New Jetsetters Magazine Issue 13

A VISIT TO KUALA LUMPUR’S CITY CENTRE THAILAND: YAO NOI ISLAND’S HILLTOP RESERVE CHINA: KOWLOON WITH A VIEW LUXURY HOTEL REVIEW PENINSULA HONG KONG I

Images courtesy of Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group

In This Issue

Volume 3 Issue 13

New Jetsetters World

Staying Connected When You Travel P7

If you’re like us, you can’t afford to “disconnect” while travelling. How do New Jetsetters stay “In the Loop” on the road?

ASIA

Hong Kong - Kowloon Malaysia - Kuala Lumpur

Smart Phones - The Passport of the Future? P8

Thailand - Phang Nga Bay With Apple’s release of the iPhone 5.0 and the earlier release of their OS 6.0 operating system, are we getting closer to an Electronic Passport?

An Elegant Evening At the Hilltop Reserve P10

As our cart snaked up the narrow, twisting path we glimpsed the turquoise Andaman Sea shimmering below. Soon we would arrive…

Fashion Shopping In Paris Anyone? P16

Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Jean Paul Gaultier, just some of the iconic “French Brands” that make Paris a Fashion Mecca. . .

We Review The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong P18

The historic Peninsula Hotel has been hailed as one of the world’s premium luxury hotels since it first opened it’s doors in 1928. Discover why . .

CARIBBEAN

St. Barth’s - St. Jean Beach St. Martin - Palm Beach Anegada BVI - Loblolly Bay EUROPE

Italy - Positano Paris - France

On The Cover The stunning Petronas Twin Towers illuminate KLCC in downtown Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Photo taken in front of the Mandarin Oriental KL.

Picturesque Positano – A Vertical Paradise P24

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is renowned throughout the world; how could it not be? A haven for the likes of Steinbeck, Picasso & The Rolling Stones . . .

The Streets and Malls Of Kuala Lumpur P28

The downtown scene is an eclectic mix of people and cultures, with Consumerism & the Almighty Dollar claiming top billing . . .

Five Great Places to Swim Naked P34

There is nothing in the world as amazing as the feeling of being completely naked in the warm, soulful waters of a tropical ocean. . .

NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 3

New Jetsetters Published By Clever Penguin Media 1555 Robson Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6G 1C3 All content in this issue has been researched,written, edited and published by the New Jetsetters team.

The New Breed Of Luxury Traveler We would like to thank the following for their assistance: Peninsula Hotel Kong Kong, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Le Sirenuse Hotel - Positano, Six Senses Resort - Yao Noi - Thailand, Peter Island Resort BVI and the Big Bamboo Beach Bar Anegada

News, comments and feedback are always welcome. Email us at escape@newjetsetters. com

March 2014

A Note from the Editor To build trust with the reader, NewJetsetters Magazine and it’s web partner newjetsetters.com will never promote or recommend something that we haven't investigated or experienced personally.

Brand endorsement is solely by choice. We do not accept paid advertising.

If we are going to recommend something to our readers – whether a share-worthy experience we’ve had ourselves as independent travelers, or enjoyed as invited, sponsored “influencers” – staying true to our brand and keeping the trust of our audience is key. After all, this should be seen as the ultimate endorsement; an influencer introducing a brand to a target audience brimming with loyal readers – and honestly recommending it. You just can’t buy that kind of advertising.

No part of this digital magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission of the publisher, Clever Penguin Media. All content is the property of New Jetsetters LLC. The opinions and reviews

expressed in each article are the opinions of its author.

Copyright ©2011 New Jetsetters Magazine. All rights reserved.

Images courtesy of Six Senses Hotels, Resorts and Spas

Are You a NEW JETSETTER? Find out at www.newjetsetters.com

If you’re like us, you can’t afford to “disconnect” while travelling, From a Canadian perspective, we know how difficult, and more importantly, how expensive it is to take your tablet or smart phone with you when travelling.

For example, on a recent two week trip to California we signed up with our provider, Telus Mobility for a one month “U.S. Texting Package” so that we could keep in contact with some business associates. It took us three months and $120.00 to finally cancel the package!

US carriers have their own issues,

technical problems and high prices as well. Number one, before starting the journey, you need to confirm whether your Smartphone or Tablet will function in your destination country. Many of today’s newer Smartphones (like an iPhone and many Android models) can work most anywhere in the world, and if in doubt, most providers have online lists of compatible models. Virtually all smartphones and tablets can use Wi-Fi.

In the case of Smartphones, most providers and voice packages will require you to sign up for an “International Roaming Package” at a set monthly rate that will lower your perminute rate overseas. For example, Telus Mobility’s current rate in Europe would be $1.50 per minute. I suggest you don’t call from a cruise ship ( $7.00 per minute ).

If you plan on using the Web, Tips For either on your Staying Smartphone or Connected Tablet, you’ve when you got a bigger Travel problem and will be looking at a larger bill. Data plans are expensive. Look at your plan options carefully, calculate your needs and add 10% just to be on the safe side.

Consider what consumes your data, like checking e-mail and saving photos to the cloud. European data rates start around $5.00 per MB and you can burn through that with little effort, so it’s important to monitor your usage. It’s a good idea to download and install an app like DataMan for Apple devices which can be set to trigger a warning when you’re nearing your data limit; Android devices come with built-in monitoring tools.

If you’re like us and require access to large amounts of data but don’t necessarily need it on the go, a straightforward solution is to shut of your phone’s cellular data completely, and then rely on WiFi access.-Continued on page 39 NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 7

Will Smart Phones Become The Passport Of The Future?

With Apple’s release of the iPhone 5.0 and the earlier release of their OS 6.0 operating system, are we getting closer to the day when we will see passports and other personal identification documentation on Smart Phones? The answer is yes…………… sort of.

With the release of the iPhone 5, the “Passbook” App was unveiled which organizes e-boarding passes, flight reservations, coupons and other documents on your mobile device.

Now that’s not particularly new, afterall the “wallet” concept has been around for a number of years with airlines like Air Canada, Cathay Pacific, and Delta already big into electronic boarding passes. But Apple believes the next step in streamlining the travel experience is getting through airport security faster.

Using location services technology, it could automatically check-in luggage when passengers approach an airport baggage check-in kiosk.

Under Apple’s patent, a traveler’s phone would automatically send electronic identification to a TSA agent as soon as the traveler gets in line, so that TSA agents could examine the electronic ID at an electronic viewing station.

At X-ray stations, a traveler’s phone would confirm to security agents that the traveler’s ID had already been checked. Facial recognition software could be included in the process.

Now before you get too excited, Apple’s patent calls for the use of NFC technology which will automatically exchange data with your phone via close range wireless technology. iPhone’s are not currently using NFC, so at best we are a few years away before any of this could be possible, and there is still some question as to whether NFC will catch on. At this point, Google wallet has not been quite the success many had envisioned, but it is early in the game and more infrastructure is needed.

A stunning view of Phang Nga Bay from the Hilltop Reserve at Six Senses, Yao Noi, Thailand

An Elegant Evening At The Hilltop Reserve Six Senses, Yao Noi, Thailand We opened the wooden gate doors to our pool villa in response to a polite knock and a gentle, singsong “Sawasdee!� As fresh and pretty as the blossoms dotting the lush jungle on this tiny Thai island, the young lady in the fuchsia pyjamas smiled as she relieved us of our overnight bags. We were on our way up to the Reserve!

As our cart snaked upwards around lush curves on the way to the top, we were thankful we hadn’t tried to walk it in the extremely hot and humid temperatures this time of year. As we wound ever upwards, we could see tantalizing views of the turquoise Andaman Sea shimmering kaleidoscopically through the trees. We rounded the final curve and found ourselves at the entrance to the Hilltop Reserve.

Natty, our personal GEM (Guest Experience Maker) was here to escort us via a golf cart for an overnight stay at the much touted “Hilltop Reserve” dramatically located overlooking the glorious panorama of Phang Nga Bay. “Are you ready for a wonderful experience at the Reserve?” she asked? As if our beaming faces didn’t give us away!

This was something we’d read about when doing our research on unique experiences in Yao Noi, and we’d been looking forward to this opportunity for months. We were pretty sure that our New Jetsetters would love to read about this!

Some may wonder why it would be appealing to stay here overnight, so let’s show you why! Formerly a private villa for the owner, this gorgeous open-air abode sits high amongst the treetops overlooking the otherworldly beauty of Phang Nga Bay. At almost 1,500 sq. metres of breathtaking terraces, landscaped gardens, lounging nooks and a glimmering infinity pool, having the entire place to yourself is almost mindblowing.

SWEEPING PANORAMAS OF THAILAND’S PHANG NGA BAY We’d seen the Hilltop Reserve from the water as we arrived at Six Senses Yao Noi earlier in the week by speedboat. Nestled in picturesque seclusion overlooking Phang Nga Bay, the infinity pool could be seen sparkling on the edge like a gem carelessly flung from the sea flung by Poseidon himself.

Having enjoyed a luncheon by that very pool a few days earlier, we couldn’t wait to get back up to experience an evening meal and a romantic, overnight stay with the Reserve all to ourselves.

Comfortable lounge chairs are scattered around the pool, sun umbrellas giving some much needed shade. Guests who prefer some privacy can curl up in one of the recessed “lounging nooks” where they enjoy a game of chess or backgammon, or do a little work on the laptop. Be warned though, you won’t accomplish much of anything except daydreaming while you are here!

An afternoon swim in the gorgeous infinity pool is an amazing way to cool down in style; the eye candy offered by the myriad hues of cerulean, turquoise and aqua blues of Phang Nga Bay will have you pinching yourself. The dreamfactor of this experience is almost unimaginable.

Some of the Reserve’s original bedrooms were converted into stylish dining rooms for those who prefer to eat in an airconditioned setting. The eye-popping views as the sun sets is something a visitor will never forget.

After a brief period as being rented out as one private Villa to only the wealthiest and privileged few, the Hilltop Reserve has been now been given new life. To maximize the enjoyment of this unique location for all guests, the Reserve is now the place to come for a day of relaxation or an authentic al fresco Thai dinner.

Beautiful lunches & creative cocktails are served on the open-air terraces beginning at 11:00 AM. Guests lounge on comfortable pillow-strewn sun beds to enjoy a favourite book or simply gaze in silent appreciation at the superlative view.

Perched atop the resort, this private villa is an exclusive dining venue with its stunning pool overlooking spectacular Phang Nga Bay.

NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 13

The large Master Bedroom is available to those who want to experience the magic of the Hilltop Reserve all by themselves. For an additional fee on top of what you are paying for your villa at Six Senses Yao Noi, the immense Reserve becomes all yours for one night.

Book one of the few tables poolside on the night you choose to stay at the Villa for the ultimate experience. Arrive late in the afternoon to get settled in your gorgeous bedroom and admire the view from your wraparound deck as the sun deepens the striated turquoise depths of Phang Nga Bay. Head down to relax poolside for a pre-dinner drink and lounge in the late afternoon sun, waiting for the moment the sun decides to relinquish her hold on the sky and sink in opulent splendour beneath the waves. As her afterglow paints the undersides of drifting altocumulus clouds with a tangerine glow, the limestone karsts take on an otherworldly appearance against a bruised sky.

As you retire to the immense bathroom to ready yourself for dinner, you find a large soaker tub has been filled with blossoms, bathrobes and towels laid out…. and there’s just enough time for a cup of fresh coffee as you dress for your elegant evening.

After a fabulous authentic Thai dinner, replete guests depart on golf carts, the staff clean up, setting up a sign at the entrance that a “Private Function” is in progress. It is phenomenal to know that “you” are that Private Function!

With the Reserve ours alone, the only sounds were leaves quivering in the warm breeze, the chirping of tree-frogs and a distant lapping of water from the beach far below.

We floated under the Southeast Asian sky, on the infinite edge of paradise. A cloudy moon illuminated the ancient karsts that punctuated the darkened depths of the Andaman Sea, lending a different sort of mystery to Phang Nga Bay. The pool water was a warm, delightful embrace, the stars above shining down on a timeless landscape that we felt so privileged to inhabit, even so briefly.

Eventually we could no longer keep our eyes open; a day full of warm sun, delicious food, wonderful wine and being treated like royalty was too much for us.

We stumbled up to our bedroom in the sky; asleep before our heads hit the pillows, our dreams were filled with the beauty of the Hilltop Reserve.

It is an experience we will never, ever forget and one we would encourage others to try should you find yourself in this exotic and incredible corner of the world.

A “Room wit View” at S h a ix Senses Y a o No i Hilltop Re serve

ing Outdoor Bath t ligh always a de Yao Six Senses No i NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 15

Fashion Shopping In Paris Anyone?

If you’re headed to Paris next spring to do a little shopping (or perhaps just a little window shopping!) here are some New Jetsetters hints on where to go to find some of your favourite designers.

Of course, most of the top brands have their main store on Avenue Montaigne or Rue du Faubourg, Saint-Honore, both near Champs-Elysees Avenue.

The left bank around Rue de Sevres has many French fashion stores, including Hermes, (one of our personal favourites!) Le Marais is a trendy fashion district and is open on Sundays. You can find French designer jewellery on exclusive Rue de la Paix.

Complete your afternoon of Paris Fashion Shopping with perfume. Many of the most coveted shops are clustered in the First Arrondissement (near the Palais Royal and Opera) and in the trendy Marais on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois. If you have time, check out the Fragonard Perfume Museum near the Opera Garnier for a fascinating look at the history of scentmaking and the complex development of perfumes.

Paris Department Stores are famous for fashion. In a few hours, choose from many Designer Brands in a comfortable environment. We prefer Le Bon Marche on the left bank and Galeries Lafayette on the right bank but there are many others.

Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Jean Paul Gaultier, just some of the iconic “French Brands” we all recognize, all based in Paris…. but it doesn’t end there! It’s the sheer number of lesser known fashion designers that make Paris one of the most creative fashion cities in the world.

A Resort Without Equal Laucala Island, An exclusive private island resort in Fiji www.laucalaisland.com

The Peninsula Hong Hong

Hong Kong is big-city chic. Separated from the Chinese Mainland by the Pearl Island Delta and the South China Sea, it is a unique and vibrant destination. Here, the traditional Chinese culture still thrives with lifestyles rooted in Communism, but Hong Kong blossoms with the freedom of capitalism. - By Deborah Thompson

Rolls Royce Fleet with Classic Peninsula “Pageboys”

Our visit to Hong Kong was only part of a larger Asian experience, but this was the perfect opportunity to explore this unique city and gain an appreciation and understanding of Chinese culture.

The richest of Mainland China’s elite have flocked to Hong Kong, enjoying the autonomy of living in a “Special Administrative Region” and to take advantage of the rights and freedoms of the “Capitalist Economic System”. This constitution is in place until 2047 under “Hong Kong Basic Law”. They have carefully sculpted a metropolis of high tech frenzy. Metal & glass monoliths pierce the sky during the day, and reflect sparkling neon highlights on the waters of Hong Kong Bay at night.

UNIQUE AND OVER THE TOP SERVICE:

SO WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT IT: The historic Peninsula Hotel has been hailed as one of the world’s premium luxury hotels since it first opened it’s doors in 1928. Part of the allure for many guests is the option to book a Chauffeur driven “Rolls Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantom Limousine” for the drive to the airport. The hotel also offers a Helicopter Service which deposits you in fine style at the hotel within twenty minutes, but we were more than happy to have the opportunity to ride in a very fine Rolls Royce. Renowned for it’s white-glove treatment of guests, the Peninsula HK offers very luxurious accommodations. Overlooking Victoria Harbour, it is located close to some of the most interesting shopping malls, street markets, and tourist attractions such as the Star Ferry & The Peak.

As soon as we entered the Arrivals Area at Hong Kong Airport, a handsomely dressed Peninsula appeared with a distinctive sign with our name on it.

Excellent start! With a smile and a tip of a hat, we were relieved of our luggage and placed in the capable hands of our Chauffeur. Bottles of sparkling water with crystal glasses were waiting in the Rolls Royce; refreshing jasmine scented towels freshened our faces & hands. Pleasant conversation from the driver was appreciated as he pointed out highlights along the way. It was pure luxury to roll smoothly along the night-lit streets of Hong Kong in a Rolls Royce, on our way to such a historic and lauded hotel.

The glittering high-rises of the downtown core pulsed energetically as we reached the downtown core, beacons of the energetic Tsim Sha Tsui Province and the “Grand Dame of the Far East”, also known as The Peninsula”.

Although it was late when we arrived, impeccably groomed staff were waiting for us, greeting us by name as they opened the doors of the Rolls for us.

A uniformed bellman magically appeared to whisk our luggage away as our hosts presented paperwork ready for our signatures. Recognizing how tired we must be, we were escorted directly up to our room, where our luggage was already waiting. The offer of a proper hotel orientation was offered the following day should we so desire, at our convenience.

UNIQUE ROOM: The Peninsula really knows how to impress guests.

They had left the drapes open, so that the incredible panorama of lights that define Hong Kong at night seemed to leap through the floor to ceiling window as we walked in. The calm, dark surface of Victoria Harbour reflected the radiance, so it seemed that the entire world was made up of pulsating pinpoints of lights from skyscrapers layered against the horizon. Soft Asian music infused the room with exotic appeal, and an elusive fragrance of jasmine or rose scented the air.

The concierge showed us the room features and wished us a lovely visit. We were very touched to see they were recognizing our anniversary with a small cake, a bottle of Champagne and two beautiful red wooden boxes carved with the Hotel’s insignia, containing a perfumed bar of soap – a wonderful souvenir our stay.

The room itself was a soft breath of serenity. Beautiful Asian art decorated the walls, oriental lamps highlighted a palette of soft pastel tones. The King size bed was huge and invited sweet dreams, with an insanely comfortable mattress. To lay in bed and fall asleep to the pulse of neon lights playing off Victoria Harbour was a unique, unforgettable experience.

The bathroom was immense, featuring rich creamy marble, hunter-green slate, & dark wood accents.

Double sinks, a large separate shower, huge soaker tub, separate water-closet – and most importantly to me – huge, fluffy and soft towels!

NOTABLE DINING: Peninsula Hotel offers many fantastic restaurants without having to leave the hotel.

Gaddi’s has fine French cuisine offered by Chef David Goodridge and has been a favourite restaurant for visitors to Hong Kong since 1953.

Imasa, home to imaginative Japanese Cuisine is also popular. Chesa serves authentic Swiss food in a “Chalet” setting, and “The Verandah” is a great choice for casual “nostalgic” dining.

“Spring Moon” serves original Cantonese Cuisine, and Salon de Ning is a great lounge for beautiful martini’s and other cocktails, live music and dancing.

ESSENTIALS TO KNOW: Don’t go to Hong Kong expecting a quiet, serene, laid back experience. It is all about people, people-watching, noise, lights, food, and activity.

Don’t expect to be treated with kid-gloves in Hong Kong, except of course on the Peninsula property!

With a staggering population of 7 million people in an area of 425 square miles, there is not a lot of free space or quiet. Locals are used to getting where they need to go with a minimum of interaction with others, so don’t expect to walk down streets or take public transportation without feeling crowded and jostled.

Make sure you do the Afternoon Tea at the Peninsula. It is a fantastic experience and it is called “Tea in Total Grandeur”. Only the best of everything is served to you on a silver platter; it is an experience not to be missed.

Get out and experience the culture of the local people. Stroll the sea-wall area along the front of Hong Kong Bay by day and by night so you can experience the sheer spectacle of the skyscrapers silhouetted against the lush greenery of Victoria Peak. At night, being in the heart of the district is fantastical as colourfully lit boats chug by, including freighters bringing in or leaving the Bay with every essential you can think of.

Get out and experience the real Hong Kong, eat their local food, go into their local shops to see what it is really like away from the tourist traps.

AMAZING ACTIVITIES: We were in Hong Kong for three days, yet we merely scratched the surface of fascinating things to do. Here are some of the activities we would highly recommend: The Peak Tram: First opened in May, 1888, the Peak Tram has always been a must-do for tourists to Hong Kong. Brochures, pictures & post-cards show a stunning vista, with clear, sunny skies and views out over Lanna Island, Kowloon and the valley of Pok Fu Lam, with Victoria Harbor sparkling in the sunshine. However, our one and only available day to experience this venerable peak gave only glimpses of landscape through ghostly wisps of cloud as rainy weather set in. We still enjoyed the experience.

Star Ferry: The Star Ferry, one of Hong Kong’s most favourite attractions, has been around for almost a century. For only HK $2.20 it’s a great, safe way to see Hong Kong from a different perspective. Out on the water the immense sky-scrapers of the mainland, Kowloon, take on a majestic appearance. Surrounded by other tourists and many locals, it is a fun day-trip to Hong Kong Island. The ferry does three different routes, one between Tsimshatsui and Central, another between Tsimshatsui and Wan Chai, and one between Hung Hom and Wan Chai.

We found the level of service at this hotel to be exceptional, and the mainland location makes it a number one choice when exploring Kowloon. You must visit their Roman-Style swimming pool and sun terrace and one of my favourites, the Prada Boutique.

Picturesque Positano A Vertical Paradise

The beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast is renowned throughout the world; how could it not be?

Written about by the likes of John Steinbeck, a haven for the artistic genius of Picasso and a place that inspired The Rolling Stones to write “Midnight Rambler”, it may appear to be just a sleepy fishing village, but something about it captures the imagination and hearts of all who visit.

Tucked into the steep nooks and crannies of “Monte Lattari” and boasting a swashbuckling history that speaks of Saracen pirates, mermaids & sirens, nymphs and mythical gods, the romance of Positano is hard to deny. Rising out of the cerulean blue of the Mediterranean Sea, terraced villas cling to the steep, rocky face of the mountain, gleaming like stones fresh from a riverbed. As a benevolent sun closes her golden eye at sunset, shadows lend perspective and depth and the buildings appear to be fitted together like pieces of an extravagant 3D jigsaw-puzzle.

As you stroll the town and linger at various breathtaking terraces, the “Majolica-Tiled” cap of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta catches the eye from just about any vantage point. Nestled amongst the lush foliage and vibrant magenta blossoms that cover the slopes, the golden dome seems to shimmer like a second sun on the horizon. Looking down upon the vast turquoise sea below, imagination takes flight. Mighty Poseidon erupts from the turquoise sea, his stony gaze searching the surface for the “Sirenusai”, mythical mermaids whose beautiful music would lure sailors to their death upon the rocks.

Soft pastel-hues, flower bedecked stone stairs, wildly blossoming window-boxes and ornate wrought-iron trim, descending the narrow, crumbling stone stairs throughout Positano is to experience a waking dream. All that reminds you that you are awake is the aching in your legs and the reality that at some point you must make the climb back up from whence you came!

The terraces overflow not only with psychedelic bougainvillea; lemon trees weep with their bounty.

A proud symbol of this region of Italy, the lemon is celebrated & revered, appearing on ceramic plates, fabrics and artwork. Positano lemons are perhaps most famous, however, for yielding the incredibly smooth, creamy Limoncello a source of national pride. Made from lemon zest, grain alcohol & simple syrup, each sip is a taste of heaven on earth.

Seen from below, the stunning beauty of Positano is awe-inspiring. From the vantage of a pebbly beach or a rocking boat, the myriad pastels seem to morph and meld, the salty tang of the Mediterranean sings in your nostrils and a warm breeze blows with hints of blossoms and spice. This is the moment when John F. Fitzgerald’s famous quote really hits home: ”It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.”

The name Positano, is linked to a legend.

In ancient times, a Turkish boat became beached just off the shores of what has since come to be known as Positano.

Le Sirenuse Hotel A Positano Landmark

A view of Positano from the Capri Ferry

The Streets and Malls of Kuala Lumpur Exploring downtown Kuala Lumpur is an interesting way to spend the cooler hours of the early morning or late in the afternoon as the sun dips behind towering office buildings. It feels very safe, and apart from a lot of construction areas, it is a very easy city to navigate. From our hotel room at the Mandarin Oriental, we spent two mornings exploring the eclectic city vibe - By Deborah Thompson

The Petronas Towers, Mandarin Oriental Hotel and beautiful Kuala Lumpur City Center

The downtown scene is an eclectic, cosmopolitan mix of people and cultures, with consumerism and the “Almighty Dollar” claiming top billing.

Strolling the streets you will see blackrobed Muslim ladies, usually sporting very fine footwear & designer bags, the somber black garb enlivened by the likes of Christian Louboutin shoes, Chanel purses, Gucci sunglasses or Hermes scarves. Those who choose to show their mysterious eyes are almost always impeccably made up, with shadow, thick eyeliner and mascara to complete the exotic look. In groups of three or four, these ladies seem to especially delight in browsing through the frilly unmentionables at Agent Provocateur, Victoria’s Secret and couture lingerie label Bordelle.

Pavilion Shopping Plaza

Suria KLCC Is Located At The Foot Of The Petronas Twin Towers With some of the largest Malls in the world, Malaysia is a veritable mecca of designer goods and attracts many of the world’s richest people. Oil rich Arabians and wealthy Chinese families flock to the air conditioned comfort of Suria KLCC, located right at the foot of the Petronas Towers, buying enough Louis Vuitton and Chanel purses to sink a yacht.

Suria KLCC Shopping Mall

The Pavilion Mall is the 4th largest mall in the world. It covers 5 million square feet, is six stories high, and has over 700 stores packed to the rafters with beautiful items.

Five major department stores anchor this mall, and it includes two supermarkets, just in case you need to pick up some yogurt before you head home for the day.

It is estimated this mall receives 120,000 visitors every day. We just had to explore one or two of these malls, and have to admit we were blown away.

The Pavilion Mall Is In The Uber Trendy Bukit Bintang District Many of the women in Kuala Lumpur wore Hijabs to frame beautiful faces, the colourful prints of the head scarves often paired with blue jeans or long skirts. Malay ladies dressed in polished, professional western style for the most part, walking mostly in small groups. Kaleidoscopic store windows reminded us of those we have seen in Hong Kong. Kitschy, tawdry and flashy, the bright colours of toy stores, luggage shops, and candy stores were wonderful for window-shopping.

Fruit stalls nestled on busy corners or folded themselves in between massage parlours and hole-in-the-wall restaurants.

Fresh coconuts balanced precariously in fruity pyramids, all you needed was a straw to access the cold, nutritious contents.

Shoppers strolling along Jalan Bukit Bintang

Spiky, pink Dragonfruit took the prize for great colour, while neon-green Star Fruit glistened next to grape-hued Mangosteens.

The wildly hairy Rambutan took the prize for the strangest looking fruit in my book!

As we meandered further trying our best not to get lost, we ended up on a side street in front of Plaza Low Yat, “Malaysia’s Largest IT Lifestyle Mall”. Oh my….. If it plugs in or has a battery and is something that you simply cannot live without, this mall will have it. We had never seen so many cameras, lenses and computers and gadgets in one location in all our lives. Many hundreds of Malaysian Ringgits later, we emerged the proud owners of a shiny new Nikon Camera lens which we think was a very good deal. We found the shop owners to be very polite, very helpful, not pushy and very willing to make a deal. Without even trying we were able to get the lens for a much lower price than it was listed for simply by saying we wanted to look around elsewhere. We had already been looking and knew the lens was already quite a good price, and didn’t anticipate that the vendor would drop it even more. It was indeed a good buy.

Kuala Lumpur was ranked as the Fourth Best Shopping Destination in the World

by CNN Travels in 2012, beating big cities like Paris, Madrid, Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Vienna and Dubai.

Kuala Lumpur is the 2nd best shopping city in Asia Pacific, edging other major cities like Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo and Sydney.

Pavilion Kuala Lumpur is the winner of 24 local and international retail awards.

We walked everywhere, navigating the pot-holed sidewalks erupting with massive roots and dodging the exuberant growth of lush trees & bright blossoms. We found our way up escalators and through inter-connecting miles of tunnels leading from rapidtransit stations to endless malls, including the aquarium (which we did not visit). They were clean and safe – and best of all, mostly air conditioned!

One day we will return to the magical city of Kuala Lumpur but next time we will bring better shoes‌

Malaysia has been rated the world's top Muslimfriendly holiday destination over Egypt, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Singapore

Five Great Places To Swim Naked There is nothing in the world as amazing as the feeling of being completely naked in the warm, soulful waters of a tropical ocean. With no fabric to bind or constrict, all of your body tingles with the sensory overload of such a wondrous experience. Bubbles, sea foam and seaweed feel very different against super-sensitive skin that is seldom exposed to the elements! Be prepared for a few gasps, and the elated feeling of doing something ever so slightly sinful.

By Deborah Thompson

If you are anything like me, finding a place to free your modesty and your body parts to the world at large can be challenging. However, we have found a few places where, if you choose the right time of day at the right time of the year, a floating session au natural can become the most memorable experience of your vacation. So join u and, hang your bathing suits up on the tree limb alongside your inhibitions. Here are the top five places we like to swim naked whenever we can. We recommend you keep your swinging appendages in low profile and be respectful of the local residents and their laws or you could end up in hot water - and we don’t mean the ocean.

1. Aku

mal B Our v each, e r y f ir Akum cove st de nu in A k al, Me Prote u m a l, d e d d ip w xic cted a s in on t from t h is in o la r g e s he Y the o t barr ucata t im a t p e e n Pe ie r r e is s a f n e f in t n o c e a n b e he wo y t h e in s u la . one e and easy. r ld , c a We fo s nd of econd n und a appro the n is o la d id c a v o r t in a c h in g eye bay, took ted st g w h it e s , le f t r a lo o sand k aro etch at our s and r in t o t w im s u und aced h e s il for li k e g it s o n ky wa g e n t ly id d y the so ter in t h e ft that m w a t e r . W h a t a f iv e y e a r o , reve ld k id omen s li n g in r u s h ! W e t on, have to be bobbe the fr repea we knew t d e e d o h is e x m ted. p e r ie n . F r o m ce wo u ld

Sa in t M a rt in 2. Pa lm B ea ch , of St . Ma rt in “F re nc h Si de ” On th e tr en dy g st re tc h of lon a Be ac h, we fo un d Pa lm g so m e of in sa nd bo rd er th e po wd er y wh ite in r te wa ul be au tif m os t th e is h th e ac be is e bo nu s to th er e wh Ca rib be an . Th s nt Be ac h re st au ra lu nc h am az in g Pa lm nt ga ele an ha ve ca n yo u wi ne s (a ex ce lle nt Fr en ch by ed ni pa m co wa y to ac g lon a go wh ich r do wn fe w bo ttl es of he rt Fu th es of f). ea sin g th os e clo wh er e th e nd sa of h tc st re th e be ac h is a or ic loo kin g e so m e pr eh ist on ly vo ye ur s ar d co up le od ns , an d th e ro ck fo rm at io ai n, th e ag ce On . in ha nd st ro llin g ha nd an d th e ap he in g in to a clo th es we nt fly l st at e of fu iss bl a in re we ne xt m om en t we tle na ug ht y, eli ng ju st a lit na ke dn es s, fe ni ce . bu t ve ry , ve ry

3. St. Jea n Be ac h, St. Ba rth ’s

ea ch , 4. K a ta N o i B T h a ila n d l sand

Thi s sma ll cre sce nt of fine wha t san d is hom e to one of the Car ibb ean ’s top hot els, Ede n Roc k. A few oth er sma ll hot els dot this incredib ly bea utif ul bay, and on wee ken ds and holi day s it can app ear qui te cro wde d wit h the bea utif ul peo ple. But if you can be the re ear ly, just as the sun is risi ng, or righ t at twi ligh t, whe n mo st peo ple are bus y pre par ing to go out for din ner, you can hav e the bea ch all to you rse lf. Pre pare to wat ch the sky stre ak wit h am ber and bur nt sien na as the sun sink s, and rev el in the tac tile plea sures of war m oce an wat ers aga inst you r bare skin .

u tch of beautif This long stre ically t a m a r d e g n beach can cha year, f o e the tim depending on ak into e r t s o t e m i t and the best day you naked as the the water as not, a not, I repe t were born is se o o h C ! n o s monsoon sea ril and the p A h g u o r h t r Novembe g and soft, caressin water will be wall k c o r e g e lar gentle, and th ach from e b e h t s e t a r which sepa -Tri’s perch of Mom the cliff-side r to e t l e h s erfect Villas is the p e the k a t d n a s m o t bare your bot . naked plunge

a BVI y , A n e g a dbe a B y ll lo b ac h w it h o L 5. az in g st so lu te ly am

be Th is is an ab ( se rv in g th e a sm al l ba r l of u t df bu n g ha n a hi n ot r e ve r) an d te d bs lo an t re gh he fr e sh -c au al l ho u se s at te re d sm n ti re e sc e ly th m g do n n di ra sp e n op y ou fr om ou n d in a th e re to st d ru n n in g ar an s he ot cl t th e su n u of ho t it as w y bl g da ( Th e se ar in . is is a zy n Th e fr . ) d gh n ak e p au se , th ou ou y ti m id ve ly u gi m ig ht r th e tr d e sc ap e fo p in ay am e cr w tr u ly se cl u de t. H av e a fe ar s to te he tva -a ri p st n u di ge y ou r d th e n p lu n , cr y st al lm ca e co la da ’s , an th to s co n te n t in w ill ha ve w ill y ou r he ar t’ co m p an y y ou ly on e as th e y Th de p th s. of p e lic an s si lh ou e tt e s ac e of rk rf da su e e th th be ad ow s ov e r sh g n ba th . ti e se e oi fl u p ai n t , tu rq y ou r p ri va te

NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 37

A Room With A View

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Hacienda San Angel - Nestled high above the narrow cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta, one of the world’s most elegant and romantic boutique luxury hotel experiences awaits.

Hacienda San Angel surrounds its visitors with the genteel charm of Mexican Colonial architecture and turnof-the-century furnishings & incredible antique statues & artwork.

The Celestial Suite at Hacienda San Angel is one of their most breathtaking suites and our personal favourite. This spacious retreat features a canopied queen size bed with spectacular views of sparkling Banderas Bay. A private outdoor sitting area boasts a personal bar and palapa, creating the ultimate romantic hideaway. The Sweet-Spot for New Jetsetters!

-Continued from page 39

While you’ll still find free access in some parks, coffee shops and bars in many countries, companies like Boingo.com offer subscriptions (unlimited data for $35) to a network of Wi-Fi hotspots located across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, in Boingo’s case some 200,000, especially in major cities and airports. (An important security reminder if you opt to use Wi-Fi: You can’t be sure how safe an unknown network is, so refrain from accessing banking and similarly sensitive sites or apps that require you to input a password).

Most phones in North America are “locked” by carriers so that they can only be used on their network, and so they must first be unlocked either by the phone company or other methods that we will not discuss here. A great Data Plan Service is called iphonetrip.com. It lets you sign up ahead of time for a data plan, and then sends you a SIM card you slip into your phone or tablet (and it even works with carrier-locked devices). In our case, the rates are better than our regular carrier and are better than prices you’d pay for Wi-Fi at many hotels and airports. One drawback is that you don’t have a proper Voice Plan, so you have to rely on Internet-based calling services or apps like Skype. The other option is to buy a local pre-paid SIM card after arriving in your destination country.

You’ll get the cheapest rates, which for International calls may be pennies a minute, and very high data limits. The catch on this one is that every country is different, and so while you’ll readily find SIMs at convenience stores and newspaper kiosks, some require a permanent local address due to security restrictions.

Thought we forgot about “SIM” cards? Not at all! In fact, renting or buying an International SIM card can be your best option. A SIM card, is a small wafer-like chip that contains your account info and which can be swapped back and forth between devices.

NEW JETSETTERS / newjetsetters.com 39