ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

JUNE 2016 | ISSUE 30 - THE GREAT ESCAPE

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FRONT COVER MALDIVES photography: Vadim Yudin make-up & hair: Izabela Cruz wardrobe styling: Vadim Yudin model: Ekaterina Yudina (Wilhelmina Dubai)

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IN THIS ISSUE

ISSUE THIRTY | THE GREAT ESCAPE

Features & Regulars 3 12 20 24 30 36 56 60:

Letter from the Editors Beauty: Glittered Gloss Feature - Evolution: LeGrand Leseur Feature - Spring Into Summer Visual Art: Momento d’oro Writing & Photography: Lynne Writing: Little Escapes Travel Feature - Karibu Sana: Welcome to Kenya and Tanzania

Editorials 3 40 46 54 74 82 90 98 106

On Such a Lovely Day Kill the Lights Modern Fairy Lost, Dissociative Flight 67 Sol Fugit Field Trip Ocean Heart Roller Babes

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VEUX Magazine - Issue 30 - The Great Escape STAFF

Ada Adams Editor-In-Chief/Content Director/Public Relations ada@veuxmag.com

Vivien Hoang Editor/Advisor/Layout Design

vivien@veuxmag.com

Wales Wong Editor/Literary Editor/Photographer wales@veuxmag.com

Yawen Chan Web Producer

CONTRIBUTORS: Ada Adams, Camille Anderson, JD Timeless Photography, Vi Vien Hoang, Brian Hunt, LeGrand Leseur, Andrew Oplinger, Scooter Ray, Jacqueline Shea PUBLISHER VEUX Magazine is published every two months by AVW Publishing Inc. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are solely those of the original author and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of VEUX Magazine, AVW Publishing Inc., any of its staff, and/or any/all contributors to this magazine.

CONTACT www.veuxmag.com Editor-In-Chief: editor@veuxmag.com Submissions: editorial@veuxmag.com

FOLLOW www.facebook.com/veuxmag www.twitter.com/VeuxMag www.google.com/+Veuxmag

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Letter from the Editors It’s finally summer and I can feel the sun’s rays bathing my skin. All that’s on my mind is looking for new adventures to embark on because it’s time to take a break from all the craziness of work. Fittingly so, we thought that this issue would be appropriately named The Great Escape.

For some, it’s the escape from monotony. For others, it’s the escape to new places. You may be fantasizing about putting out that swimsuit and jumping into a pool in Maldives. Or perhaps strapping on a pair of old-fashioned skates and rolling down the streets of Toronto.

But for me, I’m excited to explore places unknown and foreign while connecting with individuals in chance encounters during my escape. We hope that you’ll be inspired to find your great escape as you peruse through our Issue 30.

On another note, August is our annual Cover Contest issue to celebrate our 5th year in publication! We’d love to see more of your work so send us your submissions for a chance to get your image onto our cover! Check out www. veuxmag.com/submit for more details.

WW On behalf of the editors

Vintage pleated skirt Brandy Melville t-shirt Vintage Passport bomber jacket Vintage 1960s Styled by Davis of Boston faux fur Vintage multi metal necklace Vintage pearl necklace made in Japan H&M leopard print earrings Marianna Harutunian jewelry Vintage 1980s/1990s Apostrophe tassel flats

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EDITORIAL

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On Such a Lovely Day

UNITED STATES photography: Joseph Agustin (www.josephagustinphoto.com) make-up: Rachelle Hali (www.rachellehali.com) hair: Amanda Moore (www.hairbymandaleigh.com) fashion styling & creative director: Crystal Russell of Lovers Are Square fashion design: Lovers Are Square Vintage (www.loversaresquare.com) model: Jordyn Denning (No Ties San Diego) THE GREAT ESCAPE | ISSUE 30 | VEUX | 5

Vintage 1980s Military blazer Vintage 1980s mesh bodysuit American Apparel bralette Forever21 palazzo pant Andrea Scott oxford flat 6 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

EDITORIAL

Jeri New York “Dry Clean Only” vintage sheer dress Vintage pearl clip-on earrings Vintage locket (faux choker) Topshop flats

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EDITORIAL Vintage 1960s floral mini dress American Apparel thigh high socks Apostrophe 1980s/1990s tassel flats

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EDITORIAL

Vintage 1960s/early 1970s Bridgette Bardot mini dress Vintage 1960s Grandella faux fur Vintage winter white beret

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EDITORIAL

Vintage 1960s/early 1970s Bridgette Bardot mini dress Chain heel Vintage winter white beret

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GLITTERED GLOSS

UKRAINE photography: Arsenii Gerasymenko make-up & hair: Dara Dukhnovskaya model: Olga (Starsystem Kiev) 12 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

BEAUTY

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BEAUTY

Cheeks: Foundation by M.A.C. Blush by NYX 14 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

Cheeks: Foundation by M.A.C. Blush by NYX Eyes: Cream Eye Shadow by NYX Mascara by Gurmandis Lips: Sparkles and Balm

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BEAUTY

Cheeks: Foundation by M.A.C. Blush by NYX Eyes: Cream Eye Shadow by NYX Mascara by Gurmandis Lips: Sparkles and Balm

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BEAUTY

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BEAUTY

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Evolution: LeGrand Leseur

By Vi Vien Hoang Photography by Brian Hunt (Ethimo Foto)

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

Evolution: LeGrand Leseur

By Vi Vien Hoang Photography by Brian Hunt (Ethimo Foto)

In an age of mass production and cookie cutter outfits, it can be harder and harder to stand out. Doubly so if you’re shopping for a suit: the usual swaths of blacks, navy blues and greys…

Unless you’ve heard of LeGrand Leseur.

Leseur is a Philadelphia-based fashion designer, with a focus on luxury men’s clothing. His suits are lovingly hand-crafted and tailored to your individual needs, tastes and desires. There’s nothing off-the-rack about his designs: dramatic splashes of colour, subtle creative craftsmanship like the angled button holes – these are suits for the modern gentleman who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to get it.

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Leseur began his fashion journey in college, with a clothing line that was heavily based in Streetwear and t-shirts. But as the college kid graduated (with a Bachelor’s degree in Humanities, no less!), his tastes evolved as well. The old adage is that you need to dress for the job and the success you want; for Leseur, he went from wearing suits to designing them. I asked him what inspired him, and he, not one to mince words, pointedly said, “The lack of inspiration I found when I started [designing].”

Leseur, like his suits, is ambitious. He has a line of eyewear. His online store (www. legrandleseur.com) sells hand-sewn, beautiful pocket squares. Already widely recognized in Philadelphia, he has plans for expanding into stores in the United States and globally. Leseur is looking to take both men’s suits and his vision to the next level. This is one fashion evolution we can get behind!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/legrandleseursuits

A cool fact we should know about you: I love sushi and super models.

Having both in the same room is what I picture heaven to be.

What are you reading/listening to/ watching? I’m currently reading the 48 Laws of Power, listening to a Metal album by Shokran and watch Game of Thrones!

Tell us about cities/countries that you love and why: I really love Miami. The vibes down there are amazing! I only been once but I’d love to go back in a heartbeat. I also love Paris! Only been there once as well but going back is an ultimate goal of mine!

Who are your role models? My mom is pretty great so I look up to her a good amount of the time. She keeps me pretty grounded and is pretty influential.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

Spring into Summer

By Camille Anderson Photography by JD Timeless Photography Spring is here and summer is just around the corner. It’s time to update your closet with fresh florals, crisp whites and shades of pink. And by the way, it’s also time to create your own success.

The best way to balance out a full skirt is to pair it with a fitted crop top. Since the full skirt usually lies at your true waist, the crop top and skirt will end up covering most of your mid-section.

No need to worry!

I am particularly drawn to this white Alaia dress because of its easy fit and unique design. I love the way it hugs my torso, while giving me a bit of room around my hips with a bubble-like flare.

It’s important for me to know the history of a designer, which gives me insight into the garment.

Fashion is all about feeling comfortable in your own skin. The way in which we dress and present ourselves is unconsciously perceived by those around us. Are you well put together? Are you disheveled? Are you bringing life to your clothes? If you put thought into your wardrobe, others take notice in a positive way. The perception becomes: if you take pride in your appearance, you must take pride in other aspects of your life, too.

One of my favorite sayings is that “no overnight success is born overnight.” I believe it takes FEATURE hard work, a few fails, more determination, and continued perseverance for years to become an overnight success. Azzedine Alaia is the perfect example of this. He is a Tunisian-born hautecouture designer that began his long and winding path to success in the late 1970s. He has dressed everyone from Greta Garbo and Madonna to Michelle Obama and Lady Gaga. His evolution is marked by a partnership with Prada in 2000, which led to an impressive comeback and to being known as the designer with whom many of us are now familiar with, simply Alaia.

Florals are another style that I love. And these florals are not just little petit patterns of cute flowers. The summer trend consists of large, bold flowers adorning full skirts. The length can ranges anywhere from mini to calf to ball skirts.

Either way, don’t be afraid to work the bold and big floral trend.

As a career woman and mom, it’s important for me to take pride in my appearance. I may be guilty of school drop-off in my workout gear or sweats; however, I always get ready for the day and pull together a well thought out outfit. I like knowing that my co-workers and friends know that I dress the part and work hard. I like making my daughter proud. Fashion isn’t just an abstract word; it carries the weight of perception, confidence, beauty and success.

When you are slipping in to the latest spring trends, remember it’s not just about crisp white, florals, and pinks. It’s about creating the best perception of you on your journey to success!

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

Camille Anderson runs her Style Blog at PonchosandPalmtrees.com. She is best known for being FHM Magazine’s “Top Women In The World” twice, covergirl of On Fitness and Marie Claire, as well as her roles on the hit movie “Wedding Crashers,” NBC’s TV Series “Las Vegas,” and as an associate producer on NBC’s “Dateline.”

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ART

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ART

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Momento d’oro

By Ada Adams

Sometimes, the greatest escape can be achieved by going home, shutting the world out, and enjoying the simple moments in life. DecoArtPiece, an internationally recognized art development and consultancy firm, created a modern and vintage home art display that one can dream of getting lost within.

For more unique art and interior design work from DecoArtPiece, please visit their website: www.decoartpiece.com

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Lynne

UNITED STATES photography: Scooter Ray make-up: Louisville Makeover (www.louisvillemakeover.com) hair: Deidre Brooks fashion design: Scooter Ray Designs wardrobe styling: Scooter Ray & James Burden assistant: Jeanette Moore model: Lynne Minyard Text by Scooter Ray

Remembering My Roots My parents have shown me love and have taught me to be humble, no matter what I do and to always remember where I come from and who I am. I stay true to who I am, who my parents molded and taught me to be. I always will remain true to my roots. Those roots have made me the person that I am today.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Eyes: Armani Eyes to Kill Quad Shadows Eyeliner: Dior Show Pro Liner Foundation: Dior Nude Cheeks: Armani Fluid Sheer Lip Liner: Dior Contour Thrilling Plum Lipstick: Diorific Diorama Lipgloss: Armani Splash Lacquer THE GREAT ESCAPE | ISSUE 30 | VEUX | 37

She’s the Strongest Woman I Know Battling myeloma, a rare cancer, in her bloodstream for 12 years, tuberculosis three times, a stroke as well as the side effects due to chemotherapy, Lynne is still here fighting and making a difference. Her strength is embodied as the ultimate symbol of motherhood – Mother Earth.

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A Mother’s Embrace Parents protect their children. When I was little, my mom comforted me, hugged me and made me feel secure and loved.

Now that I am a grown up, my mom’s arms are still open and always there for me even when she is not feeling her best.

As we get older, we learn to embrace in return.

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EDITORIAL

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KILL THE LIGHTS

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EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL

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CANADA photography: Vicky Kao (Plastic Canon - www.PlasticCanon.com) make-up: Sidonie Loomer creative director: Hailey Zombie model: Emily Allanah

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Eyes: M.A.C Paint Pot in indianwood Urban Decay electric palette purple eyeshadow Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies Cheeks: M.A.C Blush in Life’s a Picnic Lips: Laura Mercier Paint Wash Liquid Lip Colour in Fuchsia Mauve 46 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

Dress by Shadyia Aidid Scarf by Shadyia Aidid Collard Top by Shadyia Aidid Skirt By Shadyia Aidid Shoes by Converse Tights by H&M

Modern Fairy

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Eyes: M.A.C Paint Pot in indianwood M.A.C Amberlights, Embark and Cork Eyeshadows Lashes: Ardell Demi Wispies Cheeks: M.A.C Blush in Life’s a Picnic Lips: M.A.C Lipstick in Lady Danger

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Dress by Shadyia Aidid Scarf by Shadyia Aidid Collard Top by Shadyia Aidid Skirt By Shadyia Aidid Shoes by Converse Tights by H&M

EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL

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Dress by Shadyia Aidid Scarf by Shadyia Aidid Collard Top by Shadyia Aidid Skirt By Shadyia Aidid Shoes by Converse Tights by H&M

EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL

CANADA photography: Noor Al-mosawi (www.facebook.com/noorphotography) make-up: Amani Alibrahim (www.amanialibrahim.com) fashion design: Shadiya Aidid wardrobe styling: Shadiya Aidid floral design: Bilqees Quick (www.Facebook.com/zuhoordesigns) model: Shadiya Aidid

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Dress: Kimchi Blue from Urban Outfitters Heels: Aldo Crystal Necklace: Odd Finds General Store & Tea Shop Bracelet: Stylist’s Own 54 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

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Little Escapes

By Jacqueline Shea

The flesh of your skin rises in anticipation.

You wonder what you are waiting for.

Your eyes dazzle under the blur of routine.

How did they get so clouded?

Breathe deep and realize you are inhaling more than just air around you.

Sounds, light, movement.

The gripping and terrifying reality that has become your life.

1, 2, 3, 4 Breathe.

Again.

Do you feel it?

The burning of your heart under the darkened, viscous crude that encapsulates.

That taste in your mouth is familiar but long forgotten.

Freedom.

Remember the way you laid in the sun when you were a child.

Radiant.

That glow is still there, you just have to search with clarity.

What do you want?

Listen to that burning heart as its rhythm is reminding you of a song you used to sing to.

Open your mouth and breathe.

But this time‌exhale the spirit back into the world.

Resurrection.

Those eyes will dazzle again.

Jacqueline Shea is a recent graduate of the Adult Education and Community Development program at Ontario Institute for Studies in Education. She believes in the power of producing knowledge through art and creative expression with the use of emotion, embodiment, and reflection of transformative experiences. She considers herself a lover of wildlife, wildflowers, and the wildness of the spirit.

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Pink dress: H&M Purple Necklace: Vintage Black Ring: Julep Pink Flats: Not Rated THE GREAT ESCAPE | ISSUE 30 | VEUX | 57

EDITORIAL

Bandeau: Staring at Stars from Urban Outfitters Shorts: Sparkle & Fade from Urban Outfitters Lace Top: Kimchi Blue from Urban Outfitters Heels: Aldo 58 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

CANADA photography: Deanna Flinn (Freeadmission - www.freeadmission.ca) make-up & hair: Tiffany Encina (www.tiffanyencina.com) wardrobe styling: Amanda Shaw (www.amandaleeshaw.grandportfolio.com) retouching/editing: Abstraxion Retouch and Design (www.ardedit.com) model: Kehli G (Valt Models - www.modelmayhem.com/2998132) THE GREAT ESCAPE | ISSUE 30 | VEUX | 59

Karibu Sana:

Welcome to Kenya and Tanzania

By Vi Vien Hoang Photography by Vi Vien Hoang and Andrew Oplinger

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TRAVEL

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TRAVEL

I was a pretty nerdy child.

I spent a disproportionate amount of time with an onscreen David Attenborough narrating his famed nature documentaries, watching with rapt attention as he described the mighty lions of the Serengeti, and the majestic herds of elephants in the Kenyan grasslands. It all seemed a world away: impossible to get to except in my imagination and through BBC shows.

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I grew up into a pretty nerdy adult and I never lost my wonder and awe for that other world. But now, the land of spotted cheetahs and striped zebras was within my grasp. The word safari is Swahili for a journey and I was about to embark on the journey of a lifetime.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step – or in my case, one mouse click. We contacted Africa Travel Resource (ATR), a UK-based travel agency and began working with one of its founders, Tracey Bennett, to put together our trip. Because we didn’t know exactly where we wanted to go, we used the “Experiences” feature on their website, which allows travelers to add unique experiences to a wish list (Horseback safaris? Yes please!) and it suggests locations based on your list. With Tracey’s help, while working with her partners from Asilia Africa, we put together an adventure in January that would take us from the bustling city of Nairobi to the remote African savannah in Tanzania.

Kenya Nairobi – House of Waine and Giraffe Manor After over 24 hours of traveling, we land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya. It’s nighttime and we can see the lights of a cosmopolitan city in the distance. We hit it off immediately with our driver, Rajab O., who drives us from the airport to our first hotel, House of Waine, and answers our curious questions about Nairobi. Many people have the impression that Africa consists of jungles, grasslands and mud huts – and certainly there are regions where this is true – but not in Nairobi. As we drive down the A104 highway, traffic is flowing well on the smooth paved roads. We drive past strip malls and commercial centers; it looks a lot like driving across any large North American city, except for the occasional sign in Swahili and the unfamiliar brands of cars.

Nairobi is a vibrant economic and cultural hub in Eastern Africa with as much of a beautiful history as dark one; it is simultaneously known as the Safari Capital of the World, for being a hub for countless travelers, and as Nairobbery, for its reputation for crime. Rajab is frank with us as he discusses his country’s colonial past; it’s a country that gained its independence in the 1960s but had its difficulty with political corruption.

(At the time of publication of this article, Kenya was undergoing a series of violent election protests.) However, if Rajab is any indication, it is also a country full of hope, and one that is looking towards the future.

At House of Waine, we are promptly greeted by name as our host hands us a glass of fruit juices. We make plans with Rajab for the following day and then are whisked off to a lovely 3 course dinner. We are staying in the luxurious Malaika Suite, a palatial room with a large balcony overlooking the grounds, a room that is easily twice the size of our San Francisco apartment. The next morning, after a typical full English breakfast, we explore the expertly manicured grounds before Rajab arrives.

Our first stop of the day is the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant nursery for their one hour general visitor’s hour ($7USD). The nursery is where orphaned elephants are taken in and cared for by dedicated keepers, before being reintegrated back into the wild. Baby elephants are orphaned for a variety of reasons; sadly, many are due to human activities, such as poaching. For $50 USD a year, you can foster a baby elephant (or any of the other orphaned animals, including giraffes and rhinoceros). Foster parents who visit have the special privilege of a semi-private visit to the nursery in the evenings, for a more intimate and up close encounter with these playful creatures.

After two nights at House of Waine, we head over to the world famous Giraffe Manor. A boutique hotel of just 10 rooms, the building is a stately colonial era mansion. But as elegant as the architecture is, it cannot compete with the main reason why people stay at the manor: the giraffes!

Giraffe Manor is home to a breeding herd of endangered Rothschild giraffes, and it’s not uncommon to share breakfast with these gentle giants as they poke their heads and long necks through windows and doorways.

Next door is the Giraffe Center, where the public can visit and learn about giraffes, as well as feed them treats. The goal of both Giraffe Manor and Giraffe Center is to reintroduce and repopulate the Rothschild giraffes into the wild, where it is estimated that there are fewer than a 1000 left.

There is an easy hiking trail across the street from the Giraffe Center, where our guide teaches us about the local flora and fauna.

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With the elephants and giraffes in Nairobi a prime introduction, we are ready to start our safari in earnest. It’s an early morning but our driver expertly takes us through the rush hour traffic, shaking his head in dismay as the matatus (the private busses) cut across lanes of traffic and drive on the shoulder of the road.

We are flying on Safarilink, out of the regional Wilson Airport. It’s a smaller airport, but clean and modern. Flying in Africa, as we are about to learn, is a very different experience than flying in North America. After checking in, we are handed our generic looking boarding pass, a slip of cardboard with SAFARILINK printed on it, looking more like a bookmark than a ticket. Our plane is a 13 passenger Cessna Caravan. As you board, the pilot asks for your name, where you are headed and verifies it against their list. There’s no flight attendant, no assigned seating, and it’s cozy, so you just crouch and make your way along the aisle to an empty spot. These planes are more like busses: they skip across the countryside, picking up and dropping off passengers as they fly from airfield to airfield. Some flights are only five minutes, cruising over a herd of antelope before landing in an adjacent field.

And most of the time it is just a field: a cleared runway of dirt or short grass, where occasionally the pilots circle low once or twice to chase off the grazing gazelles before zipping down to land.

Laikipia – Sosian Lodge Our first safari stop is Sosian Lodge, nestled in the Kenyan highlands district of Laikipia. Sosian Lodge is a private cattle ranch with access to over 75,000 acres of wilderness and animal viewing. One of the key themes of many of the safari operators we visited was that of sustainability: how do you offer tourists a rich and fulfilling experience not only without exploiting the local wildlife, environment and people but even go one step further, and try to make a positive impact? Simon Kenyon and Rosie Constant, our charming hosts, help find that balance by employing and supporting locals from the nearby village, and by being living proof that you can have a cattle ranch that co-exists with the African wilderness.

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Sosian Lodge is perfect for the new safari goer. It is a beautifully restored African ranch house, where guests stay in the red-roofed cottages. Each cottage has its own woodstove to heat water for hot showers, and with a generator running three times a day, you quickly learn to arrange your schedule around when you can charge your camera batteries and cellphones. But that was a blessing in disguise.

In an increasingly electronic and interconnected world, disconnecting from your screen is an incredibly liberating experience.

Sosian Lodge has something for everyone: safaris from an open jeep, horseback riding through the grassland, guided tours atop grunting camels, a solar-heated pool to relax, or a waterfall to jump from for the adrenaline seekers. No two days were alike. One evening, our guides Misheck and Patrick find a herd of 20 elephants and we drink wine, while watching them browse in front of the sunset. Another morning, Charlotte takes us horseback riding out to the river, where a breakfast spread is waiting, alongside a hippopotamus eyeing us from the water. Delicious home cooked meals and unlimited wine meant satisfied bellies every night. Sosian Lodge is highly recommended for those looking for a little bit of everything in their safari vacation.

Maasai Mara National Reserve – Rekero Mara Camp After three days at Sosian, we’re off to the next location: the famed Maasai Mara National Reserve. Our driver and guide for the duration of our stay, Pius, picks us up from the Ol Kiombo airstrip with a warm smile and cheerful disposition. His colourful Maasai shuka stands out among the greens and beige of the field. On our drive to the Rekero Mara Camp, Pius teaches about grass. At first blush, grass seems like an awfully dull topic, but it is the sustenance that drives life on the savannah. The Great Migration is driven by herds of millions of animals seeking fresh grass and water. To understand the grass is to understand life in the Mara.

At Rekero Mara Camp, we are greeted by Stacey Matthews and Peter Thompson, as well as the team of askari, the guards and night watchmen of the camp with their bright Maasai cloaks and pointed spears. We freshen up with a warm wet cloth infused with eucalyptus oil, a small, but surprisingly luxurious touch, and then tour the grounds. Rekero sits next to the Talek River. During the Migration, you can watch the animals in the thousands cross the river in front of the camp. There are no sounds of the modern world, except for the occasional static from Peter’s walkie-talkie. The rest of the time, it’s just the buzzing of the insects, the burbling of the river and the squabbling weaver birds. As we are led to our tent, we are advised with all seriousness, “Don’t leave your shoes outside. The hyenas will steal them and use them as chew toys.” In the morning, we see where elephants have passed through the camp, a trunk’s reach from our beds. Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.

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Our room is actually a large canvas tent, overlooking the river, but we are by no means roughing it. Each of the nine tents has flushing, gravity fed toilets and hot-water bucket showers. In a land where fresh water needs to be transported in, it is a precious commodity.

When we want to take a shower, we let one of the employees know. This sets off a chain of events where the water is heated, and carried over to our tents. The hot water is emptied into a bucket, which is hoisted up. A hose leads inside the tent, to the showerhead. There’s an art to the bucket shower: turn water on to get wet, turn water off to lather up your shampoo, turn water on to rinse.

If you’re really fast, you may even get a chance to luxuriate in the hot water for a few seconds before it runs out. But don’t worry about having conditioner left over in your hair. The shower attendant will be waiting outside of your tent if you need another bucket!

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Pius is an exceptional guide, and with him, we see dozens of animals and take thousands of photographs. But safaris aren’t just about the animals; they’re about the people too. As we sit together in the Land Rover, searching for the elusive leopard, we talk with Pius and ask him about his life. His father had multiple wives and he is the youngest of the first wife. As a child, he was sent away to be educated at a Christian Missionary school, where he received his current name. He laughs as he tells us about how, after the semester was over, his 10 year old self would have to search across the Kenyan grasslands for his family. The Maasai are semi-nomadic cattle herders, and it makes it tricky to go home for the holidays when your home is always moving.

Pius brings us to a nearby Maasai village to learn more about his people and culture. Despite the language barriers, we gesture our way through welcoming songs and the traditional jumping dance. Many of the young Maasai are leaving behind the pastoral life and moving to urban regions; our visit to the village is a glimpse into a slowly fading lifestyle.

Tanzania Serengeti National Park – Dunia Camp We say good-bye to Kenya and head south into Tanzania and the Serengeti. Dunia Camp is located in the Central Serengeti, a forested region close to the Seronera River. It’s been raining, but Edward, our new guide, tells us this is a good thing. The big cats hate walking through the long grasses when it is wet and so will take the roads, making them easier to see. He stops the jeep and points in the mud – sure enough, we see lion paw prints and follow the tracks to find him, sunning himself on a high rock.

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By now, we’ve settled into a safari routine.

You wake before dawn, to the calls of the doves in the trees. Waiting for you outside your tent will be hot water for tea or coffee, and biscuits. Depending on the plans for the game drive, you either have breakfast at the lodge, or take it with you for a picnic.

The morning game drives last three or four hours, before you stop for food. A few more hours of driving and then it is lunch time, back at the camp.

Since many of the camps run entirely on solar power, the only time you can charge your electronics is during the day, and usually only at the communal charging stations. One of the unexpected joys of safaris are the naps after lunch, followed by afternoon tea at 4 o’clock sharp, and then an evening game drive.

Dinners at many of the camps are with the hosts or other guests; the first night at Dunia, we eat and share stories with Future, one of the camp managers. The second night, we sit with a couple from Germany and a couple from New York. We compare notes of our favorite vacations, and leave the dinner table full of food and plans for our next trip.

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Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater – Olduvai Camp Edward will be our guide for the next camp as well, as we head further south towards the Ngorongoro Conservation area. While at Dunia Camp, we saw our share of big cats, but now the land is dominated by hundreds of thousands of zebras, wildebeests, gazelles and antelopes. It’s difficult to explain the sheer awe of being in the middle of half a million animals, of seeing their shapes dotting the landscape to the horizons and beyond. It reminds you that we are sharing this world with so many other creatures.

We stop at the Olduvai Gorge Museum to learn more about the Gorge, where archeologists Mary and Louis Leakey made their important discoveries about the earliest human species. Fossils, bones and preserved footprints tell the story of the beginning of humankind. The sight across the Gorge is breathtaking; what did our ancestors see when they stood here? What did they think and worry about? How different was the world when they walked across the landscape and left behind their fossiled footprints?

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Olduvai Camp is the only lodge in the region, and, unlike many other lodges and hotels which are owned and operated by large or foreign companies, this one is operated by the local Maasai and situated in the middle of Maasai territory. It’s an opportunity to directly support the local economy and learn more about the local culture. The camp is beautifully located amongst and around some large kopjes, which are bare rocks jutting out from the African veld (think Pride Rock, from the Lion King). The first night we are there, we take a walk with some of the Maasai, passing their herds of goats and donkeys, to a high vantage point to watch the sunset. Aside from the village by our camp, there are no other human establishments as far as the eye can see.

We take a drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, our vehicle zigzagging down the wall. The Crater is over half a kilometer deep and 20 kms across. It’s a unique, self-contained ecosystem, with a large salt lake filled with flocks of pink flamingos. We watch some lions stalk cape buffaloes, before elephants ruin their hunting party. A lioness comes by to seek shade in the shadow of a nearby jeep.

She is so close you can hear her breathing.

Her golden eyes blink sleepily. She is queen here and she is not afraid of you. It’s a good reminder that this is not a zoo and those are very wild animals that deserve our respect.

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People travel for many different reasons. When I planned this trip, my motives were simple: I wanted to see animals.

I did – I saw all of the “Big Five”. But beyond that, I also opened my eyes to another facet of our wonderful interconnected world. A facet different and rich with treasures and challenges of its own; there’s only so much David Attenborough can tell you before you need to go and experience it yourself.

Sustainable ecotourism may be a buzzword to some, but for many in Kenya and Tanzania, it’s the next logical step for conservation and economic growth. Poaching for ivory, hunting for bush meat and the illegal trade of exotic animals are very real issues in Africa, but with interest and support from tourists, we can demonstrate that wild animals are worth more alive and in the wild.

Travel Tips for Eastern Africa Refer to your country’s travel advisories for any current alerts and tips. You can also register with your country’s embassy in the country you plan to visit.

Consult with your doctor about any additional vaccinations you may require, such as the yellow fever vaccine, and medication, like anti-malarial drugs.

Links: www.africatravelresource.com www.asiliaafrica.com www.houseofwaine.com www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org giraffecenter.org www.thesafaricollection.com/properties/giraffe-manor www.sosian.com www.asiliaafrica.com/destinations/kenya/greater-maasai-mara/rekero-camp www.asiliaafrica.com/destinations/tanzania/serengeti/dunia-camp www.olduvai-camp.com

Before traveling, be sure to check entry requirements, such as visa and passport requirements, fees, vaccination records, and other paperwork.

Safaris are often dusty, muddy, wet and bumpy affairs! We limited changing out camera lenses to the safety of our rooms, in order to prevent dust and water from getting inside our camera bodies.

Zoom lenses are a must have! Many of the parks and reserves limit where your vehicles can drive and there’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to get your close-up shot of the leopard lounging in the tree.

Many lodges and hotels will have laundry services, but will not launder women’s undergarments due to cultural and religious reasons. Washings are done the old school way: handwashing and sun-drying.

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Flight 67

MEXICO photography: Sandra Grattarola (www.sandragrattarola.com) make-up: Katia Cobian hair: Patricia Espinoza fashion styling & editorial production: Patricia CedeĂąo (www.patriciacedeno.com) production assistant: Eric Brambila photography assistant: Romina Capra models: Kesenia Klimov (New Icon Models) & Everardo Ruiz (Photogenic Models) Airplanes provided by Sky Premier Group. Shot on location at Aerotron.

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EDITORIAL Caftan Dress: Daniela Villa for Conspiración Moda Shoes: Pablo Santana

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On Kesenia: Dress: Mika y Keller for Conspiración Moda Jewelry: Tierra Rossa Shoes: Pablo Santana On Everardo: Smoking Jacket: Michaud Shoes: Ferragamo 76 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

On Kesenia: Dress: Mika y Keller for Conspiración Moda Jewelry: Mika y Keller for Conspiración Moda On Everardo: Suit: Michaud Sunglasses: Persol

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On Kesenia: Dress: Daniela Villa for Conspiración Moda Jewelry: Givenchy Shoes: Pablo Santana On Everardo: Suit: Michaud Shoes: Ferragamo Sunglasses: Persol Watch: Rolex

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On Kesenia: Red Dress: Antonieta Atellier for Conspiración Moda On Everardo: All Clothes: Michaud 80 | VEUX | ISSUE 30 | THE GREAT ESCAPE

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SOL FUGIT ITALY photography: Giacinto Malospiriti make-up & hair: Giulia Stronati fashion design & wardrobe styling: Georgiana de Prisco jewelry design: Barbara Venditti (Eklettika) assistant: Sara JPS art director: Laura Valenti model: Laura Valenti All dresses and shoes by Georgiana de Prisco.

All jewels by Eklettika.

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Plaid Jumpsuit by DO + BE Boots by ZUXU Scarf by VANIKA Black Hat by VANIKA Leather Jacket by ZARA Earrings by H&M

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Field Trip CANADA photography: Ildiko Csorgo make-up: Alyssa Flores hair: Olivia Zhang wardrobe styling: Daniel Liu model: Vanessa Kiraly

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Top by H&M Sequin Pants by TOPSHOP White Hat by VANIKA Bracelets by H&M Cream Jacket by Yigelila

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Top by H&M Transparent Shorts by H&M Yellow Hat by VANIKA, Scarf/tie by VANIKA Boots by Forunb Shoes

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Jean Jumpsuit by Forever 21 Necklace by ZARA Sunglasses by Yuleble Sunglasses Shoes by Dr. Martens

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Ocean Heart

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Beach Clothes: Royal Peacock Atelier (Dubai, UAE) Body Suits: Body Planet (Brazil) Accessories: Forever 21, Bershka, Collette Hayman, Avon Shoes: Parisian Parc, River Island, Forever 21 Shot on location at the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Resort, Maldives.

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MALDIVES photography: Vadim Yudin make-up & hair: Izabela Cruz wardrobe styling: Vadim Yudin model: Ekaterina Yudina (Wilhelmina Dubai)

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T-shirt: Stylist’s Own Shorts: American Apparel Socks: American Apparel Roller Skates: Stylist’s Own

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Roller Babes

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Coat: Aritzia T-shirt: Forever21 Shorts: American Apparel Roller Skates: Stylist’s Own

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CANADA photography: Dave Hynes make-up & hair: Adina Violetta fashion styling: Claudia Flipfull model: Cheyenne McNeil

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