Travelite Magazine Winter Issue 2012

Paradise in

REACH

Fly direct to the Maldives Hong Kong . Beijing . Shanghai . Chongqing . Chengdu . Hangzhou . Seoul

www.megamaldivesair.com Photo: Gili Lankanfushi

Closer to Paradise Since the start of its operations in 2010, MEGA Maldives Airlines has extended to the skies the charm and exotic appeal of the island nation. And with its plans of adding more routes from the capital city of MalĂŠ to Melbourne, Johannesburg, Tokyo and two points in Germany, paradise is made even more accessible and more travellers are bound to enjoy top-notch amenities and warm service unique to the airline.

Travel seamlessly with fixed-weekly, nonstop, point-topoint service on board its 767-300ER aircraft serving the new routes except Johannesburg, which may carry passengers on the 200-seater 757-200ER rendered more ideal for those long-haul flights.

With these exciting expansions, the airline will significantly contribute to the growing popularity of the Maldives.

Australia is a sensible choice judging from the 13,000 arrivals it contributed in 2011. The land down under is also a favourite destination among Maldivian business and leisure travellers, making the addition of this route a very promising venture. Japan is also a great market with almost 36,000 arrivals every year, while Germany is the most attractive with arrivals from Europe exceeding 90,000. On the other hand, Johannesburg, South Africa no longer provides the same strong traffic it used to before the operations of charter flights were halted, but MEGA Maldives is about to turn the situation around.

The airline is determined to push for such audacious growth appointing experienced personnel to spearhead the project and working closely with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Company, as well as several local and overseas tour operators and agents. With its commitment to provide world-class services and facilities for a growing demand of air service from and to the Republic of Maldives, the new routes will provide more access to the dreamy beaches of the archipelago and will also join Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing and Seoul as part of its growing list of destinations.

On board, warm service is combined with fun, comfort and style with in-flight features including its signature Androidbased MEGA pads, extensive meal and beverage services as well as creative programs such as Honeymoon in the Sky and Kiddie Flight Attendant.

With MEGA Maldives Airlines, more than ever, the gateway to paradise is closer to your reach.

Plaza Premium Lounge Luxury on the Go

M

odern business travellers and jetsetters live out of suitcases and hotels, taking one flight after the other. The waiting time in between transit before long-haul flights sounds excruciating, but these travellers, given the dynamic life they live, know better.

Satisfy your cravings in the all-day buffet serving authentic local

Travelling with ease and convenience is made even more possible

Should you require some undisturbed peace and quiet, there are

by Plaza Premium Lounge, the world’s first pay-in lounge concept,

private suites with separate shower facilities on offer to provide

offering first-class amenities to business and leisure travellers

exclusive relaxation in between transit. If you have more time to

on the go. With a presence in over 90 locations operating in 21

spare, there is also a range of beauty services, from hair styling to

international airports, deluxe service and state-of-the-art facilities

hair treatments, and even lavish manicures and pedicures.

specialties from hot dishes to freshly baked breads, a selection of light snacks and sumptuous desserts paired with endless helpings of freshly brewed coffee. The array of culinary delights all look tempting, however, make a beeline for the delectable traditional fish ball noodles to try one of the lounges’ many highlights. À La Carte menus are also available to complement with the bar’s fine assortment of beers, wines and spirits.

are non-negotiable standards in every Plaza Premium Lounge.

The latest addition to the roster of top-notch lounges is the Plaza Freshen up after a long flight in well-appointed shower rooms with

Premium Lounge Kuala Lumpur International Airport, which was

luxurious bath amenities, or should you need further pampering,

launched last 18 September. The lounge boasts of a 7,500 sq ft

there is a host of massage and spa services ready to spoil you

space decked with world-class amenities and well-designed

from head to foot. Indulge in soothing head, seated or full-body

interiors. The lounge is Malaysia’s first and largest pay-in lounge,

massages, foot reflexology, as well as hand and foot spas. Enjoy a

located on the mezzanine floor of KLIA’s Satellite Building.

unique and truly calming experience with the signature oxygen therapy Oxyvital, a treatment infusing fresh air to revitalise the

A memorable travel experience is a journey not sacrificing

body and the mind. For sore muscles and aching backs, the

comfort and convenience, and for the discerning crowd, with

Haslauer Soft-Pack water bed is a delightful, relaxing treatment

bespoke service and thoughtful luxuries, the likes Plaza Premium

that relieves pressure on the spine and joints.

Lounge provide. www.plaza-network.com

CONTENTS

Volume 2, Winter 2012 October - December

arts & design 38 Auction Insider 40 Asian Art du Jour fashion 56 Winter Refuge

100

Travel Guide 64 Journey to Exoticism Travel 70 A Moroccan Winter Interlude 78 Haute Snow-capped Holidays 86 Mendoza’s Best-kept Secrets 92 Enthralled in India 100 Bespoke Island Paradise 106 The Two Facets of Beijing 110 Sensational Spas

70

Quarterly Special 120 Scotland the Spirited holiday special 124 Holiday Bling Bi-annual special 126 Holiday Rides

86

Managing Editor KM km@travelitemagazine.com

contributors Bernard Rennell is a former lawyer with an

extensive background in finance and is currently

Creative Director Mike Jaafar mike@travelitemagazine.com

Features Writer SJ Roxas sj@travelitemagazine.com

the CEO of HSBC Private Banking in North Asia.

He is also the Global Head of its Private Wealth

Sales Associates

Solutions, responsible for HSBC’s trust, family

Jeff Litan jeff@travelitemagazine.com

wealth structuring and administration activities.

For his contributions as past chairman of Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, he was given

Nazarene Catapang nazarene@travelitemagazine.com

the George Tasker Founder’s Award. jessica hodin specialises in contemporary

art, advising clients on making wise investments through the Winston Art Group. With a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from Dartmouth College and a Masters degree in Art Business from the Sotheby’s Institute in New York, where she published an Honours Thesis on Variable Media Conservation in Art Museums, her expertise is now sought for art advisory and client services.

TONY BURNS is a freelance travel photographer

whose lenses have captured the beauty of over 30 countries and counting. His work has appeared in several recognised publications including Lonely Planet, Professional Photographer and Sunday Times Travel. He was also a finalist for Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) in 2009 and 2011. His works are showcased at

www.shootingtheworld.com

Writing Contributors Ferdinand Godinez, Jessica Hodin, Martina Krauss, Brent Lee, Ailene Manzano-Litonjua, Bernard Rennell, Glaiza Seguia, Isobel Tsin

Photo Contributors Tony Burns

www.shootingtheworld.com Mathieu Cotten

mathieucotten@hotmail.fr Jordan Lloyd

www.jordanlloyd.ca Madhura Nadkarni

www.behance.net/clickeratti Subscriptions and Advertising www.travelitemagazine.com sales @travelitemagazine.com info@travelitemagazine.com

Printed by Paramount Printing Company Limited

Ailene Manzano-Litonjua is an accom-

plished banking executive whose drive and management skills have been valuable to two leading multinational financial institutions. On her free time, her passion for the finer things in life – food, wine and travel, brings her to African

1/F 8 Chun Ying Street, Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate Tseung Kwan O, New Territories, Hong Kong Published by Travelite Magazine Company Limited. All rights, including the name of this publication are owned by Travelite Magazine Company Limited. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission. Travelite Magazine believes that the information herein was obtained from reliable sources, but it does not guarantee its accuracy. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and contributors and not necessarily

safaris and other captivating destinations. How-

endorsed by the publisher. Information supplied for advertising purposes is

ever, she finds greater pride and joy in being a

the responsibility of the advertisers, and no advertisement is to be deemed

devoted wife and a loving mother of three.

an endorsement of the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for entries supplied by individuals or companies including but not limited to typographical errors and copyright of all supplied materials. Travelite Magazine takes no responsibility for the price differences stated within. All prices are in US dollars, based on the currency rates at the time of print.

editor’s note trav–el–ite noun /ˈtrav(ə)lēt/

travel for the elite Just like that, we are again, wrapping another year. But before we bid 2012 adieu, let’s enjoy the remaining months in high style and grandeur. We are proud to unfold eight glamorous pages of our fashion editorial, which was shot in between typhoons. It was a truly rewarding experience. Flip through the pages to see for yourself.

We handpicked the season’s most coveted gadgets and travel must-haves to accompany your holiday sojourns, whether you are escaping or embracing the cold. For jetsetters planning for a chic snow-capped getaway, we mapped eight of the world’s most luxurious winter destinations.

If you’d rather indulge in a sizzling escape, we found many ways to keep you warm this season, starting with a truly exotic exploration of Jordan, followed by an authentic, off-the-beaten track to Marrakech and an enchanting experience in two of India’s fascinating cities. We invite you to take a quick stopover to admire the beauty of Argentina’s Mendoza wine country, where you can further warm up with the enticing taste of fine wines. Soak up the heat in the sunny island paradise of Maldives, before heading to Beijing to cool down and chill out. Finally, help yourself to a truly relaxing getaway in the best pampering districts of Thailand to reward yourself for the year that has been.

It’s been an exciting ride so far, for all of us at Travelite. We look forward to another year of fabulous travels and passionate experiences. Until then, wishing you a festive season and cheers to the great year that was and the one ahead.

Happy holidays!

Managing Editor

Photographer Roy Macam Fashion Editor Ram de Vera Model Natalie Cutler | Elite Manila Make-up Jess Efenio Hair Alee Benson Assistants Ian Pan, Jian Songco & Elmer Ordinario Special Thanks Java Hotel Java Hotel, a haven situated in one of the most serene areas of Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, Philippines offers 50 delightful rooms perfect for your getaways in the North. www.javahotel.com.ph Cover Outfit: Colour-blocked jersey dress Puey Quiñones. Earrings Adante Leyesa for MYTH. Wooden panel cuff and layered bangles Adante Leyesa for L Manila.

Swarovski bracelet and lantern cylinder necklace (used as bracelet) BJ Chavez.

social timeline

bahrain

JEWELLERY ARABIA 16-20 OCTOBER Give in to the allure of dazzling gems and exquisite timepieces fit for royals.

With the support of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bahrain himself, this event is where the likes of Chanel, Harry Winston, Cartier and Panerai come to gather for an incredible exhibition of glittering treasures.

SHANGHAI

TOP MARQUES 26-28 OCTOBER This increasingly popular event gathers the affluent for a congregation of international luxury brands that test the attendees’ nonexistent credit limits. Only the best of home interiors, jewellery, sailboats and more are featured in a massive exhibition space. Join the festivities and get caught in a marvellous whirlwind of priceless commodities.

bahamas

25th Annual ShowBoats International Rendezvous 8-10 NOVEMBER

Consider this your ticket to the Bahamas as yacht owners and captains try to one-up each other much to everyone’s entertainment. Though the stylised sailboats on display are the main attraction, other exclusive activities are also to watch out for, including the White Party gala dinner. This year, guests will be treated to live performances by The Village People, Caliente and Huey Lewis and the News.

TRAVELITE | 12

social timeline

london

Winter Fine Art & Antiques Fair 12-18 NOVEMBER Expand your collection with prized acquisitions from this prestigious affair previously graced

by A-listers such as Bono, Claudia Schiffer and Sir Paul Smith. Said to be one of the most important events in the industry, approximately 140 purveyors of fine art and antiques are set to participate.

miami beach

Art Basel

6-9 DECEMBER Modern art takes centre stage with creations of over 2,000 artists produced from the 20th and 21st centuries. Be astonished by a wide range of artistic projects as exhibited by 257 respected galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa. Arrange your guided VIP tour early for convenient access to pieces that are set to be future legends.

vienna

Le Grand Bal 31 DECEMBER Ring in the New Year in glitz and glamour on what is touted to be ‘The Night of Love’.

The occasion calls for elegant formal wear, so it’s the perfect time to take out those fancy designer dresses and bespoke suits. Get entangled in a lavish merriment of cocktails and ballet performances, but make sure to join the midnight countdown and welcome 2013 in this unforgettable party.

TRAVELITE | 13

destination hotlist | hotels & resorts

Hullet House

Hong Kong Relive the grandiose days of old Hong Kong within the pillared walls of Hullett House, a captivating hotel nestled in the pulsating Tsim Sha Tsui district. The hotel, with a colourful past dating back from 1881, invites you to immerse in history and luxury in the individually designed all-suite accommodations.

Each of the 10 corner or terrace suites are bedecked in either modern or contemporary design of unique artworks and bespoke furnishings. Be ushered in different worlds upon entering the suites, starting with the majestic Tsing Lung inspired by Imperial China, Pui O with a taste of Shanghai in the 1930s, the Castle Peak boasting contemporary Scottish décor and Shek O with rich red walls reminiscent of Hong Kong’s traditional antique shops.

Stumped for choice? It doesn’t help that there is also a bewildering array of dining options to choose from. Although the Michelin-starred St. George is one dining experience you should not miss for sumptuous five-course dinners paired with fine wines presented with top-notch service in an elegant dining room. Be captive of a historic ambience, picturesque cityscape views, excellent privacy and exquisite service with nightly rates starting from USD 1,280 to USD 1,705 per suite.

www.hulletthouse.com

TRAVELITE | 15

destination hotlist | hotels & resorts

Tree Top Lofts

Singapore

Boost your hotel experience to greater heights, quite literally, with the newly launched Tree Top Lofts at the Resorts World Sentosa. Get a bird’s eye view of the sweeping integrated resort from the comforts and luxury of either the Angsana or Tembusu loft, both hovering a good 12 m above the ground. Enjoy complete privacy in the lofts with a relaxing vibe emanating from the lush, green trees and a host of fivestar features such as personalised butler service and spacious living room, bedroom and bathroom areas hemmed with more than 90 sqm of wooden terraces. The modern and minimalist interiors are designed to blend well with the surroundings, taking you back to nature and enjoying the environment in its purest form, luxuries in tow. Nightly rates for both suites start at USD 2,440. www.rwsentosa.com

TRAVELITE | 16

feature | l hotel seminyak

I NSI DE R’S SECR ET

A Lifestyle of Luxury

B

“live Life” at L Hotel

ali, the famous island of the Gods and top destination for many stylish jetsetters is already brimming with luxury hotels and resorts. Finding your perfect match

can be quite a challenge, what with the many choices among properties vying for attention. But the latest addition to the hip Seminyak district need not lock horns with the rest of the contenders, as it is truly in a league of its own.

What is unique about the fabulously fresh L Hotel Seminyak, beyond the chic design, lavish amenities and bespoke service is the lifestyle it offers. More than just a hotel experience, guests are lavished with decadent pampering by a quintessential

“L is for Love. Experience the many LOVE spaces sprinkled all over the hotel for romantics – the Love Corner at Lola, Love Bar

brand of luxury that is distinctly L Hotel’s.

at the mezzanine and the wooden Love Seat at the lobby.”

The design itself is a talking piece on its own – from the impressive architecture and modern exteriors to the breathtakingly stylish interiors. Architect Popo Danes shares the influence of the sophisticated design, “The inspiration behind all of this was my focus on quality of space. We never designed a giant building in our portfolio. The size of L Hotel is essentially its beauty. Not

A

dding to the chic vibe are many bespoke touches offered by a team of experts, including highly trained butlers in every floor, who will go out of their way to

tailor-fit every little detail to elevate your L experience. Here,

much bigger compared to the guests’ own home, we designed

no detail is too big or small. Resident Tastemaker Adeline Quek

L Hotel to make the guests feel like they own the whole space.”

shares, “The quintessential touch and personalised services make L Hotel Seminyak different from the rest of the boutique

And surely, guests will feel right at home in this cosy, alluring

hotels and villas in Bali. We have a butler station on every floor,

space bedecked with plush décor and modern, trendy

each one well trained to serve the most discerning guests with

furnishings. All the details blend together to create a glamorous

a staff to guest ratio of 1:1. No one else in Bali has this extent

and elegant ambience.

of tailored butler service.” The iconic contemporary design extends to the 30 all-suite accommodations with white marble walls and handcrafted Balinese ornaments. Guests are invited to indulge in comfort and luxury, with designer amenities such as Kiehl’s bath products, bespoke Grohe rain showers and a deluxe pillow menu.

Guests can further embrace the L lifestyle at Luna, the chic rooftop lounge boasting stunning sea views and inventive culinary creations from Chef Rutger Nohl, who shares the house specialties, “The signature dishes are Confit Tandoori Duck Leg with Chili Salsa, Beef Wellington and Local Lobster served on your own grill. The dishes are my original recipes from many years of culinary passion, using only the freshest premium ingredients and local produce. Mixing the classic style of cooking with new techniques, such as Espuma’s slow cooking, my food seeks to excite the taste buds, artfully bringing out a clean, delicious taste.” Luna also features the unique Kitano teppanyaki corner, making it a hip venue for rooftop parties and intimate weddings.

L Hotel Seminyak is a choice destination for the stylish, jet set crowd who want nothing less than the luxury and bespoke service that is more than just an amenity, but is the standard of lifestyle at L.

www.thelhotels.com

TRAVELITE | 17

Hotel Missoni

kuwait

The frenzy of chevron and stripes further enlivens the vibrant city of Kuwait through the Hotel Missoni. Live, and not just wear, the unmistakable style of the iconic Italian fashion house, as it is boldly imbibed throughout the property, from the lobby to the guest rooms. Even its Michelin-star restaurant, Cucina, serving classic Italian cuisine, stays faithful to the aesthetic. For nocturnal revelry, lounge among the bewildering interiors of Luna on the 18th floor and have your sushi and cocktails at the terrace with the stunning view of the Arabian Gulf as backdrop.

All of the 169 well-appointed rooms enjoy similar views, but Suite d’Oro heralds the sea and cityscapes best with a private tiered terrace. Luxuriate in your suite’s other glamorous features including Missoni robes and towels for approximately USD 5,666 per night. www.hotelmissoni.com

Hotel Éclat

Beijing

Soon to be added to the city’s fantastic roster of lavish accommodations is Hotel Éclat Beijing in the central business district of Chaoyang. No one would dare miss the striking architecture alone, made even more vibrant by the modern conveniences surrounding the property from designer boutiques to cinemas. As for creature comforts, the hotel promises to delight its well-heeled clientele with private jetted swim spas, terraced gardens, a stunning contemporary art collection, personal butlers and unique private dining concepts. Be among the first to indulge in such outstanding, extraordinary amenities when it opens this winter. www.eclathotels.com

TRAVELITE | 18

destination hotlist | hotels & resorts

The Sukosol

Bangkok

Get entranced as the best of Thailand and beyond unravel before you only at The Sukosol, Bangkok. When you’re not exploring the temples and the other magnificent cultural attractions of Bangkok, take time to admire the hotel’s extensive art collection, recharge and refresh by the poolside on the rooftop, stay fit in the modern fitness centre, get pampered in the salon and the decadent Lotus Spa and drop

by Baan Siam for gifts. In the business centre, corporate travellers can keep track of work conveniently.

Keep your appetite satisfied in any of the six restaurants of The Sukosol, Bangkok offering a range of cuisines for anyone’s liking. For authentic Thai fare in a relaxed blend of traditional and modern setting, head to Spice & Rice Thai-Halal Restaurant. Have fresh sushi within the sleek surroundings of Kamon and enjoy al dente pasta at Primavera. Don’t miss the succulent duck specialties at Lin-Fa while confined in its chic and contemporary interiors. The Bakery Cafe tempts with indulgent desserts while Patummat offers a complex menu of Thai, Western and Asian specialties.

There’s no better way to cap off a day of sightseeing and shopping than taking refuge in any of The Sukosol’s 470 charming guest rooms equipped with thoughtful amenities including cotton robes, thick duvets, reading lights and coffee and tea making facilities. Get spoilt further with the exclusive Club Siam offering premium business and VIP services. Private check-in/out, complimentary laundry as well as daily cocktails and canapés are only some of the added benefits.

It’s no wonder the hotel has garnered numerous praises from local and international entities. The Sukosol, Bangkok is a haven in the heart of the city, ideal for hosting your convenient and unforgettably delightful journeys.

www.sukosolhotels.com

destination hotlist | bars & lounges

rock bar bali

Live it up by the Indian Ocean on top of a natural rock formation and sip your martinis with the sea breeze blowing on your face. The multi-awarded Rock Bar takes the party to the coastlines with chic, minimalist interiors and some serious ocean views providing an exhilarating backdrop. On an elevated platform slightly above the bar, a master DJ spins euphoric scoring for the setting sun daily and up to the wee hours of the night from Thursdays to Saturdays.

The way up alone is quite an experience, with an inclinator that showcases the sheer beauty of natural scenery — the vast seascape on one side and volcanic cliffs on the other — coupled with modern design and technology. Don’t miss out on their signature drinks — Rock My World, Rockito and Spiced Rock (USD 15 each) made with premium liquors and locally grown ingredients and secure your spot in the open-top bar facing the infinity of sea and sky. You might also want to drop by the Rock Bar boutique for designer jewellery, clothing, accessories and their official ‘Beyond Sunset’ CD.

www.ayanaresort.com/rockbarbali

aer mumbai

Atop the Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, Aer overlooks the contradiction of a bustling city and a serene seascape.

Marvel over this amusing sight from the 34th floor on an open-air deck with a ceiling of clouds. Catch their Sunset Happy Hour from 5:30pm to 8pm daily for half-priced drinks with uncompromised views. Watch the amber light engulf the city over champagne cocktails from the white, egg-shaped bar or from the contemporary, lowlevel sofas. Aer has become the favourite hangout of the city’s fashion set as well as moneyed expats with its upscale design and relaxed ambience.

Energy builds up as the night deepens with the tunes of DJ Shaan ushering in the party atmosphere. Mingle with other well-heeled attendees under a sky of stars as he plays a track list of upbeat jazz, funk, house, club and catchy mixes of 80s and 90s hits. A cover charge of USD 36 applies from 8pm onwards during Fridays and Saturdays when the festivities are at peak.

www.fourseasons.com/mumbai

TRAVELITE | 20

destination hotlist | bars & lounges

Salon De Ning manila

The fourth addition to The Peninsula’s chain of grandiose lounges inspired by its muse, Madame Ning, has infused Manila’s night scene with extra glamour and drama. Henry Leung, the innovative designer who is also responsible for the other versions in New York, Hong Kong and Shanghai, successfully incorporated distinctively Filipino touches to the signature old-world opulence of Salon De Ning. This is especially evident in the heavy, red door at the entrance with a carved carabao horn as handle.

Inspired by 1930s Shanghai, the ceiling is dripping with shimmering crystals encrusted on upside down parasols, while the chairs and stools are wrapped with lush velvet. Choose from four uniquely themed rooms namely — Boxer, decorated with original boxing memorabilia, The Shoe Room, holding 240 pairs of individually designed shoes on display, Zeppelin, featuring an airship cruising above the Manhattan skyline with King Kong straddling the Empire State Building and the Shanghai Room, the largest space adorned with animal print rugs, antique furniture and other ornaments evoking a lavish, Oriental sitting room.

Be entertained by a line-up of nightly live musical acts while enjoying their signature drink, Ning Sling (about USD 7). You can also order from a more extensive menu from The Bar, which is just across the foyer.

www.peninsula.com/salondeningmanila

Summit Lounge hanoi Perched on top of the Sofitel Plaza, Hanoi, the Summit Lounge is a choice spot to soak up 360-degree view of the city’s lakes, rivers and high-rise buildings, while luxuriating on the wooden terrace. What was supposedly the 20th floor penthouse of the hotel is now the recently re-launched Summit Lounge, which has been hosting the town’s hottest events from 90s parties to toga nights. Savour a selection of culinary cocktails and reinterpreted Southeast Asian street food from an impressive menu specially created by celebrity chef Will Meyrick. Such delights are served by waitresses in French maid uniforms and quirky pink wigs. Meanwhile, the Summit Lemongrass and Summit White Sangria (USD 9 each), are only two of the must-try drinks to sip on while being carried away by the pulsating beats served up by the DJ. Whether it’s afternoon or night, the views are always spectacular. Start the evening in the romantic indoor area amid flickering lamps and floor–to– ceiling windows. Later on, progress into the balcony and sip your cocktail with the Hanoi nightscape as your view. On Magnifique Tuesdays, order any of the displayed French wines for half the price, while on Missbehave Thursdays, ladies get two free shots with every order of a culinary cocktail.

www.sofitel.com

TRAVELITE | 21

Las Residencia Spa

Mallorca

Stay at the peak of wellness with the relaxing and healing treatments of La Residencia Spa at Mallorca’s Hotel La Residencia. Relaxation here is set amidst soothing views of the Tramuntana mountains and lush greenery, with lavish amenities including an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, steam and sauna rooms and a well-equipped fitness centre. Three of the six well-appointed treatment rooms boast open-air terraces to take best advantage of the picturesque scenery surrounding the spa. It is a heavenly space to get pampered with a host of well-rounded therapeutic treatments using luxurious Guinot and Natura Bissé products, designed to soothe and heal from head to foot.

Be in a state of utter calm with a treatment unique to the spa, the Thermal-Hydro-Colour Experience, where you lie on the warm floatation couch to absorb the gentle warmth and therapeutic colours surrounding you. The 25-minute treatment (USD 100) is capped with a de-stressing feet and scalp massage.

A team of therapists can also tailor-fit treatments according to your skin and body’s special needs, just to make sure that the whole experience takes you to the pinnacle of relaxation.

SIGNATURE TREATMENTS: Diamond Extreme and Super

Hydradermie Lift Facials, Diamond Magnetic Body Treatment, Pure Indulgence Spa Ritual, Thermal-Hydro-Colour Experience

www.hotel-laresidencia.com

TRAVELITE | 22

destination hotlist | spa & wellness

Caudalíe Vinothérapie Spa

istanbul

Surrender your stresses to the decadent treatments at Hotel Les Ottomans’ Caudalíe Vinothérapie Spa. Just in case one massage session is not enough, the spa specially designed exquisite Spa Retreats to pamper every inch of your body in a series of luxurious treatments. Create your custom spa retreat with your choice of treatments from the extensive menu, from facials to body treatments and even slimming massages. Enjoy the comforts of your spa suite and exclusive use of the Jacuzzi, Aroma Steam Bath, Finnish Sauna, Ice Fountain and Hammam baths, all while getting pampered by your spa butler.

The two-and-a-half-hour Grape Vine Retreat is a revitalising full-body treatment using vine-based therapies exclusive to the spa. Get fully relaxed with the foot ritual and the highlights of the treatment – the rejuvenating Merlot Friction Scrub and the irresistible Wine Maker’s Massage.

SIGNATURE TREATMENTS: Grape Vine Retreat,

Vinothérapie Ritual, Signature Hammam Treatments

www.lesottomans.com

destination hotlist | luxury cruises

Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

The Oberoi

Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

Nile & india

Indulge in gourmet meals and rejuvenating spa treatments while sailing through the famed Nile River aboard The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser, Egypt. Choose from 25 Luxury Cabins and two Luxury Suites, offering the most space among all the liners on the Nile. All cabins boast large windows, allowing you to enjoy awe-inspiring views throughout the voyage. Book one of the suites and lounge comfortably in your own separate living room and take decadent baths in your private terrace’s Jacuzzi. The vessel is truly unique, as it is the only one to offer a full-service spa equipped with four massage suites, which is a perfect haven after exploring the temple of Kom Ombo. An outdoor swimming pool, a theatre, a library and a cigar lounge are other remarkable features of the Zahra.

Another Oberoi cruise ship worth noting is The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala, which passes through the scenic backwaters of Kerala. When not lazing around your luxury cabin, immerse in local culture and heritage with guided tours of a 100-year-old Hindu temple in Nedumudi and the snake boat yard in Champakulam as part of the itinerary. Get transported to another realm off-board with a journey to 5,000 years of Egypt’s history and on-board with nightly performances including a demonstration of Kathakali, a traditional dance depicting the events of ancient Hindu tales.

TRAVELITE | 24

DEPARTURES: The Oberoi Zahra, Luxury Nile Cruiser, Egypt

(Luxor to Aswan) 9, 23 October|6, 20 November|4, 18 December and (Aswan to Luxor) 2, 16, 30 October | 13, 27 November | 11, 25 December; The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda, Backwater Cruiser, Kerala 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31 October | 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30 November | 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30 December YOUR VOYAGE: The 7-Night itinerary from Luxor to Aswan

on-board the Zahra is at USD 2,529 and USD 2,830 from Aswan to Luxor per person, per night in a Luxury Suite shared by two guests; A 3-night cruise along Kerala with a Luxury Cabin accommodation on-board the Vrinda is at USD 2,110 for single or double occupancy

www.oberoihotels.com

destination hotlist | luxury cruises

Seabourn

ARABIA, AFRICA & INDIA

Discover a wealth of cultural gems with a transcontinental cruise from Athens all the way to Dubai. It’s a voyage that captures the sweetness of life with a luxury liner featuring fine dining facilities, spa villas and a casino as some of its first-class amenities.

Explore the Parthenon, get acquainted with the marine life in the Red Sea, pass through the Suez Canal, sunbathe in Turtle Beach, Oman and experience the opulence of Dubai all in one amazing trip. Fill your days with nothing but pure pleasure by seeing the world from a rare perspective with extraordinary exploits that will be etched in your memory forever. While on your way to your next shore excursion, spend hours relaxing in your personal whirlpool tub and simply take joy in every part of your 102 sqm Wintergarden Suite. Don’t let the stunning scenery go to waste by dedicating some time to sit down in your veranda and breathe in the fresh sea breeze.

Photo courtesy of Seabourn Cruises

DEPARTURE: 10 November YOUR VOYAGE: The Seabourn 16-Day Kingdoms of the Sun

Cruise with a Wintergarden Suite is at USD 20,799 per person based on double occupancy

www.seabourn.com

Crystal Cruises

morocco & north africa

Sail through the Atlantic Ocean with your personal butler and a private library aboard Crystal Serenity. From the fascinating city of Lisbon, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will have you worshipping the sun on the shores of the Canary Islands and Valencia. The coastal city of Agadir, Morocco with its many top-notch resorts is also another highlight.

On–board, the entertainment choices vary from films in a surround-sound theatre to award-winning Broadway-style presentations. Why not learn a new skill while traversing the Strait of Gibraltar with on-board dance classes, golf lessons with PGA pros and art classes with Odyssey Art at Sea? The state-of-the-art equipment in the gym, separate his and hers steam rooms and Kinesis and Tai Chi lessons are some of the many amenities and services to keep you in good shape.

You might need those exercises what with the nightly hors d’oeuvres that you can feast on in your glorious Penthouse.

DEPARTURE: 28 November YOUR VOYAGE: The 11-Night Mysteries of Morocco Cruise with

Crystal Penthouse accommodations is at USD 20,480 per person Photo courtesy of Crystal Cruises

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based on double occupancy

www.crystalcruises.com

destination hotlist | MICE

Alila Jakarta

Jakarta

Style combines well with functionality in Alila Jakarta’s meeting and event spaces. Executives on the go are invited to loosen up their ties and allow a team of experts to take care of business in style. Tailor-fit services and all-inclusive packages are easily available for worry-free events from meetings to seminars and banquets. Meetings for a group of 12 are hosted at Solis, located on the chic executive centre on the 7th floor, while bigger groups of up to 80 are accommodated theatre-style at the Olio and Elan rooms. For larger events, the spacious Ballroom decked with a high ceiling and simply elegant interiors is an ideal venue for sophisticated cocktail parties for up to 500 of your stylish guests.

www.alilahotels.com/jakarta

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destination hotlist | mice

The Shilla Seoul

Seoul

Business on the go should never compromise efficiency, and well, luxury. The most discerning of business travellers will be delighted to know that The Shilla Seoul perfectly fits the bill. Events and meetings are hosted in sophisticated venues with state-of-the-art facilities and are tended with five-star service. The small and medium function rooms, a total of nine in all, are well-designed spaces featuring elegant wall dĂŠcor, fine furnishings and soft lighting, ideal for intimate meetings and smaller gatherings. Grand events and large conferences are accommodated grandly at the Dynasty Hall Ballroom, where you can impress up to 700 of your high-profiled guests with a lavish banquet. www.shilla.net/en/seoul

Suzhou Marriott Hotel

Suzhou

Indulge in ultra-spacious meeting rooms and sweeping ballrooms at the Suzhou Marriott Hotel, boasting of a massive 1,580 sqm of total meeting space. No business meeting or event is too large or small for these upscale venues, which are flawlessly planned and executed by a team of professionals.

Seven meeting rooms, two executive boardrooms and three ballrooms are on offer, all individually spacious, and can also be combined to create the space to suit even the largest of your business or social events. www.marriott.com

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EPICURIOUS | HOLIDAY dining

AMBER HONG KONG

Give your holiday celebration a lavish, French twist with a memorable dinner at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s Amber. Aside from having been awarded with two Michelin stars, the fine dining establishment is also one of The World’s 50 Best Restaurants as declared by S Pellegrino. The key to such accolades is offering innovative cuisine prepared by its revered culinary director Richard Ekkebus. His contemporary French masterpieces earned the establishment a strong following among discriminating diners from all over the world.

Dine in immaculate interiors as conceptualised by famed designer Adam Tihany. The dramatic light fixture with dripping bronze rods is only one eye-catching component contributing to the elegant ambience. Shift your focus from the plush setup to the actual stars of the show – the culinary marvels that Amber is known for. Made with only superior quality produce and ingredients, this time of the year becomes extra special as your palate communes with exotic yet enticing edibles.

One of Amber’s signature dishes, Sea Urchin in a Lobster Jelly with Cauliflower, Caviar and Crispy Seaweed Waffle (USD 60) is a fascinating story in itself. Sample the best of the menu with the eight-course dinner offered at USD 218 per person.

For an additional USD 192, each diner can enjoy six premium burgundy wines to complement the sumptuous meal.

www.amberhongkong.com

vila joya portugal

Send your taste buds into an ecstatic flurry of flavours just as intended by chef Dieter Koschina of Vila Joya. This famous dining hub distinguishes itself as the only restaurant in Portugal to earn two Michelin stars, so expect first class cuisine and impeccable service. Add to that the fact that Vila Joya sits close to the coast of Algarve, enjoying a spectacular panorama and you’ll be convinced that Vila Joya is an epicurean dream come true. Connoisseurs certainly agree, judging from the restaurant’s inclusion in the roster of the top restaurants in the world.

Celebrate the many returns of the year that was and welcome the prosperity the new one brings about by indulging in worldclass cuisine. Request to be seated outside and break away from the rowdy parties this year, only to surrender to the romance of seaside dining. Such postcard-worthy scene is completed by Vila Joya’s eclectic menu, which features splendours such as imported caviar and truffles with fresh lobsters. www.vilajoya.com

EPICURIOUS | holiday dining

quest abu dhabi

Elevate your dining experience 63 floors above the ground in Jumeirah at Etihad Towers’ premiere gastronomic haven. You’re in for a treat with the clean, modern décor and the riveting 360-degree views of the cosmopolitan skyline and Arabian Gulf competing for admiration. The true winner, however, is the Pan Asian fare masterfully made in the large open kitchen under the command of distinguished chef Loughlin Druhan. Full of experience from a career that traces back to Europe, North America, Africa and Asia, he manages to stay faithful to a blend of Japanese, Malaysian and Chinese focal points, but still keeps the menu unpredictable and original.

Host a special gathering in one of the private rooms and bond over an impressive dinner set of gourmet dishes, while overlooking a city that twinkles throughout the night. The restaurant’s divine version of the miso soup (USD 15) serves as a good starter.

Remember to ask your server about the specials, just in case they have a few surprises in addition to the menu. The excellent food is not the only asset of Quest that has swooned patrons and critics over. The restaurant is also well-loved for employing and training a very able service crew knowledgeable and helpful enough to make valid recommendations. www.jumeirah.com

nahm bangkok

Escape from the holiday frenzy of a busy metropolis with a burst of flavours in a soothing atmosphere. Nahm offers the definitive mix of sweet, sour, salty and spicy sensations common in traditional Thai cuisine reinterpreted with surprising executions by acclaimed Australian chef David Thompson. His expertise helped propel Nahm to be included in Restaurant Magazine’s prestigious list heralding 50 of the world’s best restaurants.

Using fresh, traditional ingredients while observing balance in every dish, chef David and his team delight diners with carefully crafted lunch and dinner menus to be matched with a splendid wine and cocktail selection. Your best bet in understanding the dining philosophies of Nahm is through the set dinner menu priced at USD 55 per person. Start your feast with appetising canapés like Coconut Cupcakes with Red Curry of Crab, then progress to several superb dishes from each section of the main course and end with a unique Thai dessert such as Black Sticky Rice with Longans and Young Coconut with Caramelised Taro. For a more intimate celebration with friends or family, reserve one of the three private dining rooms with a pre-ordered menu of USD 550 per person (party of at least six) and savour the same Nahm brilliance away from the crowd. www.comohotels.com

Sound check

13-27 October

canterbury festival October marks one of the highlights in Kent in the Southeast of England. It is the time of the year when arts and culture enthusiasts flock to the region’s International Arts Festival, more famously known as The Canterbury Festival.

This year, the highly anticipated event runs from the 13th to the 27th of October, to be held in many exciting venues all over Kent, London and the Southeast, featuring a diverse mix of genres including Classical Music, World Music and Festival Club tunes.

Catch key performances from rock and roll legend Van Morrison, the Canterbury Choral Society and Russia’s pride, the St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra featuring pianist Freddy Kempf, among a horde of renowned artists and musicians.

Doudou Cissoko

www.canterburyfestival.co.uk

12-14 October

austin city limits music festival If alternative rock music is more to your liking, then head to the “live music capital of the world” – Austin, Texas for a rocking three-day event. Held annually at the Zilker Park, locals and travellers are known to flood the venue to witness live performances from world-famous bands and solo artists.

This year’s line-up includes indie bands Tegan and Sara, Florence and the Machine and The Shins. Get a chance to be treated to live renditions of hits from multi-instrumental musician Gotye, electronic music band M83 and Swedish DJ and songwriter Avicii. You can also catch hit performances from Grammy nominee and singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright and renowned American rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Happening on the 12th to the 14th of October, the ACL fest, as it is more famously known, is an event not to be missed.

www.aclfestival.com

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business | HSBC PRIVATE BANK

Building and Sustaining the Business Family’s Total Capital HSBC Private Bank and Private Wealth Solutions’ Bernard Rennell shares how business families can develop their assets and increase their total capital.

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Ask an Asian family to catalogue its wealth and you may be surprised by the responses you get back. Some may start their list with money and property, others with a shared faith or history, and others again may prize health and the emotional support of intergenerational relationships.

cademics differ in their interpretations of social capital, however, depending on their field of study.

For our purposes, I’ll define it as the store of goodwill and support created through shared values and a sense of belonging, from which, members can draw to achieve common or personal goals.

There is no ‘right answer’ of course, but as this region becomes richer, its clear perceptions of wealth are evolving.

In this article, I shall explore the idea of ‘total capital’ and show how business families, the building blocks of most Asian economies, can develop their tangible and intangible assets to the benefit of themselves and the society at large.

Even if the family is planning ahead, its decisions are becoming harder. Its seniors are living longer, creating a bottleneck of elders with ambitions to fulfill and their own ideas about strategic direction. Its young inhabit an increasingly fast-paced world in which they can find themselves working or studying far from the parental home. They may value social networks created by such experiences above those of the family’s clan or religious community.

To explain what I mean by total capital, I’m going to divide the family’s assets into three areas: financial, human and social capital. In many ways, financial capital is the easiest to comprehend, since it describes the stock of wealth that is measurable in monetary terms. Human capital is also an established concept, representing the competencies and interpersonal skills acquired through education and experience that enable individuals to create economic value.

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Unfortunately, many families only start thinking about the preservation, expansion and transmission of their capital to the next generation when a disruptive event is already upon them. This could be the death of a senior member, or an offer to buy the family business.

As a result, some families take a strategic approach to their human capital. They strive to give younger members the best education possible, and give them funds for experimental ventures to teach them entrepreneurial skills. Some make a conscious effort to expose them to multicultural or spiritual environments, and they disperse potential leaders to gain work experience overseas.

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ut while the old saying “it takes a village to raise a child” can be modified to apply to an extended family, it doesn’t follow that the family infrastructure will be conducive to a smooth devolution of power by and from its elders. Some find it harder than others to deconstruct traditional patriarchal hierarchies, and to adopt the kind of collaborative decision-making that will bind family members together as a team.

When a private bank like ours is invited to help a family develop its total capital, the first step is often to encourage members to think about their legacy over the long term – not just the next 10 years, but also the next 30 and even 100 years. While each family’s objectives are unique and personal, once a broad vision has been agreed, then work can begin to formulate structures that will achieve the collective aims.

In preparing the strategy, experienced advisers will create ownership structures around tangible assets, such as trusts and other holding vehicles (the hardware), as well as designing integrated and supportive governance arrangements (the software). Both are developed with the family so that they reflect its goals and so each member understands their responsibilities.

A governance blueprint will typically espouse collective decision-making through some form of family council, an agreed process for conflict resolution, and policies designed to promote communication. The hard infrastructure can include a range of solutions, from asset transfers aimed at tax efficiencies to plans for mergers or acquisitions.

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rusts are one of the most enduring forms of financial capital management, and for individuals contemplating succession, they can provide greater flexibility and confidentiality than traditional wills.

Whereas wills have to be rewritten if the author’s wishes or family circumstances change, a trustee can be updated with new instructions without necessarily changing the trust’s legal structure. Wills are public documents that can be contested in court and that must be validated through the lengthy process known as probate. Only named beneficiaries have rights to information about a trust, however, and the assets it holds aren’t subject to probate.

Trusts can also hold assets together while enabling family members to share their benefits. Rather than allowing holdings to be diluted and control fragmented as relatives marry, divorce, relocate or die, trusts can centralise ownership. In conjunction with integrated family governance processes, they can provide a clear set of rules on matters such as dividend allocations, salaries and profit retention for reinvestment.

As part of a financial capital strategy, a family office may be worth considering. This can be real or virtual, single-client or multi-family, depending on circumstances and requirements.

A private office won’t suit every family though, and it will be a drain on net worth if it can’t be funded from a minor share of investment returns or distributions from operating businesses. In such cases, the family may want to consider the savings it can make by joining a multi-family office or by seeking external support.

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business | HSBC PRIVATE BANK

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family that is collectively involved in the management of its assets, as opposed to one operating under a command and control system of patriarchal leadership, learns about teamwork and about each others’ priorities and interests. In short, it builds its social capital.

Today, we’re finding that more and more of our clients want to become strategic philanthropists, applying techniques learned in profit-oriented enterprises to make meaningful contributions to social change. The most effective are setting specific goals – they are engaging professional partners to help them meet those goals, and they are measuring the impact of their efforts.

Approaches can vary from foundation-based giving to venture philanthropy, but the emphasis remains on efficiency and the long-term accumulation of social capital.

I’d like to end with the saying that a family often goes “from rice paddy to rice paddy in three generations”. This adage speaks of the rise and fall of a family, and for me, it summarises the cost of failure when efforts to accumulate material assets aren’t matched by efforts to promote human and social capital.

Without a coherent plan, the danger is that a family will enter a negative cycle, in which, the first generation creates a fortune without embedding its values, the second stabilises the assets without continuing the growth trajectory, and then the third finds itself ill-equipped for its situation, and so depletes the fortune. This leaves the fourth generation to start the cycle again, if it can.

Plenty of studies indicate that the outlook for this region’s financial capital is bright. As I see it, the challenge for Asia’s families is to achieve similar success with their intangible assets, and to avoid any repetition of the three-generation cycle through a holistic and inclusive approach to their total capital.

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Bernard Rennell is the Chief Executive Officer for North Asia at HSBC Private Bank, as well as the Global Head of HSBC Private Wealth Solutions. www.hsbcprivatebank.com

feature | intercontinental beijing financial street

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Irresistibly InterContinental

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usiness and pleasure find an ideal address at the InterContinental Beijing Financial Street, providing upscale corporate facilities as well as access to

recreational spots through a contemporary environment accentuated by traditional Chinese touches. Located along Financial Street, about 40 minutes away from the Beijing Capital International Airport and a stone’s throw away from the Winland Building, the hotel brings you to the centre of the action where the world’s top companies gather. For the leisure portion of your itinerary, the nearby Lane Crawford and Seasons Place provide a plethora of shopping options while significant heritage sites such as the Summer Place, the White Pagoda, the Forbidden City and Lama Temple will pique your fascination for the rich history of Chinese culture.

An elegant interplay of modern and traditional sensibilities is evident in each of the hotel’s 318 tastefully designed guest

Mr. Frankson Lee, General Manager

amenities including a mini bar, LCD TV, a private safe and a

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mini refrigerator will take care of your other concerns. For an

and the additional five meeting rooms with wireless Internet

absolutely worry-free and indulgent stay, book one of the suites

connection are ideal for seminars and social gatherings, while

and let your personal butler cater to your every need as you

the view of the bustling Financial Street from the terrace on the

entertain guests in the separate living area.

6 th floor adds substance to any event.

rooms and suites. Keep in touch with partners and friends with hi-speed Internet access and a dual-line telephone and unwind in your bathroom’s deep soaking tub. Other top-notch

hen it’s time to get down to business, the hotel’s professional convention service and AV support team will make sure that presentations and training sessions go smoothly. The Xi’an Ballroom

Aside from the extensive list of business and travel services to make your stay more convenient, the hotel also facilitates health and wellness with an indoor heated swimming pool and a selection of signature healing treatments at the Spa InterContinental.

At the hotel’s signature restaurant, Steak Exchange, sample choice prime cuts of Australian Angus Beef and find out why this establishment is a favourite of discerning meat lovers. Get on your clients’ good side over a contemporary Cantonese spread at Zen and don’t miss the international fare at Monsoon, complemented by an open kitchen spectacle as additional entertainment.

With

its

commitment

to

consistently

provide

five-star

experiences, InterContinental Beijing welcomes the dawn of an exciting era as the property’s new General Manager, Mr. Frankson Lee, takes charge of all hotel operations beginning 15 October. He is set to bring about stronger focus on high service standards, employee development and community responsibility based on over 17 years of international experience and a strong passion for the hospitality business.

With Mr. Lee’s impeccable touch and the hotel’s innate affinity for world-class accommodations, work and play are taken to another level in true InterContinental Beijing flair.

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ARTs & Design | winston art group

Auction Insider Learn the fine points in bidding and buying at this season’s auctions from Winston Art Group’s Jessica Hodin.

Auctions are built upon the premise of generating excitement, and therefore can be a great fun to attend, whether you are bidding or just watching the action in the salesroom. If you are participating, however, it is important to know how to get the best buy. Our tips are based on the common auction triumvirate: Condition, Price and Quality.

While some fine art, decorative art, and collectibles categories might be struggling and others flourishing, no matter the category, the best examples of any type of piece will always be in favour and will always retain a strong market. It is for this reason that condition and quality are so important.

DO Buy the best quality piece if your budget allows or save up to spend on the best. It is always a better investment to buy the best example of an artist’s work than to buy two mediocre ones. The most successful collectors both investment wise and in terms of their artistic fulfillment seek out quality and individuality as well as works that reflect their maker or their period. If an iconic example of a genre or an artist’s oeuvre is more than your price ceiling, try to find a category with a more reasonable range and buy the top of that category.

DO Pay attention to Provenance and Title. The history and details of the past owners can sometimes be just as important to its value as the artist or maker, condition or subject matter.

In some cases, the provenance can be an indicator of title.

For example, in buying ancient artefacts or certain materials such as ivory or rosewood, one needs to be aware of when and how the pieces were imported and under which laws, considering that there are now tighter regulations on the importation of certain materials, and these pieces could be rendered unsalable. It is often difficult to seamlessly patch together the history of an object, but more information can sometimes result in a higher value to the greater advantage of the seller. However, a questionable background should be investigated by the potential buyer before making a purchase.

DON’T Get into a bidding war. Have a budget and stick to it. By definition, one always pays the “fair market” price at auction; however, it is a common misunderstanding that you are actually paying a fair price. In fact, people often pay more than they have to at auction because other bidders in the room bid up the work. Always do your research and set a maximum price for yourself. Have a budget and don’t get carried away.

You never know your competitor’s motivations – they may not be the same as yours, and they may not be as researched, therefore, don’t let them influence your maximum bid. Doing

DO Always ask for a condition report and view the item in person by attending the auction preview if possible; otherwise, you can send an advisor to view it for you. Online auction houses are fantastic for their global extent and facility of bidding, but in most cases, you will not be able to view the item firsthand and you will need to decipher and trust the condition reports. Look out for the term “As-is”, which means that the item is selling at its current and usually unrestored original condition.

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your research on online price databases, calling dealers for retail prices, and talking to the specialists beforehand increases the likelihood of paying a fair price at auction.

DON’T Spend money on something just for the “investment potential” if you would not also feel gratified by living with it. What sets art apart from other traditional investments and asset classes such as stocks, is that you can enjoy it and claim its value through appreciating its cultural and aesthetic content.

ARTS & DESIGN | winston art group

INSIDER’S TIPS:

Reading the auction catalogue, which lists the lots in order tells you about reserve prices. It might also disclose guarantees and could have some interesting tidbits about the artist or maker.

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ake advantage of the absentee bid convenience.

Bidders do not have to be physically in the auction room at the time of the sale. Arrange for an absentee bid beforehand to place bids by phone, fax or online.

Target midweek sales as they are less crowded than weekend sales. Lesser competition may lead to better purchases.

If a lot doesn’t sell, ask if the auction accepts post-sale bids.

A reasonable offer may win you the lot.

Know about additional costs. The hammer price is the price at which the gavel comes down, but most auction houses charge a buyer’s premium of up to 25 per cent on top of the hammer price. Additionally, taxes are charged on the sum of the hammer price, plus the buyer’s premium as well as applicable shipping charges and storage fees.

Remember that auction houses represent the seller, not the buyer, and that consignment agreements are set in stone. It is best to hire a well-trained advisor with strong relationships with the auction houses to negotiate on your behalf, from the buyer’s premium throughout the sale process.

Jessica Hodin is an Art Advisory and Client Services Associate at Winston Art Group, New York. Winston Art Group is the leading independent, full service art appraisal and advisory group in the US, specialising in providing clients at all financial levels with confidential and objective appraisal services, collection management services, access to expertise as well as advice on the acquisition or disposal of all fine and decorative art, jewellery, and collectibles. www.winstonartgroup.com

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ARTs & Design

ASIAN ART du JOUR The season’s much-awaited auctions are unveiling many classic Asian and Chinese masterpieces that will deck your halls with artistic flair, just in time for the holidays.

WORDS BY ISOBEL TSIN

With a newfound ravenous appetite for art, the mainland Chinese are now among the world’s largest art buyers and collectors. China’s wellheeled elite have been investing in many important pieces in the last five years, contributing to a surge in sales in favor of the art market. This enthusiastic buying has also brought about a rise in the popularity of many modern and contemporary Asian art to the market. Asian and Chinese paintings are now getting the spotlight as the most coveted collectibles and these artworks have been dominating many auctions not only in Asia, but also the rest of the world.

Serious bidders and collectors flock to auction events held by various auction houses to vie for the season’s most covetable pieces. Sotheby’s, one of the world’s largest auctioneers headquartered in New York recently launched a state-ofthe-art gallery in the heart of Hong Kong’s Admiralty district.

Hong Kong’s burgeoning arts scene has been receiving much attention from collectors, and the city is now considered as a major art hub in Asia.

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otheby’s Hong Kong holds bi-annual sales in April and October, featuring auctions on several categories such as Contemporary Asian Art, Fine Chinese Paintings, Magnificent Jewels and Jadeite, Wine and Important Watches to name a few.

The Spring Sales held last 31 March to 4 April garnered favourable results. The highlights were from three categories with combined sales of over USD 72 million – the 20th Century Chinese Art lots sold for a whopping USD 33 million, the Contemporary Asian Art pieces stole the show with an impressive sales of USD 27 million and the Modern and Contemporary Southeast Asian Paintings collected over USD 12 million in sales. The highest bids were from Asian clients including a Shanghai private museum, Chinese private collectors and several undisclosed buyers.

The next major event at Sotheby’s Hong Kong happens this 5 to 9 October. The Autumn Sales 2012 will transform Hall Three of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre into a vibrant auction house unveiling many exciting works by exclusive artists, as well as fine pieces of Chinese ceramics, jewels, watches and wines.

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evin Ching, Sotheby’s Asia’s Chief Executive Officer happily announced, “This season, Sotheby’s promises to bring exceptional and rare properties to the Asian market from private collections around the world. Our carefully curated auction series will include exceptional objects across categories – including Chinese ceramics and works of art, traditional and contemporary Asian art, jewellery, watches and wines, among others.”

The highly anticipated autumn auctions at Sotheby’s Hong Kong features key Asian and Chinese masterpieces that would jazz up your collection for the holidays, starting with the 20th Century Chinese Art sales happening on 7 October. The “Colour Magician” Liao Chi-Chun’s ‘Scenery In Yehliu’, is an oil on canvas portrayal of Taiwan’s Northeast Coastline. The classic work from 1965 is also the artist’s largest painting, estimated to sell at USD 2.3 to USD 3.6 million.

Liu Wei’s ‘Invitation To Dinner’

Liao Chi-Chun’s ‘Scenery In Yehliu’

On the same day, Contemporary Asian Art pieces will be launched to the public. Leading the sale is Liu Wei’s Important Early Work from the Revolutionary Family Series – the ‘Invitation To Dinner’ oil on canvas painting from 1992 with a steep estimate of USD 1.5 to 1.9 million. The painting acquired great historical importance after its exposure at the Venice Biennale in 1993, affirming the contemporary Chinese art’s prominence in the international art scene.

ARTs & Design

Lee Man Fong’s ‘Fortune and Longevity’

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nother auction highlight is the Modern and Contemporary Southeast Asian Paintings sale, top-billed by the extremely rare oeuvre from Lee Man Fong. The ‘Fortune and Longevity’ oil on panel painting from 1951 masterfully combines Eastern and Western art characterised by striking brushstrokes and the skillful use of oil. Estimate is available upon request.

One of Romualdo Frederico Locatelli’s most important works in Bali and Ginza is also another main attraction of the sale. The ‘Gambuh Dancer’ is an oil on canvas painting from 1939, illustrating the graceful movement and rhythm of a Balinese dancer. The piece has an estimated hammer price of USD 705,000 to 872,000.

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Romualdo Federico’s ‘Gambuh Dancer’

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e Pho’s ‘La Petite Famille’, an ink and gouache on silk masterpiece from the 1940s has a humble estimate of USD 58,000 to USD 83,000.

The auction continues the following day, 8 October with exquisite paintings from the Fine Chinese Paintings sale, lead by Xie Zhiliu’s ‘Lotus Pond’ executed in 1942. The ink and colour on paper artwork was a wedding present to Chinese politician Yu Youren’s eldest son Yu Wangde and his bride. This rare and timeless work from Xie is estimated to sell at USD 385,000 to USD 641,000.

Le Pho’s ‘La Petite Famille’

Xie Zhiliu’s ‘Lotus Pond’

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feature | Semara collection

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An Unforgettable Family Affair

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uild everlasting memories with a getaway that makes time with family even more precious. Just a short walk from the beautiful beaches of Bali, Semara Resort &

Spa, Seminyak offers sheer pleasure for all ages. While you indulge in signature massages, facials, yoga and Pilates or a few sets in the gym, the little ones can delve into their own version of ‘me time’ with fun amenities at the Cubby House Kids Club involving arts and crafts, books, movies and video games. For priceless quality time spent together, the beach, as well as the adjoining pools for adults and kids are yours to enjoy.

Recount the highlights of the day in one of Semara Seminyak’s restaurants offering a delectable selection of Australian, Asian, Italian and Mediterranean cuisines, which can also be savoured poolside. If you prefer a more private feast, satisfy your cravings anytime with 24-hour in-room dining service and relish more bonding moments in the private balcony of your Presidential Suite or in any of the 52 lavish rooms and suites rendered in contemporary Balinese design.

Time is the ultimate luxury and spending it with loved ones in a haven like Semara Resort & Spa, Seminyak, every minute is bliss. www.semaraseminyak.com

The Peak of Balinese Luxury

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et the fresh sea breeze carry away your worries and breathe in the sweetness of life from the height of limestone cliffs overlooking the clear, bright

sky embracing the azure Indian Ocean. Break away to the exclusive Semara Luxury Villa Resort, Uluwatu, your own piece of heaven perched on the Bukit Peninsula, located in Bali’s southernmost tip. Spend luxurious days enthralled by breathtaking views, spoilt by your personal butler, chauffer and on-call chef and pampered by expert wellness professionals.

The resort’s private beach, swimming pool, fully equipped gym, tennis courts and two restaurants will add even more variety and balance to your getaways.

With only seven elegantly designed villas carefully decorated with fine furnishings and custom-made furniture, your privacy and comfort are in check. Every unit contains five bedrooms and includes soaking tubs, a designer kitchen, and indoor and outdoor entertainment areas as some of its top-notch amenities.

Stay in the Villa Chintamani for your own home theatre system and private infinity pool or in the Villa Nora for your personal meditation platform and sauna. Each villa has its own character accompanied by a range of unique features catering to your every desire. Whatever your idea of a perfect holiday may be, Semara Luxury Villa Resort, Uluwatu serves it in a flawless, silver platter. www.semarauluwatu.com

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feature | national properties

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the putman

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ave an entire floor all to yourself with a luxurious stay at The Putman. Adding high style to the skyline of Hong Kong’s glitzy Central District, the boutique

hotel apartment was inspired and conceptualised by acclaimed visionary Andrée Putman, whose contemporary designs have impressed the likes of Veuve Clicquot and Louis Vuitton.

Choose from 28 lavish guest rooms, all enjoying vibrant city or harbour views as framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. Each of the full-floor, 120 sqm one-bedroom suites are awash with soothing hues, creating a sophisticated vibe with handpicked Putman furnishings, including her famous Crescent Moon sofa.

For maximum effect, the built-in electronic lighting system allows you to set the mood with a touch of a button. In the bedroom, the Simmons mattress dressed in 300-thread count linens will cradle you to deep slumber while the Villeroy & Boch standalone tub in the bathroom promises long, luxurious baths. In times when you feel like skipping the hip restaurants dotting the prestigious neighbourhood, your suite’s wellstocked kitchen is ideal for whipping up delectable meals and entertaining guests. Spacious closet space, LCD TVs and L’Occitane toiletries are a few of other fine amenities provided in your magnificent suite in true Andrée Putman fashion.

www.theputman.com

the jervois

S

ubtle luxury has found residence in the eclectic Sheung Wan District, with close proximity to Central, Hong Kong’s business and leisure spots.

Don’t let its straightforward and masculine aesthetic fool you, The Jervois does not only showcase sleek interiors custom-designed by the internationally known Christian Liaigre, but also offers warmth and comfort in the form of Italian bed spreads, plump pillows and duvets as well as top-quality rain showers. Enter your sundrenched one or two-bedroom space through a private lift lobby and take notice of the intriguing textures of wood, leather and glass in interesting treatments. Curl up in your Simmons mattress over a movie through the Philips DVD system or get refreshed in the spacious marble bathroom when you’re not busy exploring the antique stores and modern art galleries scattered around the area.

Once your to-do list is accomplished with the help of housekeeping services and business centre features, it’s time for a party at the sun deck with high-end barbecue facilities.

With simple yet precise details, The Jervois is a fine blend of function and style giving basic a new definition.

www.thejervois.com

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feature | national properties

I NSI DE R’S SECR ET

national properties

Hong Kong’s

Hidden Gems

Twenty One Whitfield

W

ith its minimalist exteriors designed by widely recognised French architect Florent Nédélec and plush interiors by Hong Kong’s architecture master

Joseph Fung, Twenty One Whitfield is chic central. The firstclass boutique serviced apartment highlights stunning views of the Victoria Harbour and the Central District’s cityscape while conveniently located neighbouring the premier shopping hubs of Causeway Bay. Your privacy is at the top of Twenty One Whitfield’s priorities, with only two exclusive suites sharing the same floor. The rooms are strategically designed to showcase the magnificent sights of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. Such stellar views can be admired from the moment you awake to the time you turn in comfortably lying on your Simmons bed wrapped in luxurious Frette sheets and goose down duvets. Book one of the suites and take the time to soak in the tub of your granite bathroom made for ultimate invigoration. Spend the rest of the day entertaining guests in your own pantry and let the good times continue with an afternoon barbecue at the sun deck. Your stays here are worry-free, with thoughtful facilities such as laundry rooms, daily housekeeping, 24-hour security, complimentary wireless Internet and business centre services. You can even stay in shape while on vacation with a complimentary gym membership.

Twenty One Whitfield raises the bar with well-thought out amenities and services complementing innovative, stylish designs set in an attractive Hong Kong neighbourhood. Stay in this marvellous property and notice the incomparable difference.

www.twentyonewhitfield.com

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GLOBETROTTERS

Exquisite Taste David Yeo, the man behind the success of Aqua Restaurant Group reveals his journey from college bartender to World Gourmet Series’ Restaurateur of the Year and his love for dogs, travel and good food.

Have you always been passionate about food?

Like most Asian families, we love our food, and it soon became a passion.

For my parents, nowhere was too far to go for a great meal – from seafood fresh off the boat to perching on stools in noisy street stalls. Also, all my siblings are great cooks – my sister makes one of the best pineapple tarts for Chinese New Year, one of my brothers wows everyone with his softcentre chewy cookies and another brother is a barbeque maestro.

I started my first restaurant, aqua, 10 years ago to indulge in my hobby.

My team, quite a few of whom are still with us, made it the modest name it is today.

What lead you to venture into the hospitality business?

Aqua Luna

Well, despite my artistic leanings, I decided to pursue a career in law. I was an undergraduate when I began working at one of London’s hippest cocktail bars. Back in college, my bar skills quickly made me popular at dinner parties. This birthed a passion for the hospitality industry that remains undimmed to this day.

What inspires the concept and design of your restaurants?

Well, I am not familiar with another restaurant group that offers such a diverse range of cuisines at such high standards globally. Our restaurants are so different in their approach that it can be hard to tell that a lot of them are actually within the same group – that’s something truly distinctive.

This aspect, combined with our philosophy ensures for an authentic experience for each diner.

In terms of the cuisine, sometimes I think I am this amorphous gel that subconsciously absorbs inspirations, smells, textures and designs everyday from the things around me. For example, when I was trying to introduce little known regional Thai dips and sauces to Ayuthaiya, our Thai restaurant in Hong Kong, I started experimenting with different crackers and vegetables to have with the dips. One day, I made a tempura batter, floated a betel nut leaf across it so that it is only lightly battered on one side and fried the leaf. It turned to a startling jade green and the tempura underside made it into a betel nut leaf “cracker”, which I used to dip into the sauces. That dish remains one of our bestsellers for eight years now.

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“The one thing distinctly aqua is the quality of the service and produce we strive to deliver. Each meal should be an inimitable experience in itself, that starts from the moment a diner enters the restaurant. ”

Ayuthaiya

GLOBETROTTERS

What sets Aqua Restaurant Group apart?

Each restaurant has a totally different concept and design vision. First, it is important to establish what cuisine and menu the restaurant will serve. From there, it’s all about making the venue come to life and portraying the heritage and country behind the food. I always love the development and design process. It’s something that evolves with the project.

Through the different designs and cuisines offered by your restaurants, what is the one thing that is distinctly Aqua?

The one thing distinctly aqua is the quality of the service and produce we strive to deliver. Each meal should be an inimitable experience in itself, that starts from the moment a diner enters the restaurant. Whilst we can ensure the quality of the produce we are providing, a lunch or dinner experience is not one isolated aspect, but a combination of several factors. I like to think Aqua Restaurant Group offers a truly rounded ambience.

La Marmite

What’s a typical day like for Mr. David Yeo? Mayhem, angst, joy, frustration, pride – sometimes within nano seconds of each other! I lead a very unpredictable day full of management and design challenges. But my one constant of the day happens first thing in the morning when I am rapturously greeted by my dogs. They remind me what it is like to be steadfastly loyal and to be part of a team. It helps me endlessly with managing teams and knowing when the right time is to step in to take the lead. I feel terribly privileged to have had the opportunity to nurture a bunch of passionate, young waiting staff and junior chefs who are now managers and head chefs in a number of our restaurants. And that still continues today, as there are many up and coming stars amongst our teams in London, Beijing and Hong Kong.

Has travel influenced your taste and perspective on food?

Absolutely! In 2001, in the old quarters of Hanoi, I saw a lady carrying a bamboo pole on her shoulder balancing a charcoal stove on one end and a mountain of lemon basil herb on the other. When I finally caught up with her in a small alley, I discovered that she was selling fried homemade tofu served with a dash of fish sauce and a mix of three different types of basil and some chopped chili. She made a meal for me on the spot. The texture of that perfectly fried tofu with the heady, aromatic mix of herbs and fish sauce was unforgettable! I have taken that taste sensation to create different dishes in our restaurants. For example, we once made zucchini frites tossed in warm, melted Sardinian anchovies, garlic and freshly torn mint leaves added just before serving. It goes very well with pasta or eaten on its own as a (very addictive) side dish.

Armani Prive

What are the highlights of your collaboration with Giorgio Armani?

It was a truly humbling experience to have been chosen to collaborate with Mr. Giorgio Armani, as I have been a fan of his designs for as long as I knew what fashion was. It gave me a chance to learn a new aspect of design from a true design icon. I have always had a huge interest in interior design and this is definitely a highlight throughout the restaurant – as you’d expect!

What’s cooking for Aqua Restaurant Group in the coming year?

We have a lot on our plates at the moment – we have just opened two new restaurants, Red Almond and the reintroduction of Shiro in Hong Kong’s Hysan Place in Causeway Bay. Both locations are enjoying huge success, it is definitely worth the wait! We are also opening a drop-in tapas bar on Wyndham Street in Central, Hong Kong – but more to come on that! Finally, we are also working on two new restaurant openings in The Shard in London in 2013.

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special feature | amankila

Photo courtesy of Amanresorts

Beyond luxury Amankila The eternal longing for a special nook free from the beating of a hectic lifestyle has driven businesses to offer the latest and the best features in the most exotic locations.

Yet, despite numerous attempts, only a few manage to stand out and leave an indelible mark among patrons.

One true exception is Amankila, which, for 20 years now, has restored the enthusiasm of guests who have sought meaning under its care.

Like a real gem hidden in the wild, Amankila is tucked in the Karangasem Regency within the traditional Eastern Bali region. The seaside wonder overlooks the expanse of the Lombok Strait with the uppermost parts of its buildings peeking through the robust flurry of fauna.

Within its realm is a bounty of accommodation, dining, entertainment and wellness options yours to indulge in.

Bali is known for its gorgeous beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Amankila has reserved a special part of this beauty just for you at the private Beach Club where you can lounge in the shade of palm trees while enjoying a light meal just before taking a dip in the 41 m swimming pool. Sitting at the foot of a cliff and only steps away from the shore, it is also the base point for Amankila’s water sports facilities including kayaks and outriggers.

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Photo courtesy of Imp.Winartho

Have long, sumptuous breakfasts and lunches at the Terrace, which serves irresistible international fare by the three-tiered pool and immerse in more gastronomic delights delighting with Western and Indonesian specials for dinner at the Restaurant. Just beside it is an open-air bar where cocktails can be enjoyed over the magnificent sight of the sea. For a more romantic scene, arrange for a private dinner on the beach with only a bonfire and a sky of stars illuminating the scene.

Come home to your personal beach house with any of Amankila’s 34 free-standing suites designed to echo the richness of Balinese heritage. Nestled on the hillside, the rooms showcase spectacular mountain and sea views.

The Amankila Suite, with two charming bedrooms overlooking Amuk Bay, is the definition of decadence as it also features a private aquamarine-tile pool, a pair of lounging bales, sun beds, lily ponds and comes with private butler service.

special feature | amankila

Photo courtesy of Amanresorts

“While Amankila offers a wealth of impressive amenities, it’s the warmth and sincerity of its service that has made the resort lovable for 20 meaningful years.”

Photo courtesy of Amanresorts

I

t’s not a coincidence that the resort has adopted the name Amankila, which means ‘peaceful hill’. Get invigorated with world-renowned traditional Balinese spa treatments ranging from massages and body scrubs to manicures and pedicures.

While the Massage Pavilion was specially made for such indulgences, you can also have the pampering experience in the privacy of your suite or sprawled on teakwood massage tables at the Beach Club.

While Amankila offers a wealth of impressive amenities, it’s the warmth and sincerity of its service that has made the resort lovable for 20 meaningful years. To celebrate this milestone, a vibrant event was held last 21 July, kicked-off with a traditional Kecak Dance performance accompanied by a choir of 50 men chanting around an open fire. Guests were also treated to traditional music from the Gamelan Orchestra while sipping on cocktails and feasting on delectable local cuisine under the stars.

Photo courtesy of Amanresorts

Amankila has also released a special edition coffee table book that reflects the touching stories of the men and women that have dedicated their lives contributing to the success of Amankila – from the ever cheerful flower girls to the musically-inclined bartender, the whole Amankila family is duly recognised in the heartfelt publication.

As part of the year-long anniversary celebrations, this November, Amankila will host a decadent wellness retreat with two yoga experts leading a lavish, fournight programme of wellness consultations, daily yoga sessions, relaxing spa treatments, scenic treks and healthy gourmet feasts.

Amankila is more than just a resort offering luxurious creature comforts with stunning views; it is an enchanting tale of passion thriving on culture and tradition in a captivating haven where warm service is a way of life. www.amanresorts.com

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TR AVEL ESSENTIALS | HOLIDay wish list

Tod’s for Ferrari Collection This convergence of two Italian mavericks excelling in their individual industries has resulted to a line of premium accessories yours for the taking. Supple leather items with striking fire engine red details with the recognisable prancing horse emblem appearing in each piece dominate the collection.

Get a pair of the buttery soft, laced loafers and grace the season’s festivities in effortless flair. www.tods.com

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Leo Messi Limited Edition Own one of only a thousand of this limited edition timepiece and tell the time in gentlemanly elegance.

The iconic masterpiece is representative of the brand’s extreme attention to precision and impeccable panache, the same qualities, which describe the Argentinian footballer who inspired its reincarnation.

Choose from three fine variations in steel, gold or platinum casing starting from USD 30,400 to USD

Alfred Dunhill Autumn/ Winter 2012 Combat the winter chill with lush knitwear to keep you warm and dapper. The Cable Knitwear Crew Neck jumper is a luxurious option, being 70 per cent cashmere combined with silk and chinchilla.

Available in muted tones of grey and navy with minimal details along the arms and shoulders, making it a versatile piece that can be worn on its own or layered with a crisp white shirt underneath.

The rest of the collection is equally desirable showcasing sweaters, overcoats and other classic items that will serve as timeless pieces in your fall and winter wardrobe. www.dunhill.com

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83,300. www.audemarspiguet.com

TR AVEL ESSENTIALS | HOLIDay wish list

Santa Maria Novella Collection Get spellbound by the delightfully intoxicating fragrances and flavours from Santa Maria Novella. The Natale scented candle as well as the Natale room spray will put you in the mood with unmistakable notes that evoke yuletide spirit, while the 100 per cent vegetable soap Vellutina will freshen you up for the season’s merriment. The Italian brand’s line of liquor including Elisir di Rose and Liquore al Cioccolato as variants will keep you in a celebratory mood. www.smnovella.it

Avène Eau Thermale Keep your skin smooth and healthy even during the chilly season with the purity of thermal spring water.

inflammation, itchiness and general

Piaget Limelight Dancing Light Watch

sensitivity and guarantees extra

Be one with the magical rhythm of Piaget by adorning your

skin benefits when sprayed before

wrist with a stunning piece from its Limelight Dancing Light

applying makeup or after cleansing.

Collection. Time has never been more precious with a rotating

This wonder product should be

circle studded with glittering diamonds motioning every tick

recommended

of a second. Set in 18K pink or white gold, any of the three

Avène

Eau

composition

Thermale’s does

by

unique

wonders

to

dermatologists

worldwide, if it’s not already.

interpretations ranging from USD 43,600 to USD 238,000

www.aveneusa.com

will surely make you fashionably on time. www.piaget.com

Rimowa Salsa Pearl Rose Plan your next destination if only to put this blushing line of luggage to good use. Choose from a variation of multi-wheeled wonders, each equipped with a TSA-approved security lock, plush interiors and a height-adjustable flexdivider system. Every single one of the sevenpiece, polycarbonate collection is durable as it is charming. www.rimowa.de

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high tech

iPhone 4S SLR Mount (USD 249)

The smart phone just got smarter with this brilliant add-on. Capture every little detail of an Instagram moment in high-quality resolution with this clever device that may

Tech the Halls

just send your DSLR on a well-deserved sabbatical. www.photojojo.com

Vertu Constellation Smile (Price on request)

Have a guilt-free splurge with a sapphire crystal encrusted smart phone that comes with exclusive ringtones played by the prestigious London Symphony Orchestra. Each purchase puts a smile on a child’s face, as proceeds fund a Smile Train cleft lip and palate operation for children. www.vertu.com

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high tech

Leica M Monochrom (USD 9,200)

Reignite the drama of black and white photographs with the first full-frame, 35 mm digital camera. The latest instalment and sure-fire hit from Leica unveils a resolution of 18 megapixels, sacrificing only colour but never the quality. www.leica-camera.com

Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay A3 (USD 650)

Complement sharp visuals with high-definition audio and take your iPad experience to a whole new level. Watch videos or browse the web more pleasurably with sound from its excellent stereo and bass all while admiring its sleek, ergonomic design. www.beoplay.com

Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 (USD 400)

Don’t be fooled by this super slim and ultra light tablet.

More than the 10.1-inch sharp display, the latest version is now packed with features like the Samsung Media Hub and a dual core processor that will hike up the pleasure and convenience of your entertainment and communication experience. www.samsung.com

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Wi n t e r R e f u g e

Counter the chilly winter with stylish journeys to exotic destinations, donning the season’s equally scorching hot fashions.

Natalie Colour-blocked jersey dress Puey QuiĂąones.

Earrings Adante Leyesa for MYTH. Wooden panel cuff and layered bangles Adante Leyesa for L Manila. Swarovski bracelet and lantern cylinder necklace (used as bracelet) BJ Chavez.

Enrique Wooden belt (used as armour neckpiece) Adante Leyesa for L Manila.

Travel | THAILAND

Canary sweetheart neckline mini with sequined gold lace shift overlay Choc and Yvette Religioso. Pink amethyst earrings Anna Rocha.

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Fashion

Red off-shoulder lace appliquĂŠ dress Chris Diaz.

Swarovski disc earrings with tassel BJ Chavez.

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Fashion

Interlocking chain with Swarovski pendant BJ Chavez.

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Travel | THAILAND

Purple rosette-sleeved blouse RELIGIOSO. Brocade printed slim pant Joel Escober for MYTH. Moroccan lantern-inspired earrings and Swarovski bib necklace BJ Chavez.

Travel | THAILAND

fashion

Red off-shoulder lace appliquĂŠ dress Chris Diaz. Swarovski disc earrings with tassel BJ Chavez.

Photographer Roy Macam Fashion Editor Ram de Vera Models Natalie Cutler | Elite Manila & Enrique Nor | IM Agency Make-up Jess Efenio Hair Alee Benson Assistants Ian Pan, Jian Songco & Elmer Ordinario

TR AVEL guide | jordan

Journey to Exoticism An exotic, unconventional getaway to Jordan is a perfect alternative to your winter holidays – with warm days and cool nights complementing a rich display of sights, culture and adventure.

WORDS BY KM

Lost City of Petra, Photo courtesy of Matthieu Cotten

Travel guide | jordan

View of Amman City

TOUCHDOWN

DOWNTOWN

Jordan is a pulsating destination for authentic Middle Eastern experiences, which start as soon as you touchdown the Queen Alia International Airport followed by a short 45-minute drive to Amman, the capital city. The laidback, modern city is deeply rooted in rich culture with over 7,000 years of history, making it an ideal starting point for a rustic yet luxurious exploration of Jordan.

Before heading to the nearby towns and outskirts, enjoy a relaxing day in the city with the best views from the Amman Citadel, also famously known as the Jabal al-Qal’a. Catch a glimpse of Amman’s seven main hills stretching out into the horizon, each one bordering a different district within the city. The city holds many undiscovered secrets as it is often overlooked by visitors who trek straightaway to the more popular destinations. It is all the more exciting to uncover hush-hush attractions unknown to even most locals, such as the priceless collection of Dead Sea Scrolls in the National Archaeological Museum and the Darat Al Funun, a hidden gallery housing the best of the local art scene.

Immerse in some more history at the Temple of Hercules, a famous remembrance of the Roman era with its imposing columns and pillars, which is also a promising vantage point to enjoy the city. Exploring the Umayyad Palace is also worth the visit, with rich background dating back from the ancient 8th century, when it was a government office and served as private home to the rulers of Amman.

Temple of Hercules

Having soaked in the historical riches of the city, it is time to share the laidback lifestyle of the locals for a most authentic experience of Jordan. The perfect time to enjoy Amman is when the city is drenched in the sunset. And there is nowhere you would rather be than in a terrace of a café such as Books@ Cafe, sipping on a cup of spicy eggnog flavoured coffee. The nearby Rainbow Street is a modern strip with a trendy vibe peppered with many restaurants and lounges. Sangria, just off the main street serves cocktails during sunset along with the aroma from narghiles or water pipes, which is a must-try whilst in Amman. To get to the heart of the city, as they say, ‘do as the locals do’ – and this is exactly how it is done.

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TR AVEL guide | jordan

WHEN TO GO Daytime temperatures are the friendliest from September to November, with just the right amount of heat to enjoy your outdoor adventures. It gets colder as nighttime falls, but nothing a light jacket or a shot of brandy can’t fix.

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Amman

If you wish to be pampered in five-star luxury at the top of the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Amman will fit the bill perfectly. The majestic hotel is simply unmissable with its white limestone walls and towering columns. The location also contributes to its extravagance, as it is perched on the highest tier of the city’s seven hills. You can expect nothing less than the signature Four Seasons experience, hiked up a notch or two by the vim and vigour of a historic city.

A Premier Suite on the 15th floor awaits to spoil you with its elegant furnishings and amenities including a full marble bathroom with a spacious walk-in shower and separate bathtub. The suite is flooded with light and views from the oversized windows, creating a soothing backdrop throughout your stay. The changing colours from the surroundings provide a priceless touch to your suite’s ambience.

Before exploring the city, indulge in the hotel’s lavish resortstyle amenities from the squash court to the fully-equipped fitness centre and the full-service health spa. Should you fancy a quick dip or a few laps, the hotel offers a tempting choice between the concealed indoor pool and outdoor pool at the rooftop.

Six Senses Spa, Evason Ma’In Hot Springs

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Madaba

Nature’s hot spring waterfalls just got more inviting with the exquisite Evason Ma’In Hot Springs at its feet. Needless to say, the resort and spa is your best choice for a truly relaxing retreat in the ‘mosaic’ city of Madaba, starting off with its dramatic location. Where else can you find a resort lying 264 m below sea level, nestled between expansive terrains and lush vegetation? Complementing this are well-designed accommodations, a world-class spa facility and tailored service from a dedicated team.

The Spa Suite is the perfect venue to relax and rejuvenate.

Have a private in-room spa all to yourself and de-stress with a series of decadent treatments any time of day. The suite is designed for utmost relaxation with its spacious bedroom, separate living room and lavish bath area with a Jacuzzi bathtub. The highlight of the suite, however, are the balconies – not one, but three terraces overlooking the world renowned Dead Sea.

Concealed Rooftop Pool, Photo courtesy of Peter Vitale

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Unwind completely while treating yourself to a selection of healthy cuisine using farm fresh ingredients from the resort’s organic herb and vegetable gardens. Resist the urge to dine in the privacy of your suite, as the Panorama restaurant boasts views like no other. The prized dining destination sits atop a cliff at the edge of the Dead Sea.

Travel guide | jordan

CHECK IN:

Aqaba

There is something for everyone at the Kempinski Hotel Aqaba, from the relaxed to the adventurous. Modern elegance blends well with the stunning location, as the entire property is laced by the historic Red Sea. A private, white sand beach with turquoise waters and imposing mountain views come with your reservations, among many other world-class facilities and amenities.

The Panoramic Room and Executive Suites are tempting, but there’s nothing quite like the Royal Suite, the hotel’s finest accommodation fit for discerning travellers and as the name suggests, royalties. Bespoke service from your private butler and personal chef accompanies your stay in the suite with two massive bedrooms, spacious living area and adjoining balcony looking out to the beach below. Another centrepiece of the Royal Suite is a large bathtub, designed to pamper you with relaxing baths while soaking up the views.

Kempinski Hotel

Recreation is well-rounded here, with a gorgeous swimming pool, a pristine beach for relaxation or water sports, a swimup bar for lounging and other water activities at nearby fishing, snorkelling and diving sites. Couples can embark on a breathtaking experience by crossing the Red Sea in luxury aboard a private yacht, capped off with a romantic dinner for two on-board.

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Petra

Discover why the once lost city is now one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Petra is a masterpiece of a city almost entirely carved out of rose-coloured rocks in the midst of the desert. The glorious architectural masterpiece makes a stunning backdrop for trekking on foot or on horseback.

From Amman, take an early morning drive to the rose city arriving at The Siq, which is a narrow gateway into Petra. This is where your journey on foot begins. The sight of towering cliffs and sandstone walls will keep you energised all the way to the city’s most intricate attraction, The Treasury. Other major sites include the Street of Façades lined with aweinspiring tombs, the Temple of Winged Lions, The Monastery and The Theatre.

Lost City of Petra, Photo courtesy of Matthieu Cotten

TR AVEL guide | jordan

CHECK OUT:

Wadi Rum

To many travellers, Wadi Rum is the world’s most beautiful desert. The magnificent rugged terrains, towering mountains and canyons, elaborate rock formations and sweeping sand dunes definitely attest to that claim. Wadi Rum’s beauty can easily be the reason why many Bedouins still live there to this day.

Jordan’s largest wadi is best explored on a 4x4 jeep, driving through the expansive desert to the Seven Pillars of Wisdom rock formations. Bespoke tours can be arranged to include a private hot-air balloon ride in your itinerary, for a most unique way of taking in the scenery. As nighttime falls, retreat to your exclusive desert encampment with luxury tents, on-site fine dining and traditional entertainment under a bed of stars.

Wadi Rum Desert, Photo courtesy of Matthieu Cotten

Gulf of Aqaba

CHECK OUT:

When looking for a diving destination, Jordan does not easily come to mind. But unknown to many, Jordan is home to a coastal city called Aqaba, boasting of warm waters and wealthy marine life. What’s more, divers and snorkelling enthusiasts get to explore not just any body of water, but the ancient Red Sea itself.

Non-divers will also find the city charming, starting with a private city tour and indulging in local delicacies such as qahwa (Arabic coffee) paired with traditional desserts kenafeh and baklava. The stretch of white sand and azure waters of the beaches nearby is ideal for a relaxing stroll before an afternoon of relaxation in one of the city’s luxurious Turkish baths.

Travel guide | jordan

Bespoke Tours

Artisans of Leisure and Brown + Hudson create tailor-made experiences in Jordan, from the usual camel safaris to the unique hot-air balloon rides and desert camping complete with luxury tents and private dining.

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DanaNature Reserve

Jordan’s largest nature reserve is home to diverse landscapes, wildlife and vegetation. Nestled between valleys, mountains and expansive sand dunes, it is a famous site for walking and hiking, with an impressive trail that runs through steep valleys. Its main attraction includes rare species of flora and fauna, with over 200 types of birds and more than 650 kinds of plants.

There are several campsites welcoming guests to a rustic exploration of the reserve. Private operators can also arrange luxury tent accommodations in more secluded areas of the reserve, complete with guided treks and private excursions for a rare and exclusive experience.

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Dead Sea

Travellers head to the Dead Sea not just to test their buoyancy, but also to seek health and wellness treatments as well as soak in history, quite literally. The Sea of Salt’s history dates back thousands of years ago, and it has been a site for many biblical accounts, including legendary visits by King Herod the Great and Cleopatra.

The intensely salty water and mud packed with minerals are the Dead Sea’s main attractions, as they are known to soothe, heal and revitalise skin. The extremely high salt content of the water allows you to float effortlessly on your back and take in the picturesque scenery of the surrounding mountains, rolling hills and salt crystals on the shore.

Jerash Ancient Market

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Jerash

No Jordan trip is complete without a visit to the ancient city of Jerash, some 48 km away from Amman. The spectacular city is the location of the well-preserved ruins of a great Roman Empire, from impressive stadiums, theatres to temples, arches and columns.

Catch a performance of the Roman Army and Chariot Experience (RACE) and get a firsthand experience of ancient Roman living in a true to life Roman setting. Relive the days of the gladiators and Roman armies with exhilarating chariot races to complete your journey back in time. The performance runs for 45 minutes, with two shows daily from Saturdays to Thursdays and only one show on Fridays.

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A Moroccan Winter Interlude Escape the biting cold of winter and turn up the heat in Marrakech – soaking up the vibrant, modern life of the city to the sweeping dunes of the Sahara, all the way to a downright authentic, nomadic expedition to the remote mountainsides.

WORDS BY KM

Medina Wall at Meknes, Photo courtesy of Jordan Lloyd

TR AVEL | cover story

A Splendid City Leave your sense of direction behind as Marrakech is a choice destination to lose yourself in. Getting lost in the city’s narrow alleys and labyrinths of little streets is the best warm up for your journey amid a lively, energetic vibe. The city is split into the oldworld Medina and the modern neighborhood of Gueliz.

Even with the plan of getting lost, it is always best to start with the old before moving onto the new. In a way, you are tracing back in time, getting a firsthand experience of the city’s progression to the present day.

Kick off at the Djemaa El-Fna, the Medina’s town square and renowned gateway to the markets, smaller souks and many interesting shops. Wander through the streets filled to the brim with shops selling spices, hand-crafted lanterns, argan oil, leather goods, cactus silk and, should you be interested, many variants of potions. As nighttime falls, the square is transformed into a high-spirited entertainment scene packed with story-tellers, dancers, acrobats and musicians.

The imposing Koutoubia Mosque within the square is a sight to behold. The landmark is Marrakech’s largest mosque, known for its beautiful craftsmanship and well-designed minaret towers. The plaza and manicured gardens surrounding the mosque is a charming site for a relaxing walk, while taking in the sights and traditions of the Medina. To truly immerse in the culture, stop by during prayer time to witness a sea of crowds praying as one.

Koutoubia Mosque, Photo Courtesy of Jordan Lloyd

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njoy a light snack or a cup of coffee at the rooftop terrace of the chic Un Déjeuner à Marrakech, just off the vibrant shopping street of Riad Zitoun Jdid.

Dining at the Dar Yacout is a must for every Medina visit. The restaurant boasts impressive Moroccan interiors in the middle of a courtyard scattered with petals.

Catch some action at the tanneries near Bab Debbagh, that is, if you don’t mind catching some of the pungent smells as well.

Although not for the faint-nosed, it makes for an interesting experience of watching artisans rinse, scrape and stretch skins to produce leather.

Ease into the present-day Marrakech by heading to the Ville Nouvelle district of Gueliz. Here, you can indulge in a taste of modern living with a plethora of trendy cafes, restaurants and specialty boutiques lined up. The district’s highlight is the bustling Avenue Mohammed V, a charming boulevard laced with palm trees and the best of the Ville Nouvelle.

Complete your traditional tour with a visit to the palaces, starting with the most famous El Badi Palace, which literally means “the incomparable”. Staying true to its name, nothing can quite compare to its grandiosity, even as it stands on its ruins, from the expansive courts and pools to the sunken gardens and pavilions. Next, head to the Bahia Palace to discover why it is called the “palace of the beautiful” – magnificent courtyards, elaborate tile work and intricate carvings complete the exquisite architecture.

Start your tour of Gueliz early with a sumptuous brunch at the stylish Grand Café de la Poste along Boulevard el-Mansour Eddahbi. Request for a table on the terrace, which allows for some lounging and people-watching. Upon satisfying your cravings, head to the Jardin Majorelle for a relaxing morning in a quaint tropical garden owned and designed by iconic designer Yves Saint Laurent. Even his death in 2008 did not separate him from this beauty – his ashes were scattered in the gardens and a memorial was erected in his honour.

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El Badi Palace

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pend an afternoon exploring the shops starting with the impressive stretch of Rue de la Liberté. Among the famous boutiques that line this strip is Intensité Nomade carrying brightly-coloured caftans designed by trendsetter Frédérique Birkemeyer and the Place Vendôme with many high-quality Moroccan leather goods.

Segue into the night after a day of city-strolling. The gorgeous La Trattoria de Giancarlo is a breathtaking venue for dinners, with tables surrounding a lovely swimming pool in the midst of a well-manicured courtyard. The indoor restaurant is also enchanting with its domed-ceiling, cosy fireplace and large French windows.

If you’re in for some chic escapade, drive about 10 km outside of the city to La Plage Rouge Marrakech. This classy poolside done up in contemporary design, with loungers and daybeds feature world-famous DJs spinning out modern tunes under the scorching desert sun. Marrakech is a city throbbing with energy and character. It is also intricately sandwiched between the Sahara Desert and the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, allowing travellers more exotic adventures beyond the majestic city.

Jardin Majorelle

CLIMATE

October 15 to 28°C November 10 to 22°C December 6 to 19°C October is one of the best months to explore Marrakech with cooler temperatures and lesser crowds.

November is perfect for a more relaxed holiday and December marks the start of winter, with pleasantly warm mornings and chilly evenings.

EVENT

The Marrakech International Film Festival takes place from 30 November to 8 December this year.

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The Great Sahara The less-trodden village of M’hamid is a quintessential destination for travellers seeking an authentic experience of the great Sahara Desert. Known as “the end of the road”, beyond the village lies nothing but the infinite sands of the desert. Such exquisite remoteness is the site of the stunning Erg Chigaga Luxury Camp.

The camp is an experience exclusive to no more than 12 campers accommodated in six luxury tents, laced with picturesque sand dunes of the Sahara. The en-suite tents are spacious and fitted with handcrafted furnishings, solarpowered lighting and deluxe amenities. Those seeking total privacy and a deeper exploration of the desert can enjoy the camp’s three nomadic sites. Campers are treated to a different location each night, as the camps are within a day’s trek of each other. The trek to the tents is an exquisite experience in itself and upon reaching the isolated camps, the comforts of a luxury en-suite sleeping tent with a separate lounging tent set by the dunes prove to be a great reward. Another lavish treat are the gourmet dinners served under the stars accompanied by bottles of wine and a crackling campfire.

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et ready to trek deep in the desert on foot, camelback or an exhilarating ride on a four-wheel drive, complete with picnic lunches under a tree fronting the dunes. Adventure seekers can get their fill of adrenaline with sand boarding, quad biking and cycling. Water and GPS will be provided, and those who left their sense of direction behind can request for a private tour accompanied by a local Berber. Return to camp to catch your breath after a day of activities and watch the chefs whip up Moroccan specialties under the moonlight. You may either join in on the fun of the preparations, or sit back while the experts do the work. What follows is an evening of indulgence on good food and great company illuminated by a million stars above you.

The seven to eight-hour drive from Marrakech is also quite an adventure with scenic landscapes, quaint villages and many exciting stopovers for coffee, lunch, shopping and sightseeing.

You may also charter a private aircraft or helicopter to take you directly to the foot of the desert.

Sahara Desert, Photo Courtesy of Jordan Lloyd

Travel | tRAVEL STORY

Moroccan Nomad, Photo courtesy of Simon Grosset

The Moroccan Nomad How about an exhilarating hike to the spectacular Moroccan mountainsides? This voyage, surely not for the craven is a sure hit for the intrepid explorer. After having your fill of the sights and tastes of the city, it is time to take the adventure to a higher level, and quite literally so.

Sitting between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert is the volcanic mountain range of Jebel Saghro. This unfrequented patch of land is home to the Berbers, more specifically the semi-nomadic tribe of Ait Atta, who spend eight months in the range before relocating to the High Atlas Mountains to seek refuge from the scorching summer. The itinerary allows for an exploration not only in this remote part of Morocco, but also in the lives of this ethnic tribe for a truly extraordinary cultural experience.

A six-hour drive from Marrakech takes you to the village of Hamdor, where you will meet your host for the next three days.

The ride will take you through the High Atlas Mountains, by the elevated pass of Tizi n’Tichka all the way to the expansive desert of the south. You will then have your first destination dining experience at an oasis near the town of Ouarzazate.

Shortly after lunch, the drive continues to N’kob, and the remaining part of the trip to Hamdor will be completed on foot. A bowl of steaming tajine, a hearty, local stew cooked in a clay pot awaits your arrival in Hamdor. The day ends as you retreat to a traditional house called gite d’etape to rest for the night. If you’d rather skip the drive and proceed straight to Hamdor, a private helicopter ride can also be arranged.

“ Epic Tomato, creators of bespoke expeditions to remote destinations recently launched the Epic Weekends collection featuring exclusive itineraries in Iceland, Tanzania, Rwanda, Jordan and Morocco. “

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he exact trek route from Hamdor the next day depends on the weather and grazing conditions in the area. You will be joined by your host family during the trek, along with a herd of goats, mules and sheep. This is the closest you can get to the life of these Ait Atta nomads, starting with an early morning walk through rough terrains and landscapes, setting up camp at midday and relaxing in the afternoons. You will also have plenty of time to enjoy the scenery while camping in the wilderness with a backdrop of natural springs, green pastures and bright oases. You also get to learn some shepherding skills, traditional bush crafts and bread-making from the nomads as you immerse in a lifechanging cross-cultural experience.

Epic Tomato, creators of bespoke expeditions to remote destinations recently launched the Epic Weekends collection featuring exclusive itineraries in Iceland, Tanzania, Rwanda, Jordan and Morocco. The Moroccan weekend includes luxury accommodations in Marrakech, transfers, modern camping tents, meals, private guides and camping equipment.

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Luxurious Abodes Out of the many lavish accommodations in the city, the Royal Mansour Marrakech is one that is truly fit for a king as it is actually built by one. Owned and built by King Mohammed VI with an undisclosed budget, the property has only been open to the public for two years. Needless to say, everything in this property is splendidly grand. How much was spent is no longer as important as how much luxury it now offers guests – and that is entirely up to you to discover!

All of the riads on offer are decadent, but for the ultimate spoiling, book the Riad d’Honneur and indulge in the 1,800 sqm villa with its own courtyard, swimming pool and four massive bedrooms. Countless features are sure to vie for your attention upon arrival at the Royal Mansour – the whole property is decked in exquisite handiwork created by over 1,000 craftsmen, to begin with. Throw in five-star room amenities from designer beds, linens and bath products to the individual rooftop pools overlooking the open-air courtyard.

The inviting spa with hot and cold pools and hammams should not be ignored, as the library with a retractable hand-carved cedar roof and state-of-the-art telescope that transforms into an observatory with one push of a button.

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nother contender for the most extravagant abodes in Marrakech is the equally stunning Palais Namaskar.

The sight and smell of the scented and manicured Balinese gardens, sprawling lakes and arched hallways will leave you breathless long enough to survey the entire grounds in awe. Bespoke furnishings, blending oriental and contemporary designs deck the area – heavy damask linens, thick, handcrafted carpets and Murano chandeliers to name a few, add a touch of sophistication to the palatial ambience of the estate.

Mountain Palace

Accommodations are grandly split into rooms, suites, villas and quite naturally, palaces. Yes, you can be a king or queen for a day, a weekend or longer if you wish, as soon as you book either the Mountain or Water Palace for your stay. The Mountain Palace houses three elegant bedrooms fronting a heated pool and laced with 2,000 sqm of private gardens.

The Water Palace boasts four exquisite bedrooms all looking out to the heated pool and manicured gardens adjacent the imposing Atlas Mountains. As soon as you can muster the strength to leave the comforts of your palace, do check out the enchanting main pool, outdoor dining terrace and rooftop bar, which all look magnificent over a Moroccan sunset backdrop.

Mountain Palace Living Room

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he bare wooden door and simple entrance downplay the extravagance that is to be expected as soon as you make your way into the Riad Farnatchi. Based on its name, one would expect a fine, traditional Moroccan house hemmed with courtyards, but the Riad surely left the pretense at the door, as everything beyond the entrance is nothing short of majestic. Intricate traditional artworks bedeck the area that blend well with the modern design and handcrafted furnishings of carpets, draperies, headboards and textile with lavish embroideries.

The nine suites boast of its own distinct character, each carefully designed to amaze even the most discerning of travellers. Suite 5 is one of the most spacious, with a cosy fireplace in the separate living area and connecting private balcony overlooking the courtyards. Suite 3 is a charming space with a separate bedroom and living room, a private terrace with pool views and an amazing bathroom with a black granite sunken bath. All suites have handmade beds fitted with fine, Egyptian cotton sheets. A relaxing soak in the jetstreamed pool before giving in to a heavenly massage in the traditional white marbled hammam are a few of the many indulgences you are invited to try at the Riad Farnatchi.

Suite 5

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TR AVEL | winter destinations

Haute Snow-capped Holidays When the mercury drops, embrace the chill of winter with cool amenities coupled with warm service set amid captivating sceneries. Revel in the cold in any of these eight premiere winter destinations to enjoy the season in style and luxury.

WORDS BY BRENT LEE

Colorado, USA Experience the irony of a ghost town scintillating with life and style even when coated with snow at the multi-awarded Dunton Hot Springs. Nestled in the centre of an old mining town, the resort is a charming retreat ideal for those who have a different idea of ‘roughing it’.

Explore the expansive property and choose from a plethora of winter activities like dog sledding through the alpine forest or downhill skiing at Telluride with an exclusive SUV transfer service and packed gourmet lunch. You can also learn from the country’s experts through Dunton’s Avalanche Education, instructing how to always ensure safety at the slopes. The range of other activities, from laid back to adrenalin-pumping, include Sand Canyon hikes and winter tours, ice skating, cross-country skiing and snowboarding, all with your own trained guide. Meanwhile, Dunton’s sulphur-free hot springs, two of which are private, will have you relaxed and warm even during a snowstorm.

Stay in any of the resort’s hand-built log cabins that look straight out of a storybook, only much more refined. Some are constructed by the original miners and each has its own unique character. Book the Potter House and sip hot chocolate in front of your own fireplace or take long, sumptuous dips in your private hot spring by the Well House Cabin. In case you’ll need more space or simply can’t decide which cabin to pick, the whole town can be yours to rent.

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Cabin Interiors

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ancy a picnic? Advise the staff and have your lunch on sprawling meadows. The chef also welcomes guests in the open kitchen, should you feel the whim to prepare whatever cravings you can think of. On the long, antique table, share wonderful stories with friends over scrumptious meals made with fresh ingredients from Dunton’s own farm best paired with exquisite wines from its own winery.

Discover Dunton’s storied past and commune with its natural treasures in modern and convenient splendour starting at USD 550 (meals and beverages included) per cabin, per night.

Travel | winter destinations

Lech, Austria Nestled in a quaint town in Lech am Arlberg, Austria is the Aurelio Hotel & Spa, an exclusive ski resort with topnotch features including a spectacular view of the town and mountainside.

Believed to be the only boutique-style hotel in Lech, it invites guests to live in unique sophistication with clean lines and muted tones dominating the appearance of the property.

Get treated to luxurious amenities such as a holistic spa with thermal suite, modern fitness centre with your personal coach, herbal sauna and Jacuzzi, relaxing indoor pools and a library with over a thousand international titles.

Satisfy your palate with authentic Austrian fare and international cuisine at the hotel’s two reputable restaurants, Aurelio’s and Licca Lounge. Should you wish to have your gourmet meals and vintage wine outdoors, the Sun Deck is perfect for savouring both fantastic flavours and views.

The 19 individually designed rooms and suites are definitely not your usual log cabins. Each spacious unit is thoughtfully created with contemporary wooden elements in charming alpine flair. All the rooms are dressed with French and African natural fabrics and equipped with a balcony overlooking the mountains and a spacious bathroom with separate shower and tub. Have your own separate living area and walk-in closet with the ultra-chic yet cosy Aurelio Suites, boasting of high ceilings and fine furnishings. For the ultimate winter wonderland refuge, however, stay in the intriguing 200 sqm Club Master Suite, which is only available on request. The nine-room chalet, linked to the hotel through a tunnel, is a luxurious take on privacy that only very few get to experience.

Hotel Exteriors

Club Lounge

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side from the usual exciting activities on the slopes such as heli-skiing, ice-skating, and paragliding, also try other fun attractions like horse-drawn sleigh rides and Nordic walking. Arrange customised itineraries with your butler or with the concierge and let the professional instructors and certified ski guides show you the ropes. Even kids can join in on the fun with Aurelio’s special adventure programmes.

The most ideal time to visit Lech is in December, March and April, but do watch out for special events taking place throughout the year. This holiday season, you are invited to Aurelio’s grand 5th anniversary celebration to be followed by a yoga workshop by German actor and yoga expert Ralf Bauer.

Competition ensues with The Weisser Ring ski race in January, while the winter golf festivities start mid-March.

To prevent overcrowding, Lech strictly limits the number of ski passes issued per day, but Aurelio Hotel & Spa guests are guaranteed passes for their entire stay. Be one of such privileged travellers for about USD 1,065 per room, per night.

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TR AVEL | winter destinations

Courchevel, France In the heart of Courchevel 1850 by the French Alps, is a contemporary haven of sheer elegance and pleasure. Sitting between La Croisette and Le Forum, the breathtaking Les Suites de la Potinière is only about two minutes from the ski lift and a stone’s throw away from the best restaurants, bars and boutiques in the village. It may be accessible but it remains exclusive offering only 15 suites and one deluxe apartment.

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here’s no need to leave the hotel’s premises for your skiing needs, as you can rent your gear at the on-site ski shop. After a day at the slopes, rejuvenate at the Spa by Omnisens equipped with a swimming pool, sauna, hammam and gym. It’s the perfect conclusion after an energetic day on the piste.

Recount the good times in a fashionable set-up at La Suite Bar & Lounge, which does not only stock the best liquor, but also features live music as well as an excellent menu crafted by two Michelin star Chef Jean Christophe Ansanay-Alex. Dine within the refined ambience of the restaurant or request your cravings through room service. For breakfast, have it your way, as you have the most important meal of your day tailor-made each time.

Surrender to total luxury in any of the hotel’s recently renovated suites with designer bathrooms, hardwood floors and modern décor. The Apartment, a 450 sqm duplex unit with four en-suite bedrooms, four bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, a fully-fitted kitchen, a living room with a modern fireplace and private access to the fourth floor balcony with sweeping views of the mountains, is a modern, five-star abode set against an enthralling and vibrant locale.Delve into the high life in the French Alps at Les Suites de la Potinière starting from USD 1,504 per day for a room accommodating two guests.

Suite Living Room & Fireplace, Photo courtesy of Kiwi Collection

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Suite Bedroom, Photo courtesy of Kiwi Collection

Spa Area, Photo courtesy of Kiwi Collection

Travel | winter destinations

Cabin Interiors

Wyoming, USA Uncover the finer side of the Wild West with the exclusive Brush Creek Ranch in all of its 15,000 ac of exclusive American country lands. Cradled between towering peaks of the Sierra Madre and Snow Mountain ranges, it is where rustic meets chic living in an environment of crackling fires, overstuffed leather and rare, vintage wines.

Lodge Outdoor Patio

Make your stay more memorable with activities ideal for every member of the family. Go snowmobiling, ice fishing, sledding, tubing and cross-country skiing while the kids immerse in fun activities at the Little Wranglers camp. Get drawn into the rich forests of aspen, cottonwood and conifer plus abundant wildlife including bison, foxes and marmots and support the ranch as it aims to have a good balance between amusement and environmental preservation.

Retire to your home on the range with any of the nine remotely located, individually themed, lavish cabin residences that come with two or three bedrooms. The upscale Western décor and room features such as a spacious living area, a full kitchen with dining area, washing and drying facilities, 400-thread count sheets, bathrooms with tub and shower, daily housekeeping and grocery stocking service make for a remarkable stay that will differentiate your Brush Creek Ranch residence from any other log cabin accommodation. The Blacksmith Cabin Suite is well-recommended with its sprawling deck and old-world country charm, while Kinta’s is for a larger group of adventure seekers who will find relaxation in four bedrooms with three bathrooms, dual fireplaces and stunning mountain views.

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t the Trailhead Spa, soothe your senses with traditional treatments using indigenous, American ingredients or indulge in its wide range of salon services. Adjacent is the up-to-date fitness centre where you can do a round of cardio exercises or strength training.

Dining at Brush Creek Ranch, whether casual or formal is a gastronomic fare that induces pleasurable sighs. The Trailhood Great Room with 28 ft ceilings, a huge fireplace, an 800-bottle wine room, a culinary exhibition kitchen and windows that showcase panoramic outdoor views is a multisensory experience that should not be missed. For a more intimate dinner of up to 12 guests, the classy Corriente Private Dining Room with access to an outdoor patio and Cattle Baron’s library is the place to reserve. The Saloon and The Chuck Wagon are other dining facilities that offer classic oldfashioned Western feasts in an easy, casual atmosphere.

Spend your winter in indulgent isolation amidst Western wilderness for USD 960 to USD 1,600 per night at the Black Smith Cabin Suite.

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TR AVEL | winter destinations

View of the Engadin Mountains and Lake St. Moritz

St. Moritz, Switzerland Holding court in the middle of St. Moritz, the sight of the Badrutt’s Palace is disarming and will launch the most jaded tourist into a gasp. Since its opening in 1896, it has become the winter destination of choice by luminaries because of the surrounding vistas it overlooks and the decadent amenities and services that extremely please the moneyed.

St. Moritz did not become a playground of the affluent in the cold season for nothing. Along with your experienced guide, participate in outdoor revelry through a hot air balloon ride or other classic winter activities such as heli-skiing and ice climbing. At the hotel’s Palace Galerie, you’ll find it impossible not to cave in to the allure of luxury retail houses.

Your purchases may come handy when you unite with other night owls at the King’s Club, the legendary nightclub where prominent personalities come to party.

With 157 tasteful rooms and 38 exquisite suites, there’s always a wonderful debate whether to go out or stay in.

The exclusive Suite Hans Badrutt is beautiful beyond words; its every angle epitomises affluence from the expansive marble entrance hall to the sizable terrace that perpetually holds the Engadin Mountains and Lake St. Moritz on display.

The extravagant suite features three marvellous bedrooms, a classically furnished library, a grand piano, Italian Marble bathrooms, a steam bath and a Jacuzzi overlooking the captivating panorama.

Pool Area during winter

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ffering five food halls within its domain, dining is always a treat at Badrutt’s Palace. The Chesa Viglia offers a variety of expertly prepared dishes with some of its restaurants only open during the winter season.

At the Renaissance Bar – Davidoff Lounge, connoisseurs get elated with the selection of fine whisky and top-quality cigars.

A myriad of spa treatments and facilities await the weary.

Book any of the spa suites for an unforgettable escape to a tranquil and invigorating environment or spend hours in the wet zone with therapeutic facilities including a mist room, saunas and steam rooms. The little ones would love the fun activities under the Kids’ Club Palazzino, while you’re off for some luxurious pampering at the Palace Spa. Add glamour to the holiday season by the splendid Swiss Alps in Badrutt’s Palace for a minimum of USD 298 per room, per night.

Travel | winter destinations

British Columbia, Canada Spend the chilly holidays within the warm and luxuriant sanctuary that is The Rimrock Resort Hotel tucked between the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park. The exceptional view of the mountain range as well as its close proximity to the Banff Hot Springs and Banff Gondola are only some of many exceptional pleasures this AAA/CAA Four Diamond awarded hotel offers.

With an array of rare experiences yours for the taking, you’ll be hard pressed to pick which ones to delve into. Discuss your itinerary with the helpful concierge and personalise your stay according to your liking and they’ll make sure it happens. Take the best out of the season by going dog sledding, ice fishing and the likes but do make time for the Calgary Flames’ Ice Hockey Game for a truly unique and action-packed activity.

Leave it to the friendly hotel staff to take care of your transportation, equipment and guides.

Wake up to a spacious room of dark wood furnishings and amber hues that evoke timeless elegance. With the hotel’s Signature Grandview Suites, get pampered all the more from the moment you are welcomed with sparkling wine and chocolate-dipped strawberries to the thoughtful turndown service and the following day’s personalised wake-up calls.

In the romantic Signature Grandview 700 Classic, be swept away by the spectacular view of the Bow & Spray Valley and relish the sweetness of every minute by the wood-burning fireplace and have energising baths in the bathroom decked in limestone and marble mosaics.

View of the Bow and Spray Valley

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urther spoil yourself in the tranquillity of the Rimrock Spa with head-to-foot treatments. Keep fit in the indoor pool and the fitness centre that are equipped with lockers and other amenities exclusive to guests or blow some steam at the squash court nearby.

Eden, the hotel’s restaurant, is among the top dining haunts in the country, being one of the celebrated Five Diamond restaurants in Canada. It’s a rare culinary immersion of outstanding French and international cuisine paired with an impressive wine list, accented with scenic views and operates on award-winning service. The Primrose Dining Room, Divas, Larkspur and The Rimrock Cafe are other options for a variety of delectable dishes and drinks. Special celebrations, big or small, in such spectacular venues are sure to be grander.

Living Room

Have an indulgent holiday in a revered accommodation set against a picturesque backdrop from USD 400 to USD 800 per night for a Signature Grandview room.

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TR AVEL | winter destinations

Lake Louise

British Columbia, Canada Elevate your holiday escape 5,500 ft above sea level in a majestic spot next to snow-capped mountains and a beautiful lake frequented by A-list celebrities and royalties. Be among the privileged clientele of The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and find out why the over 100-year-old institution still never fails to delight its guests.

The hotel’s top-notch lodging facilities feature guest rooms with refined aesthetics – some with stunning views of the lake or the valley. If the spacious Belvedere Lakeview Suite with private balcony and en-suite bathroom will not suffice, perhaps a suite at the extra exclusive Fairmont Gold floor is your most opulent choice. The hotel’s dedicated team will ensure complete privacy and make your stay effortlessly pleasurable. In your Fairmont Gold Signature Suite, the finest of all the rooms, welcome a new day wrapped in Egyptian cotton and take in the stellar sight of icy mountain peaks and imposing glaciers.

Dining options abound, what with its impressive selection of restaurants to choose from. Have a late night bite at the 24hour Chateau Deli for easy, comfort food and make sure to reserve a table at the Fairmont Dining Room for an elegant dinner overlooking breathtaking scenery. Stay healthy and feel free to be meticulous as the Fairmont Lifestyle Cuisine offers fresh and balanced meals while the Fairmont Lifestyle Cuisine Plus caters to specific diet requests to suit your needs.

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rioritising the preference of each guest, the hotel offers a wide array of activities and services fit for everyone from families to the business set. Among all the leisurely offerings for kids and adults, the Mountain Heritage Guide Winter Program stands out as the most comprehensive.

It includes a fun journey to Johnston Canyon, personal ski lessons and a mystifying stargazing session by the lake.

Once back at the hotel, take advantage of the health club facilities offered only to guests. Have a relaxing dip in the whirlpool or lift some weights in the well-equipped fitness area. You can even arrange a day of customised spa treatments or join any of the scheduled yoga retreats and wellness weekends.

Find your luxurious comfort zone by a lovely lake and glorious mountainside at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise starting at USD 402 per room, per night.

Travel | winter destinations

Matterhorn

Zermatt, Switzerland Located in the exclusive Petit Village, Chalet Grace is shabby chic at its finest, with three storeys of neatly crafted wood furnishings, state-of-the-art equipment, floor to ceiling windows, vaulted interiors and balconies that showcase aweinspiring mountain views.

Stay in the exclusive, lavish property with 13 other guests or on your own and get drawn to every beautiful detail, from the fresh flowers to the complimentary Perrier JouĂŤt Champagne.

The chalet, consisting of five double bedrooms with inviting en-suite bathrooms, is a fancy environment of rich bed sheets, thick rugs, warm carpets and polished wood drenched in sunlight. Take your time bathing in luxury with Jardin des Alpes natural herbal bathroom products in the bathrooms, two of which are equipped with bathtubs.

In the airy living area, is a large open fireplace begging for hours of spirited talks or a quiet time with a good book with the Matterhorn as a striking backdrop. The beverage bar is also a great spot for building memorable moments.

Get delightfully busy in the professional standard kitchen and have satisfying meals on the elevated dining area. Otherwise, leave it to the Michelin star trained chefs to prepare feasts (six nights a week) that will linger in your mind long after the trip. Pair your meals with any of the fine wines and spirits that will add even more splendour to such gastronomic sensations.

Facade of Chalet Grace, Photo courtesy of Elysian Collection

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ored is the last thing you will be with superb amenities like the cinema that comes with a selection of DVDs and a game room with a pool table that the entire family will enjoy. If your definition of fun is tranquillity and relaxation, however, the wellness centre with a sauna, a shower room, a massage room and a yoga/ Pilates space is for you. It also has a stone terrace and an outdoor hot tub that will have you soaked in calmness for hours.

Should you successfully tear yourself away from the magnificent property, have your ski lessons and sightseeing tours arranged by your very own chalet concierge. It’s also through the Jane Urquhart trained team that you plan your helicopter transfers and bespoke family or corporate events among other tailored guest services.

Feel the bliss of pleasurable seclusion with your own chalet that captures the magnificence of the Matterhorn and surrounding ice-capped mountains starting from USD 38,812 per week.

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Mendoza’s Best-kept Secrets Of the new world wine countries, Mendoza is emerging as one of the most spectacular in sights and tastes. Keep warm this winter season by indulging in the fine flavours of choice wines in hush-hush destinations in the heart of this breathtaking wine country.

WORDS BY MARTINA KRAUSS

Photo courtesy of Andeluna Cellars

travel | ARGENTINA

Bodega Melipal

CLOSET WINERIES

What started out as a dream now became a full-pledged passion of the family behind the Bodega Melipal. This charming winery boasts imposing views of the Andes mountain range accompanying the quaint rows of the surrounding vineyards.

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The winery, enjoying a coveted location in the highest area of the Mendoza River of the Agrelo region could easily be the best growing site for Malbec grapes, as it is constantly supplied by pure water from the Andes mountains. Location and provision are complemented by the passionate labour from its skilled workers, contributing to the unmatched quality of wines produced in this winery. Sustainable winegrowing through organic treatments in its most natural form is also observed here. The processes are guaranteed not to harm the production but nurture them naturally, followed by manual harvesting before it is fermented and aged.

The winery customises private tastings, allowing direct sampling from tanks and barrels, complete with a sumptuous dining experience in the top-notch restaurant serving local cuisine with delectable wine and food pairings.

n intense wine finish is always expected from Bodega Melipal wines, as the maturity level is at its most ideal, combined with careful winemaking processes.

The minerals present in the soil also contribute to its notable flavour. The Melipal Malbec Reserva is made from 100 per cent Malbec grapes from the Las Nazarenas vineyards planted in 1923. It is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, resulting to a dense, bright red colour with hints of black cherries, ripe black plums, green pepper and mint. It is balanced to the taste for a medium-bodied wine, with an impressive length and an exquisite, warm finish.

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travel | mendoza

Bodega Renacer

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lassic and modern silhouettes combine with technology to create a masterpiece of an architecture that is Bodega Renacer. The winery is set in the foothills of the Andes mountains. Needless to say, it enjoys the most picturesque views of the region.

It also takes pride in being the first winery of its kind in Argentina to offset carbon emissions in the production of wines. On top of this, state-of-the-art Italian technology of fully computerised temperature-controlled tanks are used in the aging of the wines. Mendoza’s climate alone aids in the creation of the finest wines, as two talented names overseeing the winery – renowned Italian winemaker Alberto Antonini and Malbec expert Hector Durigutti. Both combine their passions to create wines that have caught the attention of many connoisseurs and enthusiasts from the world over.

Another secret to their wine’s quality is the water used in the winery, which comes from melted Andean snows.

The Vineyards at Bodega Renacer

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Limited Edition Bottles by the Artist

The Limited Edition Punto Final Cabernet Single Vineyard, with no more than 170 bottles was recently launched to the local market at USD 100 per bottle. The exclusive edition comes in hand painted bottles by the Mendocenean artist Cristobal Peña y Lillo, featuring the ‘Brindis’ artwork. It is a bright, ruby red wine with fresh fruit aromas of plums, cherries and berries fused with spicy notes of pepper and eucalyptus.

It is juicy on the palate with a well-balanced acidity and a notably long finish.

Reserve a slot for the Argentinean Experience prior to visiting the winery to enjoy a private tour among generous helpings of the local asado (barbecue) served with choice wines all while enjoying the views from surrounding vineyards. More surprises await wine aficionados, such as learning the secret of the ‘Enamore’ wine – using an Italian technique to create a wine full of spicy aromas with a pleasant, long finish and the exciting experience of blending and bottling your own wine.

travel | ARGENTINA

Fireplace

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istory and romance abound in the vineyards of Andeluna Cellars, with scenic vines sprawling all the way up the foothills of the Andes Mountains.

This magnificent location is where classic varietals are grown, matched with high-quality winemaking processes to produce a host of excellent flavours.

From the 200 ac of picturesque vineyards, the grapes are harvested and processed in the cutting-edge winery boasting ultra-modern equipment and unmatched storage capacities.

The one million litre tank, 1,200 barrels for aging and 720,000 bottle storage are reasons enough to boast.

The Winemaker’s Selection Malbec and the Reserve Malbec are two prized wines made from Argentina’s signature grape varietal. The former is known to receive praises from connoisseurs for its savoury and well-balanced characteristics.

It is a bright, ruby-red wine with hints of pepper, plum, cherry, dark chocolate, spicy oak and fresh herbs. To the mouth it is smooth and sweet that finishes well with soft tannins and just the right amount of sweetness.

Early reservations are required as all exclusive tours and tastings are by appointment only. Enjoy the winery all to yourself, starting with a tour of the vineyards and the spectacular views surrounding it. Follow through by walking the grounds of the winery to witness the state-of-the-art winemaking process they are known for. Delve deep into the flavours of Andeluna in a series of private tastings hosted in four separate areas.

What better way to cap off your decadent visit than with a scrumptious feast of authentic Argentine cuisine paired with Andeluna’s bestsellers all served in a truly elegant setting.

Andeluna Cellars

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travel | ARGENTINA

Entre Cielos

INTIMATE LODGINGS Loosen up those ties and kick off those heels at the Entre Cielos, a charming boutique wine resort that evokes a quaint farmhouse. The scenic views marry well with contemporary design, creating a cosy ambience to lose yourself in.

Find privacy within the hotel walls with only 16 exclusive accommodations on offer to ensure you a most relaxing stay. The six room types are playfully named after wine classifications – Young, Classic, Reserva, Gran Reserva, Gran Cru and the coveted Limited Edition. The ultimate room to book goes without saying, the decadent Limited Edition, which is the only vineyard loft accommodation in the hotel.

The dome-designed loft decked in modern furnishings hovers above the vineyards, taking in full views of the lush vines with a coloured sky backdrop. The bed and living area share a window-covered roof overlooking a multitude of stars at night. The terrace with a freestanding bathtub makes for a delightful spot to soak up the views.

Entre Cielos is also home to the first traditional Turkish Hamam in the region. The Hamam and Spa is just the place to unwind and get pampered further in this lavish wine resort.

The Cleopatra signature treatment for her starts with the hamam bath followed with a relaxing foam massage and is capped off with an herbal facial. The Sultan treatment for him starts with a classic hamam, followed by a deep bath and finished with a twin massage by two therapists. Putting your ties and heels back on after such luxurious pampering may be quite a challenge.

TRAVELITE | 90

Hallway

Gran Cru Master Suite

travel | mendoza

Cavas Wine Lodge

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The Spanish colonial architecture elevates the sophisticated vibe emanating from sweeping 50 ac of vineyards and imposing mountain views. With just 14 accommodations, the luxuries on offer are exclusive only to a lucky few. Reserve well in advance for your own Gaudi-stlye abode, preferably the one nearest the foothills of the mountains for superb views and top-notch privacy. Interiors are amazingly spacious and cosy, with modern and traditional furnishings including a unique, stonewalled bathroom. Unwind outdoors in your own private pool and outdoor shower and watch the sunset from your terrace with its traditional wood-burning fireplace, while sipping on a glass of choice Malbecs from the cellar.

The early 20th century family home converted into a quaint hotel enjoys a private and secluded location off Mendoza’s city centre. Find ultimate privacy in one of the 11 rooms in the estate, each with a spacious living area, a cosy fireplace centrepiece and a private terrace for admiring the views. You will be made to feel at home with the personal service afforded to guests of the estate, starting with a sumptuous breakfast buffet of fresh fruits and fruit juices and freshly baked breads with homemade marmalades among many other specialties.

aking advantage of the scenic landscapes of the Andes is the lavish Cavas Wine Lodge. The luxury lodge is the destination to swoon over beautiful rows of vineyards while getting pampered in five-star service.

The underground cellar or Cava, which is where the lodge’s name was derived, features a circular staircase leading to the restaurant, library and spa. Now you know where exactly to go for further indulgence – may it be on food, books or relaxation treatments. The vinotheraphy treatments at the MoorishRoman spa are truly tempting, with wine baths, grape seed scrubs and soothing massages using wine-infused oils. Postrelaxation, the perfect way to cap the night is with a privately arranged gourmet dinner on the upper deck of your cabana for a romantic experience under a bed of stars.

Weather

The spring season from late September to mid-December is the perfect time to visit Mendoza with cool, pleasant temperatures and a vibrant display of colours from the blooming flora of the region.

xpect an intimate selection of fine wines coupled with a few surprises at the Finca Adalgisa. The boutique hotel and winery stays true to its roots and traditions, offering no frills, but the luxury of simplicity at its best.

All wines from the winery are special, since they are produced in limited quantities of only 5,000 bottles. The winery takes pride in the fine flavours of their wine, with grapes grown from the almost 100-year-old vineyards. Tasting rooms are opened daily for the exclusive use of guests, who are likely to automatically note the good oak balance in each of the wines offered. The team can tailor-fit your wine experience in the region with winery tours and tastings, art tours and sport activities, should you feel the need for some adrenalin.

You are welcome to walk around at leisure; after all, it is your home away from home for the duration of your stay.

Finca Adalgisa

Taj Mahal, Photo courtesy of Tony Burns

Travel | INDIA

Enthralled in

India With a myriad of arresting cultural attractions, it’s easy to get lost in the beautiful chaos that is India. But with cities such as Agra and Jaipur brimming with colours and flavours, I find myself circling a labyrinth of extravagant monuments and exotic locales hoping to not find my way out.

WORDS BY SJ ROXAS

The Allure of Agra My journey starts grand as I greet Agra ‘namaste’ at the end of a four-hour trip from Delhi chauffeured in a private vehicle with a personal tour guide. I head directly to the country’s greatest jewel, the Taj Mahal and I instantly get charmed. If Troy has Helen, then Agra has Mumtaz Mahal who inspired the construction of the extravagant mausoleum. All the superlatives in the world do not suffice to describe the majestic beauty of The Taj.

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earning the tales of love, loss and tragedy behind The Taj takes me back to the 17th century when the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built the extravagant symbol of his devotion. Before getting in, however, I am accosted by the modern era with a very strict security system. Such measures can slow down entry, so it is best to visit before 7am when it’s less crowded. Entering through the great gate called Darwaza-i Rauza is an exciting preview of a one-of-a-kind experience. Its imposing facade of red sandstone is adorned with calligraphy and passages from the Qur’an. I enter the main shrine to be enveloped by the solemnity of the atmosphere. The beauty of the white, marble mausoleum matched with the touching stories it represents provide for an emotional and spiritual experience.

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Travel | INDIA

Khas Mahal

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ust two km northwest of The Taj is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Agra Fort. Also called Fort Rouge for its colour, the stunning structure stands tall against a clear sky; truly majestic and ideal for the seat of power in the Mughal Empire. The walled city encloses several large buildings with palaces and courts made of red sandstone and marble.

One of these buildings is a prison tower from which I marvel at the Taj Mahal at a spectacular angle. What a splendid way to commune with two iconic structures at the same time!

There are many eye-catching structures in the fort all vying for attention, but it’s the Khas Mahal that won me over with its downplayed elegance. From the outside, the white structure appears almost too modest for the king’s own residence, but its interiors tell a different story. Ornamented with intricate, predominantly floral patterns from floor to ceiling, the huge inner halls took my breath away. Every corner is an artwork begging to be ogled. I wonder what events these walls bore witness to as I gently run my fingers through its heavily carved and moulded surfaces. Tucked between the Yamuna River and the Angoori Bagh (Grapes Garden), either side of the Khas Mahal offers a stunning view.

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Agra Fort

“Agra may have an abundance of opulent tombs and marvellous historical monuments, but it has another fascinating attraction that showcases the artwork of artists still living.”

Tourists are treated to a live demonstration of the 17th century art of marble inlay at Subhash Emporium. I watch intently as modern day artisans cut, polish and set gemstones in marble the same way it was done to decorate the Taj Mahal. The precious creations may be quite a splurge as souvenirs, but are well worth the incredible craftsmanship.

Travel | INDIA

“Apparently, there’s more to The Oberoi Amarvilas than I thought as I get presented with ‘Oberoi Experiences’.”

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s if the extravagant remnants of a rich cultural past are not enough, Agra is also home to an oasis of classic Indian decadence thriving in a modern environment. At The Oberoi Amarvilas, I luxuriate at the city’s finest accommodation. Considering the dizzying list of international awards and accolades under its name, my expectations are high. Walking through the serene, Moorish and Mughal style colonnade, I am reassured that I am not about to get disappointed; the dome lobby is the epitome of grand and the suites brim with luxury. The suites, lobby and lounge provide awe-inspiring views of the magnificent Taj Mahal, being located a mere 600 m away from the hotel.

Among all the decadent guestrooms, the Kohinoor Suite reigns as the most lavish. At 275 sqm, the expansive suite comes with a foyer, a sizable living room, dining room, study area and a large bedroom with a bathroom made of white marble and granite, plus a private, open-air terrace with a mystifying vista of the Taj.

Hotel Lobby, Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

Courtyard, Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

Taking an evening dip at the heated swimming pool, I contemplate whether to enjoy breakfast at the terrace with the best view in town or join other guests at the Bellevue for multi-cuisine delights. Do I spoil myself with customised treatments at the Oberoi Spa or get fit at the Fitness Centre?

Life is difficult sometimes. There’s no need to go elsewhere for lunch or dinner, as Esphahan serves authentic Indian cuisine in an elegant ambience of red sandstone and Greek Thassos marble, while The Lounge is perfect for delectable confections. At The Bar, which also enjoys a view of the Taj, the extensive range of offerings from champagne to Scotch leaves me torn. Apparently, there’s more to The Oberoi Amarvilas than I thought as I get presented with ‘Oberoi Experiences’. Imagine an intimate dinner under the stars with live traditional Indian music, a Hindu blessing ceremony, private cooking lessons with the hotel’s chefs, and a complete detoxifying ritual at the spa all being offered in one, upscale setting. It’s almost too much, but in the most wonderful way.

Suite View of the Taj Mahal, Photo courtesy of The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

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Travel | INDIA

Junior Suite, Photo courtesy of www.indianluxurytrains.com

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here’s no need for a genie to have a magical ride around the fantastic landscapes of India with the Maharajas’ Express. With the assistance of the courteous staff, I step inside to find a vessel furnished with ornaments from a bygone era, but equipped with modern, top of the line amenities. The relaxed ambience is plush and cinematic. One of the smartly dressed waiters offers me a drink while I tour the carriages. The more I learn about the lavish accommodation cum transport, the more impressed I get. Individual climate control and en-suite bathrooms are some of the features that come with each of the 43 guest cabins. The Presidential Suite, occupying an entire carriage, is the first of its kind with a private sitting/ dining room, a master bedroom and bathroom with shower and tub, plus another bedroom with its own bathroom.

Photo courtesy of www.indianluxurytrains.com

Aboard the Maharajas’ Express, the journey becomes the destination with two spacious dining cars offering exquisite Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisine, a high-end boutique with charming gifts and souvenirs and a safari-themed bar serving innovative cocktails and fine wines. Lounging at the elegant Rajah Club with an en-suite bar is the most relaxing experience despite the speed we are travelling at.

Five unique journey packages, which last either four or seven nights, promise extraordinary immersions across India with guided tours of captivating attractions in Delhi, Agra and Mumbai among other exciting towns on offer. Deluxe coaches and private cars equipped with travel kits are also provided for utmost convenience.

TRAVELITE | 96

Photo courtesy of www.indianluxurytrains.com

Travel | INDIA

Amber Fort, Jaipur

The Joie de Vivre of Jaipur Rajasthan’s capital and largest city is an urban jungle bustling with mischievous monkeys, camels hard at work and eager street vendors. As I roll down the window of my private car, I take in the scenery of the busy city and get drawn to the exotic appeal of the Pink City – Jaipur.

For my first adventure, I go uphill to visit Amber Fort. The fortress, made of red and white sandstone, was once the multi-level home of the Rajput Maharajas. But just when I thought it’s just another grand Indian palace, I see painted elephants roaming the courtyards and vendors dressed so vibrantly, they attract almost as much attention as the place. There are even snake charmers! Though tempting, I skip the elephant rides and dancing cobras and go straight to the bowels of the fort. I thought I had seen it all, until I enter The Sheesh Mahal or Mirror Palace, which is practically covered with glass mosaic inlays set on the walls and ceilings in elaborate patterns. Just thinking how such beautiful art has been painstakingly created leaves me with even more respect for traditional Indian creativity. They say one candle is enough to light up the place. On the fourth level where the concubines lived, the panoramic view of the Maota Lake at the foot of the hill surrounded by greenery is a living postcard.

This part of town appears to have frozen in time and I can’t help but hope it remains that way.

Sanjay Kasliwal Designs of Gem Palace

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y next stop is a break from historical monuments, but still definitely keeps the traditional, extravagant sensibilities of the Indian heritage. In the heart of the city is The Gem Palace established in 1852 by the Kasliwal family of Jaipur, whose prestigious clientele include Moghul emperors, Jackie Onassis and Princess Diana. The place reeks of oldmoney opulence, Indian style. It’s more of a museum rather than a store, what with the assortment of antiques on display.

Needless to say, it’s the giant emeralds and rubies that are the main attraction. Getting to touch a sarpech, a turban ornament for men and necklaces all dripping with oversized diamonds and sapphires almost feels like a brush with royalty.

Upstairs is where the magic happens, as they say. The Gem Palace workshop is not only the origin of some of the world’s finest jewellery, but also the workplace of the best craftsmen.

It’s no wonder the ravishing pieces these masters create are very much coveted in Barney’s, New York.

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Travel | INDIA

Facade, Rambagh Palace

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n the midst of Jaipur’s main shopping district and historical relics, I relive the lavish ways of ancient high rulers at the Rambagh Palace. The 19th century property of 47 ac was the actual abode of Maharajah Sawai Man Singh II until it was converted into an ultra lavish hotel in the 1950s. Now, it’s my gateway to Jaipur’s glorious past.

The Rambagh Palace is not dubbed as ‘the jewel of Jaipur’ for nothing. The lobby, made of white marble, epitomises affluence, the gardens with live peacocks roaming about are kept manicured, while the pristine indoor pool and the weathercontrolled outdoor pool are impossible to resist. Every room in the hotel is immaculately equipped with amenities that are de rigueur in high-end accommodations, but it’s the Grand Presidential Suites that draw the line between anticipated luxury and sublime elegance. The Suryavanshi Suite, with elaborate chandeliers and French arched windows that open to a view of the Nahargarh Fort and the Aravalli hills, is a play on classic glamour. Meanwhile, the Sukh Niwas Suite is decidedly bold with gold floor to ceiling drapes hanging over a circular bed.

The Rambagh Palace offers a long list of exciting features including nightly cultural performances, an in-house astrologer, a guided historical walk, versatile shopping, holistic spa and fitness facilities and unique private dining options.

If such activities do not suffice, my butler suggests going outdoors for an afternoon of polo or golf. It’s the vintage car ride, however, that I’m tempted to try. It’s not every day that I get to drive around the Pink City in a vehicle that was once owned by royals.

TRAVELITE | 98

“Now, it’s my gateway to Jaipur’s glorious past. The Rambagh Palace is not dubbed as ‘the jewel of Jaipur’ for nothing. ”

Sukh Niwas Suite

Elephant Polo

Travel | INDIA

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here’s never enough time to explore such a wondrous destination like Rajasthan. But with Royal Rajasthan on Wheels, an immersion into the essence of Jodhpur, Chittor, Sawai Madhopur and Jaipur becomes a meaningful trip that unravels the soul of a culture in five to seven eventful and luxurious days of sightseeing and beyond.

The exquisitely fashioned train has 13 lavish coaches that evoke royal prestige, which even hard to please travellers will adore. Comfort and style are in perfect harmony in the richly decorated saloons. The Bravura Suites, Emerald and Diamond, match the discriminating taste of royals featuring silk and velvet bedspreads and drapes and fine, wooden furniture.

Photo courtesy of www.indianluxurytrains.com

Aside from a large bed, each suite is spacious enough to have sofa chairs, an ottoman and a writing table. The two restaurants, Sheesh Mahal and Swarn Mahal, do not only serve superb international cuisine, but also feature handmade cutlery, splendid interiors and a mélange of fine liquor.

I already expected the train to be extra special, teeming with amenities such as individual temperature control, Internet and laundry service, but it’s the spa and fitness facilities on-board that had me in awe. It’s the ultimate, revitalising on-the-go experience not many people can claim to have enjoyed, and one that also added a perfect end to my journey to the two majestic Indian cities of Agra and Jaipur.

Photo courtesy of www.indianluxurytrains.com

Jai Mahal Palace Jaipur, Photo courtesy of Madhura Nadkarni

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Travel | MALDivES

Sandbank, Photo courtesy of Banyan Tree Madivaru

Bespoke Island Paradise Luxury and relaxation are the norms in the island of infinite white sands, azure waters and sunny skies. Maldives’ raw beauty is an attraction in itself, and is now made even more exquisite by a few lavish appointments and bespoke experiences in five stunning destinations.

WORDS BY ISOBEL TSIN

Beachside Camping So you’ve never heard of luxury beachside camping before. Lucky for you, there is always a first time for everything, and campers of all ages deserve nothing less than the Banyan Tree Madivaru for their first camping by the beach experience.

The resort offers six exclusive Tented Pool Villas — the first of its kind in Maldives.

Imagine desert living only in the midst of a breathtaking lagoon complete with three individual tents designed for sleeping, lounging and bathing, among a host of fivestar service and amenities.

The bedroom evokes a relaxing, tropical ambience with lavish ceiling canopies and handcrafted details. Spend long, luxurious baths in the spacious bath tent, where you can also arrange a decadent pampering for two in its private spa beds. Camping is almost synonymous with “roughing it”, but your experience at the Banyan Tree Madivaru will prove otherwise. Your all-new camping adventure hemmed with the infinite seas offers in-villa dining, private destination dining and tailored outdoor explorations any time of day. This is the closest you can get to the heart of Maldives, with special lunch arrangements in one of the sandbanks, sailing into the sunset, and as nighttime falls, a campfire dinner under the stars complete with the day’s freshest catch paired with a vintage from the resort’s extensive wine list.

Travel | maldives

Organic Picnics

Five degrees north of the equator is the sensational Six Senses Laamu, set exclusively in the pristine Laamu Atoll. The whole property is built to unite with the seas, with floating villas crafted from weathered wood, evoking the best of nature in its rugged form. Book nothing less than the Ocean Water Villa, which is, in its own right, your gateway into the vast ocean. The entire villa is suspended over the bluest of seas, along with its sunken glass-covered bathtub, private water garden, outdoor lounge with daybeds and last but not least, an aquarium dining deck featuring a table made entirely out of glass.

The resort is a prized destination for the conscious few, as all meals are done in organic goodness. Chefs whip up a grand selection of healthy cuisine made with only the freshest herbs, fruits and vegetables grown in the resort’s own gardens. Leaf, the signature restaurant offers Mediterranean specialties using local ingredients sourced a mere hours before it is readied for your enjoyment. Do request for the Chili Table, a coveted spot set by the resort’s lush chili patch. Of course, you are spoilt enough to order the same healthy fare to be served in the privacy of your ocean-laced suite.

Ocean Water Villa

Travel | maldives

Ayurvedic Bliss Adding an extraordinary boost of beauty to the surroundings is the breathtaking Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, set in one of the largest lagoons in Maldives. Contemporary design in muted tones envelope the endless seascapes, creating an inviting space to host your relaxations. Any dream getaway will be perfectly accommodated at the Rehendi Presidential Suite, boasting of the finest in creature comforts. Apart from the usual spacious living area and bedrooms, you will be spoilt further with the glassed bathroom overlooking the ocean, the private sundeck with a fresh water pool centrepiece, and the extravagant sand-filled deck featuring a hammock suspended over the seas.

However relaxed and contented you are in the privacy of your suite, you have to keep in mind that there is more to be experienced at the Taj. One of those is an afternoon of pampering at the Jiva Spa, where you will surely be lulled to bliss from head to foot. The all-natural spa creates tailored treatments based on the traditional Indian Ayurveda principles, with your total well-being in mind. An expert physician will closely examine your medical history, lifestyle and personal preference to customise a treatment that will suit your needs. All treatments are done in private villas floating above the lagoon’s blue waters, making the exclusive spa experience a treat that will leave you relaxed mind, body and spirit.

Jiva Spa, Photo courtesy of Taj Exotica

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Travel | maldives

Underwater Journeys Getting spoilt in paradise goes without saying at the Constance Moofushi Resort. Here, you can indulge in your slice of heaven anytime and any way you want to. Luxury blends well with picturesque views, creating a relaxing ambience coupled with bespoke service throughout your stay. Relaxation is hiked up two notches with all-inclusive getaways for the ultimate spoiling in Maldives.

Enjoy the open seas in your Senior Water Villa perched on crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Handmade furnishings made from wood and rough stone complete the well-designed space, with thoughtful additions such as a charming patio looking out to the seas and an indoor bathtub sitting on a glass floor enjoys the same breathtaking views. As soon as you’ve had your fill of the scenery, it is time to delve deeper into the wonders of the South Ari Atoll, now famed as one of the world’s best diving sites. The house reef surrounding the resort teems with a diverse marine life with special visits from migratory species of whale sharks, mantas, sea eagles and dolphins. A team of experts can tailor fit a snorkelling or diving adventure based on your preference. Diving enthusiasts of all levels are spoilt with 20 diving spots to choose from, and even non-divers will be easy converts after a breathtaking snorkelling experience.

Aerial View, Constance Moofushi

Travel | maldives

Tailored Romance

Blending exquisitely with the soothing seascape is the Constance Halaveli Resort, which enjoys a serene location in one of Maldives’ longest jetties. Endless blue waters and candy-coloured skies create a stunning backdrop for your romantic escapades, making it a destination to love and fall in love. Get smitten by the beautiful Water Villas floating romantically on the lagoon’s surface, each with a freestanding bathtub, separate rainforest showers, a private outdoor deck and plunge pool facing the seas. At the foot of the pool is a stairway that leads you to your own private stretch of pristine beach.

Should you wish for further seclusion, the villas past the sunset bar are most requested for top-notch privacy.

Customise your romantic getaway with the resort’s plethora of activities on offer, starting with a private sunset cruise aboard a traditional dhoni boat complete with champagne and all the works. Keep the fire burning with a memorable candle-lit three-course dinner at the idyllic Jing restaurant where many proposals have been made and accepted. The next morning, wake up to a delectable champagne breakfast in the privacy of your villa.

If you simply can’t get enough of the romantic beach setting, arrange for exclusive visits to many deserted islands nearby.

Water Villa, Constance Halaveli

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Travel | BEIJING

The Two Facets of Beijing There are two sides to every story, even in exploring China’s second largest city. Unfold two experiences in Beijing by rediscovering the classic appeal of the old city or by embracing the progressive flair of the modern metropolis.

WORDS BY SJ ROXAS

A Historical Journey To start your foray into the traditional Beijing experience, take a plunge into the centre of history with a tour of the majestic Forbidden City. Once home to 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, this ancient place of power has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The marvellous design of the Forbidden City is meant to capture the essence of imperial power. Make your way around the 980 architecturally spectacular buildings on a weekday to avoid the crowds. You may also arrange for private tours to enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and time. Bespoke Beijing creates tailor-made itineraries for the best experience of the city.

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Forbidden City Gate, Photo courtesy of www.welcometochina.com.au

Adjacent to the Forbidden City is another staple in anyone’s Beijing itinerary – Tiananmen Square. Since its construction in 1415, it has held several important public demonstrations and ceremonies now documented in history books. For the best panoramic view of the square, get a ticket to the balcony from where the leaders would address the crowd. Don’t miss the ceremonious raising of the flag during sunrise or lowering of the flag at sunset conducted with supreme precision by around 30 guards of honour.

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tour of China would not be complete without a visit to what may be the greatest man-made structure on earth, the Great Wall. The most popular and the best-preserved section is Badaling, where shopping and dining facilities abound. If you want to take the Great Wall experience to new heights (quite literally), book a 15 to 60-minute helicopter ride and see the world wonder from its most stunning angle. A 15-minute ride starts at USD 1,680 per person at Amoy Trip.

Beijing’s cultural treasures are not limited to magnificent structures. The Peking Opera is considered as China’s national art form. The spectacular theatrical presentation combines acting, singing, dancing and miming with acrobatics and combat. Allow yourself to be transported to a different realm by ornate costumes and dramatic make-up combined with grandiose set-ups and unmistakably traditional Chinese music.

Travel | BEIJING

Where To Stay Inspired by the hutong lifestyle, DuGe Courtyard Boutique Hotel is a quaint yet sophisticated accommodation amidst a maze of alleys not very far from The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. Hutongs are a row of narrow streets lined by the traditional courtyard houses of ancient Beijing. As the city develops into a modern metropolis, hutongs have declined but properties like DuGe are preserving the old-world Chinese lifestyle in harmony with the current times.

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Get enlivened by the vibrant ambience of the hotel as colours and detailed pavilion architecture fill the space. The red and blue doors are the entrance to what is considered the first designer courtyard boutique hotel in China. Offering six uniquely themed suites and rooms with direct access to the inner courtyards, you decide whether to wake up in The Imperial Suite, drenched in gold and other warm hues with décor fit for royalty, or spend hours in the tub of The Bamboo Suite admiring the green, impressively carved walls of its bathroom. The other thoughtfully designed rooms, each with its distinct character are The Peony Pavilion, The Silk Road Courtyard, The Gold Lotus and The White House.

Make your stay more unforgettable with DuGe’s private luxury car services, personalised tours or you can also pamper yourself with a range of tempting spa services. Have your treatments in the hotel spa, in your suite or even in the courtyard. Enjoy shopping convenience with the help of DuGe’s expert guest services team. From jewellery to furniture, simply let them know what you need and when you need it. They will happily source the most exclusive and high-quality pieces.

The Peony Pavillion

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estled in another hutong neighbourhood in central Beijing is an oasis of tranquillity and exquisite living. Relive the royal experience of a bygone era in Han’s Royal Garden Hotel and further appreciate China’s fascinating heritage. Dark wood furnishings, intricate traditional architecture and verdant courtyards are some of the sights to behold in this 4.5-star property. With extreme faithfulness to the essence of classic affluence, Han’s Royal Garden Hotel treats guests to features such as private limousine service, a full-service spa and a dedicated multilingual staff to take care of every whim and fancy.

Stay in the lavish Chinese Suite with a king-sized bed modelled after the Emperor’s own and dressed with the finest silk.

Sandalwood furniture, wooden wall panels with jade imprints and calligraphy paintings adorn the 861 sq ft space. Indulge in a luxurious bath while enjoying a program on the widescreen LCD TV in the marble-floored bathroom. Your suite at the hotel is a destination in itself – enjoy awe-inspiring views of the snow-capped courtyard in winter or breathe in the fragrant Magnolia trees blossoming in spring.

Han’s Royal Garden Courtyard View

The concierge can also arrange anything from a leisurely tour around the city to a business luncheon in the hotel’s own restaurants. After a day of touring or meetings, cap off the night with a whisky or wine at Han’s Bar, which houses a selection of fine liquors.

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Travel | BEIJING

Club Xiu, Photo courtesy of Hyatt Hotels

A modern voyage As rich as it is in historical and traditional attractions, Beijing is also a premiere destination for innovative lifestyle concepts the modern times can offer. Begin your immersion into contemporary Beijing with the strong, artistic vibes that reverberate throughout 798 Art Zone. It is the city’s hip, art district where fashion and art mavens gather. Explore the Ullens Centre for Contemporary Art (UCCA), which does not merely hold exhibitions, but also engages the audience through lectures, film screenings, performances and workshops within its 8,000 sqm facility. Make sure to drop by the UCCA store for limited edition art pieces and novelties. Continue your tour by pondering on the compelling creations of international artists in Galleria Continua, followed by acquiring experimental pieces from the Boers-Li Gallery. Other notable galleries to visit include the Chinese Contemporary Art Gallery, Pace Beijing, Long March Space and the Beijing Commune showcasing modern, multimedia works by local and international artists.

Navigate through the city’s nocturnal hot spots starting with a glass of fine wine accompanied by soothing tunes at Aria Jazz and Wine Bar at the China World Hotel or warm up at Centro at the Kerry Centre’s plush interiors and fresh, signature mixes. For a more upbeat yet sophisticated vibe, head to Redmoon at the Grand Hyatt where Martinis and sake cocktails can be enjoyed over live band music. Join the revelry, dressed to the nines at the Park Hyatt’s exclusive club Xiu, which boasts of an open-air balcony overlooking the stunning nightscape of the business district. If you’re looking to hike it up a notch, check out Atmosphere at the China World Trade Centre and let the good times roll 80 floors above the ground.

The majestic 360-degree view of the city combined with the decadent wood and leather décor and a bar fully-stocked with premium liquor promise a different kind of high.

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Photo courtesy of Boers - Li Gallery

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ccomplish every item on your list of diverse activities by spending a day or two at the multi-faceted Sanlitun Village, a modern development comprised of 19 low-rise buildings. The plethora of shops from the flagship stores of celebrated designers to contemporary art galleries such as Aether Space and Up Space will have you pleasingly pre-occupied. Recharge at the rows of fine dining options like Flamme, where you can savour exquisite culinary masterpieces under Philip Starck lights. Once the sun sets, the village transforms into a prime party haven. Surrender to the uncontrollable, positive energy at Bar Blu, Alameda and Boys and Girls among more than 80 party venues along Bar Street.

Serious shoppers must dedicate a trip to Wangfujing Street, which is considered as Beijing’s answer to New York’s Fifth Avenue and Paris’ Champs-Élysées. Wander leisurely through its stretch of stores frequented by both locals and tourists. The high-end, international brands carried by Oriental Plaza and Wangfujing Department Store are beckoning, with the latest fashions eager for a space in your well-curated wardrobe.

Where To Stay Cubism is at its best in the ultra-modern and painfully stylish hotel The Opposite House. It brings modern design to a new level with the contrast of shiny glass panels against the rustic wood surfaces, and the coldness of concrete with the warmth of ambient lighting.

For the ultimate in modern luxury, make The Penthouse your temporary home in Beijing. Be blown away by the close to 200 sqm two-storey space decked in contemporary furnishings.

The private poolside terrace alone justifies the splurge. Get a different high with the deep soaking, rectangular oak tub, mood lighting system, 400-thread count Egyptian cotton bed linens, and exclusive Ba Yan Ka La toiletries made from pure water from the Yellow River among a host of luxurious amenities that come with your reservation.

The Opposite House Exterior

Stay in what can be considered as a huge contemporary art installation in the heart of the city and get further pampering and indulgence at any of the hotel’s exquisite restaurants and bars, from the Asian-inspired Bei to the international cuisines at the Village Café.

If you’re craving for some local adventure, don’t miss the nearby food haunts such as Da Dong for a taste of their famous duck dishes, capped with delectable sweets at Colibri for dessert.

The Penthouse

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ithin the city’s lively fashion and art district, 798 Art Zone, is the luxury boutique hotel Grace Beijing. Once a 20th century crystal factory, the space has been developed into a sanctuary of effortless, classic elegance and modern artistry, making it an accurate representative of its creative and ever-evolving neighbourhood.

With Bespoke by Grace, your taste is king. Customise your stay with your choice of pillows from the pillow menu and beverages for your personalised in-room bar. The bespoke service also lets you decide on the smallest of details including the room fragrance.

Grace Suite

VIP Suite King

Grace Beijing has 30 tastefully designed rooms, but the Grace Suite is the pièce de résistance with floor-to-ceiling artwork, heated floors and an expansive living area. Start your morning with a fresh brew from your own Nespresso machine and inspect the specially commissioned, surrealistic photos created by esteemed artist Chi Peng.

For dining and beyond, head to the hotel’s signature Yi House Restaurant and Bar 798 for a taste of what is known to be one of Beijing’s best gastronomic experiences. If the weather permits, you can have your sumptuous lunch or dinner alfresco on the terrace.

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Travel | THAILAND

Sensational Spas Mapping out the four corners of Thailand to discover the ultimate in luxury spa experience is a treat to say the least. From designer detox to organic oases, these exclusive retreats will surely make you stay indefinitely.

WORDS BY GLAIZA SEGUIA

PHUKET Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, wild parties or swanky spa sessions, this beautiful island at the southern part of the country is the destination to be.

The coastal province is composed of popular beach towns like the family-friendly Karon and the neon-lit Patong, but if you prefer peace and relaxation, then Kamala is the perfect spot for you. This former fishing village offers unspoilt stretch of white sand that meets the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea.

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he hillside neighbourhood called Millionaires’ Mile in Cape Sol is lined with high-end properties and posh resorts, but a definite standout is the unique Villa Yin owned by Laurent and Chantal Broda. The halfacre resort is an interesting fusion of traditional Thai architecture, contemporary art and modern conveniences. Stepping into the four-bedroom villa is like a walk through an art gallery. There are antique Buddhas sitting next to the sleek and stylish furniture. The walls are adorned with intricate woodcarvings and Andy Warhol paintings. Crystal drop chandeliers hung from the ceilings, and the red and black colour scheme makes a perfect contrast to the unobstructed view of the sea and sky outside. There’s also the 18 m marble infinity pool near the massive white boulder at the heart of the property, plus the private stone steps leading to the beach below. The arty atmosphere makes the spa experience even more memorable. Upon arrival, guests can request for any head-to-toe treatment and the efficient staff can immediately arrange it for you. I prefer the traditional Thai massage that loosens my knots and I wasn’t disappointed. After a quick soak and sauna, I dressed in loose clothing (no oil is used for this treatment) and laid down for an hour’s session of stretching and rhythmic compression. I’m impressed at how such a petite lady can powerfully knead and twist my torso around. The medium to hard massage realigned my spine and did wonders for my back, neck and shoulders.

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Marble Infinity Pool

Spa Area

Aerial View of Sri Panwa

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short drive away, just south of Phuket Town, is another boutique resort that has tourists talking.

Sri Panwa – owned by Wan Issara – is a cluster of stunning suites and villas spread across 16 ac of land atop Cape Panwa. Voted one of the best hotel resorts in the world, Sri Panwa offers holidaymakers all the comforts of luxury living in the middle of a tropical paradise. The minimalist wood, tile and glass interiors open up to private terraces with a view of the estate’s terracotta exterior. The restaurant and rooftop deck Baba Nest, with its panoramic view of the sunset and selection of top-shelf liquors, just raised the bar for any club in the world. Food-wise, Baba Soul Food went all out with their spicy selection of Thai comfort foods like Tom Yum and Pad Thai. The round-the-clock service is also impressive; I just love how the staff have a ready smile and Sawadika (“hello” in Thai) for the guests. There’s also something in store for the active excursionists: Muay Thai and tennis lessons, yoga and Pilates on the floating deck, kayaking, cruising and diving trips. At the end of a fun-filled day, unwinding at the Cool Spa is something to look forward to. The facility is complete with bespoke treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, vitality pools, rain showers, a fully-loaded iPod play list for your listening pleasure and your own private waterfall.

The Sri Panwa Serenity full body massage – designed to calm the body and mind – shouldn’t be missed. I found myself quickly dozing off thanks to the therapist’s gentle hands and the heavenly scent of aromatic oils. Cool Spa also prides itself for its long range of unique body scrub and polish treatments using locally sourced natural products. Their Natural Sweet Mango Delight and the Tom Yam Herbal Scrub can also be a perfect cure for your cravings! It is truly an exquisite place to spend some much-needed “me time”.

“Sri Panwa offers holidaymakers all the comforts of luxury living in the middle of a tropical paradise.”

Cool Spa Massage Room

Baba Pool Club

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Travel | THAILAND

Main Lobby Exterior

CHIANG MAI A trip to Thailand isn’t complete without a visit to this popular northern town called the “Rose of the North.” Rich in culture and history, Chiang Mai is the former capital of the Kingdom of Lanna, and is home to more than 300 wats (Buddhist temples), elephant farms and historical museums set against a breathtaking backdrop of the mountainside. Today, this ancient royal city is rapidly keeping up with the modern times, and when it comes to luxury destinations, Chiang Mai can definitely compete with the best of the south.

The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi offers five-star amenities and services with unique oriental flair. The structural design of this 60 ac property truly captures the essence of the Lanna period as seen in the lavish villas made almost entirely of teakwood and the colonial suites inspired by Burmese architecture. The property is so enormous, it’s like a miniature kingdom of its own with a large bridge surrounded by lotus ponds, towering trees and fully operational paddy fields (You can even try planting rice!). Getting around the grounds is not a problem as you can pedal on a bike or hitch a ride on a golf cart or horse-drawn carriage for a trip to one of the restaurants or to my favourite destination, the fully-stocked library. Among the resort’s renowned guests are Prince Albert of Monaco, former US Secretary of State Colin Powell and tennis superstar Maria Sharapova. I was told that Dhara Dhevi in Sanskrit means “Star Goddess,” and like its name, the place is just otherworldly.

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Ayurvedic Retreat

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he resort is also famed for its excellent and awardwining spa facility, The Dheva Spa and Wellness Centre, which has an extensive menu of therapeutic and holistic treatments to pamper both the body and the soul. Inspired by the Mandalay Palace of Myanmar, the spa’s exterior features a seven-tiered roof representing the seven steps to heaven or Nirvana in Buddhist beliefs. The interior is just as beautiful with marble stairs, 18 spacious suites featuring steam rooms and private whirlpools. The spa also has Aquatherapy areas with Turkish hammams and Vichy showers. Before the treatment, you get a complimentary wellness lifestyle assessment to identify your overall health.

I’m told there’s a lot of tension in my body that’s blocking the flow of good energy, so they suggested the Lanna massage that uses the ancient Tok Sen technique. The therapist tapped the pressure points on my body with a wooden tool made from a tamarind tree. She then applied herbal oils and used heat compress for a soothing massage. This spa experience is probably the closest to heaven you can get on earth.

Travel | THAILAND

Outdoor Walkway

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walking distance to the city’s old town is another treasure called the RarinJinda Wellness Spa Resort. Not only is this boutique hotel and urban spa accessible, it is also chic with a truly relaxing ambience. Built on a 140-year-old teakwood home overlooking the Ping River and Doi Suthep Mountain, it has all the comforts you could wish for - deluxe suites with spacious terraces, a hydrotherapy pool and a well-equipped fitness centre offering complimentary yoga classes. The Deck1 Restaurant serves up Asian fusion cuisines, continental breakfast buffets and contemporary jazz music with your dinner. But what I like most is their good selection of allin-one packages. Since I don’t have five hours to spend for a Golden Memories treatment with Chromotherapy, I opted for the Ayurvedic Hideaway. It’s a two-hour bliss of neck to scalp massage, guava foot polish, Indian Warm Oil massage, Tibetan meditation music and the Ayurvedic treatment called Shirodhara, with a relaxing, gentle pouring of essential oil to my forehead to stimulate energy in my head chakra. The therapist explained that the treatment helps prevent hair from greying, sleeplessness and even memory loss. It was the perfect R&R before checking out the nearby night bazaar!

Outdoor Whirlpool

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Travel | THAILAND

View of the Andaman Sea

KRABI Complementing the beauty of the Andaman Sea is this little provincial town known for the majestic karst formations along its coastline. Krabi is an important jump-off point for travellers bound for the more popular islands of Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta. Although not a tourist trap per se, Krabi has its own charms too. Adventurers are drawn to the town’s thrilling landscape of limestone cliffs, caves, waterfalls and jungle. Krabi is now home to different schools for sport climbing, trekking and scuba diving. The town, which lies next to the Krabi River and mangroves forest, is lined with guesthouses, markets and hotel hideaways. The Anantara Si Kao Resort & Spa, located along the powder-white Changlang beach is rated one of the best resorts due to its seclusion, exquisite sea-view accommodations and spa. The sprawling property combines elegance with the best of the local culture as seen in the tasteful glass and wood décor, swinging daybeds by the beach and the tropical garden designed by Bill Bensley. I love the courtyard and lotus pond setting of the spa, and the treatments are definitely at par with the overall beauty of the place. There are deluxe suites and a grand couples’ room featuring a private pool and outdoor massage sala. The efficient therapist asked me about the problem areas to focus on or avoid – this is good, because I had a slight crick in my neck that day that really needed some attention. The Anantara Signature Massage lasted for an hour and a half and it was a sensory journey of cool shower, floral foot wash, lavenderscented full-body massage finished off with a hot cup of chamomile tea.

The treatment relieved the tension in my neck all the way down my back.

I also felt thoroughly relaxed from the reflexology infused in the massage, which targeted the reflex zones on my feet to reach corresponding organs to promote well-being and a deeper sense of relaxation.

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Outdoor Dining

Travel | THAILAND

KOH KOOD If you’re the kind of traveller who enjoys digging your toes in the sand and idly watching water lap the shore, then it’s time to pack your bags for Koh Kood (or Ko Kut). But like all great gems, it’s safely tucked away, so it’s not an easy trip. It will take an hour’s flight from Bangkok to the easternmost province of Trat and another one-and-a-half hour ferry ride to reach this tiny, secluded island near Cambodia’s borderline. But it is definitely worth the trouble if only for the inviting gin-clear water and hills covered in foliage.

It’s pretty much barefoot island-living here – no sign of nightlife, limited Internet access and everything just seems to be moving in slow motion, even the swaying of the palm trees. So it’s a bit surprising to discover a handful of designer hotels nestled between the rainforest, most noteworthy among them is Soneva Kiri, one of the newest developments from the Six Senses brand. The eco-conscious luxury resort promotes the appropriately named SLOW LIFE (Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wellness Learning-InspiringFun-Experiences) philosophy, so the villas are made of sustainable wood, organic cuisines are served up on treetops or over water, and they even arrange cultural excursions around the island. They have a holistic approach to their spa treatments like the Chakra Balancing Massage, Foot Acupressure and Hot Stone Therapy. They also offer yoga, Pilates and nutritional classes, as well as Reiki sessions. But to fully immerse yourself in nature, I suggest the signature Jungle Escape package, which is a favourite among holidaymakers. The therapist led me to the heated stone bed at the outdoor treatment area enclosed with greenery. I was in for a thorough herbal scrub down under a bamboo mist shower and a traditional Thai massage using aromatic essential oils and organic ingredients straight from their garden. It is just what I needed after that long, bumpy ride!

“The eco-conscious luxury resort promotes the appropriately named SLOW LIFE (Sustainable-LocalOrganic-Wellness LearningInspiring-Fun-Experiences) philosophy”

The Villa Suite

Private Cliff

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TR AVEL | Thailand

A Story of Wellness and Wholeness Curiosity is what best describes my outlook when I decided to trek to Hua Hin, Thailand. A long-winded 230 km drive from Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport to a destination spa is not for the unsurefooted. What does the ‘world’s best spa’ have to offer? This is, of course, a euphemism of a question considering the accolades and awards Chiva-Som has been receiving with much aplomb.

AILENE MANZANO-LITONJUA

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Travel | thailand

A Sanctuary of Beauty Upon arrival, one immediately feels welcomed to a heaven of a retreat destination. A backlit pond ensconcing a Buddha with lotus leaves emitting a green effervescent luminosity greeted me by the foyer. It was tranquil yet dramatic, soothing my exhaustion from the hours of travel as I embark on my much-awaited Chiva-Som adventure.

A white balustraded, ceilinged verandah evoking an opulent plantation home made for a grand entrance. The lounge area is complete with ceiling fans and is decked with accents of traditional coloured Thai silk pillows on wood-trimmed sofas. A number of Thai wood bas-relief art with animals and humans in epic action are hung on the walls and beautiful orchid flowers of different variants proudly adorn the lobby.

A quick tour of the place in a golf cart shows one the various well-placed pavilions specially designed for yoga, dance and bathing. There are also separate pavilions for the gymnasium and spa. The accommodations were also carefully laid out in the seven-acre property, each enclosed with special views from Ocean View Rooms to the Thai Pavilions and Suites. The design of the structures, a combination of Thai and western elements whilst semi-modern in lines, blends well with the lush foliage and fauna that enclose all 57 rooms and suites.

Subdued would be an overarching descriptor. There are pools of water all around, providing the Zen-like tranquility that the place embodies.

“A quick tour of the place in a golf cart shows one the various well-placed pavilions specially designed for yoga, dance and bathing.”

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midst the lush greenery and well-appointed tables for lunching and dining, one’s urban nerves ease.

Relax mode then goes full throttle. A delightful choice of entrées on the dinner menu, whilst whipped for healthy living made for a surprisingly sumptuous meal that warmly welcomed me on my first night. The food was set against the ambience of the relaxing swimming pool, with the gentle wind blowing on my face. The sound of the gentle rush of the Hua Hin beach waves provided a calming feel to the prelude of my rejuvenating Chiva-Som experience.

After dinner, I retreated to my room, which was modest in size and had fine details amidst a white and beige palette. The wooden floor, cabinets and the simple, no-frill furniture gave the room a homey feel. The lampshades with carabao horn accents, the linen curtains plus the luxe beddings added the extra touch to make me feel at home for the next four days.

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The Trek to Fitness I thought it was a wonderful idea for Chiva-Som to whip up packages, giving first timers like me an idea of the services available. I chose the three-night Lifestyle Retreat and I wasn’t disappointed. My very able personal health consultant took me through a structured questionnaire asking about my medical background and Chiva-Som objectives. Other than de-stressing and the detox programmes, there are natural healing remedies as well as lengthier weight loss programmes on offer. A good number of loyal patrons all the way from the European and American continents would spend a month or two on a yearly basis in this Thai oasis, which stands true to their mantra “Haven of Life”. Their objective is to provide guests a ticket to health and well-being. Well-trained consultants are specially assigned to help guests in their search for wholeness or spiritual health. This goes perfectly well with the ChivaSom philosophy of a sound mind, body and spirit.

What I like best is the plethora of activities to choose from.

For an adrenalin-junkie like me, I opted to pack the day with a myriad of activities. There are yoga breathing exercises in the early morning, stretching exercises, progressing to mat Pilates or aqua aerobics towards mid-morning to ab exercises and the hard-hitting Thai boxing sessions in the afternoons.

After I huff and puff my way to fitness, I am rewarded with a Gyrokinesis exercise session, concentrating on my chest and shoulders. This started my love affair with the gyrotonic machine to relax my tight spine, pelvis and shoulders. For the uninitiated, one look at the contraption may reek of one’s childhood memories of a medieval torture machine.

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tallish wooden pole stands erect with a set of pulleys and weights attached to it. But alas, this friendly machine, as one gets to know it, actually acts as a redeemer! My very able physiotherapist taught me spine stretching 101 and engaged me with the much-needed spiralling motion to ease the tightness in my spine, unlocking my creaking and stubborn shoulders, lower back and pelvis. It was a wonderful discovery indeed! The freedom of motion is exhilarating. This would be great for my golf swing, I thought. For the memory books, the trainers gave me a laminated guide on how to do remedial manual exercises with routine stretches! What a fitting take-away gift indeed. As part of the package, a set of Physiotherapy sessions may also be added. The experts in this part of the world are not only technically skilled, but they also offer good service in the traditional Thai sense. Whether it’s to release Cranio-Myofascial or mobilise soft tissues, the therapists have the appropriate healing touch.

The spa centre is indeed best in class, aesthetics-wise. It is a fitting refuge after an action packed day. Relaxing water cascades falling into basins with lotus flower accents adorn the area. The Jacuzzi looks out into a tropical garden through floor-to-ceiling glass panels. Perfect for one’s relaxation amidst the sessions, well-appointed chaise lounge chairs are also placed fronting the garden view. The ubiquitous but everbeautiful orchids are seen all over the place. To cap my day, a relaxing and invigorating massage comes to me as a signature Chiva-Som gift. The aromatic oils and the sure strokes of the therapists will square anyone’s tight and tense muscles.

Travel | thailand

The Road to Wholeness I decided to consult with an ex-Buddhist monk to unlock the secrets for a profound state, with heightened feelings and emotions leading to happiness, serenity and inner peace through mind training. It was a wonderful hour of finding my higher mission, almost akin to predestination. One’s role is to align with it and embrace it. The key is to harness the calling for one’s higher self and achieve Zen-like inner peace.

Not yet satiated with the quest for wholeness, I went on to consult with an expert on Chakra alignment. Chakras are known to be energy sources, emanating from Hindu and Buddhist yogic and tantric traditions. As the eastern belief and understanding go, balanced chakras result to perfect harmony.

My consultant regaled me with stories of the famous Japanese author and entrepreneur, Masaru Emoto and his foray on water experimentation. Emoto studied the effects of intent and consciousness on water by photographing crystal formations.

The more beautiful the words spoken to the water, the lovelier the crystal formations are and vice-versa. Hate words would show broken formations. As human bodies have a very high water composition, it follows that the key to harmony is to constantly stay well intentioned. The 75-minute treatment designed to optimise energy through sound vibrations is done while one is in a semi-meditative state. Again, I would say, it was an hour and a half well spent as I fathomed nontraditional insights to further my well-being.

The Verdict Chiva-Som has a wellness and wholeness proposition. The four days I spent there gave credence to why the accolades were granted to them. It is found in the structured way of looking at one’s wellness objectives, to the various physical well-being activities and wholeness consultations. With excellent spa cuisine and good old-fashioned service, ChivaSom has the winning formula.

In a well-appointed corner beside the foyer sits the bust of the founder, Boonchu Rojanastien. A notable banker and financer, considered as one of the first economic tsars of Thai government, he plowed capital and built a dream. After 10 years, the world started to recognise the fruits of his dream.

Well-being seekers came, and they are still coming. No wonder Chiva-Som is known to be one of the world’s best destination spas. I myself am now fully convinced.

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Scotland the Spirited Get your senses enthused with a trip that’s not to be enjoyed elsewhere, but in the charismatic villages and islands of Scotland. More than kilts, castles and Sean Connery, the country is home to exquisite whiskies that have lifted the spirits of even the most discerning connoisseurs. Tour four of its best distilleries and get swept away in sumptuous intoxication.

WORDS BY BRENT LEE

Glengoyne

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The distillery is a sight to behold as the white buildings glow amongst verdant greens and sits close to the streaming crystal clear waters of Loch Lomond. The pleasant surroundings are part of the production, as the water from the loch gives a mild flavour to the malt whisky, which is further refined by the calm climate of the southern Highlands while the great Dumgoyne Hill is a shield from the harsh winds of winter.

For the most in-depth and comprehensive immersion in the beautiful Glengoyne, book The Masterclass at USD 200 per person and visit the exclusive warehouses to witness the key processes in producing such fine whisky. Also included in the tour are tastings of Glengoyne’s 12 and 17-year-old Highland Single Malts, three Glengoyne Single Cask whiskies and six sherry samples. The highlight though, is when you get the chance to concoct your own whisky expression in the Sample Room. Take home your creation in a 200ml bottle, which comes with a Master Class certificate and a Glengoyne commemorative book.

Situated beneath the Campsie Hills with easy access from Glasgow and Edinburgh is Glengoyne, where outstanding single malt Scotch whisky has been produced for almost 200 years.

Glengoyne takes pride in the slow and long process of blending their liquor. In their world-class selection, the oldest is the best with the Glengoyne Limited Edition Forty Years Old Single Malt Whisky. Packaged in individually numbered Glencairn crystal decanter laying on hand-stitched cream leather interior and encased by a lacquered, piano finished, solid oak box adorned with gold plates on the front, it is opulence in a bottle. It also comes with a traditionally bound book signed by the distillery manager, an outer leather carry case and a cloth bag.

Time has done wonders to its character. A whiff of the dark elixir alone entices with extremely subtle hints of red apples, creme brulee, ripe strawberries and cream while its taste imbues layers of ripe bananas, spiced plums, honey and cereal, grapefruit and soft oak. It’s a study of complex flavours with an oily feel and finishes dry and lingering; truly top-notch and worth the USD 6,000 price tag.

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eruse through Scottish wonders from its scenery to Glengoyne’s brewing facilities with Rabbies’ day tour at USD 46 per person. Before heading directly to the property, Glengoyne’s trusted tour specialist will first let you explore the panorama of what’s said to be the gateway to Scotland. Unravel the rich history of the Stirling Castle and revisit the tale of the hero that inspired the movie Braveheart – William Wallace, at the National Wallace Monument.

The distillery encourages you to share your unique experience by ordering whisky with personalised bottles. Glengoyne’s online shop will deliver their 10 or 17-year-old 70cl Single Highland Malt Whisky with a label containing your specified text and image for USD 60 to USD 154. For a minimum of 12 guests, the distillery can also arrange a tasteful private dining set-up with an extensive menu that can be altered according to your requirements.

Glengoyne tours operate daily (except 23 to 27 December and 31 December until 2 January) from 10am to 4pm, March to November and 10am to 3pm, December to February. www.glengoyne.com

quarterly special | SCOTCH WHISKY TOURS

Auchentoshan

After undergoing several remodelling, Auchentoshan is now well equipped with a visitor centre and conference facilities that cater to tourists, which come in droves.

Located on the northern outskirts of the city, it is the closest distillery to Glasgow, also making it the most accessible. The facility rests on the foot of the Old Kilpatrick Hills and overlooks the River Clyde, therefore, enjoying charming views of the Lowlands.

Auchentoshan sets itself apart by being one of the few distilleries in Scotland to offer triple-distilled single malts.

This unique process results to a delicate and sweet flavour praised by enthusiasts. Sample its award-winning Three Wood Single Malt, which is a favourite among its clientele for its rich, complex toffee and sherry oak flavours achieved by having it mature in three different casks – American Bourbon, Spanish Olorosso Sherry and Pedro Ximenez Sherry.

From the limited edition line, The Auchentoshan 1957 promises to be an extra special treat having been aged in sherry casks for 50 years. To the nose, it releases a soft aroma of light eucalyptus and the sweetness of treacle and butterscotch. The deep bronze whisky enlivens the palate with hints of treacle and mint combined with dark chocolate and slithers down the throat ever so smoothly leaving a complicatedly delicious finish. Secure one or two of only 144 bottles produced from this cask at USD 4,258 each.

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here are several tour options that will leave you fascinated with the interesting history and procedures of the distillery. Book The Ultimate Auchentoshan Experience for a detailed tour of the place and get to sample straight from the warehouse casks the way only the master blender and the manager do starting at USD 72 for three persons. For a more intimate experience however, add USD 319 to any tour to explore the facilities along with a friendly guide beyond its regular operating hours.

With Auchentoshan’s conference facilities, mix business and leisure in one place. Colleagues can hold productive half or full-day meetings, presentations and brainstorming sessions, and can then enjoy liquor tasting afterwards with The Classic Tour. The large meeting room can accommodate up to 80 persons and is equipped with modern amenities including a data projector with screen and blinds, flipcharts and pens, wired and wireless Internet and radio microphones among others. In addition to such features, a full lunch and snacks of coffee, tea and biscuits will also be served. Work and play at Auchentoshan for a whole day for USD 56 (exclusive of taxes) per person.

Visit Auchentoshan from 10am to 5pm daily except during holidays on 25, 26 December and 1,2 January.

Auchentoshan Distillery

www.auchentoshan.com

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quarterly special | SCOTCH WHISKY TOURS

Talisker

Much like the territory it has called home since 1830, Talisker is wild yet beguiling and it’s quite impossible not to be seduced by it. Its distillery stands firmly on the Isle of Skye amidst crashing waves with a vision of the Cuillin Hills. Make your way to the exotic island for a tour that’s sure to cause a wonderful sensory overdrive.

Rated with four stars by the Scottish Tourist Board, there are often limited slots for the tours, so book yours well in advance. Take time to admire and ponder on the beautiful scenery while on your way to the facilities. Talisker is supplied with water from 14 underground springs from Hawk Hill, which is a habitat of several types of birds of prey, hence the name.

Unique to Talisker is its two-wash stills method, which was successfully recreated even after the 1960 fire that struck the distillery. It’s essentially a technique used to retain the vapours from the first distillation up to the second one resulting to the whisky’s signature deep character. Find out for yourself the difference this clever process makes once you savour a dram of Talisker’s rich island malt during a tour around the premises.

Talisker is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9:30am to 5pm in September and October, Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4:30pm from November to March. It is closed for the holidays on 24, 25, 26 December and 1, 2 January. www.talisker.com

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ncluded in the Talisker Distilery Tour are a knowledgeable guide and an opportunity to nose and taste Talisker’s award-winning 10-year-old Single Malt. Its full body and strong powerful smokiness is complemented by its bright gold appearance. The dried fruit sweetness is intercepted with peat, intense barley-malt flavours and peppery hints that linger infinitely on the palate. Book your visit for USD 10 per person and also get a discount voucher for a 70cl single malt whisky purchased at the in-house store.

Among the wide range of potent spirits Talisker has put out, it’s the 18-year-old expression that has become the favourite of enthusiasts for its surreal balance of peat, spice and sweetness. In fact, it was declared The World’s Best Single Malt Whisky in 2007 at the World Whisky Awards and continues to gain more advocates. It is rich and fruity when nosed as it is, but adding the right amount of water brings out more character denoting seaweed and smoke. Upon tasting, the sweetness dominates accompanied by more hints of smoke and develops into coal-tar and toffee flavours while the medium-length finish highlights a subtle chili aftertaste.

You will most probably become a fan after a wee dram if you’re not already. At USD 107 per bottle, make sure to keep stocks of this amber masterpiece in your mini bar.

quarterly special | SCOTCH WHISKY TOURS

Bowmore

Since its establishment in 1779 on the shores of Loch Indaal, Bowmore has developed a beautiful relationship with the elements. It is said to be the first distillery on Islay and one of the oldest in Scotland. For over two centuries now, nature has been lending its touch to its single malts, much like the way the Atlantic waves crash on the northwest walls of Bowmore’s warehouse. Such natural influence results to robust peat, salt spray and seaweed infusions, making each dram a fleeting rendezvous with the coast.

Bowmore’s acclaimed visitor centre, classically designed and opens into a balcony with sweeping island views, accommodates up to 10,000 tourists per year, so plan your visit early. Choose from the Distillery Tour, which will have you enamoured with the dedication and the old-school techniques that take to create their well-loved Single Malt, and the more comprehensive Craftman’s Tour, a two-hour journey into the very core of the distillery including Bowmore’s renowned No. 1 Vaults, a key factor in the maturation process. Better yet, since Islay itself demands more than just a few hours of touring, why not stay for a few nights in Bowmore’s cottages?

A Bowmore 12-year-old expression welcomes you upon check-in in one of the six cottages rated with four stars by Visit Scotland. Take refuge in lush, individually decorated spaces, exclusive to no more than 14 guests, right in the heart of the town. Your reservation comes with exclusive access to the serene Walled Garden enjoying a stunning view of the seascape as well as a complimentary tour of the nearby distillery, making your stay convenient, as it is exciting. Spend a minimum of two wonderful nights starting at USD 272 and get intoxicated with Islay’s joyful spirit.

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hile on the island, get mystified by the storied heritage of Islay with Bowmore Legend, a vital part of the core range coveted by whisky lovers everywhere.

This intriguing blend of smoky peat and gentle sea breeze is a tribute to the town’s character, as it is the first Islay malt.

Stimulate your palate with voluptuous lemon zest and the sweetness of honey. Its light gold appearance reminiscent of a setting sun is a faithful promise to a warm, soothing finish of distinctive Islay peat smoke. Get swept away by Bowmore’s quintessential island appeal for USD 41 per bottle.

For a more decadent enjoyment, seek the 46-year-old Bowmore 1964 Fino that only a few lucky aficionados get to experience. This golden vision is a more elegant take on the coastal sensibilities of Islay with its sea salt and smoky peat notes. Aged for almost half a century, it has matured beautifully in both bourbon and sherry casks. For USD 8,000, a bottle of this prized collectible is yours.

Bowmore welcomes travellers from Monday to Saturday 10am to 3pm from Easter to June, Monday to Saturday 10am to 3pm and Sunday 1pm to 2pm from July to August, Monday to Friday 10:30am to 3pm and Saturday 10am from September to Easter. Email bowmore.distillery@ morrisonbowmore.co.uk

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HOLIDAY SPECIAL

Loang & Noi

HOLIDAY BLING Francis Foo Kia Loang of the prestigious Loang & Noi brand shares their passion for exquisite jewels and extraordinary designs as he segues into a special sneak peek into their latest collection.

How did the business start and what inspired you to venture into jewellery design?

My wife and I founded this business. I recognised very early on the gift and talent of my wife Noi in jewellery design and I encouraged her to go out on her own as her designs were not always appreciated by earlier employers who wanted mass appeal designs. The company’s name was derived from our names. Both of us have great passion in jewellery and we had this vision of creating our business and providing opportunities for others. That was in 1993, when we decided to start up Loang & Noi.

What defines Loang & Noi? It’s all about integrity and passion in design. Loang & Noi does not design in the same way as other jewellery houses do, each major piece is a unique work of art. Noi, our Creative Director and Designer handles the loose jewels, gemstones and pearls herself and conceptualises beautiful designs with inspirations from mother nature. She is very particular about the entire process, from the design concept, the creative element, down to the execution by experienced and well-trained team of craftsmen and ultimately, the quality of the finished jewellery piece. She has been known to completely dismantle a piece she believes to be imperfect, although others may not agree and even at significant cost to the business.

What makes your pieces unique?

What is special about your latest collection?

There are no mass produced collections in Loang & Noi, unlike many international luxury brands, where you can find the exact same necklace, bracelet or ring in every major city. This is not the case with Loang & Noi. What is unique about Loang & Noi is our designs, which are made to stand out from the crowd and each one is a talking piece in itself. Loang & Noi pieces are luxury items designed to make you feel good and keep you constantly in awe of its uniqueness. The pieces also never go out of style, and it is definitely not traditional and classic in approach. At a glance, one can recognise a Loang & Noi creation, as it stands out from the other common fine jewellery in the market – it is a lifestyle aspiration.

Our latest collection is the Wildlife Collection, featuring the Giraffe, Panther, Polar Bear, Elephant, Owl, Peacock and Dragon Fly pieces. Each piece is a very lively work of art and is very wearable with the latest fashions. They can also be a special heirloom piece to be passed on for generations.

What is the most exclusive piece in the collection?

At Loang & Noi, each piece has its own identity, and once sold, we collect and save all data including the owner’s details to our library. This makes every piece special, and each one means a lot to us, as they are all really exclusive and exquisite.

What is the next big trend on jewellery?

I would say that custom-made jewellery would continue to be popular among customers as they are more discerning and their needs are more sophisticated nowadays in terms of quality and unique designs. Custom-made jewellery creates exclusive and personalised identity for the wearer. In addition, acquiring high-quality precious gemstones for appreciation, investment and as a piece of wearable art is also a growing trend.

What is next for Loang & Noi? Noi is in the process of creating more spectacular designs for the brand in the coming year!

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Bi-Annual special | luxurious rides II

Holiday Rides Spoil yourself this holiday season with the best in luxury rides, whichever way you prefer to travel – by land, sea or air.

WORDS BY FERDINAND GODINEZ

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ercedes Benz SLS AMG pays homage to a classic model and spawns a modern version with an identity that isn’t merely a throwback of yesteryears. Curiously labelled as the “spiritual successor to the Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing,” this brash model incorporates varying features from its iconic 1954 predecessor to come up with a unique hybrid packed with luxury, comfort, speed and power. On the outside, the new SLS AMG boasts of four identifiable features – exclusive Gullwing doors, extended bonnet, sturdy casing to highlight its imposing physique and a short pert rear – making it an instant head turner right from the get go.

Its true character, however, lies beneath the surface.

Powered by a 6208cc V8 engine, the SLS AMG generates outstanding speed, which translates to 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds! Its engine capability runs in harmony with wheel arches paired with rear aero foil and diffuser to strike balance and stability at all times regardless of speed level.

The inside resembles a plane cockpit, with its wide winged dashboard, centre console seemingly patterned after a flight deck, bold circular dials and round air vents. Typical of the brand’s fondness for anything classy, the seats are made from the finest leather, and its comfortable interior is remarkably spacious, providing enough breathing room for both driver and passenger to maneuver – an incredible feature considering that the SLS AMG is a twodoor sports vehicle.

“ SLS AMG boasts of four identifiable features – exclusive Gullwing doors, extended bonnet, sturdy casing to highlight its imposing physique and a short pert rear – making it an instant head turner right from the get go.“

Although inspired largely by a classic Benz model, the technology employed in making the SLS AMG is simply off the charts even by Mercedes’ standards, making it a total upgrade to suit modern times and existing trends.

This is evident with the inclusion of bi-Xenon headlamps, carbon ceramic composite brakes, Race Start launch control, lightweight carbon fiber drive shaft, a customised 11-speaker sound system, among many others.

Safety-wise, this Benz is designed to support three times of its total weight, thanks to a strong chassis matched with durable A-pillars for maximum toughness. The SLS AMG is also beefed up with eight airbags, ASR Acceleration Skid Control, three-stage ESP, modern tyre pressure monitoring system and a reliable brake system for on-road peace of mind. Tag price USD 442,210

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Bi-Annual special | luxurious rides II

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ne look at Bentley’s 2013 Mulsanne Mulliner and you instantly get the message – the British brand is taking luxury vehicles to new ambitious heights.

Elegant, luxurious and unabashedly gorgeous, the Mulsanne Mulliner stuns with its beautifully crafted rack flaunted through bold haunches and sharp regal lines. Its unique combination of muscular interior yet graceful aesthetic fittingly conveys its extraordinary power paired with beauty.

Retaining its trademark twin-turbo set up, this new model adds 21-inch, light aluminum alloy wheels into the mix. The inside is meticulously designed and that amount of attention radiates through its special diamond-quilted leather seats.

One can choose to avail of a painted or polish-finished model to suit preference.

State-of-the-art features include alloy wheels made of light aluminum designed with titanium fasteners, finely crafted rims and 265/40 ZR21 tyres to assert its road power.

Tag price USD 730,830

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“The Mulsanne Mulliner stuns with its beautifully crafted rack flaunted through bold haunches and sharp regal lines.“

bi-annual special | luxurious rides II

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his stunning mega yacht screams grandiosity and emerges as the lone winner when it comes to providing the best view and visual come-on to passengers and guests alike. Surrounded by glass walls and doors extending up to its overhead, the Sunseeker 28 Metre Yacht incorporates the architectural concept of maximising space through wise use of floor area embraced with broad glazing to accommodate natural lighting coming from the outside.

The glass stretches from each side for total viewing, while a sliding door divides the outdoor lounge area from the elegantly comfy saloon. VIP and Owner Staterooms are furnished with fine wood and carpet details, meshing perfectly with the installed beddings – all placed strategically to accentuate breathing space, made more evident by the large windows to further tap natural brightness. Sunseeker encourages owner input to suit the general décor according to one’s taste.

“The Sunseeker 28 Metre Yacht incorporates the architectural concept of maximising space through wise use of floor area embraced with broad glazing to accommodate natural lighting coming from the outside. “ The 28 Metre Yacht can accommodate a total of 12 people and being a luxury sea vehicle, it is designed for socialising and fun get-together activities. Guests can hang around comfortably at the saloon or much better, lounge in the balcony area or party with the panoramic surrounding view serving as the backdrop.

Options to include a spa pool, a seated bar or a group seating area can be thrown into the mix to make the most of the offered bespoke innovation, which also includes “cabin plans based around four suites and two stairway configuration, with sound-buffered amidships master suite.”

Performance wise, the Sunseeker 28 Metre features advanced hydrodynamics and a high-flared bow along with 12 cylinder engines to achieve 29-knot top end and 23-knot cruising speed. Tag price USD 5,970,000 up

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F “The Antagonist stands tall with its meticulous craftsmanship boldly reinforced through its wide and muscular exterior, accentuated more by its deep V-wooden hull design.“

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itting its name perfectly to a T, the Antagonist by Art of Kinetik intimidates and charms with its unmatched features that boast of flawless finish, fine lines and bespoke details to suit its elegant image. Smaller as compared to Art of Kinetik’s flagship yacht Hedonist, the Antagonist stands tall with its meticulous craftsmanship boldly reinforced through its wide and muscular exterior, accentuated more by its deep V-wooden hull design. Bannered by a large open cockpit, this superb fleet can generously accommodate up to eight people without compromising space and comfort. Guests can hang out at the immense cockpit seating area, where they can rest their drinks, munchies and belongings on a multifunctional table. A sunbathing area is also present, complete with built-in swimming pool for passengers turned revellers to enjoy. True to form, the Antagonist is built with an air-conditioned homey interior serving as a bridge to the cockpit for convenience. Even more impressive is the way the 37 ft open weekend cruiser combines strong aesthetics with refined grace – masculine mahogany wood, smooth leather and gentle interior styling detail to captivate one’s attention. Luxurious and sexy, the Antagonist appeals to adventurous senses without compromising comfort and functionality. Price on request

bi-annual special | luxurious rides II

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he adage “home away from home” perfectly suits the Cessna Citation M2. It is essentially based on the Model 525 CitationJet (1989) and the M2 (2011).

Taking apart the features of the two mentioned models, the Cessna Citation M2 emerged as a much improved and definitely a better hybrid of its predecessors.

This light business jet is driven by Williams FJ44 turbofan engines, which allows it to deliver a whooping takeoff thrust of 1,965 lbs. Its power engine subsequently pushes the aircraft to a cruise speed reaching 400 kts and allowing it to climb direct to 41,000 ft. It is specially built with high-resolution multifunction display features set in split screen capability plus a Garmin SVT synthetic vision technology provided on primary flight displays. The purpose of the mentioned technology gives a total view of runways programmed as virtual reality, as well as clear sight of runways, terrains, traffics and obstacles.

Some of its interior strong points are the improved seating position headroom and large cabin window openings for undisturbed outside viewing. For further convenience, the Cessna Citation M2 features a redesigned sidewall complemented by large passenger space and legroom, with stowable armrests for improved passenger space. The seats are also newly designed and made with controls for easy adjusting. Passengers can bring more stuff as these can be easily accommodated by nose and tail-cone baggage compartments that are spacious and roomy enough to take in a total external baggage storage volume of 45 cu ft.

Stress-tested durable airframes were thoroughly tested to ensure safety despite hours and hours of flying. The aircraft has reportedly logged over 20 million flight hours and has taken off and landed more than 18 million times – this stresses the Cessna Citation M2’s durability and ability to withstand constant travel without compromising safety.

Price starts at USD 3,195,000

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In full bloom As spring ushers in a new year, so follows a new season of journeys. It’s time to start afresh with a life-changing experience – savouring new tastes, immersing in different cultures and getting lost in a destination and end up losing yourself in it. Open doors to more adventures and look forward to the greener and greater things ahead. Your lifestyle of travel is in full bloom.