Prada boutiques.

Tiergarten’s return to favour has certainly been helped

However, Tiergarten’s biggest draw is undoubtedly its

along by the Bikini shopping centre, which opened in

cultural scene. The House of World Cultures – or the

2014, establishing itself as an unmistakable landmark.

‘pregnant oyster’ as it is affectionately known among

This 17,000 square-metre concept mall comprises a

Berliners, stands in the park itself, and gives a platform

collection of listed buildings dating from the 50s, and is

to artistic productions from around the world.

very close to the Zoo station and the Memorial Church.

The old Amerika Haus on Hardenbergstrasse has been

Light wooden flooring contrasts subtly with the dark

home to the photography gallery, C/O Berlin, for the

metallic green of the interior and the improvised,

last two years. C/O Berlin has established itself as

unfinished look is part of the design. Wide staircases

a respected gallery over the last 15 years by staging

lead to the upper floors where you’ll find lots of nice

exhibitions by Annie Leibovitz, Nan Goldin and Peter

places to eat among popup stores and designer boutiques.

Lindbergh.

Make sure you visit the roof garden which overlook the

Numerous other galleries have established themselves

zoo’s monkey enclosure!

here too, and in fact, Potsdamer Strasse, between Lützow

Next door to the Bikini Centre stands the Zoo Palast

Ufer and Kurfürstenstrasse, is known as the art mile. It

cinema. Closed for many years and only narrowly

includes the Loock Gallery, Plan B Limited Gallery, and

escaping demolition, this 1950’s cinema reopened in

the Jarmuschek + Partner Gallery - all of which show

2013 and now offers wide leather chairs, service, finger

an innovative range of international contemporary art.

food and champagne.

With all that’s on offer, it’s hardly surprising so many

Tiergarden is also attracting hotels as more people

people, who once headed for Berlin’s new and trendy

want to stay in the area. Trendy brands, such as Uniqlo

east, have returned to the west of the city. Others stayed

and Urban Outfitters, are opening stores and a major

loyal all the time, because they knew that Tiergarten was

renovation is planned for the district’s traditional

always a great neighbourhood with a special place in the

shopping centre – KaDeWe. This ambitious project

hearts of Berliners. y

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::: Hotel Adlon Kempinski ::: The iconic Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin is located

Berlin’s most distinguished hotel. And since then, it has

in the very heart of the city, right next to the famous

constantly reinvented itself. In 2016, over the summer

Brandenburg Gate. Its unique location, legendary history,

months, the public areas, including the lobby, the lobby

opulent furnishings and décor, and of course impeccable

bar, the reception area, smoker’s lounge and business

service, make this grand hotel ideal for leisure travellers

centre, were completely renovated and refurbished.

as well as for social and corporate events.

The inspiration for the new look and feel came from the

The hotel’s 307 luxurious guestrooms, 78 exquisite

famous elephant fountain, a present from the Maharaja

suites, three restaurants and a magnificent spa and

of Patiala around 1930 to former owner, Lorenz Adlon.

wellness area are designed to attract the most elite guests

The rich and brilliant colours of warm gold, turquoise,

from all over the world.

blue-grey and silver reflect the Maharaja’s Indian

Hotel Adlon, which opened on 23 October 1907, owes its

culture. Selected antiques and elegant furniture from

name to its original owner, Lorenz Adlon, who invested

Italy, magnificent Murano glass chandeliers and fine

20 million gold marks and two years into its creation.

materials, such as limestone, leather, brass and onyx,

Badly damaged during WWII (admittedly after suffering

are characteristic elements of the new design, which

several decades of decay) Hotel Adlon rose from the

successfully combines the splendour of the hotel’s

ashes in 1997 and quickly reclaimed its reputation as

golden past with contemporary 21st-century features. y

HOTEL ADLON KEMPINSKI BERLIN UNTER DEN LINDEN 77, 10117 BERLIN, GERMANY TEL. +49 30 2261 0 HOTEL.ADLON@KEMPINSKI.COM

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THE ‘MAHARADSCHA TORTE’ IS A LIGHT AND DARK POUND CAKE WITH SPICED CHERRIES, A LIGHT VANILLA CREAM WITH INDIAN FLAVOURS AND A DARK CHOCOLATE COATING. IT IS A FLAVOURSOME HOMAGE TO THE HOTEL ADLON’S CELEBRATED FOUNTAIN, A GIFT FROM THE MAHARAJA OF PATIALA TO LORENZ ADLON, THE HOTEL’S FOUNDER. YOU CAN ENJOY THIS DELICIOUS CAKE IN THE HOTEL’S NEW LOBBY.

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THE NEW LOOK OF THE FULLY REFURBISHED LOBBY IS INSPIRED BY THE INDIA OF THE MAHARAJAS. IT MAKES THIS HOTSPOT OF BERLIN’S SOCIETY A HAVEN OF GENTLE COMFORT.

Boost your comfort with high class mobility.

(Preferred rates for hotel guests and additional benefits for DISCOVERY members. Book your Sixt car online at sixt.com/kempinski)

sixt.com/kempinski 31

Guests at Kempinski

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1 STAR PHOTOGRAPHER ALBERT WATSON AND GENERAL MANAGER RETO STÖCKENIUS AT KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS ST. MORITZ ::: 2 THE YOUNG POPE PARTY AT SAN CLEMENTE PALACE KEMPINSKI VENICE JUDE LAW AND SCOTT SHEPHERD ::: 3 GENERAL MANAGER WISSAM SULEIMAN WITH TYRESE GIBSON AT MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL DOHA ::: 4 GÉRARD DEPARDIEU WITH HOTEL PERSONNEL AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL BERCHTESGADEN ::: 5 GENERAL MANAGER PETER KNOLL WITH HIS MAJESTY KING HAMAD BIN ISA AL KHALIFA AT PALAIS HANSEN KEMPINSKI VIENNA. ::: 6 GENERAL MANAGER THIERRY LAVALLEY WITH SWISS PROFESSIONAL TENNIS PLAYER STANISLAS WAWRINKA AT GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI GENEVA ::: 7 GENERAL MANAGER STEPHAN INTERTHAL WITH GERMAN OPERATIC TENOR JONAS KAUFMANN AT KEMPINSKI HOTEL CORVINUS BUDAPEST ::: 8 GENERAL MANAGER RALPH RADTKE AND HRH PRINCE MOULAY RACHID OF MOROCCO AT ÇIRAĞAN PALACE KEMPINSKI ISTANBUL ::: 9 HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH AHMED BIN SAEED AL MAKTOUM, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF EMIRATES AIRLINE & GROUP ::: 10 ANDREJ KISKA, PRESIDENT OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC WITH GENERAL MANAGER KATHRIN NOLL AT GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI HIGH TATRAS

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In many cities around the world, taxis are as much part of the culture as the shops, restaurants, museums and galleries they take us to.

Discover iconic and fun ways to travel.

TAXIS!

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PREVIOUS PAGES FAMOUS NEW YORK YELLOW CAB. LEFT PAGE ICONIC BLACK CAB, LONDON. RIGHT PAGE FUN TWO-STROKE TUK-TUK, COLOMBO.

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::: Around the world in six taxis :::

By Elaine Swift

Down the years, we’ve invented many ways to move

become a fully licensed London cab driver. That includes

around our busy cities – from the man-powered

driving the 320 set routes in the Blue Book on the moped,

sedan chair in 18th century Britain to the fun, two-

and constant comprehensive testing on attitude as well as

stroke engine tuk-tuk in Asia. We’ve harnessed the

knowledge. It’s no wonder London cabbies are said to be

waterways too in our bid to get from A to B – you can

the best in the world.

even travel by speedboat in Venice! Let’s take a look

NEW YORK New York’s yellow cabs are a must for any

at the most famous, and some of the more fun ways to

tourist to The Big Apple. Not only do you feel like you’re

get around the world’s cities.

in a movie, they’re an easy way to get around. There are around 12,000 yellow cabs on Manhattan, and of the

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LONDON Drivers of London’s iconic black cabs are

144,000 cabbies that drive them, 96%, are people from

renowned for their amazing ability to get you anywhere

other countries who have made The USA their home. While

you want to go without needing a map or satnav. That’s

you might not get the friendly banter you often get from

because they have The Knowledge. Next time you’re in

a London cabbie, listen out for the quirky safety messages

London, look out for mopeds with clipboards on the

recorded by celebrities that play as you take your seat!

front. You can be fairly sure their riders are studying

VENICE While many cities have water taxis, Venice

for The Knowledge. It takes up to two and half years to

wins hands down on romance. Gondolas are possibly the

most expensive cabs in the world but what a wonderful,

driver weaves his way through the city’s traffic with little

leisurely way to travel around this ancient city. If you want

regard for road rules or other vehicles! Tuk-tuks are only

to get there faster you could take a speed-boat taxi known

supposed to carry two passengers but don’t worry if there

locally as acquei or motoscafi. But the least expensive way

are more of you – your driver will find a way to fit you

to explore Venice by cruising along its canals is to take a

all in. Travelling in a four-wheeled, air-conditioned cab is

Traghetto or gondola ferry.

often cheaper but not nearly as much fun! In stark contrast

DUBAI Step out of Dubai’s airport terminal building

to the tuk-tuk and its air polluting two-stroke engine, cycle

and you can’t fail to notice the line of smart beige vehicles

rickshaws are the greenest way to get from A to B in many

with pink roofs. But sorry guys, driven by women wearing

major cities now like London and Vancouver. Known by a

white headscarves and pink hats, the Pink Taxis are for

variety of names such as bike taxis, velotaxis, pedicabs and

female passengers only. And they’ve proved incredibly

bikecabs, they are a novel way to get back to your hotel

popular with locals and visitors alike. Launched in 2007

after the theatre or a meal out, passing floodlit landmarks

with just ten cars, there are now 56 Pink Taxis driven by

at a gentle pace.

around 140 women of various nationalities. A little like

So next time you’re in one of the world’s great cities,

London cabbies, Pink Taxi drivers undergo stringent tests

embrace some of the more unusual ways to travel around.

before getting their licence, including passenger safety and

When you land at JFK, add a bit of glitz to your trip and

knowledge of Dubai’s main tourist destinations.

hire a stretch-limo to drive you into Manhattan. Hop on

BANGKOK No matter how risky it looks, taking a ride

a Piaggio Ape on Ischia and zip around the island – what

in a colourful, three-wheeled tuk-tuk is almost mandatory

better way to capture the spirit of Italy?

when visiting Bangkok. Hold on tight though as your

Always remember - it’s better to travel! y

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Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski Premier Suite Lounge

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the Middle East, Africa and Asia for the very best in luxury.

our clients, whether it be the opening of a new restaurant, gallery, or wellness spa. Visit our properties in Europe,

At Kempinski, we take great pride in bringing you the latest additions to the range of exceptional services we offer

WHAT’S NEW?

::: Saudi Arabia ::: Kempinski Serviced apartments in the Kingdom’s capital BURJ RAFAL HOTEL KEMPINSKI RIYADH

Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski, Riyadh has launched its spacious and elegantly designed serviced apartments. Available for short-term or long-term rentals, there are various sizes from 67 to 128 sq metres, with either one, two or three bedrooms.

Burj Rafal Hotel Kempinski combines European luxury and Arabian hospitality in the heart of the Kingdom. Its impressive blend of stylish modern Najdi architecture makes it one of the landmarks in the Kingdom’s capital.

::: Hungary ::: The Kitchen Caters on earth, water and sky KEMPINSKI HOTEL CORVINUS BUDAPEST

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest launched its new catering service brand, The Kitchen Caters, in September 2016.

The concept refines traditional event cuisine, taking it to a new level, to create a bespoke restaurant-quality experience.

The Kitchen Caters sets up a comprehensive infrastructure, with provisions for any eventuality. Whatever guests might need will be on hand - just like in a restaurant.

::: Lithuania ::: New Outlet at Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square KEMPINSKI HOTEL CATHEDRAL SQUARE VILNIUS

The new Atelier Wine Boutique & Tasting Bar opened in October at the luxurious Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square.

The bar features more than 240 wines, accompanied by an international snack selection, and is run by the Lithuanian Sommelier Competition Champion, Martynas Pravilionis, who promises an exceptional individual service!

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::: Djibouti ::: The Horn of Africa’s, leading luxury hotel DJIBOUTI PALACE KEMPINSKI

The Djibouti Palace Kempinski celebrated its 10th anniversary on 10 November 2016. The hotel has hosted, amongst its guests, major political leaders from around the globe and has provided them with refined European luxury.

::: Indonesia ::: OKU delivers modern Japanese taste HOTEL INDONESIA KEMPINSKI JAKARTA

Premium Japanese restaurant, OKU is the latest addition to Jakarta’s vibrant culinary scene. Presided over by Chef Kazumasa Yazawa, OKU offers a modern take on Japanese dishes combined with traditional flair. This, together with its Zen-like atmosphere and laid-back jazzy vibes, makes OKU perfect for business lunches, special-occasion dinners and as an after work destination. OKU is located at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta.

::: Qatar ::: The Royal experience MARSA MALAZ KEMPINSKI, THE PEARL - DOHA

Spend your day like royalty with Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl – Doha and Rolls-Royce. You will be chauffeured in your choice of Rolls-Royce to the private island and your 650 square-metre suite, decorated with the finest furnishings and fabrics, where your personal butler awaits your arrival.

After serving you a royal breakfast, your butler will organise whatever you need, from a treatment in the Spa by Clarins to a romantic dinner in a private gazebo.

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::: UAE ::: The Aspen Ski Chalets, refreshingly different KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES DUBAI

Experience a luxury Aspen winter retreat in Dubai with the newly renovated Aspen Chalets. The Aspen Ski Chalets offer the perfect place to relax after a day in the shops of Mall of the Emirates or on the slopes of Ski Dubai. With 15 rooms in total, the facilities include free wi-fi, Bose sound systems, comfortable dining areas, and in-room dining. Additional comforts include complimentary access to the Executive Lounge and luxury Hermès amenities with a personalised Butler service to cater for all your needs.

Executive chef Sudqi Naddaf and his favourite dishes: traditional falafel, fattoush soup and the very popular maqluba, a dish of rice, fried vegetables and chicken, cooked in a pot which is flipped upside down to serve.

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Levantine cuisine

::: A dinning experience at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates ::: Levantine is the traditional cuisine of the Levant. The region, known in Arabic as Bilad ash-Sham or Land of the North, spans the modern states of Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, southern Turkey and Cyprus.

Authentic tastes, ingredients and aromas of the Levant, home cuisine and the look and feel of a welcoming modern Arabian restaurant can be found at Olea at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, which presents a complete Levantine dining experience that will delight all the senses.

From the Homos Beiruti of Lebanon and the Nayeh (raw meat) selection of Syria, to the Sultan Ibrahim of Cyprus and Soft Kunafa of Palestine, at Olea you will experience the best of Levantine cuisine. The Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates has pulled out all the stops to ensure genuine authenticity, with a 14-strong team of hand-picked chefs that together represent Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Palestine. Led by Executive Chef Sudqi Naddaf, a creative and inspiring chef who has put Middle Eastern cuisine on the international culinary map, the team adopt traditional cooking methods and present their signature dishes in a dazzling tableside presentation. True to the tradition of dining in the Levant, at Olea, authentic Levantine cuisine is coupled with the gracious hospitality inimitably associated with the region, ensuring a festive atmosphere with each dining experience.

OLEA LEVANTINE RESTAURANT KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES DUBAI RESERVATIONS@OLEA-DUBAI.COM TEL. +971 4 409 5111

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Forever the pearl of the Middle East.

LEBANON

With its magnificent view of the Pigeons’ Rock, The Corniche, Beirut’s waterfront promenade, is popular with walkers, joggers, street artists and romantics alike.

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::: Renaissance on the Mediterranean :::

By Patricia Engelhorn

Portofino. Saint-Tropez. Ibiza. All fabulous places,

Lebanon is a country with a great history and a difficult

but it’s highly likely you’ve already been there. So it’s

present, characterised by rises and falls, political crises

time for somewhere new and the latest trendy desti-

and vital energy. Civil war, mountains and beaches - ev-

nation is the historic port of Byblos, in Lebanon.

erything seems to be linked here in some way.

It is one of those wonderfully warm late summer eve-

Its capital, Beirut, with two million inhabitants, is con-

nings in September. The sinking sun bathes the ancient

sidered to be a hidden gem by trendsetters and discern-

fortress walls of the citadel in golden light, while the

ing travellers. They are attracted by its beauty, its loca-

harbour restaurants serve tabbouleh, baba ghanouj,

tion on the Mediterranean, fantastic weather, excellent

hommos and grilled squid. Tourists and locals alike en-

cuisine, its parties and relatively relaxed customs, as well

joy a stroll along the harbour, or sit with a glass of wine

as the elegance of its inhabitants with their infectious

watching the sun set over the Mediterranean.

joie de vivre.

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The atmosphere feels more Mediterranean than orien-

buildings have been built on the rocky coastline to the

tal, and the same ambience can be found outside the

south of the centre, and the nightlife has almost reached

capital too. For if Beirut is said to be the Paris of the

big city standards. Byblos is no longer just a hang-out

Middle East then Byblos, with its port, citadel, beaches,

for wealthy Lebanese living abroad and the country’s

and fish restaurants, is its Saint-Tropez. And this pretty

nouveau riche.

harbour city is just over an hour from Beirut by car -

Daytime attractions include the cobblestone alleyways

perfect for a day trip.

around the citadel, sandstone villas with flowering ole-

Among the café terraces, excursion boats and archaeo-

ander bushes, and the stalls and shops of the carefully

logical sites, if it weren’t for the calls of the muezzin at

renovated souks. And when it’s time to relax, head for

frequent intervals, you could be in Italy or Greece.

the casual surfer beach bars to drink Lebanese Almaza

Considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhab-

beer from the bottle.

ited places in the world, Byblos is located on several

Byblos is now also a destination for Beirut night owls

sites of archaeological importance. The oldest ruins date

looking for an alternative to the capital’s crowded clubs.

back to the Stone Age, but the Phoenicians, Romans,

In the evening, partygoers crowd through the old town,

Babylonians, Persians and Ottomans have also left their

dancing in the open air into the early hours.

mark. It is rare to have a combination of so many dif-

But dancing is not a ‘must’ in Byblos. You could visit

ferent antiquities and it’s why Byblos has been a Unesco

one of the stylish beach clubs in the north and south of

World Heritage Site for over 30 years.

the town or sail from Beirut by yacht. Just don’t forget

The numbers of visitors and new restaurants have been

to toot the horn loudly on entering the harbour! y

steadily increasing since 2010. Luxurious apartment

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::: Kempinski Summerland Hotel and Resort ::: To this day, people still travel from different corners

pools set in the grounds, and the glittering beach oasis.

of the world to visit Lebanon’s Beirut - the city that

The architectural wonder that defines the inner walls

was once known as the Pearl of the Middle East.

of Kempinski Summerland is inspired by Lebanon’s

To us, and thousands of others, Beirut’s magic has

glorious history and Beirut’s golden years. The hotel’s

never faded and the newly renovated Kempinski

interior is bound to captivate all visitors with its elements

Summerland Hotel and Resort is here to affirm that.

of the past that blend with those of the present.

Kempinski Summerland is just footsteps away from

The art of cuisine is as important to the Lebanese as

a delightful sandy beach and is filled with memories

it is to the Kempinski Group, and an array of diverse

of the city’s iconic Summerland Resort. It is a place

restaurants are ambassadors of the hotel’s expertise in

where children run on the smooth shore, families laugh

all things gourmet. Seven dining venues offer a blend

together, and couples enjoy a romantic getaway. The new

of modern creations with a traditional touch, and the

hotel recaptures the past, reliving yesterday’s memories

unparalleled standard of food and beverage concepts are

blended with today’s magic.

signed by Kempinski Summerland’s world-class head

This is an exceptional experience like no other. While

Chef.

blissfully secluded, the resort is located ten minutes

The completely renovated Kempinski Summerland

from Beirut’s historic downtown, surrounded by the

accommodates guests seeking to relive Summerland’s

city’s warm blue waters.

magical past, and those who want to create new

Private bungalows and 153 elegantly furnished rooms

memories by carefully blending times gone by with a

and suites overlook tall swaying palm trees, a complex of

refined standard of heightened European excellence. y

KEMPINSKI SUMMERLAND HOTEL & RESORT AL AKHTAL AL SAGHIR JNAH, BEIRUT - LEBANON TEL. +961 1 858 000

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UNIQUE SETTINGS AND CAPTIVATING VIEWS

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A PRIVATE GETAWAY BY THE SEA. FLOWING CHAMPAGNE, PRIVATE JACUZZI, PRIVATE RELAXING AREA, DAZZLING VIEWS, AND ACCESS TO THE ENTIRE RESORT. PERFECT FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY. BOTTOM: PRESIDENTIAL SUITE WITH EXQUISITE GRANDEUR – A COMPLETELY RESTORED 400 YEAR OLD HAND-PAINTED CEILING. PASSION FOR PERFECTION.

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to the world’s best luxury fine dining magazine today TO SUBSCRIBE, SIMPLY EMAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS@FOUR-MAGAZINE.COM WWW.FOUR-MAGAZINE.COM

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African artists, and to gain a deeper understanding of the breadth of their practice through exhibitions and off-site projects.

With an initial curatorial focus on contemporary Ghanaian art, Gallery 1957 gives visitors the opportunity to discover West

IN ACCRA

WEST AFRICAN ART

SERGE ATTUKWEI CLOTTEY , My Mother’s Wardrobe, performance at Gallery 1957. Serge Attukwei Clottey is the founder of Ghana’s GoLokal performance collective and creator of Afrogallonism.

‘My Mother’s Wardrobe’, his powerful testimony to his mother following her death, was Gallery 1957’s inaugural exhibition.

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JEREMIAH QUARSHIE, Yellow is the Colour of Water, 2016, Acrylic on canvas. Left page: ‘Stephanie’ Right page: ‘Ama K’ (work in progress) and ‘Franklina’. Quarshie’s intricately detailed portraits reference the traditions of the Old Masters. His work questions the boundaries of portraiture which he repositions from being an elite practice to a medium for raising critical questions about the social conditions of the masses.

::: The home of contemporary West African art :::

By Elaine Swift

Named after the year Ghana gained independence,

avid collector or their work.

Gallery 1957 opened in March 2016. The 140sq metre

“The work I encountered in Senegal and Ghana had a

space is located within the newly built Kempinski Hotel

real aesthetic power to it and reflected the society of our

Gold Coast City Accra. The gallery, which opened with

time,” he says. “There is an abundance of talented artists in

a performance and installation by Ghanaian artist,

West Africa, and many of the artists the gallery represents

Serge Attukwei Clottey, is the ideal location for local

are gaining a presence in international museums and

audiences and international visitors to gain a deeper

biennales. However, there isn’t an infrastructure for art in

understanding of artists from this region.

Ghana, which limits opportunities for them to reach new

Marwan Zakhem, founder of the gallery, developed a

audiences at home.”

passion for contemporary African art when he moved to

Although initially the curatorial focus will be on

the continent to take up his role as managing director

contemporary Ghanaian art, the gallery will present a

of his family’s engineering and construction business.

programme of exhibitions, installations and performances

Based in Accra, Ghana since 2003, Marwan got to know

by the region’s most significant artists. The gallery’s

many of the artists working in the region and became an

ambition is to expand beyond its walls into public places. y

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ZOHRA OPOKU, Sassa, installation view at Gallery 1957. RIGHT PAGE Rhododendron, 2016, Screen-print on textile. With a background in both fashion and photography, Zohra Opoku’s versatile work expands across installation, performance and lens-based media. Opoku’s examination of textile culture considers fashion’s political, psychological and socio-cultural role in African history, as well as individual and social identities.

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at kempinski.com and selecting the special rate option. More information at kempinski.com/ghadiscovery

Members can benefit from this exclusive rate simply by accessing their membership account

DISCOVERY members receive a special rate with a minimum of 10% off, via kempinski.com

Kempinski DISCOVERY

LOCAL EXPERIENCE

KEMPINSKI HOTEL HARBIN

Siberian Tiger Park ticket for two The Tiger Park was founded to save and protect Amur tigers - one of the world’s most endangered species.

As well as the wonderful domesticated Amur tigers themselves, there are also beautiful gardens to enjoy and a fascinating science exhibition hall. Our offer includes a pair of tickets and a pickup service.

HOTEL INDONESIA KEMPINSKI JAKARTA

Experience the world’s most expensive coffee Sample the famous Luwak coffee – the most expensive in the world – together with a fine range of traditional Indonesian teas. You will also be treated to a spread of tasty local sweets mixed with premium chocolate, and indulgent cakes, prepared by our Executive Pastry Chef.

KEMPINSKI HOTEL BAHIA MARBELLA ESTEPONA

Spanish wine tasting Andalusian wine has come a long way since 1100BC when the Phoenicians first planted vineyards in the fertile Cadiz area. Today, there are over 40,000 hectares of vines planted in 20 regions and Andalucía is becoming revered worldwide as an important centre for wine-lovers. From the historic sherry of Jerez, to the up-and-coming new vineyards near Ronda and Granada, Andalusia produces numerous top-quality wines.

To showcase them, we’ve created a special wine experience at the Terrace Bar beside the Lobby Lounge, hosted by our wine expert. You can taste, sniff, and savour Spain’s best wines, served with regional ham and specialty cheeses, with a fabulous sea view as a backdrop.

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KEMPINSKI PALACE PORTOROZ

Visit Farm Fonda Arrive in style with a luxury private transfer to the pier of Portorož, from where you’ll continue your journey to the Fonda fish farm by boat. During the 15-minute boat trip your guide will tell you all about the area including Piran Bay, Piran Salina, the Regional Park, and of course the fishing reserve. At the fish farm you’ll be shown how the fish are manually fed, learn about the farming methods used, and there will be a presentation on the history of the Fonda Piran sea bass brand. After the presentation you’ll enjoy a delightful local culinary experience with sea bass as the main ingredient.

Finish your day with a delicious collection of local products in your room.

HOTEL VIER JAHRESZEITEN KEMPINSKI MUNICH

Baking hour Meet Ian Baker, Patissier of the Year 2015 and discover his secrets! This fabulous 90-minutes baking lesson, in the fully equipped event kitchen, will inspire you with creative new ideas. Learn the tricks of the trade from a true pâtissier who works his magic daily for the guests at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich in the Jahreszeiten Lobby.

KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS ST. MORITZ

Preda - Bergun toboggan run Arriving in Preda by train is an adventure in itself as you cross the 90-metre high Solis and Landwasser viaducts, and travel through the twisting tunnels of the Albula valley. Once in Preda, even wilder curves await intrepid tobogganers! The winding run finishes six kilometres later in Bergun after dropping 400 metres in altitude. Those who want to continue the adrenalin rush will enjoy the thrill of travelling on the Rhaetian Railway back to Preda!

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JETPACK JB-09 DELIVERY JUNE 2017- 250 000 EUR www.aerostar.mc BROUGHT TO LIFE BY THE CREATORS OF THE WORLD’S FIRST CIVILIAN ROCKETBELT, AS FLOWN AT THE LOS ANGELES OLYMPIC GAMES OPENING CEREMONY – JETPACK AVIATION HAS DEVELOPED THE WORLD’S ONLY TRUE JETPACK. POWERED

BY TWO STATE OF THE ART TURBINE JET ENGINES, THAT HAVE BEEN SPECIALLY ADAPTED AFTER MANY YEARS OF DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING, THE JB-9 IS THE SMALLEST AND LIGHTEST JETPACK EVER CREATED.

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of high-tech objects designed for your pleasure.

The future has arrived, vibrant, connected and mobile. Here’s a selection

SHOPPING 3.0

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V SPEAKER BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED TO GIVE YOU CRYSTAL-CLEAR SOUND WHEREVER YOU ARE, THE V SPEAKER HAS BEEN CREATED WITH AIRCRAFTGRADE ALUMINIUM, WITH CONVENIENT ‘INSTANT-CONNECT’ BLUETOOTH PAIRING, A BUILT-IN MICROPHONE AND BESPOKE DUAL 50MM DRIVERS FOR AN UNMATCHED AUDIO EXPERIENCE. www.vertu.com ::: HERO5 BLACK IS THE MOST POWERFUL AND EASY TO USE GOPRO EVER, THANKS TO ITS 4K VIDEO, VOICE CONTROL, ONE-BUTTON SIMPLICITY, TOUCH DISPLAY AND WATERPROOF DESIGN. SMOOTH STABILIZED VIDEO, CRYSTAL-CLEAR AUDIO AND PRO-QUALITY PHOTO CAPTURE COMBINE WITH GPS TO MAKE HERO5 BLACK SIMPLY THE BEST GOPRO. www.gopro.com ::: Right page and left background: THETOUCH THETOUCH’S MISSION IS TO MAKE THE MOST PERSONAL CONNECTING TOOLS. ITS FIRST PRODUCT, HB RING, LETS USERS SEE AND FEEL THE REAL-TIME HEARTBEAT OF THEIR LOVED ONE ON THEIR RING. www.thetouchx.com

THE CYCLOTRON BIKE IS BUILT FROM SPACE GRADE CARBON FIBRE AND FEATURES HIGH-TECH SENSORS & ELECTRONICS. IT IS THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED BICYCLE. www.cyclotronbike.com

Don’t delay - check out our offers at www.kempinski.com.

A selection of great Kempinski destinations where you can chill out, come alive, marvel, be thrilled and be pampered.

DESTINATION

HOT

VIEW FROM HOTEL BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI MOSCOW

Hotel Baltschug Kempinski Moscow ENJOYING AN ENVIABLE LOCATION OVERLOOKING THE KREMLIN AND RED SQUARE, THE LEGENDARY HOTEL BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI MOSCOW HAS LONG BEEN THE HIDEAWAY OF CHOICE FOR BUSINESS TRAVELLERS, POLITICIANS AND SOPHISTICATED GLOBETROTTERS. THE HOTEL HAS 227 ELEGANT ROOMS, INCLUDING THE UNIQUE COLLECTION OF DESIGN AND PANORAMIC SUITES, WHICH OFFER SCENIC VIEWS OVER MOSCOW. HOTEL BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI MOSCOW REINTERPRETS CLASSIC EUROPEAN LUXURY COMBINING HISTORICAL FEATURES WITH ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND LOCAL CHARM. kempinski.com/moscow

Sunrise Kempinski Hotel, Beijing & Yanqi Island SUNRISE KEMPINSKI HOTEL BEIJING & YANQI ISLAND IS KEMPINSKI’S LARGEST PROPERTY IN CHINA. LOCATED 60 KM NORTH OF BEIJING’S CITY CENTRE, ALONGSIDE THE PICTURESQUE YANQI LAKE IT OFFERS PANORAMIC VIEWS OF YAN MOUNTAIN AND THE MUTIANYU SECTION OF THE GREAT WALL. THIS NEW DESTINATION IS MANAGED BY KEMPINSKI AND OWNED BY THE STATE OWNED BEIJING ENTERPRISE GROUP. IT COMPRISES 594 GUESTROOMS AND SUITES HOUSED ACROSS SUNRISE KEMPINSKI HOTEL, LOCATED ALONGSIDE THE LAKE, TOGETHER WITH THE YANQI HOTEL AND 12 BOUTIQUE HOTELS, SITUATED ON YANQI ISLAND. LEISURE FACILITIES INCLUDE 11 RESTAURANTS AND BARS, TWO KEMPINSKI THE SPAS, A PRIVATE MARINA, THE YANQI PAGODA, RECREATIONAL AND FITNESS FACILITIES, TWO KIDS CLUBS AND BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GARDENS. kempinski.com/sunrise

SECLUSION, TRANQUILLITY AND BREATHTAKING VIEWS

WHERE LUXURY BLENDS HARMONIOUSLY WITH NATURE

Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay DIP YOUR TOES INTO A SLEEK SWIMMING POOL, KICK BACK ON THE WHITE SANDY BEACH OVERLOOKING THE ALLURING RED SEA, WALK THROUGH SPARKLING WATERFALLS AND SWIM IN CRYSTAL-BLUE LAGOONS. EXPLORE EGYPT’S BEST-KEPT SECRET AND EXPERIENCE A MYRIAD OF ACTIVITIES SUCH AS DIVING, GOLFING, KITESURFING AND SAILING. UNDER THE BLUE SKY, AMID SWAYING PALMS AND BESIDE THE GENTLE SURFING WAVES, THE HOTEL FEATURES SOME OF THE MOST PRISTINE COASTAL GEMS. IT’S ARCHITECTURE IS INSPIRED BY THE MYSTIQUE AND NOBILITY OF THE ANCIENT MOORISH FORTRESS WITH ORIENTAL ACCENTS, AND BLENDS THE EUROPEAN TRADITION OF LUXURIOUS, IMPECCABLE SERVICE WITH LOCAL WARMTH AND CHARM. Kempinski.com/somabay

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest OUTSIDE: KEMPINSKI HOTEL CORVINUS’S BOLDLY MODERN EDIFICE ELECTRIFIES THE BUDAPEST URBANSCAPE AND ALL THE MUSTSEE LANDMARKS ARE WITHIN EASY REACH. INSIDE: THE RECENTLY REFURBISHED GROUND FLOOR, WITH ITS GASTRONOMIC QUARTER DOWNTOWN BUDAPEST CONCEPT, FEATURES NOBU, ÉS BISZTRÓ, TWO BARS, TWO TERRACES AND TWO CAFÉS. AND RELAX! KEMPINSKI THE SPA’S TREATMENTS PROVIDE CALM, REST, AND RELAXATION. KEMPINSKI HOTEL CORVINUS BUDAPEST MAKES LUXURY, CARE, COMFORT AND CULINARY EXPERIENCES EXTRAORDINARY. kempinski.com/budapest

LUXURY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS AND THE CITY AT YOUR FEET.

New NOMOS watches for premieres, podiums, and parties: such as Metro neomatik nachtblau, depicted here. Find this and other timepieces with the NOMOS swing system and the automatic movement of the next generation now at selected retailers. More at nomos-store.com, nomos-glashuette.com.