Property | Luxury | Lifestyle
Burbank Escape Discover this hidden Brisbane Oasis
Discover India and Nepal Fashion label ‘Tovah’ direct from the catwalk Exclusive recipes from Executive Chef, Philip Johnson
FIFth Edition 2012
For more information www.pbmy.com.au email: info@pbmy.com.au or call Mark Richards on 02 4389 1244
Exper i ence award wi nni ng technol ogy and i nstal l a ti on a t i ts ver y best! • • • • • •
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AN INSIGHT TO THE WORLD OF SHAW
hank you once again for taking the time to T per use the latest instalment of the SHAW Jour nal. This fifth issue concludes our publication
for 2012, a year that has seen our average sale pr ice well over $1 million and in many cases has seen us transact proper ties that have set records for locations . We are ver y pleased to announce that the SHAW Jour nal for 2013 will be undergoing a significant image overhaul and will present in a resplendent new mater ial and texture along with wor ld renowned guest contr ibutor s , more insightful editor ial and an even finer array of proper ties than ever before. You will now be a ble to find the SHAW Jour nal in a wider array of premium locations as our distr ibution and reader ship becomes more targeted. For now, enjoy this issue and discover the delights of India and Nepal with travel affiliates , Intrepid Travel and get your taste buds tingling with a special New Year s desser t offer ing from renowned published chef and e’cco bistro owner Philip Johnson.
In Real Estate news , the Reser ve Bank of Australia has left interest rates on hold at their most recent meeting in ear ly November despite r ising inflation figures , alluding to increasing sta bility and afforda bility retur ning. Our specialist top end mar ket has seen moderate activity with an average of $3 million per month transacting since our last publication. W ishing you and your family health and prosper ity in the coming summer months and Chr istmas per iod, we hope you enjoy the content within the following pages and invite you to contact us for any of your proper ty requirements . Yours sincerely,
Lewis Shaw Managing Director – SHAW Group
Contents Fifth Edition 2012
EDITOR. Thompson Conway CONTRIBUTORS. Andy McMaster Sarah Berry Philip Johnson
14
MANAGING DIRECTOR. Lewis Shaw CREATIVE DIRECTOR. Matt Stewart DIRECTOR – ASIA PACIFIC. 亞太區董事. Stephen Tam – 譚裕德
50
ADMINISTRATION. SHAW | Creative DESIGN AND PRODUCTION. SHAW | Creative PUBLISHERS. LS International Pty Ltd
ANCHORAGE ON MALOJA 34
48
12 Luxury Penthouses in Caloundra
CIRCULATION. 7,500 copies of SHAW Journal are printed bi-monthly for immediate distribution to 5,500+ local, interstate and international posted residences. Copies are also strategically hand delivered to 500+ business outlets covering the Greater Brisbane region.
Defining all words 38 The ultimate beach pad in Coolum
tovah 14
THE BEST OF NEW FARM 46
The latest release from fashion designer TOVAH
Enjoy the famed Cutters Landing experience
SHAW PROPERTY GUIDE 21
a coupe called speed 48
Discover your dream home with our current listings
The most powerful Bentley Coupe yet
HIDDEN BRISBANE OASIS 22
DiSCOVER INDIA AND NEPAL 50
A tranquil block only minutes from the CBD
Incredible experiences for the traveller and trekker
Property | Luxury | Lifestyle
Burbank Escape Discover this hidden Brisbane Oasis
Discover India and Nepal Fashion label ‘Tovah’ direct from the catwalk Exclusive recipes from Executive Chef, Phillip Johnson
The famed RIVERHOUSE 30
e'cco-ing Brilliance 56
Brisbane's most outstanding address by Mirvac
An intimate look into the life and food of Brisbane's finest chef, Philip Johnson
FIFth EdItIon 2012
ON THE COVER. Aerial view, Lot One - Araluen The Estates, Burbank QLD. Proudly presented for sale by SHAW Property Group. For more information, see page 22 or visit www.shawgroup.com.au.
Quality that speaks for itself.
Shop 9, Emporium 1000 Ann Street Fortitude Valley T. 3257 4940 www.asatiles.com.au
open 7 days Timeless beauty in tiles for over 12 years
Big
House
Little
House
d esign in g d rea m h o m es bighouselittlehouse.com.au
Sexy. Distinctive. Collectable. ART ‘ discover one of Australia's most sought after investment artists ’
Contemporary Fine Art • Corporate Murals • Illustration
www.mattstewart.tv shown: 1000 x 1500 / acrylic & aerosol on stretched linen canvas / $2,800.00(AUD)
SARTORIAL.
T O VA H has a disti n ct str u ct u red st y le with a n e y e f or detail a n d f abric ma n ip u latio n . C ombi n i n g tech n iq u es f rom the past with co n temporar y ideas to create f ashio n f orward garme n ts .
17.
SILK CUT OUT JACKET $660
PEPLUM SILK TOP $319
SILK OXFORD SHORTS $230
SILK TAPERED PANTS $350
18.
HOODED RAINCOAT JACKET $539 Swimsuit $199
19.
TWO-TONED ZIP UP JACKET $350 PLEATED WRAP SKIRT $240
20.
RACER BACK SILK SINGLET $210 OXFORD SHORTS $230
21.
Garments: Tovah available online at www.tovah.com.au
SILK SHIFT DRESS $490
Photography: Warren Jopson Make up: Maybeline for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week 2012
RECENTLY SOLD PROPERTIES 4404/71 Eagle Street, Brisbane City $2,300,000 1328 Mt Cotton Rd, Burbank $2,060,000 83 Fifth Ave, Balmoral $1,350,000 Penthouse, Woody Point $750,000
23.
PROPERTY GUIDE Discover your dream home within a selection of our current listings
Stamp Duty Guide | Queensland 2012 Price.
Duty.
Price.
Duty.
Price.
Duty.
$200,000
$2,000
$1,500,000
$57,250
$6,000,000
$293,500
$300,000
$3,000
$2,000,000
$83,500
$6,500,000
$319,750
$400,000
$5,250
$2,500,000
$109,750
$7,000,000
$346,000
$500,000
$8,750
$3,000,000
$136,000
$7,500,000
$372,250
$600,000
$12,850
$3,500,000
$162,250
$8,000,000
$398,500
$700,000
$17,350
$4,000,000
$188,500
$8,500,000
$424,750
$800,000
$21,850
$4,500,000
$214,750
$9,000,000
$451,000
$900,000
$26,350
$5,000,000
$241,000
$9,500,000
$477,250
$1,000,000
$31,000
$5,500,000
$267,250
$10,000,000
$503,500
*The amounts shown are based on stamp duty rates only, which are a State Government tax payable by the purchaser of real estate (in QLD) based upon the purchase price. The duty is payable to the relevant state government department where the property is located. Some first home buyers may be eligible for a concession on stamp duty. Stamp duty rates for QLD are based on an established owner occupied property only. The above information has been obtained from sources SHAW Journal deem to be reliable at the time of compilation. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and interested persons should rely on their own enquiries. For more information please contact the Office of State Revenue, in the state in which the property your enquiries relate to, or call your SHAW Property Group team member on 1300 762 855.
PROPERTY FEATURE.
25.
Brisbane's most exclusive private residential enclave
Araluen: Meaning place of running water, a unique and mesmerising feature of this one-of-a-kind residential hideaway. Spanning over 220 acres of pristine native Australian seclusion, this unique land parcel has been held by the same owner for approximately 25 years. The current owner has painstakingly designed and executed an irreplaceable natural yet luxurious premiere, private residential enclave only minutes to Brisbane CBD that will be home to only 8 residents. Lot One is what some consider to be the premier land holding within this exclusive estate, with an elevated building parcel featuring the opportunity to position your new residence North-East to capture sensational sunsets and sea breezes
from the nearby Moreton Bay, Lot one is surrounded on two sides with lush natural bushland and overlooks a tranquil lake. An exceptionally large yet entirely manageable 15 acres, Lot One, affectionately named “Bubuk Estate” is the only parcel of Araluen available for purchase presently. Featuring 24 hour security, over 12 hectares of communal parklands including lakes, filled with Austalian Bass & Silver Pearch that provide virtually unlimited supply of non potable water and a private road access entitled ‘Araluen Lane’, Exclusivity is assured when taking up residence at Araluen: The Estates. With an enormous 5,000m2 building envelope and no building covenants, your piece of Araluen is truly freehold and yours to create your very own magical dream home.
26.
•
LOT 1 (6.0 Ha) - 1 of ONLY 8 Exclusive Estates
•
Freehold Title
•
Only 17kms from Brisbane GPO
•
Convenient access to Gateway Freeway
•
Security (24/7)
•
Massive 5,000m2 building envelope
LOT 1 6.0ha
27.
Griffith University
Brisbane CBD Mt Gravatt
Sunnybank
Carindale Shopping Centre
Gateway Motorway (M1)
6 Ha.
Lot one - Araluen The Estates
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 agent.
phone.
BURBANK $ price on application
PROPERTY FEATURE. 28.
29.
One of a kind Brisbane CBD masterpiece
L
iving on Eagle Street is a draw card in itself. The accessibility to Brisbane CBD, the unique City Cats and fine dining all accessible by foot is only offered in a handful of residential buildings. Of those residential buildings, Harry Siedler's Riparian Plaza stands out as the most unique and prestigious offering to take up residence. Positioned on the 46th floor, this luxury Condo offers three oversized suites, all encompassing ethereal views, three separate bathrooms and unrivalled, six near-lift, private car spaces. An expansive open plan living and entertainment space featuring extensive glass windows and doors along its entire length, exposes the light show of Brisbane’s CBD at night and provides a sense of floating above the world by day. For the fortunate few to call this iconic residential tower home, privacy and serenity is assured with only four residences per floor, each with a unique aspect and outlook. This residence
features mesmerizing views over the heart of the Brisbane City from front and rear balconies as well as the distant mountains that provide a wonderful sunset panorama. From the forward facing large balcony, Brisbane’s river serpentines before your very eyes and draws your attention closer to the iconic Story Bridge, effortlessly capturing your gaze as you observe life unfolding some hundred meters below your feet. What were once two spectacular side-by-side residences has been opportunistically acquired and masterfully created into one, architect created marvel of grand proportions. Natural stone, timber and glass all seamlessly blend to create a visually alluring experience immediately upon entrance. The custom built kitchen offers a wonderful butlers galley, impeccable appliance fit out and fully illuminated natural onyx bench top to tie in beautifully with the lashings of natural onyx in the common areas within this exclusive residential tower.
"What was once two spectacular side by side residences has been masterfully created into one..."
For times of practicality, a sliding timber panel emerges from within the walls to separate the kitchen; dining and entertaining areas form the second living and lounge towards the additional bedrooms in an entirely different wing of the home, all of which are serviced with their own bathroom featuring custom fit out, games room and balcony with panoramic Brisbane CBD and river views. The sheer space on offer, over 5,700 square feet, taking up half the entire
floor of the building is such a unique offering it is unmatched presently on the market in the Brisbane CBD. Built to be a luxury central CBD residence of epic proportions, it has fortuitously become available due to a lack of use and will almost certainly not present again. From the 24 hour security, to the private concierge, Riparian Plaza is Brisbane's most exclusive and tightly held residential tower. Simply owning in this establishment is an achievement.
31.
3 3 6
BED
CBD MASTERPIECE
BATH
CAR
Level 46/71 Eagle St, BRISBANE CITY
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 agent.
phone.
guide from
$7M
PROPERTY FEATURE.
33.
Brisbane's most outstanding address ...by Mirvac
T
he Waterfront, Newstead story begins with Pier, comprising two distinguished buildings located on 250 metres of Brisbane riverfront. The Pier development is Brisbane’s newest and arguably, finest luxury residential development. Set amongst 5.5 Hectares of waterfront parkland and featuring an 8,000 square man-made lake less than 2 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD. The location and what is on offer is unprecedented and has already attracted significant interest. Within this extraordinary development lies the jewel in the crown, apartment 110 in Pier South deserves its title as The Riverhouse. Surrounded by 180 degrees of water with panoramic views of the Brisbane River at the front and a perched lake wrapping around to the back, the Riverhouse embodies Mirvac’s uncompromised quality and sheer luxury to create Brisbane’s most outstanding address.
The Riverhouse is situated on level one in Pier South. The only apartment of its kind featuring its own exclusive pool where no detail has been overlooked. It features a private lobby, four side by side lock up garage spaces at your front door, almost unheard of this close to the CBD. A visually stunning climate controlled walk in, glass walled cellar positioned next to the stunning open plan kitchen adjoining the butlers galley is just an insight to the lengths the architects have gone to in order to create the pinnacle of apartment living. As you’re starting to discover, nothing has been constructed or designed any less than extraordinary, this residence features a completely integrated automation system incorporating electric blinds, custom lighting, music and security so at the touch of a button you can enjoy total privacy, your favourite song in your favourite room and know that when you leave to venture into the surrounding delights of the area, your security is taken care of.
34.
"As you're starting to discover, nothing has been constructed or designed any less than extraordinary..."
In another first, three sides of this home are met with water, at the very front where the upstairs balcony overlooked Hamilton Hill and the widest bend of the Brisbane River and the side and to the rear of the home where the private courtyards from the rear bedrooms and around your very own private lap pool is welcomed by the man made lake inaccessible by the public. This tranquil pocket within Newstead is the perfect retreat, it's easy to forget how close you are to the hustle and bustle of nearby lifestyle precincts of Teneriffe, Newstead, Fortitude Valley and the CBD. Quite simply, there is no other address in Brisbane that can match the lifestyle amenity of Waterfront.
35.
4 6 4
BED
THE RIVERHOUSE
BATH
110/1 Newstead Tce, NEWSTEAD
CAR
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 reference. SPG110576161 agent.
phone.
guide from
$8M
PROPERTY FEATURE.
37.
Anchorage on Maloja
T
here can surely be no more desirable real estate than an absolute waterfront address within walking distance to the centre of one of Australia’s most popular beachside destinations, and within an hour’s drive of a state capital and an international airport. A relaxed environment, glorious climate, spectacular geography and an enviable location as the gateway to the Sunshine Coast all reinforce Caloundra’s appeal to local residents, Brisbane holidaymakers and international tourists alike. Boasting top class gourmet dining; street cafes and brasseries; and of course a wide array of watersports that are available, including surfing, fishing, boating, scuba diving and all else that is expected from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast precinct
The world famous beach resort of Noosa is just over half an hour’s drive north. As Noosa fast approaches it’s population capacity, Sunshine Coast waterfront developments are now at a premium. The surrounding area has a vast array of attractions. Australia Zoo, home of Steve Irwin, the world famous crocodile hunter. Underwater World where you can feed the sharks and seals, and visit the internationally recognised resort town of Noosa Beach. Charter a boat or take your own! Go reef fishing or scuba diving or just set sail and head up the coast for the day. If golf is more to your liking, then you will be spoilt for choice. Within 30 minutes drive are several hinterland courses including the Coolum Hyatt Resort ranked the 5th best Golf Resort in Australia and the Greg Norman designed Pelican Waters Golf Resort is only 10 minutes away.
38.
"No other location promises so much, nor delivers it so completely"
Now we can introduce and exclusive freehold and very private enclave of only 12 Penthouse Residences designed with privacy, security and lifestyle paramount to its design. Lavishly appointed kitchen and bathrooms with premium Australian hardwood and marble throughout. Breathtaking panoramic water views from all-weather terraces and outdoor kitchens. Sophisticated luxury seamlessly merges with relaxed livability to deliver the definitive statement of style and
functionality. Smart-wired media rooms with surround sound. Large secured garages with walk in wine cellars. Choice of five boat parking bays on separate title in the underground car park. All of this nestled on the shores of the marine park with use of the private jetty with deep-water anchorage. Living areas for the four and five bedroom, fourbathroom Penthouses range in size from 330m2 (3551sq. ft.) to 580m2 (6241 sq. ft.) excluding double private locked garages.
39.
4 5 2
BED
Anchorage on maloja
BATH
CAR
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 agent.
phone.
34 Maloja Av, CALOUNDRA
from
$2.65M
PROPERTY FEATURE.
41.
Defying all words...
P
roperty is all about position, prestige property is all about attention to detail and quality of finish, this impeccable residence epitomises both. An entirely useable home in all aspects, you’ll discover 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a sauna for after your workout in the 100m2 gym that adjoins a state of the art, stand alone sit in wine cellar. The master bedroom, on the highest level opens up to a 300m2 observation deck servicing all rooms and takes full advantage of the mesmerising views of both the ocean and hinterland as this residence affords you 360 degree views.
A German made commercial grade lift system transports you from any level in the house to your garage that, cleverly positioned would accommodate 20 vehicles. The second level of the home is the most frequented and encompasses a guest suite, media room and separate study alongside a king size kitchen with walk in pantry and complete glass walls taking advantage of the hinterland and ocean panorama. The amazing infinity edge pool protrudes from the terrace seemingly meeting the horizon.
43.
5 4 10
BED
Ultimate Beach Pad
BATH
CAR
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 agent.
phone.
31 Pacific Heights Court, COOLUM BEACH $11M+
PROPERTY FEATURE.
45.
The ultimate island address
T
he vision for Ephraim Island was and always will be to create a residential address like no other for the select few fortunate enough to secure a title within the precinct. With an enormity of success from its inception, it is only now as time has passed that the opportunity to buy into this ultra exclusive enclave is renewed. Villa 9106 in the ‘Promontory Precinct’ is the ultimate island address. One of only 14 architect-designed waterfront Villas positioned harmoniously between
the park and the waters edge. Four levels incorporate a 5 car underground basement with room for wine cellar, flowing first floor with internal and external living areas split over two intermediate levels and a top floor encompassing views from the Broadwater behind, over the beautifully landscaped park and sitting right over the inlet watching the water lap under your very deck on the front. Waking up to the sound of the water was never this nice anywhere else. Come and experience what life could be like at Ephraim Island.
47.
3 3 5
BED
villa 9106
BATH
Promontory Precinct, EPHRAIM ISLAND
CAR
Lewis SHAW 1300 762 855 mobile. 0415 145 145 agent.
phone.
$1.45M
FOR SALE.
49.
3 2 2
BED
CUTTERS LANDING
BATH
CAR
3231/30 Hollins Crescent, NEW FARM
Owners purchased elsewhere. Must be sold now! Ideally positioned in the heart of Cutters Landing in New Farm, this apartment enjoys all of the qualities that have set Cutters Landing ahead of the rest, with uninterrupted and tranquil river views and luxury finishes throughout, this apartment exudes opulence. Cutters Landing is located in Brisbane’s highly regarded suburb of New Farm, known for its cafÊ lifestyle and close community feel. This apartment captures the true feel of what is New Farm.
agent. phone. mobile.
Andy McMaster 1300 762 855 0413 122 526
$1.4M+
Boasting 3 large bedrooms all with built-ins and 2 large bathrooms that feature beautiful honed Calacutta marble. At the heart of this apartment the large living area takes advantage of the intelligent use of space and design, overlooked from the fully featured modern kitchen that boasts top quality European appliances. Outside is a large wrap around balcony that is perfectly positioned to take advantage of your uninterrupted views of the river. This home has been built with privacy and tranquil lifestyle in mind; discover today what sets this apart from the rest.
MOTORING.
A coupe called speed The name says it all…and from your first glimpse of the fastest, most powerful two-door coupé that Bentley makes, you know it’s the perfect description.
"I CAN'T WAIT FOR IT TO ARRIVE IN THE SHOWROOM!" The mission of Bentley’s founder, W.O Bentley, back in 1919 was simple “to build a good car, a fast car, the best in class” and these words remain true today here at Bentley Brisbane. This heritage is set to continue with the unveiling of Bentley’s new performance flagship, the Continental GT Speed, which has been released with great anticipation and an uplifting new colour palette.
Paul Piert, Sales Manager at Bentley Brisbane speaks of the dealerships upcoming arrival “The GT Speed is a truly unbelievable vehicle. This car will do 330km/h with a weight of 2.3 tonnes and it can make zero to 100km/h in 4.2 seconds. I can’t wait for it to arrive in the showroom and for Brisbane to really experience the meaning of Speed!”
51.
❱ The new Continental GT Speed With 21” wheels and lowered suspension, darkened grille and front bumper intakes glinting in the light, the Continental GT Speed makes no secret of its intent. If you love to drive far and fast, if the exhilaration of a 625PS, 800Nm engine and eight-speed close-ratio transmission makes your heart race, this is your car. And yet this exceptional sports coupé, the newest, most powerful addition to the Continental stable still displays the refinement that makes a Bentley unique. Its all-wheeldrive system, biased 60:40 in favour of the rear, offers reassuring stability all yearround, come rain or shine. Its hand-crafted interior, which can be trimmed in a variety of materials from Burr Walnut to Dark Tint Aluminium, is supremely comfortable over long distances. Bentley’s new Continental GT Speed coupé is capable of fast lap times, but it’s a real-world supercar, not a track special. Distinctive it may be, but it’s also the latest in a long line of devastatingly fast, smooth and rewarding Bentley grand tourers.
Detailed Specifications: Bentley Continental GT Speed Priced from $450,000 + taxes Availability – April 2013 Maximum speed – 330km/h Acceleration – 0 to 100km/h in 4.2 secs Maximum power – 616bhp Maximum torque – 800Nm 8 speed ZF transmission with steering column mounting gearshift paddles Permanent all-wheel drive with 40:60 front to rear torque split
in such high regard. Geoff Dowding, Bentley’s regional director for Asia and the Middle East, commented recently on the change in tactic, stating “This allows us to show we have perhaps more creative style than what we’ve shown in the past with relatively vanilla or safe colours. I think it says a lot more of us as a brand and will prompt more questions from dealers and customers.”
❱ Colourful times ahead If exhilarating performance, uncompromising reliability or a sumptuous interior somehow aren’t enough, then what about an extended colour palette from which to choose from? Bentley Motors have recognised a need for a rejuvenated approach towards car customisation and introduced Apple Green, St James Red, Sequin Blue and Continental Yellow as exciting new paintwork options. Bentley is seizing the opportunity to make the brand more contemporary while not forgetting the important history and heritage that keep it
As a nation where more than 80% of all Bentley’s sold are in conservative colours, the team at Crewe thought it was about time they stir the paint pot and bend the rules on Bentley colour coordination – and were glad they did - see it for yourself at www.bentleymotors.com.au. ❱ The Bentley Continental GT Speed can be seen at Bentley Brisbane. Paul Piert and the team are excited to show you through the GT Speed, and the entire Bentley range. Contact Bentley Brisbane on +61 7 3257 7222 to arrange an appointment today.
52.
TRAVEL. WITH Sarah berry
Discover the magic and mountains of India and Nepal The subcontinent offers incredible experiences for the traveller and the trekker
53.
Taj Mahal
55.
❱ The colour of India India... the name conjures up images of colourful saris, sacred sadhus, camels trekking in the desert and cities bustling with life. And all these images are true 100-fold. The colour is more intense, the streets more crowded and the landscapes more spectacular. And then there's the food! Delicious! For the traveller, India is a big country and there's a lot to see – so what are the best places to explore? ❱ The Golden Triangle The classic introductory exploration of India is known as the Golden Triangle – travelling the triangular loop between the cities of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Delhi is busy, bold, bustling, colourful, crowded and chaotic. It's a city that never stops and it's a must for every visitor to India.
❱ Rajasthan and India's North The northwestern state of Rajasthan has a rich tapestry of history, with a legacy of elaborate palaces, forts and temples. There are many cities to explore – Jaipur, the capital, Jaisalmer, with its bustling bazaars, Jodhpur, the blue city, home to Mehrangarh Fort, and Udaipur, the city of lakes, with narrow laneways and heritage buildings. Rajasthan's other feature is the stunning Thar Desert – a landscape of real beauty, where you can discover the village life of rural India.
The north of India is also home to the holy Hindu city of Varanasi. Sprawling along the Ganges River, the city is alive with spirituality. The banks of the Ganges are crowded with pilgrims performing rituals of devotion and families cremating their loved ones. Visiting Varanasi and taking a sunrise boat trip along the Ganges, you can feel the full force of India's Hindu soul.
Varanasi: candle flower ceremony
The 'pink city' of Jaipur has an organised grid layout, but the city still manages to be a flurry of chaos. Renowned for its pink-hued buildings, Jaipur is laden with intricately-decorated forts and palaces from the time of the Maharajas, including the stunning Amber Fort.
Select images courtesy of My Adventure Store.
Agra is the home of the infamous Taj Mahal. A true monument to love, the majestic building of white marble and intricate inlay work took thousands of craftsmen over 20 years to complete. While the building is familiar from photographs, the experience of seeing its beauty up close will take your breath away.
56.
❱ The laid-back South of India The coastal areas in India's south have an air of relaxation. The laid-back state of Goa is perched on the west coast, with white sand beaches overlooking the Arabian Sea. The region has strong Portuguese influences from its colonial history, and this permeates the culture, architecture and food. Head to Goa for some relaxing timeout from your travels. Kerala, on India's south west tip, is a chilled out coastal area, with wide beaches and swaying palms. The region has some dramatic cliff coastline and was the heart of the spice trade for many years. However, the real draw is the beautiful backwaters and canals, providing water for rice paddies and coconut palms – and the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon boat cruise. ❱ The spectacular mountains of Nepal Nepal is a beautiful country. The Himalaya range runs the length of the land providing awe-inspiring mountain views of almost unbelievable proportions. Many Nepalese people live in remote villages in t he mountains where roads do not reach - to go anywhere, people walk. Anything that is not grown locally is carried in by donkey or porter. The network of mountain trails, linking villages and traversing valleys amidst stunning mountain scenery, provides the perfect trekking destination.
There are four main trekking region options, with treks ranging from a couple of days to a few weeks. The Everest Region is in the eastern half of Nepal and offers spectacular trekking. There's the classic Everest Base Camp trail (see boxed article), as well as the Gokyo Valley and Island Peak.
❱ Trekking the Himalaya The Himalaya range crosses Nepal's borders into Bhutan, India and Tibet. However Nepal is the easiest and best option for trekking – there are plenty of choices from easy to tough, the treks are readily accessible and the routes are well established, with tea houses in the villages along the way providing food and accommodation. A trekking adventure is a special kind of trip. You experience the landscape and culture of a beautiful region, and each day you have a personal challenge to rise to. New views open up at each corner and your first glimpse of the snowcapped peaks of the towering Himalaya is one you wont forget.
The Annapurna Region is in the western half of Nepal. A massive mountain chain, the Annapurnas form a semi circle around the Annapurna Sanctuary. A popular trail ascends into the sanctuary, while the Annapurna Circuit trail leads right around the mountain massif. The Langtang Region is just north of Kathmandu and offers easily accessible trekking amongst beautiful peaks. Walking here you will traverse through lush jungle, steep river valleys, glacial scenery and rhododendron forests. Remote trek options - For experienced trekkers, there are plenty of remote options to consider. Manaslu, Mera Peak, Chulu East and the Mustang Region all offer trekking on less-travelled paths – it can be challenging, but the rewards are plentiful.
The breathtaking Himalaya
57.
❱ The Everest Base Camp Trek Perhaps Nepal's best known trek, the trail to the Base Camp of Mt Everest is a classic. The scenery is gobsmacking, awe-inspiring, neck-craning, as you ascend amongst the highest mountains in the world. To trek to Everest Base Camp, most people fly to the mountain town of Lukla (2860m). From there, the trek heads upwards to the Sherpa Capital of Namche Bazaar (3440m), a substantial town (in Nepalese terms) which is a great place to put your feet up for a day of acclimatisation. From here, the landscape becomes more barren as the trail leads upwards to Dingboche (4260m), past the Khumbu glacier, and on to Everest Base Camp itself (5364m). Kala Pattar (5545m) is a minor summit near Everest Base Camp and most people trek to the summit for stunning views of Everest, Lhotse and the surrounding jagged peaks. This spectacular view of 8000 metre peaks is perhaps the highlight of this rewarding trek.
❱ Nepal's lowlands To get anywhere in Nepal, you will start in the capital, Kathmandu. It has a relaxed and friendly feel that makes it an easy place to just 'hang out'. In the travel centre of Thamel the streets are lined with restaurants, hotels and shops selling everything from trekking gear to jewellery. There are also plenty of temples to visit – explore Durbar Square, Pashupatinath Temple and Boudhanath Stupa. Nepal's other main lowland destination is Chitwan National Park. The park is home to an array of wildlife including birds, crocodiles, rhinos, tigers and monkeys. It's the perfect side trip in Nepal, providing the opportunity for jungle safaris.
Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu
Where to book? If you would like to learn more about options for travel to India and Nepal, come and visit the informative, experienced and friendly staff at Intrepid My Adventure Store. With the widest range of trips on offer, they will have the perfect adventure for you.
46 James Street, New Farm; Call 1300 308 611 or visit myadventurestore. com/contact-us/brisbane/newfarm
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e'cco-ING BRILLIANCE WITH PHILIP JOHNSON
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ew Zealand-born, Philip Johnson has become one of Australia's most celebrated chefs, honing his skills in Australia, London and New Zealand before settling in Brisbane which he now calls home. Philip opened his landmark bistro, e’cco, in 1995 and very quickly made a name for himself with his win of the 1997 Remy Martin Cognac/Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant of the Year award, a stunning achievement for Philip, but also a coup of Queensland. He has since continued to receive national and international acclaim for his flair and elegant simplicity, a virtue he has instilled in the dedicated and innovative team of chefs he leads. Philip has also authored six of his own cookbooks. They all include a wonderful collection of recipes that are distinctively Philip Johnson - unpretentious food, simple yet stunning - and a reflection of the ideas and beliefs that have made e'cco the success it is today. His newest venture Bistro One Eleven, located in the remarkably designed One One One Building on Eagle Street, Brisbane, recently opened its doors in September 2012 and boasts lavish architectural design, a simple menu with sharing options and a well-crafted wine list by Alan Hunter.
❱ e'cco bistro - www.eccobistro.com ❱ e'cco bar - www.eccobistro.com ❱ bistro one eleven - www.bistrooneeleven.com
Philip Johnson
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Christmas In our industry, December is usually very hectic so it’s a relief to finally have Christmas day off and as a result, my Christmas lunch is usually pretty low key, very simple and seasonal. I personally like a glazed and baked ham or roast turkey with lots of side dishes to share as opposed to a plated meal. But I always save room for dessert like this cherry and drambuie parfait which I love and is ideal for our usual searing hot Christmas day. Serves 6 100g fresh cherries, pitted 300g caster (superfine) sugar 9 egg yolks 675ml pouring (whipping) cream grated zest of 1 orange 80ml (1/3 cup) Drambuie 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract icing (confectioners’) sugar, for dusting Line a 28 x 10 x 8cm rectangular loaf tin with plastic wrap, allowing a 4cm overhang around the sides. Put the cherries, 100g of the sugar and 100ml water in a small saucepan over low heat. Gently cook the cherries until soft and reduced to a pulp. Set aside to cool, reserving 2-3 tablespoons of the liquid for garnish. Put the remaining sugar and 125ml (1 cup) water in a saucepan over low heat. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for five minutes, or until syrup reaches softball stage - 116°C on a
sugar thermometer, or when a little syrup dropped into a glass of cold water forms a soft ball. In the bowl of an electric mixer, whisk the egg yolks until thick and pale. With the machine running, gradually drizzle in the sugar syrup, whisking constantly, until the mixture has cooled. Stir the orange zest, Drambuie and vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk the cream to soft peaks. Using a large balloon whisk, carefully fold through the whipped cream. Lastly, fold through the cherry mixture to form a ripple effect. Pour the parfait mixture into the prepared mould, cover with the overhanging plastic wrap and freeze overnight. To serve, turn the parfait out of the mould onto a cutting board. Using a hot knife, cut into slices about 1½ cm thick. Arrange two slices of parfait in the centre of each plate and drizzle a little of the reserved syrup around the plate. Serve with biscotti dusted with icing sugar (optional).
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New Years @ Home New Year's eve at home is an interesting idea as most people go out. I would prepare all the food well in advance as the last thing you want to be doing is be stuck in the kitchen all night. I would have a substantial amount of finger food and as the night progresses, perhaps a wet dish such as a duck curry and jasmine rice. I would also do just one small decadent taste near midnight like champagne and rosewater marshmallows. I always get asked what my New Year's resolution would be, and I’m not big on huge changes but I intend to split my time between e’cco which is now 17 years old and am still immensely proud of, as well as running my new venture One Eleven. I would also like some down time with a midyear trip with my son Oliver. Life is always a balance and I guess my New Year's resolution would be to achieve that balance.
e'cco bistro
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Fifth Edition 2012. The property listing information presented within is accurate to the best of the publishers knowledge as at time of print.
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