Walkthrough Magazine - Dummy Issue

WALK D u mmyI s s u e

THROUGH

T heF a s ta nd T heL ux ur i o us Thebe s twhe e l s mone yc anbuy

E x c l u s i v e Goai nMot i onFocusFe at ur e

Mo o r i ngBa c k Whatmake s Goacl i ck?

Fi ndout

Aphr odi t e ' s Cal l Br i n gb a c kt h el o v e , t h r o u g hf o o d

T I CK-T OCK

What t i mei si t ?

I NHOT WA T E R!

Si z z l i ngSpa Fas hi ons

E s c a pe

Fi v ev ac at i o n de s t i nat i o ns f o rt hef ami l y

F a s h i o nt oc l e a r t h eg r e ys k i e s

editors take We walk through the shadows of the land, to break the curfews within, and free the burden on our minds.

P Rohan Swamy, Editor.

icturesque as it is, the state of Goa is surrounded by an air of it’s own. One, which combines the old world charm of the medieval ages, with the rapidly changing global atmosphere of the tourist populace.

In a melting pot of cultures, when we took the decision to bring Goa back to the people of this land, we were faced with a unique quandary-of not just showcasing the city-state through a different angle of the prismatic lens to those who have resided here for centuries, but also to balance out the aspirations of those coming here to experience it.

When I went to Mumbai and Pune, from where there is a huge influx of weekend tourists to Goa, to ask what they felt about it, the answers I got were mixed and clichéd. ‘Oh, the beaches are amazing’, ‘the architecture is beautiful’, ‘the food there, is to die for’, being some of them. When I did return to the place, I realised there was a reason behind these, oh-so-obvious facts snaking out and becoming a fixed memory in the minds of those who visit Goa, the year round.

To test and infer from, the theory further, I decided to revisit the clichés. It was also one of the ideas the team, which included Priyanka, Annanya and myself, discussed prior to Walk Through beginning. So there were the lazy afternoons on the beaches and the local cuisines from restaurants-obnoxiously expensive and innately affordable. The boat cruises along Panjim and the flea markets at Vagatore.

Scooter sojourns into the North district, and visits to the architectural marvels of the South. And I came to the conclusion that there is a beauty of sorts, in these clichés. But there was more to it. We often fail to look beyond the obvious. And when we do, we see the same thing in a new shade. So was the case with Goa. There is a story here beyond the pretty coloured walls of the houses and the boat cruises in Panjim. On the crowded beaches, beyond their parties and flea markets, lie passion, warmth and creativity. And between the tides and the waves, the obvious and the oblivious, resides the soul of Goa - it’s people.

Welcome to Walk Through, and welcome back to Goa.

CEO & Creative Director Priyanka Y. Shah Director Tousif Momin Editor Rohan Swamy Features Writer Anannya Chatterjee Graphic Designer Rohit Valecha Photographer Sameer Belvalkar Advisory Board Members Yuwaraj Shah Rafik Momin Business Development Praveen Desai Administration Debina Chatterjee

Published by Pentagram Publications

CONTENTS THE OTHER SIDE Beaches, food, shopping and nightlife. What is it that makes Goa tick on the global clock around the year? Anannya Chatterjee finds out.

12

FOCUS FEATURE The architectural marvels and the beaches. The long roads and the never ending coastlines. Goa as it appears through the camera’s viewfinder

LUXURY: CARS Got the moolah to dish out? Five of the hottest wheels on the planet to make you drool and swoon over. Perhaps even buy one

16

24 GETAWAY Going against the norm, Maansi Seth discovers five unique destinations to go for a vacation with the family

LUXURY: WATCHES Time and Tide wait for none.

Perhaps a select few. Watches not only have the ability to turn time in your favour but also a lot of heads.

32

40

FASHION The latest in fashionable beachwear. The team at Walkthrough scouts for trends that will ensure you are a class apart from the regulars.

42

WELLNESS Rejuvinate your senses. The Quan Spa at the Marriott Hotels and Resorts, is a mix of the old and the new.

WT RECOMMENDS Against all Odds: Infidel-My Life is a tale of oppression, suppression and of finally finding a voice to battle it.

50 FOOD: REVIEW Brittos- one of the oldest, and now an icon of sorts, restaurant. Anannaya Chatterjee visits this classic to sample a slice of Goa.

FOOD: PATH Cooking up a storm for the better half. Here are some tried and tested and radically innovative options created to spark the romance back into your lives.

editors take

48

EDITOR’S TAKE Welcoming Goans back to Goa, through it’s age old tales, and in the process rediscovering it once again.

52

54

06

THE OTHER SIDE

Off the Pier

Through the clandestine cuisines, the travellers, the architecture and the beaches, there exists a world beyond the obvious clichĂŠs that have come to define Goa. Annanya Chatterjee explores the unknown side of the city-state and in the process re-discovers, what it feels like to fall in love with the self once again

THE OTHER SIDE

I

s it easy to venture out on your own to an unknown land, known only by its one-sided depictions on the silver screen?

Perhaps it is. Perhaps it is not. But there is no doubt whatsoever that there is a different thrill associated with venturing out into uncharted waters. And that perhaps, was precisely the thought, which ran through and perhaps features prominently in the minds of all those who travel through the citystate of Goa. Amidst the obvious clichés that people have been exposed to, about the place, with its sun-kissed beaches, medieval architecture, the confluence of cultures, not to forget the laid-back attitude, there is a strange sense of calmness. It could be the sea or the beaches or any of the reasons above. The fact of the matter, however, remains that over the years it has continued to inspire,

fascinate and even offer people a chance to revisit that carefree soul deep within the recesses of the heart to find room to dance again.

COASTAL CAPERS

An interesting aspect about the two districts of North and South Goa, and clichéd too, are the beaches here. There are the popular ones, which are the revenue generators.

And then there are the ones that are unheard of, non-existent on most maps, save the eyes of an unerring localite, who would point you in the direction of one of such remote beaches in the far corners of the state. Take the case of 26-year-old Anthony Bansode from Bicholim. “In the quest to find that perfect spot to rediscover life, I was led to a small cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea through the wiry lanes of the town.

There nestled amidst the rocks, a

clear stretch around 500 meters in length, is a pristine beach complete with nearly white sand and azure crystal waters. That is where we go to spend a quiet evening, either with friends or by ourselves,” he says, adding, “And most of us here don’t need anything more than that.”

SOL, VAT, JIVIT: (SOUL, WAY, LIFE)

At the bus stand in Panjim towards the north end, as you take the extended road and walk towards the pier overlooking the river, there is a little church beyond the obvious cacophony of the hawkers present there. The lines Sol, Vat, Jivit are inscribed on one of its walls and it is true for the state, isn’t it? That is the way the people here have lived and have been bought up – to coexist in harmony. When one walks

STILL WATERS RUN DEEP

CALL OF THE FAITHFUL: The church of St Francis of Assisi

through the roads of Panjim and then later on in South Goa, this was a factor that stood out. In fact, it is something that prompts people on this re-discovery tour of themselves through the state.

There are a multitude of religions.

Even dishes like the Khatkhate have a different style of being made amongst the Hindus and the Catholics here. And at the heart of this peaceful co-existence is a beat which echoes the same sentiment as that displayed at the church near the bus stand. The confluence of the Konkanis, the Portuguese, the Muslims and the others along with the burgeoning, floating tourist population makes for an interesting

diatribe. Despite the deeply religious sentiments echoed by the temples and churches, there beats a soul here. And through the roads and the by-roads, the beaches and the churches, the locals and the foreigners, it continues to reside in them all.

BEYOND THE BEACHES (OLD NEW TALES)

It really wouldn’t be very wrong to say that there exists a Goa beyond the one the world knows.

And the essence of the state comes from this unknown Goa that seamlessly merges into the one that people have come to know

about. Be it the radiance of Brittos or the quiet brilliance of Alex. The museums in the South are a perfect accompaniment to the quiet lives and the artistic lot in the North. Yes, in many ways it has transformed the outlook of the state over the recent past. The night clubs and the casinos now are bringing about a revolution of sorts in many ways.

It is the architectural confluences of three different societies that gives it now its cultural outlook.

The carnival and the shopping, the culture and the performing arts, and the vindaloo and feni; they all add to the clichés of Goa taking it beyond the realms of the clichés into that of the Gods.

FOCUS FEATURE

&

sights

sounds

It’s called the land of beaches and parties. Where time slows down and moves at a pace that defines it’s relaxed outlook. Through the shacks and the suites, the cutters and the cruises, there is a charm associated with Goa that transcends the boundaries of human imagination.

Team Walkthrough explores these very sights and sounds, to experience and understand the fascination of the people

FOCUS FEATURE

WE THREE KINGS: Not the three wise men from the East, who travelled with gifts following the yonder star, but cutters like these are a staple for the fisher folks, that reside along the beaches. The boats are also symbolic of the unknown hardworking side of the Goan populace, often mistaken as a laid back race of people.

PER ASPERA, AD ASTRA: T h r o u g h Difficulties to the Stars. The Latin saying might fit in perfectly with the state of Goa. Having found independence almost two decades after the nation did, Goa has fast become the destination for a relaxed vacation combined with a night life to offer in tow. Beneath the calm tranquil waters of the Calangute Beach lie the story of their resilience.

Photographs for representation purpose only

WHAT HAPPENS IN GOA STAYS IN GOA: Not as grand and glamourous as the Sin City from the deserts of Nevada, but Goa holds its own fort for those coming here from across the globe. Sustaining a majority of the economy on tourism and also on the subsidised tariffs on alcohol, the city-state has found popularity across cultures for its free spirited attitude.

Taking a spin off from the American comedy of a similar name, we found that the carefree nature of the state stems from the people, and the factors that drive the economy here.

FOCUS FEATURE

A TALE OF TWO DISTRICTS: All in a day’s work: The Lone cycle on the beach with the sun setting in the background reflects the life story of Mario- an ice-cream vendor. Earning his smiles as the sun shines, the solitary cyclist, showcases the backstage artistes of the grand carnival, that is, the state of Goa.

FOCUS FEATURE

A TALE OF TWO DISTRICTS: In sharp contrast is Paula, a fisherman, who works at fixing his fishing nets at a beach near Bicholim.

Working away quietly in the noonday sun away from the gaze of the crowd. The fish trade in the state is one of the main arms that help the tourism industry to survive. In his own way, behind the scenes, Paula’s story is that, which is in sync with the working class ideology of the people here.

FAITH INC.: The Church of the Immaculate Conception: It has been featured in movies and television serials for over three decades. But that is not what makes it special to the heart of the Goan culture, after the Church of St Francis of Assisi. A placard at the North end of the Church has an inscription in Latin, which translated in English reads, ‘Those who have lost their faith will find it.’

Sums up another new facet of the state - through it’s clichés, discovering something new.

“All colours become one here. All people become one here. The world becomes one here. This is Goa” - Remo Fernandes, Musician.

The bazaars of Goa, also termed as the flea markets of Goa are a melting pot for colours.

And it is true in so many ways, isn’t it? The spice markets, the beach stores and the souvenir stalls all add to the flavour of the place. It may, on the surface, look like a shoppers paradise, but deeper down the fusing colours also tell stories of how everything becomes one here.

LUXURY.CARS

Opulence

Redefined From the uber-classy to the street smart. The mean machine to the shadow warrior. Cars since their inception two centuries ago, have fascinated people across the globe. Some have gone on to become iconic designs, whilst others have become industry benchmarks for power, design, mobility and luxury. Team Walkthrough takes a look at some of these mean machines, their place in history and the reason why, if you do have the money to splurge, you should get them

Rolls-Royce Phantom

LUXURY.CARS

ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM

A reason behind why, every car manufactured by the Rolls-Royce Motor Company has received a heritage status is because of the love that goes on behind making it. The hand crafted wood panelling for the dashboards and the interiors. Exotic woods, leathers and metals combined with an engine complimenting the same the Rolls-Royce Phantom has been an iconic design, invented and reinvented over the years.

TECH SPECS Fuel Type: Gas Engine Type: 6.7L V12 Power: 453 hp @ 5350 rpm Torque: 531 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

CLAIM TO FAME

In recent times, it would be Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight Trilogy which has seen Bruce Wayne travel around in style in this statement. Jon Faverau, as Happy Hogan, Tony Stark’s (Ironman trilogy), personal guard drives the RR Phantom, to well exude Stark’s style and wealth.

COOL QUOTIENT

Classy and powerful. The car has adorned the garages of the rich and powerful from across the globe. Right from Queen Elizabeth’s bomb proof custom made RR-Phantom, to Sheikh Khalifa’s largest collection in the world, the car has been a symbol of the rich, the wealthy and the famous.

TECH SPECS Fuel Type: Gas Engine Type: 4.2L V8 Power: 430 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 316 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

AUDI R8 SPYDER

If anyone has ever wondered, how can a little beast pack such a powerful punch, then the R8 Spyder has been the answer provided

by Audi. Sleek, fluid, classy, smart, mean, they are all adjectives that fit for the R8.

Something which allows it to blend in easily into any style statement, while holding it’s own in the crowd. The magic in the car lies in its design and the engineering. Something that has made the Germans a force to reckon with, the world over.

CLAIM TO FAME

The Ironman trilogy gave the R8, its much needed global exposure as the face of cool. Robert Downey Jr., his wry sense of humour, and his actually-know-it-all attitute of course added to the charm. But then again it was an Audi R8 Spyder.

Nothing less would do.

COOL QUOTIENT

The power under its pocket sized frame. Capable of accelerating from 0-100 in under four seconds, the car is one of the reasons, why the Germans have built roads like the Autobahn’s across the country. Combined with a matt finished exterior the R8 Spyder features looks and specifications worth dying for. Of course it justifies it all right to the T.

LUXURY.CARS

BMW - Z4

In terms of personna, Pierce Brosnan, as Agent 007 James Bond, describes it as the ‘perfect woman’.

And perhaps that is what the fellow Germans from Bavaria had in mind when they designed her. Graceful curves, along with a lethal power-packed engine beating at it’s heart the Z4 has captivated the hearts of millions around the globe. Of course there is a price tag to be paid for the car, but hey, beauty comes at a price, doesn’t it?

TECH SPECS Fuel Type: Gas Engine Type: 3.0L I6 Power: 255 hp @ 6600 rpm Torque: 220 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

CLAIM TO FAME

Was the ‘Bond Car’ in Pierce Brosnan’s, Die Another Day and The World is not Enough. Himself an avid fan of the car, Brosnan has seven Z4’s of his own.

Something that has endeared him to Beamer lovers all over the planet.

COOL QUOTIENT

The Germans are known for two things- precision and design. The Z4 has both, and in abundance.

The reason why the Z4 has been a symbol of everything that the BMW car company has stood for, is, because it managed to strike a sensibility with the people through its design and power both. We have emphasised on these two aspects because they are what makes the Z4, the expensive beauty that she is.

Ford Mustang GTX 2014

The Ford Mustang GTX is the reason, why muscle cars will always be a hit with men.

Pure unadulterated power, barebones interiors and also an aerodynamic design.

The Mustang, will always be a memory of what the American culture was in the 60s, 70s and 80s. It is also an example of an engineering triumph, which has stood the test of time. The 2014 edition is a more modern take on the original 1969 edition but, it still stays faithful to its original design.

TECH SPECS Engine Type: Gas V6 Displacement: 3.7L/227 Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection Horsepower @ RPM 305 @ 6500 Torque @ RPM 280 @ 4250

COOL QUOTIENT

The car has come to become a symbol of the United States of America. It has become the symbol of ruggedness, the far west and with a design to match it, has found popularity amongst both the classes and the masses. The Mustang also sports an engine that is a favourite amongst car modifiers for the relative ease of adaptability.

CLAIM TO FAME

Steve McQueen, drove the car in Bullet, Nicholas Cage in Gone in Sixty Seconds and Vin Diesel in the Fast and the Furious franchise.

Also the car found popularity in the TV series Knightrider.

LUXURY.CARS

LAMBORGHINI - AVENTADOR J

COOL QUOTIENT

CLAIM TO FAME

TECH SPECS

Two words describe the Aventador J from the Lamborghini stables- Shadow Warrior. There is a reason behind it. The Aventador J, is a one of limited edition spin-off from the hugely successful Aventador line from Lamborghini. And rigthly so.

Low ground clearance, a seven speed transmission (optional) and looks that could kill. Razor sharp angles, minimal wind resistance and the mystery of a ninja warrior the car is everything that any boy or man would want for his garage. Of course with a limited production run of only 100 the J is an elitist piece of machinery.

And did we mention- Yes it is very expensive.

We have been writing about superheroes and their fascination with fast cars. But it is about making a style statement. Christian Bale drove an Aventador J in the Dark Knight trilogy as Batman’s alter ego, Bruce Wayne. Jason Statham drove one in the second installation of the Transporter series. He did crash the car into a billboard though.

Just the looks. There is something about the Aventador J, which makes people go WOW. Jawdropping looks and speed is a combination that is irresistible for most. The J also boasts of a turbo charged engine, making it one of the fastest street legal cars that one can own.

Engine Type: Gas V12 Displacement: 6.5L/397 Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM 700 @ 8250 SAE Net Torque @ RPM: 507 @ 5500

Lamborghini - Aventador J

TRAVEL.GETAWAYS

BACK to

BASICS With the rains reaching the country there are tonnes of options for families to explore as both weekend and vacation getaways.

Taking a trip across the country, is our writer Maansi Sheth, where she explores and discovers places that would make you fall in love with yourself and nature once again

TRAVEL.GETAWAYS

Evergreen Ooty

I

t has been a picturesque locale, often depicted on the silver screen. And rightly so. Nestled amidst the Nilgiri hills, the hill station is a perfect destinations of sorts for family getaways and individual escapades. Covered with forests amidst the Blue Mountains,

Ooty is home to sparkling lakes with tea plantations in row.

The aromas of the teas wafting through the airs is, in many ways, a soul cleanser. Some of the more exciting places here include the Ooty Botanical Gardens, the Ooty Lake, the Rose Garden and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.

The rains have an added charm, with the local flavours of the place blossoming in full flow. One of the best times to visit it, is just after the first rains have arrived. (The main reason being the topography of the place). Also a welcome relief from the Indian summers, this is a place which is a must visit on our list.

MUST DO Sight seeing through the tea plantations MUST VISIT Ooty Botanical Gardens, Ooty Lake, Rose Garden and Nilgiri Mountain Railway MUST TRY Nilgiri (Eucalyptus) Tea

TRAVEL.GETAWAYS

MANALI

N

ot an only backto-nature person?

Then Manali is the destination for you. For someone with an adventurous streak Manali, cradled in between the hills offers a wide range of sports ranging from Spelunking to river rafting. And from skiing to paragliding. Manali offers it all.

What it does offer in addition is the fact that all of this can be done along with the family. Fun, excitement, thrill and adrenaline

SNOW CLAD MOUNTAINS

packed sports combined in one package can be a treat. The fact that it is located in place blessed with natural beauty adds to the charm. Given the wide variety of things to do here, there are plenty of options as far as visits here are concerned. A word though, do try the local cuisine here, and also visit the waterfalls (quite a few of them here). They make for great memories along with a lot of rediscovery packages thrown in for good measure.

MUST DO River rafting at River Beas (May – June), skiing / paragliding at Solang Valley (Jan – Feb) and trekking – Rohtang Pass MUST VISIT Hidamba Temple, Rahala Waterfalls, Jogini waterfalls MUST TRY Local dish – Seethu – available on Mall Road

RIVER RAFTING

Adlabs IMAGICA

Y

es there was a reason, why this particular place located close to Pune made it to the list. It is for the sheer rush of happiness that it provides and the endless adventure possibilities that revolve around water. A oneof-its-kind place, the the park is complete with experiences from across the globe put in. The rides and the adventures are based on Bollywood, childhood stories and tales from Robin Hood, Puss in the Boots, Three Little Pigs, amongst others. With a little remix, it adds a flavor of its own to bring stories to life.

The place is a must visit. Rains or otherwise. The theme parks are divided into zones based on countries and continentsunique and fun experiences in themselves.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS 1. Mr. India (ride) – the ride takes you on an adventure with Mr. India in his car where you help them fight their enemies. Though you are not in the movie you feel every bump, hit and push.

2. India’s first 360 degree dome cinema.

3. Rajasauras River Ride – The only water ride in the park which takes you through the Dinosaur age, where you can see the dinosaurs munching on prey and the scary drop in the water.

Rides for children include bumping boats, interactive water fountains, mini rollercoasters and a carousel with carriages, horse and airplaneshaped seats to name a few.

The park is yet to completely go open with a host of new rides coming soon, one of them being India’s biggest roller coaster. It also has multi-cuisine restaurants, which include an American-styled diner, an Indian buffet and an African Safari themed barbecue. There are two bars inside the park too for adults.

MUST DO Ride the Mr India ride, visit the 360 degree dome cinema MUST VISIT American Diner restaurant MUST TRY Pancakes with honey

TRAVEL.GETAWAYS

Wild Life Safaris at BANDHAVGARH and KANHA

W

ildlife another for a getaway.

Bandhargarh and National Parks in Pradesh are viable

is option family The Kanha Madhya options.

Bandhavgarh National Park: The Park is located around 200 kilometers to the north east of Jabalpur and is said to have the highest concentration of tigers in India. The place is relatively difficult to reach but is the best place to capture wildlife in their natural habitat. Apart from Tigers the park also has sloth bears, deers, leopards, jackals, and various birds. The safaris

operate twice in a day – mornings and evenings, it is preferable to take the early morning safari for a pleasant atmosphere. Tiger shows are also conducted, where you will be taken on a elephant ride to see a tiger that has been tracked.

Kanha National Park: The park is located around 160 kms to the south east of Jabalpur and is one of the largest parks in India. The park has a lot to explore in terms of nature and wide variety of wildlife it conserves with barasingha (swamp deer) found in abundance. Birds like Red Wattled Lapping, Yellow Wattled Lapping, Indian Roller,

TIGER SAFARI AT KANHA AND BANDHAVGARH

Jungle Babler, species of Kingfisher, Grey Hornbills, Eagles, Vultures, Owls, Parrots, Peacocks, Thrust, Egrets amongst others. Mammals like bison’s, deers, sambhars, barasinghas, tigers, tortoises, wildcat, monkeys are found here.

MUST DO study the varied species of birds and animals MUST VISIT The tiger trail MUST TRY Local cuisine at the parks

LUXURY.WATCHES

TIME

TRAVEL Watch collecting may be one of the most expensive hobbies in the world, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Many antique timepieces are a testament to the brilliance of early and modern innovators.

Anannaya Chatterjee explores this world of expensive time pieces and comes back with a testimony, sure to stand the test of time.

Vacherin Constantin’s Tour de l’Ile Origins: Swiss watchmaker Vacheron Constantin marked its 250th anniversary in 2005 with the world’s most complicated wrist watch—the Tour de l’Ile. The watch is so complicated that it required over 10,000 hours of research to create. Its name refers to one of the historical sites of the venerable company, located next to the current Maison Vacheron Constantin on the Quai de l’Ile. Principle: Only produced in a limited edition of seven pieces, this expensive watch is also the most complicated double-face watch. Tour de l’Ile is made with a totally original combination of horological complications (that is, features beyond the simple telling of the time of day) and astronomical indications composing a list of sixteen different points including a minute repeater, sunset time, perpetual calendar, second time zone, a tourbillion device, the equation of time and a representation of the night sky.

Cost: At Rs. 2.3 Crores , this is one of the world’s most expensive watch produced in recent years.

Vacherin Constantin’s Tour de l’Ile

H1 TITANIUM HYT Origins: An encounter between Fine Watchmaking and fluid mechanics. The idea that led to the H1 was simple and consisted of two flexible reservoirs fixed to each end of a capillary. In one was an aqueous liquid filled with fluorescein, and in the other, a transparent viscous liquid.

Principle: As the hours go by, the fluorescent liquid advances.

The meniscus, in the shape of a half moon, marks the breaking point with the other fluid in the tube, indicating the time. At 18:00, the fluorescent liquid comes back to its original position, going backwards. The secret that gets the reservoirs going ? Two bellows made of a highly resistant, flexible electro-deposited alloy, each driven by a piston. And this is where watchmaking comes in to activate the system.

Cost: Limited to 1000 units a year, the base model costs Rs. 30 Lacs.

Ulysse Nardin Swiss Watch---Maxi Marine Diver.

Origins: Whether worn while diving the oceans of the world or ashore, the Diver Collection continues to raise the bar for the marine timepieces. Ulysse Nardin reveals its latest model fit with a new dial design and a bracelet matching to the colors of the case. The power reserve is indicated at 12 o’clock while the date and an oversized small second are displayed on sub-dials at 6 o’clock. Additionally, 1846 date is imprinted in red on the dial and pays homage to the year brand was founded.

Principle: Its 42.7 mm case in 18 ct rose gold is individually engraved on a side plate in gold and houses an automatic movement with a power reserve of 42 hours. The 18 ct rose gold bracelet incorporates black ceramic elements and matches perfectly to the dial and the case. While giving the watch a clean finish design, it strongly emphasizes this beautiful alliance.

Cost: Rs. 2 Crores. Then again the Ulysse Nardin, is not for the commonwealth.

FASHION

Beach

OUT

It is not an unknown fact that Goa is home to some of the best beaches in the nation. However, sporting an outfit on these beaches, which makes you stand out of the crowd is something that requires a serious thought. Right from colour coordinating the outfits, to the right accessories nothing short of the best is a norm for the land. Team Walkthrough travels through Goa, scouting for the very best in monsoon fashion.

Something that will not only redefine class but ensure that comfort and quality never go out of style.

White lycra shirt and a green skirt for the relaxed holiday look by the pier.

Sunset yellow heels to complete the setting.

FASHION

A peach shirt, with a white floral mini-skirt. A knitted green, brown and peach sweater completes the classy look for a quiet Sunday brunch by the rocky beaches.

Feeling adventurous - Team up a white and turquoise sequined swimsuit with a white round collar jacket. Beat the heat with Wayfarers from Ray Ban.

FASHION

A floral printed top in earth pastels teamed with a skirt in beige.

Bangles in beige and white complete the look. A perfect blend for a clear day.

Ready to drive into the winds: A light, lime-green scarf.

Wayfarer sunglasses. Green top and a white skirt. Teamed up with a bright yellow belt to revisit the explorer in you.

FASHION

Time to go back to the 70s. A printed blue and white floral dress.

Basic, retro, simple and chic.

Spa-tacular!

WELLNESS

The newly unveiled mother ship of all things luxurious, Goa brings you the renewed five star Resort and their lavish spa, Quan spa.

A

tired body knows the healing power of water when it showers its bliss on the skin. Water has tremendous energy, so powerful that it has rocked the cradle of humanity; entire civilisations have flourished on river banks.

Down the ages, mankind has harnessed this energy for his well-being and benefit. This ageold wisdom now comes back in an all new form at the Quan Spa at Goa Marriott Resort and Spa.

THE PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of Marriott spa is to create life enhancing therapies to retrieve the balance of the mind and the body, improve vitality to enable a human being to lead a longer, healthier life.

The spa offers luxurious five star accommodation, featuring a casino, outdoor pool and spa.

Chinese for ‘the source of pure water’, incorporates the best of Oriental wisdom and India’s 5000 year old knowledge of ‘Ayurveda’, the science of life; Ayurveda enjoys immense faith in the East as well as the West and is regarded as one of the safest and most beneficial branches of medicine.

MAGIC IN STORE

Ancient Chinese and Indian knowledge come together in a contemporary Western form to offer a rejuvenating package of massages, water and body treatments. It includes a Vichy shower, baths and a product range from Thalgo, which are based on ingredients from the ocean. The Ayurvedic and Western body and face treatments are complemented by a range of lifestyle therapies that include Yoga, Pranayama, Ayurvedic Nutrition Analysis and Meditation.

WT RECOMMENDS

STAND UP, SPEAK UP. ‘Infidel - My Life’ is a vivid chronicle of a triumphant escape from cultural confinement, an indomitable human spirit and of a woman who dared to defy.

‘Infidel – My Life’ is a profoundly affecting memoir written by the internationally renowned author, Ayaan Hirsi Ali. It is a gripping, heart-wrenching, powerful and touching autobiography of a woman who finds the courage to break free from social bonds.

and the clan-based traditional society that defined her world.

ROAD TO REBELLION

In 1992, when she was 22, Ayaan chose to escape from an unwanted marriage arranged by her father, and sought asylum in the Netherlands. Only in the BORN OF A LESSER GOD final chapters does she defect Ayaan Hirsi Ali was raised as a from her religion, and become devout Muslim. Born in Somalia, outspoken on the subject of her family fled to Kenya, and later female oppression by Muslims. to Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia, after her father became a political OPPRESSION prisoner. As a child, she was In 2004, soon after she and dutiful, but bright and curious, Theo Van Gogh, made the film questioning the inequalities ‘Submission’, about the fate between men and women. She of women in Islam, a Muslim and her sister were subjected assassin killed Van Gogh on a to brutal beatings and female public street, and with a knife ‘circumcision’ - her experience blade, pinned a note to his chest of female genital mutilation, a threatening Hirsi Ali. horrific procedure, is chillingly described.

VOICES

QUESTIONS

As a teenager, she passed through a deeply religious phase, and describes the attractions of fundamentalism. But nagging questions disturbed her faith, especially as she encountered inflexible doctrines on the role of women, and their need to submit to men. She describes her internal conflict as she tried to come to terms with her religion

oppression and humiliation. It shines a light on the treatment and stereotypes of women worldwide.

Infidel-My Life, is not a story of loss. It is one of being reborn, of finding a stance in life, sticking to it against all odds and coming out triumphant in the end. There might be a mountain to climb, but the book represents the first step taken.

Still, she describes herself as lucky: “How many girls born in Digfeer Hospital in Mogadishu in November 1969 are even alive today?” she asks rhetorically.

“And how many have a real voice?”

RISE

The book details her experiences, religious biases, and speaks out to women all over the world, who have to submit to gender-based

WT Rating: 3.5/5 Author: Ayaan Hirsi Ali Published by: The Free Press Price: Rs 645

FOOD.REVIEW

Brit to Perfection

Half a century later, Baga’s very own Britto’s, continues to dish out a slice of Goan heritage. Anannya Chatterjee goes exploring the curiously delicious case of Brittos

I

t is one of the most mentioned places, adorning the vocabulary of any tourist visiting Goa. And down the Baga beach in Calangute, amongst one of the more iconic eating places in Goa, lies Brittos.

mouth-watering and relishing food here and the sea-food platter is just mesmerising.

To call a place like this as just

another restaurant would be like throwing cold water on the icon’s 50-year history. Though much more crowded, now, the

LOOK:

The ambiance is relaxed and welcoming enough, to get you accquainted to the local flavours here. Acquaint yourself with the local flavours by tucking in to the pork vindaloo or prawn curry, and come back later for chicken xacuti, fish caldeen, or the superb crab curry. Action is always aplenty here. Whether live music, super-smooth celebs hanging out on the beach, or simply a festive crowd ordering round after round of chilled beer. You’ll find this Goan favourite towards the northern end of Baga beach.

Brittos specialises in Goan, Chinese, Tandoor & Continental cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. One can get some

SEA FOOD AT BRITTOS

FOOD.REVIEW

INTERIORS AT BRITTOS

BRITTOS EXTERIOR

shack-turned-restaurant has retained its soul and its spirit and has become a must-visit for Goa loyals.

FEEL:

The seating is still same. On the beach on a raised bamboo platform. The menu now has an addition of North India dishes and Continental dishes but the core essentially is still Goan. The quality of food, thankfully, is the same as before. And the service is more than able to handle the throngs of eager tourists. To give the reader the broad idea of the prices, dishes here normally cost anywhere between 100 to 200, but if one wishes to go

VINDALOO CURRY

crazy, a giant lobster with a Rs Britto’s is a must visit when in 2200 price tag is a good bet too. Goa. Only one word of advice, do stay away from the nonGoan dishes to have a truly TASTE: A perfectly grilled lobster, and good time. some chilly fried chourice, which really hits the spot are amongst other options. For the VERDICT: mains we have prawn vindaloo, Ratings out of 5 sorpotel, prawn balchao, Food: 3.5 accompanied by sannas and Ambiance: 4.5 pao. All of which are top notch, Service: 4.5 though one can experience Overall: 4.0 better sorpotel in Goa. The Meal for Two: Rs 600 desserts, on the other hand, are Alcohol: Very Yes ordinary. The crème caramel is Credit Card: Yes lacking in the caramel taste and Timing: 9am-11:30pm the tiramisu is good, but lacks Address: Britto’s, Baga Beach, the punch of an espresso.

Santo Vaddo, Calangute, North Goa

FOOD.PATH

TWO to

TANGO

Far away from the maddening crowds when a quiet dinner for the special one beckons nothing but the best will do. Executive chef Hemant Mehta helps you whip up that perfect meal.

“

”

These recipes are simple enough and can be executed in any home kitchen with careful attention to detail.

The main thing that makes these recipes is the special ‘love’ foods that go into them and the love that is kindled by them!

Executive Chef, Hemant Mehta

D

espite the change in recent times, quiet romantic meals have a charm associated with them. They signal an intimate affair fashioned around candlelight, music, flowers and sensuous food. Want to heat things up long before dinner reaches the table? Well, invite your sweetheart into the kitchen

to help you with the cooking.

Pour a glass of Champagne—a splendid aperitif—and share the pleasure of creating a memorable evening together.

FOOD LOVE

The search for the perfect aphrodisiac has been on for the longest time ever. Scientific research has proven that some aromas have a greater effect on the body than the actual ingestion of foods. However, over time, certain foods have known to possess the qualities to be aptly called love foods.

Chocolate, considered to be

pretty high on the list of love foods, is known to have been banned from monasteries centuries ago. Romans gave oysters a lot of importance and legend goes that Casanova would eat 50 raw oysters for breakfast!

Other healthier options include artichokes, asparagus and avocados, all of which arouse feelings of passion due to the vitamins, minerals and enzymes they contain.

Strawberries, known to be the symbol of Venus and figs, reputed to be Cleopatra’s favorite food are fruits, which have acquired the aphrodisiac label.

FOOD.PATH

JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE SOUP Full of flavour, this Jerusalem artichoke soup hits all the right notes as it deliciously warms up things for you on romantic evening out!

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 50 minutes Serves: 2 25 g butter 1 chopped onion 1 medium leek (white part) 1 thinly sliced celery stalk, 2 garlic cloves, Sea salt and white pepper Bouquet garni (1/4 tsp each of dried parsley, thyme, bayleaf and rosemary tied in a muslin cloth) 200 g Jerusalem artichokes 1 small potato 300 ml hot vegetable stock (or boiling water) 50 ml double cream (optional) Small handful of chives

Method:

1 2

Melt the butter in a large heavy-based pan over medium heat.

Add the onion, leek, celery and garlic to the pan and season well with salt and pepper.

3

Fry over medium-to-high heat, stirring frequently for about five minutes until the vegetables are lightly golden at the edges.

4 5

Toss in the bouquet garni.

Add the slices artichokes to the pan, along with the potatoes.

6

Cook for another 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly colored.

7 8

Pour in enough hot stock or boiling water to cover and bring to the boil.

Lower the heat to a simmer and leave to cook for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

9

Discard the bouquet garni and purĂŠe the soup in batches until smooth and thick. Return to the pan and stir in the double cream, if using. Adjust seasoning.

10

Reheat the soup, then ladle into warm bowls. Snip over the chives to serve.

PAN-FRIED SCALLOP WITH SAFFRON BRAISED FENNEL Using fresh fennel, white wine and cream are great with scallops in this quick and easy Valentine’s fare.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 35 minutes Serves: 2

For braised Fennel

2 fennel bulbs ½ onion, chopped 15 g butter 10ml olive oil 50 ml white wine 50 ml vegetable stock ½ g saffron salt and pepper, to taste

For the scallop

6 scallops 6 tsp extra virgin olive oil An assortment of finely chopped herbs, such as sage, garlic, thyme, tarragon, or any other herbs Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1 2

Cut off the tops and bottoms of the fennel bulbs.

Remove the two outer leaves (which you will notice are quite tough) and rinse the bulb well under running water.

9 10

Season with additional salt and pepper if you wish.

Mix together herbs, salt, pepper, and three teaspoons of olive oil to create a marinade, which should coat the scallops evenly.

3 4 5 6 7

11

8

15

Cut it in half inch wide slices.

Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet and add the fennel and onion.

Cook the vegetables for about five minutes on medium heat.

Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Add the white wine, the stock and the saffron; cover the skillet, leaving it just slightly open.

Cook on low heat for about 20 minutes or until the fennel is soft and mellow.

oil.

Take a non-stick pan and add the remaining three teaspoons of olive

12

Put the pan over medium-high heat Add the scallops when the oil is heated.

13

Check every minute or so to see if they’ve started to brown. Flip when the underside is a soft golden colour.

14 color.

Remove from heat when the second side is the same golden

Serve on a flat plate with the fennel on the center and the scallop on top.

FOOD.PATH

STEAMED FILLET OF JOHN DORY WITH COMFIT TOMATO AND TARRAGON SAUCE Impress your Valentine with this elegant and sophisticated fish dish, served with an aromatic herb sauce.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 3 ½ hours Serves: 2

For the steam fish

400g John Dory – 2 filets 20g parsley 4 garlic cloves Juice of one lemon ½ l simmering water Salt & Pepper to taste

For the confit tomato

½ kg fresh ripe tomato 50g fresh thyme 3 garlic cloves Salt, pepper & sugar, to taste Olive oil

For the Tarragon sauce

2 bunches fresh tarragon leaves 1 bunch flat-leaf parsley leaves 60g toasted hazelnuts, ½ l extra-virgin olive oil 1 tbsp lemon juice 1 small clove garlic Salt & Pepper to taste

Method: For the Tomato Confit

1

Preheat the oven to 90º C. Line a baking sheet with foil and pour about two tablespoons olive oil evenly over the pan.

2 3

Sprinkle the oil with salt and pepper.

Cut each tomato lengthwise in half and carefully, with your fingers or a tiny spoon, remove the seeds.

4

Lay the tomato halves cut side down in the pan, so that each tomato has a floss of oil on its cut side.

5 6

Using a pastry brush, give the tops of the tomatoes a light coat of olive oil.

Season the tops of the tomatoes with salt and pepper and a little sugar, and scatter over the garlic and thyme.

7

Slide the pan into the oven and bake the tomatoes for three hours, or until they are very tender but still able to hold their shape; turn the tomatoes over at half-time and open the oven for just a

second every 30 minutes or so to get rid of the moisture that will build up in the oven.

8

Cool the tomatoes to room temperature on their pan.

For the Tarragon sauce Place all ingredients for the Tarragon Sauce in a food processor; pulse a few times, then process until fairly smooth, or to the desired consistency, scraping down the sides occasionally.

For the steamed fish

1 2 3

Season the water and add the lemon, garlic and parsley.

Add the fish fillet and simmer gently for about six to eight minutes.

Serve on a flat plate or flat soup bowl with the tarragon sauce on the bottom.

4

Place four or five comfit tomato around the sauce and then the fish in the centre of the plate.

LOBSTER RAVIOLI WITH BISQUE FORM The lobster ravioli accompanied with bisque sauce makes for a delicious side dish and would appeal to any vegan.

Preparation time: 45 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour Serves: 2

For the ravioli dough 300 g flour 3 eggs 1 tbsp olive oil

For the filling

100 g lobster with shell 30 g fresh mushrooms 30 g butter 30 g chopped shallots 20 ml fresh cream 2 or 3 tsp sherry Salt & ground pepper, to taste

For the Bisque sauce 2 cups light cream 20 g butter 20 g flour 30ml brandy 10 g paprika 200 ml lobster stock Salt & pepper, to taste

For the lobster stock Lobster shell 70g carrots 100 g onion 1 lt water

Method: For the filling

1 2 3 4 5

Boil the lobsters, remove meat and keep the shell on the side.

Clean and cut the meat into cubes.

Wash and dice the mushrooms.

In sautĂŠ pan, soften butter, add shallots.

Cook for two to three minutes until translucent.

6 7 8 9 10

Add lobster meat and mushrooms and cook for another minute.

Add sherry, stirring constantly.

Add light cream and reduce for two to three minutes on low heat.

The mixture should be on the medium to thick side.

Remove from the heat and spread it out on a flat pan to cool.

For the pasta

1 2 3 4 5

Mix all the pasta ingredients into smooth dough.

Roll out thin pasta sheets. Mark out 4 x 4 cm.

Add the mixture into the marked square.

Lay the second sheet on top and use a ravioli tool to roll and seal.

Transfer onto a sheet pan that has been lined with wax paper and sprinkle with corn meal (this helps prevent sticking).

6 7

Bring water, salt and oil to a boil.

Add raviolis quickly, but one at a time.

8 9 10

Keep separated with a wooden spoon.

Boil three to five minutes.

Remove with slotted spoon or skimmer.

For the stock

1 2 3

Roast the lobster shell in the oven for about 15 minute.

Put them in a pot with the carrot and onion cooking for about 10 minute.

Add the water and reduce to half.

For the sauce

1 2 3 4 5 6

Melt butter.

Add flour, brandy, light cream, paprika and the lobster stock.

As well as salt and pepper to taste.

Keep warm in a double boiler.

Serve on a flat plate with creamy bisque sauce on the bottom.

Place four or five raviolis on sauce and then drizzle with more sauce.

FOOD.PATH

CALLEBAUT CHOCOLATE FONDANT This chocolate fare is an absolute treat for any sweet tooth.

Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time:15 minutes Serves: 2 75 g chocolate 80 g butter 3 eggs 40g sugar 40g flour 1 tsp Rosemary 1 lt honey ice cream

Method:

1 2 3

Melt the chocolate and the butter over a double boiler and keep aside.

Beat the sugar with the eggs until frothy and the sugar has dissolved.

Fold in melted chocolate and butter into the egg mixture and eventually fold in the flour carefully

4

Pour into ramekins or coffee cups and bake in the oven for seven minutes or until the top has just started to firm up

5 6

Allow to cool slightly and tilt the cup over to de-mould.

Serve with Rosemary and honey ice cream.