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LIVE THE WORLD
SOUTH AFRICA: DI V E R SI T Y AT T H E FA R END OF THE MOST N AT U R A L CON T IN E N T
The amazingness of caring for the planet THE FRONT DOOR BY LA REVISTA, EL MUNDO DEL BUEN GUSTO
the Editorial Letter No. 03 | Living the world | Summer 2015
“Flowers are Earth’s laughter.” —R A LPH WA LDO EM ERS ON
Luxury and art have never been so linked as in the first decade of this mu century. Almost all luxury brands in the world have associated their name with contemporary art, either through sponsorships, custom parts or foundations, being this meeting place and starting point for a symbiosis that goes beyond fashion, of course reaching art, as well as design and contemporary architecture. Of all the luxury brands in the world, perhaps Louis Vuitton, which holds the richest and most varied relationship with contemporary art, and therefore successful patronage through the French house, has managed to promote geniuses, whose creativity marks the most significant trends of our time in all areas: photography, architecture, visual arts, either through their products, boutiques, ad campaigns. Last year the Foundation Louis Vuitton opened with the great architectural work of Frank Gehry to embellish Paris. Commissioned by Bernard Arnault and located on the premises of the Jardin d’Acclimatation in the Bois de Boulogne park, the Foundation Louis Vuitton will invite the public to discover the permanent collection formed by the works from the same and the Arnault Collection as well as the temporary expositions —two per year— and musical events in the auditory. A perfect excuse to visit Paris. Furthermore, another example of the rise of national contemporary art is the artist Rodolfo Choperena who, in the words of the curator Barbara Perra- who delights us with a text about the creator- shows how “its approach to the composition of each image, toying with the exposure, displacement and the addition of specific color ele-
ments is closer to the painting than to the photography, traditionally understood”. And Choperena is guided by the colors, creating forms that are echoes of reality. Choperena, who builds his compositions on camera without post-production effects, aptly describes his work as photo-performance. In it, both the author and the displacement of the camera allow the composition of each image, making the light and the color print its path in each work. But there is nothing more beautiful than to dive into the depths of the oceans in Mexico, where Santiago Oria Probert makes us descend into the depths and enter a pelagic world with all the “mega diversity it houses, a collection of sea life made of sharks, rays, billfish, dolphins, whales, turtles and other species that live under a constant threat.” However, using one of the most popular clichés, these threats can also be understood as opportunities and that’s just what the people from Pelagic Life are doing: transforming the disappearance of species in natural sanctuaries, poaching in tourism luxury and indifference in pure consciousness. Sustainable businesses, natural reserves and clothes with ecological dyes are some of the many proposals that will be found in these pages, since protecting the planet can also be profitable and pleasurable. After all, this is where we live, where a formidable history has been with us and where civilized man today requires to urgently address to make it subsist. This is the greatest work of art we can make as a civilization. We hope you enjoy it!
Mauricio Elizondo Director of The Front Door
the Contents No. 02 | Living the world | Spring 2015
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18 The profile: Chef Alejandro Canul Caamal by The Editorial Dept. The chef from the hotel Fiesta Americana Cozumel tells us about his work in one of the tourist paradises of our country.
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08 The Editorialist
ENDINGS
24 The Destination
The World Expo arrives in Milan to discuss all about the food of the future.
Learn everything that South Africa has to offer. You will not be disappointed.
10 The Blog
28 Leisure
We fill the summer with luxury with sunglasses, fresh fragrances and a must-see to the Met in New York.
Nothing more relaxing than spending a day, or days- in a peace-filled spa.
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el Directorio
No. 03 | Living the world | Summer 2015
Marcela Aguilar y Maya General Director
Gerardo Rioseco General Manager
Editorial
Mauricio Carreón Commercial Director
Santiago Oria Probert Editorial Director santiago@aeditores.com Andrea Villanueva Editorial Coordinator andrea@aeditores.com
Art Gerardo Terán Art Director yair@aeditores.com Bredna Lago Graphic design bredna@aeditores.com Fernanda Carrasco Photo edition fernanda@aeditores.com
Mauricio Elizondo Product Manager Hugo Jiménez Brand Director and Communication Ricardo Sánchez Brand Assistant Director and Communication Anne Marie Chorné Brand Coordinator and Communication
Follow us on: 01(800) 841 8390
Management
membershipnews@the-frontdoor.com
Karen Ramos Administrative director karen@aeditores.com Marco Antonio Palacios CFO marco@aeditores.com Priscila Castillo Torres Administrative assistant priscila@aeditores.com
TheFrontDoorMX @TheFrontDoorMX thefrontdoormx
Contributors Diana Amador | Michel Bellego | Daniel Benítez | María José Céspedes Thais Herrera | Bárbara Perea | Rodrigo Rivero Lake
Editorial Board Anne Marie Chorné | Carmen Cordera | Allan Fis | Julieta García | Hugo Jiménez | Bruno Newman Mónica Patiño | Ricardo Salas | Ricardo Sánchez | Gonzalo Tassier Points of view of the authors do not necessarily represent those of the editors or the publisher. The Front Door by La Revista is a publication by A / EDITORES about lifestyle and travel, specially created for The Front Door. A/EDITORES, Durango 332-103, Col. Roma Norte, CP 06700, Mexico City, Phone.: 5281 1778. The Front Door, Paseo de la Reforma 155, 1st. floor, Col. Lomas de Chapultepec, Z.C. 11000, Mexico City, Phone.: 9138 5700 The Front Door is a registered trademark owned by Grupo Posadas, SAB de CV All rights reserved. Quarterly magazine. Number 3, Summer 2015. Editor: Marcela Aguilar y Maya. The content of the articles is responsibility of the authors and publishers. All rights reserved. Total or partial reproduction is forbidden, including any electronic or magnetic media for commercial purposes. The information herein has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable. Internal Distribution by: The Front Door Printed by Artes Panorama S.A. de C.V. Avena 629, col. Granjas Mexico, 08400, Del. Iztacalco, Mexico, DF. La Revista, el mundo del buen gusto: Reservation number to the National Institute of Copyright 04-208-092913333400-102. Certificate Number of legality of content No. 11997. Certificate Number of legality of Name No. 14424.
On the cover: South Africa La Revista, el mundo del buen gusto, is a lifestyle publication that addresses the best of culture, art, architecture, cuisine, travel and design, as well as the most prominent trends, with a clean, creative and intelligent approach.
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The Queen Mary.
“Giveth me the superfluous, that the necessary everyone can have it.” —Oscar Wilde
Milan is ready.
The Editorialist by: Marcela Aguilar y Maya photos: Courtesy
View from above.
German Pabillion.
Rightly said French writer of the nineteenth century, Hippolyte Taine, “we travel to change, not of place, but of ideas”, for nothing to open our internal spectrum as living new experiences. Today, where both communication and moving are common and do not require any special planning, we may have lost some enthusiasm for the expectation that a trip produced 50 years ago, when a journey was beginning to be designed even a year advance, when arriving to Europe meant a real transatlantic crossing. I love to hear and read stories of ships that made the journey from New York to England, ships such as the Queen Mary,who, in the week it took sailing, there were celebrations with daily parties on board, where the gentlemen wore gala every night and the ladies could not repeat an outfit, so the luggage was as big as the same boat. Large Louis Vuitton trunks were transported and stored in a special part of the vessels, and there came the waitresses to pick up the outfit of the day. Today we book our flight online and in a blink of an eye we are on the other side of the world, without giving much importance to the distance traveled. Technology has definitely brought us closer, making us true citizens of the world, with a universal passport. But luxury homes do not minimize the traveler and brands, such as Louis Vuitton, modernize its baggage so, although they are light and easy to move, don’t lose that touch of elegance that never go out of style. And while Antoine de Saint-Exupery, one of my favorite writers, has stressed that “anyone who wants to travel happily must travel light”, I keep carrying in each journey, my very personal world with me. After all, you never know what you might need... Now is the time to give an authentic “Around the World in 80 Days”: every four years the World Expo is held, which since the second half of the nineteenth century, picks cosmopolitan cities to host, leaving behind iconic monuments as the Tower Eiffel, badge of the World Expo 1889 in Paris. Today the Italian city of Milan hosts 131 countries, from May to the end of October this year, they will occupy a large area of the industrial capital of Italy. The Milan Fair 2015 is a destination in itself, spreading over 110 hectares in the city limits, and its theme is “Feeding the planet, energy for life”.
The space for the expo is ready.
Louis Vuitton trunks.
United Arab Emirates’ Pabillion.
The enclosure, with a shape that resembles a huge fish, has a backbone of 1.8 kilometers, which serves as a gateway to explore the million square meters on which it sits. The spaces are grouped with two criteria: first, by country. The richest have mounted 53 pavilions, showing their contributions to gastronomy, food innovation and creating a more sustainable world. The smaller ones or who have failed to pay their own infrastructure are grouped by food groups, based on their production: rice, corn, coffee, and add to 30 more pavilions for a total of 145 participating countries. Italy is many things: art, history, culture. And it’s food. Aware that its cuisine is one of its universal humanity contributions, when the city of Milan was proposed to host a World Expo, food was the first thing that came to the mind of its promoters, “we decided not to do something about technology or futurism, but on food for all and sustainable energy. “ One of the main approaches to the Expo is that each country contribute their innovations and ideas to ensure a future where there is food for all: the world today produces more food than is consumed, and yet more than 800 million people are starving. With this background, Milan will become during these months in a discussion platform on food. The organizers set the example of Israel as a success: “You can teach the world how to make crops have a yield in arid land far above the usual”. But it will also have a part for leisure, taste for food, the Expo has a didactic approach. It has spaces that review the history of food from Roman times to the present, and makes a projection of what lies ahead. An example of this evolution: the early twentieth century over 700 types of apple were common. Today, in a supermarket you can find between five and seven. In addition to the emphasis in education on the topic, the Expo of Milan has an unbelievable gastronomic offer, since each of the pavilions of the countries have taken on the task of representing their cuisine in the best way, making Milan in a true culinary host for the next six months. Is this not the best excuse to travel?
United Arab Emirates’ Pabillion.
Milan.
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About Theory Founded by Andrew Rosen in 1997 in New York, Theory has revolutionized the contemporary market with its concept of a modern, urban uniform, with basic, but original clothes. Theory is known for having a balance between luxury and affordability in its collections, known for their excellent cut and quality materials, as well as timeless designs.
the Blog by: The Editorial Dept. photos: Courtesy
pág. 010 We celebrate the arrival of summer with star products and finding new ways to save our planet.
A new theory Theory’s makeover
Antara Shopping Center, Ejército Nacional 843, Polanco, Mexico City |
(55) 5280 5689 | theory.com
In February this year, the New York brand Theory unveiled its Spring Summer 2015 advertising campaign with Natalia Vodianova and Clement, photographed by David Sims. The campaign marks a historic moment for Theory with the debut of a new logo, its first redesign since the company was founded 18 years ago. After the departure of creative director Olivier Theyskens in June, Lisa Kulson and Ben Stubbington, directors of women and men, respectively, were named creative co-directors and their CEO, Andrew Rosen, feels that this campaign represents perfectly the Theory customer: "Natalia [Vodianova], as a mother, philanthropist and someone who is at the peak of her career, is the ideal woman that reflects the modern style of the brand." Both creative teams and brand executives seek, besides, to create products with integrity. Theory wants to be a brand of modern lifestyle and change the way in which luxury is perceived. Gradually they are succeeding
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THE BLOG
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perfect eyes → Shiseido Sheer Eye Zone Corrector For sale at Palacio de Hierro and Sephora | shiseido.com
Dark circles and uneven skin tones are one of the biggest concerns women have about their eyes. Founded in 1872, Shiseido is one of the oldest beauty companies in the world, and yet, the dedication to technological improvements continues to make new discoveries. One of their best products for eyes, Sheer Eye Zone Concealer, understands that dark circles not only appear due to fatigue and not sleeping well, but due to lack of oxygen in the blood. What was women’s solution? Cover dark circles. But to achieve this, many layers of concealer that were apparent kilometers away were needed. What Shiseido seeks with this product is to hide dark circles, but without the effect of product buildup. The Sheer Eye Zone Concealer does not cover dark circles, but neutralizes them thanks to a formula with a unique technology of light, orange foundation and reflection and adaptation powder. In overturning irregular skin tones, the face shows a brighter aspect that will return your youthful look. Shiseido offers you this opportunity in the simplest way.
The camellia, as a symbol The brand’s logo is designed in the Art Nouveau style and its simplicity has allowed it to become a symbol that represents the standards of quality and dedication of the brand. The graphic description of the camellias, hanatsubaki in Japanese, symbolizes flowers floating in a bowl of water. In addition, the institutional magazine of the brand, which has been published since 1937- carries the same name.
L’Eau → Kenzo One with the water For sale at Palacio de Hierro and Liverpool | kenzoparfums.com
For Kenzo water is not only life, but is a being without limits: living water, constantly moving, as if endowed with a supernatural power. Its most recent interpretation of water, L’Eau, is fresh, sensual and magnetic. In the version for women it features touches of red apple that accompany the female peony and lotus flower on a base of patchouli. For its part, the men’s fragrance is intense and firm with a vibrant lime aroma with a woody vetiver base. Both presentations continue the tradition of the French house to make people smile with their aromas full of energy and happiness. Maybe it’s a slightly crazy dream they have, but with both its fragrances and clothes, they succeed every day. The design The bottles are inspired by the fluidity of quiet and rippling water, therefore the subtle curves that these present. Two pure and sensual blocks that
fit each other perfectly. For her, a delicate and sensual lotus flower, and for him, vibrant water on the rock drawn on its design.
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eyes → Panther Cartier Masaryk 465, Polanco, México City |
Cartier’s panthers
(55) 5283 9934 | cartier.mx
In April this year Cartier will present a new model of sunglasses that will be highly sought after. It’s the model Panthère Divine that returns the the very emblematic panther motive of the brand and takes it to this new accessory. Of course, the shape of the glasses had to be the classiccat eye,but because this is a product inspired by the panther, it has a different touch. With the cat eye-shaped style, the Pan-
thère Divine of Cartier remind of the glory days of the great divas of the French Riviera, those who enjoyed the dolce vita better than anyone. The glasses come in two different forms -cat eye and rectangle shape- and each of these forms in two finishes, platinum and gold. Any of these four versions have black varnish, onyx and gray crystals. There are no more luxurious glasses.
The French maison has chosen this wild, but elegant animal as their emblem. For Cartier, this is a timeless icon, a symbol of a predator, projects a discreet image, and yet, it is always ready to pounce. The touch of the house is reflected in emerald eyes, noses in onyx and diamond coat. Released, the jewelry collection Panthère give a real blow to jewelry.
and Intense → Bold Johnnie Walker johnniewalker.com |
JohnnieWalkerMx |
@JohnnieWalkerMx
Johnnie Walker is a classic brand that never stops innovating and each of its variants has an individual personality. Among its most important personalities are Black Label and Double Black, which are the two variants of Johnny Walker with greater personality. The Bold & Intense campaign presents these variants, considered the strongest of the house, in a new light and with an intensity greater than ever: Black Label, the original mix of the family, considered the “Everest of whiskeys” and Double Black, which carries the classic features and notes of Black Label to another level of intensity in smoking. In this campaign, the main characters are Mattia Biagi-an artist who has found in black the inspiration to transform objects using the tar as a creative resource- and the music performed by Gin Wigmore, which join the whiskey to transmit a moment where taste and intensity are everything. The closest graphical representation of the taste of Black Label and Double Black.
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Mattia Biagi After studying art and design in Milan she decided to move to Los Angeles. It was in that city in the tar pits of La Brea that he found the inspiration for his most recent works.
Gin Wigmore Virginia Wigmore, better known as Gin Wigmore, was born in Auckland, New Zealand, in 2009, at just 22 years old she released her first album.
THE BLOG
TECHNICAL FEATURES Movement: BR-CAL.302. Auto mechanic. Crystal: anti-reflective sapphire. Functions: hours, minutes and seconds. Water resistance: 100 m Box: 46 mm in diameter. Matt black ceramic. Steel back with 10th Anniversary engraving. Straps: XDR rubber and synthetic fabric. Dial: black and embossed on the back. Needles, white numerals and indexes with photoluminescent coating. 10th Anniversary badge. Buckle: pin buckle. PVD black steel finish.
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& Ross BR 01 → Bell Ten years of an icon For sale at Berger Jewelers and Jewelry Peyrelongue | bellross.com/mx
The BR 01 was born in 2005 from a simple idea: make a clock aboard a plane in the best aviation watch. A reliable, functional, legible and accurate clock that passed from the cockpit to the wrist was sought. Bell & Ross developed more than 150 models and more than fifty limited series of this watch, which over time has become a genuine watchmaking creation and conceptual innovation platform. To celebrate the first ten years of this model, Bell & Ross BR 01 presents the 10th Anniversary, a limited edition of 500 pieces. The BR 01 was born from this idea, a simple and iconoclastic idea: to turn a clock aboard a plane into a wristwatch. To optimize readability and functionality, their numbers, their needles and square box recover the principles of aeronautical instrumentation. Every detail has a reason, a specific function. In 2014, Bell & Ross launched the BR-X1, an extreme version of its iconic watch with immediately identifiable geometry. This model stands out
due to its innovative design of the titanium grade five square box, to ward off the blows, is equipped with a ceramic and rubber belt that works as a defensive shield. And this year, to celebrate the tenth anniversary, the 10th Anniversary BR 01 was conceived, faithful to the BR 01 2005, although it was made with the techniques and hightech materials of today. Unique and recognizable among all by its square case, the BR 01 has revolutionized the codes of traditional watchmaking. Ten years ago, thanks to a daring design, Bell & Ross showed its edgy creativity, affirming its utilitarian and functional vocation: today both fighter pilots, as well as fashionistas use the BR 01 readability, functionality, strength and accuracy. Engraved and numbered, this anniversary model -in this edition of 500 copies, is the ultimate expression of the evolution that has transformed an avant-garde watch into an iconic model.
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George → Boo for Emporio Armani Antara Shopping Center, Ejército Nacional 843, Polanco, Mexico City (55) 5282 0901 | emporioarmani.com
The beaches of Santa Barbara, California were the perfect setting for the Irish photographer Boo George to photograph the Spring / Summer 2015 Emporio Armani collection. Between the waves and the beach, with clear blue summer sky and the sun as a companion, George captured the collection, featuring mainly white, blue and gray in both solid colors and stripes. Elegant and straightforward graphics which, curiously, would look very comfortable in the city as they do on this beach. The models Matt Trethe, Andy Walters, Jakub Zelman, Vittoria Ceretti, Julia Banas and Antonina Petkovic were photographed individually and as a group and also posed with accessories ranging from sunglasses and watches to bags. As in the previous campaign, George captures the Emporio essence perfectly. Who is Boo George? Just over 30 years, Boo George is an Irish photographer who never really wanted to dedicate to photography, it just came accidentally.
His favorite influence is Richard Avedon, although his first job as assistant to Julian Broad -to photograph Brad Pitt in Namibia’s desert- was where he learned more.
Ford Beauty → Tom Luxury colors For sale at Sak’s Fifth Avenue and Palacio de Hierro | tomford.com
“In beauty, small details have the greatest impact,” says Tom Ford, who continues to expand his empire of absolute luxury and glamor. For lovers of Ford and luxury beauty products, Tom Ford Beauty line is much more than a veneer or lipstick, it can be a powerful tool for transformation. The lip color palette consists of 18 shades, ranging from a classic nude, to a fire red and intense brown; but luxury is, above all, in the exceptional and exotic ingredients like soybean extract and chamomile flower oil that create an ultra-creamy texture and a super smooth application. Also, it offers ten shades of semi-transparent color high gloss. For nails, the house has 16 colors for all types of women: sensual neutrals like Naked and Mink Brule; deeper colors like Ginger Fire and African Violet and other high impact ones like Viper, all in opulent colors. The point of view of Tom Ford is a well-defined look of beauty, either discrete or blatantly glamorous and elegant -like his clothing- it allows women to express themselves freely. It is a true reflection of his mood and an ode to the spirit of the age of that particular moment. No one better than Ford to make a woman feel glamorous.
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Luxury Packaging The packaging of Tom Ford Nail Lacquer is a rectangular glass bottle with an exquisite mahogany top, the decorative cover is adorned with a golden
band and TF logo stamped on the top. The Lipcolor has a very similar packaging to the varnish, stylish and elegant packaging with exquisite golden tones.
Ever since Katie Grand of Love Magazine discovered him, he has become the new favorite photographer in the world of fashion.
THE BLOG
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Caviar → Léman From the incomparable Caran d’Ache carandache.com |
Caran d’Ache | For sale at Berger Jewelers and Peyrelongue Chronos
The new Léman Caviar Caran d’Ache is not only beautiful, it also causes an impression. Like any household product, it has a design and an exceptional form and even more so being part of the Couleur de Léman collection that creates a new piece collection every year. The premiere of 2015 keeps its magic on the subtlety of the engraving, which captures the colors of the grains of caviar and saffron shadow of the dawn over
Lake Geneva. The simply called Caviar is a luxury and glamor writing instrument, with bright reflections that changes the way we think about a pen. Only holding it becomes a hedonistic experience. Technically, the four different versions of the pen are exceptional: created with a thick brass and bronze and coated with rhodiumone of the most earth resistant materialsthey are produced by hand in the company
workshops in Geneva. The fountain pen can be used with a pump or ink cartridge and is available in four widths (fine, medium, wide and extra wide); The pen has a rotating mechanism that delivers high-precision ink that will never stain; the roller pen style can use two types of cartridge and the mechanical pencil uses tips of 0.7 mm in diameter. Any collector will want to have one (or four) Léman Caviar Caran d’Ache.
A year to celebrate 2015 is a very special year for the maison Caran d’Ache, as it marks the hundredth anniversary of the family business being settled in Switzerland. Throughout the year they will be holding events and products that celebrate the consistent evolution of Caran d’Ache since its inception in graphite pencils and color to the luxury brand that is now revealed. As a tribute to the centenary of supporting ar-
tistic expression, the Anniversary Collection will consist of new versions of its iconic models Technograph, Fixpencil, Prismalo, Ecridor, and 849 in limited quantities. Among the events of the celebration, the exhibition Les Caran d’Ache Picasso will be presented at Interlaken and there will be a national drawing contest. Celebrate with them at carandache. com/100.
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Dragonfly → The Poetry from Amelia Roselli Rosselli, Amelia, The Dragonfly, Sexto Piso, Mexico, 2015
Poetry is often overshadowed by other forms of literature, but to discover new styles is what keeps us alive as readers. Despite being little known, Amelia Rosselli is one of the most important poets of the twentieth century, compared even with Wislawa Szymborska, John Ashbery and Sylvia Plath. But this is now, in her times, because of its marked uniqueness, it was ignored. Her story is very peculiar, born in Paris, but grew up in different countries and different languages: English, French and Italian. Her work, therefore, is always created from a foreign condition, marked by wandering. The Dragonfly, edited by Sixth Floor in Italian and Spanish simultaneously, is a poem in which an obsession first appears, which will haunt Roselli until her deat: the creation of a “delusional fluid of Western thought”. The poem- which covers all the book- is the search for the author to find a new metric model. Rosselli claimed to “rhyme for another century,” a much more attentive one to the new language, the new music she had created, the foreignness. It seems that this century is ours.
Amelia Rosselli (Paris, 1930-Rome, 1996) Italian poet of a British political activist and a hero of the anti-fascist resistance, murdered in 1937 by the secret service of the fascist regime while living in exile in France. Her family exodus lead her to England and the United States, but she would return to Italy in 1946. It was Pier Paolo Pasolini who discovered the poetry of Rosselli: published in the literary magazine Il Menabò, in 1963, 24 of her poems. Rosselli dedicated her life to the study of composition, music and ethnomusicology, besides being a poet, she was a translator. She committed suicide in 1996 by jumping from her apartment in Rome.
Conejos Mezcal → 400 The Oaxacan dream 400ConejosMX |
@400conejosMX
400 Conejos is a young mezcal with a mild flavor —subtle fruity and herbaceous aromas— made from agave sprat by skilled mezcaleros from Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca. Centzon toto-chtin it means 400 or countless rabbits and is the name given to the spirits of alcohol in prehispanic Mexico. These spirits were related to sleep and waking, and the behavior that it took would depend on the rabbit that dominated it. This is the tradition behind 400 Conejos, whose producers stick to the artisanal processes. To achieve this, they have enlisted the skilled Mezcaleros Joel Santiago and don Tacho, who perform the grinding with stone thrown by a horse, the fermentation in a wooden tub and the distillation in copper pots. We recommend taking 400 Conejos straight, accompanied by orange segments and worm salt. Due to its mild flavor, it can also be mixed with mint, orange or lemon juice, a combination that highlights the notes and tropical fruit aromas that characterize it. But most the most important thing is to discover the rabbit that dominates each one.
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The elaboration Mezcal 400 Conejos is created from sprat agave grown in Santiago Matatlan, Oaxaca. Agaves take between eight and fifteen years to reach optimum ripeness. Once selected, they are harvested and taken to the palenque where they become mezcal by being baked in an oven of conical firewood for three to five days covered by
blankets, bagasse and soil. Once the pineapples have been baked, they are crushed by a stone wheel pulled by a horse. The crushed pineapple, already as bagasse, are kept in wooden tubs until the must or juice of agave that are taken to the distillation unit remain. The bottles are sterilized with spring water and are subsequently filled.
THE BLOG
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McQ → Glasses Lee’s legacy lives luxury of China → The At the MET in New York From May 7 to August 16 | 1000 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, New York | metmuseum.org
For both fashion lovers and for those who are fans of Asian cultures, the Chinese exhibit: Through the Looking Glass is one not to be missed. Organized by the Department of Asian Art in conjunction with the Costume Insititue the Metropolitan Museum in New York, the exhibition explores the impact mainly of Chinese aesthetics in Western fashion. Since the first approaches of Europeans with China in the sixteenth century, the West has amazed and these expressions have been reflected in the work of designers both classic, like Paul Poiret and Yves Saint Laurent, to contemporaries, like Tom Ford and Roberto Cavalli. Making a stop at the Met is mandatory when visiting New York, but with over one hundred couture clothing of the most recognized designers accompanied by Chinese art of all times, this is a show not to be missed, whatever your artistic preference is.
The Costume Institute The Metropolitan Museum of New York holds an area exclusively dedicated to clothes and accessories from the five continents and seven centuries of fashion. It is more than 35 thousand objects ranging from the fifteenth century costumes to avant-garde clothing of the twentieth century Japanese designers like Rei Kawakubo. Each year presents two special exhibitions devoted to a specific topic, whether the legacy of Alexander McQueen or the clothing of mourning over time.
For sale at the Palacio de Hierro | alexandermcqueen.com
The creative legacy of Alexander McQueen is still living in the two brands that emerged from their ideas: the main couture, Alexander McQueen and McQ , a contemporary brand, much younger. Defined by McQueen himself as a more youthful and renegade part, but always with the spirit of the designer, the line McQueen offers clothing and accessories traditionally rebel. The vision of Creative Director Sarah Burton still retains the ease of the founder and the spring/summer 2015 collection eyewear of McQ shows this spirit perfectly. The MCQ0048 / S model (Stealth), shaped as a cat eye and with contrasting materials, is distinguished by a nylon thread in neon colors on the bottom and at the end of the rod-shaped blade. It is available in colors like purple with red or violet blue. For its part, the MCQ 0045 / S and 0050 MCQ (Abstract) make a nod to the world of art with geometric sun glasses and frames for prescription glasses inspired by the works of Mondrian and Rietveld. This design features faceted spherical and angular contrasts and blocks effects of intense colors, such as green and blue with orange or black, red and white. Carry the spirit of McQueen in your eyes. McQueen returns to London This year returns the exhibition that gives a tour of the years of Alexander McQueen as a designer and broke all possible records during their stay at
the Met in New York in 2011. With garments - which could well be called works-from his graduation collection from Central Saint Martins to his final col-
lection, Plato’s Atlantis, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty will be at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London until August 2, 2015.
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Alejandro Canul Caamal, between the East and the Caribbean by: The Editorial Dept.  photos: Courtesy
Becoming Executive Chef of a major tourist residence in one of the most beautiful and important natural paradises of Mexico involves a perfect process of growth and learning, great talent and unbridled creativity. Ingredients that are combined with precision in the kitchens of Fiesta Americana Cozumel and The Explorean. the-frontdoor.com 19
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Alejandro Canul Caamal is just 30 years old, but on his gastronomic record, he seems much older due to his great journey as chef. This Cozumel native has over ten years perfecting his technique and palate to offer visitors from around the world unique sensory experiences. Memorable. Exploring all the details involved in and extensive world of luxury and style of The Front Door, in this occasion we spoke to him, looking to understand his beginnings, concerns and, above all, the secrets of his cuisine. To begin, the entrées.
LR:
How did you decide you wanted to be a chef ?
How did I decide? I guess I never did, it occurred by chance, by fate. I have engraved the memory of my mother cooking, with so much joy!, so when my dad would arrive from work, she could see the face of happiness after a rich and delicious lunch, I think that's what drove me to become a chef. ACC:
Alejandro’s menu Because there is no better way to meet a chef than through his dishes.
How did you prepare to achieve it? After high school I enrolled at a technical school of gastronomy in Cozumel. While studying in the morning, I worked in the evenings, I think that's what helped me the most. Also in my travels abroad, I matured there gastronomically.
ENTRÉES Hanoi Tender mixed greens in nan-pla vinaigrette accompanied with chicken, avocado light, tofu and crispy won ton. Ahiru Duck breast salad, cherry tomatoes, crispy rice and creamy cashews. Shaomai Stuffed shrimp, garlic, ginger, cilantro, steamed and served with a trilogy of sauces. Indonesian Satay Chicken sheets marinated with turmeric, cumin, grilled onion and served with peanut sauce. Goi Cuon Roll stuffed with grilled vegetables like onions, garlic, ginger, Chinese cabbage, carrots, harusame pasta accompanied by papaya chutney. Tataki Tuna slices sealed in vinaigrette yusu 8c shiro-miso.
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A TALK WITH: ALEJANDRO CANUL CAAMAL
How did you get your current job? I think the word would be evolution. I do not like doing things the same the same way, sometimes you have to break some rules to innovate and create some kind of flavor in a dish. This evolution led me to become Executive Chef at the Fiesta Americana Cozumel, of the Explorean, and I'm also Regional Chef of the company’s Asian restaurants within the division all inclusive.
What inspires you to create a new dish? The smile of the diners, who, when leaving, thank you, when they say "we’ll be back for more!”, and especially to exceed
the expectations of customers who visit us. My greatest satisfaction is when people return to the hotel and tell me: “I came back because the food and attention are wonderful.”
Your specialty is Asian food, why did you decide to focus on it? On a trip to Asia I realized, due to the ingredients they use, everything is possible with very little, and that little becomes too much because everything is natural; the waste of use of each ingredient is minimal. In that food, cooking a broth or gravy is not a process of ten minutes, a sauce can take up to twelve hours in its preparation.
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SOUPS Malaya Spicy soup with chicken, coconut milk, lemon grass, cilantro, shitake, ginger, red curry and grilled bok choy. Miso Soup based on shiro-miso paste accompanied by onion, wakame seaweed, tofu and a touch of sesame oil.
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MAIN DISHES Tikka Masala Chicken slicess sauted with green beans, tikka sauce, served with basmati rice and naan. HK Steamed sea bass with an infusion of green tea matcha broth, spicy sesame oil, rice and steamed spinach with garlic. Kimchi Beef slices in chair sui sauce and sauteed vegetables accompanied by spicy kimchi. Pad Thai Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, peanut, shrimp, fish sauce, tamarind, bean sprouts and cilantro. Puckett Harusame Pasta sauteed with shitake, chambray onion, spinach and slices of pork accompanied by yakiniku sauce. Pekin Chinese duck slices, accompanied by moshu flour crepes, shitake mushrooms, cucumber, scallions, cilantro, bean sprouts, tofu and sweet bean sauce. Homoktalay Stuffed squid with grilled seafood in wasabe-coconut sauce accompanied by mee goreng.
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A TALK WITH: ALEJANDRO CANUL CAAMAL
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I also really like it because of the fusion of its ingredients and the great discipline of the people of Asia, since their food is not only to prepare something, but it becomes a ritual.
What are the differences between working in a hotel and working in an independent restaurant? Working in a hotel means feeding a lot of people and making all those people happy, amazed by the quality of food. Outside a hotel you focus on the quality of the food coming out of a kitchen for people who come to eat the restaurant and in the end is happy for what they paid...
How is your work team? During my career as a chef, I discovered that the most gratifying thing is to work on what we’re most passionate about, I think that makes us achieve success as individuals and professionally, that's what I talk about everyday in the briefing with all my staff so they become very successful. I think the team I’ve secured has a lot of potential, in a few years I'll be seeing many chefs in different hotels in the region.
DESSERTS Cardamom Fondant of cardamom seeds and dark chocolate served with ice and ginger compote of berries. Manioc Pearls of manioc flour cooked in coconut milk accompanied by spicy mango relish. Apricot Apricot puree, peanut truffles and cherry ice cream. Tempura Ice cream coated with seeds, fried in tempura over chocolate sauce, strawberry and fried noodle. Coffee Crunchy oatmeal, coffee jelly, chocolate mousse and ginger sauce coconut ice cream.
Constant preparation Alejandro knows that a good Chef should not stop being prepared, so he has continued his specialization over time, in a constant improvement of his cuisine. • Food handling course (2004) • Certification on standard NMX-F605-Normex 2004 Distinctive H (2006)
• Kitchen Coach Certification (2008) • Quality Leaders Certification (2009) • Basic Course on State-of-the-Art Techniques Molecular Kitchen (2010) • Certification in the Spanish norm Sani-Consult (2011) • Leadership Course on a Supervision Level (2012)
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the Destination by: Thais Herrera
South Africa, luxury and adventure
South Africa is one of the most diverse countries in the world, not only regarding nature, but also in relation to their cultural lives. Know this beautiful country from the hands of The Front Door.
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pág. 024 Take a trip to the far south of the planet or a shorter one, but equally relaxing, with a spa visit.
To the south of one of the continents that remains in a more natural state than any other, is this highly diverse country, whose wildlife includes hippos and penguins alike, deserts and icebergs, mountains and cities. Only the KwaZulu-Natal’s iSimangaliso Park contains five different ecosystems —being home to zebras and dolphins—, just as Johannesburg has more neighborhoods than Los Angeles and there are wine labels for everyone. This is a very large country that cannot be understood any other way than by visiting.
SOUTH AFRICA, LUXURY AND ADVENTURE
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SOUTH AFRICA IS A COUNTRY FULL OF CONTRASTS AND DIVERSITY: WITH ECOSYSTEMS THAT RANGE FROM THE DESERT TO THE HOME OF PENGUINS AND THE MOST MODERN CITIES.
CAPE TOWN, INFINITY BAY
The first impact the city offers is geographic, because as soon as one is off the plane the Table Mountain immediately interrupts the traveler’s view. It is impossible not turn to look at least for a few secondssuch natural accident. This is a mountain range cut flat at 1086 meters above sea level. Generally —this is 320 days per year— it is covered by a blanket of clouds that make up the famous “tablecloth” of the Table. This mountain is the symbol of Cape Town, and it is accessible by cable car. Atop there is a number of natural balconies and overlooks, from where you can see the urbanized valley. It is worth making the trip in the afternoon to enjoy the sunset and the glow that the bay gives at night. Cape Town is a big modern city with highways and imposing shopping centers, however, the artistic life full of details and original corners is noted. The preferred forum for the art world is Greenmarket Square downtown. As its name suggests, it is a square where craftsmen, artists, and organic fruit and vegetable sellers and people that commercialize natural products. In this space you can buy all kinds of handmade hats, animal figures carved by hand by skilled cabinetmakers and typical African wooden masks, among many other things. At nightfall, it is essential to visit the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. This is a huge recycling dock, where, along with a serene walk enjoying the Victorian architecture, you can enjoy a delicious dinner and make some other purchase because the place has shopping with first brand stores.
The name of this space is reminiscent of England Prince Alfred and his mother, Queen Victoria. It was in 1860, during the reign of Victoria, when Alfred began the construction of the Port of Cape Town. Cape Point is the most visited site in Cape Town. It is nothing more and nothing less than the most extreme point
of the African continent, where the Atlantic Ocean meets with the Indian Ocean. To get there you have to travel several kilometers of the central coast lined with white sand, blue water —very cold— and cliffs of considerable height. The journey ends at a viewpoint that you can walk-the journey is long and steep- or funicular.
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JOHANNESBURG OFFERS A VIBRANT CULTURAL AND CULINARY LIFE, WHILE OUTSIDE CAPE TOWN IS THE PARADISE OF WINE LOVERS.
THE GOLDEN CITY: JOHANNESBURG
It is the largest, most populous and richest city in South Africa. It is a cosmopolitan city, with innovative buildings and a vibrant cultural life. They call it “the golden city” because it has huge and fertile deposits of the precious metal and diamonds. In fact, one of the recommended walks is Gold Reef City, a town that was rebuilt on a gold mine where you can see the extraction process. There is also a space where indigenous dances and rituals are presented. Lately, this city has become a destination for those who love to eat anything on their travel- it is planned around the food. Among the most interesting restaurants are the Italian Cyrus’ Kitchen and The Grillhouse, one of the best in the world to eat meat. Living Room is a café-bar on a terrace with ecological orientations that will delight anyone. And for those looking to try a little of everything and spend a day as local foodies, a visit to Market on Main on Sunday (and the first Thursday of each month) offers shopping for lovers of design and from Ethiopian coffee to Argentinean roast. A must stop. Other emblematic points of this city are the Nelson Mandela Square and the craft market. In addition, the city streets are filled with public art and in order to have a more accurate picture of events, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is worth it.
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Wine Route Those who enjoy a good glass of wine should visit, at least a section of, this route that extends 160 kilometers east of Cape Town. The road, narrow and quaint, joins extensive and fertile valleys where the most renowned wineries are located on the African continent. The oldest production company in the country is Groot Constantia, its hull was built in
1685 and a a museum there operates with antiques from the seventeenth century. Other interesting stops on this route are the towns of Stellenbosch, Franschoek and Paarl, the three were founded in the first century XVII and the three retain the imprint of European settlers.
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WHERE TO STAY These hotels are available through The Registry Collection: • Zimbali Beach Estate, Durban: With architecture inspired by Indonesia, this ecological hotel is the perfect retreat overlooking both a forest protected and the crystalline sea. • Vacation Club Collection IFA Zimbali, Kwazulu Natal: just 25 minutes from Durban, animal lovers will love antelopes running free and the singing of different kinds of birds. All in a luxurious five-star hotel • Legacy Private Residences: Castleburn, Underberg: the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains, these residences offer peace and tranquility as well as guided horseback riding to see the local wildlife walks. * To book today, call 01 (800) 841 8390 or visit theregistrycollection.com
EXCITING AND FIERCE
Blue Train The most interesting way to travel the thousand 500 kilometers that separate Pretoria (capital) from Cape Town is aboard the legendary Blue Train. It is a palace on wheels with luxurious cabins, lounges, restaurant, bar, a huge suite with living room and bedroom. But the major attraction is the panoramic win-
dows that let you enjoy the savannah and jungle. While the journey is long, 30 hours, attractions make the trip feel short. Some of the most striking points are crossing the mountains of Wittenberg, the tunnel system Hex River (the longest in the fourth planet), Hex Valley, Victoria Falls and wildlife.
Safaris depart from Johannesburg to Kruger, the largest and renowned national park in the country. Its area is 19,000 km2, so it’s as big as France. What we see there is an experience that very few places in the world offer: a direct and intimate contact with wild animals living in their natural habitat. Due to the size of the site and the speed of the animals to hide from prying eyes, you are required to go on watching trips with an expert guide, otherwise it is very difficult to take advantage of the tour. However, it is common to see herds of elephants, lions devouring prey, rhinos cooling off in a pool of water and hundreds of zebra and antelope. Among such magnificence and variety, what will result as difficult is to decide which activities to choose. But what is certain is that it will leave you a great taste in your mouth.
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Leisure
by: The Editorial Dept.  photos: Courtesy
The luxury of relaxation The healing properties of water and minerals have been exploited since Egyptian times. They are now a luxury, especially for those people living under stress and pressure. We invite you to know a little about the spa treatments so you are encouraged to try them.
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Maybe the word spa comes from espa, which means fountain in Walloon, a Ro-
mance language from the area of Belgium. This, in turn, comes from the Belgian town Spa where in the century _ a thermal spring was discovered with healing properties. Furthermore, in Latin the word spagere means dampen and santas per aquas means healing through water. Whatever the origin of the word, nobody can deny that a massage or treatment can make a day better and make a vacation truly relaxing. No wonder three thousand years before Christ the Egyptians already had similar practices to those one can experience today.
THE LUXURY OF REL AXATION
LIVE AQUA MEXICO CITY HOTEL & SPA Paseo de los Tamarindos 98, Bosques de las Lomas Mexico City Phone: (55) 9177 8400
LIVE AQUA CANCUN ALL INCLUSIVE Boulevard Kukulcán Zona Hotelera km 12.5. Frente al centro comercial La Isla, Cancun, Quintana Roo Phone (998) 881 7600
They imported myrrh for its thermal baths and closer to 500 BC began using the thalassotherapy, based on studies of Thales claiming that some diseases could be treated with water therapies. It is known that Cleopatra used to bathe in milk, but also the common resorted to such therapies. In addition to the healing powers of water, Egyptians and Babylonians resorted to all kinds of scents to be “clean and beautiful” and thus gain access to a superior spirituality at the time of their death. Myrrh and cinnamon were some of the ingredients used in their ointments. But it was not only about smelling good, in 1817 a document known as the Ebers Scroll over 800 recipes for curing different diseases
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through recipes and herbal remedies are discovered. For asthma a mixture of herbs on a hot brick that the person inhaled was recommended; he also had recipes for all kinds of stomach pain that he cured with cow’s milk and honey, but for cancer tumors said there was nothing to do. Today all these skills are used and applied to the hectic pace of life led by some people. Water therapies are known for their multiple benefits for people who have even had surgeries: modern treatments with thermal pools and minerals, Roman baths and hydrotherapy are used. In addition, bathrooms with herbs and minerals help both physical relaxation and skin care to have a better psychological attitude.
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While there has been scientifically shown that spa therapists ensure that the application of aromatic treatments and mineral nutrients directly to the skin helps them pass the tissues of the body to help improve its functions, rejuvenate the skin and relieve muscular pain and related arthritis and rheumatism. But above all, a good spa session helps to eliminate fatigue, reduce stress and anxiety, and insomnia. There really is no greater feeling of relaxation after a massage or treatment.
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FEEL URBAN DAY SPA BY AQUA
This spa is in one of the best areas in Mexico City, everything is designed for maximum enjoyment of the senses. It is a sublime retreat that makes you forget that you are in the middle of a big city. There are different treatments for all kinds of people and tastes: aromatherapy, body and facial treatments, nine different types of massage. It also has a unique system of hydrotherapy with sauna, steam, jacuzzi mixed playful, Swiss and pressure shower.
Feel Urban Day Spa by Aqua, like any spa is a place to relax and feel rejuvenated, so it is important to leave out cell phones. Arrive half an hour early to prepare, plus you must fill out a form with medical information to avoid any mishap. But if you want to enjoy all the facilities- which we recommend- arrive an hour earlier. So that everything runs smoothly, choose and book early treatments, think about what you want out of this experience. Finally, relax and enjoy!
THE LUXURY OF REL AXATION
THE SEARCH FOR RELAXATION THROUGH THERAPY WITH HERBS AND WATER HAS BEEN PRESENT FOR FIVE THOUSAND YEARS, TAKE THE ANCIENT TECHNIQUES OFFERED BY SPAS.
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PDT treatments Learn about some of the treatments offered in our hotels to arrive more than prepared and ready to relax. Swedish massage Classical massage that incorporates a subtle manipulation of the muscles of the neck and back with the use of select oils. It helps the circulation and renewal. It is the right treatment for a perceptible relaxation. Massage Le Vin You will feel the sensations of the wine therapy through various deep therapeutic techniques with benefits such as renewal, strength and rejuvenating spirit. You can choose your favorite grape: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Malbec. Deep tissue massage A therapeutic massage aimed at the deeper layers of muscles for a total relaxation. Penetrating pressure for those who work constantly practicing a sport or seek relief after intense activity. Fusion massage by four hands Two therapists perfectly synchronize various techniques that will lead to a state of immense and sublime relaxation thanks to an unimaginable connection between healing hands and you. Soffio d’Polynesia The use of coconut (symbol of the Tahitian people), enriched with ylangylang is ideal to stimulate circulation for its moisturizing properties; and its intense floral aroma, instills calm and relaxation during the massage. The perfect balance between mental and physical relaxation. Exfoliation from honey A scrub made with pure honey: honey crystallized particles exfo-
liate your skin, removing dead surface cells and with the touch of water, honey crystals melt and turn into a luxurious massage cream. The skin is ready to receive an invigorating bulb and the treatment ends with the application of a nourishing body cream made of yogurt and vitamin C. Anti-aging wraparound of mango and passion fruit An experience of aromatherapy with mango and passion fruit that you will enjoy while the anti-aging salts foam is applied to remove dead cells and toxins from your skin, leaving it soft to mineralize the energy of the tropics into your skin. Wraparound coffee ritual Start with a fresh exfoliation that removes dead skin cells and increases circulation. It helps reduce cellulite with the implementation of a wonderful wrap containing coffee extract and seaweed. We seal the treatment with a delicious and aromatic moisturizer. Anti-aging facial incense It is the ideal treatment for very dry and dehydrated skin; this facial will moisturize, tone and make it more elastic and luminous. Its unique actives will make your skin return to life looking healthy and radiant. A trip on aromatherapy and the benefits of incense. Luxury Caviar Facial Intensive special treatment for mature skin that offers a powerful combination of anti-aging repairment ingredients: 100% pure caviar with pearl powder, collagen and elastin, which soften and relax wrinkles.
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