Corporate Traveller Feb/Mar 2013

Corporate

Traveller where business meets luxury + In Transit

Insider reviews W Singapore Sentosa Cove Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur and more...

24hrs in Singapore The CEO speaks

Qatar Airway’s Akbar Al Baker

winsome Airport

Changi adds buzz to the region Vol.1 Issue1 SGD9.50 / RM20 ISSN 2335-6588

CONTENT 12 Postcard Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay, Singapore.

32

CONCIERGE 16 What’s on A round-up of corporate and recreational events in the region.

18 News Flash The latest happenings in regional cities as well as updates in the hospitality and travel industry.

BOARDING PASS 32 In Transit Singapore: Gaining Velocity

40 City Report Sydney: Riding on a Wave

46 Insider Swissotel Sydney / JPB

50

W Singapore – Sentosa Cove / Skirt Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur / Thirty8 The Fullerton Bay Hotel / The Spa Artisan

76

62 Getaway Taming of the Snow

68 First Class Luxuriate in Spirituality

76 Wonderlust Bridging Divides

4 Corporate Traveller

Cover Photography Joel Low Styling Jumius Wong & Jack Wang Navy silk-blend polo shirt, Prada Navy silk-blend vest, Prada Cream silk-blend pants, Prada Navy silk-blend blazer, Prada Navy & red leather loafers, Prada Luggage, Victorinox and Hartmann, The Planet Traveller

CITY REPORT

CONTENT

JET-SETTERS 84 Frequent Traveller Peter Mainguy, GM, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore

87 Expert Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways

LUXE COLLECTION 92 Style File Dress right with stylish ensembles, accessories and grooming products

100 Tech Talk New gadgets to flaunt and four travel apps to download

102 Shopping Report Benvenuto in Italia

84 102

108 Fashion Spread Trendy looks that exude poise while on the go

116 Shopping@Changi A gift gallery of the latest arrivals at the airport

120 Indulgence Light up your home with the Mille Nuits floor candelabrum

108 6 Corporate Traveller

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EDITORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTE

DIMENSIONS COLLIDEâ&#x20AC;Ś Time, space and functionality collide to create a thriving microcosm that nurtures the diverse elements of our daily needs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be they business, social, interpersonal or individual. Our hectic lifestyles have created a need for compact space and multifunctional convenience. Along with it DPNFT UIF EFNBOE GPS BO JOTUBOU HSBUJmDBUJPO PG NBOZ XBOUT â&#x20AC;&#x153;Three-in-oneâ&#x20AC;? is a self-serving catch phrase of the millennium as it goes beyond that instant sachet of coffee with added milk and sugar. PassĂŠ by now perhaps â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;all-in-oneâ&#x20AC;? is the new standard for many things.

A restaurant is no longer just a Chinese or Western restaurant; it is modern-fusion, French-Mediterranean or contemporary Cantonese.

The compound adjectives pile on. A shopping mall is now a lifestyle venue where one may send the kids to tuition classes, catch a movie, work out at the gym, grab a bite and get groceries in addition to the usual retail therapy. Consider too our internationally acclaimed Changi Airport. It is not just a venue for travellers; the locals regularly frequent the airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terminals for shopping and dining. The airport IBT CFFO MBVEFE GPS JUT FGmDJFODZ JO PQFSBUJPOBM BOE UFDIOJDBM expertise as well as its recreational amenities that have made travelling such a pleasure.

Hence the context for our dialectic stance takes root. With Socrates as our muse, we nullify the notion of singularity and aim to deliver a magazine in all its splendid plurality. As frequent travellers cross time zones and tackle corporate missions, social and family MJWFT NBZ m[[MF TPNFXIBU Corporate Traveller provides the stop-gap NFBTVSF CZ BDUJOH BT BO JOGPSNBUJWF TPVSDF UIBU GVMmMMT UIF NZSJBE desires of a jet-setting cosmopolitan lifestyle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one that embraces work and pleasure.

Our In Transit column (pg. 32) tells our readers what they can do at the airport â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and in the city â&#x20AC;&#x201C; depending on their time constraints, while our City Report (pg. 40) allows frequent travellers to rediscover their favourite cities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starting with Sydney. After the business deed is done, shop and dine like the locals. Before your next trip, read our Insider reviews (pg. 46) on hotels, restaurants and spas for mSTU IBOE WJFXQPJOUT Getaway (pg. 62), on the other hand, empowers you with suggestions on which destination to head to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; based on your favourite sport. Conquer the skiing slopes and you conquer the boardroom too with that same winning mindset. And what is a jet-setting lifestyle without that element of luxury? We bring you Luxe Collection (pg. 91) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a section dedicated to everything that is posh, decadent and desirable. Look the part and play the lead role of a GBTIJPOBCMF GSFRVFOU nZFS &OKPZ ZPVS SFBEĂž

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PUBLISHER ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER EDITORIAL

Cecilia Woo Sharon Cheu Group Editor Esther Faith Lew Editor Derek Rodriguez Associate Editor Natalie Joy Lee Senior Writers Darren Wong, Michelle Yee Contributors Viviana Asri, Ching, Sherwin Chua, Joel Low, Jumius Wong, Jack Wang

ART

Senior Creative Director Tommy Hong Art Directors Junlong Loh, Cally Han, Leonard Si Graphic Designer Vincent Lok

WEB

Web Content Designer/ Photographer Victor Toh

SALES

MARKETING

FINANCE PRODUCTION

CUSTOMER SERVICE

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES

DISTRIBUTORS

FOR ENQUIRIES

Singapore Business Director Marie Yeo Business Managers Alice Ng, Nazzarei Chia Malaysia Sales & Marketing Director Jessly Pak Business Manager Rebecca Chiang Senior Sales Executives Jeff Lee, Ryan Wong Senior Marketing Manager Tasmin Chua Marketing Manager Valerie Low Marketing Executive Lim Kai Yan Finance Manager Julie Khong Production Executive Jovin Low TrafďŹ c Executive Helie Cheah Singapore Customer Service Executive Beth Kwok Malaysia Customer Service Executive Nur Hanizah Hong Kong/Macau Mariam Wong mariam.wang@publicitas.com Japan Tsuyuki tsuyuki@mcijapan.com Thailand Hemant N Sonney hemant@sonneymedia.com Singapore Mediacorp Pte Ltd Malaysia MPH Distributors Sdn Bhd Editorial Corporatetraveller@regentmedia.sg REGENT MEDIA PTE LTD 20 Bedok South Road, Singapore 469277 Tel: 65/6446-6888 Fax: 65/6449-9945 REGENT MEDIA SDN BHD B-3-21, Section 8, Business Center Jalan Sungai Jernih 1, 8 Avenue 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Tel: 603/7954-8989 Fax: 603/7954-8979

Corporate Traveller MICA (P) 152/08/2012, ISSN 2335-6588, PPS1814/01/2013 (025533), is published bi-monthly by Regent Media Pte Ltd. No part of this publication is to be reproduced, stored, transmitted, digitally or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

The information contained herein is accurate at time of printing. Changes may have occurred since this magazine went to print. Regent Media Pte Ltd and its editors will not be held liable for any damages, loss, injury or inconvenience, arising in connection with the contents of the magazine.

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Maximizing Meetings Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket has renovated and revitalised meeting space, including a newly elegant Dusit Laguna Hall and the re-modelled executive boardrooms ready to serve executive meetings for groups of ten or evening cocktails for over a hundred in 2013.

Book the Dusit Best Available Rate at Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket.

Receive 25% off the first night’s rate as credit against additional privileges.

Applicable for bookings made from now to 31 March 2013 for meetings held on 1 April to 31 July 2013.

Please quote “Maxmeetings” at time of booking.

390 Moo 1, Srisoontorn Road, Cherngtalay District, Amphur Thalang, Phuket 83110, Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 7636 2999 Fax: +66 (0) 7636 2900 Email: dtlp@dusit.com dusitthaniphuket

POSTCARD

A Standing Ovation

Photo courtesy of Gardens by the Bay

Twelve towering Supertrees, standing 16 storeys high, come alive at night in the OCBC Garden Rhapsody light and sound performance. Be dazzled during this 10-minute show, which tells the story of mankindâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s harmonious co-existence with nature. Held nightly at 7.45pm and 8.45pm at Supertree Grove, Gardens by the Bay. Free admission.

12 Corporate Traveller

Corporate Traveller

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Photo courtesy of 3DQ 3DFLĂ&#x20AC;F

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WHAT’S ON

HSBC Women’s Champions Singapore February 28 to March 3, 2013 Sitting prominently on the LPGA Tour calendar, and as one of the most well-regarded golfing events in the region, it is little wonder that fans in Asia are eagerly anticipating the return of the HSBC Women’s Championships. Widely known as “Asia’s Major”, the tournament gives attending spectators the chance to witness the world’s top 63 female golfers in competitive action as well as the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere of a world-class sporting event. http://www.hsbcgolf.com/womens/

International Furniture Fair Singapore 2013 Singapore March 9 to 12, 2013

Hong Kong International Jewellery Show Hong Kong March 5 to 9, 2013 Celebrating its 30th edition this year, the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Touted as one of the top three jewellery shows in the world, this highly regarded exhibition is expected to attract more than 3,200 exhibitors and 38,000 buyers from all over the world.

Among exhibitors that have already confirmed participation are renowned companies including Pluczenik Diamond Company from Belgium, Alain Boite S.A.S. from France, Constantin Wild from Germany, Dimexon (Hong Kong) Limited from Hong Kong, and Vulcan & Co from Israel, David & Sohn AG from Switzerland and Aarzee Jewellery from U.A.E. http://www.hktdc.com 16 Corporate Traveller

Held in conjunction with the ASEAN Furniture Show, the International Furniture Fair Singapore is an annual furniture exhibition that features an array of furniture presented by a diverse portfolio of quality exhibitors.

Over the years, the exhibition has earned itself a cult following with international companies that are trying to penetrate the global market as well as with trade buyers who are sourcing for the latest in furniture trends. http://www.iffs.com.sg/

OFF Shore Asia Malaysia March 6 to 8, 2013 As energy continues to be one of the most hotly debated and discussed topics not just in Asia but also in the rest of the world, and with the demand for oil and gas constantly increasing, Offshore Asia is set to be one of the most followed events on the calendar.

Held in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Offshore Asia brings together companies that supply technologies, products, and services to the burgeoning offshore oil and gas industry in Asia. http://www.offshoreasiaevent.com/ index.html

International Luxury Travel Mart (ILTM) Japan March 11 to 13, 2013

Shanghai Spring Real Estate Market Exhibition

Following the rousing success of International Luxury Travel Mart Americas, the organiser of leading luxury travel events International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM), Reed Travel Exhibitions will be launching the International Luxury Travel Mart Japan this March in Kyoto. This ‘by invitation

only’ gives international exhibitors the opportunity to interact with high-end luxury travel agents, planners and tour operators to reach high-spending Japanese luxury travellers. For the city of Kyoto, this will be a milestone event to be more formally recognised as a major luxury travel destination. http://www.iltm.net/japan/

China March 15 to 18, 2013 The Shanghai Spring Real Estate Market Exhibition 2013 (Spring RE 2013) was incepted for those who are interested in exploring and pursuing a higher understanding of the economic development of China’s real estate industry. The high-end, interactive exhibition will be held over four consecutive days at the Shanghai Exhibition Center (SEC) and promises to attract visitors from around the globe to share their opinions with the 200 property exhibitors at the event. http://www.chinaexhibition.com

World Retail Congress Asia Pacific 2013 KIMES 2013

Singapore

South Korea

March 19 to 21, 2013

March 21 to 24, 2013 The 29th Korea International Medical & Hospital Equipment Show introduces the most cutting-edge medical and hospital equipment to buyers for the improvement of health care facilities around the world. The exhibition, which will take place in Seoul’s Convention & Exhibition Center (COEX), also serves to placate the domestic demand for solutions to Korea’s ageing population, specifically in hospital communication, medical vehicles, waste management systems, hospital architecture, and new technologies and products. http://www.kimes.kr/eng/

Following the rousing success of the first and second edition of the Annual World Retail Congress Asia Pacific held in Hong Kong and Beijing respectively, the third edition will be held at the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

An impressive list of prominent figures from the retail industry are expected to speak at the Congress including Scott Price, the Chief Executive at Walmart, Seah Kian Peng, the Chief Executive at NTUC Fairprice, and many more. The Congress is fast becoming the leading meeting place for both Asian retailers and international brands as they meet to network, share

best-practices and hone their future strategies. http://www.worldretailcongressasia. com/

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AFTER A FIVE-MONTH CLOSURE AND ONLY FOUR MONTHS FROM OUR REOPENING, WE HAVE ALREADY REGAINED OUR MARKET LEADER POSITION IN TERMS OF ‘SOFTWARE’; NO EASY FEAT IN LABOURCONSTRAINED SINGAPORE. WE ATTRIBUTE THIS TO HAVING RETAINED 95 PER CENT OF OUR ASSOCIATES...

Scott Swank General Manager Pan Pacific Singapore

Pan Pacific Singapore Unveils New Look Singapore On the back of a S$80 million five-month revamp since opening in 1987, Pan Pacific Singapore now boasts a revitalised lobby; 790 re-designed rooms; a new dining venue called Edge, which features seven open-concept kitchens serving Singaporean, Asian and international fares; and a transformed Pacific Club on level 38 – which offers spellbinding views and round-the-clock privileges and services.

Voted ‘Asia’s Leading Business Hotel’ by World Travel Awards consecutively from 2006 to 2011, the five-star hotel is centrally located in Marina Bay, a 20-minute drive from the airport, and just five minutes away from the Central Business District.

When guests enter the hotel, customer service staff with iPads are on hand to facilitate swift check-ins in under five minutes.

Cutting-edge technology features strongly in the new Pan Pacific, with rooms being supported by ‘enhanced entertainment’, which allows guests to synchronise their mobiles to their LCD

18 Corporate Traveller

televisions. Additionally, there is a wide selection of live channels, complimentary wired and wireless Internet, and smooth check-outs done conveniently via television sets.

Technology aside, the panoramic views and spacious rooms at the Pan Pacific play a complementary role in enhancing guest experience. Of particular note is the Skyline Suite, which impresses with a swanky living room that overlooks the city and harbour and a tempting 170-cm-long bathtub in the stylish marble bathroom. It also features a state-of-the-art smart energy management system that uses motion-sensitive technology to control the room’s air conditioning.

Business travellers who are Pacific Club guests get to enjoy complimentary pressing/ laundry services, usage of the conference room, late check-outs till 5pm, private room dining and daily shuttle services to Shenton Way and Marina Bay Sands.

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Parkroyal on Pickering Opens in Singapore Singapore

Hilton Introduces Carbon Offset Programme Singapore

Under the Parkroyal Collection hotel series, the S$350-million Parkroyal on Pickering is an architectural stunner, centrally located between the cultural enclave of Chinatown and the bustling Central Business District.

Based on the concept of a hotel-in-a-garden, expect to be greeted by 15,000sqm of lush sky gardens, open-air corridors and architecture reminiscent of rice paddy terraces, whilst eco-practices include rainwater harvesting, sensors for energy and water regulation, as well as solar-powered gardens.

All 367 rooms are decked out in soothing earth tones of greens and wood and are configured to let in an abundance of natural light, with sliding

doors that are cleverly used to maximise space. Room amenities feature complimentary Internet access, an executive bar, Nespresso coffee machines, rain showers, bathtubs and designer ergonomic chairs. The wellness floor on the fifth storey is a highlight; it is landscaped to resemble a forested oasis with a two-storey waterfall, a 300m garden trail, an infinity pool and colourful cabanas inspired by Chinese songbird cages.

For business events, guests have a choice of meeting and event spaces that can accommodate up to 800 guests, with ballrooms featuring Balinese-inspired lattice timbre screens that create a different mood for corporate functions.

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At no additional cost to customers, Hilton Worldwide will measure carbon generated by all events at 11 of its properties in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, and purchase carbon credits which will be used to fund the Borneo Rainforest Rehabilitation Project and Cambodia Cookstove Project.

The programme applies to events such as meetings, conferences, weddings and other social occasions held in the participating hotels’ function rooms and takes into account factors such as the event room water and electricity usage, food consumed and guest rooms booked.

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Marriott Steps into Shanghai China Marriott International has announced the opening of the 323-room Shanghai Marriott Hotel Pudong East, the brand’s 14th hotel in China.

Located in the heart of Pudong, the hotel is close to two major industrial parks which are home to the China headquarters

of many Fortune 500 companies, and is a five-minute drive from the Shanghai New International Expo Center. The hotel provides business travellers with an array of amenities that keeps them connected to business partners, customers and family.

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Corporate Traveller

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The Ritz-Carlton Chengdu Set to Open China The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, located in Tianfu Square – one of the city’s largest commercial districts, will become the luxury hotel operator’s first flag in Southwest China, when it opens in summer 2013.

The hotel will have 353 rooms, including 55 suites. The property features three restaurants and a contemporary lobby lounge that will act as a focal point for people to meet and enjoy high tea.

Meeting spaces will include a grand ballroom, a junior ballroom and seven additional meeting rooms, totalling 1,716sqm of space.

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The Howard Plaza Hotel Upgrades Ballroom

Twelve at Hengshan Debuts Shanghai Property

Taiwan The Howard Plaza Hotel Taipei has upgraded its ballroom facilities to the tune of US$2 million.

The renovated Howard Ballroom can accommodate up to 700 guests for cocktails and 500 in banquet style. It is newly equipped with a state-of-the-art projection system for high-tech events, grand openings, press conferences for new products and international conferences.

In addition, 12 secretarial and meeting rooms have been fitted with the latest audiovisual technology, and a team of experienced convention service personnel have been tasked to support events.

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China

W Hotel Lands in Bangkok Thailand The covers have been lifted off W Bangkok, which is located in the Thai capital’s vibrant commercial district.

It features 407 guestrooms and suites in two distinct buildings, including more than 1,000sqm of meeting and event space. There are seven meeting rooms and an outdoor space outfitted with adaptable conference furniture and modern audiovisual equipment.

Additionally, the hotel’s 425sqm theatre-style Great Room boasts nine-metre ceilings outfitted with shades of LED lighting for sparkling and electrifying occasions.

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The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts has celebrated the opening of Twelve at Hengshan, its third in China.

This hotel joins the Astor Hotel in Tianjin, The Royal Begonia in Sanya and The Hongta Hotel in Shanghai as The Luxury Collection brand continues to grow its footprint in China.

Twelve at Hengshan is a residential-style urban retreat poised to become an iconic building within the city, with its striking contemporary architecture contrasting with the neighbourhood’s traditional charms.

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A380 services Emirates Singapore received its first A380 service from Emirates on December 3 last year, spurred by strong demand for the airline’s Dubai-Singapore route. With the new service, total capacity has increased to 1,659 seats daily across four daily services.

“Singapore remains a strategic and important route for the airline. As Emirates’ South East Asia hub, Singapore benefits from the higher capacity aircraft, which will further support the country’s international trade and tourism,” says Nick Rees, Emirates’ manager, Singapore and Brunei.

Beyond meeting high load factors on the Dubai-Singapore route, the A380 also introduces a new luxury standard for its first-class and business-class service.

First-class travel comes with a flat-bed private suite, a work desk with a built-in illuminated vanity mirror, reading lights, an electrically controlled mini bar and room service. Seats feature a multi-mode massage system with adjustable speed and intensity, and together with a unique mood lighting system, allow passengers to minimise the effects of jet lag. For entertainment, the award-winning “ice” digital widescreen offers 1,400 channels of on-demand programming options.

Another highlight is the onboard shower spa, which offers a spacious shower area complete with heated flooring, leather seats, large mirrors and premium amenities by Frette, Bulgari and Emirates’ own spa brand – Timeless Spa. For relaxation, first- and

business-class passengers can avail themselves of the onboard lounge, which allows them to relax with a drink while lounging on the sofa. An attendant is also on hand to serve passengers with a wide selection of snacks, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks and hot beverages.

With a fleet of 31 A380 aircraft as of

end-2012, Emirates continues its international deployment of A380s, with a current destination list of 21 countries.

It has also recently launched its A380 service to Moscow, with new cities expected to join the double-decker network in the coming months. www.emirates.com

New Singapore-Zurich service Swiss Singapore passengers to Zurich will be able to take non-stop flights when travelling with SWISS. Starting May 13, the new service will be available daily, providing an additional 219 seats per flight on the A340-300.

According to SWISS’s Country Manager, Singapore, Magdalene Ong, the new service will meet Switzerland’s buoyant Singapore market over the past few years and serve the needs of connecting travellers from Australia, New Zealand and Asia’s growth markets.

SWISS currently flies to 70 destinations in 37 countries from Zurich, Basel and Geneva. www.swiss.com Corporate Traveller

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Silversea Starts New Itineraries Asia

THE NUMBERS

1st

Hong Kong’s new cruise terminal in Kai Tak will open its first berth in June, marking the beginning of Hong Kong’s plans to be a regional cruise operator in Asia Pacific.

8.3 New Asia Pacific luxury cruises on Silversea’s Silver Shadow has commenced from September 2012 to December this year.

A series of nine- and 11-day cruises are available, starting from Singapore, Bangkok and Hong Kong, to ports of call such as Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Silver Shadow offers all-suite

ocean-view accommodations for 382 guests, starting from US$5,399 (S$6,687) per person for double occupancy in a Vista Suite. Guests will receive a US$1,000 (S$1,239) voucher per suite, which may be used for any onboard dining or shopping purchases. www.silversea.com

Silver Cloud Reveals New Look

82%

Singapore is Australia’s sixth-largest source market with a repeat visitor rate of 82 per cent.

13.8%

International

Silver Cloud has emerged from a three-week dry dock at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Italy with a stem-to-stern overhaul of its suites, public spaces and dining areas.

It now features an enhanced luxe ambience and an earthy colour theme that adds warmth to the contemporary style.

The restaurants’ designs have also been revamped, making dining at Le Champagne – the only Relais & Châteaux restaurant at sea, La Terrazza and The Grill, posh affairs that meet discerning standards. Suites feature designer beds with plush linen and stylish bathrooms with new flooring and marble appointments. www.silversea.com 22 Corporate Traveller

On a scale of 10, Malaysia scored 8.3 to emerge the best destination for Muslim travellers. Revealed by news agency AFP, the score was based on criteria such as safety, Muslim-friendly hotels and easy access to halal food and prayer facilities.

Japan saw a record 130,000 visitor arrivals from Malaysia in 2012, an increase of 13.8 per cent over 2010’s arrivals of 114,519.

2018 Passenger crunch at Beijing Capital International Airport will be eased when the second international airport is completed by end-2018. It is projected to handle 70 million passengers annually by 2025.

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WE FOCUS ON OUR GUESTS’ HEALTH AND WELLNESS BY USING NATURAL AND ORGANIC PRODUCTS FROM THE ORGANIC PHARMACY. THE TREATMENTS OFFERED ARE DESIGNED TO SUIT VIRTUALLY EVERY KIND OF NEED OUR GUESTS MAY HAVE. Alsu Abdulina Director of Spa Auriga spa at Capella Singapore

A Touch of Asia Singapore Auriga spa draws upon the mysteries of the orient in its luxurious Senja Sunyi treatment (S$220++ per person for 90 minutes).

Inspired by the time-tested practices of traditional Asian therapies, the treatment features a combination of Chinese Javanese massage techniques. Available as a couple’s package, the Senja Sunyi treatment includes a refreshing Porcelain Moon Scrub with Peony and Plum Blossoms, followed by a 90-minute Senja

Sunyi massage (S$688++ per couple). by Givenchy. There is even a vanity corner with mirror and drawer at every seat, to make freshening up a more personal experience.

Other premium touches include quality skincare products, as well as a sleeper suit and bedroom slippers exclusively designed

by Givenchy. There is even a vanity corner with mirror and drawer at every seat, to make freshening up a more personal experience. www.capellasingapore.com Corporate Traveller

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Green Aspirations Singapore Developed by CapitaMalls Asia, The Star Vista is Singapore’s first naturally cooled mall.

This environmentally-friendly building features an open-air 33m-high Grand Foyer with a 200-seat amphitheatre and a central water feature, which helps to cool the air flowing through the mall.

Catering to the needs of over 400,000 in the immediate vicinity – including the burgeoning research areas of Fusionopoli and Biopolis, development of Mediapolis and Lucasfilm’s new Asia headquarters – The Star is anchored as the next major dining and shopping destination in the area, with over 50 F&B outlets. This

includes Brotzeit (German), Boston Seafood Shack, Canton Paradise Teahouse (Cantonese), Coco Ichibanya (Japanese), Senor Taco (Mexican), Shiraz (Persian), local award-winning coffee Owl’s first café, and Jamaica Blue – its first Southeast Asian outlet serving exclusive blends such as the world-renowned Wallenford Estate Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee.

Above the mall sits The Star Performing Arts Centre, one of Singapore’s largest performance venues with a seating capacity of 5,000. www.thestarvista.com

Best Face Forward Singapore Firm and brighten up dull skin with Sccube’s latest introduction of Visolift™ with Baltic Amber, a series of massages developed by French luxury cosmetic brand Visoanska.

The 90-minute treatment begins with a back massage that relaxes the body, followed by two facial massages which use the Baltic Amber stone – where the antioxidant in amber helps to delay cellular ageing while stabilising and regenerating the body’s electromagnetic fields. Together with face-lifting massage techniques, the result is skin that is visibly less fatigued, more toned and luminous. Priced at S$288. Call +65 6738 4909 for appointments. www.sccube.com

Out at Sea Indonesia Alila Hotels and Resorts features a luxury holiday experience with a difference.

Guests are able to embark on a voyage of discovery and relaxation around the Indonesian islands on the 46m Alila Purnama (meaning “The Full Moon”).

It is a traditional Phinisi boat that accommodates up to 10 in four cabins with queen-sized beds, en suite bathrooms, private balconies with sundecks and double wardrobes.

A crew of 16 ensures the ultimate pampering experience, as guests explore the library, lounge and bar; take dives; indulge in a massage by a spa therapist; or explore a nearby beach.

Rates start from US$54,000 ++ 24 Corporate Traveller

(S$66,308) for a seven-day, six-night trip. www.alilahotels.com/purnama

TOP GOURMET PICKS

s Scarlett Wine Bar & Restaurant, Level 37, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Road, Bangrak, Bangkok.

Tel: +66 2238 1991 9988

s Pollen, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-09, Singapore.

Tel: +65 6604 9988

Located in the heart of Bangkok, Scarlett attracts the hip and glamorous who go for ‘bistro’ dishes highlighting European favourites and tapas.

Featuring a stylish long bar, wooden communal tables and vintage leather chairs, Scarlett is designed for stylish lounging while taking in the panoramic view of the city.

Under the stewardship of internationally renowned Chef Manuel Martinez from the two-Michelin star Le Relais Louis XIII restaurant in Paris, the menu includes exquisite starters such as Oeuf poche en Meurette (eggs poached in Pinot Noir) and Le ravioli de homard et foie gras crême de cèpes (lobster and foie gras raviolis), and tantalising mains such as the Saint-Jacques Hokkaido (grilled scallops with truffle dressing). Prices start from 220 baht (S$9). www.pullmanbangkokhotelg.com

Located in the picturesque Flower Dome at Gardens by the Bay, Pollen’s guests can expect a dining experience unlike any other.

Guests enjoy Mediterranean- inspired modern European cuisine while seated amongst shady olive trees, herbs and various vegetation, escaping Singapore’s tropical heat with a cooling sub-20-degree temperature setting.

Helmed by Englishman Jason Atherton, a former executive chef at Gordon Ramsay’s Michelin-starred Maze in London, head-turning dishes include ‘Trip to Japan 2012’, which comprises scallop sashimi and sea urchin; Rangers Valley 300-day tenderloin and Wagyu beef cheek served with horseradish mash; and Japanese green tea and raspberry sorbet for dessert. Prices start from S$29. www.pollen.com.sg

s Tatsu, InterContinental Kuala Lumpur, 165 Jalan Ampang, 50450, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Tel: +603 2782 6118 Expertly intertwining soothing zen-like Japanese aesthetics with contemporary minimalist-chic design, Tatsu features a sushi bar, a teppanyaki counter, main dining room, a cosy lounge and four private dining rooms to cater to all occasions.

Surrounded by a lush garden and cascading waterfall, the award-winning restaurant is helmed by Japanese Executive Chef Yanagida Tetsuya, who attracts the crowds with his signature 88 Splendid Dishes – a unique weekend buffet a la carte concept where guests order freely across appetisers, sushi, sashimi, maki, tempura, teppanyaki, desserts and more for just RM98++ (S$39++). Sake and wine

s Zafferano, Level 43, Ocean Financial Centre, 10 Collyer Quay, Singapore.

Tel: +65 6509 1488 Decked out in luxurious wood, leather and marble, the restaurant’s swanky interior sets the right ambience for an impressive corporate dinner or a romantic rendezvous, with a dazzling view to go with it.

The floor-to-ceiling windows present a 270-degree view of the island, with the striking Marina Bay Sands Integrated Resorts looming majestically beyond. The restaurant’s signature favourites such as foie gras terrine was perfectly done at all levels; the added middle lining of luxurious dark chocolate gave a sweet twist that teased the taste buds. For mains, Astice came highly recommended and deservingly so – the homemade tagliatelle was served with chunks of succulent Boston lobster, set in a base of asparagus cream sauce. Chocolate made a creative entrance in the form of cigars in Sigari di cioccolato, or for a lighter choice, the strawberry soup with yoghurt ice cream was luxuriously light and equally divine. www.zafferano.sg

connoisseurs will enjoy time at the private sake bar, serving over 20 varieties of sake, shochu, cocktails and wines. www.intercontinental-kl.com.my

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Go Luxe with Capella Hong Kong

Visa Perks at Regent Beijing

Luxury standards go up a notch with Capella’s Travel in Style package, priced at S$5,300 for two nights.

The decadent treatment begins with a Rolls Royce chauffeured ride from Singapore Changi Airport’s Jet Quay VIP terminal to Capella Singapore. Guests may opt for the One-Bedroom Villa, Sentosa Suite or Constellation Room.

On top of daily breakfast for two, the package includes a 90-minute rubdown at the award-winning Auriga Spa and a private dinner at The Knolls (Mediterranean dining) or Cassia (Modern Chinese fare).

Topping off the experience is a treat for the ladies: a five-hour shopping trip around town, accompanied by a personal assistant who will arrange private viewings at boutiques and assist with carrier bags. The package is valid for stays till December 21.

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Situated in the heart of Beijing’s modern business district and ancient hutongs, the luxurious 500-room Regent Beijing is offering a 20 percent discount on executive rooms and suites for Visa cardholders.

The deal includes a 20 percent discount on airport limousine transfers, complimentary local calls, the pressing of two garments daily, butler service, free Wi-Fi, late check-out at 4pm and accumulative mileage points with frequent flyer programmes tagged to American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, EVA Air, Japan Airlines, KLM, United Airlines and Asiana Airlines. www.hongkong.grand.hyatt.com

Global Credits from Raffles Hotels & Resorts Singapore

Suite Temptations at Goodwood Park Hotel Singapore Goodwood Park Hotel has introduced the Suite Temptation and Weekend room packages – perfect for a luxurious treat or relaxing staycation.

The Suite Temptation Package offers the Poolside Suite at S$540++ per night.

Luxuriously appointed and elegantly decorated in shades of cream and beige, each suite is designed with a plush sitting room that leads directly to the main pool.

The Weekend Package, at S$288++ per night, includes accommodation at the Deluxe Room. This package is only applicable for stays on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, eve of and on public holidays.

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From now till March 31, guests who stay a minimum of two nights at any of the nine Raffles Hotels & Resorts worldwide are entitiled to dining or spa credits – inclusive of complimentary breakfast, Internet access as well as a US$100 credit for dining or spa experiences during the stay.

Regional hotels include Raffles Makati, the Philippines (from US$333++) and Raffles Hotel Le Royal Phnom Penh, Cambodia (from US$260).

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Fly, Drive or Cruise with UOB Special vacation packages offered by UOB Travel offers the convenience of hassle-free travels backed by sound financial standing, reliability and security. In addition to special deals offered exclusively for UOB cardholders, the UOB 2 to go Hot Deals promotion presents a variety of packages for every occasion and preference.

Hokkaido Scenic Self-drive The best of Hokkaido’s kaleidoscopic landscape can now be experienced through an eight-day, seven-night scenic Hokkaido self-drive.

Available from May 7 to October 31, the self-drive will take you through Asahikawa, Furano and Noboribetsu. Along the way, travellers may explore various attractions such as the Furano Cheese Factory, Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway, Lake Shikotsu and Noboribetsu Hell Valley.

Accommodation will be at a four-star hotel that includes a hot spring experience. Couples who book by March 1 will enjoy a S$100 discount off *S$2,138 per person (twin-sharing).

Gear up for Greece Ancient history and culture as well as gastronomy form the foundation of Greece’s international appeal. This Mediterranean country is an archaeological treasure trove that also offers splendid beaches along 1,609km of coastline.

A package with UOB Travel offers nine days, seven nights of leisure that covers Athens and the beautiful islands of Mykonos and Santorini. Attractions highlighted include the Parthenon, Acropolis and Temple of the Olympian Zeus. Available from May 1 to October 15, from *S$2,428, inclusive of five-star hotel accommodation. &RXUWHV\ RI VWRFN [FKQJ

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Family fun with Disney Orlando is a destination that has been given the moniker of “Theme Park Capital of the World”.

It beckons families to flock to Disneyland and Universal Studios in search of thrills and spills. The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida offers four theme parks, two water parks, 24 themed resorts, two spas and fitness centres, five golf courses and a host of recreational and entertainment venues. Its staggering variety of options promises to keep families entertained for hours.

Universal Orlando features two theme

parks – Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure – as well as a night-time entertainment complex and three hotels. A main highlight is the Wizard World of Harry Potter, which has received much fanfare from locals and tourists.

UOB offers a 10-day, seven-night package from *S$2,988, available from March 1 to December 31. Each couple sign-up receives a S$300 discount.

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.%73 &,!3( s $%!,3 A Cruising Rendezvous The grand dame Superstar Virgo continues to attract travellers on board with its first-class entertaining and dining facilities.

Star Cruises is a popular option for those who want to experience weekend cruises to various parts of Asia. UOB offers a two-night Malacca or Redang (Wed) cruise from *S$266, a two-night Kuala Lumpur or Redang (Fri) cruise from *S$405 and a three-night Penang/Phuket or Phuket/Langkawi (Sun) cruise from *S$476.

Available from March 31 to September 27. A summer promotion savers programme features free cabin upgrade, for quad-sharing only.

Travel like an Insider Trafalgar’s recent innovative push in the guided holiday market aims to make tours unique local experiences.

“Trafalgar shows you the world from the inside. You meet local people and share experiences that you would not have travelling on your own,” says Trafalgar CEO Gavin Tollman.

Sources have also revealed that Trafalgar’s 2013 itineraries are their best yet, with 500 new hotels and 200 enhanced dining experiences on the menu. Its exclusive insider highlights also 28 Corporate Traveller

add an unexpected surprise to their guests’ travel experience.

A unique selling point of Trafalgar’s guided holidays is its ‘Be My Guest’ highlight, which features 50 different dining experiences to savour on all First Class Regional and At Leisure holidays. Guests get to experience local culture and cuisine first hand. They’ll be invited into family homes, working farms and unique venues to enjoy amazing regional food and wines as prepared by the host. For example, one of the ‘Be My Guest’ itineraries in Italy features the charming Villa Il Leccio of the Landi family in Tuscany. Guests will be treated

to a tour of the garden with its olive trees, and cellars before sitting down to a delicious dinner made with home-grown ingredients.

Additionally, guests are also treated to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Unique Insightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on select itineraries, which give them a real sense of culture with visits to places that are distinctive to the area. For example, in Rome follow in the footsteps of Michelangelo and da Vinci when visiting the Vatican Museums.

With over 200 itineraries that take place within Europe, North America, Canada, South America, Asia, Australia & New Zealand, Trafalgarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning holidays provide different options to travellers with varying desires.

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Photo courtesy of Destination New South Wales

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IN TRANSIT

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GAINING VELOCITY With Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s burgeoning year-on-year growth for healthy tourism receipts, it is apparent that the nation has struck a chord with international visitors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; starting at Changi Airport, where a plethora of distractions awaits travellers.

Text by Natalie Joy Lee Photos courtesy of Changi Airport Group

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IN TRANSIT

A

dvantageously located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore is considered a gateway to the region, serving as an economic powerhouse with large-scale capabilities. A global leader in numerous industries including oil refining and distribution, banking and finance, manufacturing of electronic components, shipbuilding and repair, the country also has a world-class airport to support Singapore’s tremendous growth.

Singapore Changi Airport is consistently ranked among the world’s best airports, with over 400 awards under its belt. Connected to more than 230 cities worldwide, the major aviation hub handles 50 million passenger movements annually via over 100 international

34 Corporate Traveller

airlines – translating into one flight about every 100 seconds. The airport crossed another milestone when it registered more than 51 million passenger movements end 2012.

With recent upgrades to Terminals 1 and 2, and the addition of the third terminal in 2008, Singapore Changi Airport reigns as a popular stopover destination that caters to the needs and desires of transit passengers with a myriad of rest, relax and recreational activities. The airport’s reputation and popularity among travellers will receive yet another boost when its fourth terminal is ready by 2017.

If you’re passing by, take a look at our recommendations on the best ways to spend your time before catching your next flight.

1. Keep busy at the Entertainment Deck, T2 2. Check in at Changi’s duty-free shopping paradise of Perfumes & Cosmetics, operated by Nuance Watson 3. Take respite at T3’s #VUUFSnZ (BSEFO one of the airport’s many gorgeous themed gardens

2 TO 4 HOURS: 2

Fish Spa & Reflexology [T1, Departure Hall Transit Lounge, level 2] 1

ENGAGE Duty-Free Shopping Changi’s perfumes, cosmetics, liquor and tobacco products are world renowned. It offers one of the lowest rates across key Asia Pacific airports, so do make a point to check out the duty-free stores across all terminals. They carry over 80 local and international brands such as Charles and Keith, Aspial, Madame Butterfly, Witchery, Alfred Dunhill, Bally, Hermes, Mont Blanc and Ralph Lauren. Don’t miss Perfumes & Cosmetics by Nuance Watson for your beauty, skincare and perfume needs. For those travelling on Business Class with Singapore Airlines, the shopping section is located within 100m of the Silverkris Lounge, with DBS Treasures located in close proximity as well, so it is extremely convenient to attend to any last-minute financial matters.

Entertainment Deck [T2, Departure Hall] Providing a full gaming experience, this one-stop centre is fitted with Playstations and Xbox Kinect machines featuring all gaming genres to keep you busy for hours on end.

RELAX Rainforest Lounge [T1, Departure Hall] Open 24 hours daily, the lounge facilities may be enjoyed for S$29.43 with a minimum booking of four hours. You will be provided free flow of non-alcoholic

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drinks and food, shower facilities and a comfortable spot for napping at this thematic lifestyle lounge, which is designed to mimic a tropical rainforest. If more privacy is desired, a six-hour package is available at S$54.74, which provides all of the above plus the use of a room with partitions for uninterrupted slumber (www. harilelahospitality.com).

Foot & Calf Massage Stations OSIM massage chairs are conveniently located in all three terminals, tempting one to pause a while to attend to those sore calves after long flights and knead all weariness away. Alternatively, head to the 24-hour My Foot Reflexology at the Departure Transit Lounge (T3) for a more thorough and personal touch by trained therapists.

Give your tired muscles a good rubdown here, with 10-minute sessions targeting your neck, shoulders, head and/or upper back if pressed for time (from S$15 onwards); 20-minute hand and/or foot reflexology treats from S$26; or 70-minute full-body massages ranging from traditional Chinese rubs and Thai Yoga massages to acupressure massages from S$98 onwards. We particularly enjoyed fish reflexology, which features a fish spa session where garra fufa – also known as ‘doctor fish’ – nibble away your feet’s dead skin, as well as a relaxing foot reflexology session.

For the ladies, manicure and pedicure options are available, or you could go for a pampering facial massage. Here’s a tip for those on late-night flights, book a massage for a minimum of 40 minutes; if it happens to be after midnight, you will be allowed to rest there overnight. Open 24 hours daily; tel: +65 6542 8308, www.refresh.com.sg.

SEE Garden Trail @ Changi Considering Singapore’s status as a ‘Garden City’, it is highly recommended that you check out Changi Airport’s themed gardens in its three terminals. They are easily accessible via the airport’s efficient skytrain system.

You won’t miss Terminal 1’s Heliconia Garden at the departure level. This colourful plant is easily distinguished by its long and strong flower stalks, and the over 20 varieties beautifully cultivated in the garden present an impressive floral display.

Terminal 2 welcomes visitors with four splendid gardens located on the departure level. Start with the Orchid Garden, an inviting Corporate Traveller

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IN TRANSIT

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T LEAVE WITHOUT VISITING THE SUNFLOWER GARDEN. IT WOULD BRIGHTEN UP ANY JET-LAGGED SOULS WITH ITS BRIGHT PERKY FLOWERS.

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display of exploding colours from gorgeous blooms of tropical and temperate orchids.

Nestled amongst rocks, wood and foliage plants for a natural setting, the varieties of orchids change according to the seasons, including Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Flower â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Vanda Miss Joaquim, and the airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s namesake â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Dendrobium Changi Airport.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave without visiting the SunďŹ&#x201A;ower Garden. It would brighten up any jet-lagged souls with its bright perky ďŹ&#x201A;owers. By night, the garden takes on another personality altogether with its mood lighting. So, venture outdoors and be surprised.

For a memorable trip into fauna fantasia, head to the ButterďŹ&#x201A;y Garden at Terminal 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst in an airport. Free-ďŹ&#x201A;ying butterďŹ&#x201A;ies ďŹ&#x201A;utter around daintily as you saunter around lush greenery, ďŹ&#x201A;owering plants and a six-metre grotto-waterfall.

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re also individual enclosures that allow the breeding and feeding of butterďŹ&#x201A;ies, and an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;emergence enclosureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to enable visitors to observe how pupae transforms into butterďŹ&#x201A;ies.

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5IF 4VOnPXFS (BSEFO takes on a different QFSTPOB XJUI NPPE lightings come nighttime 5IF $SPXOF 1MB[B Changi Airport serves as a convenient place for time-pressed business travellers 4UBZ DPOOFDUFE XJUI 550 Internet kiosks spread across all three terminals 3

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4 TO 6 HOURS: ENGAGE I-Connect Kiosks With 550 free Internet stations in all three terminals, it is easy to send out e-mails and ďŹ nalise transactions. For Bloomberg account holders, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a designated private Bloomberg section for easy access to up-to-date ďŹ nancial news and information.

Xperience Zone [T2, Departure Hall, level 1] Epitomising the digital experience, check out the Multi Touch Entertainment screen where you can game with the latest technologies, or

1. Have a rocking good time at the XPSME T mSTU )BSE 3PDL Cafe in an airport 2. T3â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bustling Departure transit Hall area 3FTU ZPVS IFBE BU one of the airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Transit Hotels, suitably FRVJQQFE XJUI NPEFSO amenities and some XJUI SVOXBZ WJFXT UPP

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simply sit in cushioned comfort while catching the latest sporting, entertainment and news events. Do try out the interactive e-Postcard booth as well, where you can take a self-portrait and add uniquely Singapore icons before emailing the picture instantaneously to your friends and family.

RELAX Ambassador Transit Hotels Easily found within the Departure Transit Lounges in all three terminals, the transit hotels are peacefully quiet, with excellent shower facilities equipped with standard towels and amenities. A minimum of a six-hour block booking is required; single room prices start from S$76.51, with per hour extensions thereafter going at S$16.48.

Lounge use rates are by per-entry, at S$35.31 for ďŹ ve hours, inclusive of shower, free ďŹ&#x201A;ow of non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, and Internet access. If all you need is a quick bath and change of clothes, shower rooms are available at $8.56. Fitness buffs can clock in time at the ďŹ tness centre, at $13.91 per entry inclusive of a locker, towel and use of bathing facilities (T1: +65 6542 5538; T2:

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+65 6542 8122; T3: +65 6507 9788. www. harilelahospitality.com)

6 TO 24 HOURS:

Crowne Plaza Changi Airport

ENGAGE Hard Rock CafĂŠ [T3, Departure Hall]

Conveniently connected to Changi Airportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Terminal 3 3 via air-conditioned walkways, the hotel offers 320 guest rooms including 27 suites, various meeting spaces with business centres, as well as a Singapore Airlines and Silk Air check-in counter at the lobby for transit passengersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; convenience.

SEE Aviation Gallery [T3, Public Area] Find out more about how your in-ďŹ&#x201A;ight meals are prepared, procedures for bringing pets on board, and even how Changi Airport prevents birds from roosting in the compounds. Aviation fans will also appreciate the display cases featuring model airplanes that have stopped off through Changi Airport, as well as learn interesting trivia; for example, ďŹ nd out more about the only commercial airliner plane that is capable of reaching supersonic speeds.

Universal Dining [T2, Departure Transit Lounge, level 2] Enjoy Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite fares even without stepping out of the airport. Delight your taste buds with a selection of local fares such as Hainanese chicken rice, bak kut teh and roti prata from famous stalls.

The ďŹ rst outlet launched in an airport, the 80-seater venue attracts with its unique Rock â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Roll vibes that are so well known across the world. Familiar displays of authentic memorabilia such as costumes and guitars owned by legendary musicians adorn the walls as diners tuck into the extensive menu ranging from Nachos, all-American breakfast sets and burgers to irresistibly delicious brownies. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a Rock Shop stocking limited-edition merchandise such as shirts, collar pins and mugs. Open from 6am to 1am.

Entertainment Deck [T2, Departure Hall, level 3] A one-stop media entertainment centre, this hot spot has a Movie Theatre that airs the latest blockbuster DVD hits in the comfort of plush chairs. For music buffs, they can enjoy watching popular music videos on 50-inch plasma television screens at the MTV booth. Or just simply choose your favourite genre of music â&#x20AC;&#x201C; be it jazz, new age, classical, bossa nova or lounge music â&#x20AC;&#x201C; while relaxing on a comfortable seat with built-in speakers at the Music Area. For a bit of action, ďŹ&#x201A;ex up at the Xbox Kinect Room, which offers various sporting games, or engage in a few games at Playstation 3 stations.

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IN TRANSIT RELAX Public Rest Areas

SEE Singapore Tour(s)

Voted best airport in the world to catch forty winks or read up on your business materials in specially designed snooze chairs, Changiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are typically found in some of the quietest areas for conducive rest. Alternatively, single occupancy cubicles are available for rent at the Rainforest Lounge, starting from S$30++ for the ďŹ rst three hours and S$8++ per hour thereafter.

If you are transiting for a minimum of ďŹ ve hours, look out for the Free Singapore Tour booth at Terminal 3, located opposite the Perfumes & Cosmetics store, or next to the iStore at Terminal 2. Bookings can be made between 7am and 5.30pm. There are two-hour city trails available.

- Heritage Tour: Visit iconic historical and cultural local landmarks such as the Merlion Park, the Colonial District for a view of the Padang ďŹ eld and Esplanade â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Theatres on the Bay. The tour includes a stop at Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s iconic Merlion statue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a mythical creature with a lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head and the body of a ďŹ sh â&#x20AC;&#x201C; before ending the tour at Chinatown or Little India.

- City Lights Tour: The tour begins at 6.30pm at the beautifully landscaped Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade before moving on to the famous night market of Bugis Village. It concludes at RafďŹ&#x201A;es Hotel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; synonymous with the founder of Singapore, Sir Stamford RafďŹ&#x201A;es, and also home to the famous Singapore Sling.

Alternatively, head over to the Singapore Visitors Centres, which offer useful information on Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attractions, free maps and brochures, various discount coupons and knowledgeable staff to provide trip planning assistance.

Rooftop Swimming Pool [T1, Departure Hall, level 3] Take a refreshing dip in this Balinese-inspired rooftop pool, tan on a beach chair or sip on a cocktail by the bar. Free entry for guests staying at the Ambassador Transit Hotel, otherwise charges apply at S$13.91 per entry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; inclusive of use of Jacuzzi, shower facilities, towel and complimentary non-alcoholic drink from the poolside bar (www.harilelahospitality.com).

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38 Corporate Traveller

FOOD OF LIFE With a bubbling hotpot of cultures come an equally diverse range of food options and cuisines to suit your palate. Here are some popular places to try. t Canton-I: The popular restaurant chain from Malaysia serves up over 130 authentic Cantonese dishes from Shunde, China. Savour the succulent TMBCT PG DIBS TJFX CBSCFDVFE QPSL BOE SPBTUFE EVDL TUFBNFE QJHHZ CVOT nBWPVSGVM QSBXO XBOUPO OPPEMFT BOE B SBOHF PG EJN TVN GBWPVSJUFT UFM

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OVER 24 HOURS: OUT TO THE CITY 1. Orchard Road Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous shopping belt and a favourite with locals and tourists alike, the broad boulevard spans the length of 22 malls and six departmental stores, stocking a whopping 5,000 brands. For your ďŹ ll of high-end luxury buys, make your way to Paragon, Knightsbridge, Ngee Ann City, ION Orchard and Scotts Square.

2. Changi City Point This outlet mall is conveniently located just one stop away from the airport, home to stores such as Nike, Timberland, Esprit, Payless ShoeSource and more retailing at warehouse prices. One can rest tired soles at one of the over 40 F&B options available, or enjoy a breezy walk at the landscaped rooftop garden. Wi-Fi is also available for shoppers.

5 Changi Business Park Central 1; tel: +65 6511 1088.

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3. Marina Bay Sands (MBS)

ensure freshness. Priced at S$60 for lunch and

The ďŹ rst half of Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two integrated resorts, the luxurious MBS is home to Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sixth largest hotel (2,560 rooms), an ArtScience Museum, a theatre, a casino, luxury shopping and state-of-the-art convention facilities. A slew of Michelin-starred celebrity chefs have also set up restaurants there, including Wolfgang Puck, Mario Batali and Tetsuya Wakuda. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss a trip to the Sands SkyPark elevated 200m in the air, home to a 150m long inďŹ nity pool and a public observatory deck offering spectacular city views all day long.

10 Bayfront Avenue; tel: +65 6688 8868.

4 GPS EJOOFS GPS B GPVS DPVSTF NFOV UFM

Located on Sentosa Island, RWS pulls in the crowds with its range of jam-packed attractions, starting from the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ rst Universal Studios theme park, a casino, the Maritime Experiential Museum which is perfect for sea adventurers, and the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest oceanarium â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Marine Life Park.

39 Artillery Avenue, Sentosa;

IMPORTANT NUMBERS [DEPARTURE TRANSIT LOUNGES]

t #VTJOFTT DFOUSFT mUUFE XJUI DPNQVUFST IPVS

Terminal 1: +65 6543 1113 [24 hours]

photocopier and faxing services can be found at

Terminal 2: +65 6546 3815 [0600 to 0000]

Ambassador Transit Hotels, the Ambassador Transit

Terminal 3: +65 6241 8333 [0600 to 0000]

-PVOHF UIF 1MB[B 1SFNJVN -PVOHF BOE UIF 3BJOGPSFTU -PVOHF charging stations located in the transit halls. t For medical assistance or to locate a pharmacy,

t Cocotte: A communal restaurant and bar MPDBUFE PO UIF HSPVOE nPPS PG CPVUJRVF IPUFM Wanderlust in Little India, expect rustic French fare UIBU GPDVTFT PO HPPE JOHSFEJFOUT nBWPVS BOE technique at its core. Check out its brunch menu featuring palate pleasers such as the fresh pear & CMFV E BVWFSHOF 'SFODI CMVF DIFFTF UPTTFE JO MFNPO IB[FMOVU ESFTTJOH TBWPVSZ DSPRVFU monsier, oeufs en meurette â&#x20AC;&#x201C; poached eggs CBUIFE JO CPSEFSMBJTF TBVDF OPU GPSHFUUJOH B nVGGZ DSPJTTBOU UP TXFFUFO UIF NFBM UFM

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4. Resorts World Sentosa (RWS)

USEFUL FACILITIES

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7

from the dishes on the table on your guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; plates. t When exchanging business cards, accord respect by OPU XSJUJOH PO UIF DBSE QVUUJOH JU JO ZPVS QPDLFUT PS stashing it into a folder. t Typically, senior management members lead the

LOCAL ETIQUETTE & NORMS t Do arrange local meetings in advance prior to your visit; long-range scheduling is preferred. t Long lunches are commonplace, so it may be a

meeting environment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hierarchy is respected here, XIFSF QFSTPOT PG FRVBM SBOLJOH TJU PQQPTJUF FBDI PUIFS t 4JOHBQPSFBOT BSF SFTFSWFE JO OBUVSF XIFSF JU JT OPSNBM GPS 4JOHBQPSFBOT UP IVNCMZ EJTBHSFF XIFO

head to the Airport Clinics, located at all Departure

HPPE JEFB UP TDIFEVMF NFFUJOHT QBTU UXP JO UIF

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Transit Lounges and public areas.

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t Porter services are available from your airline.

Alternatively, call these numbers upon arrival for assistance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; T1: +65 9179 4836; T2: +65 9117 6311; T3: +65 9649 9208.

entertainment, though they are usually a time for socialising and relationship-building rather than serious business discussions. t If hosting a meal, it is a good gesture to portion out food

business promptly. t While handshakes are common, more traditional Malays or Indians might initiate a more reserved greeting â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a nod.

Corporate Traveller

39

CITY REPORT

40 Corporate Traveller

RIDING ON A WAVE Sydney stirs up the Richter scale with rumblings of refurbishment and renewal plans for business, retail and culture.

Text by Esther Faith Lew Photos courtesy of Destination New South Wales

V

arious initiatives and master plans are being rolled out by Sydney officials and the New South Wales government to revitalise the city as a “green, global and connected” destination. Synergy has been created among officials from the arts and culture, business, commerce and retail sectors to invest in a new rail system, attract major business events and to establish a Retail Advisory Panel to transform Sydney into a world-class shopping destination as well as a major convention and exhibitions venue. These are just a sampling of the wave of changes to come.

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CITY REPORT

On the Fast Track Guided by the Sustainable Sydney 2030 programme announced on Aug 31, 2011, Sydney’s metamorphosis is being shaped

by Lord Mayor Clover Moore. Strong and steady headway has been made. As part of the programme, Moore announced on Dec 13, 2012 that work will begin on a AUD1.6 billion light rail line from Randwick to Circular Quay. This new CBD and South East Light Rail line will run from Circular Quay to Central Station and then towards Moore Park with additional lines that branch off to Kingsford and Randwick.

With this new line, present congestion woes during peak hours in the CBD will be greatly eased. According to Moore, the new line going through George Street is ideal as it already has excellent interchanges with buses, ferries and trains, and it also passes key tourism and retail attractions such as the QVB, Chinatown and Circular Quay.

More importantly, a shockwave of exciting developments are in store as part of this cityscape re-design.

1 2

1

PITT STREET MALL, ANOTHER POPULAR HAUNT FOR TOURISTS AND LOCALS, RECEIVED A MAKEOVER AS WELL.

Retail Rejuvenation A section of George Street – between Bathurst Street and Hunter Street – will be pedestrianised to make Sydney’s popular shopping street more vibrant and attractive.

As a result, a network of colourful lanes and small plazas will be built, and these will create more buzz for shops, bars and other small businesses.

With the announcement of these plans

by Moore, the retail scene has already seen some changes too, with world-class brands such as Apple, Louis Vuitton and Topshop locating flagship stores on George Street in anticipation of the light rail. Their move signals the likely presence of other high-end retailers and businesses in future.

Pitt Street Mall, another popular haunt for tourists and locals, received a makeover as well with a decorative ribbon of low-energy coloured LED light tubes that 42 Corporate Traveller

2

runs down the centre of the mall. As the busiest retail pedestrian locale in Sydney that sees more than 65,000 pedestrians daily, the mall has new stone paving and clusters of wooden seats that make it more conducive for resting or socialising. With the added presence of buskers bringing energy and vitality to the mall, the atmosphere of buzzy outdoor city living has gone up several notches.

Business Rendezvous 3

Sydney’s thriving Darling Harbour looks set to become more dynamic as the New South

1. Paying tribute to Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heritage, Louis Vuittonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s George Street maison welcomes guests in traditional Victorian style.

2. TAG Heurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NVMUJ NJMMJPO EPMMBS nBHTIJQ store at the corner of Pitt St and Market St. 5ISFF MFWFMT PG "QQMF haven at its George Street store.

4. Pitt Street Mall is one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most DPTNPQPMJUBO TIPQQJOH QSFDJODUT

A SECTION OF GEORGE STREET â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BETWEEN BATHURST STREET AND HUNTER STREET â&#x20AC;&#x201C; WILL BE PEDESTRIANISED TO MAKE SYDNEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S POPULAR SHOPPING STREET MORE VIBRANT.

4

Wales Government has unveiled plans for the precinct. Delegates can look forward to a new International Convention Centre Sydney that is expected to host four concurrent events with more than 12,000 delegates. An exhibition space of 40,000 sqm, a 5,000 sqm external events deck, an 8,000-seat red carpet theatre and a grand ballroom for more than 2,000 banquet guests are included in the plans to create a world-class conventions facility.

With these plans in mind, the expected economic spin-off is on an upward trajectory, with Business Events Sydney CEO Lyn Lewis-Smith commenting that clients have already committed to hosting their events in the facility even before seeing any design or ďŹ&#x201A;oor displays. One of such events will be the International Bar Association Annual Conference in 2017.

The convention facility bagged an estimated AUD225.6 million in the coffers for the government last year.

Beyond that, delegates will enjoy the comfort and convenience of a premium

entertainment venue, a 900-key hotel and redesigned public spaces to make their business trips more enjoyable and conducive for work and play.

Creative Quest Arts and culture will be getting an adrenalin jab of AUD8 million in grants and sponsorships. This move will see Sydney jazzing up its international calendar of events, with emphasis on street activities, festivals and pop-up events. It will also create more hype to revitalise already well-known venues such as Paddingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oxford Street, which is the couture sweetheart of Sydney.

Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative enclaves have also garnered attention in the international arena with their appealing designs in fashion, furniture and homeware. Inner city suburbs such as Surrey Hills have made an impact with tourists looking for eclectic homeware and quirky furniture to make an individual statement, while Paddingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion scene has been nurturing its own

oasis of creative ideals. Distinctive fashion labels have made their mark internationally as well, with the likes of Sass & Bide catching the eyes of celebrities such as Kate Moss and Sarah Jessica Parker, while Oprah Winfrey was spotted looking stylish in a Camilla Franks kaftan.

For a visual feast of trendy and sophisticated designs, take a walk down The Intersection for a line-up of stores that pack the wow factor in their clothes as well as in interior design. Visitors will discover a repertoire of cutting-edge non-homogenous designs that appeal to those with individualistic tastes.

According to Theodore Onisforou, the developer and landlord, The Intersection is where the locals go for their fashion ďŹ x, and he has carefully selected tenants who appeal to fashionistasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; desire for unique and edgy high-street clothes and accessories. Located at the intersection of Oxford Street and Glenmore Road Paddington, The Intersection showcases 23 retailers to date.

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CITY REPORT

SHOPPING SHANGRI-LA SURREY HILLS – SYDNEY’S CREATIVE HUB Elements I love (2/276 Devonshire Street; tel: +61 29698 8884.

Open Mon to Sat – 10am to 5pm) If you love unique antique items, this is a haven for browsing. Sourced from countries such as France, Belgium, India and Argentina, the store intrigues home owners with items that range from a pretty French door, a pair of wrought iron gates and an Indian teak table to a rare 1880s Parisian cast iron and enamel corner sink. Many small home ware items are also available, with the likes of French bird lights, Belgium pillar candles and scrapwood wallpaper to inspire decorating ideas.

1

2

Ice et La (7 Nickson Street, tel: +61 28399 1173.

Open Mon to Sat – 10am to 5pm) Striped fabrics and canvas deckchairs are the highlight of this shop, which has had a strong following since 2001. Meaning “here and there” in French, ice et la is now based in larger premises that stock a charming collection of its trademark products as well as French garden furniture and unique “objets de charme” for designers and home owners. Other items include furniture and collectibles from France.

Paper 2 (477 Crown Street, tel: +61 2 9318 1121.

Open Mon to Sat – 11am to 6pm, Sun – 12pm to 4pm) One’s love for paper and stationery knows no bounds in this boutique store that stocks a beautiful range of products from Tokyo, London, Frankfurt and New York. Paper 2 also has its own creative range that are designed and printed in-house. It is a great place to linger and browse at leisure the wide selection of pens and inks, waxes and seals, envelopes and bags, albums and journals, notebooks, personal stationery and arts and craft materials.

Exquisite Jewels by Dominic McCabe (42 Reservoir Street; tel: +61 412 283 952.

Open Mon to Fri – 11am to 6pm; Sat – 11am to 3.30pm) Fancy an exquisite piece of jewellery that is custom-made just for you? Then head 44 Corporate Traveller

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CAMILLA AND MARC HAS GAINED ATTENTION AS A POPULAR BRAND IN LUXURY WOMEN’S WEAR.

down to Dominic McCabe’s studio. He has been creating fine jewellery for over 20 years and has built up a following of international clientele who would send him their creative briefs months before heading to the city. Popular items that have been commissioned are engagement rings, wedding rings, dress rings, bangles, brooches and pendants. The studio also showcases Dominic’s own range of designs.

4

Photo courtesy of The Key Stone Group

ROCKPOOLâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SUPERBLY HIGH CEILINGS, MANHATTAN-STYLE ART DECO ARCHITECTURE AND PRIVATE DINING ROOMS BRING TO MIND A MODERN-DAY GENTLEMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CLUB. 5

Photo courtesy of Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney

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PADDINGTON â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A FASHION OASIS Camilla and Marc (Shop 8, 2-16 Glenmore Road; tel: +61 2 9331 1133. Open Mon to Wed, Fri & Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 6pm; Thu â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 8pm; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am to 5pm) Since its high-proďŹ le launch in 2003â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Australian Fashion Week, Camilla and Marc has gained attention as a popular brand in luxury womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wear; setting the tone for a sophisticated style that is also effortlessly elegant. Its clothes feature clean lines, attention to detail and ďŹ&#x201A;attering silhouettes.

Bassike (26 Glenmore Road; tel: +61 2 9360 3606.

Open Mon to Wed and Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1am to 6pm; Thur â&#x20AC;&#x201C;10am to 7pm; Fri â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9.30am to 5.30pm; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am to 4pm) Having started its range with organic cotton tees, Bassike now showcases a denim range of handcrafted jeans that uses premium Japanese fabric, and it continues to create menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready-to-wear collections that emphasise premium quality and sustainable fabrics.

Sass & Bide (132 Oxford Street; tel: +61 2 9360 3900.

Open Mon to Wed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 6pm; Thur â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 8pm; Fri â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 6pm; Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C;10am to 6pm; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11am to 5pm) Known for its highly successful â&#x20AC;&#x153;east village hipster jeansâ&#x20AC;? in 1999, Sass & Bide evolved from its underground fame into fashion runway success, with a

1. Antique furniture at Elements I love 2. 4Fourteenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s miso-smoked salmon with lemon curd and fennel bread #BTTJLF T DPOUFNQPSBSZ boutique 1BQFS T FYRVJTJUF handcrafted designs 5. Cosy wining and dining at The Winery 6. An evening of elegance BU 3PDLQPPM #BS (SJMM

range of womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ready-to-wear, denim and accoutrement collections. The brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s star appeal has been enhanced by the likes of Sarah Jessica Parker, Beyonce and Madonna.

Ardino Salon (40 Oxford Street; tel: +61 2 9331 3220.

Open Mon to Wed â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9am to 6pm; Thur â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9am to 9pm; Fri & Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9am to 6pm; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10am to 4pm) Busy executives looking for a relaxing beauty experience will ďŹ nd their haven at Ardino, which features three ďŹ&#x201A;oors of treatment rooms for head-to-toe pampering.

Besides hair treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures, Ardinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-house doctor is on hand to provide Botox and ďŹ ller treatments for anti-ageing concerns.

REFINING PALATES Bourke Street Bakery (633 Bourke Street; tel: +61 2 9699 1011.

Open Mon to Fri â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 7am to 6pm; Sat & Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8am to 5pm) This bakery has the locals queuing up for their favourite pastries. Everything is hand-made with love and with the ďŹ nest ingredients, with many raving about its fruit mince pie, praline twist, raspberry and chocolate mousse tart, dark chocolate salted caramels and the ginger brulee tart.

4Fourteen (414 Bourke Street; tel: +61 2 9331 5399.

Open Tues to Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from 12pm for lunch;

from 6pm for dinner; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12pm to 6pm) Dublin-born Chef Colin Fassnidgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nose-to-tail culinary philosophy has hit a chord with Sydneysiders who love his penchant for turning even the most undesirable cuts into sumptuous wholesome dishes. 4Fourteen is an all-day eating house and bar, with a menu comprising sharing platters, cocktails and wine. Outstanding dishes include miso-smoked salmon with lemon curd and fennel bread, citrus-cured kingďŹ sh with fennel and celery, beef brisket with fried bread and pickles and lamb breast with eggplant, white anchovies and red pepper.

The Winery (285A Crown Street; tel: +61 2 9331 0833.

Open every day, noon till midnight) As Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only wine laneway venue, The Winery is a popular spot for the creative and corporate crowd, with the tables ďŹ lling up even before dusk falls. It has an irreverent and eclectic personality with interior dĂŠcor that surprises at every turn, be it indoors or in the spacious courtyard. The buzzy atmosphere is enhanced by a superb drinks list, with signatures such as white wine sangria and fancy cocktails to keep guests happy.

The Apollo (44 Macleay Street, Potts Point; tel: +61 2 8354 0888.

Open Mon to Thur â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from 6pm; Fri & Sat â&#x20AC;&#x201C;12pm to 10.30pm; Sun â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12pm to 9.30pm) This Australian Greek restaurant makes a statement with the corporate crowd for its cool minimalistic chic dĂŠcor, Jonathan Barthelmessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s star appeal as one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exciting chefs, distinctive reďŹ ned ďŹ&#x201A;avours of the Mediterranean and its exquisite service standard. An Apolloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feast features tempting highlights such as kritharaki pasta braised oxtail tomato and skordalia, slow-cooked lamb lemon greek yogurt, greek-style BBQ chicken and fried okra vinegar mint. Desserts such as loukoumades (honey doughnuts) with pomegranate yogurt pistachio and walnuts ďŹ lo pastry coffee cream are heavenly picks that should not be missed as well.

Corporate Traveller

45

INSIDER

SWISSOTEL SYDNEY Text by Esther Faith Lew

The Maple Room seats about 16 comfortably for small forums or meetings.

46 Corporate Traveller

IT WAS A WELCOME THAT DEFINED SWISSOTEL HOSPITALITY, WHICH IS ABOUT UNDERSTATED ELEGANCE. ProďŹ le Uncompromising Swiss heritage and standards run through the bloodline of Swissotel Hotels & Resorts around the world. With tradition and reliability helming the twin pillars of hospitality, Swissotel has built up a reputation for providing guests with warm service and a customised experience that ensures peace of mind.

The new lounge area has a more airy feel with natural light streaming in through full-length windows.

Front Desk As I pulled up to the entrance of Swissotel Sydney, I noticed the myriad distractions around me. Market Street buzzed with energy; shoppers, tourists and the corporate types thronged the streets, adding to the bustle of late afternoon activity. I took the lift to the main lobby PO UIF FJHIUI nPPS BOE UIF WJCFT NFMMPXFE albeit a welcoming one. A dashing pianist in a suit tinkled away on a piano; he turned, smiled and nodded a welcome to arriving guests.

After I checked in at the reception desk, I made my way to the newly renovated Crossroads Bar. Fronting the entrance is a classic hotel bar that tempted me to order its signature cocktail â&#x20AC;&#x153;Swiss in the Cityâ&#x20AC;?, a refreshing concoction of Swiss vodka, Cointreau, cranberry and lime juice, rhubarb bitters and orange zesty jelly. The bar houses a spacious lounge area featuring red pod-like

A Premier corner room with a splendid city view.

booths with elegant beige couches that made an attractive visual statement in the lobby.

Room Review 5IF 4XJTT &YFDVUJWF TVJUF PO UIF UI nPPS JT cosy and quietly stylish in a genteel manner.

The furnishings and colour scheme are contemporary yet classic, with a soothing palette of beige and light brown. The second I stepped into the room, I felt as though I was home. A hall wardrobe on the left allowed me to hang my coat before I entered the cosy alcove that served as a living room. I turned on the 32-inch LCD TV set, made an espresso from the Nespresso coffee machine and seated myself on the sofa. A fruit basket awaited me, along with a menu of complimentary daily amenities to select from.

The bedroom is spacious, with a large work desk by the balcony that offered ample space for me to organise my gadgets and to sieve through stacks of work materials. Meanwhile, the king-sized bed beckoned; it was comfortable and came with a pillow menu that guaranteed the deepest slumber you have ever had. Banish stiff necks with a suitable pillow type.

Freshening up is a luxurious affair, with Purovel amenities and a large bathtub to pamper yourself in while looking out at the city view and the Sydney Tower.

Amenities

The new Swiss Executive Club Lounge offers cosy seating and a spacious buffet area.

The new Swiss Executive Club lounge on the OJOUI nPPS IBT B DPTZ BNCJFODF BOE PGGFST Swiss Executive Club room guests complimentary gourmet buffet breakfast, wireless internet, various newspapers and hot and cold beverages throughout the day.

Other highlights include renovated meeting CPBSESPPNT XJUI mWF TUBS DPOGFSFODF BOE meeting facilities and state-of-the-art technology.

Bold hues of red add vibrancy to the lobby.

STYLE Classic contemporary BUILT 1999 REFURBISHED September 2012 ROOMS 341 SUITES 18 RATING 5 ROOM RATES AUD239 (S$308) to AUD439 (S$565) ADDRESS 68 Market Street, Sydney 2000 NSW, Australia

TEL +61 2 9238 8888

Summary $POWFOJFODF JT LFZ JO EFmOJOH 4XJTTPUFM Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique selling point. The hotel is only about 20 minutes away from the airport and its location on Market Street places it in the heart of the CBD and a shopping haven. Turn left after FYJUJOH UIF MPCCZ BOE ZPV XJMM mOE 1JUU 4USFFU .BMM BOE 8FTUmFME 4ZEOFZ CFDLPOJOH XJUI OFPO lights. Turn right and the Romanesque-style Queen Victoria Building awaits fans of duty-free shopping and luxury brands. Local attractions such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are also in close proximity.

Corporate Traveller

47

INSIDER

JPB AT SWISSOTEL SYDNEY Text by Esther Faith Lew

JPB’s new menu stays true to Australia’s focus on fresh organic produce and Swiss standards of quality.

48 Corporate Traveller

The soothing colour theme of JPBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interior encourages diners WR OLQJHU RYHU D ERWWOH RU WZR IURP LWV Ă&#x20AC;QH ZLQH VHOHFWLRQ

ProďŹ le Recently revamped, the new JPB restaurant on Swissotel Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lobby level presents a warm dining proposition. Its cosy interior and homely menu with familiar comfort foods such as wood-fired pizzas, heirloom tomato salad, roasted lamb rack and pan-seared Tasmanian salmon hit the spot with local diners and hotel guests.

Ambience Entering JPB is like stepping into a spacious elegant dining room with split-level dining areas that afford guests ample room and privacy for leisurely dining. Glossy dark wooden floorboards, light marble walls and beige curved-back chairs with dark wood tables complete the quietly stylish look, while soft intimate lighting endows the restaurant with a warm and cosy mood.

JPB GOES BACK TO THE BASICS IN CREATING SIMPLE YET SOPHISTICATED DISHES WITH BOLD FLAVOURS.

Service

well-balanced bite, leaving our taste buds with UIF QMFBTBOU TMJHIUMZ TXFFU UBTUF PG TXPSEmTI We ended the meal with a frozen nougat made up of fresh berries salad and green tea ice cream (AUD17), which refreshed our palates XJUI JUT DMFBO [FTUZ nBWPVS

Summary

2VJFU VOPCUSVTJWF BOE TJNQMZ SFmOFE The wait staff got top marks from us for UIFJS BUUFOUJWF TFSWJDF &YFDVUJWF $IFG Stephen Tseng came out to check on our table as well, and we appreciated his humble and honest demeanour in introducing his speciality dishes.

The evening ended on a faultless note. We XFSF QMFBTFE XJUI PVS EJOJOH FYQFSJFODF +1# is ideal for business dinners as the conducive BNCJFODF BOE FYDFMMFOU TFSWJDF NBLF UIF right impressions for a fruitful evening.

Food The appetiser of Goat Cheese Croquettes (AUD21) was satisfying to bite into; it was rich and creamy yet not too pungent. For mains, the grilled #MBDLNPSF 8BHZV TDPUDI mMMFU XJUI NVTISPPNT potato mash and medley of carrots (AUD38) was the highlight.

The Blackmore brand speaks volumes; it is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s QSPEVDFS PG MFBEJOH QSFNJVN CFFG o TQFDJmDBMMZ the 100 per cent Fullblood Wagyu beef that is USFBTVSFE CZ DIFGT GPS JUT JOUFOTF MJOHFSJOH nBWPVS BOE mOF FWFO NBSCMJOH 8JUI UIF DIFG T MJHIU touch, the meat was a pleasure to bite into; it yielded easily and was tender and succulent.

Another main dish that we recommend is the HSJMMFE TXPSEmTI TFSWFE XJUI SBEJTI TNPLZ eggplant, soba noodles and stuffed zucchini nPXFS "6% 5IF EFOTF NFBUZ UFYUVSF PG TXPSEmTI DPOUSBTUFE UIF MJHIU UFYUVSFT PG UIF soba, radish and eggplant and made for a

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$ VDWLVI\LQJ DSSHWLVHU RI JRDW FKHHVH FURTXHWWHV

CUISINE Modern Australian OPENING HOURS 6am to 10.30am, Monday to Sunday; 6pm to 10pm, Monday to Saturday

PRICE RANGE AUD8 (S$10) to AUD38 (S$49) SEATING 108 ADDRESS 68 Market Street, Sydney 2000, NSW 'HQVH PHDW\ ELWHV IURP WKH JULOOHG VZRUGĂ&#x20AC;VK

TEL +61 2 9238 8888 Corporate Traveller

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INSIDER

W SINGAPORE – SENTOSA COVE Text by Esther Faith Lew

W’s bold and dramatic leather-clad elevator with orchid motifs.

50 Corporate Traveller

IF YOU ARE JET-LAGGED, OPEN THE MUNCHIE BOX (W-SPEAK FOR MINI BAR) AND LOOK FOR THE OXYGEN TUBES ON ONE OF THE SHELVES. TAKE A FEW PUFFS FROM IT TO REJUVENATE YOURSELF.

The pool and lighthouse area comes with a wet bar for leisurely lounging.

Check-in reception desks with stylish motifs of Vanda Miss Joquim.

Profile The W brand is synonymous with style and design, and its hotels have a following of savvy trend-setters who know that W hotels offer a lifestyle experience of fun, fashion and glamour.

This fast-growing brand of hotels is making its QSFTFODF GFMU JO WJCSBOU "TJB 1BDJmD EFTUJOBUJPOT such as Seoul, Hong Kong, Maldives, Koh Samui, Bali– Seminyak and Taipei. W Singapore – Sentosa Cove is the seventh in the region.

Front Desk To the left of the entrance, two glass-walled circular lifts await, ready to transport guests into W’s domain. The lifts open out into an expansive lobby with bay windows stretching across the length of the lobby, allowing guests to take in the view of Sentosa Cove and the marina.

Stylish counters set against a rosewood backdrop with the laser-cut motif of Vanda Miss Joquim welcome guests, while the lobby’s cosy nooks and crannies with its designer lounge sofas and hanging egg chairs tempt you to sit back with a drink from the Woo Bar.

bathroom to balcony. Equally attention-grabbing is the contemporary décor that juxtaposes plastics and leather with batik, rattan, stone and rosewood for a modern tropical look with hints of a Renaissance-style boudoir.

The stand-alone Jacuzzi tub in the spacious bathroom tempted me to luxuriate in a bubble bath while I took in the serene view of cruising yachts and sailboats bobbing gently in the harbour. The fresh citrusy scent of the Bliss Spa amenities perked me up right away.

Thus refreshed and groomed, I was ready for my dinner meeting. On my way out, I disconnected my phone from The Sanctuary, a charger box that houses connectors to gadgets such as the Blackberry, the iPhone, iPod, and phones for Nokia, Samsung and Sony Ericsson.

I felt primed. I was also looking forward to rewarding myself with restful sleep in W’s signature king-sized pillow-top bed with orchid motif leather headboard and plush 350-thread-count sheets with down comforter.

Amenities Setting the right ambience for impactful business events or elegant galas is The Great Room, which offers direct access to the hotel’s private berths, allowing one to make a grand entrance from yacht to room.

'PS SFMBYBUJPO UIF "XBZ 4QB mUOFTT DFOUSF and 1,300 sqm pool provide various options for guests to rest or recharge.

The Great Room features over 1,500 sq m of event space.

STYLE Trendy urban and tropical BUILT September 2012 ROOMS 211 SUITES 29 RATING 5 ROOM RATES S$430 to S$13,670 ADDRESS 21 Ocean Way, Singapore 098374 TEL +65 6808 7288

Summary W Singapore whisks you away to the idyllic setting of tropical marina-front living, but a quick 10- to 15-minute drive takes you to the business district of Shenton Way. This makes the hotel an attractive proposition for corporate travellers as well as tourists.

Room Review With names such as “wonderful”, “spectacular” and “fabulous”, it is evident that W rooms are designed to engage and impress. The Marvellous Suite I was given earned its own superlatives by virtue of its sweeping 180 deg C view of the marina front, which can be appreciated as you go from bedroom to

The Marvellous Suite’s luxurious living room features a state-of-the-art entertainment system.

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INSIDER

SKIRT AT W SINGAPORE – SENTOSA COVE Text by Esther Faith Lew

A modern grill restaurant that impresses with its DYDQWH JDUGH GHVLJQ DQG UHÀQHG PHQX

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A HIGHLIGHT OF THE RESTAURANT IS THE ARGENTINE-STYLE PARILLA (GRILL), WHICH SLOW COOKS MEATS TO YIELD JUICY MORSELS. ProďŹ le While simplicity and emphasis on the quality of produce is at the heart of its culinary mission, W Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s executive chef Matthew Woolford believes in surprising diners with creative twists. His dishes remain USVF UP JUT PSJHJOT BOE nBWPVST BSF BMXBZT rich and intense without being overwhelming.

1PTJUJPOFE BT B TFNJ mOF EJOJOH restaurant with alfresco seating, Skirt exudes an elegance that is striking and stylish without being intimidating.

Chef Andrew Nocente assists Executive Chef Matthew in creating innovative dishes.

A delicious teaser of Tajima 9+ Wagyu beef tartar with radish, beetroot and beef jerky.

Ambience Skirt makes a stunning visual statement with surfaces that gleam and shimmer, and arresting visual patterns that lead the eye from wall to ceiling to table. As one walks in, the eye is captivated by a hanging display of shimmering cutlery before being drawn to the leather and horn chandeliers that lend an old-world charm to its contemporary design.

Come evening time, mood lighting gives the restaurant a warm glow and a cosy ambience. The interiorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golden hues, rich woods and natural material draw diners in and invite them to start the evening with a relaxing cocktail at the bar counter.

delighted with its arousing combination of TBWPVSZ BOE TXFFU nBWPVST For the main highlight, the signature Blackmore Australian Wagyu sirloin (S$155) with its 9+ marbling grade sent us to heavenly pastures. Boasting 100 per cent Full-blood Wagyu genetics, the beef had a wonderful grainy texture with marbling that was evenly dispersed and an addictive mouth-feel that had the meat yielding easily XJUI FWFSZ CJUF 5IF nBWPVS XBT JOUFOTF BOE long-lasting, making me appreciate it even more with every sip of my wine.

Rounding off our dinner was a simple yet classy dessert of torched honey meringue with coconut and pineapple ice cream (S$18). It was a sweet tropical winner that pleased all.

Summary

Fresh king prawns split and peppered over the parilla.

Do you have any special occasions coming up? Save it for a superb dining experience at 4LJSU 5IF SFTUBVSBOU NBEF mOF JNQSFTTJPOT on its food and ambience; and of course, its exclusive location ups the ante on the desirability factor.

Leather and horn chandeliers create warm lighting for a cosy ambience.

Service The restaurant manager at the front desk is courteous and prompt in receiving diners, moving with a demeanour that connotes QSPGFTTJPOBMJTN BOE FGmDJFODZ 8BJU TUBGG UPP performed their duties without due reason for DPNQMBJOU BOE XFSF BUUFOUJWF JO mMMJOH VQ PVS wine glasses.

Food Classic favourites such as steak and seafood are prepared with an elegant twist at this contemporary grill restaurant. It showcases premium meats from Argentina, Creekstone, Cape Grim â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tasmania, Tajima and Blackmore, which are hormone- and antibiotic-free. Renowned for their high-quality marbling grades, these succulent meats are dry aged from 14 days to 25 days to yield extreme tenderness and

JOUFOTF nBWPVST To start, we had the jamon iberico de bellota (S$28), which came with sour dough and seaweed cream. The melt-in-the-mouth wafer-thin slices were deep ruby red, SFnFDUJWF PG BO PMEFS IBN UIBU IBT CFFO aged for a long time, and the premium title of jamon iberico de bellota meant that the acorn-rich diet of the pig had endowed the NFBU XJUI B EFQUI PG nBWPVS UIBU MJOHFSFE PO The cured petuna ocean trout with dill crème and salmon pearls (S$18) came after to UJUJMMBUF PVS UBTUF CVET XJUI JUT TXFFU nBWPVS and unctuous texture. It was rich, yet delicate, as was the seared giant king scallops with dashi and apple (S$28), which

CUISINE Steak and seafood OPENING HOURS 7pm to 12am, Tuesday to Sunday

PRICE RANGE S$8 to S$155 SEATING 148 ADDRESS 21 Ocean Way, Singapore 098374 TEL +65 6808 7278 Corporate Traveller

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INSIDER

GRAND HYATT KUALA LUMPUR Text by Viviana Asri

The Grand Suiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sprawling living room sets the standard for room size in KL.

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OUTFITTED WITH FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS, THE LOBBY FELT LIGHT AND BRIGHT, WHICH BOOSTED MY JET-LAGGED SOUL. ProďŹ le Newly opened in August 2012, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur makes its inaugural presence in .BMBZTJB BOE BT CFmUUJOH PG JUT SFQVUBUJPO JU JT dressed to the nines in dramatic architecture.

5IJT MVYVSZ IPUFM JT MPDBUFE JO UIF DFOUSF PG ,VBMB -VNQVS KVTU B TUPOF T UISPX GSPN ,VBMB Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) and adjacent to Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, which NBLFT JU B NPTU BQU DIPJDF PG BDDPNNPEBUJPO GPS CVTJOFTT USBWFMMFST 8JUIJO XBMLJOH EJTUBODF JT ,VBMB -VNQVS T NPTU GBNPVT MBOENBSL o UIF Petronas Twin Tower, Suria KLCC shopping centre and KLCC Park.

RVFVF BT UIF TUBGG XFSF FGmDJFOU JO DIFDLJOH JO PUIFS HVFTUT "GUFS * IBE SFDFJWFE NZ SPPN LFZ * XBT MFE UP B TQFDJBM MJGU BDDFTT XIJDI PGGFSFE QSJWBDZ BOE TFDVSJUZ GPS JUT HVFTUT *U XBT B QMVT QPJOU GPS NF CFJOH B TPMP GFNBMF USBWFMMFS

Room Review I was given a Grand Suite, which is a 105 sqm DPSOFS SPPN GFBUVSJOH nPPS UP DFJMJOH XJOEPXT 5IF TBNF TFOTF PG TQBDJPVTOFTT JT DBSSJFE through to the room, which has natural lighting and an earth-toned colour scheme to give the room a cosy appeal. Even though the stylish glass work desk beckoned, I placed my laptop CBH PO UPQ PG JU BOE DIPTF JOTUFBE UP TJOL EPXO PO UIF QMVTI TPGB JO UIF MJWJOH SPPN UP XBUDI NZ GBWPVSJUF DIBOOFM PO UIF JODI -&% 57 TFU In the bedroom, an inviting king-sized CFE BXBJUFE XJUI UIF WJFX PG UIF 1FUSPOBT 5XJO 5PXFS UP MVMM NF UP NZ ESFBNT #FGPSF UIBU IPXFWFS UIF CBUISPPN DBMMFE o UIF huge marble bathtub deserved my attention, complete with some bath salts.

Amenities Front Desk "T * TUFQQFE UISPVHI UIF GSPOU EPPS * XBT HSFFUFE CZ UIF FMFHBOU IVFT PG EBSL CSPXO BOE MJHIU HPME UIBU HBWF B XFMDPNJOH TFOTF PG XBSN HSBOEFVS "DDFOUVBUFE CZ UIF QSFTFODF PG specially commissioned artworks displayed in various corners, this grand lobby greets guests as they make their way to the reception area, the convention room, restaurant and spa. $IFDLJOH JO PGGFSFE BO FMFWBUJOH FYQFSJFODF I had to go up to the Sky Lobby on the 38th nPPS XIJDI PGGFSFE B TUVOOJOH WJFX PG UIF DJUZ T skyline. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to wait too long in the

.Z TIPSU BGUFSOPPO NFFUJOH JO UIF (SBOE $MVC was enjoyable. I was seated in the corner next

to a large window with an extensive city view. *U BGGPSEFE NF TPNF NPNFOUBSZ EJTUSBDUJPOT as my business companions touched on NBUUFST PVUTJEF PG UIF BHFOEB 5IF (SBOE $MVC JT JEFBM GPS RVJFU EJTDVTTJPOT XJUI B complimentary high-tea menu and hot and cold beverages to satiate sweet cravings.

For a big meeting, the Grand Residence would be suitable as it seats 20 to 330 guests.

(SBOE )ZBUU ,VBMB -VNQVS PGGFST B VOJRVF BOE innovative meeting room that spans more than TRN 4FSWJDFT BOE GBDJMJUJFT BSF customised according to clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; needs.

Summary (SBOE )ZBUU ,VBMB -VNQVS GFBUVSFT UIF MBSHFTU IPUFM SPPNT JO UIF DJUZ SBOHJOH GSPN TRN UP TRN "EEJOH UP UIF TFOTF PG TQBDJPVTOFTT BSF UIF nPPS UP DFJMJOH XJOEPXT UIBU NBYJNJTF OBUVSBM EBZMJHIU BOE PGGFS B TXFFQJOH WJFX PG UIF city. Coupled with its elegant and luxurious design, Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur presents an BUUSBDUJWF QSPQPTJUJPO GPS CVTJOFTT USBWFMMFST used to being pampered by the best.

Generally, I was impressed by Grand )ZBUU T TFSWJDF TUBOEBSET BOE UIF RVBMJUZ PG JUT GPPE BOE BDDPNNPEBUJPO

The 620 sqm Grand Salon makes an impressive function room.

*UDQG +\DWW ./ LV WKH Ă&#x20AC;UVW LQ WKH FLW\ WR IHDWXUH Hyattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residential-style meeting concept.

STYLE Modern elegant BUILT 2012 ROOMS 412 SUITES 42 RATING 5 ROOM RATES RM650 (S$262) to RM5,650 (S$2,275) ADDRESS 12 Jalan Pinang 50450 Kuala Lumpur Malaysia The bathroom features liquid crystal glass technology that turns glass panels opaque at the touch of a button.

TEL +60 3 2182 1234 Corporate Traveller

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THIRTY8 AT GRAND HYATT KUALA LUMPUR Text by Viviana Asri

Thirty8 offers intimate seating with great views of the skyline and the open kitchen.

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ITS PREMIUM M7 GRADE MEANT THAT THIS PIECE OF SUCCULENT MEAT ABSOLUTELY MELTED IN MY MOUTH. ProďŹ le -PDBUFE PO UIF UI nPPS PG (SBOE )ZBUU Kuala Lumpur, the spacious contemporary JOUFSJPS PG 5IJSUZ NBLFT BO JNQSFTTJWF statement as the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature SFTUBVSBOU )FMNFE CZ &YFDVUJWF $IFG Tommy Franssila, who has served up exquisite cuisine at Grand Hyatt hotels in London, Melbourne, Bangkok and Sao 1BVMP 5IJSUZ PGGFST BO FYUFOTJWF NFOV PG TUFBLT TFBGPPE TVTIJ BOE TBTIJNJ Taking centre stage in the restaurant is the open kitchen with its live cooking stations. Lively and vibrant, the stations were NBOOFE CZ B DSFX PG GSJFOEMZ DIFGT XIP whipped up a la carte orders on the spot with TNJMFT BOE EFGU NPWFNFOUT 5IF SFTUBVSBOU JT DPOmHVSFE JO TVDI B XBZ UIBU NBOZ TFBUT BGGPSE B HSFBU WJFX PG UIF PQFO LJUDIFO BT XFMM BT UIF DJUZ TLZMJOF 8IFUIFS JU T B CV[[JOH dining experience or a more quiet and intimate meal with just the view to capture their attention, guests have various seating options to suit their mood.

EFUBJMT PG NZ PSEFS BOE UIF WBSJPVT DPVSTFT PG NZ NFBM XFSF TFSWFE QSPNQUMZ BOE XJUI QFSGFDU UJNJOH BT * EJE OPU IBWF UP XBJU UPP long in between courses.

Food 6QPO UIF SFDPNNFOEBUJPO PG "OO NZ EJOOFS DPNQBOJPO * EFDJEFE UP HP GPS UIF double-boiled chicken soup with XPMGCFSSJFT NVTISPPNT $IJOFTF EBUFT and herbs (RM30). I loved it; the stock was SJDI nBWPVSTPNF BOE GVMM PG OVUSJUJPOBM goodness, with tender meat that yielded easily with every bite.

Appetite thus awakened, I had a NBDBSPOJ HSBUJO XJUI DIFFTF GPS NZ FOUSĂ?F *U T B DPNGPSU EJTI UIBU * MPWF UP PSEFS BOE NJOF XBT SJDI BOE HSBUJGZJOH ZFU OPU UPP DMPZJOH 'PS NBJOT * PQUFE GPS UIF "VTUSBMJBO

CUISINE 8FTUFSO +BQBOFTF BOE $IJOFTF OPENING HOURS 6am to 11pm, Sunday to Saturday PRICE RANGE RM15 (S$6) to RM400 (S$161) SEATING 368 ADDRESS 12 Jalan Pinang, 50450 The tempting sashimi platter of sweet unctuous meats.

A juicy rib eye steak for the purists.

H 8BHZV SJC FZF . 3.

XIJDI DBNF XJUI B DIPJDF PG #FBSOBJTF NVTISPPN green peppercorn and chimichurri sauces.

Its premium M7 grade meant that this piece PG TVDDVMFOU NFBU BCTPMVUFMZ NFMUFE JO NZ NPVUI BOE MFGU B MJOHFSJOH TBWPVSZ BGUFSUBTUF Even though I had ordered it well done, the meat was still tender.

I rounded up my dinner with its signature chocolate cake (RM18), which certainly made an impression. Presented on a cake tray with a glass cover, the dry ice within DSFBUFE B WFJM PG BOUJDJQBUJPO 5IF TPGU MBZFSFE DIPDPMBUF DBLF XJUI GSFTI CFSSJFT and banana ice cream presented heavenly bites that would satiate all sweet cravings.

Summary

Service 5IF TFSWJDF TUBGG XFSF QPMJUF BOE QSPGFTTJPOBM JO UIFJS NBOOFS POF PG UIF XBJUFST QBUJFOUMZ GPMMPXFE NF BSPVOE BT * UPPL NZ UJNF choosing my seat. The waiter who attended to me was meticulous in taking down the

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

TEL +60 3 2182 1234

Ambience 5IF EFHSFF WJFX PG UIF DJUZ TLZMJOF caught my eye the moment I stepped in. At night, the view was spectacular and I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help but be caught up by a NPNFOUBSZ SFWFSJF CFGPSF CFJOH EJTUSBDUFE by the tantalising aromas and action coming GSPN UIF MJWF TUBUJPOT * TFBUFE NZTFMG BU B corner table and soaked in the atmosphere.

The interior is contemporary with ample VTF PG HMBTT BOE NFUBM BOE TMFFL DMFBO MJOFT UIBU MFBE UIF FZF BDSPTT UIF FYQBOTF PG UIF restaurant. To balance the spacious and airy GFFM PG UIF SFTUBVSBOU OBUVSBM FMFNFOUT TVDI BT EBSL XPPE UBCMFT mYUVSFT BOE nPPSCPBSET BSF VTFE UP DSFBUF B TFOTF PG XBSNUI %JOJOH BU 5IJSUZ JT B DBTVBM ZFU FMFHBOU BGGBJS UIBU NBLFT HVFTUT GFFM DPNGPSUBCMF BOE SFMBYFE

Full-height glass walls give the restaurant a lofty feel.

Thirty8â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty signature chocolate cake.

8IFUIFS JU T GPS B CVTJOFTT MVODI PS KVTU B quiet drink at the wine bar and lounge, 5IJSUZ PGGFST UIF QFSGFDU BNCJFODF GPS guests, accompanied by a captivating view that complements your experience.

The dishes served were most certainly pleasing to the palate and deserved praise, as did the service standard. Guests XJMM mOE JU B NPTU DPOEVDJWF QMBDF UP VOXJOE BGUFS B EBZ PG NFFUJOHT Corporate Traveller

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INSIDER

THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL Text by Michelle Yee

Exclusive suites offer unsurpassed views of the dazzling Singapore skyline.

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THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL IMPRESSES WITH ITS UNSURPASSED VIEWS AND PREMIUM DINING EXPERIENCES.

The Fullerton Bay Hotel is a stunning jewel-like addition to the renowned Marina Bay waterfront.

Looking across the Fullerton area, one cannot help but notice the striking building with its glass façade, better known as The Fullerton Bay Hotel.

In recognition of its stylish design and hospitality of utmost opulence, The Fullerton Bay Hotel has achieved a series of awards and accolades such as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leading Lifestyle Hotel 2012â&#x20AC;&#x2122; by World Travel Awards, and many more.

Opened in July 8, 2010 as part of the Fullerton Heritage Project, the hotel turns three this year.

suites are also themed according to the various races â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan and Colonial â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to showcase Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth of cultures.

The Bay View room I was in offered sweeping views of scenic Marina Bay, prompting me to step out onto the balcony to get a better view of the keelboats sailing by. I was also captivated by the way the rooms are meticulously designed, featuring a rich creamy gold scheme coupled with touches of polished rosewood, burlwood, leather and chrome. The ambience was warm and inviting.

Front Desk

Amenities

Set against an egg-white interior, an elegant DZMJOESJDBM DIBOEFMJFS UIBU NFBTVSFT mWF NFUSFT in diameter and suspended at a height of 10 metres extends a grand welcome to guests at the front desk. A cursory examination of the lobby revealed a fascinating palette of rich marble in varying tones of mineral grey tints, along with an amalgamation of custom-made furnishings in lush olive green, burnt orange and deep aubergine shades. The rich delightful colours not only create a style that is both contemporary and international, but they also echo a resounding hedonic thrill forward.

I enjoyed my invigorating swim at the 25m JOmOJUZ QPPM BOE B TBUJTGZJOH XPSLPVU BU UIF round-the-clock gymnasium, which is furnished with state-of-the-art equipment. Its rooftop

ProďŹ le

STYLE Modern yet classic BUILT July 8, 2010 ROOMS 100 SUITES 6 RATING 5 ROOM RATES S$550 to S$4,980 ADDRESS 80 Collyer Quay, Singapore 049326 TEL +65 6333 8388

location made exercising a breeze as I was motivated by the gorgeous view.

When it came time to wine and dine, the sophisticated rooftop bar known as The Lantern set the mood for stylish entertainment. After my pre-dinner cocktail, I had a choice of dining at The Landing Point, the lounge cafe, or at Clifford for a chic brasserie meal, both of which feature classy menus that please discerning palettes.

Room Review The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms and suites feature nPPS UP DFJMJOH XJOEPXT BOE FYDMVTJWF balconies, offering an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the city skyline. Just as impressive is the interior design; the suites are styled with bespoke dĂŠcor that embody Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich heritage and diverse cultures, as a tribute to the historical prominence of the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s location. These

The Clifford 5HVWDXUDQW UHGHĂ&#x20AC;QHV destination dining by the bay with personalised service and an intimate dining experience.

Summary:

Step into a world of chic sophistication where The

Situated in the heart of the CBD, the hotel is ensconced among iconic heritage buildings BOE UIF WJCSBOU mOBODJBM BSUT BOE DVMUVSBM precinct. It is also close to bustling dining and entertainment venues, making it a prime choice of accommodation for leisure and corporate travellers.

Corporate Traveller

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INSIDER

THE SPA ARTISAN AT THE FULLERTON BAY HOTEL Text by Michelle Yee

Experience serenity in the heart of the city at The Spa Artisan.

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ITS THERAPISTS ARE TRAINED TO EXECUTE THEIR STROKES WITH THE FINESSE AND PRECISION OF AN ARTIST. ProďŹ le Founded on the belief that nature is the best healer, The Spa Artisan is brought to you by Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pioneer garden spa, Aramsa Spa. Located in The Fullerton Hotel, it is positioned as a lush exotic spa with international appeal. By virtue of its name, the spa aims to provide a total relaxation and healing experience that draws a parallel with the artistic and creative process of creating a mOF XPSL PG BSU

Ambience Spanning 369sqm, The Spa Artisan combines the oasis of a garden spa with the rich heritage of The Fullerton Hotel. Nestled within the plush premises of the hotel, the spa exudes tranquility,calmness and relaxation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an alluring haven for tired travellers and busy Shenton Way professionals. Comprising three couple villas and six single villas, The Spa

Working with botanical and exotic ingredients to create inspiring therapies.

Concoct a blend of your preference with The Spa Artisanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide selection of botanical carrier oils and 100% pure essential oils.

Artisan has beautiful landscaped interiors and well-designed treatment rooms that truly enhance the healing experience. As guests treat themselves to therapeutic massages and the goodness of natural botanic ingredients, it is all too easy to daydream and be transported to an exotic locale.

TREATMENTS SkinCeuticals Cell Regenerating Facial, Artisan Touch, Gingergrass Bamboo Exfoliation, Red Flower Treatments

FACILITIES Couple Suites, Single Suites, Retail & Tester Bar, Aromatherapy Bar, Pedi Field, Spa Lounge, Steam & Sauna, Male & Female Changing Room

Experience The Red Flower Treatment that I went for left me utterly rejuvenated. The spa session started off with a simple foot soak, followed by exfoliation of the skin using unique brushing techniques and natural ingredients such as a blend of coffee, olive stones and fresh lemons, wrapped in rich rhassoul clay to draw deep impurities out of the body. Thereafter, I was treated to a pampering NBTTBHF VTJOH *UBMJBO CMPPE PSBOHF nPXFS PJM The aromatherapy massage combined Swedish, Shiatsu and lymphatic drainage techniques with gentle to medium pressure, a process that soothed the discomfort in my tight muscles and left me feeling refreshed and recharged.

The outstanding professionalism at The Spa Artisan impressed me. My therapist kept communication at a minimum and spoke only when she was explaining the procedure, which allowed me to truly relax and be lulled to sleep. Good recommendations of products and advice GSPN UIF UIFSBQJTU UIFSFBGUFS BMTP SFBGmSNFE the fact that I was in good hands.

PRODUCTS SkinCeuticals Skincare, Botanical Oils, 100% Pure Essential Oils, Organic Products, Natural Ingredients

PRICE RANGE S$15 to S$618 ADDRESS 1 Fullerton Square, Mezzanine Floor #01-13/14, Singapore 049178

TEL +65 6423 1382

care it needs. Its ingredients are selected from natural actives and formulated to optimise its effectiveness.

The myriad of treatments available at The Spa Artisan includes the SkinCeuticals Cell Regenerating Facial, Artisan Touch Therapy, Ginger Grass Bamboo Exfoliation and Red Flower Treatments, all of which target different problems depending on the individual.

Treatment prices range from S$58 for an anti-stress scalp massage to S$210 for a 90-minute relaxing therapy treatment.

Summary: X Factor

Both couple and single suites come with en suite shower and full-bath amenities.

The SkinCeuticals products that the spa carry is worthy of mention. A dermo-professional skincare line renowned for its pure pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, SkinCeuticals gives each skin type the right

Modelled after the artisanal qualities of heritage, knowledge, craft and skill, The Spa Artisan is an inner-city gateway to seventh heaven. We highly recommend a session to enjoy the soothing ambience and its array of luxurious treatments.

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GETAWAY

TAMING OF THE SNOW

Be it their temple or arena, high-ďŹ&#x201A;yers ascend the mountain peaks to discover skiing slopes that herald their next conquest and epiphany Text by Michelle Yee

1

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W

1. Embark on an icy adventure 2. The master suite in the Tiger’s Nest offers spectacular views of the Matterhorn range of mountains 3. Be surrounded by breathtaking views of the Pennine Alps, including the famous Dent Blanche and Matterhorn Peaks at Tiger’s Nest.

hat is a mogul? Besides the more conventional meaning, the word also refers to a small hard mound or bump on a ski slope. Money can’t buy the feeling of riding down a ski slope over countless moguls at breakneck velocities. Mortality, once absent in the mind, now becomes a fuzzy shadow lurking behind the thrown-up cloud of snow. It is precisely that sliver of danger the moguls – the ones with the cash – are seeking. They have conquered slippery financial slopes, tamed employees, circumnavigated business black holes and are now spoiling for Mother Nature and gazillions of packed solid water molecules that could well unpack anytime the gods see fit.

For the immensely successful who have conquered all, skiing, with its perpetual unpredictability and silent perils, is probably one of the few activities left that can jangle their nerves and hang them on tenterhooks, then release them from nature’s grasp with a feeling of genuine pride and achievement.

For these corporate achievers, it’s more than a chance to get out of their cashmere tailored three-piece outfits. It is finding that something that can make them feel alive again. For Bill Gates, an avid skier himself, it is like that feeling in the spring of 1975 when you’re not exactly sure how Microsoft would end up. Luckily for him, he made it to the bottom of the slope in some style.

For the rest of us with gumption and ambition, skiing trips should be on our itineraries. Before the hoi polloi descends upon the achromatic, snow-carpeted slopes, trade your beach holiday for an icy adventure more majestic and no less luxurious. From Switzerland, Italy and America to Japan and even the UAE, here’s a round-up of the best luxury skiing spots in the world.

SWITZERLAND Tiger’s Nest Tiger’s Nest is a luxury contemporary alpine lodge situated at 1,550m in the east of Les 4 Vallées, Switzerland’s most extensive ski area. This fully-staffed retreat offers access to some of Europe’s best skiing, as well as being an idyllic summer base for sightseeing, hiking, mountain biking, shopping, golf, tennis and other pursuits. Comprising five double bedrooms, Tiger’s Nest is perfectly suited for two families or up to 10 adults.

THE HOUSE WAS BORN OUT OF A DESIRE TO FIND SOMEWHERE TO STAY IN THE MOUNTAINS AS LUXURIOUS AS THE VERY BEST HOTELS IN ASIA, WITH THE LEVELS OF SERVICE RENOWNED IN THE FAR EAST COMBINED WITH THE COMFORTS OF OUR OWN HOME. Diana Footit, owner of Tiger’s Nest

Named after Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Temple, the four-storey lodge is designed to offer guests a tranquil mountain escape in elegant surroundings with dramatic 270-degree views of the Pennine Alps, including the famous Dent Blanche and Matterhorn peaks.

Boasting a dedicated in-house team – including a host, chef, driver and ski concierge – guests can expect to experience utmost comfort and the highest levels of Corporate Traveller

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1. The Vale Niseko offers stunning views with private onsens overlooking the ski run 2. The Vale Niseko features spacious and XFMM mUUFE JOUFSJPST 3. The Four Seasons Resort Whistler features grand yet cosy interiors 4. The Four Seasons Resort Whistler

service amid one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most magniďŹ cent natural landscapes.

Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest is strategically situated outside the small village of Les Masses and is a short drive from the ski villages of Les Collons, Thyon and Veysonnaz. In addition, this area also provides superb and reliable snow conditions with six ski lifts within a 12-minute drive of the house.

Skiers can also access other parts of Les 4 VallĂŠes â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Nendaz, La Tzoumaz and Verbier. Further aďŹ eld in the Valais region are nine resorts that include Arolla, Crans-Montana, Saas-Fee and Zermatt. All are within easy reach of Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest.

Address: Chemin des Jadaneys 17, Valais.

For reservations, call: +852 9183 0667 or email: reservations@tigersnestlodge.com Rates: Prices start from CHF 2,900 per person (approx. S$3,800), based on 10 adults sharing on a one-week basis. Price includes daily chef-prepared breakfast and afternoon tea, a light lunch for non-skiing guests and dinner on six of the seven nights, high-quality house wines with dinner, pre-dinner canapĂŠs and house cocktails, one decanter of whisky and one decanter of brandy, all soft drinks and a local area driver service.

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Getting There: Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest is located less than two hours by car from Geneva airport, and three hours from Zurich and Milanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Malpensa airports. Visitors can also take a highly efďŹ cient direct train service, which connects Sion to Geneva airport, and the journey is estimated to take two hours. Additionally, private planes can ďŹ&#x201A;y direct into Sion airport.

UTAH, US WALDORF ASTORIA PARK CITY Encircled by the pristine Wasatch Mountains, the Waldorf Astoria Park City is a resort of grandiose charm that could easily be a home away from home for travellers. Currently, Utahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capacious single ski and snowboard resort, the Waldorf Astoria Park City is also one of the ďŹ ve largest in the US. An extraordinary destination, the Waldorf Astoria Park City is designed to heighten guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experiences to its fullest.

Having made it to the 2012 Conde Nast Travelerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gold List, this ski resort is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best places to stay, with an immeasurable amount of entertainment and tremendous fun with the snow.

First-rate services available at the resort for skiing fanatics include an on-site

gondola, which shufďŹ&#x201A;es guests to skiable terrain and rental of equipment. Providing access to the canyons â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which comprises eight mountains with ďŹ ve bowls and an elevation of 3,018m at its top, 1,829m at its base and a 972m vertical drop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the resort offers 1,619ha of trails via gondola.

Other adventure activities include wide-open powder runs, family-friendly cruisers and cutting-edge terrain parks. If wintertime skiing is not your cup of tea, one can still be a happy camper as the gondola operates year-round and provides access to ďŹ shing spots and miles of hiking trails.

A four-season destination of authentic luxury, Waldorf Astoria Park City offers experiences that pamper the senses in addition to unforgettable skiing. For plus points, the resort is great for families as the entire area is designated non-smoking.

Address: 2100 Frostwood Drive, Utah.

For reservations, call: +1 435 647 5500 or book online at: www.parkcitywaldorfastoria.com Rates: Prices are available upon request.

Getting There: The Waldorf Astoria Park City is conveniently situated approximately 55km away from

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THE VALE NISEKO HAS SET A BENCHMARK NOT ONLY IN JAPAN BUT RIGHT THROUGHOUT ASIA. OUR CLIENTELE ARE THE MOST DISCERNING IN SEEKING THE QUIETNESS AND SUBTLETY OF JAPAN COUPLED WITH WESTERN FUNCTIONALITY IN REGARDS A SKI-IN/SKI-OUT FULL-SERVICE ACCOMMODATION.

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- Jonathan Martin, Chairman of NISADE (holding company of The Vale Niseko)

five-star hotel, The Vale Niseko looks set to deliver the ultimate year-round holiday experience for all. Features such as reverse-cycle air conditioning, open fire places, private natural onsens, twin high-speed elevators and personal gear dry cabinetry aggrandise The Vale Niseko’s goal of providing both luxury and functionality.

For a breathtaking Japanese alpine experience and an exaltation of spirit, The Vale Niseko fits the bill perfectly.

Address: 194-5 Aza-Yamada Kutchan-Cho Abuta-Gun Hokkaido, Japan, 044-0081.

For reservations, call: +81 136 21 5911 or email: reservations@nisade.com Rates: Resort rooms start from ¥18,400 (approx.

Salt Lake City International Airport and requires only

S$250), studio apartments from ¥23,000 (approx.

40 minutes of driving to arrive at the resort. Although

S$314), 1-bedroom apartments from ¥35,000 (approx.

one may take public transport run by Utah Transit

S$477), 2-bedroom apartments from ¥43,700 (approx.

Authority, driving remains the recommended mode of

SGD$600), 3-bedroom apartments from ¥47,500

transport as it takes almost 10 hours to get to Waldorf

(approx. S$648) and penthouse apartment from

¥113,100 (approx. S$1,542).

Getting There: For free-and-easy travellers and skiers, The Vale Niseko is approximately nine kilometres away by car from Kutchan Station in Hokkaido. If you opt to drive from Niseko Station, it would be a 20-minute drive before arriving at the hotel.

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA FOUR SEASONS RESORT WHISTLER Strategically located within Whistler’s Upper Village, the Four Seasons Resort Whistler is a resort hotel of utmost lavishness. Snug from its vantage point beneath the glaciers of Whistler and Blackcomb, the luxury hotel and resort presents an attractive proposition – the rustic mountain scenery combined with the resort’s modern European elegance paint an enchanting picture. Consistently receiving positive reviews – Four Seasons Resort Whistler was ranked No. 2 among Canada’s Top 20 Resorts, its recent evolvement even allowed it to be

Astoria Park City resort by bus.

HOKKAIDO, JAPAN THE VALE NISEKO Opened in December 2009, The Vale Niseko is a luxury condo-hotel property development and a ski-side serviced apartment in Niseko. The hotel was announced to be Niseko’s largest single complex, accompanied by 49 chic residences with designer alpine interiors, an outdoor heated pool, private natural thermal hot spring baths known as onsen, dining establishments and après ski deck.

With a wonderful central locale on the ski run in upper Hirafu Village, The Vale Niseko is Niseko’s finest ski abode. It is well surrounded by alpine vistas and has uninterrupted stunning views of Mount Yotei. Its location presents the resort with 850ha of sublime terrain and the world’s best powder snow.

Outfitted with the amenities of a

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6OXJOE PWFS B mOF TFMFDUJPO of teas and delectable pastries 2. Complete with distinguished furnishings, the rooms at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the &NJSBUFT QFSTPOJmFT QVSF elegance and luxury 3. Ski Dubai - the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest indoor snow park that is covered with real snow all-year round

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rated among the Top 100 Hotels & Resorts in the world by Conde Nast Travelerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2012 Readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Awards.

Bordered by majestic wilderness, Four Seasons Resort Whistler provides accessibility to 200 ski trails, 50 mountain bike trails and the alpine meadows of Whistler Blackcomb to savour the best of nature at the site of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. For skiing devotees, you might be pleased to hear that a ski valet is available to lighten your load.

If you love the snow but not the rigour of skiing, Four Seasons Resort Whistler offers recreational options such as a full spa, a state-of-the-art health club and sumptuous pool. Whether you choose to take in the alpine air while getting a massage with clay from a nearby lake or appreciate the snow-capped peaks while soaking up the atmosphere in the outdoor whirlpools, Four Seasons Resort Whistler is the place to go for a superb retreat.

Comprising 273 spacious guest rooms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including 95 suites and 21 private residences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ambience is grand yet cosy, with rooms that are appointed richly in wood and boasts ďŹ replaces facing an outside balcony.

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Address: 4591 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4, Canada.

For reservations, call: +1 888 935 2460 or book online at: www.fourseasons.com/whistler/ Rates: Prices are available upon request.

Getting There: From Vancouver International Airport, drive along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway towards the north for 90 minutes to reach Four Seasons Resort Whistler.

DUBAI, U.A.E KEMPINSKI HOTEL MALL OF THE EMIRATES How often do you get the best of both worlds? More speciďŹ cally, where can we ďŹ nd a ski resort in the midst of the desert?

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is the answer to your question.

The ďŹ rst indoor ski slope and one of the biggest shopping malls outside of the United States of America, this leisure hotel was bestowed as the Best New Five Star Resort as well as the Best Tourism Project at the Middle East and North Africa Tourism Awards.

Conveniently situated in the heart of the city, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates comprises a grand total of 393 rooms and suites, including 15 chalets of

European dĂŠcor that provide sweeping views over the indoor ski. Known as Ski Dubai, the extravagant entertainment hub of an amazing 22,500 metres is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest indoor snow park and covered with real snow all year round.

Ski Dubai ensures all guests of varying skill level have an equal amount of fun by providing ďŹ ve runs that differ in difďŹ culty, height and gradient, the longest run being 400 metres long with a fall of over 60 metres. In addition, experienced skiers and snowboarders may venture into the Freestyle Zone to practice their stunts if they would like to. As delivering quality service is of paramount importance to Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers all guests the use of winter clothing as well as the necessary ski and snowboard equipments.

While the skiing and snowboarding takes us down the slope, a chairlift and tow lift will promptly carry the guest back to the top for another run.

For travellers who are undecided between whether to hit the slopes or the pool, treat yourself to retail therapy of utmost opulence at swanky shops or decadent spa treatments. Whatever your choice may be, entertainment options are abundant at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates For reservations call: +971 4 341 0000 or email: reservations.malloftheemirates@kempinski.com Rates: Prices are available upon request.

Getting There: The hotel is a ďŹ ve-minute drive away from Media and Internet City, and 10 minutes away from Downtown Dubai and the city centre Deira.

Available @ The Travel Store Jurong Point | Marina Bay Sands | The Star Vista Also available @ Robinsons The Centrepoint | OG Albert | OG Orchard Point | OG Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park

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www.thetravelstore.com.sg

FIRST CLASS Bhutanese houses on vivid display, where law decrees no building is to be above mWF TUPSFZT IJHI

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LUXURIATE IN SPIRITUALITY As the world continues its pursuit of luxury in its finest, seek instead a sense of spiritual serenity in the landlocked kingdom of Bhutan, following their increasingly popular pursuit of ‘Gross National Happiness’.

Text and photographs Natalie Joy Lee

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f a price tag could be placed on peace and happiness, then perhaps a trip to the tiny Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan would cut it closest.

One might lament the non-existence of popular chain giants Starbucks and McDonald’s; of ancient sights accessible only via long-distances on foot; or even the lack of international hotelier names vying for land in this Himalayan nation. Yet, Bhutan stands as one of the happiest places on earth, a spiritual haven reflected in the smiles of its people; in its carefully maintained monasteries and mystical fortresses; within generations of culture that has retained its soul even as the world charges relentlessly towards progress.

As a time-harried, event-hopping and deadline-abiding individual, the lifestyle distinction couldn’t be starker. Barely twenty minutes after touchdown, our group of four climbs into a minivan and starts bombarding our Bhutanese guide, Kinley with a flurry of questions.

Draped in a traditional gho – the highly versatile national robe hiked up to skirt length and paired with knee-high socks – our smartly-attired guide is unfazed. “You come from stress country,’ comes his sagely reply.

“Relax! Welcome to happy land.”

Tucked high in the eastern Himalayas between two of the most populous countries in the world, India and China, it is almost forgivable if one has not heard of this Switzerland-sized nation, with a population fewer than 700,000. Isolated for centuries, the landlocked Bhutan first opened its elusive doors a crack in 1972 for King Jigme Singye Wangchuk’s coronation, the now 57 year-old monarch responsible for single-handedly balancing the fine line between traditionalism and modern democratisation ever since. Fondly known as the father of Bhutan’s modernity, the much-loved former king first opened the country to development – and the world – in 1971 by joining the United Nations, introducing English in the free and compulsory local schools, later also coining the ‘Gross National Happiness’ (GNH) index; the Buddhist country’s measurement of national progress which places heavy emphasis on spiritual well-being.

Tourist numbers spiked, though the nation was also careful to adhere to a policy of ‘low volume, high value tourism’ – mostly to retain Bhutan’s ecological, social, cultural and environmental beauty.

Nonetheless, eager foreigners and international media came in to conquer with cameras and pens; Bhutan opened its arms and retained every single heart and soul that arrived.

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Prayer Piety Touring Bhutan requires stamina: shoes come off at all sacred sanctuaries; some require long drives and further walks before reaching; others have innumerable steps that separate us from the temples.

And rivalling our doggedness in capturing Bhutan’s beauty through our lenses is none other than the locals themselves. Trudging up 72 steps towards the Changangkha Monastery in Thimphu, I meet numerous baby-toting parents with young children in tow, seeking blessings for their descendents.

The first act of worship is inevitably spinning the monastery’s prayer wheels, each fitted with the mantra of compassion, where every clockwise spin is equivalent to a mantra recital.

Following an elderly lady moving slowly along on her walking aid, I switch off my camera as we enter the main monastery hall, the wizened woman painstakingly bowing before the altars three times before retreating to a corner to meditate.

Enroute to Punakha, we take a quick lunch break at Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria in Lobesa, where Kinley claims is home to the entire city’s cleanest toilet. Bobbing 70 Corporate Traveller

on my heels in anticipation to the vast, green paddy fields that stretch out endlessly before my eyes, a family of five walks my way and I pause to ask them for a picture. Face-to-face, daddy registers my surprise on seeing his toddler hiding behind his back, a sorry picture of swollen and watering eyes. “We are going to see the Divine Madman,” he smiles.

“My child shall be well.”

Lama Drukpa Kunley is the highly revered man in question, albeit slightly different than most saints. Receiving his nickname due to his proficient use of bawdy language, and notorious penchant for wine and gorgeous women, the Divine Madman nonetheless owned superhuman powers; including the ability to banish demons and restore barren wombs. A 30 minutes walk from the cafeteria through dirt roads and wheat fields, childless women will cross continents to Chimi Lhakhang, a well-known fertility temple in the region. Children plagued with illnesses also come here instead of visiting a doctor, the Bhutanese still steeped in deep reverence to such godly reincarnations as the Divine Madman.

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Lap of Luxury

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1 & 2. Prayer wheels are an integral part of the Bhutanese DVMUVSF FBDI XIFFM mUUFE XJUI the Mahayana Buddhist mantra of compassion 3. The expansive courtyard of Amankora Thimphu 4. Purna Prasad and older sis Laxmi, who like all Amankora employees regaular move SPVOE UIF IPUFM T mWF QSPQFSUJFT in Bhutan 5. Typical luxurious and spacious rooms of the Amankora brand 6. Huddle round the warmth of B CPOmSF BOE UBLF JO #IVUBO T beauty at Amankora Paro

In a nation united in spiritual reverence, the same can naturally be expected of its hotel industry. The well travelled would know that hotel accommodations – especially chain establishments and major hotelier brands – typically adhere to a ‘house style’, where the same signature touches are evident in properties worldwide. However in Bhutan the dynamics are a little different: hotels are a rarity in Bhutan – my check on the Tourism Council of Bhutan (www. tourism.gov.bt) listed just 14 properties even in capital Thimphu – and with none of the international names based here, I honestly did not know what to expect of my accommodations for this trip.

But if anyone knows how luxury should be done – Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces, and Amanresorts have certainly done a terrific work in laying the foundation for Bhutan’s luxury hotel industry. On top of riding on the back of successful brand names, both hoteliers tapped into the pure untainted beauty that is Bhutan – working with the alluring Bhutanese culture and around the country’s nature offerings galore – while quietly infusing luxurious touches all around.

And if any hotel does luxury right, it has to be the Amanresorts group (from US$1,560 per night; amanresorts.com).

The first international hotel company permitted into Bhutan, the five lodges of Amankora – which means peace, and circular pilgrimage in Dzongkha – spare no expense to detail, a grounded sense of serenity and luxury the moment you step

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foot into its compounds.

For the ultimate in exclusivity, the Amankora Punakha stay is unrivalled.

Accessible only after crossing a bridge and a five-minute buggy ride into the forest, the intimate lodge sits serenely as a former farmhouse built by Her Majesty the Queen Mother, now refurbished into just eight suites spread across three short buildings.

Then there’s Amankora Paro. Though just 20 minutes away from the airport, the lodge immediately draws guests into another world – of a snow-clad Mount Jhomolhari, views of the 17th century Drukyel Dzong, and soothing scents wafting in from the surrounding blue pine forest. Inherently Bhutanese, the 24 suites are set in a cluster of six buildings, made of rammed earth walls (a refinement of the indigenous traditional mud building technique); rooms floored in wide solid timber boards and flanked by expansive windows opening out towards the forest and beyond; a traditional bukhari wood-burning stove to the side. Taking cue from the Bhutanese weaving and dying processes, Bhutanese motifs, pattern forms and local fibres such as yak hair and wool have been used for furniture and fabrics, expertly juxtaposed with touches of modern luxury.

And if a luxurious soak in your room’s large terrazzo-clad bath is not enough, then head towards the Spa, featuring hot stone baths with traditional massage and herb-based Bhutanese healing therapies.

Sink further into peace in the yoga and meditation room – spirit, mind and soul.

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1. The stunning facade of Taj Tashi 2 Rest in luxury within the expansive deluxe suite 3. All bathrooms within the 66 guest rooms of Taj Tashi are decked out in luxurious touches such as this 4. Bhutan has no lack of natural beauty, with most top-end hotels like Taj Tashi featuring outdoor terraces like above 5. Arrange for private dining within the swanky premises of Uma Paro

As one of Thimphu’s top hotels, the five-star Taj Tashi is an ideal starting point in exploring Bhutan, centrally located from the main town and local popular hangout, Hong Kong Street (from US$475 per night; tajhotels.com).

One of the biggest hoteliers with 66 rooms overlooking the majestic Thimphu valley, the Taj’s main façade is inspired

by Bhutanese Dzongs – dramatic architectural buildings that function both as a monastery and city administration center. Within, the strong Bhutanese theme continues via hand-drawn wall murals, based on Dhungs (long trumpets played by monks), Double Dorjes (ritual object symbolising the indestructibility of diamonds, and strength of a thunderbolt), and intricate Mandalas – circular motifs commonly found in temples.

Contemporary elegance is not forgotten, where luxury starts from the expansive rooms sized at 450 square feet inclusive of balconies, all bathrooms fitted with floor warmers and bath towel heaters for cold winter nights, and 72 Corporate Traveller

in-room amenities of 32-inch LCD television and DVD player sets, as are wireless and wired Internet access for business travellers.

above sea level in Paro, legend has it that around the eighth century, the reverend Guru Rimpoche flew across the mountains on the back of a tigress, making the Taktsang Lhakhang home. A must-visit attraction in Bhutan and plastered across postcards countrywide, the monastery was built in 1692, but suffered the ruins of a fire in early 1998. Now renovated and restored to its former glory, the aim is to scale this national treasure, and return home glorious.

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Flying the Tiger Fast forward to our final day in Bhutan, seven in the morning. We are told to have a suitably filling and nutritious breakfast, an easy enough task thanks to our host Uma Paro – the swanky accommodation located in close proximity to the Paro Airport, also the venue of choice in hosting the high-profile wedding of Hong Kong actors Tony Leung and Carina Lau in 2008. With 20 standard rooms and nine private villas, the resort overlooks the Paro Valley, boasting stunning cultural architecture on the outside, but familiar modern settings within.

Over the days, I quickly learn that every climb we make on this trip, the distances we cover on foot and the muscle pulls we earn will finally cumulate to our trip’s single most trying site: the Tiger’s Nest. Perching precariously 10,000 feet

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Testing out our walking sticks, I look up to see Kinley and Tenzin already 10 metres ahead and waiting patiently for us to ďŹ nish our warm ups. I ask how many times theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve both been up the Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest, and immediately wish I hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Two hundred and twenty times Miss Natalie,â&#x20AC;? chirps Kinley, before zipping his way up the uneven terrain. I do not wait for Tenzinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reply as he grins at our group, my walking stick and I determinedly making our way up the forested area.

As we go higher, the paths narrow inwards and become trickier to navigate, often bypassing bumps, twisting turns, and lots of cow dung. It still amazes me how the animals manage to climb this high to graze, but my resolve is clear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to make it to our ďŹ rst checkpoint: the cafeteria. Eighty minutes later, our ďŹ rst-timer trekking group wheezing in slight disarray, we arrive to steaming hot black tea and buttery biscuits. We wolf the treats down; surprised at my own hunger since breakfast was a pretty hearty affair earlier. Breath steady now, I pause to gape at the commanding sight before me, where some say the cafeteria provides the best views directly across the Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest. No time to lose, we continue our hike up the well-trodden trek.

The record to beat was nine hours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the longest time ever taken to conquer the

and to natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s glorious abandon. Tucked in a position right beneath the clouds and above some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest peaks, no words can describe the weightless feeling of surmounting Taktsang Lhakhang, a personal feat I will remember for years to come.

Journeying down proves way easier, where I count exactly 785 steps before reaching the cafeteria for lunch.

Continuing down, we later spend some time at the mountainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s base checking out jewellery, trinkets and prayer wheels being sold at the makeshift stalls, make our purchases and leave. That was sunset, thus clocking our climb and descend at seven hours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; mission accomplished.

Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trek. Reaching the top at exactly noon, we grudgingly hand our cameras and cell phones to the solitary police ofďŹ cer there â&#x20AC;&#x201C; no photography is allowed at any temple across Bhutan, period.

Heading up more ďŹ&#x201A;ights of steps, Kinley takes us to the ďŹ rst of two temples within the sacred site. As we sit to rest on the cool stone ďŹ&#x201A;oor, Kinley points out newer paintings that cover the areas that were devastated by the ďŹ re, and how the altar area had miraculously survived the blaze.

At the next pilgrimage site we see a young monk prostrating repeatedly before the altar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an act I later learn signiďŹ es respect to the gods, and a way of accumulating good fortune for oneself. Climbing higher sends an excited ripple through the group, when we ďŹ nally ascend to the peak

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6. Taktsang Lhakhang - better known as the Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest is Bhutanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national treasure and must-visit for locals and tourists $PMPVSGVM nBHT XBWF JO UIF XJOE as hikers conquer the many winding stairways and tracks 8. Catch your breath while loading up on biscuits and delicious black UFB BU UIF 5JHFS T /FTU mSTU checkpoint and only cafe

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Happiness (GNH). Here, happiness is not just a term; it literally is a way of life. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if countries are banning the growth of poppy plants (the Blue Poppy is Bhutanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national ďŹ&#x201A;ower); not even if the deadline is tomorrow and the work is only half done. If the family, a friend or personal matter calls for attention, then the Bhutanese does what

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The Democratic Dragon At its core, Bhutan is a sleeping dragon, holding close to its roots where its people are required to dress in traditional garbs: kiras for women and ghos for men; where coloured sashes indicate societal rankings; and smoking banned. Tradition also decrees that kings receive white scarves upon coronation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but Bhutanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest king was having none of that.

Receiving the raven crown from his father, fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuk, the young Oxford-educated Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck became the ďŹ rst king to lead Bhutan into democracy in November 2008, also the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s youngest reigning constitutional monarch at age 28 then. Known as K5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the ďŹ fth king â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;prince charming of the Himalayasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; thanks to his easy smile and slicked back hair, the Elvis fan may steer clear of daily governance, but stays true to his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision of upholding the GNH, defending Bhutan against the worst aspects of globalisation.

The world subscribes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), but Bhutan favours instead the Gross National

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he or she has to do â&#x20AC;&#x201C; drops everything on hand and quite simply, leaves. I might add that this doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessarily equate to a lack of diligence â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but rather the Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s emphasis of happiness and wellness over materialistic lifestyles.

Before returning to my whirlwind world, I send a quiet prayer up to the heavens, thankful for this unplanned yet intensely rewarding journey to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happiest kingdom. This might be the reason a grounded sense of peace now resonates in my soul, my frazzled frame of mind renewed, priorities reshufďŹ&#x201A;ed, joy steadied. For riches doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always come in the form of dollars and cents; true riches is identiďŹ ed in the possession of good health â&#x20AC;&#x201C; soul, body and mind â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that will enable the enjoyment of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s luxuries.

And there must be some truth to this emphasis, because the United Nations has ofďŹ cially implemented â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;happinessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as part of the global agenda in April last year, after a unanimous vote by the General Assembly in late 2011. K5 probably sums it up best: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I believe that while Gross National Happiness is inherently Bhutanese, its ideas may have a positive relevance to any nation, peoples or communities â&#x20AC;&#x201D; wherever they may beâ&#x20AC;?.

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LANGUAGE

64 QFBL TFBTPO *O 4JOHBQPSF USZ CPPLJOH

TIPS FOR YOUR BHUTANESE TRIP

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74 Corporate Traveller

WONDERLUST

BRIDGING DIVIDES More than mere behemoths of engineering feats, the impressive bridges we see around the world transcend science and aesthetics to become cultural and societal icons. We take a look at ďŹ ve amazing bridges.

Text by Sherwin Chua

T

hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no doubt that bridges have QMBZFE B TJHOJmDBOU SPMF JO UIF IJTUPSZ and progress of mankind. Some serve UP TJNQMZ DPOOFDU BOE JOUFHSBUF TPDJFUJFT XIJMF PUIFST TVDI BT UIF #SPPLMZO #SJEHF JO /FX :PSL BOE UIF .JMMBV 7JBEVDU JO 'SBODF IBWF CFDPNF IJTUPSJDBM PS DVMUVSBM JDPOT Says Professor of Civil Engineering David #MPDLMFZ BOE BVUIPS PG #SJEHFT 5IF 4DJFODF and Art of The Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Inspiring 4USVDUVSFT i4JODF UIFZ XFSF CVJMU CSJEHFT IBWF CFFO UPVDIJOH QFPQMF T MJWFT FWFSZ EBZ GPS thousands of yearsâ&#x20AC;Ś and they represent a DPNCJOBUJPO PG DPNNPO TFOTF DSBGU TDJFODF BOE NBUIFNBUJDT UP DSFBUF TPNFUIJOH TQFDJBM w 8JUI UIF IFMQ PG IJTUPSJBOT BDBEFNJDT DJWJM FOHJOFFST BOE FWFO UIF QFPQMF XIP XFSF EJSFDUMZ JOWPMWFE JO CVJMEJOH TPNF PG UIF XPSME T HSFBUFTU CSJEHFT XF TDSVUJOJTF TJY PG UIF NPTU BXF JOTQJSJOH TUSVDUVSFT XF WF MBJE FZFT PO 'SPN UIF .JMMBV 7JBEVDU JO 'SBODF o UIF XPSME T UBMMFTU CSJEHF o XIJDI BU N BCPWF HSPVOE TFFNT UP nPBU BNPOH UIF DMPVET UP UIF TPPO UP CF DPNQMFUFE HMBTT XBMLXBZ JO ;IBOHKJBKJF $IJOB o UIF XPSME T MPOHFTU BOE IJHIFTU HMBTT CSJEHF o XF UBLF B DMPTFS MPPL BU UIF TDJFODF BSU BOE TPVM UIBU NBLF FBDI PG UIFTF FOHJOFFSJOH NBSWFMT BXFTPNF 76 Corporate Traveller

Taking just three years to build, the Millau Viaduct is an aesthetic marvel that made engineering breakthroughs.

1IPUP GSPN 3'

[FOSTER] DESIGNED THE PILLARS TO LOOK ALMOST ORGANIC, LIKE THEY HAD GROWN FROM THE EARTH.

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77

WONDERLUST

The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge links the city of Kobe on Honshu to Iwaya on Awaji Island.

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78 Corporate Traveller

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IT FOREVER CHANGED THE WAY PEOPLE TRAVELLED IN DENMARK.

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;FBMBOE 5PVSJTU *OGPSNBUJPO 0GmDF

Corporate Traveller

79

WONDERLUST

WHERE /FX :PSL BDSPTT UIF &BTU 3JWFS DPOOFDUJOH .BOIBUUBO UP #SPPLMZO

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The Brooklyn Bridge is designed with a distinctive look comprising neo-Gothic towers and a web of steel cables and radiating stays.

1IPUP DPVSUFTZ PG "MFYBOESB /FVCFS /:$ BOE $P

It is an iconic symbol that has captured the imagination of New Yorkers. 1IPUP DPVSUFTZ PG "MFY -PQF[ /:$ BOE $P

Brooklyn Bridge, New York

1IPUP DPVSUFTZ PG /:$ BOE $P

80 Corporate Traveller

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WHERE ;IBOH +JBKJF (SFBU $BOZPO )VOBO 1SPWJODF $IJOB

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Photo courtesy of Qatar Airways

3 Corporate Traveller

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FREQUENT TRAVELLER

MAKE SPEED, MAKE HASTE Suiting up for his passions is like donning a second skin for The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore’s general manager Peter Mainguy, and he does it with flair, whether it’s his favourite designer label or his racing tracksuit.

Text by Esther Faith Lew

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Going to the extreme – that’s what drives Peter Mainguy. Nothing pleases him more than being able to push himself to perform his best. A lover of extreme sports, Peter is in his element with his machines – be it a dirt bike or a race car.

As a veteran hotelier, Peter is used to taking the heat – in more ways than one.

After six years in the sizzling hot climate of Dubai with The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, Peter headed to our shores in 2008 for a tropical island respite. But it didn’t slow down this go-getter. Peter continues to lead the charge in raising levels of excellence in the hotel.

Singapore is a good place for business because ... of the comprehensive infrastructure and accessibility which create the perfect environment for MICE. Singapore is a key financial hub and the gateway to South East Asia, making this a prime city for business travellers to visit. Additionally, travellers will enjoy an incredible world-class array of entertainment, cultural and dining options. I usually enjoy planning a short extension after a business trip to learn 84 Corporate Traveller

more about the destination, and business travellers can easily enjoy a short getaway from Singapore as there are so many places to discover nearby. A quick scan on Google Maps via the quick scan ruler tool and you can easily view the places that can be visited within a two-hour flight – Yangon, Vietnam and Bali, for example.

What business protocols or social norms should one take note of?

Singapore is known for a diverse ethnic and harmonious population and what I found funny when I arrived was the local vernacular – Singlish – where “la” is often used as a punctuation to end a sentence. Many locals here would say “ya la” when they mean “yes” or “ok”. In Arabic, “yala” actually means “hurry up” so every time I hear “ya la” in Singapore I had to remember it means something different here.

The other unique thing is lunch, which is almost a sacred constitution here. Every day I always get asked several times if I have had lunch. My advice to business travellers to Singapore is to

Courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board

Courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board

1. Peter indulges in his love for cars and speed 2. Marina Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s laser show starts at 8pm OJHIUMZ XFBUIFS permitting 3. The vibrant entertainment and dining hub at 2 $MBSLF 2VBZ 4. The exotic locale of Arab Street 5IF 'MPXFS %PNF BU Gardens by the Bay

MY ADVICE TO BUSINESS TRAVELLERS TO SINGAPORE IS TO NEVER SKIP LUNCH IF YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE HOSTING OR FACILITATING THE MEETING.

Courtesy of Gardens by the Bay

3 Courtesy of Singapore Tourism Board

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never skip lunch if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hosting or facilitating the meeting. Unlike some cultures where working through lunch is the norm, here, lunch is a way of life.

Last but not least, if business travellers plan to drive whilst theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a norm to always park backwards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; trunk-in. Just about everyone parks backwards here, which is funny to me because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m used to parking forwards so I can easily access the trunk to store my bags.

You would advice business travellers to ... stay at our hotel! Apart from a great location in the heart of Marina Bay and the ďŹ nancial district, we just renovated our guest rooms, which offer beautiful views of the city and skyline. For a quick tour of the latest iconic attractions at Marina Bay (Tel: +65 63293535; www. marina-bay.sg), Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d recommend participating in the Discovery Trail specially created by the ladies and gentlemen here. This fun, self-guided walking tour brochure was specially created for our guests to discover and get to know the Marina Bay precinct. The

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journey includes both historic icons and modern highlights in this vibrant area and really presents a canvas of possibilities along the way for entertainment and dining choices.

To get yourself refreshed and rejuvenated for a business meeting, you must â&#x20AC;Ś exercise in the morning and rest well at night. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Early to bed and early to rise makes a person healthy and wise.â&#x20AC;?

What really works for me is to wake early, get a good hour of exercise, allow enough time to cool off, and have a good healthy breakfast whilst going over my notes before I take on the world.

Where would you go to entertain clients for dinner?

Within the hotel, I personally like to start the evening with cocktails at The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge located on level 32. The club lounge offers really breathtaking views of the city. After cocktails, I would proceed to Summer Pavilion for dinner; it serves really excellent Cantonese cuisine. Outside of the hotel, I would recommend Pollen at

Gardens by the Bay (Flower Dome, Gardens By The Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, #01-09; tel: +65 6604 9988) which is within a short walking distance. It is set amidst a landscape of exotic ďŹ&#x201A;ora and fauna within a cool climate-controlled ďŹ&#x201A;ower dome, creating a relaxing and private atmosphere that is ideal for discussions. Alternatively, Catalunya (The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay; tel: +65 6534 0188) which is on the bay, offers a really memorable contemporary Spanish dining experience within a unique half-submerged water dome.

For a relaxing night out in the city, go on â&#x20AC;Ś a stroll at one of many restored city neighborhood enclaves such as Arab Street with its shisha pipe bars and Turkish and Mediterranean restaurants, bustling Clarke Quay with its incredible array of international restaurants and clubs or Club Street, which features many bars and rustic Italian and European restaurants. For a beachfront experience, try Brussels Sprouts at East Coast (902 East Coast Parkway, Block F Unit #01-27; tel: +65 6346 4344).

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FREQUENT TRAVELLER 1 and 2 Volunteer XPSL CSJOHT PVU Peter’s hidden talent in reconstructing buildings.

activity. Community Footprints has been a Ritz-Carlton social and environmental responsibility programme since 1983. All the general managers pitched in to help rebuild houses which had been damaged

by Hurricane Katrina. I love to build things and this is something I am good at.

After assessing the devastation that Katrina had left behind, it was very fulfilling to be able to help someone pick up the pieces and in some way, to rebuild their home.

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It is my personal favourite because of the alfresco seating, relaxing ambience and great food.

The best shopping can be done at ... (tough question, there are approximately 80 malls in Singapore at last count!) many malls along Orchard Road that lead right to Marina Bay Sands across the Helix Bridge from The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia. It really depends on what you are after as some malls offer great variety whilst others have a specialisation of products and services.

To appreciate art and culture, go to …

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia, which has one of the largest collections of modern contemporary art in Singapore. We have created a 28-minute self-guided iPod tour that allows guests to discover our 4,200-piece collection featuring works by artists such as Frank Stella, David Hockney and Andy Warhol. Singapore also has a number of museums which are a short walk or a five-minutes’ drive from our hotel – the ArtScience Museum (Marina Bay Sands; tel: +65 6688 8868), 86 Corporate Traveller

National Museum of Singapore (93 Stamford Road; tel: +65 6332 3659) and Singapore Art Museum (71 Bras Basah Road; tel: +65 6332 3222), which showcase many excellent exhibitions and pieces at any time.

One cannot leave the city without … having a fish foot spa pedicure! Singapore is one of the few places in the world to have this unique experience and this is available at a spa located right outside our hotel. The next thing that is a must-do is to visit Mustafa’s Shopping Centre (145 Syed Alwi Road, tel: +65 6295 5855) in Little India, which is open round-the-clock. It is a large bustling shopping emporium and you can buy just about anything there, from gold jewellery to a bag of spices.

Your memorable stays are … (always with good company!) boutique resorts which offer really unique and personalised experiences. Right on top of my list is Sikumi Tree Lodge at Hwange National Park, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge in Kariba, Bvlgari Bali resort and The Ritz-Carlton Reserve at Phulay Bay. My favourite souvenir is from ... Malaysia.

It is a good luck pendant I purchased when I was riding my bike in Langkawi. I was part of a charity ride with about 300 volunteer-riders heading from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi to help build a school for impoverished children. On Langkawi island, I saw an unusual tray of good luck pendants and decided to buy myself and each volunteer in the group a pendant for good luck on their travels. I’ve treasured mine ever since.

Your most memorable business trip was in … New Orleans at a global Ritz-Carlton General Managers’ Conference. The trip was particularly memorable because aside from the meeting, we participated in a really meaningful Community Footprints

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EXPERT

A MATTER OF METTLE

Known for his razor-sharp business acumen and fastidious eye for perfection, Qatar Airway’s CEO Akbar Al Baker has successfully led the airline through strong growth in the face of industry turbulence.

Text by Esther Faith Lew Photos courtesy of Qatar Airways

Not one to stand on the sidelines, Al Baker is on the ground and hot on the heels of strategic development. You will find him doing spot checks and pointing out quality flaws in his airplanes just as easily you will hear about his frank opinions on aviation issues. His passion for Qatar Airways is much admired by his peers and his devotion has led him to take on pivotal leading roles in projects such as the development of the multi-billion-dollar New Doha International Airport, which is scheduled to open in the coming months.

to provide five-star service and set the highest standards for ourselves. The aviation industry is very competitive but we try not to worry about others and just focus on ourselves. We will not sit back and remain complacent – we will work on challenges that we and the industry are facing, continue to look at how we can better ourselves, our service and our products.

With Qatar Airways’ recent win at World Travel Awards for the second year running, what new benchmarks and goals have you set for the airline?

In our short time in the industry we have enjoyed a number of key landmarks, but several highlights undoubtedly include the number of aircraft that we have acquired over the last 15 years, our double-digit growth in passenger numbers, as well as the

At Qatar Airways, we pride ourselves on our award-winning service and we will continue

In its 15 years of operations, what were the landmark developments that were pivotal in shaping Qatar Airways?

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EXPERT

1. New Doha International Airport 2. The First Class Lounge at the Premium Terminal 3. Constant arrivals add to the almost 120 BJSDSBGU JO UIF nFFU

1

2

Where will your focus be in terms of new routes and increased frequencies? How will this be different from your current focus?

3

number of routes that we have launched – to date we are serving 122 routes on six different continents, many of which have become multi-frequency destinations.

In 2006, we opened Qatar Airways Premium Terminal, the world’s only passenger terminal dedicated to First and Business Class passengers. Of course more recently our big news has been the arrival of the Boeing 787 aircraft to the Qatar Airways fleet and our regular schedule of daily flights between Doha and London Heathrow with this next-generation aircraft.

We are the first airline in the Middle East to have taken delivery of the 787 with a total of 60 currently on order. And just three years ago, we launched our corporate jet division, Qatar Executive, to capitalise on the growing executive charter market.

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What fleet expansion plans do you have in mind for the next five years? How is this aligned with the airline’s long-term goals?

Qatar Airways continues to be in aggressive growth mode, a strategy that will be maintained for the foreseeable future. By the end of 2012, we operated close to 120 aircraft to 122 destinations on six continents.

By the end of 2015, we will have sharply increased our routes to over 170 destinations served by more than 170 aircraft.

In addition, it is very important for us as a company to spread the message of not just Qatar Airways, but of Qatar as a destination. We have cultural events, sporting tournaments, five-star restaurants and world-class hotels – we would love for everyone to come and experience true Qatari hospitality.

Qatar Airways is constantly examining all possible opportunities – just look at the growth that we’ve had in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Americas! In this past year, we launched flights to 12 new destinations alone. In 2013 we will be opening new routes to Gassim, Saudi Arabia; Najaf, Iraq; Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Chengdu, China; Chicago, USA; and Salalah, Oman – and those are just the ones that we have announced – there will still be more to come. We are excited about what is in the pipeline and look forward to announcing the new routes soon.

What kind of changes do you see in the roles of Gulf carriers in the world of aviation?

There has been a real emergence of the airline industry in this region and the world has definitely taken notice. We are young airlines, but have matured quickly. I can only speak on behalf of Qatar Airways and what we have accomplished in such a short period of time. In the last 15 years, we have developed a fleet of almost 120 aircraft – with constant new arrivals. We provide outstanding products to our customers; we are opening a state-of-the-art airport in 2013, and of course, our five-star

4. New Doha International Airport’s main terminal 5. Five-star service is the norm expected of Qatar’s cabin crew 6. Business Class comfort in a high-tech oasis 7.Qatar looks set to maintain its aggressive expansion of international routes

QATAR AIRWAYS CONTINUES TO BE IN AGGRESSIVE GROWTH MODE, A STRATEGY THAT WILL BE MAINTAINED FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.

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5

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service. We have really opened up this region to the rest of the world, and vice versa.

As you are aware, we have been recognised for these accomplishments by winning Skytrax’s prestigious Airline of the Year 2011 and 2012, as well as being the first Gulf carrier to announce plans to join an alliance, oneworld.

What is your ideal long-term vision for Qatar Airways and how do you see the airline getting there?

We are going to continue to do what we have done from the beginning, which is spread the message of Qatar Airways and our five-star service, stay on track for expanding both our fleet and launching new routes in order to meet the needs of our customers. We will remain focused on our goals and worry only about ourselves and what we have set out to do.

How will Qatar Airways’ membership with OneWorld alliance enhance the premium positioning of the airline and what it offers to passengers?

By joining the oneworld alliance, we will be aligning ourselves with a group of quality airlines that will strengthen Qatar Airways’ position globally with not only passengers of other airlines, but also with our passengers by providing them with a seamless travel experience and increased access to airport lounges. We are always striving to provide our customers with the best, and joining an alliance is just one more example of how we will be able to accomplish this.

Passengers are looking for more flexibility.

They want to book at shorter notice and are looking for a great travel experience – from their initial booking to when they arrive at their final destination. This industry is constantly changing, so here at Qatar Airways, we are constantly adapting. Our finger is never off the pulse of our customers’ needs.

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What service improvements and product developments are in the pipeline?

Qatar Airways is continually working on product development and on providing the best possible service. That means, of course, that we have a number of things in the pipeline which we will most definitely be announcing when the time is right. As you are aware, during 2012 we introduced Boeing 787s to our fleet and now operate regular scheduled flights on the aircraft between Doha and London Heathrow. The other source of pride that was a highlight this year is the in-flight catering developed by our award-winning chefs for passengers. Our five-star service now includes meals developed by Chef Ramzi Choueiri, Chef Vineet Bhatia, Chef Tom Aikens and Chef Nobu Matsuhisa – all cooking up dishes from different parts of the world.

What is your take on the travel patterns of passengers and how do you see this changing in the near future?

In your opinion, what are the most pertinent concerns of frequent business travellers?

In general within the industry, business travellers are looking for punctuality, a positive airport experience, regular frequency, good infrastructure that permits ease of movement within the airport, and of course, on-time departures and arrivals. Their time is precious; they are not leisure travellers. The longer they are on the road, the longer they are away from their families. Qatar Airways strives to make the time away from what is important to them as easy and stress-free as possible.

How will Qatar Airways respond to these needs?

Qatar Airways will continually work on improving our services and products to make our customers’ experience well above par.

We will continue to be innovative and find ways to bring more to our five-star service and experience. At Qatar Airways, we are leaders, not followers, and we will continue to remain proactive and competitive.

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Photo courtesy of IWC Schaffhausen

LUXE COLLECTION

4 Corporate Traveller

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STYLE FILE

CONTEMPORARY FEMININITY Being stylish means thoughtfully selecting the accessories that complement the outďŹ t

Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notice the exquisite details on Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s signature collection eyewear, in patented calf leather (S$640).

Jimmy Choo

Michael Kors

Add a little colour to ZPVS PVUmU XJUI +JNNZ Choo Anouk with orchid mirror leather heels (price unavailable).

ONE IS NEVER OVER-DRESSED OR UNDERDRESSED WITH A LITTLE BLACK DRESS. - KARL LAGERFELD

This pair of earrings shimmers with elegance and is perfect for dinner parties (S$219).

Diane Von Furstenburg Add a little funk with DVF Carolina Lips clutch (S$540).

Dolce & Gabbana

92 Corporate Traveller

Take away the power-woman business suit and slip on an elegant black dress for a nice dinner in town. There is no better way to impress a person by wearing a tastefully designed black ESFTT UIBU mUT NPTU PDDBTJPOT

Salvatore Ferraga Ferragamo Boss Black More than just shading yourself from the sun, the 0476/S Dark Ruthenium/ Brown Gradient is a fashionable accessory to own for any man (S$390).

If you’re spending ho hours in your shoes, then h invest i in i a good d pair of Tiziano with fashion-forward design (S$1,750)

MODERN GENTLEMAN

A suit represents a number of things – formality, seriousness, sartorial quality and a man of business. This month we recommend from three suits s renowned designer renow brands that will make you look effortlessly sharp effortle undoubtedly and un fashionable. fashio

Brioni

Mix business with pleasure – in a sartorial sense Bally Vivoli-SM.FE Weekender is sure to capture the attention of many, with its bold design and interesting texture (price unavailable).

Ermenegildo Zegna Ermeneg

Tod’s Brown leather belt is great forr daily work and d is a perfect complement to light-coloured pants (S$450).

FASHIONS FADE, STYLE IS ETERNAL. - YVES SAINT-LAURENT Canali Corporate Traveller

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ACCESSORIES

PASSPORT TO LUXE Your choice of classic and contemporary accessories for business meetings and luxurious dinners PHOTOGRAPHY CHING ART DIRECTION DARREN WONG

Get ready for a day of meetings with your trusty watch, fashionable shades and stylish pen

Watch (S$120,200), Patek Philippe Ref. 5170J with matt chocolate brown strap Sunglasses (S$535) and fountain pen (S$735), Alfred Dunhill

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After an invigorating session at CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, accessorise with a fashionable wallet and classic watch for your dinner appointment

Watch (S$730), A.Lange & Sohne Lange 1 in rose gold with brown leather strap Wallet (S$42,900), Dolce & Gabbana

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ACCESSORIES Watch (S$26,000), IWC Portuguese Hand-wound Boutique Edition (Ref. IW545409) with brown leather strap Passport holder (S$290) , Dolce & Gabbana

The plane is waiting and there is no time to waste, so grab a croissant and be ready to ďŹ&#x201A;y back home, in style

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Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 +65 6577 8880

espa@rwsentosa.com

www.rwsentosa.com/espa

GROOMING

La Mer Whitening Facial,

Giorgio Armani Beauty Lip Maestro, S$43

includes six treatments, S$420

Perfecting the fusion between a matte

If continued exposure to the sun and a

lipstick and velvety gloss, these 10 shades

lack of exfoliation in your skincare regime

of gel colour glide softly on lips. These

is causing dull skin or even discoloration

intense shades stay on without staining,

and dark spots, brighten up with these

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of moisturised shine.

that can be easily done at home in just one step. Infused with the essence of one full bottle of the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s whitening essence, the pure cotton mask is split into two strips for better coverage, reaching deep into the skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inner layers and targeting stubborn brown spots.

Lancome HypnĂ´se Star Waterproof Mascara, S$50 Delivering volumised, lengthened and jet-black lashes all at once, the triangular-shaped brush reaches even the shortest lashes while the patented â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Black Diamondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gliding formula works to separate and curl lashes for

M.A.C Brow Duo Redhead, S$31

made-to-measure glamour. Its featherlight texture ensures

Frame your face and draw attention to

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offering 24-hour hold while being easily removable.

Fill in and shape up with this brow duo

ALL ROUNDED PERFECTION Prime, plump and prepare for that special evening, looking your ravishing best with minimal fuss.

Text by Natalie Lee

kit while on the go. With one side matte and the other satin, the complementary powder shades blend well to match a range of hair colours.

EstĂŠe Lauder CyberWhite HD Advanced Spot-Correcting Essence, S$160 Research has found Asian skin to be particularly vulnerable to pollution exposure, which leads to the development of dark spots. This highly concentrated

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whitewood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; encased in

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a chic glass spray bottle

anti-chapping and anti-acne.

bursting with colour and energy.

Chanel UV Essentiel SPF30/PA++, SPF50/PA+++, both S$78 Instill sunscreen as part of your daily routine to combat premature ageing signs of wrinkles, discoloration and spots. This sweat-resistant formula provides dual protection from UVA and UVB rays, also working within to reinforce your skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resistance against potential UV damage.

98 Corporate Traveller

Ralph Lauren Big Pony Fragrance Collection For Men, S$119 These coffret sets include a 125ml EDT and 50ml shower gel housed within a chic limited edition pouch, our two favourites being red, a seductive oriental mix of dark chocolate and musk; and orange for the stylish individual, a woody citrus combination of wild cherry and purple amber.

Essenze by Ermenegildo Zegna, S$343 each "O FYDMVTJWF DPMMFDUJPO PG mWF GSBHSBODFT concocted by world-renowned perfumers the likes of Pierre Negrin and Jacques Cavallier, we like how a spritz of the crisp and earthy Florentine Iris instantly awakens your senses before a meeting; while the leading scent of the pack – Italian Bergamot brings out the XBSN TFOTVBMJUZ PG UIF SFmOFE VSCBO NBO through notes of bergamot oil and rosemary.

SCENTSATIONAL START Leave a lasting impression each time with this selection of luxurious scents.

Text by Natalie Lee

Maison Martin Margiela (untitled) EDP, S$149 for 50ml Famous for defying rules and convention, the Belgian fashion designer has re-created the scent of post-rain tranquility: strong notes of bitter orange and boxwood, slowly opening up into a fresher woody nPSBM XJUI IJOUT PG KBTNJOF CFGPSF ESZJOH EPXO UP warmer, sexier notes of musk and incense. Available exclusively at Tangs Beauty.

Gucci Guilty Black Pour Homme EDT,

Penhaligon’s Endymion Eau de Cologne,

SS$105 for 50ml

S$153 for 50ml

Embodying the spirit of individuals raring to go and

This semi-oriental scent combines a zesty mandarin

who own an irrepressible drive to live life to the fullest,

zing amidst masculine spices and leather, with subtle

this scent’s invigorating lavender and green coriander

hints of creamy nutmeg, dark coffee heart and lavender

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that make up a wonderful start to spring.

musky cedarwood for an alluringly energetic scent.

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TECH TALK

Soul Good Soul Fly (S$229), Soulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest in-ear headphones, feature smooth bass, clear mids and highs, and shuts out ambient noise. It boasts superior sound with ultra-comfortable in-ear design that eliminates ear fatigue and ensures longer listening experience.

For added convenience, it comes with a tangle-free audio cable and a protective road case for easy storage.

Picture Perfect

THE POCKETCELL DUO IS DESIGNED BASED ON A SINGLE PHILOSOPHY: TO DELIVER MORE-THAN-ENOUGH POWER TO KEEP YOU ENTERTAINED AND IN TOUCH WITH YOUR BUSINESS, YOUR FAMILY, AND THE WORLD THROUGHOUT THE DAY.

Following the success of Olympus Pen -JUF & 1- UIF OFXMZ SFmOFE BOE improved descendant, Olympus Pen Lite E-PL5 (S$1,098) has a 16.05-megapixel Live MOS sensor, a powerful image-processing engine for quality pictures, and an improved resolution and reduced noise at ISO12800. It features a speedy autofocus mechanism, and the touch screen AF shutter on the live view screen makes it even easier for users to take a picture. Inject some fun into photo-taking by using its Art Filters, which PGGFS mMUFS FGGFDUT OPX XIP OFFET Instagram?) from Variations and Art to Monochrome effects.

Daniel Lee, Global Marketing and Communications Director of Innergie

Level Up Thermaltakeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Level 10 M Mouse (S$120), designed by BMW Group DesignworksUSA, features 3D Steering Axis Movement, where the mouse is divided into upper and lower parts, allowing the mouse to adjust to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preferred height and angle. It also has a solid aluminium base, which is highly resistant to corrosion. The air-through ventilation system â&#x20AC;&#x201C; perforated surface on top â&#x20AC;&#x201C; allows better air and temperature exchange and passive ventilation.

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Extra Boost Multiple-award-winning power solutions company, Innergie, unveils its latest creation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PocketCell Duo (S$136), the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest 6,800mAh rechargeable battery bank. Not only does it have the a much higher charging capacity than most rechargeable battery banks, it also comes with a dual ultra-fast 2.1 Amp USB power port, allowing users to fast-charge two devices at the same time. The pocketsize device can connect to over 10,000 mobile devices, thanks to its 3-in-1 Magic Cable Trio, featuring an Apple-compliant tip, and a micro and mini-USB tip. Simply said, you can charge your smart phone up to four times before recharging your PocketCell Duo, which is clearly a winner in the market.

Apple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TransitLink How2Go Getting lost is the last thing you would want on a busy day. With TransitLink How2Go, you can get from one point to another with the help of its Journey Planner functions, featuring the least number of transfers between two points, and at the same time factoring in walking and waiting time.

Other travel options include fare type and transport mode.

Apple / Android â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Weekend Escapades Looking for a quick getaway to unwind? Download Changi Airport Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free Weekend Escapade app and discover over 30 cities. Navigation is a breeze with straightforward categories such as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Eatâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shopâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stayâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;Seeâ&#x20AC;?. Plan your budget easily with its recommendations under â&#x20AC;&#x153;budgetâ&#x20AC;?, â&#x20AC;&#x153;mid-rangedâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;luxeâ&#x20AC;?. A built-in Wego search engine also facilitates quick bookings for air tickets.

TRAVEL APPS We introduce four useful apps for frequent travellers who need a little help or are just simply looking for the hottest haunts to patronise

Nokia â&#x20AC;&#x201C; City Lens We like Nokia City Lens for its augmented reality overlay view of buildings and the instant highlights of the places of interest.

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interesting is that you can point ZPVS DBNFSB BU B TQFDJmD TUSFFU BOE HFU information on restaurants, shops and hotels. Basically, instead of searching on the web, you can just use this app for its ready information and discover the hidden gems in the city.

Samsung â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Global Shopping Haunts Suss out the nearest shops in the locale or shopping destinations around the world. You can also share with the community by uploading your favourite shopping haunts online. Connect to Facebook or Twitter and tell your friends about your experience and which area has the best bargain or the most interesting shops. :PV DBO FWFO VTF JU PO PGnJOF NPEF XIJMF USBWFMMJOH

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BENVENUTO IN ITALIA Home to the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most venerable fashion brands and one of the busiest tourist destinations, Italy offers art, shopping, and everything in between Text by Darren Wong Photos courtesy of 123rf; stock.xchng

C

iao, Italy! Its cities exude a vibrant life force that sets in motion vertiginous TXJSMT PG FYDJUFNFOU %FmOFE CZ JUT charismatic people and culture, Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stunnning art collections, irresistible cuisine and stunning landscape continue to attract millions of visitors from all over the world. Think Sex and the City meets Masterchef â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a cauldron brimming over XJUI nBWPVS ESBNB BOE [FTU It is also the birthplace of Renaissance, and with it, Italy underwent a great cultural change, an era of decadence, and the transformation into modernity. This creative energy nurtured admirable literary works from famous vernacular poets such as Luigi Pulci, Matteo Maria Boiardo, and famous artists from Giotto di Bondone and Michelangelo to Leonardo da Vinci. As a result, the Italy that we know today is a world-class dynamo of vibrant scenes in fashion, art, style and design.

While the Italian cities hold innumerable BMMVSFT UIFSF BSF UXP TQFDJmD DJUJFT UIBU XF mOE the most exciting for avid shoppers and frequent travellers who love indulging in luxurious brands and high-fashion, especially haute couture designs such as Givenchy, Chanel and Lacroix, which are not likely to be found in other parts of the world. Many would be thrilled by the slew of branded boutiques, and even an outlet-shopping village conveniently located just outside the city. On top of that, winter sales season begins from early January, and this is when visitors are able UP mOE HSFBU CBSHBJOT PO TFMFDUFE HPPET Corporate Traveller

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ROME The â&#x20AC;&#x153;eternal cityâ&#x20AC;?, hailed as such by notable QPFUT BOE BVUIPST IBT B SFQVUBUJPO GPS CFJOH UIF mMN TFUUJOH GPS NPWJFT TVDI BT 8IFO JO 3PNF, 3PNBO )PMJEBZ and To 3PNF XJUI -PWF. From the master artists, we IBWF JDPOJD BSU QJFDFT TVDI BT 5IF 3BQF PG 1SPTQFSJOB, and "QPMMP BOE %BQIOF. From its sultry nights to the familiar sight of TDPPUFS ESJWJOH 3PNBOT XIP FYVEF FGGPSUMFTT DIBSN BOE UIF CVTUMJOH QJB[[BT 3PNF T NVMUJGBDFUFE QFSTPOB HVBSBOUFFT B NFNPSBCMF FYQFSJFODF KVTU MJLF UIF aforementioned movies.

Spanish Steps "MTP LOPXO BT 1JB[[B EJ 4QBHOB 4QBOJTI 4UFQT CPBTUT POF PG UIF NPTU NBKFTUJD VSCBO NPOVNFOUT PG 3PNBO #BSPRVF TUZMF *OUFSFTUJOHMZ JU JT BMTP UIF QMBDF XIFSF "VESFZ )FQCVSO mMNFE IFS NPWJF 3PNBO )PMJEBZ. It can be easily reached from the OFBSFTU TVCXBZ TUBUJPO BU 4QBHOB )JTUPSZ BOE BSDIJUFDUVSF BTJEF UIF UISFF TUSFFUT MFBEJOH UP UIF 1JB[[B EFM 1PQPMP BOE UPHFUIFS XJUI UIF MJUUMF DSPTT streets intertwining the area form a section called the Trident. Within this district, which many call the luxury centre of the city, there are lines of chain stores and boutiques which range from designer MBCFMT FYDMVTJWF TIPQT BOE FUIOJD TIPQT to restaurants and wine bars. Designer CPVUJRVFT TVDI BT (JPSHJP "SNBOJ )VHP Boss, Bottega Veneta, Brioni, Bulgari, Burberry and Cavali are just several of the numerous luxury stores within the QSPYJNJUZ PG UIF 4QBOJTI 4UFQT 104 Corporate Traveller

The bustling Spanish Steps

Via del Corso As the main street in the historical region PG 3PNF $PSTP XBML GSPN UIF OFBSFTU subway station at Barberini Fontana di Trevi) has many narrow meandering alleys BOE TNBMM QJB[[BT *U JT BU UIF TBNF UJNF POF PG UIF NBJO TIPQQJOH TUSFFUT JO 3PNF Well-known brands such as Zara, Diesel, &OFSHJF .JTT 4JYUZ BOE TQPSUTXFBS MBCFMT -BDPTUF .VSQIZ /ZF TBJMJOH HFBS

1VNB BOE "EJEBT PGGFS QMFOUZ GPS UIF TUZMJTI BOE TQPSUZ MPU Automobile enthusiasts may take JOUFSFTU JO B 'FSSBSJ nBHTIJQ TUPSF 7JB Tomacelli 147 Centro) located at Centro 4UPSJDP OFBS 7JB EFM $PSTP 0OF DBO mOE nBNJOH SFE DPBUT BOE TDBMF NPEFMT BT well as a real F1 car. Situated within the BSFB JT -B 3JOBTDFOUF %FQBSUNFOU 4UPSF o SFOPXOFE BT 3PNF T mSTU EFQBSUNFOU TUPSF PQFOFE JO o XIJDI JT IPNF UP NJE SBOHF QSPEVDUT NBKPS DPTNFUJDT CSBOET BOE CSBOEFE BDDFTTPSJFT UIJOL 'FOEJ % ( BOE .JTTPOJ

Via del Corso

Dolce & Gabbana

Dolce & Gabbana

Summer 2013 Collections

This Italian luxury fashion brand has much to CPBTU /PU POMZ IBE TVQFSNPEFMT TVDI BT David Gandy, Gisele Bundchen and Kate Moss graced its fashion shows and BEWFSUJTJOH DBNQBJHOT JU IBT FWFO IFMQFE some of them to achieve the titular TVQFSNPEFMT BT UIFZ BSF UPEBZ )FBEFE CZ EFTJHOFST %PNFOJDP %PMDF BOE 4UFGBOP (BCCBOB %PMDF (BCCBOB started by designing underwear and swimwear, and gradually extends its line to NFO T BOE XPNFO T DPMMFDUJPOT QFSGVNF BOE couture line. The credits of this fashion QPXFSIPVTF JODMVEF XJOOJOH UIF 'SFODI i0TDBS EFT 1BSGVNTw BXBSE GPS JUT BDDMBJNFE %PMDF (BCCBOB 1PVS )PNNF DSFBUFE UIF entire wardrobe for Madonnaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s album, Music, BT XFMM BT UIF TFU VQ PG IFS QFSGPSNBODFT and also created the stage wardrobe for Kylie .JOPHVF T -FT 'PMJFT 5PVS JO +VTU MBTU year, the design duo showcased their mSTU FWFS DPVUVSF DPMMFDUJPO XIJDI JUT GBTIJPO show was held at Taormina, Sicily.

" GBTIJPO TIPX GFBUVSJOH B mOF TFMFDUJPO PG 4JDJMJBO NFO QFSTPOBMMZ DIPTFO CZ EFTJHOFST Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana sees a DPMMFDUJPO PG QFSTPOBMJUZ TJNQMJDJUZ BOE OBUVSBM beauty of the clothes and also the models.

4PVWFOJS TUZMF QSJOUT SFNJOJTDFOU PG 4JDJMZ BOE PG USBEJUJPOBM 4JDJMJBO CBSSPXT iQVQJw UZQJDBM 4JDJMJBO QVQQFUT BOE UFNQMFT DBO CF TFFO GSPN UIF shirts adorned by the models strutting down the SVOXBZ $VSSFOUMZ JO USFOE BT QPSUSBZFE JO UIF GBTIJPO TIPX BSF XIJUF TIJSUT XJUI PQFO DPMMBST BOE PQFO TIPFT UIBU SFDBMM TBOEBMT BOE TIPFT made of cloth.

'PS UIF XPNFO T DPMMFDUJPO BMTP JOTQJSFE CZ UIF 4JDJMJBO USBEJUJPO JU GFBUVSFT QSJOUT EFQJDUJOH UIF GBNPVT QVQQFUT PG 4JDJMZ TUSFFU UIFBUSFT MPDBM CBSSPXT BOE QFDVMJBS XIFFMT *U JT DPVQMFE XJUI TUSJQFT UIBU SFDBMM CFBDI VNCSFMMBT BOE sunbeds of local shores, symbolising a hot TVNNFS *G ZPV BSF QMBOOJOH B TVNNFS IPMJEBZ EPXO BU UIF CFBDI DPOTJEFS %PMDF (BCCBOB QSJOUFE DPUUPO CBUIJOH TVJUT CPUI DPMPVSGVM BOE GBTIJPOBCMF GPS TQMFOEJE TVNNFS BGUFSOPPOT

8F mOE TPNF PG UIF CFTU QMBDFT GPS ZPV UP SFTU ZPVS GFFU IBWF B ESJOL BOE QFPQMF XBUDI

CENTRO STORICO /PU UIF NPTU DPOTQJDVPVT DBGF JO UIF DJUZ CVU TFSWJOH TPNF PG 3PNF T CFTU DPGGFF $FOUSP 4UPSJDP GBNPVT HSBO DBGGF JT EFmOJUFMZ XPSUI B WJTJU *UT TVQFSCMZ TNPPUI BOE BSPNBUJD DPGGFF JT HVBSBOUFFE UP QVU TPNF [JOH JOUP ZPVS TJHIUTFFJOH %P TQFDJGZ JG ZPV QSFGFS JU UP CF BNBSP CJUUFS PS QPDP [VDIFSP XJUI B MJUUMF TVHBS

BLUE NOTE &VSPQF T POMZ GSBODIJTF PG UIF MFHFOEBSZ /FX :PSL KB[[ DMVC JT MPDBUFE JO .JMBO 7JB #PSTJFSJ

Indulge in an evening of merry drinking and NVTJD BOE QFSIBQT FWFO DIBODJOH VQPO TPNF PG the biggest names around. The clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant BMTP EPFT B QPQVMBS 4VOEBZ CSVODI XIJDI NJHIU KVTU CF B QFSGFDU XBZ UP OVSTF UIBU IBOHPWFS www.bluenotemilano.com

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MILAN Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t tell the Parisians, Londoners or New Yorkers, but Milan is indisputably the style capital of the world. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just because it is home to the venerable houses of Prada, Versace, Gucci, Ferragamo, Armani and Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Walk down the streets of the city, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re likely to notice that people of Milan are a stylish lot who carry themselves with dignity and sartorial pride.

Quadrilatero della mode Some call it the Quadrilateral of Fashion, while others prefer naming it as Via Montenpolene fashion district, but whichever the names, Quadrilatero della mode (located in the centre of Milan, close to the Giardini Pubblici) is characterised by the numerous leading fashion boutiques lining up its street, forming a high-class shopping district that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a fan of Abercrombie & Fitch (12, Corso Giacomo Matteotti), be sure to check out Corso Giacomo Matteotti, where this American casual wear brand is located. Be charmed by A&Fâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s friendly and exceptionally good-looking staff and the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hottest menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s casual wear apparels.

'PS B NPSF MVYVSJPVT mY IFBE PWFS UP Piazza Meda (Piazza Filippo Meda) where CSBOET TVDI BT )VHP #PTT BOE $BMWJO ,MFJO can be found. Designer labels such as Guess and Versace Homme, and Italian high-fashion brand Laura Biagiotti are located at Piazza San Babila and Via Borgospesso, which are all within the vicinity.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II If there is one place that juxtaposes sublime architecture with extravagant shopping experience, it has to be Galleria Vittorio Emanuele (near Piazza del Duovmo and Piazza EFMMB 4DBMB ,OPXO BT UIF PMEFTU TIPQQJOH NBMM 106 Corporate Traveller

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is home to numerous luxury brands

YOU MAY HAVE THE UNIVERSE IF I MAY HAVE ITALY.

TRAVELLING IN AUGUST August, especially the last two weeks of the month, may not be a good time for shoppers and foodies to visit Milan. Although museums and major places of attractions are still open, many retail stores, restaurants and cafes are closed for UIF IPMJEBZT 1MBO DBSFGVMMZ BOE mOE PVU XIJDI

Giuseppe Verdi Italian Romantic composer

restaurants open during this period of time.

SHOPPING TIPS Thanks to the Italiansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; open and versatile personalities, it is relatively easy to haggle over

in Italy, the Galleria is named after Vittorio &NBOVFMF ** XIP JT UIF mSTU LJOH PG UIF ,JOHEPN of Italy. The four-storey iron and glass double arcade is home to fashion brands Prada, Gucci BOE -PVJT 7VJUUPO *U JT BMTP XIFSF ZPV DBO mOE .JMBO T NPTU MBVEFE DBGFT o #JGm BOE ;VDDB T Bar. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss other stores selling haute couture pieces, jewellery, exquisite silverware, paintings and books.

prices. Once you have settled on a price, try asking this â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;How much will that cost if I pay you in cash?â&#x20AC;? It is most likely to grant you an additional 10%-20% discount on the agreed price.

In most Italian cities, when you see the sign â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stockâ&#x20AC;? on window fronts, it means that you are in for a good bargain on its sale items. The purchase of counterfeit luxury goods, if caught, will result in B mOF BT IJHI BT b Ăž

THE BOUTIQUES OFFER OLDER COLLECTIONS FOR THE CURRENT SEASON AT UP TO 60%, AND SOMETIMES MORE, OFF THE RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICES. IN ADDITION, WE REGULARLY OPEN POP-UP BOUTIQUES TO KEEP THE MIX FRESH AND INTERESTING. Ian Stazicker Head of Tourism Chic Outlet Shopping La Roca Village, Barcelona

Images Chic Outlet Shopping

Labels Without Price Tags If you have time to travel out of the city, be sure to check out Chic Outlet Shopping village, where an interesting general discounted shopping experience awaits.

It is ideal for those who are not overly concerned about purchasing the latest seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apparels.

Located within an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ride from Milan, Chic Outlet Shopping village offers a careful selection of previous seasonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collections from leading fashion and lifestyle brands in an enchanting European â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; setting. The boutiques offer a discount of up to 60 per cent off recommended retail prices (tax-free), and feature brands from Alexander McQueen, Baccarat, Belstaff, Bose, Burberry, Dior, Givenchy, Gucci, Jimmy, Dolce & Gabbana, Loewe, Loro, Piana, Missoni, Mulberry, Prada, Polo Ralph Lauren, Smythson, Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Valentino and Versace.

The village is home to 60 to 140 outlet boutiques, which are clustered around open-air promenades, enabling visitors to linger at leisure and unwind within its premises. It also features a host of SFTUBVSBOUT PGGFSJOH UIF mOF DVJTJOF PG UIF region, making the shopping experience a pleasant and relaxing one.

Hospitality plays an important part in Chic Outlet Shopping villages around the world (which includes London, Dublin,

Paris, Madrid, Barcelona, Bologna, Brussels, Antwerp, Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich). Visitors are welcomed as guests instead of customers, and a suite of services such as multilingual hosts, personal shoppers, VIP suites, hands-free TIPQQJOH TFSWJDF GSFF XJ m BOE WBMFU parking ensure maximum comfort and a pleasurable shopping experience.

Milan Fidenza Village Set in Emilia-Romagna, Fidenza Village offers a distinctly Italian shopping experience with year-round deductions of up to 70 per cent in more than 100 luxury outlet boutiques. Located just an hour from Milan and Bologna, visitors are able to hop on the Shopping Express â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a coach service operating between the local city centre and the village â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and Chauffeur Drive services to get there. Last year, Fidenza Village launched an exclusive pop-up boutique in collaboration with the charity Convivio, called A New Home for Convivio, and features designers such as Prada, Etro, Fendi, Dior, Lanvin and Roberto Cavali. There is also a vintage section with garments donated by TVQFSNPEFM ,BSPMJOB ,VSLPWB BOE BDUSFTTFT )BMMF #FSSZ BOE $BUIFSJOF ;FUB +POFT For more information, log on to www.chicoutletshopping.com

Fidenza Village

Kildare Village, Dublin

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INOUT

CHECK CHECK

For business travellers, dressing up right starts from your arrival at the airport, because the hustle and bustle leaves no time for any wardrobe crisis Photography Joel Low Assisted by $OĂ&#x20AC;H 3DQ Styling -XPLXV :RQJ -DFN :DQJ

On Her: White woven silk blouse, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ White wool-blend wide legged pants, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Navy polyester double breasted cropped jacket, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Black patent leather wedges, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Silver necklace, Hermes Silver ring, Hermes Black woven leather clutch, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ

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On Him: White cotton shirt, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Black cotton tailored pants, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Khaki double-breasted coat with wool collar, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Black leather oxfords, %XUEHUU\ /RQGRQ Black leather cuff bracelet, Hermes

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On Him: White textured silk shirt, CK Calvin Klein White silk-blend tailored pants, CK Calvin Klein White silk blend blazer, CK Calvin Klein White woven leather oxfords, CK Calvin Klein On Her: Black cotton mesh dress, DKNY White cotton blazer, Burberry London Acrylic chain necklace, Hermes Brown woven leather maryjanes, Gucci

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On Him: Graphic silk shirt, )HQGL Striped wool sweater, )HQGL Black linen tailored pants, (PSRULR $UPDQL Black woven leather loafers, )HQGL Blue leather cuff bracelet, Hermes

On Her: Brown silk-blend dress, (PSRULR $UPDQL Yellow polyester poncho, DKNY Pink suede heels, )HQGL Yellow leather handbag, )HQGL Enamel cuff bracelet, Hermes Corporate Traveller

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On Him: Navy silk-blend vest, 3UDGD Navy silk-blend tailored pants, 3UDGD Navy silk-blend blazer, 3UDGD Navy & red leather loafers, 3UDGD On Her: Black silk dress with floral applique, 3UDGD Black & white satin maryjanes, 3UDGD Gold rimmed plastic aviators, 3UDGD Acrylic link bracelet, 3UDGD Acrylic floral bracelet, 3UDGD

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Opposite page: On Her: Pink crepe silk shirt, Gucci Pink crepe silk wide legged pants, Gucci Yellow silk-blend double-breasted trench coat, Bottega Veneta Yellow ribbon leather pumps, Bottega Veneta Beige bag, Michael Kors On Him: White cotton shirt, Gucci Grey wool tailored pinstriped pants, Gucci Light blue cotton blazer, Gucci Brown pebbled leather loafers, Gucci Graphic printed cotton scarf, Gucci On Her: Colourblock silk dress, Michael Kors Leather strap wedges, Hermes Green croc leather waist belt, Hermes Enamel cuff bracelet, Hermes On Him: Brown & red silk-blend raglan T-shirt, Hermes Red cotton tailored pants, Hermes Blue perforated cotton blazer, Hermes Black leather oxfords, Hermes

Styling Assistants Joanne Choi & Candice Quek Hairstyling Alvin Foh, using Loretta Make-up Shaun Lee, using Sephora cosmetics Models Kevin / Mannequin & Misa / Ave Location Singapore Changi Airport Corporate Traveller

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SHOPPING@CHANGI

GIFTS GALORE

1

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a round-up of new arrivals and retail ideas to consider for that next present.

Text by Darren Wong

SWAROVSKI

2

(Available at Departure Transit Lounges of all terminals) 1. Add a little edge to your accessories with this tropical-forest-inspired pendant 4 5IJT mHVSBUJWF % CFFUMF TQBSLMFT JO B HSBEBUJPO PG DSZTUBM DPMPVST TFU JO QBWĂ?

BOE 4XBSPWTLJ T FYDMVTJWF DSZTUBM 1PJOUJBHF 2. These pierced earrings (S$210) feature a real, bright fuchsia feather and a smaller feather in rhodium-plated metal decorated XJUI DPMPVSGVM DSZTUBM QBWĂ? 4XJUDI UP BOPUIFS MPPL CZ SFNPWJOH UIF GFBUIFST which takes you easily from afternoon chic UP FWFOJOH HMBN

3. This delicate timepiece piece features 16 NPWJOH XIJUF 4XBSPWTLJ [JSDPOJBT B MJUUMF TLJ [JSDPOJBT B MJUUMF IFBSU BU P DMPDL BOE B NPUIFS PG QFBSM E B NPUIFS PG QFBSM EJBM UIBU HMFBNT BUUSBDUJWFMZ VOEFS UIF DUJWFMZ VOEFS UIF light. It is complemented ed by a white calfskin leather strap, which looks look undeniably elegant (S$860).

4 )FMMP ,JUUZ GBOT XJMM BEPSF UIJT TPVWFOJS BT the famous Japanese bobtail cat dresses up for spring in a cute ladybug costume and absolutely captures attention with its sparkly black diamond and clear crystal (S$215).

COCOA TREE

3

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(Available at Departure Check-in Halls and Departure Transit Lounges of all terminals) The Neuhaus collection (S$57) has been SFEFTJHOFE BOE FYQBOEFE UP mU JO B TFMFDUJPO PG NJML DIPDPMBUF QSBMJOFT mMMFE with ganaches and giandujas, all inspired by the best Neuhaus recipes.

4

PERFUMES & COSMETICS

Wonderstruck Enchanted by Taylor Swift Multi-Grammy-Award-winning singer/songwriter Taylor Swift presents her second perfume Wonderstruck Enchanted, signifying the strong connection between two people. *U CPBTUT BO BEEJDUJWF NJY PG DSFBNZ nPXFST BOE TFOTVBM XPPET mOJTIFE JO B CPME DSJNTPO CPUUMF CFKFXFMMFE XJUI B DMVTUFS PG BOUJRVF HPME DIBSNT "WBJMBCMF FYDMVTJWFMZ BU UIF BJSQPSU UIJT FODIBOUJOH TDFOU NBLFT JUT EFCVU BQQFBSBODF JO "TJB 1BDJmD 8POEFSTUSVDL &ODIBOUFE &%1 DPNFT JO NM 4 BOE NM 4

(Available at Departure Check-in Halls and Departure Transit Lounges of all terminals) Ivoire by Balmain Rewriting the last signature perfume created CZ #BMNBJO JO *WPJSF CZ #BMNBJO SFWFBMT scents of orange and mandarin essence QPXEFSFE XJUI WJPMFU MFBWFT Expect a surge of jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang and galbanum, followed by UIF FMFHBOU TFEVDUJPO PG WFUJWFS BOE DFEBSXPPE $BUDI UIJT DBQUJWBUJOH TDFOU o JU T NBLJOH JUT mSTU BQQFBSBODF JO "TJB 1BDJmD BU UIF BJSQPSU *WPJSF &%1 DPNFT JO 50ml (S$97) and 100ml (S$139).

Just Cavalli " TFYZ BOE QSPWPDBUJWF OFX GSBHSBODF UIJT DSFBNZ TFYZ nPSBM TDFOU IBT B UPQ OPUF PG /FSPMJ followed by heart note of the Tahitian Tiare nPXFS *U JT NBEF GPS XPNFO XIP BSF USFOETFUUFST BOE OPU BGSBJE PG CFJOH UIFNTFMWFT 5IJT BMMVSJOH TDFOU NBLFT JUT mSTU BQQFBSBODF JO "TJB 1BDJmD BU UIF BJSQPSU o BOE two months ahead of Singapore stores. Just $BWBMMJ DPNFT JO NM 4 BOE NM 4

ASPIAL (Available at Departure Transit Lounges of T1 and T3) Destinee in Glass Combining the fragility of glass with the hardness of EJBNPOET UIF DPMMFDUJPO T strong display of craftsmanship can be seen through the use of HMBTT CMPXJOH UFDIOJRVFT coupled with the brilliance of %FTUJOFF 3PZBMF EJBNPOET The pendant, earrings and ring make up an ideal trio for an unforgettable present.

1SJDFT VOBWBJMBCMF

Romance 5IF OFX SBOHF GFBUVSFT 'PSFWFSNBSL diamonds and introduces a series of OFX JOTQJSBUJPOT TVDI BT UIF -PWFST ring, with its solitaire diamond deftly held by two diamond-encrusted white gold semi-circular setting.

1SJDF VOBWBJMBCMF

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Alfred Dunhill #01-42, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6734-8126 Bally #01-12, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn; 6238-2078

STOCKIST

Brioni #B1-73, Galleria Level, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands; 6634-1253 Canali #01-43/44, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6235-6588 Chanel Boutique #01-25/26/27, Takashimaya S. C., Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road; 6733-5120 Clinique 3PCJOTPOT 3BGnFT $JUZ S.C., 252 North Bridge Road; 6334-6422 Crabtree & Evelyn #B2-16A, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue; 6688-8868

Hugo Boss #01-13/18; Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road; 6735-0233 Innergie Challenger stores, #04-12, Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road; 6837-8797; #06-00, Funan DigitaLife Mall, 109 North Bridge Road; 6339-9008 Jimmy Choo #01-10, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6735-9880

M.A.C #B1-36/36A, Takashimaya S. C., DFS Galleria Singapore Level 1, DFS Galleria Singapore, Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road; 6735-6622 25 Scotts Road; 6229-8100 Diane Von Furstenburg #01-08A, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn; 6509-9062

Michael Kors #01-16/17, Scotts Square, 8 Scotts Road; 6723-8068

Dolce & Gabbana #01-21, #02-11, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn; 6304-1366

Penhaligonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #03-16, ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn; 6634-1040

Ermenegildo Zegna Boutique #01-34/36, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6735-8147

Salvatore Ferragamo #01-40 & #02-42 Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6738-2306

EstĂŠe Lauder #02-28, Metro Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6735-1472

Soul Fly HMV Music Stores, #04-23/24, 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Road; 6733-1822

Fancl #B2-03/03A, Takashimaya S. C., Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Road; 6737-1665

Tangs Orchard Level 1, Tangs Beauty, 310 Orchard Road; 6737-5500

Gucci #01-38/39, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6734-2528

Todâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s #01-48, Paragon, 290 Orchard Road; 6738-3323

Corporate Traveller

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Baccarat

Indulgence

Mille Nuits Collection A tribute to “Thousand and One Night” tales – a collection of west and South Asian stories – designer Mathius spent years of intensive research to develop exceptional pieces for Baccarat.

Take the 12-light Mille Nuits floor candelabrum for example; with its innovative concept of “floor” typology offering an interesting take on typical crystal chandeliers.

So instead of hanging over the ceiling, it has now become a nomad “chandelier”. The subtle mix of luxury, poetry and magic see the creation of an ultimate talking piece.

There are two versions to this floor candelabrum: the traditional style Tsarine and the design-style Rémanence totem.

S$54,000 Baccarat is located at level 2, Takashimaya Department Store, Orchard Road

120 Corporate Traveller