N.41 · DEC 15
MY KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE
MY KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE
CONTRIBUTORS My Kempinski Experience is published by HMI-Multiprint Monaco 9, avenue Albert II BP 438 98011 MONACO CEDEX Phone: + 377 97 98 40 00 dominique@hmi-monaco.com www.kempinski-magazine.com 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 info@arto-network.com Publication Manager: Dominique Dray Editor-in-Chief: Moyette Marrett Artistic Director: Aïcha Bouckaert Production: Cécile Goiran-Vierne COPYWRITING – CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Moyette Marret, John Arlidge, Patricia Engelhorn, Elaine Swift PHOTOGRAPHY - SOURCES Art of chocolate: Claes Bech Poulsen Page 28 ©Collection Roger-Viollet Authentic Levantine flavours: Claes Bech-Poulsen
ABU DHABI Saadiyat Island: a grand architectural project EMIRATES PALACE Divine Arabian Luxury CHOCOLATE A sweet history VIP GUESTS AT KEMPINSKI LOCAL EXPERIENCES Kempinski discovery AUTHENTIC LEVANTINE FLAVOURS WHAT’S NEW? NEW CAIRO, ROYAL OPENING ST MORITZ Simply stunning WINTER SHOPPING WOMAN’S VIEW Surrealist collage HOT DESTINATIONS
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St Moritz: Page 56 swiss-image.ch/Romano Salis Page 59 swiss-image.ch/Robert Boesch Shutterstock ADVERTISING HMI Monaco 9, avenue Albert II BP 438 98011 MONACO CEDEX Phone: + 377 97 98 40 00 dominique@hmi-monaco.com www.kempinski-magazine.com PRINTED BY Horizon, Gémenos France NOMINAL CHARGE 8e ISSN 2409-2916 My Kempinski Experience magazine and its entire content 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 – Monaco DECEMBER 2015
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MY KEMPINSKI EXPERIENCE
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MY Kempinski Magazine is the exclusive in-room magazine distributed in more than 50 hotels worldwide. With a circulation of 70,000, MY Kempinski magazine is Kempinski’s way of communicating with its clients. It extends the hotel experience, with articles on lifestyle, arts, culture, shopping and travel ideas. Available twice a year in every room of the group’s most beautiful hotels, primarily in Europe and the Gulf region, the magazine is aimed at a high-income readership made up of chief executives, senior managers and independent professionals.
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At Kempinski, we are enthusiastic advocates of refinement and culture, embracing artistic creativity in its many different forms. Whether you’re in search of winter sun or something closer to home; whether you want a cultural experience or a shopping extravaganza, we hope you’ll find inspiration in this winter edition of MY Kempinski Experience. In Abu Dhabi, you can enjoy both sunshine and culture. Opening later in 2016, the Louvre is the first of five museums and galleries, which will be built over the next five years. Each one will be a spectacular monument to art, designed by world-famous architects. And where better to stay in Abu Dhabi than another architectural wonder? The Emirates Palace was built as a national monument, yet despite its imposing appearance, you’ll find a traditionally warm Arabian welcome awaits you. Our feature on Abu Dhabi reveals the beauty of one of the world’s most luxurious hotels and gives you a preview of the city’s new cultural hub. Staying with the Middle East, we take a closer look at Levantine cuisine. Colourful, aromatic, flavoursome dishes with pulses, fresh vegetables, fish, seafood and white meat are characteristic of this vibrant style of cooking, intended to be enjoyed with family and friends. You’ll find a feast for your eyes on page 36. Set in a breathtakingly beautiful Alpine landscape, with its world famous ski runs, art galleries, chic boutiques and restaurants, St. Moritz is renowned as a winter playground for the rich and famous. It’s also the first village to be registered as a trademark. In our feature on page 52, we discover how this little village in the Alps gained such a glamorous reputation. There are few foods quite as indulgent or luxurious as chocolate. While many of us agree chocolate is a heavenly treat, the Aztecs really did believe the cocoa plant was a gift from the gods! But did you know that chocolate has a 4,000-year history, during which time it was also thought to be an aphrodisiac? We celebrate the art of chocolate on page 22 and reveal our own homage to one of the world’s favourite foods. We hope you enjoy this journey through the world of Kempinski and that this winter will be an enriching experience for you and your loved ones.
ALEJANDRO BERNABÉ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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Saadiyat Island: a grand architectural project showcasing international and Arabian art.
ABU DHABI Saadiyat Cultural District will be a living canvas of global culture with permanent collections and one-off exhibitions.
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::: Culture shift :::
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By John Arlidge
Abu Dhabi is transforming itself into a vibrant twenty-
with interlaced patterns. It dapples the cityscape below
first century cultural metropolis to attract regional
with diffused light, just like the sunlight that flits between
and international visitors with unique exhibitions,
the moving leaves of a date palm. ‘It rains light,’ smiles
permanent collections, productions and performances.
Nouvel.
Its newest development, the creation of an entire district
The Louvre, that will display key works on loan from
on Saadiyat Island devoted to culture and the arts, is
Paris as well as local work and treasures from the Islamic
unprecedented in scale and scope. Saadiyat Cultural
world, is not alone - or, at least, it won’t be for long. Over
District, once completed, will be home to several iconic
the next five years, the oil-rich emirate, one of the seven
museums designed by internationally acclaimed architects
sheikhdoms that make up the United Arab Emirates, will
and considered artistic masterpieces themselves.
build four more major museums and galleries. When
‘We don’t need another global building. A building should
they are completed in 2020, they will be the largest, most
belong to a town and its history,’ says Jean Nouvel. The
expensive and ambitious artistic ‘cluster’ on the planet.
much-lauded French modernist architect is standing in
Next to the Louvre, on a man-made platform in the
front of his latest work, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which
Arabian Gulf, will be the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi,
is the centrepiece of the Saadiyat Island cultural project
designed by king of the curve, Frank Gehry. His chaotic
that opens in 2016.
pile-up of translucent cones and gigantic children’s
The Louvre is 64,000sq m of pavilions, plazas, alleyways
building blocks, 12 times the size of the Guggenheim’s
and canals - a mini Arab city. Hovering over it, like the
New York flagship, will display contemporary art from
cupola of a mosque, is a 180m-wide dome, perforated
the Gulf and around the world.
Designed by Sir Norman Foster, the Zayed National Museum, will document the UAE’s history.
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Guggenheim Abu Dhabi designed by Frank Gehry.
Many visitors are expected to travel to the Gulf Louvre Abu Dhabi designed by Jean Nouvel.
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Along the coast, the Iraqi-born, London-based queen of
is our challenge,’ says Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon al-
avant-garde, Zaha Hadid, is creating a vast performing
Nahyan, who is driving the Saadiyat project. Many
arts centre, housing five theatres with seating for 6,300.
visitors are expected to travel to the Gulf simply to admire
Next door, Japanese minimalist Tadao Ando will build a
the buildings alone. After all, it is not every day you get
simply to admire the latest work of the world’s best architects. Maritime Museum to celebrate Abu Dhabi’s trading and
to look at the latest work of the world’s best architects all
sea-faring history.
in one sunny morning and then head off to the beach.
Behind them all, soaring like the tips of a falcon’s wings,
Abu Dhabi’s decision to partner with three of the world’s
will be the towers of the Zayed National Museum,
most-recognised western museum and gallery ‘brands’,
designed by Sir Norman Foster and curated in partnership
the Guggenheim, the Louvre and the British Museum,
with the British Museum. It is dedicated to Sheikh Zayed
demonstrates its commitment to delivering world class
bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the modern UAE,
institutions. The new buildings are intended to create a
and will document the country’s history.
balance between modernism and traditionalism, while also
The bill for Saadiyat – the name means ‘happiness’ – is
reflecting the region’s culture, people and environment.
£30bn. The aim is to turn the UAE capital into a regional and international beacon for culture and the arts. ‘This
John Arlidge is a senior writer for Wallpaper* magazine
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Le VendĂ´me offers a sumptuous international buffet menu.
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::: Divine Arabian Luxury at Emirates Palace ::: A lavishly imagined Arabian fantasy, Emirates Palace is
meets luxury and where you have your own personal
the quintessence of Emirati hospitality. Situated along
butler at your beck and call. Offering a myriad of
the Western-most tip of the prime Abu Dhabi Corniche,
entertainment and dining options with the added allure
Emirates Palace is owned by the Government of Abu
of a resort experience in the heart of a cosmopolitan city,
Dhabi and was built to host world leaders, business
Emirates Palace is a haven for both leisure and business
travellers and holiday-makers from around the world.
travellers. A flawless gourmet symphony, curated in
Stretching over one million hectares and replete with
fourteen restaurants, cafés, lounges and bars, is demurely
24K gold leaf finishing, Swarovski chandeliers, arabesque
punctuated by the captivating feeling of being in your
mosaic tiles and marble from around the world in hues
very own palace. From Italian gondolas floating under
of desert sand, Emirates Palace is an architect’s dream
Venetian bridges in Mezzaluna to an Emirati escape
and a sight to behold.
adorned with traditional Bedouin Kunjah knives and
With over 1,400 staff to cater to your every whim, guests
tapestry, savour authentic flavours created with products
are welcomed with dates and fragrantly spiced Arabic
sourced for their quality and provenance. With several
coffee. A key shaped like an antique golden coin, reveals
treasures, like an underwater museum, a private marina
a magical dwelling with Indian silk walls, silk brocade
and a decadent, divine Moroccan-inspired spa, Emirates
sofas and textiles, and Romanesque bath tubs. Escape
Palace does not disappoint and is everything you would
the pressures of this world to a place where serenity
expect from the UAE’s wealthiest emirate. y
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Opulent rooms and suites include Romanesque baths, lavish silk furnishings and your own personal butler.
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THE ART OF COLOUR L O N D O N N E W Y O R K G E N E VA BAHR AIN BAKU BA NGKOK BOSTON DERBY DUBAI DOHA K AR LOV Y VARY KIEV LOS A NGELES R I Y A D H S A N F R A N C I S C O S Y D N E Y VA L L E T TA VA N C O U V E R FA B E R G E . C O M
@ O F F I C I A L FA B E R G E
Fa b ergé proud l y u s e s G em f ield s c olou re d gem st one s
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BBQ Al Qasr, beachside dining in Abu Dhabi.
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With its towering 18-metre domes and luxurious accommodation decorated in marble and gold, Emirates Palace is the essence of palatial Arabian architecture.
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CHOCOLAT
THE SWEET HISTORY OF
At Kempinski, the artistry of chocolate is always taken seriously. 23
::: The Sweet History of Chocolate ::: Aphrodisiac Favourite of European Royalty
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By Moyette Marrett
Chocolate may be the ‘food of the gods,’ but for most
Germany and Switzerland. The first English chocolate
of its 4,000-year history it was consumed as a bitter
house opened in London in 1657, and chocolate houses
beverage rather than as a sweet delicacy synonymous
in Florence and Venice gained notoriety in the early
with sensual pleasure. Cocoa, from which chocolate is
1700s.
created, is said to have originated in the Amazon. The
However, chocolate remained a symbol of luxury, wealth
Aztecs attributed the creation of the cocoa plant to their
and power until 1828 when Dutch chemist Coenraad
god Quetzalcoatl, who descended from heaven on a
Johannes van Houten invented the cocoa press, which
morning star carrying a cocoa tree stolen from paradise.
revolutionised the art of chocolate making. In 1847,
In both Mayan and Aztec cultures, cocoa was the star
British chocolate company J.S. Fry & Sons created the
ingredient in a cold, thick, unsweetened drink called
first modern chocolate bar from cocoa butter, cocoa
xocoatl. They believed the fruit of the cocoa tree to be
powder and sugar.
a source of wisdom and power as well as aphrodisiac
Two decades later, Switzerland’s Daniel Peter introduced
properties.
the formula for the world’s first milk chocolate by
In 1528, Hernan Cortez presented Spanish King
adding the sweetened condensed milk that had recently
Charles V with cocoa beans from the New World. The
been invented by Henri Nestlé. Rodolphe Lindt’s 1879
Spaniards mixed the beans with sugar, vanilla, nutmeg,
invention of the conching machine, which produced
cloves, cinnamon and allspice. The results were seductive
chocolate with a velvety texture and superior taste,
and kept a closely guarded secret by the Spanish nobility
and other innovations enabled the mass production of
for almost a century. But when Spanish Princess Maria
creamy milk chocolate.
Theresa was engaged to Louis XIV of France, she gave
In homage to chocolate’s long and illustrious history,
her fiancé an engagement gift of chocolate, packaged in
Kempinski created Bosphorale, a succulent chocolate
an ornate chest.
delight, which was crowned Kempinski Desert of the
Chocolate’s reputation as an aphrodisiac flourished at
Year 2013. Designed by Executive Chef and Master
the French court and it also became popular among
Chocolatier William McCarrick of Çırağan Palace
officials of the Roman Catholic Church. Casanova
Kempinski Istanbul, the rich, chocolate-based cake
of Italy reportedly ate chocolate before engaging
contains the best of local flavours, such as apricots from
in lovemaking and Madame du Barry is said to have
Kayseri and Bergamot-scented Earl Grey tea from the
given it to her lovers. Traders, explorers and travellers
Black Sea coast of Turkey, elegantly combined with
introduced chocolate to England, the Netherlands,
Valrhona chocolate. y
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DISCOVERED IN THE TROPICAL RAIN FORESTS OF CENTRAL AMERICA, THE COCOA TREE PRODUCES BEANS THAT THE MAYAS, AND LATER THE AZTECS, FERMENTED, ROASTED AND GROUND INTO PASTE. BOTH CIVILISATIONS ASSOCIATED COCOA WITH MAGICAL PROPERTIES.
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A HORESMAN AND A LADY DRINKING CHOCOLATE. ENGRAVING BY NICOLAS BONNART AFTER ROBERT BONNART, 17TH CENTURY. FRENCH NATIONAL LIBRARY. / BOSPHORALE, A CHOCOLATY CAKE WITH DRIED APRICOTS, WHICH ARE REHYDRATED WITH TEA AND ORANGE, IS A PERFECT REPRESENTATION OF KEMPINSKI’S CHARACTER; LOCAL, REGIONAL WITH A EUROPEAN SENSE OF FLAIR.
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1 SWISS WOMEN’S NATIONAL SKI TEAM TOGETHER WITH GEBERAL MANAGER RETO STÖCKENIUS AT KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS ST MORITZ ::: 2 MR. HASSAN MOHAMMED RAFEE AL EMADI, AMBASSADOR OF QATAR WITH FRANCK DROIN, GENERAL MANAGER, KEMPINSKI HOTEL NAY PYI TAW ::: 3 UN SECRETARYGENERAL BAN KI-MOON, GENERAL MANAGER KATHRIN NOLL AND MR ANDREJ KISKA PRESIDENT OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC AT GRAND HOTEL KEMPINSKI HIGH TATRAS :::: 4 HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELISABETH II AND HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS, THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH WITH EMILE BOOTSMA, GENERAL MANAGER ADLON KEMPINSKI BERLIN :::: 5 MR TYRESE GIBSON WITH HOLGER SCHROTH, GENERAL MANAGER, EMIRATES PALACE ABU DHABI ::: 6 SIR RICHARD BRANSON AND MANISH NAMBIAR, GENERAL MANAGER KEMPINSKI HOTEL VILLA ROSA NAIROBI ::: 7 KIMI RÄIKKÖNEN FROM LA SCUDERIA FERRARI WITH SAMIR R. WILDEMANN, GENERAL MANAGER AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OPERATIONS SOUTH-EAST, ASIA SIAM KEMPINSKI HOTEL BANGKOK ::: 8 LIVERPOOL FC/ FC BARCELONA LEGEND LUIS GARCIA AND RAYCO GARCIA WITH CHRISTOPH STRAHM, GENERAL MANAGER HÔTEL DES MILLE COLLINES KEMPINSKI KIGALI ::: 9 INDIAN PRIME MINISTER, MR NARENDRA MODI WITH HOLGER SCHROTH, GENERAL MANGER, EMIRATES PALACE ABU DHABI ::: 10 THE PRESIDENT OF THE TURKISH REPUBLIC, MR. RECEP TAYYIP ERDOGAN WITH GILLES LONGUET GENERAL MANAGER, DJIBOUTI PALACE KEMPINSKI
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at kempinski.com and selecting the 10% off option.
Members can benefit from this exclusive rate simply by accessing their membership account
DISCOVERY members receive a special 10% off rate via kempinski.com
Kempinski Discovery
LOCAL EXPERIENCE
More information at kempinski.com/ghadiscovery
KEMPINSKI HOTEL BEIJING LUFTHANSA CENTER
Your very own bespoke wardrobe Beijing’s top tailors provide Discovery black card holders with a special VIP service during your stay with us - two exquisitely tailored shirts by taking measurements in the comfort of your room at hotel. Each garment is custommade by trained craftsmen, who offer expert advice on the design and style. Come in a variety of high quality fabrics with different colours and will fit you perfectly for a truly unique style! It only takes three days to make to measure your shirts including fitting and adjustments, in order to ensure your travelling schedule is not disturbed.
HOTEL ATLANTIC KEMPINSKI HAMBURG
The Phantom Zimmer We would like to welcome you to a hidden room that hotel guests do not usually get to see. The original antiques in this room do not only tell the story of the 106-year- old Hotel Atlantic, but also set the scene in the 1997 James Bond movie ‘Tomorrow Never Dies’ with Pierce Brosnan. Enjoy a bottle of champagne with canapés and beautiful views over Hamburg and Lake Alster in this exclusive room.
HOTEL BALTSCHUG KEMPINSKI MOSCOW
The best Russian market produce Delicious local cuisine is one of the essential elements of a memorable trip. Accompanied by our chef, visit the local market to experience the very best authentic Russian produce and craft your own culinary delight. Based on your choices, our chef will create a unique tailormade menu to tempt your palate, whether it is premium steak or traditional Russian ‘pelmeni’ and ‘pirozhki.’ Enjoy a dinner for two in the warm, sophisticated atmosphere of the Baltschug Grill restaurant with stunning views of world-renown St. Basil’s Cathedral.
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KEMPINSKI HOTEL & RESIDENCES PALM JUMEIRAH
Spectacular Dubai seaplane tour Take a magical journey onboard a Seawings plane above Dubai’s ever-changing skyline. Savour a sky-high perspective of the iconic sail profile of the Burj Al Arab, the impossibly high Burj Khalifa and the artificial archipelagoes fashioned in the shapes of palm trees and continents. Experience the United Arab Emirates’ trading heritage at the Dubai Creek and explore the future of Dubai at The World.
KEMPINSKI SEYCHELLES RESORT
The Seychelles tea plantation The Seychelles Islands are famous for their white pristine beaches and lush tropical vegetation, but they have a lot more to offer to the more discerning and adventurous traveller. In the spectacular mountains of Morne Blanc on the main island of Mahe, you will discover the Seychelles Tea Plantation. Unpack the history of this unique plantation and enjoy sampling a variety of its flavoured teas.
KEMPINSKI HOTEL NAY PYI TAW
An unforgettable excursion with elephants Explore the Pho Kyar Forest Resort, located in the foothills of the Bago Yoma Mountain range and only a short distance from Nay Pyi Taw. While inhaling the fragrance of wild orchids and seasonal flowers, you will have the opportunity to observe elephants bathing in the zigzag stream that surrounds the resort and enjoying their natural habitat.
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Partners in Luxury
Stay & Drive first class. (Sixt – Preferred partner of Kempinski)
Sixt – Preferred car rental partner of Kempinski Hotels and partner of the bonus program GHA Discovery. Kempinski guests are privileged and can use special conditions from Sixt rent a car www.sixt.com/kempinski
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Like the eastern caravanserail, Levantine cuisine is steeped in ancient culture.
FLAVOURS
AUTHENTIC LEVANTINE
We would like to thank all the team members of Bab Al Qasr Restaurant at Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski Cairo and those of Osmanly Restaurant at Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo for their friendly contribution during the photo shooting made for this article. 37
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POPULAR MEZZE APPETIZERS INCLUDE TRADITIONAL LEBANESE TABBOULEH, EGYPTIAN TAHINAH, HUMMUS, FATTOUSH, A SALAD WITH A DELICIOUS MIXTURE OF MINT AND SPICES, LABNA, A CREAM CHEESE BRINGING A NOTE OF FRESHNESS, AND DELICIOUS EGGPLANT CAVIAR; THE BABA GANOUSH WITH ITS ROASTED FLAVORS. SHARED DISHES ARE A SYMBOL OF MIDDLE EASTERN HOSPITALITY.
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CHICKEN FATTEH, A CELEBRATORY DISH, IS A COMBINATION OF BOILED CHICKEN, FRIED BREAD AND GARLIC TAHINI YOGURT SAUCE. FATTEHS ARE USUALLY DECORATED WITH FRIED PINE NUTS AND SOMETIMES, ROASTED ALMONDS. THE COMBINATION OF HOT MEAT AND COLD YOGURT, OF ACIDITY AND GRILLED FLAVOURS, MAKE IT AN EXQUISITE MEAL.
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HOT MEZZE APPETIZERS COMPLEMENT COLD MEZZE DELICACIES, OFFERING OTHER CONSISTENCIES LIKE KIBBEH, A MIXTURE OF MINCED MEAT, BULGAR OR RICE, AND SEASONINGS. IT IS TYPICALLY SERVED HOT OR COLD IN THE FORM OF CROQUETTES STUFFED WITH A FILLING. CEREALS HAVE BEEN AT THE CORE OF MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE FOR MORE THAN 10,000 YEARS.
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THE TRADITIONAL ‘SOUK’ IN CAIRO, ISTANBUL OR DAMASCUS, REMAINS THE BEATING HEART OF THESE CITIES. MERCHANTS AND FARMERS COME HERE TO SELL THEIR GOODS, AN ASTONISHING RANGE OF FRESH PRODUCTS.
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in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia for cutting edge luxury.
our clients, whether it be the opening of a new restaurant, bar, spa or the creation of a signature dish. Visit our properties
At Kempinski, we take pride in bringing you the very latest additions to the range of first- class services we offer
WHAT’S NEW?
::: Germany ::: Petersburger Hängung» with work of arts by LUMAS of Farin Urlaub, Robert Lebeck, Han Lei etc.
Expo Lumas at Sra Bua by Tim Raue HOTEL ADLON KEMPINSKI BERLIN
This world-class dining establishment offering PanAsian cuisine with European influences is showcasing a limited edition of 24 photographs from well-known artists around the world. A unique curatorial concept created by the gallery LUMAS, the exhibition features selected Far Eastern motifs. Sra Bua has also unveiled a new addition to its vast Asian culinary range: Dim Sums. These Cantonese bite-sized steamed or deep-fried dishes are served every Tuesday alongside the traditional à la carte menu.
::: Jordan ::: New : The Ishtar Spa by Resense KEMPINSKI HOTEL ISHTAR DEAD SEA
The Ishtar Spa by Resense at Kempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea is one of the largest spas in the Middle East, encompassing 10’000 sqm. Inspired by Resense’s European origins, the spa provides a luxurious wellness experience, ensuring guests benefit from the Dead Sea’s exceptional natural resources. For more information and reservation: spa.ishtar@kempinski.com T 00962 (0)5 356 8888 kempinski.com/deadsea
::: Egypt ::: Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay Unveils La Pergola Restaurant KEMPINSKI HOTEL SOMA BAY
Inspired by Mediterranean flavours and nestled in the heart of Soma Bay’s marina, the new La Pergola restaurant at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay offers an exciting selection of fresh seasonal cuisine. Savour creative dishes from the countries adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea - particularly France, Italy and Spain - paired with the perfect glass of wine.
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::: Istanbul ::: Happy 25th anniversary to the Ambassador of Turkish hospitality! ÇIRAĞAN PALACE KEMPINSKI İSTANBUL
The only Ottoman imperial palace and hotel on the Bosphorus, Çırağan Palace Kempinski has been famous for its legendary service since it opened its doors in 1990, leaving behind a history that dates back to the 17th century. With its splendid style, superb location and resort ambiance, Çırağan Palace is one of the top ranking hotels and iconic monuments in the world.
::: U.A.E ::: Dubai’s newest trendy destination KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES
In the ever-changing landscape of dining and nightlife in Dubai, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates introduces two exciting new concepts in the dynamic city: Olea and Noir. Offering a truly Levantine dining experience, Olea takes guests on a sensory discovery of the Levant region. And right next door, a trendy mixology lounge bar, Noir, boasts the best cocktails in Dubai.
::: China ::: Kempinski Hotel Harbin opens in the “Icy City” of China KEMPINSKI HOTEL HARBIN
As the first Kempinski Hotel in Heilongjiang Province, Kempinski Hotel Harbin is set to become the leading luxury hotel in the Ice City, combining exclusive European elegance with luxury facilities and top-notch service. The city of Harbin is renowned as the ‘Oriental Paris,’ with its climate shifting between a snow kingdom in winter to a refreshing oasis in the summer.
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::: New Cairo. A Royal Opening ::: Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski Set atop the budding desert hills of New Cairo and just minutes away from Cairo International Airport, the recently opened Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski is an oasis of grandeur and luxurious hospitality. The Palace, with 245 majestic rooms and suites, offers guests around the clock butler services and a wide range of innovative restaurant concepts featuring regional and international cuisine. Relax in the hotel’s palatial bespoke European Resense spa and enjoy a spot of designer shopping in its ten distinctive outlets. Housing the largest ballroom in the Middle East with a capacity for over 3,000 guests and extensive business and conference facilities, the hotel is set to become the most sought after venue in the city for prestigious conventions and celebrations. y
ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI CAIRO FIRST SETTLEMENT, EASTERN RING ROAD, NEW CAIRO, EGYPT WWW.KEMPINSKI.COM TEL . +20 2 23899000
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A freeskier in the Corvatsch snow sport area
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Simply stunning world renown winter and summer playground.
ST. MORITZ
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::: The legend lives on :::
By Patricia Engelhorn
St. Moritz is not your ordinary mountain village. It
time, of the St. Moritz global village, regardless of
is a sun-drenched global brand, which is constantly
where they live the rest of the year.
reinventing itself.
For anyone who has never been to St. Moritz, it is hard
Eight o’clock in the morning on the Diavolezza. The
to understand the attraction of this backwater with
snow-covered peaks of the Morteratsch Glacier lie in
5,400 permanent residents; after all, there are snow-
the purple-hued shadows; the few skiers in the resort
covered peaks and people wearing fur coats elsewhere.
are thickly wrapped up and the thermometer registers
At first glance, superlatives like ‘Top of the World’ or
a chilly minus 12 degrees. ‘Shall we?’ one such skier
‘Ballroom of the Alps’ are puzzling: What is so appealing
asks. It sounds like he is at home here. ‘Let’s go,’ says
about 70-year-old concrete buildings or the banks and
another, clearly from abroad. Their plan is adventurous,
boutiques, which characterise the centre? True: The
but not new: the group will set off on this steep slope
number of luxury hotels is impressive. Therefore, there
eleven times today. Eleven times they will zigzag 785
must be a reason why people are prepared to spend so
metres down to the valley, which amounts to the height
much to stay here.
of Mount Everest. Anyone achieving this becomes a
Even truer: The mountain lakes, forests and glaciers
member of the Mount Everest Club and, at the same
Nair or Piz Corvatsch. The highlights of St. Moritz
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often take place off the slopes, in ski cabins such as
Karajan was flown by helicopter to Piz Nair; in 1962,
El Paradiso on the sunny Suvretta slope. Here, guests
construction of the cable car began, financed by three
chill out on the terrace wrapped in lambskin coats as
high-flying guests: brewery owner, Loel Guinness, and
they are served ‘Älpler Magronen’ and Maine lobster.
ship-owners, Stavros Niarchos and Georges Livanos.
Later, the same people can be seen shopping on Via
A pioneering spirit joined the down-to-earth attitude
Maistra, where they buy Engadiner Nusstorte (a nut-
of local residents. At Christmas 1878, electric light
filled pastry) from the Hanselmann bakery, neon-
blazed in the dining room of Kulm Hotel for the first
coloured ski outfits from trendy jet-set designer labels,
time in Switzerland; in 1904, the first ski jump was
and the finest cashmere jumpers from the Lamm
erected; in 1906, horses galloping through the snow
Cashmere House, a boutique that is so traditional
made their debut, and in 1913, the first indoor tennis
that it is becoming trendy again. Weary and carrying
centre in the world was opened. In 1986, St. Moritz had
conspicuous shopping bags, they finally end up in the
its lively trademark and Engadin sun logo protected by
new Polo Bar in the Cascade restaurant and relieve
law. It was the first village registered as a trademark.
themselves of their shopping stress with oysters and a
‘I often wonder why I come back year after year,’ said
few glasses of Veuve Clicquot.
British architect Norman Foster. Lord Foster gave
Decadent? Yes, but with humour. How else could you
the village the Chesa Futura –a kidney bean-shaped
explain fully-grown men lying face-down on a skeleton
raised building with a larch shingle façade –and The
sled and racing down at over 140 kilometres per hour,
Murezzan, an avant-garde apartment building with
with a helmet to protect their head just 10 centimetres
the smart Posthaus restaurant. ‘Many things make St.
from the ice run? Every curve has a name: Many a hero
Moritz an exceptional place,’ he believes.
has come off in the ‘Shuttlecock’ curve and become an
One of these is the ability to reinvent itself. The
automatic member of the club of the same name. In
Chesa Futura is simply the most striking sign of the
the ‘Telephone’ curve, before the age of mobile phones,
recent thriving contemporary art and design scene.
there was a telephone box in case an ambulance had to
The St. Moritz Design Gallery, for instance, makes
be called in an emergency.
the Serletta the coolest parking facility in the Alpine
Perhaps it’s the climate, which leads to such
world. It is open 24/7, 365 days a year and displays,
extravagance. 322 days of sun per year, known as the
in 31 illuminated showcases, exhibitions of valuable
famous ‘Champagne climate’ –this must have made the
posters. Gallery owner, Krystyna Gmurzynska, came
British, who discovered this holiday paradise in the
to St. Moritz from Zurich in 2003 and displays in loft-
second half of the 18th century, dizzy. They created
like surroundings art by Tom Wesselmann and Joan
the Cresta Run and its Tobogganing Club, where
Miró. Artists like Julian Schnabel and Sandro Chia
English is still the official language today. They also
travelled to their exhibition openings in Gallery Bruno
invented winter tourism, or rather were persuaded by
Bischofberger. Sadly, the well-known art dealer from
the visionary hotelier Johannes Badrutt to come to
Zurich gave up his Engadin branch at the end of the
Engadin at other times than just summer.
last winter season. According to rumours, the New
Others followed: Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich,
York celebrity art dealer, Vito Schnabel, wants to take
the Rothschilds, Agnellis and von Fürstenberg, the
over the space. It is highly possible then that he will
Shah of Persia, the King of Morocco, Charlie Chaplin,
be seen on the Cresta Run –and his girlfriend, Heidi
Rainer Maria Rilke, Maria Callas and many more came
Klum, on the slopes. y
on holiday to St. Moritz. In the fifties, Herbert von
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WITH A DELIGHTFUL CHAMPAGNE CLIMATE AND INCREDIBLY SUNNY WINTERS, ST. MORITZ IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST RENOWNED HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS. ITS NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH ELEGANCE AND CLASS.
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::: Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains - On Top of the Alps ::: What makes a place legendary is its celebrity and
timelessly appointed, reflecting unpretentious luxury
unique events. Above all, it is about extraordinary
and sophistication. All its restaurants are award winning:
accomplishments. St. Moritz and the Engadin are both
Les Saisons (grill, international cuisine, best breakfast
legends. It all started with the discovery of ‘healing’
in Switzerland), Enoteca (15 Gault Millau points, best
sources, which later led to spa tourism. In the middle of
regional products) and Cà d’Oro (One Michelin star, 17
the 19th century, the valley became the first Alpine ski
GM, high Mediterranean cuisine). The bar offers all-
area to host two Winter Olympics.
time classics and modern-inspired highlights. Sra Bua
Today, Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is a contem-
is a Pan-Asian outlet (14 GM) with a signature menu
porary and elegant hotel, perfect for sport lovers. The
and a selection of the highest quality sushi and sashimi.
hotel’s atmosphere is straightforward, yet its restaurants
In the Alpine spa, guests are pampered with the finest
and bar are exceptionally on trend. The hotel is located
natural products and a range of saunas, an indoor
in St. Moritz Bad, right at the Mauritius Springs. It is
pool, Kneipp baths, a gym and a ladies’ spa. Further
the only five-star hotel in St. Moritz with direct access
amenities include the kids’ club with supervised indoor
to the impressive ski and hiking region of Corviglia.
and outdoor activities, the ski school and the sport shop
The rooms, suites and residences are elegantly and
with just the right bikes and ski equipment. y
KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS CH-7500 ST. MORITZ TEL. +41 (0) 81 838 38 38 · FAX +41 (0) 81 838 30 00 INFO.STMORITZ@KEMPINSKI.COM · KEMPINSKI.COM/STMORITZ
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KEMPINSKI GRAND HOTEL DES BAINS IS LOCATED IN ST. MORITZ BAD AT THE SOURCE OF THE MAURITIUS SPRINGS, RIGHT IN THE HEART OF ST. MORITZ.
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AFTER A DAY ON THE SLOPES, ENJOY A CHAMPAGNE COCKTAIL IN THE HOTEL’S SUMPTUOUS LOBBY BEFORE DINNING IN ONE OF ITS AWARD-WINNING GOURMET RESTAURANTS.
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ESTABLISHED IN ITALY IN 1923, COLMAR IS STILL THE PREFERRED BRAND OF SKI CHAMPIONS. A SIGNIFICANT MILESTONE IN THE FAMILY FIRM’S HISTORY WAS THE CREATION OF A SPECIAL INFLATABLE ‘GLIDING’ CAPE MANUFACTURED FOR LEO GASPERI, THE FIRST WINNER OF THE SPEED SKIING RECORD IN 1936. DOWNHILL SKI CHAMPION, ZENO COLÒ, COMPETED IN THE 1952 WINTER GAMES IN OSLO WEARING AN AERODYNAMIC SKI SUIT, A SNUG NYLON SHEATH WITH SIDES AND ELBOWS IN BI-ELASTIC TULLE, MANUFACTURED BY COLMAR. TODAY, THE COLMAR NAME IS SYNONYMOUS WITH HIGH-PERFORMANCE AND ULTRA-LIGHT APPAREL IN SOPHISTICATED AND LUXURIOUS DESIGNS.
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from luxury brands. Wrap yourselves up in this season’s on-trend colours: black and grey.
Stay chic and comfortable on the slopes with the very latest in designer ski wear and equipment
WINTER SHOPPING
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ZAI NEZZA SKIS DESIGNED FOR SERIOUS SKIERS, COMBINING CUTTING-EDGE PERFORMANCE WITH A RADICAL LOOK. www.zai.ch
CHANEL SKIS THE CHANEL SKI COLLECTION INCLUDES ULTRA-EXCLUSIVE PARABOLIC SKIS, AVAILABLE ON REQUEST. www.chanel.com ::: YNIQ GOGGLES FOUR-ALL BLACK N°411 A COMBINATION OF DISCRETE LUXURY, STYLE AND THE MOST ADVANCED MATERIALS. www.yniq.com ::: HACKETT WOOL ARTIC PARKA WITH FUR HOOD FOR MEN THE ULTIMATE IN WINTER SOPHISTICATION, THIS STYLISH JACKET IS FOR CHILLIER MONTHS. www.hacket.com
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collaborates with magazines such as Vogue Italy, French Revue and Fisheye, as well as fashion designers.
and painting in a unique artistic gesture, rewarded in 2012 by the Prix Picto with special mention. More and more sought after, she regularly
cultural institutions such as the Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art and the Quai Branly Museum. She associates photography with cutting
assistant with Patrick Gries, a reference in Art publications, with whom she perfected her technical expertise, over the course of collaborations with
with a subtle play between material and body, is a poetic tribute to women. Taupiac is a French photographer based in Paris. She began as an
The work of Alexandra Taupiac reveals women in their lightness and smoothness. The game of sails, sometimes air, sometimes sculptural,
By Alexandra Taupiac
WOMEN’S VIEW
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Š Photography Alexandra Taupiac: Hair: Cyril Laforet using cat walk by Tigi Nail: Awara using Essie Make up: Virginie Rascle using Bobbi Brown Model : Yulia D @city-models Danseuse : Stefania Rossetti
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ALL SEASONS LUXURY HOSPITALITY
Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko DISCOVER PRISTINE NATURE AND ENDLESS RELAXATION IN THE SUBLIME SURROUNDINGS OF THE PIRIN MOUNTAINS. IDEALLY LOCATED JUST A STEP AWAY FROM THE GONDOLA LIFT STATION, THE STUNNING KEMPINSKI HOTEL GRAND ARENA BANSKO OFFERS AN UNFORGETTABLE STAY IN ALL SEASONS. IT COMPRISES 157 ALPINE-STYLE ROOMS AND SUITES, THE AWARD-WINNING KEMPINSKI THE SPA AND SUPERB MEETING AND DINING FACILITIES WITH SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN VIEWS. GRACED WITH LUXURY AND EUROPEAN FLAIR, THE HOTEL GRANTS THE ULTIMATE SKI AND SPA EXPERIENCE. Kempinski.com/bansko
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HOT DESTINATIONS
Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski Cairo IDEALLY SITUATED IN CAIRO’S NEW BUSINESS AND LEISURE DISTRICT, ROYAL MAXIM PALACE KEMPINSKI WELCOMES YOU TO LIVE MOMENTS THAT PRESENT CAPTIVATING EXPERIENCES UNDER ITS AZURE CUPOLAS. THE PALACE ENCOMPASSES 245 ROOMS AND SUITES AS PRIVATE RETREATS, WITH A BUTLER WHO IS READY TO EXTEND PERSONALISED SERVICE AROUND THE CLOCK. THE FOCUS OF THE DESIGN IS ON COMFORT AND ELEGANCE, UNDERLINED BY THE USE OF HINTED JEWEL TONES AND WARM, EARTHY COLOUR SCHEMES THROUGH SOFT FURNISHINGS AND FABRICS. IT’S TIME TO PUT ON YOUR CROWN! Kempinski.com/royalmaxim
A COURTYARD EVOKING AUSTRIAN PALATIAL LANDMARKS
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A UNIQUE LOCATION IN THE HISTORICAL CITY CENTER OF ST PETERSBURGÂ
Kempinski Hotel Moika 22 in St Petersburg LOCATED IN AN OLD ARISTOCRATIC MANSION BUILT IN 1853 IN THE VERY HEART OF ST. PETERSBURG, OPPOSITE FROM THE RENOWNED HERMITAGE MUSEUM AND PALACE SQUARE, KEMPINSKI HOTEL MOIKA 22 KEEPS THE AMBIENCE OF EUROPEAN FRIENDLY SOPHISTICATION IN EVERYTHING FROM THE FINE DETAILS OF EACH OF 200 ROOMS TO FRENCH CUISINE DISHES AT THE PANORAMIC BELLEVUE BRASSERIE RESTAURANT. Kempinski.com/stpetersburg
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Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna INTERNATIONAL HOTEL WITH THE HEART OF A VIENNESE HERITAGELISTED, FIVE-STAR-SUPERIOR PALAIS HANSEN KEMPINSKI, LOCATED ON THE FAMOUS RING BOULEVARD, PROVIDES 152 ROOMS AND SUITES, TWO RESTAURANTS, ONE BAR, A CIGAR LOUNGE, SIX CONFERENCE ROOMS, ONE PRIVATE EVENT LOCATION, A BALLROOM, AS WELL AS THE OTTOMAN-STYLE KEMPINSKI THE SPA. INNOVATIVE FOOD CONCEPTS SUCH AS “POP-UP COOKING”, “LADIES TEA” AND “WEINHOCHZWEI” MAKE PALAIS HANSEN YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR A GOURMET EXPERIENCE DESTINATION. Kempinski.com/vienna
PALAIS HANSEN´S LIVING ROOM AND HOT SPOT FOR THE VIENNESE
Skeleton Tourbillon Manufacture Manual winding. 170 hours power reserve. Silicium Technology. 18 ct rose gold case. Also available in 18 ct white gold. Limited Edition of 200 pieces.
U LY S S E - N A R D I N . C O M
U LY S S E N A R D I N S A - L e L o c l e - S w i t z e r l a n d T. + 4 1 3 2 9 3 0 7 4 0 0 - i n f o @ u l y s s e - n a r d i n . c h