Contents 24
BROWSE
08
Festivals, news and offers 06 Around the world
32
Travel Journal Features and travelogues 28 Learn cooking in Thailand
08 Travel Scanner
36
TAKE OFF Travel ideas and destinations 16 Kenya: The new honeymoon destination 24 Party like a local in Moscow
08
26 PICK POCKET Pocket Size Travel Guides 36 San Francisco 36 Macao 36 Puducherry
QUICK ESCAPES Weekend Getaways 30 Discover the hills of Nainital on a cycle
64
58
32 Jamaica is a foodie’s paradise 34 Discover south Goa's scenic beauty
CHECK-IN Where to Stay? 38 32nd milestone- Your stop on the highway 40 Sheraton Zhuhai sets foot in Chinese Riviera
PICTURE THIS Your pictures, your stories
38
CULINARY MAPPING Food, restaurants and experts 42 Wine and dine in Bangkok
58 Street side grubs
66
70
46 Could your food scare you? 48 Eat healthy, stay fit 50 Choose your pick from the best brunches
48 LOUNGE Leisure, Fashion And Entertainment 64 Meet Ranveer Singh 66 Alishaan Pakistan- An ode to fashion 70 Latest buzz from around town
CEO’S NOTE Dear readers This issue is a buffet of some of the best food stories, ideas and reviews. I am sure while reading it, you will feel like savouring the exotic dishes we have written about. Hope you enjoy reading it. Best wishes! Cheers Shivani Joon
team CEO Shivani Joon EDITOR-IN CHIEF Shweta Joon EDITOR Natascha Shah ASSISTANT EDITOR Nidhi Joshi CONTRIBUTORS Aarti Kapur Singh, Rupali Dean Akansha Dean Marketing HEAD OF MARKETING Hiten Mori (Rajput) GM MARKETING Manoj K Singhal Mohd. Anas Rafat Vishu Gaba Deepna Kumar Vastvikta Tokas Jyotika
The first thing that comes to my mind as soon as I turn the calendar page to October (Ok as soon as my cell phone shows it's 1st October) is, celebration. In India, specially this month marks the onset of festivals and the wedding season, which also means FOOD. A gathering/ party/ function/ event is incomplete without food, in fact food lies at the epicentre of any occasion. So we decided to do 'The Foodies' Issue', which brings together the best restaurants, culinary journeys, chef secrets, gastronomical holidays, and a potpourri of flavours all packed in one dish!
DESIGN AND LAYOUT Vikas Negi
From crazy experiences like human sushi to street food that will make you swoon, best brunches in town to the must-eats in Bangkok, we have it all covered.
Production Hasrat Ali Imran Khan
We also bring to you some great festive buys and a peak into Moscow's bustling nightlife!
HEAD OF DISTRIBUTION Siddharth Joon
And ladies, we have an exclusive interview with Ranveer Singh, hold those giggles and enjoy the feast!
Editorial & Marketing Office: Blue Butterfly Media House B-20, Nangal Devat, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi-110070 For Ads Contact advertise@tlfmagazine.com Phone: +91 9871871170 +91 9717546999 For editorial queries: editor@tlfmagazine.com editorinchief@tlfmagazine.com
On the cover: Picture Courtesy Shutterstock
DISCLAIMER Printed and published by Shivani Joon on behalf of Blue Butterfly Media House. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices are correct at the time of going to press but are subject to change. Manuscripts, drawings and other materials must be accompanied by a stamped addressed envelope. However, TLF cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. Please note that all images that we use in the magazine are TLF ‘s property and subjected to copyright . They should not and cannot be used anywhere else without our consent . If you see such a thing happen please report to info@tlfmagazine.com
Cheers! Natascha Shah Editor TLF magazine Write to me at editor@tlfmagazine.com
Culinary World View Mapping
Around the
World
The Masskara Festival
When: Third weekend of October or closest weekend to October 19 Where: Bacolod City, Occidental, Philippnes
Negros
Held every third weekend of October in Bacolod City, the Masskara Festival is a fun-filled pageantry that will give you several days of sensory overload. Local and foreign visitors get a chance to enjoy 20 days of merry making, dining and street-dancing. Bacalod is the capital city of the country's sugar-producing province of Bocalenos. People, garbed in elegant and ingenious costumes, dance on the streets. Costumes are made with fabrics of different colours and patterns, embellished with exotic feathers, shiny sequins, multicoloured beads and paired with towering headgear. Throughout the week, people from all over the Visayas, gather at the town plaza and join BacoleĂąos in the non-stop round of festivities. Even if you don't feel like dancing and singing, the pig-catching and pole climbing competitions are musts. You can also try your luck and test your skills in mask-making contests, Disco King and Queen competitions, and coconut-milk drinking, to name a few.
6 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Jodhpur RIFF
When: October 8 -12
Where: Jodhpur, Rajasthan Are you a folk music lover? If yes, then get ready for a delightful time at the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) 2014 in Jodhpur. During this time, the royal city of Jodhpur will welcome more than 250 musicians and performing artists from across India and overseas who will come together and celebrate Rajasthan's musical heritage, create music through innovative collaborations accompanied with an interesting fusion of international and local folk music and exciting performances. This beautiful music festival will be set against the grand backdrop of the Mehrangarh Fort and will feature an assortment of events like a jazz night, a Rajasthani night, gypsy and traditional dance forms and early morning ragas to soothe you. Don't miss attending this fest as the divine music flowing to every corner of the fort will enchant, embrace and caress your soul.
28th Macao International Music Festival When: Oct 3 - Nov 1 Where: Macao
The Macao International Music Festival, a major annual event attracting hundreds of thousands to the city in October and November, assembles internationally renowned artists from all over the world in a feast of the senses. The programme typically features opera, orchestra and chamber music, Chinese folk music, jazz, Broadway numbers and a dynamic mix of all things musical from every corner of the globe. Several World Heritage sites such as Dom Pedro V Theatre, Mount Fortress and St. Dominic’s Church serve as inspiring settings for various concerts and performances.
Frieze London 2014 When: October 15 -18 Where: London
Frieze London is the contemporary art event of the year. In addition to being able to see and buy art by over 1,000 of the world’s leading artists, the fair features Frieze Projects, the fair’s unique and critically acclaimed programme of artist commissions and Frieze Talks, a prestigious programme of debates, panel discussions and keynote lectures. This year, the fair also introduces Live – a new section dedicated to ambitious performance based installations. Live includes work specially conceived for the fair as well as the restaging of historical pieces.
Treasure Island Music Festival When: October 18-19, 2014
Frieze London is housed in a bespoke structure in The Regent’s Park. Located in the heart of London, it is within easy walking distance of the city’s West End.
Where: San Francisco
Using the skyline as a backdrop, Treasure Island is one of the best natural venues for music. Produced by Noise Pop and Another Planet Entertainment, this music festival has grown to become one of the west coast’s most-loved festivals capping out the festival season, not just for the fans who attend, but for the artists themselves. With no overlapping sets, Bay Area cuisine, and the gorgeous, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay serving as the festival’s backdrop, Treasure Island Music Festival is like no other festival experience in the U.S. The festival has played host to a number of music’s most incredible names, including LCD Soundsystem, Death Cab For Cutie, The xx, The Flaming Lips, Deadmau5, She & Him, MGMT, Girl Talk, Vampire Weekend, Belle & Sebastian, M.I.A., Die Antwoord, Modest Mouse, The Raconteurs, Beach House and more. TLF Magazine October 2014 7
Browse
Evason Hua Hin welcomes Six Senses Spa
Six Senses Spa returns to the popular resort Evason Hua Hin, which is located three hours by car from Bangkok and ideally situated on the Gulf of Siam. Set in the heart of the resort, the spa provides a peaceful sanctuary away from the bustle of Hua Hin. It has been expertly integrated into the surrounding landscape of lush gardens and lotus ponds, and brings together traditional Thai features with modern facilities. The spa offers a comprehensive menu of signature massages, facials and body treatments as well as specialist therapies and beauty treatments to revitalise the body and calm the mind. Guests can kick-start their wellness routine with a three day detox program combining specialist treatments with wellness cuisine and cleansing juices, Thai herbal supplements, fitness and yoga. Private and group classes of yoga, meditation and Tai Chi are also on offer.
Travel
Scanner WORDS | NIDHI JOSHI
For more info: www.sixsenses.com
Las Vegas celebrates autumn
Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens welcome the arrival of fall with scenery, scents and sounds that celebrate the crisp season. On display through November 30, the harvest show features fall favorites including pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, oversized orange-yellow leaves as well as more than 51,000 seasonal flowers. The centerpiece of the harvest display, a 40 foot tall watermill creates a soothing environment as it pumps water into the pond below. Creating a stunning pathway and photo opportunity for guests at the entrance of the Conservatory, two glittering pergolas are complemented by twinkling birch trees and water arches illuminated with fall colors. Two live 45 minute musical performances take place daily from 4:30 to 5:15 pm and 5:45 to 6:30 pm, filling Bellagio’s Conservatory with sounds of violins, harps and flutes. Guests will enjoy a violin solo Sunday through Thursday and a flute and harp duo Fridays and Saturdays. Valid through November 30, open 24/7 and entry is complimentary. m
d www.LasVegas.co
w.lvcva.com an For more info: ww
8 TLF Magazine October 2014
Fly high with Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways welcomed A 380 – a new star to its fleet, at a ceremony in Hamburg hosted by Airbus. In the presence of His Excellency Akbar Al Baker, group chief executive, Qatar Airways and Fabrice Brégier, president and CEO, Airbus the airline took delivery of the first of its 10 Airbus A380 aircraft on order. As a five-star performer, the A380 has become a firm favourite with passengers and airlines, due to the smoothness of the flight, quietness of the cabin and the spaciousness of the overall aircraft layout. All seats are equipped with the latest entertainment systems and the stylish and comfortable interiors for Qatar Airways’ A380 will accommodate a total of 517 people – 461 in Economy, 48 in Business and eight in First Class, featuring the widest first-class seats in the industry. The aircraft has two full-length passenger decks- First and Business Class cabins will both be located on the aircraft’s upper deck, along with a special lounge area for premium passengers.
For more information: www.airbus.com or www.qatarairways.com
For reservations call: + (34) 93 151 88 88 or visit www.mandarinoriental.com
Enjoy Opera with Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona, launches a new Opera Package for the season 2014-2015 which includes luxurious accommodation at one of the hotel’s exclusive new suites. Created for music and cultural lovers, this special two-night programme includes luxury accommodation in one of the hotel’s exclusive suites with butler service, combined with a private experience at the prestigious Opera House, Gran Teatre del Liceu. Guests will have VIP seats, a private tour to discover the secrets of the theatre, a glass of champagne in the most ancient private club in Spain Circulo del Liceo, plus a cold dinner served in the restaurant of the club, which is usually only accessible to members. At the end of the performance, guests will be escorted backstage to the artists’ dressing rooms to meet with the singers.This package is valid from 15 September 2014 to 27 June 2015. Rates start from EUR 5.700 on twin sharing basis.
TLF Magazine October 2014 9
Browse
Family staycation at Avasa, Hyderabad
Avasa, a five star property in Hyderabad offers exclusive family staycation packages for travellers looking for stay options especially for a weekend getaway. The package is designed to let you enjoy with your family and friends, invigorate your senses and experience the most luxurious and fun filled escape. Priced at INR 5200 per night, it is inclusive of all taxes and offers a room on twin sharing basis with children below 12 years at no additional cost in Avasa Silver room. They also offer complimentary buffet breakfast, wi-fi, buffet (one meal) at their all day dining restaurant Pi and many more facilities.
For more info Call: +91 40 67282828 or visit: www.hotelavasa.com
Himalayan sojourn at Aamod
Planning for a long weekend in October? Look no further than Bhimtal, Uttarakhand. You can rejuvenate your body and soul at Aamod@Bhimtal which has a contemporary design and chic décor. The location is the USP of the hotel with untouched oak and pine trees on one side and a small lake on the other. The accommodation is comfortable and categories range from Standard, Deluxe and Suites. Each of the 43 rooms is tastefully designed keeping in mind the element of comfort for the guests. Validity: Till 31 October, 2014
Price: Starts at INR 3,500 per 2 adults per night
Holidaying in a fort
Ramathra Fort in Rajasthan is a private fort perched on a slight hill and is only two hours drive from Ranthambore National Park. It offers six custom designed full facility tents and six beautiful suites in the palace. This place is a delight for bird watchers and offers some of the best walking trails in the region. It has also has great potential for off road cycling. There are other leisure activities that can be organised on request which include boating in the lake, village trails, cycling trails, day excursion to Karauli city or the Kaila Devi National Park. Guests are served home cooked meals. The packages starting at INR 14,500 inclusive of all meals are valid from October 1, 2014 to September 30, 2015.
10 TLF Magazine October 2014
.in
2, Visit: www.aamod
ll: +91-124-490860
For reservations Ca
For more information: www.ramathrafort.com
Drive through the desert
Overlander India offers an off roading experience in the desert of Rajasthan. Their first package offers driving into the wilderness of western Rajasthan which lets the enthusiasts visit homes and see the lives of various tribal communities living in complete harmony with nature. One can also spot wildlife like black buck, chinkara and various migratory birds. This program is tailored as a drive from Jodhpur to Udaipur and is priced at INR 5000 per person, however it could be customised. The second package priced at INR 20,000 per couple lets you enjoy a night stay at their campsite at Sar near Luni in their twin camp beds with attached bathroom. All meals and rental of 4 x 4 vehicles is included in the package. For more details: www.rareindia.com
A leading loyalty program from Starwood
For more information: www.spg.com/pro
Starwood Preferred Guest® (SPG®), the awardwinning loyalty program from Starwood Hotels and Resorts is breaking new ground in customer loyalty and personalisation with the debut of SPG Pro, an all-new, comprehensive loyalty program for meeting and travel professionals. Set to debut in October 2014, this new program will offer meeting and travel professionals SPG elite status, upgrades and Starpoints for B2B business booked at any of Starwood’s nearly 1,200 properties around the world. Plus going forward, any SPG member who books a group stay, event or corporate business meeting, regardless of if they are a travel professional or not, will earn Starpoints and status for the business they influence.
New pool residence unveiled at Naladhu Maldives
Naladhu, meaning ‘beautiful island’, is home to an exclusive collection of nineteen houses, each named after a Maldivian plant. The new Two Bedroom Pool Residence has been crowned Finifenma, meaning Rose, and is the ultimate getaway destination for the discerning tourists. There is an impressive wood carved gate that marks the entrance revealing the 600 sq mt of ocean facing indulgence. The al fresco dining terrace leads to a 95 sq mt pool edged by a sun deck with a dining pavilion and sala at each end. There is also butler’s kitchen and a well stocked pantry available.
For more information: www.naladhu.anantara.com
TLF Magazine October 2014 11
Browse
Park Hotel Group Offers Staycation
Park Hotel Group, one of Asia Pacific’s best hospitality groups, offers exclusive ‘Staycation’ packages to make the most of the upcoming holiday season. With properties spread across frequented destinations like Singapore and Hong Kong, now the discerning traveller can simply book spur-of-the-moment getaway with friends, romantic escapade or weekend bonding retreat with their families at any of the Park properties. ‘Staycation’ offers daily F&B credits upto INR (3069 approx), free wi-fi and late check-out till 3pm, valid till 31st December 2014. There is also complimentary smart phone service with unlimited free 3G data, local and international calls to 27 countries. For more information: www.parkhotelgroup.com
Celebrate Diwali at Cidade de Goa
Cidade de Goa, a five star deluxe resort located right on Vainguinim Beach offers its special Diwali Holiday Package with three exciting plans –Discover Fun, Discover Happiness and Discover Luxury that allows you to choose the holiday you plan to have at the resort. The panoramic view of the Arabian Sea on entering the lobby of the resort, tastefully done rooms and suites with beachfront vistas greet the guests. For the discerning connoisseur, there awaits an array of award-winning dining delights including the chef’s specialty dining, an open-air beachfront grill, global cuisine as well as authentic Goan cuisine. The highlight of this package is a sumptuous Diwali Gala Dinner on the festive day 23rd October that will take you on a gastronomic voyage. The Discover Fun package starts from INR 11,000 plus taxes and is valid till 15th November 2014.
For further information: www.cidadedegoa.com
Enjoy Manali at Quality Inn
Now the travellers have a new reason to visit Manali. Quality Inn River Country Resort, Manali offers pacakage deals starting at INR 13,999 plus taxes. There are several other packages to choose from and it includes accommodation for 3 nights, buffet breakfast and dinner, complimentary usage of gym and discotheque and 15 per cent discount on spa treatments, valid till 20th December 2014. All rooms enjoy a spectacular view of the mountain ranges, cedar forests and the garden. All suites have independent fire places, balconies and Jacuzzi tubs with a massage panel. For families on vacation, the hotel offers 2 bedroom and 4 bedroom cottages. For more information: www.qualityinn.com
12 TLF Magazine October 2014
Browse | Sample
An ode to female travellers The Leela Palace, New Delhi introduces ‘Kamal’, an exclusive experience for female travellers WORDS | tlf desk
T
he flagship property of the The Leela group in New Delhi recently introduced ‘Kamal’, which is an experience of its kind, thoughtfully created to offer maximum comfort and privacy to single lady travellers. Kamal which literally means Lotus-the national flower of India is replete with bespoke female-friendly services. The celebration of luxury begins at the touch down when a guest is received by the dedicated Leela team at the airport and ushered into the multi-faceted city in a chauffeur driven BMW sedan. With handpicked in-room amenities ranging from special food and beverage welcome and turn down amenities, luxury toiletries by Gilchrist and Soames, choice of lifestyle
magazines and newspapers, selection of books by leading female Indian authors, yoga mats, styling accessories, high-speed internet access and a fully-equipped business desk, Kamal has everything a woman needs. Wide array of Kamal services can be added to an accommodation category of choice at an introductory price of INR 2000 per night only, plus taxes.Speaking on the occasion, Louis Sailer, general manager, The Leela Palace New Delhi said, “Kamal is an ode to every female traveller from across the globe and I am confident that it is sure to spoil you for choice.” For more info: www.theleela.com
"Kamal which literally means Lotus, the national flower of India is replete with bespoke female-friendly services"
Kamal offers bespoke female friendly services
14 TLF Magazine October 2014
Take Off
Safari, Seclusion and Sunshine Kenya is a romantic country that proves to be an ideal honeymoon destination with its iconic wildlife, epic landscapes, ancient wonders and an incredible variety of cultures
T
WORDS | TLF DESK
his vast and beautiful continent is a perfect place for newlyweds looking to experience the ultimate romantic getaway. A honeymoon, after all, is once-in-a-lifetime affair, so why not make it unforgettable. From a candle-lit desert oasis to a dreamy tropical archipelago, Kenya has a wide variety to offer. Whether it’s spotting the real-life cast of the Lion King, exploring a big city, or lazing around on some of the best unspoiled beaches in the world, Kenya’s got every honeymooner’s wish list covered. Honeymooners who are looking for more adventure will love Kenya's Maasai Mara National Park. The Masai Mara, one of Kenya's most popular parks, is home to a stunning variety of animals including the famous "Big 5" of the African grasslands and serves as the backdrop to the world's most awe-inspiring animal migration. Beyond the wildlife and unique local culture, couples can also reserve stays at some of the more luxurious bush camps and spend their evenings sipping exotic drinks riverside or taking an al-fresco shower while the sun sets
Beautiful setting for a romantic dinner for two
16 TLF Magazine October 2014
over the countryside. You can have plush or rustic accommodations as you wish and almost all camps and small lodges have a "honeymoon tent" or "honeymoon suite" located away to ensure maximum privacy. When you are in Maasai Mara, there is no better way to start the day than rising gently above the plains in a hot air balloon. As you ascend, dawn begins to creep over the horizon, illuminating the landscape in an ethereal light and setting the scene as the animals begin to stir and a new day begins. As you float in the air you will have a bird's eye view of the wildlife. Hour-long excursions set off at dawn and end with champagne breakfasts. This incredible once in a lifetime experience offers fantastic view of Kenya's scenic splendour. At Kenya’s Western frontier lays the great expanse of Lake Victoria. This massive lake, commonly known as Nyanza, is twice the size of Wales. The
destination carries magic to spice up your married life. Enjoy breathtaking views and the natural beauty of the surrounding. The sun shines brightly, and gentle breezes rise from the water. The best way to appreciate the beauty of this region is on the lake itself. Enjoy a drink with your partner as the sun goes down. Indulge in conversation with your spouse under the relaxing embers of a campfire. Listen to the sounds of animals in the forest as darkness falls on the graceful plains like a blanket. One of the real joys is to spend a night sleeping out under the stars with your partner. Yes it can come true only in Kenya. Placed on a high wooden platform, with a private bathroom under a thatched roof, star bed is wheeled out from under the thatch to make your night one of the most memorable. The sounds of Africa are all around you. You look up into a huge starry sky and are lulled to sleep to
the distant call of the leopard. It offers the honeymooners privacy and serenity as they enjoy the nature’s wonders around them. Loisaba Wilderness is outstandingly beautiful with its abundant wildlife. Whether sleeping under the undisturbed African night sky on unique Star Beds, rafting down the majestic Ewaso Ngiro and Ng'are Narok Rivers or watching Africa’s best wildlife stroll past on a game drive, a visit to Loisaba will revive your mind, rejuvenate your body and revitalise your soul. If relaxation is more your thing, the country boasts stunning, white sandy beaches, and great lakes overflowing with elegant flamingo. Or, for the more adventurous, discover the vast forests and deserts and some truly fascinating towns and villages, including Nairobi, the thriving capital city.
"Whether it’s spotting the real-life cast of the Lion King, exploring a big city, or lazing around on some of the best unspoiled beaches in the world, Kenya’s got every honeymooner’s wish list covered”
Fact File Capital: Nairobi
Currency: Kenyan Shilling
National Airline: Kenya Airways
TLF Magazine October 2014 17
Take Off
Workshop for Bread & Breckfast- (Left to Right) Vikas Rastogi, regional director, ministry of tourism, Santosh Misra, MD
Chhattisgarh: Exploring new vistas Chhattisgarh Tourism plans to initiate interesting and innovative home-stay establishment for tourists WORDS | TLF DESK
N
ow travellers have a new reason to pay a visit to Chhattisgarh. Chhattisgarh Tourism Board offers an innovative experience of holidaying there to witness the colourful tribal life up close with its Bed and Breakfast and Home Stay Establishment Scheme. The initiative will introduce the traditional Chhattisgarhi lifestyle to the tourists wherein they can stay with
What to see Ancient Caves
Famous waterfalls Temples Wildlife
Tribal culture
More info: www.chhattisgarhtourism.net
18 TLF Magazine October 2014
the local tribal families and savour the Chhattisgarhi cuisines, lifestyle and culture. They can soak in the exquisite tribal crafts, rich tradition and stunning landscapes. The program is aimed at improving and increasing the stay facilities at a tourist location which can thus be developed as a unique benefit for the local community. To promote the initiative, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board jointly hosted a workshop with Ministry of Tourism, Government of India recently on ‘Incredible India Bed & Breakfast/ Home Stay Establishment’ scheme at Hyatt, Raipur. With this experiential culture, the Board also aims to accentuate the state’s unique attractions like waterfalls, ancient temples, tribal culture, flora and fauna along with traditions and cuisine to create an allround holistic experience for the tourist coming into the state.
One of the many temples in Chhattisgarh
Take Off | 24 Hours
NIAGARA FALLS: Hear the roar 24 hours are not enough to soak in the beauty of the Niagara Falls. Discover the essence of Canada with the cascading and gurgling waters that will be music to your ears and a delight to your eyes WORDS | RUPALI DEAN
DAY 1 10: 00 am: Hornblower Niagara Cruise
At the falls, board the Hornblower Niagara cruise, a boat that will take you really close to the falls. When you take an elevator ride down to the dock in exchange for your tickets you receive plastic red ponchos which come in adult and children sizes. You’ll feel the mist, hear the roar of the falls, and sense the boat fighting the strong current of the Niagara River. The turbulence is amazing as several million gallons of water falls per second from over 175 feet above and when you turn around there are vibrant rainbows everywhere you look. The mist lasts for just a moment, but it’s worth it. I just loved my face full of mist and a view full of the cascading water.
11: 00 am: Journey Behind The Falls
To get here you need to go to the Table Rock Centre where a big sign reads ‘Journey behind the falls’. Once off the elevator, towards the left (right is the tunnels) is a platform which is mere yards away from the edge of the Horseshoe Falls! There are many signs showing the erosion of the falls, history of the falls, and some miracles of the falls (a boy who survived a fall at the falls). While going through the tunnels you can hear the roar of water. Also, there are openings where you see just a sheet of white!
12: 30 pm: Lunch
There are plenty of options to munch with a stunning view of the falls. You can even dine at the Rainbow Room at The Crown Plaza Hotel.
20 TLF Magazine October 2014
3:00 pm: Canada One Factory Outlet Mall The lay out here is like a horseshoe with Nike, Reebok, Sketchers, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Levis and many other showrooms. We got half way round and then decided to go for a drink , post which went back to do some more shopping which turned out to be very successful! In addition to the discounted prices, the staff will tell you about additional deals one can get. I would definitely recommend a visit to this Mall and it will only take you half a day. It is accessible by the frequent buses that pass by or there are taxis available (parked in the central car park) if you buy too much to manage on the bus! 9:00 pm: Fireworks Evening Cruise While Niagara Falls offers many opportunities to cruise and get soaked I would certainly recommend an evening cruise viewing the Falls lit up at night, and a up close and personal fireworks display. This option is a recent addition by Hornblower Cruises. The experience is amazing and the Falls are gorgeously illuminated. The Hornblower boats are big and you would love the drink you can order on board in the evening cruise. Late dinner options are aplenty or you could probably hang out at a pub till the wee hours of the morning.
DAY 2
A capitaving view of Horseshoe Falls
10: 00 am: Niagara Helicopters Niagara Helicopters operating on the Canadian side of the Falls boasts one of the best rides and the ride absolutely lives up to the promise of great views. It is one thing to see Niagara Falls from ground level but another to get an aerial view of the Horseshoe, American and Bridal Veil falls. Beginning with the Sir Adam Beck Generating plant and the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, the tour moves on to the Niagara River from the Whirlpool area over the Whirlpool Rapids and the Rainbow Bridge. The green grass and floral beauty of Queen Victoria Park stretches below as it passes by the American Falls and the Skylon Tower. It changes direction following the curve of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The ride was of course over in a jiffy and some might argue that the price for a 12-minute ride (including boarding time) priced at $ 137 is way too expensive. But I think it was absolutely worth it more so with large panoramic windows perfect for snapping photos. TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 21
Take Off | 24 Hours 11:00 am: Inniskillin Estate Winery
The best ice wine in the world is made at the Niagara peninsula owing to the climate, warm summers and ice-cold winters with of course great soil for growing grapes. There are over 100 wineries in Lower Ontario which are well marked and not too far from each other. My tour at the ‘Inniskillin winery’ began in the beautiful courtyard and I learnt there how grapes are grown and harvested. Inside the winery were gleaming metal containers which crush, filter and facilitate the fruit into juice. It was very modern, clean and crisp quite like a factory. Stepping into a different atmosphere of dark serenity, the guide brought me to the cool underworld where oak casks work their magic to turn patience into delight – the wine cellar. After being educated on wines the tour ended in a tasting room and a lunch in the vineyards.
Beautiful town of Niagara-on-the-lake
Illuminated Niagara Falls
Enjoy romantic dinner at White Oaks
2: 00 pm: Niagara-On-The-Lake The next stop was the little quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake which looked its best with pristinely pruned flowers and was filled to the brim with tourists, all roving along the many shops that lined the main street. After a browse in the treasure cove of specialty shops, cafes and galleries in this beautiful historic town we decided to stop by for some English Tea and scones accompanied with blueberry and raspberry jam and fresh cream. 4:00 pm: Outlet Collection Niagara The largest outlet mall in this area and the epicentre of shopping offers the finest collection of luxury and trendsetting retailers in a magnificent setting of 22 TLF Magazine October 2014
A couple enjoying a meal at Horseshoe
internationally acclaimed 20th and 21st century art, award-winning architecture and extraordinary landscaping. It offers the best shopping selection in all categories and at all price-points– from trend-setting retailers such as Hugo Boss, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike and many more; to luxury retailers such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Pandora, Versace and many more. And if you get tired in between you could opt for a coffee and cake from Tim Hortons or simply grab a bite from the many food outlets.
7: 00 pm: Dinner at The White Oaks Resort and Spa The ambience at ‘Liv’ is stunning, contemporary and oh so poetic! The tastefully designed restaurant is trendy and the menu enticing and indulgent. There are no mediocre dishes here; the focus in every dish is prime ingredients which elicit the real flavour of every natural element. Needless to add that being here is reason enough; soaking in an enchanting villa setting while enjoying a selection of Niagara viands.
INTERESTING FACTS Niagara Falls spills 750,000 gallons of water per second down a 167-foot drop in a roar that began when glaciers melted 10,000 years ago. Charles Blondin was the first of many daredevils to cross Niagara Falls by tightrope.
The Canadian Horseshoe Falls’ vertical plunge measures up to 57 metres in height, and more than 168,000 cubic metres (six million cubic feet) of water go over the crest line every minute during peak daytime hours, enough to fill 62 Olympic size swimming pools a minute. Ontario’s four wine regions which produce internationally acclaimed, award-winning wines are the Niagara peninsula, the north shores of Lake Erie, the greater Toronto area and in the east, Prince Edward County.
A couple having lunch at Inniskillin Estate Winery
The Niagara Escarpment, which runs along the Bruce Trail, was designated as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations in 1990. It is one of only six such reserves in Canada.
"There are over 100 wineries in Lower Ontario, which are well marked and not too far from each other”
Wine on the evening cruise
TLF Magazine October 2014 23
Take Off | Live like a local
The Night is Young... A lively performance at 16 tons
Moscow has something for everyone – whether you want to spend the night in a Bohemian art café or be in a nostalgia-rich beer club, says Aarti Kapur Singh
N
ightlife in this part of the world is vibrating with energy and exciting beyond limit. Whether you are a jazz aficionado, a hardcore clubber, or just a plain old alcoholic, Moscow has an amazing array of nightlife options and a scene to watch out for. Just surrender yourself and watch being swept along by all the excitement Moscow’s nightlife has to offer. Firstly, a bar or nightclub in Moscow is rarely just that. Nearly every drinking venue in Moscow doubles up as an eatery too and some also multi-task as bowling alley, snooker room, casino and even a book shop. This is probably so because Moscow is such a vast metropolis, and getting around in cabs is expensive. These multi-purpose venues 24 TLF Magazine October 2014
often charge a cover, but it's rather best to choose your spot for the night and stick with it.
Gipsy
Thanks to its big summer terrace with a picturesque view of the Moscow River, Gipsy remains one of the most popular party location. A big indoor dance floor with a bar in the middle, disco balls hanging from the ceiling and walls upholstered in fake cheetah skins help sustain the party atmosphere. Some of the city’s best techno jams take place here on Fridays, while Saturdays are reserved for mash-ups. During the day, Gipsy transforms into a good restaurant, which we highly recommend visiting in summer for lunch on the terrace.
"There is an old Russian tradition where drivers offer rides to strangers in exchange for some fee. Keep it in your mind; there is no ride for free in Moscow"
Propaganda
This evergreen favourite in Basmanny is a stalwart of the Moscow nightlife scene and looks more like an abandoned warehouse –
with exposed brick walls and piped ceilings. The only club that is open every night of week, Propaganda is free to enter, with cheap drinks, and attracts a lively student crowd. Sanches' Thursdays is a favourite night for deep house, and every Friday is a special 'Warehouse' clubnight.It is a café by day but takes on the identity of a throbbing nightclub once the DJ spins his EDM and techno sets. It is a friendly place with a relaxed atmosphere.
Sixteen Tons
Sixteen Tons is another veteran of the Moscow nightlife scene. The first floor of the building is occupied by a pub and a restaurant, whereas the second is reserved for parties and music shows. As one of the best music venues in Moscow, it regularly hosts gigs by local musicians, as well as the likes of Mogwai, Crystal Castles, Husky Rescue and other international stars. Concerts are often followed by parties of the most diverse types, ranging from transvestite freak shows to dubstep and underground hip-hop jams. For $ 5 you can enjoy a glass of Sixteen Tons' signature beer.
Propaganda which looks like an abandoned warehouse
Solyanka
Solyanka is widely believed to be Moscow’s central nightclub. Once called a “hipster stronghold”, Solyanka is located in an antique mansion in the centre of Moscow. To enter the club, one has to climb up a marble spiral staircase leading to the first floor. The dance floor is the last of the rooms and also the most spacious. Parties are held from Thursday to Saturday (and sometimes on Sundays, too) and the music ranges from techno and house to funk and hiphop. The club also hosts interesting guest performances on a weekly basis. Special mention should be given to the Love Boat party run by famous fashion blogger Vitaly Kozak. During the day, Solyanka transforms into a trendy and quite affordable restaurant and the Thai curries are particularly good. Part restaurant and part club, Solyanka also has its own designer accessories shop and a fashion magazine on site.
Kamchatka
Kamchatka is a city centre pub in a prime location right in front of the city’s most luxurious department store, TSUM (the local version of London’s Selfridges or Milan’s Rinoscente).This two-storey bar, meticulously decorated in Soviet style, is a must-see for any foreigner interested in the drinking and eating habits of Communist
The Hungry Duck is an icon of Moscow's hedonism
Russia. Kamchatka’s menu complements its interior quite harmoniously. 1980s and 1990s Soviet pop songs are played nonstop and the prices are quite affordable. The house specialty beer is called Kamchatka.
The Hungry Duck
No guide to Moscow's nightlife is complete without paying lip service at least, to its most notorious venue. At the peak of its popularity, ‘the Duck’, as it was known, was an icon of Moscow's hedonism until it was closed in 1999 after complaints from members of the Russian State Duma. The bar was reopened in 2012.The bar was known for its uninhibited sexual and sometimes violent atmosphere. Its ‘Ladies
Electro artist Sasha Froloya at Solyanka gives stiff competition to Lady Gaga
Night’ is especially notorious, with male strippers entertaining a packed bar filled with women paying almost no entrance fee and consuming free drinks.
Fast Facts Kremlin, an ancient fortress in Moscow was built around 1331 and is now used as the residence of the Russian president The Russian parliament in Moscow is known as ‘Duma’.
Moscow is home to many world heritage sites like the Kremlin, Red Square, Kolomenskoye Palace and Novodevichy Convent.
TLF Magazine October 2014 25
Take Off
Canada on wheels
Dining cars are generally used on transcontinental trains but they can be added on to other trains upon special request by a group
A kid appreciating the view outside the train
26 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Journeys by road are a great way of learning and connecting with Nature. And when you are taking the VIA Rail to explore Canada you are in for great surprises both in and outside the train
F
WORDS | TLF DESK
or 110 years, VIA Rail Canada has treated its passengers to some of the most spectacular views of the East Coast between Montréal and Halifax. Each journey, each route, each arrival is filled with the promise of happy reunions, fond farewells and wonderful visits. 110 years of excitement on board, at the station, and for years to come. The beauty of travelling by VIA Rail is that you get to immerse yourself in the surroundings and scenery. Gaze out of large windows, and get lost in the vastness of the horizon. Settle into the panoramic section of the train and contemplate the sheer scope and beauty of the magnificent landscape. From Montréal, the train covers thousands of kilometers through countryside communities of the Lower Saint Lawrence, down the Matapédia Valley, across New Brunswick and on to Nova Scotia. With three weekly departures from Montréal and Halifax, VIA Rail Canada offers convenient
ferry or bus connections to Saint John, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton, Newfoundland and Québec City. This journey has a delightful charm with its friendly ambiance, unique dining experience, cosy sleeping accommodations and the warmth and friendliness of its staff. On board the VIA Rail, every detail is attended to so that every type of passenger experiences maximum comfort. The seats are spacious, and accommodations include a couch or armchairs, as well as a bed or superimposed beds. Travelling in style also means dining in style. With a catering service, meals prepared the same day and regional specialties on board, the Montréal– Halifax journey has a flavour all its own. There are always activities to occupy your time on board , such as free Wi-Fi service, Canadian wine tastings, workshops during which you can discover the landscape through culture, Maritime history lessons, and much more.
"There are always activities to occupy your time on board , such as free Wi-Fi service, Canadian wine tastings, workshops during which you can discover the landscape through culture, Maritime history lessons, and much more”
The Via rail network Prairies and Northern Manitoba
Rockies and Pacific
Ontario and Quebec Atlantic
Capital: Ottawa
Currency: Canadian dollar
More information: www.viarail.ca Going where the tracks lead
TLF Magazine October 2014 27
Travel Journal
When in
Thailand cook as thAIs do
Take your love for food to the next level. Join a local cuisine learning, session which gives you the opportunity to learn from the experts and meet food connoisseurs WORDS | AKANKSHA DEAN
Thailand through culinary lens
Think of Thailand and shopping is on high priority, but I thought of discovering Thailand through its culinary streets. On a recent trip to Thailand I did what usually the tourists would not do. I enrolled myself in a one day cooking course in the kitchen of Sheraton Grande’s Thai restaurant, Basil.
Within minutes of arriving, an apron was hanging off me, and a towel dangling out of my left pocket. I looked quite like a pro. Within fifteen minutes I was dicing lemongrass, galangal and numerous other fragrant herbs like a seasoned veteran. Acknowledged as a prodigious talent, Chef Kasinee has ensured that Basil is regarded as one of the finest Thai restaurants in Bangkok by creating a feast for the eyes with contemporary presentation and
"Aspiring Thai chefs can learn to cook a fabulous four course meal, choosing dishes from 14 appetisers, soups, mains and desserts" Chef Kasinee and I
Cooking class at Basil-Thai Restaurant
28 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
This is how the cooking class looks like
exciting the palate with authentic flavors. With her trademark style, she skillfully balances the distinctive Thai tastes of spicy, sour, salty and sweet, and brings sophistication to the dining experience with the use of premium quality ingredients such as snow fish, fresh Phuket lobster and prime Angus beef. So naturally, after a spectacular meal at her restaurant I had to enroll myself for her cooking lesson.
My class room experience
The setup was absolutely professional and the kitchen equipment impressive. Chef Kasinee uses a hands-on teaching method, during which participants are fully equipped with cooking tools and get to prepare, cook and consume the food they make. She then carefully walked me through the procedures and dished out a plethora of useful information regarding techniques and general background of Thai food. Chef Kasinee was really helpful giving tips and advice throughout and after each dish when we sat down to recap! During the three hour course we prepared Hot and Sour Prawn soup, Green Papaya Salad, Green Beef Curry and Steamed Pumpkin Custard, all of which were outstanding. All in all,
a Thai cooking course at Basil is highly recommended, when in Thailand. And more so, if you are a budding cook like me who would like to make your own Thai food, then this cooking class is definitely for you. And with a certificate under your belt (or apron), you can proudly impress your family and friends back home with your newly-acquired expertise!
Go for a one-on-onecookery lesson if
You are a professional or an aspiring chef
There are specific things you want to learn
You like individual or small group instruction and want to ask lots of questions
Go for a group class if
You like interacting with new people
You just want to do it as touristy thing
You want the little fancy extras (aprons, recipe books, spices) which you get at many of the classes for tourists
The student flaunting the certificate
FAST FACTS Where: Basil at Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110, THAILAND TEL: (66) 02 6498366
Pricing: The 4 course menu of your choice is only Baht 3,500 net
Timings: Monday to Saturday from 15:00 to 18:00 hours Course includes: Complimentary Thai herb drinks, all ingredients, recipes, an apron and a certificate Note: A minimum of two participants and advanced booking is essential
TLF Magazine October 2014 29
Quick Escapes | New Delhi
Are the woods really lonely?
B
WORDS and photography | Bharat Chopra
eing an entrepreneur, I am always short on time but all thanks to weekend getaways I am able to plan short and sweet trips to the nearby places from my city of work- Delhi. With time being a major constraint, I thought of doing things differently rather doing different things. With a punch of excitement and a rush of adrenaline I was sure of embarking on 30 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
another memorable trip. The itinerary was quite sorted. I picked Kaladunghi, the home town of Jim Corbett as my start point, biking to Nainital and then culminating my journey at Mukteshwar at about 7600 ft above sea level. Having reached Kaladunghi, I checked in to KMVN guest house with basic amenities but lots of solitude. With incessant rains in the past few days the place had a unique feel and there
was dampness in the air, with that particular smell of grass I was happy to be one with Mother Nature.
Kaladunghi to Khurpatal Ride from Kaladunghi starts with some amazing views and steep climbs. In a matter of a few kilometers, the road twists and turns as if snugging the mountain and making its
Miles to go before I sleep
course, I decide to take a break and soak in the overdose of pure beauty and serene nature. Khurpatal is at an altitude of 5500 ft and now I am just12 km and 1200 ft climb away from Nainital. After a brief refreshing break it was just about time to attempt the most difficult of all the climbs.
Nainital and beyond
Nainital needs no introduction, and well my stop over there was to have a nice lavish lunch and move towards serene Mukteshwar. So the sumptuous lunch break happened at my favorite Johnsons restaurant. Also the big reason being they allow you to take your bike inside and hence you can focus on lunch rather than keeping your bike safe.
A selfie on the road
into Mukteshwar city and into a road which lead to Bhimtal. Being the lee side of the mountain, I witnessed overflowing streams, small waterfalls and water streams that kept flirting all the way down to the last bit of journey. No wonder the source of Bhimtal Lake is water flowing downhill from all the
"At times I felt like slowing down, as if time and space were moving faster than I could soak in. Walking seemed like meditation" Enchanting view of the Himalayas
way to the skies. Tilted trees almost make you feel they are flirting with gravity and the branches creating a natural tunnel with a green roof. The relentlessly tough climb starts taking its toll but then, this is just the beginning.
Khurpatal to Nainital
In a matter of 2 hours and about 23 kms the climb starts plateauing just like the silence before the storm. Here, I am treated to true blue icy water of Khurpatal and of
Ride from Nainital to Mukteshwar turned out to be not so tough and yes more scenic and serene. Here the nature was so overtaking that the fatigue of riding for continuous 4 hours wasn't felt at all. Mukteshwar is about 40 kms away from Nainital and at an altitude of 7500 ft, so its a mild climb with rewarding views and absolutely no traffic on the road. When I reached Mukteshwar it was already dusk and I decided to call it a day. The next day’s highlight was speed and pure adrenaline rush. It was a day of pure steep down hill ride with numerous bends. So the journey started with a mild climb
surrounding mountains. While I was closing into Bhimtal, thoughts of a journey coming to an end kept crawling in, which made me somber and wanting for more. Hope these journeys never end.
Tech tweet The inclines on this route are unique. In a span of 32+kms there is one HC category climb (climb of 15 plus km averaging at least 8% gradient) and two of Cat 2 climbs of 10 and 7 kms
TLF Magazine October 2014 31
Quick Escapes | Caribbean Island
Jamaica for the
Foodies From fine dining to street-eats, there are a lot of delicious options to choose from in this Caribbean Island full of exotic flavours WORDS | TLF DESK
J
amaican gastronomic legacy continues to attract food connoisseurs from across the world to taste and savour the distinctive Caribbean cuisine. Though the sunshine, sea and sand are enough to win over, flavours are the cherry on top. Appetising and fulfilling, savoury, sweet, spicy, these flavours make Jamaican meals special. Fine dining is always a great way to experience the local cuisine but for foodies at heart, roadside stalls offer some delicious dishes. This island with its bright walls and friendly owners is a welcoming place that has been serving its traditional food to gourmet lovers and boasts a wide array of food selections, guaranteed to satisfy even the most particular in taste.
"Jamaican cooking draws its genius from a brilliant interpretation of East Indian, Chinese, African, Spanish and British influences— all working harmoniously in a style that is uniquely Jamaican”
A tasty dish of chicken and rice
32 TLF Magazine October 2014
Jamaican cooking draws its genius from a brilliant interpretation of East Indian, Chinese, African, Spanish and British influences—all working harmoniously in a style that is uniquely Jamaican. This
Fact File Currency: Jamaican dollar
Best Time to Visit: October to Mid December National Airline: Air Jamaica
You can get a variety of sea food in Jamaica
Jamaican way of cooking has invaded restaurants and cafes worldwide. Visitors from around the globe have been drawn to Jamaica to sample this delicious style and flavour of cooking. Jamaica gave the world Jerk cuisine and since then it has become a culinary phenomenon which has found its way onto menus in restaurants worldwide. Just about any meat can be 'Jerked', but the real secret to the flavourful taste is the marinade, a truly Jamaican blend of spices and seasonings. From fusion food to haute cuisine, regional favourites and some very special unique dishes Jamaica gives you a taste in true island style. Visitors to the country can taste, savour and enjoy fresh seafood with piles of crisp, spiced shrimps, succulent crabs, huge scallops and tender white fillets, it’s impossible to leave the island displeased. Jamaica’s assorted gastronomic specialities include Ackee (a bright yellow fruit, served with saltfish as Jamaica’s National Dish),
A local woman making various dishes
Curried goat (a special occasion food often served with rice), Duckunoo (a steamed pudding made from cornmeal and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves), Meat patties (a spicy pie sold in snack shops or by roadside vendors), etc. Popular option in road side cuisines mostly consists of jerk chicken or pan chicken, along with roasted nuts,
coconut water and coconut jelly, crab among other tasty options. In addition to tasting better, there are some exotic dishes like Cow Foot Stew or Goat Head Soup which are available in the Jamaican kitchen. Food joints and cafes like Jojo’s Jerk Pit and more, Rick’s Café, Norma’s, etc are a must visit for food connoisseurs. It is also said that Jamaican rum is a reason enough to visit the island. No visit to Jamaica would be complete without sampling the local rum, which comes in variety of strengths and brands. The famed Blue Mountain coffee is also famous over the island. Visitors can experience a range of island delicacies from hot to haute while traveling around Jamaica.
RECOMMENDATION Experience:
Green Grotto Caves in Discovery Bay
The Luminous Lagoon in Falmouth Floyd’s Pelican Bar in St. Elizabeth
Curried goat serve with rice
TLF Magazine October 2014 33
Quick Escapes | Goa
Head south! The peace and the wilderness haunt you for a long time and your heart itches to go back- such is the beauty of South Goa
G
WORDS | Esha Narayanan
oa is a state in the Western Coast of India, known best for it’s cheap shacks and alcohol, not so clean but extremely busy beaches and an abundance of great eateries and bars. It is on top of the list for all those in the mood to party. So basically little do people know about the glorious green belt that it is nestled in. The Konkan coast that stretches from Thane District to Mangalore is a long, picturesque almost divine strip of lush coconut trees, beautiful abandoned beaches (most of them are not swimmer friendly), tiny colourful villages and some of the world’s greatest food. Canacona, situated 80 km from the bustling Calangute area of North Goa is one place that exemplifies the beauty of the Konkan Coast. The Lalit golf resort and spa is a good option to stay in. This beautiful property comes with a private beach and lovely facilities and the yellow building transports one to historic and cultural side of Goa. Even though facilities like cycling, swimming are available within the resort, scooties are available on rent right outside. The vendors don’t ask for any kind of documents, and at INR 200 per day, it’s dirt cheap! My suggestion would however be to take a helmet and always carry your driving license. I hired a cycle on day 1, as I wasn’t too comfortable with a scooty, having ridden it just once, 6 years ago. Yash, the man who manages the rental is a very helpful guy and although there are no cycles on rent he arranged one for me (his daughter’s). The brakes weren’t exactly fine and also it was too low, but manageable nevertheless. There also is a market place 3 km from the resort. It’s called chawdi and you can get a cycle fixed there. A must-explore is Palolem Beach, also the nearest and the most popular. Clear white sands, white- grey water- both surprisingly clean! Palolem beach is beautiful compared to most others in Goa except for the dogs and cows that splatter all over it. It isn’t surrounded by the
34 TLF Magazine October 2014
Draupadi offers delicious sea food
Berry berry strawberry
Punjabi dhabas and liquor stores that seem to have taken over Calangute Beach. Some tiny shops selling books, flavoured tea, junk jewellery, bags and clothes, a Café Coffee Day and 4-5 guest houses and a couple of eateries—this is the perfect place to relax. Beach activities include kayaking and boat rides. Take a boat trip to the honeymooner’s island! It is a small-secluded island 15 min on a speed boat. The good part is that the speedboat really is a traditional boat with a motor. The honey mooner’s island is a beautiful haven of rocks and sand with some amazing views.
Food Wise Crunch
This café provides some great smoothies and lassis, which interestingly combine all sorts of fruits with milk/yoghurt—avocado, strawberry, papaya, lime, mint, banana, chocolate—these are a few. There also are interesting combinations like papaya, lime and pomegranate. The food menu includes steaks, sandwiches, pizzas and some Eurpoean dishes. The Crunch steak with crumb fried chicken breast, caramelised pineapple chips salad and tartar sauce or sweet chilli dip was delicious. In the specials menu there is also a shark steak—try it if you may! Books and games have also been kept there, so you can eat and play at the same time. All sorts of cocktails, mocktails and hard liquor are available here.
Draupadi’s
The thing that works the most for this café is its location—the only one to be bang on the beach. With low wooden seats, sand covered floors and the view of the horizon, food may be the last thing on your mind.
Listen to the waves speak
The menu doesn’t disappoint in terms of variety—with everything from Indian, to Chinese, to Continental on offer. We ordered the Goan Sea Food Platter and Cheese and Basil Fritters. The platter came in a bowl, with lots of onion and capsicum and nothing particularly Goan about it. It consisted of calamari, crabs, and prawns. The fritters were even more disappointing as they looked like Indian Pakoras, the only saving grace was the delicious cheese they were stuffed with. The presentation and quantity both were poor. All sorts of cocktails, mocktails and hard liquor are available here.
Café Fiesta
This one gets our vote. This café is an intimate little place, with comfortable chairs, a small bar, open air seating under thatched roofs and very friendly staff. The menu consists of Indian, European and Mexican dishes. If you go in the evening you get a complimentary serving of very well made nachos and salsa. Te Mushroon and wilted Spinach Salad is a must try—simple, boiled,
A platter full of delicious food
then tossed in olive oil and sesame seeds. The Hunters Chicken has a wonderful taste of fennel and the pizzas come with toppings like pineapple and banana. What we devored the most was the daal, zeera rice and ginger and cheese chapatti. The daal was scrumptious, light, with very little spice. The quantity, presentation and service all are great. All sorts of cocktails, mocktails and hard liquor are available here.
TLF Magazine October 2014 35
Pick Pocket
Must see The Golden Gate Bridge, Cable cars, Alcatraz-the notorious former prison, Fisherman’s Wharf-a festive waterfront marketplace, Union Square is the place for serious shoppers, California Academy of Sciences - the only place on the planet with an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural
Cut, Keep, Explore: Pint sized travel ideas
Currency: US Dollars Language: English history museum, and a 4-story rainforest all under one roof.
San Francisco
Why If you like gorgeous surroundings, shopping, arts, architecture and great food then San Francisco may be the place for you.
Where to stay Villa Florence Hotel,Serrano San Francisco, InterContinental San Francisco, Holiday Inn Civic Center
traditional American bar and breakfast, El Farolito serves Mexican, Shabu House for Japanese cuisine
Where to eat Ike’s Place for sandwiches, Swan Oyster Depot for seafood, Tommy’s Joynt for
Vessel, Mezzanine, Red Devil Lounge, Hemlock Tavern, Broadway Showgirls, Bondage a Go-Go and Infusion Lounge
Where to party
Must see A-Ma Temple at Barra Square, Lilau Square, Senado Square, Sir Robert Ho Tung Library at no. 3 Santo Agostinho Square, Holy House of Mercy, Flora Graden, Macau Tower Currency: Macanese pataca Language: Chinese, Portugese, but English widely spoken Where to stay Pousada De Sao Tiago, Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16, Grand Hyatt Macau, Grand Lapa Macau, Pousada De Coloane, Hotel Sintra, Pousada de Mong Há
Macao
Why Macau is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations for gambling, attracting more visitors than Las Vegas. There are a large number of casinos to quench your thirst for gambling.
Where to eat In Taipa Village Area Seng Cheong Restaurant, Tai Lei Loi Kei, Pui Kei Café, “O Santos” Comida Portuguesa, Mok Yi Kei Senado Square Wong Chi Kei, Magaret’s Cafe e Nata
The Venetian Macao Lord Stow’s Bakery and Café
Sands Cotai Central Yum Cha at Sands Cotai Central
Where to party
Taipa Taverna,Macau Soul, McSorley's Ale House,Moonwalker Bar and Fernandos
Must see Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, Auroville, Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges, Paradise Beach and Serenity Beach
Where to stay Ginger Pondicherry, The Richmond Pondicherry Hotel, Hotel De Pondichery, Hotel Corbelli, The Promenade and Hotel Annamalai International Currency: Indian Rupees Language: Tamil, Malyalam, Telugu and English
Pondicherry
Why Pondicherry has been renamed as Puducherry. It is famous for palm-fringed beaches, backwaters, Sri Aurobindo Ashram and city of Auroville.
36 TLF Magazine October 2014
Where to eat For French cuisine Le Club, Satsanga, Rendezvous, La Terrasse, Subbiah Salai, Spice Garden, Saint Lauren
Indian Adyar Anandha Bhavan, Appachi, Anapoorna, Krishna sweets, Surguru, Indian Coffee House and Saravana Bhavan
Multi-Cuisine Ajantha, Seagulls, Salt & Pepper [24 hrs], Aristo, CafeXO, Choco la, Le-space, Sun N Moon (24hrs) Where to party Pub Zipper, Dr Bar, Ding Dong Liquids, Balaji Bar, Asta-The Spirited Lounge
Check-in
A star on the highway
Mamma Mia is the Italian restaurant
KOI serves pan Asian cuisine
32nd Milestone has become a name to reckon with in the hospitality industry. With more than two decades in business, this property is situated in the heart of Cybercity, Gurgaon and has carved a niche for itself
T
WORDS | TLF DESK
hey say what’s in a name, but if you have a name as unique as 32nd Milestone you are sure to get a second look. 32nd Milestone is located in Sector 15, Gurgaon on NH 8 and has become a drive out destination for the always-ready-to-party Delhiites. It naturally becomes a favourite hot spot because of its lush green surroundings, low traffic zone and the wide roads.
Location
Situated at a distance of just 2 kms from the Metro station, 32nd Milestone is only a 30 minutes drive from Indira Gandhi International Airport and 15 minutes drive from Gurgaon Railway Station, thus making it convenient for business travellers and leisure travellers alike.
get togethers and other events.
Restaurants
32nd Milestone offers specialised F & B outlets. India House- the Indian Kitchen which is the specialty restaurant of contemporary Indian delicacies, serves authentic meals. Mamma Mia-The Italian Kitchen and Bakery café as the name suggests is the place for authentic Italian cuisine and the best part is that the base breads and the chocolates here are homemade. KOI serves Pan- Asian cuisine which blends Chinese, Thai and Japanese cuisines creating an international
dining experience. There is also the wine bar on the terrace, aptly called Terrazo.
The Entertainment Zone 32nd Milestone has launched NCR’s first ever theme based entertainment zone calledThe Garage. The Garage is a family zone on regular days with a bowling alley, a private theatre, garage studio for music lovers and island bar with 20 exciting games but undergoes metamorphosis for corporate day outings and private parties in the heart of Gurgaon.
Accommodation
The property has a total of 29 fully equipped rooms divided into two categories Deluxe rooms and Executive rooms. All these rooms come equipped with modern amenities like Internet access, LED televisions, mini bar and 24 hours room service. With its quiet surroundings the property is also an ideal place for conferences, seminars and training sessions. The Crystal Banquet Hall can accommodate around 300 guests and serve as an ideal place to organise family
38 TLF Magazine October 2014
Visit India House for authentic Indian delicacies
It's all teamwork at
Dhruv Sharma
Braden m Hanlon
Gokul Saklani
Dhruv graduated Summa Cum Laude from Boston University’s School of Management, with a major in entrepreneurship. He now focuses on tapping scalable opportunities, both offline and online in the hospitality industry in emerging markets. He has recently opened a new test kitchen to innovate and ‘do justice’ to the industry with a new product. He is also working towards imroving the current quality standards in quick service restaurants.
A management graduate from Suffolk University Braden is the force behind smooth running of Milestone Ventures. Most of his time is spent reviewing and evaluating business procedures. Braden's interest in food coupled with his knack for public relations helps with supplier relationships in the hospitality industry. Currently, Braden is also responsible for identifying areas where the company needs to improve operational efficiency.
Gokul Saklani comes with about 12 years of experience in the hospitality industy. He has worked with brands like ITC, Oberoi, Radisson, The Park and Holiday Inn and has cross functional exposure in brand hotels as well as independent properties. In times of fast-rising costs and shrinking margins, Gokul has shown an immense focus on optimising costs without impacting the business and also on partnering the operation in managing the topline and ensuring revenue streams.
Managing Director
Operations - Director
COO
TLF Magazine October 2014 39
Check-in
Experience The Chinese Riviera Deluxt Room
The Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel is all set to open in November and is offering special packages for the grand opening
I
WORDS | TLF DESK
deally situated on the Chinese Riviera and next to the new Zhuhai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, the 548-room Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel is the perfect gathering place for business and leisure travellers alike. Zhuhai, known as “The Chinese Riviera,” and “The Garden City,” is a beautiful coastal city in southern Guangdong Province with easy access to a network of existing and planned bridges linking mainland China to Macao and Hong Kong. Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel is located on the waterfront in the new Shizimen District, adjoining the new Zhuhai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, which offers over 30,000 sq. mts. of waterfront exhibition space along with a theatre and concert hall. The 19-story hotel will offer spectacular over-the-water views along with 548 rooms, 2,070 sq. mts. of flexible meeting space and a host of unique branded amenities, such as Link@Sheraton and Sheraton Fitness. Guests at Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel will also enjoy a variety of culinary experiences at Feast, Sheraton brand’s signature all-day
40 TLF Magazine October 2014
international buffet restaurant; the Lobby Lounge , the hub and gathering place for drinks and bites; Yue, Sheraton brand’s signature Chinese restaurant; Someplace Else, an American-themed pub as well as Pantry, Sheraton brand’s grab-and-go store with healthy and delicious treats.
"The hotel will offer spectacular overthe-water views along with 548 rooms, 2,070 sq. mts. of meeting space and a host of unique branded amenities such as Link@Sheraton and Sheraton Fitness"
Celebrate with Sheraton Zhuhai To celebrate the grand opening, Sheraton Zhuhai Hotel is offering a promotional package designed to appeal both to business and leisure travellers. Deluxe Room accommodation
Buffet breakfast at Feast, Sheraton’s signature all-day buffet restaurant
Free high speed internet
CNY500 available to use in all hotel venues during the stay, including Yue, Sheraton’s signature Chinese restaurant; Someplace Else, the hotel’s American-themed pub; and The Pantry, Sheraton’s branded grab-and-go store. Up to CNY200 to use at the hotel’s laundry facility Free mini-bar (excluding alcohol)
The opening package starts at CNY1288+15 percent surcharge per night and is available for booking between 11/12/14 – 12/31/14; promotional rates are good through 5/31/15. For more information: visitsheraton.com/ zhuhai
Culinary Mapping
BANGKOK’S epicurean delight Fine dining in Bangkok ranges from classic and brilliantly inventive Thai to the first Indian restaurant outside India to reinvent the cuisine. Food expert RUPALI DEAN samples the cuisine at the top five restaurants here BREEZE @ LEBUA
The best restaurants and bar congregate at The Dome at Lebua Hotel and provide an unmatched meal experience. It also houses Breeze a sumptuous Asian cuisine restaurant where the exotic cuisine compliments the awesome ambience. The 25m illuminated glass sky-bridge was enough to amaze me as it suspended above a lily pond and drew my attention to the city skyline. My table was at one of the glass balconies and we got quite a good view of the bar and also the city skyline. Dining at Breeze is indeed an unforgettable experience owing to the efficient staff, excellent view and ambience. However, I don’t think I would be in a hurry to return as the quality of the main course was not as extraordinary as I had thought it would be. Having said that, it still is a must visit for the amazing cocktails and starters and the overall experience.
FAST FACTS Breeze, Lebua, State Tower, 1055 Silom Road, Bangrak. For Reservations: + 66 (0) 2624 9999 Email: information@lebua.com Website: www.lebua.com
Timings: Open for dinner only Cost: THB 2,500 ++ China2020 cocktail experiment at Breeze
42 TLF Magazine October 2014
Apsara @Banyan Tree
This was my first evening in Bangkok and was memorable in more ways than one with a vintage-styled barge plying the majestic Chao Praya, also famed as the River of Kings. With a capacity of 64 guests, Apsara embarks daily at River City Pier, Sriphraya, pier no. 2 at 8 pm. One can pre-book and even if you are not staying at the hotel, you have the option to board the Hotel Van that takes you to the River city. On-board the noble teak wood vessel the guests can indulge in selections of royal Thai cuisine and canapĂŠs. All in all, it is a winning combination of an excellent meal and essential sightseeing alongside first-class Banyan Tree service.
Inside view of Apsara
FAST FACTS Apsara, Banyan Tree Bangkok, 21/100 South Sathon Road, Thungmahamek, Sathon. For Reservations: +662 679 1200.
Timings: Daily embarks at River City Pier, Sriphraya, Pier no. 2 at 8 pm Email: com
hostesses-bangkok@banyantree.
Cost: THB 2,300 inclusive of a gourmet dinner Apsara in all its glory
Basil@ Sheraton Sukhumvit
The ambience at Basil has been specially designed to complement the flavours that the chefs prepare in the kitchen. It is certainly the place to experience authentic Thai cuisine in the most contemporary ambience with soothing colours and restful atmosphere. Portions are extremely generous and the food is refined with the Thai chef integrating a multitude of aromatic spices. The spicy and sour prawn soup is redolent with lemongrass, chillies and a savoury edge from coconut. The steamed fish with the chilli and lime dressing is supremely good and underscores the Thai way of using spices. No one else does such a good Som Tam and Khao Tang Na Tang, lightly crisp Thai rice crackers with a delicious coconut base dip of minced coconut and shrimp. Traditional desserts make for a sweet ending to a potentially fiery meal.
FAST FACTS Basil, Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road For Reservations: (66) 02 6498366 Timings: Open for dinner only. Cost: THB 2,000 ++ Basil at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit
TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 43
Culinary Mapping
Srabua By Kiin Kiin @ Kempinski
This restaurant is the sister branch of Copenhagen’s Kiin Kiin which is the second restaurant in the world to receive a Michelin star for Thai cuisine. On offer is a modern take on Thai food by using western cooking techniques and presentation, maintaining the familiar flavours of traditional dishes with the use of the freshest ingredients including products from H.M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s royal projects in Thailand’s northern region. Some of the interesting dishes include quail in coconut milk with galangal and mushrooms, with crispy chicken skin and galangal-like broth; red snapper in green coconut curry and beetroot; and the pistachio cake with Pandan ice cream and coconut foam is an absolute musttry dessert. You could opt for a seven or ten course dinner from the set menu (the restaurant is also open for a three-course lunch) and guessing the food which arrives on your table is half the fun.
FAST FACTS SraBua by Kiin Kiin, Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, 991/9 Rama I Road Pathumwan
For Reservations: +66 (0) 2 162 9000 Timings: Open for lunch and dinner E-mail: srabua.siambangkok@ kempinski.com
Cost: Dinner – 10 course menu is priced at THB 2,700 ++ per person and 7-course menu is priced at THB 2,200 ++ per person, and a la carte offerings Frozen Red Curry with Lobster Salad at Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin
44 TLF Magazine October 2014
Gaggan
Inside view of Gaggan
Who goes to Bangkok for an Indian meal? Well, this one is worth your time and money. Having interned with the research team of Spain’s famed El Bulli, under the inspiring Ferran Adria, Kolkata born Chef Gaggan Anand was the first Indian and just the second Asian ever to enter through the hallowed doors. Today in a longstanding wooden house set in the heart of downtown Bangkok, Chef Gaggan presents progressive, regional Indian cuisine with a modern touch. The show stopper was yoghurt with cumin, salt and pepper. It is a slippery and oval sphere of yoghurt encased in agar-agar. Once in the mouth the sphere bursts and an explosion of creaminess from the yoghurt and the light flavour of cumin, salt and pepper spread throughout the mouth. A star of a dish was an edible bag made of rice paper and filled with wasabi flavoured beans and dried fruit. Interesting textures from the melting rice paper, crunchiness of the beans and chewiness of the fruit – the combination of flavours was just too amazing. I am not a huge fan of the British national dish aka chicken tikka masala but out here it is deconstructed and reconstructed as curry makhani foam with traditional chicken tikka. And I would rate it as the best tikka masala ever. The naan was delicious as well, and married beautifully with the scrumptious gravy.
FAST FACTS Steamed Dim Sum Basket at Breeze
Gaggan, 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road. For Reservations: +66(0)2-652-1700 Website: www.eatatgaggan.com
Timings: Open only for lunch and dinner.
Cost: Starts from THB 1,800 to THB 4,000 ++ (depending on the tasting menu you order) without alcohol.
Entrance to the Indian restaurant Gaggan
TLF Magazine October 2014 45
Culinary Mapping
Fearsome Food Faint hearted be forewarned. Here is a list of restaurants from around the world, which serve strange food in a stranger way WORDS | Aarti Kapur Singh
Lainio ice village in Finland
Laino Snow Village Ice Bar, Ylläsjärvi, Finland
As you may have guessed, this is a rather icy location. Nearly 200 kms above the Arctic Circle, the restaurant only exists during the winter season when the weather is cold enough to sustain it, for the rest of the year it disappears entirely and is rebuilt from scratch next winter. Approximately 2 million kilos of snow and 300,000 kilos of crystal clear natural ice is used for the construction. You can spend a night in the Snow Hotel or dine at the Ice Bar or go dancing at the Igloo discotheque. Diners here can enjoy local specialties such as reindeer, Lappish potato soup and vodka-lingonberry jelly (served in ice glasses of course) and as the restaurant is kept at a temperature of -2 to -5 degrees Celsius at all times, fur rugs are considerately draped over the solid ice chairs to keep you warm. http://www.snowvillage.fi/
Opaque, Los Angeles
Okay so you like the meal in silence, will you also appreciate one in complete darkness? You can do just that at Opaque in Los Angeles where they promise a ‘more stimulating dining experience’ based on the
46 TLF Magazine October 2014
Dinner in the Sky, Belgium Well this is just that – a meal suspended amongst the clouds. Dinner in the Sky is an unusual restaurant concept where diners and wait staff are hoisted up with a crane along with a large custom-made dining table. A gourmet dinner is then served 160-180 feet suspended in the air. This exclusive dining
Guests at Opaque Server enjoying their meal in the dark
theory that removing your vision heightens your remaining senses. Guests at Opaque enjoy their meal in a completely pitch black room aided by waiters who are all blind or visually impaired but have been trained to serve in the dark. They guide you to your seat and make sure you don’t miss your chair. Whenever they bring out food they make sure you have a hold on it before you set it down on the table or they place it for you and let you explore it. www.darkdining.com
Meal being cooked at El Diablo
experience is available in several cities worldwide with the latest being Brussels, Belgium. The swiveling chairs allow you to enjoy 180 degree views. Dinner in the Sky is hosted at a table suspended at a height of 50 metres, by a team of professionals and is available for a session of 8 hours. Just make sure you take a bathroom trip beforehand because the whole table has to be brought down if anyone needs to go to the toilet during dinner. www.dinnerinthesky.com
El Diablo, Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote
It’s not just where and how you eat food that is important. Sometimes, how it is cooked adds to the appeal as well. Fancy having your dinner grilled by a volcano? That’s the offer at El Diablo (lunch only), the only restaurant within Timanfaya National Park. What makes this circular, glass-walled restaurant unique though is not just the
Enjoy your dinner hanging up in the sky
Enjoy the silence at Sounds of Silence
spectacular views and odd location choice, it’s the way they cook the food. The chefs use the semi-dormant volcano itself to grill your dinner to perfection via a cavernous black pit, which reaches to the ground to utilise the natural 400°C heat that emanates from below the ground’s surface. http://www.discoverlanzarote.com/
bush tucker inspired buffet that incorporates native bush ingredients such as crocodile, kangaroo, barramundi and quandong. Settle back and listen to the resident star talker or decode the southern night sky. www.ayersrockresort.com.au
Sounds of Silence, Ayers Rock
Nyotaimori is the obscure Japanese practice of serving sushi on the body of a naked woman. Inspired by this a Tokyo restaurant has taken the theme to a whole new level with a grisly twist. At the Cannibalistic Sushi Restaurant, guests are presented with a ‘human body’ that is edible. It is wheeled out on a gurney by a waitress in a nurse’s disguise. Sushi and sashimi replicate the internal organs and a blood red sauce is embedded in the skin layer to create realistic bleeding when you make the ‘incision’.
Entered into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame, Sounds of Silence offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours. Your Sounds of Silence experience begins with canapés and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the night sky twinkles to life, help yourself to a
Cannibalistic Sushi, Tokyo
"You can even choose between male and female bodies at Cannibalistic Sushi"
Guests enjoying Sushi
TLF Magazine October 2014 47
Culinary Mapping
Healthy A
eating
Chiva-Som-a beachfront resort is located in the town of Hua Hin, which lies 185 km south of the capital of Bangkok. It has spent two decades developing their spa cuisine, philosophy and menu and has won accolades for that WORDS | tlf desk
t Chiva-Som it is believed that natural whole foods are rich in healing nutrients which work together synergistically to offer valuable benefits to health and that, more often than not, one can employ these foods as natural medicine to provide valuable benefits for one’s wellness. Let's find out what are the pillars of Chiva-Som Cuisine Equal importance is given to flavours, nutrition, and presentation. Organic and non-GMO products of superior standard and nutritional quality are their priority. The brand prefers produce from its own organic garden and otherwise tries to source locally. Ingredients in the most natural form, colours and freshness are preferred Natural alternatives of additives and
48 TLF Magazine October 2014
Crab meat and Mango salad
seasonings are used Healthy fats like extra virgin or coldpressed oils and when necessary, minimal heat is used for high-smokepoint oils. The brand is aware of health restrictions and preferences and avoids commonly sensitive foods. It also attempts to create a variety of choices to serve different individual needs. International best practiced standards on food hygiene procedures are followed and preparation methods that maximise nutrient preservation are applied. A healthy portion size is maintained. Menus with added health benefits are designed, that consider food synergy into ingredient combinations. Food preparation wastes are used as compost for the organic garden. Meat products and seafood suppliers are sourced using careful balance of hygiene, quality and sustainable aqua - agriculture as well as humane animal welfare and kitchen activities engages community involvement and education in organic farming techniques and nutrition.
Carefully chosen organic ingredients being cooked
Sesame Tuna
A relaxing foot spa session
Duck sourkrout staranise infuse
"Chiva-Som brings Western practices with Eastern philosophies together in a destination resort, which provides lifestyle transformation"
Chiva-Som beachfront resort
TLF Magazine October 2014 49
Culinary Mapping
The Best Brunch List A guide to some scrumptious spreads across India
Rodeo NEW DELHI
After a long week , and a party filled Saturday night, enjoy a laid back Sunday brunch with a four course meal in Rodeo. Appetisers range from Taquitos, mollets, Pan Pollo Asado , to Quesallida and Nachos. Scrumptious Salads Taco, Chicken and Cowboy the Main Course with Tacos, Fajitas , Enchiladas, Mushroom Crepes, Pastas, are also on offer along with some yummy desserts. Savour the delicacies with unlimited Sangrias/ Margaritas for adults and unlimited milkshakes for the young ones.
Address: A-12 Inner Circle , Connaught Place For Reservations call: 011- 23713780/81 Timings: Noon to 3:30 pm Price: INR 750 plus taxes ( Non-Alcoholic Deal ) INR 1399 plus taxes (Unlimited Sangrias/ Margaritas Deal)
Taj Krishna HYDERABAD
Experience a true ‘Shahi Daawat’ on a relaxed Sunday afternoon at Firdaus. Enjoy live ghazals over some sparkling wine along with a lavish spread of mouth-watering tikkas and kebabs, haandis and curries, dals and salan, and biryanis accompanied with garma-garam live phulkaas. The assorted Shahi Desserts are sure to give a sweet closure to your royal dining affair.
When: Every Sunday from 12:30pm onwards Price: INR 1550 per person (All inclusive) For more information and reservation contact: 040 6629 3306
50 TLF Magazine October 2014
Pollo Conpalo
ANISE, Taj Coromandel CHENNAI
Enjoy fine continental and Indian fare from pastas and pizzas to an endless choice of salads and fresh greens. The signature dishes include Hungarian Style Paprika potatoes; Oven roasted Mediterranean vegetables with brown garlic and herbs; and Wine braised fresh artichokes with sundried tomatoes for the vegetarians and Seared prawns with wasabi beurre blanc; Steamed fish with ginger cilantro broth; Pan seared fish with Saffron sauce; Awadhi Murgh;
Chicken rollotini with Shiraz glaze; and the Hyderabadi Dum Biryani for the meat eaters. Wash down the meal with an unending flow of sparkling wine and cocktails like Moet Chandon, Black Label, Absolut, Gordons Gin, Bacardi, and Imported red and white wines and conclude it with a plate full of desserts laid out on the buffet. Every Sunday Price: INR 1792 inclusive of taxes (without liquor), INR 2092 inclusive of taxes (with liquor), INR 3000 inclusive of taxes (with Champagne) For more details please call: +91 44 6600 2827
Nalli gosht
The Westin Mumbai Garden City MUMBAI
Take your family for a culinary safari that offers an abundant spread with live stations of Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern, Continental and local favorites offering an array of culinary treats to suit everyone’s palate.The highlight is the Healthy Food Options- SuperFoods Special dishes for adults and fun SuperChefs concept for kids ensure that the ‘Healthy eating takes inspiration from fun dining’. Some of the SuperFoodsRX™ special items to look forward to are oat meal pancakes, walnut and blueberry muffins, spinach and tofu frittata, bircher museli, dark chocolate palmiers, roast turkey with blueberry nage, pan-seared Norwegian salmon, garlic wilted spinach. Salad options are brocolli with cherry tomato and caramelised onions, Roasted pumpkin with asparagus and blue cheese, cottage cheese and spinach wrap with tomato salsa. There also is a special kids menu and lots of excited games and activities for the little ones to enjoy.
Anise, Taj Coromandel
of brunch buffet with unlimited imported white, red and sparkling wine, beers, cocktails (mojito, caipirojka, sangria, exotic fresh fruit(green apple, watermelon) martinis, Bellini, mimosa), IMFL liquor selection, mocktails and selection of soft beverages. Some special brunches have chef giveaways, gifts for the guests, instant photos with photo inserts,Live Band, live stations, guest cookouts and other such features. Cost: Alcoholic/non-alcoholic - INR 2395 + tax (same rate applicable for Alcoholic/nonalcoholic brunch). Contact: 01129574444 / 3, 9810235472, www. olivebarandkitchen.com Timings: Sunday Brunch: 12pm - 4pm
TIMING: 12:30pm to 4:00pm Price: Non-Alcoholic- INR 2000 + taxes; Alcoholic – INR 2400 + taxes; Kids: INR 1000 + taxes
BENGALURU
This brunch makes for an excellent interactive dining experience with live cooking stations, mini floating kitchens and an attractive pricing. Individual counters and open kitchens cater to the varied palate of the guests. The range of food on offer makes it a perfect getaway for family and friends to indulge in their eclectic food choices. A mix of local cuisine, Asian cuisine such as Thai, Chinese, and Malay plus international/western favourites such as pasta, roasts, and grills are on offer. To add on, a great deal of food is prepared fresh, a la minute. Besides the buffet, guests can also choose a la carte, rich, scrumptious desserts and specially prepared salad and fruit make a perfect wrap-up to a sumptuous feast. A special area transformed into a wonderland for kids with bean bags, play stations and Wii houses a specially created kid’s buffet which is sure to enthrall kids and delight families. A live band and balloon artist crafting surprises will entertain guests as they walk through the live stations choosing their platter, savouring them and enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Price: INR1695 (Non-Alcoholic), INR 2195 (Alcoholic) and the Kid’s buffet at INR 825. (Taxes extra as applicable). Timings: Sunday Brunch at FEAST between 12pm to 4pm
Olive Bar & Kitchen, Mehrauli
Elbo Room
NEW DELHI
The brunch at Olive Bar and Kitchen offers dishes, dessert, wine - lavish spread
FEAST, Sheraton Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway
MUMBAI Olive Bar and Kitchen, New Delhi
Every Sunday,indulge in some delicious brunch specials at Elbo Room. Enjoy chicken TLF Magazine October 2014 51
Culinary Mapping
Dessert spread at the Sunday Brunch, Westin Mumbai
leg,beef steak,mutton chop,bbq chicken wings,baked potatoes (with corn on the cob, butter garlic, pan fried chicken, sauted mushroom), cheese omlette sandwich, tomato cheese and basil sandwich, eggs to order (scrambled, boiled, fried, omelette with 2 slices of bread), the English breakfast (2 fried eggs, sausages, baked beans, parsley potatoes, grilled tomatoes and toast). Time: 12pm-4pm For further inquiry call: 26483315/16
The Hungry Monkey NEW DELHI
Gone are the days when you would have to leave the lovely company and conversations at your table, time and again to go get food from the buffet counters. The Flying Brunch brings to you freshly made food that 'flies' straight from the kitchen to your plates leaving you to sink into your chair and sip away on delish cocktails. And the best part is, you can eat as much as you want without having to worry about prying eyes!
Every Sunday: 12 pm – 4 pm Contact No: 011 46049801, +91 9810788196 Price: INR. 1600 ++ (without alcohol) and INR 2250 ++ (with alcohol)
52 TLF Magazine October 2014
Sen5es, Pullman Gurgaon Central Park NCR
The Champagne Sunday Brunch is a celebration of good taste and good times, offering a chef crafted signature menu with unlimited servings and free flowing champagne. Among the signature offerings are 12 Hour Slow Cooked Lamb Leg, Crab Omelette, Hong Kong style Crispy whole chicken, Pork Knuckles etc. and creamy corn milk with wilted spinach, Thai Penang curries, range of exotic quiches and pies among others. Apart from these, there are five live stations that include those for Appams, Bao, Homemade pastas, live icecream Teppanyaki and Keema Dalcha. Accompanying this spread is sparkling and artisanal wines and innovative cocktails, apart from the Champagne on offer- the super premium GH Mumm, popularly known as Formula1 Champagne. In addition to all these, patrons can also enjoy unlimited swimming at Pullman’s stunning black tiled outdoor heated swimming pool between 12 to 4:00 pm. To ensure that children are equally well
looked after, SEN5ES runs the Pullman Pamper Program for the kids - with a separate area where they can involve in activities like face painting, tattoo, drawing, art and craft etc. before it is time to indulge in their very own specially designed menu with popular favourites like pizza, pastas and an array of sweets and desserts. Priced: INR 2,999 + taxes per person. Date: Every Sunday Timings: 12:00 noon to 4 pm For reservations, please call: 8860609371
The Hiatus, Clarion Collection – Qutab Hotel NEW DELHI
Experience a scintillating menu with modern progressive cuisine infused with natural flavours and great textures at The Hiatus. The Mid European Sunday Brunch features a lavish spread of delicacies with a display of live station to cater to everyone's indulgence. Chef Piyush offers an appetising spread of Live Vietnamese Paper Roll, Live Grills, Live Pasta Station, Live Salad counter, Live Eggs, Pizza Station, Live Grills, Hot Buffet, Cold Meat and Gourmet
All day dining restaurant at Westin, Mumbai
cheese platter, Relishes and jams, Cold antipasti. Timings : 12:30 pm onward. Price: INR 1499 per person
The Barking Deer MUMBAI
Soak on a Sunday morning with a live barbeque counter and unlimited supply of some of the delicious house beers. Bid good riddance to a boring and lazy Sunday after noon and say hello to one filled with food, alcohol and fun! A live bbq with hot dogs, burgers, tikkas, a tapas counter, house beers - what else does one want?
Time: Sundays 11.30 pm to 3.30 pm Contact: +022 614 17400
Amour– The Patio Restaurant, Café and Bar DELHI
Choose from the choicest of soups,
salads, European cold cuts and cheeses, the famous Amour wood fired pizzas and fresh pastas for the main course. Pair them with sparkling wines, sangrias, beer or a choice of cocktails. Follow that up with fresh bakes and desserts from the in house bakery. Soak in the Sunday with breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and the ruins and of Hauz Khas Village from the gorgeous patio or the classy indoors. Timings: Every Sunday, 12.30 pm – 4pm To reserve: +91.9654126687 / +91.9212126687 Price INR 1100 ++ Food Buffet INR1450 ++ Food Buffet + 2 Pints of Beer/ 2 cocktails INR 1850 ++ Food Buffet + unlimited cocktails and/ or beers INR 2450 ++ Food Buffet + unlimited Italian Prosecco (Sparkling Wine) + French Red/White Wine + Sangria + Cocktails +Beer
Kiyan, Dusit Devarana NEW DELHI
The Sunday Champagne Brunch presents
an assortment of dishes including antipastos like Cold prawns with dressings, Sushi mono maki and Maki rolls, wide range of salad plates and salad bowls and desserts. Guests can enjoy fresh hand rolled pizzas, dimsums and pick their favorite main course from an array of hot entrees like Miso lamb chops, Wok tossed fish with Thai spices and a lot more. The lazy Sunday may be ended on a decadent note with an assortment of desserts ranging from New York Cheese Cake, Earl Grey Brule, Hazelnut chocolate choux to Raspberry terrine and much more. Additional activities ensure that all the guests escape in the tranquility of the surroundings, the afternoon is made even more memorable with relaxed and soothing live saxophone and violin music in the midst of nature. For Reservations: devarana.in
011-30158657,
www.
Date: Every Sunday Time: 12:00 – 16:00 hrs Price: INR 3800 ++ (alcoholic) and INR 2900 ++ (non alcoholic) per person
TLF Magazine October 2014 53
Culinary Mapping
Culinary desires of celebs We have read everywhere about the strict dietary regime the celebs follow to maintain their toned figures and fabulous looks. But even they love to munch on their favourite dishes sometimes WORDS | Aarti Kapur Singh
Akshay Kumar Actor
I really like the Whistler Four Seasons in Vancouver because of its adventurous surroundings and the amazing food they serve. I would be the first one to go and have breakfast simply because of their amazing variety of fresh juices. One morning I counted 31! I also love their Carmelised Cauliflower and Pancetta and even though I try and not overdo the sweets, I found the Banana Cream Pie with Caramel Sauce and Crunchy Pearls totally irresistible.
Vidya Balan Kapur Actor
I must say that the food at the Huka Lodge in New Zealand makes you feel one with nature. That’s because the chefs use the freshest possible ingredients. The strawberries taste as amazing as they look on the bushes and you are allowed to pluck your own. A trout we had for dinner had the freshest herb garnishing ever. I am totally a dessert person and had their chocolate fondant with espresso ice-cream several times. The Valrhona chocolate tart with Manjari chocolate ice cream was a bit heavy, but lovely. 54 TLF Magazine October 2014
Padma Lakshmi Author and TV host
If I were dying, the Wild Mushroom and Farro Soup at The Surrey Hotel (New York)’s Café Boulud would be the meal I would want to have. It is so divine that there are good chances that it could bring me back to life. And if this is accompanied by the melt-in-your-mouth red wine risotto and poached strawberry waffles, I wouldn’t need heaven, for it would be right here.
Rani Mukherjee Chopra Actor
I am in love with the sandwiches at The Dorchester in UK. Afternoon Tea, Champagne Tea and High Tea all begin with savoury finger sandwiches. Crusts are removed from fresh baked white and brown breads, and the delicate slices are filled with smoked salmon, egg, chicken, prawn and cucumber. Warm scones arrive next, served with glistening strawberry jam and cream. The final course is the pièce de resistance, the platter of cakes and tartlets. When I’m here, I tend to indulge in the fresh berry crumble tart. I usually forego lunch for the Afternoon Tea whilst at The Dorchester, unless of course they are serving steamed sea bass at The Grill. I have tasted the best halibut in the world at the Alain Ducasse restaurant, which they serve with an amazing citrusy sauce.
Ranbir Kapoor Actor
I love the paya that my dadi cooks at home, but Taj Lands End’s version comes a close second. We Kapoors live for food and that paya is rich even by our standards. I dare you to finish their paya by yourself. Even if I have to eat it, I have to starve myself for a day before and after.
Milind Soman Model
If you ever happen to go to Leh, travel to a place called Choglamsar, about 12 kms from Leh. You absolutely have to eat at a quaint place called The Indus. You have to try the local rice beer here – the chhang. It needs an acquired taste, but the best chhang in Ladakh is available here. Food wise, they serve western, kashmiri and even some Indian food, but I gorge on the thukpas here that have an amazing piquant wasabi-like taste. The khambir (a type of local bread) with radish soup is also very good. Then of course, there is the yak buttertea. I can have gallons of this!
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan Sarod Maestro
I have a tough time deciding what to eat at my favourite restaurant, Wasabi, at The Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai. I am extremely fond of oriental cuisine and the chefs here get it just right, perhaps even better than the food you would get in China or Japan. The decor at Wasabi is so bold, it has an identity of itself. Take me blindfolded through some restaurants and I can tell you from the aroma which one is Wasabi. The chef does this amazing Sichuan pot soup for me whenever I go there. It is my all-time favourite dish. TLF Magazine October 2014 55
Culinary Mapping
The Good Food Guide Here is a list of foods that will take years off your face and inches off your body.
T
WORDS | NATASCHA SHAH
here seems to be a very important revolution taking place in the culinary industry, that of eating healthy! From organic to vegan, gluten free to low calorie to superfoods that help you stay young and fit, the palette to staying small is becoming bigger!
Organic
From milk, to lentils, to vegetables and even eggs. Organic food is low on pesticides and full of anti oxidants, provides wholesome nutrition and reduces the risk of heart diseases.
Shop Organic india's online store www.organicindia.com The Kirana Shop 131, Meherchand Market, New Delhi
56 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Gluten free
Gluten is a protein composite found in wheat and related grains. It causes health problems in sufferers of celiac disease. Gluten free meat and fish are healthier alternatives, other gluten free food is nuts, fruits, corn, buckwheat etc.
Buy at
Food hall, DLF Promenade Mall, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi.
Power packed seeds for a better health
Super foods
Organic Milk
Low calorie
A lot of restaurants and hotels have started serving low-cal versions of dishes like wholewheat pizza without cheese, sugar free desserts, steamed/ roasted food and the new likes. Some of this even tastes good!
Try
Lean chef M 22 , Greater Kailash 2, New Delhi Subway outlets all across the country and the world Petite Sweet Eats R 42, 2nd floor, GK1 , New Delhi
There are certain foods that are full of benefits and power packed with nutrients. They promote weight loss, good skin and hair and over all well being. Chia seeds contain good fatty acids, essential for weight loss. Quinoa is a high protein supplement of rice. Raagi rotis are a healthier option than wheat rotis and Almond milk is full of proteins and low on fats.
Also try
Cold pressed juices - these organic juices made of super ingredients like celery, almond milk, chia seeds, fruits and vegetables are packed with goodness
Order
Just pressed provides doorstep delivery in Delhi NCR +918860090106
Antidote provides delivery and Gurgaon and has pick up points for the rest of Delhi NCR +919717412218 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 57
Picture This
Fast food
Food is essential for survival but here food becomes a photographer's subject. These pictures say more than words can express and are sure to make you drool.
Trdelniks- a traditional Hungarian cake
58 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Famous bhel puri from Mumbai Pic Courtesy: Divyakshi Gupta Photography
Yummy dahi puri Pic Courtesy: Hello say cheese! A project by Priyanka Nair
Mouth watering paani puri Pic Courtesy: Divyakshi Gupta Photography
TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 59
Picture This
A simple cheese pizza in Naples
Meat on stick, Malaysia
60 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Chillies with batata vada or vada pao in Mumbai Pic Courtesy: Divyakshi Gupta Photography
Coconut icecream in Thailand
Famous street food of Mumbai-Dhabeli Pic Courtesy: Divyakshi Gupta Photography
Thailand has some of the best street food
TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 61
Picture This
Bombay sandwich being hand toasted Pic Courtesy: Divyakshi Gupta Photography
Water chestnuts, Istanbul
62 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Rajinder Da Dhaba in Safdarjung Enclave in New Delhi is famous for non vegetarian food
Festivals are a reason to gorge on food in India - Durga Puja pandal in New Delhi
Pic Courtesy: Nidhi Joshi
Pic Courtesy: Nidhi Joshi
Tandoori chicken at Rajinder da dhaba in New Delhi Pic Courtesy: Nidhi Joshi
TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 63
Lounge
64 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Ranveer Singh: Happy-go-lucky
With a guy-next-door kind of an image Ranveer Singh comes across as an actor who lives life on his own terms. A complete sports buff, he loves to eat ‘Indianised’ chinese food and swears by the roadside American food. Besides splurging on clothes and shoes he dreams of owning a Pagani Zonda one day
H
e is the endless hyperactive source of energy, but Ranveer Singh Bhavnani is actually a romantic at heart. A complete sports buff, he won’t miss the cricket league and will stay up postmidnight just to catch a football match. That’s not it; he even loves playing football in his free time. Talking of travel he quips in a more philosophical tone, “Travel is actually not just about the destination. It is so much about the journey.” TLF: What is your idea of a holiday? Party, eat, and repeat. Travel is synonymous with food and nightlife. That is why I love Goa. I love the sun, sand and the beaches. Actually I love partying – irrespective of whether I have the sun or moon or you for company! (Laughs) America is also a super party destination as I can meet all my college friends there. That is always fun! TLF: Anything that you don’t like about holidays? It’s nothing to do with holidays, but with my own quirks. I have a shower fetish and I cannot live without it for too long. I take a shower some 5-6 times a day! That is not the ideal way to travel – with quirks and fancies.
WORDS | Aarti Kapur Singh
TLF: And what is the ideal way to travel? You should travel just for the love of the wanderlust. I wasn’t always so bratty and earlier would enjoy train and bus journeys. Such journeys are great learning experiences. But now I have got used to the luxurious way of travelling. I miss being pampered if I rough it out. TLF: You are not a light traveler, from what I have heard? Oh certainly not! I always carry at least five suitcases! But I prefer it like that. I cannot scrimp on my look, everything has to be matched, right from my outfits to shoes and brogues to pocket squares and fedoras – everything! So all that adds up. And now
"I miss my moustache the most but the only consolation is that my best buddy, Arjun Kapoor shaved it off”
that I am also endorsing a condom brand, I never leave home without my condoms either. TLF: And what do you shop for when abroad? I dream of getting back a Pagani Zonda. But the way I splurge on clothes and shoes and accessories, I don’t think I will be able to do that. TLF: What is your ideal vacation pad like? It has to be by the beach! I wish hotels would have playgrounds too in their premises. The other thing I am particular about is that my room should be big enough for at least ten people. I feel breathless and closed in a small room. TLF: What is your favourite cuisine in the world? Desi Chinese. Chinese with desi tadka is the best! Second to that would be classic American. You know the American way of eating is also like ours – they also have roadside dhabas – the takeaway vans on Route 66 are awesome. You must try their amazing corn stuff. TLF: Any party places on your wishlist? I have to go to Brazil and I want to scuba dive in all the seas of the world.
TLF Magazine October 2014 65
Lounge
DESIGNERs' dAY OUT IN India Well known for their fabrics, cuts and silhouettes the three Pakistani designers were in India recently. Besides their love for Bollywood movies and music these designers also love Indian mithais and chikankari from Lucknow
T
WORDS | nidhi joshi
he designers from Pakistan who had come to Delhi to participate in ‘Aalishaan Pakistan’ – a lifestyle exhibition held at Paragati Maidaan were a happy lot. They received a warm welcome from the shoppers and fashionistas here and were well appreciated for their designs and fine fabrics. While some of them were attending the event for the first time, others had been to the earlier event as well which had happened in 2012. TLF Magazine caught up with Sanam Chaudhri, chairperson; Wardha Saleem, CEO and Deepak Perwani, spokesperson, all from Fashion Pakistan. Here is an excerpt from the interview: TLF: What are your expectations from Aalishaan Pakistan? Sanam: India has made exhibiting the products relatively easy, the approach is welcoming and forthcoming. We aim to build bridges and also see more of each other’s creations and have more business for either side.
Pakistan Fashion Design Council (PFDC) has a multi designer showroom in South Extension in New Delhi
TLF: Where all have you been in India? Wardha: I have been to Kolkata, Goa, Mumbai and Delhi. This is the first time that I have participated in Aalishaan Pakistan but I must say that the response has been tremendous and people have appreciated our designs. TLF: What inspires you? Deepak: The greatest inspiration for me is art and research completes your collection. But anything could inspire a collection, it just clicks sometimes and you don’t really need to look for inspiration. Sanam: I get inspirations in bursts. I was thoroughly inspired by Indonesia. I believe age has sobered me down, earlier my designs were edgier but now they are a little more mature. TLF: Which are your favourite places in Pakistan to eat out? Wardha: When you are in Karachi you must visit Okra. It is a small restaurant with around ten tables and is quite niche and exclusive. The steaks and sea food there is awesome. Then there is Buns Road where you have a huge variety of kebabs like dhaga kebabs and fried kebabs. Another place is Kolachi
Sanam Chaudhri's collection
66 TLF Magazine October 2014
where they serve authentic Pakistani food which is delicious and the ambience is to die for. Sanam: In Karachi you must try Zahid’s Nihari, it is the best and Delhi Mercantile is famous for kebab fry with paranthas. Deepak: Some of Pakistan’s famous dishes are Katakat, Karahi Gosht, Hapshi Halwa and the coffee cakes from Bombay Bakery are just lip smacking. TLF: Who are the Indian designers whom you like? Wardha: I love Manish Arora’s work a lot because of the statement pieces he makes and there is an element of quirkiness in his work. I also like Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi a lot. Sanam: I am fond of Anju Modi’s designs and Masaba is another designer whose designs I
Deepak Perwani at Aalishan Pakistan Fashion Show
Wardha Saleem at Taj Mahal, Agra
Sanam Chaudhri is all smiles
look out for. Deepak: I think Rohit and Rahul have a phenomenal palette in fashion and I also like Manav Gangawani’s work a lot. TLF: Tell us something about the nightlife in Pakistan? Deepak: We have a lot of charity balls, soirees, weddings and many other occasions to celebrate especially during winters. As there are no pubs and bars in Pakistan we enjoy these get togethers with friends and family. TLF: Any place in Delhi where you have had food and enjoyed it? Sanam: I went out for dinner at the Pandara Road and had food at Gulati’s. Let me tell you the food there was awesome and I really liked Butter Chicken, Karahi Paneer and Dal Makhni.
TLF: Is there anything you would like to take back to Pakistan from India? Wardha: Lots of love. That is one thing I am taking back for sure. I am also going to carry Kaju Katli from Haldiram’s and chikankari kurtas back home.
PFDC store in India The Boulevard
M-4, South Extension II, Delhi 110049 Phone: 011 4102 6002
Hours: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Shop for
Ready To Wear | Pret a Porter | Diffusion Evening Wear | Bridal Couture
The designer duo enjoying at Chandni Chowk, Delhi
TLF Magazine October 2014 67
LOUNGE | Fashion
The spirit of
Diwali
Shimmer and Shine
This six light crystal chandelier is draped with layers, crystal chain swags and decorated with fancy-cut French pendants, gorgeous glass bobeches and a multitude of crystal teardrop prisms. Price: INR 60,900
Available at: www. kapoorlampshades.com
Festive season is all about new beginnings. You can gift these souvenirs to friends and family or simply add it to your own collection
Diyas and more
This traditional Vedic hanger has a terracotta lamp, vastu beads and seeds and is packed in a beautiful hand-painted artistic reusable tin. Price: INR 1290
This auspicious coconut diya hanger is hand woven with vastu seeds and recycled glass beads that captures the spirit of the Vedic rituals and traditions. Price: INR 390
Available at: www.omvedstore.in
70 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
Satin smooth skin
Wikka’s Beauty Potion comes with rejuvenating and soothing properties with Aloe Vera, Avocado Oil, Patchouli and Chamomile German essential oils as active ingredients.
Make your skin feel fresh and supple with Wikka’s Chamomile body nourish. It invigorates the skin and has almond oil and wheat germ oil that are rich sources of vitamin B6 and folic acid. Price: INR 700
Available at: www.wikka.in
Happy times
These handcrafted time pieces from Spriha have semi-precious gem stones, natural stones, kundans, and enamel work for a perfect time piece. The watches are equipped with Japan Quartz Movement and Swiss Movement. Price: INR 7,000 to 18,000
Available at: Amazon India and stores across Mumbai
SWEET DESIRES
Puranmal Foods offers a range of sweet boxes with mouthwatering mithais this festive season. Their USP is sweets like Nutberry and Dateberry which are sugar free. Price: INR 1000 to 3000 per kg
Availability: Call 9891758718 or 7503360553 between 10 to 6
TLF Magazine October 2014 71
Lounge
Aloft Bengaluru: Singing the right notes Project Aloft Star India Winner - Natania Lalwani
Aloft Hotels invited aspiring millennials to showcase their musical talent to be Asia’s first Project Aloft Star in collaboration with Mtv Asia
F
WORDS | Nidhi Joshi
riday, 26th September 2014 was no ordinary day at Aloft Bengaluru. Having reached the hotel around 12 noon, after an early morning flight from Delhi I was little prepared to witness the hustle bustle going on in the lobby. Lobbies are supposed to be quite with some instrumental music on at times but scenario here was completely different. The stage was being set up, instruments tuned and equipments tested, all this to decide on the winner of the Project Aloft Star. Keeping in mind the next generation traveller, Aloft Hotels in collaboration with MTV Asia had organised this musical talent hunt with an aim to identify and support the hottest emerging music artists from India and there were similar competitions held in China, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand simultaneously. Over a period of three months unsigned artists and bands were invited to showcase their talents by uploading an original video showcasing their music to www.mtvasia.com/projectaloftstar. Here there were five bands competing against each other for the coveted ‘Project Aloft Star’ title. The bands, which were from
72 TLF Magazine October 2014
all over India had to perform in front of Palash Sen of Euphoria, Faiz Alam Ansari, general manager, Aloft Bengaluru Cessna Business Park and Malay Kumar, revenue head and associate vice president south , MTV and MTV Indies. With the crowds cheering and dancing, the bands belted out original songs for the audience and the winner from India was Natania Lalwani and her band. In all, three winners have been chosen from the Asia Pacific region covering major markets China, India and the third cluster comprising of Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. The winner from each cluster will receive US $10,000 cash and a chance to be featured on MTV. “Music is in the DNA of the Aloft brand and we are thrilled to kick-off Asia Pacific’s first Project Aloft Star competition to identify the latest emerging music artists in the region. Project Aloft Star has been hugely successful with five editions in North America; and this year we are very proud to have Asia Pacific’s very own edition to discover the region’s immense potential pool of talent,” said Vincent Ong, senior brand director, Asia Pacific brand management,
Starwood Hotels and Resorts. “We are also excited to partner with MTV Asia who shares our same passion for live music, pop culture and design-led initiatives. This synergistic collaboration allows Aloft Hotels and MTV Asia to amplify the discovery of great new music experiences across Asia Pacific,” continued Ong.
"Natania is a graduate from Musician's Institute (Los Angeles) with a degree in vocal performance. She sang ‘Cherry Love’ written and composed by her while waiting in a queue"
Have feet, will dance
The spacious dance floor at ASOM sets the mood for partying through the night
All the party goers have a new address to party through the night, ASOM is the new star in making which promises to rock with hip music and food
N
WORDS | nidhi joshi
ightlife in Delhi gets a new face with A State Of Music (ASOM) at the Radisson Blu in Dwarka, New Delhi indulging in the best of international and national music. Sprawled over 7000 sq. ft, it is a style and entertainment hub that drips with music and attracts the partying elites. ASOM is the brain child of Ishaan Grover, Mayank Shekhar and Depesh Gupta, the three managing directors who got together to create the club. Before the launch of ASOM, they travelled places and scouted many clubs as they wanted to get the ‘missing element’ in clubbing in Delhi and hence thought of ‘Festival Theme’ for their club. Every Friday there is ASOM Arena that features the best Electronic Dance Music (EDM) that you would love to tap your feet on with renowned DJ’s from world over, one of the recent performances was by the popular Dutch DJ Alvaro. On Saturdays there is ASOM Club Night and
ASOM Studio which is all about Bollywood and fast paced commercial numbers and renowned artists playing with their band live and unplugged respectively. Recently there was a performance by Badshah, singer of ‘Abhi to party shuru hui hai’ from the movie Khoobsurat; it was really fun to dance to that song. But just as the evening progressed,I realised not all playback singers can be performers. What sets ASOM apart from the other clubs in Delhi is the CO2 jets and the acoustics. To give it an international look and appeal are the Martin lights, lighting and sound systems that are comparable to any club abroad. There are three huge LED screens, a bar that serves the best brands of liquor and the yummiest finger foods to compliment your drinks. What more can one ask for? Commenting on the night life of Delhi Ankit Malik, director, marketing says, “Delhi never loses its charm and it has become a big entertainment hub over the years.”
Ankit Malik, director - marketing, ASOM
Connect Asom
Plot 4, Sector 13, Next to Metro Station, Near IGI Airport , Dwarka, New Delhi, India 110075 Website: www.astateofmusic.com Phone: +91-9999983193
Email: info@astateofmusic.com
TLF Magazine October 2014 73
Lounge
A musical evening at The Imperial The third anniversary of Nostalgia saw a passionate repertoire by Karl Lutchmayer for the piano club
A
musical journey turned out to be an extraordinary experience, at a luxe evening at The Imperial when the celebrated notes of the artfully attired, renowned British Pianist Karl Lutchmayer, made the audience speechless at the 3rd anniversary of Nostalgia. The concert embarked the legacy of the recently launched piano club while honouring the 2011 launch of this vintage European dining at 1911 Brasserie, at city’s landmark hotel, The Imperial New Delhi. From scintillating pianism of Liszt to the vibrant rhythms of Bartók, the heroism of Chopin and the dazzling finger work of Ravel, it was an evening of unabashed virtuosity. Karl’s performance was superbly evocative and extremely endearing, leading to an overwhelming response by the music enthusiasts present. The glitterati evening concluded with a lavish spread of traditional European recipes from Nostalgia. The perfect French onion soup, Coq au vin or Ratatouille , the specialties from the erstwhile years evoked the era gone by, in true western style satiating the connoisseurs.
(Right to left)- British pianist Karl Lutchmayer with Vijay Wanchoo, senior executive VP and GM
Empowering the women of India Organised for the 2nd consecutive year, Women of India Leadership Summit is the initiative of BooGio 11 Productions and works towards women empowerment
T
Poonam Bhagat and Aanchal Gulati Nath taking a session on Re Imaging Loneliness and Cultivating Independence
74 TLF Magazine October 2014
he Women of India Leadership Summit, was recently held at India Islamic Centre from the 18th to 20th September, 2014. The summit aimed to help urban women in the NCR to work on their own empowerment with sessions covering a broad range of subjects including learning how to manage your finances, knowing your rights, re-imaging loneliness, cultivating independence, body image, conscious parenting and more. It is also probably the only women’s summit that includes the male point of view and has special interactive sessions for men as well. It included an illustrious panel of speakers such as Naina Lal Kidwai, country head, HSBC India; designer Poonam Bhagat; Kaizaad Kotwal, Emmy award winner; Karmaveer Puraskar awardee, Mahabanoo Mody Kotwaal; Anand Narasimhan, Times Now; Feroze Gujral, Entrepreneur; Vishnu Som, NDTV; lawyer and human rights activist, Mihira Sood; author, Sreemoyee Piu Kundu; comedian, Aditi Mittal; amongst a list of powerful speakers.
Dubai Tourism conducts roadshow in five cities India is an important market for Dubai Tourism, it recently held a road show across five major cities to woo the Indian traveller who constitute the second biggest market for Dubai
I
n a recently concluded road show Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), led a delegation of representatives from the Emirate’s tourism across five key metro cities in India. The aim was to further increase the number of visitors to Dubai from its second biggest source market. As a part of a multi-pronged 2014 marketing strategy to further boost the overall number of Indian travellers to Dubai; the roadshow in New Delhi (15th September) was followed by visits to the cities of Kolkata (16th September), Chennai (18th September), Bangalore (19th September) and Mumbai on the 20th of September. During the five city visit, the delegation led by Dubai Tourism interacted with over 700 Indian retail partners that included tour operators, travel agents, cruise specialists, wedding planners and MICE specialists. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented, “India consecutively ranks as the second top source market globally for visitor traffic into Dubai. In 2013, the total number of Indian visitors totalled 888,835 representing a 16.34% increase over 2012 and the current first half 2014 figures indicate a healthy trend, with more than 490,000 Indian guests staying in our hotels between January and end June 2014.” Carl Vaz, director, DTCM India said, “Our road show creates a platform of interaction for tour and travel operators, cruise and
The DTCM team along with the delegates at the road show
MICE specialists and even wedding planners from various parts of India to widen their product knowledge and thus enhance Indian traveller experience. More-so with the recent announcement of multiple entry visas, we have opened a new avenue for travellers to take in regional cruise options.”
Saluting the unsung heroes in uniform The 4th Annual Taj Palace ‘Black Tie Charity Ball’ celebrated an evening for unsung heroes in uniform in partnership with Jaguar Land Rover
I
(Right to left) General Y.K Kapoor (Retd.) with a friend
n keeping with the Tata’s philosophy of commitment to human values, Taj Palace pledged to pay homage to the spirit of eternal patriotism of the heroes of the armed forces at a recent charity ball held at the hotel. Since its inception in 2011, it has been a conscious endeavor to align and integrate the efforts to better address contemporary societal needs and challenges. The proceeds of the event will go to the Taj Public Service Welfare Trust to effectively address the cause and administer the funds in the most transparent manner. The event saw a congregation of people from the corporate and social circles coming together to show support to the noble cause by raising funds for the unsung heroes of the war. The evening saw Jas Arora, Shereen Bhan, Suhel Seth and Jatin Das to name a few. TLF Magazine October 2014 75
Lounge
Sheraton Macao unveils new initiatives
Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central, Starwood’s largest hotel globally and the biggest hotel in Macau has outlined new initiatives
A
Childred at one of the Dragon Training camps
'Meet 24' highlights Sheraton Macao Hotel’s flexibility in being able to offer meeting facilities around the clock for groups of all sizes
WORDS | tlf desk
t an event held at the Le Meridien, New Delhi on 22nd September 2014, Sheraton Macao Hotel, Cotai Central unveiled its new initiatives for the business and leisure travellers alike. The first in line is the Island of Berk from the DreamWorks Animated ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ films, where children will be taken on a tour to learn about the different species of dragons. Here they will also get a chance to meet the most mysterious dragon of all, ‘Toothless the Night Fury’ and become the ‘Junior Dragon Trainer’ through different fun and interactive activities. The Dragon Training Camp will be divided into five training zones – Viking Tarining, Physical Prepartion, Mind Preparation, Looking the Part, Final Preparations and Meeting with Toothless Dragon.
76 TLF Magazine October 2014
Another aspect that the hotel concentrated on promoting was their Event Concierge. Sheraton Macao Hotel takes pride in their Event Concierges who are the backbones behind the smooth running of events and also the main contact people for the duration of the event. The main thrust of this promotion was to attract more MICE business for the hotel. To further business, the hotel has an attractive ‘Meet 24’ initiative which is specially designed for smarter meetings. This provides smaller meeting groups flexible check-in and check-out times, which allows meeting groups to check-in any time and check-out at the same time on the day of departure at no additional cost. What’s more, meeting space booked will be held for the same duration, which means planners and delegates will enjoy meeting and relaxation time with incomparable flexibility. September 2014, Sheraton
Childred trying to toss the ring
Dragon Training Camp Valid till: December 31, 2014 Age: 4 - 12 years old
Capacity: 50 kids per session
Price: HKD/MOP150 per child with one adult, HKD/MOP50 per adult Reservation: www.sheratonmacao.com or call +853 8113 0228
Lounge
Battle for Everest
Garry, the expert briefing the contestants
Kingfisher Blue Mile Campout is a series of adventure sports and activities, in different cities in India to scout the best and take them for the ultimate trek to the Himalayas
K
ingfisher Blue gave thrill seekers a golden opportunity to be a part of an exceptional trek to Everest Base Camp (EBC). The primary selection process, involved inviting a group of enthusiastic adventure aficionados for the Blue Mile Campout which took place on September 27th and 28th at the Blue Zone camp at The Cherapunjee Cafe. Going head to head at rappelling, zip lining, kayaking and other water sports, the participants had an adventure blast! To shortlist adventurers for the final trek, Blue Mile Campouts are being held across five zones of the country – North, South, East, West and North East. Shillong’s lucky few were selected for the ultimate campout at Dawki-Blue Zone Campthrough digital and on-ground registrations. The campout was specifically designed to test the contestants on various parameters of physical and mental fitness to determine their compatibility for the final trek. Spread over two days of interesting activities, the contestants had to undertake enduring tasks 78 TLF Magazine October 2014
such as trekking tent pitching and zip lining. One among the victorious few said, “This has been the most exhilarating experience of my life! I enrolled myself into the Blue Mile Campout a while back and I can’t believe I’ve made it this far. The energy and excitement here is palpable and it was simply amazing to compete with likeminded adventure junkies. The spirit of competitiveness dissolved into a fun evening as we had a great time sipping beer and discussing our adventure experiences.” Accompanying the adventure enthusiasts at the campout was the stunning adrenaline junkie Gul Panag. Speaking about the event, Gul said “Being an adventure seeker myself, I have had the most spectacular day! Kingfisher Blue has provided India’s adventurous youth an excellent opportunity to challenge themselves and live their dream of making it to Everest Base Camp. I would like to wish all the participants the very best of luck. I can’t wait to meet the finalists again as we summit EBC!”
The tents are finally pitched!
#Now Trending
Water Note: it's a fictional story, based on real life incidents. WORDS | Natascha Shah
I
t was a regular week night, mother was cleaning the kitchen and father had gone to get the dogs inside. Even in Autumn, it gets cold in Srinagar after dusk. We were pretending to be fast asleep, as it was way beyond our bedtime. My sister was busy chatting on her phone. I was very excited about tomorrow. We will wear our brand new clothes, as we had a party in the house. A huge feast- all our relatives will be coming over. I will also open all my gifts tomorrow. There is an Xbox and a cycle. Mum has kept them in the cupboard. It is my 7th birthday tomorrow. I starting dreaming about the day. We will first go to the mosque, then the guests will start 80 TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014
coming home. My grandparents will be the first ones to arrive, and they will bring me the biggest gifts. Dad will get a cake from the best baker in town. My sister and I will be dressed in new clothes. I really wanted to wear my batman t-shirt , but mother said I cannot even touch it before my birthday. I will finally get to wear it tomorrow. Excited, I could not fall asleep. But gradually I did, I started dreaming of swimming in a vast ocean, it was cold. The water wasn't clean, pieces of furniture and some people were floating in it. Where was I? I suddenly
heard mother scream my name and woke up. I was actually wet. There was water all around me, our house was flooded. It was rising. We ran towards the attic. Our dogs followed us, barking. The electricity went off and everything was dark. I could hear mother breathing heavily, and my sister's scared whispers, "Is it a flood? Are we going to drown"? My father was trying to call someone, but all phone lines were down. Everything
was quiet. Except the sound of the water. It was rapidly moving towards everything, causing destruction, sneaking in on people who had fallen asleep to thoughts of a promising tomorrow, washing all promises as it unleashed it's fury. We were in the attic for two days. Luckily there was a bathroom and we drank water from the tap. The dogs had found a corner of the attic to shit and we all sat amidst the odour. We hadn't eaten anything. My stomach was aching, since the past several hours, my head was aching too, feeling light. I felt like I wanted to throw up. I wondered what my parents thought as they held each other's hands and prayed. Hiding the fear and sadness in their eyes as they told me that the party would still happen. My birthday was spent in the attic. There were no prayers, no feast. My grandparents didn't come. There were no gifts. My bat man t-shirt and X box were floating in water, in the ground floor cupboard. I could always dry them. I told dad that I would help him dry the cars as well, which now had turned upside down and crashed against the walls. Two of the walls had broken too. It's good I thought, now there was no boundary between my best friend's and my house. He was no more my best friend though as he didn't even wish me on my birthday! When we do have the party, I shall not invite him. My sister looked really upset, maybe because her phone wasn't working and she could no longer chat with her friends. But she had been crying about a white gown and
her books since two days. I will help her dry those too, I assured her. A few men came to take us out of the attic, we had to go through the window, as the water levels had risen to a great height. We had to leave the dogs behind. They wouldn't let us get them on the boat. My father told me he would come back to get them. We were taken to my favourite hotel, we were finally going to have my birthday party I thought. But the hotel was shut. We had to sit in the garden and sleep in a tent. I couldn't even order my favourite burger. They only gave us watery lentils and soggy biscuits to eat. There were a lot of people in the same garden. All sleeping in tents. Old women, men and kids of my age, my sister found one
of her teachers. Everyone looked sad. They fought with each other over water and food. My father said we will soon go to my uncle's place. He lived in a different city. We usually go there for holidays. I had school tomorrow. We had to go to the airport in a helicopter. There were a lot of people waiting to get on that, but it was difficult to do so. There were limited seats but my father's friend was flying it, he took us with him. We then took a flight to my uncle's city. My sister says my new clothes and toys are all wet, and we do not have a house anymore. We don't have any cars as well. The dogs ran away and our school is full of water. The hotels and shops are all shut. What happened to my city? ď Ž
"It was rapidly moving towards everything, causing destruction, sneaking in on people who had fallen asleep to thoughts of a promising tomorrow, washing all the promises as it unleashed it's fury" More than thousands of people have lost their houses and bits of their lives in the recent floods in Kashmir. We are trying to bring people who want to help together, and make sure their efforts reach the cause. Hope Unboxed is a non- profit organisation that has been doing rehabilitation work in Kashmir. We have a strong network of people in Kashmir who make sure that the relief material doesn't lie wasted at the airport, but reaches those in need. This is something not many organisations are being able to achieve. Visit our Facebook page: facebook/hopeunboxed
www.
Join us and help unbox sunshine over Kashmir.
TLF Magazine ď‚&#x; October 2014 81
TLF- STAR Achievement & Innovation
Awards 2014
(ENTRY OPENS FROM: 20th October, 2014 & ENTRY CLOSES ON: 31st December, 2014) Hotel/Real Estate/Tourism/Travel/Luxury Car Dealer: Name of the company: Address: CITY: Telephone No.:
STATE:
PIN: Fax No:
Year of Establishment: CONTACT PERSON- Name: CONTACT PERSON- Designation:
Mobile:
Email Address (for all official communication with respect to TLF - AWARDS 2014):
NAME of the General Manager (All entries must carry the signature and seal of the organisation) Name: Email:
Mobile No.:
Name of the Marketing Manager (All entries must carry the signature and seal of the organiation) Email:
Mobile No.:
NAME OF THE PERSON WHO WILL ACCEPT THE AWARD ON BEHALF OF THE ORGANISATION IN CASE DECLARED A WINNER. NAME: Designation: Email:
Mobile:
Landline:
DECLARATION: We hereby declare that the above information is true. We also hereby acknowledge that we have read the rules and regulations and all the conditions relating to the award and we accept them.
Signature:
Place:
Date:
Rules and Regulations 1. A seperate application is required for each category that an organisation finds appropriate. 2. Decision of the Award Jury is final and no appeal or correspondence will be entertained. 3. TLF Magazine (Blue Butterfly Media House) reserves the right to award more than one organisation as the winner, and could also withhold award(s), if the required standard is not met. 4. TLF Magazine (Blue Butterfly Media House) accepts no liability for any loss resulting from the disclosure of information concerning an entry to Assessors or Jury members, though all reasonable precautions will be taken to maintain secrecy. 5. TLF Magazine (Blue Butterfly Media House) cannot undertake to return documents or supplementary material submitted with an entry. 6. Award for each sub-sector may be given, even if there is only one application in any of the categories provided that it meets the qualification of minimum assessment (as decided by the Jury). 7. Jury may not approve any Award, if the applicants do not get the minimum qualifying standards. 8. You can send more than one entry but the maximum permissible number of entries is three. 9. Applications must have the supporting documents with regard to the parameters given below. 10. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 11. TLF Magazine (Blue Butterfly Media House) reserves the right to add or delete any award category or sub category. 12. Entry Fees is applicable on every nomination. One Category Nomination fees is INR 2000 and for Two Categories INR 2500 and for 3 or more categories INR 3000/-, cheque should be in favour of "Blue Butterfly Media House". Please attach the following documents: •
Initiatives and Innovations
•
Achievements
•
USP
•
Reason for choosing the category
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FILING APPLICATION FORMS. 1. The soft copy of the award form may be downloaded from the TLF Magazine website: www.TLFmagazine.com be photocopied and further used for more than one category. 2. Use separate application forms for more than one category. You must fill the cover page of the application form in all cases to provide generic information in all category applications and then use the only relevant category application form, which may be a single page form for that particular category. 3. For any clarification on the eligibility process or filling up of the application, the applicants may address their queries to awards@tlfmagazine.com. 4. SEND YOUR ENTRIES TO:
TLF – Trip the Life Fantastic B-20 Basement Office, Nangal Devat Village Near Spinal Injuries Hospital, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi-110075 Tel: 011 64641981 Web: www.tlfmagazine.com